The Best Wine Ever - John 2:1-11

John 2:10  He said, “Everyone brings out the choice wine first and then the cheaper wine after the guests have had too much to drink; but you have saved the best till now.” (NIV)

            I think it must have been the best wine ever produced in history. Why? Because the person who miraculously made it was Jesus, so He would make it the most perfect wine ever. It wouldn’t be mediocre or some of the cheap stuff folks now buy in supermarkets. It would reflect the sovereignty, power, and grace of God all in one, so it must have been the best wine ever made. Perhaps we’ll get to taste how good it was when we participate in the great Heavenly Feast that is yet to come.

            I like the process that Christ uses here. He has empty vessels filled with water which, when poured back out, has miraculously turned into wine. As well as being a miracle, I think it’s also a reflection of what Christ can do for each one of us. He receives our empty lives and fills them with His Living Water of God’s Word, and then, when we are ready to share this blessing with others, it is poured out and received as a wonderful wine of Christ’s mercy, grace, and love. In other words, He miraculously changes us in order to share the fruits of our faith with other people.

            Today, and throughout this coming weekend, we will be given opportunities to share our faith with our families and friends, acquaintances and strangers. Let’s hope and pray that what we pour out from our spirits will be something sweet and palatable, exceptional and life-changing.

Point to ponder

How has Christ changed the emptiness in my life? How have I shared my faith with others?

Prayer:  Lord Jesus, thank You for filling our lives with Your love and grace, mercy and compassion. Grant us opportunities today to share these blessings with the people we encounter. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. You can read the church website at www.erinpresbyterian.org. You may also send John an email at traqair@aol.com. John reads all the emails and enjoys your feedback.

Today’s image is one of John’s Communion drawings called ‘Epiklesis.’ If you would like to view a larger version, please click this link: Wine.

Stone Monuments - John 1:17

John 1:17 For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. (NIV)

            Sometimes I wonder why other Christians get so upset over the placing of the Ten Commandments in public places. I know that those ten sacred laws are important to our faith tradition and have helped many people lead good lives throughout the centuries. However, the Gospels often remind us – as in today’s verse – that the legalism of the Old Testament was replaced with the compassion of Jesus and that we are meant to be living monuments of Christ’s grace and truth. Setting up a stone monument is an easy thing to do and may make us feel proud about how we witnessed for God, but being living monuments and witnessing with Christ’s mercy and love are much harder, more complicated, and very difficult to practice.

            Grace gets me through each day, especially when I’ve said or done something wrong. It makes me think critically about myself and what sort of witness I’m displaying to others. My faith is a living embodiment of who Christ is wherever I go – I’m not stuck in the ground, gathering weeds, or fading away like a stone monument. I’m a Christian human being who tries to love God, my neighbor, and even my enemies. A rock cannot do any of that, but a dedicated person can.

            So today, let’s all try to witness effectively, faithfully, compassionately, and lovingly to the people we encounter in our homes, neighborhood, and community. Because, just like ourselves, there are a lot of people around us who need the grace of God and the truth of Christ’s love in their lives.

Point to ponder

How do I display my faith in Jesus? Who is He asking me to help today?

Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank You for bringing us the grace of God and showing us the truth about life. Help us to see Your work in our community and follow a path that allows us to be living monuments of our faith. In Your Holy Name, we humbly pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. You can read the church website at www.erinpresbyterian.org. You can also email John with your feedback to Traqair@aol.com.

Today’s image is one of John’s latest Communion banner drawings called ‘Bread & Wine.’ If you would like to view a larger version, click this link: Communion.

History's Mysteries - Exodus 37:9

Exodus 37:9 The cherubim had their wings spread upward, overshadowing the cover with them. The cherubim faced each other, looking toward the cover of the Ark. (NIV)

            Like most people, I never really gave much thought to the Ark of the Covenant until I saw the movie “Raiders of the Lost Ark,” which starred Harrison Ford in the lead role of Indiana Jones. The excitement of that film captivated me completely and so each time I come across the descriptions of how the Ark was made, I can’t help but think about the fables concerning the holy artifact. I know that most of them are non-Biblical and more science fiction fantasy than sacred scripture story, but the history of the Ark – how it was made, where it was carried, and how it disappeared – still intrigues me to this day.

            The artist in me also resonates with the beautiful imagery and craftsmanship that Bezalel used to create and construct the Ark. His skills must have been amazing and the Hebrew people would surely have been proud of what he made. Out of all the lost artifacts of ancient civilizations, Bezalel’s Ark is the one that I would most like to see. I hope when we all get to Heaven, there will surely be some sort of Hall of Fame Museum where all of those ancient items like the Ark of the Covenant, Aaron’s Rod, and the original stone tablets with the Ten Commandments, can be seen forever.

            I like the fact that the Bible has yet some mysteries which cannot be found or factualized. It means that faith is still necessary for us to become connected to God and His continuing work of salvation. I also prefer that God has all the answers which means that we are continually learning new things about His words, ways, and works. This is what attracts me to the scriptures and my faith; this is what unites me to Christ’s Spirit.

Point to ponder

What mysteries in the Bible still intrigue me? What have I newly learned about God recently?

Prayer:  Lord Jesus, we don’t know everything, but we believe You do. Draw us closer to You through the stories in the Bible and with Your sacred teaching. Bless us this day with Your Holy Presence. In Your sacred Name, we pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. You can read the church website at www.erinpresbyterian.org. If you would like to send join an email, write to him at Traqair@aol.com. John enjoys reading your feedback 😊

Today’s image is one of John’s latest Bible drawings. It’s called “And God Said.” If you would like to view a larger version, please click this link: Creation.

More Than Enough - Exodus 36:5

Exodus 36:5 And they said to Moses, “The people are bringing more than enough for doing the work the Lord commanded to be done.” (NIV)

            It was a beautiful act of community generosity and a wonderful witness of God’s people. Moses must have been very pleased with the response that his people gave to the request for money and materials to build the Holy Tabernacle. As a leader, Moses would have been gratified at how cheerfully the people gave and how effectively their resources could be used. And as a man of faith, Moses must have felt proud that his people honored God in this respectful and generous way. In fact, the people gave so much, that Moses had to send out a special request to give no more because all that was needed had been provided by the community.

            On Sunday mornings, the combined offering in many churches enables them to fulfill the ministries and missions that God calls each congregation to undertake. Individuals could not do it on their own, but when the community of God’s people pools their resources as a thankful free-will offering, they are not just being grateful for the blessings that God has given, they are also being good stewards of God’s gifts. If our society and civilization were to honestly stop and think about how Christians throughout the world make the world a better place, perhaps they would better appreciate our faith. Billions of dollars are used in millions of ways to preach the Word, spread the Gospel, and continue Christ’s ministry in every land across the globe.

            Thank you for your contributions and generosity which make Christ’s churches better faith centers. Thank you for combining your gifts to joyfully advance God’s Kingdom on Earth. May God bless all of your hopes and dreams by allowing your plans to succeed.

Point to ponder

How does my giving contribute to Christ’s ministry?

Prayer:   Lord Jesus, thank You for calling us to Your Church in Earth and for the many ways which our time, talents, and money can be used to enhance Your work in our congregations, communities, and around the world. In Your Holy Name, we thankfully give and pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the Scottish pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. You can read the church website at www.erinpresbyterian.org. if you would like to send John an email – he reads them all – please write to him at Traqair@aol.com.

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

Freely Give - Luke 21:3-4

Luke 21:3-4 “Truly I tell you,” he said, “this poor widow has put in more than all the others. All these people gave their gifts out of their wealth, but she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on.” (NIV)

            We don’t know her name, but she made an everlasting impression on Jesus and has become a symbol of human dignity and generosity across the centuries. The poor widow that Christ saw putting her two small coins into the Temple treasury gave cheerfully and faithfully, knowing within herself that she was grateful to God for His benevolence and support. It was a sacrificial gift because she gave everything she had. She didn’t expect any reward or recognition for what she did. She gave from her heart because she knew that God loved her, which is the best way to give anything that we have to Him.

            Sometimes folks like to designate their giving to God so that their hard-earned resources can help support a ministry or mission which reflects their beliefs. There’s nothing wrong with that and many good programs and projects are financed this way. However, people can miss out on the delightful blessing that comes with just freely giving to God an offering without any ties or restrictions. When we joyfully do this, we trust that God’s Spirit will guide congregations to use the freewill offering wisely and effectively, faithfully and benevolently. This is why the poor widow gave what she could in order to support God’s work and do it thankfully, for she knew it would also help others like herself who received aid from the Temple.

            As we reflect on Christ’s words and this beautiful event, may we also ponder on what and why we give to our churches. Perhaps God will encourage us to give with cheerful and generous hearts, too.

Point to ponder

What do I give to God from my resources? How does my offering help His work?

Prayer:  Lord Jesus, You see and know all things. You encourage us to give our time, talents, and treasures to aid and support Your continuing ministry throughout the world. Help us to discover the joy of giving freely, joyfully, and thankfully. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. You can read the church website at www.erinpresbyterian.org. You can also send John an email at Traqair@aol.com.

Today’s image is one of John’s banner designs called “Blue Trinity.” If you would like to view a larger version, please click this link: Trinity.

Life Lessons - Luke 19:47-48

Luke 19:47-48  Every day Jesus was teaching at the temple. But the chief priests, the teachers of the law and the leaders among the people were trying to kill him. Yet they could not find any way to do it, because all the people hung on his words. (NIV)

            Jesus never missed an opportunity to teach people about God. Teaching was central to the mission that God had sent Him, so when He reached Jerusalem, Christ went to the national teaching center inside the temple grounds. Folks from all over Judea and traveling Jews from other nations were there, so Jesus taught all who were willing to listen in the hope that His words would be taken back to where the people had originated.

            But not everyone was happy about this. The religious leaders felt that Jesus was stepping on their turf and spreading radical ideas. They had built up their power and reputation over centuries, so they were determined to keep control over the people. Instead of embracing His new ideas, they wanted to wipe out Jesus permanently. He was getting in the way of their power structures and religious rules. He had to be dealt with; He had to be annihilated.

            At this point, however, Jesus was popular with the people. He brought fresh ideas to their faith and brightened their lives with His new insights. As the scriptures tell us, they hung on His words – they had never heard such things about God, faith, and life so clearly, so attractively, and so personally. As a teacher, Christ was conveying to them God’s gracious message of salvation in the heart of a holy place where grace was relatively unknown. Centuries of sacrifice had enslaved the spirits of the people to ritualism and legalism. Jesus’ words were like a breath of fresh air which opened up their spirits to a new way of understanding God, connecting to His love, and applying His will in their lives.

            As Christians today, Jesus offers us the same message and teaching which can help us make better choices, live meaningful lives, and deepen our relationship with God. When we make time to read His words like today, we can receive blessings that will help us on our way and guide us through our problems. Christ’s teaching is just as relevant for us now as it was way back then, and like the people in the temple, we can alsochoose to accept His insights and be blessed with His instruction.

Point to ponder

How often do I allow Christ to influence my decisions? Which parts of His teaching can help me today?

Prayer:  Lord Jesus, Your words have ways to reshape our lives. Your teaching about God can still transform us and bring us closer to our Creator. Help us to learn more about You, so that we may embrace the life-lessons that You offer us each day. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. You can read the church website at www.erinpresbyterian.org. You may also send John an email at Traqair@aol.com.

Today’s image is one of John’s icon drawings called ‘Pop Ikon.’ If you would like to view a larger version, please click this link: Ikon.

Short Story - Luke 19:1-10

Luke 19:5 When Jesus reached the spot, he looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today.” (NIV)

            I’ve always been a short person, so I know how Zacchaeus must have felt when he couldn’t see above the crowd to catch a glimpse of Jesus. I’ve been in more than a few places and situations where I have struggled to see what’s happening at a concert, movie, or even church service because of a larger person standing or sitting in front of me. Sometimes I move to the right or left just to find a clear view; on other occasions, I just sigh and sit quietly, choosing instead to listen to what’s going on.

            I don’t know if I would have climbed a tree to get a better view of Jesus, although I have stood on benches and walls to watch parades and other public spectacles. It seems that the wee man was so desperate to see Jesus that he was willing to look ridiculous, after all, it’s usually children who climb trees to get a better view. I can imagine that the people around him laughed at Zacchaeus, diminishing his pride and self-esteem. Perhaps some of them felt like he deserved to be humiliated because he was despised for being a tax-collector and colluding with the Romans.

            I love what Jesus does to restore Zacchaeus’s dignity, as well as his soul. Our Savior does not laugh at the short tax-collector or rebuke him for working for the enemy. Christ doesn’t even ask to come to his house – look at the verse again – Jesus actually insists on going to his home. It’s a wonderful moment of acceptance and Zacchaeus responds immediately by climbing down and welcoming Christ gladly.

            This is an event which is filled with God’s love and grace. It reminds all of us – short, medium, or tall – that Jesus actively seeks to restore us to God’s Kingdom. All we have to do is to welcome Him gladly into our hearts and homes, which is where salvation begins and never ends.

Point to Ponder

Am I willing to let Jesus into my heart? If I welcome Him into my life, how will He change me?

Prayer:  Lord Jesus, thank You for Your grace and acceptance. We know we are unworthy of those blessings, but we are also delighted that You are willing to grant them to us. Enable us to extend this blessing to all whom we encounter today. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. You can read the church website at www.erinpresbyterian.org. You can also email John at Traqair@aol.com.

Today’s image is one of John’s tree drawings called ‘Season Finale.’ If you would like to view a larger version, please click this link: Tree.

29 June devotion - Looking for God's Kingdom

Today’s Bible readings can be found at this link: Exodus 25:23-40 and Luke 17:20-37.

Luke 17:20-21  Once, on being asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, Jesus replied, “The coming of the kingdom of God is not something that can be observed, nor will people say, ‘Here it is,’ or ‘There it is,’ because the kingdom of God is in your midst.”

            If the Kingdom of God is to be found in our midst, what is stopping us from seeing it in other people? Is it their attitude? Their bad habits? Their Facebook posts? Their political views or religious beliefs? Do we see them as foes or friends? Do we accept them as encouragers or enragers? Do we embrace them as real people or envision them as rival opponents? If the Kingdom of God is to be found in our midst, what is stopping us from seeing it in other people?

            Perhaps it’s us and not them. Maybe we’ve become too focused on ourselves, opinions, and ideas that we view them as unequal, unsophisticated, or unworthy of our acceptance. Could it be that we see ourselves as completely right and them as totally wrong? Are we so convinced that God’s Kingdom couldn’t be in their hearts, minds, or souls that we’re ready to cast them aside and treat them as imbeciles? Are we so sure that the Kingdom of God resides within ourselves that it couldn’t possibly be found in those so unlike us?

            We forget that God’s Kingdom belongs to God, who abides and resides wherever God pleases. We can’t pick and choose whom we think deserves God’s favor, blessing, and influence – that right is God’s alone. When Jesus said to the Pharisees that God’s Kingdom was in the midst of them, He didn’t define it with moral margins, behavioral boundaries, or biased borders. The Kingdom of God, like the presence of the Holy Spirit, goes anywhere and everywhere God pleases.

            It is time that we stopped stigmatizing people because of their views, beliefs, and opinions, especially on social media like Facebook. The Kingdom of God even penetrates the Internet and is all over cyber-space. If we define ourselves as Christians then we should be looking for that Kingdom wherever we are – whether in our congregation or community, our workplace or even on the world-wide web.

Point to ponder

Am I looking for God’s Kingdom today? Am I seeing it in other people? Are other people seeing it in me?

Prayer:  Lord Jesus, enable us to experience God’s Kingdom wherever we are and whatever we do today. Open our hearts and minds to accept and embrace other folks as Your Kingdom people. Diminish our pride and prejudices; release us from our egos and self-centered ways. In Your Holy Name, we humbly pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. You can read the church website at www.erinpresbyterian.org.

Today’s image is one of my Celtic drawings called “Spirit of the Celts.” You can view a larger version here: Spirit.