Run The Race!

"Do you not know that in a race the runners all compete, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win it.  Athletes exercise self-control in all things; they do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable one."  1 Cor 9:23-25

Before the sun comes up, I often find myself thinking about running for exercise. I imagine myself running like the wind through the woods. This thinking about it doesn't burn me any calories. It does not lose me any weight. It doesn't do my body any good. When I rise, I go about morning devotions and then to work. I can usually find a few minutes to exercise in the living room a few times a week. But, I almost always put off the running 'till another day. I do not exercise a lot of self-control or discipline when it comes to physical exercise.

St. Paul compared the discipline runners employ to the discipline that we need to exercise in order to be spiritually healthy so that when we finish the race here on earth we will receive the imperishable prize that has been prepared for us. We do not want any one to procrastinate and say "I'll get to know this Jesus that you talk about, later. I'll have more time to follow him after I retire. I'll have more time to serve, tomorrow." For procrastinators, tomorrow rarely comes. Tomorrow may be too late. Today is the day to get to know Jesus and to live in his presence; in his Kingdom.

Jesus died for you. He died so that all people might live in the presence of God our Father for all eternity. What are you waiting for? The time is now. The Kingdom of God is at hand.

God's Peace - Pr. J  

Discernment By The Holy Spirit

We do, however, speak a message of wisdom among the mature, but not the wisdom of this age or of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing. No, we declare God’s wisdom, a mystery that has been hidden and that God destined for our glory before time began. None of the rulers of this age understood it, for if they had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. However, as it is written:

“What no eye has seen,
    what no ear has heard,
and what no human mind has conceived”—
    the things God has prepared for those who love him—

these are the things God has revealed to us by his Spirit.

                                                                                                                1 Cor 2:6-10 NIV

Others may not have a clue to the mysteries that the followers of Jesus comprehend and sometimes we may forget that they don't. We expect them to understand what we might even call "common sense." But, it is not common sense that leads us to follow Jesus and to discern God's will for us. It is the Spirit of God who does this.

By the Spirit of God we are united in Christ. We are one. We who are of the Body of Christ have the mind of Christ. He is our head. Is it any wonder that we should be able to discern the things that come from God?

My constant prayer is that God would open eyes, ears, hearts, and minds of all whom we love so that all people might discern God's gracious and loving will for them and for the world around them.

God's Peace - Pr. J

Servant Of All

The Last Shall Be First In The Kingdom of God

Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said, “Anyone who wants to be first must be the very last, and the servant of all.” Mark 9:35

Who would like to be a servant to everyone? Practically no one would be my guess. Except, of course, those who are actually active in serving others. Those who have sincerely tried it find that serving others can be a most rewarding experience.

We've often heard that it is better to give than to receive. We often tell our children that just before the Christmas season. A gift given that is truly needed and appreciated will lift the giver's spirits as well as the spirits of the one who receives it.

Jesus' words that tell us that if we want to be first we must be last can be hard on the ego. But; if we listen to them, they will, in the end, bring much joy to our spirits. Though the Son of God most high, Jesus was willing to put himself at the very last. He was willing to give everything, even his very life that all people might live reconciled to God and to one another. He was willing to be beaten and hung on that cross so that you and I and all who would believe in him might receive eternal life. What greater gift can one give.

Jesus, was willing to serve us at the cost of his life. He was willing to be last for our sakes. Are we willing to be last in order that others might reap the benefits of our service; that others might come to know the loving gift of life in Jesus Christ, our Lord?

God's Peace - Pr. J.

Genuine Love

"This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins." 1 John 4:9-10

It can be quite frustrating to love someone and not be loved in return. You can give your life for someone and have that love and you treated like it was worthless. But, the one who truly loves does not stop loving. They will continue to love even as they ache inside. Most of us probably have probably known the feeling of loving someone and not being loved in return. It appears to me to be a very common human condition.

But, do not despair. We are loved by our Father in heaven. He loves us so much He was willing to have His one and only Son suffer and die for us. His Son, Jesus the Christ, loves us so much he was willing to do his Father's will for us. What will our response be? Will we love because he first loved us? Or will we turn our backs on genuine love and seek the earthly desires of our hearts?

God's Peace - Pr. J

Deeds of Darkness Exposed

"Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them. It is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in secret. But everything exposed by the light becomes visible—and everything that is illuminated becomes a light." Eph 5:11-13 NIV

It is not in anyone's best interest to consider that they might involve themselves in any deeds of darkness and keep it a secret. The truth will come to light eventually. Even as the deeds of darkness are being considered the truth is often known to the people around them. Those who live in the light know when the evil one approaches to secretly do harm. No, they may not be able to prove it; but, they will know it.

I have been asked on many occasions throughout my life when dark secrets are finally brought into the light: "How did you know?" I can and many others can know, as well, because we have lived many years. Some of that darkness we have entered into ourselves in our younger years. We have been there, done that, don't want to go there again, and we don't want you to go there, either. We have witnessed the lies before and we have seen the devastation that has come from the fruitless deeds done in secret. These fruitless deeds of darkness are not something new to us or to the world. Sin came into the world long before any of us. It has been around since the beginning of time. We have seen it and some of us have learned from it.

Those who know the Word of God can usually recognize the difference between good and evil. We can usually know the difference between the darkness and light; although the devil will attempt to fool us disguised as an angel of light. St. Paul wrote to the Corinthians to be aware of those who masquerade as Christians. "For such people are false apostles, deceitful workers, masquerading as apostles of Christ. And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. It is not surprising, then, if his servants also masquerade as servants of righteousness. Their end will be what their actions deserve. (2 Cor 11:13-15)

Paul warns us to be aware and because he does we know that it is possible to be able to discern whether the light that we see is a masquerade or if it is the true light, who is Jesus the Christ, abiding in others as well as ourselves.

It is said that darkness does not actually exist; that darkness is merely the absence of light. If the abiding light of Christ does not shine through you; then, there is only darkness. There is nothing but an empty shell striving to be filled with something. That striving often leads us into even darker places where we would very wise to avoid at all costs.

The deeds of darkness are destructive not only to oneself; but, to all whom we think we might care about or love. Compounded they are destructive to the world.

It can be most difficult to step out into the light where your deeds might be known by others. It might be embarrassing. But, the consequences will last only for a short while as those who walk in the light have eternal life! 

May God help you to see the light and enter into His precious presence for all of eternity. Live life!

God's Peace - Pr. J

He Will Lift You Up

Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up. James 4:10 NIV

As I read the fourth chapter of James this morning, it reminded by of this Sundays' Gospel lesson, which is the Sermon on the Mount preached by Jesus.

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, 
   for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are those who mourn,
    for they will be comforted.
Blessed are the meek,
    for they will inherit the earth.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,
    for they will be filled.
Blessed are the merciful,
    for they will be shown mercy.
Blessed are the pure in heart,
    for they will see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers,
    for they will be called children of God.
Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness,
    for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

“Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you. (Matt 5:3-11)

It is promised that those who are brought down will be lifted up. Those who mourn will be comforted. It is the meek, not the self-empowered or self-glorified who will inherit the earth. Blessings are promised to those who are last as Jesus also promised that "many who are first will be last, and many who are last will be first." (Matt 19:30)

So let us not then exalt ourselves; but, trust in the Lord that we may be lifted up not for earthly glory but that we might see the glory of God.

God's Peace - Pr. J

Whatever is Right

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. Philippians 4:8-9 NIV

What a novel idea! Let us do what is right! Let us do what is noble! Let us do what is lovely! Always focusing on the negative side of things only brings a person down into the depths of darkness. Focusing on what is wrong instead of what is right works to bring the people around us down as they struggle to get out of the darkness that we have sought and invited into the world around us. 

There is so much to be thankful for; so much to rejoice in. May God the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ open our ears, our eyes, our hearts, and minds to the wonderful Good News that through faith in Christ all things are possible.

God's Peace - Pr. J

Helping Or Enabling?

Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers. Gal 6:7-9 NIV

I remember hearing a pastor preach on doing good, especially to those who belong to the family of believers. I could not believe my ears! I thought that maybe he was making it up. How, as a Christian, could one show this kind of partiality, I wondered. So, I looked it up and there it was.

As the years have passed, I have come to understand this a whole lot better. Scripture does not say that we shouldn't help those outside of the family of believers. We should. But, I have also learned over the years that sometimes we can spend so much time and energy helping those whose only goal is to please their flesh; that, we have no time to build up the members of the Body of Christ who may be truly in need. There is sometimes a rather fine line between helping someone and enabling them to continue in their sinful pursuit of the flesh to their destruction. We ought to be careful not to be enabling those who have no love for God or others in their lives; rather, we ought to help those who are concerned about their eternal life and are truly in need.

I know... Much of the world thinks that Christians should be some kind of door mats and are here only to be taken advantage of. Jesus did not appear to think so. In the sermon on the mount he warns us: "Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces." Matt 7:5-7

This does not mean that we should not help everyone in need. We just ought to be careful that we are actually helping and not aiding anyone on the path to their destruction.

May God grant us the discernment to know whom He would have us help and who it is that is truly in need; to discern when our help is truly help and when it might lead to another's destruction.

God's Peace - Pr. J.

One Body; Many Members; Many Gifts

Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ. For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body—whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink. Even so the body is not made up of one part but of many. (1 Cor 12:12-13 NIV)

Well, there you have it. We have all been baptized into the one body. If you read Paul's firsts letter to the Corinthians you will find that he advises that the Body of Christ which is the Church needs every part of the body to continue it's mission to proclaim the Gospel; to grow and edify the church. There is not one member of the church on earth that is greater than another. God gives to each of us gifts to be used for His glory. We use them in unison. It does not matter what God has called you to do. Whether you clean the church, type the bulletins, assist at worship, teach Sunday School, sing in the choir, serve on the council; whatever it is that God has called you to do, it is important to the health of the congregation; to the health of the church. Each of these callings contribute greatly to the growth and health of the local congregation. If the bathrooms are a mess it will not matter how awesome the music is. If the greeters ignore visitors it will not matter what the preacher is preaching. If the members of a local congregation of the church on earth do not work in unison with the one mind of Christ it will fail or at the most struggle to survive in the mission to which we are called.

Every individual member in a congregation is important to the life and health of that congregation. There is nothing and no one too small to be unimportant. One of the most common laments that I hear from those who are very elderly is that they can no longer actively serve as they once did. They loved serving God and others through the church on earth and they miss it. But, the truth is "Yes, you can continue serving." You can continue serving by continuing to pray for the congregation and the whole Body of Christ. You can share your love of God with others around you by testifying to the great love you have for Jesus the Christ and for them. After all, St. Paul reminds us that love is the greatest gift of all. (1 Cor 13:13)  You can share the vision that God had inspired within you for your congregation; for your community, with your pastor and with the other members of the Body of Christ. There are many things you can continue in. Not everything has to be or should be visible to the whole congregation. Some things are done quietly; unbeknownst to the majority.

Every single member of the church on earth; every single member of every congregation is an important part of the Body of Christ. None are more important or less important than another. No gifts are less or greater than another. We must strive to work together according to the gifts that God has given to each of us that God may be glorified in all that we say and do.

God's Peace - Pr. J

Jesus Is The Truth; Listen To Him

Jesus is the only Truth in a world led astray by the lies of the devil.

Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body. “In your anger do not sin” Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold. Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need.

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." Eph 4:25-32 (NIV)

When Pilate was interrogating him, Jesus had told him that everyone who is on the side of truth listens to him. Pilate's response was: "What is truth?" (John 18:37-38) 

Indeed! What is truth? Jesus said, "I am the way and the truth and the life." (John 14:6) Yet, if we listen to what is going on around us in the world it appears that everyone seems to have their own version of the truth. These varying versions of the truth have a tendency to cause division and many other forms of hurt. Protecting one's own version of the truth leads to bitterness, rage, anger, brawling, slander, along with every form of malice. Vehemently promoting one's own version of the truth will not build up the church. It will not build up relationships. It will only give way for the devil to have his way with the world.

During the presidential campaigns, I would sometimes listen to the candidates speak and then I would listen to the paid pundits. It did not matter which political party they were affiliated with, for some reason what the pundits heard and what I heard from the candidates were not usually the same thing. The key, I believe, is the word "paid." The pundits are hired servants that promote the cause of the employer or master that they serve. They definitely have personal agendas and they hear what they want to hear. They say what they want to say according to how it will profit themselves.

I am not saying that they are lying; well, not exactly. They simply cannot see the truth because what they wish is the truth is so overpowering that is all they can see or know.

The truth is that if we truly want to know the truth we must listen to Jesus because he is the truth. If we truly want the world to be a better place for the following generations we must know the truth and speak it for the sake of the world and not just for ourselves. 

May God open the hearts of all people to know the truth and to speak the truth who is Jesus the Christ.

God's Peace - Pr. J.

President Trump; The Energizer President

Whatever may come, we now have a very non-low energy

president.

He gives strength to the weary 
   and increases the power of the weak.
Even youths grow tired and weary,
    and young men stumble and fall;
but those who hope in the Lord
    will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
    they will run and not grow weary,
    they will walk and not be faint.
Isaiah 40:29-31 NIV

Yesterday, was a very tiring day for me. I was exhausted and fell asleep on the living room floor by 6:30 pm as I watched the presidential inauguration activities on television. I had skipped through my quiet time with the Lord in the morning because of my schedule which was probably the reason for my weariness. I woke up this morning thinking about our new president. President Donald Trump, who has at least ten years on me, did not appear to be weary by the time I was falling asleep last night and he still had many hours to go. I smiled to myself. President Trump is like the Energizer Bunny. He just keeps going and going. On top of all of his other attributes; I think God just may have a sense of humor.

Although I am not always too thrilled about the way he has always expressed himself in the past; but, because I trust God, I trust that President Trump has genuine hope for this country and for all of the people of this country. He began his inauguration day (as all; but, one president did since F.D. Roosevelt) by worshipping God. Maybe that was the secret of him being able to get through yesterday with so much energy.

I had laughed when he actually decided to run for president. I thought he was just throwing in the hat for something to entertain himself with. I am still smiling. I definitely would have preferred a much more gentle-spoken man for the position of leader in this country and was disheartened when my preferred candidate dropped out of the race. In the end, I must confess that I do not know the plans that God has for this country. But, I do believe that whatever they are; they are plans for the good. (Rom 8:28) 

Not everyone is going to appreciate President Trump. I have not always appreciated all of our former presidents, either. When Ronald Reagan became president, I grieved. I could not imagine an actor making a good president. But, while ranting and raving about it I heard from the Lord: "You don't have to like him. But, I have appointed him and you need to respect him." There was only one election after his that I grieved over. That one was from the Democratic party. But, I did not go out and destroy property or assault those who voted for him. Not everyone is going to like President Trump. But, we can either choose to work civilly with him and one another for the good of all the people in this country or we can go about burning cars and destroying private businesses and homes or generally trampling on the rights of others because we are dissatisfied with the results of this last election. Each individual can choose whether to work together as a country for the good of all or to divide it even further for the sake of personal agendas. That is up to the individual. Personally, I am a bit tired of the disunity (Yup, working in unity is a part of my personal agenda). Disunity has taken it's toll on the people; on this country. The disunity has diminished the hope of the people. It has made us a very weary people.

May God renew our hope so that we might live in peace and unity. May God help us to trust that He has a plan for the good of the many.

One last word according to St. Paul's letter to the Romans, chapter 13, verses 1-7:

"Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and you will be commended. For the one in authority is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for rulers do not bear the sword for no reason. They are God’s servants, agents of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also as a matter of conscience. This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God’s servants, who give their full time to governing. Give to everyone what you owe them: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor." 

We may not like all of our public officials and I don't know anyone who appreciates paying taxes. But, there are peaceful means by which we can express our discontent. God has not given us the right to attack or destroy those who disagree with our personal agendas. Let us learn to work together instead of against one another.

May God renew our strength so that we will not grow weary but continue in a pursuit of good for all people. God help this country to soar as on the wings of an eagle.

God's Peace - Pr. J

P.S. Those who know me; know that I have very little musical ability. Now you know that my drawing skills are also very limited!

Grant Us Wisdom

"If any of you is lacking in wisdom, ask God, who gives to all generously and ungrudgingly, and it will be given you." James 1:5 NRSV

Every now and then, as I attempt to fix the things that I cannot fix, I am reminded of the serenity prayer that was written by Reinhold Niebuhr.       

God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change,

The courage to change the things I can,

And the wisdom to know the difference.

It is difficult to watch others suffer. Sometimes we can help them. Sometimes, we cannot do anything except to pray for them. Sometimes, we lack the wisdom to know the difference; so we go about spinning our wheels trying to fix that which only God can fix.

Wisdom will help us to determine what we can and should change and what we must trust to God alone. When God gives us the knowledge and the wisdom of how we are to proceed, it would be very wise indeed to follow His directions. Ignoring what God has taught or told you (whether directly or through others) is definitely not wise.

May God grant us all the wisdom to listen to Him and the courage to do what He asks of us and to go where He would send us.

God's Peace - Pr. J

He Is God And We Are Not

He says, “Be still, and know that I am God;
    I will be exalted among the nations,
    I will be exalted in the earth.”

The Lord Almighty is with us;
    the God of Jacob is our fortress.

                                           Psalm 46:10-11

We can run around trying to fix things all we want; but, we need to understand that we may just be spinning our wheels. Things don't always have to go our way. It is more important that they are done according to the will of God; after all, He is God and we are not.

It is best to try to avoid trouble by seeking the will of God and doing as He would direct you. When trouble does come sometimes we have to consider if maybe we've been going in the wrong direction and need to change our course. But, sometimes, the best and only thing to do is to just be still and trust the Lord. After all, He is God and we are not.

God's Peace - Pr. J

Speak Life

A gentle answer turns away wrath, 
   but a harsh word stirs up anger.

The tongue of the wise adorns knowledge,

    but the mouth of the fool gushes folly.

The eyes of the Lord are everywhere,
    keeping watch on the wicked and the good.

The soothing tongue is a tree of life,
    but a perverse tongue crushes the spirit

Prov 15:1-4

I know that I have been guilty of having spoken wrongly or too quickly on more than one occasion resulting hurting the spirit of others.  However, I usually realize I have done so as soon as I've done it just by the look on the face of the person I've offended and can attempt to rectify it or at least apologize.

But, I have difficulty understanding why some people do not understand how badly they can hurt someone with their continuous witty and condescending comments. Maybe they don't realize how truly damaging their tongues can be to the spirits; to the lives of the ones who bear the brunt of their wit. Maybe they don't understand how badly they are damaging their own relationship with the person they are being sarcastic with as well as with others around them who hear and cringe at the ungodliness of it all.

Sarcasm really is not that funny. It is hurtful. Intentional sarcasm breaks the spirit. It destroys relationships. It destroys life. However, a gentle tongue helps to build others up. It brings life to the spirit.

May God help us to speak with gentle tongues that will do no harm to others.

God Peace - Pr. J

Shine Like The Stars!

Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, “children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.” Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky as you hold firmly to the word of life. And then I will be able to boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor in vain. Philippians 2:24-26 NIV

I read and sometimes even watch a little news every morning. Lately, the amount I subject myself to has become very, very little. The grumbling and arguing of the pundits and the people has become more than a bit much. Fake news has hit an all time high. Fake news being fabricated stories; lies and slander. Do we really have time for all of the dissension and division that goes with it?

We live in a warped and crooked generation. I suppose there are many reasons for this negativity. Mainly; though, I believe, it comes from one's desire to advance their own personal agendas.

It is not just the media who advances the grumbling and negativity for the benefit of their personal self-serving agendas.  Many others, politicians, movie stars, athletes, even Christians, participate in this negativity. But, it does not have to be. It can change. The world does not have to so terribly steeped in dissension. There are an awful lot of Christians in the world (including politicians, movie stars, professional athletes) and if we would but hold firmly to the word of life and share that word; the light of Christ will shine throughout the world. The light will shine and the darkness will disappear from around us. The "stars" of this world are not the shining lights that can guide anyone on the path of life. Only the light of Christ can do that.

Do not get caught in the trap of grumbling or arguing about everything little thing according to your own will. Focus on God's word and His will. Hold firmly to the word of life that his light might shine forth through you, so that the world may see the truth, who is Jesus the Christ.

God's Peace - Pr. J

Shout For Joy!

Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth,  
burst into jubilant song with music;
make music to the Lord with the harp,
    with the harp and the sound of singing,
with trumpets and the blast of the ram’s horn—
    shout for joy before the Lord, the King.

Psalm 98:4-6 NIV

We had a few visitors at Worship this Sunday. It was a joyful celebration which included an affirmation of her baptism by one of our beloved sisters in Christ. One of our visitors mentioned, with tongue in cheek, that we could not possibly be Lutherans. After all, Lutherans do not sway to the music nor do they tap their feet. And, yes, we were singing hymns from a Lutheran hymnal. Traditional hymns do not have to be somber all of the time. Traditional hymns can be joyfully played and sung.  After all, we do have much to celebrate!

When I think of joyful music, I usually think of David joyfully dancing through the streets as the people celebrated the return of the ark of the covenant to Jerusalem. David was definitely excited. We gather together each Sunday to worship and celebrate the awesome things that God has done for us. We who were not His people are now His beloved children.

By the blood of Christ shed on the cross for us, we have been reconciled to God our Father and our Lord, Jesus the Christ. Our sins are forgiven and we have been made whole in Christ. That's should be enough to make us want to sing joyfully and even tap our toes before the Lord!

Shout for joy before the Lord, our King!

God's Peace - Pr. J

In God's Time

But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.  2 Peter 3:8-9 NIV

I can become very impatient. There are times when I feel a sense of urgency. There are days when I think, "OK, Lord, isn't it about time to take all of your children home? Enough is enough!" But, apparently it is not time, yet. He apparently does not want anyone to perish so everyone gets another chance and another and another to turn to Him.

There are times when I consider that my time is really short here on earth and I just don't have enough time left to reach out to all who I would reach out to. But, then I have to remember that although my time may be short here on earth, God's is not. He is with all people at all times. He continues to call all people to Himself.

No matter what is going on around you; no matter how self-serving and chaotic life around you seems to be, remember:  "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."  (Rom 8:28) He has a good plan. We might desire that He hurry up with His plan. But, we're going to have to wait for Him to act in His own good time and His time is not our time.

We don't know His whole plan. But; be assured, He does have a plan and that plan encompasses much more than our personal life spans. After all, He has eternity in His hand.

God is patient with us. He is a loving God. May we all quit taking His patient love for granted and turn to Him for our salvation.

God's Peace - Pr. Judy

Some Things Cannot Be Bought

Rossmeyer's Destination Daytona

"How priceless is your unfailing love, O God! People take refuge in the shadow of your wings." Psalm 36:7 NIV

My husband is a shopper. I am not. When we were stationed in Rota, Spain, the Exchange would have ladies night out specials. He went with my friends. I stayed home. I don't like to spend money. My husband also has a passion for Harley Davidson motorcycles. He drives a three-wheeler at the present time. We live about ten minutes from the Rossmeyer's Destination Daytona so we get to tour it every few weeks. The dealership is huge and is located in a shopping center focused on bikers' dreams. I am not only not interested in shopping, I am not a biker. The only thing that interests me in the whole place is that used pick-up truck in the photo above with it's hood up. It is not for sale. It is being raffled to benefit Bikers Against Drunk Drivers (BADD). The bottom line is that it cannot be bought. One can purchase a raffle ticket among the millions that are probably being sold as it allegedly is the largest biker raffle in the world. But, that truck and the antique Harley sitting in the back of it cannot be purchased.

The most precious things in life cannot be bought. We cannot buy our salvation. That was purchased for us by the blood of Jesus that was poured out upon the cross for us. There is nothing that we can do or give that can buy us our salvation. Salvation comes by faith alone in Christ alone.

We cannot buy love. We might be able to purchase a companion for awhile. But, see what happens when the funds run out! Love is priceless. The love of God is priceless. There is nothing in this world that can buy His love for you. We don't need to buy it. He gives it to us freely even as He gave us His Son so that we might receive the free gift of salvation.

Money cannot buy love. The gift of love is priceless.

God's Peace - Pr. J

Physical And Spiritual Health And Wholeness

Back On The Water For Physical And Spiritual Well-being!

Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well. 3 John 1:2 NIV

The third epistle of St. John is a private letter to Gauis. He begins his letter to Gauis by wishing him not just physical health; but overall health which would include spiritual and mental health as well. These three areas of wellness are co-dependent. If one part of our being is ill; the rest will suffer as well.

I have been delaying finding a doctor since moving to Florida. Last week, after a few years, I finally had a regular physical examination. The visit helped me to decide that I probably needed to make a few changes to my lifestyle. There were a couple of things that I have been neglecting to do which I actually love to do. I have not been doing what I would want and should do.

1. The next day I went out and bought me a kayak to use here on the creek as my other kayaks were left behind when I moved.. I've been kayaking for about twenty years; but, in these past few years, the exercise and the opportunity to be silent in God's presence hasn't happened quite as often as it should. I found lots of excuses not to go out on the water. I have always been drawn to the water. In my adult life, I have never lived more than a mile or two from large bodies or water or at least have had a creek running through my backyard.

Kayaking has a few benefits; including, a bit of exercise. It affords me the opportunity to be out in God's beautiful creation without disturbances other than a few fish jumping or birds flying or floating around on the water and those are good things. It clears my mind and refreshes my soul as I am reminded of all the benefits of water that God has worked for us. My baptism into the body of Christ being about the most precious benefit for me personally. Paddling about on the water affords me not just physical; but, spiritual and mental health benefits as well. Peace of heart and mind are good things both of which are side-effects of  being alone with God on the water!

2.  The day after I purchased the new kayak, I finally took the leap and found me a new massage therapist. My former massage therapist lives about twenty-five hours away or I would still be seeing her. A few years ago, I had a torn rotator cuff. During Lent, I found myself looking at possible surgery; as the only way I could lift my left arm was by using my right hand to pick it up. There was no way I had time to have surgery during Lent - way too busy! I started seeing Clare bi-weekly and within a few months, I had full use of my arm again. I kept seeing her. She used "Biblical Oils" like frankincense and myrrh as well as any others that she felt I might need depending on my well-being at the time. The physical benefits were great as were the mental and spiritual benefits. I spent much of that time communicating with God (once she and I quit talking - she ended up being my confessor LOL) The therapy was so relaxing that on more than one occasion I fell asleep.

She was so good, that I was a little nervous about finding a new therapist. I think it probably had to do with grieving losing her company. But, it was time and Larissa my new therapist also appears to be very well qualified and will be a great asset to my health and wholeness. 

Life is not so good when we don't take care of our physical, spiritual, or mental health. The three go hand in hand. When one area of our being is not doing well; the rest will also become weak.

I pray that you all enjoy good health and well-being.

God's Peace - Pr. J

We Are Not Just Mere Humans

Brothers and sisters, I could not address you as people who live by the Spirit but as people who are still worldly—mere infants in Christ.I gave you milk, not solid food, for you were not yet ready for it. Indeed, you are still not ready. You are still worldly. For since there is jealousy and quarreling among you, are you not worldly? Are you not acting like mere humans? 1 Cor 3:1-4 NIV

Paul rebukes the Corinthians telling them that they are acting like mere humans. Well, were they not mere humans? Are we not mere humans? No, we are not! We are children of the most high God. We are children of the heavenly Kingdom and children must grow up sometime. Jealousy and quarrels over things of the world are inspired not by God; but, of the world and of the evil one. They keep us from living life fully as residents of our Father's home.

Let us put aside all jealousy and quarreling as we seek to do our Father's will that peace may prevail.

God's Peace - Pr. Judy

We Shall Not Retreat In Fear

"When hard pressed, I cried to the Lord; he brought me into a spacious place. The Lord is with me; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?" Psalm 118:5-6 NIV

What indeed is there to fear? President Franklin Roosevelt in his first inaugural address said, "the only thing we have to fear is fear itself—nameless, unreasoning, unjustified terror which paralyzes needed efforts to convert retreat into advance."

Many parts of the visible church on earth have been in retreat. The Gospel is not proclaimed rightly. Injustices are not addressed for fear of persecution. Members are so concerned about being politically correct that the truth is not spoken for fear of offending someone. Well, the truth be told, you cannot please everyone all of the time and not everyone is going to appreciate the truth. "For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God." (1 Cor 1:18) Those who speak the truth about the cross of Christ will be hated by the world. That is just the way it is. The world hated Jesus and it will hate his followers as well. (John 15:18) Just because we might be persecuted that is not an excuse to hide the truth from the world. We do not hide the truth in order to protect ourselves because God, Himself, is our protector. We must have faith that His plan is a plan for the good of all who love Him. (Rom 8:28)

What can keep us from moving forward; from advancing the Good News of the Kingdom? If God is for us who can be against us? (Rom 8:31) If our greatest desire; our ultimate concern, is to live in the presence of God and to love Him as He loves us is there any hardship in this world that we cannot endure?  

"Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? As it is written:

'For your sake we face death all day long;
    we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.'

No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Rom 8:35-19)

We may face death all day long; but, we shall not fear. There is nothing in this world or in the spiritual realms that can separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

God help the whole church on earth to make the proclamation of God's love for all people, through Jesus the Christ, always our ultimate concern. Help us, Lord, to advance the Gospel!

God's Peace - Pr. Judy

Proclamation By Word And Deed

Seated in a window was a young man named Eutychus, who was sinking into a deep sleep as Paul talked on and on. When he was sound asleep, he fell to the ground from the third story and was picked up dead. Paul went down, threw himself on the young man and put his arms around him. “Don’t be alarmed,” he said. “He’s alive!”  Acts 20:9-10 NIV

The purpose of preaching is not to bore someone to death. It is not for putting anyone to sleep; but, to shake them up; wake them, up to good news of the Kingdom through Jesus the Christ for all who would believe in him. 

Paul was pretty excited to share the good news that the Messiah had indeed come. He was so enthused that he talked and talked and talked and Eutychus got so tired that he fell asleep and off the third story balcony or window ledge or from wherever he was seated. He died from that fall. But, Paul took him in his arms and Eutychus lived.

My sermons are usually not very long. But, I must confess that I have indeed sat with friends long into some nights talking about the wonderful gift that we have in Jesus. I hope that those conversations were not all one-way conversations with me doing all the talking. That would put anyone to sleep.

The Word of God brings life. We must proclaim this good news. But, it is not necessary to make long, long winded speeches. Sometimes, it takes fewer words and a little more action to see the truly inspirational love of God. Sometimes, along with the words, there needs to be a little action. That life giving action just might be to take someone who is hurting, who may be spiritually dead, in your arms and just hold them.

Proclaiming the good news is necessary; but, so is living the good news by loving even as Jesus loves you.

God's Peace - Pr. J

Praise The Lord!

"Praise the Lord!Praise, O servants of the Lord;
    praise the name of the Lord.

Blessed be the name of the Lord
    from this time on and forevermore.
From the rising of the sun to its setting
    the name of the Lord is to be praised.
The Lord is high above all nations,    

and his glory above the heavens."

Psalm 113:1-4 NRSV

 

What else is there to say; but, in everything praise the Lord? God has made all things wonderful. He is with us not just from the rising of the sun to its setting; but, from its setting to its rising as well. He is with us always; in the good times and in those times that seem not so good to us. God is with us and His intentions are for our good. May God open our ears to hear His good will for us and "Let everything that breathes praise the Lord! Praise the Lord!" (Psalm 150:6)

 

God's Peace - Pr. J

What Do You Treasure?

"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust consume and where thieves break in and steal; but store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust consumes and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." Matt 6:19-21 NRSV

Where do you invest your time; your talents; all the gifts that God has given you? Do you enjoy those gifts? There is only one place where you will find real joy. That place is in relationship with Jesus Christ and with others around you. Some things are necessary: food, shelter, heat, clothing. Others things are not. They are luxuries. They can be excess baggage that steal away our time and our opportunity to be in caring and loving relationships. 

The greatest treasure of God is being able to live in relationship with God and our brothers and sisters in Christ in the Kingdom of God. May God help us to seek His Kingdom that we might know what a treasure living in His presence really is.

God's Peace - Pr. J

Love as Jesus Loves

Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. Eph 5:1-2 NIV

God has given us a very clear example of what true love is. Saying "I love you" just doesn't quite cut the mustard. Love is more than just saying these three words. Love is being able to commit your all for the sake of another. Even as Jesus was willing to give his life that all people might be reconciled to him, to our Father in heaven, and to one another in his Kingdom; those who truly love will be willing to make sacrifices for the sake of those whom they claim to love. They will be willing to die to self (ego) that the other might live a more fulfilling and fruitful life.

Genuine love is not just an emotion. It is a commitment to care for and support someone no matter what problems they might encounter. The cross was a problem for Jesus. It was the means of death for him. But; through the cross, he brought life to all who would receive his love.

Help us, Lord, to love even as you love.

God's Peace - Pr. J.

Only One Way!

Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." John 14:6

What does it take to be a child of God?

Usually, I take people at their word. I have a habit of believing people when they tell me that they are members of another denomination or congregation. I have a habit of believing people when they tell me that they are Christians. So often, I neglect to witness to them, because I believe them. The question, I ponder this morning, is if they know what it means to be a member of the family of God.

We do not enter into this family just because our parents or their parents belonged to the Body of Christ or any particular congregation. We are not born in the natural way into the family of God. We are adopted into God's family. In order for us to be adopted into God's family there was a price; a much greater price than we have to pay to adopt a child in today's society. The purchase price for our adoption was not silver or gold. The blood of God's only begotten Son paid the ultimate price for our adoption into His family.

Our DNA; our bloodlines, connect and confirm our earthly families; but, the blood of Christ makes us children of the most High God. We do not enter God's family by any goodness of our own. We do not enter God's family because of any earthly connections we might have. We enter by the virtue of the one who gave himself for us; that we might be reconciled to our Father in heaven for all of eternity. There is only way to become a child of God. There is only one way to the Father. That way is through Jesus the Christ.

There is more to being a Christian than just saying that you are one. By the power of the Holy Spirit, may God grant you faith in the one who died that all might live as children of the most High God.

God's Peace - Pr. J

Just Stop Doing Wrong!

Wash and make yourselves clean. Take your evil deeds out of my sight; stop doing wrong. Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow. Isa 1:16-17 NIV

I just finished reading a bit of news on the internet as I do every morning. There were some articles that I chose not to read because the headlines pointed to some pretty gruesome and despicable conduct. I get tired. I imagine much of the world gets tired of reading and hearing about the evil that is done. Some of the evil is so bold and in your face that it is nauseating.

Other evil deeds are more behind the scenes and are often looked at as lesser evils or maybe not even evil at all. What is evil is sometimes called good. This lesser evil can have an even more far reaching effect on the world than some of the seemingly worst atrocities because this type of evil has become generally accepted in society as something that we just need to learn to live with. It is often justified with the excuse that someone was exercising their personal rights without considering that someone else's personal rights just got trampled on. Just because one thinks that the damage they do to others is not as horrible as what others do does not make it right.  

Other evil deeds are perpetuated daily by a world that has forgotten what evil is. Sin abounds. The Lord's name is taken in vain. People curse one another and act like their words are said in jest. The filth that is seen on television makes it appear that these words and activities are actually good things. The list goes on. Do we really think that the youngest people who see and hear this evil can discern what it good and what is evil unless someone teaches them? And, who can teach them if we ourselves no longer know?

Evil is evil. Sin is sin and when we say that sin is no longer sin it changes the world's perception of what is right and what is wrong and wrong gets perpetuated and approved at an even more alarming rate. There is way too much evil in the world. Let us focus on doing what is good and right.

Create in us clean hearts, O God, And renew steadfast spirits within us. (Psalm 51:10)

God's Peace - Pr. J

What Is Good

He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. Micah 6:8

God has indeed shown us what is good. So, why not just do it? I suppose it is not as simply or as easy as that. But, why not at least try? Why all the drama? Life does not have to be so chaotic. We do not have to hurt others or be hurt. We could live in relative peace if only we would listen and follow in the way our Lord Jesus has shown us.

May God help us to act justly, love mercy, and to walk humbly with our Lord.

God's Peace - Pr. J