The Biblical Evidence For Santa

It is that remarkable and wonderful time of year when millions of Christians around the globe anticipate the celebration of the birth of the Savior,Yeshua, Messiah, the Lord Jesus Christ. It is that time when the community of believers has the opportunity to find new and old ways to disagree and separate one from another. The time to celebrate "Peace on earth and good will toward men" can be replaced with judgemental attitudes and divisions over traditions and questions of worship. Believers vary from those who immerse themselves in virtually every tradition to those who piously proclaim that they will have no part in a celebration that was once based in paganism. "To tree or not to tree, that is the question." What of lights and wreaths and stockings and presents?  And what of the big guy in the red suit. What should be done about the Santa Question? Wouldn't it be nice to have some clear Biblical guidelines to clarify these questions? What if I told you that you could find some Biblical answers to the Santa question and some other sticky issues Christians face? Interested? Then keep reading.

The Santa question is answered in Zechariah 2:6, "Ho, ho, come forth, and flee from the land of the north, saith the LORD: for I have spread you abroad as the four winds of the heaven, saith the LORD." This has to be the clearest Scriptural evidence to prove the existence of Santa Clause you could ever find. Who else goes "Ho, ho" and flees to the north? Who else is spread abroad the four winds of heaven bringing gifts to all the good boys and girls? Seems pretty convincing to me. And if you really want that expensive gift like a sports car or motor cycle, remember Isaiah 58:14, "then you will find your joy in the LORD, and I will cause you to ride in triumph on the heights of the land". I am not sure if the Triumph is a motor cycle or a sports car but I am sure they did find joy in the Lord cruising around on the heights of the land. If not a Triumph you could probably find joy in a Harley as well. While we are at it we should deal with the health issue of Santa's pipe. Lots of Christians think smoking is wrong. However, Genesis 24:64 says, "And Rebekah lifted up her eyes, and when she saw Isaac, she lighted off the camel." It appears Rebekah was so nervous when she saw Isaac she needed a smoke to calm her nerves. There seems to be little difference between lighting up a Camel and lighting up a pipe so maybe we have been a little too critical of Santa's smoking habit.

I do hope that you, my readers, recognize that this is all said in jest. Though, I must make a bit of a confession. For those who do not know me I have a pretty full and very white beard. I wear wire rimmed glasses from time to time and also wear a red sort of puffy coat on chilly days. I honestly get some pretty wide eyed looks from small children at the shopping malls. One day I could not resist when a little boy stared at me as we rode in an elevator. I held the door for him and his mom and leaned down to look him in the eye and asked, "Have you been good?" His eyes got really wide as he nodded yes. I winked at him and went on my way realizing, as I walked, that I had just embedded the reality of Santa in the heart of a three year old. The verse in Zechariah 2 has nothing to do with Santa. Isaiah does not refer to motor cycles nor does Genesis 24:6 justify putting dry tobacco leaves in your mouth and setting them on fire. It is obvious that these verses were taken out of context and made to say something other than what God intended. It is like saying Matthew 18:20, “For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them” has anything to do with prayer or worship. We all know that is taken out of context and does not represent what Jesus intended. Right? Not so sure? Let's check out the context.

Jesus, the Jewish Rabbi, is talking to His Jewish disciples and a Jewish crowd about relationships. The passage is about forgiveness and restoration, Matthew 18:15, “Moreover if your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone. If he hears you, you have gained your brother." The Lord then goes on to give instruction should the brother not receive your instruction. “But if he will not hear, take with you one or two more, that ‘by the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established" (Matthew 18:16). The italicized portion is a quote for Deuteronomy 19:15. The Jewish audience would recognized this instruction from Torah. The issue here is a violation of God's Law. The grievance is not because someone took their spot at the synagogue or that they said they had seen a high school girls' soccer team play better football than the Jets. It was understood that these petty things would be quickly forgiven and forgotten. The matter here is a sin that puts the brother at odds with God's Word and thus with God Himself. The next step is in verse 17, "And if he refuses to hear them, tell it to the church. But if he refuses even to hear the church, let him be to you like a heathen and a tax collector." One needed correction here. There is no church when Yeshua is speaking. The word is simply assembly referring to the Jewish community not a group of Gentile followers of Jesus. This is spoken to Jews who immediately thought of the passage in Deuteronomy. Failure to repent in the face of clear evidence confirmed by three or more witnesses of a clear violation of God's Law would compel the Jewish Community to treat their Jewish brother like a Gentile or tax collector. They would have to exclude the errant brother from the feasts, table fellowship, some business dealings, social events like weddings and bar mitzvah celebrations. It would be a crushing separation designed to bring the guilty brother to repentance and restoration. This is no easy thing and never to be taken lightly. However, if the procedures are followed, those who are leaders in the community and synagogue have assurance from Deuteronomy 19 that when two or three are gathered for the purpose of disciplining and restoring a sinning brother, the Lord, Himself is in their midst. They are not taking such an imposing action on their own. God's Word must be honored and God's community must be pure. There is nothing in Matthew 18 or Deuteronomy 19 that promises us that Jesus will be with us when two or three gather to pray or when we gather to worship. He is always with us and He inhabits the praises of His people. Right thought. Wrong verse.

Just a closing thought about the Christmas season.There is really no doubt that the birth of the babe, spoken of in Luke chapter 2, was born in the spring or fall. This winter birth date is highly unlikely. It is rare to find a Christian that thinks of druids when they see a Christmas tree, but believe me they are out there. I, for one, am fully convinced that the birth of the Savior was not on December 25th. We do not know when his birth occurred. However, I find it hard to find fault with setting aside time to worship the Lord and celebrate His arrival to live among humanity with the purpose of rescuing us from death. It seems any day is a good day to worship God's Son and to celebrate His love and grace poured out upon us. So, I wish you and yours a very blessed Christmas.

Right Thought, Wrong Verse

It has been said that if you tell a lie often enough people will think it is true. Misinterpretation of Scripture holds the same reality. We often quote verses and apply them in ways that has nothing to do with the context and ignores the culture and audience. It is not that the phrase is not true, it is just not true in the context of the passage it is lifted from. Much of the time there is little damage done, however, just because we recite the verse often does not make it true. Let me share two examples that you are likely familiar with. Trust me there are WAY more than just these two. Hmmmmm maybe I could turn this into a series? But, I digress. We will just start with these two.

First, has any one ever quoted Psalm 118:24 to you? Most likely, you just may not know where it came from. It says, "This is the day the LORD has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it." I have even heard it put into a lively little tune. One that has a nice sort of echo thing going for it when you sing it in a group. "This is the day, (This is the day) That the Lord has made, (That the Lord has made) We will rejoice, (We will rejoice)" .... Perhaps it is playing in your head as you read the words. I have been in lots of services and to a number of conferences that have the introduction to the event use this verse. "Welcome to our service, "This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it!" And all God's children say, "Amen". Nice thought. And it is true that the Lord makes every day. However, this is not David's inspired thought.

Bounce back to David's Psalm and we find these verses, "The stone which the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone.This was the LORD’s doing; it is marvelous in our eyes" (Psalm 118:22-23). The day David is speaking of is the day Messiah comes. It is the time when Messiah who was rejected is exalted. This event does not become fully realized until Messiah establishes His kingdom. When He becomes the Chief Cornerstone. Jesus quotes these two verses in Matthew 21:42, as does Mark 12:10, and Luke 20:17, and Peter in Acts 4:11. All are clear references to Jesus, Yeshua as Messiah. The one who has come to deliver His people. Peter uses this verse to explain that we are living stones making up His temple with Christ as the Chief Cornerstone (1 Peter 2:5-7), The day we "rejoice in" is when the "Rejected Stone" becomes the Chief Cornerstone. Not just any day. Not every day. But, that day when Messiah takes His place to rule and to reign. Believe me, that will be a day to rejoice and be glad in. I am also positive it has not come yet. As I said before, we should be glad and rejoicing every day. However, that is not the day David was calling us to rejoice in. That day is when Messiah comes to reign, Rejoicing every day is that right thought, just the wrong verse.

The second verse is from the Beatitudes. Matthew 5:5, "Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth."  Many evangelical commentaries and a variety of messages I have heard tie inheriting the earth to the church ruling with Messiah when He comes and reigns over the earth. This is based upon Revelation 20:6, "Blessed and holy is he who has part in the first resurrection. Over such the second death has no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with Him a thousand years." Obviously the two blessings are tied together. After all everything in Scripture is about me and the church. Right? Just for fun let's give this a little context. The People who first heard this were Jews. They were just outside Galilee. The have come to hear a new Jewish Rabbi, name Yeshua, talk. He speaks their Jewish language and has been reared in their Jewish culture and customs. Everyone there is either Jewish or well familiar with everything Hebraic. Yeshua, Jesus, tells them, "Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth." You and I think Matthew 5:5. All of them think Psalm 37:11, "But the meek shall inherit the earth, and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace." Now who are the meek in Psalm 37? They trust in the Lord, do good, commit their way to Him and rest patiently as they wait for Him, They are humble, upright, and obedient. You might want to go read the whole Psalm. I will still be here when you get back. ............ Okay, now you know that the entire Psalm is how the  righteous shall live and their reward, in contrast to the wicked and their coming judgement. Let's continue. Those who inherit are the righteous. The Jews on the hillside know this. They also know about inheritance. For a Jew at the time of Jesus it was still all about the land. The land promised to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. The land that was each tribes inheritance when they conquered it under Joshua. It was divided by tribe, clan and family. The promised land inheritance was vital to them, their culture and their history.

As they listen on the hillside, Rabbi Yeshua reminds them that the meek, the humble, the trusting and obedient, will inherit the land. Earth and land are the same word. Perhaps the reminder is that even though they are under Rome's power and control Yahweh's promise still holds true. No one on that hillside ever thought abut a thousand year reign or something called the church. The message was very practical and meaningful to an oppressed people. God had nor forgotten them. His promises are true. Be patient and trust in the Lord. Do good and walk uprightly as you rest in the promises He gave that never fail.

Not a bad application for us either. It is also far closer to the culture and context of the verse and the message that Psalm 37 brings us. The passage from which Jesus quotes,  Will we rule and reign with Messiah? Indeed. Can we get that promise from Matthew 5:5? Not if you want to see it the way that Jesus taught it to the multitude of Jews on the hillside. It is a right thought, just the wrong verse.

Maybe it doesn't really matter as long as it is true somewhere in the Bible. I guess the question is whether we want to know what Jesus said and meant or what Christians make it say. It seems to me that it is pretty important to know what He said more than what I want it to mean. Then again, if I go with what it means to me and what tradition has made it to be, I can pretty much get Scripture to say anything I want. I am pretty sure that is not what the Apostle Paul meant when he told me to study to show myself approved unto God, correctly understanding the Word of truth. But, that is just what I think. You can make your own choice.  

"What Now?"

The intensity of the past twenty-five days has been somewhat replaced with the dulling metronome of daily responsibilities. However, it does not remove the shadow of the Tom-shaped loss that will now be a part of my existence. I would like to be more like David. To respond like he did in 2 Samuel 12. After agonizing in prayer and fasting over the declining condition of his infant son, David is confronted with the child's death. He gets up from his earnest but unanswered plea, bathes, eats and moves on with life. When asked how he can do this, David replies, “But now he is dead; why should I fast? Can I bring him back again? I shall go to him, but he shall not return to me" (2 Samuel 12:23). David simply trusts God and moves on. I know the truth that David did, but it seems my emotional fasting has continued. I do and will miss my friend. My thought is that this loss will only become more real in the coming days, not less. I am still consoled and wrapped up in the protective shroud of the "peace that passes all understanding" but I am far from joining David in Psalm 30:11, "You have turned for me my mourning into dancing; You have put off my sackcloth and clothed me with gladness."  The abrasive sackcloth of a loss I have yet to fully comprehend chafes at my soul.

"What now?"

Now I will live each day with the memories of what has been. I will sort through the plethora of words and feelings that consumed my life these past few days. I will remember that Sunday the 4th of December has additional meaning with the memory of hundreds of people gathering to pay tribute and honor a man who had touched their lives. A simple man who simply live out the love of Christ in his every day contact with people. I will remember the broken hearts of his family as they shared those intimate memories of a husband and father and brother. I will remember the many who stood to recount Tom's life of love and grace personified. The hymn "Majesty" will now always hold a special place in heart, not just for Tom but for a little guy named Louis that Tom loved. I will reflect upon the many who sought me out to tell how Tom and his compassionate  leadership at Craigville Bible Church had drawn them into a closer walk with the Savior. I will try to overlook how many of them walked away and left him behind. Such partings were never easy for him. I will remember the hugs and the friends from years past who made the trip to honor their friend and brother. It was a remarkable afternoon to honor a friend and brother who honored the God and Savior he loved.

Personally, I will remember the time squashed in an Escort, Vigilantes of Love, Friendly's, the Pizza Hut Buffet and so many talks while spreading mulch at church or piling wood into my pick-up. I will remember putting sheet rock in his stairway and Elders Meetings on his deck. I will remember praying for our children and our wives. For the joys of shared ministry and shared anguish over the pain and personal attacks that can come with leading God's flock. To know he always had my back. I will remember one of the best renditions of "Nothing but the Blood" that I have ever heard. I will remember how we recognized that we were little more than the broken stones that God, in His remarkable grace, had placed into the structure of His Temple. I will remember most of all his desire to please the Lord and his devotion to his family. Of his smile at the very mention of the woman named Jeanne that he adored. Of the pride and, at times, pain he felt for his son and daughter and the unconditional love he held for them. I will remember that, even though he was pretty sure he was right, he would hear my point of view and on occasion even change his mind.

"What Now?" I will lean on 2 Corinthians 6:2. It is a verse often misapplied by evangelicals to convince people to "Trust in Jesus to be saved today for there may not be a tomorrow".  "Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation." The word translated "salvation is the Greek soteria. It means  deliverance, preservation, and safety as well as salvation. In the context of 2 Corinthians 5 and 6, it applies to every day I exist on this planet. Not some special salvation day experience. Right now I need a daily dose of deliverance from thoughts I do not need to dwell on. I need preservation from the enemies "what if" assault. You know, those thoughts that accuse us and condemn us for not being the friend we should have been or when we should have been there or said something. Satan loves to hit us with accusatory "what ifs" when we are in pain and vulnerable so we miss the comfort and peace of God while robbing us of the memories that honor our friend. I need to know I am safely in the arms of my Savior when the emotions of loss roll over me from time to time.

"What now?" Will be spent following my friend and brother's example. We did have the distinction of having married the two most amazing women on the planet. In the midst of all this, Tom's love and devotion for Jeanne never wavered. For my part, I have been supported and held tightly in the compassion and grace of the woman who I have been privileged to call my wife for 39 years. I would have been far less together through this if not for my beloved Debbie holding me tenderly when I was too numb to even know how to feel. We both have remarkable and gifted children that held and hold a special connection in our lives. Tom honestly loved my five and I have  loved Jonathan and Melody in the love only two fathers could share. It is likely from the times of prayer, concern, and joys we often shared concerning them when we talked and ate too much pizza together. I will continue to love Christ's Bride as my brother Tom did. He had many earthly reasons to abandon his call as an Elder. However, his love for the Lord and His Bride held him true to his calling. I am forever grateful for having him at my side in all these years of ministry. Oh, and I will make sure the kids ring the bell on Sunday mornings.

It snowed here in New York last night. The ragged trees, bare bushes and dormant lawn of late fall has been painted in silver and white by the Divine Artist. "Washed whiter than snow" is our promise. One realized by my brother Tom and all who would call upon the Name of the Lord. I am at peace. "What now?" I will face each day for today is a day I will be delivered and preserved and held securely in the love of my Lord. And I will be tomorrow and the next day and the next until God takes me home. I can live with that.      

Beyond Understanding

I often give my posts a provocative title or one with humor. My desire is that people will read and give thought to my musings and perhaps learn something new. I do not hold hope that this post will be popular or even entice anyone to read, much less to read to the end. It is a personal record of the conflict I am having with how unfair it is to be overshadowed by the God of love and grace.

I have been in ministry for forty plus years. I have seen God heal one going blind, cancer removed, mobility restored, infertility conquered, and marriages healed. I have experienced first hand the power of prayer. I have also known those times when the Lord determines that the prayers of God's people will not yield the desired results. "Thy will be done" is always a necessary part of the petition laid before the God of all grace who knows far more than I will ever perceive. I have come to accept that reality.

Being a Pastor and teacher has become more than His gift or even His calling, it is who I am. The greatest cost is that of friendship. Pastors live under the shadow of expectations. I have connected, cared for, ministered to, discipled and loved a significant number of men and families. Almost as many have come to find that I have failed to meet their expectations in some way or form and have moved on to other assemblies and left me behind. In quiet nights like these I am still haunted by the loss of what I once thought was friendship. However, there are occasions when someone looks past the gift and accepts you for who you are. Another frail and flawed pilgrim on life's journey. They are few and far between. I have four such treasured friends in my life. One I moved away from, two that have moved away to other parts of the USA and one who has been closer than a brother. It is he who holds my attention tonight.

About two weeks ago the Lord allowed him to suffer a stroke. He is six years my junior and was in good health. The stroke was minor and recovery, though time consuming, seemed likely. I prayed for him. I prayed in the car on the way to the hospital, I prayed in the lobby, in the elevator, and at his bedside. He squeezed my hand and thanked me for my concern. I knew God would heal him. He is my dear friend. His wife needs him, as do his children and grand children. Then there are his band members and co-workers and members of the fellowship where he leads worship and encourages Christ's Bride. This episode was just God's new material for those beloved "mini sermons" he shares as he welcomes God's children to come to worship. .

We share on a great many levels. We have prayed for our wives and our children together. We have wept in sorrow and in Joy. He always has my back. He has always defended me and we have faced more trials and joys in leading a flock together than anyone. Did I mention, he is my friend and I need him. I had laid out a flawless case before the Lord, healing was assured.

His incremental improvements served to fuel my confidence in his eventual healing. Until the heart attack and coronary arrest. There have been a few shimmers of hope but the situation is clouded with a growing darkness that seems to be leading to his departure. God is still almighty and the Messiah he calls Lord can still heal the blind, cause the lame to leap and the dead to rise. He can heal my friend. But, what if He chooses not to? I am not happy.

I would like to question God. I want to shake my fist in His face and tell Him how unfair this is. I want to wallow in some crises of faith and doubt everything I have held to be true. I want to cry out in anger and tell Him of this injustice and that I am done being His servant. I am walking away. But, He will not let me go. Everything I know and have known holds me to the Rock that is greater than I. I desire anguish and rage and find  instead, "the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, guarding my heart and mind through Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:7). I find myself standing with Job saying, "though He slay me, yet will I trust Him". The quiet confidence and peace that overshadows me robs me of my indignation and gives me unwelcome comfort. And to add to my inability to cast Him aside He replays a song by Casting Crowns over and over again in my head (Here is my opportunity to place it in your head https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vCpP0mFD9F0 ), "The God Who gives, and takes away."

In the midst of the storm a firm hand grasps mine and gently says. "Come with Me, climb in, join Me in the safety of the boat. Here is a cushion. lay down. Come unto me, for I am gentle of heart, come find rest for your soul."

And my soul is at rest. He will not let me go. It is simply beyond understanding.

The Other Side of Grace

Grace. It is the hallmark of contemporary Christendom. It is proclaimed to be the New Covenant that replaces the archaic notion of the Law. We love to see God as our gracious Heavenly Father. To know that it is "By grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast" (Ephesians 2:8-9). For many the New Testament hold the words of grace, love and life while the Old Testament is about the law, wrath and death. Failing to consider the truth that without grace in the Old testament the story would have ended in Genesis three and we would not be here. Grace permeates the whole of Scripture and requirements of obedience are just as much the teaching of Paul, Peter, James and Yeshua as are Moses, Isaiah and Daniel. Just in passing the New Covenant is found in Jeremiah 32 and reiterated in Hebrews 8. The promise of the New Covenant is that God's Law or Torah is written on our hearts. Far from being made obsolete, obedience to the Law will come from the inside out if you are under the New Covenant. in fact, all who are under the New Covenant will be Torah obedient. Even though this is true and an interesting discussion it is not the point of this post. Here I want to remind us of the other side of grace.

Grace is often defined as"unmerited favor". A simplistic but accurate phrase, it is just inadequate if we are to really appreciate this wonderful gift from Yahweh. Grace is seen as forgiveness. The joy that, even though there is nothing I can do about my sin and failures, God intervenes, "As far as the east is from the west, So far has He removed our transgressions from us" (Psalm 103:12). God will remove my sin. God is indeed gracious and loving and forgiving. However, He is also pure, just, righteous and holy. If we do not give a little mental exercise to the reality of grace we will redefine God's grace into our terms. For humans we exercise grace by forgiving someone of an offense. "Hey, it is no big deal, forget about it." "Just keep the $20, you needed it more than I do." Simple acts of grace. Simple applications of "unmerited favor" just because we care about the other person. Just dismiss the issue and move on. Doesn't God do that for us?

Yes and no. He does forgive and remove our transgressions but a holy and righteous God cannot just pass over the violations of the boundaries He has set. A price has to be paid or God is not holy and just. He determined that the violation of His word is death. He did not just ignore the sin of Adam. They were removed from the garden and life became far more difficult for human beings ever since. The reality is that death await all of us. The means of dealing with sin and disobedience is woven into the culture and worship of Judaism, (a culture and faith we were to be to be grafted into) and composes much of the instructions and directions given to us in the Word of God. Someone has to merit that unmerited favor offered to us. Someone has to pay the price for the transgressions that cast a shadow over our lives. For a Hebrew follower of God this meant the sacrifice of an unblemished animal in their place. The wages of sin is death, if not your own than that of someone else. Someone who has garnished favor with God needs to intercede. Someone who actually merits God's favor needs to step in so unmerited folks can survive, to avoid the death sentence they deserve.

Grace is the merited favor offered to the unmerited offender. Sin is not just "cast into the deepest sea" it is paid for. The deserved death penalty is experienced by the one who merits grace so grace can be passed on. We tend to forget that. What sin condemns us to death? Murder, rape, kidnapping, how about a bite of fruit or murmuring God's name as someone cuts you off in traffic. The odor of death clings to humanity as we walk obliviously in violation of the commands of God Almighty. For those who believe there is hope. "For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him" (2 Corinthians 5:21). Messiah intercedes on our behalf. He offers life and deliverance. The price for grace is no small thing.  "Knowing that you were not redeemed with corruptible things, like silver or gold ... but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot" (1 Peter 1:18-19). Every offense, every transgression, every careless word, condemns us to death. I am lost. Unless one who has merit before the Holy God of creation comes to my rescue. Comes to accept the death penalty on my behalf.

Grace. An expensive act of deliverance. An act that should humble us and direct us to a true experience of awe. To lead us to worship and solemn praise. Grace that drives us to obedience so we do not bring dishonor to the one who provides us grace based on His merit and standing with God the Father. Grace is no frivolous theological thought that says "God forgives so I am okay". It is the soul wrenching reality of the enormity of the cost of my sin. "For when we were still without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly" (Romans 5:6). Messiah died ............................ for the ungodly. For me. For you. That is the other side of grace.         

Hide and Seek With Yahweh

Most of us have played some form of "Hide and Seek". That game where the group hides and the one who is "it" has to count to fifty with their eyes closed and then try to fine those who are hiding. It is a pretty simple game for children. There are also variations by other names like "Sardines" or "Mafia" for the more mature crowd who think they have out grown the simple game. The game can be pretty fun, unless no one looks for you. My question for today is, "Does Yahweh play hide and seek with His children?" If so who is "it"? Does God do the seeking or is that my part? If God is entirely sovereign then why would He ever seek me? Doesn't He already know where I am? Is it possible we occasionally trade roles? You know, where one day I seek Him and on another day God seeks me. So today's question is, "Does Yahweh play hide and seek with His children?" It seems that He does, at least when you look at the Scriptures. It may well add a more personal dimension to the relationship we share with Him, and may raise some of unwanted questions. It may elevate ares of tension we often ignore or avoid as it can tax our little brain cells. The game begins way back in Genesis chapter three.

Six amazing days of creative power has found Adam and Eve placed in a pristine and perfect garden. There is an unimaginable variety of food to eat and animals to tend and enjoy. However, there is that tree over there with fruit so pleasant to the eye and the serpent said it would make them wise. How upset could the creator really get if they took just a taste? The deed is done. Disobedience now marks their lives and they feel vulnerable so they hide. "Then the LORD God called to Adam and said to him, “Where are you?” (Genesis 3:9). "Where are you?" God comes seeking the disobedient, the rebellious, the one who has made the choice to turn away and hide. Amazing grace as the Lord comes seeking the ones who are hiding. David actually invites God to come find him, "I have gone astray like a lost sheep; seek Your servant, For I do not forget Your commandments" (Psalm 119:176). Ezekiel gives us the voice of the prophet confirming God's commitment to find us, "I will seek what was lost and bring back what was driven away, bind up the broken and strengthen what was sick" (34:16). Messiah also comes to find us, "for the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost” (Luke 19:10). God is the one who comes to seek the lost, wounded and wayward. David also reminds us that we honestly cannot hide from the Lord, see Psalm 139 for the details. God, His Son and His Spirit seek those He longs to be with.

On the other hand we also play the part of the ones who seek. Moses gives us this promise, "Seek the LORD your God, and you will find Him if you seek Him with all your heart and with all your soul" (Deuteronomy 4:29). David tells us God will not forsake those who seek Him, Psalm 9:10, "And those who know Your name will put their trust in You; for You, LORD, have not forsaken those who seek You". )Actually, David tells us to seek the Lord at least a dozen times throughout the Psalms.) Messiah also tells us to seek, "Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you" (Matthew 7:7). However, it appears there will be a time when we can no longer find God. "Seek the LORD while He may be found, call upon Him while He is near" (Isaiah 55:6). So, maybe now is the time to engage in some hide and seek activity with the Lord, before it is too late.

This does leave us with the question of who is "It". Are we the seekers or is that God's part? And why does God seek if as a sovereign being He already knows where we are? Is this a different kind of seeking? Does this cosmic game last a life time or do we find Him and the game is over? Can we get lost once we are found? It seems the more you think about all those hide and seek verses we end up with more questions than answers. Is David right that there are times when God hides from us, "And do not hide Your face from Your servant, for I am in trouble" (Psalm 69:17). God hiding does not sound all that comforting to me.

Perhaps that is not the point after all. Maybe it is less about who seeks and who hides and more about the game. Hiding and seeking demands interaction between the participants. It builds into a relationship. As we seek the Lord in times of trouble our trust can grow as He reveals himself to us. As with David, there is comfort in knowing that this lost sheep has one seeking him who will never leave or forsake me. It might just be that the Lord has called me to play a little "Hide and Seek" and I have been too busy to seek and to distracted to know I need to be found. The Word of God is filled with the stories and accounts of His playing Hide and Seek with His children. It seems we are always in need of being found and that we should be far more motivated to seek Him than our hectic lives allow for. With all we face in the world we live in it might just be time to step away from the chaos and play a little Hide and Seek with Yahweh.

Does God Know Who Will Win?

Tomorrow is election day here in the USA. The question one could ask is, "Does God know who will win?" This thought can apply to most any situation. Perhaps the more compelling question is,  "Does God ordain who will win?" Whether it is a political contest, some military conflict, the World Cup or some other sporting event. Just how much does God control? As believers we often fine solace in the phrase, "At least we know God is in control." A true statement and a place to find comfort in the midst of whatever storms of life we may find ourselves. We understand God to be sovereign, Who will always accomplish His will. This is also true, however, I have observed this to be an excuse to avoid responsibility as much as a theological reality to hold to. If God is in ultimate control, than what decisions and actions I take have little consequence. I can go through life avoiding taking action and rest in His sovereignty while building up immunity to the conviction of His Spirit.

This is not what we find in Scripture. God does indeed know outcomes but He grants us the freedom and responsibility to take action. It is clear that there are more than one possible outcomes to events based upon our actions. The intervention of human beings in tangible situations changes things. If not then our relationship with Yahweh is a sham. "The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much." Or so James tells us (James 5:16). The only way fervent prayer avails much is if there is a response from the one prayed to, allowing for change to occur. In 2 Kings 13, Elisha comes to King Joash and tells him to strike the ground with some arrows. Joash strikes the ground three times. Elisha rebukes him for the striking f the ground represents victories God would grant him over Israel's enemies. God will give the victories, however, Joash is responsible for how many. There are a number of possible outcomes depending upon Joash. God does not make Joash stop after striking the ground only three times.

God had promised judgement upon Judah for their terrible sin. His judgement is withheld for a time due to the righteous actions of King Josiah (see 2 Kings 23). We can point to Abraham's intervention for Sodom or Moses being an advocate for the Nation of Israel on numerous occasions. The whole concept of prayer is contingent on the reality of diverse outcomes to different circumstances. If this is not so then there is no reason to pray for healing or direction if God has predetermined the outcome. In the bigger picture God will use whatever path that is chosen to accomplish His ultimate will. Yet, in the day to day reality we live in the decisions we make truly do matter. The kindness we show or withhold will grant different outcomes. A witness to a neighbor, friend or coworker may not change their view of God immediately, however, it does not mean we are not responsible to share a word. The excuse that, in the sovereignty of God, they will hear the truth eventually does not excuse our inaction. God's will can be accomplished down some other path but, you had a choice to direct the path to be taken at the time.

In the election facing the USA tomorrow, I believe God knows the outcome, I also believe there are two possible paths we can take. The choice is ours to make. The consequences are ours to bear. Both candidates are flawed. Some would say more so than in any time in recent history. However, the two main choices represent two distinct philosophies of governing. More or less Government control or our lives. The opportunity for the next president to place judges on the Supreme Court will have repercussions for a generation or longer. Things in God's Word could be labeled "hate speech" and become illegal to preach. Education in a home or private setting could fall under the control of a federal agency who will determine what can be taught to another generation. I am not an alarmist or a conspiracy nut, however, I am aware of the regulations placed by other governments who have chosen the path of government control. There will be consequences no matter what choices are made.

Will God still be in charge after the election? Of course. Just as He was when Portugal won the World Cup. The ramifications in this election just have the potential to be far more important than a sporting event. As believers we can trust in the sovereign hand of God to keep us and to bring about the Lord's will. There is the distinct possibility that His judgement upon a wayward and ever growing Godless nation can be withheld or accelerated. The path is ours to choose. As one looks at the prophetic passages of Scripture there is a clear absence of a reference to the USA. Perhaps it is because we are not a nation of consequence upon the events of the final days before Messiah's return. Perhaps that is the path we are choosing. That is a thought to be considered in a future post. Today's thought is the truth that we have choices to make and paths to follow that will determine God's activity in our midst. My hope is that fervent prayer will come before His throne of grace and that it will avail much on behalf of the nation I live in. For the sake of my children, my grandchildren, my beloved flock I shepherd, my community and even the world. Would you pause and offer a prayer to the sovereign God of the universe?             

Are You a Guardian of the Galaxy?

It is a popular thing to proclaim that you are out to "save the planet". We should use those reusable bags and avoid disposable dishes. Do not forget to buy products made of recycled materials and recycle them again. And perhaps most important, only shop at "green friendly" stores and restaurants. Finally, buy one of those hybrid cars that runs on electricity produced at a coal burning electric plant. Well, there maybe a bit of a conflict there so put up those solar panels and rub your feet on the carpet to make your own electricity. Don't get me wrong, I recycle and I do things that seem reasonable to prevent waste. It honestly grieves me, at times, to see how much stuff gets tossed away or set on the curb with the rest of the trash. However, there are those who now worship at the alter of climate change and see humanity as the evil Satan whose objective it is to destroy the very planet that provides for our life.

I suggest a little Biblical perspective is in order. Genesis 2:15, "Then the LORD God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to tend and keep it." The Hebrew means to till and work the garden and to keep watch over it. To help the garden produce, but also to protect the planet, is man's commission from God, Himself. It is a commission that is directed toward those who have a relationship with God. Who understand that the "garden" and all it contains, is a gift from God. However, the pristine planet and it's contents have been corrupted due to man's disobedience. It is still a remarkable planet to live on. God's creativity abounds. He did not just make one tree but thousands of varieties. And His creativity with flowers, why, “Consider the lilies, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; and yet I say to you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these" (Luke 12:27). From the solemn beauty of the desert to the majesty of snow capped mountains, the creation cries out praise to its creator. The heavens, as well, declare the Glory of God.

Yet, for all it's glory there are volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, tsunamis,  hurricanes, forest fires, and a lot of other things we call natural disasters. Paul was correct when he said that, "For we know that the whole creation groans and labors with birth pangs together until now" (Romans 8:22). Our planet struggles under the weight of sin and the sorrow of a fallen world. The wonderful news for our planet, and even the universe, is found in the familiar verse of John 3:16, "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." The key word here is translated "world". It is the Greek word, κόσμος kosmos. It is the orderly arrangement of all of creation. Not just people and not just this planet. The verse does focus on those who believe, but all creation was touched by the power of the death and resurrection of the Son. There is a promise of a new heaven and a new earth, (Revelation 21:1) when all will be redeemed, all will be delivered. The groaning of the planet will be replaced with the joy of new birth. Deliverance is not just for us but for all of creation, for the cosmos.

In the meantime, it seems we have some things a bit upside down. Believers, followers of the One True God, have a responsibility to guard and oversee the protection of the world God has made. I know it applied to Adam and the garden of Eden; however, the responsibility is carried beyond the garden. Genesis 3:17-18, "Cursed is the ground for your sake; in toil you shall eat of it all the days of your life. Both thorns and thistles it shall bring forth for you, and you shall eat the herb of the field." We are called to cultivate and care for the, now uncooperative, earth we inhabit. Believers should be grieved over the loss of a species or the extinction of a plant. We should be careful as we harvest and develop the resources the Lord has graciously provided. As we use the energy sources He created, for the care and provision of humanity, we should do so in a way that also protects His planet. As stewards we are to use these things, but never to be careless or unconcerned with the world which contains them. We are not to worship the planet or it's contents; it was given for humanity to use and enjoy, just to do so responsibly. For the betterment, provision, and protection, of mankind. Trees are there to make houses and pianos and then new ones cultivated for coming generations. Believers are also responsible to protect the wonder for coming generations, be they giant redwoods, magnificent waterfalls, exotic birds, flowers and animals. We are their guardians.

For the evolutionist these things should not be so. Protection of the planet and it's contents should appall them. For evolution to continue its journey of natural selection toward some later perfection, preserving what is here now interferes with what could be. The only logical course for evolution to follow is the extinction of the lesser species. The elimination of the inferior for the advancement of the superior. Volcanoes, and earthquakes should cause environmentalist to rejoice. Every inferior plant, insect, and animal eliminated should bring a celebration knowing it is another small step in the upward process of the evolutionary ladder toward perfection. Evolutionist should champion pollution and toxic waste. How else will the things occupying the planet be tested and adapt so only the most fit survive? Advancing the evolutionary process should be the goal of every evolutionist. As we have yet to develop the means to attract another meteor to collide with the earth and advance our species, perhaps nuclear fallout and noxious gases could serve as a substitute? However, evolutionists would never do this. They actually desire to fulfill the commission of the Creator they deny. They have picked up the role many believers have discounted.

So, how goes your stewardship role? Planet wise, I mean. Do you see yourself as the guardian of the galaxy? Well, at least this planet. If not, maybe now you have something new to think about.    

The Failure inTrying or Yoda had it Right

Debbie and I went to see the first Star Wars movie on our honeymoon, over 39 years ago. Episode IV "A New Hope". We were hooked and have found our way to episodes V, VI, I, II, III, and VII. It is highly likely that we will see the new Star Wars this fall as we wait for episode VIII to come to the big screen. We can actually speak "Star Wars" with our children. "I am your father." In Star Wars Episode V "The Empire Strikes Back". Luke leaves the frozen world of Hoth to go to the Degaba system to train to be a Jedi. Here he meets Yoda, a Jedi Master, who is to teach him the way of the force. There is a lot of Eastern mysticism woven into the sci-fi fantasy but there are also some reflections of truth. Yoda is definitely not a student of Plato. His theological framework is, without a doubt, Eastern. He actually reflects a little Hebraic truth we can learn from. His thoughts are actually ones our Western world view has a harder time incorporating into our lives than we realize.

Luke is trying to "use the force" to levitate things when his X-wing starfighter begins to slip beneath the murky waters of the swamp that is Yoda's home. He is challenged by his teacher, Yoda, to rescue the sinking fighter. Luke is more than skeptical as he sees no relationship between his growing Jedi skills and this assignment. Moving boxes is one thing but this is an X-wing starfighter. He sighs and tells Yoda he will try. Yoda responds with a profound statement that every follower of Messiah can learn from. Yoda simply says, "Do or do not, there is no try". Luke gives it a shot, and for a moment we see the starfighter begin to move, Luke is on the verge of success. However, the moment passes and the starfighter heads for a watery grave. "I can't, it is too big" is Luke's excuse. Enter Yoda, who reaches out and, with the use of the force, lifts the starfighter to safety. Luke is stunned and says, "I don't believe it." "That is why you failed" replies Yoda.

Setting the mystical "force" stuff aside Yoda is actually on to something. God never tells us to try to do anything. He tells us to believe. John 6:29, "Jesus answered and said to them, “This is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom He sent.” To keep His commandments, John 14:15, "If you love Me, keep My commandments." Also,  "I command you, that you love one another" (John 15:17). How about Micah 6:8, "He has shown you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?" God never tells us to try. He tells us to do. He offers forgiveness if we fail and second opportunities to "do". The expectation of obedience is just that, to obey. I have heard so many people say, myself included, "I'll try". It is a nice way of giving ourselves the out for disobedience. "At least I tried." Is the salve we readily apply to our failures.

As a hypothetical example, let's say you have determined as a couple to "try" not to argue or raise your voices. The opportunity comes to do just that and then your spouse hits that sensitive button they always do in these situations. You respond in like fashion and then there is vocal escalation and soon the shouting match is in full force. You can't help what happened, but at least you tried. Really? Okay, let us add one new component. In the midst of the mutual verbal assault your four year old daughter enters the room crying. The verbal battle is put on hold to comfort the child. Wow! It appears you can "do" instead of just "try" after all. When we enter into any discipline that the Lord and His Spirit has convicted us of the call is simple. Do or do not, there is no try.

"Trying" is often the way we can pre-excuse wrong behavior and broken promises. "I will try to come to your game", "I will try to read my Bible every day," "I will try to be more committed to being at church." I will try to listen to my spouse." This way if we do not accomplish what we promised we have the answer, I tried, I just didn't make it, or come, or read, or listen. "Hey, at least I tried." There are times when there are circumstances beyond our control, a car accident delays us, sickness, or some emergency meeting you cannot avoid. However, how many times do we toss out the "I tried" when the truth is simply we did not do.

I need to go to the gym. It helps my heart, my energy, my weight, my stress level and gives me opportunities to be a witness to some of the guys I have gotten to know. If I get up a little before 6:00 a.m. and do my morning ritual of devotions, putting the dishes in the drainer away, checking my emails, taking my supplements, I don my gym apparel, and brush my teeth it is now 7:00 and time to wake Debbie up. Then I just have to grab the gym bag and exit the house. If I DO this it works every time. I get to the gym. The mornings I try to go I almost always find a reason for not getting there.

The Scriptures are full, from cover to cover, with things I am to do. God loves me enough to let me know His expectations. He wants me to enjoy life and to get along well with others. He wants me to have a great marriage and to be a good dad. He gives me clear instructions as how to accomplish those things. He does not ask me to try. He tells me to do. It is in the doing of His will that we find joy, fulfillment and purpose in life. In 1 Samuel 17 we find the account of David and Goliath. David is mocked by his brothers and questioned by King Saul as to his ability to take on Goliath. Goliath mocks and curses David as well. We read, "Then David said to the Philistine, “You come to me with a sword, with a spear, and with a javelin. But I come to you in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied" (1 Samuel 17:45). David is confident. He is before Saul and Goliath. He does not say, "I will try to kill Goliath." He does not tell Goliath he will try and he does not expect to be the corpse with his brothers saying, "well, at least he tried." No, by the power of God David would do, not just try.

Yeshua put it this way, "But let your ‘Yes' be ‘Yes,' and your ‘No,' ‘No.' For whatever is more than these is from the evil one" (Matthew 5:37). Life is a series of decisions and choices. By the indwelling Spirit we can walk with the Lord in strength and obedience. We are called to be a trustworthy people. In the process there will be times when we do not know if we can make a commitment, and yes, it is reasonable to tell someone we will try to get to the party while letting them know there are circumstances that could prohibit that. However, when it comes to the Lord's Commands, if we Love Him we will not try, we will do. When we examine our own lives are we looking for the false comfort of "trying" when God's commands are clear?
" Do or do not, there is no try."
 

Gentiles in the Body? or "Guess Who's Coming to Dinner?"

"Well, this will kill our property values." "There goes the neighborhood." "You let in a few and the next thing you know they have taken over and corrupted everything." This was the reality of the community of Messiah followers back in the days of Paul and the Apostles. There was an awakening among the Gentiles that Yeshua was Messiah, not just for the Hebrews, but for the Gentiles as well. Most of the epistles of Paul, as well as James, John and Peter, deal with the issue of unity in the Body of Messiah. It is not surprising when you consider the clash of cultures, ethnic backgrounds and the dramatic philosophic differences between the Greeks and the Hebrews. 

The early seeds of this explosion were planted by God Himself as He places Peter into an almost trance. It is on this rooftop in Joppa that Peter has his famous "Bacon" vision (See Acts 10:9-16). This is the passage where most evangelicals ignore the context, miss God's point and focus on food. A bit of commentary on this is found in my 11/23/14 post entitled, "Bacon!!!!". However, that is not the point to be made today. No matter how you look at the passage considering dietary laws, the exciting news for the Jews, and for us Gentiles, is recorded in Acts 11:18, "When they heard these things they became silent; and they glorified God, saying, “Then God has also granted to the Gentiles repentance to life.” Evaluating the evidence that Peter presents, the Jews are stunned to silence and conclude that God is allowing the Gentiles to repent and to be granted life. No more zombie like existence as the walking dead; the Gentiles now have the opportunity to be alive in Messiah.

Being so far removed from the events of Acts 11 we miss the magnitude of this declaration. We live in a time when the "church" is predominately a Gentiles club and our concern and compassion for the Jews is minimal. We may pray for them or support a mission focused to reach them; however, the thought of changing our behavior to remove the barriers that have long separated us is pretty much unheard of. This was not so as Peter gave his defense for going to the home of Cornelius. The Hebrews had understood their position as God's chosen people for generations. Gentiles were unclean people who partook of unclean activities. To visit the home of a Gentile put you at risk of becoming ceremonially unclean.  Gentiles ate, touched, and associated with things that were unclean both by Torah and Jewish tradition. Such uncleanliness was transmitted to a Jew who had contact with a Gentile who stood unclean before God. This was a violation of tradition and potentially of Torah. This is no small thing to an orthodox and Torah observant Jew. Yet, in spite of all those generations of bias, the Jews of Peter's day were able to look beyond their traditions and accept the reality that Gentiles were also granted life through Messiah.

There is a long road ahead of the Messianic assemblies as Messianic Jews and Messianic Gentiles learned to live, serve and worship together. The challenges of grafting the Gentiles into the commonwealth of Israel were very real, as the New Testament Epistles bear witness. We who are of Gentile stock should honestly stand in awe and wonder at Paul's declaration in Ephesians 2:11-13. "Therefore remember that you, once Gentiles in the flesh—who are called Uncircumcision by what is called the Circumcision made in the flesh by hands, that at that time you were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ." We who have no claim to the promises have been brought near. Amazing truth, amazing grace!

As history unfolds, that dinner date between Paul and Cornelius has lost its wonder. The Gentiles soon overwhelmed the Messianic assemblies and the guests became the dictators. Soon all Hebrew tradition, along with God's directions in Torah and the Prophets, as how to best live and honor Him, would be erased. The church fathers would proclaim that followers of the Jewish Messiah would be damned for all eternity for observing the Sabbath, dietary laws or any of the Hebrew feasts and festivals. Now it is God's people, the Jews, who are no longer welcome at the table. Now they are expected to somehow be grafted into the "church". To join the commonwealth of the Gentiles perhaps? I challenge you to find that in any of God's Scriptures.

I am honestly grieved at the attitude of believers, those who claim to follow this Jewish Messiah, toward Jewish people. Jews are fine as long as we can support them in Israel. However, if they move into your neighborhood, well, "there go the property values and everyone knows if you let in a few they will just want to take over." "Their traditions about Sabbath and food will impose on my God granted freedoms." It may well be that we need a Gentile Peter to sit on a roof and get a fresh vision of what God meant when we Gentiles were "grafted in" to His people Israel.

We have drifted far from that rooftop in Joppa. We have lost the respect and attitude of Cornelius who was honored beyond words to have a Jewish Rabbi come to dinner. I can guarantee, out of respect for his Jewish guest, he did not serve pork chops. The respect is gone, the Sabbath is gone, dietary restrictions are gone, Torah is gone; just what are we grafted into anyway?    



 

   

The Other Side of Life or I was built for Wonder

How busy are you today? It doesn't matter what day it is, we fill it to overflowing with more than we can accomplish. Our home has an anomaly that absorbs time. I have a set amount of stuff to do before I head out the door. It takes a particular amount of time to accomplish. Knowing that things do not always go according to plan I even give myself an extra few minutes to err on the side of caution. However, as I drop into my car and turn the key the clock in the dashboard tells me it took 17 minutes to walk across the driveway to get to the car. How can this be? Now I am 12 minutes late and most days the time loss gets worse, not better. I am a list person. I like order and a schedule. I enjoy spontaneity; I just want it to be planned spontaneity rather than those irregular spontaneous disruptive things in life. Some see me as a bit obsessive. Undisciplined people often feel that way about folks like me. For my defense Ecclesiastes does tell us "there is a time for every purpose under heaven".

To be honest I have been reconsidering these things as of late. I am pretty close to convinced that this may not be how life should be lived. As I follow through the history of Israel I am impressed with all the planning and structure God provides. However, YAHWEH makes it clear that we need time to enjoy Him and one another. He called His people to feasts and festivals all the time. Most of us are aware of Passover and the Feast of Tabernacles, and living where we do in New York we are a bit more aware of things like Purim, the Feast of Trumpets, Yom Kippur, the Feast of Unleavened Bread, and Rosh Hashanah. God also tosses in New Moon Festivals just to be sure there was a party every month. And let us not forget the Sabbath. A day to set ourselves apart from labor and have twenty-four hours of rest and refreshment, as well as an opportunity to focus on the Lord and our community. I do not see us coming even close to God's system of planned spontaneity. No, our lives are so full that life becomes a chore or just a mundane existence at best. Yes, we do have those birthday parties, overextend at Christmas,  and get those other Federal Holidays off to plan picnics, dinners, trips to relatives, and put that new stone patio in so we can sit at the picnic table and lounge chairs three or four times a year. I fear we have lost the wonder God pours upon us every day.

The dawn of every day should be a moment of wonder. Every tree with its unique foliage expresses the joy of creation. The touch of a friend, the smile of a child, the caress from the one you love, all cry out for us to just pause and see the wonder of our Lord. The Lord of all creation designed us to enjoy what surrounds us all the time. Witnessing a rainbow, hearing the slow steady breathing of the child nestled asleep against your chest, the smell of fresh baked croissants, and that feeling you get as someone strokes your hair. So far from mundane, life can be a perpetual experience of wonder if we just listened to our senses. It does not even need to interfere with our list or schedule; we just need to allow our minds to be at rest enough to take in the beauty of the moment. You can take a moment, just a moment, to ponder the print hanging in a waiting room. Forget the irritation of the wait and marvel at the remarkable features of those around you. Each created in the image of God, yet remarkably unique as individuals. (just don't stare too long, it make people a bit uncomfortable)

As those who claim to love the Lord our God and His Son our Savior, maybe we need to take a hint from His Word and enjoy the things He surrounds us with. Maybe we would benefit from a New Moon event to gaze at the heavens and see His constellations on those darker nights. We have been called to produce. We find satisfaction in the work we do. We have within us some measure to achieve. But, is that to be at the expense of the truly awesome reality our Creature has placed us in? We were not designed to just struggle through some mundane existence devoid of the reality of God. He reveals Himself to us in the moments we are blessed with day by day. Maybe we should pass on trying to seize the day and just enjoy its wonder once in a while.

Well, I have written enough. I do not want to overstate the case. I think it would be better to just take a breath, look out the window and gaze at what is around me for a moment. Today I need to be reminded that I was built for wonder.

So were you.               

Beyond the Fairy Tale or I Don't Want a Happy Ending.

Have you ever read any of those wonderful "Fairy Tales"? If you are a parent or moved into the grandparent season of life it is likely that you have been exposed. If you do not read them, Disney has put them into animated, computer generated or even live action movies. They hold a common thread. The bad folks lose and the good live "Happily Ever After". You may find your way back to Snow White, Sleeping Beauty, or fast forward to Frozen or Tangled, the premise is pretty much the same. Who would ever argue against a happy ending?  

Many of us look at the world around us and can't wait for the LORD to return. We speak of the hope of heaven (actually the new Jerusalem) as some blissful return to the Garden of Eden. One man said, "It will be like an eternal vacation." It would be hard to find a happy ending that could exceed that story. As for me, I like the poster my daughter has that says, "I don't want a happy ending, I want more story." That is my anticipation. More story. My final resting place will not be some cemetery or perhaps a decorative container with ashes waiting to be returned to the earth. No, I believe there is more story.

Have you heard people say, "Well, when we get to heaven all our questions will be answered." Where do you find that in scripture? There is this strange idea that in some perfect state we will know everything. Maybe, but maybe not. I'm not sure I want to be where I know it all. I want to be amazed in new and exciting ways without the gray shadow of sin corrupting my vision. I hope to serve my Savior in ways I never have before. I want new challenges with a new body that is not flawed by a fallen world.  I want to work together with other Messiah worshipers with no divisions, irritation, anger or selfishness. The truth is, I want more story! 

I do have hope that this might be so. The two, somewhat parallel, parables in Matthew 25:14-23 and Luke 19:11-19 are said to represent the Kingdom of Heaven. Both speak of a master or lord who leaves with the promise to return. Both also speak of the matter of giving some of his servants talents or minas to care for while he is gone. Upon his return the master asks for an accounting of what they have been given. Two of the three have invested what has been entrusted to them with success. The third has not. I would like to focus on the successful investors. "His lord said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord" (Matt. 25:23) and in Luke 19:17, “And he said to him, ‘Well done, good servant; because you were faithful in a very little, have authority over ten cities."

I know that the point of the parables is, to whom much is given much is required. It is also true that there is not necessarily an exact parallel to the Kingdom of Heaven. However, there is an indication that those who join the Master in His Kingdom do stuff. Actually it indicates that they do more stuff. "Ruler over many things" and "authority over ten cities" sounds like an upgrade to me. It also seems that these servants were going to learn a lot of new things. New responsibilities with new things to do. If you have never ruled over ten cities before I would guess that there would be a thing or two that you had to learn to be effective. It also seems that there would be some significant interaction with others to accomplish the task.

God is simply very vague when it comes to the future. The new earth has a new Jerusalem with gates, so it seems we can go in and out. Thus we do stuff. It will be incredible to worship Him without the hindrance of sin and self consciousness. Uninhibited worship with myriads of others just sounds like an awesome experience. Yet, I am not so sure that is all there is. I know I will not be disappointed with whatever eternity turns out to be. However, I really like to learn new stuff. I am pretty jazzed when what was trapped in the darkness of my brain suddenly becomes clear. I honestly do not want the journey to end when the Lord mysteriously  transfers or translates me to His eternal kingdom. I don't mean to sound selfish but, I don't want a happy ending, I want more story. How about you?

You Are Invited to a Biblical Worldview Seminar

One week from today - 

Most of us are aware that Jesus was Jewish, as were

the twelve Apostles. We may be less aware that all the

writers of the Scriptures wrote from a Jewish or Hebraic

cultural perspective, while we are immersed in a Western

American culture grounded in Greek philosophy.

This two session seminar is an introduction to some of the basic

cultural differences to help us better understand God's Word.

Cultural perspective does matter.

Having a better understanding of the culture surrounding

Scripture may help us work through some difficult passages

and may cause us to rethink what we thought we knew.

There is No "Being" or Talk Like Captain Kirk

We often take little words for granted. Some of those are those "being" verbs. Words like am, are, is, was, were, and will be. They are important in making our sentences flow and showing how things connect. They are 'helping verbs". Little words out there to give the regular verb a helping hand. We use them with little thought. However, if we lost them, communication would be rather interesting. Somewhat choppy to say the least. This being true, it is interesting to note that there is a significant lack of those little verbs in the Scriptures. It is especially true in the Psalms. You may not notice, as the translators supply those little words to help our English versions flow better. In several of our translations the editors put these in italics (KJV, NKJV, NASB) so we, as readers, will know what has been added. The NIV, ESV, RSV simply add the words without any indication of the additions. The thought, and a pretty reasonable thought, is that these verbs are just assumed. 

You might ask, "What does it matter? The important thing is that we have the Scriptures in readable English." I have felt led to read the Scriptures without reading the editorial additions. Much of the time it makes little difference; however, sometimes it makes a pretty significant difference. I have noticed in the Psalms that deleting those little italicized words intensifies the references to God and what He has done. I have not concluded that it is by Hebraic design or necessarily David's intent, however, it does make an interesting read. If you are familiar with Captain Kirk you can appreciate the staggered sound of the text. The pauses that replace the "being" verbs and those "helpful" clarifications just place heavier weight on the words that follow.

For example Psalm 3:1-3 would read like this, "LORD, how they have increased who trouble me! Many - they who say of me -No help for him in God! But You, O Lord, - a shield for me!". Or Psalm 22:9-11, "But you - He who took me out of the womb; You made me trust - on my mother's breasts. I was cast upon you from birth. From my mother's womb you - - my God! Be not far from me for trouble - near! For --none to help!" Psalm 136 adds the word "endures" in every verse. The repeated phrase "His mercy endures forever" speaks of God's remarkable care. The Hebrew word hesed is difficult to capture in English. Which is why we have the words mercy, love, lovingkindness, steadfast love, or faithful love as a way to translate the word in various English translations. Hesed carries the reality of the mutual conventional love shared between God and His people. It encompasses God's love, mercy, kindness, grace, affection, affirmed by His eternal covenant that we share relationally with the God of the universe. It is a rich and amazing word. David's point is that in all that God has done for him this hesed relationship will never end. He seems to pause after each proclamation and then erupt with the word "forever". Leaving out the translators "helpful" addition changes the intensity of David's Psalm of praise. 

The Psalm would read something like this:

"Oh give thanks to the LORD, for - - good! For His hesed  -  forever! Oh, give thanks to the God of gods! For His hesed  -  forever! Oh, give thanks to the Lord of lords! for His hesed  -  forever! To Him who alone does great wonders. For His hesed  -  forever! To Him who by wisdom made the heavens. For His hesed  -  forever! To Him who laid out the earth above the waters, For His hesed  -  forever!"

And so it goes for another 20 verses! In case you didn't get it His hesed, His love, His, mercy, His covenant love, His kindness, His mutual lovingkindness with you - FOREVER! I invite you to read the entire Psalm with a thought to the depth of the word your translation uses for hesed and then bask in the reality that this love never ends. It lasts forever. It is eternal. 


Admittedly the italicized words can help in our reading. However, I encourage you to pick up a translation that lets you know of the words added and read the passage eliminating those added words. Being verbs are necessary and I mean no offense if you are committed to those little "helpers" (By the way there are a number of added pronouns as well). There is no insult intended to those who added the helper words for they certainly help in the reading of the text. Yet, on your own time, during your own devotional reading try putting on your Captain Kirk outfit and read --------- the -------- text -------- with those ----- rather --------- awkward  pauses. It may give you a new appreciation for the Psalms and praises David brought to the Lord.