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For many this year, the thought of a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year seems more like a wish than a reality. Unemployment, broken homes, or the empty seat at the table are only a few struggles which seem to suck the joy and hope out of the season. During these dry times, God seems very far away.
Joseph experienced similar feelings, for his beloved, the one he was pledged to was now pregnant, and not by him. This news must have crushed this honorable man. He had served God his entire life, and now the one whom he loved had betrayed him. Who would have blamed Joseph for questioning God’s presence? In the midst of this cloud of darkness, God spoke.
The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel”—which means, “God with us. (Matthew 1:23)
He assured Joseph that Mary was pure and the Child within her was Messiah. In fact, He assured Joseph of His presence by the very name of the Child, Immanuel, God with us. God with him. The Messiah’s very name, Immanuel, is present tense. God was with Joseph even through this dark and difficult time.
This promise is for you too. Not just for this season, but every day. This is not a promise of His presence in the past, or something to look for in the future, but God is present right now. With you, wherever you are, wherever you find yourself, the presence of Christ is near. You are not alone. The promise of Christmas is the Presence of Christ. He will never leave you or forsake you, but He is always nearby your side. Whether you gather with others, or are alone this season, let the reality of Immanuel, God with you, bring comfort, hope and peace.
“Black Friday.” While the origin of the name may be debated, in our current culture Black Friday refers to the day after Thanksgiving. It’s the “official” start of the holiday shopping season and when stores offer unbelievable deals on select merchandise for a limited time. As a result, shoppers across the country deprive themselves of sleep, brave the cutting cold weather, and stand in line for hours waiting, hoping to find the deal of a lifetime.
Yet, the greatest deal of all time will not be found in any newspaper ads, or big box stores. It can never be gained by standing in line, it is not offered for only a few hours, nor is it in limited supply. Instead, this deal is found in the pages of the Bible.
Matthew 27 records it this way “From the sixth hour until the ninth hour darkness came over all the land. About the ninth hour Jesus cried out in a loud voice, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?"...And when Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, he gave up his spirit. At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth shook and the rocks split.”
On this “Back Friday” nearly 2000 years ago, an innocent man died a criminal's death. Sin was paid for and salvation secured by the shed blood and death of Jesus Christ. Romans 3:22-24 delivers this promise “This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.”
This deal is truly the best ever offered. There are no gimmicks, fine print, limited offerings, or mail-in-rebates. Better yet, God’s supply never runs out, nor does he make us stand in long lines waiting to be served. Instead, this deal is offered freely to everyone, anywhere, at anytime. The value may be priceless, yet the cost to us is nothing. Simply trust and belief in Jesus Christ alone.
As the beloved Hymn says "Jesus paid it all, All to Him I owe; Sin had left a crimson stain — He washed it white as snow."
Have you experienced the greatest deal of all time? The cleansing, life giving power of Jesus Christ? If not the offer has not expired and is still available for all who believe.
If you have, spend some time today reflecting on God’s great gift, and thanking him for it.
In the words of Bessie Sykes “Thank you, Lord, for saving my soul, Thank you, Lord, for making me whole; Thank you, Lord, for giving to me Thy great salvation so rich and free.”
Labels: Black Friday, Deal, Death, Devotions, Door Buster, Eternal Life, Forgiveness, God, Good Friday, Holiday, Jesus, Jesus Paid it All, Lent, Matthew 27, Redeemed, Romans 3:22-24, Sale, Shopping, Sin, Thanksgiving
I am not one who especially enjoys going to garage sales, instead of finding treasures I often find it to be a waste of time. However, when I do stop by one I am often amazed at what people are selling; or maybe a more accurate way to say it is, I am amazed at what some people think their stuff is worth.
This truth has been driven home for me by the TV show “Pawn Stars.” This program is a reality show about a family owned and operated pawn shop based in Las Vegas NV. The tagline for the show, I never know what is going to walk in that door, is proven true each week as people from all walks of life bring in their odd, different, and downright unusual stuff for the pawn shop to buy. However more striking than items brought into the pawn shop is what people think that their stuff is worth. Even more surprising is how soon they are swayed by the proprietors and agree on an amount much less than they were first set on; sometimes putting up very little fight.
Sadly this far too often resembles life. Again and again we give in to momentary pleasures that carry lasting consequences. We know what is right. We know what is good. We know what God’s desires are. Yet we give in to temptation and dabble in things contrary to His Word, at times barely putting up a good fight. We are exchanging our holiness for temporary gratification. Ignoring God’s Spirit and feeding our flesh. For what? What do we really gain through such actions? What return is there in the investment of sin?
Galatians 6:7-9 tell us “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.”
This is also seen as man puts His desires and pursuits before that of God’s; when the focus of his life is to acquire stuff. Money, Health, a good job, a stable family, a safe place to live… the list goes on and on. But at what cost? What good is all this stuff when we exhale our last breath?
Christ asked the same question is Mark 8:36-37. He said “What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul? Or what can a man give in exchange for his soul?”
Does the pursuit of earthly possessions gain us anything in the end? Does the pleasure of a moment really last for eternity? Are any of these things really worth our soul? Better yet what is your soul worth?
God knows. He said your soul is worth everything. That’s just what He gave: everything, even His Son’s life. Christ willingly give His life as a ransom, a payment for your soul! He paid the debt sin had dug and redeemed a life that was set for loss. Christ exchanged His life for yours. As the Apostle put it “You are not your own, you’ve been bought with a price therefore honor God with your body.”
Instead of pawing our soul for momentary pleasures or selfish gain we are called to seek God’s kingdom first; to seek His righteousness in the person of Jesus Christ. Daily putting to death our sinful nature and desires in Blood of Christ, allowing His Word and Spirit to guide our paths each step of the way. While seeking to expand His kingdom of grace by sharing His love with others.
Let’s stop chasing after things of the moment and pursue the righteousness found in Jesus Christ.
It’s been a couple of weeks, but it is still hard for me to believe, my oldest child started school this year. I know every parent says it, but it seems like just yesterday I was in the delivery room hearing my daughter cry for the first time. Now, she is ready to embark on her educational pursuit that will dominate and direct a good part of the rest of her life.
My wife and I take this very seriously, and spent a long time carefully weighing the different education options available to us: Public School, Private School, and Homeschool. Each option has it own set of advantages and struggles. It became apparent to us that whatever route we chose, as parents it is our responsibility to be deeply involved in the education of our children. After all, they are ours, not someone else's.
This responsibility does not lie solely in “secular” subjects but includes the “spiritual” also. God never gave the church the primary responsibility to rear or instruct our children. Instead He gave it to us, as parents.
Deuteronomy 6:6-9 says, “These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.”
God’s design for family is rather simple. As parents we are given the responsibility to teach (or disciple) our children in God’s Word. In Deuteronomy 6:1-5, God instructs parents (and grandparents) to hear, to heed, and to teach God’s Word in our homes, giving our children an example to follow. However, the goal is more than teaching, more than passing on facts about God and the Bible, and more than blind obedience or head knowledge. Our goal is to pass on our faith and love for Christ.
God tells us to impress His Word on our children. Which means to “Teach them diligently.” The idea is similar to the sharpening of blade on a stone; indicating a close and sometimes hard task. This is done through accurately teaching the Bible, sharpening our kids’ faith on the honing stone of God’s Word.
Deuteronomy says that this should be an integrated part of life. We are told to talk, or have conversations about God and His Word throughout our life. Day by day, moment by moment talking and teaching our children what the Bible says and how it applies to life. We are to look for the teachable moments and seize every opportunity where spiritual lessons can be taught.
It is also important to keep reminders of God and His Word visible. We may no longer tie Frontlets or Phylacteries around our head, or carve Scripture verses on our door; but our Faith and the Bible should be visible in our home and lives; visible to our family, and to all guests who may enter.
Yes, the church has an important role in coming alongside families, helping and equipping them to instill God’s Word in their families. But the work starts, and ends at Home. As you bring your children (or grandchildren) back to Sunday School this year, don’t let that be the only instruction they get…. For everyone should be “home-schooled” in God's Word!
Labels: Bible, Children, Deuteronomy 6:1-9, Devotions, Education, Faith, Family, Frontlets, God, Grandparents, Home, Homeschool, Jesus, Kids, Life, Phylacteries, Private School, Public School, School, Sunday School
9-11. Need I say more? Without further explanation every American understands exactly what I am referring to, and are transported back in time to the place and activity they were engaged in when news broke and terror filled our country.
I’m taken back to my childhood home. I was sleeping in the makeshift bedroom my parents provided for me during college. I had been up into the wee hours of the morning completing an assignment for school, and now was trying to catch up on sleep. I awoke as my bedroom door swung open and the bright sunlight pierced through the darkness of my room. As I stirred and squinted toward the doorway, my mother quickly blurted out - "Get up Eric, we are at war."
That phrase, which was impossible to digest at the time, has remained fixed in time and constantly comes back to mind whenever my thoughts drift back to September 11, 2001. I don’t recall much more of the day. It was spent like many; fixed to the television, watching the carnage unfold on the eastern seaboard.
9-11. Need I say more? These simple numbers render back images, emotions, and memories of that horrific day. Images of flames and smoke billowing from towers, the pentagon cut in two, and wreckage piling up everywhere. The streets overflowing with people consumed with fear and questions. Rescue workers franticly trying to help the injured and trapped as they helplessly watched desperation set in, and dozens of people jumped to their death from the highest stories of the twin towers. These are the snapshots that are forever engraved in our memories.
9-11. Who would have ever thought numbers could cast such powerful imagery, carry such a massive weight, trigger a collective memory, and connect and unite people together from all backgrounds and corners of life. Who would have thought that numbers could remind us of death, destruction, love, sacrifice, and hope? But they do.
Yet here are another set of numbers which do the same thing, have been doing so for much longer then a decade. 3-16. These number remind us of love, sacrifice, death, hope and redemption. These numbers carry a great weight - the weight of sin, our sin. These numbers have the power not only to trigger our collective memories, but transform our mind. These numbers have the power to connect and truly unite anyone anywhere under one banner for all eternity.
3-16...or should I say 3:16. These numbers tell us the true hope is found not in the rebuilding of destroyed buildings, or the relentless American spirit. No, They remind us that true hope, unconditional love, and complete redemption is found in the person of Jesus Christ.
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” - John 3:16.
In the verses following, Christ explains that for all who believe, true life, everlasting life, and true peace, His peace, will be given. Ten years later the loss is still great, the wounds are still raw. Many still grieve. Yet healing will never come by simply remembering the sacrifice and death of the many, but rather through recognizing and responding to the death and sacrifice of the One.
As we gather on the anniversary of the worst terror attack on US soil, let us not only remember the 3,000 people who died that day; but also The One who died for them, and us. True peace, hope, redemption, and healing will only come as we embrace Christ.
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men” - Colossians 3:23
T.G.I.F. Thank Goodness it’s Friday. Most American’s not only have their eyes set on the weekend, but tend to organize their entire life around these two days. I believe the pop rock hit of the eighties band Loverboy stated it best. “Everybody’s Working for the Weekend.”
However, there are many reasons to work; and the weekend is just one of them. Working for the… Money? Escape? Glory? Benefits? These are just a few reasons why people work. How about you? Why do you go to work?
Colossians 3:23 provides a different perspective. We are to work for the Lord.
But what does that mean? For some it is obvious. Pastors, Missionaries, and parish workers obviously “work for the Lord.” Even those involved in maintenance, bookkeeping, or other types of church work are apparently “working for the Lord.” It’s easy to see teaching Sunday Sschool, serving on a ministry team, or cleaning up the church grounds as “Holy Work” but Colossians 3:17 is even more all inclusive. “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”
Everything we do in name of the Lord - “How do I Work for the Lord? What’s so sacred about my job as a salesman, farmer, clerk, machinist, teachers, factory worker - I’m in the secular field not the Sacred.”
Yet Christ transforms the Secular into the Sacred - He does not separate them. Christ not only purifies our soul, but our entire life! God desires us to see our entire life is set apart, as holy. So that in all we do, wherever we are, in thought, word & deed we’re engaged in service to Him.
Take Zacchaeus (Luke 19:1-10). After spending time with Christ, he sees his sin, repents and begins living for and serving Christ. However Christ never called Him to leave and follow Him like Peter, John, or Matthew (who was also a tax collector). No. Instead he stayed in his current job as a tax collector and served Christ by treating people fairly and paying back anyone whom he had cheated. He was working for the Lord.
Christ doesn't call everybody out of their life, into full-time Christian Service! God didn’t call every Old Testament saint to be a prophet, Levite or priest. Christ didn’t call everyone to be an apostle, nor does he call everyone to be a Pastor, Missionary, or serve in church leadership. But he does call each of us to discipleship, to learn from Him, and serve Him wherever he has placed us. “Nevertheless, each one should retain the place in life that the Lord assigned to him and to which God has called him.” 1 Corinthians 7:17
God doesn't call everybody out of secular professions into Ministry, but rather He calls us out of a life of sin to the life of a saint. One whom loves, trusts, follows, and serves Christ within the job they have; conducting their daily business with the utmost integrity and sincerity.
We’re not always called to leave the Secular for the Sacred, but rather treat the Secular as if it is Sacred, doing your best unto the Lord - this is your Spiritual Act of Worship (Romans 12:1-2).
Labels: 1 Corinthians 7:17, Colossians 3:17, Colossians 3:23, Devotions, Discipleship, Holy Work, Jesus, Labor Day, Luke 19:1-10, Ministry, Pastor, Sacred, Secular, Vocation, Weekend, Work, Worship, Zacchaeus
A few years ago my family was on vacation in Northern Wisconsin. We were only about an hour from the upper peninsula of Michigan; a place neither my wife or I had ever been. We talked at great length about whether or not we should make the drive up there one day. With limited time, resources, and an infant with us; we chose not to go. Ever since then we have regretted that decision. That was the last time we were close to the U.P., and we are unsure when (or if) we will be in a position to make that trip again.
Luckily we learned from our mistake. Just this past week, our family was able to spend a few days on the North Shore of Lake Superior. We were only 20 miles from Grand Marais, MN, another place we have never been but have always wanted to see. Again, we found ourselves deliberating over whether or not we should make the short drive. Yes, we were short on time and had two tired little ones. However, with the bitter taste of regret from our previous trip still in our mouth we decided to load up the van and make the drive. Now that we are back, we are glad we did. No Regrets this time.
Wouldn't it be wonderful if our lives would be free from regrets? Wouldn't it be wonderful to reach the end of our life and have no “wish I would have” thoughts? Impossible? Not really. Listen to what the Apostle Paul says in Acts 20:25-27
“Now I know that none of you among whom I have gone about preaching the kingdom will ever see me again. Therefore, I declare to you today that I am innocent of the blood of all men. For I have not hesitated to proclaim to you the whole will of God."
Paul was leaving Ephesus for good, and would never see the Ephesians again. Instead of tearful goodbye's and regret laden speeches, Paul simply says "I am innocent of the blood of all men. For I have not hesitated to proclaim to you the whole will of God."
Paul could leave Ephesus with a clear conscience, because he did not hesitate to share Christ with them. According to Acts 19:10 he spend over two years with them. Yet he did not simply live, work, and enjoy their friendship. No. Paul used his time carefully sharing Christ, pleading with them to believe, teaching them God’s Word, and training them to be leaders when he left.
If some did not believe, it was not his fault. If some fell away, he was not responsible. For he had made the most of every opportunity (Colossians 4:5-6), sharing the good news of Christ.
Do you have regrets? What if your neighbor, friend, or loved one passed away tonight? Do they know Christ? Would you have a clear conscience? Or would you wish for one more chance to share Christ with them? We are not responsible or burdened with someone’s response to the Gospel, but we are given the task to share Christ.
Don't wait until it's too late. Make a “bucket list.” Not of things you want to see or do before you die, but of people you want to make sure you will see when you die.
The Upper Peninsula will always be there - however our friends and family may not.
Labels: Acts 19:10, Acts 20:25-27, Bucket List, Christ, Colossians 4:5-6, Death, Devotions, Evangelism, Family, Regrets, Vacation
I’m not a fisherman. In fact, I’ve never caught a fish. True I did grow up in the land of 10,000 lakes, but I never learned nor had the desire to fish. Moreover, I can count the number of times I’ve “gone fishing” on one hand. Although I am not a fisherman, nor do I claim to possess any knowledge on the topic, there is one thing I know for certain. You do not catch a fish every time you cast your line - see I’ve never caught a fish.
If this were true, if you really did catch a fish each time you baited your hook, I would not be able to say this. I would have caught something. But no. Casting and catching are not always married.
In fact, it is possible to cast your line hundreds if not thousands of times without reeling in anything. But that does not stop the fisherman. No, he continues to cast his line in spite of his results. Even a long day (or night) of pulling up nothing but his bait doesn’t stop him. He returns not defeated, maybe a little discouraged, but not defeated. Instead of hanging up his pole, he fixes his eyes on the next opportunity to head back out and fish again. For he knows that sometime he will catch a fish, if he only keeps on casting.
The same is true for the Christian as well. In Matthew 4:19 Jesus invites us to come and follow Him, and promises that if we do He will make us “fishers of men.”
Fishers of Men? Why did Christ choose that phrase? Why did he choose that profession? He had many to choose from. He could have looked at Matthew the tax collector and said “come follow Me and you will settle spiritual accounts.” But no. Jesus said, “fishers of men.”
Just like the fishermen who cast for walleye, muskie, or sunfish will not have success each toss of the line; the fisher-of-men will not always catch a soul each time he casts the gospel either. Yet much like the fishermen, the fisher-of-men must not give up. He must keep casting, keep seeking, keep sharing the good news of Jesus.
I’ve never caught a fish. But then again I haven’t tried very many times either; and unless I cast again I never will. Sadly, many Christians are like me. “I’ve never seen anyone come to Christ.” they say. Yet when asked how many times they have shared their faith, most could count that on one hand as well.
Keep casting. Keep seeking. Keep sharing Christ; and sometime you will see someone come to Christ.
You might not catch a fish each time you cast, but you will if you don’t stop casting.
“Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of men.”
Labels: Casting, Catching, Christ, Devotions, Evangelism, Fisherman, Fishers of Men, Fishing, Matthew 4:19
Those who know me best understand that rendering me speechless is not an easy or common thing to do. I am rather quick on my feet and rarely fazed by what people say. Although, I will admit from time to time, something one says will catch me off guard without any reply.
This very thing happened to some religious leaders in Jesus’ day. The Pharisees & Sadducees were always trying to trap Jesus; attempting to coax Him into saying something that they could use against Him. In Matthew 22 a group of them set out to accomplish this.
The scene started in verse 15 as the Pharisees went and asked Christ about Roman taxation, hoping to catch Him speaking some words which could be interpreted as rebellion against Caesar. Yet, Christ’s answer amazed them. Hoping to accomplish what the Pharisees couldn’t, next the Sadducees went and tried to trap Jesus with questions of their own, but again His answer proved to be too much.
The Pharisees didn’t give up. They came back again with more loaded questions, and like the last time, Christ answered them beyond what they dreamed possible.
Beaten yet not yet ready to give up, the Pharisees huddled together in verse 41 to come up with a question that surely would stump this great teacher. However as they were scheming, Jesus challenged their conception of the Messiah quoting Psalm 110:1. After He said these words, Matthew 22:46 plainly states “No one could say a word in reply, and from that day on no one dared to ask him any more questions.”
Each time the Pharisees or Sadducees tried to trap Christ, He answered with the Truth of Scripture. Each time His accusers were left standing in silence. Luke records it this way in 20:26 “They were unable to trap him in what he had said there in public. And astonished by his answer, they became silent.”
This is always the effect of Truth, it silences everything else. Just as the light casts out all darkness, the truth casts out all lies. For just as Jesus said in John 8:32 “Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
The truth of God’s Word silences the lies of the Devil, the World, and ourselves. The lies that tell you your sin is too great for God to forgive, that if people really knew you they wouldn’t accept you. The lies which tell you this one time really won't hurt, or the reward outweighs the sin. The doubt and questions posed by those who seek to destroy your faith. Answer them all with God’s Word, and watch them remain silent.
Christ did this in the wilderness when tempted by the devil, Peter did this when accused by the Jews, and Paul tells us the only way to overcome sin and guilt is to be “transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
As you let God’s truth speak to you and through you, It will defend and protect you refuting all the lies thrown from the evil one.
Next time you’re tempted to sin, accused by Satan, or challenged by a non-believer, turn to the Truth and let It silence your accusers for good.
I still remember the feeling of fear and loneliness I had one afternoon as a boy in grade school. For some reason the bus reached my home quicker than usual that afternoon. As I walked down the driveway and into the house, I was shocked to find it dark and empty. My father was still at work, like normal, but my mom, who was always home, was nowhere to be found. In a matter of a few short minutes, I made a quick, yet thorough, check of every room in our modest ranch-style home. Even checking the scary basement and garage. No one was home.
Feelings of fear, loneliness, and despair set in fast, followed by plenty of irrational thoughts only a child was capable of. There was only one choice. Lay down on the couch and try to sleep. Maybe, just maybe when I awoke someone would be home.
What seemed much like an eternity (actually only a few minuets) my mother’s car came whipping in the driveway, and my fears and feelings were finally put to rest.
Nevertheless, it took years for me to fully recover from the incident. After that, every morning, right before I would head out the screen door to wait for the school bus, I asked my mother the same question. “Mom are you sure you’ll be home when I come home?” and she would answer each morning without delay “Yes Eric, I will.” Every day when I stepped off the bus her car was in the driveway - and she was waiting for me in our home.
Each one of us has times in our lives where we are lonely. Times where we feel like we are all alone. However, its during these darkened times in our lives where Christ’s Words in Matthew 28:20 bring great comfort. “And surely I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”
Always! No matter where we are, no matter what we are going through, He is there with us. There is no place too near or far, for Christ’s presence; or time too early or late for Christ. He is there; even to the end for the age!
Next time you feel all alone, grab on to and take comfort in Christ’s last words and promise: He Is With You!
Thank you Jesus for never leaving me, no matter where I go, or how dark life seems. You are there. Let me find comfort in your presence no matter what tomorrow holds.
There is nothing more scary to a child than being alone. As a boy, one of my greatest fears was being left alone; that my mom and dad wouldn’t be home when I stepped on the bus after school. Each morning before I walked to the end of our driveway, I would ask Mom “Are you going to be home when I get home?” Every day she would assure me that she would be there waiting for me.
The disciples experienced a similar fear. In John chapter 14 Christ announced that He would be leaving soon; going to prepare a place for them. The disciples were shocked, hurt, and confused. Their friend and master, the one whom they devoted three years of their life to, was leaving. What were they to do?
But before the questions could linger, and fear settle in, Christ offers this promise in John 14:3-4, “and if I go to prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you may be with I am.”
Wow, not only is Jesus going to prepare a place, He is going to come back and take all who believe with Him. His is our own escort out of this world and into the next. This beats any form of travel or entourage used by even the most important dignitaries of our day. Not to mention the destination! It’s not to some press conference, or fancy meeting. Not to a formal dinner, or an ornate hotel. But to the very presence of God Himself for all eternity.
When the disciples heard this great promise, there was some confusion and misunderstanding. Thomas worried that he would not know the way, and would not able to find this great place of promise.
Yet as Christ did so often, He answered His disciples with grace & patience in verse 6 Jesus answered, “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No one can come to the Father except through me.”
Christ’s answer stands the same today. He is still the Way, the Truth, and the Life. There is no other way to God, heaven, or everlasting life except through faith and trust in Him. For He has paved the way, opened the gates, and invited us to follow and trust in Him.
Christ promised to go and prepare a place for us, when it is ready He promised to return for us.
The Question for each of us, will you be ready to meet and go with Him?
Thank you Jesus for being my salvation!
My family and live in a parsonage. This has been a real blessing for us; in fact, the blessing began even before we moved in.
In the months preceding our move into the parsonage, the church made sure it was ready for us. Many men and women, and even a few kids, spent countless hours cleaning, painting, fixing, and, in many areas, remodeling the house. During the renovations, the church kept us in mind, often asking our opinion on colors, styles, or other various aspects of the work. My wife and I were truly honored, and each day are grateful for the thought, work, and preparation that was put into the house for our sake.
I’m reminded of another home that is being prepared just for me. It is not found in Amery, Wisconsin, or even in the United States. I will never get to see this home before I take up residence there. Yet I am confident that when it is time move in, it will be finished and perfectly designed just for me.
Where is this home? In heaven of course; and the person making all the preparation is Jesus Himself.
He gave us this promise in John 14:1-2.
“Do not let your hearts be troubled, Trust is God, Trust also in me. In my father’s house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you.”
Think about this great promise. For all who trust in Christ alone are promised a room in the great house of God the Father. This will not be some generic guest room, or hotel-like place. No. This home is being specially prepared for each of us by Jesus Christ Himself. He has prepared the way, paid all necessary fees, secured our safe travel, and our permanent residency in heaven with His own blood; and nothing can take that away.
What a great promise from the Lord! Regardless of what this life might hold, or what cards we are dealt, there is a place waiting for us in heaven. A place owned and operated by the Creator of all, a place free from any and all economic crises that come, a place being prepared for you by Christ.
Let us heed Christ’s commands, and not let our hearts be troubled; but place all trust in Him as we await our glorious home in heaven.
Thank you Lord for building a home in heaven for me to dwell for all eternity.
Labels: Bible, Carpenter, Custom Built, Devotions, Economic Crises, Eternity, God, Home, House, Jesus, John 14:1-2, Parsonage, Promise
I’m not one for protests. I don’t particularly like picketing, nor am I an activist. However, there is one cause that needs more attention: fatherhood. It’s no secret, fatherhood (and Biblical manhood), is rapidly becoming extinct. Today, many lack a solid father figure in their life: or the life of their children. Others are left wounded, hurting, and in some extreme cases bitter by the difficult experiences shared with their dad.
Many men today desire to be a great dad and yet have no idea who to be one. This is too bad, for even Sigmund Freud correctly stated the importance of fatherhood when he said, “I cannot think of any need in childhood as strong as the need for a father's protection.” What makes a good Dad? One who is Faith-Filled.
There is not a better example than the Father of Nations, Abraham. In Genesis 22:1-17, we read of the time when God asked Abraham to sacrifice his only son, his own heir, the one promised to him by God himself. In this account we see four distinct Characteristics of a Faith-Filled Father.
A Faith-Filled Father: Obeys the Lord. Abraham didn’t waste any time. Verses 3 tell of his immediate obedience. “Early the next morning Abraham got up and saddled his donkey. He took with him two of his servants and his son Isaac.” He didn’t ask God again, or wait for another sign to confirm what was said. He didn’t dilly dally around, instead he acted in direct and immediate obedience to God. Leaving early in the morning, despite how crazy the request of sacrificing his son seemed, he obeyed holding nothing back.
A Faith-Filled Father: Trusts the Lord. It didn’t take Isaac long to notice the missing element, a lamb; and when he questioned his father about it Abraham replied in verse 8. “God himself will provide the lamb for the burnt offering, my son.” Abraham had a complete and confident trust in the Lord; holding nothing back, not even his own son. He trusted God to keep His promise to bless the whole world through his seed.
A Faith-Filled Father: is Blessed by the Lord. As Abraham walked in faith and obedience, God stopped him from killing his son, and instead provided a substitute sacrifice, giving Abraham his son back. As they finished offering up the ram, the Lord spoke again, confirming the promise He had made many years ago. That it was through Abraham’s offspring all nations would be blessed, and saved.
A FAITH-FILLED Father places God before anything; including himself and his family. He is constantly listening to hear God’s plan for his life and his family, is willing to trust and obey no matter how crazy God’s call seems, and to stand blessed by Him in this life and the one to come.
Labels: Abraham, Dad, Devotions, Father, Father's Day, Fatherhood, Genesis 22:1-17, God, John 3:16-17, Manhood
The buzzing of the alarm, the chirping of the birds, the crack of thunder, or rustling of the wind through the leaves; there are many sounds that can wake us each morning. However, none quite compare to the sound of little feet.
Most mornings, before my alarm sounds or the song of the birds reach my ears, I am awakened by the sound of little feet racing across the hardwood floors at our home. Soon the hinges on our bedroom door begins to squeak and before I know it, our bed has some extra occupants, a five and three year old.
Although, this has happened for years, it never ceases to amaze me. The first thing my kids want to do each morning is to be with their dad. They don’t reach for the remote, or rush off to play with their toys. No, they simply want to be with me. If I have gotten up before they have stirred, they quickly leave our bedroom and set out on a hunt to find me.
But what about us? What do we seek out each morning? Coffee? Breakfast? A shower? The paper? Or maybe it’s the snooze button. Yet should’t we reach for something else?
Consider the words of David in Psalm 63:1 “O God, You are my God; Early will I seek You; My soul thirsts for You; My flesh longs for You in a dry and thirsty land where there is no water.” Likewise the Prophet Isaiah said “All night long I search for you; in the morning I earnestly seek for God.” (Isaiah 26:9)
Each morning before our day begins there is a need, a desire, a blessing in seeking God through His Word and Prayer; feeding our spiritual life as we do our physical one. Receiving nourishment, strength, refreshment, and encouragement for the day ahead. We are reminded that our sins are forgiven, that we are His, and that this day was made by Him for Him.
Before you reach for your morning caffeine or hit the snooze button one more time, grab your Bible and crawl up into your Abba Father’s lap and enjoy some time with your Dad.
I hope you are eager to see and spend time with your heavenly Father first thing each day.
Labels: Bible, Dad, Devotions, Father, Father's Day, God, Isaiah 26:9, Jesus, Kids, Morning, Prayer, Psalm 63:1
Memorial Day is past, school has been released, and the mercury is reaching for the triple digits - summer is here. If your schedule is anything like mine, this summer will prove to be anything but lazy. From conferences to conventions, camps to BBQ’s, family gatherings to time at the beach, summertime is busy. With our shortened warm season this year, we all feel a need to cram as much time in the sun as possible.
In the midst of all the busyness one of the first things to fall by the wayside is church. For many, Sunday worship and certainly midweek study are less important in the summer, and are often treated like a mere winter activity. In the desire to spend time in the S-U-N we forget to spend time with the S-O-N. With a similar state of mind, Hebrews 10:25 is written:
And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.
Neglect is an interesting word. It means “not pay proper attention to; or to disregard” and carries the sentiment of “not taking proper care of someone or something.” It is often used to describe something that is in unkempt and in disarray, due to the disregard of its owner; or in some extreme cases children whose physical and often times emotional state has been weakened from the lack of parental involvement. Yet here the word is applied to Church.
Let us not neglect, or forsake, meeting together; or in other words going to church. Even in the first century Christians had began to let their zeal and commitment to the Lord slip behind other areas of life. In doing so, they neglected their spiritual condition. But why? Why is going to church, meeting together regularily so important, so vital to our spiritual condition? There are three basic reasons:
- It is in Church where we are fed spiritually, where we hear God’s truth taught, are fed spiritually, and have our faith strengthened. Consider what would happen to your physical body if you stopped eating all summer. When we stop feeding on God’s Word our Spiritual bodies weaken as well.
- It’s what God Intended us to do. From the beginning God intended us to be in “Mutual Community.” From the creation of Eve to the calling of the nation of Israel, mankind was not intended to be alone. In fact, Jesus called 12 disciples not one. In Acts the Christians met together, and throughout the New Testament Paul didn’t just evangelize people, he planted churches. For it is within the body of Christ that fellowship and encouragement are found from other believers; challenging us to press on.
- Once we stop going, it’s easy to stay away and hard to go back. From diet to exercise, once we stop doing anything it is very hard to start back up again. Once we stop going to church, it is difficult to get into the routine again.
Today, I urge you in the words of Hebrews 10:25 - Don’t stop meeting together, this summer or ever. Rather make it a priority and discipline to engage in public worship weekly - wether at home or away. It is my prayer that you will be spend plenty of time with the S-O-N this summer.
“And by faith he still speaks, even though he is dead.” Hebrews 11:4b
This weekend (commonly called Memorial Day weekend) means different things to many different people: from hotdogs to hamburgers, grill outs to home improvement projects, time away from work to time around a camp fire, it marks the end of a school year, and is seen as the unofficial start of summer. As wonderful as these activities are, none of them truly represent the reason for this long weekend.
Memorial Day, or as it was originally named, Dedication Day, has been set aside since the 1800’s to commemorate U.S. men and women who died while in military service. It was first enacted to honor Union soldiers of the American Civil War, and was expanded after World War I to include all those who died while serving our country.
However, like many holidays the reason, meaning, & mode of celebration has become commercialized, forgotten, and replaced. The stories, battles, victories, and sacrifices made have slipped out of memory. The great moments in America’s history and the men and women who gave their lives to secure our freedom, who at one time seemed to be unforgettable, a legacy whose shadow stretched long and far, are now blips in history books or remain in vine covered statues and overlooked monuments in city parks.
Nevertheless, we set aside Monday to remember, reflect, and honor those who have given all in service to their country.
As I was considering this upcoming holiday of remembrance and honor, one question remained on my mind: “What sort of legacy will I leave behind?” What will my kids and grandkids remember when I’m gone? What I am passing down on to them? What will whispers of my life speak when I am silenced?
This question was answered months before as I was reading through Hebrews 11. As my eyes scanned through the names listed in those 40 verses, it became evident that the only legacy worth leaving was one of Faith.
Yes! Each person listed in this chapter accomplishment many great things. They lead nations, won battles, acquired riches, and treated others kindly, but they are not remembered for any of these. No! Their names are listed because of their faith in God. “These were all commended for their faith.” Hebrews 11:39.
When your voice is silenced, your number is called, and all that marks your life is slate granite in the ground, how will you be remembered? As a person of faith or something else?
The only legacy worth leaving is one of Faith!
“For before he was taken, he was commended as one who pleased God.” Hebrews 11:5b.
“By his faith he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness that comes by faith.” Hebrews 11:7b.
Labels: A Lasting Legacy, Dedication Day, Devotions, Faith, Hebrews 11, Holiday, Memorial Day, Military, Remembered, USA
I could hardly believe my eyes as I watched the 10PM news two years ago. Right before the commercial break a new company entitled “Eternal Image” was featured. On my 36 inch TV screen was a computer generated rendering of a casket with the Minnesota Twins logo pasted all over it. In fact, Major League Baseball has entered into a licensing agreement with Eternal Image, which makes urns, caskets, and headstone markers containing the logos for all 30 MLB teams.
However, if baseball is not your thing, there are many more options to choose from, a full line of Vatican, Precious Moments, and Star Trek caskets and urns. Not to mention memorials for your beloved pet. Now, matters of life and death are very serious, and I do not mean to make light of them; moreover, what a person wishes to be buried in is completely up to them, for the Bible provides no guidelines for burial places. Yet what worries me, is how many in our culture view life and death.
Oftentimes the grave is referred to (and seen) as our final resting spot. The end of our life. However, this is not true. While on earth Jesus spoke very plainly about life and death; and life after death. In the parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus, found in Luke 16:19-31, Christ is clear that while death is end of our physical life, our soul continues to exist for eternity.
In John chapter three, Christ has a late night meeting with a man named Nicodemus. In verse 16 Jesus gives this promise “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
Christ promised Life, not Death. In fact, this was the reason why Christ was sent to earth. In verse 17 Christ expands this thought “For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him coming to earth.”
Christ came paying the penalty for sin; offering the promise of everlasting life in the presence of our magnificent and glorious God for all of eternity. This promise is universal, and is offered to everyone who repents, believes, and trusts in Him alone.
This promise will never fade, spoil, or perish; but will last for all eternity, and will change you for eternity as well. The only true rest one can ever find in this life or the next is found in Jesus Christ.
Thank you Lord for offering hope, peace, and the great promise of new life in Jesus Christ. Teach me to rest in His peace.
Labels: Baseball, casket Luke 16:19-31, Christ, Death, Devotions, Eternal Image, Eternal Life, God, John 3:16-17, MLB, Precious Moments, Promise, Resting, Robinson, Ruth, Soul, Spock, Star Trek, Urn
I know you’ve heard it. I know you’ve experienced it. And I imagine you’ve shattered a few in your day as well. At times it does seems like “Promises are made to be broken.”
Yet as I reflect on that statement again, I’m reminded how much I dislike it and how illogical it truly is. By definition a promise is “a declaration or assurance that one will do a particular thing or that it guarantees that a particular thing will happen.” Promises are made to bring assurance, confidence, and peace of mind, not disappointment.
Sadly, this statement has not been born out of its dictionary definition, but experience. For we live in a world of broken promises. Wether from a politician, businessman, or loved one, each one of us has experienced the disappointment of having a shattered promise. Sadly, we too have broken our fair share of promises.
Nevertheless, there is One who has never broken a promise and never will. It is impossible for Him to do so; for by nature He is The Promise Keeper.
Numbers 23:19 says “God is not man, that he should lie, or a son of man, that he should change his mind. Has he said, and will he not do it? Or has he spoken, and will he not fulfill it?”
The Author of Hebrews shares the same sentiment as he writes in Chapter 10 verse 23 “Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful.”
God has never, and will never break a promise. What He says, He does. What He promises, He delivers. This is seen throughout the pages of Scripture, for God’s word is filled with hundreds of promises fulfilled.
God promised to give Adam a helpmate, He did. God promised never to flood the earth again, He hasn’t. God promised that a nation would come from a barren woman, it did. God promised to lead the Jews out of Egypt, He did. God promised them victory in Cana, they won. God promised a virgin would conceive, she did. God promised the Messiah must suffer and die, He did. God Promised He would rise, and He did.
Yet, they continue! He promises to forgive sin, He does, He promised never to leave us, He won't, He promises to come again, and He will! But this is only the tip of the promise iceberg, for the Bible overflows with promises for those who trust in Christ. Since He has left such a great legacy of promise keeping, we can be assured He will keep each one yet to be fulfilled.
Stop for a moment asking God to remind you of the promises He has fulfilled and those He will keep.
Thank you Lord for your faithfulness in keeping your promises in the past, and let me rest in your promises for the future.
Labels: Assurance, Bible, Broken Promise, Confidence, Devotions, Faithful, God, Hebrews 10:23, Hope, Jesus, Numbers 23:19, Promise, Trust, Unbreakable
Inconclusive. Unsure. Out of options.
These are words that no one wants to hear from their physician. However, phrases like this have filled the dead air of the hospital rooms that my Mother has dwelled in over the past few weeks. Throughout this time teams of doctors have examined and reexamined her, ran and reran numerous tests, and spent countless hours consulting and researching possible causes, conditions, and treatments for her. While much has been ruled out, and even a few things understood, they have been unable to discover root causes and treat them. While we are rejoicing and are encouraged by many of the negative results, as the medical staff reaches the end of trail there is a fog of mystery and concern covering our family.
Nevertheless, I am reminded of King David’s advice in Psalm 143:3-5. “Don’t put your confidence in powerful people; there is no help for you there. When they breathe their last, they return to the earth, and all their plans die with them. But joyful are those who have the God of Israel as their helper, whose hope is in the Lord their God.”
I am grateful for the highly trained Medical Staff who have diligently cared for our family; relentlessly pursuing reasons for my mother’s illness. I am grateful for the training and the medical advancements which have doubtless saved her life. I am confident they will do everything within their power to find answers and treat her. Yet therein lies the problem, everything in their power. Regardless of how much training they have, where they practice, or amount of medical equipment at their disposal; they still are human, with a finite mind
Yet my hope doesn’t lie within doctors or tests. It doesn’t lie with results and medication. It relies on the Lord. The one who “knit” my mother together in the womb. He knows what, where, why, who, when, and how. He is the God who spoke and the sea was calm, touched the blind and enabled them to see, the same God who died for me. He Knows, He Cares, He has the power to heal, and grace to sustain. My Hope Lies in the Great Physician. His Grace is sufficient even when the answers aren’t.
Labels: 2 Corinthians 12:9, Christ, Devotions, Doctor, God, Great Physician, Hospital, Inconclusive, Medical, Psalm 139:13-16, Psalm 143:3-5, Trust, Unsure
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