THOUGHTS AT YEAR’S END!

THOUGHTS AT YEAR’S END!

Hab 3:17-19

17 Although the fig tree shall not blossom, neither shall fruit be in the vines; the labour of the olive shall fail, and the fields shall yield no meat; the flock shall be cut off from the fold, and there shall be no herd in the stalls:

18 Yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will joy in the God of my salvation.

19 The LORD God is my strength, and he will make my feet like hinds' feet, and he will make me to walk upon mine high places.

          The Old Year lifts his lamp and leans upon his scythe. He entered with great anticipation of hope and change and the realities of life have mistreated him terribly. We have nearly exhausted the year 2012 and at this time we often review the best and worst of happenings. When we think of the year nearly gone we experience extreme feelings of fear, disappointment and disgust.

Nationally, Americans have re-elected a president who, in his first four years, has managed to rule without passing a budget! Morally, we have made legal homosexual marriages and the recreational smoking of marijuana. The killing of unborn babies goes on apace and we seem to prefer wrong over right at every opportunity.

          Habakkuk finishes his book with a thin-lipped pledge. He tells of failed crops and a ruined harvest. He complains of depleted stores and lean times. The flock has been cut off either by poor leadership or disease and the feed lot is empty of beeves. The expectation of hope and change had died.

          Yet he begins verse 17 with the word “although!” The word means “nevertheless” and first considers then ignores the consequent realities to look forward with great hope. There it is again – hope – but more than hope. It is faith with determination because it is not poorly placed upon the promises of some political figure. It is trust in a God who sits upon the circle of the earth and hangs the stars upon nothing!

Heb 6:17-19

17 Wherein God, willing more abundantly to shew unto the heirs of promise the immutability of his counsel, confirmed it by an oath:

18 That by two immutable [unchangeable] things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us:

19 Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast, and which entereth into that within the veil…

Ps 62:2

2 He only is my rock and my salvation; he is my defence; I shall not be greatly moved.

          Our hope is in the Lord and our change will surely come. Our confidence is not pinned upon the breast of politics, world economics, nor military conquests. Our light shines from the Sun of Righteousness and our feet are firmly planted upon the cornerstone of God. We shall not be greatly moved.

Dear Lord, you have carried us safely through another year and we look to you as we face a new one. We can’t know what lies ahead but we rejoice to know the One who knows the end from the beginning. AMEN

FATHER TIME AND BABY NEW YEAR!

FATHER TIME AND BABY NEW YEAR!

James 4:13-17

13 Go to now, ye that say, To day or to morrow we will go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get gain:

14 Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away.

15 For that ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that.

16 But now ye rejoice in your boastings: all such rejoicing is evil.

17 Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.

          The image of Father Time is the familiar image of a year grown old and tired with use and abuse. Certainly 2012 has been a difficult year for many and, while we may feel sorry for old Father Time, we will be glad to see him go! Waiting in line is the infant 2013 with his behind powdered and pampered. On his head is a shiny top hat cocked just so. There is a confident smile on his face and we are anxious to follow him into the future but isn’t that just what we felt at this time last year? Didn’t we wear our funny hats and honk our silly horns just one year ago?

          James reminds his readers that we should give some consideration to the frailty of life. He calls it a vapor; a fog that lifts with the morning sun. In his advice I see five things on which we might focus this morning.

          Presumption (verse 13)! James clearly warns that the plans we make have no guarantee of being accomplished. Chance and circumstance happens to all and we are not sure that we will buy, sell or get gain. We quickly read over it but please consider the presumption in the phrase “and continue there a year!” Isn’t this our presumption as well?

                Uncertainty (verse 14)! Like a rude slap to the face, James warns us of the uncertainty of life. Please focus on just three little words in this verse: “ye – know – not.” These little words are designed to make us careful but we ignore them. This statement is based on Proverbs 27:1 - "Boast not thyself of tomorrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth."

                Consider God’s will (verse 15)! The God who knows the day and all the events within it should receive some careful consideration when we make our plans. God reveals His will in His Word, and yet most people ignore the Bible. In the Bible, God gives precepts, principles, and promises that can guide us in every area of life. Knowing and obeying the Word of God is the surest way to success (Josh 1:8; Ps 1:3).

(from The Bible Exposition Commentary.)

          Foolishness (verse 16)! I see in the word “boasting” our own annual celebration which includes fireworks, funny hats and fuzzy headed hangovers from a night of drinking oneself stupid. One year is thankfully dismissed while another is welcomed by saying: “this year will be better!” All such boasting is foolish. James calls it sin.

          Neglect which is sin (verse 17)! Each day provides many opportunities to do what is right. Knowing the right that we should do and not doing it is sin. When confronted with our sin we protest by saying “I didn’t do anything” and that is just the point. When there was mercy to show we didn’t do anything. When there was wisdom to apply we again did nothing. It can’t be said better than James said it: “Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.”

This attitude expresses even more pride than does the first; for the person says to God, "I know what You want me to do, but I prefer not to do it. I really know more about this than You do!" "For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them" (2 Peter 2:21).

Dear Lord, let me not be so proud as to think I know better than you do. Let me go forth warily depending upon you for guidance and grace. AMEN

JESUS’ PRAYER FOR THE NEW YEAR!

JESUS’ PRAYER FOR THE NEW YEAR!

John 17:9

9 I pray for them: I pray not for the world, but for them which thou hast given me; for they are thine.

15 I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil.

16 They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.

17 Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.

25 O righteous Father, the world hath not known thee: but I have known thee, and these have known that thou hast sent me.

          This morning finds me in an emotional storm. I am surrounded by rich blessings quite undeserved and at the same time there is a deep longing for something that is unfulfilled. There is a childlike sadness as if I were the victim of a bully. There is anger and indignation for the injustices I am not responsible to resolve. These are just a few of the snowflakes I have been able to catch on my tongue but there is a blizzard of unsorted emotions waiting to be shoveled off my path.

          Jesus never expected the world to be an agreeable place for believers. We are not of the world. Literally the Greek in verse 16 is ek tou kosmou ouk which reads “of the world, not!” It means that believers have another point of origin and another ultimate destination. Our birth into this world was physical but our new birth makes us citizens of heaven and aliens here.

          Our hope for the New Year is that we might have some rest from moral decline but Jesus does not expect any great moral resurgence. Jesus did not pray for the destruction of “the evil” but that we might be kept from it. The word poneros means “that which is hurtful” and the definite article “the” makes it personal. Jesus prayed that believers would be protected from the one who causes hurt. We should not be surprised when there is hurt all around us.

2 Tim 3:13

13 But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived.

          Jesus prayed for our “sanctification” which in the Greek hagiazo means “to make holy.” This is done through the Word of truth. The more a believer associates with the Bible the less he will be welcomed in the world. We can expect the world to be a hostile place and increasingly so if we draw closer to the Lord. However, we will not be made safer by abandoning God and embracing the world. The world will not return our embrace but knows, better than we, that we are aliens. The word “keep” in verse 15 indicates a garrison of soldiers posted to keep watch. Ah, that is comforting!

          If you are waiting at the gate for the departure of your plane you will watch and listen for announcements and signals that you need to board. I have consistently watched men and women clog the entry with documents in hand. I have never seen them wait their turn but they stand in anxious anticipation until their row is called. We also need to be ready to board.

Heb 10:23-25

23 Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;)

24 And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works:

25 Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.

Dear Lord, I can sense a stirring at the gate of departure. As your coming draws nearer let me draw closer to you. AMEN

TINY DETAILS OF CHRISTMAS!

TINY DETAILS OF CHRISTMAS!

Luke 2:1-7

2:1 And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed.

2(And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.)

3 And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.

4 And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)

5 To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.

6 And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.

7 And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

          The events of the Nativity were manipulated by God so as to not appear divine! If man was to believe there had to be plausible deniability. There had to be reason enough NOT to believe. It would seem that God would do whatever necessary in order to aid faith but the opposite is actually true. God made it convenient to be an unbeliever so that belief, through the struggle of little evidence, might be strong.

          Why didn’t God make it easier for His Son to be born in Bethlehem? My research has revealed that the distance from Nazareth to Bethlehem is about 70 miles or about one hour in a car traveling at turnpike speeds. How long did it take for a pregnant woman to reach her destination by donkey? It must have taken at least a week at an average of three miles per hour.

          Why did “the entire world” have to be removed to their home towns to be registered? Could an angel not simply have told the couple that God wanted them to travel to Bethlehem so that the Scriptures could be fulfilled? No, Jesus would be born without any appearance of divine intervention. That is precisely why so much divine intervention was necessary. In this Christmas pageant God was the producer and director. His cast of characters was enormous.

         Could it be that the tiny details of your life are not coincidences at all? Might there actually be a divine plan after all? If you are stopped at a traffic light making you late for an appointment, could it be that you were spared the accident you witnessed along the way? Do you think it would be appropriate to thank God for the troublesome upsets in our schedule?

Dear Lord, thank you for the detours and upsets in my schedule. Thank you for being involved in what I think is coincidence. AMEN

NOTHING WAS AS IT ONCE WAS!

NOTHING WAS AS IT ONCE WAS!

Luke 1:35-38

35 And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.

36 And, behold, thy cousin Elisabeth, she hath also conceived a son in her old age: and this is the sixth month with her, who was called barren.

37 For with God nothing shall be impossible.

38 And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word. And the angel departed from her.

          When Mary said “let it be done to me according to what you have said,” she laid herself upon God’s altar in total abandon to His will. Nothing was as it once was. Everything was out of place and unfamiliar but the sacrifice of personal comfort, ease was her gift to God. When she submitted the transaction was done and the angel departed. His job was finished. Hers was just beginning.

          Nothing was as it once was! Her body had begun to change. Her relationship with her espoused husband, Joseph would most certainly change. How could she tell him? How could she expect him to believe her? Her family would certainly question her. Even the familiar, though humble, surroundings of her home would never be the same. Would she indeed ever be able to call this place home?

          We are a pampered people. We have inserted into our belief system the idea that God exists to enhance our comfort, ease and enjoyment of life. When He demands that we abandon that comfort for His purposes we recoil and resist. We resent God’s demands upon our time. We resent His constant interruption of our plans. As far as we know, Mary did not resist. Nothing would ever again be as it once was.

          What has changed since Jesus came? Well, for one thing, mankind no longer needs to be a slave to the darkness of sin. “The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light: they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them hath the light shined.” (Isa 9:2) For those who believe and receive Jesus, nothing will ever be as it once was. Praise the Lord!

O Come, O Come, Emmanuel

 

O come, Thou Day-spring, come and cheer
Our spirits by Thine advent here;
Disperse the gloomy clouds of night,
And death's dark shadows put to flight.

Refrain
Rejoice! Rejoice!
Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel.

 

Dear Lord, let me submit to the rearrangement of my life by submitting to your will. Disperse for me the gloomy clouds of night and let me join the chorus of those who sing your praises.  AMEN

MANIC ANGELS!

MANIC ANGELS!

Luke 2:8-14

8 And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.

9 And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

12 And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,

14 Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

          I am chuckling to myself even as I type this morning because of my use of the word manic in describing these angels. I chose the word because the dictionary definition is [1] excitement of psychotic proportions accompanied by disorganized behavior and elevated mood [2] excessive enthusiasm. This is, to me, the only explanation for a sky full of angels visiting a handful of shepherds.

          Excessive enthusiasm aptly describes the mood of the angels on the night Jesus was born. God’s program of redemption lay sleeping in the straw. All of heaven rejoiced in an explosion of excitement. Dignity, glory, honor, praise and worship belonged to the Lord! Harmonious bursts of praise filled the night sky.

          The angel of the Lord composed himself just long enough to explain to the shepherds this excited heavenly outburst. “Sorry to startle you but something wonderful has just happened! Unto you is born this day in the city of David, a savior which is Christ the Lord. And you will find him wrapped in strips of cloth resting in a manger.”

          Glory to God in the highest had been the angels’ song since before the foundation of the world. Now they added a pronouncement of peace on earth and goodwill to men. The Prince of Peace had come and there would be marvelous changes take place on earth. Men who slumbered in darkness had seen a great light. These were tidings of great joy to all people. This is the true excitement of Christmas. It is the reason for every carol sung and every twinkling light strung on every tree. It is our dim attempt to replicate the angels’ praise. The most dazzling efforts of man pale in comparison.  

Dear Lamb of God, my soul rejoices with the angels. May each reader today experience the excessive enthusiasm which comes from knowing their sins are forgiven. AMEN

CHRISTMAS IS LIKE A MAGNET!

CHRISTMAS IS LIKE A MAGNET!

Luke 2:1-7

2 And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed.

2 (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.)

3 And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.

4 And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)

5 To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.

6 And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.

7 And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

                His birth drew Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem. Rome took a census every fourteen years for both military and tax purposes, and each Jewish male had to return to the city of his fathers to record his name, occupation, property, and family. Augustus Caesar had become an unknowing and unwilling participant in the plan of God to provide a savior for man. Like a magnet, Bethlehem drew the holy family to herself.

                His birth drew the angels from heaven. They came to see the Creator being born as a creature. It amazed and excited them and the air became electric as they rushed to and fro. “And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.” (1 Tim 3:16)

His birth drew shepherds from the field. The angels were quite convincing  as they shouted their “glory to God in the highest.” The shepherds left their flocks and came with haste. The barn was becoming crowded.

          His birth drew Magi from afar. Although we don’t know much about these wise men, it has been speculated that Daniel may have introduced them to the Jewish prophecies while in Babylon. The Magi, star gazers, would have pieced together physical phenomena with prophetic verses to conclude that there would be a king born to the Jews. The preparation and dedication required to take their journey is amazing.

          His birth draw churches and families together. Christmas produces floods of worshippers in churches. Families travel great distances to be together mimicking the journey of Mary and Joseph. Who can resist when they hear the popular “I’ll be home for Christmas?”

                His birth draws sinners to redemption. “No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him.” (John 6:44) The infant in the manger would become the savior on the cross. He came to take our sins and give us salvation. He took our ugliness and gave us beauty for ashes.

Dear Lord, there is a tug at my heart this Christmas season. Let me become closer to you in devotion. Let me become closer to my church in dedication. Let me become closer to family in love. AMEN

EPIPHANY – JESUS APPEARS!

EPIPHANY – JESUS APPEARS!

2 Tim 1:8-10

8 Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner: but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God;

9 Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began,

10 But is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel:

          The word translated “appearing” in verse 10 is the Greek word epiphaneia which means “a manifestation.” It indicates that something previously existing, but hidden, has now been revealed or perceived. Perhaps you have heard the word epiphany used when a student finally understands his lesson. He finally grasps the truth being taught.

          Jesus, the man, was born to the Virgin Mary thousands of years ago but He didn’t begin existing at that time. He is part of the Godhead and existed before time. John, in the Revelation, saw Him as the “Ancient of Days.” He was with God in the creative process when God said “let us make man in our image.”

          Advent is a time of waiting but it is waiting with expectation. The Old Testament closes with a promise that Elijah would come. He would be the advanceman for Messiah. Messiah, therefore, was pre-existent – existing prior to His epiphany or his appearing. When Joseph and Mary brought the baby Jesus into the Temple for circumcision Simeon was waiting.

Luke 2:25-30

25 And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him.

26 And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord's Christ.

27 And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law,

28 Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said,

29 Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word:

30 For mine eyes have seen thy salvation,

          Simeon knew Messiah would come. He had been given – deep in his heart – the confidence that he would live to see his Messiah. Now he takes the babe in his arms and gives praise to God because he had had a personal epiphany. His expectations and earnest longings had been realized. That which was once hidden had appeared.

          Now, nearing the end of December, I wish for each of you to have your own private epiphany. May God grant you a new and deeper understanding of Himself. May Jesus shine in your soul. May your deep longing be realized and fulfilled this Christmas season.

Dear Lord, we long to know you in a deeper and more intimate way. Let us be surprised with your presence today. AMEN

HOW TO HANDLE ADVERSITY!

HOW TO HANDLE ADVERSITY!

Prov 24:10

10 If thou faint in the day of adversity, thy strength is small.

          If you are reading this you already know that this morning’s devotional is approximately seven hours late! You also need to know that there are few things so bad that they can’t be made worse by adding a computer. I am at the office and suddenly my laptop recognizes the wireless signal here. But it gets worse. Now my phone will not connect to the wireless signal at the office. Yet I have the audacity to give advice on how to handle adversity! What good is advice from someone who is inexperienced?

          Experience in adversity is hugely overrated, by the way! Nevertheless, after more than forty years in ministry, I recognize adversity more quickly than ever before and I have learned that the only real way to deal with it is to “faint not.” I guess that makes me a plodder and I know that frustrates those with more aggressive personalities but it works for me. The plan is to keep on plodding till something better comes along.

          A careful examination of the words of Proverbs 24:10 provides a needed education. First, we see that the word “faint” means “to slacken” or to slow down but the spiritual idea is to slow my response to the leading of the Lord. That’s not good! The word “adversity” is the word tsarah and it means “tightness.” If the wide opportunities you have been enjoying have narrowed down to a “tight spot” then you understand the word. Curiously the word “small” is tsar which means narrow.

          If you glue together the meanings of the original words you come out with something like this: “If you slow down your responses to God’s leading during times of tightness then your strength has been squeezed and made narrow.” Anyone can hang tough when he has a 21 point lead late in the game. It is when the game is tied and the outcome is not resting on the arm of your quarterback but the toe of your kicker that hanging tough really means something. The church at Ephesus received commendation from Jesus for just this kind of perseverance. The problem is that they had allowed adversity to weaken their love.

Rev 2:1-4

2 Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write; These things saith he that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks;

2 I know thy works, and thy labour, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil: and thou hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars:

3 And hast borne, and hast patience, and for my name's sake hast laboured, and hast not fainted.

4 Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love.

Dear Lord, why is it that when things get tight our first response is to pull away from you? It saddens me to recognize this tendency in me. Forgive me and help me to hang tough. AMEN

THE ABUNDANCE OF THINGS!

THE ABUNDANCE OF THINGS!

Luke 12:15

15 And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth.

          I am so blessed with stuff that it is scandalous! I have so much that it is hard to answer when asked what I want for Christmas. I literally have to imagine a need or even a want that can be purchased in a store! I suspect I am not so very different from most people in America.

          The above verse is part of an encounter with a man who came to Jesus asking him to help parcel out the family inheritance. In verse 13 the man asks Jesus to demand that his brother share the inheritance with him. Jesus responded in verse 14 by explaining that He did not come to be a judge of such things and then, in the following verses, gives the story of the rich man who had no place to store his goods.

          The language of verse 15 is interesting; even amusing. The word “beware” means “to isolate” and the words “take heed” literally meant “to stare at.” The idea is to isolate and fix your gaze upon covetousness. The word “covetousness” is pleonexia and indicates goods gained by fraud or extortion.

          Christmas is full of stories about frauds and greedy money grabbers. Ebenezer Scrooge and surly Mr. Potter were not happy with their great horde of money and goods. Threadbare George Bailey had a drafty old house full of love and laughter and crippled Tiny Tim was able to say “God bless us every one!” All these Christmas stories plagiarize the teaching of Jesus on the matter of things. The abundance of things can never enrich one’s life. Isolate and stare at this truth.

1 Tim 6:6-9

6 [And it is, indeed, a source of immense profit, for] godliness accompanied with contentment (that contentment which is a sense of inward sufficiency) is great and abundant gain.

7 For we brought nothing into the world, and obviously we cannot take anything out of the world;

8 But if we have food and clothing, with these we shall be content (satisfied).

9 But those who crave to be rich fall into temptation and a snare and into many foolish (useless, godless) and hurtful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction and miserable perishing.

AMPLIFIED

Dear Lord, in the midst of a season of great grabbing commerce, let me be content with family, friends and with you! Give us such things as we truly need and help us to isolate and stare hard at covetousness. AMEN

PEACE ON EARTH!

PEACE ON EARTH!

Luke 2:10-14

10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

12 And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,

14 Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

         The angels announced a new era with the birth of Jesus. God would soon be dealing with man in a new way called grace and the result would be peace.

         Peace comes when we know that our pursuits are pure and our methods are honorable. None can accuse Jesus of anything but success whether he was feeding 5000 on a hillside or speaking with only one tortured woman at a well. Jesus was relational in His ministry. He touched lepers, hugged children and formed a spit ball to restore the blind. He was a hands-on guy. It is hard to look a crowd in the eye!

         Peace comes when one’s pace is slow enough to observe beauty and perceive harmony. No music is sweeter than the timpani of thunder and the rain on a roof. No beauty is more lovely than the flowers when they grow in spring or the snow that covers earth’s ugliness in winter.

          Oh, how we long for God’s peace this morning! Many are the tasks yet unfinished. Still painful are the relationships still broken by conflict. Injustice still seeks out the weak and innocent to oppress and there is none to rescue. We need a little peace on earth and good will toward men.

Dear Lord, give us a convincing glimpse of your presence today. I know I am asking to walk a few steps by sight instead of by faith, but even Moses was covered by your hand and given a view of you walking away. We have seen too much pain, give us a bit of peace.  AMEN

MARY DID YOU KNOW?

MARY DID YOU KNOW?

Luke 2:16-19

16 And they [the shepherds] came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.

17 And when they had seen it, they made known abroad [told it everywhere] the saying which was told them concerning this child.

18 And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.

19 But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.

          Mark Lowery wrote the words to the song Mary did you know which asks if Jesus’ mother could have possibly known all the truths wrapped up in swaddling clothes. Luke records, in these verses, that Mary became an instant and an intense student of her special son.

          The word “kept” is the Greek word suntereo which means “to keep closely together; to conserve; to remember.” I get the image of a forensic investigator gathering scraps and bits of evidence so as to piece together the truth. Mary kept every piece close by so she could know the truth.

          The word “pondered” is the Greek word sumballo which literally means “to combine.” All the fragments were combined like so many puzzle pieces with jagged edges. When the edges matched the picture became larger and clearer. It began to make sense.

          From the very beginning Mary must have felt that her baby belonged to the world and not to herself alone. In fact, the angel said in Luke 1:35, “that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.” God’s purpose for this baby would rip him from her protective arms. In the Temple, at his circumcision and dedication, Mary was given two more scraps of information to ponder.

Luke 2:34-35

34 And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother, Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against;

35 (Yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,) that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.

Dear Lord, let us also gather the scraps and pieces of information given to us in your Word. Illuminate our minds and open our hearts as we ponder them. AMEN

SLAUGHTER OF INNOCENTS!

SLAUGHTER OF INNOCENTS!

Matt 2:13-18

13 And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him.

14 When he arose, he took the young child and his mother by night, and departed into Egypt:

15 And was there until the death of Herod: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Out of Egypt have I called my son.

16 Then Herod, when he saw that he was mocked of the wise men, was exceeding wroth, and sent forth, and slew all the children that were in Bethlehem, and in all the coasts thereof, from two years old and under, according to the time which he had diligently inquired of the wise men.

17 Then was fulfilled that which was spoken by Jeremy the prophet, saying,

18 In Rama was there a voice heard, lamentation, and weeping, and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children, and would not be comforted, because they are not.

          Yesterday a young mad man entered a school in Newtown, Connecticut and slew an entire class of elementary school children. The waste and horror of this act defies comprehension yet it is reminiscent of Herod’s slaughter of Bethlehem’s innocents.

                Herod was well known for his cruelty. Emperor Augustus reportedly said it was better to be Herod's sow than his son, for his sow had a better chance of surviving in a Jewish community. In the Greek language, as in English, there is only one letter difference between the words "sow" (‎huos‎) and "son" (‎huios‎). (Bible Knowledge Commentary)

          History is clear that if guns are withheld from mad men they will take up swords. If swords are withheld they will take up stones and if stones are removed they will use their bare hands. Murder does not require much cause. The first murder was over a basket of vegetables when Cain slew his brother Able and hid his body in the sand.

          Jesus escaped Bethlehem’s slaughter only to die on Calvary’s hill but His death purchased life for all who will trust Him. Tear away the wrapping of Christmas and unspeakable cruelties still abound but Jesus came to bring life.

Joy To The World

No more let sins and sorrows grow,
Nor thorns infest the ground;
He comes to make His blessings flow
Far as the curse is found,
Far as the curse is found,
Far as, far as, the curse is found.

Dear Jesus, unspeakable horrors still define this cruel world. Comfort all those who mourn today and hurry to rescue those in danger. Let the reality of the human condition remind us of the reason for your birth. Make your blessings flow today far as the curse is found. AMEN

SURRENDER IS THE KEY!

SURRENDER IS THE KEY!

Ps 66:1-7

Make a joyful noise unto God, all ye lands:

2 Sing forth the honour of his name: make his praise glorious.

3 Say unto God, How terrible art thou in thy works! through the greatness of thy power shall thine enemies submit themselves unto thee.

4 All the earth shall worship thee, and shall sing unto thee; they shall sing to thy name. Selah.

5 Come and see the works of God: he is terrible in his doing toward the children of men.

6 He turned the sea into dry land: they went through the flood on foot: there did we rejoice in him.

7 He ruleth by his power for ever; his eyes behold the nations: let not the rebellious exalt themselves. Selah.

We like to think of ourselves as autonomous beings with the power to do what we want; a relative omnipotence. We have listened to the serpent in the garden when he promised us that “we shall be as gods, knowing good and evil.” We want to demand that all our wishes be satisfied and that we should never be disappointed.

We view surrender to the will of another, even to the will of God, as a challenge to our rule. It is an invasion of our kingdom by another king so surrender is not easy for us.

1. ARE YOU FEARFUL OF THE FUTURE?

Are you fearful that the bottom may drop out from under you, that some calamity will ruin your plans, the only thing that will quell these fears is surrender to the loving heavenly Father.

Jer 17:7-8

7 Blessed is the man that trusteth in the LORD, and whose hope the LORD is.

8 For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit.

2. ARE YOU HAVING RELATIONSHIP PROBLEMS AT HOME OR AT WORK?

Are you puzzled and hurt by the actions and attitudes of another? Do you feel misunderstood or mistreated? The key to inner peace is to surrender.

Col 3:12-13

12 Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;

13 Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.

3. ARE YOU FEARFUL REGARDING YOUR FINANCES?

Are you afraid that you might lose control? Are you fearful that your job may disappear or that your investments may drain away? The answer once again is surrender.

Prov 27:24

24 For riches are not for ever: and doth the crown endure to every generation?

Ps 37:23-25

23 The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way.

24 Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the LORD upholdeth him with his hand.

25 I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread.

4. ARE YOU FEARFUL REGARDING YOUR HEALTH?

Are you afraid of getting sick or growing old? Are you afraid that a family member might die prematurely leaving you alone? While we are in these bodies there is no guarantee of a pain-free life without sorrow. The answer once again is surrender.

Ps 56:3

3 What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee.

Ps 103:1-3

Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name.

2 Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits:

3 Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases;

Ps 23:5-6

…thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.

6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.

If God is God and he most certainly is, then I must surrender to Him. If He is wiser at His worst than I am at my best, then I must surrender to Him. If He is rich beyond imagination then He is able to care for me. If He loves me with an everlasting love then His thoughts toward me are benevolent. I can rest in His authority for His banner over me is love.

Lord most high, rule over me with strength. Manage my affairs from heaven and reign over me with love. AMEN

MY ROCK!

MY ROCK!

2 Sam 22:1-4

22:1 And David spake unto the LORD the words of this song in the day that the LORD had delivered him out of the hand of all his enemies, and out of the hand of Saul:

2 And he said, The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer;

3 The God of my rock; in him will I trust: he is my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my high tower, and my refuge, my saviour; thou savest me from violence.

4 I will call on the LORD, who is worthy to be praised: so shall I be saved from mine enemies.

          The early political life of David reads like the story of Robin Hood. The evil King Saul chased David’s little band of warriors all over southern Israel. David hid out in caves near the salty sea. At one time Saul entered the very cave in which David was hiding to relieve himself! What drama! Now the chase would be over if David could kill his nemesis. But David restrains himself because of principle.

1 Sam 24:4-6

4 And the men of David said unto him, Behold the day of which the LORD said unto thee, Behold, I will deliver thine enemy into thine hand, that thou mayest do to him as it shall seem good unto thee. Then David arose, and cut off the skirt of Saul's robe privily.

5 And it came to pass afterward, that David's heart smote him, because he had cut off Saul's skirt.

6 And he said unto his men, The LORD forbid that I should do this thing unto my master, the LORD's anointed, to stretch forth mine hand against him, seeing he is the anointed of the LORD.

          David’s restraint was not because he honored Saul but because he honored the Lord. Saul had been anointed King. The oil with which Saul was anointed represented the Spirit of God resting upon the leader and assigning him God’s very own authority. Saul’s wicked character dishonored this anointing but David acknowledged it as still in force.

          David’s rock [fortress] was his God. He personalized this feeling of safety by calling it “my rock.” This rock is moveable. It goes with me and surrounds me wherever I may be. It is high, lofty and unassailable. We often sing an old gospel song that goes this way: “When all around my soul gives way, He then is all my hope and stay. On Christ the Solid Rock I stand – all other ground is sinking sand – all other ground is sinking sand.”

Dear Lord, someone reading this will need you to be their Rock today. Perhaps it will be me. Thank you for being our fortress and refuge. AMEN