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‘Tis So Sweet to Rust in Jesus

Posted in Blessings, Encouragement, Faith, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Provision, God's Strength, Hope, Intimacy with God, tagged Blessings, Encouragement, Faith, God's Goodness, God's Provision, God's Strength, Hope, Intimacy with God, Isaiah 12:2, Isaiah 26:3-4, Isaiah 41:10, Philippians 4:12-13, Proverbs 3:5-6, Psalm 13:5, Psalm 40:4, Psalm 52:8, Psalm 9:1, Psalm 9:10, Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus, Trust in God on May 18, 2015| 11 Comments »

No, that’s not a typo in the title; I intentionally chose rust. However, that parody on an old hymn actually did result from a typo years ago.

Steve was just a few months into his first pastorate in St. Petersburg, FL. The mean age of the congregation was somewhere in the 70s. When the church secretary typed the opening hymn title for one Sunday’s bulletin, ‘Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus, she accidentally omitted the “T” in trust.

But there was a whole lot of truth in that typo-title. Many saints of that congregation could testify, even into old age: “Blessed is the man who makes the Lord his trust” (Psalm 40:4).

And just what might those blessings be? A few possibilities quickly come to mind. When we put our trust in God, we enjoy:

Peace of mind (Isaiah 26:3-4)

Guidance (Proverbs 3:5-6)

Help (Isaiah 41:10)

Strength (Isaiah 12:2)

But there are many more blessings that come to those who trust in God—some of which are quite surprising. The following is undoubtedly just a partial list:

Intimacy with God–not just acquaintance. The more we exercise trust, the more we recognize his involvement in our lives. With David, we can affirm: “All those who know your mercy, Lord, will count on you for help. For you have never yet forsaken those who trust in you” (Psalm 9:10).

Hope. Praise God for his hope that fills us with all joy and peace as we trust in him (Romans 15:13)! I can’t imagine going to bed at night without hope for tomorrow—much less for eternity.

Joyful Expectation and Quiet Confidence. Our lives are in the hands of an absolutely perfect, all-powerful, loving God. We can count on him to see us through every situation. So with great delight we can say, “I don’t know what God’s up to, but I know it has to be good!”

Life above the Fray. Like Paul, we can learn to be content in every situation (Philippians 4:12), knowing that God will give us the strength to endure (v. 13). A heart full of trust has no room for worry or stress. (Remind me of that when the challenges pile up, will you?)

Adventure. Think of the adrenalin rush these Bible heroes must have experienced, as they placed their trust in God:

Joshua fighting the battle of Jericho—with trumpets and loud shouts!
Elijah praying for fire to consume a drenched offering to God, in front of 450 prophets of Baal
Nehemiah watching the walls of Jerusalem reconstructed, after the Israelites had been held in Babylonian captivity for seventy years

Are we going to sit on the sidelines of life and miss the miracles, because we’re afraid to trust? Perish the thought!

Influence. The Light of Jesus shines most brightly through those who demonstrate trust in the midst of dark circumstances. People remember those saints who maintain a positive, faith-focused outlook in spite of trials.

For all these reasons and more, it is indeed sweet to (t)rust in Jesus–to rest secure in the loving, everlasting arms of our Heavenly Father.

* * * * * * * * * *

I praise you, Lord, with all my heart,

for being a trustworthy God who never fails his children.

How glorious to know

I can trust in your unfailing love!

(Psalm 9:1; 13:5; 52:8)

Photo credits: www.pinterest.com; http://www.pixgood.com; http://www.masterfile.com.)

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An Exquisite Fragrance

Posted in Encouragement, Excellence, God's Provision, Godly Character, Maturity, Uncategorized, tagged 2 Corinthians 2:14-15, aroma of Christ, fragrance of Christ, Leaving a Legacy, positive influence of others on May 14, 2015| 15 Comments »

“Mom, what’s that lovely perfume you’re wearing?” I exclaimed while greeting my mother-in-law with a hug.

“It’s called White Linen,” she responded. “I like it because it’s crisp and clean and not too heavy.”

The scent stayed with me, but I didn’t mind. Not only did the perfume have a pleasing aroma, but it belonged to one of the sweetest, most generous women I’ve ever known.

The apostle Paul taught that we should leave a pleasant scent wherever we go. But he wasn’t talking about perfume or cologne. He meant that our very lives ought to emit the fragrance of Christ:

“Through us, [God] brings knowledge of Christ.

Everywhere we go, people breathe in the exquisite fragrance.

Because of Christ, we give off a sweet scent rising to God,

which is recognized by those on the way of salvation—

an aroma redolent with life.”

(2 Corinthians 2:14-15, The Message)

I’ve been privileged to enjoy the exquisite fragrance of a number of saints over the years:

My grandmother, who loved and served Jesus with a passion. She demonstrated kindness and thoughtfulness, and never raised her voice. (At least not that I heard!)

My parents, who lovingly guided me, and demonstrated what a Christian marriage should be: two people committed to the best interest of the other.

A youth pastor who showed personal interest in each kid, and whose prayers were so heartfelt, we knew this guy was up-close-and-personal with God.

A professor and his wife at the seminary Steve attended, who took us under their wings and lovingly mentored us with great wisdom.

A mother of three who led the first women’s Bible study I attended. She provided strong teaching, but better yet, an example of what it means to be a godly woman of excellence.

An older couple who listened, supported, and encouraged us as Steve began his pastoral career.

A younger couple who came alongside us in ministry over thirty years ago and are still caring friends to this day.

A choir director who taught by example what a calm and gentle spirit (2 Peter 3:4) looks like.

Countless friends and acquaintances over the years who have loved on us and prayed for us.

Some of these wonderful people have already departed for heaven. Yet their beautiful fragrance lingers in my life to this day—a memorable blend of selflessness, generosity, and grace.

And I wonder, Where would I be without their enduring examples providing strength and guidance?

To be honest, I would surely have ruined my life with poor choices, spurred by emotional immaturity, and spiritual depravity. But God provided all these saints and more, that I might acquire even a faint aroma of Christ.

And now I plead with myself, YOU serve Jesus by being a sweet fragrance for others, redolent with the life of Christ. YOU be the listener, encourager, and grace-giver. YOU provide the example of Christian maturity.

* * * * * * * * * *

Oh, Father, I thank you for the countless people you have brought into my life, whose positive impact provided wisdom, direction, and inspiration. Guide me, I pray, to live just as fragrantly, spreading your love, grace, and joy wherever I go.

Whose exquisite aroma lingers in your life? Tell us about him/her in the comments below.

(Photo credit: www.etsy.com.)

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The Fabric of Family

Posted in Appreciation, Blessings, God's Goodness, tagged Family Love, Mother's Day, Psalm 113:9 on May 7, 2015| 23 Comments »

The fabric of our family;

slowly woven by the Master Weaver

upon the warp and woof of each day.

Just two colors in the beginning—

Steve’s blue, and my yellow–

our favorite colors.

Then came the addition of three children

with threads of

energizing orange

as they romped through the house,

invigorating green

as they quickly progressed

through the stages of development,

and excitable red

as arguments erupted!

But calm colors were also interwoven

among the bright:

soft gray for security,

rich brown for stability,

and luminous white for the Light

of Jesus, our Savior.

Threads of respect and responsibility

appeared throughout;

Challenge and trouble,

hopes and dreams, too.

Each thread faith-strengthened

And reinforced with love.

Not easily rended,

but repaired here and there with forgiveness,

embellished with the embroidery of laughter,

and scattered with a patchwork of

familiar, soft-hued memories.

As Mother’s Day approaches

I celebrate

the fabric of family

that is fabulously, uniquely ours.

And I thank God that

“He gives the childless woman a family,

making her a happy mother.

Praise the LORD!”

(Psalm 113:9, NLT)

(Tapestry art credit: www.etsy.com.)

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Behind the Scrim

Posted in Encouragement, God's Power, God's Presence, God's Provision, tagged Disappointment Turns into God's Appointment, Encouragement, God's Creative Genius, God's Plan for Our Lives, God's Power, God's Presence, God's Provision, God's Ways, Jeremiah 29:11, Psalm 33:11, Psalm 33:18, Psalm 33:20-22, Psalm 33:4 on April 30, 2015| 10 Comments »

Slow, somber music faded away. All lights were extinguished, including the spot on the cave-like tomb, stage left.

Black silence enveloped us for several moments as the burial scene concluded, a dramatic part of the Easter musical production at our church.

In a hushed voice, the narrator picked up the story. He explained that when Sunday morning came, women went to the tomb. We, the audience, could see them approaching from stage right, talking among themselves.

They peered into the tomb, and cried out as they discovered the body of Jesus was gone. No sooner did they begin to question what might have happened, than an angel suddenly appeared next to them. I don’t mean, “walked up and joined them.” No. One moment that angel was nonexistent; the next moment there he stood, gleaming brightly.

How did the stage crew create such a startling scene? They used a scrim, a large sheet of gauzy fabric, behind the back of the tomb. When the tomb was lit from the front, everything behind the scrim was invisible. When the spotlight behind the scrim came up, suddenly the audience could see the angel.

That scrim-effect made me think: we live with a virtual scrim in front of us every day. We cannot see what God has planned for us in the future. Events of tomorrow—even this afternoon—are blocked from us by black silence. In his infinite wisdom God has determined that’s the best way for us to live.

But! Sometimes we’re able to look back to see behind the scrim, and note how God orchestrated events for our benefit.

I’m remembering a particularly difficult move years ago. We were leaving a much-loved church where my husband had pastored for six years, and beginning a new ministry across-state.

My personal challenge would be obtaining a teaching position in our new locale, at a time when there were more teachers than positions available.

But look what God did:

First, he “introduced” me to Diane, a delightful young woman—also a teacher. Her parents were members of our new church. Diane actually attended elsewhere, but every now and then would join her parents on a Sunday morning. She visited shortly after our arrival.

Second, God urged Diane to offer help with our unpacking. We spent a delightful morning emptying boxes and organizing various items while getting acquainted. I learned that she taught at a small private school, with just two classes at each grade level. The school was close by, too—only four minutes away. Diane suggested she submit my name for the substitute list. I told her, “Yes!”

Third, God created many substitute opportunities for me at Diane’s school, but fulltime employment seemed unlikely. No one was close to retirement; no one was moving. Meanwhile I applied at public schools within a reasonable commute of our home.

But in April, without even an interview, God prompted the headmaster at the private school to offer me a position. One of the fourth grade teachers had just been elected mayor. Trying to fulfill those responsibilities and teach was more than she wanted to tackle.

I started the following August, which gave me the entire summer to prepare. My classroom was right next door to Diane’s.

When that job opportunity opened up, it was as if the spotlight turned on behind the scrim. Suddenly I could see how God had carefully arranged the whole sequence of events. My disappointment over leaving our previous home and church turned into a God-ordained appointment at that private school, one that lasted twenty-two years.

“Never underestimate what a redeeming God can do, “ says Karol Ladd.*

And keep your eye on that scrim, for the glorious moment when you can see how he’s been orchestrating events for your benefit (Jeremiah 29:11).

*from Thrive, Don’t Simply Survive by Karol Ladd, Howard Books, 2009.

* * * * * * * * * *

When have you glimpsed behind the scrim of your life? What events has God orchestrated for your benefit? Share with us your story in the comments below!

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A Chocolate Celebration

Posted in Appreciation, Blessings, Encouragement, Generosity, God's Goodness, God's Provision, Joy, Praise, tagged 2 Corinthians 9:7, Appreciation, Blessings, Celebrate God, Encouragement, God's Goodness, God's Provision, Joy, Praise, Psalm 92:4 on April 23, 2015| 20 Comments »

Dove chocolates come wrapped in foil on which are printed positive and encouraging statements. Recently I found this one:

“The more you praise and celebrate your life, the more there is in life to celebrate.”

A positive attitude of praise and celebration, even for the little blessings, does contribute to a sense of well-being. But there’s an important omission in this quote–the cause of all those blessings. Perhaps the sentiment might be worded like this:

“The more you praise and celebrate God in your life, the more there is in life to celebrate.”

Now a pleasing sentiment has become solid truth, because with God in our lives, joy is our constant companion.

“You make me glad by your deeds, O Lord;

I sing for joy at the works of your hands.”

(Psalm 92:4)

It requires such a small effort, really.

Sometimes, all we need to do is focus on the pleasure of ordinary events:

Water vapor curling up from a cup of coffee
Sunbeams finally breaking through, after three days of unrelenting rain
The first butterfly of spring dancing among the daffodils

Sometimes all we need to do is change our perspective. We can choose to:

Get depressed over the huge stack of dirty dishes in the kitchen, or reminisce (while we clean!) over the delightful meal just enjoyed with family and friends

Grumble that vacation is over, or celebrate that two weeks out-of-town makes even our scuffed-up, well-lived-in home look mighty inviting

Sigh with dissatisfaction that personal goals have not yet been reached, or take note of how far we’ve come

Sometimes all we need to do is make a celebration out of a small moment.

I had been shopping at the mall for several hours, scouring the sales racks to no avail. Suddenly I looked down at my purse on which I had draped my light jacket and sweater. The sweater was gone. It was one of my favorites.

So not only did I not purchase an addition for my wardrobe that afternoon, I had subtracted a piece of clothing I already owned. That sweater had just been dry cleaned, too. “Insult to injury,” as they say.

Retracing my steps seemed pointless; I had been in so many stores.

Not long after realizing my sweater was gone, it was time to meet Steve for dinner at a restaurant attached to the mall. We ordered our meals, and then I told him what happened.

“I’ll check the mall lost-and-found after we eat,” I said. “By then maybe someone will have found my sweater and turned it in.”

So that’s what we did.

No sweater.

Steve suggested we stop at the stores where I’d shopped, as we made our way back to the car.

At the very first store the eyes of the young sales girl lit up when I asked about a lost sweater. “What color was it?” she asked.

“Red,” I told her.

“We did find it! It’s right back here!” she enthusiastically replied, walking to the back of the store.

Sure enough, there it was. Someone had even put it on a hanger.

Well! I thanked her, and the manager behind the counter, not knowing which of them had found it and been so thoughtful.

One of them jokingly said something about doing good deeds for chocolate.

As it happened, just two doors down was the Godiva Chocolate Shop. Steve and I popped in, bought two little boxes, and went back to the clothing store.

When those two girls saw the Godiva bag they whooped in surprise and delight. Steve and I laughed, too.

“God blessed me through you by returning my sweater; we wanted to bless you,” I said.

“Oh! That remark about chocolate was just a joke!” the salesgirl cried. “But you have no idea how much I needed this. Today has been especially rough.” She started around the counter with her arms outstretched. “Come here! I need to give you a hug!” Then she added, “Look! I’m crying!” I had tears in my eyes as well.

The level of endorphins was so high in that shop the lights shone brighter, the air smelled fresher, and the atmosphere crackled with joy.

And all because we took a small moment and magnified its significance, and we gave God the glory as we celebrated a God-orchestrated event.

Truly, “The more you praise and celebrate God in your life, the more there is in life to celebrate.”

And God celebrates, too. After all, he loves a cheerful giver (2 Corinthians 9:7), right? Surely that includes givers of chocolate and hugs.

(Photo credit: www.inhabityourmoments.com.)

* * * * * * * * * *

What are you celebrating in life today? Share your joy in the comments below!

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Focus Determines Direction

Posted in Encouragement, God's Promises, Hope, Renewing the Mind, Suffering, tagged Despair, Discouragement, Encouragement, Ephesians 2:10, Ephesians 6:13, God's Promises, Habakkuk 3:19, Hebrews 13:20-21, Hope, Isaiah 46:10, Negative Attitudes, Negative Thinking, Philippians 4:8, Positive Attitudes, Positive Thinking, Proverbs 4:23, Psalm 71:20, Renewing the Mind, Romans 8:28, Scripture Affirmations, Scripture Promises, Suffering on April 16, 2015| 11 Comments »

“Be careful what you think,

because your thoughts run your life.”

–Proverbs 4:23, NCV

That would explain why worrisome thoughts can turn into paralyzing fear, pessimism into debilitating discouragement, and sadness into utter hopelessness.

No one wants to dwell in such misery.

But if a person is facing difficult circumstances, and she allows her thoughts to run amok on auto-pilot, she’s likely to slide downward into hyper negativity. Climbing out is difficult.

“Snap out of it!” someone will say. Not very helpful.

“Look for the silver lining,” advises another. Easier said than done when tragedy strikes–and lingers.

“Spend some time in reflection.” That’s what one web site recommends, offering sixteen questions for a person to consider. Most of us don’t have time for that much introspection, nor the inclination, when we’re hurting.

So, how can we climb out of a miserable pit of despair?

By replacing negative thoughts with positive thoughts, especially scripture.

You see, our brains cannot focus on two things at once. Prove it to yourself by counting to ten and reciting John 3:16 at the same time. You’ll find you’re either counting or reciting, not both simultaneously.

We can apply the same strategy to negative thinking. At the first moment we realize our thoughts are headed in the wrong direction, we can confess it and ask God to help us renew our minds:

“Lord, I don’t want to think about this anymore. I know it’s counter productive and does absolutely no good. Help me to refocus on what is noble and right, pure and lovely (Philippians 4:8).”

Then we start singing a favorite praise song, listing all the reasons we can trust God in this situation, or reciting an uplifting scripture.

For a start, the bulleted quotes below highlight some common threads of negative thinking. Following each is a positive scripture as rebuttal:

“There is no way this situation is going to work out.”

Oh? “In all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28, italics added).

“I can’t stand another day of this.”

Oh, yes, I can stand. I can put on the full armor of God, so that in this day of trouble, I may be able to stand my ground” (Ephesians 6:13).

Restoration will come. “Though you, [God], have made me see troubles…you will restore my life again…you will again bring me up” (Psalm 71:20).

“I am never going to succeed.”

Not true. God says [He] will accomplish all [his] purposes (Isaiah 46:10b, italics added). What greater success could there be than to accomplish the purpose of Almighty God?

“I have no idea how to proceed. Maybe I should just quit. This is just too hard.”

I can pray as the author of Hebrews did: “May the God of peace…equip me with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in me what is pleasing to him” (Hebrews 13:20-21).

“Sometimes I can’t seem to do anything right. How can God use me?”

I am God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which he prepared in advance for me to do (Ephesians 2:10).

If the bulleted comments in bold print are our focus, our lives will surely head in a downward direction toward discouragement and hopelessness.

If, on the other hand, we focus on the promises and positive affirmations of scripture, we head in an upward direction toward wholeness, productivity, and joy.

“He enables [us] to go on the heights” (Habakkuk 3:19)–above the doubts and uncertainties.

Focus determines direction.

* * * * * * * * * *

What scripture promise or affirmation lifts you up when circumstances try to pull you down? Add your favorites in the Comments below!

(Photo credits: www.facebook.com/wonwithoutaword; http://www.zazzle.com.)

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By Myself!

Posted in Decision-Making, God's Wisdom, Maturity, Wisdom, tagged Decision-Making, God's Ways, God's Wisdom, Godly Wisdom, Independence, Obedience, Obedience to God, Proverbs 1:7, Wisdom on April 9, 2015| 14 Comments »

“By myself!” “By myself!” “By myself!” Numerous times each day our granddaughter asserts herself, announcing with much gusto that whatever the task, she can handle it.

But Elena just turned two. Although her confidence is high, skills are limited. When it’s time to go upstairs, “by myself” means down on all fours, one limb at a time. One hand up, and then the other. One foot up and then the other. It is a slow and laborious process.

In addition, the grown-up in her wake must be very sly about offering support. No hand on the back, or even hovering where Elena can see it. She’ll cast aside such safety precautions and announce firmly once again, “By myself!”

Hand washing is another activity she prefers to do independently. But her attempts to pump out a dollop of liquid soap often end unsuccessfully. The soap usually lands in or around the sink—not in her hand.

And once the soap is in her palm, Elena reaches for the faucet. Forget the actual washing. If we try to help, she pulls her hands away. “By myself!” Even when she acquiesces, her scrubbing efforts leave much to be desired. Squeezing is her version.

And rinsing is another issue. “By myself” often results in enthusiastic splattering of water on dry dishes, counter, and backsplash.

Mealtimes offer more opportunities for autonomy. “By myself” means she will hold her spoon or fork as she chooses, not as the grown-ups have shown her numerous times. Elena has yet to figure out that holding a utensil at the very end of the handle is not very efficient. (The child in the photo is not our Elena, but is demonstrating the same technique.)

Because of her unwieldy grip, Elena ends up turning the spoon upside down as it approaches her mouth. Needless to say, most of the food ends up on her chin, in her bib pocket, on her clothes, on the tray, or back in the dish.

We shake our heads and roll our eyes. Toddlers!

Then it dawns on me. Sometimes I’m not much more mature than a toddler in God’s family. I’ve been known to proclaim “by myself,” too:

“Yes, Lord, I need you to take care of the important matters, but I can handle the small stuff by myself. ”

“I’ll make this decision by myself, Lord, because—to be honest–I’m not sure I’ll like your choice.”

“I can decide by myself what will make me happy, Lord.”

Yep, I can be as foolish as a toddler, even though great wisdom is available to me.

Wisdom such as:

“Start with God.

The first step in learning

is bowing down to God.

Only fools thumb their noses

at such wisdom and learning”

(Proverbs 1:7, MSG).

Ouch. But Solomon is right. God made me; he knows the best course for me. Over and over again he has proven himself worthy of my trust — guiding my way, providing for my needs, empowering me to accomplish his plans.

If I can’t trust the One who died for me, who can I trust?

Any time I’m tempted to approach a situation or decision by myself, I need to remember:

“God always gives the best

to those who leave the choice to him”

–Selwyn Hughes

* * * * * * * * * *

Oh, Father, forgive me for the times I have foolishly asserted my independence. Help me to relinquish control to you. I’ve lived long enough to know from experience that living life by myself does not result in satisfaction. Help me become a person who turns to you first, and asks, “What do YOU want me to do, Lord?” because you are the all-wise One of the universe. And I know the benefits of following you will far outweigh any costs.

(Photo credits: www.motherhood.modernmom.com; http://www.childcare.oxfordcounty.ca; http://www.cleftstories.com; http://www.covedevotions2010.blogspot.com.)

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Why the Scars?

Posted in Bible Study, God's Love, God's Salvation, Jesus, Salvation, Suffering, Uncategorized, tagged Christ's Suffering, Hebrews 5:9, Jesus' Crucifixion Scars, Luke 24:36-42, Revelation 5:6 on April 6, 2015| 13 Comments »

One of the “Letters to the Editor” in the most recent issue of Country Magazine caught my attention. The writer, James, related an event from his boyhood days on a farm in the 1940s.

Seems he had injured his hand quite severely one day while tightening a chain. But work on a farm doesn’t wait, especially during hay-baling season when the hay is ripe for harvesting. So in spite of his injury, James had to wear rough work gloves as he operated the wire baler. Every day for a week when he removed the gloves, the scab on his hand would come off and the wound would bleed profusely again.

On Sunday afternoon he plopped down on the living carpet to take a nap. His dog, Shadow, came to lie down beside him. But instead of settling in for a snooze himself, Shadow began to lick James’ wound. It actually felt good, James explains, so he let the dog continue.

The next morning James was astonished to see that his wound was completely healed. “It was as if the injury had never happened.”

Not until much later did James find out that a dog’s saliva contains healing properties. That’s why, when injured, they will lick their own wounds over and over.

I found James’ story particularly interesting because of a question that had been niggling in my mind this Easter season: Why did Jesus bear the scars of the crucifixion—in his hands, feet, and side–after the resurrection? It was certainly within God’s power to return Christ’s physical body to perfect wholeness, “as if the injuries had never happened.”

Come to find out, I’m not the first one to consider this question. As far back as the seventh century, Saint Bede of England (672-735, A.D.) wrote about the possibilities. Many others throughout the ages of the church have contemplated the reasons, including the following:

The scars were proof to the disciples that he was the same person after resurrection as before. Had Jesus been completely restored, his followers may have assumed that their first inclination was correct: that what they saw was an apparition of Christ. After all, he appeared to them out of nowhere—an impossibility for a physical body.

But they not only saw him, Jesus invited them to touch him, so there could be no doubt (Luke 24:36-42).

The scars were part of the proof of the prophecy that Jesus spoke of himself, that he would suffer, be killed, and rise again on the third day (Matthew 16:21). “This is what I told you,” Jesus reminded them (Luke 24:44).

The scars provided evidence of Jesus’ physical body. Early in church history there were those who taught that Jesus didn’t really suffer on the cross. He was not truly human, therefore he only appeared to suffer.

They could not fathom the sinless Son of God submitting himself to such humiliation and horrific pain. But dismissing the agony of Christ on the cross as well as the scars is incomprehensible.

Those three answers do quiet our curiosity, but what relevance might Jesus’ scars provide for us today?

The scars prove that Jesus knows what it means to suffer. Crucifixion is the most cruel of death penalties, the worst that man can deliver. No one can say, “Jesus doesn’t know what I’m going through.” No, he is well-acquainted with grief. He knows what it’s like to bear scars of suffering.

The scars prove God’s love and compassion. As the Son of God, he didn’t have to suffer on our behalf. Surely he could have devised a less abhorrent way. Instead, he identified himself with humanity by becoming human himself. He took our physical, emotional, and spiritual pain upon himself. And he will wear the scars of suffering for eternity (Revelation 5:6).

The scars remind us of what is to come. On Good Friday, Jesus body was beaten, bruised, and pierced. On Easter Sunday, those wounds became scars. A miraculous healing of gruesome wounds had occurred in a matter of hours.

One day a miraculous healing of our gruesome wounds will take place. Pain, suffering, loss, illness, and physical challenges will cease. Every negative aspect of life will melt away.

* * * * * * * * * *

Oh, Lord Jesus, thank you, THANK YOU for carrying our pains, our disfigurements, all the things wrong with us. Thank you for taking the punishment we deserve and making us whole. You are the one and only source of eternal salvation. And only through your eternal bruises are we healed. Out of overwhelming gratitude, we give ourselves to you. We want to follow your example and please you. Make us into what gives you pleasure.

All glory to you, Jesus, forever and always!”

(Isaiah 53:4-6; Hebrews 5:9, 13:21, MSG)

Photo credits: www.motherearthnews.com

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A Most Unusual Topic

Posted in Bible Study, Faith, God's Love, God's Salvation, Heroes of the Faith, Intimacy with God, Jesus, Joy, Salvation, Suffering, Uncategorized, tagged Christ, Christ's Suffering, Christian martyrs, Crucifixion of Christ, Faith, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Love, Intimacy with God, Jesus, John 15:11, Joy, Obedience, Salvation, Suffering, The Last Supper on April 2, 2015| 13 Comments »

Whether I heard it or read it, I don’t remember. But the words caught me by surprise, and I jotted them down:

“What was uppermost in Jesus’ mind as Good Friday approached?

“Joy.”

Do you find that surprising, too?

Yet at least three times on the eve of his crucifixion Jesus spoke about joy (John 15:11; 16:22, 24; 17:13)–a most unusual topic and completely unnatural. Who thinks about joy when they know that catastrophe is about to strike?

Jesus, that’s who.

Within the next twenty-four hours he would face excruciating pain, total abandonment by his Father, and the most horrific death ever devised.

But his concern was for his disciples, not himself. Jesus wanted them to remember the important principles of love, obedience, and joy–an empowering joy that no one could take away from them.

Perhaps you remember the scene. Jesus and his disciples had just finished their last Passover supper together. After the meal, he taught his final lesson.

The first mention of joy came near the end of his teaching about the vine and the branches:

“I have told you this

so that my joy may be in you

and that your joy may be complete”

(John 15:11).

The word, “this,” refers to the ways Jesus had just mentioned that will contribute to joy:

1. Live close to him and produce much good in and through your life (vs.4-8).

2. Live in obedience to Jesus and experience the warmth, peace, and care of His love (vs. 9-10).

Note that Jesus wanted his joy to be in the hearts of his disciples. What characterized his joy, compared to that of others?

Strong awareness of the Father’s love for him, and his own love for the Father (vs. 9-10).

Absolute surrender and self-sacrifice of himself to his Father, and the joy of doing what his father had sent him to do. Even during his great travail in the Garden of Gethsemane, his one desire was to do his Father’s will (Luke 22:42).

Jesus’ joy coexisted with the profound sorrow of his impending suffering, because he was already well-acquainted with the satisfaction and fulfillment of obedience.

The understanding that joy deferred to the future is anticipatory joy in the present. “For the joy set before him he endured the cross” (Hebrews 12:2).

And finally, Jesus told his disciples that he desired complete joy for them. What does complete joy look like? It is:

Not so much an emotion as it is a conviction (Keith Krell, “Moment by Moment,” http://www.bible.org).

Inner contentment, resulting from continually cultivating an intimate relationship with Jesus.

Constant, not dependent on circumstances.

Enduring, day after day. Indestructible.

Perfect—the perfect, joy-filled fulfillment of the destiny for which God created you, even when a portion of that destiny is suffering.

I’m thinking of the martyrs–Stephen, Polycarp, Ignatius of Antioch, William Tyndale, John Wycliffe and countless others who demonstrated complete joy even as they died in anguish.

Polycarp, disciple of the Apostle John and Bishop of Smyrna for many years, refused to revile Jesus. For that he was burned at the stake.

But before the flames rose up, Polycarp prayed:

“O Lord God Almighty, Father of thy blessed and beloved Son, Jesus Christ, through whom we have been given knowledge of thyself…I bless thee for granting me this day and hour, that I may be numbered amongst the martyrs, to share the cup of thine Anointed and to rise again unto life everlasting…”

Such devotion, courage, and supernatural strength are impossible to fathom apart from the enablement of the Holy Spirit.

Can you hear the grace in Polycarp’s voice as he blessed God for the privilege of dying a martyr?

That is complete joy, only experienced by those who trust in Jesus implicitly.

Complete joy that Jesus purchased for us at Calvary.

* * * * * * * * *

We marvel, Heavenly Father, in the extreme paradox that is the cross. Out of the evil unleashed upon your Son comes your holy, righteous goodness–upon us. Out of the horror of the crucifixion that Jesus endured comes inexpressible and glorious joy, to those who put their faith in him–not a temporary feeling of elation, but deep, abiding, abundant joy.

All praise to you, our loving, gracious God!

(Acts 3:13-16, 1 Peter 1:8, John 6:47, John 10:10)

(Photo credit: www.rejesus.co.uk.)

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From Lifeless to Life-Filled

Posted in Dreams, Encouragement, Faith, God's Power, Hope, Patience, Uncategorized, Waiting on God, tagged Encouragement, Faith, Fruitfulness, Germination, God's Power, God's Timing, God's Ways, Hope, Romans 15:13, The God of Hope, Waiting on God on March 30, 2015| 16 Comments »

I was talking to a few aliens the other day–little green guys from outer space–trying to explain some earth-phenomena, since life in their galaxy is so different from ours.

First, a bit of background to explain what prompted the conversation.

Elena, our two-year old granddaughter, and I were exploring the church grounds across the street from her house. She loves looking for treasures: sticks, stones, acorns, leaves, etc.

On this particular day I noticed the oak trees sporting chubby little buds. Another pair of trees were bursting with bud-clusters, ready to explode into bright pink finery.

Elena and I inspected the juvenile growth. I tried to explain what would soon happen. But with no remembrance of last spring, her understanding was no doubt very limited. I might as well be explaining this to an alien, I thought.

That’s when my imagination kicked in.

What if inhabitants from another galaxy did come to visit Earth? And what if they had never seen buds or seeds before? Imagine trying to educate them on the process of germination…

“Now, inside this seed is the beginning of life. If we plant it in soil, making sure to choose a sunny spot, and we shower it with water when the weather doesn’t supply rain, it will grow into a plant, bush, or tree.”

They look at me with doubt in their big, round eyes.

“I know it seems impossible. The seed is just a small, lifeless speck. But I can tell you, having seen it happen repeatedly, that’s what seeds do.”

So the little green guys and I plant the seed in a sunny spot and shower it with water.

A few moments later, one of them wants to dig it up to see the first signs of life.

“Oh, no,” I explain. “It takes time for the water to seep into the seed and for the miracle of germination to take place. But believe me. If we come back in a week or ten days, there will be a little green shoot coming up out of the soil in that very spot.”

They like the idea of green, but shake their little round heads in disbelief.

I have to admit. The progression of tiny seeds to plants, much less tall trees, does sound ludicrous.

And yet that’s exactly what God does.

Sometimes our lives resemble brown, lifeless seeds. There is no sign of hope that circumstances might change for the better.

Sometimes we think it’s too late for a reversal of destiny. It seems our best, productive years are behind us.

Not so fast.

Consider George*, our friend who has retired. Twice. During his first career, George worked his way up in law enforcement to chief of police; his second career, associate pastor. Ten years or so later, he and his wife moved north to be near family. When the boxes were unpacked and the pictures hung on the walls, George sat down and thought, Now what? I’m not ready to park on the porch and drink iced tea. What can I do, Lord?

No immediate answer.

One day George went golfing with his brother-in-law. They were paired with two more men at the course, to make a foursome. One just happened to be a high-ranking officer on the police force. As George and Tom* became acquainted, Tom expressed how they needed a chaplain on the force to minister to the officers. Stress was high, their jobs becoming more and more difficult as the years passed.

George’s heart started beating faster. A chaplain to police? Could this be the answer to his prayer? It would almost be like a merger of his first two careers into one challenging and fulfilling third career.

Yes, it was. For the next five or six years, George served as chaplain of police in his new community, impacting hundreds of lives in the name of Jesus.

We’ve all known people whose circumstances looked as promising as brown, lifeless seeds. Yet God caused miraculous change, and the lives of those folks burgeoned into glorious fruitfulness.

We can learn like those little aliens of my imagination. We can feed our hope by feasting on the miraculous springtime evidence around us. We can wait with confident expectation for the fulfillment of God’s plan.

And if hope seems all but gone, we can cling to the Source of hope.

romans_15_13_the_power_of_the_holy_spirit_powerpoint_church_sermon_Slide03

(“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit”–Romans 15:13.)

*Names have been changed.

(Art & photo credits: www.dreamstime.com; http://www.brilliantbotany.com; http://www.imagkid.com; http://www.allposters.fr.; http://www.slideteam.net.)

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