Like millions of others around the world, Pat and I watched segments of the royal wedding this morning. We enjoyed the pageantry, music, colors and multiple layers of symbolism.
As I watched, the words of John in Revelation came to mind. The greatest wedding of the eons will be without comparison.
Then I heard what sounded like a great multitude, like the roar of rushing waters and like loud peals of thunder, shouting:
“Hallelujah!
For our Lord God Almighty reigns.
Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory!
For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and his bride has made herself ready.
Fine linen, bright and clean, was given her to wear.”
(Fine linen stands for the righteous acts of the saints.)
Then the angel said to me, “Write: ‘Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb!’” And he added, “These are the true words of God.” – Revelation 19:6-9
Let us prepare ourselves for the great wedding to come!
May the Lord fill you with hope for Jesus coming.
Friday, April 29, 2011
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Overcoming and the crown of life
Did anyone wake up this morning asking, “I wonder where I can get involved in a traffic jam?” Or, “I wonder why I haven’t had any bad news or tooth ache lately?” Sound thinking, mentally healthy people avoid pain and naturally move toward comfort.
Both James and John address the extraordinary discipline required to properly override the natural man’s desire to avoid suffering and endure discomfort faithfully. James says, “Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.” (1:12) And, John adds these words of Jesus, “These are the words of him who is the First and the Last, who died and came to life again. I know your afflictions and your poverty — yet you are rich! I know the slander of those who say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan. Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life.” (Revelation 1:8-10) The reason for suffering, peril, affliction and poverty in each context is the Faith.
In another place the church is called to remember past hardships as a way of coping with present challenges, Remember those earlier days after you had received the light, when you stood your ground in a great contest in the face of suffering. Sometimes you were publicly exposed to insult and persecution; at other times you stood side by side with those who were so treated. You sympathized with those in prison and joyfully accepted the confiscation of your property, because you knew that you yourselves had better and lasting possessions. (Hebrews 10:32-34)
James first, and then John who quotes Jesus verbatim, assure us that a “crown of life” will be awarded to those who persevere. The writer of the letter to the Hebrews reminds us of “better and lasting possessions.” There is something for which we ought to persevere, doggedly pursue at any cost!
Are we about to look for a really terrible experience today? Are we eager to be persecuted or even be misunderstood? No! But, before we forfeit the promised crown of life, let us remember what all who persevere will enjoy forever!
I hope you avoid all the traffic jams in your city today! And, may you never have another tooth ache!
Both James and John address the extraordinary discipline required to properly override the natural man’s desire to avoid suffering and endure discomfort faithfully. James says, “Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.” (1:12) And, John adds these words of Jesus, “These are the words of him who is the First and the Last, who died and came to life again. I know your afflictions and your poverty — yet you are rich! I know the slander of those who say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan. Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life.” (Revelation 1:8-10) The reason for suffering, peril, affliction and poverty in each context is the Faith.
In another place the church is called to remember past hardships as a way of coping with present challenges, Remember those earlier days after you had received the light, when you stood your ground in a great contest in the face of suffering. Sometimes you were publicly exposed to insult and persecution; at other times you stood side by side with those who were so treated. You sympathized with those in prison and joyfully accepted the confiscation of your property, because you knew that you yourselves had better and lasting possessions. (Hebrews 10:32-34)
James first, and then John who quotes Jesus verbatim, assure us that a “crown of life” will be awarded to those who persevere. The writer of the letter to the Hebrews reminds us of “better and lasting possessions.” There is something for which we ought to persevere, doggedly pursue at any cost!
Are we about to look for a really terrible experience today? Are we eager to be persecuted or even be misunderstood? No! But, before we forfeit the promised crown of life, let us remember what all who persevere will enjoy forever!
I hope you avoid all the traffic jams in your city today! And, may you never have another tooth ache!
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Method or Message: Do the ends justify the means?
Years ago I enrolled, and completed a seminary course on church growth. The professor’s introductory statement was, “If the ends don’t justify the means, what does?” The class collectively shrugged its shoulders and assumed the question’s answer apparent and without question. The question was valid, but the students were either unwilling or unable to engage in the healthy dialogue which ought to have followed. The assumption was, and the rest of the sessions rested on the premise, (numerical) growth validates church activity.
Another form of the same premise is, “The message is sacred, but the methods are not.” My response, “Not so quick!” Didn’t Jesus say, “By this shall all men know you are my disciples, when they see you loving one another?” That is Jesus primary method, one filled with self-sacrifice and presence.
Consider the following as conversation starters with others who care deeply about fulfilling Jesus’ desires.
• Whom did Jesus delegate, or put in charge of church growth?
• What is the primary witness of the church in community?
• How do observers and passers-by describe your church?
• Who attracted you to Jesus?
• What is holding you in the fellowship of the church?
• When describing your church, what descriptors are Biblical? Which are cultural?
• Are our methodologies effectively presenting the Jesus who confounds, convicts, and converts those who receive His message?
• How effectively is Jesus’ call to deny self and follow, challenging the prevailing self-centeredness of our culture?
• Are we filled with wonder that the Eternal God allows one to come face-to-face, heart-to-heart, mind-to-mind, spirit-to-Spirit with Him? Or are we comparing methods?
• Am I self-confident in my methods, or humbly surprised that the grace of God outstrips sin?
The church growth professor and I engaged in conversation. We agreed that the ends must not be immediate and more than numerical, but transformational and eternal. A major American cult is building a temple in center city Philadelphia. Their growth rate is the envy of the church and commerce. The cult’s methods are profoundly effective, but the ends are destructive, death.
Before another dollar is spent on advertising, or another team is enlisted to produce another attention-getting program, we might explore the powerful potential of disciples deliberately and unselfishly giving themselves to someone who has never met Jesus. We could introduce those who have never met Jesus to a fellowship (a.k.a. bar-b-q, dinner, breakfast, etc.) where people listen carefully, care deeply, and laugh heartily. Miracles can happen in venues where Jesus’ disciples are giving themselves away! It is a proven, primitive method that has been validated by Jesus.
Another form of the same premise is, “The message is sacred, but the methods are not.” My response, “Not so quick!” Didn’t Jesus say, “By this shall all men know you are my disciples, when they see you loving one another?” That is Jesus primary method, one filled with self-sacrifice and presence.
Consider the following as conversation starters with others who care deeply about fulfilling Jesus’ desires.
• Whom did Jesus delegate, or put in charge of church growth?
• What is the primary witness of the church in community?
• How do observers and passers-by describe your church?
• Who attracted you to Jesus?
• What is holding you in the fellowship of the church?
• When describing your church, what descriptors are Biblical? Which are cultural?
• Are our methodologies effectively presenting the Jesus who confounds, convicts, and converts those who receive His message?
• How effectively is Jesus’ call to deny self and follow, challenging the prevailing self-centeredness of our culture?
• Are we filled with wonder that the Eternal God allows one to come face-to-face, heart-to-heart, mind-to-mind, spirit-to-Spirit with Him? Or are we comparing methods?
• Am I self-confident in my methods, or humbly surprised that the grace of God outstrips sin?
The church growth professor and I engaged in conversation. We agreed that the ends must not be immediate and more than numerical, but transformational and eternal. A major American cult is building a temple in center city Philadelphia. Their growth rate is the envy of the church and commerce. The cult’s methods are profoundly effective, but the ends are destructive, death.
Before another dollar is spent on advertising, or another team is enlisted to produce another attention-getting program, we might explore the powerful potential of disciples deliberately and unselfishly giving themselves to someone who has never met Jesus. We could introduce those who have never met Jesus to a fellowship (a.k.a. bar-b-q, dinner, breakfast, etc.) where people listen carefully, care deeply, and laugh heartily. Miracles can happen in venues where Jesus’ disciples are giving themselves away! It is a proven, primitive method that has been validated by Jesus.
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Maundy Thursday, Good Friday
The fifth and sixth days of Holy Week are the most intense. Maundy Thursday is the day the church around the world has historically paused to remember –
• Jesus observing Passover with his disciples. As Jesus sat at table he took bread and wine and simply taught that his body and blood were the once-for-all sacrifice for all sin.
• Jesus washing his disciples feet.
• Judas’ colluding with the religious establishment and betraying of Jesus.
• Jesus’ teaching concerning the true vine, warning about persecution and then the coming Comforter – all this in one sitting with the Twelve!
• Jesus praying for the his disciples to withstand the inevitable hardships and for solidarity among disciples.
• Jesus praying which resulted in an irrevocable commitment to his Father’s will in Gethsemane.
• Jesus appearing before Annas, and then before Caiaphas and the Sanhedrin.
• Peter and the others forsaking, denying, hiding ...
– enough material for several hours of reflection and learning. And, a trial before Pilate, a Roman whip, beard pulling, and crude spitting into Jesus’ face were awaiting in the next few hours.
Tomorrow, Good Friday, is the day when Jesus’ agonizing death is remembered by the church on every continent. As a child, our family attended Good Friday services from Noon until 3:00PM, a real marathon for a preteen. Several speakers, sad music and somber spirits made those services seem interminable. But, we learned it was important to participate. Dad came home from work early so we could attend as a family. Stores closed throughout a city of nearly 2 million people. Alas, this year, Major League Baseball has scheduled a game during those hours, the stores are promoting special “Lenten Sales,” and a noon service in an Evangelical church is very rare. The Holy Spirit bore witness with my young spirit in those quiet hours. I remember the events fondly now and pray my children and grandchildren will follow in a meaningful, life-shaping tradition.
In this context, I invite you to ponder with me the words of Apostle Paul, May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. (Galatians 6:14) Resurrection Day is meaningless, and salvation is impossible without the cross.
Pat and are searching to find services we can attend tonight and tomorrow. We will dedicate the days to pursuing the way of the cross and its application in our lives. We pray that you will also.
Jesus had no servants, yet they called Him Master.
Had no degree, yet they called Him Teacher.
Had no medicines, yet they called Him Healer.
Had no army, yet kings feared Him.
He won no military battles, yet He conquered the world.
He committed no crime, yet they crucified Him.
He was buried in a tomb, yet He lives today.
• Jesus observing Passover with his disciples. As Jesus sat at table he took bread and wine and simply taught that his body and blood were the once-for-all sacrifice for all sin.
• Jesus washing his disciples feet.
• Judas’ colluding with the religious establishment and betraying of Jesus.
• Jesus’ teaching concerning the true vine, warning about persecution and then the coming Comforter – all this in one sitting with the Twelve!
• Jesus praying for the his disciples to withstand the inevitable hardships and for solidarity among disciples.
• Jesus praying which resulted in an irrevocable commitment to his Father’s will in Gethsemane.
• Jesus appearing before Annas, and then before Caiaphas and the Sanhedrin.
• Peter and the others forsaking, denying, hiding ...
– enough material for several hours of reflection and learning. And, a trial before Pilate, a Roman whip, beard pulling, and crude spitting into Jesus’ face were awaiting in the next few hours.
Tomorrow, Good Friday, is the day when Jesus’ agonizing death is remembered by the church on every continent. As a child, our family attended Good Friday services from Noon until 3:00PM, a real marathon for a preteen. Several speakers, sad music and somber spirits made those services seem interminable. But, we learned it was important to participate. Dad came home from work early so we could attend as a family. Stores closed throughout a city of nearly 2 million people. Alas, this year, Major League Baseball has scheduled a game during those hours, the stores are promoting special “Lenten Sales,” and a noon service in an Evangelical church is very rare. The Holy Spirit bore witness with my young spirit in those quiet hours. I remember the events fondly now and pray my children and grandchildren will follow in a meaningful, life-shaping tradition.
In this context, I invite you to ponder with me the words of Apostle Paul, May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. (Galatians 6:14) Resurrection Day is meaningless, and salvation is impossible without the cross.
Pat and are searching to find services we can attend tonight and tomorrow. We will dedicate the days to pursuing the way of the cross and its application in our lives. We pray that you will also.
Jesus had no servants, yet they called Him Master.
Had no degree, yet they called Him Teacher.
Had no medicines, yet they called Him Healer.
Had no army, yet kings feared Him.
He won no military battles, yet He conquered the world.
He committed no crime, yet they crucified Him.
He was buried in a tomb, yet He lives today.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Holy Week: The Silent Day
The fourth day of Holy Week is popularly called the “silent day.” Apparently Jesus retreated to Bethany to rest and spend time with friends. The lesson is so obvious, I will also be silent!
Enjoy the day with Jesus!
Enjoy the day with Jesus!
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Third Day of Holy Week
The third day of Holy Week is filled with tension. The Pharisees, intent on undermining Jesus’ popularity and credibility, became heckling, needling interrupters. Jesus wisely used the efforts of the religious establishment to teach, to make his way known to all who would listen. The most extensive account of the third day is found in Mark 11:27-13:37.
At the center of the Pharisaical challenge is the question, “By what authority are you doing these things? Who gave you the right to question the validity of our grand establishment? We are the descendants of Abraham!” We ought to empathize with Pharisees because we also dislike anything and anyone who restricts freedoms or exposes our weaknesses.
The parable of the tenants is a very thinly veiled expose of religion gone bad. The freshly baked bread of nourishing truth had turned to moldy, distasteful crusts. The human response, beginning in the Garden of Eden, has been, “Embarrassed? Deny or destroy the evidence.”
Then they looked for a way to arrest him because they knew he had spoken the parable against them. But they were afraid of the crowd; so they left him and went away. (Mark 12:12)
Cowardice gallops through the human community. For instance, we are quite comfortable complaining or criticizing politicians, business figures, neighbors, and even friends and loved ones. The anonymity of the internet allows polite cowardice. A mass of people will cowardly scream, “Crucify him!” but, the same people shy away from honest, heart-felt, face-to-face conversations which result in reconciliation and peace.
Lessons on taxation (12:13-17), marriage (12:18-27), and offerings (12:41-44) are a communication grand slam home run. No wonder the large crowd listened to him with delight. (12:37) And, there is more, more than enough to keep us musing, pondering all day, all week long.
Jesus’ last recorded words for this third day of Holy Week are words calling us to vigilance, watchfulness.
Therefore keep watch because you do not know when the owner of the house will come back—whether in the evening, or at midnight, or when the rooster crows, or at dawn.
If he comes suddenly, do not let him find you sleeping.
What I say to you, I say to everyone: ‘Watch!’
We have lists of places to go and things to do. Today is as busy as yesterday and tomorrow. But, let us --
• determine to interrupt busyness and muse on the events and teaching of Jesus – especially those which occurred during Holy Week.
• be watchful, Jesus may return at any time.
At the center of the Pharisaical challenge is the question, “By what authority are you doing these things? Who gave you the right to question the validity of our grand establishment? We are the descendants of Abraham!” We ought to empathize with Pharisees because we also dislike anything and anyone who restricts freedoms or exposes our weaknesses.
The parable of the tenants is a very thinly veiled expose of religion gone bad. The freshly baked bread of nourishing truth had turned to moldy, distasteful crusts. The human response, beginning in the Garden of Eden, has been, “Embarrassed? Deny or destroy the evidence.”
Then they looked for a way to arrest him because they knew he had spoken the parable against them. But they were afraid of the crowd; so they left him and went away. (Mark 12:12)
Cowardice gallops through the human community. For instance, we are quite comfortable complaining or criticizing politicians, business figures, neighbors, and even friends and loved ones. The anonymity of the internet allows polite cowardice. A mass of people will cowardly scream, “Crucify him!” but, the same people shy away from honest, heart-felt, face-to-face conversations which result in reconciliation and peace.
Lessons on taxation (12:13-17), marriage (12:18-27), and offerings (12:41-44) are a communication grand slam home run. No wonder the large crowd listened to him with delight. (12:37) And, there is more, more than enough to keep us musing, pondering all day, all week long.
Jesus’ last recorded words for this third day of Holy Week are words calling us to vigilance, watchfulness.
Therefore keep watch because you do not know when the owner of the house will come back—whether in the evening, or at midnight, or when the rooster crows, or at dawn.
If he comes suddenly, do not let him find you sleeping.
What I say to you, I say to everyone: ‘Watch!’
We have lists of places to go and things to do. Today is as busy as yesterday and tomorrow. But, let us --
• determine to interrupt busyness and muse on the events and teaching of Jesus – especially those which occurred during Holy Week.
• be watchful, Jesus may return at any time.
Monday, April 18, 2011
Holy Week: Day Two
The second day of Holy Week, if we consider Palm Sunday the first, is marked by Jesus condemning a fig tree to fruitlessness and cleansing the Temple. In each event, Jesus’ teaching reinforces the importance and power of prayer.
DThe second day of Holy Week, if we consider Palm Sunday the first, is marked by Jesus condemning a fig tree to fruitlessness and cleansing the Temple. In each event, Jesus’ teaching reinforces the importance and power of prayer.
Dick Vitale, a colorful and boisterous ESPN sports commentator and former college basketball coach, names an annual “all airport team.” The team Coach Vitale names looks a like a winner in airport terminals, but frequently frustrates its fans with play well below the team’s potential. It is safe to say that no one wants to make the roster of that team.
After cursing the fig tree (Matthew 21:18-22; Mark 11:12-14,20-26) Jesus clearly taught that he expects his disciples to produce fruit. Many see the condemnation of religious establishment, temple professionals busily involved in everything religious, but having little power or product when alleviating human suffering. When the Twelve saw the tree cursed so suddenly, withered and dead, they were amazed. “How did this happen so quickly?” Jesus’ response was faith-building. In paraphrase, Jesus said, “Expect a lot more than this as you pray and believe!” He added some conditions to our attitude while praying which you may explore in the texts.
Jesus visited the Temple on this second day of Holy Week and drove out the flea market vendors a second time. The first time was early in his ministry (John 2:13-16) and the two explosive events when Jesus’ anger and impatience with religious abuse and misuse of the Temple serve as parentheses bracketing his ministry. The Lord emphatically states, “My house will be called a house of prayer.” One of Jesus’ first and last acts reinforce his instructions that we, his disciples, pray.
I hope that we all find houses of prayer this Holy Week, places where we gather to remember Jesus’ passion, are equipped with the knowledge of his will and perfected in prayer. No one would want to be a member of an “all church team,” a group which looks good in all things religious but underperforming in what Jesus expects, especially regarding prayer.
When I work, I work. When I pray, God works.
DThe second day of Holy Week, if we consider Palm Sunday the first, is marked by Jesus condemning a fig tree to fruitlessness and cleansing the Temple. In each event, Jesus’ teaching reinforces the importance and power of prayer.
Dick Vitale, a colorful and boisterous ESPN sports commentator and former college basketball coach, names an annual “all airport team.” The team Coach Vitale names looks a like a winner in airport terminals, but frequently frustrates its fans with play well below the team’s potential. It is safe to say that no one wants to make the roster of that team.
After cursing the fig tree (Matthew 21:18-22; Mark 11:12-14,20-26) Jesus clearly taught that he expects his disciples to produce fruit. Many see the condemnation of religious establishment, temple professionals busily involved in everything religious, but having little power or product when alleviating human suffering. When the Twelve saw the tree cursed so suddenly, withered and dead, they were amazed. “How did this happen so quickly?” Jesus’ response was faith-building. In paraphrase, Jesus said, “Expect a lot more than this as you pray and believe!” He added some conditions to our attitude while praying which you may explore in the texts.
Jesus visited the Temple on this second day of Holy Week and drove out the flea market vendors a second time. The first time was early in his ministry (John 2:13-16) and the two explosive events when Jesus’ anger and impatience with religious abuse and misuse of the Temple serve as parentheses bracketing his ministry. The Lord emphatically states, “My house will be called a house of prayer.” One of Jesus’ first and last acts reinforce his instructions that we, his disciples, pray.
I hope that we all find houses of prayer this Holy Week, places where we gather to remember Jesus’ passion, are equipped with the knowledge of his will and perfected in prayer. No one would want to be a member of an “all church team,” a group which looks good in all things religious but underperforming in what Jesus expects, especially regarding prayer.
When I work, I work. When I pray, God works.
Friday, April 15, 2011
Holy Week and the Via Dolorasa
The Via Dolorosa (Latin for Way of Suffering) is a street in Old City Jerusalem, reported to be the path that Jesus walked, carrying the cross, on the way to crucifixion. The current route, established in the 18th century, is marked by Stations of the Cross.
The route is a place of ritual and pilgrimage. Evangelicals have correctly rejected rituals, favoring the living truth of God’s Word and the power and presence of the Holy Spirit. However, there may be something for us to learn by remembering the events which took place. They are the places where Jesus spent time wrestling in prayer, modeled how we are to behave as his disciples, and accomplished redemptive work.
The places on the Via Dolorosa include –
1. Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane,
2. Jesus is betrayed by Judas and arrested,
3. Jesus is condemned by the Sanhedrin,
4. Jesus is denied by Peter,
5. Jesus is judged by Pilate,
6. Jesus is scourged and crowned with thorns,
7. Jesus takes up His cross,
8. Jesus is helped by Simon to carry His cross,
9. Jesus meets the women of Jerusalem,
10. Jesus is crucified,
11. Jesus promises His kingdom to the repentant thief,
12. Jesus entrusts Mary and John to each other,
13. Jesus dies on the cross,
14. Jesus is laid in the tomb.
Are any of these events unimportant to our faith? Am I allowed to ask, “Are we giving as much attention to the events of Holy Week as we do to cultural expressions of Easter -- new clothes, family dinners and hunting for eggs?"
Are rituals viable, life giving or redemptive. No, but ignoring the events of Holy Week may allow us to adopt meaningless activity which consumes tremendous energy and resources and miss the meaning of Jesus’ passion and redemption.
Jesus’ words about becoming his disciple may have greater meaning if we paid closer attention to what he endured to make it all possible. Matthew, Mark and Luke all recorded the following –
“The Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders, chief priests and teachers of the law, and he must be killed and on the third day be raised to life.” Then he said to them all: “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.
For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will save it. What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, and yet lose or forfeit his very self? If anyone is ashamed of me and my words, the Son of Man will be ashamed of him when he comes in his glory and in the glory of the Father and of the holy angels. I tell you the truth, some who are standing here will not taste death before they see the kingdom of God.”
The Via Dolorosa theme is found in old Evangelical music. I hope the lyrics stimulate redemptive, faith-building thought as we approach a special week.
I must needs go home by the way of the cross,
There’s no other way but this;
I shall ne’er get sight of the Gates of Light,
If the way of the cross I miss.
Refrain:
The way of the cross leads home,
The way of the cross leads home;
It is sweet to know, as I onward go,
The way of the cross leads home.
I must needs go on in the blood-sprinkled way,
The path that the Savior trod,
If I ever climb to the heights sublime,
Where the soul is at home with God.
Then I bid farewell to the way of the world,
To walk in it nevermore;
For my Lord says, “Come,” and I seek my home,
Where He waits at the open door. – Jessie B. Pounds, pub.1906
The route is a place of ritual and pilgrimage. Evangelicals have correctly rejected rituals, favoring the living truth of God’s Word and the power and presence of the Holy Spirit. However, there may be something for us to learn by remembering the events which took place. They are the places where Jesus spent time wrestling in prayer, modeled how we are to behave as his disciples, and accomplished redemptive work.
The places on the Via Dolorosa include –
1. Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane,
2. Jesus is betrayed by Judas and arrested,
3. Jesus is condemned by the Sanhedrin,
4. Jesus is denied by Peter,
5. Jesus is judged by Pilate,
6. Jesus is scourged and crowned with thorns,
7. Jesus takes up His cross,
8. Jesus is helped by Simon to carry His cross,
9. Jesus meets the women of Jerusalem,
10. Jesus is crucified,
11. Jesus promises His kingdom to the repentant thief,
12. Jesus entrusts Mary and John to each other,
13. Jesus dies on the cross,
14. Jesus is laid in the tomb.
Are any of these events unimportant to our faith? Am I allowed to ask, “Are we giving as much attention to the events of Holy Week as we do to cultural expressions of Easter -- new clothes, family dinners and hunting for eggs?"
Are rituals viable, life giving or redemptive. No, but ignoring the events of Holy Week may allow us to adopt meaningless activity which consumes tremendous energy and resources and miss the meaning of Jesus’ passion and redemption.
Jesus’ words about becoming his disciple may have greater meaning if we paid closer attention to what he endured to make it all possible. Matthew, Mark and Luke all recorded the following –
“The Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders, chief priests and teachers of the law, and he must be killed and on the third day be raised to life.” Then he said to them all: “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.
For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will save it. What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, and yet lose or forfeit his very self? If anyone is ashamed of me and my words, the Son of Man will be ashamed of him when he comes in his glory and in the glory of the Father and of the holy angels. I tell you the truth, some who are standing here will not taste death before they see the kingdom of God.”
The Via Dolorosa theme is found in old Evangelical music. I hope the lyrics stimulate redemptive, faith-building thought as we approach a special week.
I must needs go home by the way of the cross,
There’s no other way but this;
I shall ne’er get sight of the Gates of Light,
If the way of the cross I miss.
Refrain:
The way of the cross leads home,
The way of the cross leads home;
It is sweet to know, as I onward go,
The way of the cross leads home.
I must needs go on in the blood-sprinkled way,
The path that the Savior trod,
If I ever climb to the heights sublime,
Where the soul is at home with God.
Then I bid farewell to the way of the world,
To walk in it nevermore;
For my Lord says, “Come,” and I seek my home,
Where He waits at the open door. – Jessie B. Pounds, pub.1906
The Via Dolorosa (Latin for Way of Suffering) is a street in Old City Jerusalem, reported to be the path that Jesus walked, carrying the cross, on the way to crucifixion. The current route, established in the 18th century, is marked by Stations of the Cross.
The route is a place of ritual and pilgrimage. Evangelicals have correctly rejected rituals, favoring the living truth of God’s Word and the power and presence of the Holy Spirit. However, there may be something for us to learn by remembering the events which took place. They are the places where Jesus spent time wrestling in prayer, modeled how we are to behave as his disciples, and accomplished redemptive work.
The places on the Via Dolorosa include –
1. Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane,
2. Jesus is betrayed by Judas and arrested,
3. Jesus is condemned by the Sanhedrin,
4. Jesus is denied by Peter,
5. Jesus is judged by Pilate,
6. Jesus is scourged and crowned with thorns,
7. Jesus takes up His cross,
8. Jesus is helped by Simon to carry His cross,
9. Jesus meets the women of Jerusalem,
10. Jesus is crucified,
11. Jesus promises His kingdom to the repentant thief,
12. Jesus entrusts Mary and John to each other,
13. Jesus dies on the cross,
14. Jesus is laid in the tomb.
Are any of these events unimportant to our faith? Am I allowed to ask, “Are we giving as much attention to the events of Holy Week as we do to cultural expressions of Easter -- new clothes, family dinners and hunting for eggs?
Are rituals viable, life giving or redemptive. No, but ignoring the events of Holy Week may allow us to adopt meaningless activity which consumes tremendous energy and resources and miss the meaning of Jesus’ passion and redemption.
Jesus’ words about becoming his disciple may have greater meaning if we paid closer attention to what he endured to make it all possible. Matthew, Mark and Luke all recorded the following –
“The Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders, chief priests and teachers of the law, and he must be killed and on the third day be raised to life.” Then he said to them all: “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.
For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will save it. What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, and yet lose or forfeit his very self? If anyone is ashamed of me and my words, the Son of Man will be ashamed of him when he comes in his glory and in the glory of the Father and of the holy angels. I tell you the truth, some who are standing here will not taste death before they see the kingdom of God.”
The Via Dolorosa theme is found in old Evangelical music. I hope the lyrics stimulate redemptive, faith-building thought as we approach a special week.
I must needs go home by the way of the cross,
There’s no other way but this;
I shall ne’er get sight of the Gates of Light,
If the way of the cross I miss.
Refrain:
The way of the cross leads home,
The way of the cross leads home;
It is sweet to know, as I onward go,
The way of the cross leads home.
I must needs go on in the blood-sprinkled way,
The path that the Savior trod,
If I ever climb to the heights sublime,
Where the soul is at home with God.
Then I bid farewell to the way of the world,
To walk in it nevermore;
For my Lord says, “Come,” and I seek my home,
Where He waits at the open door. – Jessie B. Pounds, pub.1906
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Generosity and Holy Week
The parable of the man with two sons highlight the inadequate and faulty understanding of money and the meaning of life. The younger son, the one we commonly call “Prodigal,” was a consumer, selfishly using money for self-gratification. For the older brother, life was drudgery which embraced a narrow concept of good without the satisfying freedom of sharing and enjoying. The older son was as foolish as the wasteful spendthrift. You may read the whole account in Luke 15:11-32.
The Wall Street Journal quoted an anonymous wit who defined money as, “An article which may be used as a universal passport to everywhere except heaven, and as a universal provider for everything except happiness.” We may add that money also provokes covetousness and competition. Money is either a wonderful servant or a ruthless task master.
In short, Jesus teaches that we only live where and when we are sharing and giving. Both brothers in Jesus’ parable missed the point. Jesus’ eyes were wide open to the needs of the poor. He offered help, hope and healing with declarations and demonstrations everywhere he went. Jesus embodied generosity and taught His followers to share unselfishly, especially with those who could not reciprocate or return a favor. The early church was a radical company of people who looked like Jesus. They willingly shared all they had (Acts 2:44-47; 4:33-37).
I invite you to notice Jesus’ example and explanation of liberality during Holy Week. We will discover that Jesus measures generosity by how much we keep, not how much we give. We will learn from his examples of hospitality and inclusiveness in several settings. In short, Holy Week events will reinforce an old saw of ours, “Dog bark, fish swim, lions roar and Christians give!”
Holy Week begins in less than 100 hours! I pray the Holy Spirit will teach us all, making this season a time of deepened understanding and enriched living.
The Wall Street Journal quoted an anonymous wit who defined money as, “An article which may be used as a universal passport to everywhere except heaven, and as a universal provider for everything except happiness.” We may add that money also provokes covetousness and competition. Money is either a wonderful servant or a ruthless task master.
In short, Jesus teaches that we only live where and when we are sharing and giving. Both brothers in Jesus’ parable missed the point. Jesus’ eyes were wide open to the needs of the poor. He offered help, hope and healing with declarations and demonstrations everywhere he went. Jesus embodied generosity and taught His followers to share unselfishly, especially with those who could not reciprocate or return a favor. The early church was a radical company of people who looked like Jesus. They willingly shared all they had (Acts 2:44-47; 4:33-37).
I invite you to notice Jesus’ example and explanation of liberality during Holy Week. We will discover that Jesus measures generosity by how much we keep, not how much we give. We will learn from his examples of hospitality and inclusiveness in several settings. In short, Holy Week events will reinforce an old saw of ours, “Dog bark, fish swim, lions roar and Christians give!”
Holy Week begins in less than 100 hours! I pray the Holy Spirit will teach us all, making this season a time of deepened understanding and enriched living.
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
The Power of Purpose
As I prepare for ministry on Palm Sunday, I am musing on the power of purpose as demonstrated by Jesus. My sermon preparation is inseparable from my anticipation for Palm Sunday which introduces all-important Holy Week. Pat and I are looking for Maundy Thursday and Good Friday services to attend. My personal observance of Holy Week will include meditation and reflection on the events recorded in the Gospels. I believe our appreciation of Easter, Resurrection Day, is enriched as we deliberately prepare with soul-searching reflection.
Have you considered the power of the words, “Because the Sovereign LORD helps me, I will not be disgraced. Therefore have I set my face like flint, and I know I will not be put to shame?” (Isaiah 50:7) Jesus is clearly the person about which Isaiah wrote.
I invite you to begin now to prepare for Holy Week and marvel with me at the power of Jesus’ purpose. Consider that
• In spite of knowing what was before Him, Jesus deliberately pushed toward Jerusalem. The details in preparation for His entrance into Jerusalem reminds us of His forethought and determination. The account is material for wonder.
• Jesus was barraged with questions concerning His authority. Religious professionals plotted to trap Jesus with cleverly designed questions. Jesus’ responses ought to fill us with awe and respect.
• If the Twelve were too weary to pray in Gethsemane, it seems that Jesus was equally exhausted from the day’s activities. And, yet, He prayed, a prayer which resulted in unrivaled obedience, was able to respond to the rough treatment with a serene composure, and even performed a miracle. Can you relate to the all-too-human, “When I am weary, stay out of my way?”
• The pain of public betrayal and abandonment is unfathomable. I wonder if Jesus heard the rooster’s crowing?
• Slapping, spitting, mocking and public disgrace set the table for crucifixion. Jesus’ Last Supper was more than 24 hours past. Ravaging hunger had joined hands with unrelenting fatigue and yet Jesus remained serene. I marvel!
• Have you considered the sorrow of the darkness of abandonment? “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me,” must be among the most anguished in human experience.
There are so many more experiences of Holy Week to consider. I hope you will explore them in depth and that we will find awe-filled worship flowing from the depths of our spirits. And, while you do, remember Jesus did it all on purpose! Isaiah prophesied centuries in advance of the first Holy week, “Therefore have I set my face like flint.” And, Jesus purposed to fulfill that prophecy. That is powerful!
Have you considered the power of the words, “Because the Sovereign LORD helps me, I will not be disgraced. Therefore have I set my face like flint, and I know I will not be put to shame?” (Isaiah 50:7) Jesus is clearly the person about which Isaiah wrote.
I invite you to begin now to prepare for Holy Week and marvel with me at the power of Jesus’ purpose. Consider that
• In spite of knowing what was before Him, Jesus deliberately pushed toward Jerusalem. The details in preparation for His entrance into Jerusalem reminds us of His forethought and determination. The account is material for wonder.
• Jesus was barraged with questions concerning His authority. Religious professionals plotted to trap Jesus with cleverly designed questions. Jesus’ responses ought to fill us with awe and respect.
• If the Twelve were too weary to pray in Gethsemane, it seems that Jesus was equally exhausted from the day’s activities. And, yet, He prayed, a prayer which resulted in unrivaled obedience, was able to respond to the rough treatment with a serene composure, and even performed a miracle. Can you relate to the all-too-human, “When I am weary, stay out of my way?”
• The pain of public betrayal and abandonment is unfathomable. I wonder if Jesus heard the rooster’s crowing?
• Slapping, spitting, mocking and public disgrace set the table for crucifixion. Jesus’ Last Supper was more than 24 hours past. Ravaging hunger had joined hands with unrelenting fatigue and yet Jesus remained serene. I marvel!
• Have you considered the sorrow of the darkness of abandonment? “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me,” must be among the most anguished in human experience.
There are so many more experiences of Holy Week to consider. I hope you will explore them in depth and that we will find awe-filled worship flowing from the depths of our spirits. And, while you do, remember Jesus did it all on purpose! Isaiah prophesied centuries in advance of the first Holy week, “Therefore have I set my face like flint.” And, Jesus purposed to fulfill that prophecy. That is powerful!
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
If you want to be my disciple
Jesus challenges all potential disciples with a single, life-changing statement. If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will find it. Jesus’ foundational teaching is of such importance that each synoptic writer, Matthew, Mark and Luke recorded the statement.
Since the Garden of Eden, men have always been compelled to be Number One! And, if we were honest, we would all admit that we graduated summa cum laude from the “School of Me First!” We secretly believe we ought to be the alumnus of the year – annually. Outgrowing the stubborn insistence that we know best is a world-class challenge. Denying ourselves in deference to Jesus is daunting.
This week I am responsible for bringing a message immediately before church members make their annual missionary faith promises. My text will be 2 Corinthians 8 which includes these soul-searching words, they gave themselves first to the Lord and then to us in keeping with God’s will. The text explains that before the offerings were sent from one church to another, the giving church gave themselves first to the Lord. Is it safe to say that if everyone gave themselves first to the Lord, Jesus would have access to all we are, every ability, every possession.
The language is now quaint and dated, but the message is as significant as ever. The song’s lyrics were an instrument of the Holy Spirit which formed me as I matured in understanding and began learning how to surrender to Jesus and deny myself.
You have longed for sweet peace,
And for faith to increase,
And have earnestly, fervently prayed;
But you cannot have rest,
Or be perfectly blest,
Until all on the altar is laid.
Refrain:
Is your all on the altar of sacrifice laid?
Your heart does the Spirit control?
You can only be blest,
And have peace and sweet rest,
As you yield Him your body and soul.
Oh, we never can know
What the Lord will bestow
Of the blessings for which we have prayed,
Till our body and soul
He doth fully control,
And our all on the altar is laid.
I’m still learning, ever so slowly. God is patient. I need to master the discipline of self-denial, don’t you?
Since the Garden of Eden, men have always been compelled to be Number One! And, if we were honest, we would all admit that we graduated summa cum laude from the “School of Me First!” We secretly believe we ought to be the alumnus of the year – annually. Outgrowing the stubborn insistence that we know best is a world-class challenge. Denying ourselves in deference to Jesus is daunting.
This week I am responsible for bringing a message immediately before church members make their annual missionary faith promises. My text will be 2 Corinthians 8 which includes these soul-searching words, they gave themselves first to the Lord and then to us in keeping with God’s will. The text explains that before the offerings were sent from one church to another, the giving church gave themselves first to the Lord. Is it safe to say that if everyone gave themselves first to the Lord, Jesus would have access to all we are, every ability, every possession.
The language is now quaint and dated, but the message is as significant as ever. The song’s lyrics were an instrument of the Holy Spirit which formed me as I matured in understanding and began learning how to surrender to Jesus and deny myself.
You have longed for sweet peace,
And for faith to increase,
And have earnestly, fervently prayed;
But you cannot have rest,
Or be perfectly blest,
Until all on the altar is laid.
Refrain:
Is your all on the altar of sacrifice laid?
Your heart does the Spirit control?
You can only be blest,
And have peace and sweet rest,
As you yield Him your body and soul.
Oh, we never can know
What the Lord will bestow
Of the blessings for which we have prayed,
Till our body and soul
He doth fully control,
And our all on the altar is laid.
I’m still learning, ever so slowly. God is patient. I need to master the discipline of self-denial, don’t you?
Monday, April 4, 2011
Prayer, a language for all to learn
Our youngest granddaughter, Lila, will turn two years-old in July. She is already leaving behind the sounds of infancy, coos and gurgles, screams of pain and unexplained giggles. She is building a vocabulary of nouns and verbs – dog, rock, water and sister are being tentatively connected to run, jump, throw and go. Abstract language like love and hate; serious and silly; or, need and desire will follow. Presently, Lila is simply content with the unquestioned love of family and trustworthy adults. Later she will experience disappointment and fear which will require Lila employs new language. New words used to motivate, persuade, warn and enlist will be added in time.
The process of language building will continue almost uninterrupted until, while approaching teen years, Lila will lapse back into unintelligible sounds during telephone calls, odd text symbols and abbreviations, and strange body language only other teens can interpret. Have you noticed, the language of adolescents is primitive, almost baby-like as an emerging adult learns about self and trust, new boundaries for relationships and responsibilities? Teens cry at the drop of a hat, routinely have hurt feelings, and learn the language of feelings and friendship.
The language of prayer is similar. We begin with primitive, simple appeals for assurance and safety, cries for the basic, like food and housing. As we gain confidence and spend time with an intelligent God, we learn the language of prayer which results in trust, not manipulation. All who pray experience the comfort of sensing and learning flowing from God. Simple, how-to-articulate sounds flow from the depths of sorrow or joy; need or abundance; or failure and success without embarrassment because praying people know God understands and accepts them in heaven.
Let us spend time praying, growing in the language shared with God.
The process of language building will continue almost uninterrupted until, while approaching teen years, Lila will lapse back into unintelligible sounds during telephone calls, odd text symbols and abbreviations, and strange body language only other teens can interpret. Have you noticed, the language of adolescents is primitive, almost baby-like as an emerging adult learns about self and trust, new boundaries for relationships and responsibilities? Teens cry at the drop of a hat, routinely have hurt feelings, and learn the language of feelings and friendship.
The language of prayer is similar. We begin with primitive, simple appeals for assurance and safety, cries for the basic, like food and housing. As we gain confidence and spend time with an intelligent God, we learn the language of prayer which results in trust, not manipulation. All who pray experience the comfort of sensing and learning flowing from God. Simple, how-to-articulate sounds flow from the depths of sorrow or joy; need or abundance; or failure and success without embarrassment because praying people know God understands and accepts them in heaven.
Let us spend time praying, growing in the language shared with God.
Friday, April 1, 2011
Lead the world with laughter!
When we moved, we needed a computer to continue our work from our new home. The appropriate material had been downloaded from the church network to a portable hard drive with sufficient mega-bytes to save the national economy. We plugged the system together with miles of wires and multi-pronged adapters and were off and running!
But then, reality visited! When I tried logging on my trusty Bible program, it had evaporated into the digital communication netherworld. Inserting the program disks was futile. If error messages were oil, we would have singlehandedly dropped the price of gasoline to pre-Korean War levels. I became stressed! It wasn’t funny! I don’t even know where my paper concordance is!
And, then I began remembering –
• We recently had dinner with our son’s family. Miriam had recently been hospitalized and we had been alarmed at the first reports. Now, the prognosis is pretty good. Smiles have replaced furrowed brows.
• Our youngest grandchild, Lila, age 20 months, insisted that she speak with “Papa.” Her Mom called, Lila and I chatted, and I laughed!
• More than 40 years ago I laid awake wondering how I would make a payment on a second hand car, save enough for the kid’s education, and raise enough money for ministries entrusted to us. This morning I am grinning ear-to-ear because our nine year-old Swedish Ford is humming along with no payment due, our children have all graduated with at least one college degree, and several mortgage burnings are behind us.
It is good to remember, Isaac means “Laughter.” Out of Sarah’s sorrowful withered womb came laughter! Goliath’s growling blasphemies provoked hand-wringing dirges of doubt throughout Saul’s troops, but laughter and singing filled the day when one stone felled the giant.
The Israelis gathered to worship and sing, “Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy. Then it was said among the nations,’The LORD has done great things for them.’” (Psalm 126:2)
Consider joining me in laughter today! Stresses, we have a few. But we, the people acquainted with the One who delivers, gives birth, and was wounded for our transgressions, bruised for our iniquities ... and by whose stripes we are healed. We ought to lead the world in laughter!
Oh yes, sing happy songs in worship Sunday!
But then, reality visited! When I tried logging on my trusty Bible program, it had evaporated into the digital communication netherworld. Inserting the program disks was futile. If error messages were oil, we would have singlehandedly dropped the price of gasoline to pre-Korean War levels. I became stressed! It wasn’t funny! I don’t even know where my paper concordance is!
And, then I began remembering –
• We recently had dinner with our son’s family. Miriam had recently been hospitalized and we had been alarmed at the first reports. Now, the prognosis is pretty good. Smiles have replaced furrowed brows.
• Our youngest grandchild, Lila, age 20 months, insisted that she speak with “Papa.” Her Mom called, Lila and I chatted, and I laughed!
• More than 40 years ago I laid awake wondering how I would make a payment on a second hand car, save enough for the kid’s education, and raise enough money for ministries entrusted to us. This morning I am grinning ear-to-ear because our nine year-old Swedish Ford is humming along with no payment due, our children have all graduated with at least one college degree, and several mortgage burnings are behind us.
It is good to remember, Isaac means “Laughter.” Out of Sarah’s sorrowful withered womb came laughter! Goliath’s growling blasphemies provoked hand-wringing dirges of doubt throughout Saul’s troops, but laughter and singing filled the day when one stone felled the giant.
The Israelis gathered to worship and sing, “Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy. Then it was said among the nations,’The LORD has done great things for them.’” (Psalm 126:2)
Consider joining me in laughter today! Stresses, we have a few. But we, the people acquainted with the One who delivers, gives birth, and was wounded for our transgressions, bruised for our iniquities ... and by whose stripes we are healed. We ought to lead the world in laughter!
Oh yes, sing happy songs in worship Sunday!
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