Clothe Yourself With Good Things

Above all, clothe yourselves with love,
which binds everything together in perfect harmony.
Colossians 3:14

"As God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience." Col 3:12 NRSV

We are not to be doormats. We are to stand firmly on the truth, which is the Word of God. Jesus, and in the end his disciples, did not back down from the truth. They stood firmly on God's Word and on His promises.

But, neither are we to be bullies asserting our rights over the rights of others. Paul encourages the Colossians to treat one another with compassion and kindness. We are to try to have empathy for others; to, as the saying goes: "walk a mile in the shoes of others." We are to listen to all sides with humility; humbling ourselves so that we do not put our needs over the needs of others, and with empathy so that we can act with compassion and kindness to those who are suffering.

May God reconcile us to Himself and to one another, through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen

God's Peace - Pr. J

Walk In The Light

"Try to find out what is pleasing to the Lord. Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them."  Eph 5:10-11

You're in a bind, again?! We all get in binds sometimes. We can step right into traps without even considering where we're placing our feet. Sometimes we step into those dark places on purpose thinking that we're not going to get lost or trapped.

Here's a suggestion from St Paul. "Try to find out what is pleasing to the Lord." Quit working so hard at trying to please the world. You will just find yourself in darkness. Seek the Lord while he may be found. Seek out what will be pleasing to the Lord and you just might find yourself walking in the light and participating in His life; real life.

May God guide you in His light.

God's Peace - Pr. J

With Wings Like Eagles

Even youths will faint and be weary,
    and the young will fall exhausted;
but those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength,
    they shall mount up with wings like eagles,
they shall run and not be weary,
    they shall walk and not faint.

Isaiah 40:30-31 NRSV

We all get weary from time to time. Physical weariness can sometimes actually be quite satisfying when it comes from a long, hard day of work. However, I have not found emotional, mental, or spiritual weariness to ever be satisfying. It is a struggle for many to overcome this type of weariness that often brings depression. It is not overcome alone. We must wait on the Lord and trust Him to renew our strength. He will send His Spirit upon you so that you might once again soar like the eagle through the trials of the day.  

 

In Christ, we shall run and not be weary.

 

God's Peace - Pr. J

Your Sins Are Forgiven

"For which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Stand up and walk’?"
Matt 9:5

I spent about an hour last night practicing mental math. I often see, posted on facebook, comments about how someone did not have to use Algebra at all that day, insinuating that it is a wasted study on our young people. It apparently was for those people who have to ask me to do some mental math for them. After all, there's no need to learn something if someone else will do it for you. Actually, math problems run through my head sporadically throughout the day, especially when I am sitting around waiting for something. It can be something as simple as counting the tiles on a ceiling or floor and figuring the area of a room. I don't do too many complicated equations; just what I can do in my head. I just like numbers! I enjoy the challenge of solving problems in my head instead of on paper or on a calculator. I taught myself mental math when I was very young and to tell you the truth I sometimes wonder why others have not shown an interest in learning it when it can be so much easier to do than the traditional ways we've been taught. But, there are those who always like to do things the hard way.

The scribes were a bit upset when Jesus forgave a paralytic man his sins. They judged that he was blaspheming. His response was "which is easier, to say, 'Your sins are forgiven; or 'Stand up and walk?'" Indeed, which is easier? Four simple words and they are not as difficult to say as one would expect and when said they heal a multitude of wounds. "Your sins are forgiven!" Practice saying them. It is easier to forgive than to be angry or to hold a grudge the rest of your life. Forgive those whom you are angry with; whether, you feel justified in your anger or not. Forgive others. Forgive yourself. Jesus died so that this might happen. He worked out the problem of sin. He did all of the work. Don't be trying to work things out according to your sense of justice. That is the hard way and the wrong way. Step out in faith and receive your forgiveness. Step out in faith and forgive others their trespasses against you. Step out in faith and receive wholeness! It is easier than staying angry your whole life. With Christ, it is easier than one might expect.

God's Peace - Pr. J

Rev 21:9-27 City of God

Rev 21:9-27 NIV
The vision of the Holy City, the City of God, is awesome. However, the beauty of the city is not the most amazing thing about this vision.  The city is built as a perfect square, just as the first earthly temple was built. God's Name dwelt in that earthly temple. But, in this heavenly temple God not only dwells there; the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple. We will abide in that temple of God, who is God, Himself.

It makes me just a little "crazy" when I hear people speak of the riches that Christians will inherit in the city of God. I remember a Sunday School teacher telling her students that for every good deed they do they would receive a jewel in their crown when they get to heaven. Really!? That's why we want to receive eternal life? To receive jewels and a crown?

The Holy City of God is much more than the gold and precious jewels seen in John's vision. In this Holy City we will be totally reconciled, abiding with and in Him for all eternity. What can be more precious than that? What can be more precious than dwelling with and in Him; walking in His most intimate presence for all time?

May God help us to understand that He is to be treasured more than any silver or gold.

God's Peace - Pr. J

Ephesians 4:17-31 Walk In the Woods

Ephesians 4:17-32

Arvon Township near Big Eric's Bridge
over Huron River

I have been missing my walks in the woods. It is just too cold for me to be trudging through the snow. I am anxiously waiting for spring so that I can take some nice long walks again. My husband walks on the road. I prefer long walks in the woods where the ground is a bit softer and easier on my bones. We both have a destination. Once one chooses their destination one normally keeps going until they reach it unless something intercedes and shows us a better path. Sadly, some don't like to acknowledge, though, that there may be a better path.

If our destination, our goal, is the Kingdom of God then we must follow that path. However, if we choose to focus on the darkness then we will live in the darkness. This is not a temporary condition. It is permanent unless someone or something intercedes before we reach the end of our journey and shows us the path to the light, who is Jesus the Christ.

Paul is attempting, in today's reading, to intercede by reminding us that if our path is directed by the darkness of understanding and we are following in the ways of the world rather than as Christ would have us live, we ought to change the way in which we live. We ought to turn around and get on the path that leads to eternal life. As Christians we have been taught to put off our old self, with all of its deceitful desires and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness.

Life is in many ways like a journey through the wilderness, a walk in the woods. Please, do not be deceived. Keep your heart and mind focused on your destination; the destination that can only be reached through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Stay on the path that he has prepared for you.

God's Peace - Pr. J

2 Corinthians 2:12-17 Walk Through The Door

2 Corinthians 2:12-17 NIV
When God opens a door for us, it is a wise thing to walk through and preach the gospel of Christ. He wouldn't open the door for us if it wasn't His will for us or for others.

Paul says that God "uses us to spread the aroma of the knowledge of him everywhere. For we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing. To the one we are an aroma that brings death; to the other, an aroma that brings life."

Proclaiming the Word of God will assuredly make us a few enemies. Not everyone wants to hear the truth. But, the Word will bring life to the many who would hear. Do not be afraid. When God opens a door, walk through it sharing the aroma of knowledge of Christ our Lord.

God's Peace - Pr. J

Acts 20:13-38 The Way Is Not A Walk In The Park

Acts 20:13-38 NIV
Is it not the hope of any parent, whether physical or spiritual, that those whom we have taught will follow in The Way? To bring them up in The Way so that they too might revel in the love of Jesus to the degree that their heart's desire is to share the Good News of the Kingdom with others. The primary work of a disciples or a follower of Jesus is to make more disciples; more followers, of Jesus.

Paul has taught the people of Ephesus. He has discipled them. But, now on his way to Jerusalem to face much persecution he calls the elders of the church in Ephesus to himself. It is pretty much his permanent earthly farewell to them quite like Jesus warned his disciples of his impending death. But, Paul is not concerned for himself. His only goal is to finish the task the Lord Jesus gave to him. He has gathered the elders to encourage them to continue in The Way; shepherding the people; making disciples, when he is gone. He knows that he will in all probability be put to death; yet, his life is nothing to him compared to preaching the Kingdom through Jesus. Nothing has nor will stand in Paul's way of testifying to the good news of God's grace.

Paul faced many hardships. Those who are faithful to testifying to the Kingdom of God in Christ Jesus will face hardships. The Way is really not a walk in the park. It can be most difficult. Not everyone wants to hear the truth. There will be those even among the flock who will make it most difficult for this testimony to be heard. There will be wolves in sheep's clothing to confront. There will be persecutions. But, God is with you. The Spirit of God will guide you in the way even as the Spirit led Paul.

God's Peace - Pr. J

Please remember to read the scripture of the day. Just click on the scripture link at the top of the blog.

John 6:22-24 Finidng Jesus

John 6:22-24 NIV
What are you looking for? How hard would you look to find it?

The crowd was looking for Jesus. They knew he hadn't left in the boat with the disciples. They had not see him walk on the water to join the disciples in their boat. They wanted to find him. They wanted to see him. They wanted to hear him. They wanted to be healed by him. So, the whole crowd got into boats and went to Capernaum in search of Jesus. They were trying hard to follow him.

How far would you go to find Jesus? You really don't have to go far. It's not that hard to find him. He is with you now and always. You just have to open your eyes and ears and heart and let him in.

God's Peace - Pr. J

John 6:16-21 It Is I; Don't Be Afraid

John 6:16-21 NIV
Who would not be a bit afraid if you were out in the storm and someone came walking up to your boat on the water? The disciples were just that; frightened. But, Jesus speaks to them, "It is I; don't be afraid." The recognize his voice and they let him in the boat.

A friend posted on Facebook this morning a picture of Jesus with the caption "Open Your Heart and Let Him In." She posted, "I would definitely let Jesus in." She would and I am sure she already has. But, some people may have a problem letting Jesus into their small boat or through their front door is that they have no clue who this Jesus of ours is. They may have heard of him, but they wouldn't recognize his voice if he spoke to them because they don't know him. There is a difference between knowing who Jesus is and knowing Jesus. Knowing Jesus is about having a relationship with him. His sheep will hear his voice and answer. His friends will hear his voice and answer.

Lois is absolutely correct. Answer the door and let him in so that you might have a relationship with the living God; the Almighty God, our LORD and Savior. Do not be afraid. Let him into your boat or open the door and let him in.

God's Peace - Pr. J

John 4:43-54 Signs and Wonders/Healing and Wholenss

John 4:43-54 NIV
"Unless you people see signs and wonders," Jesus told him, "you will never believe." (vs 48)

How many signs and wonders have we seen and yet our faith is less than a mustard seed. It kind of amazes me that our services for healing at Zion are the least attended of all. Does no on want to be healed? Does no one believe that God will answer our prayers for health and wholeness?

Actually, I believe that maybe many of us are afraid to see the signs and wonders of God. That might mean our lives will change forever and we kind of like living in our sickness. We sort of like sin. We don't want to be made whole because if we're made whole we might stand up, walk, and follow Jesus.

In reality, we have all seen signs and wonders. We just fail to acknowledge them. We have seen the lame walk; the cancer victim live years after doctors predicted they would live. As we got to know Jesus more intimately, we have already seen radical changes in our lives and our lifestyles. But, does God the Father, through Jesus Christ, by the power of the Holy Spirit get any credit or glory for this new life; for the healing of our spirits? In some case, yes. In other cases, I am afraid that our egos step in and claim credit for our own goodness.

Miracles abound. They are all around us. Healing and wholeness occur. May the Holy Spirit open our ears and our eyes and our hearts to a greater understanding of all that God has done for us. He has granted us wholeness in Jesus Christ our Lord.

God's Peace - Pr. J

Luke 19:28-46 Peace Not Drama

Luke 10:28-46 NIV
There are days when I accomplish much less than I would like to. There are some things that just wear me out faster than others. One being "drama." No matter how large or small, everything seems so dramatically enhanced in the lives of many people around me. Little problems, little lies, and sneak attacks turn into big problems, big lies, big drama.

The Pharisees seemed to love drama, as well. They were always stirring up trouble, even if they tried to do it discretely without discrediting themselves. Their drama and ours just disrupts the peace that Jesus brings. So much drama! So much chaos! In spite of the fact that we cry out for help; we keep stepping right back into the drama. Same old... Same old... No, need for change...

Well, actually there is. That is, if you are really tired of the drama then the "same old" isn't going to get it. There is a way that leads to peace. In fact, the God of peace has come to you. Recognize His coming; His presence with you. Live in the peace of God. Cling to His Word. Walk through the door into the Kingdom that has been opened for you.

God's Peace - Pr. J

Matthew 14 - Lord, Save Me!

"Peter answered him, 'Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.' He said, 'Come.' So Peter got out of the boat, started walking on the water, and came toward Jesus. But when he noticed the strong wind, he became frightened, and beginning to sink, he cried out, 'Lord, save me!' Jesus immediately reached out his hand and caught him, saying to him, 'You of little faith, why did you doubt?'" (Matt 14:28-31 NRSV)

Jesus heals the sick; feeds five thousand men plus women and children; and walks on water. I'm thinking that if one didn't believe that he is the Son of God after witnessing all that, there may have been a problem with their vision as well as their faith. 

Peter has witnessed all this and so wants to walk on the water, too. He begins, fully trusting in the LORD. But, then his faith waivers and he begins to sink. How many times do we begin a venture, trusting that God is with us? But, then we become frightened. Maybe the project is too big, the obstacles too many, and rather than to keep our trust in the LORD we begin to trust our own weakness; falling fast and hard. This is what usually happens when we trust our own abilities or inabilities over the power and ability of almighty God. We fall. We begin to sink. We so not have the power to save ourselves and so we cry out to the LORD "Lord, save me!" He will save. Have faith.

Have faith, that the LORD is with you, at all times and in all places so that you might stand. "Keep alert, stand firm in your faith, be courageous, be strong." (1 Corinth 16:13)

God's Peace - Pr. J

Habakkuk 3 - Hinds Feet on High Places

"The Sovereign Lord is my strength;
    he makes my feet like the feet of a deer,
    he enables me to tread on the heights." (Hab 3:19 NIV)

"The Lord God is my strength, and he will make my feet like hinds' feet, and he will make me to walk upon mine high places." (Hab 3:19 KJV)

I remember a book I read years ago. "Hinds Feet On High Places," an allegory, written by Hannah Hurnard, gets its' name from Habakkuk 3:19 (KJV). The journey of Much-Afraid and her friends Sorrow and Suffering, as they follow Shepherd to the high places, where they will walk as on hinds' feet, takes them through many dangers.  It is a long journey. They must have patience. They must have persistence. But, in the end, they (we) will dance in the presence of God. 

I can't remember too many of the details of the book, as it has been quite a few years since I read it. But, I can look around me daily and watch (and even join) others as they journey through many difficult times in anticipation and the hope of the promised land.

Just as Habakkuk prayed and waited patiently for the LORD to deliver God's people from the enemy, from the many dangers that surround them; I, too pray and wait patiently (sometimes not as patient as others) for the LORD to deliver His people, who I also love, from the turmoil and dangers they encounter as they journey through the dark shadows of the valley of death.

God's Peace - Pr. J

Isaiah 37 - The Kingdom Thrives

Hezekiah finally figures out that he needs to turn to the LORD. He humbles himself and prays for help. The LORD answers. He will deliver Israel from the hands of Sennacherib and within three years their land will once again be fruitful. 

The LORD blesses the people. He blesses the land. The promise of the LORD through the prophet Isaiah is this:

"“This will be the sign for you, Hezekiah:

“This year you will eat what grows by itself,
and the second year what springs from that.
But in the third year sow and reap,
plant vineyards and eat their fruit.
Once more a remnant of the kingdom of Judah
will take root below and bear fruit above.
For out of Jerusalem will come a remnant,
and out of Mount Zion a band of survivors.
The zeal of the Lord Almighty
will accomplish this."  (Isa 37:30-32 NIV)

 

Have you ever had to learn the same lessons twice or thrice or even more times? Over and over again, God's people turn to other gods; things start going really bad and a portion will have enough sense to humble themselves and repent. They are blessed. And, then... they start worshipping themselves or the work of their hands, again. Since, they are doing so well they leave off from trusting in God for all things, above all things. And, once again they are brought to their knees in humility and repentance.

 

It is awful that we should desert our God who loves us so quickly. But, He does not desert us. Over and over again, He provides a way back on the Way for each and all of us. 

 

I think of it this way: Adam walked with God in the garden. How awesome is that! But, Adam chose another way. He chose to do what God asked him not to do. He lost the opportunity and privilege of walking with God. We often do what we ought not. But, through Jesus Christ, we are delivered from sin. All of humankind is invited to walk with with God, to talk with (not just to, but with) God. That is the greatest blessing of all. In fact, it is the good news. You are invited to live in His presence, to walk in His way, in His Kingdom for all eternity (beginning even now). We have been reconciled to God and with one another, in His Kingdom, through Jesus Christ, our LORD. 

 

God's Peace - Pr. J.