Post-Modern Idolatry

Then the Philistines took the ark of God and brought it from Ebenezer to Ashdod. When the Philistines took the ark of God, they brought it into the temple of Dagon and set it by Dagon. And when the people of Ashdod arose early in the morning, there was Dagon, fallen on its face to the earth before the ark of the Lord. So they took Dagon and set it in its place again. And when they arose early the next morning, there was Dagon, fallen on its face to the ground before the ark of the Lord. The head of Dagon and both the palms of its hands werebroken off on the threshold; only Dagon's torso was left of it. Therefore neither the priests of Dagon nor any who come into Dagon's house tread on the threshold of Dagon in Ashdod to this day. 1 Sam 5:1-5 (NKJV)

We know from the first two of the Ten Commandments that idolatry is a sin. We know that Our God, The Only God will not tolerate the worship of other gods. The people of Ashdod happened to be worshipers of a god that they had named "Dagon." Dagon, looked like a monster from a bad Science-Fiction "B" Movie. Leave it to the sea-going Philistines to come up with a god-monster that was half man and half fish. Anyway, like most superstitious people the Philistines build their god from materials, such as wood and stone, and an overactive imagination.

Dagon flunked his first real test when The Ark ("Yes," the actual Ark that was depicted in the "Raiders of the Lost Ark") was placed before Dagon. During the night something strange happened--Dagon fell on its face--bowing before the Ark. The people of Ashdod put "their god" back into place only to find that the next verse was the same as the first. Only this time they found Dagon bowing before the Ark without a head and hands. No-one rescued Dagon this time--they would not even enter the building where this was all taking place. I guess we all know "who" the real God was!

In a post-modern world, most of us are not as superstitious as the people of Ashdod. We do not believe in idols and gods carved from wood and stone. Does that mean that idolatry is no longer a problem? Maybe we do not struggle with the worship of physical idols; however, anything that comes between us and God, is problematic. The actual idols simply serve as a focal point to what superstitious people believe in their minds. Is it possible that we can embrace new ideas that become the focal point of post-modern idolatry? The answer is "YES!" The Apostle Paul gave us this sound advice: "Casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ." 2 Cor 10:5 (NKJV)

Prayer: "Dear heavenly Father, I want to be Biblically Correct, not Politically Correct. I want to believe what Your Word says and not be swayed by the popular thinking of the culture. I want my values to reflect Your values. Please renew my mind and help me to take Paul's advice seriously--that I cast down every vain argument that claims to be more enlightened than Your Word. May I be a faithful servant and soldier of the Cross! Amen"

Who Are You?

Then some of the itinerant Jewish exorcists took it upon themselves to call the name of the Lord Jesus over those who had evil spirits, saying, "We exorcise you by the Jesus whom Paul preaches." Also there were seven sons of Sceva, a Jewish chief priest, who did so. And the evil spirit answered and said, "Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are you?" Then the man in whom the evil spirit was leaped on them, overpowered them, and prevailed against them, so that they fled out of that house naked and wounded. Acts 19:11-16 (NKJV)

The Bible tells us that demons tremble at the name of Jesus. I wonder if they have any reaction to our names? We know from the story of the seven sons of Sceva that the demon powers were also readily aware of the Apostle Paul. Furthermore, we know, from other stories in the book of Acts, that Paul had the power to cast out demons, so the demons were a bit leery of the great Apostle to the Gentiles.

Some other people wanted to get in on the current wave of exorcisms and so they commanded the evil spirits by saying, "We exorcise you by the Jesus whom Paul preaches."  It seems like a comical thing to say and a crazy thing to do--but, they had observed Paul in action and it seemed like a winning formula of words. The seven sons of Sceva decided to give in a whirl... It all seemed to be going so well until the evil spirit spoke back to them. "Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are you?" Then the evil spirit--in the body of the man possessed, jumped on them and proceeded to exact a painful revenge.

"Who are you?" In Christ Jesus we are more than a conquerors. Without Christ we are weak and lost. We can do all things through Christ who gives us strength. Without being in the vine we can do nothing. In Christ, we can take on the impossible, because with God all things are possible. Without Christ, even the possible becomes difficult. "Who are you?" When it comes to matters of Spiritual Warfare--I come against the powers of darkness in the name of Jesus whom I believe in and preach of. "Who am I?"  A son of God--a follower of Jesus Christ--a soldier of the cross--an enemy of darkness...

Prayer: "Dear heavenly Father, there seems to be quite a battle going on in our world. The influence of darkness is pervasive in the culture today. It has sadly invaded and influenced those that attend church. The church seems to have lost ground and momentum and has not awakened to the fact that it has taken place. Lord, awaken Your people. Shake the church. Return us to our first love. Start with me! Amen"

How Far Would You Go?

I tell the truth in Christ, I am not lying, my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Spirit, that I have great sorrow and continual grief in my heart. For I could wish that I myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren, my countrymen according to the flesh, who are Israelites, to whom pertain the adoption, the glory, the covenants, the giving of the law, the service of God,and the promises; of whom are the fathers and from whom, according to the flesh, Christ came, who is over all, the eternally blessed God. Romans 9:1-5 (NKJV)

First responders, such as paramedics, firemen and the police; often put their lives at risk for an opportunity to save others in need. Who can forget the heroic efforts of these brave individuals on 9/11! This was not the first time that first responders died to save others, and the same kind of bravery has been repeated many times since. Some might argue that the risk of bodily harm is simply a part of the first responder's job description. Still, it takes real conviction and courage to rush into a burning building in order to save someone.

The Apostle Paul was filled with passion for the his lost brethren and was willing to put everything on the line in order to save them. "For I could wish that I myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren." Talk about setting the bar high--to wish myself damned in order that some might be saved? That is the exact price that Jesus paid in order to take my place. The Prophet Isaiah foresaw the atoning work of Christ and the extent that Jesus was willing to go in order to save us: Surely He has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows; Yet we esteemed Him stricken, Smitten by God, and afflicted. But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; The chastisement for our peace was upon Him, And by His stripes we are healed. Isaiah 53:4-5 (NKJV)

I have some friends who just made the decision to leave the comfort of their "very secure" and long tenured jobs in order to engage in missionary work in Indonesia. They are stepping out of their comfort zone--they are putting their future retirement at some risk--they are walking into the unknown...all for the purpose of reaching people for Christ. I admire them; however, I also realize that I do not need to move to the other side of the world to become involved evangelism. I can reach people right here. Here is the question that I must answer: "How far am I willing to go to reach the people around me?"

Prayer: "Dear heavenly Father, I am confident that I have not fully grasped the love that compelled You to rescue me. I would like to be bolder in my effort to reach people with the Gospel, but feel too often I find my own timidity getting in the way. Fill me with boldness. Fill me with new passion for the lost. Fill me with the conviction that I must do whatever it takes to reach those that don't know you. My I take greater personal risks in order to save some! Amen"

Life and Peace

For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit. For to be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. Romans 8:5-6 (NKJV)

It seems as if all the young actresses and pop stars who achieved fame as children and teenagers start walking down a path of self-destruction before they attain the necessary maturity to handle life. Drugs, alcohol, parties, deviant behavior, legal problems, fights, breakups, infidelity... The family members of these famous "artist geniuses," are set aside for an entourage of enablers. Fortunes are squandered, talent is wasted, opportunities slip away, relationships are destroyed, reputations are earned, and potential is never realized. The Apostle Paul simply states:"To be carnally minded is death." That is essentially the same message that is impressed on the young star that ends up in rehab, where they are told: "Your behavior is killing you."

Contrast the life of the carnal person who is living life in the fast lane with the life that God has in mind for His people. "To be spiritually minded is life and peace." Martin Smith, lead singer of the group "Delirious" wrote the following lyrics that describe the Christian walk: (From the song - "Walk With Me")

In Your presence Lord there is peace, there is rest
In Your presence Lord there is life that never ends
In Your presence Lord there is joy there is joy
In Your presence Lord there is life that never ends

The difference between the carnal life and the spiritually minded life is essentially amplified by two very real factors. The carnal life is negatively impacted by its own destructive behavior which sows nothing but heartache, pain, trouble and failure; whereas, the spiritually mined life is blessed by God. I have personally tasted of God's goodness and enjoyed His favor and blessing--I cannot imagine trying to go through life alone with only my own resources to deal with the challenges. I love the idea and the reality of life and peace.

Prayer: "Dear heavenly Father, so glad to know that You are with me. SO GLAD TO KNOW THAT YOU ARE WITH ME!!! Even in this moment, I am aware of Your Spirit ministering life and peace. I can breath knowing that it is well with my soul. Every day that I live on this earth, I count myself as blessed--for You are good, and there is no end to Your mercy, and there is no end to Your grace, and there is nothing that can separate me from Your love! Amen"

Three Truths

"God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble." Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded. Lament and mourn and weep! Let your laughter be turned to mourning and your joy to gloom. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up. James 4:6-10 (NKJV)

What do you want to be when you grow up? This is a question made famous by Art Linkletter and often asked to children. If you were to ask my brother that question when he was in first grade he would have sincerely answered, "A Squirrel." Here is the point--children grow up into something, and that something will be determined by the decisions that they make. The choices that are made will have a profound effect on the quality of life in the here and now, as well as eternal implications.

In a short few verses, James rattles off three mind-blowing truths that have a huge impact on life. Three truths that set the direction of destiny in one's life. Here they are:

• God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.
• Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.
• Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord and He will lift you up. 

If we take these truths seriously--and we should--we need to carefully examine our hearts and make an honest evaluation of ourselves. Here is what I take home from these challenging truths:

1. I cannot afford to be proud. If God is set against me, because of my pride, life will be more difficult by a large measure. 
2. I can always reach God. Our God is not the god of Bette Midler's, "At a Distance." Jesus was God in the flesh--the Holy Spirit is God in you. If you are spiritually hungry, you can and will be filled!
3. If I humble myself--submitting my life to God--He will, in His perfect timing and according to His perfect will, put me into the places of influence where He wants me to make a difference. 

Although I wish that I had taken these truths more seriously as a young man, it is never too late with God. The question remains--from this day forward will walk in the light of these truths allowing God to bless my life, or will I continue to live life "my way?" Let us hope that I have learned my lesson by now!

Prayer: "Dear heavenly Father, strange are the creatures of Your creation. We know--absolutely know the way we should live, only to fall short. We are logical beings and yet we often act in illogical ways. We need to be rescued from ourselves! Thank You for sending Jesus to save me. Thank You for sending the Holy Spirit to live in me. You have given me the power to overcome the sickness of sin and no chain of behavior is too great for You to break. You have my gratitude! Blessed be the name of the Lord!! Amen"

7 x 70

Then Peter came to Him and said, "Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Up to seven times?" Jesus said to him, "I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven. Matt 18:21-22 (NKJV)

Most of you have heard the saying: "Fool me once, shame on you; fool me twice, shame on me." You already know what this means: If you trust someone and they end up falling short of your expectations or purposely act adversarial towards you--shame on them for taking advantage of your trust; however, if you extent trust to them a second time and they once again fail to live up to your expectations--shame on you for trusting them. There is a good bit of common sense that can be derived from this saying, but it does not take the high standard of Christian grace and forgiveness into consideration. 

How do we mesh this common sense with the unbelievably high number that Jesus gave us when it comes to forgiveness? If I am to be honest about it all--Peter's number of seven seems to be very generous to my antagonist. (Let someone stab me in the back seven times? Yikes!!!) So, how do we go about forgiving people who sin against us over and over again? What do we do with those who decide to enter into an adversarial relationship with us, overriding our considerable effort to make it otherwise? This is one of the greatest challenges of the Christian walk.

The answer to this challenge is not simple nor particularly easy to put into practice. Here are three practical ideas:

• Humble yourself. There is no possible way to accurately evaluate others if we do not see ourselves as we really are. When we understand the depth of our own duplicity and the grace necessary for God to forgive us, it brings about a greater level of humility in our lives. We have been forgiven much!!!
• Lower your expectations. Sometimes we set ourselves up to be disappointed by other people, because we have unrealistic expectations. Recognize the fact that everyone is flawed and falls short of the glory of God. 

• Be prepared to forgive. In the words of Carrie Fisher: "Resentment is like drinking poison and waiting for the other person to die." It will not be helpful to your spiritual walk to hold the sins of others against them. Better to release them from your judgment--put them into the hands of God and move on. 

Prayer: "Dear heavenly Father, You said in Your Word that I cannot hate the brother that I can see and love the God that I cannot see; and yet, I find it much easier to love You. Fill me with a greater capacity to forgive and to love. Fill my life with the same kind of grace that You extend towards me. I also pray that You would give me favor in the eyes of others that I might live in peace with others. Thank You for hearing me! Amen"

Spiritual Pro-activity

But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness, to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love. For if these things are yours and abound, you will be neither barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 2 Peter 1:5-8 (NKJV)

Of course, I could tell you all the kinds of activities that you should try to avoid as a Believer. I could write books and preach a series of sermons that would last for years warning you of the sins, addictions, and forgive me, foolish behavior that you would be better off avoiding altogether. Think with me for a moment--most of the news that you read from news outlets is negative. Too often--"we" who are teachers and preachers, fall into the same trap and preach a very negative message. "Wait! I thought that the Gospel was suppose to be 'Good News!'" 

If we, the Church, are to teach a broad spectrum of God's truths, it is impossible to avoid everything that might be considered negative. On the other hand, most of us already know that we are damaged goods. I can hear the voice of Linda Ronstadt now, "You're no good, you're no good, you're no good, baby you're no good." Message received loud and clear!! Cutting through all the negativity I hear another voice saying, "Neither do I condemn thee, go and sin no more." I like this voice--I need to listen to this voice--I need to cling to the message this voice brings.

The Apostle Peter gave us a recipe of spiritual pro-activity that will lead us to live a life of fruitfulness. Here are some "wonderful" activities that you can passionately participate in without fear or condemnation. Live virtuously. Obtain and pursue knowledge. Be disciplined. Stay under control. Show grace when under fire. Draw neigh unto God. Practice kindness. Love people. Trust me--if you give yourself to a pro-active lifestyle filled with these noble pursuits--you will probably be too busy to do any of the "thou shalt nots" that preachers like to preach about!

Prayer: "Dear heavenly Father, may I pursue Your will and Your Kingdom to the point that I leave no room for foolishness or nonsense. You are my treasure and greatest passion of my life. It is in those times, when I take my eyes off of You that I tend to get myself in trouble. So, Lord, I ask You to empty my life of the vain pursuits and fill my life with the things that are pleasing to You. Please know that I love You, and I need Your power and strength in order to be transformed. Do Your good work in me! Amen"

The Real Enemy

Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Eph 6:10-12 (NKJV)

I know from my own personal experience that it is easy for me forget who my real enemy is. This is a problem--a real problem! If my enemy is not of flesh and blood--why do I speak against or strive against other people? In terms of spiritual warfare, developing or nurturing adversarial relationships with other people is a complete waste of my time! My time would be better spent on putting on the whole armor of God and hammering the real enemy.

The Apostle Peter tells us that we have a real enemy: "Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour." 1 Peter 5:8 (NKJV) So, we have this powerful, but unseen enemy that is driven and motivated to destroy people. We see his handiwork in our culture--that he has caused our society to embrace and propagate half-truths and lies--that he has enslaved people with vices that are addicting--that he entices us with the empty promises of fame, fortune and power, as if the meaning of life can be found in the vanities of life.

The "key" in fighting against the powers of darkness comes down to one factor: "Be strong in the Lord." I am called to resist this powerful enemy who wants to devour me. If I take him on in my own natural human power, I frankly do not have much of a chance. However, if I decide to stand and fight with the spiritual weapons and supernatural strength that are found in the Lord--I can and will soundly defeat the enemy of my soul. "Greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world!"

Prayer: "Dear heavenly Father, my strength is found in You. Mighty Creator, I pray that You would infuse my life with Your power, so that I might be a force that You are able to use to expand Your Kingdom and to destroy the works of darkness. I also pray that you would make me aware of those times when I start wrestling against flesh and blood. May I live at peace with my fellow sojourners on this earth while fighting the good fight against the real enemy. Blessed be the name of the Lord! Amen"

Will of God

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise prophecies. Test all things; hold fast what is good. Abstain from every form of evil. 1 Thess 5:16-22 (NKJV)

Many Believers spend much of their time and effort seeking to "find" the will of God, not realizing that the will of God is more of something that you "live" as opposed to "find." The Apostle Paul gives us a short list of imperatives that describe the way we are called to "live out" God's will. It is God's will that we be people who rejoice, pray, are open to the moving and direction of God's Spirit without being gullible, that we practice and promote things that are good, and finally, that we abstain from all evil activities. "This is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you!"

I am aware that this list almost seems too obvious, and maybe even mundane. It seems to lack the mystery of the deep things of God that many Believers are seeking to find. This is where many Believers disconnect from the necessary spiritual progression as ordained by God. When we build upon God's recommended spiritual foundation--make no mistake--this foundation is crucial to healthy spiritual formation, and will lead us into an ocean of spiritual possibilities. In other words--the spiritual foundation must be laid before the rest of the structure is constructed.

Ask yourself this question: "How vital are the basic elements of the Apostle Paul's list?"

That I have an attitude of gratitude and rejoice in the many blessings that God has made possible?

• That I pray about everything and stay in a state of constant contact with God?
• That I remain on the cutting edge of what God is doing without falling into the trap of false doctrine or chasing after pseudo-spiritual experiences?
• That I stand firm and serve as an advocate for the things that are moral, Biblical, true and right? 
• That I personally flee from temptation and strive to live a life free from sin? 

This list might seem mundane, but this is a foundation upon which you are actively walking in the will of God. It really doesn't get any better than that!

Prayer: "Dear heavenly Father, those who seek You will find You. You have made the path that leads to eternal life--a straight path--a path that is not obscure or difficult to discern. Thank You for the clarity of Your Word which leads us into a life of blessing--moving from glory to glory--growing in our relationship with You and gaining the favor of others as we follow Your instructions for life. 'Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.' Amen"

What I Do Have

Now Peter and John went up together to the temple at the hour of prayer, the ninth hour. And a certain man lame from his mother's womb was carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask alms from those who entered the temple; who, seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple, asked for alms. And fixing his eyes on him, with John, Peter said, "Look at us." So he gave them his attention, expecting to receive something from them. Then Peter said, "Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk." Acts 3:1-6 (NKJV)

As Jesus instructed, the disciples and the rest of the followers of Christ waited in Jerusalem for the Holy Spirit. Just as promised, the Holy Spirit arrived and filled them with power. With this new baptism of power Peter was a different man. The evidence was striking as he boldly preached in the streets of Jerusalem on the Day of Pentecost, but even greater miracles were awaiting Peter. Peter and John were walking to the temple when they were accosted by a crippled man who was begging. The lame man asked for alms, not realizing that he was about to receive a miracle.

A miracle? Wasn't Jesus gone? Who would perform miracles now? This was the first opportunity to test the prophetic words of Jesus, who declared: "You will do the same works that I do and you will do greater works!" Peter, being aware of the awesome power that now lived in him, spoke boldly to the crippled man: "Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you--in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk!" In that moment, I imagine, John looking at Peter, thinking, "What have you just done, Peter?" The man, who had been lame from birth decided that he has nothing to lose, and he stood to his feet.

He could stand! He took a step...he could walk! He jumped...his legs held him up! He began to run, and dance, and jump; and everyone heard him scream in delight: "I can walk...I can walk!" Please bear with me as I speak the truth; if you are a Believer in Christ, the same power is living in you. Ask yourself this question: "What are the greater works that Jesus has in mind for me to accomplish?"  Next time the Holy Spirit is prompting you to step out in faith and do something that seems crazy...why don't you give it a try.  It might be intimidating, but you will never walk on water unless you get out of the boat!

Prayer: "Dear heavenly Father, do we dare believe that You have a ministry prepared for us that is filled with miraculous signs and wonders? Was Jesus serious when He said that we would do greater things than what He did? Lord, increase my faith and help me to lay aside my doubts and fears. I yield myself as a vessel to be used for Your purposes. I pray that Your work would not be limited by my limitations--for with You all things are possible. In my life, Lord, be glorified! Amen"

Trust

Now I know that the Lord saves His anointed; He will answer him from His holy heaven With the saving strength of His right hand. Some trust in chariots, and some in horses; But we will remember the name of the Lord our God. Psalms 20:6-7 (NKJV)

I do not believe in luck--"No, really, I don't believe in luck; however, if it wasn't for good luck I would have no luck at all."  That really is my Pollyanna view point of life--which finds its traction in the hope that I find in Christ. When I drive to a public place I expect that there will be an open parking space for my car as close to the doors as non-handicapped parking can be. Jody and I now drive up "knowing" that "my" spot will be open. If it happens to be filled, I figure that it is a good day for walking.

I have lived long enough to know that I am not always going to win. I figured that out in 6th grade when I was the starting outside linebacker on a football team that went 0-8. In life there will be situations that challenge our faith, because we do not always feel like we are winning in life. It might be the result of some bad self-inflicted decisions, or it might be one of those times of, "when it rains it pours." Our response to such circumstance reveals an accurate reading of our faith.

In the words of King David, let me emphatically declare: "I KNOW that the Lord saves His anointed!" In the words of the Apostle Paul: "I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him until that Day." In a fit of rage, King Saul hurled a spear at David--he was aiming for the kill. David wrote a song in response: "As for God, His way is perfect; The word of the Lord is proven; He is a shield to all who trust in Him." You can expect that life will be unfair--Your critics will be cruel--Your future may look bleak--and the enemy of your soul may be firing fiery darts in your direction; but, face it all with courage, put your trust in God--knowing that He will work it out for your good. Blessed be the name of the Lord!

Prayer: "Dear heavenly Father, You are the one constant unchanging factor in my life. Everything is changing around me. Circumstances conspire against me. Relationships shift like the sand. Success is fleeting and time is slipping away. In all of my experiences--in all of my dealings--in all of my trials and errors--You are the only solid place I have found. Your love does not fail and Your voice of encouragement never ceases. Thank you for being an anchor for my soul. I trust in You! Amen"

Beans & Birthrights

Now Jacob cooked a stew; and Esau came in from the field, and he was weary. And Esau said to Jacob, "Please feed me with that same red stew, for I am weary." Therefore his name was called Edom. But Jacob said, "Sell me your birthright as of this day." And Esau said, "Look, I am about to die; so what is this birthright to me?" Then Jacob said, "Swear to me as of this day." So he swore to him, and sold his birthright to Jacob. And Jacob gave Esau bread and stew of lentils; then he ate and drank, arose, and went his way. Thus Esau despised his birthright. Gen 25:29-34 (NKJV)

Are you hungry? When I am preaching on a Sunday morning I generally steer away from talking about food, because it is too great of a distraction. When people are hungry, they start thinking about the next meal until they are motivated to the point of taking action. What happened to Esau was perfectly normal. He was hungry--he secured a meal to fill the need. I do not know what it is about camping that makes one so hungry, but I know that when the food was ready to go, I was on time and ready to feast. Fresh Trout, home fries, baked beans, huckleberries...good times!

Jacob preyed on the fact that Esau's priorities were askew. To be so hungry--to want something so badly--to be so driven by one's desires that all rational thought is shoved aside in order to gain a momentary pleasure, is a recipe for disaster. Make no mistake about it--Esau wanted his birthright--he was willing to kill his brother to get it back, but in a moment of weakness Esau sold something that he should have treasured for a pot of beans.

Before we are too harsh in our judgment of Esau, I have observed a lot of people who are making the same kind of decisions in life. We know from statistical studies that many people who are raised in the Church, leave the Church behind and live a more secular lifestyle. In a sense, they are selling their birthright for a pot of beans. Walking away from a life of God's blessings in exchange for a life that will be measurably less. Why do people despise their spiritual birthright? Why do they trade away their treasure for junk? Often--as they mature--they join Esau and come to their senses and realize what they have lost. Like the Prodigal son they realize that the blessings of the Father's home is better than life eating from the pig trough. Just another example of how God's grace trumps our foolish behavior.

Prayer: "Dear heavenly Father, for all the sons and daughters who are wandering in the darkness, I pray that You would bring them to the place where they want to come home. I also pray that you would create a spiritual hunger in the children and young people that are in our church body today. May You become their first love and may they have a desire to serve You all the days of their lives. May the Church see a spiritual awakening in the emerging generations and a revival that is greater than any ever seen before. Through it all I pray the You would receive all the glory, honor and power! Amen"

It's Not About Me

This is a fake vanity photo...

He must increase, but I must decrease. He who comes from above is above all; he who is of the earth is earthly and speaks of the earth. He who comes from heaven is above all. John 3:30-31 (NKJV)

Not to be the rain that falls on your parade, but along the journey to grasp the meaning of life you will probably discover that, "It's not about You!" I hope that this news does not come as a shock and furthermore; I hope that you figured it out a long time ago. You are but one of about 7 billion humans that live on a tiny planet in a deserted corner of the universe. When it is all said and done our life will have almost no effect whatsoever on the cosmos. We are born--we live--we pass away--and we are soon forgotten. It was this understanding that made Solomon write such uplifting sentiments such as: "I have seen all the works that are done under the sun; and indeed, all is vanity and grasping for the wind." Eccl 1:14 (NKJV)

John the Baptist was the most famous prophet of Israel when Jesus started His own public ministry. Before long, many of the people that followed John the Baptist were flocking to the new teacher called Jesus. John the Baptist, knowing that Jesus would eclipse the significance of his ministry, said, "He must increase, but I must decrease." John knew that his life found a place of deep meaning by being "God's tool" in preparing the way for Jesus. He refuted Solomon's idea that life was without meaning, while affirming the idea that life's greatest significance is found in our service to God.

What is the meaning of life? Is it to gain wealth that we can't take with us when we are dead? Is it to gain popularity that fades over time into obscurity? It is to be the envy of all our friends because of our great accomplishments, personal influence and amazing charm? Wow...maybe it is all vanity! There is an exception--an important exception. It is the understanding that John the Baptist expressed: Life becomes very meaningful when our lives fuse with the eternal purposes of God. Serving God--building His Kingdom--loving His people--declaring His truths--shining His light--being His ambassadors...this is where we find meaning. "Yes," He must increase and we must decrease!

Prayer: "Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done On earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, As we forgive our debtors. And do not lead us into temptation, But deliver us from the evil one. For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen."

Remembering Dallas Willard

American philosopher, author and theologian Dallas Willard died May 8 at the age of 77 following a battle with cancer. Willard taught at USC since 1965 and wrote many spiritual formation books including “Renovation of the Heart,” “The Spirit of the Disciplines” and “The Divine Conspiracy.”A couple of my favorite quotes:

"The aim of God in history is the creation of an all-inclusive community of loving persons with God himself at the very heart of this community as its prime Sustainer and most glorious Inhabitant." 

"Our destiny is to be part of a tremendously creative team effort, under unimaginably splendid leadership, on an inconceivably vast plane of activity, with ever more comprehensive cycles of productivity and enjoyment."

"The writings of Dallas Willard always made me aware of the deficiencies of my I.Q.  I'm not sure that he ever wrote a paragraph that I did not need to read at least three times over to grasp at the ideas he was suggesting.  I truly great thinker!"  RD

Follow Jesus

Then Jesus said to His disciples, "If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it. For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul? Matt 16:24-26 (NKJV)

If you grew up in a Church setting you are probably familiar with the song, "I have Decided to Follow Jesus." The lyrics are simplistic; therefore, nearly impossible to forget.

I have decided to follow Jesus, I have decided to follow Jesus,
I have decided to follow Jesus, no turning back, no turning back.
The cross before me, the world behind me, The cross before me, the world behind me,
The cross before me, the world behind me, no turning back, no turning back...

I have sung that song countless times. With an authentic fervor in my heart and tears running down my cheeks I meant every word, only to stumble and fall under the weight of my own fleshly desires. Herein is the question one must ask: "Does Jesus want me to get up and try again or has He grown tired of my feeble attempts to fulfill my promise to follow Him?" The conclusion that a person draws in answer to this question is telling. If I am driven by the guilt of my failure, I am in danger of following in the footsteps of Judas. If I believe that God is love--and that His love does not fail--and that His love is revealed as mercy, grace and kindness--then I get up, dust off, pick up the cross and try again.

When I think of how Jesus restored Peter, I am filled with hope. When I read the story of the Prodigal Son and see how the Father greeted him and restored him, I am filled with hope. When I realize that God's love has no end--no hidden limitation--and that nothing can separate me from that love, I am compelled by love to follow Jesus. This is the one issue in life where I know that I need to double-down on my conviction and once again declare: "I have decided to follow Jesus."

Prayer: "Dear heavenly Father, it is so good to know that Your love is not fickle or based upon my performance and good behavior. It does not mean that I am free to sin, but when I do stumble, You are there picking me up--cleaning me up--encouraging me to try again. You are a good and gracious Father. I will never be able to repay my debt of gratitude; but please know this: 'I love You.' Thank you for Your grace...thank you for Your patience...thank you for Your love! Amen"

First Love

But when the Pharisees heard that He had silenced the Sadducees, they gathered together. Then one of them, a lawyer, asked Him a question, testing Him, and saying, "Teacher, which is the great commandment in the law?" Jesus said to him, "'You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.' This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets." Matt 22:34-40 (NKJV)

Any lawyer worth his salt is going to pose questions that cut to the heart of a matter. Answering a sharp lawyer can be a very tricky proposition--especially, if a person has something to hide. Such a man posed a question to Jesus--and, "Yes," he was trying to trap Jesus. The lawyer asked Jesus a very difficult question: "Teacher, which is the great commandment in the law?" I can see the Pharisses in the background smirking and giving the knowing nod to their colleague.

What the lawyer did not realize is that he was going up against God in the flesh--the author of the law. It would be like one of us going back in time and trying to argue the Theory of Relativity with Albert Eisenstein. So, Jesus answered the lawyer without missing a beat. "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul and with all your heart...and the second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets." The lawyer did not have much of a comeback after Jesus' answer. The Gospel of Luke has his follow-up question on the record: "Who is my neighbor?" Jesus then launched into the story of the Good Samaritan. For the lawyer this was like shooting an air-ball, getting the rebound only to have your next shot blocked.

We need to take Jesus' answer to heart--realizing that all the Law and the Prophets find their completion in these two commandments. It is possible to be very religious and not keep the greatest of the commandments. In writing to the Church of Ephesus, Jesus commended them for their perseverance, hard work and doctrinal stability...however, they failed on a grand scale, because they had wandered away from their first love. Let us keep our priorities straight and make Jesus our first love.

Prayer: "Dear heavenly Father, I know that as a child my heart belonged to You. As I have grown older, my life has been invaded by other concerns, both good and bad; however, at times I know that my communion with You is not what it used to be. With Your help, I am going to strive to go back to the time when You were my first love and the great passion of my life. Please forgive me for my duplicitous heart and wandering ways. I love You Lord! Amen"

One Way

"Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broadis the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficultis the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it." Matt 7:13-14 (NKJV)

If you are embarking on a trip across the country or even to a local destination where you are not acquainted with the location, if you are wise you will look at a map--turn on your electronic navigator--or look it up online and download the directions. (Sometimes I do all three just to make sure) Arriving at a particular location is not guess work, it is a calculated decision, where I know that if I take a specific road to a specific destination on the map I will complete the journey as planned.

If you have an interest in "landing" in the eternal Kingdom of the Creator you must "Enter by the narrow gate." Jesus was trying to convey an important truth to those who were and are interested in an abundant and eternal life. Simply stated--there is one road that will take you to heaven, and as long as you stay on that road you can rest assured knowing that you will arrive and you will hear the voice of Jesus say, "Welcome thou good and faithful servant."

There are a plethora of roads that lead to destruction. People are gullible and willing to believe just about anything, simply because they wish it to be true. It is almost as crazy as heading due south on a road heading out from New York City believing that it will eventually take you to Seattle. If you want to make heaven your home please take the right road--the only road--the one way that leads to eternal life. Let the following verses act as your spiritual map, and know that if you stay on this road you will arrive at your destination. 

• Jesus said to him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me. John 14:6 (NKJV) 
• For there is one God and one Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus. 1 Tim 2:5 (NKJV) 
• He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life. 1 John 5:12 (NKJV)

Prayer: "Dear heavenly Father, thank you for sending Jesus to rescue me from my sin. Thank you for making a way for me, so that one day when this life is over and the race is completed, I will arrive at my eternal destination with You. I pray Lord that You would make me more effective in sharing this news--this road map that leads to salvation. Please grant me many opportunities to tell others. Amen"

To Serve

"You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and those who are great exercise authority over them. Yet it shall not be so among you; but whoever desires to become great among you, let him be your servant. And whoever desires to be first among you, let him be your slave-- just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many." Matt 20:25-28 (NKJV)

If you grew up with siblings then you already understand the idea of "Sibling Rivalries." Often, in the struggle to gain the attention of a parent a child will both strive to win the approval of the parent and put down their siblings in order to emerge as the "better" child. This is the kind of self-serving behavior that we expect from children, but this is where we judge children too harshly while not perceiving our own "adult" behavior accurately. Even adults strive to win the approval of the people that matter to them; but, too often at the expense of others.

Jesus, as usual, is right in His observation of mankind. In the secular world, those in power lord it over those that are under their authority. I think that this is more often the case rather than the exception. Some people really like to have authority and power over others. There was a time where I was the "whipping boy" in an organization. I worked hard and dealt with my relationships with a good deal of integrity, but was on the receiving end of criticism. What a miserable time... However, it was an opportunity for God to bring greater measures of humility and patience into my life.

What people experience IN THE CHURCH should be very different than that. In the Church, leadership should be expressed as servant-hood. Those who rule, lead and teach in the Church should do so with a servant's heart--putting the needs of others before their own. Pastors were never called or meant to be little kings who rule over the laity. Authentic Christian leadership must strive for, and exercise Godly humility. That is the only way we can truly follow in the footsteps of the Great Shepherd. Jesus literally poured out His life to serve our needs--how far down that road are we willing to travel in order to follow after Jesus?

Prayer: "Dear heavenly Father, I will admit that I like to be liked by others--I like to be in charge and to have the power to direct the activities of others--I like to be recognized and seen--I like to be complimented for what little skill I have... Sometimes I wonder if I do anything with a truly selfless, humble attitude. You know my heart...nothing is hidden from You; so, create in me a clean heart and renew a right spirit within me. Mold me into a better, more Christlike person, that You might be glorified! Amen"

Peace

"These things I have spoken to you while being present with you. But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you. Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." John 14:25-27 (NKJV)

Jesus prophesied to His disciples concerning the difficult final chapter of His sojourn on earth. His words were upsetting to His disciples. So much so that Peter jumped in (as usual) and told Jesus that he (Jesus) did not need to go through with the plan. Jesus then strongly rebuked Peter by saying, "Get thee behind me Satan!" The end was near--Jesus was about to complete God's plan to rescue mankind--and the disciples were perplexed and confused. 

In the midst of this sobering prophecy Jesus spoke some words of hope to His disciples. He told them about a God-initiated peace that would become available to them. This was not a promise of an easy life, where the disciples would enjoy a time free of conflict, controversy and danger...no, history tells us that all but one of the disciples would be martyred for their faith. This would be a supernatural peace that would be activated by the Holy Spirit in the very center of difficult and trying circumstances.

I came to faith in God at a very young age. I can verify what Jesus said concerning the Holy Spirit. "You will know Him, because He will be with you and He will live in you." I was acutely aware that the Spirit of God was with me. Having God the Holy Spirit with me and living in me "always" gave me a deep sense of well-being. The Holy Spirit was a continual source that spoke words of encouragement. Words such as: "I am here with you." "Everything is going to work out." "I will help you." "All things are possible with Me in your life." "I will guide you." "You do not need to worry about that." "Rest in me and know that I will work this for your good." The promise of peace is real. Listen to what the Holy Spirit is saying to you...He is our comforter and is walking through life with you...every step of the journey.

Prayer: "Father, giver of life, Creator of all that is, mighty power, lover of my soul; I cannot imagine life without You, for You are my peace. My burden in life is light, because You do not give me a burden that I cannot carry. There is no temptation that can overcome the way of escape that You provide. There is no enemy or circumstance that cannot be overcome, because with You even the impossible becomes possible. You are good...what an understatement...You are good beyond what my words can describe. Blessed be the name of the Lord! Amen"