Mark 4: 35-41 (NLT)
As evening came, Jesus said to his disciples, “Let’s cross to the other side of the lake.” So they took Jesus in the boat and started out, leaving the crowds behind (although other boats followed). But soon a fierce storm came up. High waves were breaking into the boat, and it began to fill with water. Jesus was sleeping at the back of the boat with his head on a cushion. The disciples woke him up, shouting, “Teacher, don’t you care that we’re going to drown?” When Jesus woke up, he rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Silence! Be still!” Suddenly the wind stopped, and there was a great calm. Then he asked them, “Why are you afraid? Do you still have no faith?” The disciples were absolutely terrified. “Who is this man?” they asked each other. “Even the wind and waves obey him!”
Like the disciples, we often find ourselves at the mercy of life’s storms – even as Jesus is close. We often wonder why we experience such tumultuous periods – where the waves and winds of life seem to pummel us to death. The slicing rains stab at our burning eyes, blurring our vision. The lightning jabs its sharp, fiery claws at us and the thunder bursts our ears. It’s no literal storm usually – But things like addiction, anger, frustration, ill-tempered co-workers, unmet expectations in a marriage, a flat tire, an eviction notice, no money in the bank. Whatever form it takes, it beats us like a storm.
And what makes the storm unbearable is this: Jesus sits there with us… And sleeps! Or so we think. Just as the disciples did. When we allow Jesus to change our perceptions, as we have done over the past month, we witness a small part of what Jesus is all about. Jesus was resting – at peace with God. Even in the midst of the squall. His faith was in the Father. Completely. He saw the eternal while we, and the disciples, see the corporeal. And that’s why he didn’t fear.
When Jesus rose to calm, or overpower, the physical world, the disciples were in awe. It increased their faith. The storm made them stronger. Just as it can do for us. Think about the last time you really grew in your relationship with Jesus. Was it during an uneventful time or during a storm? My growth is almost always during the storms – when I’m forced to admit my weakness and reach out for help.
We don’t always understand who God is or what He is doing and that’s okay! My thought mirrors that of Donald Miller, who wrote, “It comforts me to think we are created beings, the thing that created us would have to be greater than us, so much greater, in fact, that we would not be able to understand it.”
Monday, October 31, 2011
Sunday, October 30, 2011
End-of-the-Month Reflection and Meditation
Well done, good and faithful servant…
If you have made it this far, you have nearly completed a month’s worth of devotionals. My prayerful hope is that your relationship with Jesus has never been as close and as intimate as it is now. Take a few minutes to praise and thank Him for walking with you over the last month. Then take a few more minutes to finish the reflection questions.
1. Has your personal relationship with Jesus changed over the last month? Explain.
2. Of all the Scripture, devotionals, sermons, or meditations, which one stuck out the most to you? Why? Explain.
3. How have you applied what you have learned or read to your daily life? Be specific.
4. What can you begin doing today to share what you’ve learned with others? Be specific.
5. List some reasons why you’re thankful to God.
6. Pause to praise God. Thank Him for who He is and all He has done for us. Confess any lingering sin. Accept his forgiveness. Ask of Him your needs (and even your wants).
7. Remember… Jesus loves you just as you are, but He also loves you too much to let you stay that way!
If you have made it this far, you have nearly completed a month’s worth of devotionals. My prayerful hope is that your relationship with Jesus has never been as close and as intimate as it is now. Take a few minutes to praise and thank Him for walking with you over the last month. Then take a few more minutes to finish the reflection questions.
1. Has your personal relationship with Jesus changed over the last month? Explain.
2. Of all the Scripture, devotionals, sermons, or meditations, which one stuck out the most to you? Why? Explain.
3. How have you applied what you have learned or read to your daily life? Be specific.
4. What can you begin doing today to share what you’ve learned with others? Be specific.
5. List some reasons why you’re thankful to God.
6. Pause to praise God. Thank Him for who He is and all He has done for us. Confess any lingering sin. Accept his forgiveness. Ask of Him your needs (and even your wants).
7. Remember… Jesus loves you just as you are, but He also loves you too much to let you stay that way!
Saturday, October 29, 2011
Morning Message
Scripture References:
Title or topic of message:
Notes:
Questions I have about the message:
How can I apply this message to my life?
Title or topic of message:
Notes:
Questions I have about the message:
How can I apply this message to my life?
Friday, October 28, 2011
Reflection and Meditation
This week we have discussed issues like being lukewarm for Jesus, being a part of God‘s family, the life process of a believer, letting your light shine, and the principle of sowing and reaping.
With that in mind, reflect and meditate on the following questions.
1. Do you find yourself a walking contradiction? Is your Christian walk in line with your Christian talk? Do you live for God both in your physical body as well as your spiritual soul?
2. How does it make you feel that you are part of God’s family? What rewards are there for those who choose to become part of the family? What are the risks?
3. What stage of the Christian life are you in? Have you found yourself stuck in the same stage for a long period of time? What would it take for you to continue the growth process?
4. Are you a light to the those around you? If not, what types of things are stopping you from shining?
5. “Whatever you sow, you reap. Whatever you plant, you harvest.” What do these statements mean to you?
With that in mind, reflect and meditate on the following questions.
1. Do you find yourself a walking contradiction? Is your Christian walk in line with your Christian talk? Do you live for God both in your physical body as well as your spiritual soul?
2. How does it make you feel that you are part of God’s family? What rewards are there for those who choose to become part of the family? What are the risks?
3. What stage of the Christian life are you in? Have you found yourself stuck in the same stage for a long period of time? What would it take for you to continue the growth process?
4. Are you a light to the those around you? If not, what types of things are stopping you from shining?
5. “Whatever you sow, you reap. Whatever you plant, you harvest.” What do these statements mean to you?
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Principle of the Harvest
Mark 4: 26-29 (NLT)
Jesus also said, “The Kingdom of God is like a farmer who scatters seed on the ground. Night and day, while he’s asleep or awake, the seed sprouts and grows, but he does not understand how it happens. The earth produces the crops on its own. First a leaf blade pushes through, then the heads of wheat are formed, and finally the grain ripens. And as soon as the grain is ready, the farmer comes and harvests it with a sickle, for the harvest time has come.”
If you travel around the Delta, you inevitably encounter one of God’s hair-raising miracles. A seed planted into the soil of Spring bursts from the ground with water and care. It withstands the harsh, dry Summer months and finally, come Fall, is mature and becomes ready for the harvest. Science has told us that water and fertilizer and nutrients allow crops to grow. But what makes that stuff make the crops grow? Those of us in the know realize it’s the hand of God. Under His quiet direction, the stalk rise to provide for our sustenance.
It’s no different for those of us in Christ Jesus. We are a tiny seed planted. We spread a swath of roots to build a foundation and gather good things to help us grow. We burst from the soil a strong believer seeking the Son and the water of baptism. And we await the glorious day in which we either go to Jesus or He comes to us. But who actually permits our growth? Surely not ourselves.
We can make ourselves grow spiritually about as much as that corn seed can make itself grow into a corn-stalk.
Jesus also said, “The Kingdom of God is like a farmer who scatters seed on the ground. Night and day, while he’s asleep or awake, the seed sprouts and grows, but he does not understand how it happens. The earth produces the crops on its own. First a leaf blade pushes through, then the heads of wheat are formed, and finally the grain ripens. And as soon as the grain is ready, the farmer comes and harvests it with a sickle, for the harvest time has come.”
If you travel around the Delta, you inevitably encounter one of God’s hair-raising miracles. A seed planted into the soil of Spring bursts from the ground with water and care. It withstands the harsh, dry Summer months and finally, come Fall, is mature and becomes ready for the harvest. Science has told us that water and fertilizer and nutrients allow crops to grow. But what makes that stuff make the crops grow? Those of us in the know realize it’s the hand of God. Under His quiet direction, the stalk rise to provide for our sustenance.
It’s no different for those of us in Christ Jesus. We are a tiny seed planted. We spread a swath of roots to build a foundation and gather good things to help us grow. We burst from the soil a strong believer seeking the Son and the water of baptism. And we await the glorious day in which we either go to Jesus or He comes to us. But who actually permits our growth? Surely not ourselves.
We can make ourselves grow spiritually about as much as that corn seed can make itself grow into a corn-stalk.
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
The Power of Light
Mark 4: 21-25 (NLT)
Then Jesus asked them, “Would anyone light a lamp and then put it under a basket or under a bed? Of course not! A lamp is placed on a stand, where its light will shine. For everything that is hidden will eventually be brought into the open, and every secret will be brought to light. Anyone with ears to hear should listen and understand.” Then he added, “Pay close attention to what you hear. The closer you listen, the more understanding you will be given — and you will receive even more. To those who listen to my teaching, more understanding will be given. But for those who are not listening, even what little understanding they have will be taken away from them.”
Perhaps the greatest of human tragedies is this: a person who has been radically changed by the Gospel of Jesus Christ buries his new life rather than sharing it with the world.
“How can this happen?” we ask…
Is there any way that this is even possible? Why would anyone hold up the renewing and recreation of themselves? It’s hard to imagine the two thoughts running hand in hand through the same sentence, but here they are in the Scripture, coming out of the mouth of Jesus.
A light, by its very nature, is designed to shine, not only for its own behalf, but for others. It gives light to help us to see. Its warmth comforts us. Its presence sends the darkness fleeing. We become a light when Jesus enters our hearts and changes us from the inside out. All of the love, joy, peace, and hope ignited by the Holy Spirit creates a flame in us. This holy fire is designed not only to change us but to make us shine. We are to take the light we’ve been gifted with and share it with others. By doing so, we light up their path, comfort them in times of trouble, and helping them in resisting the darkness. If they seek the light of the Gospel, then our light blends with theirs to create an even brighter light.
Which leads us to the second thought in the reading. We will be given in the measure we give others. Translation: You give all you got to others and Jesus will give you all he’s got. What a promise! What a reward! Of course, there is the flip side. If you hide you light, or snuff it out by not sharing, you will lose the little you got. Walk in the light of God.
Shine on…
Then Jesus asked them, “Would anyone light a lamp and then put it under a basket or under a bed? Of course not! A lamp is placed on a stand, where its light will shine. For everything that is hidden will eventually be brought into the open, and every secret will be brought to light. Anyone with ears to hear should listen and understand.” Then he added, “Pay close attention to what you hear. The closer you listen, the more understanding you will be given — and you will receive even more. To those who listen to my teaching, more understanding will be given. But for those who are not listening, even what little understanding they have will be taken away from them.”
Perhaps the greatest of human tragedies is this: a person who has been radically changed by the Gospel of Jesus Christ buries his new life rather than sharing it with the world.
“How can this happen?” we ask…
Is there any way that this is even possible? Why would anyone hold up the renewing and recreation of themselves? It’s hard to imagine the two thoughts running hand in hand through the same sentence, but here they are in the Scripture, coming out of the mouth of Jesus.
A light, by its very nature, is designed to shine, not only for its own behalf, but for others. It gives light to help us to see. Its warmth comforts us. Its presence sends the darkness fleeing. We become a light when Jesus enters our hearts and changes us from the inside out. All of the love, joy, peace, and hope ignited by the Holy Spirit creates a flame in us. This holy fire is designed not only to change us but to make us shine. We are to take the light we’ve been gifted with and share it with others. By doing so, we light up their path, comfort them in times of trouble, and helping them in resisting the darkness. If they seek the light of the Gospel, then our light blends with theirs to create an even brighter light.
Which leads us to the second thought in the reading. We will be given in the measure we give others. Translation: You give all you got to others and Jesus will give you all he’s got. What a promise! What a reward! Of course, there is the flip side. If you hide you light, or snuff it out by not sharing, you will lose the little you got. Walk in the light of God.
Shine on…
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Planting Spiritual Seed
Mark 4: 1-20 (NLT)
Once again Jesus began teaching by the lakeshore. A very large crowd soon gathered around him, so he got into a boat. Then he sat in the boat while all the people remained on the shore. He taught them by telling many stories in the form of parables, such as this one:
“Listen! A farmer went out to plant some seed. As he scattered it across his field, some of the seed fell on a footpath, and the birds came and ate it. Other seed fell on shallow soil with underlying rock. The seed sprouted quickly because the soil was shallow. But the plant soon wilted under the hot sun, and since it didn’t have deep roots, it died. Other seed fell among thorns that grew up and choked out the tender plants so they produced no grain. Still other seeds fell on fertile soil, and they sprouted, grew, and produced a crop that was thirty, sixty, and even a hundred times as much as had been planted!” Then he said, “Anyone with ears to hear should listen and understand.”
Later, when Jesus was alone with the twelve disciples and with the others who were gathered around, they asked him what the parables meant. He replied, “You are permitted to understand the secret of the Kingdom of God. But I use parables for everything I say to outsiders, so that the Scriptures might be fulfilled:
‘When they see what I do,
they will learn nothing.
When they hear what I say,
they will not understand.
Otherwise, they will turn to me
and be forgiven.’”
Then Jesus said to them, “If you can’t understand the meaning of this parable, how will you understand all the other parables? The farmer plants seed by taking God’s word to others. The seed that fell on the footpath represents those who hear the message, only to have Satan come at once and take it away. The seed on the rocky soil represents those who hear the message and immediately receive it with joy. But since they don’t have deep roots, they don’t last long. They fall away as soon as they have problems or are persecuted for believing God’s word. The seed that fell among the thorns represents others who hear God’s word, but all too quickly the message is crowded out by the worries of this life, the lure of wealth, and the desire for other things, so no fruit is produced. And the seed that fell on good soil represents those who hear and accept God’s word and produce a harvest of thirty, sixty, or even a hundred times as much as had been planted!”
For most of my Christian walk, I read through this passage and always tried to lump myself into one of the individual types of soil. I could see myself as the seed that the birds (Satan) gobbled up quickly, before it even had a shot to grow. Then again, I saw myself as the seed falling among the rocks, hitting with great joy but ruined from a lack of roots. Later, I saw myself as the seed among thorns, choked out by the worries, pains, and addictive compulsions of my life. And then still later, I witnessed the growth and maturity of the seed in good soil, reaping a harvest with the strength of Jesus. I could never reconcile how I fit into all of these categories until I realized it is a process… Like life.
As a “baby” believer, its easy to fall back into our own way of life when things get difficult. We are creatures of comfort and naturally resist change. But if we’re willing to change, God will do it. We may then find ourselves as “child” believers, full of joy but without a solid foundation of roots, a lack of nutrients so to speak. No learning or stability. Next, comes the “teenage” believer, who has a foundation but lacks discipline in how to deal with issues interfering and side-tracking our spiritual lives. Too concerned with what people may think or say. And finally, we mature into “adult” believers, seasoned with wisdom, experience, and love. And we in turn spread our own seed and give what we have been given.
A “life-long” process.
Once again Jesus began teaching by the lakeshore. A very large crowd soon gathered around him, so he got into a boat. Then he sat in the boat while all the people remained on the shore. He taught them by telling many stories in the form of parables, such as this one:
“Listen! A farmer went out to plant some seed. As he scattered it across his field, some of the seed fell on a footpath, and the birds came and ate it. Other seed fell on shallow soil with underlying rock. The seed sprouted quickly because the soil was shallow. But the plant soon wilted under the hot sun, and since it didn’t have deep roots, it died. Other seed fell among thorns that grew up and choked out the tender plants so they produced no grain. Still other seeds fell on fertile soil, and they sprouted, grew, and produced a crop that was thirty, sixty, and even a hundred times as much as had been planted!” Then he said, “Anyone with ears to hear should listen and understand.”
Later, when Jesus was alone with the twelve disciples and with the others who were gathered around, they asked him what the parables meant. He replied, “You are permitted to understand the secret of the Kingdom of God. But I use parables for everything I say to outsiders, so that the Scriptures might be fulfilled:
‘When they see what I do,
they will learn nothing.
When they hear what I say,
they will not understand.
Otherwise, they will turn to me
and be forgiven.’”
Then Jesus said to them, “If you can’t understand the meaning of this parable, how will you understand all the other parables? The farmer plants seed by taking God’s word to others. The seed that fell on the footpath represents those who hear the message, only to have Satan come at once and take it away. The seed on the rocky soil represents those who hear the message and immediately receive it with joy. But since they don’t have deep roots, they don’t last long. They fall away as soon as they have problems or are persecuted for believing God’s word. The seed that fell among the thorns represents others who hear God’s word, but all too quickly the message is crowded out by the worries of this life, the lure of wealth, and the desire for other things, so no fruit is produced. And the seed that fell on good soil represents those who hear and accept God’s word and produce a harvest of thirty, sixty, or even a hundred times as much as had been planted!”
For most of my Christian walk, I read through this passage and always tried to lump myself into one of the individual types of soil. I could see myself as the seed that the birds (Satan) gobbled up quickly, before it even had a shot to grow. Then again, I saw myself as the seed falling among the rocks, hitting with great joy but ruined from a lack of roots. Later, I saw myself as the seed among thorns, choked out by the worries, pains, and addictive compulsions of my life. And then still later, I witnessed the growth and maturity of the seed in good soil, reaping a harvest with the strength of Jesus. I could never reconcile how I fit into all of these categories until I realized it is a process… Like life.
As a “baby” believer, its easy to fall back into our own way of life when things get difficult. We are creatures of comfort and naturally resist change. But if we’re willing to change, God will do it. We may then find ourselves as “child” believers, full of joy but without a solid foundation of roots, a lack of nutrients so to speak. No learning or stability. Next, comes the “teenage” believer, who has a foundation but lacks discipline in how to deal with issues interfering and side-tracking our spiritual lives. Too concerned with what people may think or say. And finally, we mature into “adult” believers, seasoned with wisdom, experience, and love. And we in turn spread our own seed and give what we have been given.
A “life-long” process.
Monday, October 24, 2011
Family Values
Mark 3: 31-35 (NLT)
Then Jesus’ mother and brothers came to see him. They stood outside and sent word for him to come out and talk with them. There was a crowd sitting around Jesus, and someone said, “Your mother and your brothers are outside asking for you.” Jesus replied, “Who is my mother? Who are my brothers?” Then he looked at those around him and said, “Look, these are my mother and brothers. Anyone who does God’s will is my brother and sister and mother.”
Some years ago, my friends and band mates and I crammed into the drummer’s truck and drove down to Biloxi for the Family Values tour. While this may sound like a wonderful Christian conference featuring Dr. James Dobson as the key note speaker and the Newsboys leading worship, it was a far cry from that vision. Rather, it was a hard rock concert featuring bands with impressionable names like Korn, Papa Roach, Orgy, and Limp Bizkit. Bands that were the antithesis of acceptable family values. Bands that channeled their anger, disillusionment, and lusts into explicit lyrics and hammering beats. Strange as it sounds, as I looked out on the throbbing mass of people banging into one another and screaming, it was like a family. A dysfunctional family, yes. But a family. Brought together by the inner pain and confusion and a hole in the heart that only Jesus can fill.
Thankfully, God brought me out of such an environment and into His family. All that come to Jesus become part of God’s family. No matter how good or bad your family life was before, you can be a part of His family. With His family comes great love and security. A love that reaches out to people the way Jesus did (and does). A love which leads you to say that the people of Refuge, other churches, believers struggling on the streets or in offices or in classrooms, believers who don’t see things exactly the way we do, are still a part of the family.
The family of God. And therefore, the family of Love.
Then Jesus’ mother and brothers came to see him. They stood outside and sent word for him to come out and talk with them. There was a crowd sitting around Jesus, and someone said, “Your mother and your brothers are outside asking for you.” Jesus replied, “Who is my mother? Who are my brothers?” Then he looked at those around him and said, “Look, these are my mother and brothers. Anyone who does God’s will is my brother and sister and mother.”
Some years ago, my friends and band mates and I crammed into the drummer’s truck and drove down to Biloxi for the Family Values tour. While this may sound like a wonderful Christian conference featuring Dr. James Dobson as the key note speaker and the Newsboys leading worship, it was a far cry from that vision. Rather, it was a hard rock concert featuring bands with impressionable names like Korn, Papa Roach, Orgy, and Limp Bizkit. Bands that were the antithesis of acceptable family values. Bands that channeled their anger, disillusionment, and lusts into explicit lyrics and hammering beats. Strange as it sounds, as I looked out on the throbbing mass of people banging into one another and screaming, it was like a family. A dysfunctional family, yes. But a family. Brought together by the inner pain and confusion and a hole in the heart that only Jesus can fill.
Thankfully, God brought me out of such an environment and into His family. All that come to Jesus become part of God’s family. No matter how good or bad your family life was before, you can be a part of His family. With His family comes great love and security. A love that reaches out to people the way Jesus did (and does). A love which leads you to say that the people of Refuge, other churches, believers struggling on the streets or in offices or in classrooms, believers who don’t see things exactly the way we do, are still a part of the family.
The family of God. And therefore, the family of Love.
Sunday, October 23, 2011
A House Divided
Mark 3: 20-30 (NLT)
One time Jesus entered a house, and the crowds began to gather again. Soon he and his disciples couldn’t even find time to eat. When his family heard what was happening, they tried to take him away. “He’s out of his mind,” they said. But the teachers of religious law who had arrived from Jerusalem said, “He’s possessed by Satan, the prince of demons. That’s where he gets the power to cast out demons.” Jesus called them over and responded with an illustration. “How can Satan cast out Satan?” he asked. “A kingdom divided by civil war will collapse. Similarly, a family splintered by feuding will fall apart. And if Satan is divided and fights against himself, how can he stand? He would never survive. Let me illustrate this further. Who is powerful enough to enter the house of a strong man like Satan and plunder his goods? Only someone even stronger—someone who could tie him up and then plunder his house. I tell you the truth, all sin and blasphemy can be forgiven, but anyone who blasphemes the Holy Spirit will never be forgiven. This is a sin with eternal consequences.” He told them this because they were saying, “He’s possessed by an evil spirit.”
One of my beloved authors is writer and thinker Henry David Thoreau. In what is perhaps his most famous observation, he writes, “most men live lives of quiet desperation.” While his statement mentions men specifically, it resonates with all of us in a spiritual sense. At some point in our Christian walk, we will come to a crossroads. (Truth be told, there are many crossroads along the way.) And we will have a choice to make. We must choose to continue along the path of Jesus, giving him not only our outward lives (sharing Christ with others, going to church service, steering clear of negative environments) but our inward lives (thoughts, feelings, fears, desires) as well.
Jesus made it abundantly clear in the reading this morning that a house that is divided will crumble. What does this mean for us? To explain, allow me to paint a word picture for you. Imagine: We’ve been walking with the Lord for a while. We do everything that a “good” Christian is expected to do. We attend church service at least once a week, drop money in the offering, shake the pastor’s hand and tell him life is great, slap on a smile and make cheerful banter at work, spend time with the spouse or the kids. And everything appears to be wonderful. On the outside. We keep up this façade because we feel that is what we’re supposed to do. Meanwhile, buried beneath your heart within the deep recesses of your soul, there is a “quiet desperation,” an unexplainable yearning for something more, something eternal. Despite the pain and confusion associated with such feelings, we must turn them over to the Savior as well.
If we give God the outside without consecrating the inside as well, our house, our lives, will crumble.
One time Jesus entered a house, and the crowds began to gather again. Soon he and his disciples couldn’t even find time to eat. When his family heard what was happening, they tried to take him away. “He’s out of his mind,” they said. But the teachers of religious law who had arrived from Jerusalem said, “He’s possessed by Satan, the prince of demons. That’s where he gets the power to cast out demons.” Jesus called them over and responded with an illustration. “How can Satan cast out Satan?” he asked. “A kingdom divided by civil war will collapse. Similarly, a family splintered by feuding will fall apart. And if Satan is divided and fights against himself, how can he stand? He would never survive. Let me illustrate this further. Who is powerful enough to enter the house of a strong man like Satan and plunder his goods? Only someone even stronger—someone who could tie him up and then plunder his house. I tell you the truth, all sin and blasphemy can be forgiven, but anyone who blasphemes the Holy Spirit will never be forgiven. This is a sin with eternal consequences.” He told them this because they were saying, “He’s possessed by an evil spirit.”
One of my beloved authors is writer and thinker Henry David Thoreau. In what is perhaps his most famous observation, he writes, “most men live lives of quiet desperation.” While his statement mentions men specifically, it resonates with all of us in a spiritual sense. At some point in our Christian walk, we will come to a crossroads. (Truth be told, there are many crossroads along the way.) And we will have a choice to make. We must choose to continue along the path of Jesus, giving him not only our outward lives (sharing Christ with others, going to church service, steering clear of negative environments) but our inward lives (thoughts, feelings, fears, desires) as well.
Jesus made it abundantly clear in the reading this morning that a house that is divided will crumble. What does this mean for us? To explain, allow me to paint a word picture for you. Imagine: We’ve been walking with the Lord for a while. We do everything that a “good” Christian is expected to do. We attend church service at least once a week, drop money in the offering, shake the pastor’s hand and tell him life is great, slap on a smile and make cheerful banter at work, spend time with the spouse or the kids. And everything appears to be wonderful. On the outside. We keep up this façade because we feel that is what we’re supposed to do. Meanwhile, buried beneath your heart within the deep recesses of your soul, there is a “quiet desperation,” an unexplainable yearning for something more, something eternal. Despite the pain and confusion associated with such feelings, we must turn them over to the Savior as well.
If we give God the outside without consecrating the inside as well, our house, our lives, will crumble.
Saturday, October 22, 2011
Morning Message
Scripture References:
Title or topic of message:
Notes:
Questions I have about the message:
How can I apply this message to my life?
Title or topic of message:
Notes:
Questions I have about the message:
How can I apply this message to my life?
Friday, October 21, 2011
Reflection and Meditation
This week, we have discussed issues like fasting, becoming a new creation, taking time out to rest, displaying God‘s glory, and investing in others. With that in mind, reflect and meditate on the following questions.
1. Have you ever considered a fast? If so, take a few minutes and write out your experience? Is there anything replacing God in your life now? Pray about whether or not you should fast this and give it to God.
2. Are you a new creation through Jesus Christ? How does it make you feel that you can not only be patched up but be completely healed?
3. Do you value rest? What are the advantages to taking a personal Sabbath, a day of rest?
4. Have you ever felt like God was singling you out among the crowd, for the positive or the negative? Were you able to trust God in the face of such attention? Did you use the situation for God’s glory?
5. Do you take every opportunity to invest or encourage others? How does our treatment of others display Jesus in us? You may be the only “Jesus” people see during their day. How does this statement make you feel?
1. Have you ever considered a fast? If so, take a few minutes and write out your experience? Is there anything replacing God in your life now? Pray about whether or not you should fast this and give it to God.
2. Are you a new creation through Jesus Christ? How does it make you feel that you can not only be patched up but be completely healed?
3. Do you value rest? What are the advantages to taking a personal Sabbath, a day of rest?
4. Have you ever felt like God was singling you out among the crowd, for the positive or the negative? Were you able to trust God in the face of such attention? Did you use the situation for God’s glory?
5. Do you take every opportunity to invest or encourage others? How does our treatment of others display Jesus in us? You may be the only “Jesus” people see during their day. How does this statement make you feel?
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Investing in Others
Mark 3: 7-19 (NLT)
Jesus went out to the lake with his disciples, and a large crowd followed him. They came from all over Galilee, Judea, Jerusalem, Idumea, from east of the Jordan River, and even from as far north as Tyre and Sidon. The news about his miracles had spread far and wide, and vast numbers of people came to see him. Jesus instructed his disciples to have a boat ready so the crowd would not crush him. He had healed many people that day, so all the sick people eagerly pushed forward to touch him. And whenever those possessed by evil spirits caught sight of him, the spirits would throw them to the ground in front of him shrieking, “You are the Son of God!” But Jesus sternly commanded the spirits not to reveal who he was.
Afterward Jesus went up on a mountain and called out the ones he wanted to go with him. And they came to him. Then he appointed twelve of them and called them his apostles. They were to accompany him, and he would send them out to preach, giving them authority to cast out demons. These are the twelve he chose:
Simon (whom he named Peter), James and John (the sons of Zebedee, but Jesus nicknamed them “Sons of Thunder”), Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James (son of Alphaeus), Thaddaeus, Simon (the zealot), Judas Iscariot (who later betrayed him).
Poverty. Drugs. Alcohol. Gambling. Divorce. Depression. Suicide. Gangs. Racism. Violence. Failing families. Absent fathers. Sin. Evil spirits. Lost people. Hypocrite Christians. Gossip and back biting. Corruption. Unemployment. Storms and flooding.
When taken as a whole, reaching Greenville with the love of Christ is an overwhelming undertaking. And yet many of us try (or have tried in the past) to tackle every problem ourselves. But no matter how hard we try, we will never be able to be everything to everybody or meet the needs of our city on our own. Even Jesus, in his earthly ministry, understood this principle.
Though He is Jesus, he was wrapped in flesh at the time and dealt with the every aspect of the human condition. Meaning - he got tired, he couldn’t meet the needs of everyone, he needed help to save the world. So he chose twelve specific people to assist him in accomplishing his vision, twelve people to invest the majority of His time and energy with, twelve people who would branch out themselves and continue the work they were taught, twelve people who would invest in another twelve so that little by little, the world could be reached. Profound wisdom is evident in Jesus' decision to do so. And the same will be said of us when we follow in his footsteps.
Imagine if we quit trying to do everything and focus on the one thing Jesus designed us for. I'm not saying never do anything else but the majority of your time and focus.
Invest your time, energy, and gifts in a small number of people, realizing that you can’t meet every need in Greenville, let alone Refuge.
Jesus went out to the lake with his disciples, and a large crowd followed him. They came from all over Galilee, Judea, Jerusalem, Idumea, from east of the Jordan River, and even from as far north as Tyre and Sidon. The news about his miracles had spread far and wide, and vast numbers of people came to see him. Jesus instructed his disciples to have a boat ready so the crowd would not crush him. He had healed many people that day, so all the sick people eagerly pushed forward to touch him. And whenever those possessed by evil spirits caught sight of him, the spirits would throw them to the ground in front of him shrieking, “You are the Son of God!” But Jesus sternly commanded the spirits not to reveal who he was.
Afterward Jesus went up on a mountain and called out the ones he wanted to go with him. And they came to him. Then he appointed twelve of them and called them his apostles. They were to accompany him, and he would send them out to preach, giving them authority to cast out demons. These are the twelve he chose:
Simon (whom he named Peter), James and John (the sons of Zebedee, but Jesus nicknamed them “Sons of Thunder”), Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James (son of Alphaeus), Thaddaeus, Simon (the zealot), Judas Iscariot (who later betrayed him).
Poverty. Drugs. Alcohol. Gambling. Divorce. Depression. Suicide. Gangs. Racism. Violence. Failing families. Absent fathers. Sin. Evil spirits. Lost people. Hypocrite Christians. Gossip and back biting. Corruption. Unemployment. Storms and flooding.
When taken as a whole, reaching Greenville with the love of Christ is an overwhelming undertaking. And yet many of us try (or have tried in the past) to tackle every problem ourselves. But no matter how hard we try, we will never be able to be everything to everybody or meet the needs of our city on our own. Even Jesus, in his earthly ministry, understood this principle.
Though He is Jesus, he was wrapped in flesh at the time and dealt with the every aspect of the human condition. Meaning - he got tired, he couldn’t meet the needs of everyone, he needed help to save the world. So he chose twelve specific people to assist him in accomplishing his vision, twelve people to invest the majority of His time and energy with, twelve people who would branch out themselves and continue the work they were taught, twelve people who would invest in another twelve so that little by little, the world could be reached. Profound wisdom is evident in Jesus' decision to do so. And the same will be said of us when we follow in his footsteps.
Imagine if we quit trying to do everything and focus on the one thing Jesus designed us for. I'm not saying never do anything else but the majority of your time and focus.
Invest your time, energy, and gifts in a small number of people, realizing that you can’t meet every need in Greenville, let alone Refuge.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
On Display
Mark 3: 1-6 (NLT)
Jesus went into the synagogue again and noticed a man with a deformed hand. Since it was the Sabbath, Jesus’ enemies watched him closely. Would he heal the man’s hand on the Sabbath? If he did, they planned to condemn him. Jesus said to the man, “Come and stand in front of everyone.” Then he turned to his critics and asked, “Is it legal to do good deeds on the Sabbath, or is it a day for doing harm? Is this a day to save life or to destroy it?” But they wouldn’t answer him. He looked around at them angrily, because he was deeply disturbed by their hard hearts. Then he said to the man, “Reach out your hand.” The man reached out his hand, and it became normal again! At once the Pharisees went away and met with the supporters of Herod to discuss plans for killing Jesus.
Have you ever felt like God is embarrassing you? Like he has dragged you out in front of a large crowd as he did this man, to show the world your “withered hand,” your hideous disfigurement of sin? Like your deepest secrets and feelings and emotions splayed before the world at one inglorious moment. Its humbling to say the least. But when we start to see the things the way Jesus envisions things, we come to a greater understanding of his methods.
Everything Jesus does is out of love. Those people not stuck in the rigorous standards of religion can see that. The man with the withered hand understood Jesus’ love. Despite being the example, he trusted Jesus not to embarrass or humiliate him in front of the crowd. His willingness to obey, his faith, helped lead him to healing. Had he not accepted Jesus’ demand, had he walked away for fear of embarrassment, he would have missed out on his healing and we would have been stripped of his story. Jesus used the man to show both his glory and his compassion. And the story continues to do both.
So now we come back to us. Has your sin, weakness, or inadequacy been put on display in front of the church? Your family? Your job? Your community? Instead of hiding in the shadows or trying to dive for cover amongst the crowd (which has similar struggles), why don’t we start seeing the ordeal through Jesus eyes. Perhaps you have been placed in front of the crowd to reflect both the glory and compassion of Christ, much like the man in the Gospel. No, it may not be wonderful thing to go through at the time. But in the end, you will be completely healed and able to share with the world your story.
Jesus loves us more than we can ever imagine. Stand up and show it.
Jesus went into the synagogue again and noticed a man with a deformed hand. Since it was the Sabbath, Jesus’ enemies watched him closely. Would he heal the man’s hand on the Sabbath? If he did, they planned to condemn him. Jesus said to the man, “Come and stand in front of everyone.” Then he turned to his critics and asked, “Is it legal to do good deeds on the Sabbath, or is it a day for doing harm? Is this a day to save life or to destroy it?” But they wouldn’t answer him. He looked around at them angrily, because he was deeply disturbed by their hard hearts. Then he said to the man, “Reach out your hand.” The man reached out his hand, and it became normal again! At once the Pharisees went away and met with the supporters of Herod to discuss plans for killing Jesus.
Have you ever felt like God is embarrassing you? Like he has dragged you out in front of a large crowd as he did this man, to show the world your “withered hand,” your hideous disfigurement of sin? Like your deepest secrets and feelings and emotions splayed before the world at one inglorious moment. Its humbling to say the least. But when we start to see the things the way Jesus envisions things, we come to a greater understanding of his methods.
Everything Jesus does is out of love. Those people not stuck in the rigorous standards of religion can see that. The man with the withered hand understood Jesus’ love. Despite being the example, he trusted Jesus not to embarrass or humiliate him in front of the crowd. His willingness to obey, his faith, helped lead him to healing. Had he not accepted Jesus’ demand, had he walked away for fear of embarrassment, he would have missed out on his healing and we would have been stripped of his story. Jesus used the man to show both his glory and his compassion. And the story continues to do both.
So now we come back to us. Has your sin, weakness, or inadequacy been put on display in front of the church? Your family? Your job? Your community? Instead of hiding in the shadows or trying to dive for cover amongst the crowd (which has similar struggles), why don’t we start seeing the ordeal through Jesus eyes. Perhaps you have been placed in front of the crowd to reflect both the glory and compassion of Christ, much like the man in the Gospel. No, it may not be wonderful thing to go through at the time. But in the end, you will be completely healed and able to share with the world your story.
Jesus loves us more than we can ever imagine. Stand up and show it.
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
A Sabbath of Rest
Mark 2: 23-27 (NLT)
One Sabbath day as Jesus was walking through some grainfields, his disciples began breaking off heads of grain to eat. But the Pharisees said to Jesus, “Look, why are they breaking the law by harvesting grain on the Sabbath?” Jesus said to them, “Haven’t you ever read in the Scriptures what David did when he and his companions were hungry? He went into the house of God (during the days when Abiathar was high priest) and broke the law by eating the sacred loaves of bread that only the priests are allowed to eat. He also gave some to his companions.” Then Jesus said to them, “The Sabbath was made to meet the needs of people, and not people to meet the requirements of the Sabbath.
“The Sabbath was made to serve us; we weren’t made to serve the Sabbath.”(verse 28, The Message)
One of the great deceptions we fall into is placing too much emphasis on Sundays. There is nothing intrinsically holy or righteous about Sunday, even though that may be our day of collective worship. Sunday is no more, or less, relevant than any other day of the week. Sunday wasn’t even considered the original Sabbath Day. That honor would fall to Saturday. Christians began worshiping on the first day of the week, Sunday, because most of the early believers were Jewish and would loiter and worship around the synagogues on Saturday, then do the same at a Meeting Place on Sunday. History lessons aside, we get the picture.
The Sabbath Day, or day to rest and focus on worship, can be taken any day of the week. Its simply this – resting in the presence of God. Refocusing. Clearing our minds and hearts. Preparing ourselves to meet God and allow him to love on us. Dropping our burdens, which pale in comparison to his majesty.
God designed the Sabbath day not for His well being, but for ours. It’s a reminder to us of all He’s done, who He is, His love and forgiveness, and His peace and rest. Instead, these Religious Scholars (both then and now) get it unbalanced, making it about what we say and do. Not about what God says and does.
When we fall into this trap, we serve the day, not allow the day to serve us.
One Sabbath day as Jesus was walking through some grainfields, his disciples began breaking off heads of grain to eat. But the Pharisees said to Jesus, “Look, why are they breaking the law by harvesting grain on the Sabbath?” Jesus said to them, “Haven’t you ever read in the Scriptures what David did when he and his companions were hungry? He went into the house of God (during the days when Abiathar was high priest) and broke the law by eating the sacred loaves of bread that only the priests are allowed to eat. He also gave some to his companions.” Then Jesus said to them, “The Sabbath was made to meet the needs of people, and not people to meet the requirements of the Sabbath.
“The Sabbath was made to serve us; we weren’t made to serve the Sabbath.”(verse 28, The Message)
One of the great deceptions we fall into is placing too much emphasis on Sundays. There is nothing intrinsically holy or righteous about Sunday, even though that may be our day of collective worship. Sunday is no more, or less, relevant than any other day of the week. Sunday wasn’t even considered the original Sabbath Day. That honor would fall to Saturday. Christians began worshiping on the first day of the week, Sunday, because most of the early believers were Jewish and would loiter and worship around the synagogues on Saturday, then do the same at a Meeting Place on Sunday. History lessons aside, we get the picture.
The Sabbath Day, or day to rest and focus on worship, can be taken any day of the week. Its simply this – resting in the presence of God. Refocusing. Clearing our minds and hearts. Preparing ourselves to meet God and allow him to love on us. Dropping our burdens, which pale in comparison to his majesty.
God designed the Sabbath day not for His well being, but for ours. It’s a reminder to us of all He’s done, who He is, His love and forgiveness, and His peace and rest. Instead, these Religious Scholars (both then and now) get it unbalanced, making it about what we say and do. Not about what God says and does.
When we fall into this trap, we serve the day, not allow the day to serve us.
Monday, October 17, 2011
A New Creation
Mark 2: 21-22 (NLT)
“Besides, who would patch old clothing with new cloth? For the new patch would shrink and rip away from the old cloth, leaving an even bigger tear than before. And no one puts new wine into old wineskins. For the wine would burst the wineskins, and the wine and the skins would both be lost. New wine calls for new wineskins.”
If any piece of Scripture is crammed into the wrong division, it appears to be this one. Jesus is teaching about fasting when he abruptly ends that stream of conversation and throws this parable on the people. While short on content, its value is priceless.
Parables are simply stories Jesus shared to convey both an earthly and heavenly lesson. Both word pictures teach the same meaning, but let us take a look at the second. (The “wine” is a symbol for the Holy Spirit, which will fill the believers shortly after Jesus ascends to heaven. See Acts 1 and 2.) People in those days often put their wine into pouches made of skin. The pouch would then take its shape from the amount of wine so that by the time it was empty, the pouch had to be done away with. If one attempted to pour new wine into the pouch, it would split, spilling the wine. It couldn’t handle the pressure.
So what does this mean for us?
It simply means that Jesus doesn’t “patch” us up or try to fill us drip by drip so that we won’t burst. It means he makes us completely new, a new creation. The Holy Spirit must thoroughly transform us in order to enter.
“Besides, who would patch old clothing with new cloth? For the new patch would shrink and rip away from the old cloth, leaving an even bigger tear than before. And no one puts new wine into old wineskins. For the wine would burst the wineskins, and the wine and the skins would both be lost. New wine calls for new wineskins.”
If any piece of Scripture is crammed into the wrong division, it appears to be this one. Jesus is teaching about fasting when he abruptly ends that stream of conversation and throws this parable on the people. While short on content, its value is priceless.
Parables are simply stories Jesus shared to convey both an earthly and heavenly lesson. Both word pictures teach the same meaning, but let us take a look at the second. (The “wine” is a symbol for the Holy Spirit, which will fill the believers shortly after Jesus ascends to heaven. See Acts 1 and 2.) People in those days often put their wine into pouches made of skin. The pouch would then take its shape from the amount of wine so that by the time it was empty, the pouch had to be done away with. If one attempted to pour new wine into the pouch, it would split, spilling the wine. It couldn’t handle the pressure.
So what does this mean for us?
It simply means that Jesus doesn’t “patch” us up or try to fill us drip by drip so that we won’t burst. It means he makes us completely new, a new creation. The Holy Spirit must thoroughly transform us in order to enter.
Sunday, October 16, 2011
Feasting vs. Fasting
Mark 2: 18-20 (MSG)
The disciples of John and the disciples of the Pharisees made a practice of fasting. Some people confronted Jesus: “Why do the followers of John and the Pharisees take on the discipline of fasting, but your followers don’t?” Jesus said, “When you’re celebrating a wedding, you don’t skimp on the cake and wine. You feast. Later you may need to pull in your belt, but not now. As long as the bride and groom are with you, you have a good time. No one throws cold water on a friendly bonfire. This is Kingdom Come!”
Feast versus Fast. Or rather, feast and fast. Here, Jesus displays both the value and balance that comes with the food we eat (and indirectly, with everything we do). There is a time for partying and feasting – in the reading, because Jesus was among them in the flesh; in our case, it could be when we perceive God’s Spirit to be closest, like at belly ship or worship service. There are also times for focused prayer and fasting – in the reading, at a time when Christ was no longer physically with them; in our case, when we’re desiring to pull away from the world and draw intimately closer with Jesus.
Cleary, Jesus relates that both times are necessary and important. But we’re not to get hung up on fasting to the point of it becoming a empty religious rite. As with anything with Jesus, it comes down to a person’s heart and motive. Fasting – whether it be food, television, sports, cigarettes, music, books, internet, sex, cell phones, or any number of other things – is simply a way to pull away from distractions and mediate specifically on God. His glory. His purposes for us. His love. Once incorporated into our spiritual walk, it will radically change us and our perspective about God.
For your consideration:
1. Pray that the Lord will start preparing your heart for meeting with him during your fast.
2. Prayerfully determine what you will be fasting. Anything you consider important, or that has taken the place of God in your life, will do.
3. Prayerfully determine the length of your fast. Fasts in the Bible varied. Remember its not the quantity of days, but the quality of your time with God that counts.
4. Prayerfully ask the Lord to meet with you intimately during the fast. Also, request humility during this period. Pride can, and will, sneak in if we allow it. Because you will be weaker than usual, you must lean on God’s strength all the more.
5. Fast…Don’t make a big show of it. If you tell anyone, let it be a partner who will encourage you and help you stay accountable. Remember this is a special time between you and God.
6. At the end of your fast, thank God for meeting with you on such a powerful level. Write down your experiences so that you may be encouraged by growth or to humbly share with others the value of fasting.
The disciples of John and the disciples of the Pharisees made a practice of fasting. Some people confronted Jesus: “Why do the followers of John and the Pharisees take on the discipline of fasting, but your followers don’t?” Jesus said, “When you’re celebrating a wedding, you don’t skimp on the cake and wine. You feast. Later you may need to pull in your belt, but not now. As long as the bride and groom are with you, you have a good time. No one throws cold water on a friendly bonfire. This is Kingdom Come!”
Feast versus Fast. Or rather, feast and fast. Here, Jesus displays both the value and balance that comes with the food we eat (and indirectly, with everything we do). There is a time for partying and feasting – in the reading, because Jesus was among them in the flesh; in our case, it could be when we perceive God’s Spirit to be closest, like at belly ship or worship service. There are also times for focused prayer and fasting – in the reading, at a time when Christ was no longer physically with them; in our case, when we’re desiring to pull away from the world and draw intimately closer with Jesus.
Cleary, Jesus relates that both times are necessary and important. But we’re not to get hung up on fasting to the point of it becoming a empty religious rite. As with anything with Jesus, it comes down to a person’s heart and motive. Fasting – whether it be food, television, sports, cigarettes, music, books, internet, sex, cell phones, or any number of other things – is simply a way to pull away from distractions and mediate specifically on God. His glory. His purposes for us. His love. Once incorporated into our spiritual walk, it will radically change us and our perspective about God.
For your consideration:
1. Pray that the Lord will start preparing your heart for meeting with him during your fast.
2. Prayerfully determine what you will be fasting. Anything you consider important, or that has taken the place of God in your life, will do.
3. Prayerfully determine the length of your fast. Fasts in the Bible varied. Remember its not the quantity of days, but the quality of your time with God that counts.
4. Prayerfully ask the Lord to meet with you intimately during the fast. Also, request humility during this period. Pride can, and will, sneak in if we allow it. Because you will be weaker than usual, you must lean on God’s strength all the more.
5. Fast…Don’t make a big show of it. If you tell anyone, let it be a partner who will encourage you and help you stay accountable. Remember this is a special time between you and God.
6. At the end of your fast, thank God for meeting with you on such a powerful level. Write down your experiences so that you may be encouraged by growth or to humbly share with others the value of fasting.
Saturday, October 15, 2011
Morning Message
Scripture References:
Title or topic of message:
Notes:
Questions I have about the message:
How can I apply this message to my life?
Friday, October 14, 2011
Reflection and Meditation
This week, we have discussed issues like laying down your cross when you get tired or bored, becoming consistent in our relationship building with Jesus, the willingness of Jesus to heal us, the difference between a partial and a complete healing, and hating sin while loving sinners.
With that in mind, reflect and meditate on the following questions:
1. Do you ever grow weary of being a follower of Jesus? Why is resting healthy for your spirit while throwing off Jesus and walking away not healthy for your spirit?
2. Have you been consistent with your quiet time in the past? Have you been consistently reading and thinking about these church-wide devotions? If not, how can you change that? If so, what can you do to continue to do so?
3. Jesus is always willing to help and heal us, whether in this life or the one to come. How does such good news make you feel?
4. In the past, have you been satisfied with a partial healing (over a physical issue) and stopped short of a complete healing (over your heart and spirit)? How can you change that?
5. What are some ways in which we can despise sin but love the sinner?
With that in mind, reflect and meditate on the following questions:
1. Do you ever grow weary of being a follower of Jesus? Why is resting healthy for your spirit while throwing off Jesus and walking away not healthy for your spirit?
2. Have you been consistent with your quiet time in the past? Have you been consistently reading and thinking about these church-wide devotions? If not, how can you change that? If so, what can you do to continue to do so?
3. Jesus is always willing to help and heal us, whether in this life or the one to come. How does such good news make you feel?
4. In the past, have you been satisfied with a partial healing (over a physical issue) and stopped short of a complete healing (over your heart and spirit)? How can you change that?
5. What are some ways in which we can despise sin but love the sinner?
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Loving the Sinner
Mark 2: 13-17 (MSG)
Then Jesus went again to walk alongside the lake. Again a crowd came to him, and he taught them. Strolling along, he saw Levi, son of Alphaeus, at his work collecting taxes. Jesus said, “Come along with me.” He came. Jesus and his disciples were at home having supper with a collection of disreputable guests. Unlikely as it seems, more than a few of them had become followers. The religion scholars and Pharisees saw him keeping this kind of company and lit into his disciples: “What kind of example is this, acting cozy with the riffraff?” Jesus, overhearing, shot back, “Who needs a doctor: the healthy or the sick? I’m here inviting the sin-sick, not the spiritually-fit.”
What is your perception of Jesus?
Do you see him as the pious, judgmental, clean icon in stained glass windows, too holy and untouchable to offer you forgiveness and life-change? Do you believe that he only helps those who help themselves, those who walk under the veneer of outward religion?
If any passage of the Gospel should burn the bridge to that lie, it would be this one.
Jesus is a man of the people. All people. Sinful, dirty, critical, angry, arrogant, atheistic, cheating, lustful, hurting, scared people. If these words don’t cover you, write your description here:___, because you’re covered also. This is radically different from the world’s point of view. Revered teachers of today (many who think they are the Savior) are usually coddled at fancy dinner parties by the wealthy and educated, the holy and intellectual. They tell the world how great they are through their teachings, books, or publicity pushers. Just like it was in Jesus day. The only difference is, whether present or past, Jesus stays the same. And Jesus wasn’t your typical teacher. Jesus hung out with “sinners.” Sinners like you and me. Sinners like the dude hawking change for whiskey on the street corner. Sinners like the girl selling her body for a hit of crack or simply to feel loved. Sinners like the spouse who thinks the grass is greener on the other side.
Imagine it: A “bellyship” which Jesus sits at the head of a table surrounded by pimps, whores, addicts, alcoholics, adulterers, molesters, and us.
Consider this: Jesus loves us just the way we are, but He also loves us too much to let us stay that way.
Then Jesus went again to walk alongside the lake. Again a crowd came to him, and he taught them. Strolling along, he saw Levi, son of Alphaeus, at his work collecting taxes. Jesus said, “Come along with me.” He came. Jesus and his disciples were at home having supper with a collection of disreputable guests. Unlikely as it seems, more than a few of them had become followers. The religion scholars and Pharisees saw him keeping this kind of company and lit into his disciples: “What kind of example is this, acting cozy with the riffraff?” Jesus, overhearing, shot back, “Who needs a doctor: the healthy or the sick? I’m here inviting the sin-sick, not the spiritually-fit.”
What is your perception of Jesus?
Do you see him as the pious, judgmental, clean icon in stained glass windows, too holy and untouchable to offer you forgiveness and life-change? Do you believe that he only helps those who help themselves, those who walk under the veneer of outward religion?
If any passage of the Gospel should burn the bridge to that lie, it would be this one.
Jesus is a man of the people. All people. Sinful, dirty, critical, angry, arrogant, atheistic, cheating, lustful, hurting, scared people. If these words don’t cover you, write your description here:___, because you’re covered also. This is radically different from the world’s point of view. Revered teachers of today (many who think they are the Savior) are usually coddled at fancy dinner parties by the wealthy and educated, the holy and intellectual. They tell the world how great they are through their teachings, books, or publicity pushers. Just like it was in Jesus day. The only difference is, whether present or past, Jesus stays the same. And Jesus wasn’t your typical teacher. Jesus hung out with “sinners.” Sinners like you and me. Sinners like the dude hawking change for whiskey on the street corner. Sinners like the girl selling her body for a hit of crack or simply to feel loved. Sinners like the spouse who thinks the grass is greener on the other side.
Imagine it: A “bellyship” which Jesus sits at the head of a table surrounded by pimps, whores, addicts, alcoholics, adulterers, molesters, and us.
Consider this: Jesus loves us just the way we are, but He also loves us too much to let us stay that way.
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Healing Body and Spirit
Mark 2:1-12
After a few days, Jesus returned to Capernaum, and word got around that he was back home. A crowd gathered, jamming the entrance so no one could get in or out. He was teaching the Word. They brought a paraplegic to him, carried by four men. When they weren't able to get in because of the crowd, they removed part of the roof and lowered the paraplegic on his stretcher. Impressed by their bold belief, Jesus said to the paraplegic, "Son, I forgive your sins." Some religion scholars sitting there started whispering among themselves, "He can't talk that way! That's blasphemy! God and only God can forgive sins." Jesus knew right away what they were thinking, and said, "Why are you so skeptical? Which is simpler: to say to the paraplegic, 'I forgive your sins,' or say, 'Get up, take your stretcher, and start walking'? Well, just so it's clear that I'm the Son of Man and authorized to do either, or both . . ." (he looked now at the paraplegic), "Get up. Pick up your stretcher and go home." And the man did it—got up, grabbed his stretcher, and walked out, with everyone there watching him. They rubbed their eyes, incredulous—and then praised God, saying, "We've never seen anything like this!"
Here is yet another episode where we find Jesus the rock star, who everyone swarmed and couldn’t get enough of, and masses of desperate people, who would do anything to get some “face time” with the Savior. The difference between the last reading and this one is we get a picture of the complete healing Jesus provides. Here is a paraplegic (with good friends) who is lowered into the house because the crowds are so large they couldn’t wedge themselves into the door. It goes to show us what a little imagination, creativity, and desperation can do. Using our imagination, we can see Jesus cracking a smile in joy, impressed by his great faith.
Then Jesus does his thing. He forgives the man’s sins. He cleanses his heart. He transforms the man, beginning with the inside. And the man could have been satisfied with that. Content with his forgiveness and salvation. Happy to be touched by Jesus. But that was only half the story. The rest of the healing was still to come. Jesus not only cleanses the man spiritually, he touches his physical body as well. And the man picked up his mat and walked away praising Jesus.
There are many profound principles permeating this story. First, we see the Godly order of change - it starts with the inside and then moves its way outward. Genuine change begins with the heart and is always followed by outward actions. Secondly, we witness the value of Godly friends. This guy’s friends loved him so much that they lifted him up (or down in this case) in his hour of greatest need. They dropped him into the hands of Jesus, not into the claws of sin. Third, despite the thronging crowds, each of us are special to Jesus.
He loves us, even amongst the crowd.
After a few days, Jesus returned to Capernaum, and word got around that he was back home. A crowd gathered, jamming the entrance so no one could get in or out. He was teaching the Word. They brought a paraplegic to him, carried by four men. When they weren't able to get in because of the crowd, they removed part of the roof and lowered the paraplegic on his stretcher. Impressed by their bold belief, Jesus said to the paraplegic, "Son, I forgive your sins." Some religion scholars sitting there started whispering among themselves, "He can't talk that way! That's blasphemy! God and only God can forgive sins." Jesus knew right away what they were thinking, and said, "Why are you so skeptical? Which is simpler: to say to the paraplegic, 'I forgive your sins,' or say, 'Get up, take your stretcher, and start walking'? Well, just so it's clear that I'm the Son of Man and authorized to do either, or both . . ." (he looked now at the paraplegic), "Get up. Pick up your stretcher and go home." And the man did it—got up, grabbed his stretcher, and walked out, with everyone there watching him. They rubbed their eyes, incredulous—and then praised God, saying, "We've never seen anything like this!"
Here is yet another episode where we find Jesus the rock star, who everyone swarmed and couldn’t get enough of, and masses of desperate people, who would do anything to get some “face time” with the Savior. The difference between the last reading and this one is we get a picture of the complete healing Jesus provides. Here is a paraplegic (with good friends) who is lowered into the house because the crowds are so large they couldn’t wedge themselves into the door. It goes to show us what a little imagination, creativity, and desperation can do. Using our imagination, we can see Jesus cracking a smile in joy, impressed by his great faith.
Then Jesus does his thing. He forgives the man’s sins. He cleanses his heart. He transforms the man, beginning with the inside. And the man could have been satisfied with that. Content with his forgiveness and salvation. Happy to be touched by Jesus. But that was only half the story. The rest of the healing was still to come. Jesus not only cleanses the man spiritually, he touches his physical body as well. And the man picked up his mat and walked away praising Jesus.
There are many profound principles permeating this story. First, we see the Godly order of change - it starts with the inside and then moves its way outward. Genuine change begins with the heart and is always followed by outward actions. Secondly, we witness the value of Godly friends. This guy’s friends loved him so much that they lifted him up (or down in this case) in his hour of greatest need. They dropped him into the hands of Jesus, not into the claws of sin. Third, despite the thronging crowds, each of us are special to Jesus.
He loves us, even amongst the crowd.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
I Am Willing
Mark 1: 40-45 (MSG)
A leper came to him, begging on his knees, "If you want to, you can cleanse me." Deeply moved, Jesus put out his hand, touched him, and said, "I want to. Be clean." Then and there the leprosy was gone, his skin smooth and healthy. Jesus dismissed him with strict orders: "Say nothing to anyone. Take the offering for cleansing that Moses prescribed and present yourself to the priest. This will validate your healing to the people." But as soon as the man was out of earshot, he told everyone he met what had happened, spreading the news all over town. So Jesus kept to out-of-the-way places, no longer able to move freely in and out of the city. But people found him, and came from all over.
Have you ever been desperate? I’m not speaking of things you want. Or things you even need. I’m talking about desperate. Ravaged by your sin nature and the human condition. Marked by disfiguring emotional scars. Infected by marriage threatening parasites. Hammered by the blows of depression and suicidal tendencies. Hungry and thirsty for hope from Jesus. Desperate!
The leper who came to Jesus was desperate. Leprosy was a horrible disease which chewed up the body and raped the mind and snatched away your “clean” family and friends. What strikes us here is the leper is a man of faith. Much like we tend to be. There was no doubt in him that Jesus could heal him. He was only asking Jesus if he would heal him. It was this faith, along with the man’s desperation and condition, which moved Jesus to compassion.
What is your “disease”? Your “leprosy”? Are you hurting bad enough, are you desperate enough to fall on your knees before Jesus and tell him that you know He can heal you, if only He is willing? Then stand in the promise that He will do it. He may heal you instantly. It may take a grueling journey permeated by pain. May even take until He wraps His arms around you in heaven. But the healing will come.
I Am Willing.
A leper came to him, begging on his knees, "If you want to, you can cleanse me." Deeply moved, Jesus put out his hand, touched him, and said, "I want to. Be clean." Then and there the leprosy was gone, his skin smooth and healthy. Jesus dismissed him with strict orders: "Say nothing to anyone. Take the offering for cleansing that Moses prescribed and present yourself to the priest. This will validate your healing to the people." But as soon as the man was out of earshot, he told everyone he met what had happened, spreading the news all over town. So Jesus kept to out-of-the-way places, no longer able to move freely in and out of the city. But people found him, and came from all over.
Have you ever been desperate? I’m not speaking of things you want. Or things you even need. I’m talking about desperate. Ravaged by your sin nature and the human condition. Marked by disfiguring emotional scars. Infected by marriage threatening parasites. Hammered by the blows of depression and suicidal tendencies. Hungry and thirsty for hope from Jesus. Desperate!
The leper who came to Jesus was desperate. Leprosy was a horrible disease which chewed up the body and raped the mind and snatched away your “clean” family and friends. What strikes us here is the leper is a man of faith. Much like we tend to be. There was no doubt in him that Jesus could heal him. He was only asking Jesus if he would heal him. It was this faith, along with the man’s desperation and condition, which moved Jesus to compassion.
What is your “disease”? Your “leprosy”? Are you hurting bad enough, are you desperate enough to fall on your knees before Jesus and tell him that you know He can heal you, if only He is willing? Then stand in the promise that He will do it. He may heal you instantly. It may take a grueling journey permeated by pain. May even take until He wraps His arms around you in heaven. But the healing will come.
I Am Willing.
Monday, October 10, 2011
Quiet Time
Mark 1:35-39 (MSG)
While it was still night, way before dawn, he got up and went out to a secluded spot and prayed. Simon and those with him went looking for him. They found him and said, "Everybody's looking for you." Jesus said, "Let's go to the rest of the villages so I can preach there also. This is why I've come." He went to their meeting places all through Galilee, preaching and throwing out the demons.
In our fast paced society, people must be doing something constantly. Chattering on a cell phone. Updating their Facebook status. Surfing the internet. Shopping. Church. Hanging out with friends. Going to the movies. Going out to eat. Work. Kids. This ministry. That ministry…You get the picture.
While there is nothing inherently wrong with these things (they’re actually good), the problem arises when we get so busy with life and doing things for God, we neglect spending time with God. How is that possible you might ask? Think about the last time you consistently spent time alone with God. Not in corporate worship, but in intimate one-on-one time in relationship. My hope is you answered, “At least the last six days.” If not, take an a moment and reread the Scripture again. Focus on what Jesus did.
Despite being the Savior of the world and the Son of God, Jesus invested relationship-building time with God. He arose in the wee hours of morning, set off for a solitary place, and communicated with God. He shared his thoughts, his praises, his struggles. He gave, and received love. He removed his focus from the clammering crowds and noisy world and placed it on the Father. If Jesus found it worthwhile to pull back sometimes just to be alone with God, should we not also? How much more do we need to seek the face and love of God to make it through our days. When we follow his example, we will find a fulfilling relationship that will grant us the strength to get up and continue pressing forward. And not just pressing forward, but doing so with conviction and hope. You have begun such a journey six days ago (maybe longer than that).
Will you choose to continue?
While it was still night, way before dawn, he got up and went out to a secluded spot and prayed. Simon and those with him went looking for him. They found him and said, "Everybody's looking for you." Jesus said, "Let's go to the rest of the villages so I can preach there also. This is why I've come." He went to their meeting places all through Galilee, preaching and throwing out the demons.
In our fast paced society, people must be doing something constantly. Chattering on a cell phone. Updating their Facebook status. Surfing the internet. Shopping. Church. Hanging out with friends. Going to the movies. Going out to eat. Work. Kids. This ministry. That ministry…You get the picture.
While there is nothing inherently wrong with these things (they’re actually good), the problem arises when we get so busy with life and doing things for God, we neglect spending time with God. How is that possible you might ask? Think about the last time you consistently spent time alone with God. Not in corporate worship, but in intimate one-on-one time in relationship. My hope is you answered, “At least the last six days.” If not, take an a moment and reread the Scripture again. Focus on what Jesus did.
Despite being the Savior of the world and the Son of God, Jesus invested relationship-building time with God. He arose in the wee hours of morning, set off for a solitary place, and communicated with God. He shared his thoughts, his praises, his struggles. He gave, and received love. He removed his focus from the clammering crowds and noisy world and placed it on the Father. If Jesus found it worthwhile to pull back sometimes just to be alone with God, should we not also? How much more do we need to seek the face and love of God to make it through our days. When we follow his example, we will find a fulfilling relationship that will grant us the strength to get up and continue pressing forward. And not just pressing forward, but doing so with conviction and hope. You have begun such a journey six days ago (maybe longer than that).
Will you choose to continue?
Sunday, October 9, 2011
In Season and Out
Mark 1: 29-34 (MSG)
Directly on leaving the meeting place, they came to Simon and Andrew’s house, accompanied by James and John. Simon’s mother-in-law was sick in bed, burning up with fever. They told Jesus. He went to her, took her hand, and raised her up. No sooner had the fever left than she was up fixing dinner for them. That evening, after the sun was down, they brought sick and evil-afflicted people to him, the whole city lined up at his door! He cured their sick bodies and tormented spirits. Because the demons knew his true identity, he didn’t let them say a word.
One thing we notice about Jesus in the Gospels (or any other time for that matter). He never went “off duty” when He left the Meeting Place. In fact, His ministry seemed to be just beginning. He goes by a friend’s house and prays for and heals family members. The he continues the vigil, helping out a mass of people from that town. He had a line out the door and up the street, but He spent time with as many as he could. The term “people person” could describe no one as good as it did Jesus.
Hanging out at our Meeting Place (Refuge) is one of the highlights of our week. But let us not forget that the real flesh and blood of the ministry- going outside the four walls and shining our light before others, that they may see Christ in us, and worship Him because of it. We are the body of Christ, His hands and feet, and like Him, we are to leave the Meeting Place and serve others. Share with them the love and hope we have in Jesus.
Share with them not only in words but in action.
Directly on leaving the meeting place, they came to Simon and Andrew’s house, accompanied by James and John. Simon’s mother-in-law was sick in bed, burning up with fever. They told Jesus. He went to her, took her hand, and raised her up. No sooner had the fever left than she was up fixing dinner for them. That evening, after the sun was down, they brought sick and evil-afflicted people to him, the whole city lined up at his door! He cured their sick bodies and tormented spirits. Because the demons knew his true identity, he didn’t let them say a word.
One thing we notice about Jesus in the Gospels (or any other time for that matter). He never went “off duty” when He left the Meeting Place. In fact, His ministry seemed to be just beginning. He goes by a friend’s house and prays for and heals family members. The he continues the vigil, helping out a mass of people from that town. He had a line out the door and up the street, but He spent time with as many as he could. The term “people person” could describe no one as good as it did Jesus.
Hanging out at our Meeting Place (Refuge) is one of the highlights of our week. But let us not forget that the real flesh and blood of the ministry- going outside the four walls and shining our light before others, that they may see Christ in us, and worship Him because of it. We are the body of Christ, His hands and feet, and like Him, we are to leave the Meeting Place and serve others. Share with them the love and hope we have in Jesus.
Share with them not only in words but in action.
Saturday, October 8, 2011
Morning Message
Scripture References:
Title or topic of message:
Notes:
Questions I have about the message:
How can I apply this message to my life?
Title or topic of message:
Notes:
Questions I have about the message:
How can I apply this message to my life?
Friday, October 7, 2011
Reflection and Meditation
This week, we discussed preparing our hearts for the Good New of Jesus, seeing people (including ourselves) as Jesus sees them, Jesus facing the same temptations and struggles as us, following Christ without looking back, and practicing what we preach. With that in mind, reflect and meditate on the following questions and write your responses.
1. How have I prepared my heart to receive Christ and those things He would have for me?
2. Do I see people the way Jesus sees people, with unconditional love and compassion? Do I see MYSELF the way Jesus sees me, with love and grace?
3. How does it make you feel that Jesus went through dark and depressing times also? Does his going through and conquering human struggles give you hope that through Him, you can do it as well?
4. Have you heard (or are you hearing now) Jesus say, “Follow me.” How have you responded? If you have not, will you now?
5. Do you practice what you preach? Are you a light to those around you to the point where they gravitate toward you? Or would they see you as a lukewarm hypocrite?
1. How have I prepared my heart to receive Christ and those things He would have for me?
2. Do I see people the way Jesus sees people, with unconditional love and compassion? Do I see MYSELF the way Jesus sees me, with love and grace?
3. How does it make you feel that Jesus went through dark and depressing times also? Does his going through and conquering human struggles give you hope that through Him, you can do it as well?
4. Have you heard (or are you hearing now) Jesus say, “Follow me.” How have you responded? If you have not, will you now?
5. Do you practice what you preach? Are you a light to those around you to the point where they gravitate toward you? Or would they see you as a lukewarm hypocrite?
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Living The Message
Mark 1: 21-28 (MSG)
Then they entered Capernaum. When the Sabbath arrived, Jesus lost no time in getting to the meeting place. He spent the day there teaching. They were surprised at his teaching—so forthright, so confident—not quibbling and quoting like the religion scholars. Suddenly, while still in the meeting place, he was interrupted by a man who was deeply disturbed and yelling out, "What business do you have here with us, Jesus? Nazarene! I know what you're up to! You're the Holy One of God, and you've come to destroy us!" Jesus shut him up: "Quiet! Get out of him!" The afflicting spirit threw the man into spasms, protesting loudly—and got out. Everyone there was incredulous, buzzing with curiosity. "What's going on here? A new teaching that does what it says? He shuts up defiling, demonic spirits and sends them packing!" News of this traveled fast and was soon all over Galilee.
Jesus loved people. And while He understood and practiced balanced isolation, He loved (and still loves) being around all sorts of people. In this passage, as in so many others, we find Him headed for the Meeting Place, teaching the people, sharing His experiences, divulging His knowledge, spreading His wisdom, sowing His love. The gathered mobs not only listened to His message, but were amazed by it. What was so stunning about His teaching? He lived it out in front of the people. Jesus always practiced what He preached. That was such a foreign concept to them because they witnessed the hypocrisies of the religion scholars on a daily basis. I wonder if people swarm to us because of the light-love within us. When they look at us, do they see the embodiment of Jesus or a modern day version of the Pharisees?
In the midst of this spiritual outpouring, a demon possessed man interrupts the proceedings. Although this is a uncomfortable topic for some, it’s a very real part of life. Especially that of Jesus. We have an awesome service, prayer time, or Bible study. And the next thing you know, you encounter something you can’t explain. Something sinister. A person with addictions or mental problems. An evil presence. Whatever. While we shouldn’t fear, we can’t tackle such things alone. We can, however, call upon the One who can.
Through Jesus, even the possessed can be made whole again!
Then they entered Capernaum. When the Sabbath arrived, Jesus lost no time in getting to the meeting place. He spent the day there teaching. They were surprised at his teaching—so forthright, so confident—not quibbling and quoting like the religion scholars. Suddenly, while still in the meeting place, he was interrupted by a man who was deeply disturbed and yelling out, "What business do you have here with us, Jesus? Nazarene! I know what you're up to! You're the Holy One of God, and you've come to destroy us!" Jesus shut him up: "Quiet! Get out of him!" The afflicting spirit threw the man into spasms, protesting loudly—and got out. Everyone there was incredulous, buzzing with curiosity. "What's going on here? A new teaching that does what it says? He shuts up defiling, demonic spirits and sends them packing!" News of this traveled fast and was soon all over Galilee.
Jesus loved people. And while He understood and practiced balanced isolation, He loved (and still loves) being around all sorts of people. In this passage, as in so many others, we find Him headed for the Meeting Place, teaching the people, sharing His experiences, divulging His knowledge, spreading His wisdom, sowing His love. The gathered mobs not only listened to His message, but were amazed by it. What was so stunning about His teaching? He lived it out in front of the people. Jesus always practiced what He preached. That was such a foreign concept to them because they witnessed the hypocrisies of the religion scholars on a daily basis. I wonder if people swarm to us because of the light-love within us. When they look at us, do they see the embodiment of Jesus or a modern day version of the Pharisees?
In the midst of this spiritual outpouring, a demon possessed man interrupts the proceedings. Although this is a uncomfortable topic for some, it’s a very real part of life. Especially that of Jesus. We have an awesome service, prayer time, or Bible study. And the next thing you know, you encounter something you can’t explain. Something sinister. A person with addictions or mental problems. An evil presence. Whatever. While we shouldn’t fear, we can’t tackle such things alone. We can, however, call upon the One who can.
Through Jesus, even the possessed can be made whole again!
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Empty Nets Along the Shore
Mark 1: 14- 20
After John was arrested, Jesus went to Galilee preaching the Message of God: "Time's up! God's kingdom is here. Change your life and believe the Message." Passing along the beach of Lake Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew net-fishing. Fishing was their regular work. Jesus said to them, "Come with me. I'll make a new kind of fisherman out of you. I'll show you how to catch men and women instead of perch and bass." They didn't ask questions. They dropped their nets and followed. A dozen yards or so down the beach, he saw the brothers James and John, Zebedee's sons. They were in the boat, mending their fishnets. Right off, he made the same offer. Immediately, they left their father Zebedee, the boat, and the hired hands, and followed.
In the 1990s, amongst all the angst-ridden music of my troubled generation, was a song I came across that left an indelible mark on me. Back then, I didn’t care about the song or even like the song for that matter. But the lyrics stuck in my soul. They bothered me, kept me up at night, and ultimately, years later, helped lead me to Christ. The song was inspired by the reading today. My memory is a bit foggy but at its most poignant moment, the song goes something like: “Empty nets lying there by the water’s side, Told a story that few could believe, And none could explain, How some crazy fishermen, Agreed to go where Jesus led, He said come follow me and they came, With reckless abandon they came.”
Allow the lyrics to puncture our heart a moment. These guys were average stiffs. They worked hard, talked trash, loved their families, drank wine, cursed the government, got by. But then one day this dude comes walking up to them on their job, in their life, on the ground. And all He says is “Follow me.” Whether or not they had known anything about Jesus already is not related by Mark’s Gospel. But what is written is, “They didn’t ask any questions. They dropped their nets and followed.” (The Message). They essentially placed their lives (families and all) into the hands of Jesus. That’s faith.
Do we have the same faith? Have we followed Christ with “reckless abandon”? Have we given him everything? Our hopes? Our dreams? Our families? Our addictions?
Twelve changed the world. If we as a church do so the same, imagine the result.
After John was arrested, Jesus went to Galilee preaching the Message of God: "Time's up! God's kingdom is here. Change your life and believe the Message." Passing along the beach of Lake Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew net-fishing. Fishing was their regular work. Jesus said to them, "Come with me. I'll make a new kind of fisherman out of you. I'll show you how to catch men and women instead of perch and bass." They didn't ask questions. They dropped their nets and followed. A dozen yards or so down the beach, he saw the brothers James and John, Zebedee's sons. They were in the boat, mending their fishnets. Right off, he made the same offer. Immediately, they left their father Zebedee, the boat, and the hired hands, and followed.
In the 1990s, amongst all the angst-ridden music of my troubled generation, was a song I came across that left an indelible mark on me. Back then, I didn’t care about the song or even like the song for that matter. But the lyrics stuck in my soul. They bothered me, kept me up at night, and ultimately, years later, helped lead me to Christ. The song was inspired by the reading today. My memory is a bit foggy but at its most poignant moment, the song goes something like: “Empty nets lying there by the water’s side, Told a story that few could believe, And none could explain, How some crazy fishermen, Agreed to go where Jesus led, He said come follow me and they came, With reckless abandon they came.”
Allow the lyrics to puncture our heart a moment. These guys were average stiffs. They worked hard, talked trash, loved their families, drank wine, cursed the government, got by. But then one day this dude comes walking up to them on their job, in their life, on the ground. And all He says is “Follow me.” Whether or not they had known anything about Jesus already is not related by Mark’s Gospel. But what is written is, “They didn’t ask any questions. They dropped their nets and followed.” (The Message). They essentially placed their lives (families and all) into the hands of Jesus. That’s faith.
Do we have the same faith? Have we followed Christ with “reckless abandon”? Have we given him everything? Our hopes? Our dreams? Our families? Our addictions?
Twelve changed the world. If we as a church do so the same, imagine the result.
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Blue Mondays
Mark 1: 9-13 (MSG)
At this time, Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. The moment he came out of the water, he saw the sky split open and God's Spirit, looking like a dove, come down on him. Along with the Spirit, a voice: "You are my Son, chosen and marked by my love, pride of my life." God's Kingdom Is Here! At once, this same Spirit pushed Jesus out into the wild. For forty wilderness days and nights he was tested by Satan. Wild animals were his companions, and angels took care of him.
We’ve all been there. We roll out of bed, scrape the sleep crusties from our eyes, guzzle the coffee, and dread the upcoming day and week. We already miss the worshipful exuberance of the Sunday morning service. We long for the suffocating peace and love of the Holy Spirit during the Sunday night prayer time. We yearn for the elusive dream that would make everyday like Sunday, not because of football, but because that is the day we set aside specifically to come together. Something we may not realize however: Jesus felt the same way.
Jesus loves us so much he chose to live in the flesh like we do, adopting the human condition as his own. That means whatever we’ve been through, He’s been through. Imagine the emotions and feelings stirring among Jesus as He is baptized by John, the humbling act announcing his mission to the world. As if that were not enough, God splits the heavens and says something along the lines of, “I love you, son. I’m proud of you.” Sounds like a Sunday for us. But then…
The Gospel goes on to say, “At once” Jesus was sent to the desert to be tempted. Sound familiar? No sooner have we calmed from a mighty move of the Holy Spirit than we are thrust back into the real world, a place doing everything in its power to deter us from our life-change. But Jesus did it so that we might have the strength, through Him, to do it also.
Jesus walked through your Mondays. How does that make you feel?
At this time, Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. The moment he came out of the water, he saw the sky split open and God's Spirit, looking like a dove, come down on him. Along with the Spirit, a voice: "You are my Son, chosen and marked by my love, pride of my life." God's Kingdom Is Here! At once, this same Spirit pushed Jesus out into the wild. For forty wilderness days and nights he was tested by Satan. Wild animals were his companions, and angels took care of him.
We’ve all been there. We roll out of bed, scrape the sleep crusties from our eyes, guzzle the coffee, and dread the upcoming day and week. We already miss the worshipful exuberance of the Sunday morning service. We long for the suffocating peace and love of the Holy Spirit during the Sunday night prayer time. We yearn for the elusive dream that would make everyday like Sunday, not because of football, but because that is the day we set aside specifically to come together. Something we may not realize however: Jesus felt the same way.
Jesus loves us so much he chose to live in the flesh like we do, adopting the human condition as his own. That means whatever we’ve been through, He’s been through. Imagine the emotions and feelings stirring among Jesus as He is baptized by John, the humbling act announcing his mission to the world. As if that were not enough, God splits the heavens and says something along the lines of, “I love you, son. I’m proud of you.” Sounds like a Sunday for us. But then…
The Gospel goes on to say, “At once” Jesus was sent to the desert to be tempted. Sound familiar? No sooner have we calmed from a mighty move of the Holy Spirit than we are thrust back into the real world, a place doing everything in its power to deter us from our life-change. But Jesus did it so that we might have the strength, through Him, to do it also.
Jesus walked through your Mondays. How does that make you feel?
Monday, October 3, 2011
Judging a Book by its Cover
Mark 1:4- 8 (MSG)
John the Baptizer appeared in the wild, preaching a baptism of life-change that leads to forgiveness of sins. People thronged to him from Judea and Jerusalem and, as they confessed their sins, were baptized by him in the Jordan River into a changed life. John wore a camel-hair habit, tied at the waist with a leather belt. He ate locusts and wild field honey. As he preached he said, "The real action comes next: The star in this drama, to whom I'm a mere stagehand, will change your life. I'm baptizing you here in the river, turning your old life in for a kingdom life. His baptism—a holy baptism by the Holy Spirit—will change you from the inside out."
Two things stick out more than any other in the reading today. First, God’s choice to be the “introduction” to Jesus’ earthly ministry. By worldly standards, John (the Baptist, not the Pastor) was as mentally disturbed as they come with his myriad of odd behaviors and bohemian lifestyle. He shouted about repentance, how God was coming soon and he wore camel skins and ate locusts. Remind you of anyone you may have seen on the street corner lately? But this is what God does over and over again. He uses those things and those people that the world writes off to be His light to the world. (There is hope for you and I!). It’s a reminder that we should not judge by worldly appearances because God can use anyone to spread the Gospel. So part of our life-change is seeing the world differently- from the alcoholics and addicts in the shelter to the kids in our classrooms.
The second thing leaping off the page is this: Despite his message being one of repentance and death-to-self, the people thronged from all over the countryside to hear- and follow- this baptism. This is but a small example showing us how much people truly want, and desperately need, hope. And we desperately want to make a change and become willing to do anything to make it happen. To be open and honest in confession. To change. To find purpose and direction. To fill the Jesus-shaped void within.
Are you desperate or hungry enough for God that you will make a life-change?
John the Baptizer appeared in the wild, preaching a baptism of life-change that leads to forgiveness of sins. People thronged to him from Judea and Jerusalem and, as they confessed their sins, were baptized by him in the Jordan River into a changed life. John wore a camel-hair habit, tied at the waist with a leather belt. He ate locusts and wild field honey. As he preached he said, "The real action comes next: The star in this drama, to whom I'm a mere stagehand, will change your life. I'm baptizing you here in the river, turning your old life in for a kingdom life. His baptism—a holy baptism by the Holy Spirit—will change you from the inside out."
Two things stick out more than any other in the reading today. First, God’s choice to be the “introduction” to Jesus’ earthly ministry. By worldly standards, John (the Baptist, not the Pastor) was as mentally disturbed as they come with his myriad of odd behaviors and bohemian lifestyle. He shouted about repentance, how God was coming soon and he wore camel skins and ate locusts. Remind you of anyone you may have seen on the street corner lately? But this is what God does over and over again. He uses those things and those people that the world writes off to be His light to the world. (There is hope for you and I!). It’s a reminder that we should not judge by worldly appearances because God can use anyone to spread the Gospel. So part of our life-change is seeing the world differently- from the alcoholics and addicts in the shelter to the kids in our classrooms.
The second thing leaping off the page is this: Despite his message being one of repentance and death-to-self, the people thronged from all over the countryside to hear- and follow- this baptism. This is but a small example showing us how much people truly want, and desperately need, hope. And we desperately want to make a change and become willing to do anything to make it happen. To be open and honest in confession. To change. To find purpose and direction. To fill the Jesus-shaped void within.
Are you desperate or hungry enough for God that you will make a life-change?
Sunday, October 2, 2011
Preparing For The Message
Mark 1:1-3 (MSG)
The good news of Jesus Christ—the Message!—begins here, following to the letter the scroll of the prophet Isaiah.
Watch closely: I'm sending my preacher ahead of you;
He'll make the road smooth for you.
Thunder in the desert!
Prepare for God's arrival!
Stories impact our lives. The opening verses of this Gospel introduce us to the greatest story in existence- Jesus, God wrapped-in-flesh, coming to reconcile us to Himself. And in its introductory verses, an old story, recently resurfacing again in the film Facing the Giants, mirrors this news.The story goes that there was two farmers, both of which were praying for God to deliver rain. One of the farmers, however, not only prayed for rain, but cultivated his fields in preparation for the downpour. Which do you think received the answer to his prayers?
This story reflects the Gospel story. God stands excitedly ready and willing to shower us with his unwavering, unconditional love, peace, and hope. We simply must prepare the field of our hearts to receive Him. And how do we do that? We follow the direction of the Holy Spirit in our lives and the words He inspired in the Scriptures. Verse three says, “Prepare for God’s arrival! Make the road smooth and straight!” (The Message). To “make the road smooth and straight,” we need to take an honest, probing look at ourselves. Take note of anything that stands in our way of a transparent love relationship with Jesus. Confess the mess to God and to a close friend. Begin life anew in Jesus Christ. Walk with Him on a daily basis.
Is your heart prepared for a downpour of God’s Spirit?
The good news of Jesus Christ—the Message!—begins here, following to the letter the scroll of the prophet Isaiah.
Watch closely: I'm sending my preacher ahead of you;
He'll make the road smooth for you.
Thunder in the desert!
Prepare for God's arrival!
Stories impact our lives. The opening verses of this Gospel introduce us to the greatest story in existence- Jesus, God wrapped-in-flesh, coming to reconcile us to Himself. And in its introductory verses, an old story, recently resurfacing again in the film Facing the Giants, mirrors this news.The story goes that there was two farmers, both of which were praying for God to deliver rain. One of the farmers, however, not only prayed for rain, but cultivated his fields in preparation for the downpour. Which do you think received the answer to his prayers?
This story reflects the Gospel story. God stands excitedly ready and willing to shower us with his unwavering, unconditional love, peace, and hope. We simply must prepare the field of our hearts to receive Him. And how do we do that? We follow the direction of the Holy Spirit in our lives and the words He inspired in the Scriptures. Verse three says, “Prepare for God’s arrival! Make the road smooth and straight!” (The Message). To “make the road smooth and straight,” we need to take an honest, probing look at ourselves. Take note of anything that stands in our way of a transparent love relationship with Jesus. Confess the mess to God and to a close friend. Begin life anew in Jesus Christ. Walk with Him on a daily basis.
Is your heart prepared for a downpour of God’s Spirit?
Saturday, October 1, 2011
Morning Message
Scripture References:
Title or topic of message:
Notes:
Questions I have about the message:
How can I apply this message to my life?
Title or topic of message:
Notes:
Questions I have about the message:
How can I apply this message to my life?
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