Robyn's Thoughts

Robyn's Thoughts Are Moving

2010-11-22T10:12:00.000-08:00

Holiday Devotions and Robyn's NEW thoughts

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THE WAY I SEE IT

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Hand Me A Sword!

2010-11-15T17:10:00.000-08:00

I have recently been reading a rather inspiring book by a well known Christian author, about living life from and for a greater glory. He talks about the importance of seeing ourselves engaged in a bigger God-story. Discovering our inner hero so to speak. Although I am fascinated by the "heart" of this book, and finding his insights interesting and uplifting, there is one underlying attitude that this author is consistent in that drives me simply crazy: his disturbingly objectifying opinion regarding women.

No sooner does he tell us that we must draw our earliest identities from Genesis 1 (our original design) instead of Genesis 3 (the original sin) then he turns around and says that at the core of every man is the question of his manhood – “is he brave?”; and at the core of every woman is the question of her womanhood – “is she beautiful?” REALLY?? The core image issue of manhood is courageousness yet the core image issue of womanhood is attractiveness? My Original Design was about beauty? While men are secretly hoping to be Braveheart, women are inwardly singing, "I feel pretty?"

Genesis 1 says: Then God said, “Let us make human beings in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.”
So God created human beings in his own image,
in the image of God he created them;
male and female he created them. Genesis 1.26-27

And Genesis 2 tells me that woman was created to be an ezer neged -- or "face to face partner" also contextually translated as "warrior partner" (the term ezer is used elsewhere in the OT in the context of warrior. For an excellent study on this I highly recommend Carolyn Custis James’ Lost Women of the Bible). Adam declared Eve, bone of my bone, flesh of my flesh -- not, the “object I will now gaze at and must rescue because she is so pretty.” BEFORE the fall, Adam and Eve worked side by side, sharing God's joint calling to steward the earth. And while I’m at it, can I just mention the Proverbs 31 woman? Clothed with strength and dignity (v 25), the concluding summation of her:

Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.

Honor her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate. Proverbs 31.30-31

I do appreciate the core message of this book, and enjoy the wonderful allusions to "myth" and "magic" -- in the deepest, truest, most gallantly inspiring sense of the words. By using heart-rousing story-examples from the likes of JRR Tolkien, CS Lewis, The Wizard of Oz, and even the Lion King and The Matrix, the author encourages us to elevate our perceptions of our “truest selves" to the glory we were created to reflect. I just wish his "heroic" view of men included women as equal "heroes" -- not merely Fairytale Princesses. My grandson's favorite movie right now is How To Train Your Dragon. One of the things I love about this movie is that they show the Vikings working and fighting side by side, men and women together -- which (according to many historians) was actually true of the Viking culture. Women went to the battlefield with the men, knowing, as Eowyn remarks in Lord of the Rings when Aragon comments on her skill with the sword, "The women of this country learned long ago, those without swords can still die upon them."

So why does this admittedly side issue rankle me so? Because it is demeaning enough that our culture (the "world") promotes this restricting and subjugating attitude about women, but it is particularly onerous when a promoter of our faith echoes it. To fulfill my calling, my Kingdom purpose, I need neither pedestal nor protector. I need a sword.

Authority and Power

2010-08-11T08:25:00.000-07:00

And he went down to Capernaum, a city of Galilee. And he was teaching them on the Sabbath, and they were astonished at his teaching, for his word possessed authority. And in the synagogue there was a man who had the spirit of an unclean demon, and he cried out with a loud voice, “Ha! What have you to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are—the Holy One of God.” But Jesus rebuked him, saying, “Be silent and come out of him!” And when the demon had thrown him down in their midst, he came out of him, having done him no harm. And they were all amazed and said to one another, “What is this word? For with authority and power he commands the unclean spirits, and they come out!” And reports about him went out into every place in the surrounding region. Luke 4:31-37

Once again we see the Lord’s custom of being in the synagogue on the Sabbath, and once again we see Him teaching. It is an example He set from His boyhood (See Luke 2:42-49). When Jesus seems “lost” to us, the House of God is good place to start our search. “Why were you looking for me? Did you not know that I must be in my Father’s house?” (Luke 2:49). When we come to the Father’s House to truly seek the Lord’s Presence, His Words will resonate with the truth of His authority, and His Presence will stir our spirit with His Holy Power.

Let’s Do Something About It
· Spend a few moments today thinking about your faith community.
· Are you regularly attending community services?
· Are you listening to the Lord’s Teaching on a regular basis?
· Are you experiencing the Lord’s powerful Presence on a regular basis?
· Do you need to make more space in your life for regular church attendance?

The Spirit of the Lord

2010-06-02T07:57:00.000-07:00

And Jesus returned [from the time of testing] in the power of the Spirit to Galilee, and a report about him went out through all the surrounding country. And he taught in their synagogues, being glorified by all. Luke 4:14-15

When the Spirit of God is allowed full power in our lives, it is evident to everyone – even to those who may not understand, appreciate or agree with our faith, there is a quality about us that is unmistakable and unavoidable. Of course, few truly manifest that power. For many of us, our own agendas, messages, opinions, preferences, priorities, and attitudes get in the way. What was it that He taught in the synagogues? That the Kingdom of God had come!

How do we return from our times of testing? Filled with new focus and energy on God, or worn out from the fight? Do we bring the glorious Kingdom of God with us, or do we bring tales of woe? Does our demeanor invite others into our stories of God’s love and victory, or does it tend to make others quickly duck down another aisle at the grocery story in haste when they see us coming?

God’s power invites others in, because it is His Will that all should know His great love and mercy. That is why it is Good News, and that is the news we need to be bringing with us. Good News finds its roots in thankfulness and its expression in praise.

Let’s Do Something About It

Cultivate thankfulness Colossians 3:15b (The Message)

God’s Goodness is reflected in our praises and our thankfulness. When we cultivate thankfulness, we invite others in to our gratitude and joy.

· Today, make it a point to cultivate [develop, nurture, promote, tend, work on] thankfulness,

· then take a few moments at the end of the day to record the things you are grateful for.

· Share your list with someone.

Really? You Sent This to Me?

2010-04-25T13:18:00.000-07:00

There has been a disturbing ‘joke’ going around the Internet lately. It goes like this:

"DEAR LORD, THIS YEAR YOU TOOK MY FAVORITE ACTOR, PATRICK SWAYZIE. YOU TOOK MY FAVORITE ACTRESS, FARAH FAWCETT. YOU TOOK MY FAVORITE SINGER, MICHAEL JACKSON. I JUST WANTED TO LET YOU KNOW, MY FAVORITE PRESIDENT IS BARACK OBAMA. AMEN"

What is disturbing to me is not that this kind of coarse 'humor' is out there, but that it is being sent to me by my friends who claim to be followers of Christ. That this brand of mean-spiritedness is not only finding safe harbor in their thoughts, but is also being openly expressed and published truly saddens me. Furthermore, I am deeply ashamed that apparently my personal life has so poorly reflected the character of Christ that they would assume I would appreciate something like this.

I know, some will say, “Come on Robyn, it’s just a joke, lighten up.” But that is just the problem. I can find no humor or light in this brand of coarse folly that brutalizes prayer, death, and diversity.

Regardless of your (or my) political positions, instead of praying for the death of our political opponents, wouldn’t prayer be better encouraged for how we can join together to fulfill our mandate to “Learn to do good. Seek justice. Help the oppressed. Defend the cause of orphans. Fight for the rights of widows” (Isaiah 1:17)?

Now, I assume (at least I hope) that no actual prayers are being thus said, so then why spread such divisive drivel? Can we not serve the Internet and our causes better by spreading words of hope and inspiration? Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. (Hebrews 10:24) and try to not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. (Ephesians 4:29)

Ok, I know that even now I am no doubt being dropped from many “friends” lists, or maybe even being added to the ‘joke,’ “Dear God, Robyn is my ‘favorite’ blogger…”

But that’s ok I can live with that.

See you in May!

2010-03-31T06:46:00.000-07:00

Robyn's Thoughts is going on hiatus for the month of April.

Look for new thoughts coming in May!

Ministered by Angels

2010-03-26T06:00:00.000-07:00

Then the devil left him, and behold, angels came and were ministering to him. Matthew 4:11 (See also Mark 1:13)

There is one more lesson we learn from Jesus’ time in the wilderness, and that is that God does not leave us unattended. At the end of His testing, hungry and exhausted, God sent angels to take care of Him.

We who have the Spirit of God living in us never need to face the tempter alone – Jesus’ victorious spirit empowers, encourages, and directs us if we seek it. And through it all we are attended by angelic assistance. It may come in the form of heavenly messengers giving us words of comfort or support; or in the form of unexpected acts of mercy or grace given to us by friends or even strangers; a kind word, an unexpected smile or hug… there is no telling where or when, but if you are watchful, you will discover it, most likely just when you need it the most.

Don’t miss the ministration of angels in your life. Look for it, remember it, and then pass it on.

Let’s Do Something About It

· Think back on times in your life when at just the right time someone encouraged you. Jot down your memory. Recall the details and how it made you feel. Spend a few moments thanking God that we need never face hard times or times of testing alone.

· If you are going through a difficult time right now, or facing a time of testing, begin to look for God’s Hand of Grace in your life. Often we miss His “ministering angels” because we are so focused on our own problems. Look for them; take notice of them, thank God for them.

· Consider the people around you. Is there someone in your life who needs an extra act of grace today? Consider how you might be an “angel” – a messenger of God’s love – to them.

Looking for Opportunity

2010-03-25T06:05:00.000-07:00

And when the devil had ended every temptation, he departed from him until an opportune time. Luke 4:13

Unable to distract, discourage, or defeat Jesus the devil gave up … for now. We miss an important lesson if we miss the detail that though he was overcome for now, the devil would nonetheless be on the lookout for another opportunity to strike again. 1Peter 5:8 tells us that, “Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.” Successfully coming through a time of testing is not guarantee that the testing is over. We need to be on the lookout and prepared – continually testing our passions, perspective, and priorities ourselves, lest we fall prey to the devil’s wiles.

Let’s Do Something About It

Jesus responded to the devils tests with the proper use of scripture – how capable are you to respond appropriately to the enemy with God’s Word? One way to be armed and prepared for Satan’s attacks and tests is by constantly examining your passions, perspective, and priorities in the light of scripture. To do that, it is necessary to continually be reading, studying, discussing, and meditating on the Word of God. Prayerfully consider,

· How regularly and in how many different ways are you exposing yourself to God’s Word? Ask God to show you ways can you fortify your understanding and application of scripture in your life.

· Ask the Holy Spirit to show you ways to make studying the scriptures new and fresh. If you study the Bible regularly consider changing translations or methods for a while.

Pass or Fail?

2010-03-21T18:58:00.000-07:00

And when the devil had ended every temptation, he departed from him until an opportune time. Luke 4:13

Three temptations, three tests. The devil was determined to test Jesus, to see if He really was the Beloved, the Son of God. Three tests of character, three tests we all face at one time or another if we truly want to serve God.

1. The devil said to him, “If you are the Son of God, command this stone to become bread.” And Jesus answered him, “It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone.’” Luke 4:3-4

The test of passion – are our desires for things of earth or heaven? Do we rely on earthly products, or is our primarily reliance on the resources of Heaven?

2. And the devil took him up and showed him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time, and said to him, “To you I will give all this authority and their glory, for it has been delivered to me, and I give it to whom I will. If you, then, will worship me, it will all be yours.” And Jesus answered him, “It is written, ‘You shall worship the Lord your God, and him only shall you serve.’” Luke 4:5-8

The test of perspective – do we entertain illusions of grandeur or are we committed to worship God as servants? Do we strive for position, power, and prestige, or are we committed to devotion in worship and humbleness in service?

3. And he took him to Jerusalem and set him on the pinnacle of the temple and said to him, “If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down from here, for it is written, “‘He will command his angels concerning you, to guard you,’ and “‘On their hands they will bear you up, lest you strike your foot against a stone.’” And Jesus answered him, “It is said, ‘You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.” Luke 4:9-13

The test of priority – do we attempt to use our faith as a tool to empower our own agenda, or is our faith simply and purely born out of devotion for God?

We will face temptations and tests everyday, but through His testing, Jesus has shown us the way of victory. Follow Him closely, and we will be victorious too.

Let’s Do Something About It

· Prayerfully consider if there is a particular area that you are weak in, or that may be open to the devil’s temptations.

· Ask the Holy Spirit to show you steps you can take to protect your heart and mind in times of testing, and to steps to keep you strong and attentive at all times.

Sensational Entitlement

2010-03-20T15:14:00.000-07:00

And [the devil] took [Jesus] to Jerusalem and set him on the pinnacle of the temple and said to him, “If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down from here, for it is written,

“‘He will command his angels concerning you, to guard you,’ and

“‘On their hands they will bear you up, lest you strike your foot against a stone.’”

And Jesus answered him, “It is said, ‘You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.’” Luke 4:9-12

The devil took Jesus to the Holy City, to the Holy Temple, to the highest position in the temple, and tempted Him with sensation. “Perform a marvelous feat! Show God’s power by putting it on display! Exploit the miraculous!” Think of the tickets you could sell!

Once again, Jesus reply reveals the true motive of the devil’s test: to “prove” God. If God is real, if you are the beloved, then He will be obligated to perform according to our interpretation and/or manipulation of His Word. Jesus’ response denied the devil’s attempt to exploit God’s power.

When the expression of our faith becomes an avenue for the sensational. When our prayer life becomes demand instead worship. When we begin to believe that we are entitled to specify God’s performance according to our own interpretation of His Word, then we have lost sight of true faith. We do not test God, we trust God. We do not demand that the Almighty “back our play,” we humbly submit to His Will. We must beware of the danger of entitlement thinking, of believing that God is somehow obligated to respond the way we have decided or concocted. We must guard against the creeping idea that God serves us.

Let’s Do Something About It

· Ask the Holy Spirit to examine your motives and goals. Are you seeking sensational or humbleness in your faith?

· Honestly consider, who is calling the shots in your faith life? Are you expecting God to respond to your agenda, plans, or expectations, or are you submitting to His agenda, plans, and will? Ask the Holy Spirit to lead you into an attitude of worship.

True Power

2010-03-16T09:07:00.000-07:00

And the devil took [Jesus] up and showed him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time, and said to him, “To you I will give all this authority and their glory, for it has been delivered to me, and I give it to whom I will. If you, then, will worship me, it will all be yours.” And Jesus answered him, “It is written,

“‘You shall worship the Lord your God,

and him only shall you serve.’” Luke 4:5-8

The temptation of power. Humans crave it. It was the root of the original sin. Satan tempted Eve with the prospect of “becoming like God” (see Genesis 3:5). Power is addicting. When our goal is to become powerful, our power becomes the object of our worship – our focus, our primary agenda, our priority, and the consumption of our resources, energy, and time.

Jesus cut through the image of Satan’s words and went to the heart. Worship and serve God alone. Our greatest calling, our embodiment of God’s image-in-us, is not how great we become, but how well we serve. To follow Christ is not to aspire to greatness, but to be compelled to service. Jesus told his followers,

“You know that those who are considered rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. But it shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

Mark 10:42-45

Seeking earthly power is the exact opposite of the attitude of Christ. Beware of seeking earthly power, for it is not far from the enemy’s domain.

Let’s Do Something About It

· Prayerfully consider if there is an area of your life where you are demanding authority over others. Ask God to show you how you might turn that area of your life around to being a place of serving others instead.

· Meditate on Philippians 2:4-11. Consider journaling any insights or questions you may have.

Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who,

though he was in the form of God,

did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped,

but made himself nothing,

taking the form of a servant,

being born in the likeness of men.

And being found in human form,

he humbled himself

by becoming obedient to the point of death,

even death on a cross.

Therefore God has highly exalted him

and bestowed on him the name

that is above every name,

so that at the name of Jesus

every knee should bow,

in heaven and on earth and under the earth,

and every tongue confess

that Jesus Christ is Lord,

to the glory of God the Father.

Necessity or Accessory?

2010-03-12T07:50:00.001-08:00

The enemy tempted Jesus to prove His identity by using His powers to turn something of no value into something supposedly essential. The true nature of the devil’s temptations are revealed in Jesus’ responses. The enemy assumed that bread was essential – but Jesus counters, “It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone.’” (Luke 4:4). Jesus is quoting from the book of Deuteronomy, when God addresses the Jews after forty years of desert wandering,

You shall remember … that the LORD your God has led you these forty years in the wilderness, that he might humble you, testing you to know what was in your heart, whether you would keep his commandments or not. And he humbled you and let you hunger and fed you with manna, which you did not know, nor did your fathers know, that he might make you know that man does not live by bread alone, but man lives by every word that comes from the mouth of the LORD. Deuteronomy 8:2-3

The point of fasting is to test the heart. Can we rely on God alone and for a time, forgo physical gratification? God fed the Israelites with a substance they had never experienced before, manna. It was totally different from what they were used to, from what they believed was essential, and from what was “normal.” It showed them that not only is God’s provision enough, but that there is a much more important realm we live in than our physical desires; we are spiritual beings that require the spiritual nourishment that comes from God’s Word alone.

Jesus would not waste using His power to turn a worthless stone into a mere physical commodity. He knew that what is truly essential only comes from God.

Let’s Do Something About It

· Take a few moments today to consider your priorities. How much of your “power” (financially, physically, emotionally, intellectually…) is spent converting things of no true value into “essentials” in your life or lifestyle? Consider if it is time for some “house-cleaning” and a restructuring of you priorities regarding the “things” in your life.

· Consider if it is time for you to “fast” for a season from certain items or practices that you consider “necessities” but are really just physical accessories to your life.

Who Are You Listening To?

2010-03-10T18:27:00.000-08:00

And Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the wilderness for forty days, being tempted by the devil. And he ate nothing during those days. And when they were ended, he was hungry. The devil said to him, “If you are the Son of God…”           Luke 4:1-3
            The devil waited until the end of Jesus' forty day fast, when He was weak and hungry. Then he came to tempt and challenge Jesus.
            It is in times of testing, or crisis; in periods of desperation and desolation; it is when we are facing disappointment or transition; when we are at our weakest, our emptiest, at the end of our rope, or have come to a blind curve in the road of our life and have no idea what lies ahead; that is when the enemy comes to prey on our self-identity, to challenge the nature of our calling, or to tempt us with false promises.

“If you are…” he chides.
“If you were really loved, then these things wouldn’t be happening.”
“If you really believed you wouldn’t have fear or doubt.”
“ Who are you really? Prove it!”
In our times of stress, that inner voice of doubt challenges what we profess to be true about our most inward, secret self. It is in these times that we must be oh so careful to whom we are listening.

Let’s Do Something About It
·      If you are at a crisis or transitional point in your life right now, schedule significant periods of time for prayer and fasting to help you identify and rely on God’s voice, direction, and provision for you at this time. Consider getting a prayer partner for this season to help you discern God’s presence in your life.
·      If you are questioning the nature of your calling or the direction of your life, consider spending time with a trusted friend or confidante to help you discern the path you are on and to partner with you in prayer.
·      If you are on firm ground right now, spend some time journaling or recording the nature of your calling and the affirmation and confirmations that God has given you, so that, when a time of questioning arises, you have a record of God’s directive.

From/To

2010-03-05T06:17:00.000-08:00

From the Jordan to the wilderness

From presentation to preparation

From affirmation to testing

From the crowd, to isolation

From fullness to hunger

From “You are” to “If you are”

And finally, from wild animals to angels (See Mark 1:13)

The way of Christ is the way of movement. From high to low; from low to high. With little plateau in between. God does not call us without preparing us to face the challenges we will encounter; and the enemy will always defy our calling and affirmation (unless of course we offer no threat to his attempts to overthrow the Kingdom of God.) It is a cycle of contrasts. It is important for us to note the movement of cycles in our life – to record growth and progress in our preparation times, to draw encouragement and inspiration in our plateaus, and to prevent the distraction of pridefulness in our fruitfulness.

Let’s Do Something About It

Where are you in the cycle of contrasts? Prayerfully consider your spiritual journey over the last year. What have been your contrasts? What do they tell you about the path God has you on right now?

Solitude and Fasting

2010-03-04T10:04:00.000-08:00

…when Jesus also had been baptized and was praying, the heavens were opened, and the Holy Spirit descended on him in bodily form, like a dove; and a voice came from heaven, “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.” And Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the wilderness…for forty days Luke 3:21-22; 4:1

Having been affirmed by God, the Holy Spirit led Jesus into the wilderness before beginning His public ministry. Why the wilderness? The wilderness was a place of solitude and fasting.

Solitude, coupled with silence, is essential if we are going to quiet the myriad of outside noises and distractions that muddle our ability to hear the “small, still voice of God.” It is a place to still all other opinions, agendas, interpretations, and priorities. It familiarizes us with the inner-voice of God’s love and direction.

Fasting releases us from dependence on the physical realm, self-reliance, and independency and compels us to rely more fully upon the spiritual sufficiency of God’s provision. It trains us on how to depend completely on God.

But the wilderness is also a place of testing where the enemy will use our vulnerability to challenge our calling and to question our identity by tempting us to “prove it.” If we have not developed a full sense of recognizing God’s voice and relying on His provision, we will be more likely to succumb to the enemy’s tactics. This is why periods of solitude and fasting are so essential to effectively living out God’s calling for our lives and ministry.

Let’s Do Something About It

The practices of solitude and fasting are long held tradition in the Christian church. They are effective soul-training. Henri Nouwen called such disciplines, ways to create space in our lives for God to work. Consider if it is time for you to spend some time fasting or in solitude.

· Solitude: Schedule some time in the next week where you can spend at least ½ hour in complete solitude and silence. Take a walk, sit in your back yard, create a cozy corner in your home. Turn off the phone, the TV, the computer, all “noisy distractions.” Put a “do not disturb” sign on your front door. If time is important set a timer so that you don’t have to keep checking your watch.

1. Spend the first few moments just quieting your mind. Have a paper & pencil close where you can jot down any “urgent” thoughts that rise up, so that you can release them.

2. Try to visualize just you and the Lord in a beautiful, quiet, private, safe place. The point here is to just be with Him, to just experience His Presence with you.

3. Don’t worry if you doze-off. The point is to draw close to Him. At the end of the time, thank Him for spending this time with you, and make a plan on when you will do it again.

4. If you have had any impressions or insights during this time, jot them down in your journal.

· Fasting: Consider setting aside an intentional time of fasting in the near future, whether it is for 1 meal, 24 hours, or several days.

1. Make sure that you are physically healthy before fasting (if you have any doubts, ask your Dr.) Do not stop taking any medications according to instructions, and make sure to drink plenty of water during your fasting.

2. Do not over-eat before you fast. Rather, the last meal you have before your fast should be light and healthy. During your fast, spend the times you would be eating reading the Bible, praying, worshipping, or journaling.

3. Consider your “hunger pains” as calls to prayer.

4. At the end of your fast, before your first meal, thank God for His provision during your fast. Consider journaling any insights you may have. And ask a special blessing upon your meal. Make sure this meal is light and healthy.

Filled

2010-03-02T08:01:00.001-08:00

And Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the wilderness Luke 4:1

Jesus was filled by the Holy Spirit and then led by the Holy Spirit. How often have I prayed for the Spirit of God to lead me, direct my actions, guide my words, give me discernment, and on and on. And yet, I ignore or minimize the first part of this process: the necessity of being filled by the Spirit. Not “full of spirit” – oh, I can be as enthusiastic as the next guy, no, being filled with the Spirit of God, the Holy Spirit. To fully respond to the Spirit of God I must be first filled with Him.

Can we in fact scripturally determine that to the extent we are Spiritually led is directly reciprocal to the extent we are Spiritually filled? Paul wrote to the Ephesians, “… do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit,” (Ephesians 5:18). The analogy is obvious. We’ve all seen the results when someone becomes so full of alcohol that the alcohol actually takes over their behavior. That is to the extent Paul encourages us to be filled with God’s Spirit – until it literally compels our words and actions and attitudes!

But there is another nuance to Paul’s words. Scholars tell us that the Greek verb Paul uses for “be filled” actually means “be being filled.” In other words, this is a constant and continual process. Before we ask for God’s guidance today, lets take a moment to examine the extent of our own ability to follow that guidance – our degree of Spiritual filling.

Let’s Do Something About It

· Try and schedule a time in the very near future when you can spend a half-hour or more alone, in a quiet, comfortable place. Consider where you hear God best – in a church, outside, in a favorite room… intentionally pick a special “date place” with God.

· In the quiet of that place, slowly and purposefully read Luke 4:1,

And Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the wilderness

· Prayerfully consider, how full of the Holy Spirit are you? How surrendered are you to His influence? How aware are you of His Presence in your life? Do your words, actions, attitudes, priorities reflect His?

· Ask the Holy Spirit to make you aware of His Presence in you, and fill you anew.

· Consider journaling your insights.

Preparation

2010-03-01T07:21:00.000-08:00

And Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the wilderness for forty days, Luke 3:21-22; 4:1-2

From the Jordan to the wilderness. The scriptures tell us that immediately after His baptism, the Spirit drove (Mark 1:12) Jesus into the wilderness for a period of solitude and fasting and yes, temptation. There is in scripture, consistently a time of preparation before God acts.

· Beginning in Genesis 1:1, the Spirit hovers over the void, preparing it to receive the creative Word of God

· The Prophets consistently call for the people to “get ready” for God’s movement among them

· The Baptizer’s call of “repentance” for the One who was coming

· And even The Son, before His public ministry would begin, was compelled by the Spirit to an isolated time of preparation.

How many times do we, in our fervor, rush into ministry or service – fueled not by Spiritual compulsion, but giddy excitement or worse, a burning desire to not be left out, and then we wonder why we end up feeling over-committed, stressed out, and burned out? The Wilderness is not a place of fruitlessness, but a place of preparation. Listen to the Spirit. Discern His leading. Where are you being lead today?

Let’s Do Something About It

Prayerfully consider:

· Where is the Spirit leading me today? Before heading out all willy nilly, spend a few moments in silence, detecting and discerning the Spirit’s movement in you soul. Then make your plans.

· Do I have a sense of what God is preparing next for/in my life? What season am I in now? What season am I heading for? How am I prepared or preparing for God’s movement in my life?

A Simple Life Well-Lived

2010-02-24T19:36:00.000-08:00

One day when the crowds were being baptized, Jesus himself was baptized. As he was praying, the heavens opened, and the Holy Spirit, in bodily form, descended on him like a dove. And a voice from heaven said, “You are my dearly loved Son, and you bring me great joy.”

Jesus was about thirty years old when he began his public ministry. Luke 3:21-23

Luke tells us that Jesus was about thirty years old when He “went public.” For almost thirty years, Jesus lived a simple, “normal,” life. Growing, learning, working, (See Luke 2:52) and living without spectacle or fame. Neighbor, son, brother, nephew… working as a carpenter in the family business (See Mark 6:3). The Word of God, in flesh, quietly living out a normal life,

The remarkable thing about these two verses in Luke, is the order they come in. Before the miracles, the signs, the wonders, the teaching, the disciples and followers, Jesus lived a life simply submitted to His parents (Luke 2:51) and to His Father in Heaven. And before the wonders, the signs, the miracles, the teaching, the disciples and the followers, Jesus was dearly loved by God and brought God great joy!

It is so easy in our “15 minutes of fame” world to think that we must be spectacular to please God, but the order of these two verses shows otherwise! God is pleased – in fact, greatly joy-filled, by a quiet life, well lived, in submission to Him.

Let’s Do Something About It

Consider your faith goals. Do you sometimes feel like you have to do something spectacular in order to bring glory to God? Confess these feelings, and ask the Holy Spirit to show you how you can bring great joy to the Lord today, by simply and quietly being the Word of God to those around you.

Counter Culture

2010-02-23T07:53:00.000-08:00

John said to the crowds coming out to be baptized by him, “You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the coming wrath? Produce fruit in keeping with repentance. And do not begin to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father.’ For I tell you that out of these stones God can raise up children for Abraham. The ax is already at the root of the trees, and every tree that does not produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire.”

“What should we do then?” the crowd asked.

John answered, “Anyone who has two shirts should share with the one who has none, and anyone who has food should do the same.”

Even tax collectors came to be baptized. “Teacher,” they asked, “what should we do?”

“Don’t collect any more than you are required to,” he told them.

Then some soldiers asked him, “And what should we do?”

He replied, “Don’t extort money and don’t accuse people falsely—be content with your pay.” Luke 3:7-14

John’s message was really quite contrary! Contrary to the religion of the time, contrary to the culture of the time, contrary to the work ethics of the time. His challenge to the people was to live contrary lives that countered the effects of their culture. He challenged their sense of “religious entitlement” – the idea that because they belonged to the “right religion” they were entitled to God’s favor. He challenged their lifestyle of having more than they needed while others went without. He challenged their work ethics that exploited others because they weren’t content with what God was providing them.

John’s message was simple – don’t put on a show of holiness, live your faith. John’s challenge was no less than to live contrary to culture. It’s the same challenge we have today. To follow the Way of Christ means to live counter-culturally. It means living a life of caring about and for others and being content with what we have.

Let’s Do Something About It

Consider the four areas of John’s message: religious entitlement, lifestyle, integrity, and contentment. Prayerfully ask God to show you how you can take steps in your life to live counter-culturally in these four areas. Journal your insights as a reminder and an encouragement for you to “produce fruit in keeping with repentance.”

Hearts Prepared

2010-02-19T08:02:00.000-08:00

And he [John the Baptizer]went into all the region around the Jordan, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. As it is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet,

“The voice of one crying in the wilderness:

‘Prepare the way of the Lord,

make his paths straight.

Every valley shall be filled,

and every mountain and hill shall be made low,

and the crooked shall become straight,

and the rough places shall become level ways,

and all flesh shall see the salvation of God.’” Luke 3:3-6

John’s life purpose, as prophesied in Luke 1, was to prepare the peoples’ hearts for the arrival of the Messiah. He came to reveal the crookedness of their life-paths, the emptiness in their souls, the obstacles of their lifestyle, the coarseness of their attitudes so that they could receive the Christ and the message of redemption, forgiveness, mercy and grace.

It is true that Christ accepts us “just as I am” – but unless we truly can acknowledge and admit our need for a Savior, and our willingness to submit to a radically different way of thinking and living, we will never be able to completely embrace what He brings. Consider the bent pathways, the roadblocks, the coarse attitudes of your life today. Look deep into your soul – where does the Savior need to fill in, level out, straightened up, or smooth over? Acknowledge it, admit it, and submit to the Father’s loving, cleansing, healing, and yes purging Hand. Don’t settle for surface grace today!

Let’s Do Something About It

· Set aside some time today to truly look at the pathway your life is on. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal the valleys, the mountains, the coarseness, and/or the curving, twisting roads of your life.

· Sincerely acknowledge the truth of the condition of your life and ask God to begin the work of filling the emptiness, leveling the obstacles, untying the knots, and smoothing the rough places in your life, your relationships, your attitudes, in every area of your being.

· Consider jotting down the key points that God shows you as a reminder and encouragement as this process unfolds in your life.

Growing in the Wilderness

2010-02-17T07:34:00.000-08:00

And the child [John] grew and became strong in spirit, and he was in the wilderness until the day of his public appearance to Israel…the word of God came to John the son of Zechariah in the wilderness. Luke 1:80; 3:2

John [the Baptizer] grew and became strong in spirit until…

Sometimes the wilderness is not just where we wait for God, it is where God is preparing us for the work that will come. The wilderness may seem dry and lonely, but it can also be a place of quiet and peace, stillness and spiritual reliance. A place where we can grow in dependence on and confidence in God’s sustaining Provision and enduring Presence.

John’s work would be hard, lonely, and controversial. He was called to be a prophet for the Most High who would go before the Lord to prepare His ways. (See Luke 1:76) He would live an austere life in the desert, be criticized by the leaders of his faith, and in the end executed. His time of preparation in the wilderness was essential if he was going to faithfully complete the work which God had planned and purposed for him.

We can grow impatient in the wilderness and be tempted to go off on our own power and direction, or, we can grow tranquil and strong in the wilderness, waiting for God’s Word to come to us.

Let’s Do Something About It

· If you are in a period of stillness or waiting in your life, ask God to show you how you can appreciate this time and use it to grow attentive and strong in His Presence.

· If you are in a season of activeness, or if your life seems out of control with busyness, ask the Lord to show you how to wait upon His Word even now in your busy time.

Time and Place

2010-02-16T06:30:00.000-08:00

In the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar, Pontius Pilate being governor of Judea, and Herod being tetrarch of Galilee, and his brother Philip tetrarch of the region of Ituraea and Trachonitis, and Lysanias tetrarch of Abilene, during the high priesthood of Annas and Caiaphas, the word of God came to John the son of Zechariah in the wilderness. Luke 3:1-2

God works in our times. Our faith does not exist outside of the times and events in which we live. God works in and through the people, places, and current events of our lives, and asks us to counter the cultural effects that these times bring, especially upon the poor, the oppressed, the hurting, and the wayward. Sometimes when we look at the news, and consider what is happening in our world today, we are tempted to despair, but these events, as sad, disturbing, upsetting, or frustrating as they are, are exactly the events that God wants us to bring His Presence into. As we see in the story of Esther, who knows but that you are here, now for just this purpose? (See Esther 4:14).

John heard God’s Word come to him in the wilderness. Where will you hear God’s Word come to you today? Are you listening for it?

Let’s Do Something About It

· Take a moment to review your schedule over the last couple of days. Do you see a pattern of people/places/ or activities? How fully aware are you during those times that you may be the one to bring God’s Presence consistently into those places and to those people?

· When you watch the news today or read the paper or news magazine consider using the headlines as your prayer list.

· Ask God to give you a prayer list of Government, Social, and Religious leaders for whom you can be praying regularly.

Faithful Fulfillment

2010-02-15T06:38:00.000-08:00

And when [Mary and Joseph] had performed everything according to the Law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own city of Nazareth. And the Child [Jesus] continued to grow and become strong, increasing in wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him. Luke 2:39-40

Though He would rile against rules and rituals established by men, and condemn the makers of such rules as “white washed tombs,” who crush people with impossible religious demands, (Luke 11:46), Christ, faithfully fulfilled all the requirements of God’s Law. “Don’t misunderstand why I have come." He said, "I did not come to abolish the Law of Moses or the writings of the prophets. No, I came to accomplish their purpose.” Matthew 5:17

It is a delicate balance we seek between the Law and grace, so it is best we follow Jesus’ model – expect obedience from myself while extending grace to others, and always beware of mistaking men’s rules and rituals for God’s. And in that way, we may also follow His example of continuing to grow and become strong, increasing in wisdom with the grace of God upon us.

Let's Do Something About It

Ask the Holy Spirit to show you where you may be applying "men's rules or rituals" in your faith instead of relying upon God's Law alone.
Ask the Holy Spirit if you are a vessel of grace or a barer of guilt to those around you.
Ask God to help you grow in His grace and wisdom today.

Anna: An Example

2010-02-12T07:02:00.000-08:00

And there was a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was advanced in years, having lived with her husband seven years from when she was a virgin, and then as a widow until she was eighty-four. She did not depart from the temple, worshiping with fasting and prayer night and day. And coming up at that very hour she began to give thanks to God and to speak of him to all who were waiting for the redemption of Jerusalem. Luke 2:36-38

Can we relate to this woman? Few of us have a lifestyle that enables us to spend all day and night in acts of worship… or do we? Brother Lawrence, a 17^th Century Monk, worked as a kitchen helper, performing the most mundane tasks, yet he was able to spend his days completely focused on God’s Presence with him, right there in the kitchen. Brother Lawrence said, by “applying my mind to these thoughts in the morning and then spending the rest of the day, even in the midst of all my work, in the presence of God, I considered that he was always with me, that he was even within me.”

Mother Theresa of Calcutta once said that she would start every morning meditating on Jesus; then spend the rest of her day looking for Him in the faces of the people she encountered.

Starting and ending our day in devout worship – through prayer and fasting – will open our awareness to the presence of Jesus among, and yes even within, us.

Let’s Do Something About It

· Think about how often during the day you are attentive to God-with- you (Immanuel). Think about practical ways you can increase your awareness. (One friend of mine simply put blank “sticky notes” up around her house, car, and workplace. Whenever she spotted one she was reminded that the Lord’s Presence was with her!)

· Next Wednesday begins the Lenten season. It is a good time to consider trying a fast – if not from food (or a type of food: for instance, sweets) perhaps you may try a fast from some habit or activity (such as watching TV).

· Consider reading Practicing the Presence of God by Brother Lawrence during this Lenten season.

· Consider journaling how these practices help you be more aware of Christ’s Presence in your day.

Anna: Prophecy for Today's Church

2010-02-11T07:02:00.001-08:00

And there was a prophetess, Anna … She was advanced in years, having lived with her husband seven years from when she was a virgin, and then as a widow until she was eighty-four. She did not depart from the temple, worshiping with fasting and prayer night and day. And coming up at that very hour she began to give thanks to God and to speak of him to all who were waiting for the redemption of Jerusalem. Luke 2:36-38

Anna was a prophet. Paul tells us in 1Corinthians 14 that a prophet is one who discerns God’s movement for the purpose of building up, encouraging and consoling the church. Anna spent her days and nights in worship. Through prayer and fasting she continuously sought the Lord’s Presence and indication of where He was working, never leaving the Temple.So when Joseph and Mary brought the Christ babe into the Temple, Anna recognized Him at once.

Years later when their young son went “missing,” Jesus’ parents would find him in the Temple, sitting among the teachers. When they expressed their concern about it, he replied, where else would I be? You know that I must be in my Father’s house. (See Luke 2:41-50)

Sometimes we get frustrated with “church” and think we can worship and serve God on our own. But the church must be a necessary part of our life if we are truly going to be Christ followers. Yes, the church can be filled with disappointment, strange agendas, hypocrites, and hurtfulness, but as someone once said, if you find the perfect church don’t go there – you’ll ruin it! Maybe instead of looking so hard at the problems in our churches, we should start looking harder to find Christ going about His Father’s business in His Father’s House.

Let’s Do Something About It:

Paul writes in 1 Corinthians,

Pursue love, and earnestly desire the spiritual gifts, especially that you may prophesy. … the one who prophesies speaks to people for their upbuilding and encouragement and consolation... So with yourselves, since you are eager for manifestations of the Spirit, strive to excel in building up the church. 1Corinthians 14:1,3, 12

· Spend some time today asking the Holy Spirit to show you where your attitude regarding the condition of The Church may be out of line with God’s Will for His Body.

· Ask God to show you how you can be a source and presence of love, mercy, and healing in your church today.

Simeon: Heart's Revealed

2010-02-10T06:41:00.000-08:00

And Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, “Behold, this child is appointed for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign that is opposed (and a sword will pierce through your own soul also), so that thoughts from many hearts may be revealed.” Luke 2:34-35

It is easy to fall into the trap of tradition, ritual, and stirring rhetoric. We can become complacent in our worship or excited and motivated over some new teaching – but both can cause our worship to become false. Jesus’ has come to reveal the true intentions, attitudes, and condition of our hearts and thoughts. God is not fooled by our outward actions. In 1Samuel 16:7, God told Samuel, “The LORD doesn’t see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.” 1Samuel 16:7

When the religious leaders of the time condemned Jesus’ followers for not following tradition, J

Jesus called them hypocrites,

Jesus replied, “You hypocrites! Isaiah was right when he prophesied about you, for he wrote,

‘These people honor me with their lips,

but their hearts are far from me.

Their worship is a farce, for they teach man-made ideas as commands from God.’

For you ignore God’s law and substitute your own tradition.” Mark 7:6-8

Today, as representatives of Christ on earth, let’s open our hearts and minds to Christ’s examination and make sure we are truly honoring Him with our words, our attitudes, and our actions.

Lets Do Something About It:

· Slowly and meditatively read the following passage from Psalm 139.

· Reflect on the words, and then allow some time to listen for and absorb God’s response to you.

· Journal or record your insights.

· Pray that the Holy Spirit will guide you into true humility before the Lord.

You have searched me, LORD, and you know me.

You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar.

You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways.

Before a word is on my tongue you, LORD, know it completely…

Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.

See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.

Psalms 139:1-4,23-24

Simeon: Waiting for Fulfillment

2010-02-09T07:02:00.000-08:00

Now there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon, and this man was righteous and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. And he came in the Spirit into the temple, and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him according to the custom of the Law, he took him up in his arms and blessed God and said,

“Lord, now you are letting your servant depart in peace,

according to your word; for my eyes have seen your salvation that you have prepared in the presence of all peoples, a light for revelation to the Gentiles,

and for glory to your people Israel.” Luke 2:25-32

Simeon was able to see the fulfillment of what God had prepared because of his relationship with the Holy Spirit. Simeon lived a righteous and devout life aware of and waiting for God’s promises to be fulfilled, so when he came to the Temple the Holy Spirit came upon him and enabled him to see what God was doing.

When we accept Christ as our Savior and Lord we receive the Holy Spirit into our lives. But what is our relationship with the Spirit? Do we come into our churches filled with and surrendered to the Holy Spirit, waiting and expecting to see what God is preparing and fulfilling? How aware are we of the Spirit’s Presence in our lives?

Let's DO something about it:

Today, listen for the Spirit’s prompting.
Look for the Spirit’s Presence.
Wait for the Spirit’s urgings.
Desire the Spirit’s filling.

Clinton Bush Haiti Fund

2010-01-16T10:03:00.000-08:00

To make donations that will for sure go to the relief of Haiti consider: Clinton Bush Haiti Fund | Home It's quick, easy, legitimate and effective (and, certainly should appeal to Democrats & Republicans, Liberals and Conservatives alike :)

What?

2010-01-14T18:27:00.000-08:00

For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.’ Then the righteous will answer him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? And when did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? And when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?’ And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.’ Matthew 25:35-40

We ask why -- but the necessary question is what. What can I do today?

(photo from Huffington Post)

Holiday Devotions @ Blessed to Believe

2009-12-13T09:36:00.001-08:00

Having trouble keeping your focus on what's important this Christmas?

Are the parties, shopping, planning, & decorating distracting you from the real meaning of the Holidays?

Be sure to check out the daily devotionals at Blessed to Believe -- or better yet, sign up and get them automatically!

Blessedtobelieve.blogspot.com!

Holiday Devotions @ Blessed to Believe

2009-11-18T18:14:00.000-08:00

Keep your focus this holiday season!
Back by popular demand

Daily Devotionals by Robyn.

Starting Thanksgiving through New Years Day,
November 26-January 1.

Go to blessedtobelieve.blogspot.comand sign up now!

Time and Place

2009-10-11T12:59:00.000-07:00

Pro God's Timing

In those days a decree went out … And Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the town of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child. And while they were there, the time came for her to give birth. And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn. Luke 2:1-7

God’s plans are great and vast; but His fulfillment of those plans is specific and detailed, personal and positional. The events, and places, and times of our life are not random -- even if they uproot us or come at inconvenient moments and take us into places where there seems to be no room or acceptance for us. We have not been chosen at random. God has a plan for even our heritage and ancestry. We are not here by happenchance. He has called us specifically to the culture and current events of our life. Yet, we cannot be fully useful if we are not aware of the events and circumstances around us. We cannot be responsive to the needs and issues of our time if we do not pay attention or engage with the world around us.

Whether it is conditions in Africa, the Middle East, our Nation’s Capitol, our surrounding community, or our own back yard, we cannot bring the love of Christ into the world if we are not actively engaging in that world. The headlines must be our call to prayer – not our source of cynicism or condemnation. The broken families and lonely people in our communities are calling to our very souls to reach out with the love of Christ and a loaf of bread. And the unwelcoming streets of crime and fear in the cities where money and power are brokered and people are ignored, used, and thrown away are crying out for God’s Presence – to be recognized, loved, and cared for.

It is “for such a time as this” [see Esther 4:14] that each one of us has been placed where we are in the history of the Kingdom. Will you go – even at inconvenient times or to unwelcoming places to fulfill God’s great journey for your life?

Let's DO something about it:

This week before you get out of bed ask the Holy Spirit to show you who or what situation you are to be specifically praying for.
Then ask the Holy Spirit to make you aware of any person or situation that you encounter during your day that you can minister to in some way.
Finally at the end of your day, ask the Holy Spirit to show you what opportunities you embraced, and which ones you missed during the day.

In the Wilderness

2009-10-05T10:58:00.000-07:00

Pro Growth

And the child grew and became strong in spirit, and he was in the wilderness until the day of his public appearance to Israel. Luke 1:80

For John to fulfill his calling he had to grow and become strong in spirit. This took isolation and intention. John did not seek out or settle in places that promised fame, fortune, or prosperity – quite to the contrary, he stayed in the wilderness until the day– the day that God had established, the day God had determined as the right time. Until the day when John was prepared, physically as well as spiritually, and God’s plans were ready to be set in motion.

We often grow impatient with our desire to serve – or expecting others to “step up to the plate.” But God’s plans take time, and if we want to participate fully in those plans we must be intentional about growing and becoming spiritually strong. That means we must be willing to get out of the limelight and settle in the wilderness for a while.

We must also be willing to allow others to settle into their wilderness times as well. Luke tells us that John’s neighbors expected great things from him, (Luke 1:66). We can imagine their thoughts and comments as the boy grew in obscurity, and apparent “ordinariness.” But John was faithful to God’s plans for his life – and one can suppose that his parents, the ones who had been blessed by God’s very real Presence and Power, may have encouraged him to stay true to his own course.

To serve God fully we must be committed to growth. Our own growth, and the growth of others. Occasionally we must seek the wilderness.

Let's DO something about it:

Fame, fortune, and prosperity – they all sound much more enticing than “wilderness.” Yet, if we want to experience real growth, real spiritual strength, and real fulfillment of God’s call on our life, we have to decide where our focus lies.

Consider the concepts of “growth” and “spiritual strength.” What do they mean to you? How important are they to your daily life?
Prayerfully consider how willing you would be to give up the “limelight” of fame, fortune, or prosperity for the loneliness and anonymity of the wilderness?
Is there someone you know who needs encouragement during their “wilderness” experience?

The Prophet’s Calling; the Messiah’s Mission

2009-09-24T16:32:00.000-07:00

Pro Clarity of Purpose

Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, for he has visited and redeemed his people and has raised up a horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David…that we, being delivered from the hand of our enemies, might serve him without fear, in holiness and righteousness before him all our days… Luke 1:68-69; 74-75

Zechariah’s prophecy states that God had visited and redeemed his people so that they might serve him without fear, in holiness and righteousness, and that his own son John would be a prophet to prepare the way for the fulfillment of that cause;

And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Most High; for you will go before the Lord to prepare his ways, to give knowledge of salvation to his people in the forgiveness of their sins… Luke 1:76-77

and that the Messiah was coming to bring light into the darkness of their lives.

…because of the tender mercy of our God, whereby the sunrise shall visit us from on high to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.” Luke 1:78-79

Through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, Zechariah saw that God’s plan was not to bring fame, fortune, or affluence into their lives. God’s movement, born from His tender mercy was to provide a way to peace. John's calling was to bring the truth of God's plan to people who were living in the shadows of false expectations so that the Messiah could bring light into their darkness and peace to their souls.

When we acknowledge God’s plan and perceive His movement in our lives, and then follow through with our own attitudes and obedience, we begin to comprehend the ways of the Messiah in our world and to see with clarity our own personal calling. Who is God sending us to? Who do we know that needs to hear the truth of God's tender mercy and experience the light of forgiveness, the light of hope, the light of peace?

Let's DO something about it:

Are we looking for the fame, the fortune or the affluence of false promises in our own relationship with Christ, or are we looking for the light so that we can shine that light in the way of service to others?

Prayerfully consider how clearly you perceive your holy and righteous calling to serve God by serving others. Then consider how fully you are fulfilling that calling.
Ask God to show you one person you can reach out to today who may be hidden in the shadow of regret, hopelessness, or anger. Ask the Holy Spirit for one specific way that you can bring the light of forgiveness, hope, or peace into that person’s life. Now go do it!

Spirit Filled Comprehension

2009-09-21T09:30:00.000-07:00

Pro Redemption

The immediate result of Zechariah’s non-traditional, neighbor-shocking naming of his son John, was that Zechariah’s impediment of speechlessness was dramatically reversed – not just relieved, but reversed. He was filled with the Holy Spirit and began prophesying! From silence to revelation. From his previous words of doubt (see Luke 1:18-20) to his restored words of praise and comprehension. Zechariah’s period of silence led to his act of obedience which resulted in his ability to comprehend God’s Presence and Plan in his life. By remembering the words of God spoken “by the mouth of his holy prophets from of old” [v.70] (in other words, the Old Testament) and recalling the promises and the covenants made [v.72], the Holy Spirit enabled Zechariah to see God’s great unfolding plan.

And what was God’s plan?

“that we, being delivered from the hand of our enemies might serve him without fear…” v.74

Redemption and purpose – in other words service. Delivered so that we might serve. Saved from mandatory slavery for voluntary servanthood. Our redemption has not given us self-determination, but instead has given us holy and righteous purpose.

Let's DO something about it:

When we remember God’s words by studying scripture, and recall His promises by appropriately interpreting the Word, we become more aware of God’s movement in our own time.

Consider how familiar you are with God’s Word and His Promises. What steps can you take to become more acquainted with the scriptures and more proficient in their appropriate application?
Prayerfully ask the Holy Spirit to show you what promises God has fulfilled in your own life.
Spend a few moments meditating on Luke 1:74-5,

that we, being delivered from the hand of our enemies, might serve him without fear, in holiness and righteousness before him all our days.

Ask God to show you how you can serve Him today.

Starting New Traditions

2009-08-21T14:43:00.000-07:00

Pro New Ways

Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert. Isaiah 43:19

Tradition. It connects us to our roots and reminds us who we are. But when tradition exists for its own sake, at best it becomes cold and meaningless and just something we do because we have always done it; at worst it becomes little less than an idol, the focus of our devotion and fidelity.

When it came time to name John (the Baptizer) his parents called together friends and family for the naming ceremony. This is a very important event in Jewish life. The child’s family, religious, and community identity is established. Equally important is the name itself. It is tradition that a son is named after a family member to keep the name alive. Zechariah and Elizabeth were advanced in years. They were probably not going to have more children – this son was a miracle. Surely he would be named after his father. But,

When it was time for Elizabeth’s baby to be born, she gave birth to a son. And when her neighbors and relatives heard that the Lord had been very merciful to her, everyone rejoiced with her. When the baby was eight days old, they all came for the circumcision ceremony. They wanted to name him Zechariah, after his father. But Elizabeth said, “No! His name is John!”

“What?” they exclaimed. “There is no one in all your family by that name.” So they used gestures to ask the baby’s father what he wanted to name him. He motioned for a writing tablet, and to everyone’s surprise he wrote, “His name is John.” Instantly Zechariah could speak again, and he began praising God.

Awe fell upon the whole neighborhood, and the news of what had happened spread throughout the Judean hills. Everyone who heard about it reflected on these events and asked, “What will this child turn out to be?” For the hand of the Lord was surely upon him in a special way. Luke 1:57-66

At the moment Zechariah broke with tradition and obeyed what God had told him, he was miraculously healed. His mouth that had been “shut up” months before when he questioned God’s intentions now is loosed again, and result was everyone’s astonishment and wonder. That’s what happens when we do “new things” in God’s name. People wake up and take notice. A ritual becomes fresh and full of meaning. Anticipation and excitement replace normalcy and tradition. People begin to look for and talk about what God is doing.

I love this little story. It is often over looked, tucked in-between accounts of Jesus’ conception and birth. John’s life mission was to prepare the way for the Messiah, he was the forerunner of something new coming. Of course God would choose to shake things up, grab people’s attention! Too often we grow comfortable and complacent in the way “the church” does things. From music to missions, congregation to ceremony, ministry to membership we often grow so attached to the “way things have always been done” we miss seeing and experiencing the new things God is purposing in our midst. “If it’s not broke don’t fix it” drowns out the possibility of “Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?”

Perhaps we should occasionally emulate Zechariah and spend a season staying quiet, observing what God is doing in and among us, so we can respond in true obedience. Obedience to God, not to tradition or the expectations of others, but to what God has shown us. We may be amazed at the healing and testimony that results.

Let's DO something about it:

Traditions serve an important part in our history and culture. They remind us who we are and give us connection with our past. But they can also prohibit us from growing and prevent us from fully engaging in God’s “new things.” They can also cause us to become exclusive and narrow-minded. The key is to find a healthy balance between celebrating traditions while keeping an open mind and heart to new expressions of what those traditions represent.

Hebrews 4:12 says, “the word of God is living and active”. The opposite of living and active is dead and stagnant. Consider the impact of these descriptors. Consider ways you can keep the expression of your faith in your church, work, family, attitudes, words, and life alive and active.
Think about some of the “traditional ways” you are particularly holding on to: in your relationships, your attitudes, your family, work or church. Consider if these practices are enhancing your experiences or keeping you from growing or experiencing new grace and blessing. Consider how and where you can make appropriate adjustments.
Think about some of the traditions of other families, cultures, or churches that you are aware of – especially those you might tend to “automatically reject.” What is the basis of your rejection? Consider how you could better understand or adapt those practices into actually glorifying Christ as a way of reaching out to others.

Pro Including the Unlikely

2009-08-12T19:58:00.000-07:00

Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word. Luke 1:38

The first chapter of Luke gives us a wonderful portrait of some of God’s favorite vessels for His blessings, the unlikely.

…they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren, and both were advanced in years. Luke 1:7

Elizabeth, an old barren woman. In her culture a barren woman was of no worldly usefulness, and one with no visible means of support as she got older – no son to provide for her, no daughter to help her with the rigorous “womanly” duties of her day; and no reason for hope – her physical circumstances prohibited her from changing her situation

Then there is Mary, a young, probably very poor, engaged virgin. Betrothed to a carpenter, this is no “upper crust” girl. God chooses these two unlikely candidates to change history in a totally unorthodox way. That’s the problem with “orthodoxy” – it leaves little room for random acts of Godliness! To one, at a very late (some would say impossibly late) stage of life, He grants her heart’s desire. A child, a son, a fulfillment of her cultural gender. But to the other, His “blessing” could very well have ruined her life… God chose to make her an unwed mother, a condition that no doubt resulted in criticism, outcast and in fact may have endangered her very life. How extremely odd.

How will this be, since I am a virgin? Luke 1:34

I wonder how often we consider the fact that our Savior was born from such unorthodox circumstances. Oh yes, we know and proclaim the virgin birth – it is grounded in our theological sensibilities, but have we grasped the social embarrassment, shame, and scandal of His earthly beginnings? Or, more importantly, have we been inspired by it? Does it motivate us to reach out to, support, encourage, embrace, and include the marginalized in our communities?

Luke tells us that Mary hurried out of town to her cousin Elizabeth’s home. Together they found mutual shelter, support, and encouragement in their “conditions.” We wonder sometimes why the marginalized are reluctant to come to our churches or claim our faith… could it be that we do not provide the comfort and acceptance regardless of their physical conditions or their ability to change their circumstances that they so desperately need? Or perhaps it is because we are only looking at them through our physical eyes, we have shut our spiritual hearts to them. Or perhaps we just don’t see them at all… they aren’t one of “us.” The scriptures tell us that the Holy Spirit caused Elizabeth to recognize Mary’s blessedness as soon as she entered the house. Are we willing to look for blessedness in unlikely places, in unlikely people? God is; it is in the margins that God chooses to change history.

Let's DO something about it:

Prayerfully read the song of Mary from Luke 1:46-53. Consider that these words were sung by a teenage, pregnant, unwed girl whose future was uncertain. What insight does this perspective give you about God’s choices?
Ask God to show you who (or what group of people) may be feeling “marginalize” in your community, church, or family. Begin to pray for ways to reach out to them and commit to following through on God’s direction.

The Things You Have Been Taught; Pt. 2

2009-08-07T00:01:00.000-07:00

Pro-Truth but Not Afraid of Fiction

It is foundationally crucial to base our faith in the Truth of God’s Word. Likewise, we must remember that we have been totally redeemed by the work of Christ – including our imaginations. We need not fear whimsy, or fairy tales, or stories of fantasy, but instead discern the difference between creative imaginings and destructive rubbish. The truth and power of God --Father, Son, and Holy Spirit – is sufficient to protect our hearts, minds, and faith from fairy tales and imaginary villains and enchantments. Pumpkins that turn into carriages need not scandalize us.

Regardless of our personal tastes, let us stop demeaning our faith by outrageously opposing simple fantasy and fairy tale. The key is to delineate our faith from fantasy, our worship from entertainment. The Word of God is not threatened by Grimm, Spielberg, or even J K Rowling. Far more threatening is the misinterpretation and intentional misuse of God’s Word by false prophets of cheap grace and casual obedience. Let us be scandalized by manipulated scripture, not invented fiction.

I believe that the more we immerse ourselves in the truth, the less threatening fiction becomes. A respected teacher I once had suggested that it is exactly the exposure to the wonders and magic of fairy tales and fantasy, science fiction and novel that opens and trains our mind to be able to accept the wonder and mystery and reality of the Spiritual Realm. If it is not your taste, fine – but please let’s stop maligning the imaginative works of creativity and save our indignation for creations of filth that demean the weak, deprive the poor, destroy beauty and wonder, and manipulate what’s holy.

Let's DO something about it:

Reflect on C S Lewis’ quote, “Some day you will be old enough to start reading fairy tales again.” What do you think he meant?
Consider what criteria you put on acclaiming or disclaiming literature, art, music, etc. Is your criteria based in Truth or bias?
Look at Philippians 4:8-9. Consider defining and writing down your standards for evaluating the arts. What is your primary measure of what is "good" and what is "bad"?

Certainty Concerning the Things You Have Been Taught

2009-08-03T20:00:00.000-07:00

Pro Truth

Inasmuch as many have undertaken to compile a narrative of the things that have been accomplished among us, just as those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word have delivered them to us, it seemed good to me also, having followed all things closely for some time past, to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus, that you may have certainty concerning the things you have been taught. Luke 1:1-4

The opening words of Luke begin with a declaration of purpose. The author is determined to set forth a factual, eyewitness account of Christ; what he said, did, and how he acted. We have not inherited a faith based on fairy tales, superstitions, or manipulated story. Factual observation and true testimony is the foundation of what we believe, how else can we learn to trust the spiritual and unexplainable elements of our faith if it is not based in reliable truth. As faithful followers of Christ, we must guard the expressions of our faith against falling into superstitious patterns and enchanted prayers. Truly our faith has Godly power, miraculous demonstration, and heavenly application – we don’t need to add fantasy or superstitious patterns to our expressions of faith.

First and foremost Christ-followers must be pro-truth!

Let's DO something about it:

Prayerfully read and reflect on John 8:31 and 14:6.

What insights do these verses give you regarding the nature of “truth”?
Spend some time prayerfully reflecting on your own patterns of prayer, or any particular religious phobias or bugaboos you may be holding on to. Ask God to reveal whether they are based on truth or superstition.
Ask God if there are any changes He wants you to make. Record them and use them for occasional reflection and accountability.

3-2-1 Get Ready!

2009-07-31T13:00:00.000-07:00

Christianity has taken a hit in the last few decades... and in some ways, I am afraid to say, rightfully so. The airwaves and sound bites are full of so called "christian rhetoric" which in reality seems to be barely more than a small group of people using the Bible to justify exclusive and often extreme points of view. The prophet Jeremiah laments about such people who "talk" religion, but lack the love and passion for God that holy living requires, "you [the Lord] are near in their mouth, but far from their heart." (Jeremiah 12:2)

I pray that this series may wake us up a bit. I hope it encourages us to examine if what we truly believe is Bible based, cultured based, or fodder for the enemy who delights in seeing Christ ridiculed instead of glorified and whose goal is to drive people away from the King of Kings instead of into His waiting arms. I want to shake things up a bit -- not for the purpose to provoke, but for the purpose of spurring Christ-followers on to greater deeds of love and glory for His Namesake. I do not aim to offend, but some might be offended, so I apologize in advance and ask that this be a place of honest examination and discussion. I encourage your feedback, questions, and comments -- but let's try to keep it honest, civil, and kind on both sides, remembering that it is Christ we represent, Christ we long to draw closer to, and Christ that we want to honor.

So, if you, like me, are tired of letting the fringe represent your faith, let's DO something about today! Let's take back our faith so that we can offer it with clean hands and mind and hearts to the world around us.

Let's DO something about it:

Prayerfully read and reflect on Psalm 24 and Hebrews 10:19-25.

What thoughts or insights do you get from these passages?
List any actions or change of heart/attitude the Holy Spirit may have inspired in you.
Keep this list as a prayer or accountability prompt over the next few weeks as you consider this series.

REALLY, I MEAN IT THIS TIME!

2009-07-24T08:04:00.000-07:00

Coming in August!

"Pro Christians"

It seems that everyday we hear in the media and on talk shows what (or who) Christians are against -- anti this, anti that -- but what are the followers of Christ for? Where are the Pro-Christians and what are they doing?

Meanwhile, check out my new blog,

Rule of Life

at http://theruleoflife.blogspot.com

Summer Series

2009-05-21T12:01:00.000-07:00

NEW SERIES COMING FOR SUMMER

"Pro Christians"

It seems that everyday we hear in the media and on talk shows what (or who) Christians are against -- anti this, anti that -- but what are the followers of Christ for? Where are the Pro-Christians and what are they doing?

This summer I will be looking at the Gospel of Luke to determine what Christ was for, and what He expects His followers to be doing about it.

The Lesson of Regrets

2009-04-19T11:35:00.000-07:00

The Final Lesson from the Trail

There is one last lesson that I have learned from the trail. Perhaps the ultimate lesson, only recently fully grasped by the death of my mother. That is the lesson of regrets. You see, every trail demands decisions and choices. Each decision we make leads to the next choice we will encounter. To cheat the trail and take a shortcut; to take unfair advantage of a weaker participant; to stop and forfeit the prize in order to aid another runner or hiker; to follow the pack or blaze our own trail. Every decision leads to the ultimate outcome. I have learned that the prize handed out in front of the crowd is pale pleasure compared to the joy of coming in last because you’ve quietly made a better choice – a choice to offer kindness and comfort, or because you took a moment to stop and smell the aroma of wet pine or gape at the amazing grandeur of a valley laid out below you; to stoop and watch a ground squirrel, or decipher a bird call. Rewards that far out weigh the medal that will hang in some closet or lay in some forgotten drawer. In the New Testament, the Apostles talk of "running our race" in a way that will bring us eternal reward, that will not fade away nor become lost (See 1 Corinthians 9:25 and 1 Peter 5:4); and Jesus instructs us to “...not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal." Matthew 6:19-20

Several years ago I was running a trail race in Bonelli Park. The course started with a sharp incline that proceeded to rise up, and then up some more, and then up yet again. By the third incline I was done. My legs and lungs were not in shape for this run and I simply could not continue. Coming from behind me was a woman about my age who had definitely found her stride. As she approached me she could tell that I was spent, so she simply held out her hand, grabbed me by the arm and said, “we’ll do this together.” Because of her I made it to the final peak where the trail blessedly began to descend. Her act of kindness probably cost her a medal – and yes, I still came in dead last, but I finished my race due to her kindness.

Sitting with my mother in her final minutes last week I came to two conclusions about life on the trail. First: in the end, it is the acts of kindness that matter. They alone are what we remember, what stays with us. Colossians 3:12 says,

Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.

Secondly, doing the right thing, no matter how hard it may be, will never, never be as hard as living with the regret of not doing it.

May you travel well your pathways fellow trail runners and hikers.

Lions and Tigers and Bears – Oh MY!

2009-04-17T16:57:00.000-07:00

Now I haven't often encountered beasts along the trail, but I know they are out there. My husband has hiked a bit in Alaska and has learned the importance of noticing the signs of bear along the trail. He hiked in the Everglades in Florida and knew the necessity of watching for alligators. He has hiked the high plains and knows to be on guard for snakes.

Sometimes we go places where the dangers are clearly noted – “Beware of snakes on the trail” or other hikers will tell each other of bear or mountain lion sightings. We learn to walk cautiously, look for evidence, and care about and for others along the trail. But the best defense against a beast is to avoid him all together. Stay away from the lairs and pits they dwell in, where they lurk, waiting for their prey; and stay alert for the signs of their prowling about. There are beasts along our life-trails as well. 1 Peter 5:8 tells us to , "Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour."

But despite all our measures, sometime we may find ourselves confronted on the trail. Rule number 1: there is no glory in being devoured. We don’t try to take on the beast alone. Call for help -- there is strength in numbers. Take defensive steps – put on protective gear:

Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Ephesians 6:13-17

And when all else fails, flee for the stronghold:

[God] is my steadfast love and my fortress,
my stronghold and my deliverer,
my shield and he in whom I take refuge, Psalm 144:2

In the end, our confidence on the trail does not come from weapons or guile, but the knowledge that no beast can stand against the One True Trail Guide!

…. what the ...?

2009-04-15T12:58:00.000-07:00

There is of course another hazard along the trail – that is the inevitable dropping of… well… there is just no other way to say it… poop!

Horsey poop
Doggy poop
and even the occasional bear poop (one Yellowstone Park Ranger we knew liked to tell us that the way to distinguish black bear poop from grizzly bear poop – the grizzly had hiker whistles in it ☹.)

Along the trail there are just times when no matter how careful we may be, we just can’t avoid the poop. We suddenly become aware of that familiar odor and realize that we have indeed stepped in it. It doesn’t work to ignore it: we can smell it on ourselves. It doesn’t work to deny it: others can smell it on us. All we can do is admit it, clean up the mess, and get back on tract.

‘Nuff said!

Roots, Ruts, and Rocks

2009-04-13T11:34:00.000-07:00

The recent passing of my mother has reminded me of yet another “lesson from the trail.” The lesson of roots, ruts, and rocks.

Someone once said that those of us who long for heaven run the risk of being so “heavenly minded that we are no earthly good.” My mother had the perfect balance of heaven mindedness and earthly focus; knowing that the finish line lay ahead, but if we don’t focus on the step in front of us, we are not likely to make it there in one piece.

Several years ago my husband Greg and I took a hiking trip through New England in the autumn. The route we took in New Hampshire was the aptly named, Frankenstein Cliffs. Now, I don’t remember why they were named that, or who they may have been named for, but it was certainly a MONSTER of a hike. The path ran out of “path-ness” (the quality of being “path-like”) about a mile into the hike, and turned in to literally nothing but miles and miles of roots, ruts, and rocks. Now, let me just state here, that we never finished the hike, and thus, never experienced the cliffs – my sense of humor, sense of adventure, and sense of niceness ran out quickly; but, I did learn some lessons along the way.

The trouble with roots, ruts, and rocks is that they conspire to trip, twist, and injure. Individually they are hazards; together they are trip enders. Like the daily worries and cares that distract us from the bigger plan of our lives, roots will grab your toes as you jaunt along, their twisted gnarls reaching out to trip your every step. Ruts are more insidious. As you hike along, taking in the sights, sounds, and smells of the world around you, oblivious to their threat, they are the unexpected pitfalls and difficulties that suddenly throw us off balance, twisting feet and ankles, buckling our legs and stride, thrashing us to the ground. Then, there are the rocks. Huge obstacles that must be climbed over, negotiated around, and if possible, avoided. They can block our way, or injure us – leaving us scraped, punctured, and bloodied.

When we encounter a path fraught with roots, ruts, and rocks we may be tempted to give up; but then we will never reach the purpose for our journey. Or, we keep our heads down, carefully avoiding each obstacle and hindrance; but then we miss the breathtaking views – which after all is the point of the trail. And if we focus only on the finish – our minds set only on the glorious end, our thoughts lost in the clouds, we will most likely find ourselves tripped up, twisted around, and unexpectedly facedown in the dirt. The key is perspective. Inspired by the destination, but focused on the step ahead, we will finish the path, cross the line, and view the breathtaking cliffs.

Along the Frankenstein trail, I learned the importance of depending on the solid walking stick I picked up along the way, (I called it “Ole’ Hickory” – no, it probably wasn’t really hickory, but the name seemed mildly amusing at the time) the guidance of a good map, and the encouragement of my hiking companion, my husband. In the midst of our life’s “Frankenstein trails” we will also need to reach out for the support that comes from relying on the solidity of our faith, the guidance of the Word of God, and the encouragement that comes from true Christ-focused fellowship.

My mother exemplified, modeled, and lived well this balance. During her 92 years, she encountered the joys and pain of a life well lived. The hardship of poverty, as well as the complicated joy of raising 5 children, and influencing 20 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren. She suffered the pain of losing loved ones, including several babies, a grandchild, and my Dad after 50 years of marriage. She nursed children and friends through illness, loneliness, and hardships. She endured conflict, misunderstanding, and sometimes the cruelty that family and friends can inflict on each other. She negotiated the roots, ruts, and rocks – sometimes tripping, occasionally falling, and now and then enduring injury, but always rising again to fully experience the journey. And she embraced it all with faith, grace, and a healthy dose of humor. Always inspired by the prospect of heaven, she never failed to see the importance of the daily journey well travelled.

Thanks mom!

"I Catched It"

2009-04-11T16:53:00.000-07:00

One of my mother's favorite stories was about bubbles. One morning, my mother was blowing soap bubbles while my little girl danced around trying to catch them. As a big bubble settled gently on my daughter's fingertips, she exclaimed, "I catched it! I catched it!" My mother would always cry just a little, when she told the story -- the innocence and joy of the moment always filled her with nostalgic tenderness. So it only seemed appropriate that the day my mother went to heaven my granddaughter and grandson would celebrate her new life in heaven by blowing bubbles up to her.

The Hope of Heaven: a comfort and motivation to those of us who have lost loved ones. Not an empty hope, but a promise fulfilled through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. As we remained gathered around my mother's bedside my oldest sister reminded us that although we were still seeking for signs of our mother, she was no longer there, she had gone on to fullness of life -- out of the earthly restraint of her weak and worn out body. "Why do you seek the living among the dead"?

Scripture tells us that,

On the first day of the week, at early dawn, the women went to the tomb, taking the spices they had prepared. And they found the stone rolled away from the tomb, but when they went in they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. While they were perplexed about this, behold, two men stood by them in dazzling apparel. And as they were frightened and bowed their faces to the ground, the men said to them, “Why do you seek the living among the dead? He is not here, but has risen. Remember how he told you, while he was still in Galilee, that the Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men and be crucified and on the third day rise.” And they remembered his words, and returning from the tomb they told all these things to the eleven and to all the rest. Luke 24:1-9

Because Christ fulfilled the plan of redemption for all men, because He who was without sin, suffered the consequences of all man's sins, those of us who accept His gracious gift have more than hope, we have the assurance of heaven. Jesus said,

...the Son of Man must be lifted up, so that everyone who believes in him will have eternal life. For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him. John 3:14-17

So today, on Easter, as we celebrate the fulfillment of God's great promise, somehow I am sure that my mom "catched" those soapy bubbles.

To those who have lost loved ones, I wish you a Blessed Easter.

Saying Goodbye

2009-04-09T20:23:00.000-07:00

Smiles Breaking Through Tears:

Dying is a gradual diminishing and final vanishing over the horizon of life. When we watch a sailboat leaving port and moving toward the horizon, it becomes smaller and smaller until we can no longer see it. But we must trust that someone is standing on a faraway shore seeing that same sailboat become larger and larger until it reaches its new harbor. Death is a painful loss. When we return to our homes after a burial, our hearts are in grief. But when we think about the One standing at the other shore eagerly waiting to welcome our beloved friend into a new home, a smile can break through our tears. Henri Nouwen; Bread for the Journey

I have come to realize that saying goodbye isn't a one time statement; it is a process. Letting go of someone who has impacted or influenced our lives in significant ways is a slow and gradual adieu -- like watching a boat leave the harbor. We linger on the shore until we only think we can still see the sails, hoping for just one more look, one more chance to wave farewell. But in the end, we must turn, and let the boat sail on to its destination, faithful that it is a beautiful view from both shores.

To Mama

2009-04-08T21:14:00.000-07:00

Dear Mama,

What an incredible life you have had, and what an amazing woman you were, Ann Scott. Your life is an inspiration for women today. You never let the restrictions of this world define or limit you. You rose above the poverty and circumstances of your youth. With only a high school education, you never stopped learning and educating yourself, and you never let the fact that you were a “just a woman” thwart your aspirations.

Could you have imagined how far you would go in your life? You surpassed the limits put on women and became a respected, admired, leader in your career, your church, and your family. You have met First Ladies, rubbed elbows with Governors and Mayors, and have called great people of influence in this country by their first names! Your work changed the face and future of the state of Colorado.

Could you have imagined that you would be the matriarch of such a grand family? What a marvelous example and heritage you have passed on to your children and grandchildren and even great grandchildren. I am proud to point to you as a role model for my daughters and granddaughter. You have shown us the power of faith in God, and the empowerment of hard work. You have taught us to never be ashamed of who we are and to live in such a way that we will never have reason to be shamed. You were never too busy, too sick, too tired, or too occupied to be there for us when we needed you.

I am blessed to be your daughter.

Sleep gently dear Mama, rest in peace.

Robyn

Ann Scott

September 21, 1917 - April 7, 2009

Lessons from the Trail: Running Together

2009-03-16T20:13:00.000-07:00

My friend Pam sent the following observations about my last entry re: Lessons from the Trail: Finish or Camp? I wrote about how my husband had come back on the trail to encourage me after he had already run his race. Pam wrote,

Greg’s love was a picture of God and how He is there, not always rescuing us OUT of the situation but making sure we know he’s there, he is with us, he cares that life is hard, we are not alone, we are loved… no we are cherished and at the moment we know we are cherished, our perspective feels so different. Life can still be tough but we are of value, loved and cherished by the one we love. In the moments when things are good between husband and wife it is a picture, maybe a glimmer, of our relationship with God.

Even though I was not in my best shape (I have previously confessed that I am carrying extra pounds, and have not been faithful to working out and taking care of myself the best I can) when Greg came back on that trail he came to encourage me -- not to deride me for not being in better shape or for not being better prepared for this race; nor to point out my weaknesses; he didn't come to carry me to the finish-line or "excuse me" from finishing (which frankly I would have accepted at that moment, but have regretted later) -- he simply came out of love, to encourage and empower me to finish the race before me. That is what God does for us. He meets us where we are, and asks us if we want to run with Him.

What's your answer?

Lessons from the Trail: Finish or Camp?

2009-03-14T11:00:00.000-07:00

Now finish the work, so that your eager willingness to do it may be matched by your completion of it, according to your means. 2 Corinthians 8:11

Last Sunday my husband, Greg, and I ran a trail race up, over, down, and through a canyon. Though we had expected a 4 mile course, it ended up 4.88 miles. Elevation gain: 1,738 feet -- in the first two miles. Elevation loss, 1,739 feet in the second two miles, and a continual up and down for the last .88 mile. It was grueling ... well, it was grueling for me. The winner ran the whole thing in 27 minutes and decided to re-run it TWICE!

Ok, I'm not a champion -- but I am a finisher; and as noble as that might sound, when you are in the middle of race, in the middle of a canyon, you really don't have much choice but to finish -- unless you are willing to camp there for the rest of your life. Lesson from the trail: running out of steam doesn't have to mean quitting.

Greg and I like to hike as well as run trails. We often joke about "ranger miles." When trying out new trails, we will often first consult the Park Rangers regarding the conditions, attractions, availability, etc. of the trails, and of course, we always check to see how long the trail is. Invariably the hike turns out to be MUCH longer than anticipated. We have determined that Rangers measure miles differently than our GPS does -- thus, "ranger miles." Sometimes a trail run ends up being measured by ranger miles as well. It always brings a chuckle at the end of the race when the organizers confess that the 5 or 10K was really "a bit" more than "official." We all shake our heads knowingly and pat each other -- or ourselves -- on the back for having survived so well. So last Sunday on the trail it wasn't a complete shock to me when breathless and a bit worse for the wear, I hit the 4 mile marker with no finish line in site. But when I faced yet another incline I seriously considered making my new home on that trail.

Sometimes in life just when we think we are nearing the end of a long haul, up pops a new hill, and the finish line is nowhere in sight. If we become complacent or fatalistic we will choose to just "live" there; to give up, to surrender to the situation. At those times we must determine to see past the hill, and know that the finish line is out there -- around the next turn, or even past yet another hill, but it is there. Complacency will lead to cynicism, frustration, and ultimately hopelessness. But determination will be rewarded at the end.

As I stumbled toward the goal, around the next turn I saw not the finish line, but my husband Greg, who had already finished the race. He had come back on the trail to encourage me on to the end. Scripture tells us,

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, Hebrews 12:1

On the trail there are volunteers who hand us water, and cheer us on, "only 1 more mile to go" [Arg! You have GOT to be kidding, "only" and "mile" do not belong in the same sentence!], "you're almost there," "you're doing a great job," "oops, not that way -- this way" [but my way goes down, you're pointing UP ☹]. And sometimes, a friend or husband who has already completed the race comes back and helps spur us on.

When we find ourselves in the middle of the trail with no steam, it's time to reach out to those who can encourage and direct us. And when we find ourselves finished with a race, it's time to volunteer to reach out to those still running. Remember, the food and the prizes are waiting at the finish line.

Lessons from the Trail: The Race Before Us

2009-03-06T18:33:00.000-08:00

Hebrews 12:1 ... let us run with endurance the race that is set before us

My husband and I like to trail run... well, he likes to trail run, I like to trail run/walk/gasp/creep. We also like to compete in races. He usually medals in the top three; I sometimes luck out and am the only competitor in my age group. Lately, I've come to realize that there are some valuable lessons to be learned on the trail.

The writer of Hebrews tells us to run with endurance the race before us. Lesson number 1: you can't change the route of the race come race day; and you can't win the race without sticking to the route.

We don't often have a choice of the path we're on -- yes, our decisions and circumstances impact our life's journey, but often, we simply end up on a path we didn't plan on. Regardless of how we got here, the path we're on is the path we have to run. Finishing the race requires staying focused on the trail, on the next step, on not stumbling, or wandering off, but enduring to the finish line. The trail can seem endless sometimes, with so many twists and turns it is easy to get frightened and frustrated. But giving up isn't an option, changing trails isn't possible, wishing for an easier terrain or pretending that you are on a different path only prolongs the inevitable. To finish the race, you have to continue on.

Tomorrow morning we have another race. Four miles through, up, and down a canyon. I'm not really in shape -- lately I've put on some extra pounds, sloughed off training, and haven't worked out in weeks, but the race is tomorrow, and tomorrow I must run it. Sometimes, running with endurance means just doing the best you can with what you have.

Check out http://blessedtobelieve.blogspot.com for more thoughts and devotionals.

New Series

2009-02-04T16:00:00.000-08:00

Look for my new series of insights/devotionals starting soon:

Lessons From the Trail

...let us run with endurance the race that is set before us Hebrews 12:1

Thankfulness in Action

2008-11-25T14:14:00.000-08:00

Being thankful this year may be harder than usual. The economy is dismal, our country is fighting in two countries, and Hope seems like a campaign slogan. Yet, the Bible tells us to be thankful in (not "for") all things (1Thessalonians 5:17). Sometimes actions speak louder than words.

My friend Tina recently sent me an article by Anne Lamott, who, as my friend reminds me, "sometimes goes a little near the edge." BUT, if you're feeling a little less than thankful this year, try some of Anne's suggestions. I guarantee they'll restore your hope!

Anne writes:

Call the loneliest person you know.
Go flirt with the oldest person at the bookstore.
Fill up a box with really cool clothes that you haven't worn in a year, and take it to a thrift shop.
Take gray water outside and water whatever is growing on your deck.
Drink more fluids.
And take very gentle care of yourself and the people you most love: We need you now more than ever.

Try it -- you'll thank me! ☺

Check out http://blessedtobelieve.blogspot.com for daily holiday devotionals.

A Prayer and Pledge for Real Change

2008-11-05T16:51:00.000-08:00

Below is a letter written by Jim Wallis of Sojourners Magazine pledging support and prayers for real change in America. As faithful followers of Christ, we cannot expect our leaders to "do it all." We must be committed to taking active responsibility for our role in bringing the Kingdom Come. What are the principles, purposes, and people we are committed to? Let's make a pledge to do our part, even while praying for our new President and the hope for America.

Dear Mr. President-elect Obama:

I want personally to offer you my prayers as you embark on the enormous challenge of leading our country in a time of great crisis and crossroads. While our ultimate hope is our faith in God, we also have high hopes for your administration.

I am one member of a growing movement of Christians and people of faith who support a broad moral agenda that includes a deep concern for poverty, peacemaking, a consistent ethic of life, and care for creation. During the campaign, you said that, if elected, you would face powerful special interests trying to block change. You said you would need a citizen movement to support and push you.

Today, I am pledging to be part of that movement. It will be a movement that will both pray for you and hold you accountable to the things you promised. So I urge you to give high priority to:

Overcome poverty, both here in our rich nation and globally. Your efforts to resolve the economic crisis must include those at the bottom, the poorest among us. You pledged during the campaign to mobilize the nation to cut domestic poverty in half in ten years and to implement the Millennium Development Goals to cut extreme global poverty in half.

Find better ways than war to resolve the inevitable conflicts in the world. It is time to end the war in Iraq and emphasize diplomacy over military action in resolving problems in Iran and Afghanistan. We need better and smarter foreign policy that is more consistent with our best national values.

Promote a consistent ethic of life that addresses all threats to life and dignity. We must end genocide in Darfur, the use of torture, and the death penalty. I urge you to pursue common ground policies which can dramatically reduce abortions in America, and help bring us together on this divisive issue.

Reverse the effects of climate change on God’s creation. We must learn a new way of living in America to end our dangerous dependence on Middle East oil. We need a spiritual commitment to stewardship and national policies that promote safe, clean, and renewable energy. You spoke of job creation and economic renewal with a new “green economy.”

We need your presidential leadership for this type of societal transformation, but I promise also to do my part.

I will pray for you as you assume the awesome responsibility of leading our nation. To be the best president you can be, you will need both the support and the push of the faith community. I pledge to help build the movement that will keep your administration accountable and faithful.

Blessings,

[written by Jim Wallis]

GO VOTE!

2008-11-03T16:56:00.000-08:00

I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings [and Presidents!] and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-4

GO VOTE!! Vote your conscience. Vote your commitments. Vote righteously! And above all, know that although we have the privilege and responsibility of electing our country's leaders and direction, in the end, our hope is in the Lord!

No matter if your "guy (or gal)" is elected or not; if your proposition passes or fails, God is the One we turn to first, foremost, and with utter confidence and assurance that He is faithful to all of His Promises! So, let's not allow the election results to cause divisiveness, contentiousness, or hopelessness to seep into to our minds, hearts, relationships, or communities. Let's use the results as the way to live and guide each other into God's Plans and Purposes. And let's remember to encourage each other to pray for our Leaders, our Country, and our voice as Americans.

Go VOTE -- (and don't forget that Starbucks is offering a free coffee to those who cast their ballot today!)☺

Vote!

2008-11-02T09:08:00.000-08:00

We’ve seen the debates. Heard the phone messages. Read the emails. All that is left is to cast our ballot. Before we fill in that blank, let’s take one more moment to stop, reflect, and pray.

Scripture shows us that the people will not only suffer the consequences of unwise leadership but will also be held responsible and accountable for the quality of their Leaders. So before we vote for the next President of the United States, let's consider God’s job description for leaders. Our leaders are to:

Seek justice, encourage the oppressed. Defend the cause of the fatherless, plead the case of the widow. Isaiah 1:17
Take care of the people; strengthen the weak and heal the sick, bind up the injured; bring back the strays and search for the lost. See Ezekiel 34:3-4
Administer true justice; show mercy and compassion to one another. Do not oppress the widow or the fatherless, the foreigner or the poor. Do not plot evil against each other. Zechariah 7:9-10

The next American President will change history. Will America progress its own agenda, or God’s purposes? We have the power to decide!

Lord, guide our hearts and minds as we decide who will receive our vote. Bless this country with YOUR leadership! Amen

"Inspired" Voting

2008-10-29T06:46:00.000-07:00

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. Isaiah 9:6

I wonder what Jesus’ "political" platform would be? How would Jesus campaign? Would He be a Republican or a Democrat, or would He stay Independent? Maybe He would start His own “Inspired” party!

As we consider which candidate we will cast our ballot for next Tuesday, we listen to their words, we watch their actions, and we examine their pasts. Jesus’ words were always clear,

“I have come to proclaim good news to the poor, freedom for the prisoners, give light to those who are in darkness, to set the oppressed free, and to proclaim God’s favor upon His children." (Luke 4:18-19)

"Those who follow me must deny their own desires and take up their cross” (Mark 8:34)

“If you want to follow me you must sell your possessions and give to the poor” (Matthew 19:21)

“Feed the hungry, clothe the naked, remember the forgotten and take care of the stranger, visit the prisoners” (See Matthew 25: 34-46)

His actions were always consistent with His words, and His past record was eternally evident! Jesus’ “platform” is still the foundation of His Kingdom come. As His followers, as members of His Party, we are responsible for its continuation. As we consider our vote for next Tuesday, let’s consider the Kingdom agenda and vote accordingly.

Hope-filled Voting

2008-10-28T07:48:00.000-07:00

Election day is a week away. Polls, pundits, and predictions abound everywhere. Who do we vote for? Who can we trust? We listen to the speeches, the promises, the “politicking,” and wonder. As I talk to friends, relatives, even strangers in line behind me in the check out lane, it strikes me that who we favor has much to do with what we fear.

We fear enemy attack and favor strong military candidates.
We fear economy plunge and favor strong economic package candidates.
We fear women and favor men.
We fear men and favor a woman.
And on and on and on…

But where is our hope? God tells us in Isaiah 49:23 that “those who hope in me will not be disappointed.” David, the great King of Israel wrote,

The Lord is my light and my salvation— whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life— of whom shall I be afraid? (Psalm 27:1)

ONLY God can be our true Protector and Provider. As we consider casting our vote next Tuesday, let’s NOT be driven by fear, but by hope and prayer, and vote for the candidate whom we believe best represents God's purposes for our time.

Conscientious Voting

2008-10-27T08:48:00.000-07:00

The Bible tells us that all mankind have been given the ability to discern right from wrong -- a conscience [See Romans 2:15]. Yet, it seems that our culture, and perhaps the basic nature of man, is to pursue not that inner voice of conscientiousness, but those things that suit our own sense of "mine." We want "our" way, "our" things, "our" rights... often at the expense of the "general good." Scripture is filled with references of what happens to a society where everyone defines their own "right and wrong." [i.e. Judges 17:6, Jeremiah 11:8; 44:15-16] Eventually there is no moral standard, no commitment to the welfare and care of others, and the foundation of their society decays and crumbles. Ecclesiastics 11:9 reminds us that there will be an accounting for each one's actions and choices.

Zechariah 7:9-10 tells us, This is what the Lord of Heaven desires; "Judge fairly, and show mercy and kindness to one another. Do not oppress widows, orphans, foreigners, and the poor. And do not scheme against each other."

And the apostle Paul instructs us to not just consider our own interests but to remember to consider the welfare of others (Philippians 2:4).

We have a precious privilege and responsibility as Americans. We can be heard. We can make a difference. Our voice is important. We have the ability to shape the context of our culture. Before we consider what laws and lawmakers we will choose on November 4, lets spend a few moments consider the Will and Purposes of The Law-Giver. Before we cast our vote this year, lets make an effort as followers of Christ, to prayerfully consider if our vote is reflecting the One we serve.

Compassionate Voting

2008-10-26T15:50:00.000-07:00

Henri Nouwen wrote:

The Church often wounds us deeply. People with religious authority often wound us by their words, attitudes, and demands. Precisely because our religion brings us in touch with the questions of life and death, our religious sensibilities can get hurt most easily. Ministers and priests seldom fully realize how a critical remark, a gesture of rejection, or an act of impatience can be remembered for life by those to whom it is directed.  

There is such an enormous hunger for meaning in life, for comfort and consolation, for forgiveness and reconciliation, for restoration and healing, that anyone who has any authority in the Church should constantly be reminded that the best word to characterize religious authority is compassion. Let's keep looking at Jesus whose authority was expressed in compassion. 

As we prepare for the coming election, let us remember that as beloved children of God, we need to strive to walk (and vote) in love; and to not allow any bitterness, divisiveness, or evil intentions to creep into our hearts, our minds, our words, and our actions. [See Ephesians 5:1ff]. We have the opportunity to stand for our beliefs, to influence the direction of our country, and to impact future generations by our choices. But as we do so, let's also remember that we are called to reflect and represent the love of God; and even as we make our stand, we do so in love, gentleness, and always with a heart of reconciliation -- bringing peace to our neighbors by showing and offering them the Peace of God with us... Immanuel.

Faith and Politics

2008-08-28T16:24:00.000-07:00

Below is a recent article by Jim Wallis (author of God's Politics). Food for thought as we head into this very important election.

Why Faith at the Conventions Matters (by Jim Wallis)

I am now in Denver for the Democratic National Convention, and I will be in the Twin Cities next week for the Republican National Convention. I am speaking at both about the moral issues the faith community believes are important -- among them poverty, the environment and climate change, a consistent ethic of life, strong families, pandemic diseases, human trafficking, war, and peace. The Democrats are, for the first time, having "faith forums" to discuss those issues, and I will be moderating two of those forums -- one on the meaning of "the common good," a central religious concept. There will also be issues forums at the Republican Convention on the connections between faith and politics, which I am looking forward to participating in next week. At both conventions, the media is showing great interest in the connection between religion and the election, and that's the other reason I will be at both places.

The proper relationship between faith and politics is a critical issue. In recent decades, religion has often been used, and even abused, by politics and politicians. There is now a legitimate backlash to the exploitation and "politicizing" of religion among many in the churches -- especially a new generation. But the backlash could also lead to a new form of the old private piety or a new communal piety -- that the only important relationship is the one between "me and God" or in the churches' "service" to their own communities (an improvement over mere personal piety, but far short of the biblical call to justice).

Politics is important. Wilberforce could not have ended the slave trade in England without politics. And it would not have been enough for Christians to just not have slaves. Martin Luther King could not have achieved the victories of civil rights without politics. It would not have been enough for the churches to just disavow segregation. (In fact, as King reminded us, the most segregated hour in America was and still is 11 a.m. on Sunday mornings). Gandhi could not have freed India from colonialism, nor could Nelson Mandela have ended apartheid in South Africa without politics. Politics is supposed to be about the common good, about the moral values we want to guide our civic life, even though the practice of politics often makes many people cynical.

But politics is broken in America, as I have often said. And it will take social movements, with clear spiritual values, to change politics in America. That is what genuine revivals have always done -- changed hearts and changed society. And that is still my best hope.

There are many people of faith here at this convention in Denver, as there will also be in the Twin Cities. The important thing for us as people of faith at both conventions is to make sure that our "politics" are more "prophetic" than "partisan." As I have continually repeated, God is not a Republican or a Democrat, and people of faith belong in no party's political pocket. The danger at both conventions is that religion will be exploited -- again -- this time by both sides. So I will be reporting to you on how that goes, whether the people of faith who are here are able to offer that prophetic role that faithfulness requires, that would hold politics accountable to real moral values, and would offer the best hope of social change. Stay tuned.

The Genesis Directive: Be Fruitful (Part 2)

2008-07-28T09:00:00.000-07:00

The Apostle Paul tells us that in order to produce the Spiritual fruit of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23) we must continually and consistently "walk in the Spirit."

What does it mean to "walk in the Spirit"? Basically it means to choose who or what motivates and activates our emotions, thoughts, and actions. It means to begin to be conscious of how we are choosing to live each moment, and what (or who) is determining those choices. Our lives are not lived in random motion – we are constantly listening to our internal “director” or “direction finder.” Like the new “never lost” GPS systems in cars; that voice that directs you to “turn right in 2.3 miles” or informs you that “I’m recalculating your route. Make a legal u-turn as soon as possible” when you’ve made a wrong turn.

We too have “internal direction guides.” The scriptures call them the flesh, the enemy, and the Holy Spirit. The desires of the flesh distract us from producing the good fruit by causing us to focus only on our own wants and appetites. We become self-centered and produce shriveled fruit that leaves us hungry and empty. The deceptions of the enemy betrays our fruitfulness and poisons and perverts the fruit of our lives, resulting in hollow, sour, and often harmful produce. Only the Spirit of God leads us into true fruitfulness -- fruit that satisfies our souls and blesses others. To walk in the Spirit means to choose to listen to and then follow THAT voice which is based in God's Word and Will.

How do we know which voice we are listening to? By paying attention! By taking a few moments at the end of each day to review the choices we have made during the day, we will begin to discover the patterns that provoke our feelings and actions. Who do we tend to listen to when we are tired, stressed, or lonely? What initiates our words when we are feeling insecure or unsure? What motivates us when we are sure, confident, and able? Who is in control when we are angry, upset, or frustrated? And how did those choices makes us feel at the end of the day? ? Learning our patterns enables us to become more aware in the moment of the voice we are listening to and the direction we are following.

Paul told the Galatians that we can generate the works of the flesh (sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, envy, drunkenness…) or the fruit of the Spirit. God’s first blessing was not to “work and multiply” but to “be fruitful and multiply.” Let's begin to pay closer attention to our own GPS system -- God's Productive Spirit!

The Genesis Directive: Be Fruitful

2008-07-24T08:51:00.000-07:00

God's first blessing for man and womankind is the directive of fruitfulness. It was the first blessing He gave to Adam and Eve, and after the flood, the first blessing to Noah and his family (See Genesis 1:28-29 and 9:2).

"Be fruitful and multiply."

What does it mean for us today to be fruitful and to multiply? Is it merely about reproducing or can we discern a deeper blessing from these words? The New Testament tells us that the fruit God desires from our lives is the fruit of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23.) But the production of this fruit cannot be done on our own --fruit does not spontaneously produce itself. The Apostle Paul tells us that this fruit must first be planted by and in the Spirit of God, and then we must be determined to walk in that Spirit.

What kind of fruit are we producing in our lives? Are we feeding, tending, and growing the fruit of God's Spirit? The scriptures tell us that the directive to be fruitful is God's blessing to His children. Our lives and the lives of those around us are blessed and changed by this kind of fruitfulness. How might the world look different to the next generation if THIS fruit became our primary crop?

The Genesis Directive: Part 1

2008-04-30T09:28:00.001-07:00

The first chapter of the Bible is the story of creation. The creation of all things: the heavens, the earth, the seas, and all means of creatures by the spoken Word of God. Then God intentionally created humankind from the substance of the earth and His own breath, (See Genesis 2:7) in His own image, according to His own likeness, with the position of dominion -- caretaker and authority -- over all other life: "over the fish of the sea, and over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the wild animals of the earth, and over every creeping thing that creeps upon the earth." Genesis 1:26

Humankind's position on our planet is one of authority and caretaker. Adam's first job according to Genesis 2:1, was to name and identify all other creatures. Genesis 1:27 - 30, spells out specifically God's intended role for humankind.

So God created humankind in his image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.
God blessed them, and God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth and subdue it; and have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the air and over every living thing that moves upon the earth.” God said, “See, I have given you every plant yielding seed that is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree with seed in its fruit; you shall have them for food. And to every beast of the earth, and to every bird of the air, and to everything that creeps on the earth, everything that has the breath of life, I have given every green plant for food.” And it was so.

Our earth and the condition of its inhabitants is testimony of how conscientiously we have served our created position. What can we do today to restore, refresh, or replenish our precious planet? It's our job!

Check out Robyn's new B.L.E.S.S.E.D. devotions at Blessed to Believe!

"Speak, for Your servant is listening."

2008-04-03T08:53:00.000-07:00

Eli understood that the LORD was calling the boy. He told Samuel, "Go and lie down. If He calls you, say, ‘Speak, LORD, for Your servant is listening.’" 1 Samuel 3:8,9

When was the last time you heard God? Really heard Him? In Hearing God Through the Year, Dallas Willard writes “that the same Spirit who delivered the Scriptures to holy men of old speaks today in the hearts of those who gather around the written Word to teach and to learn.” Dr. Willard suggests that you list people you can talk to about how they hear God in their lives.

If we truly believe that God created us so that He could have a relationship with us, how then can we possibly think He would not want to speak to us? Who do you know that hears God on a regular basis? Consider treating them to a Starbucks and then listen to what they have to say!

Seven Filters, part 2

2008-03-14T16:00:00.000-07:00

Proverbs 6:16-19 says,

There are six things that the Lord hates,

seven that are an abomination to him:

haughty eyes, a lying tongue,

and hands that shed innocent blood,

a heart that devises wicked plans,

feet that hurry to run to evil,

a lying witness who testifies falsely,

and one who sows discord in a family.

Therefore, is it reasonable to conclude that:

There are six things that the Lord loves,

seven that are a delight to Him?

Humble eyes, a truthful tongue,

and hands that reach out to help,

a heart that considers righteous plans,

feet that hurry to run to goodness,

an honest witness who testifies truthfully,

and one who sows peacefulness in a family.

At the end of the day, how do your actions measure up?

Food for thought during a fasting season!

Seven Filters

2008-03-13T08:47:00.000-07:00

Proverbs 6:16-19 says,

There are six things that the Lord hates,

seven that are an abomination to him:

haughty eyes, a lying tongue

and hands that shed innocent blood,

a heart that devises wicked plans,

feet that hurry to run to evil,

a lying witness who testifies falsely,

and one who sows discord in a family.

This season of Lent and self-examination offers us a good opportunity to look at how our perspective (eyes), words (tongue), actions (hands and feet), attitude (heart), and character (witness) measure up. When we filter our day through this Proverb, it is easy to see if we have spent our time well -- pleasing God; or if we have fallen into habits and behavior patterns that displease Him.

Food for thought during a fasting season!

Test of the Flesh

2008-02-19T16:58:00.000-08:00

The journey of Christ in the wilderness was a time of testing and a time of discipline. Jesus’ first challenge by Satan was a “test of the flesh,” a challenge of self identity and physical comfort. Satan challenged Jesus to prove who he was by demonstrating his ability to satisfy his own physical hunger. Jesus’ response was to remind the evil one that humankind is more than physical need and ability.

How do we follow Jesus’ example in breaking the physical bonds by which we identify so strongly? Two ways are fasting and anonymous giving. One helps us break the strong draw of our physical appetite by intentionally depriving ourselves of physical comfort; the other helps us break the lure of self-prowess by selflessly, and quietly giving away those things that we hold dear.

Both of these disciplines help us recognize what it means—and feels like – to depend on God’s Providence.

Book suggestion: The God of Intimacy and Action: Reconnecting Ancient Spiritual Practices, Evangelism, and Justice' by Tony Campoloa & Mary Albert Darling

Lent: Five Weeks until Easter

2008-02-16T15:09:00.000-08:00

In the desert, Jesus faced physical discomfort. Hunger and thirst. Ironic, The Bread of Life Himself without physical sustenance. Scripture tells us that the Devil came to Jesus in the wilderness to test Him,

The devil said to him, “If you are the Son of God, tell this stone to become bread.” Luke 4:3

The enemy used Jesus’ physical condition to test His personal identity. If you are the Son of God – prove it! Prove who you are by showing what you can do for yourself.

An interesting test. The test of “flesh.” Prove who you are by the standard of how well you can take care of your own needs. If we can provide for ourselves, then surely we are independent. If we can buy big houses, fancy cars, designer clothes, then surely we are successful. “Don’t help me, I can do it by myself” is one of the first things toddler’s learn to say. “I can tie my shoes all by myself now” – it proves I’m a big girl!

Jesus’ answer to Satan was,

"It is written: 'People do not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.'" Matthew 4:4

In refusing to satisfy His own physical needs, Jesus is telling us that the true standard of who we are and what we need is not based in the physical realm. It isn’t about what we have or what we can do on our own. It isn’t about meeting all of our needs by ourselves. Who we are is based on whose we are, and therefore real sustenance is not about what we can provide for ourselves, but what God wants to give us.

How do we break this mind-set of trying to prove ourselves by showing how well we can provide for our own needs? One way is by going without… giving up, or better yet, anonymously giving away those very things by which we have been defining ourselves, and by turning our awareness and thankfulness to what God is giving us today.

Lent & the Spiritual Disciplines

2008-02-10T13:56:00.000-08:00

Henri Nouwen once wrote, “In the spiritual life, the word ‘discipline’ means ‘the effort to create some space in which God can act’… if we create space in which God can act and speak, something surprising will happen. You and I are called to these disciplines if we want to be disciples.”

I have a passion for reading the writings and biographies of the early church Fathers and Mothers. I am always moved and filled with wonder at their capacity to know, hear, and follow God’s voice in their lives. Yet, I am also often left feeling a bit melancholy. Why, I wonder, if God does not change,* if indeed He is the same today as yesterday, then why do I not have that same degree or intensity of relationship with Him as those great Patriarchs and Matriarchs?

Could it be that they lived lives with much more space for God in them? Fasting, solitude, penitence, giving, serving… were all regular parts of their lives. In my life, they are very limited experiences only. Christ spoke of “when you give, when you fast, when you serve…” never if. The example of Christ at the beginning of the books of Matthew, Mark, and Luke shows us the disciplines of solitude and fasting that Christ intentionally practiced – after His baptism yet before the beginning of His public service.

The practices of Spiritual Disciplines should therefore be the result of and response to our recognized dedication and devotion to God, and their purpose is to prepare us for and lead us to the path of service. We should not practice these disciplines for their own sake, but for the purpose of being prepared, tested, and empowered for God’s purposes for His Church, His Children, and His Creation.

The season of Lent offers us the opportunity to intentionally set aside time in our day for God to work in unexpected ways.

*(See Malachi 3:6; Hebrews 13:8)

Book suggestion: The Celebration of Discipline by Richard Foster

Lent, Self Sacrifice, and Finding Joy

2008-02-09T14:09:00.000-08:00

Literally meaning “Springtime,” the observation of “Lent” – a liturgical season traditionally marked by the practices of penitence, fasting, sacrifice, giving, and prayer – takes place during the forty days preceding Easter. Unfortunately, in recent times, this important time of Spiritual Discipline has either become “ritualized” into a near empty or superficial time of giving up chocolate, or pizza, or some bad habit… or ignored altogether. What a pity – because this truly can be a time of deep association with the journey of Christ through the wilderness.

Henri Nouwen defines Spiritual Disciplines as “creating a space in your life for God to work.” Intentionally stopping our routine, and seeking an experiential time with the Holy Presence.

The point of fasting, self denial, or “giving something up” isn’t about performing a ritual, or proving one’s stamina, the point is to realize how preoccupied and dependent we have become on the things of this world – at the cost of our spiritual awareness. The awareness that Christ is indeed the ONE thing we truly need. Christ's journey through the wilderness tested what He relied on most, who He trusted implicitly, and how He would fulfill His purposes.

In the desert Christ was faced with the choice between earthly food and heavenly sustenance,

Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, left the Jordan and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness, where for forty days he was tempted by the devil. He ate nothing during those days, and at the end of them he was hungry.
The devil said to him, “If you are the Son of God, tell this stone to become bread.”
Jesus answered, "It is written; 'People do not live on bread alone.'" Luke 4:1-4

The choice between earthly prestige and Divine priority,

The devil led him up to a high place and showed him in an instant all the kingdoms of the world. And he said to him, "I will give you all their authority and splendor; it has been given to me, and I can give it to anyone I want to. If you worship me, it will all be yours."
Jesus answered, "It is written: 'Worship the Lord your God and serve him only.'" Luke 4:5-8

And the choice between being humanly spectacular or being heavenly significant,

The devil led Jesus to Jerusalem and had him stand on the highest point of the temple. "If you are the Son of God," he said, "throw yourself down from here. For it is written: "'He will command his angels concerning you to guard you carefully; they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.'"
Jesus answered, "It is said: 'Do not put the Lord your God to the test.'" Luke 4:9-12

After enduring this time of testing, angels came to attend to His needs (see Matthew 4:11; Mark 1:13). When was the last time angels tended to your needs – could it be that when we depend solely on physical provision we miss the blessing of authentic spiritual sustenance?

This Lenten season, I encourage you to travel the path of Jesus in the wilderness. Dare to be tended by angels.

Book Suggestion: Bread and Wine, Readings for Lent and Easter; Orbis Press.

Super Tuesday (Part 3)

2008-02-01T16:00:00.000-08:00

But I say to you…

“You have heard it said… but I say to you …”

In this way, Jesus began to communicate His policies. The way it had been vs. the way it should be. The old kingdom vs. the Kingdom come. Earthly thinking vs. Heavenly truth.

In the book of Matthew [5:21-45] we are told that Jesus gathered His followers and went to a hillside, sat down (no dramatic posturing), and began to explain the way of His government.

You have heard it said, 'You shall not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.' But I say to you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgment.

You have heard it said, 'You shall not commit adultery.' But I say to you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.

You have heard it said, 'Do not break your oath, but fulfill to the Lord the vows you have made.' But I say to you, do not swear an oath at all … All you need to say is simply 'Yes,' or 'No'; anything beyond this comes from the
evil one.

You have heard it said, an ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth. But I say to you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also. And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well. If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles. Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.

You have heard it said, 'Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven.

We have heard many things said during this campaign. What do you think Jesus would have to say?

Check out the link to this week's book suggestion: God's Politics, Why the Right Gets It Wrong and the Left Doesn't Get It by Jim Wallis.

Super Tuesday (Part 2)

2008-01-31T16:00:00.000-08:00

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. Isaiah 9:6

I wonder what Jesus’ "political" platform would be? How would Jesus campaign? Would He be a Republican or a Democrat, or would He stay Independent? Maybe He would start His own “Illumination” party!

As we consider which candidate we will cast our ballot for next Tuesday, we listen to their words, we watch their actions, and we examine their pasts. Jesus’ words were always clear,

“I have come to proclaim good news to the poor, freedom for the prisoners, give light to those who are in darkness, to set the oppressed free, and to proclaim God’s favor upon His children." (Luke 4:18-19)
"Those who follow me must deny their own desires and take up their cross” (Mark 8:34)
“If you want to follow me you must sell your possessions and give to the poor” (Matthew 19:21)
“Feed the hungry, clothe the naked, care for the forgotten and take care of the stranger, visit the prisoners” (See Matthew 25: 34-46)

His actions were always consistent with His words, and His past record was eternally evident! Jesus’ “platform” is still the foundation of His Kingdom come. As His followers, as members of His Party, we are responsible for its continuation. As we consider our vote for next Tuesday, let’s consider the Kingdom agenda and vote accordingly.

Check out the link to this week's book suggestion: God's Politics, Why the Right Gets It Wrong and the Left Doesn't Get It by Jim Wallis.

SUPER TUESDAY!

2008-01-30T05:34:00.000-08:00

The primaries are coming to California! Super Tuesday is less than a week away. Polls, pundits, and predictions abound everywhere. Who do we vote for? Who can we trust? We listen to the speeches, the promises, the “politicking,” and wonder. As I talk to friends, relatives, even strangers in line behind me in the check out lane, it strikes me that who we favor has much to do with what we fear.

We fear enemy attack and favor strong military candidates.
We fear economy plunge and favor strong economic package candidates.
We fear women and favor men.
We fear men and favor a woman.
And on and on and on…

But where is our hope? God tells us in Isaiah 49:23 that “those who hope in me will not be disappointed.” David, the great King of Israel wrote,

The Lord is my light and my salvation— whom shall I fear?
The Lord is the stronghold of my life— of whom shall I be afraid?
(Psalm 27:1)

ONLY God can be our true Protector and Provider. As we consider casting our vote next Tuesday, let’s NOT be driven by fear, but by hope and prayer, and vote for the man or woman whom we believe best represents God's purposes for our time.

Check out the link to this week's book suggestion: God's Politics, Why the Right Gets It Wrong and the Left Doesn't Get It by Jim Wallis.

A Poem

2008-01-21T13:12:00.000-08:00

I just couldn't resist posting this poem that someone emailed me today. Food for thought -- and prayer!

JUDGE NOT

I was shocked, confused, bewildered

As I entered Heaven's door.

Not by the beauty of it all,

Nor the lights, nor its decor.

But it was the folks in Heaven

Who made me sputter and gasp--

The thieves, the liars, the sinners,

The alcoholics, and the trash...

There stood that kid from seventh grade

Who swiped my lunch money twice.

Next to him was my old neighbor

Who never said anything nice.

Herb, who I always thought,

Would be rotting away in hell,

Was sitting pretty on cloud nine,

Looking incredibly well.

I nudged Jesus, "What's the deal?

I'd love to hear Your take.

How'd all these sinners get up here?

God must've made a mistake."

"And why's everyone so quiet,so somber?

Please, give me a clue."

"Hush, child," said He, "they're all in shock;

No one thought they'd be seeing you."

JUDGE NOT.

The Spiritual Work of Gratitude

2008-01-12T12:14:00.000-08:00

Henri Nouwen wrote:

To be grateful for the good things that happen in our lives is easy, but to be grateful for all of our lives-the good as well as the bad, the moments of joy as well as the moments of sorrow, the successes as well as the failures, the rewards as well as the rejections-that requires hard spiritual work. Still, we are only truly grateful people when we can say thank you to all that has brought us to the present moment. As long as we keep dividing our lives between events and people we would like to remember and those we would rather forget, we cannot claim the fullness of our beings as a gift of God to be grateful for. Let's not be afraid to look at everything that has brought us to where we are now and trust that we will soon see in it the guiding hand of a loving God.

Let's remember this year to look for the "God Presence" in all our moments, circumstances, transitions, relationships, and events. And let's try to filter our perceptions and focus through a lens that remembers that in all things and at all times we are experiencing life as God's beloved children.

Resolutions You Can Keep (Part 8)

2008-01-05T18:20:00.000-08:00

Reap
This year, try something new for the New Year! Instead of trying to change some habit or situation, consider allowing the Spirit of God to change YOU! Let God’s Spirit bring new life, new perspective, and new power into who you are! Reflect on how serious you are about what you believe. Resolve to make yourself available to however God wants to transform you. Renew your spiritual excitement and energy. Reconnect with the One who made you and loves you, and commit to the work of reconciliation with those He gave His life for. Recognize the cost of transforming growth in your life, and then... reap the new life!

Restore what has been faded or lost
Experience His “with-you” Presence and Power
Accept His abundance in your life
Produce the fruit of a transformed life!

Lord, help me to make each day of this year a transforming opportunity. Show me what needs to be restored, experienced, accepted or produced in my life that will glorify You and show the world how Good and Wonderful life with You can be. Amen

Happy New Year!

Resolutions You Can Keep (part 7)

2008-01-04T18:00:00.000-08:00

Recognize
One more step is absolutely necessary if we are really going to embrace the transformed life. We must be ready and willing to recognize the cost of being transformed!

Jesus said that there are three things that will prevent us from truly following Him: relationships, comfort, and possessions! “If you want to be my follower you must love me more than your own father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters--yes, more than your own life. Otherwise, you cannot be my disciple. And you cannot be my disciple if you do not carry your own cross and follow me. But don't begin until you count the cost... no one can become my disciple without giving up everything for me.” Luke 14:26-28, 33

Note that Jesus does not say you should not, or, you ought not be my disciple. Three times, He says that you CANNOT be His disciple if you will not count and agree to the cost of discipleship! Jesus’ words are very clear, we cannot be true disciples if relationships, comfort, or things are a greater influence on our life than He is!

When we put our relationships with other people above or outside of our obedience to Christ, we prevent ourselves and those relationships from being all they can be and from reflecting His priorities and love!

To take up your own cross you must be willing to let go of everything else. When we are not willing to be uncomfortable – or unconventional – we limit the changes that God wants to bring into our lives! Change can be scary and sometimes painful – it can mean giving up things and ways that we have become accustomed to; but if we want to live the greater life, the life of significance, we must be willing to step out of our comfort zone and let God use everything we have, including our relationships, pleasures and possessions.

When we are not willing to honestly count and accept the cost, we are not ready to be truly transformed. If you want to go the distance, you need to know the cost of the trip, and be ready to pay it!

But there is one more cost to recognize, the cost of not choosing discipleship. Dallas Willard writes,

“Nondiscipleship costs abiding peace, a life penetrated throughout by love, faith that sees everything in the light of God’s over-riding governance for good, hopefulness that stands firm in the most discouraging of circumstances, power to do what is right and withstand the forces of evil…Nondiscipleship costs you exactly that abundance of life Jesus said he came to bring (John 10:10). The cross-shaped yoke of Christ is after all an instrument of liberation and power to those who live in it with him…”

Lord, I accept the cost. Lord Christ, You are more precious to me than any thing. You are dearer to me than any other relationship. Your Kingdom come is more important to me than any dream or goal I may have of my own. The cost is worth it. You are worth everything. Amen

Be sure to check out Robyn's Thoughts @ http://robynhenk.blogspot.com for updated book suggestions, daily scripture reading, and more! Happy New Year

Resolutions You Can Keep (Part 6)

2008-01-03T16:52:00.000-08:00

Reconcile:
Once we determine to continually reconnect with God throughout our day, then we must decide to take the necessary steps to reconcile not only ourselves with others, but to work at reconciliation between all human beings. 2 Corinthians 5:18 tells us that through Jesus, we have been given personal peace with God, as well the responsibility of bringing that peace to others. Transformation that truly reflects and glorifies Christ in our world requires dedication to this ministry of reconciliation.

We must begin to build bridges of peace by:

1. Building and repairing personal relationships. The Apostle Paul wrote that as far as it depends on us, we are to do whatever is possible to live at peace with everyone. (See Romans 12:18). Not just those who agree with you, not just those who look or sound like you. Not just those who think the same way, vote the same way, dress the same way – or even pray the same way. No, everyone. And we are to do everything we can to make this possible. For many of us, this means that it is time to take any and all steps necessary to forgive, heal, and release past hurts; as well as to confess and ask forgiveness for those whom we have hurt.

2. Identifying and eliminating division and barriers between people groups. "Blessed are the peacemakers,” Jesus said, “for they shall be called the children of God.” (Matthew 5:9) “We” vs. “them” – “tribal” thinking. It goes to the root of our human identity. We cluster into groups and subgroups. “We” are always right, and “ours” is always the right way. But the Bible says that in Christ we have a NEW identity, and with that a new association. One people, one family! We have been given the ministry of bringing all mankind -- and thier "uniqueness" -- into that family! (See 2 Corinthians 5).

3. Committing to pray for the unity of all mankind. I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-4

What do you truly believe about the power of prayer? The proof is in the practice! I recently read a devotional by an amazing man of peace who has dedicated his life to working with and for the cause of the persecuted. He writes, (because of the nature of his work I will keep his name anonymous),

Have you ever prayed for terrorists in Al-Qaeda or Hamas or Taliban or Islamic Jihad or Hezbollah? Let's be more specific. Have you ever prayed for Osama bin Laden?… If you say you did not pray, then "Is that the reason Osama is what he is-because we didn't pray?" Can we pray him into the kingdom? Or can we neutralize his hatred and effectiveness by prayer? Let's go on a prayer offensive! Let's contest with the devil for the soul of the man, not with military might but with the Gospel. After all, God is in the business of transforming lives.

These are strong words, challenging words, transforming words. How important is praying for the unity and salvation of all mankind to you? How important was it for Christ? He gave His life for it.

Lord show me who I need to be reconciled with. Help me to take the steps necessary to do this in a healthy and godly way. Show me what barriers I need to begin to remove in my family, community, church, and world. Unite and empower the prayers of all believers for the peace of all mankind. Amen

Be sure to check out Robyn's Thoughts @ http://robynhenk.blogspot.com/ for book suggestions, daily scripture reading, and more! Happy New Year.