John 14:15-19:16; 2 Chronicles 21-29; Psalm 79-Psalm 85
Sorry I have not posted for a while. If you are checking in on this blog, please let me know by leaving a comment. I have finally realized where to go to see the comments. I will try to leave some thoughts soon.
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Friday, August 13, 2010
highlights for readings August 9-15
These were some of the highlights or thought provoking texts for me this week.
2 Corinthians 9-13
The point is this: the one who sows sparingly will reap sparingly, and the one who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each of you must give as you have made up your mind, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to provide you with every blessing in abundance, so that by always having enough of everything, you may share abundantly in every good work. 9.6-8
You will be enriched in every way for your great generosity, which will produce thanksgiving to God through us; for the rendering of this ministry not only supplies the needs of the saints but also overflows with many thankgivings to God. 9.11-12
Paul's encouragement of giving and recognition of giving as an act of thanksgiving to God is good for each of us to hear.
Finally brothers and sisters, farewell. Put things in order, listen to my appeal, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you. Greet one another with a holy kiss. All the saints greet you. The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with all of you. 13. 11-14
John 1:1-1:34
John's birth story is unique but worth hearing again because it does not focus on Bethlehem but on the good news of the character of God and the revelation of God in Jesus .
In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through him, and without him not one thing came into being. What has come into being in him was life, and the life was the light of all people. The light shines in the darkness and the darkness did not overcome it. 1.1-5
And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father's only son, full of grace and truth. 1.14
Habakkuk 1-3
Prophetic words are often hard. Habakkuk cries out at God and for God. I appreciated these words from his prayer to God.
O LORD, I have heard of your renown, and I stand in awe, O LORD, of your work. In our own time revive it; in our own time make it known; in wrath may you remember mercy. 3.2
Though the fig tree does not blossom, and no fruit is on the vines; though the produce of the olive fails, and the fields yield no food; though the flock is cut off from the fold, and there is no herd in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the LORD; I will exult in the God of my salvation. GOD, the Lord, is my strength; he makes my feet like the feet of a deer, and makes me tread upon the heights. 3.17-19
Habakkuk gives praise and thanks in all circumstances. A lesson for us all.
Zephaniah 1-3
Zephaniah calls forth a word of warning not just for Judah but for Israel's enemies. The great day of the LORD is a day to fear for those who sin against God.
The prophet concludes with a song of joy for the salvation of Jerusalem by God.
Haggai 1-2
Haggai's words are not those before the fall and exile but at the time when people were returning to Jerusalem. He speaks God's words of encouragement to rebuild the temple.
take courage, all you people of the land, says the LORD; work, for I am with you, says the LORD of hosts, according to the promise that I made you when you came out of Egypt. My spirit abides among you; do not fear. For thus says the LORD of host: Once again, in a little while, I will shake the heavens and the earth and the sea and the dry land; and I will shake all the nations, so that the treasure of all nations shall come, and I will fill this house with splendor, says the LORD of hosts. The silver is mine, and the gold is mine, says the LORD of hosts. The latter splendor of this house shall be greater than the former, says the LORD of hosts; and in this place I will give prosperity, says the LORD of hosts. 2. 4b-9
How exciting it must have been for the people to hear these words. Churches today might also remember that God brings prosperity and a future greater than the past to those who work for God's purposes.
In these readings I find God's words to be true for today as for the days they were spoken.
2 Corinthians 9-13
The point is this: the one who sows sparingly will reap sparingly, and the one who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each of you must give as you have made up your mind, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to provide you with every blessing in abundance, so that by always having enough of everything, you may share abundantly in every good work. 9.6-8
You will be enriched in every way for your great generosity, which will produce thanksgiving to God through us; for the rendering of this ministry not only supplies the needs of the saints but also overflows with many thankgivings to God. 9.11-12
Paul's encouragement of giving and recognition of giving as an act of thanksgiving to God is good for each of us to hear.
Finally brothers and sisters, farewell. Put things in order, listen to my appeal, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you. Greet one another with a holy kiss. All the saints greet you. The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with all of you. 13. 11-14
John 1:1-1:34
John's birth story is unique but worth hearing again because it does not focus on Bethlehem but on the good news of the character of God and the revelation of God in Jesus .
In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through him, and without him not one thing came into being. What has come into being in him was life, and the life was the light of all people. The light shines in the darkness and the darkness did not overcome it. 1.1-5
And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father's only son, full of grace and truth. 1.14
Habakkuk 1-3
Prophetic words are often hard. Habakkuk cries out at God and for God. I appreciated these words from his prayer to God.
O LORD, I have heard of your renown, and I stand in awe, O LORD, of your work. In our own time revive it; in our own time make it known; in wrath may you remember mercy. 3.2
Though the fig tree does not blossom, and no fruit is on the vines; though the produce of the olive fails, and the fields yield no food; though the flock is cut off from the fold, and there is no herd in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the LORD; I will exult in the God of my salvation. GOD, the Lord, is my strength; he makes my feet like the feet of a deer, and makes me tread upon the heights. 3.17-19
Habakkuk gives praise and thanks in all circumstances. A lesson for us all.
Zephaniah 1-3
Zephaniah calls forth a word of warning not just for Judah but for Israel's enemies. The great day of the LORD is a day to fear for those who sin against God.
The prophet concludes with a song of joy for the salvation of Jerusalem by God.
Haggai 1-2
Haggai's words are not those before the fall and exile but at the time when people were returning to Jerusalem. He speaks God's words of encouragement to rebuild the temple.
take courage, all you people of the land, says the LORD; work, for I am with you, says the LORD of hosts, according to the promise that I made you when you came out of Egypt. My spirit abides among you; do not fear. For thus says the LORD of host: Once again, in a little while, I will shake the heavens and the earth and the sea and the dry land; and I will shake all the nations, so that the treasure of all nations shall come, and I will fill this house with splendor, says the LORD of hosts. The silver is mine, and the gold is mine, says the LORD of hosts. The latter splendor of this house shall be greater than the former, says the LORD of hosts; and in this place I will give prosperity, says the LORD of hosts. 2. 4b-9
How exciting it must have been for the people to hear these words. Churches today might also remember that God brings prosperity and a future greater than the past to those who work for God's purposes.
In these readings I find God's words to be true for today as for the days they were spoken.
Thursday, August 5, 2010
2 Corinthians 1-8; Micah 3-7
Paul teaches a lot these were highlights for me.
Paul states "For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, whom we proclained among you.....was not 'Yes and No'; but in him it is always 'Yes'. For in him every one of God's promises is a 'Yes.' " 1:19-20a
He is talking about people whose faith vacilates. How many of us say I believe but.... or I will follow Jesus but.....? If God says 'Yes" and means 'Yes' to us than our 'Yes' must be equal.
Many of us give excuses for not sharing Christ, i.e. shy, fear, do not want to offend, but Paul puts those all down with these statements "For we do not proclaim ourselves we proclaim Jesus Christ as Lord and ourselves as your slaves for Jesus' sake.... we have this treasure in clay jars, so that it may be made clear that this extraordinary power belongs to God and does not come from us." 4:5,7 Paul is clear that we are clay jars but the power and the message is of God not for us to hold but to pour out to others. We are vessels of a treasure to be given away.
When it comes to how we view others Paul puts down all judgements and biases. "From now on we regard no one from a human point of view; even though we once knew Christ from a human point of view, we know him no longer in that way. So if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation: everything old has passed away; see, everything has become new!" 5.16-17 As Christians, we not only see Christ different than others, we see others through the eyes of Christ. For Paul being in Christ is easy when we surrender to the Spirit who makes us new.
If anyone wonders why the church collects for others, they only need to read chapter 8, the teachings of Jesus, especially Matthew 25. From the beginning the followers of Jesus and the early Christians were encouraged to care for others. In chapter 8 Paul praises the Macedonians for their generous giving and generous hearts while encouraging the Corinthians to finish the collection for others. He encouraages to give generously and joyfully. His words are a testament to all Christians give generously and give joyfully.
These were just a few of the Paul's teachings to new and struggling Christians, that I think are truths for even now.
Micah 3-7 In chapter 3 Micah proclaims the destruction of Israel because it does not practice justice. In chapters 4-8 Micah gives hope that God will rebuild the people, but only when they are willing to lives of love. 6.6-8 Micah speaks for God a word of righteous living. Although God may desire offerings and sacrifices, they are not to come with empty hearts. Material gifts to God are not pleasing if our hearts and lives do not reflect our love of God. ' He has told you, O mortal, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God' 6.8 Micah's words teach us today. Do we come to worship with hollow hearts? Are our offerings just stuff with no love? Do we act with justice and mercy throughout the week to reflect God's love? Do we love God enough to humbly submit to the LORD's words? These are the questions posed to us from Micah. These are the requirements God has for a holy people.
Paul states "For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, whom we proclained among you.....was not 'Yes and No'; but in him it is always 'Yes'. For in him every one of God's promises is a 'Yes.' " 1:19-20a
He is talking about people whose faith vacilates. How many of us say I believe but.... or I will follow Jesus but.....? If God says 'Yes" and means 'Yes' to us than our 'Yes' must be equal.
Many of us give excuses for not sharing Christ, i.e. shy, fear, do not want to offend, but Paul puts those all down with these statements "For we do not proclaim ourselves we proclaim Jesus Christ as Lord and ourselves as your slaves for Jesus' sake.... we have this treasure in clay jars, so that it may be made clear that this extraordinary power belongs to God and does not come from us." 4:5,7 Paul is clear that we are clay jars but the power and the message is of God not for us to hold but to pour out to others. We are vessels of a treasure to be given away.
When it comes to how we view others Paul puts down all judgements and biases. "From now on we regard no one from a human point of view; even though we once knew Christ from a human point of view, we know him no longer in that way. So if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation: everything old has passed away; see, everything has become new!" 5.16-17 As Christians, we not only see Christ different than others, we see others through the eyes of Christ. For Paul being in Christ is easy when we surrender to the Spirit who makes us new.
If anyone wonders why the church collects for others, they only need to read chapter 8, the teachings of Jesus, especially Matthew 25. From the beginning the followers of Jesus and the early Christians were encouraged to care for others. In chapter 8 Paul praises the Macedonians for their generous giving and generous hearts while encouraging the Corinthians to finish the collection for others. He encouraages to give generously and joyfully. His words are a testament to all Christians give generously and give joyfully.
These were just a few of the Paul's teachings to new and struggling Christians, that I think are truths for even now.
Micah 3-7 In chapter 3 Micah proclaims the destruction of Israel because it does not practice justice. In chapters 4-8 Micah gives hope that God will rebuild the people, but only when they are willing to lives of love. 6.6-8 Micah speaks for God a word of righteous living. Although God may desire offerings and sacrifices, they are not to come with empty hearts. Material gifts to God are not pleasing if our hearts and lives do not reflect our love of God. ' He has told you, O mortal, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God' 6.8 Micah's words teach us today. Do we come to worship with hollow hearts? Are our offerings just stuff with no love? Do we act with justice and mercy throughout the week to reflect God's love? Do we love God enough to humbly submit to the LORD's words? These are the questions posed to us from Micah. These are the requirements God has for a holy people.
week Aug 1-7 and Aug 8-14
Readings for this week: 1 Corinthians 16 and 2 Corinthians 1-8; 2 Kings 12-21;
Micah 3-7; Nahum 1-2
Next weeks readings: 2 Corinthians 9-13; John 1:1-34; 2 Kings 22-23; 1 Chronicles 1-8; Nahum 3; Habakkuk 1-3; Zephaniah 1-3
Micah 3-7; Nahum 1-2
Next weeks readings: 2 Corinthians 9-13; John 1:1-34; 2 Kings 22-23; 1 Chronicles 1-8; Nahum 3; Habakkuk 1-3; Zephaniah 1-3
Sunday, July 25, 2010
readings for July25 - July 31
1 Corinthians 11: 17-15:58; 2 Kings 5-11; the books of Obadiah and Jonah; Micah 1-2
Amos and 1 Corinthians
Amos 3-9
Amos tells what will happen to Israel. Several time God tells of tests of the people, but they "did not return to me." It is easy to hear the saddness in God's voice at the wandering of the people. Amos tells the people that God promises, "Seek me and live." How can they seek God, "Seek good and not evil, that you may live; and so the LORD, the God of hosts will be with you...... Hate evil and love good, and establish justice in the gate." 5.14-15a
Amos declares that God will allow hard things to happen to the people. Including a time of silence, "The time is surely coming, says the Lord GOD, when I will send a famine on the land; not a famine of bread, or a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the LORD." I wonder what this meant to people who did not listen to God voice. Not hearing God's voice is a dry time spiritually for those who need to hear the LORD.
But Amos ends with some hope, God will allow a remanant of people to survive and God will raise them up from the ruins.
1 Corinthians 6:1-11:16
Paul's letter to the Corinthians is a teaching letter of how to live as new Christians in a pagan world. He affirms that in Christ we are free, but that freedom should not be abused. "All things are lawful, but not all things are beneficial." 6.12 "All things are lawful, but not all things build up. Do not seek your own advantage, but that of the other." 10.23b-24
He reminds us that to be a Christian is to reflect Christ. "do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, which you have from God, and that you are not your own? For you were bought with a price; therefore glorify God in your body." 6.19-20
Paul discusses relationships both within the community of faith and with others.
He also teaches about the Lord's Supper. He corrects bad behavior that was surrounding the meal and affirms the real intention of the meal. "The cup of blessing that we bless, is it not a sharing in the blood of Christ? The bread that we break, is it not a sharing in the body of Christ? Because there is one bread, we who are many are one body, for we all partake of the one bread." 10.16-17 Paul reminds us that The Lord's Supper is remembering Christ's sacrifice, experiencing Christ's presence, and becoming Christ's body in the world.
Amos tells what will happen to Israel. Several time God tells of tests of the people, but they "did not return to me." It is easy to hear the saddness in God's voice at the wandering of the people. Amos tells the people that God promises, "Seek me and live." How can they seek God, "Seek good and not evil, that you may live; and so the LORD, the God of hosts will be with you...... Hate evil and love good, and establish justice in the gate." 5.14-15a
Amos declares that God will allow hard things to happen to the people. Including a time of silence, "The time is surely coming, says the Lord GOD, when I will send a famine on the land; not a famine of bread, or a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the LORD." I wonder what this meant to people who did not listen to God voice. Not hearing God's voice is a dry time spiritually for those who need to hear the LORD.
But Amos ends with some hope, God will allow a remanant of people to survive and God will raise them up from the ruins.
1 Corinthians 6:1-11:16
Paul's letter to the Corinthians is a teaching letter of how to live as new Christians in a pagan world. He affirms that in Christ we are free, but that freedom should not be abused. "All things are lawful, but not all things are beneficial." 6.12 "All things are lawful, but not all things build up. Do not seek your own advantage, but that of the other." 10.23b-24
He reminds us that to be a Christian is to reflect Christ. "do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, which you have from God, and that you are not your own? For you were bought with a price; therefore glorify God in your body." 6.19-20
Paul discusses relationships both within the community of faith and with others.
He also teaches about the Lord's Supper. He corrects bad behavior that was surrounding the meal and affirms the real intention of the meal. "The cup of blessing that we bless, is it not a sharing in the blood of Christ? The bread that we break, is it not a sharing in the body of Christ? Because there is one bread, we who are many are one body, for we all partake of the one bread." 10.16-17 Paul reminds us that The Lord's Supper is remembering Christ's sacrifice, experiencing Christ's presence, and becoming Christ's body in the world.
Thursday, July 22, 2010
week July 18-24
Reading for this week: 1 Corinthians 6:1-11:16; 1 King 19-22 and 2 Kings 1-4; Amos 3-9
These are some of the highlights for me.
In 1 Kings 19, I am reminded that God is not always in the big and grand, but in the stillness. Elijah does not hear God in the great wind or the earthquake or the fire, but in the sheer silence. How often do we miss the voice of God because we are looking for the "burning bush" and not listening every moment.
In 2 Kings 1 the passing of the mantle from Elijah to Elisha has great meaning. In the UMC service of retirement, a retiree passing the mantle to a new clergy. I was the new clergy who received the symbolic mantle during that service. I pronounced the words "let us inherit a double share of your spirit." Even now I remember how meaningful that moment was for me and profound it is every year. I continue to pray that God give each clergy a double share of the prophet Elijah and other pastors with prophetic voices who spoke and acted with courage and who listened to God in the silence.
Our readings in 2 Kings concludes with an interesting story. Elisha feeds one hundred men with 20 loaves of barley and ears of grain. Elisha tells the servant to feed the men, but the servant doubts. Elisha tells the servant that the LORD said "They shall eat and have some left." The men are fed and there is food left. This story is similar to the stories of Jesus feeding the 5000 and the 4000. For me the Bible is consistent in teaching that when we give to others there is enough. What God blesses is sufficient and we should not doubt God's abundance.
These are some of the highlights for me.
In 1 Kings 19, I am reminded that God is not always in the big and grand, but in the stillness. Elijah does not hear God in the great wind or the earthquake or the fire, but in the sheer silence. How often do we miss the voice of God because we are looking for the "burning bush" and not listening every moment.
In 2 Kings 1 the passing of the mantle from Elijah to Elisha has great meaning. In the UMC service of retirement, a retiree passing the mantle to a new clergy. I was the new clergy who received the symbolic mantle during that service. I pronounced the words "let us inherit a double share of your spirit." Even now I remember how meaningful that moment was for me and profound it is every year. I continue to pray that God give each clergy a double share of the prophet Elijah and other pastors with prophetic voices who spoke and acted with courage and who listened to God in the silence.
Our readings in 2 Kings concludes with an interesting story. Elisha feeds one hundred men with 20 loaves of barley and ears of grain. Elisha tells the servant to feed the men, but the servant doubts. Elisha tells the servant that the LORD said "They shall eat and have some left." The men are fed and there is food left. This story is similar to the stories of Jesus feeding the 5000 and the 4000. For me the Bible is consistent in teaching that when we give to others there is enough. What God blesses is sufficient and we should not doubt God's abundance.
Sunday, July 4, 2010
Saturday, July 3, 2010
Mark 8:22-12:27; Hosea 1:1-7:2
Mark's Gospel is fast paced and the stories often condensed. There are many healing and teaching moments in our readings. These are just a few that resonated with me this week.
Three times Jesus prepares his disciples for his death. This may be a good lesson for us. One not to fear death. Two not to be afraid to talk about the possibility of death with our loved ones. Three make plans so our loved ones are aware of how you feel and what you expect. Death will happen, but taking away the fear is a journey we can do together.
One of those verses I appreciate comes at 9.24, The father of a sick child says, "I believe, help my unbelief." Often I find that to be true in my life. I believe God can do all things, I believe God can use us and change us, but when things are not moving or changing at my desired speed, I pray, "I believe, help me unbelief."
The key verses for me in the story of the rich man who is not willing to sell everything and give the money to the poor in order to follow Jesus are 10.17 and 10.27 The man first asked what must I do to gain eternal life? At the end of the story Jesus reminds the disciples "For mortals it is impossible, but not for God, for God all things are possible." We don't earn eternal life, it is a gift from the One who can give it.
Jesus is quick to remind us that forgiveness comes from us and to us. In 11.25 Jesus implies for us to receive from God, we must practice by forgiving others first.
Hosea
The story of Hosea is interesting. The prophet's marriage to a prostitute is used to reflect God's relationship with Israel. Israel abandons God and chases after other gods. Israel is not faithful, but God's love is steadfast.
Three times Jesus prepares his disciples for his death. This may be a good lesson for us. One not to fear death. Two not to be afraid to talk about the possibility of death with our loved ones. Three make plans so our loved ones are aware of how you feel and what you expect. Death will happen, but taking away the fear is a journey we can do together.
One of those verses I appreciate comes at 9.24, The father of a sick child says, "I believe, help my unbelief." Often I find that to be true in my life. I believe God can do all things, I believe God can use us and change us, but when things are not moving or changing at my desired speed, I pray, "I believe, help me unbelief."
The key verses for me in the story of the rich man who is not willing to sell everything and give the money to the poor in order to follow Jesus are 10.17 and 10.27 The man first asked what must I do to gain eternal life? At the end of the story Jesus reminds the disciples "For mortals it is impossible, but not for God, for God all things are possible." We don't earn eternal life, it is a gift from the One who can give it.
Jesus is quick to remind us that forgiveness comes from us and to us. In 11.25 Jesus implies for us to receive from God, we must practice by forgiving others first.
Hosea
The story of Hosea is interesting. The prophet's marriage to a prostitute is used to reflect God's relationship with Israel. Israel abandons God and chases after other gods. Israel is not faithful, but God's love is steadfast.
Friday, July 2, 2010
June 27-July3
2 Samuel 20-24 Wise woman saves the town and the day. Not at all sure I approve of the way, but the outcome is good. David begins his song when he is delivered from his enemies, "The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer, my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold and my refuge, my savior; you save me from violence. I call upon the LORD, who is worthy to be praised, and I am saved from my enemies." David does not take responsibility or the glory for what he believes is God's work. We might learn to praise God for the good that happens and not boast that we accomplished it.
David once again sins but when he realizes that what he has done is wrong, "David was stricken to the heart." David prays,"I have sinned greatly in what I have done. But now, O LORD, I pray you, take away the guilt of your servant; for I have done very foolishly." Another lesson from David is we need to recognize our sin and repent. David was not perfect, but appears sincere in his repentance.
I Kings 1-3 David is aging. Solomon received David's blessing to become king and promises safety to his brother Adonijah who had tried to take the throne. As David prepares to die, he give Solomon orders. The first is to "be strong, be courageous, and keep the charge of the LORD your God, walking in his ways and keeping his commandments." The other requests are for murder and for safety of others, but God first. In this David is reminding his son that the nation and his reign are truly from God. After David's death, Solomon begins his rule by eliminating all rivals.
Then Solomon makes the first of his political marriages. Scripture struggles with Solomon's faithfulness. "Solomon loved the LORD, walking in the statutes of his father David; only, he sacrificed, and offered incense at the high places." When God appears to Solomon in a dream, God ask what should God give him. Solomon asks for wisdom "an understanding mind to govern your people, able to discern between good and evil;" God is pleased that Solomon requested wisdom and not long life and riches. God promises to give Solomon wisdom, riches and honor. If Solomon walks in God's ways, keeping God's statutes then God will give him long life.
May be we can learn from Solomon's prayer. Rather than asking for things to make us rich, we should ask for things that we help us do God's will and care for God's people.
David once again sins but when he realizes that what he has done is wrong, "David was stricken to the heart." David prays,"I have sinned greatly in what I have done. But now, O LORD, I pray you, take away the guilt of your servant; for I have done very foolishly." Another lesson from David is we need to recognize our sin and repent. David was not perfect, but appears sincere in his repentance.
I Kings 1-3 David is aging. Solomon received David's blessing to become king and promises safety to his brother Adonijah who had tried to take the throne. As David prepares to die, he give Solomon orders. The first is to "be strong, be courageous, and keep the charge of the LORD your God, walking in his ways and keeping his commandments." The other requests are for murder and for safety of others, but God first. In this David is reminding his son that the nation and his reign are truly from God. After David's death, Solomon begins his rule by eliminating all rivals.
Then Solomon makes the first of his political marriages. Scripture struggles with Solomon's faithfulness. "Solomon loved the LORD, walking in the statutes of his father David; only, he sacrificed, and offered incense at the high places." When God appears to Solomon in a dream, God ask what should God give him. Solomon asks for wisdom "an understanding mind to govern your people, able to discern between good and evil;" God is pleased that Solomon requested wisdom and not long life and riches. God promises to give Solomon wisdom, riches and honor. If Solomon walks in God's ways, keeping God's statutes then God will give him long life.
May be we can learn from Solomon's prayer. Rather than asking for things to make us rich, we should ask for things that we help us do God's will and care for God's people.
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Friday, June 25, 2010
2 Samuel 13-19
Chapter 13 is the story of lust, rape, and revenge. Often David's response to others is perplexing. He does nothing to a son, Amnon, who has raped a half sister, Tamar. It is Absalon another son who seeks revenge and has Amnon murdered. Absalon flees in fear of David's reaction.
In chapter 14 David is tricked into allowing Absalom to return to Jerusalem. (reminds me of David being tricked into seeking forgiveness after having Bathsheba's husband Uriah killed). After two more years David forgives Absalom.
David finds himself in conflict, he leaves Jerusalem, but difficulties follow him. His reign is being tested by Absalon and others. David's past must be faced head on. David's army and Absalon's army face each other in battle. Absalom's hair is caught in a branch and David's leader Joab with others kill him. When David hears his grief is great. Maybe if David's love for his daughter had been as deep and he had shown concern for her while providing consequences to Amnon for his actions, David would not have lost two sons.
The Bible is filled with stories that cause us to ponder family relations, loyalty, sin and repentence, actions and consequences. David's story is not a simple one nor often one not to be admired, but God used David to do great things. There is hope for all of us.
In chapter 14 David is tricked into allowing Absalom to return to Jerusalem. (reminds me of David being tricked into seeking forgiveness after having Bathsheba's husband Uriah killed). After two more years David forgives Absalom.
David finds himself in conflict, he leaves Jerusalem, but difficulties follow him. His reign is being tested by Absalon and others. David's past must be faced head on. David's army and Absalon's army face each other in battle. Absalom's hair is caught in a branch and David's leader Joab with others kill him. When David hears his grief is great. Maybe if David's love for his daughter had been as deep and he had shown concern for her while providing consequences to Amnon for his actions, David would not have lost two sons.
The Bible is filled with stories that cause us to ponder family relations, loyalty, sin and repentence, actions and consequences. David's story is not a simple one nor often one not to be admired, but God used David to do great things. There is hope for all of us.
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Mark and Daniel
Mark 5:1-8:21
Jesus heals a man of demons. I wonder what the demons are we have. Not little creatures but anything which prevents us from being close to God and from being the whole person God would have us be. To what do we surrender our lives rather than giving our lives to God?
When the women with the hemorrhages touched Jesus' cloak not only is she physically healed but Mark states that Jesus was "aware that power have gone forth from him." I remember this phrase when I think of ministers and care givers. Caring for others, ministering to others does require power. Jesus recognized this and often went off to pray by himself to be renewed. Those of us with jobs that require us to give of body, mind, and spirit for others, need to go off by ourselves to pray and be renewed. We can not give what we do not have.
In Nazareth, even Jesus is rejected. We who fear rejection will never be all that God wants us to be if we give into the fear of rejection. How interesting that in Mark, Jesus sends out the twelve right after he has been rejected. Maybe there is a lesson for us to learn, that rejection is part of sharing the good news.
Feeding the five thousand is truly a story of faith and doubt. Send them away to get food is the disciples first thought, but Jesus says you feed them. But we don't have enough money is their second thought and Jesus says what do you have. Jesus takes what they have, blesses it and then gives it to the disciples to share with the people. It was sufficient with leftovers. I wonder how many of us react the same way, I don't have enough money to share, I don't have enough......... to share, but when willing to share God provides enough for the recipient and us. If only we believe and respond, God provides all things.
Jesus scolds the Pharisees about making decisions of faith based on what is convenient or good for them. How often do we in this modern age do the same? We have opportunities that we choose over God and the church. We don't seek justice if it doesn't directly hurt us. Have Christians become the Pharisees of this age?
We also read the feeding of the four thousand. How interesting first the disciples' faith is tested with fellow Jews and now with non-Jews. The stories are similar with excuses, blessing, and then the disciples having to distribute, to share with others. Jesus often teaches be example as well as words. Not surprising the disciples often need more than one try to understand.
Do we believe God is able or do we need more experiences or teachings to accept all that God can do?
Daniel
The second half of Daniel is a collection of apocalyptic visions. Apocalyptic ism is a belief in two ages, the present and the time to come. In the future time God will intervene in history and overcome all evil. Then God will reign in the perfect, eternal time. The books of Daniel and Revelation are literary styles with apocalyptic visions. Because this style includes visions and a specific theological lens, it is open for interpretation. I recommend using a Bible with commentary, but remember the commentary is an interpretation, God can speak to each of us through this living word. As an example my commentary says that the traditional interpretation of Daniel 7:13-14 was a reference to the Messiah, but now scholars think it is referring either to the Jews or an angel. When I read those words I can see a vision for the people at the time and I can see a vision of Christ. What do you see?
In chapter 9 Daniel prays for and about the people. Confession and supplication. "We do not present our supplication before you on the ground of our righteousness, but on the ground of your great mercies. O Lord, hear; O Lord, forgive; O Lord, listen and act and do not delay!" 9: 18b-19
These are words we should all confess. We do not pray because of who we are, but because of who God is.
Daniel concludes with a belief in the resurrection.
Jesus heals a man of demons. I wonder what the demons are we have. Not little creatures but anything which prevents us from being close to God and from being the whole person God would have us be. To what do we surrender our lives rather than giving our lives to God?
When the women with the hemorrhages touched Jesus' cloak not only is she physically healed but Mark states that Jesus was "aware that power have gone forth from him." I remember this phrase when I think of ministers and care givers. Caring for others, ministering to others does require power. Jesus recognized this and often went off to pray by himself to be renewed. Those of us with jobs that require us to give of body, mind, and spirit for others, need to go off by ourselves to pray and be renewed. We can not give what we do not have.
In Nazareth, even Jesus is rejected. We who fear rejection will never be all that God wants us to be if we give into the fear of rejection. How interesting that in Mark, Jesus sends out the twelve right after he has been rejected. Maybe there is a lesson for us to learn, that rejection is part of sharing the good news.
Feeding the five thousand is truly a story of faith and doubt. Send them away to get food is the disciples first thought, but Jesus says you feed them. But we don't have enough money is their second thought and Jesus says what do you have. Jesus takes what they have, blesses it and then gives it to the disciples to share with the people. It was sufficient with leftovers. I wonder how many of us react the same way, I don't have enough money to share, I don't have enough......... to share, but when willing to share God provides enough for the recipient and us. If only we believe and respond, God provides all things.
Jesus scolds the Pharisees about making decisions of faith based on what is convenient or good for them. How often do we in this modern age do the same? We have opportunities that we choose over God and the church. We don't seek justice if it doesn't directly hurt us. Have Christians become the Pharisees of this age?
We also read the feeding of the four thousand. How interesting first the disciples' faith is tested with fellow Jews and now with non-Jews. The stories are similar with excuses, blessing, and then the disciples having to distribute, to share with others. Jesus often teaches be example as well as words. Not surprising the disciples often need more than one try to understand.
Do we believe God is able or do we need more experiences or teachings to accept all that God can do?
Daniel
The second half of Daniel is a collection of apocalyptic visions. Apocalyptic ism is a belief in two ages, the present and the time to come. In the future time God will intervene in history and overcome all evil. Then God will reign in the perfect, eternal time. The books of Daniel and Revelation are literary styles with apocalyptic visions. Because this style includes visions and a specific theological lens, it is open for interpretation. I recommend using a Bible with commentary, but remember the commentary is an interpretation, God can speak to each of us through this living word. As an example my commentary says that the traditional interpretation of Daniel 7:13-14 was a reference to the Messiah, but now scholars think it is referring either to the Jews or an angel. When I read those words I can see a vision for the people at the time and I can see a vision of Christ. What do you see?
In chapter 9 Daniel prays for and about the people. Confession and supplication. "We do not present our supplication before you on the ground of our righteousness, but on the ground of your great mercies. O Lord, hear; O Lord, forgive; O Lord, listen and act and do not delay!" 9: 18b-19
These are words we should all confess. We do not pray because of who we are, but because of who God is.
Daniel concludes with a belief in the resurrection.
readings for June 20-26 and June 27-July 3
Mark 5:1-8:21; 2 Samuel 13-19; Daniel 7-12
Mark 8:22-12:44; 2 Samuel 20-24 and 1 Kings 1-3; Hosea 1:1- 7:2
Mark 8:22-12:44; 2 Samuel 20-24 and 1 Kings 1-3; Hosea 1:1- 7:2
Sunday, June 13, 2010
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Psalm 66-72
Just a few of the verses that spoke to me. I think it is good when the Psalmist starts with personal concern, but always ends with praise for and trust in God. When we can surrender to God this way, it fills our lives with joy. When we have eyes to see all that God is doing, it fill our lips with praise.
Make a joyful noise to God, all the earth; sing the glory of his name; give to him glorious praise. Say to God, "How awesome are your deeds!" 66.1-2a
Blessed be God, because he has not rejected my prayer or removed his steadfast love from me. 66.20
Let the peoples praise you, O God, let all the peoples praise you. 67. 3 and 5
Father of orphans and protector of widows is God in his holy habitation. God gives the desolate a home to live in; he leads out the prisoners to prosperity, but the rebellious live in a parched land. 68.5-6
Blessed be the Lord, who daily bears us up; God is our salvation. 68.19
But as for me, my prayer is to you, O LORD. At an acceptable time, O God, in the abundance of your steadfast love, answer me. With your faithful help rescue me from sinking in the mire; let me be delivered from my enemies and from the deep waters. 69. 13-14
I will praise the name of God with a song; I will magnify him with thanksgiving. This will please the LORD more than an ox or a bull with horns and hoofs. Let the oppressed see it and be glad; you who seek God, let your hearts revive. 69. 30-32
Let all who seek you rejoice and be glad in you. Let those who love your salvation say evermore, "God is great." 70.4
Rescue me, O my God, from the hand of the wicked, from the grasp of the unjust and cruel. For you, O Lord, are my hope, my trust, O LORD, from my youth. 71.4-5
Blessed be the LORD, the God of Israel, who alone does wondrous things. Blessed be his glorious name forever; may his glory fill the whole earth. Amen and amen 72. 18-19
Make a joyful noise to God, all the earth; sing the glory of his name; give to him glorious praise. Say to God, "How awesome are your deeds!" 66.1-2a
Blessed be God, because he has not rejected my prayer or removed his steadfast love from me. 66.20
Let the peoples praise you, O God, let all the peoples praise you. 67. 3 and 5
Father of orphans and protector of widows is God in his holy habitation. God gives the desolate a home to live in; he leads out the prisoners to prosperity, but the rebellious live in a parched land. 68.5-6
Blessed be the Lord, who daily bears us up; God is our salvation. 68.19
But as for me, my prayer is to you, O LORD. At an acceptable time, O God, in the abundance of your steadfast love, answer me. With your faithful help rescue me from sinking in the mire; let me be delivered from my enemies and from the deep waters. 69. 13-14
I will praise the name of God with a song; I will magnify him with thanksgiving. This will please the LORD more than an ox or a bull with horns and hoofs. Let the oppressed see it and be glad; you who seek God, let your hearts revive. 69. 30-32
Let all who seek you rejoice and be glad in you. Let those who love your salvation say evermore, "God is great." 70.4
Rescue me, O my God, from the hand of the wicked, from the grasp of the unjust and cruel. For you, O Lord, are my hope, my trust, O LORD, from my youth. 71.4-5
Blessed be the LORD, the God of Israel, who alone does wondrous things. Blessed be his glorious name forever; may his glory fill the whole earth. Amen and amen 72. 18-19
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Romans 4:1-11:24
In Romans Paul struggles with great theological issues.
Chapt. 5 Paul states we are justified by faith alone. We have faith in the grace received by the obedience of Jesus, who lived, died, and was resurrected so that all may receive forgiveness.
Chapt. 6 Resurrection is being raised to never die again. Christ also died to sin "so that you also must consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus." 6.11
"now that you have been freed from sin and enslaved to God, the advantage you get is sanctification. The end is eternal life."6.22
Chap. 8 Paul talks about living in Christ. "To set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace." 8.6 "For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God. For you did not receive a spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received a spirit of adoption." 8.14-15 Paul continues to talk about the relationship between God and people. God's love is greater than our sin and confusion. "Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we ought, but that very Spirit intercedes with sighs to deep for words. And God, who searches the heart, knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God." 8.26-27 "For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord." 8.38-39
"So it depends not on human will or exertion, but on God who shows mercy." 9.16
In Chapt. 10 Paul reminds us how important our part in sharing God's story is. For God wants all to be saved, but how can that happen without someone sharing Christ with them. We have been given an important job and need to participate in God's work for all people.
Paul begins Chapt. 11 with the question that always arises about Jews being saved. "has God rejected his people? By no means." 11.1 But Paul continues to assert that even Jews are no longer saved by the law. "But if it is by grace, it is no longer on the basis of works, otherwise grace would no longer be grace." 11.6 He asserts that the Jews rejection of Jesus is part of God's plan of salvation for all people and reconciliation of the world. "I want you to understand this mystery: a hardening has come upon part of Israel, until the full number of the Gentiles has come in. And so all Israel will be saved." 11.25b-26
Paul ends with a wonderful affirmation of God:
"O the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways.....For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be the glory forever. Amen" 11.33,36
Reading Paul requires times and rereading. Although he can be challenging, he always ends with praise for God which reminds me of the Psalms. I'm glad for the punctuation marks of modern English which helps a little in the reading, but wonder how much the modern reader misses. Paul being the good Pharisee practiced debate with an issue which causes what may appear to be rambling, but like me I think Paul practices thinking on paper and out loud.
Chapt. 5 Paul states we are justified by faith alone. We have faith in the grace received by the obedience of Jesus, who lived, died, and was resurrected so that all may receive forgiveness.
Chapt. 6 Resurrection is being raised to never die again. Christ also died to sin "so that you also must consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus." 6.11
"now that you have been freed from sin and enslaved to God, the advantage you get is sanctification. The end is eternal life."6.22
Chap. 8 Paul talks about living in Christ. "To set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace." 8.6 "For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God. For you did not receive a spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received a spirit of adoption." 8.14-15 Paul continues to talk about the relationship between God and people. God's love is greater than our sin and confusion. "Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we ought, but that very Spirit intercedes with sighs to deep for words. And God, who searches the heart, knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God." 8.26-27 "For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord." 8.38-39
"So it depends not on human will or exertion, but on God who shows mercy." 9.16
In Chapt. 10 Paul reminds us how important our part in sharing God's story is. For God wants all to be saved, but how can that happen without someone sharing Christ with them. We have been given an important job and need to participate in God's work for all people.
Paul begins Chapt. 11 with the question that always arises about Jews being saved. "has God rejected his people? By no means." 11.1 But Paul continues to assert that even Jews are no longer saved by the law. "But if it is by grace, it is no longer on the basis of works, otherwise grace would no longer be grace." 11.6 He asserts that the Jews rejection of Jesus is part of God's plan of salvation for all people and reconciliation of the world. "I want you to understand this mystery: a hardening has come upon part of Israel, until the full number of the Gentiles has come in. And so all Israel will be saved." 11.25b-26
Paul ends with a wonderful affirmation of God:
"O the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways.....For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be the glory forever. Amen" 11.33,36
Reading Paul requires times and rereading. Although he can be challenging, he always ends with praise for God which reminds me of the Psalms. I'm glad for the punctuation marks of modern English which helps a little in the reading, but wonder how much the modern reader misses. Paul being the good Pharisee practiced debate with an issue which causes what may appear to be rambling, but like me I think Paul practices thinking on paper and out loud.
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Psalm 58-65
Some of these Psalms are filled with images of conflict, enemies, and defeat, but all the Psalms this week declare hope in God.
My favorite quotes are:
But I will sing of your might; I will sing aloud of your steadfast love in the morning. For you have been a fortress for me and a refuge in the day of my distress. O my strength, I will sing praises to you, for you, O God, are my fortress, the God who shows me steadfast love. 59.16-17
Hear my cry, O God; listen to my prayer. From the end of the earth I call to you, when my heart is faint. 61.1-2
For God alone my soul waits in silence; from him comes my salvation. He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I shall never be shaken. 62.1-2, 5-6
Once God has spoken; twice have I heard this: that power belongs to God, and steadfast love belongs to you, O Lord. For you repay to all according to their work. 62.11-12
O God, you are my God, I seek you, my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water. So I have looked upon you in the sanctuary, beholding your power and glory. 63. 1-2
Happy are those whom you choose and bring near to live in your courts. We shall be satified with the goodness of your house, your holy temple. 65.4
My favorite quotes are:
But I will sing of your might; I will sing aloud of your steadfast love in the morning. For you have been a fortress for me and a refuge in the day of my distress. O my strength, I will sing praises to you, for you, O God, are my fortress, the God who shows me steadfast love. 59.16-17
Hear my cry, O God; listen to my prayer. From the end of the earth I call to you, when my heart is faint. 61.1-2
For God alone my soul waits in silence; from him comes my salvation. He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I shall never be shaken. 62.1-2, 5-6
Once God has spoken; twice have I heard this: that power belongs to God, and steadfast love belongs to you, O Lord. For you repay to all according to their work. 62.11-12
O God, you are my God, I seek you, my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water. So I have looked upon you in the sanctuary, beholding your power and glory. 63. 1-2
Happy are those whom you choose and bring near to live in your courts. We shall be satified with the goodness of your house, your holy temple. 65.4
1 Samuel 14-20
Saul has disobeyed God by gathering the spoils from wars. Samuel the prophet says these words, "Has the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Surely to obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed than the fat of rams. For rebellion is no less a sin than divination, and stubbornness is like iniquity and idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the LORD, he has also rejected you from being king." 15.22-23 I was struck by Samuel's teaching that obedience is greater than any offering we can bring to God. How often have people tried to buy forgiveness with money and things? If this passage is true, God prefers our living to be in agreement with God's teachings.
The calling and anointing of David to replace Saul reminds us that God does not always pick the one we would choose. "Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature because I have rejected him; for the LORD does not see as mortals see; they look on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart." 16. 7 How often do we pick by outward appearance? Do we make judgments of intelligience, likeability, abilities, and success based on what we see with our eyes? God has a better way.
The story of David killing Goliath is worth remembering. It is not just a story of the weak overcoming the strong, but of faith overcoming fear. It is a story of God using the least likely to advance the salvation story. We, too, are often invited to participate in God's mighty work on earth. When it may not seem possible through our own strength, it is possible when God works through us then faith overcomes fear.
'Power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely' is a phrase that continues to be seen in Biblical stories. Saul does not want to lose power. He is jealous of David and his popularity. Saul plots David's death several times. Both Saul and David try to use Jonathan. Saul wants him to kill David and David wants Jonathan to plead with his father, Saul, for David's life. Jonathan can not change his father's plans so warns David. They seal their friendship with a blessing and prayer. Jonathan decided to side with God's chosen than with family. Jonathan sets an example for us: Love of God always comes before love of others, even family.
The calling and anointing of David to replace Saul reminds us that God does not always pick the one we would choose. "Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature because I have rejected him; for the LORD does not see as mortals see; they look on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart." 16. 7 How often do we pick by outward appearance? Do we make judgments of intelligience, likeability, abilities, and success based on what we see with our eyes? God has a better way.
The story of David killing Goliath is worth remembering. It is not just a story of the weak overcoming the strong, but of faith overcoming fear. It is a story of God using the least likely to advance the salvation story. We, too, are often invited to participate in God's mighty work on earth. When it may not seem possible through our own strength, it is possible when God works through us then faith overcomes fear.
'Power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely' is a phrase that continues to be seen in Biblical stories. Saul does not want to lose power. He is jealous of David and his popularity. Saul plots David's death several times. Both Saul and David try to use Jonathan. Saul wants him to kill David and David wants Jonathan to plead with his father, Saul, for David's life. Jonathan can not change his father's plans so warns David. They seal their friendship with a blessing and prayer. Jonathan decided to side with God's chosen than with family. Jonathan sets an example for us: Love of God always comes before love of others, even family.
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Sunday May 30 to Saturday June 5
Scripture readings for this week are Romans 5:1-11:24; Psalm 59-65; 1 Samuel 14-20
Friday, May 28, 2010
1 Samuel 4-13
Chapters 4-6 The people Israel bring the ark of the covenant to a battle and are defeated then the ark is captured. When the Philistines have the ark the scripture says "the hand of the Lord" or "the hand of God" is at work against them. The ark is returned.
Lots of questions arise. Was God not with the Israelites in battle? Was this war of their own making? Were they trusting in a thing, the ark, and not in God?
Maybe this story is to remind us not to put our trust in things. Also maybe it is to remind us not to make gods (idols) out of even things we call holy. Maybe we are reminded that we should listen to God's voice before venturing into new territory.
Chapters 7-13
Samuel administered justice for Israel. When he gets older his sons Joel and Abijah are to judge, but they "did not follow in his ways, but turned aside after gain; they took bribes and perverted justice." 8.3 The people decide they want a king like other nations. God warns the people of the ways of kings 8.11-18. God warns them not to seek a king, but to follow the LORD. The people persist and God gives Samuel permission. Saul is selected by God and anointed by Samuel to be king. God puts a new heart and a new spirit in Saul. Samuel warns the people that even though they have a king, their allegiance to and faith should be in God. Saul takes on the authority of a priest and offers the burnt sacrifice. When Samuel arrives he says,
"You have done foolishly; you have not kept the commandment of the LORD your God..... The LORD would have established your kingdom over Israel forever, but now your kingdom will not continue; the LORD has sought out a man after his own heart..." 13.13-14.
During these readings I kept thinking. When people listen to God, follow God, and obey God's word, good happens. When people don't listen to God, pervert God ways, and do whatever is against God's word, bad happens. This is the theology that the book of Job argued against. Is there another way to look at God blessing with good and God cursing with bad? Can we assume that when people listen to God, follow God, and obey God's word that is a blessed-good way of living even if it doesn't bring wealth and success. Can we say that not listening to God, perverting God ways, and doing whatever is against God's word is a cursed-bad way of living even if it brings earthly wealth and success. Maybe the blessing and the cursing is in the living in a right relationship with God and not in the receiving of special advantage or gift of any form on earth.
Lots of questions arise. Was God not with the Israelites in battle? Was this war of their own making? Were they trusting in a thing, the ark, and not in God?
Maybe this story is to remind us not to put our trust in things. Also maybe it is to remind us not to make gods (idols) out of even things we call holy. Maybe we are reminded that we should listen to God's voice before venturing into new territory.
Chapters 7-13
Samuel administered justice for Israel. When he gets older his sons Joel and Abijah are to judge, but they "did not follow in his ways, but turned aside after gain; they took bribes and perverted justice." 8.3 The people decide they want a king like other nations. God warns the people of the ways of kings 8.11-18. God warns them not to seek a king, but to follow the LORD. The people persist and God gives Samuel permission. Saul is selected by God and anointed by Samuel to be king. God puts a new heart and a new spirit in Saul. Samuel warns the people that even though they have a king, their allegiance to and faith should be in God. Saul takes on the authority of a priest and offers the burnt sacrifice. When Samuel arrives he says,
"You have done foolishly; you have not kept the commandment of the LORD your God..... The LORD would have established your kingdom over Israel forever, but now your kingdom will not continue; the LORD has sought out a man after his own heart..." 13.13-14.
During these readings I kept thinking. When people listen to God, follow God, and obey God's word, good happens. When people don't listen to God, pervert God ways, and do whatever is against God's word, bad happens. This is the theology that the book of Job argued against. Is there another way to look at God blessing with good and God cursing with bad? Can we assume that when people listen to God, follow God, and obey God's word that is a blessed-good way of living even if it doesn't bring wealth and success. Can we say that not listening to God, perverting God ways, and doing whatever is against God's word is a cursed-bad way of living even if it brings earthly wealth and success. Maybe the blessing and the cursing is in the living in a right relationship with God and not in the receiving of special advantage or gift of any form on earth.
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Acts 28:1-31, Romans 1-4
Acts ends interestingly. Paul is in Rome under house arrest, but never stops sharing the good news. Paul dies in Rome, but the book of Acts doesn't end with that message. Acts end with "He lived there two whole years at his own expense and welcomed all who came to him, proclaiming the kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ with boldness and without hindrance."
We who are free to go and come as we please, might pray that the Spirit engage us in proclaiming the kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ with boldness and without hindrance.
The letter to the Romans is Paul's letter of introduction. Unlike other Pauline letters it is not to a community of faith he planted. Paul plans to go to Spain and desires to stop in Rome, although he eventually arrives under arrest. He writes a letter to share his theology with the followers of the way in Rome.
Throughout this letter Paul teaches a theology of salvation by faith. "For I am not ashamed of the gospel; it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who has faith, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. For in it the righteousness of God is revealed through faith for faith, as it is written, 'The one who is righteous will live by faith.'" 1.16-17
Paul writes about judging others in chapter 2. He makes clear that when we judge others, we will be judged by God also. His case against judging is to try to help the two factions of followers, the Jews and nonJews, to understand God's salvation is for all. "For there is no distinction, since all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God; they are now justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God put forward as a sacrifice of atonement by his blood, effective through faith..... For we hold that a person is justified by faith apart from works.... " 3.22b-25, 28.
Paul uses the story of Abraham and Sarah as an example of justification by faith. Paul says that "Abraham believed God, and it was reckoned to him as righteousness." 4.3 (which he repeats in 4.5, 6, 9, 10, 11) Paul declares this happened before circumcision and before the giving of the law of Moses. Paul's asserts then that salvation "depends on faith, in order that the promise may rest on grace and be guaranteed to all..."4.16 His proof is that righteousness came to Abraham who in "hoping against hope, he believed" 4.18a Abrahan lived believing in what God promised and therefore we also should live by that same faith in God's new promise.
We who are free to go and come as we please, might pray that the Spirit engage us in proclaiming the kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ with boldness and without hindrance.
The letter to the Romans is Paul's letter of introduction. Unlike other Pauline letters it is not to a community of faith he planted. Paul plans to go to Spain and desires to stop in Rome, although he eventually arrives under arrest. He writes a letter to share his theology with the followers of the way in Rome.
Throughout this letter Paul teaches a theology of salvation by faith. "For I am not ashamed of the gospel; it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who has faith, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. For in it the righteousness of God is revealed through faith for faith, as it is written, 'The one who is righteous will live by faith.'" 1.16-17
Paul writes about judging others in chapter 2. He makes clear that when we judge others, we will be judged by God also. His case against judging is to try to help the two factions of followers, the Jews and nonJews, to understand God's salvation is for all. "For there is no distinction, since all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God; they are now justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God put forward as a sacrifice of atonement by his blood, effective through faith..... For we hold that a person is justified by faith apart from works.... " 3.22b-25, 28.
Paul uses the story of Abraham and Sarah as an example of justification by faith. Paul says that "Abraham believed God, and it was reckoned to him as righteousness." 4.3 (which he repeats in 4.5, 6, 9, 10, 11) Paul declares this happened before circumcision and before the giving of the law of Moses. Paul's asserts then that salvation "depends on faith, in order that the promise may rest on grace and be guaranteed to all..."4.16 His proof is that righteousness came to Abraham who in "hoping against hope, he believed" 4.18a Abrahan lived believing in what God promised and therefore we also should live by that same faith in God's new promise.
Psalms 52-58
Given the current times, these passages spoke to me.
The righteous will see, and fear, and will laugh at the evildoer, saying, "See the one who would not take refuge in God, but trusted in abundant riches, and sought refuge in wealth." 52.6-7
I trust in the steadfast love of God forever and ever. I will thank you forever, because of what you have done. In the presence of the faithful I will proclaim your name, for it is good. 52.8b-9
Fools say in their hearts, "There is no God," 53.1a
Cast your burden on the LORD, and he will sustain you; he will never permit the righteous to be moved. 55.22
O Most High, when I am afraid, I put my trust in you. In God whose word I praise, in God I trust; I am not afraid; what can flesh do to me? 56.3-4
In God, whose word I praise, in the LORD, whose word I praise, in God I trust, I am not afraid, What can a mere mortal do to me? 56.10-11
Be merciful to me, O God, be merciful to me, for in you my soul takes refuge; in the shadow of your wings I will take refuge, until the destroying storms pass by. 57.1
Throughout these Psalms we read of difficult times and circumstances, but always the Psalmists trusts in God. We can learn from these.
The righteous will see, and fear, and will laugh at the evildoer, saying, "See the one who would not take refuge in God, but trusted in abundant riches, and sought refuge in wealth." 52.6-7
I trust in the steadfast love of God forever and ever. I will thank you forever, because of what you have done. In the presence of the faithful I will proclaim your name, for it is good. 52.8b-9
Fools say in their hearts, "There is no God," 53.1a
Cast your burden on the LORD, and he will sustain you; he will never permit the righteous to be moved. 55.22
O Most High, when I am afraid, I put my trust in you. In God whose word I praise, in God I trust; I am not afraid; what can flesh do to me? 56.3-4
In God, whose word I praise, in the LORD, whose word I praise, in God I trust, I am not afraid, What can a mere mortal do to me? 56.10-11
Be merciful to me, O God, be merciful to me, for in you my soul takes refuge; in the shadow of your wings I will take refuge, until the destroying storms pass by. 57.1
Throughout these Psalms we read of difficult times and circumstances, but always the Psalmists trusts in God. We can learn from these.
Saturday, May 22, 2010
Friday, May 21, 2010
Psalm 45-51, I Samuel 1-3
How can you top the words of the Psalms. These are my favorite quotes.
God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change, though the mountains shake in the heart of the sea; though its water roar and foam, though the mountains tremble with its tumult...........Be still, and know that I am God! Psalm 46: 1-3, 10a
Clap your hands, all you peoples; shout to God withloud songs of joy. Psalm 47:1
Do not be afraid when some become rich, when the wealth of their houses increase. For when they die they will carry nothing away; their wealth will not go down ater them. Psalm 49:16-17
Offer to God a sacrifice of thanksgiving, and pay your vows to the Most High. Call on me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify me. Psalm 50:14-15
Have mercy on me, O God, according to your steadast love; according to your abundant mercy blot out my transgression. Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin.....Create in me a clean heart, O God, and put a new and right spirit within me.....O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth will declare your praise...The sacrifice acceptable to God is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise....Psalm 51: 1-2, 10, 15, 17
I Samuel 1-3
Two prayers by one woman begin the books of Samuel. Hannah pours out her soul to God that she might have a son. Then when she bears a child she again pours out her soul to God. In the first chapter her petition is the cry of a woman lost, but in chapter 2 it is the joyous cry of one who knows God's greatness. I wonder how many of us have cried out like Hannah in times of trouble, but forgotten to praise God in times of thanksgiving. How many of us have asked God's blessing with a promise, but not followed through. Hannah asked God for a son and then willingly gave Eli to the Lord at the temple. Her prayer and response to God's gift gives us all pause as to how we pray and respond to God.
In chapter three we read the call of Eli. Sometimes we don't recognize God's call without the help of others. Just like Eli needed Samuel to let him know it was God calling. Sometimes we we do recognize God's voice and answer, but what God wants is difficult for us to do just like Eli being asked to proclaim something that will make the 'ears of anyone who hears of it tingle.' 3.11. God's call and God's work are not for the meek and timid nor are they for the powerful and professional. God's work is for those whom God calls and who willingly answer. The old sayings are God doesn't call the qualified, but qualifies the called; God doesn't ask if you are able, but asks you to be available. The stories of Hannah and Eli show us how God calls each of us to participate in God's story.
God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change, though the mountains shake in the heart of the sea; though its water roar and foam, though the mountains tremble with its tumult...........Be still, and know that I am God! Psalm 46: 1-3, 10a
Clap your hands, all you peoples; shout to God withloud songs of joy. Psalm 47:1
Do not be afraid when some become rich, when the wealth of their houses increase. For when they die they will carry nothing away; their wealth will not go down ater them. Psalm 49:16-17
Offer to God a sacrifice of thanksgiving, and pay your vows to the Most High. Call on me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify me. Psalm 50:14-15
Have mercy on me, O God, according to your steadast love; according to your abundant mercy blot out my transgression. Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin.....Create in me a clean heart, O God, and put a new and right spirit within me.....O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth will declare your praise...The sacrifice acceptable to God is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise....Psalm 51: 1-2, 10, 15, 17
I Samuel 1-3
Two prayers by one woman begin the books of Samuel. Hannah pours out her soul to God that she might have a son. Then when she bears a child she again pours out her soul to God. In the first chapter her petition is the cry of a woman lost, but in chapter 2 it is the joyous cry of one who knows God's greatness. I wonder how many of us have cried out like Hannah in times of trouble, but forgotten to praise God in times of thanksgiving. How many of us have asked God's blessing with a promise, but not followed through. Hannah asked God for a son and then willingly gave Eli to the Lord at the temple. Her prayer and response to God's gift gives us all pause as to how we pray and respond to God.
In chapter three we read the call of Eli. Sometimes we don't recognize God's call without the help of others. Just like Eli needed Samuel to let him know it was God calling. Sometimes we we do recognize God's voice and answer, but what God wants is difficult for us to do just like Eli being asked to proclaim something that will make the 'ears of anyone who hears of it tingle.' 3.11. God's call and God's work are not for the meek and timid nor are they for the powerful and professional. God's work is for those whom God calls and who willingly answer. The old sayings are God doesn't call the qualified, but qualifies the called; God doesn't ask if you are able, but asks you to be available. The stories of Hannah and Eli show us how God calls each of us to participate in God's story.
Monday, May 17, 2010
Judges 20-21 and Ruth 1-4
For me Judges 19-21 covers one of the most horrific and confusiong stories in the Bible. Sacrifice the wife to save the husband. Cut her dead body into pieces to get the tribes to fight for justice. Then civil war against the tribe of Benjamin. Weeping and praying that fighting is required for justice. When Israel triumphs, they give virgins and promote kidnapping of young girls to satisfy the needs of the surviving men of the tribe of Benjamin. The only sense comes in the last sentence of the book of Judges which has been written several times in the book. "In those days there was no king in Israel; all the people did what was right in their own eyes." These stories may reflect what happened, but may in reality not reflect what God desires. As I look at these scriptures through the lens of Christ, I question how love, mercy, and justice is protrayed. Would Jesus approve or disapprove? The answer for me is that these stories tell us how far from God humans will wonder, how horrible people can be when they do 'what right in their own eyes.' Maybe this book serves as an example of the ways we should not act and as a warning to live a life acceptable to God.
Ruth is a wonderful story of family dynamics in a positive way. The mother-in-law who accepts the love of a daughter-in-law and helps her fit into strange new customs. A daughter-in-law who leaves the known to go to the unknown. Ruth states "Where you go, I will go; where you lodge, I will lodge; your people shall be my people; and your God my God." Complete love and trust bind these women together. Trusting in the God of Naomi's people turns their sadness into joy. Because the rules of society have changed since Biblical times some of the story is lost to modern understanding without careful contextual reading, but the respect for each other and for Boaz the kinsman serve as examples even today. We are introduced to gleaning, the intentional practice of leaving part of crop in the field for the poor, and the practice of redeeming of family & property by the next of kin. In the New Interpreter's Bible the commentary states that the words "redeem" and "redeemer" are used 20 times in the 85 verses of the book. I find this interesting because Ruth, this Moabite outsider, is the mother of Obed, who fathers Jesse, who fathers King David, which is the lineage of our Redeemer Jesus. This story is set in Bethlehem where Jesus' birth stories are set. The Holy Redeemer comes from a line which breathes redemption and acceptance of all people. Insiders and outsiders, poor and rich, trust and faithfulness, fill this story of redemption that is part of the ancestry of Jesus.
Ruth is a wonderful story of family dynamics in a positive way. The mother-in-law who accepts the love of a daughter-in-law and helps her fit into strange new customs. A daughter-in-law who leaves the known to go to the unknown. Ruth states "Where you go, I will go; where you lodge, I will lodge; your people shall be my people; and your God my God." Complete love and trust bind these women together. Trusting in the God of Naomi's people turns their sadness into joy. Because the rules of society have changed since Biblical times some of the story is lost to modern understanding without careful contextual reading, but the respect for each other and for Boaz the kinsman serve as examples even today. We are introduced to gleaning, the intentional practice of leaving part of crop in the field for the poor, and the practice of redeeming of family & property by the next of kin. In the New Interpreter's Bible the commentary states that the words "redeem" and "redeemer" are used 20 times in the 85 verses of the book. I find this interesting because Ruth, this Moabite outsider, is the mother of Obed, who fathers Jesse, who fathers King David, which is the lineage of our Redeemer Jesus. This story is set in Bethlehem where Jesus' birth stories are set. The Holy Redeemer comes from a line which breathes redemption and acceptance of all people. Insiders and outsiders, poor and rich, trust and faithfulness, fill this story of redemption that is part of the ancestry of Jesus.
Saturday, May 15, 2010
Week of May 16-22
The readings for this week are: Acts 23:23-27:44, Judges 19-20, Ruth 1-4, 1 Samuel 1-3, and Psalm 45-51
Friday, May 14, 2010
Acts 19:1- 23:22
These chapters in Acts are filled with stories of Paul's travels. In chapter 19 Paul is in Ephesus. First Paul is doing fine sharing the gospel, then he gets the silversmiths upset. They are losing money, because Paul tells people that 'gods made with hands are not gods' 19.26 Good teaching then and now. A riot ensues and Paul leaves town.
In chapter 20 there is a great story about Eutychus in Troas. Eutychus is a young man who attends a meeting with Paul. Eutychus is sitting in the window and Paul continues to talk for a long time. Poor Eutychus falls out the window and appears dead. I can not help wondering how many young people are put to sleep or become dead tired in worship or church meetings. Fortunately for Eutychus, Paul revives him, but Paul goes right back to teaching. There are so many lessons in this story. Don't make sermons too long or atleast not really boring. Be aware of your young listeners if their eyes glaze over. Watch out that the young people don't fall out of church because of what is happening in church. Don't have meetings go too long that people fall asleep. The story is worth reading and pondering what the 21st cent. church learn from it.
Paul talks and writes about his calling and the joy of telling the message of Jesus. He reminds us of Jesus' words, 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.' Given the context of Paul's words, I wonder if Paul is telling the listener it is more blessed to give the message of Jesus to others than to just receive it?
Chapter 21 Paul declares, 'I am ready not only to be bound but even to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.' His companions pray, 'The Lord's will be done." Praying God's will be done can be releasing. Praying God's will be done can be difficult. For me not only do I need to let go and pray God's will be done, but pray that God provide me the grace to accept it.
Chapter 22-23 finds Paul in trouble with the Sadduces, Pharisees, and other Jewish leaders. God reminds him to "Keep up your courage! For just as you have testified for me in Jeruslem, so you must bear witness also in Rome." We like Paul need to remember that God will always protect us if we are doing God's work.
In chapter 20 there is a great story about Eutychus in Troas. Eutychus is a young man who attends a meeting with Paul. Eutychus is sitting in the window and Paul continues to talk for a long time. Poor Eutychus falls out the window and appears dead. I can not help wondering how many young people are put to sleep or become dead tired in worship or church meetings. Fortunately for Eutychus, Paul revives him, but Paul goes right back to teaching. There are so many lessons in this story. Don't make sermons too long or atleast not really boring. Be aware of your young listeners if their eyes glaze over. Watch out that the young people don't fall out of church because of what is happening in church. Don't have meetings go too long that people fall asleep. The story is worth reading and pondering what the 21st cent. church learn from it.
Paul talks and writes about his calling and the joy of telling the message of Jesus. He reminds us of Jesus' words, 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.' Given the context of Paul's words, I wonder if Paul is telling the listener it is more blessed to give the message of Jesus to others than to just receive it?
Chapter 21 Paul declares, 'I am ready not only to be bound but even to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.' His companions pray, 'The Lord's will be done." Praying God's will be done can be releasing. Praying God's will be done can be difficult. For me not only do I need to let go and pray God's will be done, but pray that God provide me the grace to accept it.
Chapter 22-23 finds Paul in trouble with the Sadduces, Pharisees, and other Jewish leaders. God reminds him to "Keep up your courage! For just as you have testified for me in Jeruslem, so you must bear witness also in Rome." We like Paul need to remember that God will always protect us if we are doing God's work.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Judges 10-19
The book of Judges is hard to read for this follower of Jesus. The stories are disturbing: the sacrifice of a daughter by her father chapter 11; the raping of a concubine who dies, is cut into twelve pieces and the parts sent to the twelve tribes chapter 19; and Samson's story chapters 13-16 filled with seduction, murder, revenge, sabotage, torture and lust. I just wonder is this what God wanted or a reporting of what happened. When there was no earthly ruler and the people did what was evil in the sight of the LORD. 10.6 are the reports in Judges what God did want and part of what was evil in the sight of God?
God is given credit for much violence, but is that the evil the people choose to do and then said it was God's will? The book of Judges leaves many unanswered questions. What is good and what is evil? What does God asked for us to do and what do we do of our own accord then blame God? Can God turn the evil people do into good?
The one interesting quote for me was 10.13-14 God is speaking to the Israelites, 'Yet you have abandoned me and worshiped other gods; therefore I will deliver you no more. Go and cry to the gods whom you have chosen; let them deliver you in the time of your distress.' Even now we worship other gods: money, status, possessions, isms of all kinds. When we are in trouble can any of these gods save us. Sometimes they are the very source of our distress. From Judges, we are reminded to worship God only. It is the LORD who can save us, comfort us, and give us peace. No other thing on earth or in the heavens can deliver us from our problems. Often our problems are caused by chasing after other gods.
Maybe the lesson from Judges this week is to seek God and to worship God only. Maybe in doing this we will not be the cause of problems for ourselves and others.
God is given credit for much violence, but is that the evil the people choose to do and then said it was God's will? The book of Judges leaves many unanswered questions. What is good and what is evil? What does God asked for us to do and what do we do of our own accord then blame God? Can God turn the evil people do into good?
The one interesting quote for me was 10.13-14 God is speaking to the Israelites, 'Yet you have abandoned me and worshiped other gods; therefore I will deliver you no more. Go and cry to the gods whom you have chosen; let them deliver you in the time of your distress.' Even now we worship other gods: money, status, possessions, isms of all kinds. When we are in trouble can any of these gods save us. Sometimes they are the very source of our distress. From Judges, we are reminded to worship God only. It is the LORD who can save us, comfort us, and give us peace. No other thing on earth or in the heavens can deliver us from our problems. Often our problems are caused by chasing after other gods.
Maybe the lesson from Judges this week is to seek God and to worship God only. Maybe in doing this we will not be the cause of problems for ourselves and others.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Job 39-42
In Chapter 39, God continues to question Job by asking where was Job when everything was created. Is it by Job's wisdom or by Job's command that creation exists?
Chapter 40 begins with God saying, "Shall a fault finder contend with the Almighty? Anyone who argues with God must answer." So Job answers by saying he realizes he is insignificant compared with God and he will listen to what God has to say. God continues to declare that God is supreme above all creation.
This conversation is interesting, but what is the answer for us. Does the book of Job tells us that it is okay to be angry with God, God can handle our anger. Does it tell us that we can be angry with God, but know that God's ways we may never understand. Is the lesson that to know God is to be in conversation with God during our difficult times?
The best part of Job for me is 42:1-6. Then Job answered the LORD: "I know that you can do all things, and that no purpose of yours can be thwarted. 'Who is this that hides counsel without knowledge?' Therefore I have uttered what I did not understand, things to wonderful for me, which I did not know. 'Hear, and I will speak; I will question: I will question you, and you declare to me.' I heard of you by the hearing of the ear, but now my eye sees you; therefore I despise myself, and repent in dust and ashes."
Job, who knew God only by what had been told him, now has a personal relationship with God. God is no longer just a thought or idea, but God is now real to Job. It is also interesting that throughout scripture when someone has an aha experience of God, they also clearly see how small they are and how flawed they are. Maybe that is a lesson from Job, we can in all circumstances open ourselves to be in relationship with God and that to know God is to see ourselves through God's eyes.
From 42: 7-17 God is also not happy with the friends who were only helpful when they were silent. We might learn from God's reaction that rather than speaking for God and trying to explain why something happens, we should practice being present and listening to the one hurting. Job fortunes are restored. Job also has more children and his daughters are to receive an inheritance. Yea, Job, in his experience with God he see sons and daughters are equal.
Chapter 40 begins with God saying, "Shall a fault finder contend with the Almighty? Anyone who argues with God must answer." So Job answers by saying he realizes he is insignificant compared with God and he will listen to what God has to say. God continues to declare that God is supreme above all creation.
This conversation is interesting, but what is the answer for us. Does the book of Job tells us that it is okay to be angry with God, God can handle our anger. Does it tell us that we can be angry with God, but know that God's ways we may never understand. Is the lesson that to know God is to be in conversation with God during our difficult times?
The best part of Job for me is 42:1-6. Then Job answered the LORD: "I know that you can do all things, and that no purpose of yours can be thwarted. 'Who is this that hides counsel without knowledge?' Therefore I have uttered what I did not understand, things to wonderful for me, which I did not know. 'Hear, and I will speak; I will question: I will question you, and you declare to me.' I heard of you by the hearing of the ear, but now my eye sees you; therefore I despise myself, and repent in dust and ashes."
Job, who knew God only by what had been told him, now has a personal relationship with God. God is no longer just a thought or idea, but God is now real to Job. It is also interesting that throughout scripture when someone has an aha experience of God, they also clearly see how small they are and how flawed they are. Maybe that is a lesson from Job, we can in all circumstances open ourselves to be in relationship with God and that to know God is to see ourselves through God's eyes.
From 42: 7-17 God is also not happy with the friends who were only helpful when they were silent. We might learn from God's reaction that rather than speaking for God and trying to explain why something happens, we should practice being present and listening to the one hurting. Job fortunes are restored. Job also has more children and his daughters are to receive an inheritance. Yea, Job, in his experience with God he see sons and daughters are equal.
Monday, May 10, 2010
Week May 9-15 Readings
This week readings are Acts 19-23:22, Judges 10-19, Job 39-42, and Psalm 42-44
The Psalms speak so much to the human condition and our relationship with God.
These are the verses which spoke loudest to me from our readings.
42:1-2 As a deer longs for flowing streams, so my soul longs for you, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When shall I come and behold the face of God?
42:11 and 43: 5 Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God; for I shall again priase him, my help and my God.
44:23-26 Rouse yourself! Why do you sleep, O Lord? Awake, do not cast us off forever! Why do you hide your face? Why do you forget our affliction and oppression? For we sink down to the dust; our bodies cling to the ground. Rise up, come to our help, Redeem us for the sake of your steadfast love.
The Psalms speak so much to the human condition and our relationship with God.
These are the verses which spoke loudest to me from our readings.
42:1-2 As a deer longs for flowing streams, so my soul longs for you, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When shall I come and behold the face of God?
42:11 and 43: 5 Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God; for I shall again priase him, my help and my God.
44:23-26 Rouse yourself! Why do you sleep, O Lord? Awake, do not cast us off forever! Why do you hide your face? Why do you forget our affliction and oppression? For we sink down to the dust; our bodies cling to the ground. Rise up, come to our help, Redeem us for the sake of your steadfast love.
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Acts 15-18
If people think they are in a church where disagreements abound, they need to read Acts. The early leaders find themselves in theological and organizational debates. We should be thankful that in chapter 15, they decided that we can be followers of Jesus without following Jewish law. Big step theologically 15.11 "we believe that we will be saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus, just as they will." and also a big step in polity, man are no longer required to be circumcized.
Paul and Barnabus part ways over a disput about John Mark. Each take off with other traveling partners as early circuit riders returning to they home churches they started.
In chapter 16 entire households 16.15 and entire familes 16.33 are baptized on the faith of one person. As Methodists we baptize infants and children based on the faith of the parents and congregation, believing that God works in the life of the child until they can profess for themselves. It appears that happened in the early years of the church.
Paul used every opportunity to share the gospel. At all times even in jail or in Athens with the unknown god, Paul finds way to proclaim the good news.
As a woman it was exciting to read the part women played in the growth of the early church. In chapter 18 we read about Priscilla and Aquilla. Interesting she is named first. Interesting they minister as a team. Interesting that they have to improve a man's theology.
The Acts of the Apostles really helps us see the length, breadth, and depth of God's Spirit working through the lives of people to grow the church. Reading these stories challenge my belief of what faithful living looks like. What do you think?
Paul and Barnabus part ways over a disput about John Mark. Each take off with other traveling partners as early circuit riders returning to they home churches they started.
In chapter 16 entire households 16.15 and entire familes 16.33 are baptized on the faith of one person. As Methodists we baptize infants and children based on the faith of the parents and congregation, believing that God works in the life of the child until they can profess for themselves. It appears that happened in the early years of the church.
Paul used every opportunity to share the gospel. At all times even in jail or in Athens with the unknown god, Paul finds way to proclaim the good news.
As a woman it was exciting to read the part women played in the growth of the early church. In chapter 18 we read about Priscilla and Aquilla. Interesting she is named first. Interesting they minister as a team. Interesting that they have to improve a man's theology.
The Acts of the Apostles really helps us see the length, breadth, and depth of God's Spirit working through the lives of people to grow the church. Reading these stories challenge my belief of what faithful living looks like. What do you think?
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Joshua 23-24, Judges 1-9, Job 32-38
Joshua 23-24: Joshua continually warns the people of Israel not to promise something to God and not do it. It seems that Joshua realizes the people are fickled. 24:15 Joshua says "now if you are unwilling to serve the LORD, choose this day whom you will serve.....but as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD." The people promise to serve God and Joshua warns them not to break the covenant with God. As a pastor and a member of the church who has made promises in worship, I can relate to Joshua. How many people have in front of God and the congregation made the promise to support the church with their prayers, presence, gifts, service, and witness, yet do not followed through? How many have promised to love the LORD, but put others interests first? Do we as God's people take our words and relationship with God so lightly? Joshua is warning us also choose whom you will serve; make your lives match your words.
Judges 1-9: The book of Judges is a warning of what happens when people do whatever they want. The people of Israel have entered the promised land both peacefully and violently. Once they settle, "they would relapse and behave worse than their ancestors, following other gods, worshiping them and bowing down to them." What we read is people experiencing the consequences of doing wrong and not worshiping God only. During the times of the judges there was peace, when they followed their own ways turmoil and persecution. I found the parable in 9:7-15 to be quite interesting. What I read into the parable is we called to be what God created us to be. God has given each of us unique gifts and talents and abilities. God has designed each of us to bear fruit for the Kingdom, to do less is to be less than what God created.
Job 32-28: Elihu, a young man, gets into the dialogue. He criticizes both Job and Job's friends saying they both are mistaken. He informs them and us that age doesn't necessarily make us wise, but the breath of God within us. He does state that justice and judgment are in God's hands. 34:11 "for according to their deeds he will repay them and according to their ways he will make it befall them." Does this statement agree with the Christian message of salvation through faith in Jesus? Is salvation a gift or will we be judged according to our deeds? Finally is chapter 38, God begins to talk. God speaks by questioning Job, who has been questioning God all this time. I wonder are there questions God has for each of us that we are too busy talking to hear? Today might be a good day to stop and listen.
Judges 1-9: The book of Judges is a warning of what happens when people do whatever they want. The people of Israel have entered the promised land both peacefully and violently. Once they settle, "they would relapse and behave worse than their ancestors, following other gods, worshiping them and bowing down to them." What we read is people experiencing the consequences of doing wrong and not worshiping God only. During the times of the judges there was peace, when they followed their own ways turmoil and persecution. I found the parable in 9:7-15 to be quite interesting. What I read into the parable is we called to be what God created us to be. God has given each of us unique gifts and talents and abilities. God has designed each of us to bear fruit for the Kingdom, to do less is to be less than what God created.
Job 32-28: Elihu, a young man, gets into the dialogue. He criticizes both Job and Job's friends saying they both are mistaken. He informs them and us that age doesn't necessarily make us wise, but the breath of God within us. He does state that justice and judgment are in God's hands. 34:11 "for according to their deeds he will repay them and according to their ways he will make it befall them." Does this statement agree with the Christian message of salvation through faith in Jesus? Is salvation a gift or will we be judged according to our deeds? Finally is chapter 38, God begins to talk. God speaks by questioning Job, who has been questioning God all this time. I wonder are there questions God has for each of us that we are too busy talking to hear? Today might be a good day to stop and listen.
Friday, April 30, 2010
Acts of the Spirit in the Apostles
Yes, I know the book in the Bible is called Acts of the Apostles, but with careful reading one might want to title the book Acts of the Holy Spirit. Through these reading we see lives changed. People willing to face persecution, stoning, death. All for the privilege of following and knowing the risen Christ. It was dangerous to be a disciple(still is in many places in the world). A disciple was putting his/her live on the line for Jesus. I wonder if my faith is that strong. Do I share how God has worked in Jesus and in my life? Do I endure everything for the sake of others who need to hear the gospel? Then I remember that it is by the power of the Holy Spirit that these people acted. The power of the Holy Spirit gives the words, the strength, the passion to be faithful in all circumstances. In Antioch the followers of the way of Jesus were first called Christians. They endured hardship, but the church continued to grow, because they never stop sharing Christ with others. In my community there are still many who need to hear about Jesus yet the challenge is to share Christ even if we don't face hardship and persecution. The challenge is to share Christ even when not our lives but our feelings are on the line. My prayer is for the Holy Spirit to empower me for this challenge in this time.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Joshua continues
Reading Joshua is difficult. It does help me understand the on-going problems in the Holy Land. Land has always been a priority to Israel. "Not one of all the good promises that the LORD had made to the house of Israel failed; all came to pass." 21:45. According to the book of Joshua the promises were around land and conquest. I find uncomfortable the stories of fighting, pillaging, and dividing of the land. The God I know in Jesus teaches another way.
I do like the blessing of Joshua to the people, "Take good care to observe the commandment and instruction that Moses the servant of the LORD commanded you, to love the LORD your God, to walk in all his ways, to keep his commandments, and to hold fast to him, and to serve him with all your heart and with all your soul." 22:5 How does the destruction and the blessing in Joshua match your understanding of the teachings of Jesus?
I do like the blessing of Joshua to the people, "Take good care to observe the commandment and instruction that Moses the servant of the LORD commanded you, to love the LORD your God, to walk in all his ways, to keep his commandments, and to hold fast to him, and to serve him with all your heart and with all your soul." 22:5 How does the destruction and the blessing in Joshua match your understanding of the teachings of Jesus?
Sunday, April 25, 2010
April 24-May 1 Bible study
The readings for this week are Job 25- 31, Joshua 9-22, and Acts 10:34-14
Job continues to defend himself and cry out to speak to God. He believes in his innocence and integrity. Job longs to understand why his suffering continues. Job allows us to struggle with the theology of God blesses with prosperity and curses with suffering, with the theology of the good get blessed and the sinner gets suffering in this life. The cries of Job are surely the cries of many. He feels abandoned by God and does not understand why. How do we share God's goodness with those who are suffering and feeling alone? How do we redefine blessing to not include prosperity?
Job continues to defend himself and cry out to speak to God. He believes in his innocence and integrity. Job longs to understand why his suffering continues. Job allows us to struggle with the theology of God blesses with prosperity and curses with suffering, with the theology of the good get blessed and the sinner gets suffering in this life. The cries of Job are surely the cries of many. He feels abandoned by God and does not understand why. How do we share God's goodness with those who are suffering and feeling alone? How do we redefine blessing to not include prosperity?
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Job's Woes
Read Job 18-25 today. Job is an interesting book on how people talk theology. Job's friends think that God blesses only the good and punishes only the wicked therefore Job is wicked. Poor Job says no, the wicked prosper on earth so prosperity must not come directly from God. Job feels abandoned by both friends and God. This is also good study in the difference between the theology of prosperity (God wants the faithful to be wealthy) and the theology of abundance (God is able to provide all things necessary for God's work on earth.) I side with Job and the theology of abundance.
Monday, April 19, 2010
New Beginnigs
Some of us have decided to read the Bible in a year. This weeks readings are
Deuteronomy 29-34; Joshua 1-10; Acts 7:1-10:48; Job 18-25.
I read the Deuteronomy passages today. Chapter thirty was the one which has me thinking. Verses 11-14 and 15-20. I was using The Jewish Study Bible. God's instruction has been put in our hearts so we might observe it. God sets before us life and prosperity or death and adversity. God says choose life. Life, blessing, prosperity is loving the Lord, heeding God's commands and holding fast to God. According to the Tanakh this should not be baffling. Today I choose life.
Deuteronomy 29-34; Joshua 1-10; Acts 7:1-10:48; Job 18-25.
I read the Deuteronomy passages today. Chapter thirty was the one which has me thinking. Verses 11-14 and 15-20. I was using The Jewish Study Bible. God's instruction has been put in our hearts so we might observe it. God sets before us life and prosperity or death and adversity. God says choose life. Life, blessing, prosperity is loving the Lord, heeding God's commands and holding fast to God. According to the Tanakh this should not be baffling. Today I choose life.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)