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
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