Singleness of heart ...

I think I have mentioned before, I am not a really keen reader of Ezekiel, he looses me in all the imagery. Yet one of the things I have been attempting by the discipline of following all of the readings from the Life Journal for each day, is not merely to gloss over or neglect to read certain passages because i don't think there is anything in them, rather to take the time and read them anyway. Read with an open mind and always with the thinking, "what is it God might want to reveal to me, say to me, have me do, from this passage?"

Here is the "something" I picked up today:

Ezekiel 11:18-20 (New Living Translation)

18 “When the people return to their homeland, they will remove every trace of their vile images and detestable idols. 19 And I will give them singleness of heart and put a new spirit within them. I will take away their stony, stubborn heart and give them a tender, responsive heart, 20 so they will obey my decrees and regulations. Then they will truly be my people, and I will be their God.

Ezekiel 11:18-20 (The Message)

I will gather you back from those countries and lands where you've been scattered and give you back the land of Israel. You'll come back and clean house, throw out all the rotten images and obscene idols. I'll give you a new heart. I'll put a new spirit in you. I'll cut out your stone heart and replace it with a red-blooded, firm-muscled heart. Then you'll obey my statutes and be careful to obey my commands. You'll be my people! I'll be your God!

As I read from the New living Translation it was that element of having a singleness of heart. To this point we read of a people all over the place in relation to their worship and what was important to them. Certainly God was out of the picture, they had many gods. And as you might imagine, God was not at all happy. So to have a singleness of heart, one focused, God focused, tuned in on Him again, this is important and a big move for these people.

Then to read it from The Message translation, well you will know by now I love looking at the way Eugene Peterson captures it. The picture to me is of a heart transplant and God appears to me to be the donor as well as the surgeon. it is healthy. It is alive. It is vigorous.

Finally, You'll be my people! I'll be your God!

Absolutely nothing better!. this reflects the father's heart, it is what He desires all the way through the Scriptures from beginning to end.

It's what I want! I hope it is what you want too!

No solo leaders ...

I am not sure if I have mentioned another book I have been reading (put it aside while I was away on holidays as I didn't want to take a book I was nearly finished). Leadership Gold by John Maxwell. Let me say from the outset, the title sums up the content. If you are seeking a book on leadership that has the richness of much experience (tried and tested) and lots of practical tips for being the best leader you can be, then this book is for you. Twenty Six golden nugget lessons.

Here was the one that stood out to me this morning - Few Leaders Are Successful Unless A Lot Of People Want Them To Be. John Maxwell says - We believe individuals like Alexander the Great, Julius Caesar, Charlemagne, William the Conqueror, Louis XIV, Abraham Lincoln, and Winston Churchill would be great no matter what kind of support they got. but that simply isn't true. Without a lot of people working together, there would be no successful leaders.

In other words, behind all these amazingly great people, there were lots of other people working away. Yes, they were probably fulfilling the vision and instructions passed on to them from their leader, but they were doing their bit. They were fulfilling their part. The leader had a reliance upon them.

Now this is not to diminish the greatness of the leader or their contribution. It serves as a reminder that we need others to help us. We cannot do this alone.

Paul reminds us of the Body. Jesus the head, each of us having a part to play. Some the eye, some the hands, some the heart, etc. None more important than another. All significant. All of value. All required by the other.

Let us celebrate the importance of others in what we do.

Me first ...

Well I must say this Ezekiel guy has some imagination, as he starts with his vision and moves into the call and commission given him. I am not sure I personally understand all that part - but here is something that stood out for me.

Ezekiel is given a mission to speak to the rebellious nation of Israel. In fact. one might even question the purpose for this, for in all intents and purpose they appear to be a lost cause (by the description given anyway). But, if Ezekiel is not faithful in delivering the message God gives him for the people, then their blood, their death is upon him. Quite a bit to wear I think, especially as Ezekiel is alert to the fact that these people are not going to receive the message very well.

All that aside, the element that stood out for me, about a third of the way through chapter 3:

Ezekiel 3:10 (New Living Translation)

10 Then he added, “Son of man,

let all my words sink deep into your own heart first.

Listen to them carefully for yourself.

Ezekiel 3:10 (The Message)

10-11 Then he said, "Son of man,

get all these words that I'm giving you inside you.

Listen to them obediently.

Make them your own.

And now go. Go to the exiles, your people, and speak.

Tell them, 'This is the Message of God, the Master.'

Speak your piece, whether they listen or not."

Ensure you have made application in your own life first. Absorb this message. Let it settle deep within you and ensure you are living to it first. Be obedient to the message too. These serve as a good reminder for those who are responsible for bring the Word of God to the people. We ought to make sure we have absorbed the message into our own lives and living first. Live the truth. Be an example of them. Show how God's Word is living and brings life.

Where do you run ...

In some suburbs we have identified houses which are termed safe houses. A place of refuge for any children going to school or returning home after school, for whatever reason might feel, or sense they are unsafe. These are places where someone is known (usually) to be home between these hours. These people are trusted. They will provide a safe place, a listening ear, comfort and act upon the threat that exists.

That is what came to mind for me as I read the following:

Psalm 143:1-12 (New Living Translation)

A psalm of David.

1 Hear my prayer, O Lord;

listen to my plea!

Answer me because you are faithful and righteous.

2 Don’t put your servant on trial,

for no one is innocent before you.

3 My enemy has chased me.

He has knocked me to the ground

and forces me to live in darkness like those in the grave.

4 I am losing all hope;

I am paralyzed with fear.

5 I remember the days of old.

I ponder all your great works

and think about what you have done.

6 I lift my hands to you in prayer.

I thirst for you as parched land thirsts for rain.

7 Come quickly, Lord, and answer me,

for my depression deepens.

Don’t turn away from me,

or I will die.

8 Let me hear of your unfailing love each morning,

for I am trusting you.

Show me where to walk,

for I give myself to you.

9 Rescue me from my enemies, Lord;

I run to you to hide me.

10 Teach me to do your will,

for you are my God.

May your gracious Spirit lead me forward

on a firm footing.

11 For the glory of your name, O Lord, preserve my life.

Because of your faithfulness, bring me out of this distress.

12 In your unfailing love, silence all my enemies

and destroy all my foes,

for I am your servant.

And especially this verse:  9 Rescue me from my enemies, Lord; I run to you to hide me.

I think it is important to know where to go when we are feeling uncomfortable in some situation. A place where we can feel accepted. Where someone can care for us. Where someone can set us on the right path. A place where it is safe. And I certainly believe there is no place where that is more applicable than if we were run int the presence of God. We can do this because He is faithful and righteous. We can do this because of His unfailing love.

Let us trust in Him in the ups and lows of life, and know Him to be our safe refuge and place of acceptance.

What matters ...

There was a bit that went through my mind looking at the readings (Scriptures) for today. In some way it is one of the dangers of routine, that one has to be careful that it doesn't merely become shallow and rote and following a pattern for the sake of doing just that. I do not want that I just follow a practice and loose the meaningful engagement of God speaking to me through His Living Word. So, it could have been, in seeking something to contemplate that I pick up on those verses from 2 John regarding the requirement that we love one another ... However, this is what stood out to me:

2 John 1:12 (New Living Translation)

Conclusion

12 I have much more to say to you,

but I don’t want to do it with paper and ink.

For I hope to visit you soon and talk with you face to face.

Then our joy will be complete.

2 John 1:12 (The Message)

12-13I have a lot more things to tell you,

but I'd rather not use paper and ink.

I hope to be there soon in person and have a heart-to-heart talk.

That will be far more satisfying to both you and me.

Everyone here in your sister congregation sends greetings.

My rationale. Because I truly believe "people" are important. I truly enjoy and look forward to spending time with people, face to face. Sharing together. Listening. Being listened to.

Sure we can communicate via other means, letters, emails, text, phone, facebook ... but there is still something about being with a person, especially if it is over a coffee (well my personal preference anyway).

For me this is about relationship. As together people invest, give of themselves to others. Share and care.

To me this is not only satisfying but also a privilege, so thank you to those whom I have spent time with, I appreciate you each, you add to my life considerably and I value you greatly.

Celebrating ...

In two minds regarding so much within the readings and nothing really standing out. But also reflecting on an experience of Sunday where I was privileged to witness a couple of people becoming Senior Soldiers in The Salvation Army.

Each had a very different experience and thus testimony to share. One an amazing story of transformation from addiction, self esteem issues, etc. The other from much questioning, searching and release to just being obedient in the end.

The thing I have been thinking about is the ease by which we can let these opportunities come and go (though they are few and far between in most places). Rather than really celebrating the transformation of a persons life. It may be that this has taken place over time. It has been gradual. It has been a bit by bit experience of change. And I am not sure how we do it better, apart from suggesting we do not want to down play the circumstances. We don't want to miss the opportunity to celebrate. Think how the angels in heaven are celebrating.

And from the celebration, continue to encourage and support and come alongside. Allow ourselves to be encouraged too.

A matter of choice ...

I thought something slightly different tonight. I have been reading another non-fiction of two sisters who rescued Jews from the Nazis - Safe Passage by Ida Cook (one of the sisters). It truly is a remarkable story and spells out for me the heroism of two woman, as they willingly took enormous risks to bring life to others, for whom life was threatened.

Something that stood out was an encounter with someone whom they had come to admire greatly and this question was asked of her, "What was it Marjorie, that keeps you so bright and courageous in spite of everything? you must have some clear and remarkable philosophy to support you." She smiled mischievously, but replied without hesitation, "Well, you see, many people believe in God and make themselves miserable. We believe in God and have lots of fun. That's all."

"That's all." It sounds so simple doesn't it. And yet, in a sense, isn't it? Is it not merely a matter of what we choose for it to be? Some choose misery. We have an option to choose otherwise - to choose fun. To choose life. To choose something positive and affirming and infectious (in the positive sense). We can choose to allow the circumstances to dictate disappointment and loss, or we can choose to rise above it and learn and be thankful for surviving it.

What about you? What is your choice? As for me - I choose fun!

Beware of the false ...

One of the lessons that is important to learn is that of not taking everything on face value. just because someone says that "this is a word from God" doesn't always mean it actually is, and that truth is proclaimed.

Jeremiah 28:1-17 (New Living Translation)
Jeremiah Condemns Hananiah

1 One day in late summer of that same year—the fourth year of the reign of Zedekiah, king of Judah—Hananiah son of Azzur, a prophet from Gibeon, addressed me publicly in the Temple while all the priests and people listened. He said, 2 “This is what the Lord of Heaven’s Armies, the God of Israel, says: ‘I will remove the yoke of the king of Babylon from your necks. 3 Within two years I will bring back all the Temple treasures that King Nebuchadnezzar carried off to Babylon. 4 And I will bring back Jehoiachin son of Jehoiakim, king of Judah, and all the other captives that were taken to Babylon. I will surely break the yoke that the king of Babylon has put on your necks. I, the Lord, have spoken!’”

5 Jeremiah responded to Hananiah as they stood in front of all the priests and people at the Temple. 6 He said, “Amen! May your prophecies come true! I hope the Lord does everything you say. I hope he does bring back from Babylon the treasures of this Temple and all the captives. 7 But listen now to the solemn words I speak to you in the presence of all these people. 8 The ancient prophets who preceded you and me spoke against many nations, always warning of war, disaster, and disease. 9 So a prophet who predicts peace must show he is right. Only when his predictions come true can we know that he is really from the Lord.”

10 Then Hananiah the prophet took the yoke off Jeremiah’s neck and broke it in pieces. 11 And Hananiah said again to the crowd that had gathered, “This is what the Lord says: ‘Just as this yoke has been broken, within two years I will break the yoke of oppression from all the nations now subject to King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon.’” With that, Jeremiah left the Temple area.

12 Soon after this confrontation with Hananiah, the Lord gave this message to Jeremiah: 13 “Go and tell Hananiah, ‘This is what the Lord says: You have broken a wooden yoke, but you have replaced it with a yoke of iron. 14 The Lord of Heaven’s Armies, the God of Israel, says: I have put a yoke of iron on the necks of all these nations, forcing them into slavery under King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon. I have put everything, even the wild animals, under his control.’”

15 Then Jeremiah the prophet said to Hananiah, “Listen, Hananiah! The Lord has not sent you, but the people believe your lies. 16 Therefore, this is what the Lord says: ‘You must die. Your life will end this very year because you have rebelled against the Lord.’”

17 Two months later the prophet Hananiah died.

One needs to be discerning as to what is said, who has said it and measuring it for some consistency against the Word of God. Align to this the need to hear personally, what is God saying to me.

There are many who bring counterfeit messages to us, wanting us to believe what they have to say. Whether it is that it brings attention to them. Whether it be that there is a lack of accountability because they fleet in and out of our midst as they bring the message. Whether it be that it is a pet peeve of theirs they want to get across. Whatever the initial reason for such action, we need to be prepared to sift through the messages and find / know the truth.

The best way I believe we can do this is by continually being a people who align our lives, our living, to the Word and principles of God. That we intentionally follow His lead. That we ensure each day, some time, is spent in the Word of God.

What do you love ...

It can be an interesting conversation to ask this question. the answers I am sure will be (or may be) quite varied, from I love my wife, my kids (children), my lifestyle, my home, my car, CHOCOLATE (mmmm), etc. of course if we were to look for biblical descriptors we would find that there are different terms for love (but I am not going there today). Simply I want to be thinking about the things that we might invest ourselves in to. What we give our attention to. What we focus on. have a look at the verses for today:

1 John 2:15-17 (New Living Translation)

Do Not Love This World

15 Do not love this world nor the things it offers you, for when you love the world, you do not have the love of the Father in you. 16 For the world offers only a craving for physical pleasure, a craving for everything we see, and pride in our achievements and possessions. These are not from the Father, but are from this world. 17 And this world is fading away, along with everything that people crave. But anyone who does what pleases God will live forever.

It is a bit like that Scripture that reminds us we cannot love both money and God, you will love one and hate the other. You cannot have two masters. If you give yourself over to (give your attention, focus, invest your time and resources into) the world and the things of the world, the very real outcome is that God is snubbed, put on the back burner, left out of the equation.

The world (or the things in it) have great allurement to the eye. they have a tendency to have outcomes of a pleasurable nature (albeit temporary). And we can be pretty much assured that once it gets a hold of us, it is difficult to break free from its grasp - thus the warning.

Lord, I know I can be attracted to many things within the world. There is much that captures my eye. Help me to keep my attention to the things that are of You. Help me to focus on You. help me to invest in the Kingdom that is Yours.

The case ...

Here is an amazing passage of Scripture for us:

1 John 1:1-4 (New Living Translation) 

Introduction

 ¹ We proclaim to you the one who existed from the beginning, whom we have heard and seen. We saw him with our own eyes and touched him with our own hands. He is the Word of life. ² This one who is life itself was revealed to us, and we have seen him. And now we testify and proclaim to you that he is the one who is eternal life. He was with the Father, and then he was revealed to us. ³ We proclaim to you what we ourselves have actually seen and heard so that you may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ. ⁴ We are writing these things so that you may fully share our joy.

 1 John 1:1-4 (The Message) 

^1-2From the very first day, we were there, taking it all in—we heard it with our own ears, saw it with our own eyes, verified it with our own hands. The Word of Life appeared right before our eyes; we saw it happen! And now we're telling you in most sober prose that what we witnessed was, incredibly, this: The infinite Life of God himself took shape before us.

 ^3-4We saw it, we heard it, and now we're telling you so you can experience it along with us, this experience of communion with the Father and his Son, Jesus Christ. Our motive for writing is simply this: We want you to enjoy this, too. Your joy will double our joy!

Jesus is the Word of life ... that is the statement that is made in this introduction. And how is this conclusion drawn? This is not drawn from mere hearsay. It is not a case of second hand knowledge as someone recalled what they had seen and passed it on to someone else and on to someone else. It is not based upon some deductive thinking or theory.

The case for this claim is on personal experience. I love the statement From the very first day we were there. Here are actual eyewitnesses. Here are people who experienced Jesus for themselves. They give us insight into the the full package experience that they had - we heard, we saw, we touched. 

The same continues for us you know. That should be the basis for our testimony. Think about it - what have you seen Jesus do in the lives of others and in your life? What has Jesus revealed to you, spoken to you? Let the case you build be one that is upon your own experience.

The turn-around ...

Have you encountered those times when things just don;t seem to be going your way? You would feel you are even sweet with the Lord, in tune with what He might be signaling as the way you ought to be living, and yet stuff seems to be happening that is neither positive or encouraging. In fact, it seems you are far from being the "blessed" person you are supposed to be as one of His followers.

Well we return to another Psalm and are reminded to give thanks to the Lord and proclaim His greatness ... (Psalm 105:1) But there is much more to this amazing Psalm for us tonight. For we are given a number of accounts that serve as a reminder to us that though the chips might be down, the God Whom we serve, Whom we praise, Whom we worship - is able to turn-around even the most unbelievable circumstances. Let me highlight just one of these - the story (account) of Joseph:

Psalm 105:16-22 (New Living Translation)

 ¹⁶ He called for a famine on the land of Canaan,
      cutting off its food supply.
 ¹⁷ Then he sent someone to Egypt ahead of them—
      Joseph, who was sold as a slave.
 ¹⁸ They bruised his feet with fetters
      and placed his neck in an iron collar.
 ¹⁹ Until the time came to fulfill his dreams,
      the Lord tested Joseph’s character.
 ²⁰ Then Pharaoh sent for him and set him free;
      the ruler of the nation opened his prison door.
 ²¹ Joseph was put in charge of all the king’s household;
      he became ruler over all the king’s possessions.
 ²² He could instruct the king’s aides as he pleased
      and teach the king’s advisers.

In fact that is only part of it - if we were to go back and read over his life account we would discover a number of repeated occasions that reflect the same turn-around experience for Joseph. 

It struck a cord for me, reminding me that I am called to be faithful and true to God whatever the circumstances I face, or experience. God does not promise that things will always be easy, or plain sailing, however I am constantly reminded that He is faithful. He is trustworthy. He loves me and has my best interest in mind, and to this end, He will never leave me. All this serves as a reassurance, that no matter how difficult or unpleasant the experience for me, God is able to turn-around the situation. 

Lord, it is my desire that I be found, even through testing, to be faithful in my proclaiming thanks to You in ALL circumstances. Receive and accept my thanks today!

Obedience ...

Here's a wonderful tribute to a tribe of people (the Recabites) who's stand out compliment is to do with their willingness to be faithful through obedience. They were known for the fact that they were instructed to "not drink wine, not to plant vines or build houses or plant crops, rather to merely live in tents." In so doing they were promised "If you follow these commands you will live long, good lives in the land." So what do you think they did? "So they obeyed in all these things."

It is interesting to find the amount of times that people start well, but fall away in the ensuing months or years. But here are a people commended for sticking to the command that had been directed to them. More than this, they are actually used here as an example for the Israel (as Jeremiah is to address both Judah and Jerusalem to "come learn a lesson about how to obey Me ..."

Have a look through the Scripture passage:  Jeremiah 35: 1-19

The lesson for us today is that firstly, we clearly discern (understand, hear, interpret) the message of instruction that God has for us today and the days ahead. Secondly that we ensure that we act upon the instruction as it is declared to us, in faithfulness and obedience. 

Here is a way that we might be an example of others to learn and also become true followers of the living God.

The stand-outs ...

Looking at the passage of Jesus being betrayed by Judas, had me thinking of the "stand-out" moments in people's lives. Those moments that distinguished them from others. The times when that real "something" made them stand out from the crowd, from everyone else.

Maybe I am wrong, but there seems to be those moments for many people who we characterise as being "above" others. It was a moment in time that captured our attention and appealed to us. Think about it in this sense. Mother Theresa is a "stand-out" in our minds - yet, is she the only one who has worked (works) in the slums of India assisting the poor - no. But there was a moment in time where she captured the attention of "someone" (and then others) and that moment was leveraged to bring attention to the plight of the people she was looking to assist. Throughout history there seems many just like this.

Reading the account in John's Gospel today (actually yesterday now - John 18: 1-14) I sensed this to be another of those "stand-out" moments for Jesus. There are some of us who might have wanted to be behind Peter (just after he has cut off the ear of the High Priest's slave - Malchus), behind him yelling, "now one in the chest, and look out for the person behind you - run Jesus, run ..." But the reaction of Jesus was very different. He has Peter put the sword away, puts the ear back on the guys head and echoes once more His resign to do the will of His Father. He hands Himself over to those who have come with the intent that they might snuff out His life. He gives Himself over to death. Yes, He knew only too well what this would all mean, and yet, He was still willing to face that music.

You know what stands out even more for me, what amazes me more than anything else? The fact that Jesus, at this moment, was willing to give up Himself for me, not the world, all peoples everywhere, for me. That He was willing (and remains willing) to surrender His life that I might know life in all it's fullness - wow, that just blows my mind.

What a "stand-out" moment!

The ultimate King ...

Another of those things that stands out for me about the Psalms is the imagery that is expressed. Have a look at this one and see what comes to your mind and then I will share a few of my thoughts:

Psalm 93 (New Living Translation)

1 The Lord is king! He is robed in majesty.

Indeed, the Lord is robed in majesty and armed with strength.

The world stands firm

and cannot be shaken.

2 Your throne, O Lord, has stood from time immemorial.

You yourself are from the everlasting past.

3 The floods have risen up, O Lord.

The floods have roared like thunder;

the floods have lifted their pounding waves.

4 But mightier than the violent raging of the seas,

mightier than the breakers on the shore—

the Lord above is mightier than these!

5 Your royal laws cannot be changed.

Your reign, O Lord, is holy forever and ever.

I think of the King sitting on a huge throne, you know the type seen in the movies, where it is so large that it virtually envelopes them. And yet, with God it is somewhat different, for what could be bigger than He. Then I am drawn to the flowing eloquent robes, so pure in nature, fine and like nothing we have ever seen before. I think of the pure white appearance and yet adorned with purple, such as might be fitting for royalty.

Then there is the disposition that seems fitting for a King, steadfast, strong and decisive. Full of wisdom and truth and grace and mercy and love - like none ever before Him.

I am drawn to contemplate the natural elements - raging torrents of water, so powerful man is unable to stop them, cleaning up anything in their paths, whether on land or at sea. But, in the comparison, my God is bigger, more powerful, in control and able to tame even these.

Yes, the Lord, God, has rules in place. Rules for the universe to be governed by. Rules for me to live a healthy and meaningful existence in harmony with my environment and those I am to share this life with.And He reigns. He is in charge. He is the instigator and sustainor of all things - He is indeed Holy. And His rule is forever, and ever and ever and ...........

Have a look again:

Psalm 93 (The Message)

God is King, robed and ruling, God is robed and surging with strength.

And yes, the world is firm, immovable,

Your throne ever firm—you're Eternal!

3-4 Sea storms are up, God,

Sea storms wild and roaring,

Sea storms with thunderous breakers.

Stronger than wild sea storms,

Mightier than sea-storm breakers,

Mighty God rules from High Heaven.

5 What you say goes—it always has.

"Beauty" and "Holy" mark your palace rule,

God, to the very end of time.

Back to basics ...

I was thinking I could title this one - "Worship 101" - and then for the body of the Blog write the following -

"GOD!"

It really is that simple, isn't it? Oh how I find myself at times complicating things. Getting all concerned with whether I am on track. Whether I have been focused on certain practices, etc, etc. And then I look at the following :

Psalm 96 (New Living Translation)

1 Sing a new song to the Lord!

Let the whole earth sing to the Lord!

2 Sing to the Lord; praise his name.

Each day proclaim the good news that he saves.

3 Publish his glorious deeds among the nations.

Tell everyone about the amazing things he does.

4 Great is the Lord! He is most worthy of praise!

He is to be feared above all gods.

5 The gods of other nations are mere idols,

but the Lord made the heavens!

6 Honor and majesty surround him;

strength and beauty fill his sanctuary.

7 O nations of the world, recognize the Lord;

recognize that the Lord is glorious and strong.

8 Give to the Lord the glory he deserves!

Bring your offering and come into his courts.

9 Worship the Lord in all his holy splendor.

Let all the earth tremble before him.

10 Tell all the nations, “The Lord reigns!”

The world stands firm and cannot be shaken.

He will judge all peoples fairly.

11 Let the heavens be glad, and the earth rejoice!

Let the sea and everything in it shout his praise!

12 Let the fields and their crops burst out with joy!

Let the trees of the forest rustle with praise

13 before the Lord, for he is coming!

He is coming to judge the earth.

He will judge the world with justice,

and the nations with his truth.

And I am reminded that it is God whom I am to worship. It is God who deserves my praise. It is God who is my salvation. It is God who deserves my offering (my life - a living sacrifice). It is God who is Holy. It is God who judges. It is God who reigns.

So, back to the first thought then -

Title:  "Worship 101"
"GOD!"

The source ...

Another one of those stand out passages. One that reminds us where we get our life source from, but at the same time warning of the apparent loss when one is not productive in bearing fruit.

It is one thing to be sucking the life out of all that we can (receiving sustenance, a good education, good leading and example from others), but if one's life is not producing anything from this, it is pretty pointless. Jesus points out that part of being grafted into Him as our life source, is that we produce fruit. That our lives effect the lives of others. I think of this fruit being that Galatians 5:22-23 (New Living Translation) 22 But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, and self-control.

These ought to be evident in our lives if we are people who's lives are grafted into the life of Christ. Have a read of the verses again and take up the challenge to produce, much good fruit:

John 15:1-17 (The Message)

The Vine and the Branches

1-3 "I am the Real Vine and my Father is the Farmer. He cuts off every branch of me that doesn't bear grapes. And every branch that is grape-bearing he prunes back so it will bear even more. You are already pruned back by the message I have spoken.

4"Live in me. Make your home in me just as I do in you. In the same way that a branch can't bear grapes by itself but only by being joined to the vine, you can't bear fruit unless you are joined with me.

5-8"I am the Vine, you are the branches. When you're joined with me and I with you, the relation intimate and organic, the harvest is sure to be abundant. Separated, you can't produce a thing. Anyone who separates from me is deadwood, gathered up and thrown on the bonfire. But if you make yourselves at home with me and my words are at home in you, you can be sure that whatever you ask will be listened to and acted upon. This is how my Father shows who he is—when you produce grapes, when you mature as my disciples.

9-10"I've loved you the way my Father has loved me. Make yourselves at home in my love. If you keep my commands, you'll remain intimately at home in my love. That's what I've done—kept my Father's commands and made myself at home in his love.

11-15"I've told you these things for a purpose: that my joy might be your joy, and your joy wholly mature. This is my command: Love one another the way I loved you. This is the very best way to love. Put your life on the line for your friends. You are my friends when you do the things I command you. I'm no longer calling you servants because servants don't understand what their master is thinking and planning. No, I've named you friends because I've let you in on everything I've heard from the Father.

16"You didn't choose me, remember; I chose you, and put you in the world to bear fruit, fruit that won't spoil. As fruit bearers, whatever you ask the Father in relation to me, he gives you.

17"But remember the root command: Love one another.

If you love Me ...

A short and simple response as Jesus tries to get the message through to the disciples that His time was coming to an end, and that the way to the Father is through Him. They have all sorts of problems comprehending what He is saying. It just does not gel in their minds. And then this verse:

John 14:15 (New Living Translation)

Jesus Promises the Holy Spirit

15 “If you love me, obey my commandments.

 

This stands out for me because we often experience a turn around in the statement. If you give me this, I will do this for you in return. We tend to want something in return. Jesus says, if you love Me, show it by doing what I've told you (Eugene Peterson - The Message). Show it by your actions. Back it up with a heart that is obedient.

 

Well I know I am challenged. It certainly leaves me much to contemplate.

What sort of leader ...

There has always been something about this passage for me. I like the idea that says, a leader is someone who is humble enough to help others with whatever is needed. So for Jesus to disrobe, place a towel around his waist and wash the feet of the disciples appeals to me.

I have met leaders that were good at what they do. They were thoughtful. They were knowledgeable. They were visionary. But, the thing that seemed lacking to me was that after a function, they were lax in picking up a tea towel and pitching in to help out. It seemed like it was below them to do this.

Have a look at the reading:

John 13:1-17 (New Living Translation)

Jesus Washes His Disciples’ Feet

1 Before the Passover celebration, Jesus knew that his hour had come to leave this world and return to his Father. He had loved his disciples during his ministry on earth, and now he loved them to the very end.[a] 2 It was time for supper, and the devil had already prompted Judas,[b] son of Simon Iscariot, to betray Jesus. 3 Jesus knew that the Father had given him authority over everything and that he had come from God and would return to God. 4 So he got up from the table, took off his robe, wrapped a towel around his waist, 5 and poured water into a basin. Then he began to wash the disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel he had around him.

6 When Jesus came to Simon Peter, Peter said to him, “Lord, are you going to wash my feet?”

7 Jesus replied, “You don’t understand now what I am doing, but someday you will.”

8 “No,” Peter protested, “you will never ever wash my feet!”

Jesus replied, “Unless I wash you, you won’t belong to me.”

9 Simon Peter exclaimed, “Then wash my hands and head as well, Lord, not just my feet!”

10 Jesus replied, “A person who has bathed all over does not need to wash, except for the feet,[c] to be entirely clean. And you disciples are clean, but not all of you.” 11 For Jesus knew who would betray him. That is what he meant when he said, “Not all of you are clean.”

12 After washing their feet, he put on his robe again and sat down and asked, “Do you understand what I was doing? 13 You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and you are right, because that’s what I am. 14 And since I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash each other’s feet. 15 I have given you an example to follow. Do as I have done to you. 16 I tell you the truth, slaves are not greater than their master. Nor is the messenger more important than the one who sends the message. 17 Now that you know these things, God will bless you for doing them.

Lord, help me to remain humble throughout life. Help me to remember the lessons I have learnt to date, whereby I will be a servant leader. As Jesus was inclined to get down and wash the feet of His disciples, may it be that I am not beyond performing even the most menial of tasks, alongside others, for others.

How do you respond ...

There are many ways that we might show someone how much we appreciate them, how much they mean to us, how much we love them. I am sure you have heard the saying, actions speak louder than words. And that is particularly evident by the actions of Mary (the sister of Lazarus) in this encounter:

John 12:1-11 (New Living Translation)

Jesus Anointed at Bethany

1 Six days before the Passover celebration began, Jesus arrived in Bethany, the home of Lazarus—the man he had raised from the dead. 2 A dinner was prepared in Jesus’ honor. Martha served, and Lazarus was among those who ate with him. 3 Then Mary took a twelve-ounce jar of expensive perfume made from essence of nard, and she anointed Jesus’ feet with it, wiping his feet with her hair. The house was filled with the fragrance.

4 But Judas Iscariot, the disciple who would soon betray him, said, 5 “That perfume was worth a year’s wages. It should have been sold and the money given to the poor.” 6 Not that he cared for the poor—he was a thief, and since he was in charge of the disciples’ money, he often stole some for himself.

7 Jesus replied, “Leave her alone. She did this in preparation for my burial. 8 You will always have the poor among you, but you will not always have me.”

9 When all the people heard of Jesus’ arrival, they flocked to see him and also to see Lazarus, the man Jesus had raised from the dead. 10 Then the leading priests decided to kill Lazarus, too, 11 for it was because of him that many of the people had deserted them and believed in Jesus.

So I pose the question again, how do you respond to the knowledge of who Jesus is? What action of yours brings honour to Him? In what way do you display your appreciation, your gratefulness, your love for Him, to Him?

Sadly, before the twelfth chapter of John is concluded, we have people who do not believe, or are willing to show their belief in Jesus for fear of reprisal, or fear of what others might think, or the repercussions they might face. It makes answering the question all the more important, and with a bit more consideration -

How do I respond to the knowledge of who Jesus is?

What has your attention ...

A few days ago I mentioned a book I was reading by Andy Stanley - The Principle of the Path. In this I related the principle of the path, the road we have chosen to be on (the direction we are going), and how this determines our destination (where we end up). Within this I discovered that for all the great intentions I might have, the goals and dreams I might hold onto, these won't make any difference if I choose the wrong path.

As the book proceeds, another lesson is learnt, another element explored. Andy Stanley raises in the formula the matter of "attention". What has your attention? What has captured  your eye? What has drawn you to give it all of your focus?

This is because what lures us or grabs our attention will most often determine the path that we take. Again, whether that be concerning our finances, relationships, employment, education ... If something or someone captures our gaze, it will often take us in a direction that may have been contrary to the one we were initially intending.

The importance of being aware of this, is so we allow God to keep our gaze. We allow God to command what it is we do, where it is we go, who it is we associate with. The alternative is to be taken by whatever, whoever  and wherever that something captures our eye the most.

Thus attention -> direction -> destination.

I would encourage you, if you are looking for a good read, to pick up a copy of the book and take up the challenge of being focused for God.

The purpose ...

When we begin to examine more closely, we begin to see that everyone has a purpose about their existence. Many may not realise this, because it is not necessarily intentional, determined with some thinking or planned on their behalf. However, if you were to look closer you will see they have made some decision to go a particular direction, they have chosen one way over another. They have chosen their course. Some of these purposes are beneficial to the person concerned, some more so to others who will receive from them. Some are such that they may disturb or even concern us.

Jesus reveals to us His purpose:

John 10:10 (New Living Translation)
¹⁰ The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy.
My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.

John 10:10 (The Message)
¹⁰ A thief is only there to steal and kill and destroy.
I came so they can have real and eternal life,
more and better life than they ever dreamed of.

I am intrigued that the interpretation of those outside the Church (and living contrary to what we believe),  to be far from this claim of Jesus. They would rather explain Jesus as being a party pooper, dull and boring, bogging us down with all the rules and regulations to suck the life out of us, taking away all the possibility of fun. Interestingly, the aspects of life that these people would see Jesus being against are the very elements that we (as Christians) might  find destructive to the fabric of our society, degrading of other human beings and self destructive in nature of the persons concerned. If people were more honest in these arguments it might expose that Jesus for them, reveals a guilt or conviction that what they are doing is less than good, or pure or leading to a holy life.

Jesus revelation again reinforces for us that He desires good for those who will be His followers - actually this is His desire for all persons. Life - in all its richness and satisfaction. 

May we live in accordance with that purpose, accepting the gift of real life in Jesus, and making it our purpose to share this same purpose with others around us.

What do I say ...

Well the title is probably one of the most common questions to giving your testimony. "What do I say?"

I think the problem arises out of the misconception that we need to be eloquent in our delivery. We need to ensure we use the right words (which often means jargon). Some might expect it is required to be spectacular in some way, spelling out a dramatic change that has taken place, explaining the ins and outs of the experience. Is it any wonder that some might ask - "what do I say?"

I love the following passage, one, for the reminder of the miracles that Christ is able to perform, but secondly, for the interaction that takes place regarding what has taken place, and within this the testimony of this young man:

John 9:1-34 (New Living Translation)

Jesus Heals a Man Born Blind

1 As Jesus was walking along, he saw a man who had been blind from birth. 2 “Rabbi,” his disciples asked him, “why was this man born blind? Was it because of his own sins or his parents’ sins?”

3 “It was not because of his sins or his parents’ sins,” Jesus answered. “This happened so the power of God could be seen in him. 4 We must quickly carry out the tasks assigned us by the one who sent us.[a] The night is coming, and then no one can work. 5 But while I am here in the world, I am the light of the world.”

6 Then he spit on the ground, made mud with the saliva, and spread the mud over the blind man’s eyes. 7 He told him, “Go wash yourself in the pool of Siloam” (Siloam means “sent”). So the man went and washed and came back seeing!

8 His neighbors and others who knew him as a blind beggar asked each other, “Isn’t this the man who used to sit and beg?” 9 Some said he was, and others said, “No, he just looks like him!”

But the beggar kept saying, “Yes, I am the same one!”

10 They asked, “Who healed you? What happened?”

11 He told them, “The man they call Jesus made mud and spread it over my eyes and told me, ‘Go to the pool of Siloam and wash yourself.’ So I went and washed, and now I can see!”

12 “Where is he now?” they asked.

“I don’t know,” he replied.

13 Then they took the man who had been blind to the Pharisees, 14 because it was on the Sabbath that Jesus had made the mud and healed him. 15 The Pharisees asked the man all about it. So he told them, “He put the mud over my eyes, and when I washed it away, I could see!”

16 Some of the Pharisees said, “This man Jesus is not from God, for he is working on the Sabbath.” Others said, “But how could an ordinary sinner do such miraculous signs?” So there was a deep division of opinion among them.

17 Then the Pharisees again questioned the man who had been blind and demanded, “What’s your opinion about this man who healed you?”

The man replied, “I think he must be a prophet.”

18 The Jewish leaders still refused to believe the man had been blind and could now see, so they called in his parents. 19 They asked them, “Is this your son? Was he born blind? If so, how can he now see?”

20 His parents replied, “We know this is our son and that he was born blind, 21 but we don’t know how he can see or who healed him. Ask him. He is old enough to speak for himself.” 22 His parents said this because they were afraid of the Jewish leaders, who had announced that anyone saying Jesus was the Messiah would be expelled from the synagogue. 23 That’s why they said, “He is old enough. Ask him.”

24 So for the second time they called in the man who had been blind and told him, “God should get the glory for this,[b] because we know this man Jesus is a sinner.”

25 “I don’t know whether he is a sinner,” the man replied. “But I know this: I was blind, and now I can see!”

26 “But what did he do?” they asked. “How did he heal you?”

27 “Look!” the man exclaimed. “I told you once. Didn’t you listen? Why do you want to hear it again? Do you want to become his disciples, too?”

28 Then they cursed him and said, “You are his disciple, but we are disciples of Moses! 29 We know God spoke to Moses, but we don’t even know where this man comes from.”

30 “Why, that’s very strange!” the man replied. “He healed my eyes, and yet you don’t know where he comes from? 31 We know that God doesn’t listen to sinners, but he is ready to hear those who worship him and do his will. 32 Ever since the world began, no one has been able to open the eyes of someone born blind. 33 If this man were not from God, he couldn’t have done it.”

34 “You were born a total sinner!” they answered. “Are you trying to teach us?” And they threw him out of the synagogue.

The questioning by the religious leaders of the young man leads him to counter with just a simple explanation - I can;t explain what He (Jesus) did. I don't know who He (Jesus) is. But here's what I do know, I was blind and now I can see. That is it - simply put I believe our testimony is just recalling what has happened for us, not how (the understandings and intricacies that we just cannot explain anyway), but what our personal encounter with Jesus has been.

As Christians we each have our own unique story/encounter to tell. Let's be faithful in recalling that when we have an opportunity.

Chinese whispers ...

Well I reckon from the reading tonight the Lord must have been aware of the game of "Chinese whispers", you know what I mean - a group of people gather, someone begins a message and whispers it to the next person, who whispers it to the next and on it goes until it gets right through to the very last person. Seldom is the concluding message exactly the same as the message that the group commenced with. So here is what I read:

Habakkuk 2:2-3 (New Living Translation)

The Lord’s Second Reply

2 Then the Lord said to me,

“Write my answer plainly on tablets,

so that a runner can carry the correct message to others.

3 This vision is for a future time.

It describes the end, and it will be fulfilled.

If it seems slow in coming, wait patiently,

for it will surely take place.

It will not be delayed.

The prophet Habakkuk is recounting a vision that he was given. He is struggling with the circumstances he finds himself and the nation within. There seems to be nothing by strife and trouble for them. There is certainly no hope (it appears). And even in the Lord's first reply (response) to their questioning, it may seem that the Lord is set on destroying or annihilating them.

Here is where I see the Lord saying, I am not about to entrust the message to someone who might get it wrong, or twisted or out of shape in any way. I want My message to be clear, plain, simple, correct and precise. I want no mistaking that I have a plan that is for you.

Have a look again, this time through Eugene Peterson's The Message,

Habakkuk 2:2-3 (The Message)

Full of Self, but Soul-Empty

2-3And then God answered: "Write this.

Write what you see.

Write it out in big block letters

so that it can be read on the run.

This vision-message is a witness

pointing to what's coming.

It aches for the coming—it can hardly wait!

And it doesn't lie.

If it seems slow in coming, wait.

It's on its way. It will come right on time.

Lord I am glad Your message is given to me (us) plain and simple, though I see many who just don't get it. You anoint and appoint me (us) to carry Your message into the world. In my (our) attempt to be faithful to this purpose, help me to be ever reliant on Your Spirit to speak through me and help me not to be a hurdle or barrier to the clarity of Your message.

The principle of the path ...

Well, onto another book which I want to share some insight from tonight. Maybe something more of a getting you thinking and whetting the appetite to read the book for yourself.

One of my favourite authors. A person I have had the privilege of sitting under their ministry a few times (both in Chicago and here in Australia), to which this exposed me to his writings and then the application much of what I learnt from these to my own ministry (well an attempt to do this). Andy Stanley and the book The Principle of the Path.

The gist of the book is that, this principle of the path totally effects our lives, whether it be dating, marriage, child-raising, career, finances, health. Andy Stanley reminds us that direction - not intentions, hopes, dreams, prayers, beliefs, intellect, or education - determines destination. Simply put, you and I will win or lose in life by the paths we choose.

Crudely speaking (in my simple explanation), no matter what we might intend. No matter how learned we might be. No matter what we hope or dream for. It is the path we choose and the direction we go that determines the destination we find ourselves in the end. If we continue down a particular route in life that is heading to destruction, don't expect a simple prayer or hope for something different, to change the outcome of that destination point, if  (unless) you don't stop and change course - it won't and cannot happen.

Lord, the realisation I come to, is the need to listen to You and follow the lead You give for my life. To choose Your direction, the path You have set before me and to stick to this. Help me to do this in faith and to Your glory.

How's your faith ...

I am interested in the passage recorded below which recalls the account of the "Feeding of the Five Thousand". There is the challenge that Jesus presents, that they (He and the disciples) might be able to take care of the crowd with a meal, feed them, remember, over 5,000 of them.

Then there is the realism of Philip who recalls what that would cost and how little money they had to achieve that goal.

But, and I love this one, Andrew comes forward and presents the virtually impossible probability that all these people and five loaves and two fish. Even though he questions this himself. Here's the thing for me, if you didn't even remotely believe that there was some possibility of resolution, some inkling of a miracle, I don't think you would even make presentation of such a meagre offering to such a large issue. Thus I reckon we have evident here some amazing display of faith.

So here's the question again - "How's your faith?"

John 6:1-16 (New Living Translation)

Jesus Feeds Five Thousand

1 After this, Jesus crossed over to the far side of the Sea of Galilee, also known as the Sea of Tiberias. 2 A huge crowd kept following him wherever he went, because they saw his miraculous signs as he healed the sick. 3 Then Jesus climbed a hill and sat down with his disciples around him. 4 (It was nearly time for the Jewish Passover celebration.) 5 Jesus soon saw a huge crowd of people coming to look for him. Turning to Philip, he asked, “Where can we buy bread to feed all these people?” 6 He was testing Philip, for he already knew what he was going to do.

7 Philip replied, “Even if we worked for months, we wouldn’t have enough money to feed them!”

8 Then Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, spoke up. 9 “There’s a young boy here with five barley loaves and two fish. But what good is that with this huge crowd?”

10 “Tell everyone to sit down,” Jesus said. So they all sat down on the grassy slopes. (The men alone numbered about 5,000.) 11 Then Jesus took the loaves, gave thanks to God, and distributed them to the people. Afterward he did the same with the fish. And they all ate as much as they wanted. 12 After everyone was full, Jesus told his disciples, “Now gather the leftovers, so that nothing is wasted.” 13 So they picked up the pieces and filled twelve baskets with scraps left by the people who had eaten from the five barley loaves.

14 When the people saw him do this miraculous sign, they exclaimed, “Surely, he is the Prophet we have been expecting!” 15 When Jesus saw that they were ready to force him to be their king, he slipped away into the hills by himself.

Your witness ...

Often I encounter people who look to others to bear testimony (witness) to what they have accomplished or done in their lives, aspects that might impress or at least stand out about their work, etc. And to be honest, I too have hoped that others might note my abilities and the hard work I have put in to any task I have undertaken, and that it has counted for something.

I think it is for this reason this passage stood out for me tonight. Jesus reminds us that it is not what others have to say about or for us. The witness we have is about the words that we have spoken and how these have been backed up with action:

John 5:31-38 (New Living Translation)

Witnesses to Jesus

31 “If I were to testify on my own behalf, my testimony would not be valid. 32 But someone else is also testifying about me, and I assure you that everything he says about me is true. 33 In fact, you sent investigators to listen to John the Baptist, and his testimony about me was true. 34 Of course, I have no need of human witnesses, but I say these things so you might be saved. 35 John was like a burning and shining lamp, and you were excited for a while about his message. 36 But I have a greater witness than John—my teachings and my miracles. The Father gave me these works to accomplish, and they prove that he sent me. 37 And the Father who sent me has testified about me himself. You have never heard his voice or seen him face to face, 38 and you do not have his message in your hearts, because you do not believe me—the one he sent to you.

 

John 5:41 (New Living Translation)

41 “Your approval means nothing to me,

There is no doubt that I want to feel I have a place amongst others. I want to be recognised as having made some contribution. I want to do the very best I possibly can, in relation to anything/everything I do. However, what I might need to address is where I seek my approval from in relation to this. It seems natural to seek this from those around us, colleagues, family, a spouse, etc. Yet, surely the greatest approval is that which comes from God. And yet, I am further reminded from the account in Matthew 25: 31-46 (The Final Judgement - The Sheep and the Goats), that we ought not to be looking for approval. We ought not to be doing unto others merely for recognition. It ought to be rather, a part of our very being and just what we do.

 

Lord, may my service be that which comes from a desire to fully worship You in all I am and in all I do. May it be that I not seek accolades and approval from others, rather being satisfied in knowing that I am obedient to the call You have placed upon my life.