Matthew 3: God's gracious dealings

(Mat 3:1-17 NASB) - (1) Now in those days John the Baptist came,preaching in the wilderness of Judea, saying, (2) "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." (3) For this is the one referred toby Isaiah the prophet when he said, "THE VOICE OF ONE CRYING IN THE WILDERNESS, 'MAKE READY THE WAY OF THE LORD, MAKE HIS PATHS STRAIGHT!'" (4) Now John himself had a garment of camel's hair and a leather belt around his waist; and his food was locusts and wild honey. (5) Then Jerusalem was going out to him, and all Judea and all the district around the Jordan; (6) and they were being baptized by him in the Jordan River, as they confessed their sins. (7) But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming for baptism, he said to them, "You brood of vipers, who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? (8) "Therefore bear fruit in keeping with repentance; (9) and do not suppose that you can say to yourselves, 'We have Abraham for our father'; for I say to you that from these stones God is able to raise up children to Abraham. (10) "The axe is already laid at the root of the trees; therefore every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. (11) "As for me, I baptize you with water for repentance, but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, and I am not fit to remove His sandals; He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. (12) "His winnowing fork is in His hand, and He will thoroughly clear His threshing floor; and He will gather His wheat into the barn, but He will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire." (13) Then Jesus arrived from Galilee at the Jordan coming to John, to be baptized by him. (14) But John tried to prevent Him, saying, "I have need to be baptized by You, and do You come to me?" (15) But Jesus answering said to him, "Permit it at this time; for in this way it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness." Then he permitted Him. (16) After being baptized, Jesus came up immediately from the water; and behold, the heavens were opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending as a dove and lighting on Him, (17) and behold, a voice out of the heavens said, "This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well-pleased."

(Matthew 3 NASB)

The Hebrew for John means "God has dealt graciously."


As I study Matthew 3, I see how significant this name is for the forerunner of the Messiah. Coming as the first prophet to speak after 400 years of silence, John's message of repentance, the nearness of the kingdom of God, and a judgment to come might sound a lot like "tough love". Yet his very name was a reminder to his primarily Jewish audience that God has, indeed, dealt graciously.

For the Jewish people, it was also intended as a reminder that God's gracious dealings in the past were the best way to know His character - a heart of mercy. Everything that He commanded was for them. So the call through John to "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand" was a call for a heart change that embraced a way of living that resulted in a change of mind, heart, and life. It was for their benefit, because God as their Maker knew what was best and what would only bring harm. He wanted shalom - peace and wholeness - for them, because His kingdom had come near them. Just as the priests purified themselves to enter the holy of holies, so His people needed God to purify them for the coming kingdom.

God also reminded them of His graciousness in not meeting their kingdom expectations. For Matthew, "Kingdom of heaven" is used to refer to the rule of God that transcends political nations. As A.T. Robertson notes, "it points fundamentally to God's rule, not to the realm over which He rules." Although this would prove to be one of the hardest teachings for them to swallow - even His closest apostles wouldn't get it until the Holy Spirit came upon them in Acts - it really was gracious. "It is too small a thing", God told the Messiah in Isaiah 49:6, "that You should be My Servant To raise up the tribes of Jacob and to restore the preserved ones of Israel; I will also make You a light of the nations so that My salvation may reach to the end of the earth." Jesus didn't come to save Israel from Rome; He came to save all of us from the clutches of the enemy of our souls!

So how does one whose very name means "God has dealt graciously" approach ministry when he was bringing this "tough love" message to people with a quite different conception of the kingdom of heaven than God's? By preaching a message that I have summarized with the title "It's time for Authentic Faith." I always take notes in sermons, and so the "bullet points" I noted from John's message in Matthew 3 are:

• God's kingdom has come near - prepare for the Lord by repenting. 
• Live consistently with the repentance you claim- this is fruitfulness. 
• Reject the tendency to lean on a spiritual heritage instead of a personal faith. 
• God is looking for fruitful faith. 
• Baptism for repentance comes first, then baptism with the Holy Spirit and fire. 
• Jesus brings this baptism along with judgment. He will separate the real (wheat) from the fake (chaff). 

Many responded to this message - and like most in ministry, John had his detractors as well. But none of that mattered the day He showed up. The day Jesus came to John to be baptized. With all his understanding of Scripture and anointing by God for the ministry as a forerunner, John still didn't get why Jesus needed to be baptized. Face to face with the very One whose graciousness lended John his name, John became the first to try to stop Jesus from doing something that He simply had to do.

The words "tried to stop" literally mean "would have hindered" - involving strong protests on John's part. Later on Peter would try to stop Jesus from talking about the cross (Mark 8:27-33). The incarnation wasn't just about Jesus' birth - it was about Him entering into our lives, our world - about Him identifying with the people He came to save and following that identification all the way to the cross. From a human perspective, Jesus' actions were radical, maybe a bit eccentric, but ultimately honorable. To this day "holy" men and women in various religious traditions make sacrifices and some even die. But for the Messiah - God in the flesh, Jesus Himself - to not only step into our world but identify with sinners through a baptism of repentance -- that was almost incomprehensible. John rightly realized that the tables should be turned. Like Isaiah in the holy of holies (Isaiah 6), John's encounter with God left him humbled.

The shocking incomprehension of the incarnation - that God would bring Himself to our level and identify with His creation in very tangible ways - is also its beauty. Because when God took on flesh and came to walk with sinners and yet retain perfect holiness, He brought to earth the graciousness and mercy that were in God's heart all along. The Fall so corrupted man that even our view of God is skewed. Jesus came to set that right - all the way to the cross. As Adrian Rodgers has so aptly said, "The cross didn't change God's heart; it revealed it."

A.W. Tozer said that God is both "transcendentally personal" and "personally transcendent" - meaning that He is always separate from His creation, holy and uncorrupt, and yet unswervingly personal to each of His children. In the incarnation, transcendental met personal.

When we embrace that truth, we come face to face with who Jesus is. We see His holiness that certainly did not need to be baptized. And we see His heart of grace and mercy. We know that John's name reflected a deep truth - "God has dealt graciously."

Whatever you are facing today is subject to the character of this holy and gracious God. Like Job, we can bow in worship. Like David, we can pour out our hearts to Him in all the rawness of our emotions. And like John, we can know that He has dealt graciously with us, too.

Shocking Worship

(1) Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king,magi from the east arrived in Jerusalem, saying, (2) "Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we saw His star in the east and have come to worship Him." (3) When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. (4) Gathering together all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Messiah was to be born. (5) They said to him, "In Bethlehem of Judea; for this is what has been written by the prophet: (6) 'AND YOU, BETHLEHEM, LAND OF JUDAH, ARE BY NO MEANS LEAST AMONG THE LEADERS OF JUDAH; FOR OUT OF YOU SHALL COME FORTH A RULER WHO WILL SHEPHERD MY PEOPLE ISRAEL.'" (7) Then Herod secretly called the magi and determined from them the exact time the star appeared. (8) And he sent them to Bethlehem and said, "Go and search carefully for the Child; and when you have found Him, report to me, so that I too may come and worship Him." (9) After hearing the king, they went their way; and the star, which they had seen in the east, went on before them until it came and stood over the place where the Child was. (10) When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. (11) After coming into the house they saw the Child with Mary His mother; and they fell to the ground and worshiped Him. Then, opening their treasures, they presented to Him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. (12) And having been warned by God in a dream not to return to Herod, the magi left for their own country by another way. (Matthew 2:1-12 NASB)

Matthew obviously wasn't writing to impress anyone.

By all accounts the most Jewish of the Gospels and likely written for a group of Jewish Christians, Matthew had nothing to gain, and much to lose, by reminding his audience of the pagan Gentile magicians who traveled far to worship Jesus. Coming as it does on the heels of the shocking genealogy of chapter 1, Matthew's worship emphasis flies in the face of Jewish notions of the day.: Hold those Gentiles who do keep the Law and become "God-fearers" at a distance. No closer than the Court of the Gentiles - that was the practice. Never mind that the Law prescribed that the Gentile who adopted fully the religion of Israel fell under the same religious laws as Israel (see for example Leviticus 17:8) and that Solomon had asked God to hear their prayers (1 Kings 8:41-43). First century Jewish religious leaders excluded Gentiles. Matthew gives them a special place in his Gospel.

The parallels between the magi's authentic worship and Herod's selfish request to worship are obvious. What's less obvious is how shocking the magi's visit really must have sounded on first century ears. Writing to believers who were still learning how to be the church, what it meant to have Jew and Gentile together in one body, Matthew tells us something significant about worship - something shocking.

Look at Matthew's story again. First, the magi were, well, magi. They were basically astrologers. They observed the stars and in this case, saw something unique. Second, the magi hadn't studied the Scriptures closely - they were "in the neighborhood", going to the capital city of Jerusalem, but didn't know that the prophecy for Messiah was that he would be born in Bethlehem. Finally, they don't have offerings that would normally be considered acceptable - no grain, no animals, no blood. They weren't even priests! They would likely not be allowed even in the Court of the Gentiles and would never see the holy of holies.

What they had was an earnest desire to see Jesus. Look again at the only words recorded from their lips, in verse 2: "Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we saw His star in the east, and have come to worship Him."

This is worship?

Oh, absolutely. And this is where Matthew has much to teach us. He uses the more liturgical term for worship here - proskyneo. It's the Greek word used in the Septuagint (the Greek translation of the Old Testament) for "worship" or "bow down" - the formal worship in the temple, the bowing down before visible majesty. Interestingly, this word is rarely used in the New Testament. Only in the Gospels (where Jesus was physically present), Revelation (where the throne of God is present), Acts (where the temple was still a place of "worship"), and only twice in the epistles, both referencing the presence and power of God. The New Testament favors the word latreuo for worship - a word meaning serve, perhaps seen most clearly in Romans 12:1: "Present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship."

Why the change in emphasis? John Piper fleshes this out beautifully in the revised edition of Let the Nations be Glad (a must-read for missions enthusiasts). He draws from John 4 to show that "in the New Testament worship is significantly de-institutionalized, de-localized, de-exernalized." He summarizes:

In Himself He would fulfill everything the temple stood for, especially the "place" where believers meet God. He diverted attention away from worship as a localized activity with outward forms and pointed toward a personal, spiritual experience with Himself at the center. Worship does not have to have a building, a priesthood, and a sacrificial system. It has to have the risen Jesus. (p. 217)

The magi didn't know much, but they knew they were looking for Jesus. Matthew uses the formal word for worship,  as they bow down before His visible presence, but the heart and soul of Jesus' later teaching to the Samaritan woman is pictured here with these magi: their shocking worship was just what He came to bring about. He came to create worshippers from every tribe, tongue, nation, and people group.

None of this is to diminish the role of Scripture and sound doctrine. Regular readers of this blog know how much I emphasize in-depth study of God's Word. Even the magi were sent in the specific right direction (to Bethlehem) by God's Word, not their astrological readings. But I believe we can learn from Matthew that God will meet people where they are, and when they sincerely are seeking Jesus, He will make sure to get them to Him. And He will welcome their worship with open arms as they continue to learn more about Him.

We often treat worship like a task, salvation as a transaction. Matthew's story of the magi reminds us that at the heart of worship lies a heart that seeks to find Jesus - nothing else matters. And Matthew lays the groundwork here for a salvation that is a lifestyle - a process that starts, grows, and bears fruit as we continually are drawn to "Him who has been born King of the Jews".

Holding the Orne River Bridge

Last Sunday, as I try to do every year around the anniversary of D-Day to honor my grandfather's service in that epic battle, we watched "The Longest Day". For the first time I noticed the critical role of a small group of men in holding the Orne River Bridge.

Dropped into Normandy before the rest of the group, they had one objective: Capture and hold the bridge. The success of the entire mission was critical to this one task; without the bridge tanks and supplies could not get into Normandy. The men were charged to "hold until relieved" - no matter how long it took.

This scene left me reflecting on the strategic kingdom assignments God gives us. Sometimes we realize it; most often we don't. We wonder why we are "stuck" in a small area while what we perceive as the "real battle" rages elsewhere. We don't realize that God intends for us to hold the bridge to facilitate the ultimate victory.

Maybe you're fighting a spiritual battle at work. Maybe you're serving faithfully in the church nursery. Perhaps you are on the prayer team for a missionary you perceive as doing the "real work". God might call you into focusing on one person for years, developing a deep relationship for His purposes. From a kingdom perspective, you may just have an assignment within a unit that is holding a key bridge.

God puts together specialized "units" (churches) for His purposes. And He gives specific gifts to individuals in those churches to fulfill those purposes. But it all fits together in an amazing plan that only God can orchestrate.

The failure to hold the Orne River Bridge could have changed the course of history. If the Allieds had not taken Normandy, they may not have been in a position to liberate Europe and the concentration camps. Thankfully we will never know, because the men did hold the bridge and the invasion was a huge success. Though not without casualties, the men did indeed "hold until relieved" - mission accomplished.

Wherever God has placed you, He has a strategic plan in mind. Whether you see the big picture or not, trust that He does. Keep doing the last job He gave you to do - and ask for His grace to "hold until relieved".

Learning to Rest

I've been on vacation the past two weeks. This isn't necessarily as exciting as it sounds, because my husband is in a new job and was working and for that reason and finances I didn't really go anywhere. However, I realized that this vacation has really been about teaching me to rest.

If you read this blog regularly you know that a little over a year ago when I finished my master's degree God called me into a season of rest. I've not exactly been doing nothing, but neither have I had the demands of parenting, caregiving, or school pressing on me either. I've been learning to live in the Hebrews 4 rest of faith. But it's been a tough year.

My job has been significantly busier, with so many more students on campus and some big changes in our departments. As a result, I've been worn out with not much left over at the end of the day. On top of that our campus hosted the Dalai Lama and all the student tickets went through our office, adding to what was already a crazy year. I've also been teaching Bible study weekly since August and preparing those lessons. And I guess because I didn't feel I had enough to do, I've been beating myself up over not blogging more :).

So I came into this vacation pretty tired. However, since I tend to live in a task-oriented mode, I came into it with a list of things to do. All I can say is, it's a good thing I took 2 weeks off. It took me a full week to realize that I really didn't have the emotional energy for that list....that I was gaining more strength from the change of pace and hanging out with friends I don't get to see often enough, from a couple of random day trips to see family, and from playing with Nelly.

All this has helped me learn to truly rest. The second week has been filled with much more of that sort of rest, along with some new recipes and plenty of "fun" (to me) reading and movies, feeding that cerebal side of my brain (is that redundant?). As I have reflected on these two weeks I've realized I want to approach my tasks in a more sustainable manner, and try to bring some of this rest into my daily life. I've reviewed some principles I let fall by the wayside and reminded myself of the priority of relationships.

God made me to be a task-oriented person. He knows what he wants to do in and through me. And yet ultimately it's not the tasks that He's about. This vacation has helped me learn to let tasks be a means to an end. Yes, a pleasantly arranged and clean home is good - but it's best when it facilitates relationships, when it blesses those who live here and those who visit with its atmosphere of peace and love. Bargain hunting is good - but it's best when it affords more money to fulfill God's kingdom purposes in the lives of others. And so on.

So I have one day left tomorrow. I plan to fully enjoy our church service and fellowship meal, and a date with my husband. I'll wake up early Monday and start getting caught up at work. And I hope that I can remember what God's been teaching me as I learn to rest in Him.

A Shocking New Beginning

The record of the genealogy of Jesus the Messiah, the son of David, the son of Abraham: ... Now the birth of Jesus Christ was as follows: when His mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child by the Holy Spirit. 

(Matthew 1:1, 18, NASB)

We hear the Nativity story every Christmas, but it's so easy to let it go right through our ears and miss touching our hearts and minds. One of the benefits of beginning my current study of Matthew in the middle of the year is that I am immediately thrust into "the Christmas story" months away from its traditional telling. Somehow, that has helped me hear it in new ways.

What has stood out most to me in Matthew 1 is how shocking this story is. Matthew doesn't waste any time with his intended Jewish Christian audience. Instead, he immediately sets the groundwork that he is going to write to them about an important beginning ... indeed, a shocking new beginning.

There is little doubt Matthew wrote primarily to a Jewish Christian audience. The book addresses Old Testament law, scribal tradition, and Jesus' controversies with Jewish leaders in a way no other gospel does. Written decades after Christ's ascension, the Gospel came into a context where there was much conflict between traditional Jewish practices, "Judaizers" who sought to bring the law into the grace-life of the church, and Christians (both Jew and Gentile) who were confused. The church was emerging from being assumed to be a "sect" of Judaism to being recognized as a distinct religion. To help the church understand both its similarities to, and differences from, the Judaism of the day Matthew penned his Gospel - the Gospel of Jesus and His message of the kingdom of heaven.

Matthew's initial words lay the groundwork that what he is talking about is truly something new. The word we translate "genealogy" is, in Greek, "Genesis" ... the title of the first book of the Bible in the Greek version of the Old Testament which was the most widely used version of the time. Interestingly the word we translate as "birth" in verse 18 (see both words underlined above) is also Genesis. This simply can't be coincidental ... writing under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, Matthew says, essentially ... "Let me tell you a story about a man named Jesus ... here's how it all began. Let's go back, way back, to some names you know really well - David and Abraham."

If that isn't enough to get you excited about reading genealogy and a familiar birth story, then add this shocking news: Jesus was born of a virgin but descended from a line that included a woman who pretended to be a prostitute (Tamar); an actual prostitute (Rahab); a convert to the God of Israel from the enemy Moab (Ruth); and a woman with whom David committed adultery (Bathsheba, the "wife of Urriah"). Oh, and at least two of these were definitely Gentiles (Rahab and Ruth) while the other two were likely Gentiles (Tamar was probably Canaanite based on her city of origin; while Bathsheba was married to a Hittite and likely a Hittite herself).

Understanding a little about the nature of genealogies in Jewish culture only adds to the shock of these verses to traditional expectations of the Messiah; the Archaeological Study Bible notes that "In societies organized around kinship, genealogies...serve as public records that document history, establish identity, and/or legitimize office. the key to legitimacy and identity is a direct, irrefutable familial tie with the past." Matthew's purpose -- tying Jesus clearly to David and Abraham -- is thoroughly accomplished, yet weaves together the shocking news that the Messiah's lineage was not "pure" ... but He was. Born of a virgin, He came to redeem all mankind (Jew and Gentile alike) -- including those who could relate a lot more to Tamar and Rahab than to Mary.

The shock is completed when the angel explains the name Joseph is to call Jesus: (21) "She will bear a Son; and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins."


"From their sins." The Messiah would be, first and foremost, a spiritual Savior. This didn't fit the Jewish mind seeking a political redeemer from Rome. But for a young Jewish Christian church who was finding its identity in the middle of the first-century Roman Empire, Matthew's "new beginning" must have been filled with hope. Yes, Rome was persecuting Christians. Yes, many in the Jewish community weren't accepting this message, this Gospel. Yes, the church was filled with redeemed sinners -- as Paul wrote to Corinth, "such were some of you", after a long list of sins. And yet here is Matthew reminding them that Jesus brought a new beginning. A new way of viewing the Messiah. A new way of relating to God. A new understanding of the kingdom of heaven. A new presence of God.

(Mat 1:23 NASB) - (23) "BEHOLD, THE VIRGIN SHALL BE WITH CHILD AND SHALL BEAR A SON, AND THEY SHALL CALL HIS NAME IMMANUEL," which translated means, "GOD WITH US."

Holding Tightly

"The eternal God is a dwelling place, And underneath are the everlasting arms;" 

Deuteronomy 33:27a

The stories out of our area the past week have been tragic and inspiring.

A major tornado hit Joplin, MO and a very strong tornado hit tiny Deering, AR. In both cases, our town was threatened by tornadoes that didn't hit, but the winds here made me realize just how amazingly powerful the nearby tornado winds must have been. In both those towns, stories emerged of parents desperately hanging onto children to save their lives. In one case, a nurse grabbed a 4-year-old at a hospital as he was being sucked into the tornado's vacuum pull. In two other cases, moms died while shielding their children who miraculously survived.

Today, driving back from a visit to a family member in the hospital, I was listening to the radio and the song "Never Let Go" came on (video and lyrics below). Suddenly I was overwhelmed with the reality of what it means that God is holding on to me through all the storms of life. That He never lets go. While I certainly hold onto Him for dear life, like those children in the tornados, I will never, ever have the strength to be the one whose grip remains certain. My hands are too tiny, my strongest grasp far too weak and easily pulled away by the suction of the storms that come my way. But He is holding on to me. His grip is perfect. He will never let go. He covers me with His protective, shielding arms of love ... hands strong enough to keep me from leaving His grasp, shoulders big enough for me to cry on, and arms to catch me when I fall. Always,always with the reminder that when He died for me on the cross, He was protecting me from the biggest storm of all.

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death
Your perfect love is casting out fear
And even when I'm caught in the middle of the storms of this life
I won't turn back
I know you are near

And I will fear no evil
For my God is with me
And if my God is with me
Whom then shall I fear?
Whom then shall I fear?

(Chorus:)
Oh no, You never let go
Through the calm and through the storm
Oh no, You never let go
In every high and every low
Oh no, You never let go
Lord, You never let go of me

And I can see a light that is coming for the heart that holds on
A glorious light beyond all compare
And there will be an end to these troubles
But until that day comes
We'll live to know You here on the earth

(Chorus)

Yes, I can see a light that is coming for the heart that holds on
And there will be an end to these troubles
But until that day comes
Still I will praise You, still I will praise You

Hope!

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope. (Romans 15:13, ESV)

Hope is a powerful word.

Without understanding why, humans are drawn to that which inspires hope. As Alexander Pope saw it:

Hope springs eternal in the human breast;

Man never Is, but always To be blest:

The soul, uneasy and confin'd from home,

Rests and expatiates in a life to come.

 (in An Essay on Man)

Pope certainly hit upon one big reason for our hope: there is within us something that looks heavenward. Poet Robert Browning identified it as that which causes us to aim just a little higher than we can achieve: "Ah, but a man's reach should exceed his grasp, Or what's a heaven for?" (Andrea del Sarto). Solomon called it "eternity in man's heart" (Ecclesiastes 3:11). And what a hope heaven brings - what an assurance we have in Christ!

But I'm surely not alone when I want to hope for something different in the here and now. We've all faced circumstances that we hope will pass quickly: tight finances; challenges at work; a sick child or spouse. We've seen realities that we earnestly hope will change: trafficking; abuse; neglect of the elderly; devaluing of life at all levels; greed; poverty; injustice. Many of you live and work in settings just to make that kind of difference in the here and now.

Faced with a series of circumstances and realities, I needed to know that God's hope wasn't relegated to a future heaven only. Without diminishing the hope of heaven one single iota, I wanted - needed - to know whether there is a Biblical foundation for earthly hope as well. I was inclined to believe so; after all, the Psalmist penned: "I would have despaired unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living." (Psalm 27:13). Indeed, like you I've faced times when I needed to know that God didn't just want to change my future, He wanted to change my day.

God didn't let me down. He led me to Scripture after Scripture about Hope - not only our eternal hope, but hope that impacts the here and now. He taught me about a hope that is closely linked to faith. Biblical hope isn't wishful thinking. The word means "a favorable and confident expectation" (Vines). It's a hope that does not disappoint, because He is the God of hope. As I pored over the verses about hope, especially those I've included below, I came to see a hope that is produced by character-shaping experiences. It's a hope that is closely linked to the love of God that is continually poured into my heart by the Holy Spirit. It's a hope that comes with the joy and peace of the Holy Spirit, a hope that is sustained by the Word of God which He gave to encourage me to continue to hope. I came to realize profoundly that hope ultimately brings glory to God-whether He calms the storm or calms me in it, hope has shown up and I can praise Him.

Hope isn't ambiguous - our hope is in God alone, through Christ alone, and by the power of His Spirit alone. But when His Spirit floods our hearts with His love and His hope shows up, He can empower us to have hope whatever the circumstances. And as we pray and seek His Word, He might lead us to be part of bringing hope into the world - a hope that points them heavenward even as it brings His will on earth, as it is in heaven.

Keep hoping.

(Romans 4:18) In hope he believed against hope, that he should become the father of many nations, as he had been told, "So shall your offspring be."

(Romans 5:2-5 ESV) (2) Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God. (3) More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, (4) and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, (5) and hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.

(Romans 12:12) Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.

(Romans 15:4) For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope. (Romans 15:13, ESV)

Book Review: Albert Pujols, More than the Game by Scott Lamb.

Albert Pujols has never been shy about his faith. In fact, he's one of the most vocal Christians in Major League Baseball. So when I picked up Pujols: More than the Game I knew that it would heavily emphasize the slugger's spiritual life. What I didn't realize is that it would also be a pretty good baseball story as well.

From Pujols’ upbringing in the Dominican Republic, to his conversion to Christianity, his baseball talent was obvious. For Pujols it was a process to learn that God gave that talent to him, and to find out what he was supposed to do with it. There were mistakes along the way – a fractured relationship with a scout was one of the learning experiences along the way. Consistently, though, Pujols’ hard work and determination kept him striving to improve, both on the field and off. Pujols depicts a man who remains a team player even while consistently striving for his personal best in every area of life.

Part biography, part inspirational, part sports drama, Pujols doesn't ignore the tough questions. Performance enhancing drugs, contract negotiations - authors Scott Lamb and Tim Ellsworth address them all. Pujols doesn't come across looking like a saint, but he definitely looks like a hero - someone you can be proud to have your kids admire, stand in line for autographs, and emulate. That’s okay, because he’s not claiming perfection and ultimately he is deflecting that attention to the One that gave him the talent in the first place.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Dancing in the Minefields

And we're dancing in the minefields

We're sailing in the storm

This is harder than we dreamed

But I believe that's what the promise is for

- Andrew Peterson, "Dancing in the Minefields" 

“Then he isn’t safe?” asked Lucy.“Safe?” said Mr. Beaver…”Who said anything about safe? ‘Course he isn’t safe. But he’s good. He’s the King, I tell you.” 

- C.S. Lewis, "The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe"

It's the eve of my 42nd birthday.

Life doesn't look much like I imagined half a life ago, at 21. I haven't won that Pulitzer Prize; I don't have my previously-planned 2 boys and 2 girls; I'm not setting the world on fire in some obvious, dramatic way. But as I reflect on this birthday-eve, I'm really ok with all of that. Because when I remember my life at 21, what stands out to me the most is the lack of peace that I felt. 21-year-old me was, in technical terms, a mess. I could list all the ways, but quoting President George W. Bush will suffice: "When I was young and stupid ... I was young and stupid."  Um, yeah.

As I look ahead to the next 21 years, I think of what I've learned and how my transformed life reflects an entirely different set of priorities now. Thanks to grace and grace alone, I have learned that what matters most are things of eternal significance: My relationships with God and others ... loving well ... seeking to be part of "Your kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven", and working out with others (even some of you!) what that might look like ... daily pouring out my heart to God, letting Him pour in His Spirit and His Word, and then pouring forth to others through prayer, service, and exercising my gifts ... all in a way that glorifies Him and never myself. As John the Baptist said, "I must decrease and He must increase." It's not a life that lends itself well to five-year plans. It's a path filled with challenges and obstacles and risks and intentional attack by an all-too-real enemy. But it's a path that is also filled with unspeakable joy.

When I first heard Andrew Peterson's song, "Dancing in the Minefields", I immediately thought of all my friends on various mission fields around the world. While the song is about marriage, the picture it paints is one of love and joy amidst danger and hazards.Any work for God's kingdom will definitely have that! As I reflected more, I realized that "Dancing in the Minefields" is more than just a description of the lives of many whom I consider my heroes. It also defines my goal for my own approach to life and ministry.

Those who know me best know that I'm not a risk-taker. I like my plans and my lists and my security. But try as I might, God hasn't agreed to outline the rest of my life in that manner. Don't get me wrong: I have the free will He gave me and I certainly could create a plan and stubbornly stick to it, putting on blinders to alternate paths and calling it "focus". Or I could yield to the unknown, allowing the wind of the Spirit to guide me in the dailyness of walking in the Spirit and see where that leads. I can jealously guard what I have or open up to potential opportunities like I've never dreamed. I can selfishly focus on my corner of the world or be part of what He is doing in a global perspective. One path will have me "tiptoeing through the tulips". The other invites me to go "dancing in the minefields".

When I consider all the options before me ... when I examine where I've been and where I want to go ... what compels me to choose the uncertain path, more than anything else, are the stories of those who have taken that path before me. Peter. John. Paul. Patrick of Ireland. Countless unnamed Mennonite Brethren. William Carey. Gladys Aylward. Corrie ten Boom. Brother Andrew. Cheryl Beckett. Many friends who would be at least embarrassed or at worse put at risk if I named them here. All consistently communicate one truth to me: Pursuing the greater glory of God through being available to His kingdom purposes in whatever way, location, or timing He chooses will always be more rewarding that the certain path. It might not be the "safest" path ... but it will be good.

Roaches and Ministry

He made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him. (2 Corinthians 5:21, NASB) 

It's easy for me to be abstract, analytical, and theoretical. I am strong on the intellectual side of things, and I've come to appreciate how God wired me. He knows that I have to learn by observing opposites ("this is how NOT to do this"), by digging into things for myself ("research, research, research"), and by making each element of truth my own, being able to say not only what but why I believe. And that's a good thing.

The shadow side of that, though, is that it's also easy for me to be distant. An introvert by nature, I can lose myself in my books. But God is so faithful. Over the years I've learned that I have to walk out every single thing He lets me teach - and I mean all of them - He requires me to learn "feet to the ground" in some form or fashion. One of those ongoing lessons is the importance of incarnational ministry.

That's a fancy missions-geek term for "getting my hands dirty". And it is thoroughly Biblical. Based on the concept that Jesus "emptied Himself" to serve others, giving up His rights and preferences to come to earth as fully God, with the limitations of being fully man, incarnational ministry simply means coming alongside those God asks me to serve. It's about walking alongside them in a way that is respectful of who they are, while trying to humbly meet needs.

That's the analytical definition. The practical definition, however, is a lot messier. It involves picking up AIDS babies whose bodily fluids will undoubtedly end up on your skin; touching kids with scabies and knowing you will likely get it; living in a leper colony; identifying with those "outside the camp" and advocating for them as if you were one of them; and a host of other things it's easy to talk ourselves out of doing for quite logical reasons.

For me, incarnational ministry's practical definition is roaches.

Yep, you read that right. Roaches. One of my big incarnational lessons came when a small group I was part of did ministry at an elderly lady's home. She had dementia and paranoia, and couldn't keep a housekeeper. We cleaned her house, put up siding, the works. My job: the kitchen sink. Not bad huh, doing dishes? Well I put on my gloves so I could use scalding water and it's a good thing - because when I reached in to start pulling out dirty dishes and putting them on the counter to run a sink of water, a family/horde/small army of roaches climbed up my hand. (Oh have I mentioned i HATE bugs? Seriously, creep me out. I have locked myself in a room to avoid going into a room with a wasp. Seriously.)

I fought the nausea and the urge to scream and prayed Lord, help me out here. Immediately the thought came to my mind: This is what the incarnation looked like from heaven's perspective. Perfectly "clean" holiness - God Himself - entering filthy earth - and not just watching, but actually taking on our sins on the cross. "Becoming sin" Paul called it.

Suddenly a pile of dishes didn't seem so bad. That reminder motivated me to get my hands dirty - to do incarnational ministry. And while I was at it, I thanked God for coming to earth in human form and dying on the cross to get rid of all the roaches of sin in my own life.

I'm glad He didn't save me from a distance. And by His grace, and through the power of the Holy Spirit, I'll continue to learn how to serve in all sorts of messy, incarnational ways that run counter to my nature.

The Quotable Chesterton compiled by Kevin Belmonte

I was excited to receive a complimentary copy of The Quotable Chesterton from Booksneeze.com. Like many modern Christians I know Chesterton only from the occasional quote in a sermon or article. I thought this book would provide a good overview of Chesterton's work. Unfortunately I was quite disappointed.

The book's 870 quotes are arranged alphabetically by themes of the compiler's choosing. While this is naturally a limiting approach, in itself it does not prohibit a good book of quotations. What is needed, thought, is a great cross-reference in the back (think Bartlett's style) so that the reader can quickly find the desired quote and utilize it more fully. If my organizational approach doesn't equal Belmonte's, I'm unable to find the quote I need.

The second big problem with the layout of the book is that the references to Chesterton's work are not given in the main portion of the book. All are contained in endnotes, also arranged alphabetically, so the reader must look under endnote F1 to find the source for the quotation "I do not believe that a nation dies save by suicide" ("A Visit to Holland", Illustrated London News, 29 April 1922). This is cumbersome and unnecessary; the same smaller font could easily be used at the end of each quotation and provide the reader with a quick look at the source. It would also help the reader place the quote in the larger context of Chesterton's body of work, especially needed in a work that is not arranged chronologically.

While the layout of the book leaves something to be desired, the content is, as expected, meaty. Chesterton quotes have always left me thinking deeply, and this book provides meaty food for thought. As a source for reflection and insight, The Quotable Chesterton is a definite winner.

For more information on this book, visit http://www.amazon.com/Quotable-Chesterton-Wit-Wisdom-G-K/dp/1595552057/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1292947429&sr=1-1.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com <http://BookSneeze.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Everything we need, or, how to live above the fray

His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and goodness. Through these He has given us His very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires. 2 Peter 1:3-4

Sometimes, like the old Calgon commerical said, we just want to get away.

Something in human nature longs for "otherness" -- something beyond what we see. Even when we are passionate about our work, serve people we love dearly, and have deep relationships, we're susceptible to a longing for "otherness" when we see the reality of evil in the world. At times the evil seems far away. Other times we learn it was closer than we ever imagined - around the corner, in a hidden part of our neighborhood, in an otherwise nondescript office. Worst of all are the times we see glimpses of the evil in our own heart; these glimpses will either drive us to despair or bring us to our knees.

How wonderful, then, that God gives a means of escape. Certainly eternal escape - He offers us the hope of heaven and the gift of salvation when we embrace all that He is for us in Christ as a result of His sacrifice. But He also gives us what we need to escape that worst of all evil, the evil within our own hearts.

Writing to Christians about the Second Coming, Peter actually starts by focusing on a more immediate opportunity for escape: how to escape the corruption in the world. This corruption, caused by evil desires, can overwhelm us at times. Peter refuses to allow his readers to focus entirely on the perfect world that will come when Jesus returns. Instead, he exhorts them toward kingdom living NOW.

All desires aren't evil. Peter's focus is on evil desires and their fruit, corruption in the world. Corruption seen in our own hearts and in broken relationships with other people, with creation, within society, and of course with God. Peter teaches that we can escape this corruption and instead participate in the divine nature - not becoming divine, but becoming a new creature. In 1 Peter 1:23 we learn that we are reborn of "imperishable seed" - we are born of God, as John 1:13 emphasizes. And we are being conformed to the image of Christ.

How does this happen? Through the "very great and precious promises" which God has given to us because of His glory and goodness. What promises? In Peter's context, certainly the Second Coming: "But according to His promise we are looking for new heavens and a new earth, in which righteousness dwells." (2 Peter 3:13). In light of His coming, we can live differently today. Why? Because nothing of "the world" that could be attractive to us will last. It's all temporary. John Piper, in his book Future Grace, defines sin as a desire for something that is stronger than our desire for God. When we realize that our "evil desires" are for things that are fading away, and that He has promised something better to come, we find the power to say no to sin and yes to God.

Certainly there are other promises as well. Promises like "I will never leave you or forsake you". Like "with every temptation He will provide a way out". The New Testament is filled with promises and we are wise to equip ourselves to draw from those promises when we are fighting a spiritual battle. And yet Peter's focus on the promise of the Second Coming is especially significant when we desire to live above the fray of this world. When we long for escape, we need to embrace that He has promised us that and much, much more.

How do we begin to draw on this promise? Peter starts this passage by telling us everything we need for life and godliness is already ours through our knowledge of God. Not through a general knowledge, but our knowledge. It has to be personal. We have everything we need. But we only begin to know that to the degree that we know Him. "This is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent," Jesus said to the Father (John 17:3).

Whatever corruption your corner of the world faces tonight, whatever realities near or far you wish to escape, whatever is hanging over your head that you wish weren't there ... you have everything you need to live a godly life in the face of it. There is a hope that goes beyond this temporal world. He is risen. He is coming. We will rise with Him one day. Because of this very great and precious promise, we can overcome through Him today.

 

Christmas Magic, Christmas Miracles, Christmas Mystery

One of the ways God reminds me the He's in control is by asking me to trust Him when He asks me to be flexible. In general I'm a planner and in general God uses my strategic approach - after all, He made me this way. But He knows I can easily treat my list and plans as masters instead of servants, and become enslaved to a schedule. Over the years I've grown used to schedules that change, unexpected interruptions that turn out to be divine appointments - you get the idea.


What I wasn't expecting was yesterday's sudden change of Christmas plans. Potential inclement weather in our area changed our Christmas plans from Christmas Eve to Dec. 23. I could deal easily enough with the practical logistics of the change - I managed to get out the door quickly and only forgot one item. What took a little adjustment was getting internally aligned with God's plan for our extended family's Christmas celebration.

While I know in my head that Christmas is all about Jesus, and that it's just a date we choose to celebrate because we don't know when He was "really" born, and that the traditions sometimes distract us from the main focus of the season, the reality of this human heart is that much of what we call "Christmas magic" is wrapped up in those traditions. Certain foods cooked certain ways ... attending services at certain times with certain family members ... listening to specific stations when traveling because you know they have the best Christmas music ... late nights spent with family members in a cozy living room ... none of it bad, all of it precious, all wrapped up in those "Christmas magic" moments for my family. You have your own "Christmas magic" moments.

Yesterday it took some work for "Christmas magic" moments. Most stations along the way weren't playing Christmas music exclusively (making me appreciation 101.1 KLRC all the more!). I forgot and left our reindeer antlers behind (one of our traditions is wearing them into gas stations and restaurants at our stops along the way to make people smile). We had already finished our traditional Christmas novel. The trip was, by necessity, rushed. And yet at the end, it was just perfect. Precious time with family, a gift from my brother of Handel's Messiah which gave us the perfect music for the trip home, reading some Christmas short stories, just being together.

As I've reflected today, though, I realize that "Christmas Magic" moments are always tenuous at best. Looking back over my life, many "Christmas Magic" moments have changed. The grandparents who used to be a big part of that for me are now with the Lord. I no longer pretend to believe in Santa Claus so my little brother doesn't get disappointed. There are no Christmas light tours with Pawpaw, pretending that I believe the airport navigation light is Rudolph's nose. My parents don't live in the house I grew up in. New "Christmas Magic" moments have arisen in their place, precious traditions that we've grown to love such as attending a Christmas Eve service with Bob's son and wife. Yet as this year reminded me, even these traditions are subject to change.

Ah, but the Christmas Miracle. That never changes. As I've refocused away from the Magic and onto the Miracle, I've been reminded of the awesomeness of the story. It's not just a sweet tradition. It's the Greatest Story Ever Told. "The Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory." Immanuel, God with us ... the One who, although He existed as fully God, emptied Himself and took on flesh. Not just any flesh - but a lowly baby of a poor family in a forgotten corner of the world. A birth unheralded by the world but so important to God that He sent angels to announce it and a star to mark the location. Like any proud Father, He wanted the world to know all the vital facts about His Son.

And there enters the Christmas Mystery. How could Jesus be fully God and fully man? How could all the fullness of the Godhead dwell in this infant's body? Why did God choose this method for salvation? As a contemporary Christian song says, "This is such a strange way to save the world." Strange, but true. And for those who believe, the Christmas Mystery never loses its awe.

You may be struggling today at feeling the "Christmas Magic". Whatever circumstances have you down, wherever service to God's kingdom has led you that may not feel a bit like 'home', remember the Miracle and Mystery of His birth. Our human attempts to make this holiday special are only dim reflections of the heart of God who heralded His birth like none before or since. He will give you a way to make this day special.

Merry Christmas!

Book review: Unto the Hills by Billy Graham

Much of life is lived in the valley, not on the mountaintop.

With this reality in mind, 25 years ago Billy Graham compiled 365 daily devotionals out of his more than 50 years of Gospel ministry. This volume has been updated for clarity and accuracy and re-released by Thomas Nelson Publishers. Unto the Hills is traditionally structured, with readings for each day of the year along with a scripture passage and suggested prayer.

Graham’s life message is quite simple: The Gospel of Jesus Christ is worth believing, and is sufficient for anything life might bring. That life message is also the message of Unto the Hills: From the valleys, we can still look to the hills, as David did in Psalm 121:1, and be reminded that our help does, indeed, come from the loving hand of God Himself.

Graham compiles some of his best-known anecdotes and quotes in this volume, and for those familiar with his ministry the result is a devotional that feels familiar even if you’ve not previously read it. The focus is not Billy Graham, however. On every page, the reader is pointed to the Word of God, His character, and the sufficiency of Jesus Christ. Like Graham’s ministry, the author is secondary to the Author.  

Unto the Hills avoids the non-essentials of the Christian faith and just reminds readers of the simple yet profound essential truths. It’s a great book to give a new Christian, to build on the foundation Christ has established in his or her life. It’s also a great devotional to refocus on the fundamentals of our faith … the “old, old story” of redemption through the blood of Christ, the message that never grows old.

Book information: http://www.booksneeze.com/blogger/resources/9780849946219

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com <http://BookSneeze.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Kingdom lessons from Hogan's Heroes

I'm not going to pretend that my love for the 60s TV show "Hogan's Heroes" is primarily spiritual in nature. Its actually my "mindless entertainment" - my way of unwinding and sharing a laugh or two with my husband. As I've blogged before, I love it because good and evil are clearly defined and in every episode, the evil Nazis get their comeuppance at the hands of the good Allies.

But I can't help noticing that there are some real parallels to being on mission with God. Tonight's episode was no different, but it left me reflecting in new ways on this journey to be a World Christian, a kingdom-focused believer in the world but not of the world.

The basic premise of the show focuses on a handful of prisoners of war in a German POW camp. These Allies from England, France, the U.S., and occasionally Russia volunteered for an unusual assignment when they were captured: Rather than escaping at the first opportunity (the SOP for POW's), they committed to not escape and instead use whatever means available to help other prisoners escape and undermine the German war effort. Here are just a few of the kingdom lessons I've observed watching Hogan's Heroes:

• What bonds us together is more significant than our differences. The Heroes are defined by their commitment to a common goal: defeating a common enemy. Their differences are very real and often come out during their good-natured ribbing at each others' cultural quirks. But Hogan never lets them forget who the real enemy is. Scripture reminds us of the same truth. In Mark 9, Jesus taught His disciples not to get distracted by unimportant issues: Mark 9:38-40 (NASB) John said to Him, "Teacher, we saw someone casting out demons in Your name, and we tried to prevent him because he was not following us." But Jesus said, "Do not hinder him, for there is no one who will perform a miracle in My name, and be able soon afterward to speak evil of Me. For he who is not against us is for us."
  
• It takes a team. The prisoners in the camp have different talents. There's Hogan, the leader; Newkirk, the complaining safecracker; Kinch, the quiet radio man; Carter, the nerdy ammunition expert; and Lebeau, the proud French chef whose apple strudel can distract a guard in a heartbeat. There's also the frontline underground, who risk their lives in ways the prisoners can't, the coordinating team in London, as well as the military personnel still fighting. Yet they back each other up and never forget they are on the same side. Similarly, being on mission with God is a team effort. Whether we are on the front line, working "underground" in a secular environment, gathered with teammates or working alone, in a support role or a primary leadership responsibility - we are all on the same team. It's been said that everyone on "the field" needs at least 12 back home actively engaged in prayer and practical support roles (as well as financial supporters). Whether you are the one or the 12, we have to remember we're on a team.
• Don't major on minors. In tonight's episode, the team's goal was to obtain top secret troop movement information. To do that they staged a boxing match. Kinch lost the match intentionally, and the guys who bet on the match lost a lot of money to the German guards. They were complaining about the losses and Hogan reminded them "We have something more important - pictures of those maps". Often we get distracted by the minor elements, the staging ground God lays out to accomplish His bigger purpose. As we lift our eyes to Him, He will shift our focus and help us stay aware of what really matters. Keeping a kingdom perspective is crucial to being on mission with God. 
• Evil comes in obvious - and not-so-obvious - clothes. Sometimes the evil in Hogan's Heroes is easy to identify. We know that the truck carrying German weapons represents the evil Nazis. It might take a while to determine whether the beautiful girl is really with the underground or actually Gestapo. In Hogan's Heroes, the enemy knows the weaknesses of the prisoners and tries to exploit them. The same is true of our enemy. If he can get to us as an "angel of light" (2 Corinthians 11:14) then he never needs to bare his teeth and show us his full demonic nature. Unfortunately we discover that later - often too late 
• There is more going on beneath the surface than we will ever imagine. Hogan's Heroes have built an elaborate underground structure - tunnels that contain storage areas, radio rooms, fake printing presses, even food. The enemy walks on top of these tunnels daily, usually without suspecting a thing. Similarly, what God is up to in the world is beyond anything we can fathom. He is orchestrating the movement of nations and people, the minute details of life and the big picture of the world, for His glory to open doors for the Gospel to all people. Habakkuk never could have imagined the kingdom purpose God had for Babylon surrounding Israel - but God was definitely at work. Habakkuk 1:5; 2:14 "Look among the nations! Observe! Be astonished! Wonder! Because I am doing something in your days - you would not believe if you were told....For the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord, as the waters cover the sea." As Paul noted to the Romans (Romans 11:33) "Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and unfathomable His ways!". When the enemy prowls about like a roaring lion, He has absolutely no idea what God has planned just under the surface of what's going on. 

Whether you're a Hogan's Heroes fan or not, I hope this quick look has encouraged you in thinking about God's kingdom purposes. I like to say that no one will ever be more passionate to fulfill the Great Commission than God Himself. He has a purpose and invites us to join Him in it. Our assignment might look a little out of the ordinary - and it definitely won't be as safe as escaping to heaven would be - but the rewards are eternal. May you be encouraged today to stay in the battle - if you're on mission with God, you are one of Heaven's Heroes!

Advent Week 2: Peace

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 

(Isaiah 9:6, NIV)

Peace. We often know it most by its absence. We can go for weeks or months resting well at night and easily take peace for granted. We don't think "Wow, I feel really peaceful today". We recognize immediately, though, when it is absent.

An unexpected medical diagnosis. A middle-of-the-night phone call. A child who doesn't come home one night. All things that throw us into immediate anxiety. In crisis mode, peace is naturally elusive.

As much as we might wish otherwise, Jesus didn't come to erase all challenges to our peace. God never promises the absence of struggles. Instead, He gives us something much greater: a Son - one who will be called "Prince of Peace".

The Son, of course, is Jesus. Jesus came first of all to bring us to peace with God. Romans 5 says that we were God's enemies, but He sent Jesus to demonstrate His love for us so that we could enter His peace. Secondly, Jesus came to be peace between people. Ephesians 2:14 says "For He Himself is our peace, who made both groups [Jews and Gentiles] into one and broke down the barrier of the dividing wall ...". The presence of Jesus, the Prince of Peace, brings peace to individuals and to people groups. When we unite around Jesus, we find that He brings peace into situations we thought were hopeless.

Then when we do face those inevitable struggles of life, we have the guarantee of His presence. Like Peter, who slept while imprisoned, or Paul and Silas, who led a worship service at midnight from jail, we can find peace despite our circumstances. Not because of the absence of challenges, but because of the presence of a Person.

Advent, Day 1: Threads of Hope

Now there was a man in Jerusalem named Simeon who was righteous and devout, looking for the restoration of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. So Simeon, directed by the Spirit, came into the temple courts, and when the parents brought in the child Jesus to do for him what was customary according to the law, Simeon took him in his arms and blessed God, saying, “Now, according to your word, Sovereign Lord, permit your servant to depart in peace.For my eyes have seen your salvation that you have prepared in the presence of all peoples: a light, for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to your people Israel.” So the child’s father and mother were amazed at what was said about him. Then Simeon blessed them and said to his mother Mary, “Listen carefully: This child is destined to be the cause of the falling and rising of many in Israel and to be a sign that will be rejected.Indeed, as a result of him the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed – and a sword will pierce your own soul as well!”

There was also a prophetess, Anna the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was very old, having been married to her husband for seven years until his death. She had lived as a widow since then for eighty-four years. She never left the temple, worshiping with fasting and prayer night and day. At that moment, she came up to them and began to give thanks to God and to speak about the child to all who were waiting for the redemption of Jerusalem. (Luke 2:25-37)

I never cease to be amazed at God's way of weaving together the different threads of my Bible studies, ministry preparation, Bible reading, devotionals, and even my pastor's sermons. It's as though He has a kingdom calendar and determines that these different threads will coalesce into something logical on a day that makes perfect sense. Today was one of those amazing days.

It's the first Sunday of Advent. I've been eager for this season of focus and anticipation. I've grown to love the practice of being intentional about keeping Jesus at the forefront through a daily Advent calendar Scripture reading and the symbolic candles. This year God led me to add a reading plan from our local Christian radio station and a devotional/reading plan from YouVersion. In what I thought was an unrelated note, I started a Bible study 3 days ago on the fruit of the Spirit. Today, as I worked through the devotional, these threads all came together for me around the focus of today's symbolic candle, hope.

The first week of Advent emphasizes Waiting. Advent remembers the waiting on the Messiah's first coming and reminds us to be ready and waiting for His second coming. In the years leading up to the first coming, two precious individuals waited on the Messiah. Simeon and Anna remind me of two dear saints in the Lord from my own family, my Pawpaw and my mother-in-law Jeanne. Both are with the Lord now, but if I can think of two people who reflect the intimacy with God we see in Simeon and Anna, it would be those two.

Think about it. What intimacy with God must have preceded Simeon's proclamation that Jesus was God's salvation, a light for the Gentiles and the glory of Israel? Scripture tells us that the Holy Spirit was upon him and actually directed him to go into the temple at the moment that he did. I don't know what Simeon was like, but I am so overly analytical that I often talk myself out of times the Holy Spirit might redirect my steps. "Is this a distraction or a divine appointment?" is a question I often ask myself. I think it's a legitimate question, and I don't want to overspiritualize Simeon by assuming he was so saintly that he never wondered such things. What I do see is a man who had walked with the Lord long enough to go in the direction of the Spirit - and as He always does, the Spirit led Him right to Jesus' feet.

And what about Anna? What depth of relationship must this widow have had to become one of the earliest witnesses to the first coming? I see in Anna a woman who poured every bit of her loneliness into worship - and was rewarded beyond measure when the Messiah was born.

The first step to experiencing Jesus more is being in His presence. I must pursue Him intently, giving up what needs to be laid down and taking up only what is permeated with His presence. I may not always feel incredibly spiritual. Sometimes, the waiting on fruitfulness might seem endless. But it will never be pointless. Like Simeon and Anna, one day all the threads of hope will come together.

This first day of Advent, may you find your hope in Him, even when you don't know how long the waiting will last. The Holy Spirit will reveal Him to you. That's His job - to point to Jesus.

Vision

Where [there is] no vision, the people perish (Prov. 29:18a, KJV). 

I've just visited a website of a church with a vision to be intentionally multi-ethnic. Just before that, I browsed a new site for a ministry designed to guide believers into connecting globally through  groups focusing on a specific social justice issue. On my Facebook feed, I keep up with the number of rescues daily for a trafficking rescue group. At one point I was on no fewer than 7 daily prayer point lists -- all with unique visions and emphases. I truly value vision.

But over the course of my time as a Christian I've probably fallen off the horse on every possible side on this issue. I look back and see times I've been:

• The apathetic Christian - focusing on myself and my own relationship with God without seeing the spiritual or physical needs of the world in which He placed me.
  
• The overly-distracted Christian - attempting to give equal attention to every vision and feeling condemned for not feeling more passionate about things.  
• The irritatingly-focused Christian - thinking my vision was seemingly ultimate and trying to convince everyone else it should be their vision too.

What I'm learning is that as with anything else, there is a Biblical balance to be found when talking about vision. What God has increasingly convicted me of is that what I perceive as "my" vision (or calling, or whatever word you use) - or even His vision for me - must always remain secondary to His big-picture purpose, and His "vision" as revealed in His word. Other translations of the well-known Proverb use the word "revelation" instead of "vision" and that helps me keep my own "vision" in perspective -- it's always secondary to His revelation as given in His Word.

Please don't think I'm diminishing the importance of vision. I love the visionaries in my life and a single-minded focus on a God-given task is critical in the work of the kingdom - without it we would have no completed Bible translations, to give just one example. The challenge comes when the single-minded focus turns myopic and we begin to view the focus as ultimate, rather than seeing it as one of many links in a chain far too complex for us to understand this side of heaven. That's why one of my all-time favorite missions quotes is this one from John Piper, which reminds me that even though the Bible exudes missions on every page, even that God-ordained vision is secondary to a greater purpose:

Missions is not the ultimate goal of the church. Worship is. Mission exists because worship doesn’t. Worship is ultimate, not missions, because God is ultimate, not man. When this age is over, and the countless millions of the redeemed fall on their faces before the throne of God, missions will be no more. It is a temporary necessity. But worship abides forever. (From Let the Nations be Glad: The Supremacy of God in Missions)

My paraphrase of that - my vision is not the ultimate goal of my life. Worship is. If I ever find myself pushing my cause of the month or minimizing certain ministries in my own mind, I need to stop and get on my face before God. Because He is doing something bigger than I could ever imagine, and it requires children's teachers and church kitchen ministries and water bottle distributions and food pantries and rescue missions and Bible translators and frontier missionaries and ... you get the picture. If it's based in truth and focused on His glory, it doesn't matter whose name is on it or whether it fits "my" vision. The disciples learned this one directly from the mouth of our Lord:

Mark 9:38-41 John said to him, “Teacher, we saw someone casting out demons in your name, and we tried to stop him because he was not following us.” But Jesus said, “Do not stop him, because no one who does a miracle in my name will be able soon afterward to say anything bad about me.For whoever is not against us is for us. For I tell you the truth, whoever gives you a cup of water because you bear Christ’s name will never lose his reward.

I think there is much to be learned from losing ourselves in someone else's ministry. In recent weeks I've read of a missionary wife who left a country she loved so her husband could take a position for which he was uniquely gifted. After struggling to find "her ministry" she sensed God calling her to help others with their visions - just make herself useful in a variety of ways. Another couple is praying for a young woman who is in the process of giving up to a year to come to their remote tribal village and just be helpful with the children so the missionary wife can learn the language. In fact, if you read the New Testament there are a lot more Priscillas and Aquilas and Epaphratases and Onesimuses (helpers) than there are Pauls and Timothys (front line missionaries). Some missions strategists say that for every missionary on the field there should be a dozen "helpers" - not all on the field, some at home doing practical things like keeping up mission houses and cars that can be used on furloughs, managing financial accounts, sending mailings, posting new updates at church, and a thousand other tasks.

Have you been trying to find where you fit in this whole missions thing?  Giving is a great place to start, prayer is essential, not optional -- but when it comes to action, maybe God has a servant's role for you. Maybe He wants you to be on someone's team or to serve the larger cause of missions in some way. Examine your gifts and those things that stir your heart. Talk to your pastor or missions leader at church. Pray for open doors. And sit back and watch what happens when you commit to being a part of God's vision as revealed in His word - taking the Gospel to every tribe, tongue, nation, and people group.

After this I looked and there before me was a great multitude that no-one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and in front of the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands. (Rev. 7:9, NIV)