Yesterday I had my annual appointment with my eye doctor. All is well on that front, in case you were wondering.
For several hours after the appointment I had to endure the effects of having my eyes dilated. That's the worst part of the whole experience, in my humble opinion. Well, that and the really bright light that gets shined into your dilated eyes to check your retinas.
I pulled the shades down over the windows to keep the bright sunlight from irritating my dilated eyes. I had very few lights on in the house. I drank coffee.
And that may be the best part of the whole experience - to sit and drink coffee, and do absolutely nothing else.
For a few hours, I was a very frustrated woman. Yes, I enjoy sitting and drinking coffee. But there were other things I wanted to do. I would have enjoyed a good book with that coffee, but I couldn't focus well enough to read. I had planned to spend some time finishing my lesson prep for Sunday, but that had to be delayed until later in the day when my eyes had returned to normal.
Out of focus. It really is a frustrating condition.
Have you noticed how many people in our world seem absolutely miserable? Could it be that they are having trouble with their focus?
Something to think about.
"fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith...." (Hebrews 12:2 NASB)
Friday, October 31, 2014
Wednesday, October 29, 2014
Remembering - and Missing - My Mother
How quickly time passes. Has it really been fourteen years?
On this day, fourteen years ago - October 30, 2000 - my mother passed from this life into eternity. In many ways, it seems very long ago. And yet sometimes, it is still a very fresh memory. Hardly a day goes by that I don't think of her......remembering something she said; laughing at myself for doing the "I'll never do that" things she used to do; wanting to share something with her.
My mother was a tiny little woman, one who might have been described as "delicate". But she was mighty in spirit, a strong-willed woman who loved her children and their spouses. Who loved her grandchildren. She loved her husband and was devoted to him. And above all, she loved Jesus!
I learned so much from my mother. I learned that if something is worth doing, it's worth doing right the first time. I learned a commitment to excellence. I learned that details matter. And I learned practical things. Things like how to make really good macaroni and cheese, and how to sew, and how to properly make a bed. I learned how to be a good shopper. I learned that no matter what the price, it isn't a bargain if you don't need it! I learned about manners and about treating other people with respect.
I miss the twinkle in my mother's eye, the grin when she was really trying hard not to laugh out loud, and her laugh when she just couldn't hold it in! I miss laughing with her. Sharing those little private jokes.
I miss shopping with her. Pushing her through the mall in her wheelchair in the years after strokes began to take their toll.
I miss chatting on the phone. I miss her macaroni and cheese (none better, ever!).....her potato salad.....her fruit cake cookies. And her coconut cake and divinity at Christmas.
I admired and respected my mother's discipline and her dedication. Every Saturday afternoon, without fail, she was at the church getting her classroom ready for the 6 year olds who would come to Sunday School the next day. Then she would come home and bake a cake so we had dessert with our Sunday dinner. Often she got up extra early on Sunday morning to fry chicken so we didn't have to wait for our dinner when we returned home after church services. And every Sunday morning she made sure we were fed, dressed, and out the door in time for her to be the first to arrive in her classroom, ready to greet the first child who arrived. I can still remember how she always had supper on the table when Daddy walked in the back door from work. He never had to wait! The house was always clean. The food was always ready on time. I wish I could say the same of myself!!
One of the things I most remember about my mother was her love for her Savior. And her love for God's Word. Even in the later years of her life as her health was seriously declining, her Bible was always next to her on the bed. She read it faithfully every day. One of my treasured possessions is a set of index cards with Scripture verses - the verses she had memorized - written in her own hand, well-worn from use.
I loved my mother. I respected her. I admired her. And especially on this anniversary of her passing, I miss her.
Fourteen years ago, I watched my beloved mother take her last breaths in this life. It was a sad morning. A difficult morning. It was one of the few times in my life that I ever saw my daddy cry. It was on that morning, fourteen years ago, that I had to say to him, "It's over."
But it isn't over. Not really. Because there is the promise that we will see each other again. And though I still miss my mother so very much, I don't "grieve as those who have no hope" (1 Thessalonians 4:13).
Because "since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep." (1 Thessalonians 4:14 ESV).
Until that day comes, I remember. And those memories make me smile.
On this day, fourteen years ago - October 30, 2000 - my mother passed from this life into eternity. In many ways, it seems very long ago. And yet sometimes, it is still a very fresh memory. Hardly a day goes by that I don't think of her......remembering something she said; laughing at myself for doing the "I'll never do that" things she used to do; wanting to share something with her.
My mother was a tiny little woman, one who might have been described as "delicate". But she was mighty in spirit, a strong-willed woman who loved her children and their spouses. Who loved her grandchildren. She loved her husband and was devoted to him. And above all, she loved Jesus!
I learned so much from my mother. I learned that if something is worth doing, it's worth doing right the first time. I learned a commitment to excellence. I learned that details matter. And I learned practical things. Things like how to make really good macaroni and cheese, and how to sew, and how to properly make a bed. I learned how to be a good shopper. I learned that no matter what the price, it isn't a bargain if you don't need it! I learned about manners and about treating other people with respect.
I miss the twinkle in my mother's eye, the grin when she was really trying hard not to laugh out loud, and her laugh when she just couldn't hold it in! I miss laughing with her. Sharing those little private jokes.
I miss shopping with her. Pushing her through the mall in her wheelchair in the years after strokes began to take their toll.
I miss chatting on the phone. I miss her macaroni and cheese (none better, ever!).....her potato salad.....her fruit cake cookies. And her coconut cake and divinity at Christmas.
I admired and respected my mother's discipline and her dedication. Every Saturday afternoon, without fail, she was at the church getting her classroom ready for the 6 year olds who would come to Sunday School the next day. Then she would come home and bake a cake so we had dessert with our Sunday dinner. Often she got up extra early on Sunday morning to fry chicken so we didn't have to wait for our dinner when we returned home after church services. And every Sunday morning she made sure we were fed, dressed, and out the door in time for her to be the first to arrive in her classroom, ready to greet the first child who arrived. I can still remember how she always had supper on the table when Daddy walked in the back door from work. He never had to wait! The house was always clean. The food was always ready on time. I wish I could say the same of myself!!
One of the things I most remember about my mother was her love for her Savior. And her love for God's Word. Even in the later years of her life as her health was seriously declining, her Bible was always next to her on the bed. She read it faithfully every day. One of my treasured possessions is a set of index cards with Scripture verses - the verses she had memorized - written in her own hand, well-worn from use.
I loved my mother. I respected her. I admired her. And especially on this anniversary of her passing, I miss her.
Fourteen years ago, I watched my beloved mother take her last breaths in this life. It was a sad morning. A difficult morning. It was one of the few times in my life that I ever saw my daddy cry. It was on that morning, fourteen years ago, that I had to say to him, "It's over."
But it isn't over. Not really. Because there is the promise that we will see each other again. And though I still miss my mother so very much, I don't "grieve as those who have no hope" (1 Thessalonians 4:13).
Because "since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep." (1 Thessalonians 4:14 ESV).
Until that day comes, I remember. And those memories make me smile.
"She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue. She looks well to the ways of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness. Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her. Many women have done excellently, but you surpass them all. Charm is deceitful and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised." (Proverbs 31:26-30 ESV)
Tuesday, October 28, 2014
How Deep Are You Willing to Go?
"Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth." (2 Timothy 2:15 NASB)
That's a familiar verse. It is perhaps more familiar in the King James Version.
"Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."
Study.
Notice it doesn't say "read". It says "study". "Be diligent".
Both translations refer to a "workman". That implies one who puts forth some effort. We don't learn the truths of Scripture by osmosis. We can't know how to "accurately handle the Word of Truth" simply by owning a copy of the Bible. Or by having multiple copies in our home. Picking up a Bible and carrying it with us to church on Sunday does not qualify as being "diligent".
Yesterday, as I was scrolling through Facebook, I came across an article that broke my heart. It was about evangelicals' favorite heresies. You can read the article for yourself here: http://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2014/october-web-only/new-poll-finds-evangelicals-favorite-heresies.html?start=2
It's heartbreaking to realize how little Christians know about the things they claim to believe. It's heartbreaking to realize how casually many Christians today approach the Scriptures. It's heartbreaking to be confronted with how little time many Christians actually spend reading the Word of God. And how few go beyond reading. How few are committed to the discipline of studying.
Is it any wonder then that there are articles being written about evangelicals' favorite heresies?
Is it any wonder that other religions and cults are gaining so much ground in the world today?
Is it any wonder that our culture is in such a downward spiral?
Is there any way to reverse this trend?
Perhaps it's time to get serious about the admonition in 2 Timothy 2:15. It's time to study. It's time to be diligent.
How deep are we willing to immerse ourselves in the Word of God?
How much time are we willing to give to studying the Word of God?
How much are we willing to act on, to live out, the truths we learn?
How deep are we - you and I - willing to go?
May we - you and I - study. May we be diligent. May we accurately handle the Word of Truth.
"Contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all handed down to the saints......"
(Jude 3 NASB)
My Song of Thanksgiving
"Let all things now living a song of thanksgiving
To God the Creator triumphantly raise,
Who fashioned and made us, protected and stayed us,
Who guideth us on to the end of our days.
His banners are o'er us, His light goes before us,
A pillar of fire shining forth in the night,
'Til shadows have vanished and darkness is banished,
As forward we travel from light into light.
His law He enforces, the stars in their courses,
The sun in His orbit, obediently shine.
The hills and the mountains, the rivers and fountains,
The deeps of the ocean proclaim Him Divine.
We too should be voicing our love and rejoicing,
With glad adoration a song let us raise,
'Til all things now living unite in thanksgiving
To God in the highest, hosanna and praise!
-Katherine K. Davis
Those are the words to a hymn titled "Let All Things Now Living", written by Katherine K. Davis and typically sung to a traditional Welsh melody. It's one of those hymns we don't sing in church any more, which makes me a bit sad. And before you get jump to a wrong conclusion, that was not an anti-new-music statement. I'm not anti-new-music as much as I am anti-ignoring older music! Much of what we hear and sing in our churches these days that would be classified as "new" or "contemporary" is music that I like very much. But I don't like all of it. Not all of it is good. Some of it is just new. Some of it I don't like. It's a personal-preference-thing. But that isn't my point.
I was thinking about this song this morning. Not because we have sung it recently; we haven't. We sing some wonderful music in our church.......new songs, old songs, the great hymns of our faith. This particular hymn hasn't been sung recently; in fact, I can't even remember the last time I sang this hymn in a church setting! Rather, it has been called up from deep in the recesses of my memory. It's a catchy tune, but it's the text that has my attention.
Perhaps it's because I'm not as young as I used to be! Or perhaps there is some other reason. In any event, I am becoming more and more aware of how much I take for granted. How often I forget to say "thank you". It's not that I'm ungrateful. Forgetful, yes. A little scatter-brained sometimes. Distracted. But not ungrateful.
Today is Thankful Tuesday, a perfect day for a "Song of Thanksgiving"! And I have so many reasons for thanksgiving this morning, not the least of which is the beauty of the world around me. We have had a glorious autumn this year, full of brilliant reds and golds. Spectacular sunsets. Breathtaking morning skies. The mornings, like this one, when the fog dips into the valley below. It's a beautiful time of year here in the mountains, and I am so thankful.
There are many, many reasons for thanksgiving this morning beyond just the beauty of this season. I'm thankful for dear friends. For the best husband ever! For my family. For my church family. For my pastor. For my health.
I'm thankful for the privilege of prayer. Thankful that God hears and answers. Thankful for those times, like yesterday, when I had uttered a prayer with a very specific request, and within five minutes, the phone rang and I had my answer!
After having our house on the market for several months now, I am very thankful that we had a showing this past weekend, and that our home is still one of the ones under consideration by this potential buyer. After all these months, I'm thankful for this encouragement. And I'm praying that this might be "the one"!
I am beyond grateful for a Sovereign Lord. One who knows me best and loves me most. One who knows when and how and to whom this house will sell. One who has all things under control.
And so to Him today I am singing my song of thanksgiving!
"My heart overflows with a good theme." (Psalm 45:1 NASB)
Monday, October 27, 2014
A Good Listener
I love those times when a verse of Scripture I have read over and over and over many time jumps off the page at me, almost as though I am reading it for the first time.
Such was my experience recently with a verse in Psalm 116.
"Because he inclined his ear to me, therefore I will call on him as long as I live." (Psalm 116:2 ESV)
He inclined his ear to me.
One definition of the word inclined has to do with leaning. Using that definition, this verse tells me that God leaned down to hear me when I called on Him. The verse goes on to say that because God leaned down to hear me, I will continue to call on Him as long as I live.
He leaned down to hear me. He listens when I call out to Him. He cares about what I have to say.
Picture it this way. You're the adult in the room, perhaps the parent or the grandparent, and a small child has something to say to you. You lean down to their level to hear what they have to say, to listen to them.
That's the word picture we have in this verse. God leans down to our level to hear what we have to say.
He inclines His ear to me.
May I be faithful to incline my ear to hear what He has to say.
May I listen as well to Him as He does to me!
"And this is the confidence that we have toward him, that if we ask anything according to his will he hears us." (1 John 5:14 ESV)
Such was my experience recently with a verse in Psalm 116.
"Because he inclined his ear to me, therefore I will call on him as long as I live." (Psalm 116:2 ESV)
He inclined his ear to me.
One definition of the word inclined has to do with leaning. Using that definition, this verse tells me that God leaned down to hear me when I called on Him. The verse goes on to say that because God leaned down to hear me, I will continue to call on Him as long as I live.
He leaned down to hear me. He listens when I call out to Him. He cares about what I have to say.
Picture it this way. You're the adult in the room, perhaps the parent or the grandparent, and a small child has something to say to you. You lean down to their level to hear what they have to say, to listen to them.
That's the word picture we have in this verse. God leans down to our level to hear what we have to say.
He inclines His ear to me.
May I be faithful to incline my ear to hear what He has to say.
May I listen as well to Him as He does to me!
"And this is the confidence that we have toward him, that if we ask anything according to his will he hears us." (1 John 5:14 ESV)
Friday, October 24, 2014
Editing
I spent most of yesterday doing [what I hope will be] the final edit to a Bible study book I have been working on for the past several months.
Editing is a tedious process. Checking spelling. Replacing one word with another. Rearranging sentences. Again. Formatting. Then checking it all and doing it again.
It's enough to give a person a headache. In fact, it did give me a headache!
But as I was carefully checking each word and phrase in the manuscript, it occurred to me that editing of another sort is also needed.
We need to do some self-editing.
Editing of the words that come out of our mouths. Before they come out of our mouths!
Editing of the things we post to Facebook and Twitter.
Editing of the "likes" we're so quick to click on.
Editing of the things we share, on social media and elsewhere.
Perhaps the world would be a better place if we all did a little more self-editing.
"Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment so that it will give grace to those who hear." (Ephesians 4:29 NASB)
Editing is a tedious process. Checking spelling. Replacing one word with another. Rearranging sentences. Again. Formatting. Then checking it all and doing it again.
It's enough to give a person a headache. In fact, it did give me a headache!
But as I was carefully checking each word and phrase in the manuscript, it occurred to me that editing of another sort is also needed.
We need to do some self-editing.
Editing of the words that come out of our mouths. Before they come out of our mouths!
Editing of the things we post to Facebook and Twitter.
Editing of the "likes" we're so quick to click on.
Editing of the things we share, on social media and elsewhere.
Perhaps the world would be a better place if we all did a little more self-editing.
"Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment so that it will give grace to those who hear." (Ephesians 4:29 NASB)
Thursday, October 23, 2014
How Do We Handle It?
We're less than two weeks away from mid-term elections here in the United States. Which means that we are being inundated with political advertising. If your mailbox is anything like mine, hardly a day goes by without receiving at least one piece of mail from a political candidate. There are signs on power poles and in the neighbor's yard. And it is impossible to watch television without multiple political ads at every commercial break.
Those political ads are quite interesting and actually have a lot to say about the state of our nation. On the one hand, Candidate A appears to tell you all the horrible things his/her opponent has done. Immediately following, Candidate B appears to tell you that everything you just heard from Candidate A is a blatant lie which is designed solely to impugn his/her character, when in fact, he/she is actually practically perfect in every way.
They can't both be telling the truth. In all likelihood, there's a teeny tiny thread of truth surrounded by massive distortion in what each of them had to say. And that reveals a great deal about our nation and about us as a people.
In our culture, truth has become relative. Truth has become whatever you or I want it to be. Whatever some politician or activist group or judge says it is at the moment. And it changes on a whim.
By that standard, both Candidate A and Candidate B are telling the truth, even though what one of them says is exactly opposite what the other says.
How are we to handle this? What is our standard of truth to be?
The standard is the same as it has always been. Even in this world of political expediency and government corruption. In a world where terrorism is rampant. In a world of Ebola and ISIS. Even in this world, the standard of truth remains the same.
"The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God will stand forever." (Isaiah 40:8 ESV)
[Jesus said] "I am the way, the truth, and the life." (John 14:6 ESV, emphasis mine)
"Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever." (Hebrews 13:8 ESV)
Hold on to those truths. Cling to those truths. In this world of shifting truths, our standard of truth remains firm. We hold on to Jesus. We examine everything according to the unchanging plumb line of Scripture.
And when we are criticized as being naïve or old-fashioned or out of touch, even then we hold on to Truth.
We live in difficult, challenging times. The truths that we believe and have staked our very lives on are under attack. But truth is still truth. God's Word has not changed. It will not change. God's love for us has not changed. It will not change. And for those of us who are in relationship with God through Christ, nothing can change that. That relationship is secure. Nothing can separate us from the love of Christ.
Not politicians.
Not political action groups.
Not government corruption or over-reach.
Not ISIS.
Not Ebola.
Not financial stress.
Not illness.
Not unemployment.
Not criticism or ridicule.
Nothing.
"What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword? No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 8:31, 35, 373-39 ESV)
How, then, do we deal with these shifting standards? How, then, do we face life on a daily basis when all we have known as true seems to be crumbling around us? How, then, do we live life when the world is falling apart? How do we handle it?
The answer to those questions is found in the pages of Scripture as well.
In every situation, in every circumstance, in every difficulty and every challenge, the answer is the same:
[We] "run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God." (Hebrews 12:1b-2 NASB, emphasis mine)
Those political ads are quite interesting and actually have a lot to say about the state of our nation. On the one hand, Candidate A appears to tell you all the horrible things his/her opponent has done. Immediately following, Candidate B appears to tell you that everything you just heard from Candidate A is a blatant lie which is designed solely to impugn his/her character, when in fact, he/she is actually practically perfect in every way.
They can't both be telling the truth. In all likelihood, there's a teeny tiny thread of truth surrounded by massive distortion in what each of them had to say. And that reveals a great deal about our nation and about us as a people.
In our culture, truth has become relative. Truth has become whatever you or I want it to be. Whatever some politician or activist group or judge says it is at the moment. And it changes on a whim.
By that standard, both Candidate A and Candidate B are telling the truth, even though what one of them says is exactly opposite what the other says.
How are we to handle this? What is our standard of truth to be?
The standard is the same as it has always been. Even in this world of political expediency and government corruption. In a world where terrorism is rampant. In a world of Ebola and ISIS. Even in this world, the standard of truth remains the same.
"The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God will stand forever." (Isaiah 40:8 ESV)
[Jesus said] "I am the way, the truth, and the life." (John 14:6 ESV, emphasis mine)
"Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever." (Hebrews 13:8 ESV)
Hold on to those truths. Cling to those truths. In this world of shifting truths, our standard of truth remains firm. We hold on to Jesus. We examine everything according to the unchanging plumb line of Scripture.
And when we are criticized as being naïve or old-fashioned or out of touch, even then we hold on to Truth.
We live in difficult, challenging times. The truths that we believe and have staked our very lives on are under attack. But truth is still truth. God's Word has not changed. It will not change. God's love for us has not changed. It will not change. And for those of us who are in relationship with God through Christ, nothing can change that. That relationship is secure. Nothing can separate us from the love of Christ.
Not politicians.
Not political action groups.
Not government corruption or over-reach.
Not ISIS.
Not Ebola.
Not financial stress.
Not illness.
Not unemployment.
Not criticism or ridicule.
Nothing.
"What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword? No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 8:31, 35, 373-39 ESV)
How, then, do we deal with these shifting standards? How, then, do we face life on a daily basis when all we have known as true seems to be crumbling around us? How, then, do we live life when the world is falling apart? How do we handle it?
The answer to those questions is found in the pages of Scripture as well.
In every situation, in every circumstance, in every difficulty and every challenge, the answer is the same:
[We] "run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God." (Hebrews 12:1b-2 NASB, emphasis mine)
Wednesday, October 22, 2014
Amazed
I have often written about how much I love the colors of fall here in the mountains. The beauty is almost overwhelming sometimes! I am amazed at the beauty God has blessed us with here.
As this year's fall season began, I was a bit skeptical that the colors would be as pretty as normal. The colors began to change a bit earlier in the season than usual and weren't particularly striking. But as the season has progressed, my opinion has progressed as well, and I'm now viewing this as one of the most glorious fall seasons we have experienced in several years.
The view from my front porch changes from day to day. But it also changes from hour to hour! Yesterday I decided to document that with my camera. Once again, I was amazed.
As this year's fall season began, I was a bit skeptical that the colors would be as pretty as normal. The colors began to change a bit earlier in the season than usual and weren't particularly striking. But as the season has progressed, my opinion has progressed as well, and I'm now viewing this as one of the most glorious fall seasons we have experienced in several years.
The view from my front porch changes from day to day. But it also changes from hour to hour! Yesterday I decided to document that with my camera. Once again, I was amazed.
I love that first hint of sunshine coming over the mountain behind us.
Then throughout the day, I love to watch the changing shadows as the sun shines through the clouds overhead.
As morning becomes afternoon, the position of the sun and clouds changes,
but the view is still breathtaking.
The shadows shift as the day progresses.
Late afternoon typically brings in a few more clouds.
And then the sun makes its descent behind the mountains in front of us.
And so ends another day.
Another day to be amazed at the creativity of our awesome God. Another day to admire His handiwork. To enjoy the variety of colors and textures in His creation.
Another day to give thanks to the Lord. To be in awe of Him. To worship. To be amazed.
"Let everything that has breath praise the LORD!" (Psalm 150:6 ESV)
Morning sun, light of creation;
Grassy fields, a velvet floor;
Silver clouds, a shimmering curtain, He’s designed a perfect world.
I’m amazed at His talents, stand in awe of One so great;
Now my soul begins to sing out to the source from which it came.
Bless the Lord who reigns in beauty;
Bless the Lord who reigns with wisdom and with power.
Bless the Lord who fills my life with so much love,
He can make a perfect heart.
(A PERFECT HEART - Words and music
by Reba Rambo and Dony McGuire)
Tuesday, October 21, 2014
Encouraging One Another
"Encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near." (Hebrews 10:25b ESV)
Al and I, along with several other couples from our Life Group, took a little trip up to southeastern Kentucky last week. We went to Lynch, Kentucky, to be specific.
I know, you've never heard of Lynch. It's right down the road from Benham. But you probably haven't heard of that either.
Lynch is in extreme southeast Kentucky, in the mountains, in coal mine country. But the mine in Lynch is now closed, since the government and the environmentalists have become very anti-coal in recent years. That means that unemployment is very high in Lynch, Kentucky, and in other places like it.
There are several missionaries and mission organizations who have located themselves in Lynch, to provide clothing and food and employment in that area. To be the hands and feet that bring Jesus to a forgotten corner of our country.
Our group went to Lynch to install a heat pump in a mission house, an old duplex that is being renovated to house teams who come to Lynch to assist the missionaries. That's what the guys did. The women were along to support. To run errands. To bring the guys their lunch. To help out at the Freedom Center, sorting and organizing coats that have been donated to the ministry. To encourage.
So, I spent the weekend on a mission trip. I didn't feel like I was doing that much, but what a blessing it was to be a small part of a small effort to encourage and come alongside those who are the hands and feet of Jesus in that community day after day.
It isn't necessary to go all the way to Kentucky to be an encourager. There are people in each of our communities who need encouraging. We can encourage our family members. And our neighbors. And our pastor. And the stranger in the grocery store.
Installing a heat pump. Sorting coats in a mission center. These are not the only ways to encourage. You could write a note. Make a phone call. Send a Facebook message. Bake some cookies.
Sometimes all it takes is a smile.
Who are you encouraging today?
"Therefore, encourage one another......." (1 Thessalonians 5:11 ESV)
Al and I, along with several other couples from our Life Group, took a little trip up to southeastern Kentucky last week. We went to Lynch, Kentucky, to be specific.
I know, you've never heard of Lynch. It's right down the road from Benham. But you probably haven't heard of that either.
Lynch is in extreme southeast Kentucky, in the mountains, in coal mine country. But the mine in Lynch is now closed, since the government and the environmentalists have become very anti-coal in recent years. That means that unemployment is very high in Lynch, Kentucky, and in other places like it.
There are several missionaries and mission organizations who have located themselves in Lynch, to provide clothing and food and employment in that area. To be the hands and feet that bring Jesus to a forgotten corner of our country.
Our group went to Lynch to install a heat pump in a mission house, an old duplex that is being renovated to house teams who come to Lynch to assist the missionaries. That's what the guys did. The women were along to support. To run errands. To bring the guys their lunch. To help out at the Freedom Center, sorting and organizing coats that have been donated to the ministry. To encourage.
So, I spent the weekend on a mission trip. I didn't feel like I was doing that much, but what a blessing it was to be a small part of a small effort to encourage and come alongside those who are the hands and feet of Jesus in that community day after day.
It isn't necessary to go all the way to Kentucky to be an encourager. There are people in each of our communities who need encouraging. We can encourage our family members. And our neighbors. And our pastor. And the stranger in the grocery store.
Installing a heat pump. Sorting coats in a mission center. These are not the only ways to encourage. You could write a note. Make a phone call. Send a Facebook message. Bake some cookies.
Sometimes all it takes is a smile.
Who are you encouraging today?
"Therefore, encourage one another......." (1 Thessalonians 5:11 ESV)
Thursday, October 16, 2014
Finish Well
Maybe that's a good thing. It's a reminder of some things God has been teaching me lately.
Here's a portion of the song, written and recorded by Karen Peck and New River:
Finish well
Every day that we are given
Finish well
For the glory of His name
Finish strong
Until the Savior finally calls us home
Give it everything we have
Finish well.
Every day that we are given
Finish well
For the glory of His name
Finish strong
Until the Savior finally calls us home
Give it everything we have
Finish well.
I'm in the process of re-reading Pursue the Intentional Life by Jean Fleming. I've written about that book before. (You can find that post here: http://susanssittingroom.blogspot.com/2014/08/a-few-thoughts-about-getting-older.html)
About finishing well, Fleming has this to say: "I long to see Christ's life formed in me, to live my highest until the Lord calls me home. I want to become the person God had in mind when He created me. I yearn to touch the world for God's glory and advance His kingdom. [It is] my earnest desire to 'number my days that I may gain a heart of wisdom'. (Psalm 90:12)"
Fleming's thoughts mirror my own, and it is in this area that much of my prayer time has been focused recently and that God has been speaking to my heart. I become more aware day by day that I am no longer a young woman. How shall I spend the remaining days allotted to me? Shall I just sit and wait for life to be over? Shall I just waste my days away? Shall I have pity party after pity party? I think not.
As I'm pondering how to remain useful in this last third of my life, the Lord has brought several Scriptures to mind. I continue to ponder, and be encouraged by, these passages.
Perhaps they will encourage you as well, no matter what your season of life.
"It is my eager expectation and hope that I will not be at all ashamed, but that with full courage, now as always Christ will be honored in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me to live is Christ and to die is gain." (Philippians 2:20-21 ESV)
"So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal." (2 Corinthians 4:16-18 ESV)
How will I - or you - finish well? What will I be doing for the remainder of my days? I don't know.
Perhaps finishing well means continuing to encourage others through the words I write, here on this blog or on Facebook or Twitter. Perhaps it means continuing to be a student, and a teacher, of God's Word. Perhaps it means developing my skills as a photographer. Perhaps it means mentoring or developing and deepening interpersonal relationships. Perhaps it means baking cookies or cakes. Or visiting with those further along in life's journey than I. Perhaps it means going on mission trips.
Whatever it may mean, my prayer is that, when doors of opportunity are open to me, I will be obedient to walk through. That I will be found faithful. That I will finish well.
And that's my prayer for you, too.
"O God, You have taught me from my youth, and I still declare Your wondrous deeds. and even when I am old and gray, O God, do not forsake me, until I declare Your strength to this generation, Your power to all who are to come." (Psalm 71:17-18 NASB)
You can listen to Finish Well by Karen Peck and New River here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ahOPJyKyG8
Wednesday, October 15, 2014
Sometimes There Are No Words.....
It's that time of year.
The time when the beauty of these mountains is overwhelming.
When the beauty of these mountains takes my breath away.
When I have no words.....
For the beauty of the earth,
For the glory of the skies,
For the love which from our birth
Over and around us lies:
Lord of all, to Thee we raise
This, our hymn of grateful praise.
(words: Folliot S. Pierpont; music: Conrad Kocher)
Tuesday, October 14, 2014
An Anniversary
This is an anniversary week for us. It was this week, back in 1988, that all our belongings were loaded on a truck and we moved to the suburbs of Denver, Colorado. That was a life-changing experience in so many ways. Today, on this Thankful Tuesday, I'm remembering and giving thanks for that experience.
Life changed for us that week in so many ways. Certainly we were leaving our comfort zone! Life in the Rocky Mountain West is different than life in the Midlands of South Carolina. Different climate. Different foods. Adjusting to a different time zone and to altitude. Learning our way around a new city. Lots of changes in our lives.
That move was the first move to a location outside South Carolina. It was followed by many more. It was definitely a turning point in our lives.
One of my favorite things about that time in Colorado is one of the reasons I'm giving thanks this morning. It was there, at University Hills Baptist Church in Denver, that I attended my first Precept Upon Precept Bible study. My neighbor Connie invited me to go to Bible study with her. I accepted the invitation, not quite sure what I was getting myself in to. I had heard of Precept Bible studies, but had never attended one, although I had been a regular participant in Bible studies at our church in South Carolina for many years.
That invitation was life-changing! I will forever be grateful to the Lord for putting Connie in my path, and forever grateful to Connie for that invitation.
The group was already in the middle of their study. They were studying Covenant. At first I was lost as a goose! Key words and colored pencils and observation worksheets. All of those things were new to me, but I quickly grasped the method and dug in. My life was changed by that experience. Not only did I learn great truths about our Covenant-keeping God and His covenant relationship with us, but I learned how to study. And knowing that has made such a difference in my life!
In the years since then we have moved a number of times. When we left Colorado, we moved to Connecticut where there was no Precept Bible Study at my local church, so I took Precept Leader Training in a nearby town and then began Precept Bible Studies in my church. Since that time I've been privileged to lead a number of Precept studies and to teach a number of women how to study the Bible.
All because we moved to Colorado and all because Connie invited me to go to Bible study with her.
Today I'm thankful for Connie. A few years after we met, Connie and her family moved up to Wyoming and we lost touch. (This was before we had the internet and social media!) If I could see her today, I would thank her in person!
I'm thankful for Precept Ministries International. Thankful for their commitment to establish God's people in God's Word.
And I'm thankful for Kay Arthur. For her teaching ministry, begun so many years ago around her kitchen table. Thankful for the way she has mentored me from afar, teaching me the truths of the Word but also teaching me how to study and how to teach.
I'm thankful for the Bible studies that I've participated in and been privileged to lead. Thankful for the joy of digging deep into God's Word. Thankful for the life-changing truths I have learned.
I'm thankful for the Word. Truly it has been "a lamp to my feet and a light to my path." (Psalm 119:105 ESV)
I'm thankful today. And I'm praying that I will be faithful to live according to what I have learned and faithful to teach others to do the same.
"Oh how I love your law! It is my meditation all the day." (Psalm 119:97 ESV)
Life changed for us that week in so many ways. Certainly we were leaving our comfort zone! Life in the Rocky Mountain West is different than life in the Midlands of South Carolina. Different climate. Different foods. Adjusting to a different time zone and to altitude. Learning our way around a new city. Lots of changes in our lives.
That move was the first move to a location outside South Carolina. It was followed by many more. It was definitely a turning point in our lives.
One of my favorite things about that time in Colorado is one of the reasons I'm giving thanks this morning. It was there, at University Hills Baptist Church in Denver, that I attended my first Precept Upon Precept Bible study. My neighbor Connie invited me to go to Bible study with her. I accepted the invitation, not quite sure what I was getting myself in to. I had heard of Precept Bible studies, but had never attended one, although I had been a regular participant in Bible studies at our church in South Carolina for many years.
That invitation was life-changing! I will forever be grateful to the Lord for putting Connie in my path, and forever grateful to Connie for that invitation.
The group was already in the middle of their study. They were studying Covenant. At first I was lost as a goose! Key words and colored pencils and observation worksheets. All of those things were new to me, but I quickly grasped the method and dug in. My life was changed by that experience. Not only did I learn great truths about our Covenant-keeping God and His covenant relationship with us, but I learned how to study. And knowing that has made such a difference in my life!
In the years since then we have moved a number of times. When we left Colorado, we moved to Connecticut where there was no Precept Bible Study at my local church, so I took Precept Leader Training in a nearby town and then began Precept Bible Studies in my church. Since that time I've been privileged to lead a number of Precept studies and to teach a number of women how to study the Bible.
All because we moved to Colorado and all because Connie invited me to go to Bible study with her.
Today I'm thankful for Connie. A few years after we met, Connie and her family moved up to Wyoming and we lost touch. (This was before we had the internet and social media!) If I could see her today, I would thank her in person!
I'm thankful for Precept Ministries International. Thankful for their commitment to establish God's people in God's Word.
And I'm thankful for Kay Arthur. For her teaching ministry, begun so many years ago around her kitchen table. Thankful for the way she has mentored me from afar, teaching me the truths of the Word but also teaching me how to study and how to teach.
I'm thankful for the Bible studies that I've participated in and been privileged to lead. Thankful for the joy of digging deep into God's Word. Thankful for the life-changing truths I have learned.
I'm thankful for the Word. Truly it has been "a lamp to my feet and a light to my path." (Psalm 119:105 ESV)
I'm thankful today. And I'm praying that I will be faithful to live according to what I have learned and faithful to teach others to do the same.
"Oh how I love your law! It is my meditation all the day." (Psalm 119:97 ESV)
Monday, October 13, 2014
What Are You Eating Today?
As I often do on Monday mornings, I've been reflecting back on the truths I heard yesterday at church. Our pastor was away, leading a group on a "Journeys of Paul" tour, and we were privileged to hear Seth Buckley, our minister to students, speak to us. The title of his message was "Changing Your Spiritual Meal Plan", and the text was from the book of Hebrews, beginning at Hebrews 5:11 and going through Hebrews 6:12.
The first point was that the fundamentals of the faith are foundational, but you can't stop there.
"About this we have much to say, and it is hard to explain, since you have become dull of hearing. For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the basic principles of the oracles of God. You need milk, not solid food, for everyone who lives on milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, since he is a child. But solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of discernment trained by constant practice to distinguish good from evil." (Hebrews 5:12-14 ESV, emphasis mine)
In other words, you can't live only on milk forever, even though that is a very basic ("foundational") food. Babies start out their lives on milk. Then they move on to foods like cereal and applesauce. But they don't stop there! A diet of milk and cereal and applesauce is not a healthy, well-rounded diet for anyone who is no longer a baby.
That's the message from the writer of Hebrews. You can't go through life on nothing but milk. A healthy spiritual diet consists of more than milk. There needs to be some solid food. Some meat!
Seth shared these verses with the analogy of changing your spiritual meal plan. Moving on to solid food.
At this season of my life I am no longer quite so excited about some of the foods I loved as a child. Perhaps you could say the same. And that's the message from this passage. We don't live all our lives eating the same foods we ate as infants; we shouldn't do that spiritually either.
As I've been pondering this passage this morning, I think the message from the writer may be even more direct than that. It seems to me the message the writer is trying to convey is very simple: Grow up!
And that brings us back to the title of this post. What are you "eating", in a spiritual sense, today?
"I have not departed from the command of His lips; I have treasured the words of His mouth more than my necessary food." (Job 23:12 NASB)
Friday, October 10, 2014
We Sure Do Need Him Now
If you dig back into your memory bank, you may recall the words to an old gospel song that went something like this: If we never needed the Lord before, we sure do need Him now.
When I was a child, I often heard my parents, and my grandmother, and other adults I knew, saying things like I just don't know what the world is coming to.
They would certainly be saying that this week, if they were still here.
The culture wars heated up even more this week with the U.S. Supreme Court's decision, or lack of decision, concerning same sex marriage.
In a city near me, the rainbow flag is now flying on city hall. No other flag is allowed to be flown on that building. Not even the flag of these United States. But that rainbow flag is proudly displayed.
It's a sad day in our history, in my opinion. For more than four thousand years, marriage has been defined as the union between a man and a woman. Suddenly, that truth is no longer true. All because somebody decided that just didn't work for them any more.
And that is only one example of how we have turned - and are continuing to turn - our backs on God.
Did you hear that children in one school district are no longer to be referred to as "boys" and "girls"? Instead they are to be referred to as "purple penguins" so nobody's feelings are hurt.
May God have mercy on us.
"In those days there was no king in Israel. Everyone did what was right in his own eyes." (Judges 21:25 ESV)
"There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death." (Proverbs 14:12 ESV)
"If my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land." (2 Chronicles 7:14 ESV)
"If God doesn't come soon and bring judgment upon the United States, He's going to have to apologize to Sodom and Gomorrah!" - Ruth Bell Graham
When I was a child, I often heard my parents, and my grandmother, and other adults I knew, saying things like I just don't know what the world is coming to.
They would certainly be saying that this week, if they were still here.
The culture wars heated up even more this week with the U.S. Supreme Court's decision, or lack of decision, concerning same sex marriage.
In a city near me, the rainbow flag is now flying on city hall. No other flag is allowed to be flown on that building. Not even the flag of these United States. But that rainbow flag is proudly displayed.
It's a sad day in our history, in my opinion. For more than four thousand years, marriage has been defined as the union between a man and a woman. Suddenly, that truth is no longer true. All because somebody decided that just didn't work for them any more.
And that is only one example of how we have turned - and are continuing to turn - our backs on God.
Did you hear that children in one school district are no longer to be referred to as "boys" and "girls"? Instead they are to be referred to as "purple penguins" so nobody's feelings are hurt.
May God have mercy on us.
"In those days there was no king in Israel. Everyone did what was right in his own eyes." (Judges 21:25 ESV)
"There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death." (Proverbs 14:12 ESV)
"If my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land." (2 Chronicles 7:14 ESV)
"If God doesn't come soon and bring judgment upon the United States, He's going to have to apologize to Sodom and Gomorrah!" - Ruth Bell Graham
Thursday, October 9, 2014
The Gift of Friendship
I spent the last couple of days with my friend Jean. Actually, I should probably say "with one of my friends named Jean" since, as I have been thinking about it, I have realized I have quite a few friends with that name! In any event, this particular Jean and I have been good friends for almost 20 years. The friendship really blossomed when we were both living in Brandon, Florida. Now we both live in other places and meet up a couple of times a year in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, which is the midway point.
These last couple of days were great fun. I got a head start on some Christmas shopping. I bought another coffee mug at Old Mill Pottery. I bought some new clothes. And I found some bargains. Great fun indeed!
I always look forward to these trips. The shopping is fun. And there's great value in shopping with a friend who will not let you buy something that doesn't look good on you, no matter how much you might like it! But even more than the shopping, I look forward to the girlfriend time. Good conversation. Catching up. Encouraging one another. That's the best part of the trip. And this trip was no exception. It was a really good couple of days.
Thinking back over the trip this morning has me also thinking about friendship in general, and more specifically, thinking about the many friends who have graced my life over the years.
There's the friend who opens her home and gives me the key. The friend who once baby-sat my houseplants while we were in the process of moving. The friend who baby-sits my dog. The friend who brought soup and other food when I had the flu and Al was out of town. Friends with whom I have shared laughter. And tears. And coffee. And pie.
Friends who understand (and put up with!) my moods. Friends who know when a hug is needed, without a word being spoken. Friends I've traveled with and laughed with and cried with. Friends who have been there for life's happiest moments, like my wedding or the birth of my children. Friends who were there in life's saddest hours, like when my parents died.
Friends who love the Bible. Who love the study of the Word. Who love Jesus.
Friends are among life's greatest blessings. If wealth were to be measured in terms of friendship, I am wealthy indeed. And so grateful to God for the friends that bless my life.
Especially grateful for the best of all friends. Especially grateful for Jesus!
"A friend loves at all times." (Proverbs 17:17 ESV)
These last couple of days were great fun. I got a head start on some Christmas shopping. I bought another coffee mug at Old Mill Pottery. I bought some new clothes. And I found some bargains. Great fun indeed!
I always look forward to these trips. The shopping is fun. And there's great value in shopping with a friend who will not let you buy something that doesn't look good on you, no matter how much you might like it! But even more than the shopping, I look forward to the girlfriend time. Good conversation. Catching up. Encouraging one another. That's the best part of the trip. And this trip was no exception. It was a really good couple of days.
Thinking back over the trip this morning has me also thinking about friendship in general, and more specifically, thinking about the many friends who have graced my life over the years.
There's the friend who opens her home and gives me the key. The friend who once baby-sat my houseplants while we were in the process of moving. The friend who baby-sits my dog. The friend who brought soup and other food when I had the flu and Al was out of town. Friends with whom I have shared laughter. And tears. And coffee. And pie.
Friends who understand (and put up with!) my moods. Friends who know when a hug is needed, without a word being spoken. Friends I've traveled with and laughed with and cried with. Friends who have been there for life's happiest moments, like my wedding or the birth of my children. Friends who were there in life's saddest hours, like when my parents died.
Friends who love the Bible. Who love the study of the Word. Who love Jesus.
Friends are among life's greatest blessings. If wealth were to be measured in terms of friendship, I am wealthy indeed. And so grateful to God for the friends that bless my life.
Especially grateful for the best of all friends. Especially grateful for Jesus!
"A friend loves at all times." (Proverbs 17:17 ESV)
Tuesday, October 7, 2014
Thankful
The last couple of weeks have been busier than normal. That leaves me feeling a bit weary, but also gives me so many extra reasons for thanksgiving.
This morning I've been reflecting on some of the reasons I have for feeling thankful.
Here's a portion of my Tuesday Thankful List:
Overwhelmed by the goodness of God. Overwhelmed by all the ways He has blessed me. Just overwhelmed.
"For from his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace." (John 1:16 ESV)
This morning I've been reflecting on some of the reasons I have for feeling thankful.
Here's a portion of my Tuesday Thankful List:
- I'm thankful for my husband. He knows me best, and he loves me anyway! This week I'm especially thankful for the way he cares for me when I'm not feeling well.
- thankful that Christopher got his cast off last week.
- thankful for my church, and this week particularly thankful for the church's commitment to missions and for our Global Mpact Celebration last week.
- thankful for my pastor.
- thankful for my Life Group.
- thankful for the opportunity to teach God's Word.
- thankful for friends who welcomed me into their home for the week so I could participate in the GMC. (Thank you, Cathy and Mike!)
- thankful for a friend (Cathy!) who enjoys pumpkin pancakes as much as I do!
- thankful for friendships that last for years and years, in spite of time and distance.
- thankful to be seeing one of those friends later today for some laughter and retail therapy!
- thankful for social media that allows me to keep in touch with friends across the country and the world.
- thankful for the beauty of these mountains, especially at this time of the year.
- thankful for all of you who read this blog.
- thankful for the great blessing of God's Word.
- and thankful for Jesus!
Overwhelmed by the goodness of God. Overwhelmed by all the ways He has blessed me. Just overwhelmed.
"For from his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace." (John 1:16 ESV)
Monday, October 6, 2014
What's Your 'Therefore'?
We're continuing in our study of Hebrews in our Sunday morning Bible study. It's a fascinating study! Yesterday our focus was on Hebrews 4:14-5:10......Jesus as our High Priest.
In any Bible study, not just in this study of Hebrews, there are some key principles to follow in order to come to an accurate understanding of the passage. One such principle is to look for repeated words and phrases that can lead us to understand what the passage is about. In this particular portion of Hebrews, high priest is a repeated phrase. That's what these verses are all about. Jesus is our High Priest.
Another principle of Bible study is to look for terms of conclusion. Words like therefore. And we look to see what the therefore is there for. We try to understand what conclusion the author is leading us to. And what conclusions we should draw concerning our own thinking or behavior or belief.
I shared with our group yesterday that, in many ways, this letter to the Hebrews reminds me of an attorney arguing his case in court. Or of a doctoral dissertation. The author of Hebrews begins with his opening statement, his thesis statement, his statement of who Jesus is. That is found in Hebrews 1:1-3:
Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world. He [Jesus] is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power. After making purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high.
Then the writer begins making his case, drawing his conclusions.
Because it is true that Jesus is the Son of God, the radiance of God's glory, and the exact imprint of God's nature, and that God has spoken to us through Jesus.....
"Therefore, we must pay much closer to what we have heard, lest we drift away from it." (Hebrews 2:1 ESV)
"Therefore, we must take care lest [we] have an evil, unbelieving heart." (Hebrews 3:12 ESV)
"Therefore, we must consider Jesus, the apostle and high priest of our confession....." (Hebrews 3:1 ESV)
"Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession." (Hebrews 4:14 ESV)
It was a duty of the high priest to enter the Holy of Holies once a year, to make atonement for the sins of the people and for his own sin.
Jesus, our great high priest, has made atonement for our sins. There was no need for Him to atone for His own sin, since He was always without sin. He became the sacrifice for our sin, making the sacrifice once for all. For all sin. For all people. For all time. And he opened the way for us into the very presence of God! That's why Jesus is better!
And that's where the therefore becomes important for us. It isn't enough just to know what the Scripture says. Or even to understand what it means. We must also apply it. We must do something about what we have learned. Otherwise we have only engaged in mental exercise. What we learn needs to have an effect on how we think or how we behave.
Which brings us back to the title of this post.
Knowing who Jesus is, and knowing what He has done, what's your 'therefore'?
What are you going to do with what you know?
How will it affect your attitudes and your actions?
Who do you know who needs to know this truth?
What difference does it make in your life today?
What's your therefore?
"Therefore, let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need." (Hebrews 4:16 NASB)
Thursday, October 2, 2014
From Top to Bottom - a Throwback Thursday post
The following post was originally published on April 25, 2014. As I have been preparing our Life Group lesson for this Sunday, my thoughts have returned to this post. So, in honor of "Throwback Thursday", I'm "throwing back" to April and reposting it in its entirety, just as it appeared on April 25.
One week ago, we observed Good Friday, the day Christ Jesus died. The day He paid the price for your sin and mine, for the sin of the whole world.
"And Jesus cried out with a loud voice and yielded up his spirit." (Matthew 27:50 ESV)
On that day, according to the Gospel of Matthew, another important event occurred. "And behold, the curtain of the temple was torn in two, from top to bottom." (Matthew 27:51 ESV)
In those days there was a temple in Jerusalem, on the Temple Mount, in the place where the Dome of the Rock now stands. That temple had been constructed according to the pattern given by God in the Old Testament. There was an outer court where the altar was located. There was a Holy Place, which contained the altar of incense, the table of showbread, and the golden lampstand. And there was the Holy of Holies, where the Mercy Seat was, on the Ark of the Covenant.
The Holy Place was separated from the Holy of Holies by a heavy curtain. sometimes called a veil. This veil was more than twenty yards high and more than four inches thick. Only the High Priest could enter the Holy of Holies, and only once a year on the Day of Atonement.
But on Crucifixion Friday, that heavy curtain was torn in two, from top to bottom!
What's the significance of that?
"Through His own blood, [Jesus] entered the holy place once for all, having obtained eternal redemption." (Hebrews 9:12 NASB)
"Therefore we have confidence to enter the holy place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way which He inaugurated for us through the veil, that is, His flesh." (Hebrews 10:19-20 NASB)
Because the veil was torn, because Jesus gave His life for us, we can now go directly into the Holy of Holies. We now have access, through Christ, directly to the Father! All because of what Jesus did for us!
Because it is true that the veil was torn, and because it is true that we can now confidently enter the holy place, and because of what Jesus accomplished for us, what are we to do?
We are to draw near: "Let us draw near with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith." (Hebrews 10:22 NASB)
We are to hold fast: "Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful." (Hebrews 10:23 NASB)
We are to consider: "Let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds. (Hebrews 10:24 NASB)
We are to encourage: "Encouraging one another." (Hebrews 10:25 NASB)
The veil was torn.
It was torn from top to bottom. That means it was not torn by man, but by God.
The veil prevented men from access to the Holy of Holies, the symbol of the place where God dwelt.
The veil was torn, allowing access to the Holy of Holies. It was torn at the precise moment that Christ died on that cross.
Christ's death allows us access into the Holy of Holies! Christ's death allows us into relationship with God the Father through the blood of Christ the Son.
And that is a reason to celebrate! Not just on Good Friday or on Easter Sunday. But every day!
Because of Jesus, we can boldly approach the throne of God! Hallelujah!
"Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need." (Hebrews 4:16 ESV, emphasis mine)
Listen to TRUTH sing "Holy of Holies" here: http://youtu.be/6xuBp-4DDhU
One week ago, we observed Good Friday, the day Christ Jesus died. The day He paid the price for your sin and mine, for the sin of the whole world.
"And Jesus cried out with a loud voice and yielded up his spirit." (Matthew 27:50 ESV)
On that day, according to the Gospel of Matthew, another important event occurred. "And behold, the curtain of the temple was torn in two, from top to bottom." (Matthew 27:51 ESV)
In those days there was a temple in Jerusalem, on the Temple Mount, in the place where the Dome of the Rock now stands. That temple had been constructed according to the pattern given by God in the Old Testament. There was an outer court where the altar was located. There was a Holy Place, which contained the altar of incense, the table of showbread, and the golden lampstand. And there was the Holy of Holies, where the Mercy Seat was, on the Ark of the Covenant.
The Holy Place was separated from the Holy of Holies by a heavy curtain. sometimes called a veil. This veil was more than twenty yards high and more than four inches thick. Only the High Priest could enter the Holy of Holies, and only once a year on the Day of Atonement.
But on Crucifixion Friday, that heavy curtain was torn in two, from top to bottom!
What's the significance of that?
"Through His own blood, [Jesus] entered the holy place once for all, having obtained eternal redemption." (Hebrews 9:12 NASB)
"Therefore we have confidence to enter the holy place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way which He inaugurated for us through the veil, that is, His flesh." (Hebrews 10:19-20 NASB)
Because the veil was torn, because Jesus gave His life for us, we can now go directly into the Holy of Holies. We now have access, through Christ, directly to the Father! All because of what Jesus did for us!
Because it is true that the veil was torn, and because it is true that we can now confidently enter the holy place, and because of what Jesus accomplished for us, what are we to do?
We are to draw near: "Let us draw near with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith." (Hebrews 10:22 NASB)
We are to hold fast: "Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful." (Hebrews 10:23 NASB)
We are to consider: "Let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds. (Hebrews 10:24 NASB)
We are to encourage: "Encouraging one another." (Hebrews 10:25 NASB)
The veil was torn.
It was torn from top to bottom. That means it was not torn by man, but by God.
The veil prevented men from access to the Holy of Holies, the symbol of the place where God dwelt.
The veil was torn, allowing access to the Holy of Holies. It was torn at the precise moment that Christ died on that cross.
Christ's death allows us access into the Holy of Holies! Christ's death allows us into relationship with God the Father through the blood of Christ the Son.
And that is a reason to celebrate! Not just on Good Friday or on Easter Sunday. But every day!
Because of Jesus, we can boldly approach the throne of God! Hallelujah!
"Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need." (Hebrews 4:16 ESV, emphasis mine)
Listen to TRUTH sing "Holy of Holies" here: http://youtu.be/6xuBp-4DDhU
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