Cries of Injustice!

Pick up any newspaper or watch any news program and there are cries of injustice in the streets. Pictures and videos are prolific with calls for justice and cries of injustice in cities all across America. It seems to be in escapable because it’s in our social media feeds of unwanted ads and commentaries about how unjust our society is. Whether social unrest or political talking points through columns that never cease to rest, we are inundated with the constant message, “No Justice, No Peace.” Before you turn this article off and swipe to the next, you may be surprised to read that this is not just another in-your-face political bully pulpit commentary.

The message I have today is actually filled with hope. It is a message that has eternal value that can change lives and promote incredible goodwill. Today’s article is a message that it’s not only positive but it is timeless and it promotes neighborly love. My title is not an attempt to deceive or mislead you into another “fake news article. It is not a bait and switch trick. If you know me you will also know that I find authority, not of my own, but in the authority of the Word of God, The Bible. My faith is grounded in God’s Word where I find hope and love in original form! I not only believe and story the Bible but I am also developing a relationship with the author of the Bible, God.

Today, I am reflecting and drawing parallel from the narrative of injustice that we read and see in the media today. The world is very hostile and injustice is crying out in our streets. Aside from the political aspects to these issues, I am humbled by the incredible need that there is on issues of injustice while at the same time challenged by the opportunities to offer hope and care for the least and the lost of society. 

I have encouraging words to share related to this and other hot-button issues. I know that the answer is not found entirely in political ways but can be found in Christ. I believe that we can be an advocate for those that have no voice (as referenced in Proverbs 31:8-9). I believe that the ground is level at the foot of the cross. I also know that protesting peacefully is not all together bad. I know that rioting and ranting loudly is not the answer! 

Yet, in spite of all of the social ills of our communities there is hope! I know that it is because of sin that we have injustice. The world is not fair. If you are breathing, you will see and likely be impacted personally by injustice. The inequities of life are not always solved through man-made remedies. We should promote justice but we need to also understand that there are solutions that exceed our human efforts. 

The Bible talks about injustice and the role that the follower of Jesus. It is to promote peace, love, and hope to those in need. We are called to love our neighbor. The golden rule originates from the Bible!

I find that God, through Jesus Christ, made the greatest sacrifice to bring eternal reparations to brokenness. In fact, the most unjust verse I can find is in Romans 5:8 that reads; “But God demonstrated His love for us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.”

This is freeing for me and many others who have discovered personally the tremendous blessing of having my sin forgiven and I am made right in the Lord. It tells me that while I was in sin and doing wrong, God paid the price for my sin. 

It seems like a terrible injustice that an innocent man (Christ) would love me, though I am unlovable and sinful. It is unfair for Him to give His life up for my sin! That is the injustice beyond compare! 

If I am found in His grace and forgiven we are brought into faith through Christ, I should be grateful for His love endures forever! I don’t deserve it but in Christ I am transformed beyond believe and able to love my neighbor because of His love for me. 

The next time we read or see injustice, indeed we should respond; we cannot be silent. Yet, coming to the issue with an understanding that the problem is sin. Racial injustice or discrimination is not what the Bible (through Christ) promotes. However, we must understand that the problem is sin. The heart is wicked apart from the grace of God through Christ! 

How do we resolve this problem? How to seek reconciliation? Where does eternal live originate?

It is only through God’s Grace (not religious affiliation) that changed everything! We must be people who are humble and caring. We must be people who care for the least and lost of our world; they are the real victims in the political quagmire!

Look up and see that the only hope we have for injustice is the grace of Jesus Christ. This grace produces a love for the human race! My friend once posted on Facebook (see image). She wrote that “we need to put more effort into winning the human race instead of the political race.”

Grace levels the playing field. Love triumph over injustice. Knowing verses in the Bible is one thing but knowing the author (God) is all together different! It is the Word of God that provides wisdom on how to understand the Will of God that comes through a personal relationship with the author of the greatest love letter (Bible). 

Concerned about injustice? We should be! Yet, beyond this is the incredible truth that at the foot of the cross, the ground is level. Grace is freely given to all through the message of salvation that gives hope to all. Indeed, this side of heaven we will need to advocate for love that is eternal and truth That never returns void. 

The ground is level at the food of the Cross! 

Assemble The Church!

I was seated with other pastors from across Northern Indiana. Those that gathered have a passion for Christ that is impressive. I felt humbled to be in attendance. I believe prayer changes things! 

Led by Pastor Gordon Henke, the gathering has not met since before the COVID19 lockdown. Pastor Gordon told the group, “Many things have changed! God has not changed.” 

This open assembly is a ministry of prayer in hopes to see revival happen. The passion of those that gathered is to see God’s Kingdom come. Showing a music video set the time of the meeting. Buck and Dottie Rambo’s Song from the 80 is still relevant today, “His Kingdom”. Lyrics include, “When His Kingdom comes what a difference...”

Those who gathered were challenged to let the light of Christ shine. This “light is coming to this place,” says Pastor Gordon. He reminded the group that God is pleased with and sees us gatherers to pray. Pastors gather from several denominations, the assembly of pastors from northern Indiana speak of repentance and humility! Prayers and statements like, “We need you, Oh God!” can be heard. 

Pastor Gordon shared that when he felt the need to pray that God impresses in him to assemble the Church. He confessed that he may not be the perfect man to call the church to prayer but he confessed that he must be obedient. 

Praying for the Nation, the Church, and church leadership was central. Pastor Gordon quotes a saying when he read his notes, “...better to live on my knees than die on my feet.” 

Prays for reconciliation, end of violence, repentance, have been heard. Passages of the Bible were read by several including Pastor Mike (Host from Crossroads, Plymouth) who read Philippians 4:4-7. He stated to let your requests be made known to God.

Fervent prayers were openly stated. Freely people cried out to God on behalf of our Nation. Scriptures were shared from Ephesians 6:12 and 2 Corinthians 10:4; and passages from John 14.

Like prior meetings from September, 2019 this gathering asked that people be free to pray openly. A call for revival and repentance was echoed by many. “The prayers of the righteous are effective,” stated one who prayed. “Receive our repentance,” was heard by another. 

A call for National repentance was shared in the reading of Micah 1. The nation is needing a cleansing and a call for repentance for the wrong that we see. “Sin has beset a nation,” says one. Others read from Habakkuk echoing a similar message of our need for repentance. 

Many focused on the National Prayer Assembly in Washington, D.C. that is happening this upcoming weekend from when this group gathered. A call for brokenness was shared! A call to ReviveINDIANA and those from that organization who are attending the National Prayer event. 

The gathering was smaller than past events but the enthusiasm was similar. There was a desire to repent and be restored. Those that gathered are united by a live for The Word of God and prayer. Psalm 81:12-13was read as a reminder to “call each other out if we see sin in the life of our brothers and sisters,” as one pastor said.

While a theme and prayer requests is shared, the tone of the meeting takes in its own meaning. Pastor Gordon said at the outset of the meeting that, “Maybe it is time to put on sack cloths and ashes.” 

The focussed prayer time met for two hours to pour out prayer and read scripture as people were impressed to share. Name tags were handed out but only to add your name and county pastors and guests were coming from. “We don’t need to know what Church we represent,” said Gordon. “We are from the “big C Church,” he shared.

Isaiah 55:11 — It is the same with my word. I send it out, and it always produces fruit. It will accomplish all I want it to, and it will prosper everywhere I send it.

The Resume!

If you have lived and struggled it is likely that you have graduated from the school of hard knocks. It’s life experience the teaches you a few lessons that shaped who you are and likely sharpen your skills along the way. For me, I think I may have been a graduate student (Masters level) and likely never to receive my diploma because I feel as if every each day I had another lesson in a perpetual series of classes. Unfortunately, I didn’t always do well on the exam.

The good news is, there’s a lot that I can put on my resume. While it might not be a certified transcript from an accredited institution, nevertheless it has taught me certain skills that shape who I am. Life’s challenges are indeed the hallmark for achievement. When applying for our first job we may have been turned down because experience was needed. Eventually we start hearing that we are over experienced because of our age. Yet, somehow in the middle we find a career and a profession or vocation based on our skills, education, and mostly experiences.

I have been criticized for working too hard. In one of my ministries I averaged over 80 hours weekly and still volunteered my time as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA). I did chaplaincy work in another ministry where I would serve after 10 pm through early morning; getting just a few hours of sleep I would report to the office the next morning by 8:00 AM. Of course I needed to spend more time at home!  

Those ideals where drilled into me by my father who believed in hard work. His motto could have been, “Do all you can!” I am reminded of a quote I read, “A recent scientific study showed that out of 2,293,618,397 people, 94% are too lazy to actually read that number.” (I hope you are willing to read further!)

Wisdom prevails when it comes to experience. Nothing can beat personal experience. The lessons we’ve learned help us interpret life and make good choices. 

Theodore Roosevelt was a terrific historian and tremendous leader at the turn of the 20th century. His resume was built through rugged hard work and through tough individualism. It was through his experience of leading the Roughriders and furthering his career as a strong and independently-minded person that created the brand that we know him as now. He’s often known for advocating for individual achievement and hard work ethics that earned him tremendous stature as a strong man. Winning battles and achieving through hard work became symbols of his brand. His resume was based on his large achievements and perseverance and mostly experience.

As I comb through the Bible it’s easy to come upon another individual who reminds me of a similar personality, both before and after his conversion. The apostle Paul is that rugged individual that seems to also have a tremendous resume of experiences. 2 Corinthians 11:23 - 28 is a summary of his resume.

“Are they servants of Christ? I know I sound like a madman, but I have served him far more! I have worked harder, been put in prison more often, been whipped times without number, and faced death again and again. Five different times the Jewish leaders gave me thirty-nine lashes. Three times I was beaten with rods. Once I was stoned. Three times I was shipwrecked. Once I spent a whole night and a day adrift at sea. I have traveled on many long journeys. I have faced danger from rivers and from robbers. I have faced danger from my own people, the Jews, as well as from the Gentiles. I have faced danger in the cities, in the deserts, and on the seas. And I have faced danger from men who claim to be believers but are not. I have worked hard and long, enduring many sleepless nights. I have been hungry and thirsty and have often gone without food. I have shivered in the cold, without enough clothing to keep me warm.

**Then, besides all this, I have the daily burden of my concern for all the churches.**” -- 2 Corinthians 11:23-28 (Astrid added)

There are very few people who have such an impressive resume. While there are many in history, I know of none personally. But, I do know is that this as a person of high achievement and, in the midst of struggle, has persevered. I believe it certainly rest on the understanding that the apostle Paul had a Calling from the Lord. Even a tremendous testimony of his conversion.

Too often I find people who are willing to give up and just the moment that they could have achieved. Too often we hear of those that have backtracked because it was simply too hard to step forward. Too often we see individuals who are given a pass and excuses are made when they had every reason to move ahead.

I look back on how many times my plans were thwarted and if had I just simply had hung on just a little bit longer could’ve made the different. Even toward the end of Paul’s life we find in the book of Philippians that Paul drew his strength from the Lord. I’m impressed that while he was in prison one of the most impressive statements is that he concludes that letter by giving greetings and especially calling out those of the household of Caesar. These were the ones that have come to faith likely because of the influence of Paul during his house arrest and imprisonment.  Even though he had every reason to give up yet, he continued to build his resume for the work of the Lord. He spoke truth and saw converts even among the high-ranking officials of Caesars Palace.

Could I or any of us conclude our lives with such a resume? Could any one of us write down a list of those whose lives have been changed because of our impact on their lives? We never really know when our final day is to come, yet, we should be about our fathers business each and every day by sharing our faith. Our message is filled with the hope we have through Christ who gives us strength. 

Let us not retire, nor grow tired but build a resume of experiences for God’s glory!

The Living Hope!

Today I want to encourage us because of the living Word of God. Today’s blog entry is a reminder that there is a living hope! 

There are at least three things I need to  understand in order that we can see that God is active and living. He is active in His creation and by His Word, the Bible in our lives. 

God spoke!

In Genesis we see that God always has been. The Bible starts out with, “In the beginning God.” The fact that God has always been is important. It is in understanding thus that as He created life. it was through Him that gave order to life! 

Many debate how God did it. The Bible makes it clear that His creation began to be described by His Word when it reads, “...and God said”. The world became because God spoke the living Word.

We see further that the Word was living and life began as He spoke it into being. Psalms 33:6 reads; “The LORD merely spoke, and the heavens were created. He breathed the word,and all the stars were born.”

The translation here uses the word, merely. It is an adverb that means, “only as specified and nothing more; simply”. I love that word because it seemed easy for God. It was simply by the spoken Word!

The Word already existed.

A word we often talk about and read is LOGOS. It is a Greek word which means order and logic. From nothing God created order. Before creation there was nothing but God created order in His creation. We know by reading John 1:1-3 that the Word already existed. It was not created but all of creation was by the spoke word; it already existed!  

John 1:1-3 is how we come to understand the origin of his Word as it reads, “In the beginning the Word already existed. The Word was with God, and the Word was God. He existed in the beginning with God. God created everything through him, and nothing was created except through him.”

Scripture reminds us that the Word is eternal. The Word of God not only has always existed but it was by what God spoke into being. The Scripture says that God’s Word never returns void. (Isaiah 55:11) It is a truth that reminds us that the word of God as eternal substance, not just for this world but also the next. We read about God’s kingdom and that Jesus came to reveal his kingdom on earth but it is by his word that it comes into being.

Isaiah 55:11 — It is the same with my word. I send it out, and it always produces fruit. It will accomplish all I want it to, and it will prosper everywhere I send it.

A love for His Word. 

I think I enjoy preaching and teaching the Word most because it’s the opportunity to remind people of the eternal hope. We can have this hope through the living God and living Word.  It begins by my love for the Bible!

We have a living hope because of the eternal blessing that can only come from the Word of God. 1 Timothy 4:10 reads, “This is why we work hard and continue to struggle, for our hope is in the living God, who is the Savior of all people and particularly of all believers.”

It is hardest to live it out! (not just preach truth). Living out what is preached or taught is the toughest! Applying and being discipled in the Word of God is clearly challenging but, God also gives us strength to accomplish his will for our lives. Since His Word is eternal it also means that His principles and precepts are eternal. It becomes a way of life!

What is the life verse that keeps me on track? 

My life verse is from Philippians 1:6 that reads and reminds me daily, “And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.”

When I discovered my life verse, it wasn’t magical but, the Lord impressed on me that this verse was specific to me. It became an anchor for me so that during troubled waters I can remain calm and it keeps me from drifting.

My challenge for us is to memorize passages from the Word that have deep meaning and deep application to our lives. What is your favorite one?

Measure of Church Health

I have pastored in churches for many years and I’ve often wondered how I could measure not only my church growth but also church health. There are many parameters that we use today from personality test to emotional intelligence and the like but is there a measurement for church health?

Experts will tell us that we can measure our churches impact on church growth. Often churches have become event oriented in an effort to draw people in but during the lock down of the corona virus this past spring and throughout the summer it has caused many churches to reevaluate their impact. Going online and attracting more individuals just left church with an uneasy feeling and many ask themselves if truly they are making a difference?

When I pastored I worked hard at getting people involved in the ministry. One of the the strategies came as a result something I was passionate about. I was interested in engaging others in the process and seeing them rise to the leadership level and be involved in ministry. As they made great strides it also raised the level of impact of the church. Even today, my ministry context in a para-church organization once again is looking for ways to involve others. I’d like to see peoples stepping up and taking on the ministry that they can lead. Perhaps that’s a way to measure church health is by getting people involved?

Today I want to offer yet another idea on church health. I believe that the level of compassion for the church has toward others, especially those outside the church, could be a great measurement tool. The church's “compassionate intelligence ratio” could be perhaps the most important quality in the life of the church. Jesus spoke of this over-and-over by how He demonstrated through His life but also what He said about love. Jesus had compassion and His example, I believe is a measurement instrument and has a direct impact on the way we measure our church health.

As church encourages their people to reach out and love others in the name of Jesus, it raises the tide for the church to a place that we can measure its impact. Having loving and compassionate ministries while at the same time engaging others in the process is a terrific measurement.

More basic than that is a simple question of how we treat those less fortunate than ourselves? Perhaps it’s a question for our church; about the way in which they treat the least in the lost of our community? I believe that the care for the orphans and widows as recorded in the book of James gives us a biblical reference point and a measurement tool.

Foster Care and the ministry to those serving this sector is one way of activating the compassion intelligent ratio. How often does the church talk about and engage the church in the ministry to the orphan of today (those in foster care and at-risk youth)? 

Perhaps God would have put community of the faithful to also be people of compassion? It is just as important to be compassionate and caring as to be concerned about the attendance as just numbers or the financials as ways to measure health. 

I defer to the heart of God who saw the multitudes as sheep without a shepherd. (Matthew 9:36) He said that our light should shine in darkness so that others can see the face of God! (2 Cor. 4:6)

I look to the scripture that tells me that God is interested in the care and welfare of the least and the lost of our communities as recorded in Proverbs 31:8-9 which reads; “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves; ensure justice for those being crushed. Yes, speak up for the poor and helpless, and see that they get justice.“

I marvel at the message that is a repeated theme over-and-over to love and care for the orphan. James makes it clear that true religion is the care for the orphan as recorded in James 1:27 Which reads; “Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you.“

In summary we can understand the heart of God as recorded in Psalms 82:3-4 which reads; “Give justice to the poor and the orphan; uphold the rights of the oppressed and the destitute. Rescue the poor and helpless; deliver them from the grasp of evil people.“

...Because God Sees and Acts!

The story of the most vulnerable is that of injustice filled with tragedy and pain, yet, mixed with fear and uncertainty! Just look around and you can’t help but realize how important the topic of injustice! Although, most of the time, the plight of homelessness, poverty, and abuse is hidden behind closed doors. These are hidden behind the doors of homes and hidden in neighborhoods that most will not pass through. 

At no fault of her own, 12-year old Andreana is just one story of many. Even as relevant as this week, when my son (who serves as a police officer) was dispatched to a home when a child needed to be sheltered due to neglect. The need of the vulnerable is not always at the forefront of our minds.

Andreana’s story is real. She had to pack a few of her treasures and clothing  unclear about how long she will be removed from the only home and family she knows. No matter the level of abuse or neglect, this is the only thing she knows. The lost-ness fear and is normal for her! No matter the abuse, 

We may read the headlines or police blotter notations in newspapers or on TV. 

But, God sees and acts! Why? What is it about our lowly estate that God should care?

We read Proverbs 31:8-9 ... it tells us of His posture of care and compassion. :: 

“Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves; ensure justice for those being crushed. Yes, speak up for the poor and helpless, and see that they get justice.”

Why should we care? I believe it is a cause nearest to the heart of almighty God. It is for that very purpose .... Because God sees and acts! 

It is precisely for the very reason that God cares that we should also care to see and acts! 

The least and the lost needs our compassion because God sees and acts! 

What represents those most vulnerable? Children and the Widow. (In Biblical times and even today, these were the ones that held no rights or political power!)

Mark 9:37 — “Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me does not welcome me but the one who sent me.”

God (through Christ) demonstrates His Love and care establishing universal understanding of those in need and care! 

We can see and take action in two ways:

1. Prayer — It is a way to see with God’s eyes.

Don’t pray little prayers. Pray expected-ly that only God can provide!

How many times do we pray prayers that we are able to answer? If we see a need, full that need.

Pray bigger prayers that only God can answer! 

2. Support — Acting for those servicing the needs! 

Sometimes the prayers that we pray can be answered by around Resources yet we give praise to God Almighty in for his glory!

We know that God causes us to act, and especially as we pray. He also causes others to act as we pray as well. At least on the hearts of those who market is called ones! 

We act because he acted in compassion toward us. Hope we have is because of Jesus. The joy we experience comes from him. Peace that passes all understanding is also a blessing that comes from him, among many others.

** Psalms 147:3 (NKJV ) reads:,”He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.”

Today is but a reminder of the incredible gift of God‘s love both at work because of we prayer and in response to prayer. We can believe that God hears and answers prayers because this is near to the heart of God ... because God sees & acts!

Performance Driven Yet Spiritually Empty

The Type-A personality is one that is driven by passion and enthusiasm. It is a person that is often fraught with complexities and can be toxic to the health of an organization. A person may be performance driven yet spiritually empty. Today I want to discuss my own inadequacies and vulnerabilities as I share this entry.

I derive my energy from being with people. I enjoy hearing their stories and encouraging them to pursue even greater risk and achievements. Perhaps, I am too forceful at times and its biggest impact is generally leaving me spiritually empty.

I am he confessed performance driven person. I am inclined to push rather than be led and to drive myself and others. For good or for bad, I can easily find something to do. I don’t let a lot of grass grow under my feet. You might find me wildly enthusiastic and personally driven poured a set of goals that are often internal and stress filled.

I have learned that it’s not the choices we make that ultimately matter but it’s the patterns that develop that present the problem. Habits form overtime including the habits of busyness and performance that can create an unhealthy identity.

While I am driven I find that I am often spiritually empty. In my spiritual life I have found that God does it need my new ideas in that way, going in alone attitude isn’t what God requires. In my younger years I thought that being a good Christian meant being extremely active and busy with a list of items, like checking off the list. I felt that success was dependent on me and it came from a time when I grew up what is the belief that I had to always get things right.

I felt it the more I did the more spiritual I was. I believed that God was pleased with my busyness. My life motto, even today believes that Christine is wasteful. Blaise Pascal becomes my motto: “I have discovered that all human evil comes from this, man’s being unable to sit in a room.” (1623-1662)

As I get older I am probably finding even more distraction in my little world. If my identity is based on what I do or even the outcomes of what I produce, I consider my life is insufficient. This set of beliefs often compete against a life filled with peace and Sabbath. I also come to learn that I place expectations on others and forget that I need to be gracious and respectful. Not everyone has to work the same way I do!

As I am now in recovery from a particular addiction of haste and busyness, I now realize that it was often vanity and superficial spirituality. In my recovery I have discovered that it’s OK to rest and relax.

To look more into this subject read the following article: Performance-based-Christianity.

Perhaps the challenge today is to find what brings you satisfaction and more important what defines your identity. Is your identity in Christ and his grace core upon your personal endeavors as if you have to prove yourself. Throughout my life I felt as if I needed to prove something and perhaps it was my childhood experiences that my outlook or perhaps even a personality orientation but ultimately it was in vanity.

I have learned that I do not have to go in alone and that God does not necessarily keep score of my busyness. Perhaps, like Martha, Jesus needs to remind me that it’s not about doing but it is more about being. In my life I have learned to become less concerned about proving something and more concerned about being in Christ.

In my life I have learned to become less concerned about proving something and more concerned about being in Christ.

Ask yourself a couple questions In a way to self assess. in a way to self assess.

1. Do you feel the need to always take charge and control?

2. Do you track your success based on your accomplishments?

3. Do you need to take credit for success and failure?

4. Are you obsessively worried about what people think of you?

If yes to most of these questions that I encourage you to admit and begin to be on the road of recovery along with me. It’s a life time journey but one that you can find improvements on, especially as we understand that our identity is in Christ alone and not by works. I know for me, I am likely to boast (or take pride ) but thanks be to God for His great love and patience with me.

Gnostic Code Contrary To Real Life!

You may be curious about the title and you may even wonder what I mean by Gnostic code contrary to real life. Today’s blog entry comes from an idea that struck me as I was thinking through how most people live by a code that is not always easy to decipher. I wonder, how many times do we apply Gnostic thinking to the every day life.

Gnosticism was something that was very prevalent in the New Testament but it was not exclusive to that time period. The apostle Paul spoke about this many times when he said that there is a group of people that he often referred to as leading a false religious beliefs called Gnosticism. It was a group of people who felt as if they had a secret yet special knowledge on all things spiritual. They elevated themselves above others as if they lived by a code that most had no way to decipher. It was a way of life that was held to a particular group and a particular way of life. A secret knowledge was the basis of their religious beliefs.

The gospel of Jesus Christ (as in mainline or evangelical churches) is open and free to everyone. The meaning of the gospel is simple to understand and it is based on the work of the Lord Jesus Christ and not of ourselves. It is a way of life that is public and not private, open and not closed, known and not secret. It is understood universally not exclusively.

So, what do I mean by living our lives with a secret knowledge? I often believe that culture plays into this in many ways. There are secret traditions and ways of living that are only known by a few and for insiders more than outsiders. It is perhaps a cult rather than a sectarian religion.

Driving through Amish country I’m reminded that there are over 300 different types of Amish groups. They live life by a series of special codes and ways of life. For the average person it is hard to recognize them but let me tell you a few customs that distinguish themselves from others.

In the Amish life there may be rules that pertain to the type of horse and buggy you drive. Some have open tops while others have canopies. Some have no canopies at all. The way in which they dress may also distinguish them from one another. Some have buttons that are sewn on the outside while others have buttons that are hidden behind fabric. The way in which they wear their hat or the type of hat that they have can also distinguish them from one another. Some have high top while others have thick brims and others have no brim at all.

There are special codes in secrets hidden within the religion that somehow communicate a level of spiritual living. I’m not criticizing the Amish for their way of life, I’d rather admire them, it illustrates my point as it relates to evangelicals and others. We have a way of life that is hidden behind codes with nothing by which to decode it with.

It’s no wonder that evangelism is so difficult. As people trace their religious stream and attempt to defined their faith, they are often confused by the many denominations and churches that we have today. Too often people define their spirituality by their denomination in which most of us know that it is not what gives you access to heaven but it is a way that shows you how and who to believe in to get there. Many “followers” are prideful and maintain a way of life that is like living a secret life, like membership to a club that is only for certain people. 

What if we could explain our way of life in simple terms?

What if we could reveal in simple terms what it is to have faith and become a follower of Christ?

These gospel is pretty plain and easy to understand. We recognize that it is not based upon works or really anything that we do. It is not a mythical array of ideas. It is based on a set of core beliefs through Jesus Christ, who paid the price for our salvation.

Do we make being a Christian complex? Do we allow for God’s grace in the ministry of the Holy Spirit to develop a disciple? Or, have we fixated on the externals like our dress and hair style? Do we make being a Christian complex? Do we allow for God’s grace in the ministry of the Holy Spirit to develop a disciple? Or, have we fixated on the externals like our dress and hair style to determine play Grace is about?

The gospel is basic  and included simple ingredients. It certainly includes love but it is love that transforms our lives in reveals our potential in Christ. 

I remember attending a youth / family camp as a child in which I was restricted in what I could wear and even who I associated with. When I would go to camp meeting there was always somebody there to button my top shirt button and I was not permitted to wear a polo shirt. (Button down shirts and long sleeves were preferred.) They were concerned about my appearance perhaps more than my heart but I know that they love me just the same. The way in which they communicated it to me was out of great concerned for how I lived. 

Going to camp, in a way it was sort of like a Gnostic way of living. I didn’t understand the code but I complied. I didn’t know that there was a heart relationship that I needed to have with God that could bring me understanding of my lifestyle and choices in life. It’s funny but today I prefer to wear a button down shirts.

You may chuckle because in our current generation we are seen quite the opposite. The external dress and tattoos often camouflage the heart. It’s easy to make assumptions isn’t it? You’ve been there too, right!

My hope is that today you can reflect upon what is the secret code by which you live but never telling others about the hope of the Lord Jesus Christ. We believe that more is caught then taught but this is not true in every case. People will see your lifestyle and only judge it as different but not understanding the source upon which you define your life. Unless we tell them of a hope we have in Christ, they may never understand that they too can belong. They need to know that grace and hope are universally available through Christ.

The Scripture teaches that it’s important to tell not just show! I believe it’s never been more important for people to hear your testimony! People may think you are peculiar but unless you say that is because of Jesus, they will never understand why you are different.

This Is Simple For The Lord!

Consider the complexities you and I face everyday. From programming our TV remote to using your mobile phone (like an iPhone or Android). How about online ordering and finding the right information we need for the issue we are trying to solve. COVID-19 as one example. 

Our world is full of complexity! Is not anything simple? I once asked a person for direction. It seemed like I could have followed my simple turn-by-turn directions. Yet, the description was more complex than the problem I was trying to solve. After listening to a long answer from one person that made me wish I had written everything down because after 5 turns I was loosing track of the her description. Then another person who was listening quietly interrupted. She simply said, “I know a simple way!” In just two turns she described to me a much more simple way. She simply started with a point of reference I was familiar with, “Do you know where Walmart is?” 

How many times do we add complexity to simple things? I know I have been a contributor to complex answers. I love it when I instructions are written for dummies like me. I especially like pictures and illustrations. Diagrams help me to see step-by-step directions. It take more discipline to narrow the subject to simple answers. It takes more time to draft and re-draft answers to get to the point. 

God is so infinite and complex. He is bigger than anything our minds can understand yet, He makes Himself known in simple ways. To Adam and Eve, he walked among them in the garden. To Abraham, he came in the form of sojourners and often angels. To Moses He was in the burning bush and gave Himself a name, I AM. The examples continue throughout the Bible. 

The prophet Elisha knew God through relationship. God’s  message was given in simple instructions. In 2 Kings 3:18 Elisha simplified the battle plan by saying that is a simple thing for the Lord. It didn’t have to be overwhelming, detailed, and highly complex. It took faith and a trust in God, yet, it was easy for God! 

The prophets and church fathers knew Him in profoundly simple ways! Reads Hebrews 12 to see what God said about each of our spiritual patriarchs. The gospel is summed up in just a few expressions of love and grace. 

A good leader is able to take complex issues and simplify the answer. It doesn’t mean that it is easy for us but in our simple faith in God, we can find simple answers.

Today my blog is a reminder to remember that while God is complex, His solutions can be understood in simple terms. I remember that my parents often would tell me that to simply trust them. At times they would even say, “Because I say so!” Many times I would simply trust them. It was enough that they would just said because I say so. It is when we put our hand in the hand of God that we can learn to walk with Him through life. 

I am reminded that the first step to understanding is relational. I love the now famed statement by Babby Mason, “When you can’t trace His hand, trust His heart!” God will care for the many details IF we begin by trusting Him!

What Is Christian Success?

We have all heard this question asked over-and-over. From the ranks of celebrities and politicians, success is defined as high achievement and too often wealth. Indeed, while success is driven by the hungry (those who desire and drive for success) it is not just defined by the highest levels of earthly definitions. 

What is Christian success? This is perhaps a contradiction of terms; an oxymoron. (Defined by the opposite of intellectual ideals.) On one hand it is about what we achieve, accomplish, the ability to earn, and the ratings of many. Yet, I am convinced that it is not just the rankings of those at the top. It is also the depths of deepest meaning as well.

I love what Tony Dungy says about success. He has achieved great fame and success in his career as a great football player, winning both college bowl and the Super Bowl as player and coach! No one would ever think of Dungy as not achieving. He now speaks all over the country and the World as he lends his voice to the NFL as well as leading such great causes as All-Pro Dads. 

He says, “Let me suggest that is comes down to what kind of role model we are, especially to children.” (Uncommon Life Devotional Challenge)

Dungy was referring to the life of Dave Thomas as he thought about Christian success and write the quote above. As many know that the Thomas foundation has done much to promote Adoption and even Dave has lived it out through Adoption. It’s important to recognize that a life lived well it’s not about just what you believe but it goes beyond that.

Dungy writes, “Dave Thomas realize that it’s not enough to say the right things. We’ve got to live them out.”

Success in the eyes of the world may be about things and privilege and prestige but in the Christian life, success is more than those things. It is about living both publicly and privately our faith. It’s about making choices and also about behavior, as Dungy further states. It’s about being a role model. Dungy suggest that, “it comes down to what kind of role model we are, especially to children.”

We can read in scripture that the Lord defined faith through the description of being adopted. We read in Ephesians that we have been adopted and by God’s grace, through Jesus Christ and we are children of God.

Ephesians 1:5: God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. This is what he wanted to do, and it gave him great pleasure.

How Can I Pray For You?

 Just look around and you will see, we are living in deprecate times! People are discouraged, depressed, and dealing with destructive addictions of all kinds. I know that you see it too! It seems that we are seeing like never before in our lifetime, people are struggling. Lives are shipwrecked, broken on the shores of an angry ocean.

I believe that there has never been a better time to share our faith in Christ in my lifetime. People are looking for answers to complex issues. The world is angry, fearful, and confused like never before. When we are faithfully sharing g the Word of hope or our testimony of God’s faithful precepts and provisions, the world leans in because many want hope and Truth. 

One of the best ways I have found very effective to share my witness is through prayer! When we ask how can I pray for you, we will discover that people are open and willing to permit us to pray. I can’t tell all the ways I have found this to be true but let me tell you a couple of times I have experienced.

I love to do street evangelism. I am always amazed at how God leads and how the divine doorway opens. Time-after-time, I enjoy meeting strangers and asking them how I can pray for them. Few turn me down. 

Brandon is one example. I called to him across the parking lot. He was minding his own business as he walked across the way. When I called out to him, I simply asked one question. “Hey friend, how can I pray for you?” I imagine you can guess his response! “What?!” As I drew near, he almost took a few steps back. He didn’t expect this line of questioning. He quickly saw that I was sincere and with a smile, he saw that I was meaning to be friendly. We had a great time talking about the grace if God through Jesus. Sure, he told me what he was dealing with. He was surprised that I took a few bucks out of my wallet to meet his immediate need. Without judgement, I prayed for God’s grace and blessings to be upon him. 

I have traveled to hundreds of cities around the country. I have done this with hundreds of others, nearly every city I went through. Store merchants, clerks at grocery stores, waitresses, business men and women minding their own business, simply committing to work and while standing in line at fast food restaurants. (I prefer to go inside to place my order rather than drive-thru.) 

Another time I recall asking the question, how can I pray for you? I was simply going to grab a quick meal at a fast food place. Just outside the front door, being passed by others was a woman who looked to be homeless. I invited her to join me for a meal. I think she said yes only because she was hungry. Likely she thought I was strange. I was not someone that she would naturally share a meal with. 

As we placed our orders, I encouraged her to order anything she wanted. I said that she should buy somethings that she could have for a meal later or tomorrow. 

As we finished ordering g and paying, I asked her how Could I pray for her. Not thinking but, as I prayed for her I was holding up the line. I didn’t move out of the way, letting others order their meal. Interestingly, I quickly finished my prayer to loom up and see that everyone in line were also in a posture of prayer. No one rushed me. No one said mean things. In fact, I believe that they joined me in prayer because of their own need for prayer. Hope was present. The Kingdom of God had come to all of us during that time of prayer.

Like 10 is the biblical illustration that I often look to. Jesus sent out his disciples with very few instructions but as I study this passage, I am reminded that the goal was to make God’s Kingdom a reality for the least and the lost! 

Luke 10:9 — Heal the sick, and tell them, ‘The Kingdom of God is near you now.’

What am I saying? I believe that prayer is a Kingdom dominion act of faith! Try it? Don’t ask “Can I pray for you?” But ask, “How can I pray for you?” Don’t worry about being reject. Not everyone will respond but for those that do, God’s Kingdom will come near to those that participate! It is an act of your faith that draws others into God’s presence.

Only Half Alive :: Love Goes Beyond

I was reading recently a few passages of scripture that convinced me more than ever before. I am commanded to love! 

One notable scripture is in Luke 10.

It is in this passage that we find the story of the Good Samaritan who was the hero who loved and served a person who was beaten and robbed by bandits. This story illustrated who our neighbor is and what mercy means. Jesus taught that love goes beyond. 

Like the disciples — we too are being reminded — that as as we do unto the least of these, we do for Him! 

The disciples or amazed by Jesus is teaching most notably as a relates to his authority for justice and judgment! He makes it clear that in days of judgment he will separate the sheep from the goats.

When we look past our own indifference and complacency, we will see the incredible need around us each and every day. There is another world that is very active all around where we live, shop, eat, and other places we go… It’s a world filled with hopelessness and despair. But God lifts us from that perspective to see those in need! God’s kingdom is like that. 

I’m reminded of what was written about in the story of the Good Samaritan. 

Edwin Bechner gave commentary to this when he said that when the good Samaritan came to the man who was half dead along the road, he responded to the man’s need BUT he also recognized his own need...to help someone else. He says that the Samaritan responded because he realized that he could do something. 

Edwin wrote: “Though the man was half dead, the good Samaritan realize that he, himself, was only half alive!”

** It is in helping others that we come to live again! **

Kindness and Conviction Are Nearly Synonymous.

Thumbing through a series of memorization verses that I have recently been challenged to know, I came across a verse from Ephesians 4. The verse has brought me to a new understanding of the incredible work God wants to do in me and in all of our lives. 

It is always interesting to me that I could read the same passages over and over yet to find new meaning and application for my life in current times. You’ve been there too. As you studied a passage and even may have taught on it yet, down the road you read the same passage and see something that you never realized before. Thankful for the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives and a personal growth that comes in our Christian lives. 

I am thankful that the Holy Spirit continues to work on me and in me to make me his disciple each and every day.

Ephesians 4:23 reads; “Be kind to one another. Tenderhearted. Forgive others just as God, through Jesus Christ, has forgiven you.“

I find two words that are rather synonymous as I memorize this passage of scripture. Kindness and conviction are both found here! Sure, do you see kindness? Of course you do! Can you see conviction here too? Not so apparent but wait for it. It is a conviction of a profound grace set loose in our lives as we realize and stand-fast on God’s command to forgive one another. Conviction holds us to this Truth; we are convinced like we have never been before! 

It’s no mistake that we find a proper etiquette for how we should treat one another while also being commanded to do what Jesus had done on our behalf. When I look over this passage of scripture I am more and more convinced of its truth and how necessary it is for our lives today! 

Kindness is synonymous with conviction. Well the two words have definitions and characteristics that are unique, yet they possess similar qualities that are synonymous with grace. It may be that these terms don’t sit in a list in your thesaurus yet each of them do possess the characteristic of forgiveness. 

Grace is of incredible worth. There are times in our lives when we must forgive but it can only happen through the power of God at work in our lives. Grace is not a word that comes from a strictly human context. Grace must come from outside of ourselves and likely resides where it has originated, with God through Jesus Christ.

I can tell you that even in my life I have needed to forgive though it did not happen in my own strength. Some acts of grievous condition are too horrible to be nonchalant and I response. We don’t shrug the bitterness we feel. 

The scripture that I am memorizing will take a lot longer to get into my heart and soul then just simply reciting the words. Be kind. Gracious. Forgiving one another. All of which can only happen through the power of God. Only as we are convicted to live out grace do we begin to understand the depth of such a passage! 

I can only better understand grace as I understand what it took for this to become a part of our index for life, the codex that holds all things together. It can only become a part of our glossary of terms as we understand the sacrifice of the One who exemplified its meaning! I can more appropriately respond to being kind toward one another, gracious toward one another, and forgiving one another as I know God’s gift toward me.

Grace makes kindness and conviction similar words! Conviction is what holds our compass (direction) in place. Conviction is what grounds our faith. We are convinced (conviction has this at the root) that this is Truth! 

So when we are kind (tender-hearted) we do so because we are convinced of the grace God freely gives! When we are kind, it is not just a polite gesture but it comes from a deep conviction, knowing of the grace God gave us! 

See how these words (kindness and conviction) are synonymous? They both related to grace that only God can give! 

The application of grace is yours for the taking! The rewards of knowing and applying Truth are what will sustain your life and soul. Try making a list of all the action steps that you can began because of grace. It is is this grace that you find yourself being more kind and convinced of the Truth of forgiveness! 

Three Words That Bring Success To Any Job!

Ask yourself a simple question, what would it take for me to be successful? Whether we talking about personal success or professional success, it boils down to three simple words that I think can forever change your outlook about everything.

If you had to pair down from a list of 100 attributes that you could incorporate into your life into three simple words, what would they be? Whether you’re trying to be successful as a student or as a parent or as a professional leader, the simple words will give you perspective and potentially put you ahead of the pack.

Each of these are attributes that employees as well as colleagues look for in their leadership in teams.Whether you’re trying to pull together a diverse set of values or give rise to your influence, these simple words or what I want to talk about today. They will improve your life.

These three words are: hunger, humility, and harmony.

1. Hunger is the first word. I’m not talking about an appetite for food or your favorite dessert. I’m simply talking about your drive and desire to be both effective and efficient. It’s about what motivates you in nearly every area of your life. It’s asking yourself the question, what wakes me up in the morning? If you can define that and build your skills to match, you’re unstoppable and that is what employers and members of your team are looking for.

2. Humility is the second word. It’s not the opposite of the first but it is a competing companion that if you collaborate effectively, you can come out on top. What do I mean? Nobody likes a bullish or boastful person. It usually is what makes people pull away from the relationship when somebody is to ego centric. It’s the arrogance that turns you off. 

While you may not see it in yourself you can certainly spotted in others. But a person who goes through life with a degree of humility will always come out on top. The Bible says that God humbles the proud but gives grace to the humble. When somebody is confident in what they do yet remains soft-spoken and not needing to take the credit, people are usually drawn to them. They are people who complement the competition. They’re not concerned about the glory. 

Humility goes along way in drawing people together. You’ll be an ideal candidate if you can truly show that you are genuinely humble.

3. Harmony is the third word in perhaps on purpose it is in this order. When the first two words complement one another where there is “umf” (the energy it takes to drive forward) as well as grace (a sincerely gracious attitude) you will generally find harmony. 

Perhaps I’ve learned this late in life but I don’t always need to be first; to speak or to act. I often find that we are willing to have members of the team who are peaceable and kind. They are not the “do nothing“ people but they are willing to listen first. 

Harmony is not uniformity but it is like an orchestra, each one doing what they do best yet sitting in to the collective of an orchestra where the outcome is being directed by a maestro.

Reflect on these three words and begin to make note of how you fit within each context. 

Are you motivated enough? Do you express a level of humility that complements others? Are you willing to be a member of the team and that the main player?

Choices, in and of themselves may not be the problem. However, it is the patterns that come from choices that determine our fate.