Jesus In The Pharisee School

The Pharisees therefore said to Him,"You bear witness of yourself; your witness is not true."  Jesus answered and said to them, "Even if I bear witness of Myself, My witness is true, for I know where I came from and where I am going; but you do not know where I come from and where I am going.  You judge according to the flesh; I judge no one.  And yet, if I do judge, My judgement is true; for I am not alone, but I am with the Father who sent me.  It is written in your law that the testimony of two men is true.  I am one who bears witness of Myself, and the Father who sent Me bears witness of Me."  Then they said to him, "Where is your Father?"  Jesus answered, "You know neither Me nor My Father.  If you had known Me, you would have known My Father also."  These words Jesus spoke in the treasury,as He taught in the temple; and no one laid hands on Him, for His hour had not yet come.
John 8: 13-20 NKJV

My good friend Dennis, himself a sound pastor, has at times heard the comment we toss his way refering to his seminary training.  For it is the seminary which another good friend of ours had dubbed "The Pharisee school," an obvious dig at the institutional nature of todays church congregations.  Now, I have obviously never been enrolled in one of these institutions of higher religious learning, but Dennis has shared more than a few stories of his time there with us.  It is here, in one of the original Pharisee schools, that Jesus finds Himself in the John the eighth chapter.  Here, the well learned scholars of Jewish society decided to take one of their many stands against this man they knew as Jesus.  Obviously a heretic, Jesus had made the outlandish claim that he was the Son of God!  This rankled many a Pharisee, and even more in this Pharisee school I'm sure.  Now, as these high and mighty of Jewish society stood and questioned the proclaimed messiah, the savior of Gods chosen people, Jesus responded.  As the Pharisees claim, the testimony of Jesus, who bore witness that He was infact decended from almighty God, was a falsehood and not true.  I'm not sure if Jesus had ever had any legal training, but His response to these Pharisees was golden.  As Jesus responds, "Even if I bear witness to Myself, My witness is true, for I know where I came from and where I am going."  Now, I'm just going to take a stab in the dark here that there were not too many people among Jewish society who would enter the Pharisee school and challange these Pharisees as Christ has done.  As we are told, Jesus was teaching in the temple treasury at the time.  After all, as He had claimed as He drove out the money changers, this was His Fathers house {Matthew 21:13}.  Therefore, being His Fathers house, what better place for Christ to teach?

Jesus said to Him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life.  No one comes to the Father except through Me.  If you had known Me, you would have known My father also; and from now on you known HIm and have seen Him."  Philip said to Him, "Lord, show us the Father, and it is sufficient for us."  Jesus said to Him, "Have I been with you so long, and yet you have not known Me, Philip?  He who has seen Me has seen the Father; so how can you say, 'show us the Father'?  Do you not believe that I am in the Father, and the Father in Me?  The words that I speak to you I do not speak on My own authority; but the Father who dwells in Me does the works.  Believe Me that I am in the Father and the Father in Me, or else believe Me for the sake of the works themselves."
John 14:6-11 NKJV

It is interesting that the very words which Jesus spoke as to His very identity were not believed by those who heard Him.  But should He do some great miracle through the Father who was in Him, THAT would turn some heads of the people of His day.  Jesus made the claim many a time that He was indeed the Son of the living God.  Usually, His claims were met with the skepticism of a unbeleiving populace.  However, Jesus did indeed have His share of followers.  It is also true that He was able to lead many of His Fathers flock in their return to Him.  What I find interesting as Jesus taught in this Pharisee school is that He was deconstructing the walls of the Jewish law which these men has built around Gods people.

And you, being dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, He has made alive together with Him, having forgiven you all trespasses, having wiped out the handwriting of requirements that was against us, which was contrary to us.  And He has taken it out the way, having nailed it to the cross.  Having disarmed principalities and powers, He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them in it.
Colossions 2: 13-15 NKJV

We do well to remember that it is Christ Jesus who has not only removed the requirements of the law which were blocking us, thereby setting us free from it.  We have now been made alive together with Christ Jesus, who has wiped away those trespasses which were once against us.  Much to the disdain of the Pharisees.

~Scott~

True

But Moses said to God, "Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh, and that I should bring the children of Isreal out of the land of Egypt?"  So He said, "I will certainly be with you, And this shall be a sign to you that I have sent you; When you have brought the people out of Egypt, you shall serve God on this mountain."  Then Moses said to God, "Indeed, when I come to the children of Isreal and say to them, 'The God of your fathers has sent me to you,' and they say to me, 'What is His name?' what shall Isay to them?"  And God said to Moses, " I AM WHO I AM."  And He said, "Thus you shall say to all the children of Isreal, I AM has sent me to you."  Moreover God said to Moses, "Thus you shall say to the children of Isreal: The lORD God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, has sent me to you.  This is my name forever, and this is my memorial to all generations."
Exodus 3: 11-15 NLKV

Poor Moses.  For what had started out as a bout of curiosity at a burning bush which suprisingly did not burn, had turned into an event that would shapre his life.  This is often just how our Lord operates in our lives.  One day we may be minding our own business and the next God shifts the focus of our lives to something suited to His plan, to His will.  Of course, we may have more in common with our brother Moses than we first thought we might.  For when God institutes His changes in our lives, do we not wonder, "What are you doing, God?"  Often times, we're in our comfort zone, living what it is WE believe that our Lord wishes for us.  I mean, if God wanted us in another direction, wouldn't He do it?  Perhaps, but He will also very often gently nudge us in the direction He wants us to go.  We may not come to "Burning bush" moment, but when it happens There can be little doubt who this messenger is who is working in our lives.  Of course, God had a great plan for Moses at this moment in time.  For Moses' people, the children of Isreal, had been in bondage in Egypt for many years.  Now was the time He had chosen to deliver His children out of Egypt.

Moreoever He said, "I am the God of your father - the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob."  And Moses hid his face, for he was afraid to look upon God.  And the LORD said: "I have surely seen the oppression of My people who are in Egypt, and have heard their cry because of their taskmasters, for I know their sorrows.  So I have cme down to deliver them out of the hand of the Egyptions, and to bring them up from that land to a good and large land, to a land flowing with milk and honey, to the place of the Canaanites and the Hittites and the Amorites and the Perizzites and the Hivites and the Jebusites.  Now therefore, behold, the cry of the children of Isreal has come to Me, and I have also seen the oppression with which the Egyptions oppose them."
Exodus 3: 6-9 NKJV

It is interesting that when Moses asks of the Lord just who he should tell the children of Isreal just who it was that had sent him that God lays some truth on Moses.  Gods response to Moses?  "I AM WHO I AM."  For this would have been all that the children of Isreal would need to know that their Lord and God had indeed heard their cries and was going to deliver them from the bondage of the Egyptions.  Of course, God also adds here that He is the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac and the God of Jacob.  There could be no doubt to Gods children just who was in their corner in this fight.  There is a simple reason why God responds to Moses' question with the simple explanation of "I AM WHO I AM."  For God is THE one constant in the universe.  When one speaks of God, he is refering to the one...who is and has always been.  For God is neither independent self nor dependent upon anything.  On the contrary, He is the one TRUE self in the universe.  Creating everything and yet needing nothing.  Instead of telling Moses all of this at the bush, God laid it out simply for him, "I AM has sent me to you."  Obviously, our Lord knew that the children of Isreal would get the message loud and clear.

~Scott~

Collateral Damage

He who says he is in the light, and hates his brother, is in darkness until now.  He who loves his brother abides in the light, and there is no cause for stumbling in him.  But he who hates his brother is in darkness and walks in darkess, and does not know where he is going, because the darkness has blinded his eyes.
1 John 2: 9-11 NKJV

I have told my freind Dennis on more than one occasion that I would not relish having his job as a pastor.  In his time, I'm sure that he has seen not only the good of christianity, but the worst of it as well.  On occasion , he has shared a few of these experiences with me.  Personaly, I do not understand how he is able to keep as focused as he is on helping others knowing what he has experienced.  However, this is a large part of just what makes him a unique representative for Christ Jesus.  I have not come across too many who share his passion for sharing Christ.  I mention my aversion to that very job which he has practiced for many years.  For when you take on that role of pastor, you wear many hats.  One day you may share in the joy of a wedding, while the next you're consoling the family of a friend at a funeral.  Although it is this series of duties which would make me think twice about being a pastor, it is that other side of christianity which I have a genuine disregard for.  What are we to say to one who has been wounded emotionaly by another christian?  Aren't we christians supposed to be a tight knit group who look after one another?  Does not our Lord tell us to love one another?  Yet, pastors are left each day with the collateral damage of one christian upon another.  My friends, if I were ot judge other christians by my own behavior, then I can indeed understand why there are those instances of christians hurting each other.  For I know where my own behavior has gotten me in my relationships with others.  Indeed, we all have that flesh part of us which seeks it's own way over the ways of Christ.  It is that part of us which seeks it's own pleasure, not the closeness of Jesus.  Unfortunately, we all have this within us.  My friend Dennis would refer to our flesh as a "Neutral" part of our being, being easily persuaded.  I believe this is a pretty accurate description.  For it is our flesh which seeks it's own way.

And you He made alive, who were dead in trespasses and sins, in which you once walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit who now works in the sons of disobedience, among whom we also once conducted ourselves in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, just as the others.  But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.  For by grace you have been saved through faith, and not that of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.
Ephesians 2: 1-10 NKJV

I mention my own behavior to give myself a perspective of just how christians can treat others.  However, is this who I am?  No, for that was my "Old man" which was crucified with Christ Jesus {Romans 6: 6-11}.  As the apostle Paul tells us, we are also now not to regard no one according to the flesh any longer {2 Corinthians 5:16}.  For we who have trusted in Christ Jesus are now a new creation in Him.  Honestly, having this view of those around us would definately help us in our relationships with others.  Has it always helped me?  Not really.  For although I am a new creation in Christ, it is that flesh within me which will continue to seek it's own gratification.  I'm sure it's that way for everyone.  I still don't see just how Dennis deals with the ever changing aspects of his calling.  However, he's one of the few which I would trust with any issues I have.  Thank you my friend.

~Scott~

That Voice For Jesus

For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. For the scripture says, "Whoever believes in Him will not be put to shame."  For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek, for the same Lord over all is rich to all who call upon HIm.  For "whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved."  How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed?  And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard?  And how shall they preach unless they are sent?  As it is written:  "How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace, who bring glad tidings of goo things!"  But they have not all obeyed the gospel.  For Isaiah says, "LORD, who has believed our report?"  So then faith comes from hearing, and hearing by the word of God.
Romans 10: 10-17 NKJV

I often wonder just how there can be so many people who have not yet heard of Christ Jesus.  Indeed, there are plenty of those around us who either have never heard the truth of Christ, or have refused to believe it in themselves.  One of the topics of our recent Sunday morning discussion focused on a christian friend of someone in our group who will often inquire of someone, "Were you in church Sunday?"  As if attendance in the local house of worship was a prerequisite to our Lords salvation.  I would venture to suggest that this man has not heard the very truth of Jesus.  So, who will show him?  This is not a matter of selecting the brightest and most able christian to show someone the truth of Christ.  No, this is a call which is placed upon each of us who have come to know Jesus.  Now, I am notone to point fingers, as I have fallen short many a time in my attempts to share Christ with others.  For those who know me, I am not a teacher.  Of course, this logic wouldn't fly either.  Moses wasn't a teacher either.  However, God provided that situation for Moses to not only become a speaker , but the very leader who led his people out of slavery in Egypt.  Don't get me wrong, God orchestrated it all, He just used Moses as His vessel accomplish what He had promised His people.

Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, to the mountain which Jesus had appointed for them.  When they saw Him, they worshipped Him; but some doubted.  And Jesus came and spoke ot them, saying, "All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth.  Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptiizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age."  Amen.
Matthew 28:16-20 NKJV

It is interesting that the word "Disciple" is translated from Greek as a student, pupil or apprentice.  Although it was often used to describe the followers of a great religious leader or teacher of philosophy.  These Greeks were big on philosophy.  I see this and I can understand just where the followers of Christ Jesus were refered to as his disciples.  For they were among those who followed Him.  Granted, Jesus chose this small group of men to Himself, but they chose to follow Him nonetheless.  Knowing this makes Jesus' command to His followers in Matthew 28 even more interesting.  Often called "The great comission," it is here where Jesus tasks those who have devoted themselves to following Him to "Go therefore and make disciples {followers} of all the nations."  However, was this simply a call placed by Jesus on those who followed Him, or do we today still heed His call?  Indeed, "How shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard?"  Who is the voice of Christ Jesus today?  Yes, it is true that those seek the truth need only seek the word of God, but will they?  I know that I never would have thought of seeking God unless that seed had not been planted by my own mother when I was young.  So, who will be that voice for Jesus?  Whoever decides to take up this call, we can rest assured that we do so with the strength of Christ who is in us {Galations 2:20}.

~Scott~

Our Jesus Filter

There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit.  For the law of the Spirit of  life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death.  For what the law could not do in that it was weak through the flesh, God did by sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, on account of sin: He condemned sin in the flesh, that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us who did not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.
Romans 8: 1-3 NKJV

It has never been my understanding that there were two Jesus' in scripture.  And yet, talking to some people, I have somehow been introduced to this dual messiah of ours.  The Jesus which I have grown to know is God in the flesh, who became sin for us that the sin we once carried would be put to death once and for all.  Yet, there is but another Christ looming out there, one whom many people have become aquainted with.  This alternate Jesus is one who indeed gave His life for the sins of many, then retired to heaven to look down upon creation from His heavenly post.  This is the "Cool and hip" Jesus of today.  He came to do His thing, then he, like, floated up into the sky man, beautiful!  Now, to say that those who adhere to this rendition of our Lord are lost on some heavy LSD trip would be doing a injustice to Christ Himself, so I refrain from such snap judgements.  I will, however, disagree with the evidence of this alternate Christ.  As I have stated previously, it is Christ Jesus who today lives on within us {Galations 2:20}.  Having become sin in the flesh {Romans 8:3}, Christ Jesus was led to His death on the cross.  The blood which He shed on the cross He shed for the remission of our sins, this was required for the very remission of sin {Leviticus 17:11}.  Then, upon His death, He was laid in a closely guarded tomb, for this innocent man was a threat to the Jewish authorities of His day.  As with everything He did, His death and resurection also served a purpose, that our old sin nature, our "Old man" would be put to death with Him.  When Christ Jesus rose from the dead that morning, he brought forth our new creation in Him which we who have trusted in Jesus now glory in {2 Corinthians 5: 17}.

Preach the word!  Be ready in season and out of season.  Convince, rebuke, exort, with all longsuffering and teaching.  For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers; and they will turn their eyes away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables.  But you be watchful in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.
2 Timothy 4: 2-5 NKJV

So, just what is this "New gospel" which this new Jesus preaches?  Well, the cool, hip new age Jesus is all loving, all accepting, all forgiving and all tolerating.  Now, I agree that Christ Jesus is love, that is His nature.  But here is my point, would our risen Lord be so bold as to tolerate disobedience?  How about blasphemy against the Father?  Well, why not?  I mean, if Jesus is all loving and all accepting, would He not accept all of our faults good and bad, even those that run contrary to God?  After all, He is Jesus, right?  Should one of our Lords creation suddenly blaspheme God, He is Jesus enough to forgive is He not?  For not to do so would run contrary to the all forgiving attributes of a loving Jesus.  Ok, does anyone but me see anything in this new age, hippie Jesus that the apostle Paul was warning his young apprentice about in 2 Timothy 4?  For there will be those who will ignore sound doctrine for the very sake of hearing of the Jesus they want to hear about.  Now, I'm not exactly sure just what it is about the man Jesus which would make one want to change anything about Him.  For those who follow Him not only have remission of their sins, but are a new creation in Him.  If one simply is looking to find Jesus, He can be found within ourselves {Romans 6: 6-11}.

~Scott~

A Matter Of Conscience

Receive one who is weak in the faith, but not to dispute over doubtful things.  For one believes he may eat all things, but he who is weak only eats vegtables.  Let not him who eats despise him who does not eat, and let not him who does not eat judge him who eats; For God has received him.  Who are you to judge another's servant?  To his own master he stands or falls.  Indeed, he will be made to stand, for God is able to make him stand.  One person esteems one day above another; another esteems every day alike.  Let each be fully convinced in his own mind.  He who observes the day, observes it to the Lord; and he who does not observe the day, to the Lord he does not observe it.  He who eats, eats to the Lord, for he gives God thanks; and he who does not eat,to the Lord he does not eat, and gives God thanks.  For none of us lives to himself, and no one dies to himself.  For if we live, we live to the Lord; and if we die, we die to the Lord.  Therefore, whether we live or die, we are the Lord's.  For this end Christ died and rose and lived again, that He might be Lord of both the dead and the living.  But why do you judge your brother?  Or why do you show contempt for your brother?  For we shall all stand before the judgement seat of Christ.  For it is written:  "As I live, says the LORD,Every knee shall bow to Me, And every tongue shall confess to God."  So then each of us shall give account of himself to God.
Romans 14: 1-12 NKJV

Recently the news has been filled with the actions of one Colin Kaepernick of the NFL's San Fransisco Forty Niners.  And for good reason.  It seems that the young Kaepernick, citing his conflict of conscience, refused to stand for our nations national anthem before a recent game, which is tradition in sports.  Just what were his reasons for immersing himself in this political firestorm?  Well, Mr. Kaepernick explained that he could not stand in support of the flag of a country which mistreats and discriminates against minorities.  Now, whether we agree with his stand or not, we must agree that one of the rights which is the very fabric of our nation certainly allows Kaepernick to raise his voice in protest to something he believes is wrong.  For it is our freedom of speech which sets us apart from many countries across the world.  Believe it or not, there remain nations in this world where, if one would raise their voice in protest to a policy or situation they believed was wrong, they would be imprisoned, beaten or even put to death!  More than a few of these nations have even been recognized by president Barack Obama as "Progressive."  It is no secret that the right of a nations citizens to voice their disagreements has been both a cause of celebration and loathing.  In our own history, it was the disgruntled voices of early colonists which led to the Revolutionary War.  The voices of those supporting the ownership of slaves and those opposed to such a practice led to the Civil War which nearly divided a young nation.  More recently, voices of dissent have risen across our nation is opposition to our military involvement in Vietnam and in response to racial tensions nationwide.  Our nation has a storied history of both violent and non violent protest.

Also He spoke this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others:  "Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector.  The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, 'God, I thank you that I am not like other men - extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this tax collector.  I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all I posses.'  And the tax collector, standing afar off, would not so much as raise his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, 'God, be merciful to me a sinner!"  "I tell you, this man went doen to his house justified rather than the other; for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted."
Luke 18: 9-14 NKJV

Is there a line between one who speaks their conscience and arrogance?  Perhaps, but fewer still are those who have the right to judge those who choose to voice what they feel in their hearts is right.  Was Colin Kaepernick wrong for the stance which he took?  Perhaps, but the one who passes judgement on such matters does not happen to be us.  No, for we merely serve the Lord who eventually judges the hearts of all.  There have been far too many times where I have raised my voice in protest over something I did  not feel was right.  Unfortunately, I have also alienated more than a few people with these stands of conscience.  Are we to then weigh the impact of our conscience upon others before we speak it?  I would say no, but others might disagree...and in turn speak their conscience.  One cannot live in such a nation of freedoms without eventually running contrary to another who does not agree with our opinion.  One thing is for certain, however, even though we may not  agree with what others tell us, it is our duty to fight for their right to speak their conscience.

~Scott~

My Fathers Son

Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called children of God!  Therefore the world does not know us, because it did not know Him.  Beloved, now we are children of God; and it has not yet been revealed what we shall be, but we know that when He is revealed, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is.  And everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure.  Whoever commits sin also commits lawlessness, and sin is lawlessness.  And you know that He was manifested to take away our sins, and in Him there is no sin.  Whoever sins has neither seen Him nor known Him.  Little children, let no one deceive you.  He who practices righteousness is righteous,just as He is righteous.  He who sins is of the devil, for the devil has sinned from the begining.  For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil.  Whoever has been born of God does not sin, for His seed remains in him; and he cannot sin, becaus ehe has been born of God.
1 John 3: 1-9 NKJV

There is a dear friend of ours, a man we do not see very much of anymore.  This man also was among my first friends in the congregation when I first started attending the local church.  His testimony was truly one of our Lords redemption in his life.  For God had guided him from a life on the streets to the doors of this church, and I'm glad He did.  I can never say just how many lives he affected in his time there, all I know is that he had  a big impact on my own life.  What got me to thinking of our friend recently was a discussion which we have had in our Sunday morning group.  This discussion focused on the topic of sonship in our Lord.  What is this connection between our friend and sonship?  Well, for the longest time, while we were still within our congregation setting, my friend would often refer to God as "Daddy."  In his prayers he would ask "Daddy" for His assistance or protection.  In casual conversations, he would often refer to just what his daddy was doing in his life.  For me, basically a newcomer to this congregation, this indeed seemed strange.  For I had never in my life up until then heard someone refer to God in this way.  It turns out that he wasn't very far off the mark in his comments.  There are a number of places in scripture where we believers are refered to as "Children" of God.  Well, is not a child a son?  One thing which may trip us up is the very fact that Christ Jesus is often refered to, and rightly so, as the Son of God.  Yes, Jesus is the one only begotten Son of our Lord {John 3:16}, but those who have now placed their trust in Christ have also secured for themselves a share of the inheritance of Christ {Romans 8: 16 - 17}.  Indeed, we are now heirs of the kingdom of God.  Sounds like a son to me.

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ, just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we shoould be holy and without blame before Him in love, having predestined us to adoption as sons by Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will, to the praise of the glory of His grace, by which He made us accepted in the Beloved.  In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace.
Ephesians 1: 3-7 NKJV

Of course, if we being sons, then that relationship which we now share with our heavenly Father is akin to a father and son relationship.  What does this mean for our relationship in our Lord?  Well, the best way which I have used to comprehend this is that of a father and son.  Unfortunately, for many who have come from broken homes, that father and  son dynamic may be forever changed.  Having come from a childhood where my own father was absent, one can only imagine just difficult it has been for me to comprehend how I could possibly ever call my heavenly Father daddy.  For daddy is a term of endearment, and is far from how I regarded my own earthly father.  But God IS NOT my earthly father.  No, for He who placed His call on my heart did not do so only to leave me.  This father and son relationship is the TRUE relationship.  The loving Father and His young son.  This begs the question as to how our Lord handles His side of the relationship.  It is a question we have discussed lately as well.  Well, as with any young child, we sons of God will certainly understand what our Father will tell us, to a point.  For there is definately a difference in how a young child will understand teaching compared to that understanding of a maturing young man.  When a son is young, he will often require feeding.  However, as he gets older, he will feed himself.  I believe that this fits our anology of we sons of God as well.  Indeed, new christians may need to "Be fed" the word of God.  However, as one matures, he will hopefully actively seek out our Lords teaching on his own.  This is all part of the process of maturing.  As the apostle Peter tells us, as newborn babes we should desire the "Pure milk" of the word of God {1 Peter 2:2}.  Indeed, we are our Fathers Sons.

~Scott~

~Sons~ 

Blood Thinning

It was symbolic forthe present time in which gifts and sacrafices are offered which cannot make him who performed the service perfect in regard to conscience - concerned only with food and drinks, various washings, and fleshly ordinances imposed until the time of reformation.  But Christ came as high priest of the good things to come, with the greater and more perfect tabernacle not made with hands, that is, not of His creation.  Not withnthe blood of goats and calves, but with His own blood He entered the most holy place once for all, having obtained eternal redempton.  For if the blood of bulls and goats and the ashes of a heifer, sprinkling the unclean, sanctifies for the purifying of the flesh, how much more will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without spot to God, cleanse your conscience from dead works to serve the living God.
Hebrews 9: 9-14 NKJV

I heard a story recently of a reformed prostitute who, through our Lords grace and the prayers of those around her, was able to step out of her life of addiction and into a life knowing Jesus.  Well, it seems this young lady caught the eye of the son of a local pastor, who eventually asked her to marry him.  Now, imagine the uproar of his fathers congregation at the very thought of being betrothed to such a woman!  Of course, they made no secret of their disdain for his future wife.  Eventually, the young man stood one morning in front of his fathers congregation and asked a simple question of those who were raising their voices in protest to his marriage, "Why are you attacking the blood of Christ Jesus?"  With no defense to this question, the congregation fell silent.  The point which I make here is this, do we ourselves know such people in our own lives who, by the very same grace our heavenly Father bestowed on us, have made snap judgements of their guilt before God?  How foolish we are to diminish the very blood of Christ!  For if Jesus indeed gave His life and shed His blood for our own redemption, then how much more will He not do the same for others?  My freinds, we christians have not cornered that market on Gods forgiveness.  It is not by our own standards, thankfully, by which Christ Jesus chose to give Himself for the redemption of the sins of all.  Indeed, Jesus offered Himself for the forgiveness of sins to ALL.  That is, all mankind.  Somewhere along the way, christians have come up with the idea that our Lord visits special treatment on those who simply confess that they are followers of Him.  Not so, brother, for our Lord knows our hearts.  With what measure are we willing to judge others?  Where would we ourselves be if God used that very same measure upon us?

"For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.  For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved."
John 3: 16-17 NKJV

I do not need to remind anyone that this is a fallen world which we live in.  We are going to run into people in our own lives who we will be assured have a special place in hell reserved for them by God.  Hypocrites!  For were we not once walking in the world as the ones we are so very fond of condemning?  Did not our Lords love and grace shower us when we made that decision to trust in the redeeming blood of Christ Jesus?  How much more will that redemption be for those who trust in Christ after us?  Shall there be one standard for christians and yet another for so called "sinners?"  My friends, WE were once ones who walked in sin as well.  But for the grace and mercy of our heavenly Father, the redeeming blood of His Son has now cleansed us.  However, that very same blood has not run dry, for it continues to cleanse today.  Are we so arrogant to assume that the redemption offered by Christ Jesus is reserved for christians only?

When Jesus heard it, He said to them, "Those who are well have no need of a physician,but those who are sick.  I did not come to call the righteous,but sinners to repentance."
Mark 2: 17 NKJV

It is Christ Himself who claims that it is not just christians who are entitled to His redemption.  For Jesus did not come to call the righteous, "But sinners to repentance."  No, we christians have not cornered the market on the very distribution of the blood of Jesus.  Far from it, for the blood of Christ flows freely to all who accept that free gift He offers to all.  Who are we to trust otherwise?

~Scott~

In Defense Of Freedom

~The insignia of the United States Army Green Berets states clearly the mission of our special forces...De Oppresso Liber "To Liberate The Oppressed"~

Our own country's honor, all call upon us for a vigorous and manly exertion, and if we now shamefully fail, we shall become infamous to the whole world.  Let us therefore rely upon the goodness of the cause, and the aid of the supreme being, in whose hands victory is, to animate and encourage us to great and noble actions - the eyes of all our countrymen are now upon us, and we shall have their blessings, and praises, if happily we are the instruments of saving them from the tyrany mediated against them.  Let us therefore animate and encourage each other, and shew the whole world, that a freeman contending for liberty on his own ground is superior to any slavish mercenary on earth.
~George Washington, General Orders, July 2, 1776~

These were dark years for a fledgeling nation.  These final years of the late 1770's had brought strife and struggle to this land which was in some circles still known as "The new world."  For the years had not been too far removed from a time when a idealistic group of settlers had embarked from the shores of the only country and continent they had ever known in search of a new land and a new life.  England, that land which they had known as home had, over time, become a land of oppression for some.  These few chose a life outside of the English monarchy and its religious requirements.  To them, this was not freedom, but oppression.  Leaving the only life they had ever known seemed like a risky venture, but the costs of enduring the costs of such a governments oppression were far greater.  They chose the uncertainty of a ocean voyage into a brand new uncharted world over a life ruled over by the english monarchy.  The freedom of their own homeland was indeed a radical idea for their time.  And so these few commited to their journey to the new world.  History tells us of the trials and successes these brave few endured from their crossing of the Atlantic ocean to their final landing along the far Northeast coast of the new world and home they risked so much to find.  Once there, their struggles did not end.  On the contrary, the struggles of these early colonists only solidified the reputation of hard work and endurance which have earned our nation the well deserved name of "Land of opportunity."  For there are fewer nations on earth where so many have searched out her shores for that very chance to be free and to succeed.  And they came, from all corners of the world, guided by that one promise, freedom.

The New Colosus

Not like the brazen giant of Greek fame, with conquering arms astride from land to land; Here at our sea washed,  sunset gates shall stand a mighty woman with a torch,  whose flame is the imprisoned lightning, and her name Mother of Exiles.  From her beacon-hand glows world-wide welcome; her mild eyes command the air-bridged harbor that twin cities frame.  "Keep, ancient lands, your storied Pomp!"   Cries she with silent lips.   "Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, the wretched refuse of your teeming shore.  Send these, the homeless, tempest-tossed to me, I lift my lamp beside the golden door!"
~Inscription On The Statue of Liberty in New York Harbor~

I find it interesting that in recent decades we seem to have come to a crossroads in our nation over just what freedom means.  There are those who still adhere to that old ideal that with freedom and opportunity comes sacrafice.  Yes, those first settlers chose freedom over persecution, but although they had freedom, it had not come without sacrafice.  The blood soaked fields of Yorktown, Gettysburg and Shiloh all attest to the sacrafices given in defense of our freedom.  As more than a few have observed, freedom isn't free.  Many have known well the high price paid for the idea of freedom in this nation.  But our ideals for freedom have stretched far outside of our own borders.  For when those who sought to bring tyrany upon the world rose up, it is the United States of America who responded in defense of those oppressed.  Indeed, our fight for freedom has stretched worldwide over the years.  Our sacrafices for freedom have grown to include the blood stained beaches of Normandy, Tarawa and Inchon.  These days, many a military veteran will speak with pride, and sorrow, of the sacrafices they endured in the endless battle for freedom.  To these few go the honor and gratitude of a grateful nation.  It is my wish that the battle we wage for freedoms cause should never end nor be forgotten.  For although we may be free, for others the battle continues to rage.  The battlefield may be a far off nation, or a inner city neighborhood.  Wherever it may be, wherever it is that freedom is threatened, the battle to defend it will be ours.

~Scott~

Identity Issues

Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own?  For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's.
1 Corinthians 6: 19-20 NKJV

It's a question many people have often asked of themselves.  Who am I?  Sure, we are probably well aware of who the world knows we are.  For we have various forms of Identification which can prove our very earthly identity.  From social security numbers to various state and federal identification cards, there is no shortage of ways to find out if someone is who they claim to be.  Of course, there are those out there who attempt to hide their identity as well.  In these cases, authorities need to rely upon anything from computer technology to good old fashioned detective work to find ones true indentity.  And then there's DNA.  Deoxyribonucleic acid is the basic gentitic building block we all share.  It is within our DNA where scientists have found evidence of each and every persons genetic makeup.  From the color of our hair to other characteristics which make us unique, it is our DNA that determines how it is we are recognized by others.  Yet, with all of this technology and genetics at our disposal, many still ask that one simple question, who am I?  The funny thing is, many who ask this question already know just who they are, at least physically.  The deeper question one runs into here is one which science usually cannot help us with.  For all the science in the world will prove nullified if one, knowing who they are physically, still questions their identity.  In this situation, the focus switches from the the physical to the spiritual.  The experts now become not scientists, but psychologists and pastors.

But you are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you.  Now if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he is not His.  And if Christ is in you, the body is dead because of sin, but the Spirit is life because of righteousness.  But if the Spirit of the one who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you.  Therefore, brethren, we are debtors - not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh.  For if you live according to the flesh you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live.  For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God.  For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, "Abba, Father."  The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs - heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together.
Romans 8: 9-17 NKJV

This question many ask of themselves is mainly a question not of how the world identifies us, but just how we see ourselves in the larger scheme of the universe which surrounds us.  Yes, we are flesh, blood and genetics, but all these things are but temporary trappings of this world we live in.  Who are we beyond this physical identity?  Is there something larger than ourselves out there?  If so, what is it?  Fortunately, the apostle Paul helps us along the way.  It is Pauls teaching that we who have trusted in Christ Jesus have been "Bought at a price" and our bodies belong to our heavenly Father {1 Corinthians 6: 19-20}.  This "Price" with which we were purchased is the very life of Christ Jesus.  It is also through the death and resurection of Christ in which our old sin nature we were born into, our "Old man," was put to death {Romans 6: 6-8}.  Indeed, as Paul relates, it is no longer we who live, but Christ Jesus lives within us {Galations 2:20}.  This new identity which we share with Christ assures us that we now have a new "DNA" in our identity.  For what nowdefines us is not the sin we were born into, but children and heirs of our heavenly Father though Christ Jesus.

~Scott~

Yesterday Once More

Knowing this, that our old man was crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves of sin.  For he who has died has been freed from sin.  Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with Him, knowing that Christ, having been raised from the dead, dies no more.  Death no longer has dominion over Him.  For the death that He died, He died to sin once for all; but the life that He lives, He lives to God.  Likewise you also, reckon yourselves to be dead indeed to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 6: 6-11 NKJV

It happened again today.  In moments of casual conversation with a few christian brothers, I once again heard that blast from the past.  I guess that I'm kind of used to the comment by now.  The fact that a christian would defy the very truth within them and proclaim, "But I'm just a sinner, we all are."  To my credit, this time I didn't choke on my coffee when I heard these words.  Like I said, maybe I'm just used to hearing them proclaimed by now.  Is this the new christian reality?  Thankfully not.  For if it were then nobody would be able to glory in the sacrafice of Christ Jesus who washed away the sins of all.  Indeed, what need would Jesus have to give His very life for us if it did not cleanse all sin from Gods children?  Oh, and in reference to the apostle Pauls mention in Romans 6, what need for our "Old" man to be slain if indeed we were to still walk in our old sin nature?  What then of our Lords loving grace and mercy if He did not shower it upon us at the cross?  What example of His ultimate goodness would we even have?  For what has become known as "The greatest story ever told" {The birth of Christ Jesus} has become the greatest gift ever given.  For long before the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, our Lords plan for the redemption of His children was already set in motion.  Therefore, there is no longer any need for those who have trusted in Christ Jesus to continue to live in their yesterday.  Our old man has been put to death with Christ.

Therefore, from now on, we regard no one according to the flesh.  Even though we have known Christ according to the flesh, Yet now we know Him thus no longer.  Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.  Now all things are of God, who has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation, that is, that God was in Christ reconciling the world unto Himself, not inputting their trespasses to them, and has committed to us the word of reconciliation.  Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christs behalf, be reconciled to God.  For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.
2 Corinthians 5: 16-21 NKJV

I would clarify to those few who utter those words of yesterday, that instead of being yet sinners, we who have trusted in Christ Jesus are now very ambassadors for Him.  For how will the world ever know of the great gift of Christ if it is not told by we who have experienced it first hand?  I recently heard a well known radio preacher who related the story of a young mother in some foriegn country who, through the grace of our Lord, had managed to be able to listen to our Lords gospel for the very first time.  Intrigued by this teaching, she invited her husband to listen also.  Although met with manly skepticism, he eventually told her that "This man who talks on the radio makes sense."  How would this man have known of this gospel of Christ if not for his wife?

How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed?  And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard?  And how shall they hear without a preacher?  And how shall they preach unless they are sent?  As it is written:  "How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace, Who bring glad tidings of good things!"  But they have not all obeyed the gospel.  For Isaiah says, "LORD, who has believed our report?"  So then faith comes from hearing, and hearing by the word of God.
Romans 10: 14-17 NKJV

Does anyone still feel that we are indeed still yet sinners?  Look to the cross, see His blood which was shed for all mankind for the remission of sins.  Look at the empty tomb, which once entombed not only the crucified Christ, but our old man with Him.  I say we are no longer sinners, but ambassadors.

~Scott~

Never Without Hope

~The world famous Ariel Lift Bridge, the entry into the harbor of Duluth, Minnesota, long a shelter of safety for mariners from the storms and waves of Lake Superior~

Therefore, having been justifed by faith,we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we also have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in the hope of the glory of God.  And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope.  Now hope does not dissapoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.  For when we were still without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly.  For scarcely for a righteous man will one die; yet perhaps for a good man someone would even dare to die.  But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ die for us.  Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from wrath through Him.
Romans 5: 1-9 NKJV

There have been plenty of times in my life where I felt as if the world had caught up with me, that I had finally had run out of hope entirely.  It's then that the doubts come rushing in, "How can God save me now, what if God wants me to suffer, have my sins finally caught up with me?"  There have been a few times when I have given into these doubts, and it only resulted in depression and anxiety on my part.  However, throughout these tribulations, God did not change, He remained the same.  Yes, that means that this God who has promised to never leave me nor forsake me has not changed.  Neither my trials or tribulations nor my former sin has changed anything about my Lord.  In fact, as the scripture claims, Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever {Hebrews 13:8}.  I would suggest that if anything changed as a result of my tribulations and sufferings, it was myself and not God.  If there has been one thing I have learned through my times of tribulation and suffering, it is that even in those times where I have felt hopeless, I ALWAYS had a hope in Christ Jesus.  For it is Jesus who gives hope to the hopeless, justice to the persecuted and rest for the weary.  In a world of negatives, we can place our trust in Christ Jesus that He will shelter us in our afflictions.  We are never without a hope even in those times when we feel most hopeless.

For we were saved in this hope, but hope that is seen is not hope; for why does one still hope for what he sees?  But if we hope for what we do not see, we eagerly wait for it with perseverance. Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses.  For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.  Now He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God.  And we know that things work together for good for those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.
Romans 8: 24 - 28 NKJV

There is plenty of scripture to back up the point that it is Christ Jesus who actively works for good on our behalf.  He who became sin on or behalf {2 Corinthians 5:21} never fails in His love for Gods children.  For it is also through Christ Jesus in which we now have access to our heavenly Father {Ephesians 2:18}.  Trust me, knowing this truth comes in handy in those times when we most feel that we are alone in our sufferings.  I've also often heard it said that God is most interested in allowing us to suffer when we sin, to teach us to follow Him.  This isn't how God operates.  Our God is the loving Father who loved enough to save us in spite of our sins {Romans 5:8}.  If God were simply interested in teaching us a lesson, the sacrafice of Jesus on that cross would be in doubt.  And what of those sins which many continue to beat themselves up over?  Indeed, our heavenly Father may tell us as we come before Him with guilt laden hearts, "What sin my child?"  For we know that Christ Jesus died to sin "Once for all" {Romans 6:10}.  As He hung on that cross and cried, "It is finished," He left behind no sin for which we could bring before our heavenly Father for fogiveness.  Jesus took care of that for us.  We can rest assured that we are never without the very presence of Christ Jesus in all we do {Galations 2:20}.

~Scott~

In Step With Christ

Knowing this, that our old man was crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be done away with, that w should no longer be slaves of sin.  Forhe who has died has been freed from sin.  Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with Him, knowingthat Christ, having been raised from the dead, dies no more.  Death no longer has dominion over Him.  For the death that He died, He died to sin once for all; but the life that He lives, He lives to God.  Likewise you also, reckon yourselves to be dead indeed to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 6: 6-11 NKJV

My friend Dennis and I have had this conversation on numerous occasions.  And I must take this opportunity to acknowledge that his advice is correct.  For at times I lose focus on the truth which is now in my heart.  The truth of Christ Jesus our Lord within us.  Not only that, and this is where I have sometimes missed the mark myself, but each and every day those who have accepted Christ walk AS JESUS.  Of course, as Dennis has so often pointed out, each and every situation we encounter and feel, we do so as Christ Jesus within us. If anyone has difficulty comprehending this truth don't worry, I've been there.  In fact, I'm sure that there is a long line of people behind me who have that very same difficulty.  Now, this is not some untried or unheard of proclamation.  No, for this truth of Christ Jesus in us is well documented in scripture.  Now, unless you're one of those people who cherry pick Gods word to suit whatever position you are trying to explain, you can look at a few of the scriptures I've often referenced and decide for yourself if this truth is indeed right and true.  For there are many a pulpit pounder out there who all too often exort us to "Be more like Jesus." Well, christian, if you have made that choice in your hearts to accept Christ Jesus, then not only are you more LIKE  Jesus, but you ARE Jesus!

"I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me."
Galations 2: 20 NKJV

My friends, can one not look at the very words of the apostle Paul in Galations 2:20 and not come to that realization that Christ Jesus lives within us today?  This was not simply Paul recognizing this truth within himself, but relating also this truth to those who would read the words which he had written.  In fact, I have not heard of a scriptural account that Paul ever met Jesus, but I may be mistaken.  No,for Sauls first encounter with Christ Jesus was on the road to Damascus as Saul traveled to continue his persecution of the early church of the followers of Christ Jesus.  It was here that the life of Saul of Tarsus changed forever.  From that point forward, he would be known as Paul, one of the greatest defenders of the gospel of Christ Jesus the world may ever know.  It is this man Paul who relates to us the truth of Christ Jesus within us.  Therefore, we who have accepted Christ have absolutely zero need to "Be more like Jesus" as I have heard many a pastor proclaim.  No, for each step that we take in our dialy lives, we now take as Christ Jesus.  That relationship with our heavenly Father which was damaged at the fall, has now been restored through the death and resurection of Christ.  Therefore, we can now wipe away any thoughts of the word "sinner" when we look wihin ourselves.  The guilt which once defined us, our old man, was taken by Christ, nailed to a tree and put to death.  Therefore, we are now a brand new creation in Christ Jesus.  The relationship has been restored.  Not more like Jesus, but living AS Jesus.

~Scott~

Seeing God

Now Thomas, called the twin, one of the twelve, was not with them when Jesus came.  The other disciples, therefore said to him, "We have seen the Lord."  So he said to them, "Unless I see in His hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and put my hand into His side, I will not believe."  And after eight days His disciples were again inside, andThomas was with them.  Jesus came, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, "Peace to you!"  Then He said to Thomas, "Reach your finger here, and look at My hands; and reach your hand here, and put it into My side.  Do not be unbelieving, but believing."  And Thomas answered and said to Him, " My Lord and my God!"  Jesus said to him, "Thomas, because you have seen Me, you have believed.  Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed."
John 20: 24 -29 NKJV

Sometimes I feel like the disciple Thomas.  All about me is evidence of my God and His wonders, but I don't relate it to Him.  It could be His wonder in scenery I encounter on one of our many hikes, or in the way He works through someone around me.  For as Thomas pointed out, unless we see, we do not believe.  It has long been documented that men are more visually oriented, but this is ridiculous.  For I know the wonders and the works of my Lord, both in my own life and that of others, so I should be well aware of His reach.  You would think.  However, every once in awhile something comes along which makes me stop and say to myself, "I HAVE seen, and I believe!"  Had I suddenly forgotten the majesty of my Lord?  No, but I believe He merely showed Himself in a new way for me to see.  For I had always believed yet, like Thomas, I had not noticed until Gods presence was exhibited before my very eyes.  My Lord and my God!  As I have been so often reminded, Christ Jesus is not limited to simply  working in the lives of believers.  No, for I have seen many a non believer touched and used by the reach of my Lord.  Somewhere, somehow, we will all see the presence of Christ Jesus working before us in some way.  This is the very essence of Jesus at work in Gods children.

"You are the light of the world.  A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden.  Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house.  Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven."
Matthew 5: 14-16 NKJV

There are many times that we may not notice the presence of our Lord until we see Him working through others around us.  For Christ Jesus is not beyond working through the earthly vessels of our Lords children.  Indeed, it is here where the presence of Jesus may have its greatest impact on others.  As Christ tells us in Matthew 5, we are to "Let our light shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven."  How often do we see God working in the lives of others and imediately give glory to Christ Jesus?  He may be working in our own lives through someone around us, or He may be working in the life of that person.  Either way, Christ Jesus be glorified through his wonderous works in our lives.  Are we, as was Thomas, blinded by the fact that we far too often expect that miracle of provision in our life before we accept the presence of Christ Jesus?  I've been in that situation far too often.  Yet I also realize I'm not alone in that respect.  For if it were not for Christ working in the lives of those around me, I might just miss the opportunity to see His presence.  Indeed, like a spotlight in the darkness, the works of Christ are magnified not only in ourselves, but in those around us.  For this is the presence of Christ Jesus in the lives of His children.  Do not be unbelieving, but believing.

~Scott~

~Split Rock lighthouse outside of Two Harbors, Minnesota has been guiding ships along the rocky North Shore of Lake Superior for over a hundred years~

Intermission

But, beloved, do not forget one thing, that with the Lord one day is a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.  The Lord is not slack concerning His promise,as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentence.
2 Peter 3: 8-9 NKJV

I want to confess something right here and now for those who don't know me.  I DON'T like to wait!  Then again, who does?  The world is filled with anxious, over zealous people who just cannot stand to wait for something.  I mean, is this not the very reason microwaves were invented?  In this fast paced society of ours, asking someone to wait is akin to a personal attack on ones character.  It's hard to imagine that only a hundred years ago people still walked almost everywhere they went.  These days the only walking we often do is to the car to drive somewhere.  Why do I make a big deal of this whole idea of waiting?  Because when it comes to God, I often need to wait.  Now, this may seem like a simple complaint, but why does my God make me wait?  I mean, haven't I been good?  Many a time I have been left on hold as I await a answer from God.  How many can relate to that feeling?  Well, I do have some good news for all of those impatient souls out there.  You see, God is neither vindictive nor impatient towards His children.  On the contrary, our heavenly Fathers timing is ONE thing which we can count on in this life.  For causing trouble and discomfort for His children is definately in our Lords plan.  So, perhaps the issue we have as we await an answer from our Lord lies with us?  If one thinks about this situation more closely, it is we who place our world on schedules, not God.  For God does not operate on mankinds schedules.  As the apostle Paul tells us in 2 Peter 3, for our Lord a thousand years may be as one day and vice versa.  Now, do you have a thousand years to wait for an answer from God?  Well, at some point we all may need to wait that long for an answer from our heavenly Father.  For indeed there may be answers to some questions we may never know until such time we join our Lord in His paradise.  Does this mean that God has somehow lost interest in us?  Not at all!

Have you not known?  Have you not heard?  The everlasting God, the LORD, The creator of the ends of the earth, Neither faints or is weary.  His understanding is unsearchable.  He gives power to the weak, and to those who have no might He increases strength.  Even the youths shall faint and grow weary, And the young men shall utterly fall, But those who wait on the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint.
Isaiah40: 28-31 NKJV

We also do well to remember that God is not subject to the stresses and complications of this life we live.  Therefore, God never has bad days or is too "Stressed out" to help those in need.  As I mentioned, that frustration we each feel as we await an answer from God falls on us.  For we are the ones who place our Lord on a time schedule.  However, simply because we do not "Hear" from God does not mean that He is not working and doing what God does behind the scenes.  In fact, it is not uncommon that, as we wait upon Him, His very answer or solution is already on the way.  He has not forgotten us.  In fact, His very promise is to NEVER leave us nor forsake us {Deuteronomy 31:6}.  Knowing this, we can rest assured that God always has His children in mind.  We are never absent from our heavenly Fathers thoughts.  We ourselves may put God on the back burner, but He will never do that with us.  It is through Christ Jesus in which we have direct access to our heavenly Father.  It is through Jesus that we can bring our requests before our Lord.  He is never too busy for His children.  Whenever we feel as if our Lord has not heard our cry, we do well to step back and remember that it is through His mercy and grace in which He loved us enough to guarantee our eternity with Him.

~Scott~

I Got This

"I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser.  Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit.  You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you.  Abide in Me, and I in you.  As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me.  I am the vine, you are the branches.  He who abides in Me, I am in him, bears much fruit; for without Me he can do nothing.  If anyone does not abide in Me, he is cast out as a branch and is withered; and they gather them and throw them into the fire, and they are burned.  If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you.  By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples."
John 15: 1-8 NKJV

It happens almost every time I tune in to watch Sportscenter on TV.  Now, granted, I don't  watch it very often, but I have my moments.  There they'll be, some star struck athlete or some washed up has been trying to resurrect a long forgotten career will be staring at me through that television and, when asked by some upstart locker room reporter just how they feel they'll do in some upcoming game, they'll smile and say, "I got this."  Really?  It's usually about this time that I'll flip the channel to some outdated Deadliest Catch rerun.  So, what is it with us where we feel we ourselves are all that stands between life, achievment ot whatever?  i'm sorry, but is  it all about our very own efforts that we've gotten as far as we can in life?  Is it our own efforts, or lack thereof, which have denied us opportunity?  I believe that we, as humans, have a natural tendency to place our own independence and efforts above the overall sovereignty of God.  It's almost like we are telling our heavenly Father, "Thank you, God, for creating the world, the universe and me, but I got  this!"  Whether it's our flesh or our fierce independence, we all too often put God on that back burner until such time where we need to call on Him as we realize that, despite all our flesh will tell us, that we do indeed need Him.  Fortunaltely, God never flips to another channel when we exert what we feel is our rightful independence.  No, for He simply allows us this brief moment of fleshly independence.  For He knows that sooner or later, upon realizing that we indeed have need of our heavenly Father in our lives, that many will once again return to Him.  Of course, there will be those stubborn few who will adhere to their false independence until the end.  It is here, a false sense of independence, where I believe our issue lies.

In the begining God created the heavens and the earth.  The earth was without form, and void; and darkness was on the face of the deep.  And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters.  Then God said, "Let there be light"; and there was light.  And God saw the light, that it was good; and God divided the light from the darkness.  God called the light day, and the darkness He called night.  So the evening and the morning were the first day.
Genesis 1: 1-5 NKJV

I've gone through the book of Genesis often enough to say with confidence that there is NO placee in the account of our Lords creation where man had anything to do with the creation of the universe.  No, for even we ourselves are the very loving creation of our Lord God {Genesis 2:7}.  And yet, we often feel as if we ourselves can make it on our own without God.  Oh, we know God is there, He simply becomes a 911 option to be called upon whenever we need His help.  And yes, eventually most come to that realization that we can't go it alone.  It is this false sense our own independence which drives this rebelious nature.  For many a man has often thought themselves as truly independent, even from God.  My friends, when it comes to independence, God is the only true self.  For God, being the creator of all seen and unseen, is the alpha and omega, the begining and the end.

"I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Begining and the End, the First and the lst."  Blessed are those who do His commandments, that they may have the right to  the tree of life, and may enter through the gates into the city.
Revelation 22: 13-14 NKJV

The Alpha and the Omega, the First and the last, the Begining and the End.  So, does it sound like God is dependent upon anyone or anything?  No, for in this relationship, we are the ones who are dependent upon our Lord, not the other way around.  The relationship does not work too well the other way around my friends.  And yet we continue to say to God, "I got this."  Lucky for we who hold onto that false independence that the love and grace of our Lord yet allows us to return to His presence once again as will surely do,  I'm not blind enough to see that my false sense of fleshly independence is an error.  God, "You got this!"

~Scott~

~Chad Ocho Cinco, arrogance personified~ 

Down Range

~Going Down Range..."Just another day gentleman...Hooo Yaaa!"~

The question isn't how much more you can take.  But how much more you can give.  Just when you're ready to quit, your mind says push harder.  You listen.  Sensing an inner strength that wasn't there before.  And suddenly you discover you no longer feel pain.
~U.S. Navy Seals~

I have a book which I have read more than a few times over.  The book is titled "Down Range" and is authored by former Navy SEAL Dick Couch.  In it, Couch relates the experiences of our SEAL's in the combat arena of Iraq and Afghanistan in the days following the attacks of September 11th, 2001.  Now, I need to add that many a SEAL was critical of mister Couch for authoring this book.  The brotherhood of our Navy SEAL's is one of secret missions and secret lives.  When their mission is complete, they'd much rather retreat to the company of their brothers in arms or families than become media heroes.  For in their line of work, the less that is known about them the better.  It is against this backdrop that the SEAL's avoid any and all attention directed their way.  In the parlance of the SEAL teams, "Down Range" refers to a area of operations where a team is deployed, but can also refer to the direction one is firing his own weapon.  It is in reference to this terminology that I decided to relate the arena of that battle we christians face each and every day.  To those who follow Christ Jesus, "Down Range" is not a matter of combat in our physical realm, but the spiritual arena we are not privy to.  The old phrase "The devil made me do it" may only be partly correct.  For satan indeed has some influence in this conflict between good and evil, but it is ultimately God who is in control of all.  

Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.  Put on the whole armor of God, that you will be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.  For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.  Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.
Ephesians 6: 11-13 NKJV

This battle which we face each and every day is the same battle which is made easier in the knowledge that we who follow Christ Jesus face this battle AS Jesus {Galations 2:20}.  When we are deployed "Down Range" in this battle, we go forth as Christ Jesus who is in us.  We never go alone!  As our SEAL's join, train and fight as a team, so do we follow Christ.  For Jesus is our on our side.  I don't know about anyone else, but I'd much rather walk my life as Christ Jesus.  It is Jesus, having been tempted as we are, who can sympathize with whatever it is we face {Hebrews 4:15}.  He's been there!  As we walk this life and it's many troubles, we can rest in the knowledge that Jesus walks with us.  We will never see him, but He is indeed there.  In that spiritual battle of this age, we have a comrade Down Range who walks with us ready to take on that enemy we all face.  We need not raise our hands to fight, our comrade will fight this battle for us.  I wouldn't have it any other way.

~Scott~

Strength In Weakness

For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thougts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.  Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen ot you.  And you will seek Me and find Me,  when you search for Me with all your heart.
Jeremiah 29: 11-12 NKJV

Lately I've been blown off course by some events which have ocured in my life.  These happenings, it seems, have shaken my faith in Christ once agian.  Now, as I write this entry, I wonder just where the path of my life goes from here.  It's funny just how a unfortunate accident or two can have such a great influence on or faith and trust in God.  Then the questions come, "Lord, why are you doing this to me?"  "Lord, what have I done to anger you?"  In our pain and anguish, these may seem like legitimate questions to ask of He who created these bodies which are suffering.  However, I believe that I may have asked the wrong question of my Lord in the midst of my turmoil.  Predictably, my focus was on MY discomfort and not on HIS plan for me going forward.  In the middle of pain and suffering, we who follow Jesus may just lose our focus of that big picture He has envisioned for us.  This isn't rocket science, for it is perfectly normal for someone who is suffering to immediately focus their attention to the suffering of the moment.  As with the thorn in the apostle Pauls flesh {2 Corinthians 12:7}, we may often feel buffeted by such a severe storm.

I know a man in Christ who fourteen years ago - whether in the body I do not know, or whether out of the body I do not know, God knows - such a one was caught up to the third heaven.  And I know such a man - whether in the body or out of the body I do not know, God knows - how he was caught up into paradise and heard inexpressible words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter.  Of such a one i will boast; yet of myself I will not boast, except in my infirmities.  For though I might desire to boast, I will not be a fool; for I will speak the truth.  But I refrain, lest anyone should think me above what he sees me to be or hears from me.  And lest I should be exalted above measure by the abundance of the revelations, a thorn in the flesh was given to me, a messenger of satan to buffet me, lest I be exalted above measure.  Concerning this thing, I pleaded with the Lord three times that it might depart from me.  And he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness."  Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.  Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christs sake.  For when I am weak, then I am strong.
2 Corinthians 12: 2-10 NKJV

It was only in my suffering that the words of the apostle Paul struck a chord with me.  For if any man had a reason to boast, it would be Paul.  Raised in the schools of Jewish law, advancing in power and influence far above his peers, Paul would become a leader of Jewish society of his day.  If he even dared to do so, Paul could boast of all that he had accomplished in his life.  Yet, after his conversion on that road to Damascus, he stopped short of proclaiming that glory which was his alone.  For now Paul proclaimed the glory of another greater than himself.  Paul proclaimed the glory of Christ Jesus, who had brought him to his knees on that Damascus road.  Now, as Paul is buffeted by this "Messenger of satan," which has afflicted his health, he pleads with God three times to have it removed from him.   Not once, nor twice, but three times.  In response, God responds to his servant, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my strength is made perfect in weakness."  Ok, not the answer I'm sure Paul was looking for, but it was true nonetheless.  For it is in these times of sickness and turmoil where the strength of our heavenly Father is made perfect.  In these times of trouble, our strengths and accomplishments all go out the window, replaced by the grace and provision of a loving God.  When we feel like we can't take another step, it is Christ Jesus in us who whispers, "Walk with me."  To step out in faith is to step out in our trust that God will do what He has promised.  When we are weak, He is strong.

~Scott~

~Wolf Creek Trestle hike 2016~

War On The Christian Heart

Knowing this, that our old man was crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves of sin.  For he who has died has been freed from sin.  Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with Him, knowing that Christ, having been raised from the dead, dies no more.  Death no longer has dominion over Him.  For the death that He died, He died to sin once for all; but the life that He lives, He lives to God.  Likewise you also, reckon yourselves to be dead indeed to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 6: 6--11NKJV

It's a pretty hard sell really.  The attempts to tell someone of the truth of Christ Jesus usually ends for me in a lost look and a, "You know, that's a bit too much for me to comprehend right now."  Now, I realize that, as followers of Jesus that we are called to share the truth of His resurection, but getting others to comprehend this very truth is the greatest feat of all.  I should think that not even Houdini could overcome this trap.  Perhaps there is a christian customer service agency out there which can run a commercial of two to get our message out?  Sadly, neither of these are available to we who trust in Christ Jesus.  I've come to realize that many in our internet/social media crazed society are beyond comprehending the truth of Christ Jesus in them.  And so they tow the church line which has been layed out for generations.  The mantra that Christ Jesus was scourged and tortured, led to His cross, bled and died for our sins and rose again on the third day.  It is here where the story of Jesus ends for most people.  And it is here where that disconnect occurs.  For most people, Jesus has risen to be seated at the right hand of God the Father and is up there watching over us.  Meanwhile we are all alone here on earth as we walk through our day to day lives.  Saved by the death of Jesus, but seperated from Him nonetheless.  Nothing could be further from the truth christian!  We are not alone, we never were!  Our heavenly Father loves and cherishes us far too much to allow us to be seperate from Him.  To God, our personal relationship with Him is of great importance, and there can be no relationship if we are seperated from Him.  This is the relationship which Adam and Eve enjoyed with our Lord in the garden, and the relationship which Christ Jesus gave Himself in our place to restore.

"I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me."
Galations 2:20 NKJV

So, just what is this truth of Christ Jesus which so many christians have difficulty comprehending?  Well, it is the truth of Romans 6: 6-11.  It is the very truth the apostle Pual spoke in Galations 2:20!  For one cannot honestly look at these two scriptures and not realize that there is something more to this story of Jesus than we've been told over the years.  It was Pauls words in Galations 2 that changed how I thought of my relationship with Jesus.  No longer was I seperated from my savior, but walked each day of my life AS Him!  THIS is that personal relationship we are missing with our heavenly Father.  For through Adam and Eves sin of disobedience in the garden, the personal relationship we had with our heavenly Father was damaged.  Sadly, many today continue to live as if God is waiting in heaven for us to screw up just enough to warrant His punishment upon us.  Nothing could be further from the truth!  For to believe this to be true would negate many a scripture of Gods love, mercy and grace towards His children.  And yet many continue to believe the lie.  In my opinion, the church has not done us too many favors in this regard.  I would not call those who deny the truth of Jesus brainwashed by christian theology and teaching, they simply have not had the truth of Christ spoken into them.  And so we labor each day to speak that truth to all who will listen.  I'm not a salesman, but I often feel like one.


~Scott~