The Two Jezebels

3Then the scribes and Pharisees brought to Him a woman caught in adultery. And when they had set her in the midst, 4they said to Him, “Teacher,this woman was caught in adultery, in the very act. 5“Now Moses, in the law, commanded us dthat such should be stoned. But what do You say?” 6This they said, testing Him, that they might have something of which to accuse Him. But Jesus stooped down and wrote on the ground with His finger, fas though He did not hear. 7So when they continued asking Him, He graised Himself up and said to them, “He who is without sin among you, let him throw a stone at her first.” 8And again He stooped down and wrote on the ground. 9Then those who heard it, being convicted by their conscience, went out one by one, beginning with the oldest even to the last. And Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst.10When Jesus had raised Himself up iand saw no one but the woman, He said to her, “Woman, where are those accusers of yours? Has no one condemned you?” 11She said, “No one, Lord.” And Jesus said to her, “Neither do I condemn you; go kand sin no more.”
John 8: 3 - 11 NKJV


A friend brought a article to my attention this week which caught my interest.  This article was bemoaning the fact that our society as a whole had become more and more deprived of its morality over the years.  Tell me something I don't already know.  At the center of this article is the biblical personality of Jezebel, who in Revelation 2 is at the center of false teachings in the early church of Jesus.  Now, the symbolism of her name is not lost on most, as in the book of Kings, Jezebel was also the wife of king Ahab who encouraged him to abandon the peoples worship of the Lord and choose to worship baal instead.  So, here we have a tale of two Jezebels.  The similarity is that each of these false teachers chose to encourage others to abandon our Lord in some way.  Now, one of the main cruxes of this article was that a increasingly large number of our leaders had fallen into sin.  Not only our nations leaders, but our own christian leadership as well.  Again, tell me something I don't already know.  Just this past year we have been witness to numerous stories splashed across the headlines that tell of various prominent men behaving badly with women in the workplace.  Now, I'm not foolish enough to believe that this is something new we are experiencing.  No, I think we are only seeing the tip of that iceberg.  For we men have been doing many antics and monkey shines in the presence of women for our own enjoyment for generations.  It is only now that more than a few of our victims have risen up and said ENOUGH!  I say more power to them.  Our mantle of leadership as men does not guarantee us the right to abuse others for our own enjoyment.  Trust me, I've been in those shoes myself.  We live in a society where a simple click of a computer mouse will bring forth millions of images of women there for our pleasure.  So tell me, what does this ultimately do to those relationships with the real women in our lives?  Well, I can tell you from firsthand experience that it can be a ticking timebomb.  The statistics of our rampant divorce rates and single parent homes bear witness to this more than ever.  Oh Jezebel, what shall we do?

6If we say that we have fellowship with Him, and walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth.
7But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin. 8If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
1 John 1: 6 - 9 NKJV

So, what is it that the modern day Jezebel have us do about this lack of morals?  Well, according to this article she would give us a green light to do as we please.  Remember, the Jezebel of the new testament was into false teachings.  So much so that she was given a opportunity to repent of her teachings to the early church.  Want to look at that woman online, Jezebel would be ok with that.  Need a secret companion on the side?  Jezebel would encourage that.  Who wouldn't follow such a church leader?  Well, me for one.  See, people tend to take alot of time on the old testament teachings that God is a jealous God and that He has no place in His presence for sinners.  This, of course, is bull.  If my Lord indeed was a jealous and unforgiving God, then my fate would be sealed already.  Not only mine, but that of so many around me.  However, we are assured that not only is love His very nature, but that Christ Jesus took our sin penalty on Himself that we would be saved.  Despite the many efforts of the institutional church to combat this worldwide problem, it continues to grow.  There is no reminder of sin, public shaming or accountability that will ultimately cure us of this issue.  Believe me, I've tried.  I've found that what does work is realizing in our own hearts that if we have accepted Christ then we are no longer stained by our own sins.  In fact, we are now dead to them {Romans 6:11}.  It is Jesus who has whispered to us "Neither do I condemn you."

6knowing this, that our old man was crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be adone away with, that we should no longer be slaves of sin.7For he who has died has been bfreed from sin. 8Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with Him, 9knowing that Christ, having been raised from the dead, dies no more. Death no longer has dominion over Him.10For the death that He died, He died to sin once for all; but the life that He lives, He lives to God. 11Likewise you also, reckon yourselves to be dead indeed to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 6: 6 - 11 NKJV

~Scott~

Counterfeit Love

7Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. 8He who does not love does not know God, for God is love.9In this the love of God was manifested toward us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him. 10In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins. 11Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.
1 John 4: 7 - 11 NKJV

I once heard a story of a young man who had grown up knowing a different kind of love from his parents than most of us are accustomed to.  As a child, the young mans parents would shower him with love and affection, provided he was doing well.  However, whenever the child would behave badly or run into the monkey shines that all children do, the love of his parents suddenly turned conditional.  "You can get your hugs when you learn to behave in a better way" they would often tell him.  Not suprisingly, this child who grew up in a environment of love with conditions grew up to treat his own children the very same way.  This was all that he knew I'm guessing.  This week Wayne Jacobsen and his sidekick tackled a similar topic in his weekly God Journey podcast.  Although Wayne described this as "weaponizing" love, it's basically the same thing.  I am thankful that I did not grow up in such a environment.  No, my own mother took each and every opportunity to let her children know that her love was strong...and unconditional.  Don't get me wrong, I was not always as pure as the driven snow as I am today.  Like many kids before me, I tested my mothers patience on a regular basis.  Hey, that's what we do right?  Through it all, her love for me was never contingent upon how well I behaved.  To me, such a love is not love at all but borderline abuse.  Yes, I know, there are many who would definately disagree with me on this point.  Spare the rod and spoil the child blah blah blah.  A few things we need to realize is that
1. There is a fine line between disipline and abuse
2. True love overcomes our own  human weaknesses
Don't get me wrong, I'm all for the correction and dicipline of a child, as long as it is not tied to our own love for our children.  We do well to remember that it is through our Lords unfailing love that He saved us out of our own human weakness {1 John 4:10}.  Indeed, when we are at our weakest, He is strong {2 Corinthians 12:10}.  The love of God did not hesitate to redeem me when I was in need of Him.  That is who He is...God is Love

6For when we were still without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. 7For scarcely for a righteous man will one die; yet perhaps for a good man someone would even dare to die. 8But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
Romans 5: 6 - 8 NKJV

I found it intersting that Wayne and company would get into a discussion of peoples use of their own love as a weapon.  I've seen it before, but only from those who I'm sure did not know the true meaning of love themselves.  So what is this thing we call love?  Well, if I asked that very question of a few different people I'm sure I'd get a few different answers.  Is love what we make it, or is there something else involved?  If by something else you mean something we possibly can't understand...then yes.  However, the truth is right there on the pages of the new testament.  What is love?  GOD is love.  That is His very nature.  Think about it, it is by His unfailing love that Christ became sin on our behalf that we would be spared that penalty we deserved {2 Corinthians 5:21}.  Each time we praise our heavenly Father for our own salvation, it is all due to his unfailing love for us.  Gods love is truly unconditional.  He does not withhold or hold back who He truly is.  He simply exhibits His own nature.  Just as we ourselves have characteristics that tell who we are, so it is with God.  Knowing this, we can honestly say that it is totally outside of the nature of God to withhold His love for His children.  It is also not in His nature to use His love for me as a weapon to get me to tow the christian line.  If that were the case then each and every one of us would need to earn our own salvation.  Again, we're told that this isn't the case {Ephesians 2: 8-9}.  In God we will find only love, that is who He is.  In man we will find the guilt, shame and condemnation disguised as love.

Last night I dreamed I died and stood outside those pearly gates
When suddenly I realized there must be some mistake
If they knew half the things I've done they'd never let me in
~George Straight - Love without end~

~Scott~

His Undeniable Presence

20“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

I had a conversaton this week with someone who had asked me to lift them in prayer over a certain situation in which they were going through.  Now, I will go through that prayer which I prayed over them some other time, but let me assure you that it wasn't your run of the mill ordinary christian prayer which you may be thinking of.  More on that later.  Anyway, as I was talking to this person he happened to mention that he had, this week, felt clsoer to God than he had felt in awhile.  I immediately knew that my own prayer had been answered.  Simple as that, when I heard him say that he somehow felt closer to God I knew that the prayer which I had lifted over him had been heeded.  That's all I was looking for.  So, what was it that had brought that feeling of the presence of the Lord upon this man?  Granted, I believe that my own prayer had something to do with the overall outcome, but there was something else going on here.  I know not of this mans christian walk, only that he had asked me to pray over him.  Now, I'm sure that he knew beforehand that I was a christian as well.  I tend to wear that on my sleeve.  One thing I do not know is just how deep his walk with Lord was.  We've talked on a few occassions, but nothing too deep and spiritual.  All I know is that he claimed that he had never felt closer to God than this week.  Well, I would be quick to point out to one such as him that he had NEVER been all that far from his his Lord and Savior.  I know this because I know the truth of Christ Jesus in my own life {Galations 2:20}.  This is why I am able to turn my back on anyone who tells me that I need to be closer to God, that I need to be more like Him.  The truth is, I already am that very image of Him.  I have always been in His presence.  I know this without doubt.

20“I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who jwill believe in Me through their word;21“that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me. 22“And the glory which You gave Me I have given them, that they may be one just as We are one: 23“I in them, and You in Me; that they may be made perfect in one, and that the world may know that You have sent Me, and have loved them as You have loved Me. 24“Father, I desire that they also whom You gave Me may be with Me where I am, that they may behold My glory which You have given Me; for You loved Me before the foundation of the world.25“O righteous Father! The world has not known You, but I have known You; and these have known that You sent Me. 26“And I have declared to them Your name, and will declare it, that the love with which You loved Me may be in them, and I in them.”
John 17: 20 - 26 NKJV

I did not mention this to the man who had asked me to pray over him, but that prayer I prayed for him was that very same prayer Christ prayed for us in the garden.  This was not a prayer of provision or protection, but of union.  See, as Jesus prayed in the garden that night He lifted all believers in a prayer that we today are assured our heavenly Father has answered.  What was this prayer of Jesus?  Well, what was this conversation bewteen Him and the Father?  That we would be one with He and the Father.  That as Christ and the Father are one, that we would share in that union.  Think of all the things which Jesus could have asked for us.  It is my belief that whatever He had asked of the Father that it would have been given to Him.  He didn't ask for a new car or for more money for me, but for something far greater.  What He asked for me was that I would be one with He and the Father.  What would it profit me to gain the riches of the world yet lose my own soul? {Mark 8:36}  If you ask me, I came out ahead in that deal.  As did all who have accepted what Christ has prayed for them.  This is why I was not at all surprised this week when this man told me that he suddenly felt closer to God than he had at any other time.  Now, I'm not arrogant enough to claim that it was me who directed this man to the Lord, I simply asked Jesus to reveal to him what it was that he always had.  What will ultimately be revealed in him is that which was also revealed in my own heart.  That undeniable presence of Christ in me.

26For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus. 27For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. 28There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.
Galations 3: 26 - 28 NKJV

~Scott~

Our Two Americas

22And the scribes who came down from Jerusalem said, “He has Beelzebub,” and, “By the ruler of the demons He casts out demons.”23So He called them to Himself and said to them in parables: “How can Satan cast out Satan? 24“If a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand. 25“And if a house is divided against itself, that house cannot stand. 26“And if Satan has risen up against himself, and is divided, he cannot stand, but has an end. 27“No one can enter a strong man’s house and plunder his goods, unless he first binds the strong man. And then he will plunder his house.
Mark 3: 22 - 27 NKJV

I read with some interest this week Wayne Jacobsens "God Journey" podcast post.  See, this week Wayne and Brad were discussing the subject of our political climate in this country.  Personally, I couldn't think of a more inflamatory subject.  Could these two men of God somehow make sense of the agnst which seems to have overtaken our nation in recent years?  To say that I was skeptical was a understatement.  Almost on cue, both Wayne and Brad found themselves at odds over their differing political opinions.  So much for christian reasoning working out those differences among men I guess.  See, I could have gone to Vegas on 100 to 1 odds and bet that these two christians would end up in disagreement over these issues.  Why you ask?  Because I have become all too familiar with the political climate in this land of the free, this bastian of freedom of speech.  Well, freedom of speech as long as your views don't interfere with those of another, which is not freedom at all in my opinion.  Inded, there are times when I feel like one calling out in the wilderness that someone might hear me.  So, you can understand my skepticism that two well meaning christians would be able to put aside thier own differences to conduct a productive discussion on how to bring our nation together.  I've seen that movie too many times before.  So,why is it that Wayne and Brad would feel the desire to place their own beliefs above that of their friends?  To answer that question we may need to go down a road that very few christians have traveled and/or understood.  That is, our own faith in the lie that we ourselves are independent beings and in control of our own environment.  We have fallen for the ages old lie perpetrated by satan himself that we, our Lords creation, are independent from Him.  If you recall, this is the very same lie used on Adam and Eve in the garden {Genesis 3:4-5}.  That is, that if we just follow satans advice, that we "Will be like God."  Now, I was born at night...but not last night!  Unless you're someone who's just fallen off the local turnip truck, you already know in your heart that it is not all about you!  Think about it, what happened the last time you put yourself above the desires and needs of others?  I would wager to bet that such a person would either receive the coldest of shoulders from either either freinds or spouse.  We simply DO NOT put others in this position if we have a heart for those around us.  There is something more important than ourselves out there.

There's a warning sign on the road ahead
There's alot of people sayin' we'd be better off dead
Don't feel like satan but I am to them
So I try to forget it any way I can
~Neil Young~

I titled this page Our Two Americas for a reason.  As was confirmed by Wayne and Brad, we are a nation of competing beliefs.  Now, I have NO complaints with our country being a nation of differing opinions and beliefs.  For over two hundred years, the United States has been the destination of those opressed, scourged and outcast worldwide.  However, over the decades we have ceased to be a nation of shared dissent to a land of competing beliefs.  The focal point seems to no longer be the greater good of the country but whose political agenda is pushed down the throats of the people our own public servants swore to represent.  THAT I have a problem with.  Don't get me wrong, I have no issue with political debate, but not when one person is silenced as being racist, homophobic or (Gasp!) a Trump voter!  This isn't political debate at all but one side forcing their own views on the rest of the country.  I believe that this is but one reason for the rise of and the election of Donald Trump, a good portion of the country had simply had enough of being told what to believe in.  It is also my humble opinion that it is this belief that will carry Trump to a second term in 2020.  Yes, I know I'm crazy, I'm a racist and a homophobe!  These are the badges I wear for voicing my own opinions in a nation of free speech.  Now, I will credit Wayne and Brad for having a civil discussion on their own beliefs.  If only every political conversation were so easy.  We do well to remember that it is not so much about ourselves, but about Christ Jesus who lives through us {Galations 2:20}.  The day that we as a nation accept the reality that we are not independent of God will certainly be a day of healing for our nation.  Until that day I will be that voice in the wilderness.

"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-tost to me,
I lift my lamp beside the golden door!"
~The New Colosus - Emma Lazarus~

A Parting Glass

But since it falls unto my lot
That I should rise and you should not
I'll gently rise and I'll softly call
Good night and joy be with you all
~The Parting Glass~

My friends and I once had a tradition whenever we were out on the town for one occassion or another.  Wherever we were, whatever the hour, someone would up and order that parting glass.  The idea was that this was our farewell salute if you will.  This we would each remember until we would come together once again.  Predictably, it is these moments among friends that are some of my most cherished of all.  I'm not sure just who instituted our tradition, but it seemed fitting.  Of course, a few of my friends being Irish, I'm certain that this had something to do with it.  Thinking of those times the other day I thought of what it is that we ourselves leave behind that those around us will remember most.  For myself, I want to be remembered as one who walked that road of christianity before finally recognizing who the man Jesus truly is.  Of course, this did not come to me as a result of some great treasure hunt, but by my heavenly Father revealing Him to me in my own heart.  He had always been there, I just had not recognized Him within me where He now dwells {Galations 2:20}.  If I were to have my way, I would be recalled fondly by those around me as one who ran my race as best I could in Christ {2 Timothy 4:7}.  I fought the good fight, I kept the faith.  Yes, this is how I would like to be remembered.  Of course, I cannot control how my life is to be perceived by others.  Some may see my good points while others will focus on just the bad.  Of course, what truly matters is how I see I have run that race of faith.  If I am content in my own heart that I have done well that is all I could ask.  I would certainly choose to be remembered as one who knew the man Jesus than one who didn't that's for sure.  For it is Christ Jesus for whom all things were created {John 1:3}.  Would I even have lived without the works of Christ?  Probably not.

13“You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men.14“You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15“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. 16“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven."
Matthew 5: 13 - 16 NKJV

I've read more than a few accounts of those who have struggled to leave a legacy for their own children.  Some desire to leave money, property or influence to their decendents that somehow the family name or tradition would continue.  Do you know what my mothers legacy was?  For those who never knew her, she left a simple legacy of having a heart for those around her.  To me there was so much more.  For me, my moms legacy was one of knowing and showing others that nature of Christ Jesus who was in her.  I can't think of a better legacy for someone to leave behind.  If you think about it, this is exactly the same legacy left behind by others just like her.  It is in this way that the man Jesus has become known to so many.  I would not know Jesus on a more personal level myself were it not for a close friend of mine who opened the door to the revealing of Christ in me.  So it is with those around us as well.  Yes, one could leave behind those treasures of money, possessions or influence and call it their legacy, but how does that make known the man Jesus to others?  Abraham left a legacy, as did Moses and the apostle Paul.  One could argue that Pauls own legacy was the gospel of Christ being revealed to others.  I want to be in that crowd!  So I continue with the race that is set before me.  Could we claim that Jesus Himself carries His own legacy?  What would that legacy be?  I would argue that we ourselves are part of that legacy of Christ.  Not only are we children, but sons and joint heirs with Jesus {Romans 8:17}.  We are part of a much greater legacy than we could ever imagine.

14For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. 15For 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.” 16The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, 17and 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: 14 - 17 NKJV

~Scott~

His Name

5Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, 6who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, 7but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. 8And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross. 9Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, 10that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, 11and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
Philippians 2: 5 - 11 NKJV

There is something about the name of Jesus.  His very name can either bring forth praise or condemnation.  Deliverance or death.  We know Him by His name, but obviously that is not all there is to Him.  Joseph and Mary were instructed by the angel of the Lord that their newly born son would be called Jesus for He will "save His people from their sins" {Matthew 1:21}.  Therefore, it is not that far of a leap that we can, and do, associate the name Jesus with He who delivered us from our own sin condition {2 Corinthians 5:21}.  However, we have also become accustomed to associating His name with kindness, morals and how we should live our own lives.  I have heard Him linked to such titles as kindest man in history, ancient prophet and righteous servant.  How would you describe Jesus to someone?  Is He just a prophet or the image of our invisible Lord? {Colossions 1:15}.  Would those who have known Him describe Him differently?  I'm sure that those few who walked with Him had a different view of Jesus than we do.  It was the apostle Peter who nailed it on the head when asked by Jesus who he thought He was.  "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God" {Matthew 16:16}.  Is this how we would proclaim Jesus, the Son of our living God?  Well, this is exactly what He is my friends.  Yes, many of the descriptions used to tell of His kindness, selflessness and righteousness are also true as well.  However, one of the best ways to describe Him is the Son of the living God, for this is what He is.  Yet He is so much more than that.

7“If you had known Me, you would have known My Father also; and from now on you know Him and have seen Him.” 8Philip said to Him, “Lord, show us the Father, and it is sufficient for us.” 9Jesus 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’?10“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. 11“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: 7 - 11 NKJV

It is interesting the interaction between Jesus and Philip.  Young Philip asks Him to simply show him the Father...and he will be content with that.  I'm sure that Jesus shook His young disciples world when He answered him.  "He who has seen Me has seen the Father."  I have to admit, this is not how I would have described Jesus to someone not too long ago.  See, I knew His name, but I didn't know the man Jesus.  He hadn't yet become known to me on a more personal level.  I asked the question of how it is that we would describe Jesus to someone for the first time.  Knowing what I now know of Him, I would dispense of all the pleasing platitudes He has come to be known by.  We know that Jesus is kind, righteous and has abundant grace.  These descriptions do not bring him home on a more personal level for too many people.  I believe that this is where we should begin, on a personal level with Christ Jesus.  This is the man we want to know.  Would we introduce a member of our own family simply by a general description?  Neither should we do so with Jesus.  What brought home Jesus on a more personal level for me was His truth that He lives through us today {Galations 2:20}.  Jesus is by no means dead, so we shouldn't describe Him like He is should we?  I would instead introduce someone to the man who lives through me today.  This is Jesus, and He is always full of joy to meet whoever we might introduce to Him!  In fact, if we are asked by someone to show them Jesus so that they might see Him as well...all we need do is introduce ourselves.  This is Jesus.  This is His name.

20“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

~Scott~

The Fathers Love

7Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. 8He who does not love does not know God, for God is love.9In this the love of God was manifested toward us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him. 10In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins. 11Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.
1 John 4: 7 - 11 NKJV

We've had a few conversations lately as to why people stick to their old traditions when it comes to God.  Throughout much of christianity, God is seen as a jealous and overbearing God {Exodus 34:14}.  This is the belief in which I grew up in.  That fire and brimstone which destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah was all too real to me.  This was the basis for our good behavior, or so we were taught to believe.  For if we were to fall, and we all too often did, then the Lords jealousy would be directed towards us.  Maybe not in biblical fire and brimstone, but in other ways.  I would often find my questioning God when roadblocks would pop up in my own life.  What have I done for me to deserve you to do this to me, Lord?  So I prayed, tried my hand at fasting and I tithed.  I did all those things that the local pastor told me to do.  See, if God was allowing such things into my life then obviously I had done something to warrant His anger.  After all, God was a jealous God right?  Since we were all sinners, it was but a matter of time before my own screw ups would bring my Lords wrath upon me {Romans 3:23}.  There were times when I saw the cross of Christ as a starting line and not a finishing point.  Despite the fact that my Lord and Savior had given Himself that I would be saved, I constantly was told that I needed to do better in order to stay in Gods good graces.  Even though my sins were now forgiven, I needed to pray each and every day for my Lords forgiveness.  Yes, I would often question this belief, but the teaching told me what I needed to do as a good christian soldier.  God was weeding out the good christians from the bad so it seemed.  It seems I needed to fight like hell to hold onto that gift which was given to me through my heavenly Fathers love and grace {Ephesians 2:8-9}.  I was in the performance of my life.

9In this the love of God was manifested toward us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him. 10In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins. 11Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.
1 John 4: 9 - 11 NKJV

If there was ever one that shook the belief system I had been living under for so long it was a freind of mine who showed me the other sid eof God.  That side of my heavenly Father which showed His own true nature.  It was VERY different from the way I had always seen Him.  For far from being that jealous, vengeful God I had been performing for all those years, the God which was now revealed to me was a God of...love.  What?  You mean that all of this time that God had loved me for me?  Despite all of my dog and pony show performances and desperate prayers which I had been told would bring me closer to Gods good graces?  Could it be that my heavenly Father had loved me, His child, all along?  This was indeed a culture shock for me.  Don't get me wrong, I was relieved that finally I had found my Lords love and affection which I had sought for so long.  But why had I fought so long and hard to find something that had always been mine to begin with?  That will remain a mystery for the ages I'm afraid.  Not only is love the true nature of God, but He is by no means selfish in whom He loves.  My salvation is not based upon how well I perform in my christian life, but on my heavenly Fathers love for me!  He loved me enough to save me in spite of myself.  He loved me enough to make me one with Him {Galations 2:20}.  He loved us before we were even a thought in someones mind.  That is His nature...God is Love.

19We love Him because He first loved us.
John 4: 19 NKJV

~Scott~

Big Boss Man

The Big Boss man

13“You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men.14“You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15“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. 16“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven."
Matthew 5: 13 - 16 NKJV

I had a conversation the other day about our christian practices with close freind of mine.  The conversation ranged from church attendance to that assurance of our Lords presence in our own lives.  It seems that my friend has taken a break from church attendance lately and I guess he was seeking my opinion on the matter.  Now, anyone who has read these pages knows by now that I am no big fan of the instututionl church in any way.  So I swallowed my pride and layed it on the line for him.  Why would we need someone (priests and/or pastors) to tell us what we already know in our own hearts?  See, the apostle Paul assures us in Galations that Christ Jesus Himself lives through us today {Galations 2:20}.  So, how much closer do we need to be to God than what we already have?  The trouble is, the messages which we receive from the church may be different from what we actually experience here in the real world.  At times it seems that our local pastor is more concerned with worship bands, tithes and fasting.  There is a reason that I often refered to a few sunday services as a dog and pony show, because to me that is where we seemed to be headed.  I used a example to describe to my freind what we already know, assuming we have known and accepted Christ Jesus.  Our relationship with our local church is akin to that work relationship we have a supervisor and a manager.  In the organization I work for, it is the management that usually tows the company line ensuring that things are done by the book.  The supervisors, however, have been in the field with the field employees and more often than not have a more realistic perspective on things that management may not or care not to see.  So, you could say that Jesus is the supervisor and our local church is the manager...the big boss man.  The church and the local pulpit pounder are good at telling you the rules and regulations of being a christian, while in our hearts we know that Jesus, the supervisor, knows all too intimately the struggles His children are enduring.  He knows because He is unduring it with us.  Of course, this brings up the interesting question of do we need rules to live the christian life by, or is Jesus all we need?

3“Therefore whatever they tell you ato observe, that observe and do, but do not do according to their works; for they say, and do not do. 4“For they bind heavy burdens, hard to bear, and lay them on men’s shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with one of their fingers. 5“But all their works they do to be seen by men. They make their phylacteries broad and enlarge the borders of their garments. 6“They love the best places at feasts, the best seats in the synagogues, 7“greetings in the marketplaces, and to be called by men, ‘Rabbi, Rabbi.’8“But you, do not be called ‘Rabbi’; for One is your Teacher, the Christ, and you are all brethren. 9“Do not call anyone on earth your father; for One is your Father, He who is in heaven. 10“And do not be called teachers; for One is your Teacher, the Christ. 11“But he who is greatest among you shall be your servant. 12“And whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted."
Matthew 23: 3 - 12 NKJV

It seems that Jesus Himself was not too fond of the managers in His day.  See, the Pharisees were big on instituting rules and making sure that traditions were being followed by the people.  Sound familiar?  To me it reminds me alot of the local pulpit pounders own duties.  Of course, I have been challanged by a friend to find someplace in scripture where a PAID pastor or priest is mandated by the Lord.  I have yet to find it.  Could it be that that position of pastor is one mandated by we ourselves and not God?  Absolutely.  As I said, why do we need someone to tell us what we already know in our own hearts?  For if Christ is in us, then we already know what it is He is whispering to us.  We have no need for someone to interpret the word of our Lord in a way THEY feel is appropriate for us to hear.  I say let's eliminate the middle man and go straight to community with our Lord as it was meant to be.  Of course, that would mean many pastors would be out of work, and I'm ok with that.  For the life I live is not one of rules, tithes and traditions but one of relationship with Christ Jesus.  It is these former things which were nailed to that cross with Him {Colossions 2:14}.  In my daily life as in my walk with the Lord, I'd much rather have my supervisor who knows me than that big boss man.

44Now all who believed were together, and had all things in common, 45and sold their possessions and goods, and divided them among all, as anyone had need. 46So continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart, 47praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved.
Acts 2: 44 - 47 NKJV

~Scott~

Tell Us, O Lord!

Give us the word, Chuck

18Now all the people witnessed the thunderings, the lightning flashes, the sound of the trumpet, and the mountain smoking; and when the people saw it, they trembled and stood afar off. 19Then they said to Moses, “You speak with us, and we will hear; but let not God speak with us, lest we die.” 20And Moses said to the people, “Do not fear; for God has come to test you, and that His fear may be before you, so that you may not sin.”21So the people stood afar off, but Moses drew near the thick darkness where God was.
Exodus 20: 18 - 21 NKJV

Since the truth of Christ was revealed to me not so long ago I have often wondered about the role of pastors and priests in our houses of worship.  I mean, couldn't God simply cut out that middle man and pass on what He needs us to know by communicating with us directly?  Why is it that we need a intermediary just in order to hear what it is that God wishes for us to hear?  From what I have gathered, it wasn't always this way.  No, for our Lords very first creation often walked in the garden and talked with the Lord on a daily basis.  We get clues from scripture that Adam and Eve enjoyed a very close and personal relationship with God.  So much so that at the upon taking of the fruit of what he had been commanded not to, Adam heard the sound of the Lord walking in the garden {Genesis 2:8}.  Not finding His children, God then called out to Adam {Genesis 2:9}.  If God simply was in the business of creation without relationship, then why would He develop such a relationship with His creation?  It has been my belief for some time that we were not simply created to follow a set of rules set before us.  We are not here to simply waste space and breathe air until such a time when those fortunate enough among us are whisked home to be with our Lord for eternity.  I believe that we are all here, that we have always been here, for a deeper personal relationship with our heavenly Father.  It was for this very reason that Jesus gave Himself for us, to fix what had been broken in the garden.{2 Corinthians 5:21}.  So, how is it that we can have a close, personal relationship with God and not that ability to communicate with Him?  Well, one of the dirty little secrets of christianity is that we DO have the ability to hear and communicate with our heavenly Father.  Once we know and understand the truth of Christ Jesus, we understand that we are closer to God than we may have ever known {Galations 2:20}.

3‘Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know.’
Jeremiah 33: 3 NKJV

It took me awhile to come to grips with my understanding of my relationship with Christ Jesus, but when I did I ended up with more questions than answers.  If indeed Christ now lives through me, how is it that I now need a middle man in order to communicate with my heavenly Father?  If it was Gods intention all along for a closer relationship with me, then why must I trust in another just in order to hear His word?  Does anyone besides me see the folly in this thinking?  It's kind of like going to the next door neighbor to hear what your parents want to tell you.  We would consider that to be a dysfunctional relationship, yet we ourselves engage in that very thing ourselves when it comes to God.  A coworker of mine has a saying that all too often we have a habit of getting in our own way.  Brilliant thinking.  So, are we getting in our own way by relying on hearing the word of the Father through another?  I think so.  As I said, I believe that we all have the ability to hear for ourselves what it is that the Father is wishing for us to hear.  That being said, do we really need the local priest or pastors to do the very same thing?  I'd say no.  However, this is what Gods children wanted for ourselves.  We see in Genesis that when faced with standing face to face with God or hearing His word delivered from Moses, the Isrealites chose Moses to be that middle man between themselves and God.  So great was their fear of God that they feared that they would surely die if they were to speak to Him {Exodus 20:19}.  The only man to draw near to Gods presence was Moses.  Why didn't Moses get the local priest to commune with God for him?  Well, because I believe that Moses had that personal relationship with God that we ourselves struggle with.  It was Moses who took the cause of the Isrealites before Pharoh.  Of course, the Isrealites continued their tradition of hearing Gods word through that middle man through the tradition of the priests.  As for me, I never liked dealing with middle men, and this is no exception.  Why would I need someone to communicate to me what my heart already knows?

16“And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another eHelper, that He may abide with you forever— 17“the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you. 18“I will not leave you orphans; I will come to you."
John 14: 16 - 18 NKJV

~Scott~

Clouds

38Now it happened as they went that He entered a certain village; and a certain woman named Martha welcomed Him into her house. 39And she had a sister called Mary, who also sat at kJesus’ feet and heard His word. 40But Martha was distracted with much serving, and she approached Him and said, “Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Therefore tell her to help me.” 41And Jesus answered and said to her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things. 42“But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her.”
Luke 10: 38 - 42 NKJV

Clouds are a funny thing, they can at once be a harbinger of bad weather while in the next instant they can bring about memories of a sunny summer day.  They can cause fear and then contentment.  Growing up in Minnesota I came to respect the look of the clouds from an early age.  There were far too may times where I became a amateur weather man simply by reading the clouds.  See, Minnesota is famous for its summer thunderstorms which can quickly morph into deadly tornados.  Being able to read these cloud conditions can sometimes mean an extra few minutes to find shelter.  On the other hand, a cloudless day can often mean fair weather.  Yeah, clouds are a funny thing.  That is, unless your trying to see through them.  Did I mention the thick fog that often blankets northern Minnesota in the summer?  Well, those fogs of London aint got nothing on us believe me.  So, what does one do when they are surrounded by clouds and can't see a few feet in front of them?  Well, I have always found it a good practice to just slow down and take notice that much more of whats going on around you.  So it is with those clouds of distraction which all too often get in our way of seeing things which are just in front of us.  Our daily distractions like family, friends, work and other obligations can all too often be those clouds which can and will distract us from what is right in front of us.  Believe me, there are times when my attention span resembles how often CNN tells the truth...and that can be bad.  I'm sure that we'd all love to go through our daily lives without the distractions that these clouds bring, but I believe that we can learn alot by navigating around or through them.  I've driven through many a Minnesota lake front fog bank in my time.  The trick is to pay attention and take notice of what's around you.  Likewise, I've gone through my own share of distractions and situations as well.  It is when these times come upon us that we need to slow down and pay attention to what is around us.  Once we do that, our eyes may be opened to see what it is we were meant to.

28And Peter answered Him and said, “Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water.” 29So He said, “Come.” And when Peter had come down out of the boat, he walked on the water to go to Jesus. 30But when he saw that the wind was boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink he cried out, saying, “Lord, save me!” 31And immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and caught him, and said to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?”
Matthew 10: 28 - 31 NKJV

I love that story of young Peter walking out onto the water to Jesus who was outside the boat.  To me, this is the perfect story of those clouds wich can distract us.  See, the disciples were crossing the sea in a boat when they suddenly saw a ghost!  Well, that was their initial thought anyway.  Of course, it wasn't until Jesus called out to reassure them that they recognized Him.  All but Peter.  Somehow, Peter came up with the idea that if he only could walk out upon the water to Jesus that this would prove what his own eyes told him to be true.  Some have called this a leap of faith on Peters part, I prefer to call in Peter needing proof of what he already saw.  So out into the storm he went.  Now, everything about Peters plan was going fine, that is until clouds got in the way.  Peter took his eyes off of Jesus in front of him, and fixated them instead on the wind and waves of the storm around him.  Yes, clouds are a funny thing.  Once his lazer like focus on Christ was clouded, suddenly Peter became afraid and began to sink in the sea.  Realizing this, he cried out to Jesus for help...good call Pete.  We're told that Jesus immediately reached out His hand to save His friend from drowning in the storm.  So what were His first words to Peter?  "O you of little faith, why did you doubt {John 10:31}?  Clouds can be like that, distorting what it is that is right in front of our noses.  See, Peter saw that Jesus was coming towards him on the water, but I guess he needed to prove it to himself.  Now, I'm not saying that the Father didn't orchestrate this scene in order that we would have yet another lesson in faith and trust in Jesus, but that's just what He does.  In fact, everything we will ever go through has already been determined by Him.  Despite the clouds of distraction which continuously come befor us, we can be secure in the knowledge that Christ Jesus is right there with us {Galations 2:20}.  We need no better guide than Him.

8Beware lest anyone echeat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ.
Colossions 2: 8 NKJV

~Scott~

God Told Me To Tell You

2Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching. 3For 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;4and they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables. 5But you be watchful in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.
2 Peter 4: 2 - 5 NKJV

I was glancing through my email this week and came across Wayne Jacobsens weekly "God Journey" podcast link.  I have to admit that this one actually made me stop and think.  See, Wayne was getting into the topic of prophecy and right away my mind turned to the likes of Benny Hinn and Joel Osteen.  Although these have come to be seen as two (almost) well respected christian speakers, they have their detractors.  I happen to be one of them.  The topic of prophecy was always a foggy one for me.  Sure, I believe that the elders of old received Gods word from the prophets, and that we today continue to be inspired by these men of God.  However, every now and then there comes along someone who claims, in no uncertain terms, to be a profit with a message from God for the masses.  Again my mind wanders, this time to the likes of Jim Jones and David Koresh.  For those not into historical events, these are just two of the thousands of men who liked to think of themselves as modern day prophets.  They got their messages out alright, and people died because of it.  So, so you can see how when I hear that topic of modern day prophecy a few red flags go up.  There are times when I wish that I would be in the company of one of these men who claim to have a message from God.  Of course, I ask way too many questions sometimes so maybe that's not a good idea.  So, if there is a message from God that everyone supposedly needs to hear, why hasn't He let me know about it?  One of the comments Wayne made kind of hammered home that point.  He made the comment that many times, desperate people find themselves dependent upon others for the voice of the Lord.  Huh?  How is that possible?  How is it possible that if I have His Spirit within me that He would not speak something to me if He felt I needed to hear it {Galations 2:20}?  Unless God is in the business of withholding information from us, but I don't think that's true.

25Jesus answered them, “I told you, and you do not believe. The works that I do in My Father’s name, they bear witness of Me.26“But you do not believe, because you are not of My sheep, eas I said to you. 27“My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. 28“And I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand. 29“My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of My Father’s hand. 30“I and My Father are one.”
John 10: 25 - 30 NKJV

I had a friend who I used to see on sunday mornings when I used to go to church more often.  He was a former Marine, so his brashness kind of got on my nerves every now and then, but I passed it off as bad drill instructors.  Every now and then, my friend would stop me after service and excitedly tell me "God told me to tell you something!"  Of course, not knowing the truth of Christ that I do today, I usually was interested in what it was that God had for me to hear.  Yet, every now and then I would pray and ask Him, "Lord, why didn't you just tell me that and avoid the middle man?"  Well, it wasn't that God wasn't ignoring me, I was simply not listening to what it was He was whispering into my heart.  You could say that I had eyes to see, but not ears to hear {Matthew 11:15}.  Now, do I believe that God could indeed pass along messages to us through others?  Of course, I believe that our heavenly Father will use any means to get His message to His children.  However, knowing the truth of Christ Jesus who now lives through us, we are able to receive that direct communication from the Father.  We are closer today to God than we have ever been.  The notion that we need to pray more, more or pay more tithes in order to somehow become closer to God is a false teaching rooted in the old covenant.  That old covenant was disolved by Christ on the cross.  What remains today is Christ Jesus...in us.  I will be the first to admit that I my own ears have failed to hear what it is God has whisperd to me.  My ears did not hear my Fathers voice.  That doesn't mean that God wasn't there within me, only that I did not hear His voice.  My prayer should not be for the Father to speak to me, but that my ears would be opened that I might hear His voice.  Maybe God did have somethng to tell me after all.

3“To him the doorkeeper opens, and the sheep hear his voice; and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. 4“And when he brings out his own sheep, he goes before them; and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice. 5“Yet they will by no means follow a stranger, but will flee from him, for they do not know the voice of strangers.”
John 10: 3 - 5 NKJV

~Scott~

Where Real Men Live

14Do all things without complaining and disputing, 15that you may become blameless and fharmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world,16holding fast the word of life, so that I may rejoice in the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain.
Philippians 2: 14 - 16 NKJV

I ran across something this past week from Wayne Jacobsen which sounded more like a current events commentary than a discussion of Christ.  It seems ol' Wayne was seeking the answer to the question of if there were indeed any men of character remaining in our society.  First off, character is google defined as "The mental and moral qualities distinctive to a individual."  Now, knowing this, are there any men of character remaining in this great nation?  I would say that there definately is but that many people are looking in the wrong places to find them.  So many people look at character as a virtue of christian origin, which is simply not true.  I would suggest that character can also be seen as one who does the right thing despite that influence of all that surrounds him.  He doesn't follow the crowd but his own heart and beliefs.  How many of us, when in a situation where someone around us has been bullied or ridiculed for no apparent reason have had that fortitude to stand up and say ENOUGH?  That, more than anything, is character.  I have known my share of men, both christian and not, who have shown similar qualities in their own lives.  So, how is it that we can claim that good character is a christian based trait?  Well, because it involves doing the right thing, and the bible is all about doing the right thing...right?  Christians are supposed to turn the other cheek, stand up for what is right and despise what is wrong.  Abraham, Moses and Joshua, these were all patriarchs of old who are lifted up as examples of Godly character.  Yet each of these "Godly" men had their own moments where their own character could be called into question if one so desired to do so.  In fact, I would say that the very man at the center of the crucifiction of Christ showed more character than those around him.  Indeed, the Roman governor Pontious Pilate refused to follow the urgings of that crowd of zealots but chose instead to follow what he believed in his own heart to be true.  That is, that despite the shouts from the crowd of his guilt, that he could find no wrongdoing in the man Jesus.  Was Pilate a christian?  That I am not sure of.  However, we are told that he found no fault in Jesus and let the Jews assembled before him know it {Matthew 27:24}.

 4You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.5They are of the world. Therefore they speak as of the world, and the world hears them. 6We are of God. He who knows God hears us; he who is not of God does not hear us. By this we know the spirit of truth and the spirit of error.
1 John 4: 4 - 6 NKJV

It is not my belief that good, sound character is a trait strictly found in christians.  For I have seen many a christian who has showed a complete lack of character.  I believe that in any conversation concerning character we need to first look to Him whose image we share, that being Christ Jesus {Galations 2:20}.  If we can agree that Jesus Himself always displayed good character, we must also realize that the Son only did what the Father showed Him {John 5:19}.  So, whatever it is that the Father was doing, this is what Jesus did.  Jesus displayed the traits of our heavenly Father in a way that man could see.  He was, in fact, the very image of the Father {Colossions 1:15}.  Many have used Jesus as the prime example of good character, for good reason.  Yet Jesus was only doing what He saw His own Father doing.  Likewise, if we share the image of Christ Jesus within us, we are capable of seeing what our Father in heaven is doing...and we in turn can do it as well.  This is the character of Christ who is in us.  To do the right thing despite those voices around us.  To value others over ourselves.  A good friend shared with me not too long ago that there are indeed two types of people.  Those who share a heart for self and those with a heart for others.  I would choose to strive for a heart for others, for this is the character of Christ Jesus.

20“I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who will believe in Me through their word;21“that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me. 22“And the glory which You gave Me I have given them, that they may be one just as We are one: 23“I in them, and You in Me; that they may be made perfect in one, and that the world may know that You have sent Me, and have loved them as You have loved Me. 24“Father, I desire that they also whom You gave Me may be with Me where I am, that they may behold My glory which You have given Me; for You loved Me before the foundation of the world."
John 17: 20 - 24 NKJV

~Scott~