Those We Remember

 I am thanking my God at every remembrance of you. 

Philippians 1: 3, Concordant New Testament 

On this the day that we memorialize those we have lost I found it difficult to stake my memory to anyone I have known who has given their life in defense of this nation.  Granted, I have known many who have served in the military.  My own father did his stint in the navy before returning home once again.  Yet Memorial Day is not for the remembrance of the soldiers only, but of friends and loved ones as well.  The closest I have ever come to military service is a burning interest in military history.  However, one moment from my childhood continues to resonate with me to this day.  It seems that my mother and I were having dinner one night when her youngest son made the bold, brash statement that I wanted to fight in a war.  I won't forget the look on my mother's face in that moment.  You would think that someone had just stabbed her in the heart.  Perhaps I had in some round a bout way.  For the longest time I could not understand her reaction.  In my eyes, what could be better than serving one's country by fighting in a war?  This was how heroes were made, right?  Years later I began to understand how she was feeling in that moment.  This was the late 1970's, and the nation was still reeling from the images of the war in Vietnam.  Night after night, my parents were witness to the battlefield images of young Americans wounded in battle.  Each day, more flag draped caskets came home bearing the remains of another young man who, possibly, had dreamed of fighting in a war when he was young.  Obviously, my mother didn't want such a fate for her youngest son.  She would later confide in me that her fears only subsided when I had passed the age of being drafted into the military.  I get it.  I have always liked war movies.  However, what the movies often can never duplicate is the pain, horror and loss of battle.  I never got my chance to serve, but I have known many who have.  One thing I know for certain is that being in the military definitely changes a person.  

"When I get home people will ask me, 'Hey Hoot, why do you do it, man?  Why?  You some kind of war junkie?'  "I won't say a goddamn word.  Why?  They won't understand.  They won't understand why we do it.  They won't understand that it's about the men next to you.  That's it.  That's all it is." 

Sfc Norm "Hoot" Hooten 1SFODD

Despite not having anyone close to me who gave their life for the nation, each Memorial Day I take the opportunity to think of my mother who left to be with her Lord in 2016.  I take the opportunity to recall my father and his service to the country.  It is part of the burden which we who are left behind shoulder, that we remember those who have passed before us.  We remember them not only for heroic actions, but for the lives they touched while they were here with us.  I never knew the extent of the friendships my mother had achieved until I saw the condolences after she passed.  One life that touched so many others.  This is what we remember.  Jesus calls upon us to let our light shine for all to see {Matthew 5:16}.  To understand His words fully we must understand who that light represents.  The apostle Paul speaks to us in Galatians that it is Christ Jesus who lives in us {Galatians 2:20}.  Knowing this, I believe that we are called to let Christ Jesus within us shine for all to see.  The world may never know Christ Jesus if He is not revealed through those who truly know Him.  We remember those who have gone before us.  We rejoice that Christ has welcomed them home at last.  

Thus let shine your light before men, so that they may perceive your ideal acts and should glorify your Father who is in the heavens.

Matthew 5: 16, Concordant New Testament 

~Scott~ 

Seeing Through

 

"But as for you, you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is today, to save many people alive." 

Genesis 50: 20 NKJV 

Joseph had a right to take revenge upon his own brothers.  In their jealousy, they had managed to sell their young brother into slavery in a foreign land.  Yet something unique happened in the midst of the evil intentions of Joseph's brothers.  For as Joseph was away from his family, God was working not only on his return, but on the future of his family as well, including the redemption of his brothers for their bad intentions.  I was thinking about this this past week in the midst of another tragic school shooting took the lives of 21 people.  I have heard the question asked more than a few times since then, how could God allow such evil to exist?  Well, the fact is that we have a huge roll to play in these situations, but more on that later.  Our own understanding of God is that He is a merciful God who will not tolerate evil and wickedness.  That's what we've been taught.  We've also been taught that God can at times be a vengeful God.  So, did one of those kids in Uvalde, Texas somehow piss off God to the point where He needed to punish them?  Hardly.  Knowing this, how is it that a loving and merciful God could allow such an evil person to commit such a reprehensible act?  Well, remember Joseph?  Remember how, despite his own tragedy, God continued to work his will in the lives of Joseph and his family for good and not wickedness?  Can we entertain the possibility that through the tragedy in Uvalde that Father is indeed working for the good in the lives of those who have been hurt?  I would rather entertain this possibility than thinking that our God of love would reward evil with more pain.  I'm not buying that.  The question then arises, what good could ever come from such suffering?  That I do not know, but I trust in the Father that it will soon be revealed.  

Now we are aware that God is working all together for the good of those who are loving God, who are called according to the purpose.

Romans 8: 28, Concordant New Testament 

I was reminded the other day by a dear friend of the words of the apostle Paul.  It is Paul who reminds us that God works ALL things for the good for those who love Him {Romans 8:28}.  I also understand that, in the midst of such hurt, that it can be difficult to understand just how good could rise from pain.  I have seen my own share of pain, and I have also witnessed the times where God has shown me mercy and growth through these trials.  Do you think that God looks upon these situations and envisions evil?  No.  I believe that the Father uses them in order to exhibit His love and grace.  We might never know the good which will come from the tragedy in Texas but, as Paul did before us, we trust Him to use this tragedy for the good He will reveal.  This is the essence of Paul's instruction in Romans 8:28, that we trust in the Father that He will reveal Himself in our times of hurt.  Remember that God is "working together for the good."  I don't expect anyone who has endured such pain to immediately understand what good could possibly come from it, but I trust in the Father that it will be revealed in His timing.  We "see through" our pain and trust in the Father that He will work it for good.  Again, this may be incredibly difficult for those who have recently experienced tragedy.  However, these are the times where putting our trust in the Father may be our only option that makes sense.  When Joseph's brothers stood before the most powerful man in Egypt, they had no idea that they were speaking to the young brother they had sold into slavery.  When he finally revealed himself to his brothers, their expectation was that he would seek revenge for what they had done.  They soon found out that God had other plans.  Plans for good and not for evil.  

At our not noting what is being observed, but what is not being observed, for what is being observed is temporary, yet what is not being observed is eonian.

2 Corinthians 4: 18, Concordant New Testament 

~Scott~ 

When God Hurts

 

Wherefore also, lest I should be lifted up by the transcendence of the revelations, there was given to me a splinter in the flesh, a messenger from Satan, that he may be buffering me, lest I may be lifted up.  For this I entreat the Lord thrice, that it should withdraw from me.  And He has protested to me, "Sufficient for you is My grace, for My power in infirmity is being perfected."  With the greatest relish, then, will I rather be glorying in my infirmities, that the power of Christ should be tabernacling over me.  Wherefore I delight in infirmities, in outrages, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ's sake, for, whenever I may be weak, then I am powerful. 

2 Corinthians 12: 7-10, Concordant New Testament

There has been an understanding in Christianity for some time that once we accept Christ Jesus into our lives that suddenly our lives are blessed with good and positive things.  While I have no doubt that there will be times where we will indulge in the happiness of good times, there will also be times of extreme pain and grief as well.  This was once again illustrated this past week with the killing of 21 people at a school in Uvalde, Texas.  It wasn't long before numerous media outlets began the "Where was God?" war drums in the media.  It is as if by believing in God that we are somehow immune from the trials and pains of life.  Well, I believe in God, and my life has not been easy in any way.  I know of others who, being devout followers of Jesus, have suffered many afflictions in their own lives.  While my heart goes out to the families in Texas, I also understand that we have not seen the last of the sufferings of life.  So why would God allow children to suffer?  I try not to think of God in that way.  I prefer to see God for who He is...Love.  I prefer to see God who, in those terrible final moments, lovingly led His children home with Him.  While we are left to pick up the pieces of this tragedy, we can be assured that God has not forgotten, nor will He forget, those of us who remain.  His promise is clear, He will be with us always {Isaiah 41:10, Matthew 28:20}.  We do well to keep this close to our hearts.  

With Christ have I been crucified, yet I am living, no longer I, but living in me is Christ.  Now that which I am now living in the flesh, I am living in faith that is of the Son of God, who loves me, and gives Himself up for me.

Galatians 2: 20, Concordant New Testament

My first thought as I watched the media coverage of the events in Uvalde was, do they really know that God is in this too?  Should we expect only good from God and not suffering?  The apostle Paul speaks many times in scripture of sharing in the sufferings of Christ.  Of course, we all know of the sufferings which Jesus endured in His final days.  These sufferings, these stripes suffered by Him, were suffered that we would be spared the same punishment.  It is Jesus who became sin on our behalf {2 Corinthians 5:21}.  One of the most difficult jobs this weekend falls upon the pastor who attempts to somehow rationalize the events in Texas with a loving God.  The two don't seem interchangeable.  We don't often associate God with pain and suffering.  When we are afflicted, our very first question seems to always be, "Why me, God?"  In reality, God has never once departed from His home in us.  Paul writes in Galatians of the indwelling Christ {Galatians 2:20}.  If indeed Christ Jesus is in me, and I believe He is, then He is in me no matter the circumstances or what I am going through.  He has never left me.  So, the next time tragedy comes knocking, and of this we can be sure, remember one thing.  The one constant that we have when we hurt...is God.  

Blessed is the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of pities and the God of all consolation.  Who is counseling us in very affliction, through the consolation with which we ourselves are being consoled by God.

2 Corinthians 1: 3-4, Concordant New Testament

~Scott~ 

If Churches Were Honest

 

Now all those who believe were also in the same place and had all things in common.  And they disposed of the acquisitions and the properties, and divided them to all, forasmuch as someone would have need.  Besides persevering day by day with one accord in the sanctuary, besides breaking bread home by home, they partook of nourishment with exultation and simplicity of heart, praising God and having favor for the whole people.  Now the Lord added those being saved day by day in the same place.

Acts 2: 44-47, Concordant New Testament 

I ran across a light-hearted video the other day titled "If churches were honest."  Now, to be honest, the man who created this video also has created satirical videos for everything from soda pop to car dealerships.  However, the more that I watched this satire video aimed at today's mega churches I began to see that the satire wasn't too far from the truth.  The video mocks everything from mega church rock...um...praise bands to "somewhat" inspirational sermons.  From high priced church leaders to large multi-dollar houses of worship.  This guy pulls no punches.  The funny thing is, I agree with him.  I came away from watching this video with one thought.  That is, if today's mega churches were truly honest, they would admit that it's all about the community of believers and not the mega money flashy facade they portray to the outside world.  Yes, it may feel warm and fuzzy to tell others that you attend or belong to a million-dollar church, but are you indeed a better Christian for it?  Do you have a better understanding of Christ from attending your big money church?  I'd think not.  From my own experiences, I've noticed that when you look beyond the noise of the rock bands and the fancy suits of the pastors...the message still remains relatively the same.  In other words, I could forsake the riches of the mega church and still get the same sermon from a small church pastor.  But go ahead and keep believing that your big, expensive church somehow is extra special.  Now for the kicker.  If churches were to be TOTALLY honest with the community of believers they would proclaim that all of that loud music and fancy buildings doesn't matter a bit.  What does matter is the community of believers who are drawn into the church for whatever reason.  It's more about fellowship than the elegant exterior.  

Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor.  For if they fall, one will lift up his companion.  But woe to him who is alone when he falls, for he has no one to help him up.  Again, if two lie down together, they will keep warm; but how can one be warm alone?  Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him.  And a threefold cord is not easily broken.

Ecclesiastes 4: 9-12 NKJV 

I have a good friend who, after a traumatic period in his life, began searching for a church.  Did he look for the most fancy and well adorned building?  No.  What did inspire his search was one day seeing the cross of the church he would one day flourish in as he was driving past it on the freeway.  As a former member of this church myself, there were many people who, upon seeing this cross, began to realize that there was hope when all seemed lost.  There have been cases of those on the brink of suicide who saw the cross and decided that the hope of the Lord was more important.  In many of these instances, what people were searching for wasn't a loud rock band or a fancy building but a community of like minded believers.  This is community, this is the church of the followers of Christ.  Jesus tells us that when two or more are gathered that He is there amongst us {Matthew 18:20}.  Jesus makes NO distinction of the gathering place where His followers would gather.  Only that if two or more gathered, that He is there.  So, I'll take your fancy mega church and raise you a Sunday morning at the coffee shop with a few like minded believers.  In fact, I'll probably save a few bucks from skipping the mega-church offering as well.  I use the coffee shop only as a example, but you could definitely bypass the mega-church at other venues as well.  The gym.  On a hike.  If you work weekends, you might also take a few moments to gather with fellow believers at work.  God does not discriminate in where His children gather, only that we come together in His name.  Yes, today's mega churches are ornate and flashy, but they're hardly the only game in town.  

"You are the light of the world, a city located on a mountain can not be hid.  Neither are they burning a lamp and placing it under a peck measure, but on a lampstand, and it is shining to all those in the house.  Thus let your light shine in front of men, so that they may perceive your ideal acts and should glorify your Father who is in the heavens."

Matthew 5: 14-16, Concordant New Testament

~Scott~ 

Missed Opportunities

 

"You miss one hundred percent of the shots you never take"

Wayne Gretzky 

It might seem difficult to imagine now, but early on in his junior hockey career a young player by the name of Wayne Gretzky was having difficulty finding the net.  Increasingly frustrated by his own lack of production, the great one limited his shots on goal to those he considered a sure thing.  Noticing this, his coach at the time pulled the young star aside one day and shared with him some good advice.  Gretzky would later recall, "He took me aside and told me, you miss one hundred percent of the shots you never take."  As a result of his coach's advice, Gretzky began shooting, and scoring, more often.  Today, he is rightfully considered to be the greatest to ever play the game.  His 940 career goals and 2,027 assists place him on top of every National Hockey League scoring list.  I never gave much thought to how the advice Wayne Gretzky once received could help transform my own life until recently.  While my hockey playing days are now few and far between, I still remain a die-hard fan of the game.  So how could the sage advice from a hockey coach change one's perspective?  Well, just like Wayne Gretzky was struggling by only taking shots he considered a sure thing, many of us do that very same thing.  I know I have.  We might hold back on applying for that career advancing job thinking that it's a long shot.  We might hesitate speaking words of apology to another thinking that that bridge is already burned beyond repair.  At the end of the day, all we've really done is once again deny ourselves an opportunity.  Like Gretzky giving up a chance to score, we ourselves pass up opportunities to move forward in life.  It's not that difficult to do, holding off for a better opportunity often seems preferable to the pain and embarrassment of failure and rejection.  

Who is not versed in that which is the morrow's, for what is your life?  For a vapor are you, which is appearing briefly and thereupon disappearing. 

James 4: 14, Concordant New Testament 

The amazing thing about the story of the early career of Wayne Gretzky is that he was simply following traditional hockey wisdom.  Don't waste your shots on goal.  Only shoot when you see an opening.  Had he ignored his coach and continued to follow conventional wisdom who knows where the great ones career path might have led him.  If I were to have Wayne Gretzky as a life coach for a day I'm sure that he would impart some of that wisdom into my daily life.  Apply for that job.  Say what you need to say.  It sounds all too simple, but many people have difficulty going through life with nothing but sure shots in front of them.  They hesitate to take that risk when failure looms as an option.  I was one of that crowd.  Safety is knowing that whatever decision we make will not bring us the embarrassment of failure.  Yet there are those who will say that failure is not acting upon each and every opportunity we come across.  But what happens if we take that opportunity and it doesn't pan out?  What happens if we apply for that job and are denied?  What happens if we take the opportunity to speak to another person and they reject us?  I'll tell you what happens...it hurts for a little while.  That's it, the pain and embarrassment eventually go away and we're left with more opportunities to act upon.  Remember also that each and every opportunity lost is a potential reward not taken.  I was once again reminded of this recently as I contemplated developing a friendship.  Definitely not a sure thing, but a opportunity nonetheless.  

~Scott~ 

Being Real

For God gives us, not a spirit of timidity, but of power and of love and of sanity.

1 Timothy 1: 7, Concordant New Testament

I was scrolling through my Facebook feed the other day and I noticed an ad where the young lady was talking about doing her "morning affirmations."  This got me thinking, what are affirmations?  Why are they so important for some people to accomplish each day?  Are our affirmations simply thoughts that make us feel good, or are they something more?  Well, depending on how you perceive them, our own affirmations can be nothing less than speaking what is true.  Now, I will never condemn someone for speaking positive things into their life.  After all, this is something that I do on a regular basis.  Each and every day I find myself speaking the truth of who it is that I am in Christ Jesus.  I suppose that I could consider this to be a part of my own daily affirmations.  I have known many Christians who swear by their journaling each and every day.  I get it.  As someone who writes for his hobby, I've journaled my thoughts from time to time as well.  Not only do I find journaling to be a positive influence on our lives, reminding us of the truth of our life, but it also something which we can very well learn from as well.   There have been more than a few times when I look back on my daily journals that I realize how God has carried me through situations in my own life.  So yes, I believe that affirmations can and do have a positive part to play in our lives.  But I say look carefully at the affirmations which we include in our lives.  What are we affirming for ourselves?  Well, for myself, I affirm the truth of Christ in my life each day.  For me, the truth of Christ Jesus is exactly what the apostle Paul spoke to in Galatians.  That Jesus is more than just a memory.  For it is Jesus who lives in me {Galatians 2:20}.  This is the truth of Christ which I speak to each day.  Others may speak affirmations of goodness, health and positivity.  All, in my opinion, are true once we put them into their proper context.  

You are of God, little children, and you have conquered them, for greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world.

1 John 4: 4, Concordant New Testament

If I were to pen an affirmation for myself today, I would begin by staking the claim that I AM Christ who is in me {Galatians 2:20}.  I would continue that I have been created for good and wonderful things by my heavenly Father {Genesis 1:27}.  I am good, I am bold, I am Jesus.  This...is the truth of Christ in me.  Others may skip the religious aspect of it all by simply conforming that they are good and positive people.  They're not lying.  For I have not cornered the market on having the indwelling Spirit of Christ within me, nor am I the only one who has been lovingly created by the Father.  Whether one realizes it or not, we have all been created in the image of the Father.  Whether or not we have that  realization, the Spirit of Christ Jesus lives in all of the Lord's children.  I have heard the arguments before from those who seem to deny that the Spirit of Jesus could ever remain in men such as Adolf Hitler, Josef Stalin or Charlie Manson.  Such evil could never be associated with God, they claim.  However, I submit that Christ was indeed present in these men, but that they did not even realize it.  Would you see Jesus in yourself if you had never even been introduced to Him?  Probably not.  God has not picked and chosen those few who will exhibit His Son in them.  What He has done is gifted each of us with the truth of Christ in our lives...should we choose to realize His presence.  Once we realize the indwelling Spirit of Jesus in our lives, our daily affirmations become more than just simple positive thoughts.  They become confirmation of the truth we already know.  

With Christ have I been crucified, yet I am living; no longer I, but living in me is Christ.  Now that which I am now living in the flesh, I am living in faith that is of the Son of God, who loves me, and gives Himself up for me.

Galatians 2: 20, Concordant New Testament

~Scott~ 

Life In The Bunker

 

How we see God IS how we see ourselves.  How we see ourselves IS how we see other people.  How we see other people IS how we see God.  If we want to know what we really think about God, all we need to do is assess what we really think about "all those Christians out there."

Daniel Yordy

I remember coming home from work, that place where many of the words and actions that hurt me took place, and retreating into watching television and/or pornography.  That was my bunker, the place where the people who caused me so much anger, pain and frustration could never touch me.  Here I was free to be the man I thought I truly was.  But that was nothing but another lie born no doubt of others who built up their own bunkers around their lives.  I was not free to be the man I truly was, I was enslaved to the idea that I was a mans man.  Stoic, reserved and shunning everyone.  This was my world.  Now I ask you, what reasonable person could ever attempt to break down the walls of the bunker I'd built for myself?  No doubt many tried, but my anger and sarcasm eventually drove them away.  How many potential friends have I driven away?  When I think back on those times now I cannot help but feel regret for living the lie which I was.  I call it living a lie because that is exactly what I was doing.  By believing that what I was doing was the true essence of a man, I was denying the presence of the Lord who had so lovingly brought life unto me {Genesis 1:27}.  By buying into this life I had created for myself, I was turning my back on Jesus who has ALWAYS been the essence of the man that I am today.  Oh sure, I knew who Jesus was, but I wasn't "living" Jesus as someone who knew the truth of Christ in them {Galatians 2:20}.  To me, Jesus was just a figurehead, someone who was far removed from any part of my life.  Jesus was the guy who condemned me for what I had done.  Jesus was the example I was told I needed to "try to follow."  Never in my Christian life up to that point was I introduced to the Jesus who is in me.  That Jesus had no place in my bunker.  

But as for you, you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is to this day, to save many people alive. 

Genesis 50: 20 NKJV 

A dear friend this morning shared with me a wonderful quote from author Daniel Yordy.  The quote was so profound to my topic today that I led off this page with it.  The truth is, how we see those around us IS how we see God.  Am I to believe that I have the market cornered on Christ Jesus being in me?  Did Jesus stop there?  NO!  The truth of Christ is that His Spirit indwells in ALL of the Lords creation.  We can, however, choose not to realize that He is in us.  We can build up for ourselves bunkers to house our false beliefs that we are our own man.  We can shun all who dare try to break down the walls of the prisons we create.  Trust me, I've ben there.  The painful pill for me to swallow was reading Daniel Yordy's quote that how we see God is how we see ourselves.  In my bunker, I was safe from the hurtful words of those I ignored.  However, when I did venture out into the world, I began to see those around me as mean and wicked people.  Was this how I saw God as well?  Yes, there were rimes where my opinion of the Lord was based upon what I felt was His past of judging the wicked.  I needed to be holy and righteous, and if I wasn't then God would judge me.  That was my view of God.  That was my view of myself.  A turning point for me came when a good friend shared with me the passage from 1 John 4:8.  Suddenly I was introduced not to a God of judgement, but of love.  The first bricks of the bunker I had built for myself began to crumble and fall.  It wasn't long before life in the bunker began to remind me of somewhere I never wanted to be.  A life in the bunker meant a life of pain devoid of the Lord.  The love and acceptance I wanted was mine for the taking outside of that bunker.  It was here where God has nurtured in me the truth I have come to know as His Son in me {Galatians 2:20}.  If indeed Christ Jesus is in me, then His Spirit is in those other believers out there as well.  It is this profound realization which helped change my own perspective of my fellow man.  Many people will continue to do mean and hurtful things, but do they really know who they are?  What will it take to began breaking down the walls of the prisons they've created for themselves?  It all begins with Jesus.  

He who is not loving knew not God, for God is love.

1 John 4: 8, Concordant New Testament 

~Scott~ 

The Pastors Blacklist

 

Let brotherly fondness be remaining.  Be not forgetting hospitality, for through this some were oblivious when lodging messengers.  

Hebrews 13: 1-2, Concordant New Testament

I would be curious as to how many Christians out there are familiar with the pastor's blacklist.  Pastors blacklist?  Yes, the pastors blacklist.  That unofficial document on which the names of all who have abandoned the church are inscribed.  The first time I became aware of this practice was when I approached a former church I had attended for prayer, only to be told that the pastor now had "other obligations."  Really?  Although it does not sound too Christ like to me, this practice continues today.  So, let's talk about fellowship within the church.  For if we have fellowship within the church, then we need not fear the pastor's blacklist.  How is it that you see fellowship?  Do you count fellowship only with those believers who worship at your particular house of God?  When other Christians move to another church, which happens more often than people want to admit, do you write them off as no longer being "one of the brethren?"  Or, do you do as Christ commanded, and continue in fellowship with others even though they might not be in your immediate circle of believers {1 John 1:7}.  To me, fellowship is a celebration of He who is in me.  That being Christ Jesus {Galatians 2:20}.  In fellowship with other believers, we are afforded the opportunity to praise and glorify Jesus for His works.  In fellowship, we have the opportunity to share in the joys and sufferings of others around us.  Although many Christians may not agree, fellowship is also a way for us to nurture and bring into the reality of Jesus those who have never known Him.  It is Jesus who spoke for us to make followers of all the nations {Matthew 28:19-20}.  I'm sure that Jesus knew, like I do, that in these nations dwell those who have never known Jesus or are opposed to Him.  One glance at our society today and one can understand the difficulties in bringing in more followers of Jesus.  But how is it that we can bring in more followers of Jesus unless we ourselves fellowship with those who need Him the most?  Now, I'm not perfect, and I've certainly alienated my share of people in my life (big surprise there).  However, I'm also proud of each opportunity I've taken to speak Christ to someone I've met.  

How, then, should they be invoking One in Whom they do not believe?  Yet how should they be believing One of Whom they do not hear?  Yet how should they be hearing apart from one heralding?  Yet how should they be heralding if ever they should not be commissioned?  According as it is written: How beautiful are the feet of those bringing an evangel of good! 

Romans 10: 14-15, Concordant New Testament

In the gym I go to I have had the opportunity to strike up a friendship with a few people.  Are all of these Christians?  I doubt it.  In fact, that is never even my first question when meeting someone for the first time.  At this point, their beliefs are not as important to me.  What is important is the person.  Who are they?  What are they doing?  This is simple conversation and observation my friends.  Jesus Himself was criticized for spending time with sinners.  However, as Jesus said, it is not the healthy who need a physician but the sick {Luke 5:31}.  What opportunity do we miss by not speaking into the life of another?  For if we do not speak Christ into that life, who will?  Yes, God can lead anyone to tell them of His Son, but He chose us for a reason.  Perhaps by speaking Christ into someone else, Jesus is revealing a bit about ourselves in the process.  I have a few friends who will, upon reading this, immediately ask me who it is I have spoken Christ to today.  That's the institutional church way out of realizing that you yourself are also called to speak the truth of Jesus.  It's a cop out.  So, don't focus on what others may be doing, focus on who you yourself are being led to speak Jesus to.  True fellowship does not involve guilting others into speaking to those around them.  True fellowship is meeting someone where they are at in life.  This is exactly what Jesus did.  

Bear one another's burdens, and thus fill up the law of Christ. 

Galatians 6: 2, Concordant New Testament 

~Scott~ 

Breaking Down Walls

 

Looking off to the Inaugurator and Perfector of faith, Jesus, who, for the joy lying before Him, endures a cross, despising the shame, besides is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. 

Hebrews 12: 2, Concordant New Testament 

Many a believer has been reminded countless times that faith can break down walls.  This week I received news that a good friend whom we have been in prayer over is recovering well from a recent surgery.  Now, nobody could ever convince me that prayer does not indeed work in people's lives.  Personally, I have been the benefit of many a prayer over the years.  But is prayer really a two- step process?  Can we have effective prayer without the faith to back it up?  Well, when one looks at the meaning of these two words we see something interesting.  See, prayer is simply our conversations with the Father.  Jesus Himself spent many a hour alone in prayer talking to the Father.  So, it's only natural that He would encourage His followers to pray as well {Matthew 21:21-22}.  But taking a look at the words of Jesus in the New Testament and we get an idea how prayer and faith are tied together.  In Matthew, Jesus tells us to "Have faith and do not doubt" when it comes to our own conversations with the Father {Matthew 21:21}.  Do not doubt that the One we pray to is our heavenly Father.  Do not doubt that He listens and cares for His children.  Do not doubt...period.  This is the essence of breaking down walls with prayer.  If we believe without a doubt in our hearts that the Lord will do as He says He will, we can expect good results.  Does that mean that I can pray for a new Mercedes sport sedan and if I believe without a doubt it will be delivered to me?  Not exactly, for I also believe that we do not get everything we ask the Father for.  Just like we did not receive all we asked from our earth bound parents, God knows exactly what we need and when we need it. 

Now Jesus went with them.  Now, as He is already not far away from the house, the centurion sends friends to Him, saying to Him, "Lord, do not bother, for not enough am I that Thou mayest be entering under my roof.  Wherefore, neither do I count myself worthy to be coming to Thee.  But say the word, and my boy will be healed.  For I am also a man set under authority, having soldiers under me, and I am saying to this one 'Go,' and he is going, and to another, 'Come,' and he is coming, and this to my slave, 'Do this,' and he is doing it."  Now, hearing these things, Jesus marvels at him, and, being turned to the throng following Him, said, "I am saying to you that not even in Israel did I find so much faith."  And, returning into the house, those sent found the infirm slave sound.

Luke 7: 6-10, Concordant New Testament

One of my favorite passages from scripture is the account of Jesus healing the Roman centurions servant.  When He heard of the servants affliction, Jesus had every intent to go to the mans house to see what He could do.  However, as He approached the Centurions home, he was met by the centurion himself who advised Jesus that He need not come into his home.  Why?  Because the centurion understood authority.  Being a military man, he understood that he had the power to command others.  He also correctly understood that Jesus had power over the infirmity which had afflicted his servant.  This centurion did not doubt.  It's no surprise that Jesus Himself was amazed at the centurions attitude.  But was this really the faith of this centurion?  The way I see it, this was simply a man who understood authority.  Whatever the case may be, this mans servant was healed by Jesus.  The story of the centurion is a good example of not doubting the abilities of the Lord.  Jesus could have bypassed the centurions request entirely, but He didn't.  I believe that He used this episode to teach those who were following Him, and us, that we are to have faith and do not doubt.  Can prayer break down walls, absolutely.  The walls of Jerico fell at the faith and belief of Joshua and the Israelites.  We do well to remember that our prayers are not simply a "name it and claim it" mentality.  When we pray, we are revealing to the Father our own triumphs, fears and desires.  Of course, He already knows our words even before we utter them.  We do well to take a lesson from the Roman soldier when faced with a challenging situation.  Do not doubt.  

"But coming is the hour, and now is, when the true worshippers will be worshipping the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father is also seeking such to be worshipping Him.  God is spirit, and those who are worshipping Him must be worshipping in spirit and truth."  

John 4: 23-24, Concordant New Testament 

~Scott~ 

Claiming Jesus

 In Whom we have boldness and access with confidence, through His faith.

Ephesians 3: 12, Concordant New Testament 

Not so long ago, a good friend of mine shared with me a portion of the truth which we share in Christ.  That being the boldness of our Lord and Savior.  Now, many people may well recall from scripture those moments when Jesus Himself showed these characteristics of boldness in His life.  This same boldness which Christ exhibited can be ours as well, if we choose to proclaim it.  For what good is sharing in the boldness of Christ if we ourselves fail to realize that we indeed are partakers of all which Christ Jesus has to offer?  We do well to live by the mantra, if Christ exhibited it, we can ourselves proclaim it.  How is this even possible?  For one to recognize the attributes of Christ in themselves we must also recognize that it is Jesus Himself who is in us.  My friend likes to refer to our life in Christ as sharing in His DNA, and he is spot on about that.  The apostle Paul knew the man he was in Christ Jesus.  It is Paul who also shares with us the truth of Christ, which is Christ Jesus in us {Galatians 2:20}.  Jesus is not simply some holy, whimsical Spirit who floats up in heaven watching over us all.  No, He is actively involved in our daily lives.  It is Jesus in whom we pin our identity to.  It is Christ who chose us, not the other way around.  He chose to exhibit Himself in us.  Do you think that people today can even see Jesus?  Yes, through we who believe, the world will see Him.  He is the light of the world, shining through us, which He spoke of in Matthew {Matthew 5:14-16}.  Jesus is the light of the world spoken to us through the apostle John {John 1:5}.  It is this Jesus that we ourselves need proclaim.  We are Christ.  

Thus shine your light in front of men, so they may perceive your ideal acts and should glorify your Father who is in heaven.

Matthew 5: 16, Concordant New Testament

My friend has shared with me recently that as Christ is in me, I have the ability to exhibit the boldness of Christ as well.  Do I always choose to do that?  No.  In fact, in a recent situation I related to him that I had failed to proclaim the boldness of Christ in my life.  His response?  It's there for the choosing.  Amen!  This is the personification of Philippians 4:13.  In Christ, I can do all things.  In fact, I would take this verse in Philippians just a bit further by proclaiming CHRIST is my strength (although I believe that this is the point Paul was attempting to get across anyway).  The strength and boldness of Christ Jesus is there, if we choose to access it.  How do we choose to access the boldness of Jesus?  By believing in confidence that we indeed have it.  Why was I not able to proclaim the boldness of Christ in my own situation?  Simple, I did not believe that I could accomplish what it was I was trying to do.  My eyes were not on my faith of Christ in me, but on my own inability.  His light remained hidden within me instead of shining bright for all to see.  Can anyone else relate to this?  This doesn't mean that Jesus is not in me, only that I chose not to personify Him.  Jesus was there where He has always been, in me waiting to show the world who He is through me.  We are the ones who need to claim Jesus. 

For all am I strong in Him Who is invigorating me...Christ! 

Philippians 4: 13, Concordant New Testament 

~Scott~ 

The Gym Rats

 

As Iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend. 

Proverbs 27: 17 NKJV 

Casey works for a "global company," keeps odd hours and is pretty religious about his gym time.  Vic is a army vet who, despite being retired, still dabbles in concrete work.  Dennis is a retired Union Pacific guy who likes his whiskey.  Together we've come to be known to a few of the afternoon gym patrons as the "gym rats."  I don't mind too much as I'm not there for a popularity contest.  However, it is good to know that this small group of guys could come together in a environment that is not normally conducive to relationships.  The typical gym goer goes to the gym, does their thing and leaves.  I have noticed a few that linger to chat, but they are few and far between.  These gym rats are the exception.  I was thinking the other day about the success and failures of the men's relationship movements and how they pertain to what I have with my gym compadres.  Organizations such as Bill McCartney's  Promise Keepers were organized to bring men together in the name of the Lord.  I have been involved in more than a few men's conferences and enjoyed the experience.  If there is one criticism I would have of these drive by men's evangelistic meetings it's that the aftermath did not match the excitement of the event.  Indeed, once the Promise Keeper tents were torn down and left town, many a man was left behind with empty promises of brotherhood and relationship.  Granted, most guys are not into the entire relationship thing, but I've found that if we are in a solid group environment, relationships tend to prosper.  Think of guys who have their core group of friends who hunt.  Guys who have their motorcycle riding buddies.  Think of the gym rats.  For me, it has been proven that guys can and will find their own way into friendship with others they spend time with.  Unfortunately, this is exactly what Promise Keepers lacked.  

Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor.  For if they fall, one will lift up his companion.  But woe to him who is alone when he falls, for he has no one to help him up.  Again, if two lie down together, they will keep warm; But how can one be warm alone?  Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him.  And a threefold cord is not quickly broken.

Ecclesiastes 4: 9-12 NKJV 

I recall being involved in more than a few Promise Keepers events where the plan was for men who connected during the conference would be followed up with after the tents were torn down.  To my knowledge, this rarely happened.  Granted, there were a few guys who remained connected with their Promise Keeper group, but it was not the norm.  As for me, I had a pretty solid group of church guys I was already connected with so it was never an issue.  I have talked with more than a few guys who have attended Promise Keepers in the past, however, and they regret not having contact with at least a few of the guys they met there.  Now, as I stated, much of this speaks to how we as guys approach friendships and relationships with others.  Say the word relationship to a man and he immediately starts thinking that it is one of comedian George Carlins seven dirty words.  Although we might not see it as relationship, we guys are involved in our share.  The gym rats didn't start out as a relationship, but came together over time as four guys who began to notice one another in the same place every day.  In the end, that's how this works.  The idea that a men's conference could toss a few men together, mix them like a salad and then call it relationship after only two days is ridiculous.  One of the few fundamental differences between men and women is that women are more relational, they seek out relationship with other women.  Guys...not so much.  So where does this leave men when it comes to ministry?  The same place we've always been.  We might not convince others of our own realization of the indwelling Christ {Galatians 2:20}, but this by no means should be seen as a friendship killer.  I have friendships with many who don't adhere to what I believe to be true.  We do well to remember that if the seed of Christ Jesus is to be planted, it needs the fertile ground of another who will hear it.   Meet people where they are.  The gym rats do that every day.  

For where two or three are, gathered in My name, there am I in the midst of them. 

Matthew 18: 20, Concordant New Testament

~Scott~