Jesus enter Jericho in a procession that must have looked like a disorganized parade. The crowds were everywhere, and a tax collector named Zaccheus climbs a sycamore tree to gain a vantage point to see Jesus from. Then the unexpected happened. as Jesus and the crowds pass underneath Zaccheus perch, Jesus stops and looks up and summons Zaccheus to come down and be his host! Imagine the shock and surprise of this sinner that the hero of the day would not only acknowledge him, but desired to stay with him! It's easy for me to imagine, because I have experienced the same shock. Jesus did not pass this sinner by, but he has come to live with me - how about you friend? Jesus mission statement is made clear here when Jesus responds to the grumbling crowd with these words, "For the Son of Man came to seek out and to save the lost." Luke 19:10 NRSV.
If Jesus' mission is to seek and save the lost, how are we doing in helping him accomplish that mission? I would say that we have pretty much concluded that the tax collectors and sinners of our days are not hiding under the pews and chairs in our churches - yet that seems to be the only place we chose to seek for them! The lost that need Jesus are hiding up a tree out and about among us Monday through Saturday. Will you invite them in on Jesus behalf this week? Come on, take a chance. Risk being odd and open your heart and your mouth to a stranger or a family member and bring them to church.
As Jesus makes his triumphal entry this Palm Sunday or Lamb Selection day as the Jews would have called it his reaction breaks my heart. As the crowds call out to him and herald him as the next King in David's line, Jesus weeps over their lost condition. He wonders aloud at their ignorance with these words, "If you, even you, had only recognized on this day the things that make for peace! But now they are hidden from your eyes." Luke 19:41 NRSV. I wonder if we know today what will make us whole.
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Luke 18
Jesus is telling parables as chapter 18 begins. The first of the parables is used to instruct us on how we might pray. The King in the parable is accountable to no one – not man nor God, and yet as the poor widow persistently works on him he eventually gives her what she desires just to rid him of her pestering! Jesus uses this parable to encourage us to pray fervently.
In the next parable Jesus contrasts a Pharisee who is righteous in his own eyes and a tax collector that knows his own lack. Jesus tells the crowd that the sinner who is repentant will be received where the self-righteous person will not find favor in God’s eyes.
The crowds continue to be drawn to Jesus and he blesses the little children and tells the disciples not to prevent them from coming to him. A rich ruler comes to Jesus next and asks how he might be saved. Jesus engages him in a discussion of the law and the ruler says that he has kept all of the law since his youth. Jesus then presses even deeper. "There is still one thing lacking. Sell all that you own and distribute the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me." 23 But when he heard this, he became sad; for he was very rich.” Luke 18:22-23 NRSV. Some would say Jesus went from preaching to meddling. Jesus always gets in our kitchen – or involves himself in the deep places of our hearts. The disciples and all who hear the exchange become disheartened and begin to question if any can be saved. Jesus reassures them and us when he says what is impossible for people is possible for God.
Jesus continues to tell the disciples that his time with them is brief, that he must go to Jerusalem and be handed over to sinful men and be killed.
As they journey on past Jericho a blind man hears that Jesus is passing by and he calls out to Jesus for healing and for mercy. The crowds try to silence him but the man will not be silenced and calls out all the louder until Jesus stops and calls for the blind man to be brought to him. Jesus asks him an interesting question; “What do you want me to do for you?” It is interesting to me because it might seem obvious to us what a blind man would want from Jesus. It draws me into the question of my heart – “What do I want from Jesus?” What do you want from Jesus?
In the next parable Jesus contrasts a Pharisee who is righteous in his own eyes and a tax collector that knows his own lack. Jesus tells the crowd that the sinner who is repentant will be received where the self-righteous person will not find favor in God’s eyes.
The crowds continue to be drawn to Jesus and he blesses the little children and tells the disciples not to prevent them from coming to him. A rich ruler comes to Jesus next and asks how he might be saved. Jesus engages him in a discussion of the law and the ruler says that he has kept all of the law since his youth. Jesus then presses even deeper. "There is still one thing lacking. Sell all that you own and distribute the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me." 23 But when he heard this, he became sad; for he was very rich.” Luke 18:22-23 NRSV. Some would say Jesus went from preaching to meddling. Jesus always gets in our kitchen – or involves himself in the deep places of our hearts. The disciples and all who hear the exchange become disheartened and begin to question if any can be saved. Jesus reassures them and us when he says what is impossible for people is possible for God.
Jesus continues to tell the disciples that his time with them is brief, that he must go to Jerusalem and be handed over to sinful men and be killed.
As they journey on past Jericho a blind man hears that Jesus is passing by and he calls out to Jesus for healing and for mercy. The crowds try to silence him but the man will not be silenced and calls out all the louder until Jesus stops and calls for the blind man to be brought to him. Jesus asks him an interesting question; “What do you want me to do for you?” It is interesting to me because it might seem obvious to us what a blind man would want from Jesus. It draws me into the question of my heart – “What do I want from Jesus?” What do you want from Jesus?
Monday, April 28, 2008
A note from Bekah
I talked to my Dad today and he asked me to come on and update for him. This week's readings are Luke 17 thru 21 for Monday thru Friday, but he is in Kentucky and is not able to get onto the internet. Continue reading along with us, and he will catch up on his blogging when he gets back home.
Bekah
Bekah
Luke 17
Jesus is walking with his disciples and giving them some instructions on what Kingdom life looks like – how they must live now that their allegiance is with Jesus and not with the world. As he instructs them on forgiveness they begin to get whinny. Jesus doesn’t soft pedal or try to appease them instead he tells them that this is not a democracy, but a Kingdom! Slaves do not have options and neither do we!
As they are traveling between Samaria and Galilee a group of ten lepers call out to Jesus from a safe distance begging for healing. They kept their distance as a way of protecting others from contracting the awful disease. Jesus tells them to go and show the priests and as they are on their way they find that they have been made well! One of the ten turns back and thanks Jesus for this amazing gift of healing – and he was a Samaritan! Jesus notices that only one of the ten returns to give thanks, and then only the foreigner. I wonder why only the Samaritan came back. Perhaps as a Samaritan he didn’t really care what the priests thought anyway.
Next Jesus is confronted with a question on the end times by a Pharisee. I wonder at Jesus answer when he says in verse 20 and 21, “The kingdom of God is not coming with things that can be observed; nor will they say, 'Look, here it is!' or 'There it is!' For, in fact, the kingdom of God is among you." In the following verses Jesus does seem to point to some “signs” of the end of the age.
How do you see the Kingdom of God among us today?
As they are traveling between Samaria and Galilee a group of ten lepers call out to Jesus from a safe distance begging for healing. They kept their distance as a way of protecting others from contracting the awful disease. Jesus tells them to go and show the priests and as they are on their way they find that they have been made well! One of the ten turns back and thanks Jesus for this amazing gift of healing – and he was a Samaritan! Jesus notices that only one of the ten returns to give thanks, and then only the foreigner. I wonder why only the Samaritan came back. Perhaps as a Samaritan he didn’t really care what the priests thought anyway.
Next Jesus is confronted with a question on the end times by a Pharisee. I wonder at Jesus answer when he says in verse 20 and 21, “The kingdom of God is not coming with things that can be observed; nor will they say, 'Look, here it is!' or 'There it is!' For, in fact, the kingdom of God is among you." In the following verses Jesus does seem to point to some “signs” of the end of the age.
How do you see the Kingdom of God among us today?
Friday, April 25, 2008
Luke 16
If you have already read Luke 16 there is a very good chance you felt either confused or put off by the opening parable. I know I did! I spent quite a lot of time researching and re-translating the parable looking for a better understanding. i found some confusing commentaries that didn't help, one commentary that did help, but the scholarship was very faulty and the conclusions were faulty. I mentioned my dilemma to my brother BJ who is in town leading a Walk to Emmaus weekend at the church I pastor and he had a brilliant response. Ready? He said something to this effect - "Jesus tells a parable about a very bad man to teach a very good lesson." In some way, that is really all you need to know about the parable of the shrewd manager. The manager is without redeeming qualities, but he is shrewd in his dealing with a bad business situation. Jesus calls his disciples - you and I included - to be more careful, shrewd if you like, in our approach to Kingdom matters. Now this is not a call to dishonesty or unfair business dealings, it is a call for us to think outside the box when we are making plans for the Kingdom.
Jesus closes the chapter with the story of the rich man and Lazarus. Lazarus has lived a life of poverty and finds himself in the bosom of Abraham in the after life. The rich man who has enjoyed the luxuries this world can offer dies and he is in torment. the rich man calls out to Abraham and asks that Lazarus be sent to quench his thirst. This being denied, he changes his request that Lazarus return to the land of the living and warn his brothers. Jesus sends a personal message through the lips of Abraham when he says, "If they do not listen to Moses and the prophets, neither will they be convinced even if someone rises from the dead." Luke 16:31 NRSV. This is a foreshadowing of their unbelief even after Jesus is raised from the dead.
Jesus closes the chapter with the story of the rich man and Lazarus. Lazarus has lived a life of poverty and finds himself in the bosom of Abraham in the after life. The rich man who has enjoyed the luxuries this world can offer dies and he is in torment. the rich man calls out to Abraham and asks that Lazarus be sent to quench his thirst. This being denied, he changes his request that Lazarus return to the land of the living and warn his brothers. Jesus sends a personal message through the lips of Abraham when he says, "If they do not listen to Moses and the prophets, neither will they be convinced even if someone rises from the dead." Luke 16:31 NRSV. This is a foreshadowing of their unbelief even after Jesus is raised from the dead.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Luke 15
The sinners and broken people gather around to listen and the "religious" mock. Often still true today, those seeking relationship press in closer and closer to Christ and the self-righteous seeking religion throw stones and insults from the sidelines. Lord, help us.
The reaction of the religious hypocrites of his day inspired Jesus to share three parables sometimes called the parables of lost things. In these three parables Jesus speaks about a lost sheep, a lost coin and a lost son.
When the shepherd in the first parable realizes that one of his one hundred sheep has been lost he makes an extravagant, seemingly fool hardy decision to leave the 99 in the wilderness to go look for the one lost sheep!
When the woman finds she has lost a silver coin, she searches diligently through her home until she finds it and then invites her friends and neighbors to celebrate her good fortune in finding it again!
When the father in the last parable loses a son, he waits and prays. Ouch. One of the lessons here may be that when we lose a sheep we search, when we lose a coin we search, and when we lose a child we wait and pray. That is not the way I am wired, but it seems to be fairly good counsel. Possessions can be tracked down and taken back, people often must be missed, and prayed for until they come back of their own free will.
I love preaching the parable of the Prodigal Son. I am always struck by the hard hearted son, the generous father and the angry brother. I wince as I read that the younger son had to come to the end of his rope, hit bottom, before he comes to his senses. I rejoice as the father runs through his sons apology to embrace his filthy withered boy, and then hurries to clothe him in the best robe - before washing him up even! And I am afraid I can relate to the anger of the presumptuous older brother as he jealously watches his father love the unlovely.
Where do you fit in to these stories of lost things? Some of us seek, some of us hide, some of us pray.
The reaction of the religious hypocrites of his day inspired Jesus to share three parables sometimes called the parables of lost things. In these three parables Jesus speaks about a lost sheep, a lost coin and a lost son.
When the shepherd in the first parable realizes that one of his one hundred sheep has been lost he makes an extravagant, seemingly fool hardy decision to leave the 99 in the wilderness to go look for the one lost sheep!
When the woman finds she has lost a silver coin, she searches diligently through her home until she finds it and then invites her friends and neighbors to celebrate her good fortune in finding it again!
When the father in the last parable loses a son, he waits and prays. Ouch. One of the lessons here may be that when we lose a sheep we search, when we lose a coin we search, and when we lose a child we wait and pray. That is not the way I am wired, but it seems to be fairly good counsel. Possessions can be tracked down and taken back, people often must be missed, and prayed for until they come back of their own free will.
I love preaching the parable of the Prodigal Son. I am always struck by the hard hearted son, the generous father and the angry brother. I wince as I read that the younger son had to come to the end of his rope, hit bottom, before he comes to his senses. I rejoice as the father runs through his sons apology to embrace his filthy withered boy, and then hurries to clothe him in the best robe - before washing him up even! And I am afraid I can relate to the anger of the presumptuous older brother as he jealously watches his father love the unlovely.
Where do you fit in to these stories of lost things? Some of us seek, some of us hide, some of us pray.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Luke 14
Jesus confronts the Pharisees about the legality of healing on the Sabbath as he travels with them to have a meal. He asks a simple question about the legality of healing on the Sabbath, and when his question goes unanswered, he heals a man who had dropsy. (Dropsy has been defined as an unusual swelling or accumulation of body fluids.) Jesus then turns to the Pharisees and asks them a question meant to clarify his position, "If one of you has a child or an ox that has fallen into a well, will you not immediately pull it out on a sabbath day?" Luke 14:5 NRSV. I think I often fail to see this central motivation in so many of God's actions around me - I am God's child, and God cares for me. So, sometimes God blesses me for no apparent reason, save that God delights in blessing me! Sometimes God chastens me because God desires my maturity and obedience. But God is a loving compassionate parent - the lover of our souls!
Don't pass over the next section, it is Kingdom etiquette! This section ends with a rather heart breaking teaching on a King who set a feast, and no one was willing to come. How often do I stand up the Creator of All Things! God has called and invited me to walk and talk, and I wander off into other distractions and sin.
As chapter 14 draws to a close, Jesus is calling us to place our love and loyalty for God above all other loyalties. We must love the Lord with all we are or will be if we want to be disciples. Lord, help me to tear down the idols I have built up and let me worship you alone!
Don't pass over the next section, it is Kingdom etiquette! This section ends with a rather heart breaking teaching on a King who set a feast, and no one was willing to come. How often do I stand up the Creator of All Things! God has called and invited me to walk and talk, and I wander off into other distractions and sin.
As chapter 14 draws to a close, Jesus is calling us to place our love and loyalty for God above all other loyalties. We must love the Lord with all we are or will be if we want to be disciples. Lord, help me to tear down the idols I have built up and let me worship you alone!
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Luke 13
As chapter 13 begins Jesus addresses a question that is probably as old as humanity. Why do bad things happen to people? Jesus mentions some contemporary catastrophes that his listeners would have been familiar with. He asks the crowd if they think that those who had suffered had been more evil than the rest of society. The answer, of course, is that good people and bad people suffer – the rain falls on the just and the unjust. Jesus then tells the crowds a parable indicting that we all will die, so we should repent and live at pace with God.
Jesus confronts the Pharisees and their legalism again on a Sabbath. Jesus heals a woman who had suffered for 18 years, and was bent completely over! After the healing one of the synagogue leaders told the crowd that they should only come for healing on non-Sabbath days! What a hypocrite he was! I wonder if he immediately realized how stupid his idea was after he had said it out loud, or if he was still convinced of his point. Sometimes I immediately know when I have said something I wish I hadn’t – how about you?
Jesus now gives three illustrations for the Kingdom of God. The Kingdom of God is like a mustard seed that grows and becomes a home to many, it is like yeast that a woman puts in dough and it spreads and leavens the whole loaf, it is like a narrow gate that we must carefully approach lest we miss our goal.
As chapter 13 ends we see an unusual occurrence – a Pharisee comes and warns Jesus that Herod is coming to arrest him. We never know if this is just a ploy be the Pharisee to move Jesus along, or if it a version of the old “The enemy of my enemy is my friend”. Jesus is defiant and says – "He said to them, "Go and tell that fox for me, 'Listen, I am casting out demons and performing cures today and tomorrow, and on the third day I finish my work. Yet today, tomorrow, and the next day I must be on my way, because it is impossible for a prophet to be killed outside of Jerusalem.'" Luke 13:32-33 NRSV. In other words, if you want me, come and get me if you can!
This momentary bravado turns to sadness as Jesus considers Jerusalem. What a sad lament as Jesus considers what might have been… If only Jerusalem had embraced him and allowed him to love them as he had so longed to love them. I imagine that Jesus sometimes laments over me. “O Bill, Bill …”. Lord, help me to live in the shelter of your love.
Jesus confronts the Pharisees and their legalism again on a Sabbath. Jesus heals a woman who had suffered for 18 years, and was bent completely over! After the healing one of the synagogue leaders told the crowd that they should only come for healing on non-Sabbath days! What a hypocrite he was! I wonder if he immediately realized how stupid his idea was after he had said it out loud, or if he was still convinced of his point. Sometimes I immediately know when I have said something I wish I hadn’t – how about you?
Jesus now gives three illustrations for the Kingdom of God. The Kingdom of God is like a mustard seed that grows and becomes a home to many, it is like yeast that a woman puts in dough and it spreads and leavens the whole loaf, it is like a narrow gate that we must carefully approach lest we miss our goal.
As chapter 13 ends we see an unusual occurrence – a Pharisee comes and warns Jesus that Herod is coming to arrest him. We never know if this is just a ploy be the Pharisee to move Jesus along, or if it a version of the old “The enemy of my enemy is my friend”. Jesus is defiant and says – "He said to them, "Go and tell that fox for me, 'Listen, I am casting out demons and performing cures today and tomorrow, and on the third day I finish my work. Yet today, tomorrow, and the next day I must be on my way, because it is impossible for a prophet to be killed outside of Jerusalem.'" Luke 13:32-33 NRSV. In other words, if you want me, come and get me if you can!
This momentary bravado turns to sadness as Jesus considers Jerusalem. What a sad lament as Jesus considers what might have been… If only Jerusalem had embraced him and allowed him to love them as he had so longed to love them. I imagine that Jesus sometimes laments over me. “O Bill, Bill …”. Lord, help me to live in the shelter of your love.
Monday, April 21, 2008
Luke 12
As we start a new week let me remind you of our reading schedule. This week we will read: Monday - Luke 12, Tuesday - Luke 13, Wednesday - Luke 14, Thursday - Luke 15, and Friday - Luke 16. We are making headway nicely as we read through this very "thick" gospel. It is fairly easy reading because the material is somewhat familiar, but it is a challenge because Luke crams so much into each sentence! Stick with it, I appreciate your walking with me in this more than you know! Now, let's look at Luke 12!
Have you ever noticed the way a crowd gathers when there is going to be a fight? I have been on both sides of this crowd more that i care to admit - spectator and brawler. In chapter 11 Jesus picks a fight with the religious leaders of his day and in chapter 12 a crowd gathers to see the fight. Jesus calmly concentrates on his disciples and uses this as a teaching moment. Jesus is cool.
In 12:16 - 20 Jesus tells the following parable. "Then he told them a parable: "The land of a rich man produced abundantly. And he thought to himself, 'What should I do, for I have no place to store my crops?' Then he said, 'I will do this: I will pull down my barns and build larger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods. And I will say to my soul, 'Soul, you have ample goods laid up for many years; relax, eat, drink, be merry.' But God said to him, 'You fool! This very night your life is being demanded of you. And the things you have prepared, whose will they be?" This parable paints a painful picture of selfishness. Take a look at the parable and the language used. Note the over abundance of personal pronouns in the story "I", and "my" are sprinkled all through the mans conversation. This is a fairly good measure for us to use on our own attitudes. When you think and talk and pray, is your conversation all about yourself? I this and i that followed by my my my? God responded then and I think God may respond now with disgust and discipline!
Jesus knew this teaching ran contrary to the wisdom of the world, and so he continued to encourage those listening to store their treasures up in heaven! Where is your treasure friend? I assure you, wherever your treasure is your heart will follow! Cast your treasure over the fence into the Kingdom and it will draw the rest of you after it!
The stress and weariness of life can be seen very clearly in the following verses, "I came to bring fire to the earth, and how I wish it were already kindled! I have a baptism with which to be baptized, and what stress I am under until it is completed! Do you think that I have come to bring peace to the earth? No, I tell you, but rather division! " Luke 12:49-51 NRSV. When I read this I hear Jesus ask James and John f they are sure they want to drink from the cup from which he must drink, and be baptised with the baptism with which he will be baptised. The path Jesus calls us to walk is not supposed to be the easiest path, but it calls for our deepest commitment! Come, follow Jesus!
Have you ever noticed the way a crowd gathers when there is going to be a fight? I have been on both sides of this crowd more that i care to admit - spectator and brawler. In chapter 11 Jesus picks a fight with the religious leaders of his day and in chapter 12 a crowd gathers to see the fight. Jesus calmly concentrates on his disciples and uses this as a teaching moment. Jesus is cool.
In 12:16 - 20 Jesus tells the following parable. "Then he told them a parable: "The land of a rich man produced abundantly. And he thought to himself, 'What should I do, for I have no place to store my crops?' Then he said, 'I will do this: I will pull down my barns and build larger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods. And I will say to my soul, 'Soul, you have ample goods laid up for many years; relax, eat, drink, be merry.' But God said to him, 'You fool! This very night your life is being demanded of you. And the things you have prepared, whose will they be?" This parable paints a painful picture of selfishness. Take a look at the parable and the language used. Note the over abundance of personal pronouns in the story "I", and "my" are sprinkled all through the mans conversation. This is a fairly good measure for us to use on our own attitudes. When you think and talk and pray, is your conversation all about yourself? I this and i that followed by my my my? God responded then and I think God may respond now with disgust and discipline!
Jesus knew this teaching ran contrary to the wisdom of the world, and so he continued to encourage those listening to store their treasures up in heaven! Where is your treasure friend? I assure you, wherever your treasure is your heart will follow! Cast your treasure over the fence into the Kingdom and it will draw the rest of you after it!
The stress and weariness of life can be seen very clearly in the following verses, "I came to bring fire to the earth, and how I wish it were already kindled! I have a baptism with which to be baptized, and what stress I am under until it is completed! Do you think that I have come to bring peace to the earth? No, I tell you, but rather division! " Luke 12:49-51 NRSV. When I read this I hear Jesus ask James and John f they are sure they want to drink from the cup from which he must drink, and be baptised with the baptism with which he will be baptised. The path Jesus calls us to walk is not supposed to be the easiest path, but it calls for our deepest commitment! Come, follow Jesus!
Friday, April 18, 2008
Luke 11
In Luke 11 the disciples ask Jesus to teach them to pray. The lesson begins with an abbreviated version of the Lord's Prayer - not given as a prayer we must memorize and repeat, but as a model for us to work from. Jesus continues with the teaching by giving some examples of the results of faithful prayer.
Another demon - this one causes a young man to be mute - is cast out. Have you noticed how common this is in Luke's gospel? Jesus does a bit of teaching here on demons and expelling them. Some in the crowd say that he casts out demons by the power of demons. Jesus shows how ridiculous that is by pointing out that a house divided against itself could not stand.
The only clear reference that Jesus makes to tithing follows, "But woe to you Pharisees! For you tithe mint and rue and herbs of all kinds, and neglect justice and the love of God; it is these you ought to have practiced, without neglecting the others." Luke 11:42 NRSV. Clearly Jesus thought tithing was a given, even though he desires justice and love of God more!
Finally today I am struck by Jesus indictment of the religious leaders of the day. He is very, very hard on them because they use the Word of God as a barrier to access to God. He holds his strongest anger and accusations for the religious leaders! I wonder where I am guilty of the same sin? Where do I block access to God by twisting and inflicting the Word of God? Lord help me to be like Jesus, holy and loving, loving and holy.
Another demon - this one causes a young man to be mute - is cast out. Have you noticed how common this is in Luke's gospel? Jesus does a bit of teaching here on demons and expelling them. Some in the crowd say that he casts out demons by the power of demons. Jesus shows how ridiculous that is by pointing out that a house divided against itself could not stand.
The only clear reference that Jesus makes to tithing follows, "But woe to you Pharisees! For you tithe mint and rue and herbs of all kinds, and neglect justice and the love of God; it is these you ought to have practiced, without neglecting the others." Luke 11:42 NRSV. Clearly Jesus thought tithing was a given, even though he desires justice and love of God more!
Finally today I am struck by Jesus indictment of the religious leaders of the day. He is very, very hard on them because they use the Word of God as a barrier to access to God. He holds his strongest anger and accusations for the religious leaders! I wonder where I am guilty of the same sin? Where do I block access to God by twisting and inflicting the Word of God? Lord help me to be like Jesus, holy and loving, loving and holy.
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Luke 10
After the success of the mission of the 12 Jesus sends out seventy "others" into the mission field. I think this implies people other than the disciples. It is also clear as he sends them that they are to completely depend on God as their provider and guide. It strikes me as I read this how often I turn away from ministry because every dollar is not accounted for and their is not an apparent groundswell of support. This text would encourage me to go where I am sent and trust god's provision!
When the 70 return they share the great success they enjoyed - even the demons obeyed them when they spoke Jesus name! Jesus reminds them to keep the main thing the main thing when he responds, "Nevertheless, do not rejoice at this, that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven." Luke 10:20 NRSV. Regardless of the apparent success or failure of our earthly ministries, remember always that you belong to God - your name is written in heaven. Amen! He ends this discussion by reminding them (and I think us) that we are blessed to be seeing the wonders of God! Generations of faithful saints called out to God seeking what we often take for granted!
Verses 25-37 are rich text! If you'd like to hear them expounded, attend church this Sunday in Boonville (8:15, 10:15 or 11:30 AM, or Trenton at 4:00 PM and hear Lynn Lockwood preach on this text! Thanks Lynn!)
The Martha and Mary dichotomy haunts me. I tend to behave like Martha, not only working while I should be soaking in Jesus, but also resenting those that rest at his feet. And yet, someone needs to make lunch - right? Someone needs to get busy around here or, or, never mind. I know Jesus is able to supply all of my needs according to his riches in glory. So, I will rest at the feet of the savior today. I may need to be reminded later to trust God's provision and walk in grace.
When the 70 return they share the great success they enjoyed - even the demons obeyed them when they spoke Jesus name! Jesus reminds them to keep the main thing the main thing when he responds, "Nevertheless, do not rejoice at this, that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven." Luke 10:20 NRSV. Regardless of the apparent success or failure of our earthly ministries, remember always that you belong to God - your name is written in heaven. Amen! He ends this discussion by reminding them (and I think us) that we are blessed to be seeing the wonders of God! Generations of faithful saints called out to God seeking what we often take for granted!
Verses 25-37 are rich text! If you'd like to hear them expounded, attend church this Sunday in Boonville (8:15, 10:15 or 11:30 AM, or Trenton at 4:00 PM and hear Lynn Lockwood preach on this text! Thanks Lynn!)
The Martha and Mary dichotomy haunts me. I tend to behave like Martha, not only working while I should be soaking in Jesus, but also resenting those that rest at his feet. And yet, someone needs to make lunch - right? Someone needs to get busy around here or, or, never mind. I know Jesus is able to supply all of my needs according to his riches in glory. So, I will rest at the feet of the savior today. I may need to be reminded later to trust God's provision and walk in grace.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Luke 9
Having demonstrated a complete mastery over creation in chapter 8 Jesus does an amazing thing here in chapter 9. He gives his disciples a commission to go and do what they have watched him do! It is one thing to know the power of Jesus, it is quite another to have him send us in that same power!
When the disciples return from their successful mission, Jesus withdraws with them to a quiet place to debrief and rest. The crowds hear of his whereabouts and follow him to his retreat site. Wow, that hits home. imagine going off on vacation and having your work load met you at the cabin! I might not respond as graciously as Jesus did! He welcomed them and healed and taught them and when it grew ate he feeds them! I must admit, don't enjoy Luke's account of the feeding of the 5000 as well as I like other accounts, but t is still telling and moving!
later when Jesus is alone with his disciples and he has been praying he asks them what the people are saying about him - who do they think he is? He then personalizes the question for the 12 and I believe he still turns this question on us, "But who do you say that I am?" Luke 9:20 NRSV. I say, Jesus is the Messiah. God with us, Emmanuel. He is my savior and my King, the Bridegroom of the church who is coming again to receive us and take us to be with him forever! How about you? Who do you say he is?
The rest of this chapter is packed with important material, the transfiguration, a demon possessed little boy is cleansed, a discussion about who will be greatest in the Kingdom, the Thunder Brothers want to destroy a Samaritan village etc. But I want to close by asking you to think honestly and deeply about Jesus question to his disciples. "Who do you say Jesus is?" A second question follows quickly into my mind, "What impact does your answer have on the way you live your life?"
When the disciples return from their successful mission, Jesus withdraws with them to a quiet place to debrief and rest. The crowds hear of his whereabouts and follow him to his retreat site. Wow, that hits home. imagine going off on vacation and having your work load met you at the cabin! I might not respond as graciously as Jesus did! He welcomed them and healed and taught them and when it grew ate he feeds them! I must admit, don't enjoy Luke's account of the feeding of the 5000 as well as I like other accounts, but t is still telling and moving!
later when Jesus is alone with his disciples and he has been praying he asks them what the people are saying about him - who do they think he is? He then personalizes the question for the 12 and I believe he still turns this question on us, "But who do you say that I am?" Luke 9:20 NRSV. I say, Jesus is the Messiah. God with us, Emmanuel. He is my savior and my King, the Bridegroom of the church who is coming again to receive us and take us to be with him forever! How about you? Who do you say he is?
The rest of this chapter is packed with important material, the transfiguration, a demon possessed little boy is cleansed, a discussion about who will be greatest in the Kingdom, the Thunder Brothers want to destroy a Samaritan village etc. But I want to close by asking you to think honestly and deeply about Jesus question to his disciples. "Who do you say Jesus is?" A second question follows quickly into my mind, "What impact does your answer have on the way you live your life?"
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Luke 8
We see in Luke 8 a quick list of some of the women who supported Jesus ministry. They backed him financially and spiritually. They testify to his divinity first and follow him to the cross and are first to the empty tomb. The women in Jesus life were awesome faith warriors and we hear so little about them because of the culture they lived in - it is a bit of a testimony to the progressiveness of the early church that we hear about them at all!
The parable of the seeds is told next. This is a very important parable to me. It's impact on me is one of the reasons I am still a United Methodist!
When Jesus' mother and brothers come to see him and can't reach him because of the crowds, Jesus says that we are all his mother and his brothers and sisters if we hear the word of God and do it.
On the way across the Sea of Galilee to the area of the Gerasenes Jesus is asleep in the boat. While he is sleeping a storm harsh enough to terrify seasoned fisherman blows up and threatens to sink their boat. The disciples wake Jesus in their terror and Jesus simply rebukes the storm! Almost immediately they are on land and are confronted by another storm raging in the soul of a man! The demon possessed man likely made the disciples wish they were back on the lake fighting the sea! Jesus again shows his absolute mastery over this and casts the demons out of the man and into a herd of pigs. So Jesus shows in these few verses his mastery over nature and the supernatural.
Again, almost immediately, we find Jesus on the other side of the sea and the crowds are pushing in on him. A leader of the synagogue, Jarius, comes and begs Jesus to come with him to heal his dying 12 year old daughter. As they make their way through the crowd, a woman who has been hemorrhaging for 12 years (I don't know if there is a significance in the age of the dying girl and the time the woman has suffered) reaches through the crowd and touches Jesus in faith, thus gaining her healing. Jesus stops the procession and looks around and says, "Someone touched me; for I noticed that power had gone out from me." Luke 8:46 NRSV. The woman comes forward and admits what she has done, and Jesus commends her faith and sends her on her way. Just at that moment someone arrives from Jarius house to tell him that his daughter has died. WOW - from the sea to the demoniac to the woman with great faith to a dead 12 year old. I am spinning just reading it - can you imagine living it? Jesus encourages Jarius with the words, "Do not fear. Only believe, and she will be saved." Luke 8:50 NRSV. When Jesus arrives at Jairus home the mourners have already begun their vigil. Jesus tells them not to weep, because she is not dead but asleep and they laugh at him! Then Jesus takes her by the hand and calls her back to life and restores her to her parents.
What a whirlwind tour of the power and sovereignty of Jesus! Parables, teaching, a demonstration of Jesus dominion over nature, a demonstration of his dominion over the spiritual realm, a miraculous healing and a resurrection of a synagogue leaders dead daughter! Luke packs all of this into 56 verses of chapter 8. It leaves me wondering where in my life I have limited or refused the sovereign reign of Christ my King. If he is not Lord of all, will he be Lord at all?
The parable of the seeds is told next. This is a very important parable to me. It's impact on me is one of the reasons I am still a United Methodist!
When Jesus' mother and brothers come to see him and can't reach him because of the crowds, Jesus says that we are all his mother and his brothers and sisters if we hear the word of God and do it.
On the way across the Sea of Galilee to the area of the Gerasenes Jesus is asleep in the boat. While he is sleeping a storm harsh enough to terrify seasoned fisherman blows up and threatens to sink their boat. The disciples wake Jesus in their terror and Jesus simply rebukes the storm! Almost immediately they are on land and are confronted by another storm raging in the soul of a man! The demon possessed man likely made the disciples wish they were back on the lake fighting the sea! Jesus again shows his absolute mastery over this and casts the demons out of the man and into a herd of pigs. So Jesus shows in these few verses his mastery over nature and the supernatural.
Again, almost immediately, we find Jesus on the other side of the sea and the crowds are pushing in on him. A leader of the synagogue, Jarius, comes and begs Jesus to come with him to heal his dying 12 year old daughter. As they make their way through the crowd, a woman who has been hemorrhaging for 12 years (I don't know if there is a significance in the age of the dying girl and the time the woman has suffered) reaches through the crowd and touches Jesus in faith, thus gaining her healing. Jesus stops the procession and looks around and says, "Someone touched me; for I noticed that power had gone out from me." Luke 8:46 NRSV. The woman comes forward and admits what she has done, and Jesus commends her faith and sends her on her way. Just at that moment someone arrives from Jarius house to tell him that his daughter has died. WOW - from the sea to the demoniac to the woman with great faith to a dead 12 year old. I am spinning just reading it - can you imagine living it? Jesus encourages Jarius with the words, "Do not fear. Only believe, and she will be saved." Luke 8:50 NRSV. When Jesus arrives at Jairus home the mourners have already begun their vigil. Jesus tells them not to weep, because she is not dead but asleep and they laugh at him! Then Jesus takes her by the hand and calls her back to life and restores her to her parents.
What a whirlwind tour of the power and sovereignty of Jesus! Parables, teaching, a demonstration of Jesus dominion over nature, a demonstration of his dominion over the spiritual realm, a miraculous healing and a resurrection of a synagogue leaders dead daughter! Luke packs all of this into 56 verses of chapter 8. It leaves me wondering where in my life I have limited or refused the sovereign reign of Christ my King. If he is not Lord of all, will he be Lord at all?
Monday, April 14, 2008
Luke 7
Luke chapter 7 is packed with powerful accounts of Jesus' life, some teaching, and a parable. It is one of my favorite chapters in the Bible! The only problem I would have with this section of Luke would be picking an area to preach from on Sunday!
Luke 7 begins with the account of Jesus and the Roman Centurions servant. Jesus is contacted by the Jewish elders in Capernaum after they are contacted by a local Roman Centurion about his slave who was dying. The Jewish Elders ask Jesus to come and pray for this man because he has been a friend to their nation during the Roman occupation. When Jesus is on his way to the house to pray, friends of the centurion come to Jesus with a message from him. He sends the message that he understands the process at hand, and that it is not necessary for Jesus to come to him, just speak the word and the servant will be healed. The centurion understands chain of command, he believes that Jesus is at the top of the chain! The scripture says that Jesus is amazed by this insight and tells those following him that he has not seen such faith anywhere in Israel. I wonder 2 things when I read this. 1) Do I understand the chain of command - who this Jesus is? 2) What is it about me that "amazes' Jesus.
Almost immediately we find Jesus at the gates of the city of Nain where there is a funeral procession for the only son of a widow. This is significant in that culture because the death of her son would have been more than emotionally devastating for this woman it would have been financially and socially catastrophic as well. Jesus breaks all the rules of protocol and culture and religion and he reaches and touches the bier and calls the young man back to life! The crowds were all seized with fear at this and began to glorify God! I would think so!
Next Jesus deals with the disciples of John the Baptist and the crowds perception of John and Jesus. Jesus scolds the crowds because they couldn't be satisfied. John was too austere and Jesus, they say, is too liberal! Sounds like our society today in the church and outside her walls. What shall we fight over next - like the same children Jesus described and scolded,aren't we?
Finally, Jesus attends dinner at the home of a Pharisee where he is anointed by a woman who is a sinner. What sin do you suppose she is guilty of? I have often heard it preached that she was a prostitute, but I don't see that in the text. It simply says that she was a sinner, and later that her sins were many. Perhaps she was a gossip, or a miser, or ????. Does our presupposition about her sin say more about us than it does about her?
I believe there is a final twist to the parable about the man who owes little and the man who owes much being forgiven. I think it is an illusion that we owe different amounts for our salvation. There is, in my opinion, no hierarchy of sin and forgiveness. My sin cost the life of my savior - your sin, no matter what that is, cost the same. We are all deeply indebted to the savior of our souls and owe him all adoration and praise.
Luke 7 begins with the account of Jesus and the Roman Centurions servant. Jesus is contacted by the Jewish elders in Capernaum after they are contacted by a local Roman Centurion about his slave who was dying. The Jewish Elders ask Jesus to come and pray for this man because he has been a friend to their nation during the Roman occupation. When Jesus is on his way to the house to pray, friends of the centurion come to Jesus with a message from him. He sends the message that he understands the process at hand, and that it is not necessary for Jesus to come to him, just speak the word and the servant will be healed. The centurion understands chain of command, he believes that Jesus is at the top of the chain! The scripture says that Jesus is amazed by this insight and tells those following him that he has not seen such faith anywhere in Israel. I wonder 2 things when I read this. 1) Do I understand the chain of command - who this Jesus is? 2) What is it about me that "amazes' Jesus.
Almost immediately we find Jesus at the gates of the city of Nain where there is a funeral procession for the only son of a widow. This is significant in that culture because the death of her son would have been more than emotionally devastating for this woman it would have been financially and socially catastrophic as well. Jesus breaks all the rules of protocol and culture and religion and he reaches and touches the bier and calls the young man back to life! The crowds were all seized with fear at this and began to glorify God! I would think so!
Next Jesus deals with the disciples of John the Baptist and the crowds perception of John and Jesus. Jesus scolds the crowds because they couldn't be satisfied. John was too austere and Jesus, they say, is too liberal! Sounds like our society today in the church and outside her walls. What shall we fight over next - like the same children Jesus described and scolded,aren't we?
Finally, Jesus attends dinner at the home of a Pharisee where he is anointed by a woman who is a sinner. What sin do you suppose she is guilty of? I have often heard it preached that she was a prostitute, but I don't see that in the text. It simply says that she was a sinner, and later that her sins were many. Perhaps she was a gossip, or a miser, or ????. Does our presupposition about her sin say more about us than it does about her?
I believe there is a final twist to the parable about the man who owes little and the man who owes much being forgiven. I think it is an illusion that we owe different amounts for our salvation. There is, in my opinion, no hierarchy of sin and forgiveness. My sin cost the life of my savior - your sin, no matter what that is, cost the same. We are all deeply indebted to the savior of our souls and owe him all adoration and praise.
Friday, April 11, 2008
Luke 6
Hi Friends! We are safely in Georgia and settling in to our apartment at Epworth by the Sea. We flew out of JFK this afternoon (Friday) and after sitting on the runway waiting for a crowded airspace to clear up a bit we flew in to Jacksonville Florida. After securing our bags and rental car we drove the 50 or so miles to St. Simon's Island where we will be vacationing for the next 11 days. I will continue to post my blogs everyday, and I encourage you to read and respond as well. This reading and blogging has been a great blessing for me and I hope for you as well!
In Luke chapter 6 we see Jesus going head to head with the Pharisees over their contrived legalism and his freedom and grace. This battle took Jesus to the cross and still rages within the church today. What a fine line we are forced to walk between anarchy and legalism. We need to remember we are saved by grace and must walk this life in that same amazing grace!
Jesus proves the veracity of his claims by healing a man with a withered hand. perhaps a quick indicator for us in our journey of faith might be, "Are people set free and healed by our walk of faith, or are they imprisoned and weighed down by it?"
Chapter six concludes with what theologians call "The Sermon on the Plain" (as apposed to similar material being called "The Sermon on the Mount" in Matthew). You can see that the material here starts alot like The Sermon on the Mount with the beatitudes ("Blessed are you...") but Luke's presentation is much shorter than Matthew's. The beginning and the end are similar, and this sermon concludes with a warning to all that building a life on any foundation other than Jesus teaching will lead to utter collapse!
In Luke chapter 6 we see Jesus going head to head with the Pharisees over their contrived legalism and his freedom and grace. This battle took Jesus to the cross and still rages within the church today. What a fine line we are forced to walk between anarchy and legalism. We need to remember we are saved by grace and must walk this life in that same amazing grace!
Jesus proves the veracity of his claims by healing a man with a withered hand. perhaps a quick indicator for us in our journey of faith might be, "Are people set free and healed by our walk of faith, or are they imprisoned and weighed down by it?"
Chapter six concludes with what theologians call "The Sermon on the Plain" (as apposed to similar material being called "The Sermon on the Mount" in Matthew). You can see that the material here starts alot like The Sermon on the Mount with the beatitudes ("Blessed are you...") but Luke's presentation is much shorter than Matthew's. The beginning and the end are similar, and this sermon concludes with a warning to all that building a life on any foundation other than Jesus teaching will lead to utter collapse!
Thursday, April 10, 2008
Luke 5
In this chapter we find Jesus collecting disciples and healing the sick. he encounters Simon on the Sea of Galilee. preaches from his boat and leads him to a miraculous life changing catch of fish. Peter's reaction is like the reaction of Isaiah in the Old Testament. When Isaiah encounters the Lord in the Temple he is made more fully aware of his own brokenness. Peter's reaction is similar, "Go away from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man!" Luke 5:8 NRSV. I wonder what my reaction to Jesus would be? Perhaps i would worship, but very likely I would be like Isaiah or Peter and be conscious of my sin.
Three people in need of healing follow - a leper, a paralytic, and a tax collector. Jesus touches and heals and befriends them. The religious leaders of the day are horrified that Jesus would be sullied by these actions. Jesus still touches the unclean and eats with sinners, I know because he has touched me and still walks and talks with me everyday!
The chapter closes with the parable of the new wine in old wine skins and the new cloth sewn into an old garment. Change is the only constant in the life spent walking with Christ. I have often been guilty of forgetting this truth and I have lagged behind the movement and tempo of the Spirit of God in my life. Lord, help me to embrace the vitality and unpredictable nature of life in your Kingdom.
Three people in need of healing follow - a leper, a paralytic, and a tax collector. Jesus touches and heals and befriends them. The religious leaders of the day are horrified that Jesus would be sullied by these actions. Jesus still touches the unclean and eats with sinners, I know because he has touched me and still walks and talks with me everyday!
The chapter closes with the parable of the new wine in old wine skins and the new cloth sewn into an old garment. Change is the only constant in the life spent walking with Christ. I have often been guilty of forgetting this truth and I have lagged behind the movement and tempo of the Spirit of God in my life. Lord, help me to embrace the vitality and unpredictable nature of life in your Kingdom.
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Luke 4
Jesus is led by the Spirit into the wilderness where for 40 days he does not eat and is tempted by the devil. We probably do not get all of the temptations that confronted him in 40 days, but we get enough to take a lesson from our Lord in how to handle temptation.
Each time Jesus is tempted, he answers the devil with "It is written" and "It is said" as he quotes scripture in his defense. This works, Jesus overcomes this session but note that the devil leaves "until an opportune time." Luke 4:13b NRSV.
Jesus returns to Galilee in the power of the Holy Spirit and began to teach. In Nazareth on the Sabbath he takes the scroll and reads from the prophet Isaiah his mission statement. It read, "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor." Luke 4:18&19 NRSV. If you or your church is looking for a vision or mission statement let me suggest you'd do a lot worse than borrowing Jesus' mission statement here.
The service seemed to be going quite well, but took a nasty turn when Jesus told the
crowd that their would be no great signs and wonders performed. They push him outside of the city to a place where they might stone him to death, but he miraculously walks right through them.
Chapter 4 ends with an account of Jesus' ministry in Capernaum of Galilee where Jesus confronts and dispatches demons and cures diseases. One of those healed is Simon Peter's mother-in-law. The people of Capernaum would have compelled Jesus to stay with them, but he left the comfort of their hospitality to pursue the mission and call of God.
Each time Jesus is tempted, he answers the devil with "It is written" and "It is said" as he quotes scripture in his defense. This works, Jesus overcomes this session but note that the devil leaves "until an opportune time." Luke 4:13b NRSV.
Jesus returns to Galilee in the power of the Holy Spirit and began to teach. In Nazareth on the Sabbath he takes the scroll and reads from the prophet Isaiah his mission statement. It read, "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor." Luke 4:18&19 NRSV. If you or your church is looking for a vision or mission statement let me suggest you'd do a lot worse than borrowing Jesus' mission statement here.
The service seemed to be going quite well, but took a nasty turn when Jesus told the
crowd that their would be no great signs and wonders performed. They push him outside of the city to a place where they might stone him to death, but he miraculously walks right through them.
Chapter 4 ends with an account of Jesus' ministry in Capernaum of Galilee where Jesus confronts and dispatches demons and cures diseases. One of those healed is Simon Peter's mother-in-law. The people of Capernaum would have compelled Jesus to stay with them, but he left the comfort of their hospitality to pursue the mission and call of God.
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
Luke 3
I hope the opening of chapter 3 didn't hurt your neck. Look again and see the abrupt change of direction that Luke throws us. he begins by listing all of the powerful people of the day and their positions, but switches gears when he says, "the word of God came to John son of Zechariah in the wilderness." Luke 3:2b NRSV. I don't think it is an accident that Luke says, when all of these powerful important people were around, God spoke to a desert preacher named John - a nobody to the world, a somebody to God! It is still like that today. If we will humble ourselves, we are likely to hear from God, exalt yourself and ... not so much.
John the Baptists ministry was harsh and brief and effective! He accomplished all that God had purposed for him to do and likely did it in less than a year. Not the contract you or I would likely want to negotiate, but then God rarely negotiates with humans.
Luke's account of Jesus' baptism is brief, and is followed directly by the genealogy of Jesus. Notice the difference in Luke's genealogy to that written in Matthew. Matthew traces a good Jewish line all the way back to Abraham through David. Luke traces the same line but he goes back to David and Abraham right to Adam and end with God! i think I like Luke's better!
John the Baptists ministry was harsh and brief and effective! He accomplished all that God had purposed for him to do and likely did it in less than a year. Not the contract you or I would likely want to negotiate, but then God rarely negotiates with humans.
Luke's account of Jesus' baptism is brief, and is followed directly by the genealogy of Jesus. Notice the difference in Luke's genealogy to that written in Matthew. Matthew traces a good Jewish line all the way back to Abraham through David. Luke traces the same line but he goes back to David and Abraham right to Adam and end with God! i think I like Luke's better!
Monday, April 7, 2008
Luke 2
The second chapter of Luke is probably best known for its use in Christmas pageants every year. I still hear Linus (from Charlie Brown) take the stage whenever I read these words. most of the memories that are churned to the surface for me with these verses involve warm thoughts, secure feelings, poinsettias and candle light.
The reality that Mary and Joseph were living through had nothing in common with my sentimental memories. Mary and Joseph were in a tough place, forced to travel late in her pregnancy of harsh terrain for a census by an occupying government. Mary, probably outcast from her family or at least with a sullied reputation gives birth to her firstborn in a manger because there is no room for them in proper housing. The first visitors are a band of outcasts - shepherds - that have received word from the angels that Messiah had been born. I don't imagine my wife would have been thrilled to see strange men peering in at her in these moments.
Some of the only information about Jesus' childhood is shared with us here. We see him in the arms of Simeon in the temple at time of his dedication. I can almost see the sainted old man swaying as he holds the baby Jesus up before his own eyes and prayerfully says, "Master, now you are dismissing your servant in peace, according to your word; for my eyes have seen your salvation, 31 which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples, a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel." Luke 2:29-32 NRSV. I can hear Anna's testimony to the one she has faithfully served and waited for.
The second chapter ends 12 years later where we see Jesus contending with the teachers in the temple. He can't understand why his mother was worried about his absence from the caravan of travelers heading home from Jerusalem. Didn't she know he would be in his fathers house? It is challenging to raise children. How challenging it must have been to parent Jesus of Nazareth.
The reality that Mary and Joseph were living through had nothing in common with my sentimental memories. Mary and Joseph were in a tough place, forced to travel late in her pregnancy of harsh terrain for a census by an occupying government. Mary, probably outcast from her family or at least with a sullied reputation gives birth to her firstborn in a manger because there is no room for them in proper housing. The first visitors are a band of outcasts - shepherds - that have received word from the angels that Messiah had been born. I don't imagine my wife would have been thrilled to see strange men peering in at her in these moments.
Some of the only information about Jesus' childhood is shared with us here. We see him in the arms of Simeon in the temple at time of his dedication. I can almost see the sainted old man swaying as he holds the baby Jesus up before his own eyes and prayerfully says, "Master, now you are dismissing your servant in peace, according to your word; for my eyes have seen your salvation, 31 which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples, a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel." Luke 2:29-32 NRSV. I can hear Anna's testimony to the one she has faithfully served and waited for.
The second chapter ends 12 years later where we see Jesus contending with the teachers in the temple. He can't understand why his mother was worried about his absence from the caravan of travelers heading home from Jerusalem. Didn't she know he would be in his fathers house? It is challenging to raise children. How challenging it must have been to parent Jesus of Nazareth.
Friday, April 4, 2008
Luke 1
We return to more familiar territory when we move from John's letters to the Gospel of Luke. Some of the words and style of John's letters were familiar, but many of us have grown up in our faith with Doctor Luke and his two letters (Luke and Acts) written to his "friend" Theophilus.
The name Theophilus translates from the Greek to mean - God's friend. So this letter is written to you and me, if we are friends of God! Luke undertakes the very important job of researching and writing a complete account about Jesus of Nazareth so we might know the truth.
It may help you as you read this book to imagine that you are reading a letter written just for you from a very wise older friend. When I do this, I can almost hear Dr. Luke's voice as he tells me the old old story. Get a cup of coffee - or a diet Pepsi - and sit back and listen again for the first time to this important retelling of Luke's research.
In chapter 1 we hear a rather detailed account of the conception and birth of John the Baptist, told as a backdrop to the surprising pregnancy of Mary, the young virgin girl betrothed to Joseph. Look for the faithful witness of what theologians have called "the least, the last and the lost" in Luke's account. They are, along with Jesus, the stars of this gospel account.
The name Theophilus translates from the Greek to mean - God's friend. So this letter is written to you and me, if we are friends of God! Luke undertakes the very important job of researching and writing a complete account about Jesus of Nazareth so we might know the truth.
It may help you as you read this book to imagine that you are reading a letter written just for you from a very wise older friend. When I do this, I can almost hear Dr. Luke's voice as he tells me the old old story. Get a cup of coffee - or a diet Pepsi - and sit back and listen again for the first time to this important retelling of Luke's research.
In chapter 1 we hear a rather detailed account of the conception and birth of John the Baptist, told as a backdrop to the surprising pregnancy of Mary, the young virgin girl betrothed to Joseph. Look for the faithful witness of what theologians have called "the least, the last and the lost" in Luke's account. They are, along with Jesus, the stars of this gospel account.
Thursday, April 3, 2008
Jude
It is thought by some theologians that the writer of Jude was a half brother of Jesus. He is identified in the Gospels of Matthew and mark, and did not believe Jesus was the messiah at the time of Jesus' death. We are not told, but perhaps Jude came to faith through his brother James testimony or that of his mother, Mary. At any rate, we find Jude to be zealous now for the faith, a missionary and a preacher.
The purpose of Jude's letter was to speak against the notion that now that we live under grace, we can live in sin without consequence. Jude wrote to call the faithful back to holiness and to encourage them to expel the heretics in their midst.
I find great comfort and direction today in the words of verses 20 and 21. Jude encourages his readers with these words, "But you, beloved, build yourselves up on your most holy faith; pray in the Holy Spirit; keep yourselves in the love of God; look forward to the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life." Jude 20&21 NRSV.
In a society like ours, so full of temptation and ungodliness, we will do well to heed Jude's call.
The purpose of Jude's letter was to speak against the notion that now that we live under grace, we can live in sin without consequence. Jude wrote to call the faithful back to holiness and to encourage them to expel the heretics in their midst.
I find great comfort and direction today in the words of verses 20 and 21. Jude encourages his readers with these words, "But you, beloved, build yourselves up on your most holy faith; pray in the Holy Spirit; keep yourselves in the love of God; look forward to the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life." Jude 20&21 NRSV.
In a society like ours, so full of temptation and ungodliness, we will do well to heed Jude's call.
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
3 John
Letters like 3rd John reveal to us the humanity and brokenness of the early church. I have traveled in charismatic evangelical circles of faith all of my adult life. I love the unction and anointing of the Holy Spirit and the praise and worship life of some of these fellowships fuels my heart and spirit.
I often hear people in these circles and sometimes even in main line denominational circles lamenting that they wish they were a part of a "New Testament" church. Really?!?!?! I wonder when I hear that sentiment if the person saying it has any idea what they are wishing for.
You see, the early church that we romanticize had the same major flaw ( and the same major strength) that our current churches suffer from -- the church was full of people! That's right folks, human beings, people alot like you and me. 3 John gives us a glimpse into the dysfunction of the "New Testament" church.
John had apparently written a letter to the church that Diotrephes refused to circulate. That letter was actually 3 John - what we read today is at least 4 John! John writes here to encourage his friend Gaius to persevere and do the right thing in supporting John and he commends Demetrius who likely is hand delivering this letter to Gaius to assure its arrival. John says in a somewhat threatening way "instead I hope to see you soon, and we will talk together face to face." 3John 14 NRSV.
I am glad to be part of the New Testament church in 2008. We have some of the same challenges and opportunities as they did 2000 years ago. I will close our reading of John's letters as he began this final one, "Beloved, I pray that all may go well with you and that you may be in good health, just as it is well with your soul. I was overjoyed when some of the friends arrived and testified to your faithfulness to the truth, namely how you walk in the truth. I have no greater joy than this, to hear that my children are walking in the truth." 3John 2-4 NRSV.
I often hear people in these circles and sometimes even in main line denominational circles lamenting that they wish they were a part of a "New Testament" church. Really?!?!?! I wonder when I hear that sentiment if the person saying it has any idea what they are wishing for.
You see, the early church that we romanticize had the same major flaw ( and the same major strength) that our current churches suffer from -- the church was full of people! That's right folks, human beings, people alot like you and me. 3 John gives us a glimpse into the dysfunction of the "New Testament" church.
John had apparently written a letter to the church that Diotrephes refused to circulate. That letter was actually 3 John - what we read today is at least 4 John! John writes here to encourage his friend Gaius to persevere and do the right thing in supporting John and he commends Demetrius who likely is hand delivering this letter to Gaius to assure its arrival. John says in a somewhat threatening way "instead I hope to see you soon, and we will talk together face to face." 3John 14 NRSV.
I am glad to be part of the New Testament church in 2008. We have some of the same challenges and opportunities as they did 2000 years ago. I will close our reading of John's letters as he began this final one, "Beloved, I pray that all may go well with you and that you may be in good health, just as it is well with your soul. I was overjoyed when some of the friends arrived and testified to your faithfulness to the truth, namely how you walk in the truth. I have no greater joy than this, to hear that my children are walking in the truth." 3John 2-4 NRSV.
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
2 John
John's second letter is written to "The Elect Lady and her Children". This "elect lady" has traditionally been thought to be the local congregation in the community that received the letter and the "sister" in the last verse is thought to be the church in Ephesus where John resided during the time the letter was written.
The letter breaks into 3 pieces: 1) the Truth and love vss 1-3, 2) the Truth and how to live vs 4-6, 3) the Truth and error vss 7-11.
John is writing to make sure the faith is kept pure. A heresy that actually continues to this day in some circles is addressed - that Jesus was not fully human as well as fully Divine. John says is you hear any of this, put them out of the church! He also cautions against adding anything to the Gospel of Christ.
This is great advice for us today friends. The Gospel is sufficient in and of itself for teaching and growing the church. Any addition or compromise is a subtraction!
The letter breaks into 3 pieces: 1) the Truth and love vss 1-3, 2) the Truth and how to live vs 4-6, 3) the Truth and error vss 7-11.
John is writing to make sure the faith is kept pure. A heresy that actually continues to this day in some circles is addressed - that Jesus was not fully human as well as fully Divine. John says is you hear any of this, put them out of the church! He also cautions against adding anything to the Gospel of Christ.
This is great advice for us today friends. The Gospel is sufficient in and of itself for teaching and growing the church. Any addition or compromise is a subtraction!
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