Luke 19-21
The first thing I noticed in the reading for today is another story that I never heard in Sunday School. I have heard a similar story from the book of Mark (25:14-30), but this one has a very different ending. Does this parable help us understand God wanting us to use our gifts wisely or risk punishment? Now I understand why we focus more on Mark. I think most of us don't like seeing God as one who punishes.
There are several scenes where "the authorities" are questioning Jesus' authority. I love it when Jesus answers their questions with a question.
One last thing before I run over to the hot dog dinner in my pajamas (yes you read that right -it is VBS week and tonight is movie night). "Be alert at all times, praying that you may have the strength to escape all these things" (21:36) I believe is great advice to help us remember that prayer gives us strength to meet any challenges that come our way. Just when I think things can't get any worse, knowing God is with me does give me strength. The important thing is to remain "alert" at "all times".
I am lovin' VBS. I have a GREAT group of 5th graders. Their energy is so amazing.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Humility and Persistence
Luke 17-18
Interesting quote from "New Interpreter's Bible Commentary", Vol. IX, pg. 324, "...lack of humility is more dangerous than temptation...It prevents us from experiencing the depth of God's love for us". It appears that self righteousness and false spiritual superiority can be destructive to the body of Christ. We are challenged in chapter 17 to be servants (or "slaves", depending on the translation you are reading).
Fear seems to drive us apart. What are you afraid of when it comes to being a follower of Jesus? Has anything ever caused you to leave a church because you didn't agree with something?
Here's a statement that I am not familiar with, Luke 17:37, "Where the corpse is, the vultures will gather." Ick. It's not something I remember learning in Sunday School. Interesting to contemplate.
In chapter 18 the story of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector (verses 9-14) has always been one of my favorites (we did learn this story in Sunday School). Those who trust in their own righteousness and regard others with contempt are like vinegar instead of honey. Those who judge people seem to drive people away from church and from a relationship with God. That is so so sad to me. I like the concept of hating the sin and still loving the sinner.
In my experience, people who are aware of their need for grace and forgiveness usually find it difficult to despise people, or to walk away.
It isn't easy to "hang in there" when the going gets tough. I have found that many times persistence pays off.
The little children and the rich young ruler are stories I did hear in the church. Helping children love the church and love Jesus has been part of my calling. Like the rich man, I have also been challenged by what I can let go of, and what I hold on to.
The storm is brewing in the Gulf. Sometimes I am thankful for storms. Even though they can be very destructive, they have a tendency to clean the air.
Interesting quote from "New Interpreter's Bible Commentary", Vol. IX, pg. 324, "...lack of humility is more dangerous than temptation...It prevents us from experiencing the depth of God's love for us". It appears that self righteousness and false spiritual superiority can be destructive to the body of Christ. We are challenged in chapter 17 to be servants (or "slaves", depending on the translation you are reading).
Fear seems to drive us apart. What are you afraid of when it comes to being a follower of Jesus? Has anything ever caused you to leave a church because you didn't agree with something?
Here's a statement that I am not familiar with, Luke 17:37, "Where the corpse is, the vultures will gather." Ick. It's not something I remember learning in Sunday School. Interesting to contemplate.
In chapter 18 the story of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector (verses 9-14) has always been one of my favorites (we did learn this story in Sunday School). Those who trust in their own righteousness and regard others with contempt are like vinegar instead of honey. Those who judge people seem to drive people away from church and from a relationship with God. That is so so sad to me. I like the concept of hating the sin and still loving the sinner.
In my experience, people who are aware of their need for grace and forgiveness usually find it difficult to despise people, or to walk away.
It isn't easy to "hang in there" when the going gets tough. I have found that many times persistence pays off.
The little children and the rich young ruler are stories I did hear in the church. Helping children love the church and love Jesus has been part of my calling. Like the rich man, I have also been challenged by what I can let go of, and what I hold on to.
The storm is brewing in the Gulf. Sometimes I am thankful for storms. Even though they can be very destructive, they have a tendency to clean the air.
Monday, June 28, 2010
Catch Up!
Whew! I am getting behind. Out of town for three days and then most precious #1 (and only) son was in town last night and today. Then - we also had Vacation Bible School and I was able to be a guide for 11 awesome kids going into 5th grade. What an eye-opening experience! I love kids.
I will read if you will. Any questions?
I will read if you will. Any questions?
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Picking and Choosing
Luke 6-8
Right away in chapter 6 the Pharisees are getting upset about about the disciples plucking grains of wheat on the sabbath. Can you imagine how hungry they must have been to be eating raw wheat grain? I have never tried raw wheat grain, so I have no idea how filling it might be. It seems like one would have to eat quite a bit to be satisfied.
Then we get to the parts of the scripture that people don't seem to pay particular attention to. 6:27 talks about loving your enemies and doing good to those who hate you. It seems to me that the church would be a much more accepted if people practiced this principle. Next scripture that captured my attention - 6:37 - "Do not judge, and you will not be judged, do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven...". Hmmmmm. Jesus said it. Good words to live by.
Then Jesus goes on to practice what he preaches. He heals a centurion's servant, basically a gentile slave. He doesn't judge the centurion for not being of the same religion. It's about his faith. Faith in what Jesus can do. Jesus then tells the crowd, "...not even in Israel have I found such faith." I want to have that kind of faith. How about you?
The woman with the alabaster jar is another story that makes me wonder. In chapter 7, verse 47 Jesus says, "...the one to whom little is forgiven, loves little". Hmmmmmm.
My favorite story is in chapter 8 - the healing of the woman who just touched the fringe of Jesus' robe, and she is instantly healed after suffering for 12 long years. Jesus' response to her - "your faith has made you well". Just the slightest touch of Jesus can bring healing into our lives.
I think I was supposed to read 9 also, but haven't done it yet. Garth was fantastic last night. Very personal. I cried! He is so talented. No fancy stage stuff. I love the song "The River". He says he and Trisha are planning to do a road show in about 4 years.
Right away in chapter 6 the Pharisees are getting upset about about the disciples plucking grains of wheat on the sabbath. Can you imagine how hungry they must have been to be eating raw wheat grain? I have never tried raw wheat grain, so I have no idea how filling it might be. It seems like one would have to eat quite a bit to be satisfied.
Then we get to the parts of the scripture that people don't seem to pay particular attention to. 6:27 talks about loving your enemies and doing good to those who hate you. It seems to me that the church would be a much more accepted if people practiced this principle. Next scripture that captured my attention - 6:37 - "Do not judge, and you will not be judged, do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven...". Hmmmmm. Jesus said it. Good words to live by.
Then Jesus goes on to practice what he preaches. He heals a centurion's servant, basically a gentile slave. He doesn't judge the centurion for not being of the same religion. It's about his faith. Faith in what Jesus can do. Jesus then tells the crowd, "...not even in Israel have I found such faith." I want to have that kind of faith. How about you?
The woman with the alabaster jar is another story that makes me wonder. In chapter 7, verse 47 Jesus says, "...the one to whom little is forgiven, loves little". Hmmmmmm.
My favorite story is in chapter 8 - the healing of the woman who just touched the fringe of Jesus' robe, and she is instantly healed after suffering for 12 long years. Jesus' response to her - "your faith has made you well". Just the slightest touch of Jesus can bring healing into our lives.
I think I was supposed to read 9 also, but haven't done it yet. Garth was fantastic last night. Very personal. I cried! He is so talented. No fancy stage stuff. I love the song "The River". He says he and Trisha are planning to do a road show in about 4 years.
Friday, June 25, 2010
Every Day is Christmas!
Luke 2-4
Sorry to miss posting yesterday, but we were traveling and sightseeing. There are amazing architectural wonders in this world. It will be interesting to see if they stand the test of time.
Let's start with Jesus being born. No elaborate accommodations or preparation in this story. Last Christmas our congregation focused on "Simple Christmas" and it was wonderful. So many people commented on how much better their celebrations were. Less stress. More Christ centered. I hope we will do that again this year.
God coming to earth as a baby - in a stable - surrounded by animals, and shepherds, and
kings.
Luke 2:22-36 tells us about Jesus being presented in the temple. Mary and Joseph were part of a covenant community, and they were introducing their son into that covenant.
Chapter 3 is a roll call that includes governors, kings, and a couple of high priests. This genealogy is different from the one in Matthew. Both use sequences of 7's. In Luke there are 77 including Jesus and Joseph.
More later. Temptation information is fascinating. How well do you know Deuteronomy? Jesus knew it well enough to protect him from Satan!
Sorry to miss posting yesterday, but we were traveling and sightseeing. There are amazing architectural wonders in this world. It will be interesting to see if they stand the test of time.
Let's start with Jesus being born. No elaborate accommodations or preparation in this story. Last Christmas our congregation focused on "Simple Christmas" and it was wonderful. So many people commented on how much better their celebrations were. Less stress. More Christ centered. I hope we will do that again this year.
God coming to earth as a baby - in a stable - surrounded by animals, and shepherds, and
kings.
Luke 2:22-36 tells us about Jesus being presented in the temple. Mary and Joseph were part of a covenant community, and they were introducing their son into that covenant.
Chapter 3 is a roll call that includes governors, kings, and a couple of high priests. This genealogy is different from the one in Matthew. Both use sequences of 7's. In Luke there are 77 including Jesus and Joseph.
More later. Temptation information is fascinating. How well do you know Deuteronomy? Jesus knew it well enough to protect him from Satan!
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Unity?
Romans 15-16, Luke 1
Romans 15 - Paul is planning to take a collection back to Jerusalem. When people know you are supporting their "cause", they are more likely to be supportive and interested in what is going on. Paul wants the support of the disciples left in Jerusalem. He wants Jews and Gentiles to realize that those who believe in the resurrected Jesus as the Messiah are ONE body.
What are we doing as a church, as individuals, to send the message that the church of Jesus Christ is ONE body, ONE family, and that if one suffers, all suffer?
Chapter 16 - Paul is covering all the bases by mentioning the names of all of his supporters.
Luke 1 - This account of the good news begins in the temple - to a cynical priest who is arguing with an angel! Luke's message helps us to see that God's work is with ordinary people. First we see an old priest and his wife are blessed with a child, and then an unmarried young girl is also blessed with being the mother of God's son. Is the last scenario scandalous? I think the message is that God's favor is not necessarily prosperity or comfort!
Luke's gospel focuses on fear (Luke 1:30), joy (Luke 1:44, 47, 58), and peace (Luke 1:79).
So - is reading through the New Testament helping you live your life differently?
Romans 15 - Paul is planning to take a collection back to Jerusalem. When people know you are supporting their "cause", they are more likely to be supportive and interested in what is going on. Paul wants the support of the disciples left in Jerusalem. He wants Jews and Gentiles to realize that those who believe in the resurrected Jesus as the Messiah are ONE body.
What are we doing as a church, as individuals, to send the message that the church of Jesus Christ is ONE body, ONE family, and that if one suffers, all suffer?
Chapter 16 - Paul is covering all the bases by mentioning the names of all of his supporters.
Luke 1 - This account of the good news begins in the temple - to a cynical priest who is arguing with an angel! Luke's message helps us to see that God's work is with ordinary people. First we see an old priest and his wife are blessed with a child, and then an unmarried young girl is also blessed with being the mother of God's son. Is the last scenario scandalous? I think the message is that God's favor is not necessarily prosperity or comfort!
Luke's gospel focuses on fear (Luke 1:30), joy (Luke 1:44, 47, 58), and peace (Luke 1:79).
So - is reading through the New Testament helping you live your life differently?
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Divisions or Unity
Romans 13-14
Interesting concepts today...
13:8 Owe no one anything. (Anyone out there owe someone something? Financial Peace University starts August 22 at Cypress UMC. Sign up soon! Or join a class close to where you live www.daveramsey.com ).
13:12 Put on the armor of light. ("Light" is one of my favorite words - Be the light!)
Already divisions in the church over food, drink, and observance of special days. I know of Christian religions that don't celebrate Christmas. Do you think there were people arguing about the sabbath? Do you have a difficult time "keeping" a sabbath?
14:13 Stop passing judgement.
Wouldn't it be wonderful if Christians could just concentrate on our shared beliefs instead of our differences?
Monday, June 21, 2010
Paul Knows His Old Testament!
Romans 9-12
Romans 11:20b (or c)-21 had special meaning to me today. "So do not become proud, but stand in awe. For if God did not spare the natural branches, perhaps he will not spare you." God is awesome.
One amazing thing that fascinates me is how Paul can quote the Old Testament. It is probably not possible that he had a copy of it in front of him to refer back to. Copies back in those days were few and far between. Do you realize how fortunate we are to have copies (Bibles) we can refer to? Or may that is not fortunate, because we rely on the convenience and not our memory.
The "election of Israel" is emphasized over and over.
Chapter 12:9-12 are very meaningful - "Let love be genuine; hate what is evil, hold fast to what is good; love one another with mutual affection; outdo one another in showing honor. Do not lag in zeal, be ardent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer."
How are you doing with outdoing "one another in showing honor"?
Are you enjoying Romans? What was your favorite part today?
Romans 11:20b (or c)-21 had special meaning to me today. "So do not become proud, but stand in awe. For if God did not spare the natural branches, perhaps he will not spare you." God is awesome.
One amazing thing that fascinates me is how Paul can quote the Old Testament. It is probably not possible that he had a copy of it in front of him to refer back to. Copies back in those days were few and far between. Do you realize how fortunate we are to have copies (Bibles) we can refer to? Or may that is not fortunate, because we rely on the convenience and not our memory.
The "election of Israel" is emphasized over and over.
Chapter 12:9-12 are very meaningful - "Let love be genuine; hate what is evil, hold fast to what is good; love one another with mutual affection; outdo one another in showing honor. Do not lag in zeal, be ardent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer."
How are you doing with outdoing "one another in showing honor"?
Are you enjoying Romans? What was your favorite part today?
The NEW Exodus - Renewal of a Promise
Romans 7-8
Chapter 7 was a little difficult for me to understand, so I am glad there are commentaries to help me understand why I was having difficulty with it and to affirm it was difficult!
We need to remember that Paul as a Jew was exceedingly zealous for the law, even to the point of death of others. His zeal and enthusiasm lead to destructive behavior. Where else have you experienced destructive enthusiasm?
Did you notice the number of times Paul uses the word "sin"? "The flesh" is something Israel shares with all humankind. The Torah simply shows up sin. The NEW exodus will free people who are enslaved by Torah. In the old exodus the Jewish people were freed from Egypt, but not freed from the slavery to sin and death. The SPIRIT enables the church to go forward into the promised land of new creation. Jesus and the spirit will lead us through the wilderness.
This was an interesting tidbit. Did you know that some people thought the secret name of Roma (Rome) was Amor (Roma spelled backwards)? Amor is translated to the word "love". A couple of key features of Roman culture was the justice of God and the peace of God. Loving God more than Caesar might create a threat to the Roman culture. Many people who love the Lord care passionately about justice. Caesar wasn't always just - especially not to Christians.
Chapter 8:26-27 helps me to understand the frustration of not knowing what or how to pray.
The last part of chapter 8, verses 31-39, are my favorites to read in times of trouble. The descriptions suffering gives us some insight into what first century Christians were experiencing. It also helps us when we are hurting. Nothing can separate us from the love of Christ Jesus! Praise God.
Chapter 7 was a little difficult for me to understand, so I am glad there are commentaries to help me understand why I was having difficulty with it and to affirm it was difficult!
We need to remember that Paul as a Jew was exceedingly zealous for the law, even to the point of death of others. His zeal and enthusiasm lead to destructive behavior. Where else have you experienced destructive enthusiasm?
Did you notice the number of times Paul uses the word "sin"? "The flesh" is something Israel shares with all humankind. The Torah simply shows up sin. The NEW exodus will free people who are enslaved by Torah. In the old exodus the Jewish people were freed from Egypt, but not freed from the slavery to sin and death. The SPIRIT enables the church to go forward into the promised land of new creation. Jesus and the spirit will lead us through the wilderness.
This was an interesting tidbit. Did you know that some people thought the secret name of Roma (Rome) was Amor (Roma spelled backwards)? Amor is translated to the word "love". A couple of key features of Roman culture was the justice of God and the peace of God. Loving God more than Caesar might create a threat to the Roman culture. Many people who love the Lord care passionately about justice. Caesar wasn't always just - especially not to Christians.
Chapter 8:26-27 helps me to understand the frustration of not knowing what or how to pray.
The last part of chapter 8, verses 31-39, are my favorites to read in times of trouble. The descriptions suffering gives us some insight into what first century Christians were experiencing. It also helps us when we are hurting. Nothing can separate us from the love of Christ Jesus! Praise God.
Saturday, June 19, 2010
A Matter of Awe - and Gratitude
Romans 3-6
Rich reading for the next few days.
To understand the depth of what Paul is saying requires some understanding of history. So many try to apply historical situations to our current environment, and then we lose the intensity of what happened when Christ accepted the vocation God gave him - a vocation that cost him everything as far as his earthly existence.
Chapter 3, verses 10-16 are quotes from Psalms and Proverbs. Paul was trying to prove his statements with the authority of the scriptures. Paul believes that all along God intended for all of humanity, not just a certain race or religion, to come into a relationship with Him. Performance of Christian duties (or any religious duty) is not enough. Justification by faith is designed to result in fellowship. What does that say about the current state of denominations in our world today? It seems to me that we are more like "tribes" than brothers and sisters. Of course, I know siblings do have a history of rivalry!
Quickly (because it is time to start preparing for worship tomorrow!):
Chapter 4: Abraham is "the father of us all". Christians are not just a "new group" sprung up from nowhere! "The family promised by God to Abraham is a family of forgiven sinners, rescued by grace alone from the personal and communal disintegration that results from idolatry and sin. The God we worship is the God who justifies the ungodly, not the pious" (The New Interpreter's Bible, Vol. 10, pg. 506). Our task is to encourage - and endure.
Chapter 5: Verse 20 "But law came in, with the result that trespass multiplied...".
Chapter 6: With freedom comes responsibility. Grace reaches where humans are, and accepts them, "because anything less would result in nobody being saved" (ibid, pg. 548). True freedom is not random, but "genuine humanness that reflects the image of God" (ibid, pg. 548).
This is why I am a Christian. The demands are liberating. Thank you God for your amazing grace.
On to Elijah and Elisha (message for worship tomorrow)...
Rich reading for the next few days.
To understand the depth of what Paul is saying requires some understanding of history. So many try to apply historical situations to our current environment, and then we lose the intensity of what happened when Christ accepted the vocation God gave him - a vocation that cost him everything as far as his earthly existence.
Chapter 3, verses 10-16 are quotes from Psalms and Proverbs. Paul was trying to prove his statements with the authority of the scriptures. Paul believes that all along God intended for all of humanity, not just a certain race or religion, to come into a relationship with Him. Performance of Christian duties (or any religious duty) is not enough. Justification by faith is designed to result in fellowship. What does that say about the current state of denominations in our world today? It seems to me that we are more like "tribes" than brothers and sisters. Of course, I know siblings do have a history of rivalry!
Quickly (because it is time to start preparing for worship tomorrow!):
Chapter 4: Abraham is "the father of us all". Christians are not just a "new group" sprung up from nowhere! "The family promised by God to Abraham is a family of forgiven sinners, rescued by grace alone from the personal and communal disintegration that results from idolatry and sin. The God we worship is the God who justifies the ungodly, not the pious" (The New Interpreter's Bible, Vol. 10, pg. 506). Our task is to encourage - and endure.
Chapter 5: Verse 20 "But law came in, with the result that trespass multiplied...".
Chapter 6: With freedom comes responsibility. Grace reaches where humans are, and accepts them, "because anything less would result in nobody being saved" (ibid, pg. 548). True freedom is not random, but "genuine humanness that reflects the image of God" (ibid, pg. 548).
This is why I am a Christian. The demands are liberating. Thank you God for your amazing grace.
On to Elijah and Elisha (message for worship tomorrow)...
Friday, June 18, 2010
On to Rome - and Romans
Acts 26-28, Romans 1-2
Chapter 26 - Paul gets a chance to defend himself to King Agrippa.
Chapter 27 - Bad weather, a shipwreck and a snakebite -then let the healings begin! The voyage of faith is arduous and adventurous.
Chapter 28 - The Roman Jews seem more level headed than the Jews in Israel. No lynch mob here! Paul stays in Rome for 2 years teaching about Jesus "without hindrance".
Romans 1 - Idolatry will lead to problems.
Romans 2 - Judgement is not good either. Be doers of God's laws, no just hearers. Do not presume God's kindness. Circumcision is a matter of the heart (spiritual).
Headed to a wedding rehearsal.
I hear thunder. Maybe we will get some showers!
Chapter 26 - Paul gets a chance to defend himself to King Agrippa.
Chapter 27 - Bad weather, a shipwreck and a snakebite -then let the healings begin! The voyage of faith is arduous and adventurous.
Chapter 28 - The Roman Jews seem more level headed than the Jews in Israel. No lynch mob here! Paul stays in Rome for 2 years teaching about Jesus "without hindrance".
Romans 1 - Idolatry will lead to problems.
Romans 2 - Judgement is not good either. Be doers of God's laws, no just hearers. Do not presume God's kindness. Circumcision is a matter of the heart (spiritual).
Headed to a wedding rehearsal.
I hear thunder. Maybe we will get some showers!
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Mob Mentality
Acts 22-25
What do you think of the mob who is so angry at Paul?
What do you think they are afraid of?
What are they trying to protect?
And I am back to one of my original questions - what about "Thou shalt not kill"?
It looks like they are picking and choosing which parts of the scriptures they want to emphasize.
Look at Acts 23, verse 5. Then look up Exodus 22:28 and Ecclesiastes 10:20. Good advice especially back in those days. A mob accusation without proof and if you weren't a Roman citizen, you could be a goner.
Roberts Rules of Order can be tedious during meetings (i.e. Annual Conference!), but they are fascinating when you realize the fairness of the proceedings and how mob mentality erupt without order.
Paul is in prison in Caesarea for two years. Have you ever wondered what prison was like back then? He is imprisoned because of an angry mob. He is protected in prison because he is a Roman citizen. Religion and politics. Interesting subjects.
His goal is to get to Rome! Paul is a very smart man.
What do you think of the mob who is so angry at Paul?
What do you think they are afraid of?
What are they trying to protect?
And I am back to one of my original questions - what about "Thou shalt not kill"?
It looks like they are picking and choosing which parts of the scriptures they want to emphasize.
Look at Acts 23, verse 5. Then look up Exodus 22:28 and Ecclesiastes 10:20. Good advice especially back in those days. A mob accusation without proof and if you weren't a Roman citizen, you could be a goner.
Roberts Rules of Order can be tedious during meetings (i.e. Annual Conference!), but they are fascinating when you realize the fairness of the proceedings and how mob mentality erupt without order.
Paul is in prison in Caesarea for two years. Have you ever wondered what prison was like back then? He is imprisoned because of an angry mob. He is protected in prison because he is a Roman citizen. Religion and politics. Interesting subjects.
His goal is to get to Rome! Paul is a very smart man.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Gossip and Confusion - Paul's Passion Narrative?
Acts 20-21
There are some real similarities to Paul's journey to Jerusalem and Jesus' journey to Jerusalem previously.
First Paul brings someone back from the dead (similar to Jesus' raising of Lazurus). Eutychus ("Lucky") falls asleep listening to Paul preach and falls out of a third story window. After Paul heals him, Paul returns for more "conversation" which lasts until DAWN. I used to talk that long when I was a teenager, but no more. I can watch old movies until about 3 or 4, but not "conversation". Of course Paul did not have Facebook, Twitter, or Blogging.
In Acts 20:16-38 Paul delivers a farewell address to the leaders of Ephesus, his most important community (and the place where he stayed the longest). Like Jesus, Paul predicts his own demise. The picture is grim. He is predicting things will probably get worse before they get better.
Paul was planning a rather low key visit to Jerusalem to deliver the collection he had received from the converts from his travels. James receives him warmly, but the success he has brought comes with rumors of his turning people against the law of Moses. James requests a ritual of purification which lasts long enough for the "forces of malice to swing into action" ( Storyteller Companion to the Bible, vol. 12. pg. 167).
Paul's quest for unity is subverted by gossip and rumors.
Rumors put "the whole city" in turmoil. Paul is arrested and brought to the front of the mob which is yelling "Away with him" or "Kill him" (Like with Jesus, "Crucify him").
The arresting officer is stunned that Paul can speak Greek and is not "the Egyptian who started a revolt some time ago". Oops, wrong guy. When Paul is allowed to speak to the crowd - he speaks in the Jewish language, which quiets them. Oops. The crowd has been upset with the wrong guy for the wrong reasons.
Today the reading is Chapters 22- 25. I am still playing catch up!
On a another note - Gene Fritz passed away this afternoon. Services are pending. Services for Judy Smith are Thursday afternoon at 2 at Klein Funeral Home on Cypresswood.
There are some real similarities to Paul's journey to Jerusalem and Jesus' journey to Jerusalem previously.
First Paul brings someone back from the dead (similar to Jesus' raising of Lazurus). Eutychus ("Lucky") falls asleep listening to Paul preach and falls out of a third story window. After Paul heals him, Paul returns for more "conversation" which lasts until DAWN. I used to talk that long when I was a teenager, but no more. I can watch old movies until about 3 or 4, but not "conversation". Of course Paul did not have Facebook, Twitter, or Blogging.
In Acts 20:16-38 Paul delivers a farewell address to the leaders of Ephesus, his most important community (and the place where he stayed the longest). Like Jesus, Paul predicts his own demise. The picture is grim. He is predicting things will probably get worse before they get better.
Paul was planning a rather low key visit to Jerusalem to deliver the collection he had received from the converts from his travels. James receives him warmly, but the success he has brought comes with rumors of his turning people against the law of Moses. James requests a ritual of purification which lasts long enough for the "forces of malice to swing into action" ( Storyteller Companion to the Bible, vol. 12. pg. 167).
Paul's quest for unity is subverted by gossip and rumors.
Rumors put "the whole city" in turmoil. Paul is arrested and brought to the front of the mob which is yelling "Away with him" or "Kill him" (Like with Jesus, "Crucify him").
The arresting officer is stunned that Paul can speak Greek and is not "the Egyptian who started a revolt some time ago". Oops, wrong guy. When Paul is allowed to speak to the crowd - he speaks in the Jewish language, which quiets them. Oops. The crowd has been upset with the wrong guy for the wrong reasons.
Today the reading is Chapters 22- 25. I am still playing catch up!
On a another note - Gene Fritz passed away this afternoon. Services are pending. Services for Judy Smith are Thursday afternoon at 2 at Klein Funeral Home on Cypresswood.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
ZOOMING with Paul
Acts 16-19
Now I am having eye trouble. I think it from too much reading! Fortunately it is my "distance" eye (I had mono vision lasik surgery a couple of years ago), so I can still see enough to type.
In chapters 16-19 Paul is on the move through Greece (Macedonia) and Turkey. Those are not countries that are easy to get around. Much of the terrain is mountainous, so a lot of the travel is done by boat. For those who want to walk where Jesus walked, but might be concerned for their safety in Israel, I highly recommend "The Journeys of Paul" through Greece and Turkey. There is something about experiencing geography and being able to understand the stories.
The European mission dawns at Philippi. The city eventually becomes a Roman colony whose political status will be important in the future of the church in the Roman Empire. The disciples go down to river and find women willing to listen to them. What were the women doing there and where were the men? Lydia, one of the women, is a dealer in purple fabric. So, maybe the women are dying fabric for Lydia. Lydia and the women, gentiles speaking with Jews - these are indications that barriers are coming down.
There is a parallel in this story between Paul and Jesus. In Luke 4:31-37 Jesus begins his ministry with an exorcism. So Paul begins his European mission in this chapter with the removing of the annoying spirit of a slave girl that is following them around. This leads to imprisonment, a jail break, and the conversion of the jailer and his household. Score!
Acts 17 talks about three Sabbaths in Thessolinica synagogue, a stop which eventually doesn't turn out well due to an angry mob. Paul and Silas are once again able to convince some - including Gentiles and women, but tick of some Jews and ruffians. So under the cover of darkness they head to Beroea - where the are received more kindly - until the ruffians from Thessolonica show up. Then it is down to the coast and on to Athens.
Athens is a prime location. Lots of people! Paul is BOLD. Stepping up on the Areopagus and challenging the Council of Athens took "blessed assurance". The "unknown God" is suddenly made known - a single God who has created all.
Then to Corinth. And on to Ephesus. Whew!
Both absolutely fascinating cities in the history of the world. So much to know - such little time to reflect and discuss.
Still playing catch up. Sandra is my hero. She is keeping me honest. Way to go Sandra!
Now I am having eye trouble. I think it from too much reading! Fortunately it is my "distance" eye (I had mono vision lasik surgery a couple of years ago), so I can still see enough to type.
In chapters 16-19 Paul is on the move through Greece (Macedonia) and Turkey. Those are not countries that are easy to get around. Much of the terrain is mountainous, so a lot of the travel is done by boat. For those who want to walk where Jesus walked, but might be concerned for their safety in Israel, I highly recommend "The Journeys of Paul" through Greece and Turkey. There is something about experiencing geography and being able to understand the stories.
The European mission dawns at Philippi. The city eventually becomes a Roman colony whose political status will be important in the future of the church in the Roman Empire. The disciples go down to river and find women willing to listen to them. What were the women doing there and where were the men? Lydia, one of the women, is a dealer in purple fabric. So, maybe the women are dying fabric for Lydia. Lydia and the women, gentiles speaking with Jews - these are indications that barriers are coming down.
There is a parallel in this story between Paul and Jesus. In Luke 4:31-37 Jesus begins his ministry with an exorcism. So Paul begins his European mission in this chapter with the removing of the annoying spirit of a slave girl that is following them around. This leads to imprisonment, a jail break, and the conversion of the jailer and his household. Score!
Acts 17 talks about three Sabbaths in Thessolinica synagogue, a stop which eventually doesn't turn out well due to an angry mob. Paul and Silas are once again able to convince some - including Gentiles and women, but tick of some Jews and ruffians. So under the cover of darkness they head to Beroea - where the are received more kindly - until the ruffians from Thessolonica show up. Then it is down to the coast and on to Athens.
Athens is a prime location. Lots of people! Paul is BOLD. Stepping up on the Areopagus and challenging the Council of Athens took "blessed assurance". The "unknown God" is suddenly made known - a single God who has created all.
Then to Corinth. And on to Ephesus. Whew!
Both absolutely fascinating cities in the history of the world. So much to know - such little time to reflect and discuss.
Still playing catch up. Sandra is my hero. She is keeping me honest. Way to go Sandra!
Monday, June 14, 2010
Decision Making in the Church
Whew! I thought I could catch up today, but now I have two funerals and a wedding this week. I'm going to keep up as best I can. I hope you will too.
Acts 14 and 15
These are rich readings because we see that evangelism creates controversy right at the very beginning of the church.
In chapter 14 when the crippled man is healed, the people start calling Barnabas by the name of Zeus and Paul by the name Hermes. Then the priest of the Zeus temple comes with oxen to offer a sacrifice. Accepting this sacrifice would be idolatry.
The crowd loves Paul and Barnabas in verse 18, but some other Jews from other towns show up and 1 verse later (20) they turn "the crowd" against Paul and and stone Paul until they think he is dead! The Storyteller's Companion, vol. 12, pg. 106 describes "the crowd" this way, "Barbarians are not only a superstitious lot; they are also fickle."
In Chapter 15 Paul is called to task by some Pharisees about the gentiles and circumcision question. What is the motive that prompts this disagreement? Paul believes reconciliation on this particular issue will make God's work greater. This one requirement might have been the end of spreading the church among the gentiles. For Paul it was the deal breaker for his evangelism efforts among the gentiles. I think the Pharisees were concerned that if they give in on the requirement for circumsion, where else will they be asked to give in?
James offers a compromise. The New Interpreter's Bible, vol. 12, pg. 211 states "It is often necessary for decision makers to forge careful compromises between two competing positions to preserve Christian unity whenever each person makes a valuable contribution." Good theology allows the church to move forward.
In chapter 15:19 James uses the word "trouble". The force of the word that is translated denotes "pestering someone against their will." This is a referral back to Peter's concern in verse 10. Circumcision is definitely something that would trouble adult gentiles.
James also issues a cautionary note: Guard against cultural compromise that might cause people to consider "Moses" irrelevant. Verse 20 refers to the text from Leviticus 17-18 that is as verse 21 states is "read aloud every sabbath in the synagogues". (I haven't had a chance to check out Lev. 17-18 to see what it says, but if you have time I would suggest going back and taking a look). The lack of sensitivity to the church's Jewish legacy would definitely have an effect on on the congregation's Jewish membership (Romans 14:1, 1 Corinthians 8 -10).
I watched a movie on Turner Classic Network yesterday afternoon about the Nuremberg trials, where the prominent members of the Nazi party in Germany were being tried for their war crimes (I had to take a "Bible break"!). I can see where unawareness of our Jewish heritage lead to acceptance of horrific torture of an entire population. I would rather watch "The Diary of Anne Frank".
I hope you will keep seeing the great value in being more aware of what is in the Bible. It is not just stories. It will transform your life, how you treat your neighbor, and how you treat other Christians. I wish we could all agree on the basics. But then we would have to agree on what the basics are.
Acts 14 and 15
These are rich readings because we see that evangelism creates controversy right at the very beginning of the church.
In chapter 14 when the crippled man is healed, the people start calling Barnabas by the name of Zeus and Paul by the name Hermes. Then the priest of the Zeus temple comes with oxen to offer a sacrifice. Accepting this sacrifice would be idolatry.
The crowd loves Paul and Barnabas in verse 18, but some other Jews from other towns show up and 1 verse later (20) they turn "the crowd" against Paul and and stone Paul until they think he is dead! The Storyteller's Companion, vol. 12, pg. 106 describes "the crowd" this way, "Barbarians are not only a superstitious lot; they are also fickle."
In Chapter 15 Paul is called to task by some Pharisees about the gentiles and circumcision question. What is the motive that prompts this disagreement? Paul believes reconciliation on this particular issue will make God's work greater. This one requirement might have been the end of spreading the church among the gentiles. For Paul it was the deal breaker for his evangelism efforts among the gentiles. I think the Pharisees were concerned that if they give in on the requirement for circumsion, where else will they be asked to give in?
James offers a compromise. The New Interpreter's Bible, vol. 12, pg. 211 states "It is often necessary for decision makers to forge careful compromises between two competing positions to preserve Christian unity whenever each person makes a valuable contribution." Good theology allows the church to move forward.
In chapter 15:19 James uses the word "trouble". The force of the word that is translated denotes "pestering someone against their will." This is a referral back to Peter's concern in verse 10. Circumcision is definitely something that would trouble adult gentiles.
James also issues a cautionary note: Guard against cultural compromise that might cause people to consider "Moses" irrelevant. Verse 20 refers to the text from Leviticus 17-18 that is as verse 21 states is "read aloud every sabbath in the synagogues". (I haven't had a chance to check out Lev. 17-18 to see what it says, but if you have time I would suggest going back and taking a look). The lack of sensitivity to the church's Jewish legacy would definitely have an effect on on the congregation's Jewish membership (Romans 14:1, 1 Corinthians 8 -10).
I watched a movie on Turner Classic Network yesterday afternoon about the Nuremberg trials, where the prominent members of the Nazi party in Germany were being tried for their war crimes (I had to take a "Bible break"!). I can see where unawareness of our Jewish heritage lead to acceptance of horrific torture of an entire population. I would rather watch "The Diary of Anne Frank".
I hope you will keep seeing the great value in being more aware of what is in the Bible. It is not just stories. It will transform your life, how you treat your neighbor, and how you treat other Christians. I wish we could all agree on the basics. But then we would have to agree on what the basics are.
Sunday, June 13, 2010
Power, Peter, Paul, Passover, Prayer, Parallelism, Perga, and Pisidia.
Still playing catch up today. Conversion #3 was the conversion of Cornelius - a prominent soldier and citizen. The story is also about the conversion of Peter. Peter's dream of the sail cloth filled with every kind of animal in was puzzling to him at first. Then Peter is called to the house of Cornelius, a gentile. Before Peter has a chance to finish his speech to Cornelius and his household, the Holy Spirit came upon ALL who were listening. Oooh - this is what God means by saying "it is not for you to call profane what God counts clean". "The men of Jewish birth that had accompanied Peter are amazed and return as witnesses for Peter when he heads back to Jerusalem, where he is questioned by more of those "of Jewish birth".
"Table fellowship" is the big problem. In the Middle East there are obligations still today for hosts and guests when a meal is shared.
Chapter 12 highlights:
1) Disciples take up a contribution for fellow Christians who are experiencing a famine in Judea. (maps and atlases are fun to follow when you see these kinds of tid-bits).
2) They entrust the delivery of the contribution to Barnabus and Saul.
3) There are several King Herod's in the New Testament and they are all pretty much bad guys.
4) Peter is arrested and put in prison by King Herod.
5) Peter escapes thanks to an angel (of light!).
6) Herod is struck dead because he does not give glory to God (it looks to me like he wants to be the hero).
Chapter 13:
1) Barnabas and Saul head out with 4 others and are still going to the synagogues to make their first contacts.
2) Verse 9 - Saul is now referred to as Paul. Maybe to cover for his widespread reputation of a Christian antagonist and murderer.
3) Here is more parallelism - Paul encounters a devilish type of character: Barjesus, "Son of Joshua" (Yeshua), or Elymas (false prophet). The "seer" is blinded.
4) Paul goes to Perga. (I have actually been to Perga. Waddy and I went on a trip called "the Journeys of Paul" with Jim Fleming and that was one of our fascinating stops).
How are you doing with keeping up? It is definitely a challenge! Hang in there.
"Table fellowship" is the big problem. In the Middle East there are obligations still today for hosts and guests when a meal is shared.
Chapter 12 highlights:
1) Disciples take up a contribution for fellow Christians who are experiencing a famine in Judea. (maps and atlases are fun to follow when you see these kinds of tid-bits).
2) They entrust the delivery of the contribution to Barnabus and Saul.
3) There are several King Herod's in the New Testament and they are all pretty much bad guys.
4) Peter is arrested and put in prison by King Herod.
5) Peter escapes thanks to an angel (of light!).
6) Herod is struck dead because he does not give glory to God (it looks to me like he wants to be the hero).
Chapter 13:
1) Barnabas and Saul head out with 4 others and are still going to the synagogues to make their first contacts.
2) Verse 9 - Saul is now referred to as Paul. Maybe to cover for his widespread reputation of a Christian antagonist and murderer.
3) Here is more parallelism - Paul encounters a devilish type of character: Barjesus, "Son of Joshua" (Yeshua), or Elymas (false prophet). The "seer" is blinded.
4) Paul goes to Perga. (I have actually been to Perga. Waddy and I went on a trip called "the Journeys of Paul" with Jim Fleming and that was one of our fascinating stops).
How are you doing with keeping up? It is definitely a challenge! Hang in there.
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Conversion X 3
Sorry I missed yesterday. We received a call at 6 am that Waddy's boss's wife had fallen and then died. It was kind of a crazy day, and we didn't have the password for internet at the Bed and Breakfast we were staying at. The funeral for Marilyn Endsley will be some time on Tuesday and I will be officiating. We are getting ready to head over there to meet with the family, but I didn't want you to get behind in your reading. I kept up with the reading even if I didn't try to find another wireless connection.
The first conversion in our readings today is about an Ethiopian eunuch. He has been to Jerusalem and is trying to understand their culture by reading the words of Isaiah out loud. Back in those days texts were written without any breaks between words, so reading out loud helped to determine where the breaks needed to occur based on sounding out syllables. Reading in silence was rare.
There is rapid action and exotic details. A eunuch would have been forbidden to become a Jew because physically he was unable to be circumcised. However, baptism is open for all, so he accepts readily the opportunity.
Conversion 2 is a big one. Saul the zealous persecutor of Christ followers is blinded on the road to Damascus where he was going to persecute more Christ followers. Ananias is called upon to go and pray for Saul. God tells Ananias that Saul has been chosen to bring God's name to "nations and Kings", and "before the people of Israel."
I will have to get to conversion #3 later this evening or tomorrow. The title for chapters 11-13 will be Power, Peter, Paul, Passover, Prayer, Prison, Parallelism, Perga, and Pisidia.
Headed to the Endsley's to meet with the family.
The first conversion in our readings today is about an Ethiopian eunuch. He has been to Jerusalem and is trying to understand their culture by reading the words of Isaiah out loud. Back in those days texts were written without any breaks between words, so reading out loud helped to determine where the breaks needed to occur based on sounding out syllables. Reading in silence was rare.
There is rapid action and exotic details. A eunuch would have been forbidden to become a Jew because physically he was unable to be circumcised. However, baptism is open for all, so he accepts readily the opportunity.
Conversion 2 is a big one. Saul the zealous persecutor of Christ followers is blinded on the road to Damascus where he was going to persecute more Christ followers. Ananias is called upon to go and pray for Saul. God tells Ananias that Saul has been chosen to bring God's name to "nations and Kings", and "before the people of Israel."
I will have to get to conversion #3 later this evening or tomorrow. The title for chapters 11-13 will be Power, Peter, Paul, Passover, Prayer, Prison, Parallelism, Perga, and Pisidia.
Headed to the Endsley's to meet with the family.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
A Bitter Parting - So much for respect...
Acts 6-7
We are in Fredericksburg, TX. and the humidity is almost non-existent. After steamy, sweaty Houston, this is very nice. Nice breeze.
Acts 6 starts out with the story of the election of 7 (there's that number again) new leaders to keep up with the growing needs of the church. (That's quite a jump in staff from 12 to 19, but you have to remember they added 3000 on the first day of church!). The original disciples realize that to have a good outreach program, they must take care of the needs of the people that are already part of the church. Good inreach = good outreach! Stephen, the first of the 7 mentioned, is described as "full of faith and the Holy Spirit". Later on in verse 8 his accolades continue as he is further described as "full of grace and power". This is someone very special.
There is a group of people that don't like Stephen. They are from the Synagogue of the Freedmen. These are people that have been former slaves, but have now become Roman citizens and settled in Jerusalem. Since they are Roman citizens, they probably have some kind of political power. They tried arguing with Stephen, and when they failed they resort to slander. Stephen tries to help the people understand even the temple, as great as it is, is nothing God needs. This does not make the Freedmen happy.
Stephen accuses his accusers of 4 evils. They are 1) stiffnecked (recalling the Lord's condemning of Israel in Ex. 33:3, 5), 2) "uncircumcised of heart and ears", 3) "forever opposing the Holy Spirit", and 4) behaving just like their ancestors who did not give their heroes proper respect.
When they heard these things they became enraged to the point of grinding their teeth (Chapter 7, verse 54; see Psalm 35:16, 37:12, 112:10). That is angry!
To make sure they "followed the law" the pious, angry mob takes Stephen "out of the city" to stone him to death (see Lev. 24:11-13, Numbers 15:35). I wonder how they interpreted "thou shalt not kill".
This is a bitter parting marked by a violent deed. Any questions?
Tomorrow our reading is about miracles and power. Much happier scenerios.
We are in Fredericksburg, TX. and the humidity is almost non-existent. After steamy, sweaty Houston, this is very nice. Nice breeze.
Acts 6 starts out with the story of the election of 7 (there's that number again) new leaders to keep up with the growing needs of the church. (That's quite a jump in staff from 12 to 19, but you have to remember they added 3000 on the first day of church!). The original disciples realize that to have a good outreach program, they must take care of the needs of the people that are already part of the church. Good inreach = good outreach! Stephen, the first of the 7 mentioned, is described as "full of faith and the Holy Spirit". Later on in verse 8 his accolades continue as he is further described as "full of grace and power". This is someone very special.
There is a group of people that don't like Stephen. They are from the Synagogue of the Freedmen. These are people that have been former slaves, but have now become Roman citizens and settled in Jerusalem. Since they are Roman citizens, they probably have some kind of political power. They tried arguing with Stephen, and when they failed they resort to slander. Stephen tries to help the people understand even the temple, as great as it is, is nothing God needs. This does not make the Freedmen happy.
Stephen accuses his accusers of 4 evils. They are 1) stiffnecked (recalling the Lord's condemning of Israel in Ex. 33:3, 5), 2) "uncircumcised of heart and ears", 3) "forever opposing the Holy Spirit", and 4) behaving just like their ancestors who did not give their heroes proper respect.
When they heard these things they became enraged to the point of grinding their teeth (Chapter 7, verse 54; see Psalm 35:16, 37:12, 112:10). That is angry!
To make sure they "followed the law" the pious, angry mob takes Stephen "out of the city" to stone him to death (see Lev. 24:11-13, Numbers 15:35). I wonder how they interpreted "thou shalt not kill".
This is a bitter parting marked by a violent deed. Any questions?
Tomorrow our reading is about miracles and power. Much happier scenerios.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Cut to the Heart - And you're to blame...(music note, music note, ...)
Acts 2-5
In chapter 2 the focus is NOT the fire, the focus is the TONGUES. Babel (Genesis 11) has fallen. Peter quotes from Joel 2:28. And 3000 new members are added after a fairly short sermon. More effects and less talk seem to make a difference here! This is the story of US and how to embrace the power of the Holy Spirit.
The power of the NAME of Jesus is shown in chapter 3 ("in the name of Jesus Christ, get up and walk"). Have you ever tried that on anyone for anything? That is Bold - with a capital B. Even when questioned by the authorities, Peter gives another compelling and very short sermon. Did you notice that the age of the man who was healed is given? 40 years means a long time (40 days and nights of rain, 40 years in the wilderness, 40 days on the mount of temptation). The man had been crippled for a long time, thus making the miracle even more miraculous. In chapter 4, verse 4 the number of Christians is now at 5000.
Chapter 4 ends with a prayer for BOLDNESS. And they were ALL filled with the Holy Spirit. When was the last time prayer filled you with boldness? Can you imagine what would happen if "the place in which" we are gathered ever started to "shake"?
It also ends with the introduction of Barnabas, who we will hear more about later. Verse 36 inserts that his name means "son of encouragement". However, this is a Jew from the diaspora (Cyprus), and his name could mean "Son of Nebo" (Bar: Son, Nabas: Nebo) - a Babylonian deity. Look up what Barabbas means (Son of the Father). Nebo was the Babylonian god of wisdom and writing.
In chapter 5 no grace is shown to people who "lie to the Holy Spirit" (verse 3). Judgement is harsh and immediate. What if we as a society believed that to be true? We seem to get by with a lot today.
The last 25 verses of chapter 5 shows increasing rage by those "in charge". Can you imagine being flogged and rejoicing? And no force is necessary to bring the apostles to trial. The officers are fearful of being "stoned".
There are a lot of rocks in Israel. I hope that one day you will be able to go and see what is called the 5th Gospel, the land of Israel.
Tomorrow Waddy and I are picking up my parents in Georgetown, Texas and taking them to Fredericksburg for a couple of days. We are staying at Abend Haus - a wonderful Bed and Breakfast. It is my birthday! Happy birthday to me!
Keep in touch.
In chapter 2 the focus is NOT the fire, the focus is the TONGUES. Babel (Genesis 11) has fallen. Peter quotes from Joel 2:28. And 3000 new members are added after a fairly short sermon. More effects and less talk seem to make a difference here! This is the story of US and how to embrace the power of the Holy Spirit.
The power of the NAME of Jesus is shown in chapter 3 ("in the name of Jesus Christ, get up and walk"). Have you ever tried that on anyone for anything? That is Bold - with a capital B. Even when questioned by the authorities, Peter gives another compelling and very short sermon. Did you notice that the age of the man who was healed is given? 40 years means a long time (40 days and nights of rain, 40 years in the wilderness, 40 days on the mount of temptation). The man had been crippled for a long time, thus making the miracle even more miraculous. In chapter 4, verse 4 the number of Christians is now at 5000.
Chapter 4 ends with a prayer for BOLDNESS. And they were ALL filled with the Holy Spirit. When was the last time prayer filled you with boldness? Can you imagine what would happen if "the place in which" we are gathered ever started to "shake"?
It also ends with the introduction of Barnabas, who we will hear more about later. Verse 36 inserts that his name means "son of encouragement". However, this is a Jew from the diaspora (Cyprus), and his name could mean "Son of Nebo" (Bar: Son, Nabas: Nebo) - a Babylonian deity. Look up what Barabbas means (Son of the Father). Nebo was the Babylonian god of wisdom and writing.
In chapter 5 no grace is shown to people who "lie to the Holy Spirit" (verse 3). Judgement is harsh and immediate. What if we as a society believed that to be true? We seem to get by with a lot today.
The last 25 verses of chapter 5 shows increasing rage by those "in charge". Can you imagine being flogged and rejoicing? And no force is necessary to bring the apostles to trial. The officers are fearful of being "stoned".
There are a lot of rocks in Israel. I hope that one day you will be able to go and see what is called the 5th Gospel, the land of Israel.
Tomorrow Waddy and I are picking up my parents in Georgetown, Texas and taking them to Fredericksburg for a couple of days. We are staying at Abend Haus - a wonderful Bed and Breakfast. It is my birthday! Happy birthday to me!
Keep in touch.
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Tension - Into the Future
In John 21 Peter's leadership is redeemed and he is urged to follow the lead of the good shepherd who "lays down his life for the sheep". Yet there appears to be another leader - there's that "disciple whom Jesus loved". What about him? Is he going to have to lay down his life, too?
I've wondered about the significance of living a good life versus those who lay their live on the line daily. There is a magazine I receive occasionally called "The Voice of the Martyrs" (their website is http://www.persecution.com/). It is very humbling to see what some people have to deal with when they profess to be Christian in some parts of the world. Have you ever wondered about the worth of your witness and if you are doing "enough"?
One way to look at the worth of all disciples is to look the breakfast story. Everybody had fish to eat. Not just Peter and "the beloved disciple". Jesus' gifts are for everyone.
Now we move on to Acts. Taking the gospel to the "remotest part of the earth" will be a major theme. Even to Samaria - to people that were considered hostile and wrong-headed. Ever know anyone like that? Maybe even a neighbor or family member?!
The Ascension is a prelude to the empowerment that ALL the disciples are about to receive. Jesus will be able to help them from a higher vantage point where he can see to the ends of the earth.
Acts 1:16-20 describes what happened to Judas. The book of Acts will tell the stories of how God punishes the wicked. There will be judgement.
The definition of an apostle is in verses 21 and 22 - one who has been a follower from the Baptism until the Ascension. With the selection of new leaders some denominations over the last 2000 years believed that these that are chosen also received special abilities and authority. This is called "apostolic succession".
I've wondered about the significance of living a good life versus those who lay their live on the line daily. There is a magazine I receive occasionally called "The Voice of the Martyrs" (their website is http://www.persecution.com/). It is very humbling to see what some people have to deal with when they profess to be Christian in some parts of the world. Have you ever wondered about the worth of your witness and if you are doing "enough"?
One way to look at the worth of all disciples is to look the breakfast story. Everybody had fish to eat. Not just Peter and "the beloved disciple". Jesus' gifts are for everyone.
Now we move on to Acts. Taking the gospel to the "remotest part of the earth" will be a major theme. Even to Samaria - to people that were considered hostile and wrong-headed. Ever know anyone like that? Maybe even a neighbor or family member?!
The Ascension is a prelude to the empowerment that ALL the disciples are about to receive. Jesus will be able to help them from a higher vantage point where he can see to the ends of the earth.
Acts 1:16-20 describes what happened to Judas. The book of Acts will tell the stories of how God punishes the wicked. There will be judgement.
The definition of an apostle is in verses 21 and 22 - one who has been a follower from the Baptism until the Ascension. With the selection of new leaders some denominations over the last 2000 years believed that these that are chosen also received special abilities and authority. This is called "apostolic succession".
Monday, June 7, 2010
The Ultimate Question
Seems like a lot of reading about very important events for the day. Maybe because these are the events we are more familiar with. However John puts a little different twist on these stories. Jesus is in control in every scene. He came to die, and he knows it is going to happen.
I have never noticed before "the other disciple" mentioned in 18:16. Is this the intriguing "beloved" disciple? There is interesting parallelism between this scene of Peter's denial and then the scene in Chapter 21 of the Peter's confession (tomorrow's reading).
Have you ever noticed that the story of the trial before Pilate is in 7 scenes like the story of the blind man was earlier.
Scene 1: Outside the praetorium where Pilate lived. The Jewish leaders cannot enter the Gentile Praetorium or they will be defiled and won't be able to eat the upcoming Passover meal.
Scene 2: Pilate goes in to talk to Jesus. This is where "the ultimate question" comes in. Are you the King of the Jews?
Scene 3: Pilate goes out to the Jewish leaders once more.
Scene 4: Central scene. Jesus is flogged and robed in purple. His coronation has begun.
Scene 5: Pilate goes back out to the Jewish leaders and announces he finds nothing wrong with Jesus.
Scene 6: Back into the praetorium. Jesus is in charge. He is choosing His own death. His refusal to answer is used in all the gospels and is a reflection of Isaiah 53:7.
Scene 7: Back outside. The Jewish leaders make a statement that is TRULY blasphemous. "We have no king but Caesar". "Their sin is complete; they have ended up renouncing their God" (The Storyteller's Companion to the Bible, Vol. 10, pg. 151).
Why would these 7 scenes go along with 7 scenes about the blind man? These Jews cannot see either. In a moment of crisis - How would you respond? Would you follow the crowd?
I cried for three days straight when I first faced this question. It was before I entered the ministry. There is a beautiful church in Rouen dedicated to Joan of Arc. She too died because of her faith. The picture of the statue dedicated to her that is inside the church is the picture at the beginning of this post.
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Vines and Victory - Take courage, Jesus has conquered the World!
Verse 16:33 is a great wrap up for today's reading. "Take courage; I have conquered the world."
First, let's talk about vines and fruit (chapter 15). This imagery tells us that relationships are very important, and fruitfulness depends on the relationship to the vine (which in this case is Jesus). What does it mean in this context to "bear fruit"? Jesus says it has something to do with abiding in His love (verse 15:10). He wants to fill us with joy (verse 15:11).
I have found "love" to be a challenge when it comes to a large church community. Love can be difficult for couples! Love can be even more difficult in families. Do you love me? (No need to answer that question in the comments!).
I visited St. John's UMC downtown several years ago with the staff I was working with then (Christ UMC in College Station). As we entered the St. John's we were were greeted with genuine love. I don't remember the exact words (it was a long time ago), but I remember watching the person at the desk greet everyone with love in his words.
I like the word "abide". "In Heavenly Love Abiding" was a song in the hymnal of the church I grew up in. The words of the first stanza are "The storm may roar without me, my heart may low be laid, but God is round about me, and can I be dismayed." Great song.
Tomorrow is Monday! Keep up the good work.
Saturday, June 5, 2010
Parade and a Banquet
This is going to be short today because I am headed up to "the Park" this morning and I have a wedding luncheon after that. "The Park" is our new children's area at the church and it is looking fantastic! Just some finishing touches need to be made.
In John 12 I noticed something for the first time. In John 12:19 the Pharisees note that "the world has gone after him!" Then in the very next verse it mentions "some Greeks" who are at the festival and wish to see Jesus. In verse 26 Jesus tells Philip and Andrew, "Whoever serves me, the Father will honor." There is so much we miss if we just skim through these stories.
Then Jesus begins to talk about His death, and makes references to the prophet Isaiah.
The banquet story, the last supper, has so much going on. Ancient meals had two main courses, the deipnon was the supper proper when the meal was actually eaten, followed by the symposium during which there was conversation and other entertainment. Jesus has a lot to say. And have you ever wondered about "the disciple whom Jesus loved"? People have said it was the author of the book we are reading, but I wonder if it might have been Lazarus. Just a thought. After all, he had just raised him from the dead.
There was a children's musical by Kathi Hill that I directed many years ago called "We Like Sheep" that had many passages from John in the words of the songs. John 13:34-35 is one of my favorite that was the basis of one song. I'll sing it for you next time I see you. Off to the Park for now!
In John 12 I noticed something for the first time. In John 12:19 the Pharisees note that "the world has gone after him!" Then in the very next verse it mentions "some Greeks" who are at the festival and wish to see Jesus. In verse 26 Jesus tells Philip and Andrew, "Whoever serves me, the Father will honor." There is so much we miss if we just skim through these stories.
Then Jesus begins to talk about His death, and makes references to the prophet Isaiah.
The banquet story, the last supper, has so much going on. Ancient meals had two main courses, the deipnon was the supper proper when the meal was actually eaten, followed by the symposium during which there was conversation and other entertainment. Jesus has a lot to say. And have you ever wondered about "the disciple whom Jesus loved"? People have said it was the author of the book we are reading, but I wonder if it might have been Lazarus. Just a thought. After all, he had just raised him from the dead.
There was a children's musical by Kathi Hill that I directed many years ago called "We Like Sheep" that had many passages from John in the words of the songs. John 13:34-35 is one of my favorite that was the basis of one song. I'll sing it for you next time I see you. Off to the Park for now!
Friday, June 4, 2010
Light of the World - Good Shepherd - Door
In John chapter 9 we experience the church in conflict and a test of faith. A blind man is physically healed, and immediately his faith is tested. It is through conflict that his faith is challenged to grow.
Holy numbers are interesting. Three, seven, and twelve are frequent. The story of the blind man has 7 scenes:
1) Jesus and the disciples (believers) encounter the blind man and he is healed by Jesus.
2) The former blind man encounters his neighbors.
3) The former blind man's first trial before the Pharisees.
4) The former blind man's parents are summoned for questioning.
5) The former blind man is summoned again by the Pharisees.
6) The former blind man encounters Jesus and confesses his faith.
7) Jesus encounters the Pharisees and pronounces judgement on them.
The church in conflict. Leaders who cannot see. Radical life changing events. This is exciting stuff!
In Chapter 10 we have a collection of allegories to help explain what has happened to the blind man (10:21). The shepherd theme is borrowed from the Old Testament. The door to the sheepfold is the proper way to enter and then to lead the sheep out into a new pasture. The way the shepherd leads is to call the sheep by name. The formerly blind man's faith journey will require him to move from the safety of the synagogue to a new place, but he is not alone. In The Storyteller's Companion to the Bible, Vol. 10 it puts it this way, "the path of true faith requires movement into an unknown future "(pg. 102).
Other characters include the counterparts to the shepherd - the thief and the wolf. The doorkeeper prepares the way for the shepherd (John the Baptist). The hired hand runs away when danger threatens.
As we end for the day - "the Jews" are divided. The church is in conflict.
Back to religious numbers. Two weeks ago Waddy and I were at Mont Saint Michel - a monastery built on a rock in France. It was built to focus on the journey of faith from the physical to the spiritual. The journey from the physical to the spiritual looking toward the divine and the holy (3 separations of approaching the church which was at the top of the rock).
Google Mont Saint Michel. As we arrived on Sunday morning, the shepherds were leading their sheep from the salty grasslands across the causeway, stopping traffic flowing in for sightseeing and for worship. Wow. Have a great day!
Holy numbers are interesting. Three, seven, and twelve are frequent. The story of the blind man has 7 scenes:
1) Jesus and the disciples (believers) encounter the blind man and he is healed by Jesus.
2) The former blind man encounters his neighbors.
3) The former blind man's first trial before the Pharisees.
4) The former blind man's parents are summoned for questioning.
5) The former blind man is summoned again by the Pharisees.
6) The former blind man encounters Jesus and confesses his faith.
7) Jesus encounters the Pharisees and pronounces judgement on them.
The church in conflict. Leaders who cannot see. Radical life changing events. This is exciting stuff!
In Chapter 10 we have a collection of allegories to help explain what has happened to the blind man (10:21). The shepherd theme is borrowed from the Old Testament. The door to the sheepfold is the proper way to enter and then to lead the sheep out into a new pasture. The way the shepherd leads is to call the sheep by name. The formerly blind man's faith journey will require him to move from the safety of the synagogue to a new place, but he is not alone. In The Storyteller's Companion to the Bible, Vol. 10 it puts it this way, "the path of true faith requires movement into an unknown future "(pg. 102).
Other characters include the counterparts to the shepherd - the thief and the wolf. The doorkeeper prepares the way for the shepherd (John the Baptist). The hired hand runs away when danger threatens.
As we end for the day - "the Jews" are divided. The church is in conflict.
Back to religious numbers. Two weeks ago Waddy and I were at Mont Saint Michel - a monastery built on a rock in France. It was built to focus on the journey of faith from the physical to the spiritual. The journey from the physical to the spiritual looking toward the divine and the holy (3 separations of approaching the church which was at the top of the rock).
Google Mont Saint Michel. As we arrived on Sunday morning, the shepherds were leading their sheep from the salty grasslands across the causeway, stopping traffic flowing in for sightseeing and for worship. Wow. Have a great day!
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Appearance is everything?
D-day. Normandy, France. June 6th, 1944.
What does this have to do with our New Testament Challenge? My husband's father flew 2 D-day missions - and survived.
World War 2 was a "religious" war because according to Hitler, "the Jews" had to be exterminated.
Waddy and I have been to the Holy Land 3 times. We have been fortunate enough to experience the "Journeys of Paul" through Greece and Turkey twice. Those experiences were thankful and mostly happy experiences. However, this trip to Normandy was somewhat spiritually crushing.
How could proclaiming "Christians" do something so destructive? I have a German background. What happened to drive people to such a frenzy?
During our trip we experienced the fall of the Roman empire, the power of a corrupt church leadership, the beauty of church architecture and art, the medieval wars - and thankfully - extremely good food.
Chapters 7 and 8 of John are difficult. Jesus is rejected. Chapter 7, verse 12 - "complaining" among the crowds.
This is making me sad. I think it's time to sign out for today.
What does this have to do with our New Testament Challenge? My husband's father flew 2 D-day missions - and survived.
World War 2 was a "religious" war because according to Hitler, "the Jews" had to be exterminated.
Waddy and I have been to the Holy Land 3 times. We have been fortunate enough to experience the "Journeys of Paul" through Greece and Turkey twice. Those experiences were thankful and mostly happy experiences. However, this trip to Normandy was somewhat spiritually crushing.
How could proclaiming "Christians" do something so destructive? I have a German background. What happened to drive people to such a frenzy?
During our trip we experienced the fall of the Roman empire, the power of a corrupt church leadership, the beauty of church architecture and art, the medieval wars - and thankfully - extremely good food.
Chapters 7 and 8 of John are difficult. Jesus is rejected. Chapter 7, verse 12 - "complaining" among the crowds.
This is making me sad. I think it's time to sign out for today.
Hey - Have You Ever Tried Really Reaching Out to the Other Side?
Bread. That was a band back in the 70's. And the title of this post are words from one of their songs. Today we will be looking at Chapter 6 and how hard it was for people to understand what Jesus was doing and what he was saying. Bread. Loaves and Fishes and Bread of Life. Jesus is trying to help "the crowd" and his "brothers" to understand what "the other side" of humanity is all about - the divine side - the spirit. Some of "the crowd" just doesn't get it.
At Annual Conference this week at one of the worship services, a large threshing floor for separating the grain from the chaff of wheat had been built. All I could think about as I watched them beat the grain from the chaff was how much harder it was to make bread back during Jesus' time. People back then were much more acquainted with with the reality of famine and the rarity of a lavish feast, and the difficulty of finding bread that would feed a crowd.
Jesus provides a lavish feast with plenty of leftovers. A messianic type of banquet is described in Isaiah 25:6-7 as a great feast when God will feed all nations. The people's conclusion is seen in John 6:14 - "This is indeed the prophet who has come into this world". Moses and manna comes to their minds.
The bread stories are briefly interrupted by the walking on water miracle. The next day"the crowd" notices that there is only one boat on on "the other side" in Capernaum, and they know Jesus did not get into the boat with the disciples, so the crowd goes looking for Jesus. Are they wanting more bread?
When they find Jesus, Jesus responds to them, "I am the bread of life". Then he goes on to talk about "eating flesh and drinking blood". Read John 6:60. To eat flesh and drink blood was offensive to a Jew (Gen. 9:4).
Can they understand Jesus is speaking of the spirit that gives life? Apparently not. Verse 66 says many turn and "no longer went about with him."
I will catch up with info on today's reading tonight.
Pearl Fincher passed into eternal life today at noon. She was a great lady whose family honored her a few years ago by having the Pearl Fincher Museum of Fine Arts named for her. I celebrate the life of a wonderful woman and her family who have contributed immensely to our community.
At Annual Conference this week at one of the worship services, a large threshing floor for separating the grain from the chaff of wheat had been built. All I could think about as I watched them beat the grain from the chaff was how much harder it was to make bread back during Jesus' time. People back then were much more acquainted with with the reality of famine and the rarity of a lavish feast, and the difficulty of finding bread that would feed a crowd.
Jesus provides a lavish feast with plenty of leftovers. A messianic type of banquet is described in Isaiah 25:6-7 as a great feast when God will feed all nations. The people's conclusion is seen in John 6:14 - "This is indeed the prophet who has come into this world". Moses and manna comes to their minds.
The bread stories are briefly interrupted by the walking on water miracle. The next day"the crowd" notices that there is only one boat on on "the other side" in Capernaum, and they know Jesus did not get into the boat with the disciples, so the crowd goes looking for Jesus. Are they wanting more bread?
When they find Jesus, Jesus responds to them, "I am the bread of life". Then he goes on to talk about "eating flesh and drinking blood". Read John 6:60. To eat flesh and drink blood was offensive to a Jew (Gen. 9:4).
Can they understand Jesus is speaking of the spirit that gives life? Apparently not. Verse 66 says many turn and "no longer went about with him."
I will catch up with info on today's reading tonight.
Pearl Fincher passed into eternal life today at noon. She was a great lady whose family honored her a few years ago by having the Pearl Fincher Museum of Fine Arts named for her. I celebrate the life of a wonderful woman and her family who have contributed immensely to our community.
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Rules, Riddles - Never Give Up!
As we head into our 3rd day of reading, some of you may be thinking - "I can't keep up with this reading." I want you to remember that it is better to keep trying than to quit just because you are getting behind or can't keep up. If you get behind, just plan to go back and catch up at another time. Keeping up and doing any reading you can is better than getting frustrated and quitting. Never, never, never give up (that is a quote from a commencement address given by Winston Churchill - it wasn't about Bible reading, but I think it works here as a note of encouragement!)
One of the things I have begin noticing from our reading of John is the frequent reference to "the Jews". This seems odd to me because the Christian community to which John is writing is also Jewish! Did you realize that until Paul took off into Gentile territory, most of the Christians were Jewish people who believed that Jesus was the Messiah. One commentary I am reading says that "the Jews" is to be read as a symbolic term referring to the enemies of Jesus. The "Jews" represent those who reject life in favor of rules.
Using that type of symbolism may have been fine back then, but could you see taking this statement into the 20th century could cause problems with people who don't understand symbolism? Literal people have been mislead to despise "the Jews" because of this way of writing back in the 1st century.
In Chapter 5, we read about the story of a crippled man who has been crippled for 38 years being healed by Jesus. There's trouble though. Picking up his mat is considered "work". On the sabbath no work is to be done. Look at verse 5:9b. Oops.
The point of this miraculous healing story is that the miracle takes place through the power and the word of Jesus. Not on which day it happened!
The riddle part of this discussion will have to wait until tomorrow. Just to give you a hint, it has to do with "bread".
Are you enjoying the blog?
One of the things I have begin noticing from our reading of John is the frequent reference to "the Jews". This seems odd to me because the Christian community to which John is writing is also Jewish! Did you realize that until Paul took off into Gentile territory, most of the Christians were Jewish people who believed that Jesus was the Messiah. One commentary I am reading says that "the Jews" is to be read as a symbolic term referring to the enemies of Jesus. The "Jews" represent those who reject life in favor of rules.
Using that type of symbolism may have been fine back then, but could you see taking this statement into the 20th century could cause problems with people who don't understand symbolism? Literal people have been mislead to despise "the Jews" because of this way of writing back in the 1st century.
In Chapter 5, we read about the story of a crippled man who has been crippled for 38 years being healed by Jesus. There's trouble though. Picking up his mat is considered "work". On the sabbath no work is to be done. Look at verse 5:9b. Oops.
The point of this miraculous healing story is that the miracle takes place through the power and the word of Jesus. Not on which day it happened!
The riddle part of this discussion will have to wait until tomorrow. Just to give you a hint, it has to do with "bread".
Are you enjoying the blog?
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Nic at night
In John 3 and 4 there is more darkness and light imagery. Themes of conflict become very apparent.
First, the water into wine miracle. Do you know much about Greek mythology? Dionysis was the the god of wine, and therefore a pretty powerful god. Replacing the water of purification (religion) with the wine of celebration (Greek lifestyle) is symbolic and speaks into the culture that John was writing to. The need for purification is replaced by direct access to God for all people at a feast of celebration.
Next - the cleansing of the temple. In the synoptic* gospels Jesus does this at the end of his ministry. For John this is a benchmark of Jesus' radical reform of Jewish traditions.
Then poor Nic. Nicodemus is the stereotype of "everyperson" with an inadequate faith. Nic comes to Jesus in the dark. And Jesus speaks in riddles Nicodemus does not understand. This is symbolic language. Did you notice in chapter 3, verse 11 that Jesus begins speaking in the plural? "We" (the believers) and "you" (the detractors). Jesus appears to be speaking to a larger audience of which Nicodemus has been selected to be the speaker.
And last but not least - the Samaritan woman. This is an elaborate story. According to convention, Jesus should not be talking to the woman. He should be speaking to her husband. When she responds that she has no husband, Jesus reveals to her a knowledge of her inner thoughts, to which she responds "Sir, I see you are a prophet." Convention requires a test of a prophet, so the woman asks him an age old question - "Who is right - Samaritans or Jews?". Jesus then speaks of a new order in which all religious controversies are obsolete. Would that be a blessing beyond imagination?! If all Christians, all "believers", could at least agree to get along, and agree to disagree, so we could serve the underserved in this world? Come, Holy Spirit, come and bring heaven on earth.
The woman is a symbol of women in general. Jesus enters into her world and moves her toward faith - a faith that is then proclaimedby a woman. Jesus's disciples don't ask and don't tell (4:27). There is a tension at the time the story is told - and tension to this day.
I am blessed to be a Christian. I have been doubly blessed to have found the Methodist church.
*Google "synoptic" (or look it up in a dictionary - remember those?) if you don't know what that means. I hope to get ahead and send you other things to look up once Annual Conference is over.
First, the water into wine miracle. Do you know much about Greek mythology? Dionysis was the the god of wine, and therefore a pretty powerful god. Replacing the water of purification (religion) with the wine of celebration (Greek lifestyle) is symbolic and speaks into the culture that John was writing to. The need for purification is replaced by direct access to God for all people at a feast of celebration.
Next - the cleansing of the temple. In the synoptic* gospels Jesus does this at the end of his ministry. For John this is a benchmark of Jesus' radical reform of Jewish traditions.
Then poor Nic. Nicodemus is the stereotype of "everyperson" with an inadequate faith. Nic comes to Jesus in the dark. And Jesus speaks in riddles Nicodemus does not understand. This is symbolic language. Did you notice in chapter 3, verse 11 that Jesus begins speaking in the plural? "We" (the believers) and "you" (the detractors). Jesus appears to be speaking to a larger audience of which Nicodemus has been selected to be the speaker.
And last but not least - the Samaritan woman. This is an elaborate story. According to convention, Jesus should not be talking to the woman. He should be speaking to her husband. When she responds that she has no husband, Jesus reveals to her a knowledge of her inner thoughts, to which she responds "Sir, I see you are a prophet." Convention requires a test of a prophet, so the woman asks him an age old question - "Who is right - Samaritans or Jews?". Jesus then speaks of a new order in which all religious controversies are obsolete. Would that be a blessing beyond imagination?! If all Christians, all "believers", could at least agree to get along, and agree to disagree, so we could serve the underserved in this world? Come, Holy Spirit, come and bring heaven on earth.
The woman is a symbol of women in general. Jesus enters into her world and moves her toward faith - a faith that is then proclaimedby a woman. Jesus's disciples don't ask and don't tell (4:27). There is a tension at the time the story is told - and tension to this day.
I am blessed to be a Christian. I have been doubly blessed to have found the Methodist church.
*Google "synoptic" (or look it up in a dictionary - remember those?) if you don't know what that means. I hope to get ahead and send you other things to look up once Annual Conference is over.
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