"Abundant Joy!"

Scripture Passage

John 15:18-17:26

Scripture Focus

“At that time you won’t need to ask me for anything. I tell you the truth, you will ask the Father directly, and he will grant your request because you use my name. You haven’t done this before. Ask, using my name, and you will receive, and you will have abundant joy.” (John 16:23-24 NLT)

Observation

Every day I engage in activities and enjoy experiences that generations of people have never known. I enjoy foods from all over the world that, in previous eras, the wealthiest kings could not have provided for themselves. I hop on an airplane (with scores of other travelers) and am transported from one part of the world to another in less than a day. With the same electronic device—and wirelessly, at that—I hold a long-distance conversation, listen to preferred music, watch a live video, send an email and take a family photo. What was previously unthinkable is now quite ordinary.

Jesus says to his disciples, about accessing the Father in His name, “You haven’t done this before.” (John 16:24 NLT). Is that not a fascinating thought? Is that not a startling reminder of how the previously unthinkable has become the ordinary, all because of Jesus? Because I’ve always known the privilege of prayer in Jesus’ name—of unfettered access to the Father through Christ—I can hardly imagine a time when such was not the case.

But there was such a time. Jesus’ disciples knew of it…and lived in it. But now, Jesus’ promise is that their requests no longer need to be directed to Him, but only through Him, direct to the Father. Because of Jesus, they (and we) now have full and immediate access.

Jesus says one result of this will be “abundant joy.” I think that’s true. How do you feel when you’re moved to the front of the line? I’m thinking, today, that when I live understanding the implications of Jesus’ promise…when I don’t so easily take for granted my access to the Father through the Son…that is exactly the case. I am filled with abundant joy! So that’s where I’m directing my heart, today. Thank you, Savior, that I can ask in your name, and I will receive, and I will have abundant joy!

***

"A Focus on Faith"

Scripture Passage

John 13:31-38; Mark 14:27-31; Matthew 26:31-35; Luke 22:31-38; John 14-15:17

Scripture Focus

“Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift each of you like wheat. But I have pleaded in prayer for you, Simon, that your faith should not fail. So when you have repented and turned to me again, strengthen your brothers.” (Luke 22:31-32 NLT)

Observation

I’m thinking a thought first suggested to me by Jonathan Gainsbrugh several months ago. The scene is the Last Supper…Judas has just acknowledged his role in Jesus’ betrayal…and it’s interesting what Jesus says here. His words indicate that He was fully aware of an impending failure on Peter’s part—an outright and persistent denial of his relationship with Jesus—but Jesus’ words do not express rejection or rebuke of Peter, only the Shepherd’s care for Peter.

Peter was (as I am sometimes) a big talker—always ready to announce in advance what he was going to do for God. Here, Jesus plainly told Peter that “before the rooster crowed twice”, he (Peter) would deny Christ Jesus three times. But Peter insisted that such was not the case. “Even if I have to die with you, I will never deny you." (Mark 14:31 NLT). (I should acknowledge that “all the others vowed the same.”)

The point is, Jesus was quite aware of Peter’s shortcomings…quite aware that Peter wasn’t (and never would be) perfect. Yet He prayed for Peter all the same—and prayed not so much that Peter would “please grow up and quit being such a loser”…not that that Peter would never fail…but “that [Peter’s] faith should not fail.” (Luke 22:32 NLT)

Jesus seems to have a much greater concern with faith than with perfection—a much greater concern for a heart that knows and trusts God’s love than for some legalistic standard of “Christian behavior.” I’m quite confident Christ is concerned with our behavior—otherwise why would He even address Peter’s looming denial? But Jesus’ focus was on Peter’s faith.

Perhaps mine should be, too. Perhaps a heart rich in faith can ultimately produce fruit that a heart set on perfectionist behavior never can.

***

"As One Who Serves"

Scripture Passage

Mark 14:1-2; Matthew 26:1-5; Luke 22:1-2; Mark 14:10-11; Matthew 26:14-16; Luke 22:3-6; Mark 14:12-16; Matthew 26:17-19; Luke 22:7-13; John 13:1-17; Mark 14:17-26; Matthew 26:20-30; Luke 22:14-30; John 13:18-30

Scripture Focus

“I am among you as one who serves” (Luke 22:27 NLT)

Observation

It’s another extraordinary scene from Scripture—Jesus has just explained to his disciples that He will be handed over to be crucified, He has just washed His disciples’ feet as an expression of servanthood towards them, He has just initiated what we now call “the Lord’s Supper” as a testimony to His sacrificial death, and—in that context—his disciples “began to argue among themselves about who would be the greatest among them” (Luke 22:24 NLT). It’d be funny if it weren’t so serious.

Jesus’ response announces a distinction between this world’s leadership and leadership in Jesus’ kingdom. In this world, bosses are always throwing their weight around, seeking to get their way, advancing and promoting their agenda. “But among you it will be different. Those who are the greatest among you should take the lowest rank, and the leader should be like a servant” (Luke 22:26 NLT). And Jesus leads by example:

“I am among you as one who serves” (Luke 22:27 NLT)

Sometimes we distort that into making the kingdom leader a doormat. I’d argue that such is not God’s intention. Jesus—though He exemplifies servant leadership—is nobody’s doormat. He does not kowtow to the demands of His disciples, the people, or the religious leaders. Rather, His servanthood consists of this:

"I tell you the truth, the Son can do nothing by himself; he can do only what he sees his Father doing, because whatever the Father does the Son also does.” (John 5:19 NIV)

Jesus, it seems to me then, was servant to the Father. Jesus served the Father’s purpose, the Father’s agenda, the Father’s cause—to the exclusion of all others. So should I.

***

"Are You Watchin'?"

Scripture Passage

Mark 13:32-37; Matthew 24:36-51; Luke 21:34-38; Matthew 25:1-46

Scripture Focus

“I say to you what I say to everyone: Watch for him!”
                                                      (Mark 13:37 NLT)

Observation

Parables and warnings regarding the second coming of Christ dominate today’s reading. The parables of Matthew 25 seem especially familiar to me—the ten bridesmaids, the talents, the sheep and the goats. All of these (as I remember it, anyway) served as great fodder for preachers when I was a child, and most of the time I went away sure that Jesus might return at any moment.

I should have—that was exactly the point. And it remains the point even today. I’m quite aware that preaching about the return of Christ is not nearly so common these days as it was even a generation ago. (And I have an opinion or two on why that’s so—but given that I’m part of the problem, I’m not sayin’ anything!)

Still, the reality is, whether it’s preached about, sung about, written about or not, the truth is, Jesus will return. The day and hour of His return remain unknown, but the surety and suddenness remains completely assured! History is headed towards a huge interruption…a cataclysmic consummation! (Do you like that combination of words?)

“For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever.” (1 Thess 4:16-17 NLT)

Charles Spurgeon was reportedly asked one day if he could explain the seven trumpets of Revelation. I love his reply: “No, but I can blow one in your ear, and warn you to escape from the wrath to come.” Certainly some specifics surrounding Jesus’ return to earth are not as clear as we wish they were, but the primary challenge from today’s reading is straightforward and to the point. It can be ignored, but it cannot be misunderstood:

“I say to you what I say to everyone: Watch for him!”
                                                      (Mark 13:37 NLT)

***

"Fine Buildings...Or Fine Foundations?"

Scripture Passage

Mark 13:1-23; Matthew 24:1-25; Luke 21:5-24; Mark 13:24-31; Matthew 24:26-35; Luke 21:25-33

(A photo of a model of Herod's Temple--More by clicking here)

Scripture Focus

“Heaven and earth will disappear, but my words will never disappear.” (Mark 13:31 NLT)

Observation

Today’s reading opens with the kind of thing that often impresses us—a remarkable building. Hey, I get it. I’m as apt as anyone to stare at a towering skyscraper, an attractive home, or an impressive church. In the same manner, one of the disciples has drawn Jesus’ attention to the beautiful Temple in Jerusalem. And beautiful it was! King Herod had built a temple in Jerusalem (Solomon’s temple, you recall, had been destroyed) as a way to gain favor with the Jews. And—though much more a shrewd politician than a great leader—Herod was certainly renowned for his architectural finesse. His reign was characterized by massive building projects and noteworthy design. The Temple was genuinely impressive.

But Jesus reminds his disciples that even a building as impressive as Herod’s Temple was temporary. “Not one stone will be left on top of another! (Mark 13:2 NLT). All of this leads to a (somewhat complex) discussion of the events surrounding the destruction of the temple and (then) of the end of the age. I confess to not having all that figured out. But I do know where the conversation ends.

“Heaven and earth will disappear, but my words will never disappear.” (Mark 13:31 NLT)

The story moves, then, from one extreme to another—from that which is outwardly impressive but will not endure to that which may not seem so impressive but will never, ever fail! More than just words on a page, more than just ink on fine paper, God affirms about His “living and active” word…

It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it. (Isaiah 55:11 NIV)

Apparently, that which cannot be seen holds more sway than that which can. Perhaps that’s worth keeping in mind today.

***

"Not Far"

Scripture Passage

Mark 12:28-34; Matthew 22:34-40; Mark 12:35-37; Matthew 22:41-46; Luke 20:41-44; Mark 12:38-40; Matthew 23:1-12; Luke 20:45-47; Matthew 23:13-39; Mark 12:41-44; Luke 21:1-4

Scripture Focus

“You are not far from the Kingdom of God.” (Mark 12:34 NLT)

Observation

In the opening verses of today’s reading, Jesus is questioned regarding the “greatest commandment.” The question was a most troubling one to Jesus’ audience, as the Talmud identified 613 different laws to be kept by an observant Jew. That’s a lot of religious observance! Jesus is “up to the task” as usual, and gives a powerful reply:

“The most important commandment is this: ‘Listen, O Israel! The LORD our God is the one and only LORD. And you must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength.’ The second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ No other commandment is greater than these.” (Matthew 12:29-31 NLT).

That is not only a familiar response, but a remarkable one. Jesus captures in a few words what no one else had been able to do before—or perhaps what no one else had wanted to do before! Reduce those 613 commandments to one simple summary statement and all the power of religious leaders to manipulate, control, and direct others disappears. Enlarge the command of God beyond legalistic obedience to a place of genuine love and the task demands more grace than mere religiosity can provide. Jesus’ words would be well-chosen as a life motto for anyone with a heart for God.

But Jesus goes one step further. The teacher who asked the question affirms Jesus’ answer as “well put.” Jesus then commends the teacher!

Realizing how much the man understood, Jesus said to him, “You are not far from the Kingdom of God.” (Mark 12:34 NLT)

Again I suggest that everything Jesus has said and done throughout the record of His earthly ministry so far was to announce the inbreaking of God’s kingdom. He’s said repeatedly, “The Kingdom of God is near.” Now, he tells this teacher, “You are not far from the Kingdom of God.” Wow—I want to be that guy…that person…who, loving God and neighbor with heart, soul, and mind, and strength, inches closer than ever to the advancing Kingdom of the Almighty God!

***

"Render Unto Caesar"

Scripture Passage

Matthew 21:28-32; Mark 12:1-12; Matthew 21:33-46; Luke 20:9-19; Matthew 22:1-14; Mark 12:13-17; Matthew 22:15-22; Luke 20:20-26; Mark 12:18-27; Matthew 22:23-33; Luke 20:27-40

Scripture Focus

“Well then,” he said, “give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and give to God what belongs to God.” (Luke 20:25 NLT)

Observation

“Pick a parable, any parable,” today’s reading seems to suggest. What a record of teaching encounter after teaching encounter as Jesus’ life-trajectory accelerates towards the cross! With all those many choices, today I’ll do the same thing I do when there are too many options on the restaurant menu: I'll return to something familiar.

Jesus’ encounter with the “spies” sent by the Pharisees is a classic. These men attempt to trap Jesus by a tricky political question—“Is it right for us to pay taxes to Caesar or not?” (Luke 20:22 NLT) To say, “Yes, it’s right” will be interpreted to suggest that Jesus allows for allegiance to some “lord” other than Yahweh. To say, “No, it shouldn’t be done” opens Jesus to charges of inciting rebellion against the Roman government.

Jesus avoids both pitfalls by delivering a remarkably deft answer—“Give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and give to God what belongs to God.” (Luke 20:25 NLT) But I’m convinced Jesus’ words provide more than just a clever response that avoids the trap these men have set. Jesus’ answer is a powerful challenge to anyone with ears to hear.

You see, the truth is, “Caesar” will get his—one way or the other. I know plenty of Americans (especially in an election year) who are upset by the obligations imposed on them by their government, but I don’t (personally) know any who refuse to pay their taxes because of it. The risk is too great—the penalties too severe. But I know plenty of folks who (like the Pharisees) fall way short of fulfilling legitimate obligations to God—even if those obligations are as fundamental as, "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind” and “Love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:37,39 NIV). Still, the obligation stands—and the challenge to fulfill every obligation...especially those to God...is, I believe, the full message Jesus intended to deliver...

Don’t just “render unto Caesar”—render unto God!

***

"Unintended Consequences"

Scripture Passage

John 12:37-50; Mark 11:12-14; Matthew 21:18-22; Mark 11:15-19; Matthew 21:12-17; Luke 19:45-48; Mark 11:20-33; Matthew 21:23-27; Luke 20:1-8

Scripture Focus

He said to them, “The Scriptures declare, ‘My Temple will be called a house of prayer for all nations,’ but you have turned it into a den of thieves.” (Mark 11:17 NLT)

Observation

At fifty years old—yep, that’s my new claim to fame; I’m halfway to old age—I’m still learning things about Scripture. I just finished reading a challenging book (Transformational Church by Ed Stetzer and Thom Rainer) in which the authors made a couple of particularly powerful observations about this particular proclamation of Scripture by Jesus.

First (they say), with this quote Jesus prioritized the proper use of His house. That’s a rather foundational observation, but I was challenged to consider how much time and energy gets invested in prayer at the church I lead. Don’t get me wrong—I think perhaps we pray more now than at any point in our history. Still, relative to all the other activity that occurs within that building, and especially relative to all the stuff we try to cram into Sunday morning worship services, I’m convicted that prayer should be more common and more central.

Second, Stetzer and Rainer suggest that with these words Jesus prioritized the accessibility of “all people” to a relationship with Him. Here’s the deal: The religious leaders had set up business in the Temple courts (very likely the Court of Gentiles) on a quasi-legitimate basis. They provided a service to worshippers who traveled long distances to attend the Jewish festivals. Specifically, rather than having to bring sacrificial animals all the way from home to offer at the Temple (risking injury or disease along the way to an otherwise perfect animal) a worshipper could simply purchase a suitable sacrifice upon arrival. On the surface, that’s a logical and effective plan.

But get this: The religious people—busy in the temple courts doing religious things—were stealing space reserved Gentiles to pray. The Temple, then—rather than being “a house of prayer for all nations”—was made an exclusive club for select clientele. Religious people engaged in religious activity kept “all people” from accessing God. The thievery was not simply the exorbitant markup placed on sacrificial animals (as I’ve often been told and said myself) but the theft of ready access to God Himself! Religious people engaged in religious activity actually thwarted the access of others to God.

Read the passage Jesus quotes in this verse—Isaiah 56:6-7. What an indictment! In what ways do my religious activities…and even the well-intentioned religious activities of the church I lead…actually keep other people away from God’s presence?

***

"You're Doing It Wrong!"

Scripture Passage

Mark 14:3-9; Matthew 26:6-13; John 12:1-11; Mark 11:1-11; Matthew 21:1-11; Luke 19:28-40; John 12:12-19; Luke 19:41-44; John 12:20-36

Scripture Focus

“Look, everyone has gone after him!” (John 12:19 NLT)

Observation

Great stories in today’s reading! The woman with the alabaster jar of perfume unknowingly anoints Jesus’ body for burial in an act of extravagant love. Who can read that and not want to also lavishly love the Christ? Multitudes shout the praises of Jesus as He enters Jerusalem, but do so by quoting from Psalm 118—and thus they speak prophetically of the eternal, once-for-all sacrifice Jesus would make on the cross only days later. Who can read that and not marvel at the majesty of the unfolding of God’s sovereign plan?

But (as I remind you that these are my devotional moments, and I’ll chase whatever tangent captures me, thank you very much) the thing that seizes my attention today is what the religious leaders say about Jesus in John 12:19…

“Look, everyone has gone after him!” (John 12:19 NLT)

I understand—less than a week later “everyone” was calling for Jesus' crucifixion. I understand—the crowds mostly misunderstood Jesus’ kingdom in political and nationalistic terms. But I also understand that people were attracted to Jesus. People wanted to be where He was. A few hated Him, but the masses found Him compelling. I wonder how we've messed that up. I wonder how I've messed that up.

I’m not into moping around laden with guilt, beating myself up for being such a loser. But Jesus is the “best thing” that’s ever happened to me (if Jesus can be a “thing” that “happens”). He’s never been the condemning bigot He’s so often made out to be. He’s never been the dispenser of restrictive, joy-robbing rules He’s so often made out to be. He’s been, instead, the Rock on which to build my life, the richest Joy of any day, the surest Hope for my most preferred future—what’s not to love about who Jesus is, when He’s seen for just that—who He is?

Which becomes the basis for my question: What have we done (and, yes, I think a good bit of the blame lies with us—believers) to make Jesus so much less than…so different than…who we’ve known Him to be ourselves? We’ve got to fix that. Mark 12:37 says that large crowds/common people “heard him gladly.” Something about all this suggests we’re doing it wrong.

***

"Unfair Labor Practices! Unfair!"

Scripture Passage

Matthew 20:1-16; Mark 10:32-34; Matthew 20:17-19; Luke 18:31-34; Mark 10:35-45; Matthew 20:20-34; Mark 10:46-52; Luke 18:35-19:27

Scripture Focus

“Should you be jealous because I am kind to others?” (Matthew 20:15 NLT)

Observation

I love the parable of the “vineyard workers” found in today’s reading (Matthew 20:1-16). Jesus tells the story of a vineyard owner who heads to the marketplace in search of some day laborers as harvest help. At nine in the morning, he hires several, promising them a fair wage. He does the same at noon, at 3:00 P.M., and at 5:00 P.M.

The story is composed of elements familiar to Jesus’ listeners—this was all typical of daily life. The story takes a turn, however, at the close of the day when the workers are paid. Those hired last are paid first, and receive a full day’s wage! (Sweet deal! Who doesn’t want on *that* gravy train?) Those hired earlier in the day see this, and expect their wages to exceed what they’d agreed to. But that’s not the case—when they’re paid, they’re paid exactly what every worker was paid, no matter how long or diligently they’d labored.

The “early” workers are ticked! “Those people worked only one hour, and yet you’ve paid them just as much as you paid us who worked all day in the scorching heat” (Matthew 20:12 NLT). That’s an accurate statement, but an invalid complaint.  Listen to the vineyard owner’s reply…

“He answered one of them, ‘Friend, I haven’t been unfair! Didn’t you agree to work all day for the usual wage? Take your money and go. I wanted to pay this last worker the same as you. Is it against the law for me to do what I want with my money? Should you be jealous because I am kind to others?” (Matthew 20:13-14 NLT)

That’s really the bottom line…and that last question, I think, settles the issue! No laborer was treated unfairly, and the owner has the right to be as generous with his resources as he wishes, to whomever he wishes!

What’s the point of the story? It is another missile directed at the religious leaders of Jesus’ day who were so perturbed at Jesus’ open invitation to “anyone and everyone” to participate in God’s Kingdom! “How unfair! We’ve done the work! We’ve studied the Scriptures! We’ve obeyed the commands! And now anyone can just waltz in based on the generosity of God and enjoy the same benefits we thought were ours exclusively?”

Short answer: Yes.

“So those who are last now will be first then, and those who are first will be last.” (Matthew 20:16 NLT)

“Lord, help me to never begrudge your generosity, and to always rejoice at the blessings you pour out on ‘anyone and everyone’.  Thank you for your generosity toward me!”

***

"My New Book: Humility and How I Attained It"

Scripture Passage

Luke 18:9-14; Mark 10:1-12; Matthew 19:1-12; Mark 10:13-16; Matthew 19:13-15; Luke 18:15-17; Mark 10:17-31; Matthew 19:16-30; Luke 18:18-30

Scripture Focus

“I tell you, this sinner, not the Pharisee, returned home justified before God. For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” (Luke 18:14 NLT)

Observation

Humility stands as the persistent theme of today’s reading. Humility is at the center of the tax collector’s prayer—“O God, be merciful to me, for I am a sinner” (Luke 18:13 NLT).

Humility is the missing ingredient that requires Moses to allow a “written notice of divorce”—as opposed to God’s intention of marriage as a life-long covenant. (“How’s that,” you say? Moses allowed for divorce “as a concession to…hard hearts” (Mark 10:5 NLT)—hearts unwilling to forgive. I think a humble heart is a forgiving heart.

Humility is one of the great qualities children have that ought to be emulated by adults who want to participate in God’s kingdom. “For the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to those who are like these children” (Matthew 19:14 NLT).

Humility was the absent quality in the “rich, young ruler”—who could not bring himself to part with that “stuff” so closely tied to his own sense of identity and worth.

And a reversal of the lot of the humble will mark the inauguration of God’s kingdom in fullness—“But many who are the greatest now will be least important then, and those who seem least important now will be the greatest then” (Matthew 19:30 NLT).

Everywhere I look in today’s reading, I see a call to humility. I suspect (God has a way of doing things like this) that means I’ll have the opportunity to humble myself today. I pray I act on it.

***

"Word for the Day: Enigmatic"

Scripture Passage

John 11:38-57; Luke 17:11-18:8

(The "enigmatic" Mona Lisa)

Scripture Focus

“Just as the gathering of vultures shows there is a carcass nearby, so these signs indicate that the end is near.” (Luke 17:37 NLT)

Observation

Is it just I (yep, that’s correct grammar—I checked), or are these readings from the gospel growing more intense? In today’s reading, Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead (think of that!), and raises the ire of the Sanhedrin. That’s a bit ironic—people are being raised from the dead by the power of God and God’s power brokers are none too happy about it! Caiaphas, the high priest, unwittingly seizes the opportunity to prophetically call for the atoning death of Christ.

Given the plot on His life, Jesus retreats—not unwilling to give His life, but quite in control of giving it in the Father’s timing. In that context, He’s asked, “When will the Kingdom of God come?” (Luke 17:20 NLT) His response (in my paraphrase) suggests, “It won’t be as tangible and ‘target-able’ as you think. Indeed, the kingdom is already present!”

Having again announced the Kingdom’s imminence, Jesus then speaks to his disciples—but changes the subject, describing the darkness of the days to come and the drastic suddenness of His return to earth. People will be oblivious to the events around them, Jesus suggests, and will find their preoccupied lives abruptly interrupted, His return as sudden and startling as a bolt of lightning flashing across the sky.

The disciples are rightly intrigued and ask, “Where will this happen, Lord?” (Luke 17:37 NLT) Jesus’ answer is enigmatic:

“Just as the gathering of vultures shows there is a carcass nearby, so these signs indicate that the end is near.” (Luke 17:37 NLT)

As best as I can put my finger on it, today’s reading challenges me toward a much greater sensitivity to the voice of God and awareness of the activity of God than I usually exhibit. The advance of God’s Kingdom and the imminent return of Christ are not as matter-of-fact, clear-cut, free-from-confusion as some might like to make them seem. Spiritual sensitivity is required in the present, and will be required in the days to come. His Kingdom’s advance and the signs and evidences of His coming aren’t as tangible as we wish they were. Circumstances and events will need to be read with divine understanding. An underlying suggestion is that those who don’t develop said sensitivity may well miss what God is doing.

So…how can I develop an awareness of the presence and activity of God in such significant days? Well, I think that’s where Luke 18—Jesus’ challenge to persistent prayer—enters the picture and shapes the answer to Jesus’ closing question: “When the Son of Man returns, how many will he find on the earth who have faith?” (Luke 18:8 NLT)

A relationship of utter dependence upon God, evidenced by passionate persistent prayer, stands as foundational to the kind of spiritual sensitivity called for in today’s Scripture. I think I’ll get to work on that.

***

"Shame on Us"

Scripture Passage

Luke 14:25-17:10; John 11:1-37

Scripture Focus

“His father said to him, ‘Look, dear son, you have always stayed by me, and everything I have is yours. We had to celebrate this happy day. For your brother was dead and has come back to life! He was lost, but now he is found!’” (Luke 15:31-32 NLT)

Observation

Jesus is the greatest story teller. In Luke 15, He tells three stories—The Lost Sheep, The Lost Coin, and The Lost Son—but they’re really all one story because they all carry the same message—the message of the joy of finding what was lost!

But like a coda in a musical composition…like overtime at a football game…there’s an unexpected addendum on the third story (or on the end of the whole story if there’s only one). And suddenly the story is not about the joy of finding what was lost anymore, but now the story is about the complete inability of some people to see the joy in finding what was lost!

The story of the lost son shifts to a new and unexpected scene—a conversation between the father, whose longing has been fulfilled in the return of his prodigal son, and the father’s firstborn—the elder brother to the son who’s come home. The elder brother is unhappy. He’s offended and not interested in reconciliation, least of all any celebration over his younger brother’s return. And the father is, I think, perplexed and hurt.

“His father said to him, ‘Look, dear son, you have always stayed by me, and everything I have is yours. We had to celebrate this happy day. For your brother was dead and has come back to life! He was lost, but now he is found!’” (Luke 15:31-32 NLT)

Perhaps you know this already, but Jesus tells this story as a rebuke to the religious establishment of His day—people who had no interest in the reconciliation of sinners and great interest in their own piety. In 21st century America, it stands as an indictment of the church—and of me, as a leader within that church. Shame on us for quibbling over the color of carpets and the style of music while the Father longs to see lost people reconciled. Shame on us.

***

"Hey, Whatcha Doin'?"

Scripture Passage

John 10:1-42; Luke 13:22-14:24

Scripture Focus

“Don’t believe me unless I carry out my Father’s work” (John 10:37 NLT)

Observation

I like John 10:37—it seems to capture a priority for Jesus that perhaps isn’t always as high a priority for us (but perhaps ought to be). Everything Jesus did—the heavenly kingdom he announced and initiated, the redemptive sacrifice He offered—reflected who the Father was and what the Father was doing. Indeed, Jesus says elsewhere in John…

“I tell you the truth, the Son can do nothing by himself; he can do only what he sees his Father doing, because whatever the Father does the Son also does” (John 5:19 NIV).

Perhaps, then, this should be a more primary question for those redeemed by Christ. What is the Father doing, exactly? What is the Father already up to in my world? What is the Father already accomplishing that I can become a part of?

Every morning I write this blog with many plans already in place for the day and a “to do” list I’ll never get completed. My days—like yours—are filled with activity, and so much of it seeming absolutely necessary. But how much of that activity reflects what the Father is doing? How much of that activity aligns with the Father’s priorities *and* engages where the Father is already active? I’m afraid the answer to that question might not impress anybody.

“Today, Father, let me embrace the moments with a heart for what you’re doing, for where you’re already working, so that like Jesus, I might carry out the Father’s work.”

***

"The Patient Gardener"

Scripture Passage

Luke 12:35-13:21; John 9:1-41

Scripture Focus

“The gardener answered, ‘Sir, give it one more chance. Leave it another year, and I’ll give it special attention and plenty of fertilizer. If we get figs next year, fine. If not, then you can cut it down.’” (Luke 13:8-9 NLT)

Observation

As Luke 13 opens, Jesus receives horrific news of the state-sanctioned murder of Galilean worshippers at the Temple in Jerusalem. Jesus seizes on that “current event” and one other (a building collapse that killed eighteen) to challenge a common notion we might label “karma.”

[Please note—I’m not specifically discussing “karma” in Buddhist theology here (where the word comes from), only our vernacular use of the word by which we suggest that “what goes around comes around.”]

The premise of Jesus’ audience was that these bad things happened to these people because they themselves were bad (or had done bad things). Please note that Jesus doesn’t specifically deny that unstated premise—I think Jesus would affirm that all the brokenness of our world results from the impact of sin upon it. But what Jesus says, essentially, is, “Just because no building’s fallen in on you, don’t presume it’s all good! You’re just as much a sinner as any one of these people whose lives came to such an horrendous conclusion!”

“For everyone has sinned, and we all fall short of God’s glorious standard.” (Romans 3:23 NLT)

In that context, Jesus tells the story of a man who “planted a fig tree in his garden and came again and again to see if there was any fruit on it, but he was always disappointed” (Luke 13:6 NLT). The man has had enough, and instructs his gardener to cut it down.

“The gardener answered, ‘Sir, give it one more chance. Leave it another year, and I’ll give it special attention and plenty of fertilizer. If we get figs next year, fine. If not, then you can cut it down.’” (Luke 13:8-9 NLT)

That, my friend, is the expression of the heart of the Father through the Son. Or as the Apostle Peter wrote…

“The Lord isn’t really being slow about his promise, as some people think. No, he is being patient for your sake. He does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants everyone to repent” (2 Peter 3:9 NLT).

So why hasn’t it all come crashing down already? Maybe He’s waiting on you!

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"Never So Insulted!"

Scripture Passage

Luke 11:14-12:34

Scripture Focus

“Teacher,” said an expert in religious law, “you have insulted us, too, in what you just said.” (Luke 11:45 NLT)

Observation

I take some kind of strange pleasure in Luke 11:45. Jesus has just rebuked the Pharisees sharply, criticizing their fastidious observance of ceremonial ritual, their hyper-meticulous tithing, and their pretentious religious displays all as utterly hypocritical. In response, an expert in religious law speaks up—not to defend the Pharisees, but to protect himself and those like him.

“Teacher,” said an expert in religious law, “you have insulted us, too, in what you just said.” (Luke 11:45 NLT)

Remarkably, Jesus not only stands His ground, He uses the opportunity to advance the charge! In essence, Jesus says, “You guys, too—you’re not only hypocrites, you’re murderers! Your ancestors killed every prophet God sent over the years!”

Way to win friends and influence people, Jesus.

It’d almost be a funny scene—except that the very next thing Jesus does is warn “ordinary people” (like you and me, right—at least that’s what I consider myself. I’m no Pharisee, am I? No “expert in religious law”…)

…the very next thing Jesus does is warn ordinary people to “beware of the yeast of the Pharisees—their hypocrisy” (Luke 12:1 NLT). Jesus suggests that I can be just as guilty of double-living as any Pharisee ever thought about being…that I can be good at the religious stuff, tithe to the penny, and put on a spiritual fashion show with the best of ‘em. But when I do that—especially when I do so while neglecting the weightier matters of “justice and the love of God” (Luke 11:42 NLT)—I risk losing everything that matters most. “Yes, a person is a fool,” Jesus says, “to store up earthly wealth but not have a rich relationship with God” (Luke 12:21 NLT).

“Jesus,” I say to myself, “when you say these things, you insult me, too.”

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"NCR--No Coercion Required"

Scripture Passage

John 8:21-59; Luke 10-11:13

(See...like you might "coerce" something with a hammer?)

Scripture Focus

“So if you sinful people know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him.” (Luke 11:13 NLT)

Observation

Luke 11:13 stands on its own as a great promise of God’s generosity. But the message finds particular emphasis when seen against the story Jesus tells in the preceding verses. In Jesus’ story, a man has been caught off-guard by the arrival of unexpected, late-night guests. Horror of horrors, he has nothing to feed them!

Oh, I know we don’t appreciate that completely, because we forget there was no late-night Taco Bell drive thru and (on a more serious note) because we simply don’t value offering hospitality nearly as much as a first-century Jew would have. But know this: For the man in Jesus’ story, not being able to properly host his unexpected guests would be a social faux pas of the worst kind!

So when the guests arrive, the man is desperate to supply a bite to eat—so desperate that he’s willing to go next door and wake his neighbor to find some. The neighbor protests that he and his family are already in bed. But the man cannot risk being embarrassed by announcing his lack to his guests, so he persists shamelessly. He’ll wake the whole neighborhood if he has to! And so Jesus says about the sleepy neighbor...

“Though he won’t do it for friendship’s sake, if you keep knocking long enough, he will get up and give you whatever you need because of your shameless persistence” (Luke 11:8).

Some folks have read that verse and concluded that our shameless persistence gets us points with God—that the guy who prays loudly enough, long enough…who out-shouts and outlasts the competing prayers…gets kudos from God for his endurance, and maybe an answer to prayer. I think, rather, that the lesson’s not finished until we read verse 13:

“So if you sinful people know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him.” (Luke 11:13 NLT)

The point is, even a reluctant neighbor…a man who, truth be told, is a sinner…someone imperfect, and someone who (in the middle of the night, to be sure) probably has *his* best interests at heart more than *your* best interests…

Even a reluctant, sinful neighbor will eventually concede to your “shameless persistence.” “How much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him” (Luke 11:13 NLT)—no coercion required.

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"Divine GPS"

Scripture Passage

John 7:1-9; Luke 9:51-56; Matthew 8:18-22; Luke 9:57-62; John 7:10-8:20

Scripture Focus

“You go on. I’m not going to this festival, because my time has not yet come.” (John 7:8 NLT)

As the time drew near for him to ascend to heaven, Jesus resolutely set out for Jerusalem. (Luke 9:51 NLT)

Observation

I can’t get past the first few verses in today’s reading. The opening verses from John hint at a level of opposition to Jesus’ ministry that I don’t often think about—the scornful disbelief of Jesus’ own brothers. And yet it’s not hard to imagine. If honor is hard to come by in one’s own town (cf. Matthew 14:57), how much more is honor hard to come by in one’s own family!

The “encouragement” from Jesus’ brothers in John 7 drips with sarcasm. “Leave here and go to Judea, where your followers can see your miracles! You can’t become famous if you hide like this!” (John 7:3-4 NLT) Of course, Jesus’ reply has a bit of an edge, too. “Now is not the right time for me to go, but you can go anytime” (John 7:6 NLT). The difference between the brothers’ sarcasm and Jesus’ retort is that Jesus’ statement rings with truth.

Because the brothers’ lives were no more submitted to the Father’s purpose than the man on the moon, it really didn’t matter when (or whether) they traveled to Jerusalem for the festivals. Jesus, however, lived in submission to His Heavenly Father, and therefore lived a life marked and directed by the Father’s purpose. There was intentionality to Jesus’ days. There was timing to His movements.

That’s made all the more clear by the record of Luke 9. Jesus has just come down off the Mount of Transfiguration, having spoken with Moses and Elijah concerning “his departure” (Luke 9:31 NLT)—a phrase scholars take to refer to the events surrounding his death, resurrection, and ascension. Following that conversation, “Jesus resolutely set out for Jerusalem” (Luke 9:51 NLT). That connection—that sense of intentionality and determination following such a conversation—has always fascinated me.

I’m reminded, today, that a submitted life is a purposeful life, and a life filled with purpose, then, ought to be an intentional life—that I am privileged to cooperate with what the Father is already doing…and, if my life is to count for eternity, am obligated to do so—that my resolution must be matched to His purpose and timing.

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"Guilty as Charged"

Scripture Passage

Mark 9:14-29; Matthew 17:14-21; Luke 9:37-43; Mark 9:30-32; Matthew 17:22-23; Luke 9:43-45; Matthew 17:24-27; Mark 9:33-37; Matthew 18:1-6; Luke 9:46-48; Mark 9:38-41; Luke 9:49-50; Mark 9:42-50; Matthew 18:7-35

Scripture Focus

“This kind can be cast out only by prayer.” (Mark 9:29 NLT)

Observation

Guilty as charged. That’s what I think—about myself—when I read Jesus’ indirect indictment of his disciples in Mark 9:29. Jesus, Peter, James, and John have just come down from the Mount of Transfiguration (Mark 9:2-8) to the sight of the remaining disciples arguing with “some teachers of religious law” apparently because of those disciples’ inability to deliver a demon-possessed boy. (Isn’t that the way it works—great moments of spiritual delight are so often followed by some experience of utter frustration!)

Jesus takes charge, and—after a brief interaction with the boy’s father—commands the evil spirit to leave the boy. The evil spirit does leave and the boy is completely delivered.

“Afterward,” Mark says, “when Jesus was alone in the house with his disciples, they asked him, ‘Why couldn’t we cast out that evil spirit?’ Jesus replied, ‘This kind can be cast out only by prayer’” (Mark 9:28-29 NLT).

The obvious implication is that the disciples hadn’t prayed—at least, not enough, or rightly, or…something! And neither do I, apparently. I mean, I understand that there are different gifts and callings—that perhaps my strengths won’t be found speaking deliverance to demoniacs. And at the same time, an honest guy has to ask, “Why not?” That is, read the Biblical account and tell me why it shouldn’t be within the somewhat ordinary experience of somewhat ordinary believers to see, say, Matthew 10:8 fulfilled? Or Mark 16:17-18?

I’ll say it again—some of our limited success here is that we don’t pray more because we don’t see the spiritual realities of the world we inhabit. We’d turn to medical science for a diagnosis of the cause of this boy’s condition…and we’d turn to medical science for a cure. Well and good—I get that. But for those things that medical science can’t cure (only treat), is it possible that there may be a spiritual issue at the root—something perceivable and addressable only by those who consistently walk in intimate fellowship with their Heavenly Father through prayer? Could it be that we miss that possibility because our rationalistic culture has blinded our eyes to spiritual realities? Guilty as charged.



"Everyday Opportunity"

Scripture Passage

Mark 8:22-30; Matthew 16:13-20; Luke 9:18-20; Mark 8:31-9:1; Matthew 16:21-28; Luke 9:21-27; Mark 9:2-13; Matthew 17:1-13; Luke 9:28-36

Scripture Focus

From then on Jesus began to tell his disciples plainly that it was necessary for him to go to Jerusalem, and that he would suffer many terrible things at the hands of the elders, the leading priests, and the teachers of religious law. He would be killed, but on the third day he would be raised from the dead. (Matthew 16:21 NLT)

Observation

Today’s reading contains a most remarkable series of events. Most familiar, perhaps, is that moment when Peter declares that Jesus is “the Messiah, the Son of the living God” (Matthew 16:16 NLT). That is, I’m convinced, the single most important issue any person will ever address—who is Jesus, exactly? A great teacher or philosopher? A miracle worker? Perhaps simply a madman spouting inconsistent babble? Or is Peter correct—is Jesus the Messiah, the Son of the living God? If Peter is correct, everything changes—everything.

It’s always been interesting to me that once the disciples have declared their understanding—once the disciples have affirmed Christ’s person and role—Jesus immediately begins to explain what this means in terms that are the opposite of what the disciples expected.

From then on Jesus began to tell his disciples plainly that it was necessary for him to go to Jerusalem, and that he would suffer many terrible things at the hands of the elders, the leading priests, and the teachers of religious law. He would be killed, but on the third day he would be raised from the dead. (Matthew 16:21 NLT)

Spiritual growth seems to often work like that for me. About the time I finally start to “get” something, Jesus turns it all on its head and reveals a whole new perspective I hadn’t seen or considered before. Turns out (again) that all I thought I knew about who Jesus is (surprise!) isn’t all there is to know about who Jesus is. That’s wonderful and frustrating both.

And that’s at least one part of the beauty of growing daily "in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ" (2 Peter 3:18 NIV). I’ll never be without the opportunity for understanding better tomorrow what I already love understanding today. It's my everyday opportunity.

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"Bad Bread"

Scripture Passage

Mark 7:24-30; Matthew 15:21-28; Mark 7:31-37; Matthew 15:29-31; Mark 8:1-10; Matthew 15:32-16:4; Mark 8:11-21; Matthew 16:5-12

Scripture Focus

Then at last they understood that he wasn’t speaking about the yeast in bread, but about the deceptive teaching of the Pharisees and Sadducees. (Matthew 16:12 NLT)

Observation

As testified to in today’s reading, Jesus has continued to evidence the invasion of God’s Kingdom by life-changing miracle after life-changing miracle. Today’s reading includes specific reports of a little girl delivered from an evil spirit and the healing of a deaf man with a speech impediment. After that, Matthew simply lumps a multitude of miraculous healings together, saying simply, “A vast crowd brought to him people who were lame, blind, crippled, those who couldn’t speak, and many others. They laid them before Jesus, and he healed them all” (Matthew 15:30 NLT). All of this is followed by yet another miraculous mass meal—this time feeding than 4,000 people. Then—after all that—“…the Pharisees and Sadducees came to test Jesus, demanding that he show them a miraculous sign from heaven to prove his authority” (Matthew 16:1 NLT).

Jesus speaks to his disciples later in a private moment. “Watch out! Beware of the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees” (Matthew 16:6 NLT). The disciples are humorously clueless, presuming Jesus—who has twice, now, fed thousands with a sack lunch—is somehow worried about finding something to eat! Jesus restates his case, and the disciples finally get it—

Then at last they understood that he wasn’t speaking about the yeast in bread, but about the deceptive teaching of the Pharisees and Sadducees. (Matthew 16:12 NLT)

I read this and thought about Jesus’ battle in the wilderness. What was Satan’s challenge? “If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread” (Matthew 4:3 NIV). What was Jesus’ reply? “Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God” (Matthew 4:4 NIV).

There’s something significant here—in both these accounts—about living on sources beyond the physical…trusting in realities beyond that which can be seen, touched, handled or stuck under a microscope for examination. The “deceptive teaching” against which Jesus warns somehow seems to reduce life to that which can be controlled and manipulated. “Give us a miracle! Prove yourself!” Jesus won’t stoop to that level or be reduced to that kind of manipulation—from the Pharisees, the Sadducees, or me. No matter how I provoke or protest, today God will continue to be God, and I’ll continue not to be.  Any "meal" suggesting otherwise is simply bad bread.

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"Does This Offend You?"

Scripture Passage

John 6:22-71; Mark 7:1-23; Matthew 15:1-20

Scripture Focus

Jesus was aware that his disciples were complaining, so he said to them, “Does this offend you? (John 6:61 NLT)

Observation

A couple of days ago, reading from Matthew, I observed the small-minded response of the people of Nazareth towards Jesus. The same sort of thing happens again today in John 6. To a gathered crowd, Jesus has proclaimed himself to be “the bread of life” (John 6:35). Specifically, Jesus claims to “have come down from heaven to do the will of God who sent me” (John 6:36). And that ticks the people off. Listen carefully, though, to the basis for their complaint:

Then the people began to murmur in disagreement because he had said, “I am the bread that came down from heaven.” They said, “Isn’t this Jesus, the son of Joseph? We know his father and mother. How can he say, ‘I came down from heaven’?” (John 6:41-42 NLT)

The people think they know Him, because they know something about Him. And they can’t get their minds around Jesus—whose father and mother they know…whose roots and history they know—having come from heaven. Nor can they get it when Jesus says, “I tell you the truth, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you cannot have eternal life within you” (John 6:53 NLT).

Even his disciples (a broader group than just the twelve) are troubled by this. So Jesus ups the ante even further. “Then what will you think if you see the Son of Man ascend to heaven again?” (John 6:62 NLT)

In every way, Jesus points to Himself as unique—the Son of God…the “one and only Son” (John 3:16 NLT)—and it becomes an offense to people. “At this point many of his disciples turned away and deserted him” (John 6:66 NLT).

For Jesus to claim absolute uniqueness as the “one and only Son”…as “the true bread from heaven”…remains an offensive claim to those who wish things were otherwise. If Jesus is indeed the Son of God and the world’s Savior—“the way and the truth and the life” (John 14:6 NLT)—all religious systems go down in flames (innuendo intended).

I’m convinced Jesus’ claims are legitimate. I’m convinced Jesus’ closest disciples got it right. When Jesus said to them, “Are you also going to leave?” (John 6:67 NLT), Peter spoke up…and spoke the truth:

“Lord, to whom would we go? You have the words that give eternal life. We believe, and we know you are the Holy One of God” (John 6:68-69 NLT).

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"Playing With Fire"

Scripture Passage

Luke 9:7-9; Mark 6:14-29; Matthew 14:1-21; Mark 6:30-44; Luke 9:10-17; John 6:1-15; Mark 6:45-52; Matthew 14:22-33; John 6:16-21; Mark 6:53-56; Matthew 14:34-36

Scripture Focus

Herod was greatly disturbed whenever he talked with John, but even so, he liked to listen to him. (Mark 6:20 NLT)

Observation

The “classic” challenge from today’s reading is probably the story of the feeding of the 5,000. It is a great piece of history. When the disciples come to Jesus with the announcement that 5,000 men and their families are hungry and there’s nothing to eat, Jesus’ reply is straightforward—“You feed them.” (Mark 6:37) And the disciples do. They receive what is given them (the simplest of gifts)…distribute it among the hungry…and everyone is filled. Application? What you have, today, if you’ll offer it to Jesus, will do more than you can imagine—you’ll be satisfied and so will others!

Having said all that, the verse that captured my attention was Mark 6:20, describing the relationship between King Herod and John the Baptist.

Herod was greatly disturbed whenever he talked with John, but even so, he liked to listen to him. (Mark 6:20 NLT)

It’s funny (probably not quite the right word, but that’s the word I’ll use) how people respond to truth. Some find it so troubling they stay away from truth at any cost. Some embrace the truth in transformational ways. Herod, it seems to me, liked to play with the truth a bit, sort of like some people like to play with fire. He may have liked the stirring of emotion, the intellectual challenge, the give and take of relationship with John—but he never let the truth produce any change.

That’s a dangerous spot—a deadly spot, in fact. Paul writes to Timothy about people who are “…always learning but never able to acknowledge the truth” (2 Timothy 3:7 NIV). In reality, Paul says, “…these men oppose the truth—[they are] men of depraved minds, who, as far as the faith is concerned, are rejected” (2 Timothy 3:8 NIV).

My heartfelt response? Don’t want to be there. Don’t want to be among that number. “Lord, let your truth permeate who I am every day in life-changing, transformative ways!”

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"(Not So) Great Expectations"

Scripture Passage

Matthew 9:27-34; Mark 6:1-6; Matthew 13:53-58; Matthew 9:35-38; Mark 6:7-13; Matthew 10:1-42; Luke 9:1-6

Scripture Focus

And so he did only a few miracles there because of their unbelief. (Matthew 13:58 NLT)

Observation

These readings from the gospels are astounding glimpses not only into the life of Jesus Himself, but into the lives and perspectives of those who knew Him—those who interacted with Him as He walked this earth. In today’s reading, Jesus returns to His hometown of Nazareth where “…everyone was amazed and said, ‘Where does he get this wisdom and the power to do miracles?’” (Matthew 13:54 NLT)  Their amazement, however, soon turned to scorn:

Then they scoffed, “He’s just the carpenter’s son, and we know Mary, his mother, and his brothers—James, Joseph, Simon, and Judas. All his sisters live right here among us. Where did he learn all these things?” (Matthew 13:55-56 NLT)

Because of what they knew about Him, they thought they knew him. But what they knew blinded Jesus’ hometown friends from the truth—kept them from seeing who Jesus really was.

We’re the same way. Ever had a friend really “go somewhere” in life—really “do something big”? Most of the time, we’re amazed. “Never saw that coming! Who’d have thought *he’d* have ever made something of himself!” How foolish—given the potential God’s packed away in every one of us.

Worse still, I wonder who we’ve held back—who we’ve kept from achieving what God had in store for them by our own belittling expectations. Jesus Himself “did only a few miracles there because of their unbelief” (Matthew 13:58 NLT). Wow—if an atmosphere of “small expectations” was so limiting to Jesus, how difficult must it be for the rest of us to overcome the disparaging attitudes of others?

Perhaps worst of all, I wonder how much our attitudes still limit Jesus today. It’s remarkable to consider—that the One with unlimited power…the very power over sin, sickness, disease, the demonic that we’ve been observing in recent readings…finds His freedom to manifest that power limited by the scornful attitudes of people. Critics, scoffers, disdainers, and doubters seem to get what they expect. What are you expecting?

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