The death of Jesus on the cross was close at hand. He is physically thirsty. His body had been through so much from the time of his arrest until these final moments, he would have had to be nearly completely dehydrated. We may not be able to relate to all the pain and suffering Jesus experienced that led to this moment, but we have all known the feeling of being thirsty.
But his thirst was not only physical. There was the spiritual thirst for God the Father. As in yesterday's devotion, we remember that as Jesus took upon himself our sin and the death we deserved, he felt separated from the Father. He thirsted for God. He longed for that relationship that was being broken by the world's sin.
Because of the cross and resurrection, Jesus is the "living water" for us. There are times when we feel all dried up spiritually. We thirst for God. The good news is that we only need to give our lives over to God once again, and we can be filled with the living water Jesus offers us.
This also reminds me that many people throughout the world are thirsty all the time. Clean, safe drinking water is a luxury many people simply do not have. In my three visits to Tanzania in East Africa, it was shocking to me to see people getting their drinking water from dirty rivers or, worse yet, muddy wells they had dug. I'm grateful for those organizations that are able to work with the people to provide clean drinking water and to educate people about the importance of clean water. Water issues are critical here in the dry state of Utah as well. Without an adequate clean water supply, life as we know it would not be possible.
As we think about the words of Jesus on the cross, "I thirst," let us pray that we might be spiritually refreshed this day. Let us also pray we might be made aware of the critical issues surrounding the limited water supply on our planet and do our part to make clean water possible for others.
Saturday, March 31, 2012
Friday, March 30, 2012
Day 33- My God, Why?
It's interesting to me that when Jesus is most alone, in his greatest agony, he quotes scripture. "My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me" are the words of Psalm 22:1. Jesus remembers this Psalm and identifies with it while dying on the cross for us. This is one reason it is good to memorize portions of scripture, or at least be familiar with important sections. We can turn to them in our time of need.
Jesus feels forsaken because he has taken the world's sin upon himself. He feels totally alone. He is totally alone. "Why?" he asks. "Where are you Father?" he was likely thinking. There have certainly been times when I've asked the "Why?" question. There have certainly been times I've wondered, "Where are you, God?" I find some comfort in that even Jesus asked "Why?" while dying on the cross for us. I guess it's OK for me to ask "Why?" as well.
The good news is that because Christ died on the cross and rose from the tomb, we don't ever have to feel alone again. We certainly will face times of loneliness. We are made for relationships. When something happens that takes those relationships away, we feel it deeply within. But God does not leave us. In our Baptism and in our daily walk of faith, God is there. Jesus willingly became forsaken from the Father, so we do not have to be. If you're feeling lonely today, take a moment to turn to God in prayer. Pray that He will fill you with His presence. Pray that God will bring the right people into your life, to befriend you and relieve that loneliness. As the old hymn proclaims, "What a friend we have in Jesus, all our sins and griefs to bear. What a privilege to carry, everything to God in prayer" He is there to listen and be a friend like no other.
Jesus feels forsaken because he has taken the world's sin upon himself. He feels totally alone. He is totally alone. "Why?" he asks. "Where are you Father?" he was likely thinking. There have certainly been times when I've asked the "Why?" question. There have certainly been times I've wondered, "Where are you, God?" I find some comfort in that even Jesus asked "Why?" while dying on the cross for us. I guess it's OK for me to ask "Why?" as well.
The good news is that because Christ died on the cross and rose from the tomb, we don't ever have to feel alone again. We certainly will face times of loneliness. We are made for relationships. When something happens that takes those relationships away, we feel it deeply within. But God does not leave us. In our Baptism and in our daily walk of faith, God is there. Jesus willingly became forsaken from the Father, so we do not have to be. If you're feeling lonely today, take a moment to turn to God in prayer. Pray that He will fill you with His presence. Pray that God will bring the right people into your life, to befriend you and relieve that loneliness. As the old hymn proclaims, "What a friend we have in Jesus, all our sins and griefs to bear. What a privilege to carry, everything to God in prayer" He is there to listen and be a friend like no other.
Thursday, March 29, 2012
Day 32- A Mother, A Son
The Gospel of John is the only Gospel that makes reference to the "beloved disciple." This is the disciple "whom Jesus loved." (John 19:26) The beloved disciple has traditionally been identified as John the evangelist, the writer of the Gospel.
What strikes me about this scene is the love expressed. There is Jesus' love for his disciple. John loves Jesus in return. While there is no evidence of the other disciples being present, John was at the cross. There is the love of Mary and the women at the cross for Jesus. There is the love Jesus expresses to Mary, and John's love for Mary as well. It is remarkable that in the midst of this horrific crucifixion, Jesus looks upon his mother and commends her to John's care. The whole scene is one of tenderness and love.
This must have been gut wrenching for Mary, to see your son die in this way. But given all she knew of his birth and his life, perhaps Mary knew God had more in store. Perhaps she did understand this was far more significant than what everyone else believed. Perhaps she did have faith that God was about to do a great work through her son.
We are blessed to live on the other side of the cross. We know the good news of the resurrection. We know that Christ's death did indeed, bring life. Until we actually die or are involved in the dying process at the end of life, death will always hold some mystery for us. There is always fear of the unknown. But, because of the cross and the resurrection, we can face death in confidence and hope. I pray that I may be able to do so, when God calls me home.
What strikes me about this scene is the love expressed. There is Jesus' love for his disciple. John loves Jesus in return. While there is no evidence of the other disciples being present, John was at the cross. There is the love of Mary and the women at the cross for Jesus. There is the love Jesus expresses to Mary, and John's love for Mary as well. It is remarkable that in the midst of this horrific crucifixion, Jesus looks upon his mother and commends her to John's care. The whole scene is one of tenderness and love.
This must have been gut wrenching for Mary, to see your son die in this way. But given all she knew of his birth and his life, perhaps Mary knew God had more in store. Perhaps she did understand this was far more significant than what everyone else believed. Perhaps she did have faith that God was about to do a great work through her son.
We are blessed to live on the other side of the cross. We know the good news of the resurrection. We know that Christ's death did indeed, bring life. Until we actually die or are involved in the dying process at the end of life, death will always hold some mystery for us. There is always fear of the unknown. But, because of the cross and the resurrection, we can face death in confidence and hope. I pray that I may be able to do so, when God calls me home.
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
Day 31- Today, Paradise!
"Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom." What a humble and contrite prayer. It is the prayer of a repentant heart. It's not a demanding prayer, but a prayer of trust. "Jesus, remember me." As I think about my life and the time when death will inevitably come, "Jesus, remember me" is my prayer as well.
And what joyful and hopeful response is given by Jesus! "Today, you will be with me in paradise!" This second criminal had obviously done some very bad things in his life. We don't know what, but apparently he knew he had done wrong. "We are getting what we deserve for our deeds," he says. But, none of that mattered at this moment. The thief recognized Jesus as God's son, who was bringing in a new kingdom. Jesus response was one of love and forgiveness. "Today you will be with me in paradise."
That promise must have meant everything to that thief. He was about to die. He was about to enter into that great and unknown abyss. But, with those words of promise from Jesus, he can now be at peace. There was promise and hope beyond his death on the cross. He would be with Jesus in paradise.
We, too, have that promise and hope. When we place our trust in what Jesus has done for us, we also find peace. We, too, know that the promise of paradise with Jesus awaits us. No matter when or how death comes to us, we know it is just the passage to eternal life with God. We can live our lives with joy and fullness, knowing that when our time on earth is through, paradise with Jesus is yet to come.
And what joyful and hopeful response is given by Jesus! "Today, you will be with me in paradise!" This second criminal had obviously done some very bad things in his life. We don't know what, but apparently he knew he had done wrong. "We are getting what we deserve for our deeds," he says. But, none of that mattered at this moment. The thief recognized Jesus as God's son, who was bringing in a new kingdom. Jesus response was one of love and forgiveness. "Today you will be with me in paradise."
That promise must have meant everything to that thief. He was about to die. He was about to enter into that great and unknown abyss. But, with those words of promise from Jesus, he can now be at peace. There was promise and hope beyond his death on the cross. He would be with Jesus in paradise.
We, too, have that promise and hope. When we place our trust in what Jesus has done for us, we also find peace. We, too, know that the promise of paradise with Jesus awaits us. No matter when or how death comes to us, we know it is just the passage to eternal life with God. We can live our lives with joy and fullness, knowing that when our time on earth is through, paradise with Jesus is yet to come.
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
Day 30- Father, Forgive Them
The soldiers that crucified Jesus did not know what they were really doing. They thought they knew what they were doing, crucifying a condemned criminal. They were doing their job- as gruesome as that was. But what was actually taking place was happening on an entirely different level. This Jesus, the condemned criminal, was God's own Son, taking upon himself the sins of the world. Jesus, in the midst of unbelievable pain, turns to them with compassion and says, "Father, forgive them." He knew they did not understand what they were really doing. Despite being physically and emotionally hurt by them, Jesus forgives.
This has always been the ultimate example of forgiveness for me. To forgive others as they are wrongly putting you to death is just about too much to imagine. It gives perspective to my need to forgive, which pales in comparison. There are many ways we can be hurt by others, or hurt others by what we do. Sometimes, we don't even know we have done so. Sometimes, people aren't even aware how they have hurt us. That's why forgiveness is such an important value in the Christian faith. We all make mistakes, intentionally and unintentionally. We need to learn how to forgive, and to seek forgiveness. Thank God that because God, through Jesus, forgives us, we can make forgiveness a part of our lives as well.
This has always been the ultimate example of forgiveness for me. To forgive others as they are wrongly putting you to death is just about too much to imagine. It gives perspective to my need to forgive, which pales in comparison. There are many ways we can be hurt by others, or hurt others by what we do. Sometimes, we don't even know we have done so. Sometimes, people aren't even aware how they have hurt us. That's why forgiveness is such an important value in the Christian faith. We all make mistakes, intentionally and unintentionally. We need to learn how to forgive, and to seek forgiveness. Thank God that because God, through Jesus, forgives us, we can make forgiveness a part of our lives as well.
Monday, March 26, 2012
Day 29- He Saved Others
The insults hurled at Jesus are filled with irony for those of us that are blessed to know the whole story. "You who are going to destroy the temple and build it in three days, save yourself!" We know that the temple of his body is destroyed on the cross, but will be raised up in glory in three days. "He saved others, but he can't save himself!" By giving up his life, he will make possible not just saving others, but saving the whole world from sin and death. "He trusts God. Let God rescue him now if he wants him, for he said, "I am the Son of God." Dying on the cross is the ultimate example of trust in God, believing that God's will, will be carried out in the end. Jesus has heard similar taunts before, from Satan in the wilderness and Caiphas the High Priest, who wanted Jesus to show him a sign of his power.
I am reminded of Paul's words in 1 Corinthians 1:18. "For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved, it is the power of God." For those taunting Jesus, this was foolishness. God's Son would never die on a cross! Ridiculous! This man is surely a phony! But, in this "foolishness," God's true love and power will be revealed. This "foolishness" is about to defeat sin and death forever!
It is surely easy to allow ourselves to be filled with pride for our accomplishments or for other reasons. But here we see Jesus completed submitted to God the Father. He is doing God's will, even if that meant dying for the world's sins. The key to overcoming pride is submission- submission to the One who made us and bought us back in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. And as we submit, we also trust, believing that God will carry out God's will in our lives.
I am reminded of Paul's words in 1 Corinthians 1:18. "For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved, it is the power of God." For those taunting Jesus, this was foolishness. God's Son would never die on a cross! Ridiculous! This man is surely a phony! But, in this "foolishness," God's true love and power will be revealed. This "foolishness" is about to defeat sin and death forever!
It is surely easy to allow ourselves to be filled with pride for our accomplishments or for other reasons. But here we see Jesus completed submitted to God the Father. He is doing God's will, even if that meant dying for the world's sins. The key to overcoming pride is submission- submission to the One who made us and bought us back in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. And as we submit, we also trust, believing that God will carry out God's will in our lives.
Sunday, March 25, 2012
The Fifth Sunday in Lent
Today we looked at the fifth and final Covenant of Promise in our Old Testament Sunday readings. The text is Jeremiah 31:31-33, sometimes referred to as "the gospel before the gospel." This is a prophesy of the good news of God before it is fully realized in Jesus Christ. It is the promise of "the new covenant of the heart."
This fifth covenant of promise is some 700 years after the previous covenants we looked at. Israel had entered the promised land, built a great kingdom under David, and built the temple under King Solomon. However, by the time of Jeremiah, all of this had unraveled. The kingdom had divided into two and the neighboring Babylonians had conquered Israel and Judah, and taken many Jews into exile. Jeremiah saw this as a judgment against the people because of their unfaithfulness to God. He compares the broken covenant to a broken marriage covenant between a man and a woman.
But despite this unfaithfulness, God does not divorce His people or send them away. Instead, he promises a new covenant. In the new covenant, God gets very personal, promising to write his law on their hearts. And in the new covenant, God promises to forgive and forget the sins of the past. Despite all their failures, God forgives and forgets what has taken place in the past.
We believe that this new covenant is fulfilled in Jesus. In fact, when Jesus institutes the Lord's Supper, as he gives the wine he says, "This cup is the new covenant in my blood." In Jesus, God put's God's Spirit in our hearts. In Jesus, God forgives and forgets forever our past sins. We may have difficulty forgetting and forgiving our past, but God has already done so. Thanks be to God for the new covenant, fulfilled in Jesus for us. May this new covenant guide our lives this day and always!
This fifth covenant of promise is some 700 years after the previous covenants we looked at. Israel had entered the promised land, built a great kingdom under David, and built the temple under King Solomon. However, by the time of Jeremiah, all of this had unraveled. The kingdom had divided into two and the neighboring Babylonians had conquered Israel and Judah, and taken many Jews into exile. Jeremiah saw this as a judgment against the people because of their unfaithfulness to God. He compares the broken covenant to a broken marriage covenant between a man and a woman.
But despite this unfaithfulness, God does not divorce His people or send them away. Instead, he promises a new covenant. In the new covenant, God gets very personal, promising to write his law on their hearts. And in the new covenant, God promises to forgive and forget the sins of the past. Despite all their failures, God forgives and forgets what has taken place in the past.
We believe that this new covenant is fulfilled in Jesus. In fact, when Jesus institutes the Lord's Supper, as he gives the wine he says, "This cup is the new covenant in my blood." In Jesus, God put's God's Spirit in our hearts. In Jesus, God forgives and forgets forever our past sins. We may have difficulty forgetting and forgiving our past, but God has already done so. Thanks be to God for the new covenant, fulfilled in Jesus for us. May this new covenant guide our lives this day and always!
Saturday, March 24, 2012
Day 28- Jesus is Crucified
Today's title says it all. Jesus is crucified. As with the other passages we have read already about Christ's suffering, this one hits me hard. Mark's words are simple, "And they crucified him." But when I pause to think what was actually taking place, nailing a man to a cross, it disturbs me greatly. And how callous were the Roman soldiers, who did their duty and then gambled to see who might get his clothes? Pretty hard to believe anyone could be so flippant at such a time. I wonder what became of these soldiers following Christ's death and resurrection? Did they have a change of heart? Feel remorse for what they did? Consider the news that Jesus had risen just another false rumor? One centurion declared at the foot of the cross, "Truly this man was God's son." (Mark 15:39) I wonder about the others.
The devotion is surely correct that it was not the nails that held Jesus on the cross, it was love. On our Lenten cross display at church, there is a cross that expresses that very thought, a heart on a cross, on top of the nails.
More than anything, the cross fills me with hope and leads me to compassion for others. The cross is the promise that God loves me and is with me every day. No matter what happens, the good and the bad, God is there. That's hope. And because God, in Jesus, willingly dies for the world, surely I ought have love and respect for everyone and everything in the world as well. I don't claim to do this perfectly by any means. I too often get self centered and wrapped up in my own concerns. But the cross is a constant reminder that God loves the world and all that is in it. We are Christ's hands and feet today, and ought take that truth seriously as we live our lives..
The devotion is surely correct that it was not the nails that held Jesus on the cross, it was love. On our Lenten cross display at church, there is a cross that expresses that very thought, a heart on a cross, on top of the nails.
More than anything, the cross fills me with hope and leads me to compassion for others. The cross is the promise that God loves me and is with me every day. No matter what happens, the good and the bad, God is there. That's hope. And because God, in Jesus, willingly dies for the world, surely I ought have love and respect for everyone and everything in the world as well. I don't claim to do this perfectly by any means. I too often get self centered and wrapped up in my own concerns. But the cross is a constant reminder that God loves the world and all that is in it. We are Christ's hands and feet today, and ought take that truth seriously as we live our lives..
Friday, March 23, 2012
Day 27- Simon Carries Jesus' Cross
One author wrote that the greatest honor ever given to a human being was when Mary conceived and gave birth to Jesus. The second greatest honor was given to Simon, who, quite unexpectedly, was compelled to carry the cross for Jesus. By this time Jesus was physically exhausted. He had been up all night, not given any food, flogged, and emotionally abused. Now he was forced to carry the very thing that would be used to kill him- the cross. He did not have the strength to do it. The Roman soldiers picked a passer-by, Simon, to take up the cross. Simon carried the cross. Jesus walked by his side. Little did Simon know that the cross he was carrying would be the means by which God, through Jesus, would save the world from its sin. What would at first appear to be a great dishonor, being forced to carry a cross for someone else, becomes the greatest of honors. With Simon carrying the cross, Jesus was able to regain enough strength for him to complete the task he had come to earth to do.
Simon was asked, indeed forced, to shoulder the burden for Jesus. Sometimes that's the way it is for us as well. It is wonderful when we can volunteer our time in acts of service for others. There are many such opportunities, such as volunteering to serve our Family Promise guests this upcoming week or assisting at the Utah Food Bank. But sometimes we respond to the needs of others not because we necessarily want to, but because we have to. God places us in certain situations and we need to obediently respond. There are times when problems come, and we'd rather they just went away. We'd rather not get involved. But the problems won't go away. Someone needs us to help carry their burden. It's hard to carry a burden. It must have been very difficult for Simon to be the one forced to carry Christ's cross. But remember, Jesus walked alongside Simon as he carried his cross. So also Jesus walks with us as we help others with their burdens. Simon reminds us that opportunities to serve will likely come our way unexpectedly and even unwillingly. But we are also reminded that when those times come, our acts of service may result in unexpected and great blessing
for us and the one we serve.
Simon was asked, indeed forced, to shoulder the burden for Jesus. Sometimes that's the way it is for us as well. It is wonderful when we can volunteer our time in acts of service for others. There are many such opportunities, such as volunteering to serve our Family Promise guests this upcoming week or assisting at the Utah Food Bank. But sometimes we respond to the needs of others not because we necessarily want to, but because we have to. God places us in certain situations and we need to obediently respond. There are times when problems come, and we'd rather they just went away. We'd rather not get involved. But the problems won't go away. Someone needs us to help carry their burden. It's hard to carry a burden. It must have been very difficult for Simon to be the one forced to carry Christ's cross. But remember, Jesus walked alongside Simon as he carried his cross. So also Jesus walks with us as we help others with their burdens. Simon reminds us that opportunities to serve will likely come our way unexpectedly and even unwillingly. But we are also reminded that when those times come, our acts of service may result in unexpected and great blessing
for us and the one we serve.
Thursday, March 22, 2012
Day 26- The Mockery
Who acts shamefully in this passage? Who tries to humiliate, embarrass, and dishonor another? It is, of course, the Roman soldiers. They dishonor Jesus by making a mockery of his kingship. They humiliate and try to embarrass him by stripping him and putting the scarlet robe and crown of thorns upon him. In perhaps the greatest attempt to shame, they spit on him, a disgusting act to make him feel totally worthless. Shame on the soldiers for their mistreatment of Jesus!
And how does Jesus respond? Matthew does not record any response from Jesus. He does not try and defend himself or lash out in righteous anger. This suggests that he willingly took upon himself the shaming of the soldiers. He did so not because he had done anything that deserved such shaming, but to take our acts of shaming others and our feelings of shame upon himself. He does so to free us from the sin of shaming and the feelings of being ashamed.
Have you ever had the feeling that you are worthless? Maybe it's because of something you've done or because of something done to you. But whatever the case, here we see Jesus taking all of that on himself and taking it to the cross. You are not worthless in God's eyes. You are deeply loved. What a gift God gives, in setting us free from our shame! As with all of God's gifts, we receive this gift by faith, believing it to be true. Although there have been times when I have felt ashamed, worthless, and unworthy, the shaming of Jesus reminds me that I no longer need to feel that way. Jesus died for that. I know I am deeply loved by many, and, most importantly, deeply loved by God.
And how does Jesus respond? Matthew does not record any response from Jesus. He does not try and defend himself or lash out in righteous anger. This suggests that he willingly took upon himself the shaming of the soldiers. He did so not because he had done anything that deserved such shaming, but to take our acts of shaming others and our feelings of shame upon himself. He does so to free us from the sin of shaming and the feelings of being ashamed.
Have you ever had the feeling that you are worthless? Maybe it's because of something you've done or because of something done to you. But whatever the case, here we see Jesus taking all of that on himself and taking it to the cross. You are not worthless in God's eyes. You are deeply loved. What a gift God gives, in setting us free from our shame! As with all of God's gifts, we receive this gift by faith, believing it to be true. Although there have been times when I have felt ashamed, worthless, and unworthy, the shaming of Jesus reminds me that I no longer need to feel that way. Jesus died for that. I know I am deeply loved by many, and, most importantly, deeply loved by God.
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
Day 25- Pilate Sentences Jesus to Death
This is a chilling passage. It's the time of decision making for Pilate. Will he resist the pressure of the chief priests and crowd of Jews to have Jesus crucified? Or will he give in to their demands and have an innocent man sent to a cruel death? We now know the answer. "Then he handed him over to them to be crucified." (John 19:16) How could Pilate do that? This is a man's life we're talking about! And yet he does. An innocent man is about to die. Pilate turns away. The decision is made. The deed is done.
And, of course, it wasn't just Pilate and the Jews who sent Jesus to his death. It was you and I. That's what this is really all about. I'm reminded of the Lenten hymn, "Ah, Holy Jesus" (ELW #349), especially verse 2.
"Who was the guilty? Who brought this upon thee? Alas, my treason, Jesus has undone thee.
'Twas I, Lord Jesus, I it was denied thee, I crucified thee."
These are not easy passages to read. They are disturbing, to be sure. But, it is the blood of Jesus that ultimately washes away our sins. So I take to heart the words of the devotion, "Take your guilt to the cross right now- and leave it there." I'm so thankful that we can do just that.
And, of course, it wasn't just Pilate and the Jews who sent Jesus to his death. It was you and I. That's what this is really all about. I'm reminded of the Lenten hymn, "Ah, Holy Jesus" (ELW #349), especially verse 2.
"Who was the guilty? Who brought this upon thee? Alas, my treason, Jesus has undone thee.
'Twas I, Lord Jesus, I it was denied thee, I crucified thee."
These are not easy passages to read. They are disturbing, to be sure. But, it is the blood of Jesus that ultimately washes away our sins. So I take to heart the words of the devotion, "Take your guilt to the cross right now- and leave it there." I'm so thankful that we can do just that.
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
Day 24- The Flogging
The physical suffering of Jesus intensifies as Pilate has him flogged by his soldiers. It wasn't just the beating, it was also the humiliation and mockery as they dressed him up as a king with a purple robe and crown of thorns. Even so, Pilate believed in his innocence, bringing him out to the people and saying, ""I find no basis for a charge against him." (John 19:4) The suffering of an innocent man is particularly difficult to view.
To be honest, taking time to reflect on Christ's suffering not only for me, but because of me, brings an ill feeling within . It's so easy to take this suffering for granted, almost like it didn't really happen. But it did, and this reading reminds me that it is my sin that brought this upon him. That makes me feel both guilty and sad.
But, as the devotion suggests, in Jesus we also see God's love and mercy lived out in full. I am in awe of such a man- such a God!- who would love me so fully as to be willing to suffer and die for me. I need to acknowledge and view Christ's suffering. I need to admit my part in that. But I also need to see God's love. He did that for me, to forgive me, and to make it possible to live rightly with God. The story does not end with the suffering. The story ends with God's love poured out for me and for all people. Thanks be to God!
To be honest, taking time to reflect on Christ's suffering not only for me, but because of me, brings an ill feeling within . It's so easy to take this suffering for granted, almost like it didn't really happen. But it did, and this reading reminds me that it is my sin that brought this upon him. That makes me feel both guilty and sad.
But, as the devotion suggests, in Jesus we also see God's love and mercy lived out in full. I am in awe of such a man- such a God!- who would love me so fully as to be willing to suffer and die for me. I need to acknowledge and view Christ's suffering. I need to admit my part in that. But I also need to see God's love. He did that for me, to forgive me, and to make it possible to live rightly with God. The story does not end with the suffering. The story ends with God's love poured out for me and for all people. Thanks be to God!
Monday, March 19, 2012
Day 23- Jesus before Herod
Herod apparently thought that Jesus was some kind of magic man who could perform miraculous tricks to impress others. He thought that Jesus might do a miracle for him, perhaps to win his release. (Luke 23:8) But that's not who Jesus is, nor is it what Jesus does. Jesus stood silently before Herod, resisting his pleas for a miracle. It reminds me of that earlier time in Jesus' ministry, when he went out into the desert to be tempted by Satan. In the third temptation, Jesus is led by Satan up to the highest point of the temple, where Satan says, "If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down from here." He goes on to quote scripture about how the angels will guard and protect him. To this Jesus responds, " It is written, 'Do not put the Lord your God to the test.'" (Luke 4:12) Herod was putting Jesus to the test, wanting Jesus to do for him some impressive miracle.
In some ways, when we doubt Jesus, we're doing the same thing. We want Jesus to do something for us or someone we love on our timetable and in accordance with our plan. When it doesn't happen that way, it may cause us to doubt. But over the years I've learned it's not about our timetable and plan. We're not to be putting God to the test. Rather, we are to walk by faith, believing in God's time and in God's plan. We fervently pray that God will lead us, heal us, and protect us and those we love. But then we place our concerns in God's hands, trusting in God's will. When we do that, doubt gives way to faith. We learn to trust God, believing that God does have our best interest in mind. That can be a hard thing to do, but my experience has been that God is fully trustworthy. I have my share of questions about things that happen in life. But I try and set aside doubt, believing that God is working things out in my life and in the world in accordance with His will.
In some ways, when we doubt Jesus, we're doing the same thing. We want Jesus to do something for us or someone we love on our timetable and in accordance with our plan. When it doesn't happen that way, it may cause us to doubt. But over the years I've learned it's not about our timetable and plan. We're not to be putting God to the test. Rather, we are to walk by faith, believing in God's time and in God's plan. We fervently pray that God will lead us, heal us, and protect us and those we love. But then we place our concerns in God's hands, trusting in God's will. When we do that, doubt gives way to faith. We learn to trust God, believing that God does have our best interest in mind. That can be a hard thing to do, but my experience has been that God is fully trustworthy. I have my share of questions about things that happen in life. But I try and set aside doubt, believing that God is working things out in my life and in the world in accordance with His will.
Sunday, March 18, 2012
The Fourth Sunday in Lent
Today we will look at the fourth "Covenant of Promise" from our Old Testament readings. This comes from Number 21:4-9. The first three covenants we have seen (Noah and the Rainbow, Abraham and Sarah, Moses and the 10 Commandments) are fairly familiar and easy to understand. But not this one. People complaining in the wilderness. Biting snakes. A bronze snake lifted upon on a pole. This is all pretty strange stuff.
What makes this significant is that Jesus himself refers to it in John chapter 3, verse 14. If you're not sure just how to interpret the Bible, here's one thing we can know for certain. If Jesus quotes it, we should pay attention to it! Jesus says that just as this bronze serpent is lifted up on a pole and the people of Israel are healed, so will the Son of Man be lifted up. He is, of course, referring to his being lifted up on the cross.
In this Old Testament story, strange as it may seem, we see sin, judgment, repentance, and healing. The covenant is the promise that if the people looked up on the bronze serpent, they would be healed. For us, Jesus is the one lifted up on the cross for all people. We also experience sin, judgment, repentance and healing. We don't have to physically see him on the cross to be healed of our sin, we simply need to believe. As John writes just after Jesus speaks about being lifted up like the serpent in the wilderness, "For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish, but have eternal life." May God give us such faith today and always.
What makes this significant is that Jesus himself refers to it in John chapter 3, verse 14. If you're not sure just how to interpret the Bible, here's one thing we can know for certain. If Jesus quotes it, we should pay attention to it! Jesus says that just as this bronze serpent is lifted up on a pole and the people of Israel are healed, so will the Son of Man be lifted up. He is, of course, referring to his being lifted up on the cross.
In this Old Testament story, strange as it may seem, we see sin, judgment, repentance, and healing. The covenant is the promise that if the people looked up on the bronze serpent, they would be healed. For us, Jesus is the one lifted up on the cross for all people. We also experience sin, judgment, repentance and healing. We don't have to physically see him on the cross to be healed of our sin, we simply need to believe. As John writes just after Jesus speaks about being lifted up like the serpent in the wilderness, "For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish, but have eternal life." May God give us such faith today and always.
Saturday, March 17, 2012
Day 22- Jesus before Pilate
Pilate seems like a ruler that did not want to get involved with this situation. Whatever "charges" the Jews had against Jesus, they didn't amount to much in Pilate's eyes. This seemed like a matter the Jews themselves could handle. If Jesus claimed to be a king and a messiah, what difference does that make to Pilate? Jesus appeared to be no threat to him or Rome, and he would have no knowledge of the coming of a messiah. So, he sends Jesus to King Herod, who had jurisdiction over the region of Galilee. Pilate was sending him back to the local authority, in hopes that Herod would settle this matter without Pilate's further involvement.
Regardless of what Pilate believed, today's devotion asks us to think about what blessings come from knowing Jesus as our Messiah and King. Here are some things that come to mind for me: love, grace, forgiveness, eternal life, God's presence, God's guidance, Christian community, justice for all, prayer, service, and being served. There are many more, for sure. What would you add to my list?
Regardless of what Pilate believed, today's devotion asks us to think about what blessings come from knowing Jesus as our Messiah and King. Here are some things that come to mind for me: love, grace, forgiveness, eternal life, God's presence, God's guidance, Christian community, justice for all, prayer, service, and being served. There are many more, for sure. What would you add to my list?
Friday, March 16, 2012
Day 21- Judas and Worldly Sorrow
In 2 Corinthians 7, Paul speaks about a letter he had written to the Corinthians that caused sorrow. Whatever he had written, he does not regret it, for "now I am happy, not because you were made sorry, but because your sorrow led you to repentance." (2 Corith. 7:9) Having someone, or something, point out our faults, is not a pleasant thing. It can cause sorrow in our lives, as we realize our faults have harmed others, and very well may have harmed our own lives. But, if that causes us to turn back to God, then that's a good thing. Godly sorrow returns us to the Lord, seeking God's grace and forgiveness. This is true repentance.
In Lutheran terms, this is the function of the "law." The "law," is whatever it is that points out our sin, especially as we read scripture. As we are convicted of our sin, this drives us back to Christ, to true repentance.
I think "worldly sorrow" is sadness for things of this life. It's perhaps regrets for things we have done, or perhaps things we have failed to accomplish. I'm sure there are times I could have been a better son, husband, and father. There are things I regret in ways I handled certain situations. I could have made better and different decisions. I have plenty of "worldly sorrow" in my life, some of which I still carry with me.
But, thanks be to God, I do not have to get stuck in wordly sorrow. I can take that worldly sorrow a step further and give it to God, allowing it to become Godly sorrow. When I do that, I move to the good news of the gospel, that Jesus forgives and provides me a new beginning.
Peter experienced Godly sorrow as he realized his failure in denying Jesus. He was able to repent and be forgiven. Judas, apparently, was unable to take that additional step. He knew what he did was wrong, and tried to right the wrong by returning the money to the Jewish authorities. But he was unable to make things right with Jesus. He got caught up and stuck in worldly sorrow, which led him to take his own life.
I don't think there's a formula to follow that leads to true repentance. It's something we do over and over again. I'm just grateful that in the midst of the sorrow I have for my many wrongs, I have a savior who welcomes me back with mercy and love. You, or someone you know, may be stuck in worldly sorrow. Please let them know that there is hope beyond such sorrow. Jesus is able to take even the most desperate of situations and provide a new beginning. This is the good news and the hope we share.
In Lutheran terms, this is the function of the "law." The "law," is whatever it is that points out our sin, especially as we read scripture. As we are convicted of our sin, this drives us back to Christ, to true repentance.
I think "worldly sorrow" is sadness for things of this life. It's perhaps regrets for things we have done, or perhaps things we have failed to accomplish. I'm sure there are times I could have been a better son, husband, and father. There are things I regret in ways I handled certain situations. I could have made better and different decisions. I have plenty of "worldly sorrow" in my life, some of which I still carry with me.
But, thanks be to God, I do not have to get stuck in wordly sorrow. I can take that worldly sorrow a step further and give it to God, allowing it to become Godly sorrow. When I do that, I move to the good news of the gospel, that Jesus forgives and provides me a new beginning.
Peter experienced Godly sorrow as he realized his failure in denying Jesus. He was able to repent and be forgiven. Judas, apparently, was unable to take that additional step. He knew what he did was wrong, and tried to right the wrong by returning the money to the Jewish authorities. But he was unable to make things right with Jesus. He got caught up and stuck in worldly sorrow, which led him to take his own life.
I don't think there's a formula to follow that leads to true repentance. It's something we do over and over again. I'm just grateful that in the midst of the sorrow I have for my many wrongs, I have a savior who welcomes me back with mercy and love. You, or someone you know, may be stuck in worldly sorrow. Please let them know that there is hope beyond such sorrow. Jesus is able to take even the most desperate of situations and provide a new beginning. This is the good news and the hope we share.
Thursday, March 15, 2012
Day 20- Jesus sentenced by the Sanhedrin
With today's devotion, we mark the half-way point in the 40 day season of Lent. Christ's journey to the cross intensifies, as the chief priests and the elders condemn Jesus to death for blasphemy. It will be up to Pilate, the Roman governor, to approve that decision.
Whether we like to admit it or not, power, position, and possessions do play a role in our lives. There are those with the 3 "P's" that might control and/or intimidate others by what they have. Those with lesser of the 3 "P's" must deal with those that have more. Back on Day 9 we read how Jesus addressed this saying, "the greatest among you must be like the youngest, and the one who rules like the one who serves." Whatever our power, position, or possessions, they are to be used in service of others.
In the months before I was called to Our Saviour's, I was without a congregation for a time. Having served my former church for over 20 years, and having an internal sense that God had something more in store for me, I took time off to discern what that might be. The comfortable 3 "P's" I had established over those years, were suddenly altered significantly. It was unsettling, but it also made me trust God in ways I had not needed to do in some time and opened me up to new possibilities.
I think it's healthy for me to struggle and not become too complacent about my 3 "P's" The Jewish council had allowed their 3 "P's" to become more important than the God they were called to serve. They could not see in Jesus the new possibilities that he was about to bring. May my 3 "P's" never lead me from God and may I always use what I have for our Lord's service.
Whether we like to admit it or not, power, position, and possessions do play a role in our lives. There are those with the 3 "P's" that might control and/or intimidate others by what they have. Those with lesser of the 3 "P's" must deal with those that have more. Back on Day 9 we read how Jesus addressed this saying, "the greatest among you must be like the youngest, and the one who rules like the one who serves." Whatever our power, position, or possessions, they are to be used in service of others.
In the months before I was called to Our Saviour's, I was without a congregation for a time. Having served my former church for over 20 years, and having an internal sense that God had something more in store for me, I took time off to discern what that might be. The comfortable 3 "P's" I had established over those years, were suddenly altered significantly. It was unsettling, but it also made me trust God in ways I had not needed to do in some time and opened me up to new possibilities.
I think it's healthy for me to struggle and not become too complacent about my 3 "P's" The Jewish council had allowed their 3 "P's" to become more important than the God they were called to serve. They could not see in Jesus the new possibilities that he was about to bring. May my 3 "P's" never lead me from God and may I always use what I have for our Lord's service.
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
Day 19- Peter Denies Jesus
Peter was a broken man. He knew his personal betrayal of Jesus. He knew in that betrayal, he hurt Jesus. Jesus looked at him (vs. 61), which must have cut right to Peter's heart. It's no wonder that "he went out and wept bitterly." (vs. 62)
And yet, it is Peter who, after being told by the women about the empty tomb, "Got up and ran to the tomb."
(Matthew 24:12) It is Peter who will preach the first sermon about the meaning of the resurrection in the Book of Acts. It is Peter who will soon become the leader of the church at Jerusalem. This broken man learns from his failure, is filled with the Spirit, and becomes a great witness for God.
No one likes to fail. It's not fun. We feel bad for ourselves and others we may have hurt. We don't set out intentionally to fail. And yet, when we do fail, it drops us to our knees and makes us aware of our complete dependence on God. We may have thought we could do it on our own, but we are painfully reminded that we cannot.
Hopefully, we learn from our mistakes. Hopefully, it makes us wiser and stronger moving forward. Hopefully, it reminds us to turn to God and not rely on our own strength or understanding. I think it made Peter a better man and prepared him for what God had in store for him in the future. Most of my greatest growth as a person has come as a result of my mistakes and failures. Thanks be to God for lifting me up when I have been down, teaching me what I needed to learn and setting me on the right path once again.
And yet, it is Peter who, after being told by the women about the empty tomb, "Got up and ran to the tomb."
(Matthew 24:12) It is Peter who will preach the first sermon about the meaning of the resurrection in the Book of Acts. It is Peter who will soon become the leader of the church at Jerusalem. This broken man learns from his failure, is filled with the Spirit, and becomes a great witness for God.
No one likes to fail. It's not fun. We feel bad for ourselves and others we may have hurt. We don't set out intentionally to fail. And yet, when we do fail, it drops us to our knees and makes us aware of our complete dependence on God. We may have thought we could do it on our own, but we are painfully reminded that we cannot.
Hopefully, we learn from our mistakes. Hopefully, it makes us wiser and stronger moving forward. Hopefully, it reminds us to turn to God and not rely on our own strength or understanding. I think it made Peter a better man and prepared him for what God had in store for him in the future. Most of my greatest growth as a person has come as a result of my mistakes and failures. Thanks be to God for lifting me up when I have been down, teaching me what I needed to learn and setting me on the right path once again.
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
Day 18- Jesus before the Council
The high priest and the council viewed Jesus as just another man. He's a man that has come on the scene teaching and making claims about himself that a man should not be making. He did not fit their preconceived ideas of what the Messiah should look like and what he would do. So, when he did not deny that he was the Messiah, that was blasphemy! No man should claim to be God or the Messiah. Perhaps they felt they were protecting God from this delusional man. They certainly felt they were protecting the religious tradition they knew. No man can claim to be God! Blasphemy! Put him to death!
Still today the claims of Jesus divide people. The claims bring discomfort to the world. If he really is the Messiah, God's Son, then that changes everything. It would cause all people to think, act, and live very differently. For some, the claims bring anger. For some, indifference. For some, questions. For others, they are life and salvation.
My feelings are feelings of gratitude. To think that God would send a saviour to the world, a saviour for me, is almost too much to comprehend. I can understand why the high priest reacted as he did. I can understand why the world today is still divided over Jesus. On the human level it seems like foolishness. But, to quote the Apostle Paul, "We proclaim Christ crucified, a stumbling block to the Jews and foolishness to the Gentiles, but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. For God's foolishness is wiser than human wisdom, and God's weakness is stronger than human strength."
1 Corinthians 1:23-25
Still today the claims of Jesus divide people. The claims bring discomfort to the world. If he really is the Messiah, God's Son, then that changes everything. It would cause all people to think, act, and live very differently. For some, the claims bring anger. For some, indifference. For some, questions. For others, they are life and salvation.
My feelings are feelings of gratitude. To think that God would send a saviour to the world, a saviour for me, is almost too much to comprehend. I can understand why the high priest reacted as he did. I can understand why the world today is still divided over Jesus. On the human level it seems like foolishness. But, to quote the Apostle Paul, "We proclaim Christ crucified, a stumbling block to the Jews and foolishness to the Gentiles, but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. For God's foolishness is wiser than human wisdom, and God's weakness is stronger than human strength."
1 Corinthians 1:23-25
Monday, March 12, 2012
Day 17- Jesus before Annas
Little did Caiaphas know that in saying, "It was better to have one person die for the people," he was announcing what Jesus was about to do, die on the cross for all people, even me. One person dies for all. One person dies the death we deserved. One person makes possible a new relationship with God and eternal life.
What does it mean to me that Jesus willingly died for me? It means everything. My whole basis for being, my whole life philosophy, my whole understanding of life and death, my relationships, the way I order my life- it all flows from Christ's death on the cross for me. I sometimes wonder, what if I had not come to faith? I was about 14 years old when my faith became alive and real to me. That set me on my life course. What if that had not occurred? Where would I be now? What would my life look like? Thankfully, I don't need to spend much time thinking about such things. God, through the faithful witness of many and by the power of the Holy Spirit, got through to me. It means everything to me that Jesus died on the cross for my sins. I am so grateful God broke through to me with His love!
What does it mean to me that Jesus willingly died for me? It means everything. My whole basis for being, my whole life philosophy, my whole understanding of life and death, my relationships, the way I order my life- it all flows from Christ's death on the cross for me. I sometimes wonder, what if I had not come to faith? I was about 14 years old when my faith became alive and real to me. That set me on my life course. What if that had not occurred? Where would I be now? What would my life look like? Thankfully, I don't need to spend much time thinking about such things. God, through the faithful witness of many and by the power of the Holy Spirit, got through to me. It means everything to me that Jesus died on the cross for my sins. I am so grateful God broke through to me with His love!
Sunday, March 11, 2012
The Third Sunday in Lent
Today we will reflect upon the third "Covenant of Promise" in the Lenten season, Moses and the 10 Commandments. The reading is Exodus 20:1-17. Unlike the first covenant, Noah and the rainbow, and the second covenant, a family for Abraham and Sarah, the covenant with Moses is a conditional one. In order to set themselves apart as God's chosen people, the people of Israel are to do these things. These include the 10 commandments, well known to many of us, as well as many other laws given to Moses which the people are to follow.
We typically view laws as demanding things, not very grace filled. They "keep us in line," telling us what not to do. If we break a law, there's a punishment. I must admit I've had a few speeding tickets, never a pleasant experience. But laws do provide order and structure to society and our lives. Without laws, life would be chaotic and unmanageable. In that sense, laws can become "grace filled," allowing us to live in freedom and joy.
Martin Luther in the Small Catechism, gives a very simple explanation of each of the commandments. In each explanation, he tells what the law says not to do, but also gives it a positive twist, what we should do. So, for example, commandment #7, You shall not steal. Luther writes, "We are to fear and love God so that we do not take our neighbor's money or property, or get them in any dishonest way, but help him to improve and protect his property and means of making a living."
The 10 Commandments, given so long ago, still provide the foundation for living the life God wants us to live. They are about loving God, and loving our neighbor. Jesus gives the new command to his disciples at the Last Supper, "to love one another." (John 13:34) If we do that, the 10 Commandments make perfect sense and continue to live on as a guide for our lives.
We typically view laws as demanding things, not very grace filled. They "keep us in line," telling us what not to do. If we break a law, there's a punishment. I must admit I've had a few speeding tickets, never a pleasant experience. But laws do provide order and structure to society and our lives. Without laws, life would be chaotic and unmanageable. In that sense, laws can become "grace filled," allowing us to live in freedom and joy.
Martin Luther in the Small Catechism, gives a very simple explanation of each of the commandments. In each explanation, he tells what the law says not to do, but also gives it a positive twist, what we should do. So, for example, commandment #7, You shall not steal. Luther writes, "We are to fear and love God so that we do not take our neighbor's money or property, or get them in any dishonest way, but help him to improve and protect his property and means of making a living."
The 10 Commandments, given so long ago, still provide the foundation for living the life God wants us to live. They are about loving God, and loving our neighbor. Jesus gives the new command to his disciples at the Last Supper, "to love one another." (John 13:34) If we do that, the 10 Commandments make perfect sense and continue to live on as a guide for our lives.
Saturday, March 10, 2012
Day 16- The Disciples Flee
I just completed skimming through a "Ministry Audit" report for our Rocky Mountain Synod, the five state area of 166 Lutheran congregations of which we are a part. Unfortunately, the news is not especially good. Across the synod, we continue to see membership losses. While most of our congregations are strong in providing a sense of community for our members and doing a good job in helping others through our social ministry programs, we're not very strong in evangelism. For whatever reasons we tend to keep the "good news" to ourselves, being quiet witnesses to our faith.
I'm fairly typical of others in that regard. It's not that I'm ashamed or embarrassed to admit my faith in Christ, but I do want to be respectful of where people are coming from in their own faith journey. I have my story to share. I want to listen to other people's stories. In that sharing, my witness to my faith in Jesus can occur.
I do think I can be bolder in my witness. I am both impressed and inspired by many at Our Saviour's Lutheran who are outgoing in their witness. St. Paul writes in Romans 1:16, "For I am not ashamed of the gospel; it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who has faith, to the Jew first, and also to the Greek." The disciples fled, afraid of what was happening. Since I know the end result of the cross and resurrection, the good news of God's love and victory over sin and death, there is no excuse for me to flee or be ashamed. May we all be bold in sharing our faith in word and deed, so that the world may know God's love.
I'm fairly typical of others in that regard. It's not that I'm ashamed or embarrassed to admit my faith in Christ, but I do want to be respectful of where people are coming from in their own faith journey. I have my story to share. I want to listen to other people's stories. In that sharing, my witness to my faith in Jesus can occur.
I do think I can be bolder in my witness. I am both impressed and inspired by many at Our Saviour's Lutheran who are outgoing in their witness. St. Paul writes in Romans 1:16, "For I am not ashamed of the gospel; it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who has faith, to the Jew first, and also to the Greek." The disciples fled, afraid of what was happening. Since I know the end result of the cross and resurrection, the good news of God's love and victory over sin and death, there is no excuse for me to flee or be ashamed. May we all be bold in sharing our faith in word and deed, so that the world may know God's love.
Friday, March 9, 2012
Day 15- Jesus' Arrest
Today's devotion provides some interesting insights. Judas betrays Jesus to the authorities with a kiss. It was the dark of night. Jesus and his disciples were probably dressed similarly. Those who arrested Jesus probably included Roman soldiers, who may not have ever seen him. So Judas identified Jesus to them with the sign of a kiss. This intimate gesture of friendship was actually the ultimate sign of betrayal.
Despite this, Jesus still calls Judas "friend." (Matt. 26:50) He could have lashed out in righteous anger and called him "traitor" or "betrayer." But, despite what Judas has done, he still calls him "friend." When you pause to think about it, that is another example of our Lord's amazing love and compassion.
How have we betrayed Jesus by our words and actions? Probably in far too many ways to count. And yet, like Judas, Jesus still calls us "friend." He went to the cross to win our forgiveness and to maintain our friendship. Having Jesus as my friend means that I can live in a relationship with God. Having Jesus as my friend means I can turn to him in prayer with my concerns, as I might any friend. Having Jesus as my friend means I can turn to him for guidance. Having Jesus as my friend means he holds me accountable for the way I conduct my life, as a trusted friend might. Even in betrayal, Jesus still calls us friend. Amazing. In the words of the gospel hymn,
"What a friend we have in Jesus, all our sins and grief to hear!
What a privilege to carry everything to God in prayer!
Oh, what peace we often forfeit, oh, what needless pain we bear-
all because we do not carry everything to God in prayer."
Despite this, Jesus still calls Judas "friend." (Matt. 26:50) He could have lashed out in righteous anger and called him "traitor" or "betrayer." But, despite what Judas has done, he still calls him "friend." When you pause to think about it, that is another example of our Lord's amazing love and compassion.
How have we betrayed Jesus by our words and actions? Probably in far too many ways to count. And yet, like Judas, Jesus still calls us "friend." He went to the cross to win our forgiveness and to maintain our friendship. Having Jesus as my friend means that I can live in a relationship with God. Having Jesus as my friend means I can turn to him in prayer with my concerns, as I might any friend. Having Jesus as my friend means I can turn to him for guidance. Having Jesus as my friend means he holds me accountable for the way I conduct my life, as a trusted friend might. Even in betrayal, Jesus still calls us friend. Amazing. In the words of the gospel hymn,
"What a friend we have in Jesus, all our sins and grief to hear!
What a privilege to carry everything to God in prayer!
Oh, what peace we often forfeit, oh, what needless pain we bear-
all because we do not carry everything to God in prayer."
Thursday, March 8, 2012
Jesus in the Garden- Day 14
In the Garden of Gethsemane, we see Jesus as fully human, experiencing deep human emotions. He is "deeply grieved, even to death." He knows what is coming, and it upsets him. He is "distressed and agitated." In his time of deepest need, he turns to his Father in prayer. He is honest in his prayer. He would prefer that the suffering ahead could be taken away. "Abba, Father, for you all things are possible; remove this cup from me." But, he also know he must do what the Father wills. "Yet not what I want, but what you want."
The devotion suggests that this is a time of testing and trial for Jesus, much like when he was tempted by Satan in the wilderness. In Mel Gibson's, "The Passion of the Christ," I remember he portrayed the serpent in the Garden of Gethsemane, tempting Jesus. Jesus crushes the serpents head, dramatically overcoming the temptation. Undoubtedly, Satan was present, with all the forces of evil, but Jesus stood strong, determined above all else to do the Father's will.
I'm also struck by the contrast between Jesus and the three disciples who went with him. Jesus is spiritually alert, sharp, engaged in battle with the forces of evil that would have him disobey the Father. The disciples fall asleep, unable to watch with him even for one hour. Perhaps that is the greatest temptation we face- spiritual complacency. We get tired and lazy, losing our focus and letting other things take us away from God. Maybe that's the lesson for today. As Jesus prayed and gave his full attention to the Father in the garden, so might we place our full trust and faith in God this day as well.
The devotion suggests that this is a time of testing and trial for Jesus, much like when he was tempted by Satan in the wilderness. In Mel Gibson's, "The Passion of the Christ," I remember he portrayed the serpent in the Garden of Gethsemane, tempting Jesus. Jesus crushes the serpents head, dramatically overcoming the temptation. Undoubtedly, Satan was present, with all the forces of evil, but Jesus stood strong, determined above all else to do the Father's will.
I'm also struck by the contrast between Jesus and the three disciples who went with him. Jesus is spiritually alert, sharp, engaged in battle with the forces of evil that would have him disobey the Father. The disciples fall asleep, unable to watch with him even for one hour. Perhaps that is the greatest temptation we face- spiritual complacency. We get tired and lazy, losing our focus and letting other things take us away from God. Maybe that's the lesson for today. As Jesus prayed and gave his full attention to the Father in the garden, so might we place our full trust and faith in God this day as well.
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
Day 13- Peter's Denial Predicted
This is a troubling passage for me. It's troubling because it so clearly points out that our words and our actions are not always one and the same. In fact, what we say and what we do can be entirely opposite. It speaks to our integrity. Do we do what we promise, or do we not?
Peter made an incredibly bold statement to Jesus. "Even though I must die with you, I will not deny you." (Matt. 14:31) But it wasn't just Peter. "And all of them (the disciples) said the same." But what happens? When Jesus is arrested and put on trial, Peter denies knowing Jesus and all the disciple flee. Fear for their lives trumps their previous commitment. We'll look at those passages om Day 16 and 19.
I've never been in the position where my commitment to Christ has been challenged in such a way. If my very life were on the line, would I hold fast to my confession? Or would I give in to my fear? I have the advantage of living in the time following the resurrection. Unlike the disciples, I know the victory is won. So, I would hope I would stand strong. I hope I would truly trust Christ to give me the strength to do so.
But I also know my words and actions do not always line up as they should. This happens more than I care to admit. So, once again I place my trust in God's grace and forgiveness. In Mark 14:28, Jesus says he will be raised up and go before the disciples to Galilee. This suggests that even though they will all flee, they will receive forgiveness and Jesus will be their leader once again. This is a message of great hope. For although there have been and probably will be times I desert Jesus, he does not desert me. He is risen. He offers grace and forgiveness. He accepts us back so that we are once again able to follow where he leads.
Peter made an incredibly bold statement to Jesus. "Even though I must die with you, I will not deny you." (Matt. 14:31) But it wasn't just Peter. "And all of them (the disciples) said the same." But what happens? When Jesus is arrested and put on trial, Peter denies knowing Jesus and all the disciple flee. Fear for their lives trumps their previous commitment. We'll look at those passages om Day 16 and 19.
I've never been in the position where my commitment to Christ has been challenged in such a way. If my very life were on the line, would I hold fast to my confession? Or would I give in to my fear? I have the advantage of living in the time following the resurrection. Unlike the disciples, I know the victory is won. So, I would hope I would stand strong. I hope I would truly trust Christ to give me the strength to do so.
But I also know my words and actions do not always line up as they should. This happens more than I care to admit. So, once again I place my trust in God's grace and forgiveness. In Mark 14:28, Jesus says he will be raised up and go before the disciples to Galilee. This suggests that even though they will all flee, they will receive forgiveness and Jesus will be their leader once again. This is a message of great hope. For although there have been and probably will be times I desert Jesus, he does not desert me. He is risen. He offers grace and forgiveness. He accepts us back so that we are once again able to follow where he leads.
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
Day 12- The Lord's Supper
I must admit that in many areas of my life I act out of my own self interest. The needs around me that affect me personally are the ones that receive my greatest attention. This begins with my wife and family, expands out to the congregation I serve, then into the community, nation, and world. When I personally see and feel the need, I'm much more likely to respond and become involved.
Sometimes I feel overwhelmed by the needs of so many. Unfortunately, the needs keep coming. I'm able to help some, but there are so many more. It is then that I feel like pulling into my shell and retreating.
Did Jesus ever feel this way? Maybe that's another one of those questions I'd ask if I had that opportunity. But it is clear that Jesus was not sent just to respond to the needs of those closest to him. Jesus came to save the world. "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son." John 3:16 He was bringing the kingdom for all the world.
I am so grateful that Jesus, in the Lord's supper, gives his body and blood to me personally. The "for you" means just that. He has come for me and for you. But I'm also grateful that his blood is poured out for all the world. It reminds me that I, too, should pray for and respond as I am able to the needs I see close at hand, as well as the needs further away. Today's prayer speaks profoundly, "Shift my focus from myself to you and then to those around me. Teach me that I show my love to you by serving others, especially the poor, the sick, the lonely.... Amen
Sometimes I feel overwhelmed by the needs of so many. Unfortunately, the needs keep coming. I'm able to help some, but there are so many more. It is then that I feel like pulling into my shell and retreating.
Did Jesus ever feel this way? Maybe that's another one of those questions I'd ask if I had that opportunity. But it is clear that Jesus was not sent just to respond to the needs of those closest to him. Jesus came to save the world. "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son." John 3:16 He was bringing the kingdom for all the world.
I am so grateful that Jesus, in the Lord's supper, gives his body and blood to me personally. The "for you" means just that. He has come for me and for you. But I'm also grateful that his blood is poured out for all the world. It reminds me that I, too, should pray for and respond as I am able to the needs I see close at hand, as well as the needs further away. Today's prayer speaks profoundly, "Shift my focus from myself to you and then to those around me. Teach me that I show my love to you by serving others, especially the poor, the sick, the lonely.... Amen
Monday, March 5, 2012
Day 11- The Comforter, The Holy Spirit
The peace the world offers is for this life. We have peace when our relationships are healthy and we're not in conflict with another. We have a few moments of peace when the children are finally tucked in bed. We have peace when we're able to step away from the pressures and stress we all face and take a walk or work out at the gym or read a good book. In order to make our way through daily life, we all need to find ways to experience a sense of peace within.
Jesus tells his disciples "Peace I leave with you, my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives." I understand this to mean His peace is a deeper, more profound peace. It is knowing that he is present within us, in the person of the Holy Spirit. According to the passage, the Spirit is our counselor, the one to whom we turn for guidance. The Spirit is our teacher. The Spirit reminds us of all that Jesus has done for us. The Spirit takes our troubles and the Spirit takes away our fears.
It is important to have a sense of peace in our daily lives. The world offers many paths to peace. But today we're reminded of the spiritual peace that comes with having the Holy Spirit as part of our lives. The world's peace is fleeting. It comes and goes. Some days we feel it, others we don't feel it at all. But the Spirit's peace is deep and abiding. It cannot be taken away. It is the promise God is living within us and is with us always. No matter what comes our way, God is there. Knowing that, I know peace. I'm reminded of a bumper sticker I once saw, "Know Jesus, Know Peace." That's our Lord's promise to his disciples and to us. May you know Jesus today, and by so doing, also know His peace.
Jesus tells his disciples "Peace I leave with you, my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives." I understand this to mean His peace is a deeper, more profound peace. It is knowing that he is present within us, in the person of the Holy Spirit. According to the passage, the Spirit is our counselor, the one to whom we turn for guidance. The Spirit is our teacher. The Spirit reminds us of all that Jesus has done for us. The Spirit takes our troubles and the Spirit takes away our fears.
It is important to have a sense of peace in our daily lives. The world offers many paths to peace. But today we're reminded of the spiritual peace that comes with having the Holy Spirit as part of our lives. The world's peace is fleeting. It comes and goes. Some days we feel it, others we don't feel it at all. But the Spirit's peace is deep and abiding. It cannot be taken away. It is the promise God is living within us and is with us always. No matter what comes our way, God is there. Knowing that, I know peace. I'm reminded of a bumper sticker I once saw, "Know Jesus, Know Peace." That's our Lord's promise to his disciples and to us. May you know Jesus today, and by so doing, also know His peace.
Sunday, March 4, 2012
The Second Sunday in Lent
There are five covenants of promise in our Old Testament readings for the Sundays in Lent. Last week we began with the rainbow covenant with Noah. In this first covenant in the Bible, God declares to Noah and all creation that He will never again destroy the earth by a flood because of human sin. The rainbow in the sky is a reminder of this. God is not a God of retribution, but of restoration.
The second covenant is the covenant God makes with Abram, who changes his name to Abraham. In this covenant, God's work of restoration begins. Like the covenant with Noah, this is an everlasting covenant. God promises that Abraham would be the father of a great nation; with land, many descendants, and great prosperity. Jesus is Abraham's descendant, and we believe that Christ's death on the cross makes this covenant everlasting for all people that receive him by faith.
Abraham becomes the great example of faith. The Apostle Paul quotes Genesis 15:6, "Abraham believed God, and it was reckoned to him as righteousness," when he writes about faith in Romans 4. Abraham's faith made him righteous as he responded to God's call.
Today we are reminded that God is personal and cares about all creation. God personally entered into this covenant with Abraham. We're also reminded of the importance of faith in daily life. Let us remember that God still personally cares about each one of us, just as he cared for Abraham. And let us also live by faith, trusting God to lead us as he led Abraham so long ago.
The second covenant is the covenant God makes with Abram, who changes his name to Abraham. In this covenant, God's work of restoration begins. Like the covenant with Noah, this is an everlasting covenant. God promises that Abraham would be the father of a great nation; with land, many descendants, and great prosperity. Jesus is Abraham's descendant, and we believe that Christ's death on the cross makes this covenant everlasting for all people that receive him by faith.
Abraham becomes the great example of faith. The Apostle Paul quotes Genesis 15:6, "Abraham believed God, and it was reckoned to him as righteousness," when he writes about faith in Romans 4. Abraham's faith made him righteous as he responded to God's call.
Today we are reminded that God is personal and cares about all creation. God personally entered into this covenant with Abraham. We're also reminded of the importance of faith in daily life. Let us remember that God still personally cares about each one of us, just as he cared for Abraham. And let us also live by faith, trusting God to lead us as he led Abraham so long ago.
Saturday, March 3, 2012
Day 10- Jesus Washes the Disciples Feet
With this devotion we have completed 1/4th of our Lenten Journey. In an age when we expect to have things immediately, a 40 day period of time is actually quite long. I encourage you to keep up with your daily devotions, trusting that it will be a blessing and provide an opportunity for spiritual growth as we journey with Jesus to the cross.
In today's lesson, Jesus was at an evening meal with his disciples "just before the Passover Feast." (John 13:1) This is John's account of the last supper, although it is quite different than what is recorded in Matthew, Mark, and Luke. Most notably, there is no giving of bread and wine in what we now call the Lord's Supper. Rather, what John emphasizes is the servant Jesus, who washes the feet of his disciples. He does this as an example for them, "that you should do as I have done for you." Also at this meal Jesus gives the new commandment to "love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another." Love and service become the two most important qualities of the Christian life.
From this passage it is abundantly clear that I am loved by God. The love that Jesus shows for his disciples in washing their feet, is shown in an even greater way for us, as Jesus willingly goes to the cross for our sins. On the cross, Christ's blood washes our entire selves "whiter than snow." (Psalm 51:7) In our Baptism, our whole selves have been washed clean, dying to sin and rising to new life.
All of this provides the foundation for our love and service. Because we have been so loved, because we have been so served, we seek to love and serve one another. Jesus gives us the example. It's now up to us to follow that example and to love and serve those around us.
Friday, March 2, 2012
Day 9- The One Who Serves
Perhaps it's the Norwegian blood within me. (Alf Olsen was my grandfather on my mother's side!) Maybe it has something to do with growing up and living in Minnesota for so many years. Maybe it was the example of my parents. Maybe I actually paid attention in Sunday school when my teacher talked about humbly serving others. But, for whatever reason, being recognized as someone great has never really been one of my goals. I actually find it a bit uncomfortable when people want to give me special recognition for something. I'm one of those that strives to do the best I can in what I do. If I do that, whether or not I'm recognized is not all that important to me.
Now, don't get me wrong. Recognition is nice. You can't help but feel good when someone recognizes the value in something you have done. But, if it's not recognized, that's ok, too.
In today's lesson, the disciples argued over which one of them was to be regarded as the greatest. Jesus took this opportunity to teach them a new, different, and better way. It's called servant leadership. "Rather the greatest among you must become like the youngest, and the leader like one who serves." (Matt. 22:26) Jesus is the ultimate example of this, serving us by his death on the cross.
In the last couple weeks I had the opportunity to help serve lunch at the St. Vincent's soup kitchen downtown, and helped sort canned goods at the Utah food bank. The jobs I did, taken alone, were really quite insignificant. But, the jobs I did, as part of a larger team, did help make a difference for those we fed. My efforts, along with the others I worked with, went largely unnoticed. You don't do those kinds of things for recognition. What matters is that you took time to help out in a small way. In our congregation, there are countless ministries that happen by people willing to serve, with little recognition. Thank you. All those things make a difference. We serve not for the recognition, but to further God's work and to share God's love in the world.
Now, don't get me wrong. Recognition is nice. You can't help but feel good when someone recognizes the value in something you have done. But, if it's not recognized, that's ok, too.
In today's lesson, the disciples argued over which one of them was to be regarded as the greatest. Jesus took this opportunity to teach them a new, different, and better way. It's called servant leadership. "Rather the greatest among you must become like the youngest, and the leader like one who serves." (Matt. 22:26) Jesus is the ultimate example of this, serving us by his death on the cross.
In the last couple weeks I had the opportunity to help serve lunch at the St. Vincent's soup kitchen downtown, and helped sort canned goods at the Utah food bank. The jobs I did, taken alone, were really quite insignificant. But, the jobs I did, as part of a larger team, did help make a difference for those we fed. My efforts, along with the others I worked with, went largely unnoticed. You don't do those kinds of things for recognition. What matters is that you took time to help out in a small way. In our congregation, there are countless ministries that happen by people willing to serve, with little recognition. Thank you. All those things make a difference. We serve not for the recognition, but to further God's work and to share God's love in the world.
Thursday, March 1, 2012
Day 8- The Passover Lamb
I liked the author's thoughts in today's devotion. It's not something I had really thought about. It wasn't out of duty or obligation that Jesus ate the Passover meal with his disciples, but he did so because "he longs to spend a few hours with the Twelve." This is a precious and special time for Jesus as he shares this final meal with his closest friends.
"Every moment we get to spend with Jesus is precious to us - and to him." This is a good reminder to slow down and just find time to be in God's presence. So often I get caught up in the "doing" of life, that I fail to attend to the "being" in life. It's important, I think, to just "be," and not always "do."
One of the occupational hazards of being a pastor is that you are called to create and find ways to help others to learn and grow spiritually. Unfortunately, you can neglect your own spirituality in the process. Time with God becomes a means to an end (an idea for a sermon, a teaching to share), rather than an end in itself. So, my most precious times with God have been those occasions when I can step out of that role and just allow myself to be in God's presence.
The beautiful mountains of Utah have provided several such opportunities while hiking or skiing. Just this week the night sky looking over the valley with Venus, the moon, and Jupiter in alignment, has been truly awesome. What a great God we have to share with us such a beautiful creation! I think back to holding each of our children on my lap and saying bedtime prayers. There, too, the presence of God was felt. We could just "be" together. I have been blessed with many precious moments in time spent with God throughout my life. Thankfully, God continues to provide them along the journey. It gives me a boost, a lift, to keep growing in faith and service. I am so grateful for God's presence, who seems to provide that time with Him just when I need it the most.
"Every moment we get to spend with Jesus is precious to us - and to him." This is a good reminder to slow down and just find time to be in God's presence. So often I get caught up in the "doing" of life, that I fail to attend to the "being" in life. It's important, I think, to just "be," and not always "do."
One of the occupational hazards of being a pastor is that you are called to create and find ways to help others to learn and grow spiritually. Unfortunately, you can neglect your own spirituality in the process. Time with God becomes a means to an end (an idea for a sermon, a teaching to share), rather than an end in itself. So, my most precious times with God have been those occasions when I can step out of that role and just allow myself to be in God's presence.
The beautiful mountains of Utah have provided several such opportunities while hiking or skiing. Just this week the night sky looking over the valley with Venus, the moon, and Jupiter in alignment, has been truly awesome. What a great God we have to share with us such a beautiful creation! I think back to holding each of our children on my lap and saying bedtime prayers. There, too, the presence of God was felt. We could just "be" together. I have been blessed with many precious moments in time spent with God throughout my life. Thankfully, God continues to provide them along the journey. It gives me a boost, a lift, to keep growing in faith and service. I am so grateful for God's presence, who seems to provide that time with Him just when I need it the most.
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