God

The Foolishness of Idols

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We’ve been told in the Old Testament that manufactured idols can do nothing for us. Oh. Those who lived during those ancient times tried and failed to achieve anything with their prayers and sacrifices to their handmade idols. But it didn’t stop them from repeatedly worshiping these fake gods. There were those who actually made and sold the idols as a career. They believed these handcrafted objects could save them from war and disease and famine and anything else they didn’t want. They thought these idols would bless their families and their crops and their lives in untold ways. They bowed and worshiped a piece of wood they had carved into an inanimate object. And those objects. Those idols did nothing for them. Nothing at all.

The Israelites had been warned many times about their habit of idol worship. Through the years, many prophets had blasted their disobedience to God and warned of the impending punishment. But the people didn’t listen. It seemed easier and more convenient for them to bow to an image that couldn’t speak or move. After all, an image that can’t speak or move can’t convict you of your sins. It won’t bring shame or guilt onto your disobedient heart. It won’t even hear you when you cry for help. But the Israelites worshiped their idols and wouldn’t turn back to God.

This is what the Lord says—Israel’s King and Redeemer, the Lord of Heaven’s Armies: “I am the First and the Last; there is no other God. Who is like me? Let him step forward and prove to you his power. Let him do as I have done since ancient times when I established a people and explained its future. Do not tremble; do not be afraid. Did I not proclaim my purposes for you long ago? You are my witnesses—is there any other God? No! There is no other Rock—not one!” How foolish are those who manufacture idols. These prized objects are really worthless. The people who worship idols don’t know this, so they are all put to shame. Who but a fool would make his own god— an idol that cannot help him one bit? All who worship idols will be disgraced along with all these craftsmen—mere humans— who claim they can make a god. They may all stand together, but they will stand in terror and shame. Isaiah 44:6-11

We may think modern societies don’t worship idols. Especially nations that call themselves Christian. We may believe we worship the One True God and him alone. But when we look at our lifestyle. Our goals. Our wants. Our deepest longings. What do we see? Where are we headed? What is it in life that fully satisfies us? What do we call sacred?

The thing about idols. They can’t make anything happen, because they need someone to make them. They can’t make themselves, and they will wear out and possibly break. In other words, they’re useless. Who but a fool would make their own god?

Let’s see if your idols can save you when you cry to them for help. Why, a puff of wind can knock them down! If you just breathe on them, they fall over! But whoever trusts in me will inherit the land and possess my holy mountain. Isaiah 57:13

Idolatry. The worship of an image built on man’s imagination is a severe act of rebellion against God. An idol doesn’t have to be manufactured out of wood or stone or metal or ceramic. Idolatry is the act of giving sacred value or power over to something or someone other than God. We may worship our best friend. Or our spouse. Or our job. Or our fancy car. Or that designer handbag. Or our closet full of clothes. Or that sports team. Or that hobby. What holds sway over your life in the place of God? Where do you look for security and happiness? What do you bow down to?

Come, let us worship and bow down. Let us kneel before the Lord our maker, for he is our God. We are the people he watches over, the flock under his care. If only you would listen to his voice today! Psalms 95:6-7

The person who made the idol never stops to reflect, “Why, it’s just a block of wood! I burned half of it for heat and used it to bake my bread and roast my meat. How can the rest of it be a god? Should I bow down to worship a piece of wood?” The poor, deluded fool feeds on ashes. He trusts something that can’t help him at all. Yet he cannot bring himself to ask, “Is this idol that I’m holding in my hand a lie?” Isaiah 44:19-20

Just as God warned his chosen people, the Israelites, that they must not worship other gods, he is telling us the same thing. The first and second commandments warn that we must have no other gods or idols. But we, like the Israelites, have chosen to place other gods above the One True God. And, unless we repent, there is punishment for that act of disobedience. God allowed his chosen nation to be attacked over and over in an attempt to make them see the error of their ways. Oh sure. They repented of their sins for a time, but they continued to return to their false gods.

We can’t think that we’re safe from God’s punishment for our waywardness as a nation and as individuals. Just as Israel did, we will bring disaster upon ourselves if we continue down the path we’re on. The truth will catch up with us sooner or later. And while it’s still today, we have time to repent and turn from our wicked ways. God is a jealous God, and he wants the hearts of all nations to bow to him. And they will. At the appointed time, every knee will bow. Why not today?

“What good is an idol carved by man, or a cast image that deceives you? How foolish to trust in your own creation— a god that can’t even talk! What sorrow awaits you who say to wooden idols, ‘Wake up and save us!’ To speechless stone images you say, ‘Rise up and teach us!’ Can an idol tell you what to do? They may be overlaid with gold and silver, but they are lifeless inside. But the Lord is in his holy Temple. Let all the earth be silent before him.” Habakkuk 2:18-20

Many times we’re seeking God, but we don’t realize it. There is a deep longing, a yearning inside each of us that is looking to be filled and satisfied. And we search and search for the answer. We look in the oddest places to find fulfillment. We choose the most unsatisfying activities or items to try to fill that longing. We look for relationships or people who are broken to make us whole, and they’re not whole themselves. We aren’t happy. We blame others for our problems. We seek comfort in the wrong places. Nothing we try fills us. There is no manmade idol that can comfort us. That can forgive us. That can love us. Only God can do that. Only God will satisfy our souls.

Continue seeking Him with seriousness. Unless He wanted you, you would not be wanting Him.

C.S. Lewis

The Underbelly of the Mind

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The HVAC technician walked into my house and asked to be shown to the furnace. I mistakenly thought he would only inspect the air conditioner outside. But no. He needed to go into the corners of the basement to examine the workings of the furnace. And there, to my dismay, he saw not only the furnace but also the cobwebs, dust and clutter filling the laundry room. Now mind you. I like my laundry room because it is the size of a bedroom. It is spacious, but it is not a pretty place where one would want to entertain guests. The floor is plain concrete. A couple of the exterior walls are cinder block. The other two walls need a fresh coat of paint . The rafters, wiring, plumbing and insulation are exposed. The decor of the room obviously isn’t anywhere equal to those seen in magazines or design shows. It is not a sight to behold.

So when I realized he would see all the underpinnings of the ugliest room of the house, I was not delighted. My old dog and I escorted the young man down the stairs to see the furnace. And then he asked if we could move the storage shelving so he could get closer to it. Of course. Why don’t you just ask me to confess all my sins to you, as well as let you see the dust particles that I hoped would remain hidden. But no. He saw all the ugly. And he didn’t say one word about it.

I always try to rationalize these types of situations in my mind. I tell myself that surely these technicians who enter my home have seen other homes far worse than mine. Surely mine can’t be the most cluttered or unkempt that they’ve come across in the years they’ve been doing their work. But I don’t ask. And I don’t apologize. I pretend that clutter is just a normal part of life.

I was reminded that a similar incident occurred a couple of years ago when we had a new water heater install right next to the furnace. I had the same thoughts and feelings that time as I had this time. So, obviously, my cleaning habits didn’t change at all. I still have dust bunnies and clutter in hidden places of my home.

I confess. I’m not a perfectionist. I don’t demand a spotless house, but I know I could do better. I could keep a cleaner house, because I do have time for it. But that’s not how I choose to spend my time. After all, the only people who really need to see my laundry room are the people who live in the house.

May all my thoughts be pleasing to him, for I rejoice in the Lord. Psalms 104:34

And I think to myself. I could keep a cleaner mind, as well. Now mind you, I’m talking about removing the cluttered thoughts of annoyance and irritation. The internal moaning and groaning of my heart that leads me to think ill of others and myself. The pangs of worry and anxiousness over situations I can’t control and don’t need to concern myself with. Those unpleasant aspects of my thoughts should be put to rest, once and for all, but I continue to find them in the most unwanted times.

I’m thankful others can’t read my mind, because they would want to stand far from me or walk away. I’m afraid they would think ill of me and not bother with the good that is in me. It seems a good thing that most thoughts are kept out of sight.

When the curtain is pulled back from the corners of your mind, what is revealed? Who would you want to hide the view that has been exposed? Too often, I fritter away my thoughts on issues that should have no bearing on my life. They’re either history that can’t be changed or imaginings that will never happen.

I wonder how peaceful I would be if I focused my thoughts on God. What would happen if I sat in quiet worship of the God who is the Creator of the universe? What would transpire if I were to humbly consider the majesty of my Heavenly Father? Just the thought of his greatness and goodness should cause my heart to bow in reverence. When I consider all his creation that shouts for joy because of his goodness, why can’t I?

When I gaze into the far reaches of my mind, I glimpse memories and thoughts of the goodness of God. I recall answered prayers and the joy of the Lord’s presence as I walked through dark valleys. God’s promises are brought to mind as I remember the days where trouble loomed and uncertainty reigned supreme. And deep in those dark corners are the remembrance that God is an ever present help in times of trouble. He will not leave me or abandon me when I am faithful to him, no matter what evil may surround me.

I read that the God of all creation is worthy of our praise, and that is so true. We must look to him as our source of strength and comfort. He’s the only constant in a life full of ups and downs. All my joy and praise should be centered on him. Our hearts should be warmed when we praise our Maker and give him all the glory and honor that is due him. No one else can accomplish or plan as he does. He alone is sovereign and will always be. There is none like him.

Have you no fear of God, no reverence for him? Job 15:4

Sons of Abraham

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God promised Abraham that he would be the father of a great nation. The only problem was that Abraham and his wife Sarah had no children. And a nation can’t be built without children. The other thing. This couple was past their prime. As in, the woman’s childbearing years were behind her. But God told them that they would have a son. He just didn’t give them a timeline for when to expect this baby. And the years continued to roll on with no child.

So. One day Sarah thought of a brilliant idea and shared it with Abraham. She suggested that he sleep with her maid, Hagar, to see if they could have a son. So Abraham foolishly obliged his wife. And a son was born. Hagar named her son Ishmael. And, of course, as time would have it, Sarah and Hagar had words. After their falling out, Sarah begged Abraham to send this servant and her son away. Abraham loved his son, but he sent them out into the desert to fend for themselves.

Twelve years after the birth of Ishmael, God’s promise to Abraham and Sarah came to pass. Abraham was one hundred years old and Sarah was ninety when their only son, Isaac, was born. God’s promise was fulfilled. Now the promised nation had begun.

After Ishmael was born, God had promised both Abraham and Hagar that Ishmael would be the father of a great nation. Just to be clear, this was a different nation than the initial one God had promised to Abraham. Abraham’s descendants formed two different nations. Two warring nations. The two brothers, Ishmael and Isaac, appeared to be civil to each other in their day, but history has shown that their descendants are still at odds with each other to this day. Ishmael is viewed as the father of Islam, and Isaac is the father of Judaism. Interesting, huh?

What went wrong with the brothers? The first was conceived outside of God’s plan, and the second was God’s promise fulfilled. Abraham and Sarah stepped outside of God’s timeline, and the result was a nation that would not exist today if they hadn’t taken matters into their own hands.

You can read this story of Abraham in Genesis 15-21.

Abram believed the Lord, and the Lord counted him as righteous because of his faith. Genesis 15:6

When we consider the cultural, political and theological differences between the Muslims and Jews, we can get a clearer picture as to why there is so much upheaval in the world. Throughout history, not only the Muslims have been against the Jews, but other nations have joined the fight against God’s chosen people.

I wonder. If Sarah hadn’t made such a ridiculous suggestion to Abraham and if he hadn’t acted on it, would there have risen another nation to take the place of Islam? Am I just fooling myself thinking that perhaps a lot of the discord and turmoil we hear about today in the Middle East could have been avoided if that son had never been born? Is that too simple of a solution?

It doesn’t mean that the Jews would have been deeply loved and valued by others throughout the years if Ishmael had never been born. Others have come along to try to erase them from the face of the earth. The Egyptians tried to destroy the Jews, but God ensured they grew to be a strong nation. Hitler wasn’t a Muslim, and he sure did his part in trying to move the Jewish nation into extinction. Still today, there are many forces working to depopulate the Jewish race. But here’s the secret. God won’t allow that to happen. Once God makes a promise, he keeps it. And it doesn’t matter how long it takes to fulfill the promise, he doesn’t go back on his word.

God loves the Jewish nation and wants the best for them, even though they have strayed from him. They have not remained faithful in following his commands. Sure. There is a remnant of faithful Jews, but they still don’t believe Jesus was the Messiah. But the day will come when the remnant believes and they will be saved.

God promised that he would destroy nations that come against Jerusalem. He says that the nations who come against Jerusalem will only hurt themselves. We must seriously consider the ramifications for our country if our leaders do not stand with Israel. We must stand with Israel at all costs.

On that day I will make Jerusalem an immovable rock. All the nations will gather against it to try to move it, but they will only hurt themselves. Zechariah 12:3

For on that day I will begin to destroy all the nations that come against Jerusalem. Zechariah 12:9

If you don’t know why there is so much hatred toward the Jewish nation, you might consider reading the entire Bible from cover to cover. I would suggest buying a chronological Bible to take you through the events as they occurred in order. Understanding the history of mankind is an important part of understanding today’s cultural moment.

Well then, has God failed to fulfill his promise to Israel? No, for not all who are born into the nation of Israel are truly members of God’s people! Being descendants of Abraham doesn’t make them truly Abraham’s children. For the Scriptures say, “Isaac is the son through whom your descendants will be counted,” though Abraham had other children, too. This means that Abraham’s physical descendants are not necessarily children of God. Only the children of the promise are considered to be Abraham’s children. Romans 9:6-8

Proclaiming the Glory of God

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In seven days, God created the heavens and the earth. We read the account of his work in the book of Genesis. It’s a fascinating story, to say the least. There are those who believe every word written about the creation, and there are those who cut it apart and put it back together in an unrecognizable way. But regardless of what someone believes, the earth rotates once every twenty-four hours in relation to the sun. The sun rises and sets in precise timing. And as if on cue, the earth continues to spin in perfect rhythm. Who but God can orchestrate such an act of precision? No one. I dare to say.

And some wonder who is in command of such happenings. I dare to ask, how can one doubt who is in charge? It seems plain as day to me. Why not to everyone?

The handiwork of God is precise. It is exact and calculated. God is the architect and designer of the universe. The design and craftmanship are beyond measure. Man, of his own abilities, could perform no such feat as to design a constellation of stars, a planet system, four seasons, and food sources enough to feed every mouth on this earth. No man can do that. What man can do and should do well is care for this creation, because it isn’t replaceable.

The heavens proclaim the glory of God. The skies display his craftsmanship. Day after day they continue to speak; night after night they make him known. They speak without a sound or word; their voice is never heard. Yet their message has gone throughout the earth, and their words to all the world. God has made a home in the heavens for the sun. Psalms 19:1-4

Many eyes were drawn to the skies this week as a solar eclipse made its way across Central and North America. Some saw it in its totality, and others viewed it partially. Eyes were guarded with special glasses. Even for the tiniest moment in time, many eyes were focused on the sun. As if the sun were a god. As if time could stand still just for the moon to pass between the sky and earth and the skies to fade dark.

In order for the earth, the moon and the sun to be in perfect alignment at the exact moment in time, a hand much larger and more precise than man’s was at work. Perfect alignment is an exact science, not trivial guesswork. Conditions must be met. Timing counts. This same God who perfectly aligned the three orbs this week also knows the number of cattle in a field. He also causes rain to fall and plants to grow.

It appears that we have survived this mighty act of God. What was predicted by some as potentially catastrophic and a cause for concern has turned out to be a seemingly quiet affair. God’s acts of brilliance don’t have to be thunderous and loud in order to be magnificent. An act of God can be as quiet as a gentle breeze on a warm day. God doesn’t always thunder his presence and power.

This magnificent event was called by different names. Cosmic coincidence. Emotional experience. Absolute transcendence. Strange phenomena. How about an act of God? That’s the more precise description we should give. Who else could align the earth, moon and sun at the exact same time and darkness cover the earth in designated places?

What if, for one tiny moment, all eyes would focus on the God who created the sun and created this spectacular event? Imagine if we focused on the Creator instead of his creation. Oh. His handiwork is something to see. But his gift of forgiveness and salvation are eternal.

There are those who pretend to be God and work by their own efforts to change weather patterns and events. Oh. They seem to be successful. We see their results. And at times, they may have us fooled into thinking the catastrophic event was natural. But only God knows for sure what he’s done and what he’s allowed in those moments.

Regardless of what one thinks of the eclipse or creation itself, the God of the universe orchestrates each moment in time and each circumstance. Others can attempt to play God, but their efforts will fall far short. And over time, it will be obvious who the true God is. It will be obvious whose works are unmatchable and whose are false attempts at greatness.

There is not a square inch in the whole domain of our human existence over which Christ, who is Sovereign over all, does not cry, Mine!

Abraham Kuyper

Book of Names

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Court documents were unsealed this week. Previously unpublished names were released. Trouble is. These people want to remain anonymous. But a judge has ruled that their names are to be published for all to read. Oh. Some names had already come to light, so they were no big surprise. But others have remained hidden from hungry eyes. Unless someone stopped this from happening, all signs were a go earlier in the week to the release the names. And the documents are slowly trickling out for public eyes to see.

The people called out most likely never thought their names would become public knowledge. But then. They probably never thought that the owner of the list would ever be brought to trial. Or imprisoned. But here we are. The parties who were found guilty are either dead or in prison. And the names have remained behind lock and key until now. And those people are probably thinking that some people just can’t leave things well enough alone. Hopefully, no one will be killed because of the exposure of names. After all. The names reveal privileged and wealthy people who were associated with a man who partook in illegal activities. Let’s just say. Young girls were involved. And some of those girls, now women, have come forward because of the activities they were required to perform.

It appears that some of those named in the lawsuit are doing everything within their legal power to keep their identity from coming to light. But since it’s already in the light, they want their names to be darkened. As in redacted. Oh. Their names can never be fully expunged. Only blacked out. And even then, there’s always a possibility that their names could be revealed in one way or another. Because once you’re named, you’re named. 

And just to be straight. This isn’t a list that anyone should desire to be on. We know there are lists that people clamor to join. The list of most beautiful women. The sexiest man of the year. Athlete of the year. Billionaires of the world. But this list is much different. This is the list no one named in it wanted to be published. And it isn’t even a list. It’s documents of court testimony uncovering people who associated with those found guilty of crimes. The actual list of names has never been found. Some wonder if it even exists. We may never know.

I wonder, though. If these men knew back then that their names would someday become public, would they have done anything differently? Would they have still associated with the man of ill repute? Would some of them still have been willing to travel on that private jet? Would some have still gone to the exotic island to do unspeakable things? Are they smiling and laughing and happy now? Are they still toasting each other, or have they turned against each other? Have any of them gone into exile? Is anyone being paid to remain silent? Have private threats been made to anyone willing to publicly expose them? Is the judge under protection? Should she be?

The time is coming when everything that is covered up will be revealed, and all that is secret will be made known to all. Whatever you have said in the dark will be heard in the light, and what you have whispered behind closed doors will be shouted from the housetops for all to hear! Luke 12:2-3

If you haven’t heard, books are being written with each of our names in them. This has been going on for centuries now. Books that list all our activities, good and bad, are being written.  And these books will one day be opened. The seal will be broken, and the contents revealed. The only thing is. These books will never be published for all to see. You’ll only know what’s been recorded about you when you stand in front of the Judge of all times. Your account will be made known to you alone. 

Before the books are opened, though, we are living our lives. And we’re being watched, quite frankly. God knows everything. There is no hiding. Oh. We can try to hide our actions from God, but it’s futile. There’s no way around his all-seeing eye. He knows everything. He sees everything. And he’s everywhere. It’s foolish of anyone to think they aren’t seen by God. 

What sorrow awaits those who try to hide their plans from the Lord , who do their evil deeds in the dark! “The Lord can’t see us,” they say. “He doesn’t know what’s going on!” How foolish can you be? He is the Potter, and he is certainly greater than you, the clay! Should the created thing say of the one who made it, “He didn’t make me”? Does a jar ever say, “The potter who made me is stupid”? Isaiah 29:15-16

You can bet that Someone is keeping track of all our words and actions. Even our intentions are being recorded. Yes. He’s a mind reader. And you want to be in his good graces when the books are opened. Because. The records don’t lie and they can’t be changed. Oh. Our sins can be forgiven if we ask. But then we must stop sinning. 

The Book of Life is the one where you definitely want to find your name. In this book are the names of those who have been given eternal life in heaven. Any sins, once confessed, are erased and are no longer remembered by God for those listed in this book of books. God’s judgment is the final word and determines where we spend eternity. So, if your name is not currently in the Book of Life, you still have time to have it entered. Repent of your sins and confess Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior of your life. And then live in full obedience to the Lord. You have a choice. And while it is still today, repent while there is still time.

I saw the dead, both great and small, standing before God’s throne. And the books were opened, including the Book of Life. And the dead were judged according to what they had done, as recorded in the books. The sea gave up its dead, and death and the grave gave up their dead. And all were judged according to their deeds. Then death and the grave were thrown into the lake of fire. This lake of fire is the second death. And anyone whose name was not found recorded in the Book of Life was thrown into the lake of fire. And I saw a great white throne and the one sitting on it. The earth and sky fled from his presence, but they found no place to hide. Revelation 20:11-15

Ancient of Days

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Some may ask “who is God?” Would they readily believe the Bible if they read it? Would they question his omnipotence? His omniscience? His omnipresence? Do they even know the meaning of those words? Do they know that God is everywhere all at the same time? Do they know that he knows everything. Everything. Do they know that he sees everything all the time. All at the same time. Do they know that God is and was and will always be. 

If someone searched the galaxy with a telescope, would they be able to spot God in the constellations he created? If someone put the DNA of a flower under the microscope, would they find God on each petal? If someone listened to the crash and roll of a thunderstorm, would they hear God? Would they see God in the flash of lightning? When looking at the ultrasound of a pre-born baby, can they spot God? The proof is everywhere. It’s right in front of our eyes. God created the world, and he created it out of nothing.

How do people deny there is a God when they don’t even search for him? When they say he doesn’t exist, how do they know? What makes them so sure they’re right? Why do atheists have faith in nothing? What makes them believe they’re right?

And he will startle many nations. Kings will stand speechless in his presence. For they will see what they had not been told; they will understand what they had not heard about. Isaiah 52:15

God doesn’t share all his secrets with any of us. He keeps them to himself. But there will be a day when he shows his hand for all to see. Then and only then will we know him. He’s given us his word that all his promises will be fulfilled. He has made the truth obvious to us, so there is no excuse for not knowing him. 

But God shows his anger from heaven against all sinful, wicked people who suppress the truth by their wickedness. They know the truth about God because he has made it obvious to them. For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God. Yes, they knew God, but they wouldn’t worship him as God or even give him thanks. And they began to think up foolish ideas of what God was like. As a result, their minds became dark and confused. Claiming to be wise, they instead became utter fools. And instead of worshiping the glorious, ever-living God, they worshiped idols made to look like mere people and birds and animals and reptiles. Romans 1:18-23

Oh. The Ancient of Days worthy of all our praise. The Alpha and Omega. The beginning and the end. You’ve seen everything since before you created the earth. All creation was performed by your hands. You’ve seen every liar and cheater and glutton and adulterer. You’ve seen the prophets and preachers and teachers. You’ve seen those who have bowed and worshipped you for many, many years, and you’ve seen those who have turned their backs on you and never repented.

“I am the Alpha and the Omega—the beginning and the end,” says the Lord God. “I am the one who is, who always was, and who is still to come—the Almighty One.” Revelation 1:8

You’ve seen the sun come up each morning and then set each evening. You’ve witnessed every snow storm and rainfall, every tornado, hurricane, tsunami and earthquake. You’ve noticed every seed that was planted. You’ve watched every flower that bloomed, every animal that has walked the earth, and every bird that’s flown the air. Every fish that has swam the ocean blue and rivers and ponds and lakes were seen by you. You’re in the roar of a lion and the chirp of a bird.

You know each one of us by name. You know the number of hairs on each head. You’ve grieved with us as we’ve grieved. You celebrate when we celebrate. You long for a relationship with every soul you created knowing that not everyone will turn to you. The amazing thing is that you show love to every one of us. You’ve loved us with an everlasting love. Your love will never die.

You’ve shown mercy and grace and compassion beyond what we deserve. And you also judge fairly and squarely. You have never shown favoritism, but you will reward those who honor you and bow at your name. Because of your great love for us, you sent your son into a world full of chaos, turmoil and trouble. You sent him in a human form as a baby to a mother who had known no man. You watched as she and her husband raised him as their own. Yet he was your only son. In his short thirty-three years on earth, he honored you. He never wavered in his obedience to you.

Your son was human, yet he was God. He had the ability to turn from your will, but he bowed his human body and his will in respect and submission to you. You want to spend eternity with every man, woman and child you created. Only by laying down your son’s life could you give us eternal life.

So Ancient of Days, we praise You and thank You and surrender to you as we celebrate the birth of your one and only Son. In Your name, we give you the praise and honor and glory that is deserved only by you. In humble adoration and submission to your will, it is in your name we pray. Amen.

The Christmas Gift

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As I signed her Christmas card, I realized its message was an obvious reflection of the true meaning of Christmas. There were no Christmas trees or Santa or reindeer. No elves or mistletoe or sleighs. No snow or stockings or elves. There were just words taken from the book of Matthew proclaiming the birth of the Promised Messiah. It was a message of hope.

I knew she considered herself to be religious. She is, after all, a devout Catholic who attends an online Irish Mass in the wee hours of Sunday morning. Oh. She once regularly attended in person at her parish, but a global event three years earlier got her out of the habit of meeting with friends and family. She now chooses to worship alone, if she worships at all.

I wondered if her out of town guests arriving in a few days would note the religious overtones of the card. I could just imagine them asking her about the one who had signed the card. I wondered if they might possibly ask if the person seemed to be a holy roller. Were they religious? Were they a Christian? I wondered how she might respond to the question. How would she describe me? And then I had to come to an honest conclusion that perhaps I haven’t shared enough of my faith with her. Perhaps she thought I was just a nice person. And that’s it. Did she really know that I’m a Christian?

I also wasn’t sure how she would accept the gift I was offering to her. It was an outside the box type of gift. Not one that just everyone would give. I wasn’t sure if she would think it weird since it was homemade. But when she opened the gift and realized what it was, she squealed in delight. Her face lit up with joy. She told me the gift she was bringing for me the next day was not nearly as creative. The point of my gift wasn’t to be creative or to outdo her gift. It was to make her holiday just a bit easier. 

In my mind, I had decided how and when she could use the gift. But when she later told me her plans for it, they didn’t match the scenario in my head. I was a little disappointed, but then I had to remind myself that the gift was hers to use as she saw fit. It didn’t have to fit the imaginary scene in my head. So I smiled and said that her plan sounded perfect. And I meant it, because it was her plans that mattered. Not mine.

God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Ephesians 2:8

She’s often in pain and doesn’t have much stamina these days. She walks painstakingly slow now, and is scheduled for an upcoming surgery after the first of the year. She lives alone and has to climb stairs even when the pain is unbearable. She’s past the age of retirement, but says she wants to work ten more years. She needs help but won’t ask for it. 

Her only child is flying home to celebrate the holiday with her for the first time in several years. She has had a countdown on her phone for months waiting for the day her daughter arrives. She said her daughter was her reason for living. The visit will give her the encouragement she needs to make it until she has surgery.

It is the season of gift giving. I realize there are times that it’s important to give good gifts to others. Not necessarily expensive or designer gifts. But gifts from the heart. Gifts that offer a personal touch. Some groups set a price limit. Others know no limits. Some offer few gifts, while others give lavishly. But isn’t it true that it isn’t the gift that matters? It’s the heart of the giver. Gifts should be offered freely with no strings attached. Was there a spoken or unspoken expectation of reciprocation? Hopefully not.

The gift of God’s only son is a gift from his heart to everyone. And it offers a personal touch on the heart of every believer who accepts it. We can rejoice with great joy this Christmas season knowing that the sacrifice of God’s only Son is the gift that keeps on giving. By accepting the gift, we are given even more. We now have the promise of eternal life in heaven.

When someone on this earth accepts the gift freely given by our heavenly Father, the gift of salvation and eternal life, angels rejoice. Heaven throws a party when a lost sinner becomes a child of God.  Have angels partied for you yet? If not, there is still time. With a repentant heart, pray the sinner’s prayer below that Billy Graham invited people to pray when they accepted Christ as their personal Savior. 

Dear God,

I know I’m a sinner, and I ask for your forgiveness.
I believe Jesus Christ is Your Son. I believe that He died
for my sin and that you raised Him to life.
I want to trust Him as my Savior and follow Him as Lord,
from this day forward. Guide my life and help me to do your will.

I pray this in the name of Jesus. Amen.

There is joy in the presence of God’s angels when even one sinner repents. Luke 15:10

If My Dad Was God For A Day

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

She was writing the final paper for her senior year in college. The professor assigned the topic for the class. They had to answer one question. What would the world be like if your dad was made God for a day? This woman felt she was at a huge disadvantage. She grew up in a home with a single mom and little to no contact with her earthly father. So. How would the world be different if her earthly father played God for the day?

This woman said that her thoughts and opinions shaped the world and God’s place in it based on who her earthly father was. She perceived God to be absentee, unpredictable and emotionally disconnected, uninterested in her life. That was almost a mirror reflection of her relationship with her earthly father. She realized she had an inaccurate view of God and needed to change it. So, the following year she enrolled in seminary so she could learn a more accurate understanding of who God is.

Not all kids growing up in the same household have identical view of their fathers. Each kid’s personality and strengths and weaknesses are different, so a father will interact with each child in a unique way. Some who knew my dad might see him in a different light than how I see him. If they were telling this story, he might look a bit different. But isn’t it the same when we have opposing views of God? We may see God differently than someone else does. It all depends on our experiences and our views of many different elements of life.

It is an interesting question. And I thought I would put it to the test. What would the world be like if my dad was made God for a day? I’m basing my description on my dad’s chosen life’s work, not on his personality traits or strengths and weaknesses.

My dad was a farmer, so you could say that he worked from home. A normal day in the life of my dad would see him working on his farm. His workday would start with feeding the pigs. Then, he might sort the pigs into different categories. He would consider which ones were ready to be sold for slaughter and which ones to keep for growing the herd. If some pigs were ready to give birth, he would move them to the nursery. The job of a pig farmer seemed to revolve around sorting and feeding his pigs.

Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God, the Almighty. Revelation 4:8

On another day, my dad might work in the fields from morning until evening. In the spring, he would plant corn and soybeans. In the fall, he would plant the wheat and harvest the corn and beans. He would harvest the wheat in the summer or early fall. The work of a grain farmer consists of cultivating the ground, planting the seed and harvesting the crops. And praying for rain.

There was always work to be done in the fields. The soil had to be prepared for the crops that would be planted. There was plowing and cultivating the ground in order to soften the soil, because the soil had to be ready to accept the seeds that were sown in it. Once the crops were growing, fertilizer would be added for a plentiful harvest. At certain times in the growing process, he would till the land to remove weeds that had popped up between the rows of crops. If weeds weren’t removed, they could overtake the crop and there would be no harvest. Weeds had to be kept under control.

As farming methods progressed, my dad would use the no-till method of planting where the soil would not be disturbed until the seed hit the ground. The previous crop that had died back would be left in the field, and a new crop would be planted directly over it. This would prevent soil erosion. There was never any expectation that the seeds would plant themselves or the crops would harvest themselves. The farmer must do the work of planting and harvesting.

A farmer’s work is never done. If my dad wasn’t working in the fields or with the pigs, he might be repairing his farm equipment. There were tractors, combines, trucks, plows, disks, cultivators, planters and possibly other tools I can’t quite recall. The man was busy from morning to night. And on beautiful sunny evenings, he would load his family in the pickup truck to drive around the countryside admiring the fields of crops.

Everyone may not agree with my dad’s method of farming, but his work always produced great results. His crops produced a higher yield that other farmers in the area. He knew that the secret to a huge harvest was to start with healthy soil and the best seeds. My dad had a proper understanding of raising healthy and productive crops.

Now knowing what a day in the life of a farmer looks like, what would the day look like if he was God? With my dad’s background in farming, I could see him as a nurturing God. As a discipler and a disciplinarian. He would be interested in feeding the souls of his people, but he would also discipline those who are going astray from his teachings. He would mentor those who are eager to know more about him and what makes him holy. He would sort the wheat from the chaff, the good fruit from the rotting fruit.

If my dad was God for a day, he would produce a huge harvest, because he had been faithful with the little he had been given. His crops would be able to provide for many who are less fortunate. He would feed the hungry and teach them how to feed themselves. His hard work would not be in vain. His talents were proven to be good, and he loved his work.

Not everyone approves of God’s ways, but his work always produces the best results. Perfect results, actually. He can do no wrong. The good news for my dad and for everyone is that he will never be God. There is only one God, and no one compares to him. And when we look at the truth of God that is found in Scripture, there’s only one story to tell about God. Our opinions and life experiences don’t change who God is or what he does.

Happy Birthday, America

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

This week America celebrates another birthday. Two hundred forty seven years ago, America launched its quest for freedom. But did you know that July 4th wasn’t the actual day that freedom was declared for this young country? No. The American Revolution started in April 1775. The first draft of the Declaration of Independence was written by Thomas Jefferson in June 1776. On July 2nd, the Continental Congress decided to declare independence. The document was actually signed on August 2nd. And it wasn’t delivered to Great Britain until November 1776.

So, what actually happened on July 4th?

July 4th is the date the Continental Congress approved the final wording of the Declaration of Independence. The document was dated July 4, 1776. That date has stuck with the document from the beginning and was declared a national holiday in 1870. Almost one hundred years after the Declaration of Independence was written and signed, legislation was finally put in place recognizing July 4th as the official national holiday.

For almost twenty years after the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the country didn’t celebrate that monumental occasion. It was practically forgotten until John Adams wrote a letter in 1817 complaining that the country seemed uninterested in its past. History repeats itself, wouldn’t you say?

In April 1818, Congress passed the Flag Act. The act ensures that the American flag has thirteen stripes. Alternating red and white stripes. There will be a star for each state admitted to the union. Since 1818, there have been twenty-four versions of the flag, representing each new state admitted since then. Any new version of the flag is effective on July 4th of the year after the new state’s admission.

Francis Bellamy wrote the first pledge of allegiance in August 1892. In its original form, the pledge read: I pledge allegiance to my Flag and the Republic for which it stands, one nation, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. In 1923, the following phrase was added:  “the Flag of the United States of America”. In 1954, President Eisenhower encouraged Congress to add the words “under God” to the pledge in response to Communist threats.

I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

All Americans should be proud of the country we represent. We should never take lightly the freedom that has been fought for and won by our soldiers. Many have given their lives for our freedom. Let’s honor their sacrifice and not give away what was given to us by previous generations.

Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord , the people he chose for his inheritance. Psalms 33:12

America has been billed as the land of the free and the home of the brave. But look at us. Our personal freedoms are being threatened. And bravery seems to be in high demand. So what has changed? It appears as though our nation has forgotten that we are to be a nation under God. Where have we put God? It seems that for years this country has been in a downward spiral, due to the fact that we moved God out of control.

Our country started out on a biblical foundation, yet we now find ourselves living in a land that is governed by unbiblical principles. Anything and everything goes. Oh. God has never chosen America as his favored people. He gave the favored status to the nation of Israel. And it was from Israel that the Messiah came to earth. God’s only Son was born to a virgin named Mary. The Messiah came to earth and died for our sins long before America arrived on the scene.

And yet, this country that became a superpower is threatened today by forces unseen. Oh. We see the threats. We hear the threats. Fellow citizens use mean words to attack our liberties. Other nations seem to believe we’re no longer a viable threat, so they spew their own threats at us. We have bullies in office and others are vying for the job. We don’t know how this nation will survive or thrive if current conditions remain the norm.

Yet we must remember. God is an ever present help in times of trouble. No matter what happens in this country. No matter who wins or loses any election. No matter if we agree with the decisions handed down from the highest court of the land. God is in control. He does not waver and he does not bow to anyone. God allows the rain to fall on the just and the unjust. Our nation, great as it is, isn’t the superpower we must worship. The superpower in charge of all creation and of all times and of all things is God Almighty. We will all bow and worship him at some appointed time in the future. May his name be praised.

Not What We’d Expect

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

He was young and good looking. Smart. Well educated. He was trained to be a leader. He was acquainted with the king. Perhaps he was the heir apparent to the throne. But then he was taken captive by the enemy. He and a group of other young men of nobility were led to a distant country to serve at the pleasure of the enemy king. Their lives changed in a moment. Their city had been overrun by an army that destroyed their temple. This temple built by King Solomon had stood for three hundred years. It was a magnificent piece of architecture. And it was plundered. Not only were the sacred temple items stolen, but so were the royal citizens who lived in the palace. The sworn enemy took the best of the best in this invasion. Of course. This enemy king took the young men who were already familiar with palace living.

“Select only strong, healthy, and good-looking young men,” he said. “Make sure they are well versed in every branch of learning, are gifted with knowledge and good judgment, and are suited to serve in the royal palace. Train these young men in the language and literature of Babylon. ” Daniel 1:4

Daniel and his three friends Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah were now captives in a foreign land. They were no longer their own. Scripture tells us that the prophet Isaiah had warned King Hezekiah that family members would be taken captive to Babylon and these young men would be made into eunuchs. So based on that Scripture, we know that Daniel and his friends would not marry and have families. These young men were emasculated. They were subjects of the king. But not one word is written that they complained or fought against this evil act performed on their bodies. This single act robbed them of the ability to father children. They would have been opposed to such barbaric acts, but they knew that God was in control. They chose to stand strong in their faith in God with each trial and testing placed in their path. They would not surrender their faith, even if it meant death or mutilation of their bodies.

Then Isaiah said to Hezekiah, “Listen to this message from the Lord : The time is coming when everything in your palace—all the treasures stored up by your ancestors until now—will be carried off to Babylon. Nothing will be left, says the Lord . Some of your very own sons will be taken away into exile. They will become eunuchs who will serve in the palace of Babylon’s king.” 2 Kings 20:16-18

King Nebuchadnezzar had made sure that these young men who were from families of prestige and wealth were rendered helpless. When it came to the next generation, perhaps one of one of these four men was the heir apparent to the Judean throne. We don’t know if Hezekiah was the father of any of these young men or if their fathers worked in the royal courts. But we do know that these young men knew what royal life was all about. They had been trained in royal living. They knew the palatial lifestyle, the wealth, and the opulence of living under a successful king. They were surrounded with delicious food, beauty at its finest and endless luxury. Anything they wanted was at their disposal. They were accustomed to an opulent lifestyle, but now they found themselves living in the palace of their enemy. And oh. How the tables have turned. They were not the ones to give commands or issue decrees. They were the ones who were being told what to do. When. Where. And how. They were told what their names would be. They were told what kind of food they had to eat. They were forced into a three year re-education program.

This king was trying to undo all their Jewish knowledge and ways and beliefs. I’m sure there may have been other young exiles who were happy to shed their Jewish customs. Because after all, they were in this mess because their nation had forsaken God. Their nation, as a whole, had rejected God’s commands. So the land of Judah was being punished. And yes, God had warned many times over the years that this exile would occur. They just didn’t know the timing of it.

In this invasion, young men of varying degrees of loyalty to their Jewish faith were most likely taken. So perhaps not every one of these young men held firmly to the Jewish customs, traditions, and observances. Perhaps they were eager to mix with the Babylonians. Didn’t they realize the price for mixing with the enemy? Perhaps they were glad they didn’t have to pray certain times of the day or eat a restricted diet. Perhaps they were glad they didn’t have to offer sacrifices for their sins. I’m speculating here, but we know that the land of Judah had forsaken God. It’s likely that not all of the Jewish exiles held to their Jewish faith. As the nation goes, so goes the people.

But these four young men were determined not to lose the heritage of their faith. They were determined to be faithful to their God, the only God. They knew the ways of God. And they knew the words of God. They were spiritually prepared to fight the battles ahead of them. But there were changes they had to contend with during this challenging time. They agreed to change their names. They agreed to attend this three year re-education program. In the three years that they were being indoctrinated with the Babylonian ways, customs, and traditions, they were able to learn the heart and mind of the king. They learned to live as Babylonians without becoming Babylonians. Impossible? Not if God is with you.

My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. They are not of the world, even as I am not of it. John 17:15-16

But when they were offered the diet of a lifetime, the opportunity to eat the king’s food, they put their foot down. They said no. We cannot eat that food. Now there are a few different reasons why they chose not to eat the king’s food. It could be because they were Jewish. After all, Jews eat kosher and the Babylonian diet was not kosher. The Babylonians ate a rich diet and they were proud of it. And so when this rich plate of food was placed in front of them, they were appalled. Their refusal to partake could have been because these foods were off limits to people of the Jewish faith. They could have said no to the food because it had been sacrificed to idols, which was inappropriate in their faith tradition. The third reason could be that this was the king’s food. And even though they were now subject to him, it didn’t mean that they agreed with everything he did and said. And they perhaps knew that by eating his food meant that they were in agreement with him. And they were not. So they refused. We don’t know for sure what the reason was that they refused this food, but we know that they stood firm in their faith and said no.

And when Daniel approached the chief of staff to ask for a different plate of food, the man was afraid for his own life. He knew that by allowing these young exiles to reject the king’s food, the king could demand his head. So Daniel asked for a trial run on his requested diet. And the chief of staff agreed, because God had given him both respect and favor for Daniel. The gauntlet had been thrown. If these four young men looked unhealthy by the end of the week, they would eat the king’s forbidden food. Otherwise, they would remain on their Jewish diet. And at the end of that week, those four young men were sharper and healthier than any of the other young men. They were allowed to continue with their diet.

What we know is that eating the king’s food would have defiled their relationship with God. Their refusal to eat it kept their faith with God in good standing. And that was their ultimate goal. Nothing else mattered. They stood strong in their faith, and they complied with the king’s orders when doing so wouldn’t compromise their faith. Changing their name and attending the three-year indoctrination program didn’t weaken their faith, so they agreed to those demands.

When the three years of training had been completed, the king tested each young man. God had given these four particular young men an unusual aptitude for understanding every aspect of literature and wisdom. He also gave Daniel the ability to interpret the meaning of visions and dreams. No one impressed the king more than these four young men. They had been given favor by God and won a place in the king’s service.

When we compare our lives to this time in Daniel’s life, it’s easy to wonder how this story of Daniel and his three friends applies to our lives today.

Considering everything that’s happening in our culture today, we see so many false ideologies being taught in schools for children to bow down to. We see the evil that world leaders are pursuing. We see the casual way lies are spoken as truth, the cover ups, the destruction of lives and livelihoods, of families being torn apart, of wars and rumors of wars. As believers in Jesus Christ, we need to stand strong in our faith. We need to know where to draw the line on what will defile our relationship with God. And that is where we say no. We need to know where to draw the line so we don’t compromise our faith. For each of us, it may be a different place. It may be a different social scenario or work expectation where we realize we can’t cross the line. We may not know today what that line is. But we better know it when it comes at us.

Just as these young men had been raised to know the Jewish faith and how God had delivered his people many times, and how he had provided for them many times, so too, we believers must know biblical truths. Because it is from those biblical truths where we will draw our strength when we are forced to take a stand. Daniel and his friends knew God’s faithfulness in their previous lives. And they knew God would be faithful in their new life, as long as they were faithful to Him. We too must draw on God’s faithfulness in our times of testing.

These four young men chose to stand strong in their faith in God regardless of what happened to them. So today, let’s let that be the lesson for us that we can stand strong in our faith when others are mandating certain behaviors from us. When we know that a certain act or word will defile our faith, let’s say no to it. Let’s stand strong in the Word of God. But that means that we need to know the Word of God. We need to read and study the Word of God. We must spend time daily in prayer. We need to be faithful in building our relationship with God and making sure that it is strong so that it will stand the test of time. No matter the test we’re facing, with God all things are possible.

Perhaps in our time of testing and maneuvering through the potholes in today’s culture, we will be found faithful and excellent in our service. Perhaps we need to trust God to show us mercy and favor as we live for him in situations where living for God isn’t popular or desired. We must stand ready to engage in today’s culture and customs, even when they are in direct opposition to the Word of God. If we don’t know today’s culture, how can we actively engage to share the love of God?

We can’t live in our own spiritual vacuum and win the world to Jesus. We can’t retreat and hide from the world. We can’t shelter in place. How will we learn to be in the world if we don’t live in it? We can’t hide away and live in our own personal exile. We can’t retreat when we haven’t even fought for our faith. We must stand and be accountable for our convictions. Let’s not even consider compromising, if it would cost us our faith. Eternity lasts forever.