mission field

Testing Her Religion

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

I had a Monday morning hair appointment scheduled. I arrived a few minutes before my stylist, so I waited. When she walked in, she told me that she was sitting in her car reading. We both are hobby readers, so I asked what she was reading. She said she had started reading about the forty days of Jesus. And she had inspired a group of coworkers in the salon to read the book with her. She was on day two, but she wasn’t sure if the others had started their reading yet. She also mentioned a couple other Christian books that she’s reading. She’s all shook up about the recent assassination of Charlie Kirk. Because of it, she said she’s testing her religion and wants to help her co-workers understand the Bible more.

In the few months I’ve been seeing her, I’ve learned that she is politically conservative. We’ve had some interesting conversations about politics in our state and country. We agree on some things, but not everything. And we don’t really dig deep into our agreements or disagreements. We’re cordial in our discussions. She’s talked about God and the Bible and church. She’s expressed interest but made no outward signs of getting back in church. At one point, she mentioned that she wanted to start reading the New Testament. When I followed up with her a month later, she admitted that she hadn’t opened the Bible.

I’ve read that there is a spiritual surge happening in our nation since the assassination. Many people are returning to church and seeking solace in God in answer to the harmful rhetoric and violence that’s continuing to roar loudly in our country. People are seeking to be filled with something more than hatred and anxiety. They’re looking for something to fill that deep longing of the heart. They’re searching for the meaning of life. Honestly. They’re searching for God.

Just as multitudes are turning to church to find the answer, so is my hair stylist. Oh. She knows a lot of the answers. She’s attended church. She’s read parts of the Bible. She’s familiar with Christianity and Bible stories. But she’s searching for more. And she’s searching in the right places. Oh. We’ve had conversations about church and God. I’ve invited her to my church. When I saw her earlier this week, she said she’s back in church. She and her kids. I guess her husband hasn’t had the awakening that she’s had. She’s hungry for biblical truth. I pray that she finds a deep and fulfilling relationship with her Creator. And I pray that she keeps seeking that close relationship with Him.

But in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect, having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame. For it is better to suffer for doing good, if that should be God’s will, than for doing evil. 1 Peter 3:15-17

The sad truth is that regardless of how many turn to God in these early days of awakening revival, many others will harden their hearts. They will want nothing to do with God. They will seek vengeance and resistance to the God of truth. Some will turn to violence and criminal activities. Others will harbor bitterness and hatred in their hearts. Many will numb themselves with alcohol and drugs or just plain scrolling. Others may end their lives and even the lives of others. God help us.

For those of us who come face to face with those who have experienced this renewed attention to spiritual matters, let’s keep the door of conversation open and civil. Let’s hear what they have to say. Let’s listen to their questions as they seek truthful answers. Let’s guide them to the ultimate truth, the Savior of the world. Let’s follow up with them in their search. They may need help in getting to the truth and may not really know where to turn. Let’s not be afraid to share the gospel with them. Because if we don’t share the message of salvation that we know to be true, someone who doesn’t know the truth may misguide them. We who have experienced the saving grace of our Lord and Savior must speak up. We must live our faith boldly in front of those who are searching and in front of those who are condemning us. We can’t look the other way and hope someone else takes up our cross. We must willingly take up the cross ourselves. Each of us. It’s our call. It’s our responsibility.

How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching? And how are they to preach unless they are sent? As it is written, “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!” Romans 10:14-15

Regardless of where we’re sitting, be it a crowded hair salon or a quiet coffee shop, and someone asks us a spiritual question, let’s not shy away from the answer we know in our heart of hearts. Let’s share boldly. Even if others around us hear our conversation, let’s speak up. God is working in the hearts of many, and we each have a part in responding accordingly. People are opening up to the truth of Christianity, so we must speak it out loud. It’s not the time to be shy. God does not give us a spirit of timidity but of hope and power and self-control. Let’s spread the Good News in the power of the Holy Spirit.

For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control. Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord, nor of me his prisoner, but share in suffering for the gospel by the power of God who saved us and called us to a holy calling, not because of our works but because of his purpose and grace which he gave us in Christ Jesus before the ages began. 2 Timothy 1:7-9

For when we brought you the Good News, it was not only with words but also with power, for the Holy Spirit gave you full assurance that what we said was true. And you know of our concern for you from the way we lived when we were with you. 1 Thessalonians 1:5

But No One Asked

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

I moved to this state eight months ago. My. How time flies. I buy groceries every week. The problem is that none of the grocery stores where I shopped in my previous state are available where I now live. None. There is no Kroger. Or Giant Eagle. No Whole Foods. Or Fresh Thyme. And no Trader Joe’s. None of them. Oh sure. There is a Walmart. And a Meijer. I just don’t shop at those stores. So, I’ve had to visit all the grocery stores in the area to find one I like. And it took weeks to settle on one. My favorite is farther away than I want to drive. And it’s the most expensive one. The next one is owned by the expensive store, and it’s a little pricey, too. So, I’ve settled on a third choice. It’s a good store. It’s clean and fully stocked. However, it doesn’t carry some of the items I am used to buying. But none of the others do, either. And that’s not really the issue for today.

The store that I’ve settled on is a decent one. I have no problem shopping there. But I’ve noticed I think is peculiar. They offer some type of rewards program. I’m not sure what it is because no one has explained it to me, and I haven’t asked. But here’s the thing. Every week when I go through the checkout line, the cashier asks if I am a rewards member. I say no. They say ok and continue with checking me out. They don’t ask if I want to join. And they don’t ask if I want to know about the program. They don’t say anything but “ok” when I tell them I’m not a member.

I find it odd that in all these months no one has asked if I’m interested in becoming a card carrying rewards member. Maybe they’ve asked others in the past who have refused. I don’t know. Or maybe the workers are trained not to offer the rewards program unless someone asks about it. I’m not interested in the program, but I find it very odd that they don’t wonder why I’m not a member. I’m assuming they don’t care. After all, the cashiers are just doing their job by scanning and bagging my groceries and then taking my payment. They don’t have to offer anything extra. And I’ve never been approached by a manager. I’m not even sure who the manager is. Or the assistant manager. I’m sure they’re busy working in their office or scouting through the store. I just find it odd that no one has asked.

And then there’s the sub sandwich shop that I seem to be frequenting more often than I should. They, too, offer some type of rewards program. Every time I order at the drive thru, they ask if I’m a rewards member. When I tell them I’m not, they just give the total that I owe for my sandwich. And when I pull up at the drive thru window, they’ve never asked if I wanted to join the rewards program or offered any information about it. What’s up with that?

In both instances with the grocery store and the sub shop, I’m sure I would be allowed to become a rewards member if I wanted. I’m assuming they wouldn’t deny anyone access to the program. After all, it’s free, aside from making purchases at their stores. And I’m not offended that neither of them has asked. I just find it odd that no one has asked.

For “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” But how can they call on him to save them unless they believe in him? And how can they believe in him if they have never heard about him? And how can they hear about him unless someone tells them? And how will anyone go and tell them without being sent? That is why the Scriptures say, “How beautiful are the feet of messengers who bring good news! Romans 10:13-15

As Christians, we come into contact with people every day who aren’t believers. And we say nothing to them about our faith. Oh. They may know that we attend church, but we never invite them. Heaven forbid that we ask someone to visit our church. And we sure don’t tell them about our relationship with God. I mean. We may say that it’s the most important relationship in our lives, over that of even our spouse and children. As it should be. But we don’t share the good news of salvation with anyone. We say we don’t want others to be uncomfortable with such a personal question, but I can guarantee most of us have probably discussed divisive politics with them. Or our personal problems. Or other people’s problems. But we don’t share how the most important decision we’ve ever made in our lives has changed our life forever.

How will unbelievers come to a growing relationship with Christ if no one tells them? How will they know that the only path to eternity with Jesus is through the old rugged cross? How will they know that they need to repent of their sins and commit to following Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior if they want to see him in heaven someday? If we who have received eternal life don’t tell them, who will?

So faith comes from hearing, that is, hearing the Good News about Christ. But I ask, have the people of Israel actually heard the message? Yes, they have: “The message has gone throughout the earth, and the words to all the world.” Romans 10:17-18

We have to stop assuming that the next person will fill in the gap for our lack of obedience or initiative. We must step up and reach out to the lost. If all Christians are silent, how will we win the lost? Are we ashamed of the gospel? Oh. I’m just as guilty as the next person about keeping my faith to myself. I’m preaching to myself here.

I follow several influencers on social media. They are continually telling their followers about the new and awesome products they use, hoping to gain a commission from the sales. Oh. You say. That’s different. Influencers actually get paid for telling others about their favorite products. Does everything have to be about the almighty American dollar? Do we always have to expect something in return for a good we’ve done for others? We are not building up an earthly prize when we share the love of Jesus with others. Our reward will be in eternity. Isn’t it fulfilling to see others come to know Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior, just as we have? Wouldn’t you breathe a deep sigh of relief and joy knowing one more sinner has turned from the path to hell and is now marching to Zion?

Oh. We seem to be willing to express our opinions openly about topics we disagree with. If we have a bad experience at a restaurant or hotel or with a business, we want to tell the world. And sometimes we see people posting photos and a description of the bad service they’re received. They feel free to share their experience and anger or hurt feelings with even online strangers. But tell someone that Jesus is the light of the world? Share how Jesus has changed your life? Of course, we can’t. We’re too shy. It wouldn’t be right. It would be uncomfortable. What if I’m ridiculed? That’s what we say. So, we’re quiet. Too quiet. We’re so quiet, in fact, that we never share our faith at all. And we wonder why others don’t know.

One writer asks the question, “Do we see any secret-agent, underground Christians in the New Testament church?” I think not, he writes. So, we are not off the hook for sharing the gospel. We may not all be extroverts and find it easy and comfortable to share our faith, but we still must be faithful to speak when God opens the door for such a conversation. Just because someone doesn’t ask about our faith or about Christianity or the Bible doesn’t mean they’re not interested in learning about it. Perhaps they just don’t know anyone who is versed in such topics, as we live next to them tightly clutching our faith to our chest. And if we who know don’t speak up, shame on us.

If we believe God’s ways are truly best, then out of love of neighbor we need to promote God’s ways.

Dr. Glenn Sunshine

When Persecution Matters

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

We are told throughout the Bible that as Christians we can expect to be persecuted for our faith. After all, the disciples of Jesus were imprisoned, beaten, tortured and killed for following him. Our culture may not be as barbaric as theirs was, but we should not be surprised when we face persecution of some sort. Oh. We may not be put in prison or beaten or tortured or killed. But then again, we may.

Our lifestyle of faith will not be accepted in many circles these days. Does that mean we should stay sequestered in our homes? Does that mean we should remain silent about the God we serve? Should we abstain from speaking up about our convictions when they differ from those who could make life difficult for us in our place of employment or any other place we go?

Have you ever wondered what would happen to someone else’s faith if they knew you were facing heavy persecution? Do you imagine that they were be silent and run in the opposite direction? Because some would. But not everyone. All some people need to see is that one who speaks up. The one who stands up for truth at all costs. And they are emboldened to do the same. Most people don’t really want to be the one to start a revolution, but it takes one willing soul to start it. Oh. It may be only one person who steps forward to continue the fight. But one is better than none. 

The knowledge that someone is being persecuted for their beliefs may cause some to remain silent. Not everyone is a risk taker or is willing to pursue the truth, come what may. But there are those who are willing to pick up the mantle and carry the fight through for the next generation. 

The apostle Paul knew what it meant to suffer for his faith. While he was in prison, he wrote to the church in Philippi encouraging the believers to stay strong in their faith. And because of his eloquent faith, the believers were emboldened to speak confidently of theirs, as well. Knowing full well that they could come to the same situation as Paul found himself in, they stood by him and stood strong. They were not deterred by seeing one of their own being persecuted for voicing his beliefs.

If the world hates you, remember that it hated me first. The world would love you as one of its own if you belonged to it, but you are no longer part of the world. I chose you to come out of the world, so it hates you. Do you remember what I told you? ‘A slave is not greater than the master.’ Since they persecuted me, naturally they will persecute you. And if they had listened to me, they would listen to you. John 15:18-20

And I want you to know, my dear brothers and sisters, that everything that has happened to me here has helped to spread the Good News. For everyone here, including the whole palace guard, knows that I am in chains because of Christ. And because of my imprisonment, most of the believers here have gained confidence and boldly speak God’s message without fear. Philippians 1:12-14

The spiral of silence theory tells us that an individual’s perception of the distribution of public opinion influences that individual’s willingness to express their own opinions. John Stonestreet of the Colson Center says that when people are silent about an injustice or falsehood, even if they personally disagree, more people will be silent. So it’s easy to see why people stay silent. But when only one person dares to speak up, others feel empowered to speak, as well. No one wants to be alone.

In his book, The 1916 Project, Seth Gruber tells the story of Anna Bowden, who was a missionary in India. She had a burning desire and calling to share the good news of Jesus Christ to a lost country. Earlier missionaries to the area had not challenged the cultural beliefs and practices, even if those practices opposed biblical teachings. But Anna was different. She courageously spoke up against the Hindu practice of the infanticide of girls and sacrificing widows on their dead husband’s funeral pyres. She was killed in an attack on her mission station due to her outspokenness against this pagan cruelty. Gruber writes that “Anna Bowden changed the world by her life and by her death because she knew the kingdom of God would have the final say. Though our circumstances may be quite different from Bowden’s in rural India, we have the same choice before us. We can hide our lives in safety and security, or we can spend them on that which is eternal.”

But this young woman’s death ignited the courage of other missionaries. Gruber continues on to say that “within India, missionary communities that had played it safe previously were emboldened and renewed their efforts. The result was the sort of fruit that hadn’t been seen in a generation.” Just as Paul’s imprisonment caused other believers to gain confidence and boldly speak God’s message without fear, Anna Bowden’s death stirred other missionaries to take up the cause of the the sanctity of life regardless of India’s Hindu culture.

I wonder if the silent Germans ever looked back at the end of their lives and wished they had spoken up in support of their Jewish neighbors who were marched off to internment camps, never to be seen again. As we go about our lives, can we stand tall with a clear conscience because we speak up for our beliefs, or are we unable to look those in the eye who have suffered because of our silence? It’s not only that we must speak up for our biblical beliefs, but we must also speak up against the wrongs being doled out in the name of cultural acceptance. When we know how to biblically treat our neighbors and don’t do it, how can we expect to stand in judgment before our God and be rewarded for a life well lived?

Always remember that Jesus Christ, a descendant of King David, was raised from the dead. This is the Good News I preach. And because I preach this Good News, I am suffering and have been chained like a criminal. But the word of God cannot be chained. So I am willing to endure anything if it will bring salvation and eternal glory in Christ Jesus to those God has chosen. 2 Timothy 2:8-10

Faithful Witness

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

Daniel worked with King Nebuchadnezzar for roughly thirty years. During that time, Daniel had many opportunities to be a godly example to the king. In the way he carried himself. In the way he made decisions and interacted with others. In the way he led his team of wise men. In the way he helped rule the nation. And he always prayed three times a day at the window in his house. During these prayers, we’ve got to believe that he was praying for his job, his boss the king, and for those under his authority. He no longer had a family. His job was his life. He had been brutally taken from his home in Jerusalem and marched to Babylon as a teenager. And he lived there the rest of his life serving kings, always serving the man in charge. For seventy years, he served the kings who ruled Babylon.

King Nebuchadnezzar wasn’t much older than Daniel. I wouldn’t say they became friends, but they both had deep respect for the other. Although they worshipped different gods, Nebuchadnezzar never required Daniel to give up his faith in the One True God. Nebuchadnezzar saw the One True God as just one of the many gods, but he didn’t worship God. He only acknowledged him as a god.

Daniel was faithful through all his years of exiled service. He didn’t lose his faith. His faith only strengthened over time, because his sole source of strength was God. As a young child in Jerusalem, Daniel never expected to leave his home or country. He never realized that he would be taken prisoner and held captive for the remainder of his life. Yet that’s where he found himself. Who knows what level of power he could have attained if he had been able to stay in Jerusalem. He was most likely from a noble family and was headed toward a career within royalty serving a Jewish king. Instead he found himself serving Babylonian king in hostile territory.

We won’t ever what he could have done in Jerusalem. But we do know what he did in Babylon. And that was noble and notable. It was the sacrifice of a lifetime. And he had no say in any of it. His role was to serve God faithfully wherever he was placed. And that is what he did. It wasn’t a job he chose. It wasn’t a nation he chose. It wasn’t the life he chose. But he found himself there, regardless. And there was nothing he could do to change that. He was a prisoner, but he held a high position in the country. King Nebuchadnezzar respected him and looked to his advice as solid and trustworthy.

Daniel had many opportunities through the years to live out his faith among the courts. Imagine being in a position for thirty years with one boss who didn’t believe in your God but allowed you the freedom to pursue your faith. Even when it wasn’t the faith of the nation. The king had witnessed God’s work in Daniel’s life and in his own life, because there were time when he called on Daniel to solve his problems. Daniel, of course, called on his God, the Host of heavens armies, to show him how to identify and present this problem to the king. Daniel didn’t try to do that work on his own. And God showed his majestic power to King Nebuchadnezzar through Daniel.

Daniel always consulted God first. And God gave him the ability to perform difficult tasks. Tasks such as telling the king what he had dreamed and then interpreting it. Even if it was bad news. It’s easy to say that Daniel had a way with words, but God filled him with humility, kindness and deep respect for this king. This was a king Daniel didn’t necessarily approve of but was strong armed into serving him. At some point, Nebuchadnezzar must have been dishonoring the poor and elderly, because Daniel called him out on these two issues. The king had such high respect for Daniel that he expected Daniel to always speak truthfully. In this particular moment, the truth that Daniel had to share was a very difficult message. Yet he spoke the truth courageously.

Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep his promise. Hebrews 10:23

When we think of our lot in life, we may feel that we’ve been given the short stick. We may think that we are owed a grand and glorious life, but somehow it has evaded us. We consider our family, where we live, and who we work with. We think of our loved ones who aren’t living for God, who aren’t obeying Him or who may just tolerate our faithful living. They know we attend church every week. They know we read our Bible and pray. They may know that we give part of our income to the church. They hear the comments we make consciously and unconsciously letting them know of our faithfulness to God. It doesn’t go unnoticed.

Neighbors notice when we back out of our driveway every Sunday to go to church. They notice when cars pull in our driveway to attend a Bible study. They hear our language. They notice our demeanor. They see our lives. They see our temperament. They witness our lives on a daily basis. Knowing that we say we are followers of Christ, they watch to make sure we live up to the standard they have set for us. They set an unvoiced standard for Christ followers, even though their standard might not line up with ours. You can count on that.

Our witness counts. Our faithful witness counts. Even though we may not recognize it as a witness. We may not recognize that our day by day, week by week, month by month and year by year life is a witness to those around us. We have people in our lives who aren’t following God, whether it’s family, friends, neighbors, co-workers or bosses. There may come a time when we have the opportunity and responsibility to speak biblical truth to them. We must not hesitate. And yet. They still have the option to refuse Christ’s open invitation. But we will know that we’ve been faithful in our witness.

Our friends may get annoyed with our words about Jesus Christ’s sacrifice by dying on the cross for them. They may become frustrated when we share that they need salvation. They may ignore the message. They also might become convicted and repent of their sins. But they can never say they haven’t heard the message of salvation. The words that we’re speaking, and the life we’re living is faithfulness to God. God is faithful, and he will not let his word return void. So we must continue to live our lives faithfully for God in front of those who are living in direct disobedience to him. Our witness counts. Our witness matters. Our witness must remain faithful, because we don’t know when our witness will cause another to turn to Christ. We may be the only Jesus in their lives. Let’s do right by him. Let’s honor his Word and his sacrifice.

Oh. May all who come behind us find us faithful.

Sanctuary City

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

I live in a city that is committed to providing sanctuary to anyone who is not a documented citizen. We’re told all are welcome. My city has pledged to open the doors to all peoples regardless of immigration status. They want to provide opportunities to everyone who lives in this fair city. Now that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Actually. I’ve read that there is no legal definition of a sanctuary city. Each city can create their own definition. Sounds convenient to me. So that means my city doesn’t come right out and declare sanctuary. But the mayor’s executive order from a few years ago reads pretty clearly. If you ask me.

Sure. Our city has been filled with immigrants and refugees since the day the city was founded. What major city isn’t built that way? But what happened to honesty and fairness? What happened to standing in line and waiting your turn? Some good things take time and effort. Not everything should be a free giveaway. In our latest election cycle, an issue to stop non-citizens from voting in local elections was on the ballot. The citizens of this city voted to allow only citizens to vote. Non-citizens must become citizens in order to have a legal say in the laws and leaders of this city. And rightly so.

Sanctuary means that anyone has the opportunity to reach for success. To get a job. Have a family and provide for them in assumed safety. Anyone can pursue a higher education and reach for their dreams. It means that those who are exiles will be treated the same as those with lifelong citizenship.

What if all followers of Christ lived in a city that decreed everyone live in opposition to biblical beliefs? What would happen to those whose politics leaned the other way? What if all dissenters of the current establishment moved away? What then would happen to the city? Would it implode in lawlessness and anarchy? Would terrorism completely reign if all believers in Jesus Christ moved to a “safe” place? I doubt that everyone would get along just because the Jesus freaks were out of the way. People can always find a reason to disagree. And if the law is that there is no law, then anything and everything is fair game.

So. As believers, do we run and hide? Do we leave the cities and states that are leaning politically toward an agenda that stands against Christianity? Do we run to avoid all controversy and persecution? Do we stay and stand for biblical values? Do we stick around in hopes that our faith can be a shining light in a world gone dark?

We read in 2 Thessalonians 2:6-8 that once the Holy Spirit is removed from the earth, basically all hell will break loose. Satan will be able to wreak havoc on the earth. For a short period of time. But today isn’t that day. We believers are still on this earth. And we still have work to do. We must continue to share the good news of salvation. And we can’t run when faced with opposition. We must stand strong for truth and be prepared to give a reason for the hope that we have.

And you know what is holding him back, for he can be revealed only when his time comes. For this lawlessness is already at work secretly, and it will remain secret until the one who is holding it back steps out of the way. Then the man of lawlessness will be revealed, but the Lord Jesus will slay him with the breath of his mouth and destroy him by the splendor of his coming. 2 Thessalonians 2:6-8

But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. 1 Peter 3:15

This is what the Lord of Heaven’s Armies, the God of Israel, says to all the captives he has exiled to Babylon from Jerusalem: “Build homes, and plan to stay. Plant gardens, and eat the food they produce. Marry and have children. Then find spouses for them so that you may have many grandchildren. Multiply! Do not dwindle away! And work for the peace and prosperity of the city where I sent you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, for its welfare will determine your welfare.” Jeremiah 29:4-7

When the Jewish people were taken captive to Babylon, they had no choice but to be uprooted. They were forcefully led from their homes and marched to a new country that had no belief in God. Their new home was not founded on the law of Moses. It was founded on idol worship and human sacrifices. This new land had no fear of God or his people. They were the ones to be feared. That’s what they thought. And they took their enemies captive for seventy years.

This captivity was approved by God. He allowed his chosen people to be punished for their sins against him. They had ignored him. They had forgotten him. Overlooked him. In an attempt to run their own lives, they chose to walk away from his hand of blessing. And it backfired on them. Big time. Sure. The backfire was many years in the making, because God is slow in exacting judgment. But the day had come. God had given his people a final warning. A final chance at repentance. And they still rebuked him. God allowed his people to be taken captive to a foreign country by a foreign king for seventy years.

But in their punishment, God didn’t forget them. He gave them a command to live their lives. To build homes. Marry. Have children. Eat well. Prosper. Although the Israelites were the outcasts, God implored them to live their lives well even when they lived in opposition to their captors. They were foreigners in a distant land, but God had their best interests in mind. They couldn’t run away from the fact that they were prisoners. So God commanded them to enjoy their lives.

The same rule applies to Christ followers today. We are living in exile on this earth. This world wasn’t meant to be our final destination. God has so much more planned for us in eternity. But while we’re on earth, we must do well. We must keep in mind that this isn’t our forever home. But we also mustn’t be intimidated by those we disagree with. We must be in the fight for truth. We must be in the fight for God-centered families and businesses. We must be in the fight for the appropriate education for children. We must learn how to counter strategies to brainwash vulnerable children and adults. We can’t do that if we run and hide. We won’t accomplish any change if we run only to safe places. We must stand and be accountable. And we must hold others accountable.

Not everyone can run. Not everyone can leave their job. Their city. Not everyone can pick up and start over. Perhaps we are the ones to stay behind and stand for doing the right thing. Perhaps God is calling us to stay and fight for truth. Because truth is always right. Even if there’s a cost.

We must make sure we’re following God’s lead when we decide to stay or go. He doesn’t call everyone to go somewhere new. He calls some to stay put and live courageously when no one else is. We can’t always take the easy way out and call it God’s will.

Don’t be intimidated in any way by your enemies. This will be a sign to them that they are going to be destroyed, but that you are going to be saved, even by God himself. For you have been given not only the privilege of trusting in Christ but also the privilege of suffering for him. Philippians 1:28-29

Building the Kingdom

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He was a shoddy worker. Oh. When he worked, he could accomplish tasks. But his work was never complete. He left tasks undone. Someone would have to come behind him to finish the work. To clean things up. He didn’t seem to mind or notice that his work was below par. He thought he was doing a great job and should get a promotion. And a raise, of course. He always seemed to have an excuse to miss work. He missed more days that was allotted. He was written up. He was reprimanded. Yet he never changed. Those who came after him saw his neglect. They picked up the slack. They knew his work ethic was below par. But they also knew that, at the end of the day, the work must be satisfactory. They re-did his work on multiple occasions. And somehow through all that, he kept his job.

It may not be all his fault that he’s a poor worker. Perhaps he had poor examples as he was learning to be a worker. Perhaps there were no strong role models he could mimic. Perhaps no one ever pulled him aside in the early stages and coached him about building a strong work ethic. Regardless of the reason he is where he is today, he is showing a less than stellar performance at work.

There are those now who are trying to coach him. They’re trying to encourage him to think before he speaks or acts. They’re encouraging him to consider all the steps he must take to completely finish an assignment. But it’s hard work to undo the poor training or lack of interest from the past. Only time will tell if his work ethic improves.

I recently read that the preaching of a popular pastor of a megachurch is controversial. In other words, his preaching is contradictory to the Bible. He denies certain biblical truths and speaks out of line. I also read of another pastor who is sharing mixed messages concerning heaven. These pastors don’t necessarily know how their words are impacting their hearers. They may not know the spiritual foundation of those hearing their words. The hearers of their message may not be on solid ground and can’t discern biblical truths. Perhaps, it would be good for those pastors to go back and read the Bible with a new lens. Their teaching may be laying shaky foundations or adding shifty layers to an already unstable foundation in the lives of innocent people. These men will be held responsible for their teachings.

Work hard so you can present yourself to God and receive his approval. Be a good worker, one who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly explains the word of truth. 2 Timothy 2:15

We are builders. We’re all building something. We build a life. A career. A family. A home. A nest egg. A legacy. We build our lives one layer at a time. And the strength and stability of each layer determines the strength of the next layer. If one layer is weak, the entire effort can fail. And then we must decide the next steps. Do we start over? Do we make repairs and continue down the same path? Do we just walk away? These are hard decisions to make.

The same goes for our spiritual lives. There are layers to our growth as a follower of Christ. Each layer must be secured in the foundational teachings of Jesus Christ. If they’re not, then we can develop weak faith. A faith that crumbles when trials come around. We may develop a shallow faith where strong roots can’t develop. Then what happens when the storms of life hit us out of nowhere?

As followers of Christ, we all build into the lives of others. We are called to use our gifts to help others find their faith or to strengthen it. Each gift is unique to each person. We must use our gifts wisely. In order to use our gifts in a way that honors God, we must prepare. Our gifted foundation must be strong, so we can build into others’ lives in a way that pleases God. Otherwise, the faith of those we encounter will be shaky. And our testimony will be watered down. We must seek to know God’s Word so we can share it confidently with others we meet. We must be wise and humbly build solid foundations in the lives of those we are called to disciple. We will be held accountable for our leading.

Our work will be tested. God will examine and judge our work. We are builders. Jesus is the foundation, which is indestructible. But how solid is the rest of the building? We builders will give an account of our work. Oh. We may not be lost if we produce shoddy work. But we won’t receive a full reward. 

Let’s not settle for half truths or unfinished work. Let’s create a masterpiece. For on the day of final inspection, we don’t want to be found in violation of any of God’s codes.

Oh. May all who come behind us find us faithful. 

Speak Up

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

The man was on trial for a crime he hadn’t committed. But there were those who were out to get him. They wanted him dead. So they brought trumped up charges against him. They had false witnesses testify at his trial. They wanted to bring him down at all costs. They hated him. They despised the work he was doing. So they lied. They insisted that he be killed. They didn’t give him a legal trial. His trial was held in the dead of night. They convicted him before the public knew he had even been arrested.

It was as if they were on a witch hunt. Pursuing an innocent man, because they hated him. They were jealous of this man. This night was not the first time they were looking for reasons to kill him. They had relentlessly pursued him. Watching him in the temple as he explained the Scriptures. Watching for any sign that he was breaking Jewish laws so they could punish him. But he was always able to get away. Until now. On this night, he was betrayed by one of his own.

The thing is. Jesus knew the prophecies about himself. He knew what was in store. He had quoted those prophecies to his disciples, yet they didn’t understand the meaning of his words. Until much later. Until those prophecies had been fulfilled with his death and suffering and resurrection. Then their hearts were opened, and they understood all he had said was true.

And when the high priest asked if he should be freed, the people demanded that a murderer be released instead of this innocent man. The people. The crowd who stood by watching had just days before been praising and worshiping this man as he rode a donkey down the street. They were waving palm branches in his honor.

But oh. How their hearts had turned. When he who had taught a message of love and hope was on trial, they didn’t stand up for him. They wouldn’t dare speak the truth. Because if they did, they too might be brought to trial. And their fate could be the same as his. So they stayed silent about the truth. They demanded that he be killed.

This man. This innocent man was Jesus. They knew him to be the son of Mary and Joseph the carpenter. His brothers and sisters were known to these people. So when Jesus began teaching a message that directly opposed the ancient Jewish traditions, some believed publicly. Others believed privately. Others doubted his message. And still others revolted against him.

Jesus never shied away from teaching anyone who would listen. And actually, people followed him from place to place. They were eager to hear a message that spoke of love and humility. They were hungry to hear a message that spoke of treating others the way they want to be treated. They were amazed that a man who looked like them could perform miracles. He could heal the blind, the crippled, the deaf and the diseased. He could bring people back to life. He could calm a raging storm. They wanted what he had.

But were they willing to pay the price?

When Jesus was arrested that night in the Garden of Gethsemane, his followers scattered. Suddenly, his message seemed a threat to their lives. If they were found to be a follower of this man Jesus, what punishment awaited them? Would they too be brought to trial in a back room away from the courts and be declared guilty by false accusers? Suddenly this man with unusual teachings seemed more of a threat to their personal safety than they were willing to accept. They must protect themselves and their families. They thought. So they turned on him.

During the trial when asked what he was teaching, Jesus told them to ask the people who heard his teachings.  He said he hadn’t spoken in secret.  His message was public knowledge.  He wasn’t trying to hide the message of salvation from the crowds.  He was speaking loudly and boldly. He never watered down his message or shied away from speaking truth. He knew the cost and he continued this work his Father had laid out for him.

Oh.  There were times when he asked others who he had healed not to tell who had healed them.  But that was because his time had not yet come.  He wanted to postpone his arrest and crucifixion until more people had heard the good news.

But he definitely wasn’t shy about spreading the gospel of salvation.

The harvest is great, but the workers are few. So pray to the Lord who is in charge of the harvest; ask him to send more workers into his fields. Luke 10:2

How many of us speak of our faith only in secret?  Only in the confines of our church on Sunday morning?  Or in our Bible study group? Or in the safety of our homes? Or with our Christian friends?  How many of us, instead of trying to win the world to Christ, try to shield our faith by standing silent in public? Even when we see and hear wrong being taught and applauded, do we stand silent? Or do we speak up?

I dare say that we’ve become too comfortable with keeping our faith to ourselves. We say that we pray for the lost. We give money so others can share the Good News. But do we put our faith on the line by speaking boldly about right and wrong.

Recently, I was talking to someone about current events. We were both disturbed by the way our culture is heading. This person mentioned to me that someone needs to do something. And I thought to myself. Why not you? Why not me? Why don’t we believers do something and say something? If not you, then who? If not me, then who?

Inside, the high priest began asking Jesus about his followers and what he had been teaching them. Jesus replied, “Everyone knows what I teach. I have preached regularly in the synagogues and the Temple, where the people gather. I have not spoken in secret. Why are you asking me this question? Ask those who heard me. They know what I said.” Then one of the Temple guards standing nearby slapped Jesus across the face. “Is that the way to answer the high priest?” he demanded. Jesus replied, “If I said anything wrong, you must prove it. But if I’m speaking the truth, why are you beating me?” Then Annas bound Jesus and sent him to Caiaphas, the high priest. John 18:19-24

You can read the full story of Jesus’ trial, crucifixion and resurrection in John 18-20.

Mission Field

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

The ones I work with cheat.  They speak ill of others.  They don’t respect authority.  They speak with crude words.  They lie.  They steal time from the company.  They look out only for themselves.

I wonder why I have anything to do with them.  Then I remember.  I’m one of them.  I’m no better than them.  Oh.  I work hard.  I do my best.

They are my mission field.  The ones I am called to serve.  To love them as Jesus does.  To care for them.  This is my battlefield.  To fight off Satan’s advances in a place where his ways are popular.  If I don’t fight Satan there, who will.  If I don’t share God’s love with them, who will.

I’ve worked with this type throughout the years.  It’s nothing new.  But I find that I must stay close to my Heavenly Father so I don’t become one of them.  Oh.  I’m not better than them.  I’m just like them.  But I’ve found the One in whom my soul delights.  I want to please Him rather than myself.  I want to serve Him rather than myself.

They’re lost to the truth.  They don’t know that God loves them.  They don’t know he’s the one true relationship they’ve been searching for all this time.  But I know it.  I know the truth.  I know the One they seek.  I can lead them to him.  I can help them find him.

After all.  Jesus didn’t turn away from those who weren’t like him.  He loved the unlovable.  He had dinner at the cheating tax collector’s house.  He struck up a conversation with a woman who was shunned by her community.  He stood with a woman caught in adultery.

Jesus didn’t spend time only with those who followed him.  He sought out others who needed what he had to offer.  He made himself available to those who didn’t know they needed him.

You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world.  God is not a secret to be kept.  Matthew 5:14

He saw the tax collector sitting in a tree.  Jesus knew this man had gotten rich by cheating others of out large sums of money.  But he still invited himself to the man’s house for dinner.  This man turned his life around and gave half his wealth to the poor and returned money to those he had cheated.  All because Jesus took time for him and showed him the way of  love and forgiveness.

Jesus started a conversation with the woman with the questionable past.  He spoke first, asking for a drink of water.  He told her things about herself he shouldn’t have known.  He loved her in spite of the fact that she had had five husbands and was living with another man.  This woman who was shunned by her community ran to tell them about this man who knew everything about her.  She and her village were changed because of the simple message of love and forgiveness.

The woman caught in adultery was brought to Jesus.  Her accusers were trying to trick him, but he didn’t play their game.  They wanted her stoned to death.  So Jesus suggested the one in the group who had never sinned should throw the first stone.  One by one they quietly walked away.  The woman’s accusers were guilty of sins, just as she was.  But Jesus didn’t condemn her.  Instead, in love he told her to leave her life of sin.  He showed her love and forgiveness.

So.  Who do I think I am that I shouldn’t spend time with those who don’t believe as I do?  Why should I surround myself only with those like me?  Why do I think I can ignore those I come in contact with who have sin written all over their face?  For I’m just like them.  I have sin written all over my face, but it’s been washed clean in Jesus’ blood.   I’m no better than them, but I’ve accepted the gift of eternal life.

Yes.  I must be Jesus to those I work with.  Perhaps they can turn from cheating.  From their gossip.  From self-centeredness.  But not only them.  I think of the one who delivers my groceries every week.  Does he need Jesus in his life?  I think of the one who cuts my hair.  My massage therapist.  What about my neighbors?  The people at the dog park.  Who can I be Jesus to today?