witness

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

Getting Along with Others

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

The house next door to us has been empty ever since we moved in. Oh. The former owners abandoned the house, and it was sold at auction. I’ve been watching for any activity next door, because I’d like to get a glimpse of the new neighbor. Multiple vehicles come and go from the property several times a week. Caged squirrels have been removed, as if that will control the squirrel population in this area. Brush and unruly bushes have been plowed down. A load of gravel has been left by the side of the driveway. But I haven’t seen anyone working on the interior of the home. Until yesterday. And from what I’ve learned from other neighbors, the place should be either gutted or demolished. Looks like it will still stand, so who knows what type of interior work is being planned.

I’ve come across the name of the new buyer, and he’s local to this small town. He currently lives one street over. I had concluded that he must live nearby when I saw an off road vehicle come to the place on occasion. I assumed someone involved with the property must live nearby.

I know nothing about this individual except what I’ve seen online and in person. I hope we can establish a good neighbor relationship. He may be a great person, but what if he isn’t? We’ve become accustomed to living in a quiet neighborhood, and we’d like to keep it that way. What if he comes in and upsets the apple cart? Doesn’t he know that most everyone around him is of retirement age? I don’t want to stir up trouble where there is none, but I also hope he has the same attitude. Time will tell.

I’m not exactly sure what this person looks like or which one he is, since I’ve seen multiple people at the house. No one has staked a claim to it while I’ve been looking. It appears to be a family venture, at this point.

Dare I say that I did some online super sleuthing to find the new owner’s information? I tried to learn as much about him as I legally could. No harm, right? Now that I know what I know, I’m not sure what to do with the information because I’ve come to some conclusions, right or wrong.

I’m in a similar situation with someone else. This person is someone I was scheduled to meet with this past week. They’re a total stranger to me, so I wanted to find out a little bit about them before our face to face meeting. And I’ve discovered some information that is unsettling. I’m not sure how to handle it. They hold a position that I stand firmly against. My question to myself is this. Should I do business with someone I strongly disagree with? Is it appropriate to break the ties before they’re tied too tightly when the person hasn’t done anything offensive to me?

The information I learned about the individual is freely found online. They’ve made their stance publicly, so it’s available for the world to see if they know where to look. And I looked. Now. What do I do with the information?

You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. Matthew 5:14-15

I don’t want to be judgmental in either of these situations, but I do want to keep alert to issues that could come my way. If others knew my thoughts on the issues, they may think me crazy and looking for trouble. Really. I’m not. I find that in today’s world it pays to be cautious when allowing strangers into your life. Their intentions and expectations are never fully stated, same as mine aren’t.

I realize I’m making assumptions about situations that may be harmless. My thoughts can lead me into dangerous territories if allowed. Don’t yours? We assume the worst when we don’t even know how events will play out in real life. I like to tell myself I’m preparing for the unthinkable, while all the time simply placing judgments on people I’ve never met and on situations that most likely will never occur. I’m not calling that good or healthy. It’s a failing of mine.

Then the eleven disciples left for Galilee, going to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw him, they worshiped him—but some of them doubted! Jesus came and told his disciples, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”

Matthew 28:16-20

I’ve come to the conclusion that I must turn these two situations over to God and let him take control. I’ve realized that the best thing I can do is pray. I can pray for each of these individuals and their needs and concerns that I know nothing about. I can pray that their intentions and expectations are in alignment with God’s. I must pray that I’ll be a godly witness in my relationship with each of them, fully knowing that the relationship may never truly develop. But a first impression never goes away. And I believe it is my Christian responsibility to represent Christ in every situation, regardless of the outcome.

Because, here’s the question. How do we reach the world around us who need Christ if we avoid them? How do we share the love of Jesus Christ to a lost people if we only spend time with other believers? If we don’t engage in conversations with people with different viewpoints, how will we sharpen our own?

Jesus called us to be in the world, but not of the world. We are set apart for a holy service and to fulfill the Great Commission. We are to be salt and light, and we are to live out our faith being an influencer of godliness instead of being influenced by those living in darkness. We who have called on the name of Jesus to forgive our sins are now children of God, and we have a responsibility to share the good news of salvation to those who don’t yet believe. Our light must shine brightly in a dark world. There’s no better time than now to let our light shine. Is your light shining?

A man ought to live so that everybody knows he is a Christian.

DL Moody

When to Take a Stand

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

He’s worked for the company for years. And he loves his job. Oh sure. There are aggravations he deals with on a regular basis. But overall, he’s been very satisfied with the work that is set before him. The company was founded by a solid Bible-believing person, who has since left to join another firm. And those who are now in charge don’t have the same biblically sound principles that the former leader had. So changes have taken place over the years. And some are good changes, but others are not.

The company has a diverse range of employees. Americans. Internationals. Different languages. Different walks of faith. Young people starting their careers. Older ones heading toward retired. And many in between. Yes. It is culturally diverse.

With the change in leadership came a change in values. Subtle changes at first. But through the years, the changes are becoming more visible. Diversity is the name of the game these days, so a DEI leader was hired to keep the company in line with today’s ever changing values. Oh sure. A spiritual advisor is also on staff. The company now participates in pride events. Preferred pronouns aren’t mandatory, but some individuals have made sure to include theirs where they deem appropriate. Book clubs for the management team have offered discussions on racism, equity and inclusion. Movie nights that further the leftist agenda have been scheduled for employees. Discussions of biblical beliefs are spoken in quiet and behind closed doors by those who hold firmly to their faith but are unsure whether to make their faith more public.

Some employees who are committed to their faith in God have noticed the shift toward wokeness. Dare they say anything? If they can stay under the radar of the leftist leanings, can they stay employed? Will there come a day when they will be expected to participate? If so, what will they do? How do they know when to go against the flow when the flow goes against everything they believe?

In schools, some teachers are facing backlash against their stance on issues that have nothing to do with education. Commencement speakers are threatened with being canceled when they publicly support family values. Pro-life advocates trying to help women make life-saving choices for their unborn child are being sentenced to prison. Female athletes are being forced to share private spaces with males who change their pronouns. Males are forcing their way into female sporting events and calling it fair when they win. And so many applaud.

There’s a cultural agenda being pushed that is pushing biblical values out of the mainstream. Uncommon issues are now becoming commonplace. And everyone is expected to comply and agree. Or else there will be trouble. Christians are being asked to go along with the agenda just to get along. And many are. Many are forced into silence in order to stay employed. Or to stay on the right career path.

If someone asks about your hope as a believer, always be ready to explain it. 1 Peter 3:15

Has it hit you yet? Has anyone come for you because of your stance on biblical values? Or, do you keep quiet? Are you unsure of when you should speak and when you should be silent on issues that you firmly stand for or against? When your beliefs and your voice are in the minority, how can you be heard? When should you be heard? Oh. Perhaps the time hasn’t come for you, but it most likely will. And then you’ll be forced to decide how to navigate the pond of wokeness. And the decision you make could change the course of your life. Are you willing to pay the price?

Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego were literally put in the fire for refusing to bow to the manmade idol that King Nebuchadnezzar had built. Even after being given a second chance to bow, they still refused. Oh. They had bowed to other requests and requirements the king had previously demanded. They had been taken exile to a foreign land. They had changed their names. They had learned witchcraft and sorcery. They were forced to become eunuchs. They were indoctrinated into the ways and customs of Babylon. But this time, the king had drawn a line they weren’t willing to cross. And so they said no. Not once, but twice. And they were thrown into a fiery furnace. Because of their faithful witness, God showed favor on them and spared their lives.

You can read the story of these three brave young men in Daniel 3.

We may not be thrown into a literal fire, but we may get burned. And we may not survive without being scorched and scarred. We may not be as fortunate as these three young men. But God is with us when we call on his name. He will not leave us to fight our battles alone. He fights for us, even when we don’t see it.

I recently listened to a couple of episodes of the Biblical Worldview Show podcast. The guest speaker gave some tips on knowing when to take a stand for our faith. The first step was to make sure we’re not looking for the fight. We shouldn’t be the one to throw the first punch. The second tip is to know who the enemy is. If you don’t know your true enemy, you may win the wrong battle. A third suggestion is to make sure the battle we’re facing is the one we really want to fight. Will your conscience be clear if you step away from this battle? Fourth, make sure you have counted the cost of fighting the battle. We must know what we are willing to risk before we enter the ring.

In the second episode, the speaker gave four tips on how to appeal to authorities. First, ask the authority to make a change about the situation. Ask them to concede on the issue. Two, make sure you have the right words. Know your subject well and know what you want to say. Three, make sure the time to approach the individual is appropriate. Lastly, make sure you have the right response regardless of what happens. Prepare your response before you get into the fight. You may be able to change their mind at a later time if you handle the situation correctly.

You can watch the episodes here and here.

Above all, we must be in prayer about how, when and why we are to ever stand up for our beliefs in a hostile environment. There are times when it’s best to remain silent. Other times, there is no choice but to voice our opposition to the situation. We must also seek wise counsel from godly people in our lives. Perhaps someone else has faced a similar situation and can give guidance.

We will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church. Ephesians 4:15

How Bright is Your Light?

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

Boy. Did I ever get a shock when I walked into his office. He was playing Christian music. And in the two years I’ve worked with this man, I never would have thought he would be associated with anything Christian. As I stood there talking to him, I wanted to join in singing “I’m a Survivor” with Zach Williams. But I didn’t. I kept a straight face and stayed in the conversation as my mind was running in circles trying to figure out this man I was talking to. Is he a Christian?

I wonder. If the roles were reversed and he walked into my office as I listened to Christian music, would he be as shocked as I was hearing it in his office? Would he question how I could be a Christian after he has seen the way I work and heard the words I say? Does he see an attitude of resentment or inconsistency in me?

Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children. Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. He loved us and offered himself as a sacrifice for us, a pleasing aroma to God. Ephesians 5:1-2

I don’t mean to judge the man. But by what I see and know of him, I wouldn’t assume he’s a Christian. And I know. Just because someone listens to Christian music doesn’t mean they’re a Christian. But also, it doesn’t mean they’re not a Christian if they don’t carry their Bible to work. And, besides, Christians aren’t perfect people.

That gives me pause, though. What do others think of me? Is the love of Christ evident in my life? Do I work as if I’m working for the Lord? Does my work ethic speak of reliability and integrity? Do I always try to do my best, even when no one is looking? And it’s not just at work that I should consider my Christian witness.  Am I a godly neighbor to the family living next door? Oh. They see me leave for church each Sunday. But anyone can go to church. Does my life offer the sweet aroma of Christ to a lost and hurting world? Do my actions speak louder than my words?

So be careful how you live. Don’t live like fools, but like those who are wise. Ephesians 5:15

How bright is my light in the world? If I don’t ever tell others about my faith, can they see it lived out?

Oh. I’ve never heard vulgarity spew from this man’s mouth, but I have heard him speak ill of others. It makes me question myself more than I question him. What have others heard me say about others? Do I look for the good in someone even when all that’s visible is not good? Do I voice those concerns for any ear to hear? Or do I place a guard around my negative thoughts? Just because I think something doesn’t mean I have to speak it. Just because something is true, doesn’t mean I have to share it with others.

And do not bring sorrow to God’s Holy Spirit by the way you live. Remember, he has identified you as his own, guaranteeing that you will be saved on the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you. Ephesians 4:30-32

I noticed a mistake in my work the other day. And I noticed it almost too late. I had decided I would let it go and hope for the best. But I knew that it would eventually be discovered. I didn’t want to correct the mistake, because it would require me to undo some work and then re-do it. I was on a self-imposed deadline, and I didn’t want to be bothered. Would anyone even know if I left it? Yes. They would, but it probably would have taken weeks to be discovered. And maybe by then I would have forgotten about it. 

But then. I felt that thumping of my heart. I knew God was nudging me to do the right thing. So I did. I had to admit my mistake and ask for help. I had to undo the error and then correct it. But I did it. And now I have a clear conscience. As a Christian, I need to work with integrity and character, even when only God is watching.

And now I find myself wondering why I even considered letting the error go. Why would I do that? Don’t I want to do my best work possible? Would I have been tempted to lie later down the line when the mistake was uncovered? It was an honest mistake, after all. But the attempt to cover it up would have been dishonest. And I just couldn’t do that.

Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too. You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had. Philippians 2:3-5

The ultimate goal of Jesus for His disciples was that His life be reproduced in them, and through them into the lives of others.

Robert Coleman

If no one can see the life of Jesus in our lives, what does our witness look like? What is seen in Christians if it isn’t the life of Jesus? Do we live out the ten commandments? Do we live by the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5-7? Do we deny ourselves and take up our cross daily? Is our light shining on a hill for the world to see, or do we keep it covered for safekeeping? If we’re not letting our light shine, then what are we doing? If others can’t see our light, is it even shining?

Selling Soap

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

I meet with my friend once a month, and we talk for hours. I told her that I recently discovered that I have crossed the threshold into old age. I think I had shingles. And only old people get shingles. Right? And I told her that I had been going to the local farmers market every Saturday morning. One of the vendors that I found is a soap maker. I’ve begun buying my soap and shampoo from this family. After the shingles popped up, I visited my local soap maker and unexpectedly found a soap called Problem Skin. After using it for a few days on my itchy skin and then covering it with beef tallow, I discovered that the shingles were gone. And boy. Was I ever relieved. The soap lady even suggested using their salve to help with the nerve pain. And it worked, too.

Oh. I wasn’t looking for a soap called Problem Skin to soothe my itchy skin, but I found it anyway. I didn’t even know that a homemade soap could be used as a treatment for shingles, as well as for eczema and poison ivy and other rashes. But the soap actually works. I’m amazed and relieved.

My friend and I also talked about many other things that day. We talked about our faith. We talked about politics and conspiracy theories. We talked about work. We talked about family. We prayed together. And as we sat out in the warm sunshine, the time together felt like a breath of fresh air. It was good to be with her again.

I realized later how simple and easy it was to tell her about the new soap I had found that helped with my itchy skin. If I’ve found a treatment that works for me, why wouldn’t I want to tell others about it? Maybe it would work for them, too. I’m no doctor, so don’t take this as medical advice. I just know that it worked for me.

I recalled how the soap maker had explained some of the other soaps in her shop. She told me how she used the shampoo soap and now only needed to wash her hair once a week. Another soap she mentioned had one ingredient that was a natural deodorant. She bathes with the soap and hasn’t used deodorant in over ten years. She was excited to explain all the different natural soaps she and her husband made. She didn’t hesitate to talk about her life’s work, and she placed a business card in the bag with each purchase. She wanted everyone to know about her handmade soap. And she wanted others to share it with their family and friends.

The husband and wife soap making team are in the process of handing the business over to the next generation. They’re busy teaching soap making to their daughter and son-in-law, so the family can continue the small business for many more years.

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 10:14-15

If it’s so easy to tell someone about a new product I’ve found, why isn’t it easy to tell someone about the God I serve? Why isn’t it easy to tell them how he is the best and most trusted friend I’ve ever found? Why isn’t it easy to tell them that he loves me unconditionally, and he loves everyone equally? Why isn’t it easy for me to tell someone else who is also made in God’s image that they too can have a close personal relationship with him? Why isn’t it easy for me to tell someone that God forgave all my sins, and he’ll forgive theirs too if they ask? I would hope someone would tell me about God if I hadn’t learned about him early on in my life. Why would anyone hide such good news?

If we call ourselves Christians and really believe without a shadow of a doubt that the Bible is God’s Good News to the world, why do we keep quiet about it? Oh. We are quick to say that we are supposed to hide God’s Word in our hearts so that we might not sin against him. We are only fooling ourselves if we think that means we’re to keep the good news to ourselves. What that verse is telling us is that we need to study God’s Word and make it real in our lives. But do we even do that?

I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. Psalms 119:11

And then, what about the verse that asks how people can believe in God if they never hear about him? And how can they hear about him unless someone tells them? How do we explain keeping our lips sealed when we know the secret to eternal life and keep it only to ourselves?

Just as the soap lady is so eager to share her message, all who call themselves followers of Christ must willingly share the Good News that has been shared with us.

How much do you have to hate somebody to not proselytize? How much do you have to hate someone to believe everlasting life is possible and not tell them that?

Penn Jillette

Even Penn Jillette, the outspoken atheist magician, knows that if the good news of Jesus Christ is actually true, then we who believe must not keep it to ourselves. And he is right. Maybe calling the act of silence hatred seems a bit strong, but keeping quiet about a life-saving faith certainly doesn’t sound very loving, either.

No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. Matthew 5:15

In Hot Pursuit

~ mercyfortheday ~ 1 Comment

Out of all the people on the earth, God chose the nation of Israel to be his chosen people. In other words, they’re his favorites. And we can’t do anything about that. Oh. It’s obvious that other nations and peoples have tried to eradicate his favorites. But they haven’t quite been able to do so. And they never will. No matter how desperate they are. No matter how evil their attempts are. No matter how often they try. God’s chosen nation will not be eliminated. God said so himself.

But his favored nation, who once lived in obedience to his commands, has rejected him time and time again. The words that make up the Old Testament list many people and kings who flat out rejected God’s command to obey him. That’s all he asked. Obedience to his will. And that was too much for so many people for so many years. Sure. A new king would come along and choose to bow to God’s will, and so the nation would turn to God. But once another king was on the throne and chose not to obey God, the nation returned to their idol worship and disobedience.

After many years of refusing to bow to him, God had had enough. Sure. God is a patient God. But over time, God became impatient. He is a jealous God and yearns for his people to have a heart for him and him alone. He sent prophets to give warnings of the destruction and devastation that was ahead for them if they continued in their sinful ways. But they ignored the pleas. They went about their lives enjoying success and freedom, yet their hearts were full of pride and sin. Year after year. Prophet after prophet. The Israelites deliberately chose to ignore God’s warning.

But the thing is. God never gave up on them. His love for his chosen people was so deep and so wide and so long that he pursued them. And he pursued them passionately. He was angry and sad, but he never gave up on them. God will pursue his people tirelessly.

And then the awful thing that he had promised would happen did happen. His chosen people were attacked and many were taken captive to Babylon. Oh. They had been warned about this. They would be held captive for seventy years. And still. Those who remained in Jerusalem lived lives of debauchery. Not even the fact that many of their family members and friends had been taken captive changed their hearts. They wouldn’t surrender to God Almighty. They were a stubborn people.

God continued to warn his people in Jerusalem through the prophet Jeremiah. He told them that everyone who remained there would die from war, famine or disease. They should surrender to the Babylonians and survive. But they were stubborn. They said no.

Another prophet, Ezekiel, was among those taken captive to Babylon. He too spoke of the atrocities that would overtake Jerusalem. And God told him that although he would continue to pursue his people, Ezekiel’s words would fall on deaf ears.

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16

In his twenties, Nebuchadnezzar found himself in command of an empire where he served for over forty years. He was king of Babylon who directed the capture and fall of Jerusalem. During the very early years of his reign, Jerusalem was one of several kingdoms he successfully captured. He was a valiant warrior. He was also a very religious man. Oh. He didn’t serve one god. He served many gods. And these gods were useless, but he wouldn’t admit it. He required his people to worship his gods. If they didn’t, they could face the death penalty.

In his wartime efforts, Nebuchadnezzar captured many young men to serve in his kingdom. He required them to attend a three year re-education program to indoctrinate them in Babylonian customs and practices. He was looking to erase all the years of religious learning they had received in their homeland. He wanted long lasting commitment from them. Or they would pay the price.

During his years as king, a Jewish exile named Daniel earned many promotions and accolades from Nebuchadnezzar. Although Daniel had graduated from the Babylonian training program, his loyalty to God did not waver. Oh. He passed the tests and greatly impressed the king with his knowledge of Babylonian royalty, but all the learning didn’t faze his belief in God. And through different events, Nebuchadnezzar knew this. Yet he didn’t punish Daniel, because at different points in his reign, Nebuchadnezzar needed to hear the wisdom God spoke through Daniel. Sure. Daniel was tested in his position as advisor to the king. His life was put on the line, but he always spoke the truth to the king.

As Daniel faithfully served God by serving Nebuchadnezzar, God pursued the king. Through Daniel, God challenged Nebuchadnezzar’s commitment to other gods. Gods that could do nothing for him. Yet he was stubborn. He admitted that God was a god, but he wouldn’t commit to God being the One True God.

Until he did.

Nebuchadnezzar had a bad dream. Once again. And when Daniel shared the meaning of the dream, Nebuchadnezzar learned his fate. He was to live as a wild animal for seven periods of time before returning to rule his kingdom. And he would only return to rule once he bowed in submission to God. The One True God. Over time, Nebuchadnezzar’s dream came true. All of it. The good. The bad. And the ugly. And after his sanity was restored and his faith in God was sure, he returned to lead his kingdom.

God never stopped pursuing Nebuchadnezzar. Along the way, there was one faithful witness who always spoke to him of God and God’s need for surrender. Daniel never gave up on the king. And God didn’t either.

If God had stopped in his pursuit of mankind, he never would have called on his only Son to die for our sins. He made a way for all who are born to have eternal life with him. Let’s not reject the free gift he offered to us. The gift is free for us, but it was a huge sacrifice on his part.

God will pursue people for many years. Even when they continually ignore him or deny him. He is in hot pursuit. And I have to believe that during God’s pursuit of those needing him, he will place faithful followers in their path to speak words of truth. Words of conviction. And words of love. We must never forget that God loves each of us and wants all of us to bow to him in this lifetime. Because even if we don’t now, there will be a day when we bow in acknowledgment of his divinity and power.

As believers, we must never give up praying for those lost loved ones. We must never give up our faithful witness, because our lives and words of God’s love are what they need. They may not admit it, but God works in mysterious ways his wonders to perform. Let’s not discount God’s faithfulness.

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.

The Messenger

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

His parents waited many years for him to come along. They were a barren couple. No children and now old age had somehow crept in. Until one day, Zechariah received a visit from an angel of the Lord announcing that he would be a father. Oh. Zechariah was so pleased and in disbelief that he was tongue tied. He wasn’t able to speak from that day until his son’s birth announcement. Zechariah was able to announce that his son was to be named John.

The angel told him wonderful things about this child who was to be born. His son would grow to be a man, and would be great in the eyes of the Lord. He was called to a special assignment. He was to prepare the people for the ministry of Jesus Christ.

But the angel said, “Don’t be afraid, Zechariah! God has heard your prayer. Your wife, Elizabeth, will give you a son, and you are to name him John. You will have great joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth, for he will be great in the eyes of the Lord. He must never touch wine or other alcoholic drinks. He will be filled with the Holy Spirit, even before his birth. And he will turn many Israelites to the Lord their God. He will be a man with the spirit and power of Elijah. He will prepare the people for the coming of the Lord. He will turn the hearts of the fathers to their children, and he will cause those who are rebellious to accept the wisdom of the godly.” Luke 1:13-17

John was a voice calling in the wilderness to prepare the way for the Lord’s coming. As he taught, the people would ask what they should do. John’s response was straight and to the point. If you have two shirts, give one to the poor. If you have food, share it with those who are hungry. He told the corrupt tax collectors to collect no more taxes than the government requires. And to the soldiers, he said not to extort money or make false accusations. And be content with your pay.

John knew he was the messenger for the Promised Messiah. He knew there was one coming who was greater than himself. John was comfortable with that. He didn’t try to be the Messiah. He was paving the way for One to come after him. He was the voice calling to the crowds that a new King was coming.

This is the Good News about Jesus the Messiah, the Son of God. It began just as the prophet Isaiah had written: “Look, I am sending my messenger ahead of you, and he will prepare your way. He is a voice shouting in the wilderness, ‘Prepare the way for the Lord ’s coming! Clear the road for him!’ ” Mark 1:1-3

Go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone. Mark 16:15

Now we too must share the message of the One who is coming. We too must share the good news of His promised return. Oh. He has already come to the earth as the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger. He who was hunted as a child. The twelve year old who knew he must be about his Father’s business. The young man who learned the trade of his earthly father. And at age thirty, he started a ministry that turned the world on its heels. And for three short years, his message rang out for those who would listen.

Oh. He was rejected in his own hometown. People thought he was trying to be someone he wasn’t. After all. He was the son of a carpenter. He wasn’t God. That’s what they said. But little did they know. Little did they believe.

But he was God. And he’s still God. And before he returned to heaven, he suffered and died on a cross. He had a thorn of crowns shoved into his head. His clothes were torn in two. His side was pierced. And with his last breath, he was ushered into heaven to sit at the right hand of his Father. He is waiting there today for all His children.

And today that message is ours to share. We who have repented of our sins and called on his name for forgiveness are now called to share the good news of salvation. We are now the messengers calling others to repentance. Not in a superior tone of voice. But in love and grace. Because just as we have been saved from our sins, we want the world to also share in that forgiveness. But one must ask for this free gift.

The One who is greater than us is returning to gather his people. We don’t know when that day will come, but it’s getting closer. Signs point to the nearness of the time of his return.

Our message today is that there is one coming who is greater than us. Are you ready to meet him?

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16

This Little Light of Mine

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

It was Good Friday. She walked into my office and sat down. So. She said. It’s Good Friday, so that’s when Jesus died. Right? And then he ascended on Easter Sunday. No. I said. Jesus died on Good Friday. On Easter Sunday, he arose from the dead. Then he ascended to heaven 40 days later. Oh. She said. I never get this straight, and I just want to make my mom proud.

The thing is. She and I have never had conversations about faith or the church or spiritual matters. Yet she walks into my office and asks me these questions as if she knows that I would know the answer. Why didn’t she ask someone else? Why would she think I knew the answer?

She is the one who speaks insults to others. She uses the f-bomb as casually as any other word in her vocabulary. She has a very poor work ethic. She bends the truth to suit herself. She gossips as if life depends on it. She has lived with boyfriend after boyfriend trying to find the one true love. She lied to her landlord about the dog living in her apartment. She’s unsettled. She’s looking for something to satisfy the deepest longing of her soul. She’s looking for something more. And yet she’s unaware that she’s looking.

I’m not judging her. I’m just stating the facts. But she’s watching. She’s listening. She’s paying far more attention than I gave her credit for. Oh. She sees what I do and what I don’t do. She hears what I say and what I don’t say. She knows that the two of us have little in common. Yet she comes to me with these questions.

Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:16

I realize my life is on display. I’ve asked God repeatedly why he has me in this place. I’ve questioned the reasoning of his wisdom. He says stay. You are needed in this place. You are equipped to be there. Perhaps it’s not the work itself that has the most value for me. Perhaps it’s the light I bring into a dark corner of the world that is needed the most. Perhaps I am the instrument of peace and hope.

I find that in order for my light to shine in that small place, I must continually run to Jesus with my shortcomings and doubts. And perhaps in the midst of my frail humanity, others see a strong reliance upon the One who holds the whole world in his hands. Yet he also holds me at the same time.

I must never take for granted the work that I do. Or the place that I’ve been called to. God has a purpose. A plan for me that is bigger than my dreams or plans. I need to be obedient and willing to do as he asks. To share his love with the lost and lonely and hurting. With those who need his love and peace more than they need anything else.

This little light of mine,
I’m gonna let it shine;
this little light of mine,
I’m gonna let it shine;
this little light of mine,
I’m gonna let it shine;
let it shine, let it shine, let it shine.