Customer Service

~ mercyfortheday ~ 1 Comment

After waiting on hold for nine minutes, I punched nine to receive a callback when the next customer service representative became available. The music playing while I waited had pushed me close to the edge. I couldn’t listen to it a second longer. It wasn’t nice, soothing music. It was country music. And it was awful. I’m not sure why a business would think that noise would be appropriate for customers waiting on hold for far too long. Now. I’m not against all country music. Just that song. Whatever it was. It was awful and unnecessary.

Later that morning, I had to contact another service provider to contest the balance on my account. The first contact was with an automated bot. The answer it gave wasn’t a thorough explanation, so I asked to chat with a live person. This individual was able to provide me with a thorough and satisfactory explanation. I appreciated his help and let him know.

That same day I sat waiting for an appointment. When I walked in, the person I was meeting with was helping someone schedule their next appointment. It was taking forever, but she was kind in helping this poor gentleman who was struggling with health issues. Once she got him scheduled and took his payment, she walked around the counter and gave him a big hug. She said she would see him in two weeks.

Do not withhold good from those who deserve it when it’s in your power to help them. Proverbs 3:27

Our service matters to God, because when we are serving others we are serving him. We may not see him, but when we do the least to others we are doing it to him. Some people work only as hard as they have to. If the boss is watching, then they’re giving it their all. But as soon as the boss leaves, or if they think no one is watching, then their true work ethic comes out.

And how we treat others matters. If our work involves serving others, we need to serve others well. Even when we’re having a bad day and we show up to work, we need to show up and work. We can set aside the bad mood and hurt feelings. We can treat others with respect and perform our job well, even when we don’t feel like it. Sure. It may be hard, but we can do hard things. Perhaps those we’re serving are also having a rough day. The worker is being paid to perform their job well, so it’s on them to provide good service regardless of what else is happening in their life. And, yes. The customer should be kind, as well. But life is never as we want it. Things go sideways, and people have bad attitudes. Something goes wrong, and we tell ourselves that someone has to pay. And I have to ask. Is the customer still always right?

Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Colossians 3:23

“But when the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, then he will sit upon his glorious throne. All the nations will be gathered in his presence, and he will separate the people as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. He will place the sheep at his right hand and the goats at his left. “Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the Kingdom prepared for you from the creation of the world. For I was hungry, and you fed me. I was thirsty, and you gave me a drink. I was a stranger, and you invited me into your home. I was naked, and you gave me clothing. I was sick, and you cared for me. I was in prison, and you visited me.’ “Then these righteous ones will reply, ‘Lord, when did we ever see you hungry and feed you? Or thirsty and give you something to drink? Or a stranger and show you hospitality? Or naked and give you clothing? When did we ever see you sick or in prison and visit you?’ “And the King will say, ‘I tell you the truth, when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to me!’ “Then the King will turn to those on the left and say, ‘Away with you, you cursed ones, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his demons. For I was hungry, and you didn’t feed me. I was thirsty, and you didn’t give me a drink. I was a stranger, and you didn’t invite me into your home. I was naked, and you didn’t give me clothing. I was sick and in prison, and you didn’t visit me.’ “Then they will reply, ‘Lord, when did we ever see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and not help you?’ “And he will answer, ‘I tell you the truth, when you refused to help the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were refusing to help me.’ “And they will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous will go into eternal life.” Matthew 25:31-46

Serving others can be a thankless job. Many people who are treated kindly do reciprocate or even acknowledge your efforts. Others don’t or can’t. Perhaps they don’t know who helped them, or they don’t know how to contact the person. It doesn’t really matter, though. The onus is on the one who is in the position to help someone in need. When we’re in a position to help others, we need to help them and help them well.

Consider the story of the Good Samaritan in the book of Matthew. A Jewish man travelling alone was robbed and beaten and left alongside the road to die. Different people passed him by, but they didn’t stop to help. And they were of the religious sort who would be expected to help someone in need. But they didn’t. Then a man from Samaria walked past him. When he saw the injured man, he felt compassion in his heart and stopped to help. He took him to a nearby inn and asked the innkeeper to take care of the injured man. And this Samaritan paid all the expenses. So. What’s the catch, you ask? The Jews and Samaritans despised each other. They wanted nothing to do with each other. Yet, this Samaritan laid aside all his political and religious thoughts and helped a wounded Jewish man. Can’t we do the same when we see someone in need? Even when we differ on anything, can’t we still serve someone well in their time of need?

You can read the story of the Good Samaritan at Matthew 10:25-37.

Better Together

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

We’ve spent the first forty two years of our marriage living side by side. Sleeping side by side. But these past nine months have been a separation of sorts. Oh, not the legal sort. And not the disgruntled or unloving sort. It was a decision based on his upcoming retirement, accompanied by a move five hours from the home we knew and loved. We moved back to my state of birth, where we’ll spend the remainder of our days. It was an easy decision, but it meant we would be separated as he finished the last few months of his career miles and hours from our retirement home.

But now those months have come to an end, and we’re once again united. It almost feels like we’re starting over, but we’ve got many years of marriage under our belts. And we’re looking forward to many more. Only God knows what’s in store for us as we walk the path of golden years. Our hope and prayer is that there are many left.

These nine months of living alone for each of us has had its share of ups and downs. We each have faced hurdles we’ve never before encountered and hope to never face again. We can laugh at those trying moments now, but in the moment there was no laughter. Nor were there tears. There was just frustration upon frustration. One hurdle after another.

As we were packing to move, we split up all our personal belongings. It seems like overindulgence to know that we had enough stuff to fill a small apartment and a mid-sized house. But we did it. I got the dog. He got the good car. I got the better furniture. He got the throwaways. I got the two beds. He got an air mattress. I got the iron. He got the steamer. I got the good sheets. He got the florals.

Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7

Through these past nine months, we each have had to mostly deal with issues on our own. He dealt with skin cancer and minor surgery. Early one morning as he slept, his car was hit while parked behind his apartment building. He cooked all his meals and did his own laundry. He faced unforeseen challenges at work. He got a new neighbor who so loud, he could identify the voice of the guy he had never met as they walked past each other in the hallway.

I, on the other hand, faced multiple challenges with the new house. I dealt with two roof leaks, and now part of the roof has been replaced. I faced three episodes of frozen pipes with two leaks in one of the bathrooms. The leaks have now been repaired. The furnace had a minor glitch in early winter. Our dog died right after Christmas. I faced down mice. Just last week, a bird got into the house. The washing machine started running on its own in the middle of the night. The security alarm went off at midnight a couple of weeks ago. Early in the fall, we unexpectedly had to replace the car that I had been driving.

The highlight of his time alone was his planned goodbye tour. He scheduled lunches and dinners with family, old friends and former coworkers throughout the months he lived alone. He visited a different church every Sunday he was in the city. He scoured bakeries and farmer’s markets for cinnamon rolls. He watched history and biblical documentaries.

The highlight of my time alone has been spending time with my sister and niece. I’ve met new people at church and joined two different small groups. I’ve begun playing pickleball with a group of strangers I met in a class at the local Y. I’m helping my sister plan a baby shower for her first grandchild. I’ve begun adding perennials in a blank landscape.

Some of these things may seem comical, while others were startling. But the point of sharing this is to say that God is good. He has blessed us beyond measure.  Oh, sure. The years have flown by, but we are content being in this phase of life. We couldn’t be happier.

Now we’re combining two households, and we’re settling in. We’re creating a new rhythm, and we’re humming along. We have a very long to do list for this house that we’ll tackle together. We’ll take road trips and explore unseen areas of our state. We’ll forge new friendships together.

After nine months apart, we’ve learned that we’re better together than apart. What God joined together almost forty-three years ago is still on solid ground. We don’t want to live apart. We’ll stick together for the remainder of our days.

What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate. Mark 10:9

Grow old along with me! The best is yet to be, the last of life, for which the first was made.

Robert Browning

He Finished Well

~ mercyfortheday ~ 1 Comment

We’ve been planning this day for a while now. Two years, in fact. The time when he can leave behind the cares of employment. The day when he can close the door one last time for being on call twenty-four hours seven days a week. The time has come for others to take his place. Oh. It was hard letting go of a job he truly loved. But it was also a sweet relief to turn in his badge and sign off one last time. No regrets. 

Sure. There was a celebration for him. He was honored and applauded. Many kind and gracious words were spoken of his leadership, strong decision making and dedication to always doing the right thing. He treated others with respect and never backed down from speaking words of truth and wisdom when needed.  And many noted that at times he was the only one to use tough love.

As many lauded his actions and achievements, he wiped tears from his eyes. He knew he was well loved and respected. He would be missed. His replacement told him that he had big shoes to fill. Their kind words will make for many memories as he walks away from many years of service in a place he dearly loved and fought for. As one whose love language is words of affirmation, his cup was filled to the brim and running over that day. Those words of respect and kindness will stay with him for years to come.

He worked hard and found great enjoyment in serving others. As I mentioned, he showed tough love when it was appropriate, but he showed it with kindness and respect. He has never been one to mince words when speaking the truth, and some are uncomfortable with strong truths. But that didn’t stop him from having hard conversations with those who needed correction and direction. He always found the right way to say the words that needed to be said without demoralizing the listener, and many he worked with acknowledged him for it.

He can walk away with his head held high and his heart full of accomplishment. He finished well the course of a forty three year career. Oh. There were tough times. And there were many lessons learned. There were multiple job losses and new paths forged. But he walked through each new door ready to learn and accomplish much. As he now lays all those years of service aside, he won’t become lazy. He’ll find a new path to walk and new faces and names to learn. He’s ready for a more leisurely pace, but he hasn’t given up on life. He’ll walk through this new door and find a new contentment and enjoyment he’s totally unaware of at this point. He’ll find his way.

Oh. He’ll face new challenges as he crosses the threshold of retirement,  but he can look back on the years of rising early, knowing he did a job well done. There’s nothing wrong with finishing a career. It’s expected. But there is still a journey ahead that will have its own twists and turns. That, too, is expected.  It’s called life.

So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets. Matthew 7:12

Never think that your acts of service and words of truth go unseen and unheard. In the right moments, others are watching and listening. They see and hear you, and your godly example does not go unnoticed. Oh. They may never publicly or even privately acknowledge your efforts, but trust me. They notice. And they may be envious of the ease in which you carry yourself. Don’t ever walk away from honest living. 

The people who influence us the most are not those who detain us with their continual talk, but those who live their lives like the stars in the sky and “the lilies of the field”–simply and unaffectedly. Those are the lives that mold and shape us.

Oswald Chambers

Oh. A life lived well isn’t without stress and suffering. It’s a testament to the strength and graciousness of a loving God who walks by your side each and every day. The responsibility should not be taken lightly, but at the appointed hour the burden is lifted. The torch is passed to the next generation. And that time has come for him. 

So. Welcome to retirement, my dear. The road has been long, but the days are still short. You have earned the welcome relief of a slower pace of life, less stress and long stretches of sleep. I pray you find your way in this new phase of life as we grow old together. You are the best. And I love you.

Let me be clear. Greatness isn’t about being seen. It’s not about platforms or follower counts or fleeting viral fame. It’s not about accolades or promotions, the hollow rewards that come with a title but not always with true fulfillment. It’s about impact. The kind that doesn’t seek applause. The kind that shifts something in another person’s spirit. The kind that ripples on the waters of another’s heart. The kind that opens up new possibilities. The kind that brings healing, clarity, and light where there once was only darkness.

Etienne Toussaint

Pickleball Mafia

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So I’ve joined the world of pickleball. And I’ve discovered that I like it. It’s fun. It gets me moving. I try to play once a week. I’m a beginner, but I’m seeing improvement in my game. So I think there’s hope. Oh. Not that I’ll ever be a professional or play in a tournament. Nothing like that. That’s not my goal. But it’s nice to get in an outdoor aerobic workout on a sunny day. It feels good to move around and hit the ball. And I’ve met some new people.

We’re a group of six to eight retirees who met at our pickleball lessons in April. We’re all at the same beginner level and have continued to meet after we completed the four-week class. Some of us have moved to the area in the last few years and others are long-time residents. We’re there to have fun and get a little exercise. So far it’s working.

There is one in our group who told me in front of the group that I needed to correct my serve. I kindly let her know that my serving style was completely legal in the world of pickleball. I could have pointed her biggest flaw out to her, which has to be obvious to the entire group. She doesn’t like to move, so she stands in one spot and never goes out of her way to hit the ball if it’s not directly in her path. And she calls the ball out too many times when her opponents can’t see if it really is in or out. We’re all beginners and have much room for improvement, so let’s be kind and gracious to each other.

We play at the courts in a public park. There are eight courts in this particular park and are open to the public. They’re free of charge and can’t be reserved. It’s first come, first serve. If you’ve been playing for an hour and there are groups waiting, then you must step aside to allow others a chance to play. Sounds harmless. Right? Right.

I’ve been informed by others who are more knowledgeable about these things that there are groups of pickleballers who take the game very seriously. I mean. They’re serious about their pickleball. I think our group has recently run into such a group. We were informed by a member of said group that they use four of the courts for advanced players and the other four for those less experienced. And then after each game, they rotate to play with different players in their set of four courts. And they also use a specific color of ball so they know who is in their group. It was subtly suggested to our group that we follow their rules. Really?

It seems that some in our group were willing to abide by this other group’s rules, but a couple of us were dead set against it. I reminded our group that we are playing at a public park where courts can’t be reserved. We play at our leisure and abide by the park’s rules and regulation pickleball rules. No one else’s. So, to back up my stand on the issue, I called the park district and talked through the situation with someone a few days later. When I explained our dilemma and provided all the details, I let the gentleman know that my goal wasn’t to cause trouble but to get the facts straight. He informed me that he knew exactly who I was talking about. Apparently, this group I call the pickleball mafia have done the same thing to other groups. He said he would speak to them.

And one in their group walked over to our group in the midst of our game and gave us a playing tip. Oh. She was polite, but it felt intrusive. Who does that? And a member of our group actually recognized her and called her by name. Then she was forced to acknowledge the relationship. How odd.

And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through him to God the Father. Colossians 3:17

Oh. I know. It’s just a game. That’s right. It is. And we want it to stay that way.

So. The question is this. How do we get along with others who try to manipulate us? How do we work with someone who tries to one-up us? Here’s the catch with that type of scenario. The more you give in to them, the more they’ll try to take. And how do you ever get back to the way things should have been, in the first place? It’s an age old dilemma.

Not a single person on earth is always good and never sins. Don’t eavesdrop on others—you may hear your servant curse you. For you know how often you yourself have cursed others. Ecclesiastes 7:20-22

At the same time, we don’t have to be a doormat and let others walk all over us. We should stand up for what we know is right and true and good. Fairness never grows old. And as Christians, how do we deal with situations where others are trying to exert more control than they really have? How do we kindly and Christianly stand up for ourselves without insulting others?

The Word of God offers so much wisdom on dealing with others and with how to navigate difficult situations. We must live wisely, because not everyone we meet is a believer. Not everyone is looking out for the best interests of others. As Christ followers, we must stand apart and be a godly example in our conduct and our speech. We can’t allow Satan to lead us down the path of ungodly behavior. And we can’t just look away and accept unacceptable behavior.

Live wisely among those who are not believers, and make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone. Colossians 4:5-6

We’re also told in the books of Romans that we can’t repay someone when they plan evil against us. We must do what is right in the eyes of everyone, because along with everyone else, God is also watching. And as far as it depends on us, we must live at peace with everyone. That is a tall order, it may seem, especially in certain situations. But when the other party is set on evil, we set our eyes on eternity and act accordingly. We must seek peace and pursue it, but not at the cost of accepting evil standards.

Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. Romans 12:17-19

Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony. And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful. Colossians 3:12-15

As we pursue Christ, let’s remember to keep a sharp mind, a soft heart and thick skin.

Alisa Childers

Love and Obedience

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Jesus was both loved and hated. Those who loved him were faithful followers who hung on his every word. They believed his message. They longed to see him perform miracles and change lives. They whispered about him behind closed doors, longing to spend more time with him. They wondered if he was the promised Messiah.

But then there were the haters. They too listened to his words, but they were appalled at what they heard. They asked him what they thought were hard questions, trying to trip him up. He answered all their questions with ease or with silence. They hated his teaching because his words pointed directly at their sin, and their sin was their identity. They didn’t want to change in any way, shape or form. They wanted to be rid of him, even if it meant violence against him. They hunted him and talked about him behind closed doors plotting revenge.

Jesus was gathered with his disciples in the Upper Room for the Last Supper. He was sharing with them about his upcoming death. They weren’t understanding clearly what he was telling them, and they were confused as to why he was telling only them. Why not tell the masses?

One of the disciples asked Jesus why he was planning to reveal his mission only to his closest followers and not to the masses. But when you think about it, why would anyone reveal such intimate information to those who don’t support them? Why give the haters one more thing to plot against? Oh sure. At the appointed time, revealing his true identity and mission was necessary. But it wasn’t yet time. Jesus’ own disciples still had doubts that he had to deal with. So, why go to the masses with your most private but soon to be ultimate destiny?

Jesus spoke simply and plainly to his disciples when he explained that only those who love him would obey him. And if we truly love him, we will keep his word. There will be no question of our commitment. That can’t be said for those who hate him. Jesus also knew that once his work was completed on this earth the Holy Spirit would come to instruct those who loved him. And anyone who rejects Jesus also rejects his Father and would not receive the Holy Spirit.

Jesus lived in complete reliance on and submission to his Father. There was no line he would cross or attitude he would cop in rebellion against his Father’s plan for his life. And he knew there was a price he would pay when he relinquished his heavenly body for an earthly one. He knew the price would be high, and he was willing to pay it in an earthly body that would hold him for no more than thirty three years. But he couldn’t speak publicly of the plans. They were for certain ears only. And his disciples were the chosen audience.

Anyone who isn’t with me opposes me, and anyone who isn’t working with me is actually working against me. Matthew 12:30

Judas (not Judas Iscariot, but the other disciple with that name) said to him, “Lord, why are you going to reveal yourself only to us and not to the world at large?” Jesus replied, “All who love me will do what I say. My Father will love them, and we will come and make our home with each of them. Anyone who doesn’t love me will not obey me. And remember, my words are not my own. What I am telling you is from the Father who sent me. John 14:22-24

Jesus’ disciples thought he was planning to establish an earthly kingdom and then overthrow Rome, so they couldn’t understand why he wouldn’t go public with his plan. But the plans set out for the Son of God had nothing to do with an earthly kingdom, and Jesus had plans to share the details with only those who loved and obeyed him. He knew anyone else would try to sabotage his ministry.

Love is a commitment. When we choose to love and obey God, we must understand the strength of that bond. God sacrificed his only Son for our sins, so we must love him with everything we’ve got. Otherwise, is it really love? Some say there is a fine line between love and hate. But, I wonder. How fine is that line? Perhaps it depends on the relationship and the reasons behind the love or hate. In this passage of Scripture, there is a definite distinction between those who love Jesus and those who don’t. And Jesus must treat the two groups differently. The groups don’t have the same values or mission. One is out to win the world for Jesus, and the other is out for blood. Jesus’ blood, that is. Love is not out for blood. Only hate seeks revenge and destruction. Only hate seeks to destroy those who disagree with you. Love seeks open discussion and reconciliation, not retaliation.

We read in Deuteronomy that we are to love the Lord our God with all our heart, soul and strength. This level of commitment to our Lord and Savior is in acknowledgment of the fact that the Lord alone is God. And because of our love for God, we must abide by his commandments. Even if those who hate God or are just opposed to the teachings of Jesus also oppose us and our beliefs, we must stand firm in our faith and commitment.

Listen, O Israel! The Lord is our God, the Lord alone. And you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your strength. Deuteronomy 6:4-5

Obedience is the necessary consequence of love.
— James Smith

But No One Asked

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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

The Pope is Dead, but Jesus is Alive

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

The Pope is dead, but Jesus is alive. We can’t forget which of these two can actually forgive sins. We can’t forget which one died on a cross for the sins of all humanity and then rose from the dead. Nor can we forget which of these two is God and the other is not. We haven’t seen Pope Francis rise from the dead, and we won’t. He’s in eternity now and won’t be returning to this earth. On the other hand, Jesus was crucified on a cross and buried in a tomb. He arose from the dead on the third day and exited the tomb, never to return. And after his ascension to heaven, he is now building an eternal home for his faithful followers. The Pope cannot do this.

Pope Francis died the day after Easter. As the world was celebrating the resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, the Pope was on his deathbed. After suffering a stroke that left him in a coma, he breathed his last. Jesus’ final breath was taken after having a gall-filled sponge pressed to his lips in a last ditch effort to curb his thirst. He then cried out, “It is finished.” His life was over.

Oh. Many may want to compare the two. The Pope and Jesus Christ. So…let’s compare them.

On Easter, Pope Francis took one last ride in his popemobile. Oh. He knew he wasn’t well, and he asked his caregiver if the ride was a good idea. And just hours before he breathed his last, he gave a tearful tribute to that caregiver with thanksgiving for the suggestion for that final ride. Those were his final spoken words.

Jesus’ last ride was on a donkey as he entered Jerusalem. Known as his Triumphal Entry, Jesus knew he was soon to be sacrificed for the sins of his people. As throngs lined the roadway, they threw their coats and palm branches in his path proclaiming, “Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord.” The entire city was in an uproar as he entered on the back of that borrowed donkey. When some in the crowd asked who he was, others shared that he was Jesus, the prophet from Nazareth in Galilee.

The head of the Church didn’t die on Easter Monday, he actually rose from the dead the day before. Some may be confused about who the head of the Church Universal actually is. It isn’t anyone called Pope. The Pope is an elected official over the Roman Catholic church. He holds no sway on people’s eternal destiny. He can’t forgive anyone’s sins. He can’t heal anyone or raise them from the dead. Only Jesus Christ can do those things.

I’m not comparing the Pope and Jesus Christ to insinuate they’re identical. Not at all. The life and death of Jesus was planned and accomplished through the wishes of his Father. The life of Pope Francis played out for most years out of the public eye. His final years spent in the Vatican showed his true colors.

Oh. Each of these two men brought division. They just went about it in different ways.

As one writer said, Pope Francis was known to be a globalist and a socialist. Some believe he may have been a Marxist. He was very divisive and catered to the liberal wing of the Catholic church. He supported the climate change agenda, mass immigration, the LGBTQ agenda, and he pushed vaccines on the world. He was known to silence conservative voices within the church. Some say his positions aligned more with the Church of Satan than traditional Catholic values. Others have called his a “liquid” Catholicism and disruptive in ways that favored liberals. Pope Francis upset many with his push for a progressive acceptance of ideas the conservatives and the Catholic church had long opposed. He used his prominent position to push his ideas on global political issues, and he brought theological disruption to the Catholic church.

You can enter God’s Kingdom only through the narrow gate. The highway to hell is broad, and its gate is wide for the many who choose that way. But the gateway to life is very narrow and the road is difficult, and only a few ever find it. Matthew 7:13-14

I read a number of articles this week extolling the goodness of Pope Francis. Some praised the man, but many others said quite the opposite. One writer hopes that the new Pope isn’t stupid and is more aligned with traditional Catholicism. According to the statement from the Vatican, “he taught us to live the values of the Gospel with faithfulness, courage, and universal love, especially for the poorest and most marginalized.”

I’m only sharing what I’ve read about the man. I never met him.

A similar scenario played out in Jesus’ day of people either loving him or hating him.

Jesus was clear to tell us that his ministry was divisive because his teachings stirred up people’s lives. His message pitted one against another. Oh. That wasn’t necessarily his intention, but he knew that his teachings wouldn’t be popular with just everyone. He didn’t cater his message to specific groups. His message was the same wherever he traveled. He had no favorites. And he shared that people would be divided against each other because of the truth that he spoke. And he spoke it anyway. His message was one for the ages, and it’s as true and relevant today as it was the day he first shared it.

Don’t imagine that I came to bring peace to the earth! I came not to bring peace, but a sword. Matthew 10:34

But why did Jesus’ message bring division, you ask. Jesus preached to the masses, and he spoke in parables. People didn’t always understand the message, but it left them asking for more. His words penetrated their hearts. But there were those whose hearts were cold to the hard truths he shared, and they walked away rejecting his message. They didn’t want to hear that they needed to guard themselves against every type of greed. Or that instead of storing up earthly wealth, they needed to have a strong relationship with God. They didn’t want to hear that they shouldn’t store up treasures on this earth; instead their treasures should be stored in heaven. Jesus knew his preaching of the gospel would divide families instead of uniting them. He knew his teachings would make waves among the leaders of the synagogue, and he did it anyway. He knew some people would be vocal opponents of his message and others would be strong supporters, regardless of the cost. Jesus taught us to love everyone even when they live in opposition to biblical teachings.

The peace of Jesus is the cross. But the cross is the sword God wields on earth. It creates division. The son against the father, the daughter against her mother, the member of the house against the head–all this will happen in the name of God’s kingdom and his peace.

~Dietrich Bonhoeffer, The Cost of Discipleship

The message of Jesus was a message of peace. If you disagree, you’ll need to read the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7). But his words of peace called for people to make a radical, personal commitment to serving him. And that message divided those who chose to serve him and those who chose to reject him. Family members were at odds with each other because one chose Jesus and one did not. That’s what we see still to this day.

“I have come to set the world on fire, and I wish it were already burning! I have a terrible baptism of suffering ahead of me, and I am under a heavy burden until it is accomplished. Do you think I have come to bring peace to the earth? No, I have come to divide people against each other! From now on families will be split apart, three in favor of me, and two against—or two in favor and three against. ‘Father will be divided against son and son against father; mother against daughter and daughter against mother; and mother-in-law against daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against mother-in-law.” Luke 12:49-53

The people also wanted their Messiah to have an earthly kingdom, and Jesus knew that was impossible. His reign would be for eternity, not for a few earthly years. The Pope, on the other hand, spent the last years of his life in palatial surroundings, governing the Roman Catholic church. He inserted his left-leaning beliefs into politics. He led as though his role was one of power, wanting total control.

The teaching of papal infallibility in the Roman Catholic Church provides a grace to the Pope, which means that when he speaks officially in declaration of revealed truth in faith or morals, he is always correct on matters of doctrine. It doesn’t mean he is without error, but his words are thought to come from the Holy Spirit. Pope Francis had recently commented that “all religions are paths to God”, but Jesus clearly stated that he and he alone is “the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.”

Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me. John 14:6

These words comparing Pope Francis to Jesus Christ gives us much to ponder. We can’t put our hope in one man, regardless of his position on this earth. He was made in the image of God, but that didn’t make him a child of God. Only those who call on the name of Jesus Christ and repent of their sins have the right to be called children of God. My hope is that this Pope had made that confession before his death.

It is Finished

~ mercyfortheday ~ 2 Comments

I recently learned that someone I know will soon be losing their job. Having been on the receiving end of such news more than once myself, I know the pain they’re feeling. I understand the deep feeling of loss and holy anger at being forced to leave a job I wasn’t quite ready to leave. And when the decision is made without my input, it’s a raw feeling of rejection. Who doesn’t want to be the one deciding when to leave their job? No one wants to be told their time is up at their workplace before they’ve made that decision for themselves.

When you’re told “it is finished” for you, you feel a flood of emotions. And those emotions are valid. No one enjoys being told they’re done before they’re ready to be done. But that’s how it works for many people these days. One day you’re in. The next day you’re out. It doesn’t seem fair, but that’s life. And we have to roll with it.

I’ve always lived with the motto that the best is yet to come. Even in the hardest of times, I held onto that hope. Each time I lost my job, I hoped and prayed that someone would hire me. And someone always did. But the loss of the previous job was tough. It changes you, and you have to decide if you’ll become bitter or better for it. Life isn’t over just because the job is. You never know what lies just around the corner.

The one losing her job is in the last days of employment. She’s wrapping up loose ends and giving final instructions to those she works closely with. She’ll finish well and move on to the next phase of her life. Even though the job loss was not in her plans, she can walk away with her head held high knowing she’s given it her best.

When he had received the drink, Jesus said, “It is finished.” With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit. John 19:30

Jesus had been teaching large crowds of people and healing the sick among them. As the days drew closer for his earthly ministry to end, he began making his way to Jerusalem. He knew that his ministry would be finalized in that city. He knew that he would face persecution and death there, and he didn’t run from it. As he made his way to the city of David, he continued his ministry by teaching and healing people. His work didn’t end because his end of days was just ahead.

As the time approached for him to be taken up to heaven, Jesus resolutely set out for Jerusalem. Luke 9:51

We have just lived through what was the last week of Jesus Christ’s earthly life. Before he was arrested, put on trial and then crucified, he knew his time on earth was coming to an end. The human part of him asked for “this cup” to pass from him, but his Father refused. And he knew there was no need to ask for a reprieve because he had given up his deity and became fully human just to die for the sins of humanity. And the time had come to fulfill the prophecy.

But humanly speaking, he didn’t want a kiss of betrayal on his brow. He didn’t want to be whipped. He didn’t want a trial held under the cloud of darkness. He didn’t want to feel the pain of rejection. The pressure of thorns piercing his skull. The puncturing of his wrists with nails. The slit of his side with a sword. He didn’t want the taste of gall pressed on his lips with a dirty sponge. He didn’t want to breathe his last breath hanging on a wooden cross in a public display of the prophetic holy Scriptures. But he did it anyway. He willingly suffered the pain of death for all humanity. He spoke the words “It is finished” and gave up the ghost and breathed his last. And he died for our sins so you and I don’t have to.

In alignment with the rest of God’s creation project revealed in the biblical story, the new creation is the culmination of the purpose (creation) and provision (redemption) of God. The end of creation is when the perfect capacity for creation reaches complete perfection — when God declares over his creation project what he did at our redemption: “It is finished” (John 19:30).

Edward W. Klink III, The Beginning and End of All Things

There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. John 15:13

Jesus said it is finished because he was finished with his earthly ministry. He was basically saying that he had successfully completed the work he came to do. These three words weren’t a desperate cry for help. They were a proclamation that he had finished well. He had accomplished the work his Father had laid out for him, and all the prophecies of the Old Testament had now been fulfilled. Although his body was tattered and torn, beaten and bruised, he finished well. He had laid the groundwork for those who call on him to spend eternity with him.

Jesus paid it all,
All to Him I owe;
Sin had left a crimson stain,
He washed it white as snow.

When Jesus breathed his last breath on the cross, his earthly work was finished. In that moment, he laid down his life for us. His ministry lasted three years, but the preparations for it had begun long before he came to earth. He finished his work on earth and is now working to make our eternal home ready for when our time on earth is completed. He’s preparing a place for each of us who know him as Lord and Savior. Have you surrendered your life to him so he can prepare a room for you?

In my Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also. John 14:2-3

Kamikaze Sin

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

I’ve worn glasses for my entire adult life. And I’ve discovered a huge secret that probably anyone who wears glasses has also learned. Not only can we see better when we wear our glasses, but they can instantly get a smudge when we haven’t even touched the lens. I’ve never understood how that happens, but I’ve recently figured out what causes those annoying smudges that are not there one minute and impossible to miss the next. There must be invisible kamikaze drones that spray an undetected substance when they are in the vicinity of eyeglasses. That’s the only explanation I can figure out that makes sense.

I’ve never met a person who intentionally smears the lens on their glasses. If anything, we work hard to keep them clear so our vision is not compromised. But it’s a never-ending task. I don’t know about anyone else, but I find myself cleaning my glasses multiple times a day.

I’m perfectly content with my new theory. I just need some evidence that it holds true. If anyone has proof of life of these drones, please feel free to message me. Just as the drones in New Jersey appeared out of nowhere, so do these drones. I’m not sure if it’s a government plot to disrupt the life of glass wearers or some other nefarious plan.

In our daily lives, it seems there are times when a temptation comes out of nowhere and we “unexpectedly” sin. We may have to decide instantly how we will respond to the temptation staring us in the face. If we give in, we may try to defend our actions by blaming it on today’s culture. Everyone is doing it, so it’s ok. Those sins that come out of “unexpected” temptation could be categorized as kamikaze sins. They catch us unaware and, for some reason, we aren’t prepared to reject the temptation. So we give in when we have vowed not to. Perhaps what it amounts to is that we’re not steady enough on our spiritual feet to say no. We’re willing to risk eternal separation from God for a moment’s pleasure, to save face or acceptance by others we hold in high esteem.

But. Just because you can doesn’t mean you should. Think about that. We don’t want to offend others, but we’re willing to offend God. At a moment’s notice, we may be tempted to steal or lie. Or any number of sinful acts. Why do we do it? Oh. We’re all born with a sinful nature, that’s for sure. And perhaps, in our inner life that no one but God sees, we dwell on things that displease God. And then when we are tempted, we show no resistance. After all, it’s been on our mind for days. And the opportunity to act on that thought is right before our eyes. How can we turn away and say no?

If you think you are standing strong, be careful not to fall. The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure.

1 Corinthians 10:12-13

The law of Moses was unable to save us because of the weakness of our sinful nature. So God did what the law could not do. He sent his own Son in a body like the bodies we sinners have. And in that body God declared an end to sin’s control over us by giving his Son as a sacrifice for our sins. He did this so that the just requirement of the law would be fully satisfied for us, who no longer follow our sinful nature but instead follow the Spirit. Those who are dominated by the sinful nature think about sinful things, but those who are controlled by the Holy Spirit think about things that please the Spirit. So letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace. For the sinful nature is always hostile to God. It never did obey God’s laws, and it never will. That’s why those who are still under the control of their sinful nature can never please God. But you are not controlled by your sinful nature. You are controlled by the Spirit if you have the Spirit of God living in you. (And remember that those who do not have the Spirit of Christ living in them do not belong to him at all.) Romans 8:3-9

Sin is a taboo subject these days. Even when we know we’re sinning, no one wants to admit they’ve offended God. Because when we admit it, then we have to do something about it. We either ignore God’s warning and continue on with our lives, or we repent and turn away from sin. It seems it should be an easy decision, but we’re selfish people and we want our way in life.

I’ve read recently that sin is autonomy. We choose to live by our own law. We decide what is permitted or not in our lives. We decide what’s right or wrong. We don’t hand that heavy responsibility to God, who has already determined right and wrong for everyone. Mankind wants to be free of God, so we crown ourselves as our own god. And we don’t let anyone or anything tell us what to do.

But when we believe there is a God, we hand over all the ownership to God. He defines the rules. He determines good and evil, and we must bow to his measures. Then when we feel the gaze of God upon us and our sin, we become very, very uncomfortable. Being confronted with our sin moves us to a decision of repentance or rejection of God.

Oswald Chambers writes in his classic devotional “My Utmost for His Highest”, “have you made the following decision about sin — that it must be completely killed in you? It takes a long time to come to the point of making this complete and effective decision about sin. It is, however, the greatest moment in your life, once you decide that sin must die in you — not simply be restrained, suppressed, or counteracted, but crucified — just as Jesus Christ died for the sin of the world.”

So the trouble is not with the law, for it is spiritual and good. The trouble is with me, for I am all too human, a slave to sin. I don’t really understand myself, for I want to do what is right, but I don’t do it. Instead, I do what I hate. But if I know that what I am doing is wrong, this shows that I agree that the law is good. So I am not the one doing wrong; it is sin living in me that does it. And I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. I want to do what is right, but I can’t. I want to do what is good, but I don’t. I don’t want to do what is wrong, but I do it anyway. But if I do what I don’t want to do, I am not really the one doing wrong; it is sin living in me that does it. I have discovered this principle of life—that when I want to do what is right, I inevitably do what is wrong. I love God’s law with all my heart. But there is another power within me that is at war with my mind. This power makes me a slave to the sin that is still within me. Oh, what a miserable person I am! Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin and death? Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord. So you see how it is: In my mind I really want to obey God’s law, but because of my sinful nature I am a slave to sin. Romans 7:14-25

If you haven’t chosen to repent of your sins, today is your day. Jesus will welcome your prayer of confession and repentance and forgive all your sins. He will give you a new heart and a desire to please him. You can pray the following simple prayer that Billy Graham used in his crusades to invite people to accept Jesus as their Lord and Savior.

Dear Lord Jesus, I know that I am a sinner, and I ask for Your forgiveness. I believe You died for my sins and rose from the dead. I turn from my sins and invite You to come into my heart and life. I want to trust and follow You as my Lord and Savior. In Your Name. Amen.

If it is difficult to get right with God, it is because we refuse to make this moral decision about sin. But once we do decide, the full life of God comes in immediately.

Oswald Chambers

Getting Along with Others

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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