Christian

The Story of God is True

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

It was Wednesday night, and I sat in the sanctuary beside one of my Awana kids. It was lesson time for the Sparks (K-2). Our leader was telling the story of salvation and Jesus dying on the cross for our sins. Suddenly, this first grader turned to me and asked in an almost startled voice, “Is the story of God true?” Yes. Yes, Graham, the story of God is true. You mean it’s real? Yes, it real. It’s not fiction? No, it really happened. He was amazed and excited. Apparently, the reality of what he was hearing had just sunk in for the very first time. Hopefully, all the puzzle pieces of the Bible verses and lessons he learned in Awana last year are coming together. And, hopefully soon, he’ll make the decision to become a Christ follower.

This exchange reminded me of the necessity of teaching Bible verses and stories to children. Kids love stories, and they love listening to them over and over. And when they learn that the story really happened. That it’s true. It suddenly takes on a whole new dimension. It takes on real meaning. And they will relive that story in their minds time and time again. And they will tell others.

When kids never have an opportunity to read the Bible or to even hear the Bible stories, they are missing out on so much history and lifelong lessons on morality, ethics, obedience, sin and salvation. They don’t know that God created the earth and all plants and animals and humans in seven days. They don’t know how Daniel survived an overnight stay in a den of lions, because people who hated him wanted him out of their lives. They don’t know that David killed a giant named Goliath with a stone and slingshot. They don’t know that Noah built an ark and put two of every kind of animal in it, along with his family, because a flood was going to cover the entire earth for many, many days. They don’t know that Jonah disobeyed God and was swallowed by a whale, just to be spewed out of his mouth three days later. They don’t know that God’s only son, Jesus, was born to a virgin named Mary. They don’t know that Jesus was put on trial, nailed to a cross and died in order to forgive our sins when we repented. They don’t that Jesus chose twelve men to be his disciples and spread the good news of salvation. They don’t know that Jesus is coming to gather his followers so they can spend eternity together. And there are so many more stories the kids will never know. Stories like the Sermon on the Mount. The miracles of Jesus. Saul’s conversion and missionary trips. John the Baptist preparing the way for Jesus’ ministry. They don’t know about all the prophecies that have been told, and that many have come to pass and the remaining ones will in good time. They don’t know what they’re missing.

Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it. Proverbs 22:6

You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. Deuteronomy 6:5-7

We will not hide them from their children, but tell to the coming generation the glorious deeds of the Lord, and his might, and the wonders that he has done. He established a testimony in Jacob and appointed a law in Israel, which he commanded our fathers to teach to their children, that the next generation might know them, the children yet unborn, and arise and tell them to their children, so that they should set their hope in God and not forget the works of God, but keep his commandments. Psalm 78:4-7

How will kids know that they need to repent of their sins if no one tells them? How will they ever hear the Good News of salvation if they’re never in church or with followers of Christ? Who will tell them if their parents choose not to attend church or read the Bible to them? How will they know? And how will they pass down the need for salvation to their own children if they don’t hear it first?

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

And we wonder why the world is so topsy turvy. We wonder why today’s culture believes dangerous ideologies. We wonder why people are resorting to horrible crimes and violent tendencies. We wonder why there is an abundance of evil and corruption in the world. We wonder why people don’t know the story of God. Perhaps they’ve heard it and rejected it. Perhaps no one has ever shared the Good News with them. Perhaps it’s time to do so. Perhaps it’s time to wake up and move beyond the fear of being rejected by our unbelieving peers and family members and present the Truth to them before it’s too late. Perhaps it’s time for Christians to get out of their comfort zone and start sharing the Good News.

So yes, Graham. The story of God is true. It actually happened. All of it. And you can choose to accept it or not. It’s your choice. But know this. If you reject it, you will not spend eternity with God. But if you accept Jesus Christ as your Savior and follow him, you will be with him for eternity. So choose wisely.

But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. 2 Timothy 3:14-15

Our Church

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When we moved to this state two years ago, it was important to us to find a church. We are Christians, and we attend church every week. We believe church is a vital part of a faithful Christian life. We didn’t know how long it would take for us to find the right church. We hadn’t made a list of specific things we were looking for, but we knew there were some necessary requirements.

We actually started our online search for a church before we moved and immediately found one we wanted to visit. A church close to home that was active and thriving. As Christians, it was important to us to find a biblically sound church. One that preached the Bible and historic Christianity, not progressivism or deceptive spiritual practices. We wanted the Bible. And boy. Did we ever find the church.

We moved here before my husband retired, so I was living here alone while he remained in our previous city. He would come home every few weeks and attend church with me. I have to admit. The first few weeks were rocky. People weren’t friendly. Only two people introduced themselves. I wasn’t quite sure what to think. But I kept going back every week. I knew the church had a lot going for it, so I wanted to give it a chance. And now I can say that I’m glad I stuck it out.

Our pastor invited me to a group of likeminded people. And one of those people invited me to join a small group. The people in that group welcomed us with open arms and have become friends. We’ve also gotten involved in other areas. Awana for me. Worship team for him. We attend the monthly senior’s dinner. We also enjoy the fellowship we find at the church’s monthly first Sunday potluck. And we attend other events as they pop up. Worship nights. Hymn sings.

There are many things I really appreciate about our church. Things I didn’t realize I wanted or needed in a home church. But here they are in no order of priority or importance. Some are just nice-to-haves. We worship in a true sanctuary, not a gymnasium. We sit in pews, not chairs. We have communion every Sunday. Our worship music is a more mellow contemporary style with occasional hymns thrown in. We have an actual grand piano along with the keyboard. The music is worshipful, and not performance driven. And it isn’t too loud. The elementary children are in the service until the sermon. They’re learning to worship with the adults. We have a children’s choir. The building actually looks like a church and not a square box. The church is debt free and supports a long list of missionaries. The elders take an active role in the weekly church service by leading communion and prayer time. The preaching is strictly expository biblical sermons. Our church stands unapologetically on the Word of God. They are making disciples.

And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching. Hebrews 10:24-25

This summer, we made the decision to become members of the church. So, we’re all in. We’ve found our church home, and we couldn’t be happier. I can’t imagine attending any other church.

But don’t get me wrong. Our church isn’t perfect. After all, it is full of people. And people are imperfect and broken. I’m sure there are many hurting people who walk through the doors each week, and no one would ever know they are struggling. Unless they tell someone. I believe our pastors and elders have the best of intentions when helping others. They lead the church from a biblical lens.

I’ve witnessed the way others at our church care for each other and for those who are needy. Meal trains. Prayer meetings multiple mornings each week. Men building beds for kids who don’t have one. Women’s Bible studies. Men’s ministry group. Worship nights. Fun family and group outings. Coffee hour. Colson Fellows. Missions trips. Community projects. Children’s ministry. Youth ministry.

Our church offers multiple outlets for service and fellowship that welcome any and all to participate. There’s a place for everyone to get involved, but not everyone does. It’s voluntary, so someone can be as involved as they feel comfortable. The purpose of our church is to help others seek a close relationship with God, serve and fellowship with his people.

Fellowship is an important aspect of the Christian life. It provides moral support and and spiritual communion with likeminded people. We don’t have to do life alone. We can find others with similar beliefs who will walk alongside us in all phases of life. It’s a vital part of being involved in a church. I have to say that I’m very thankful that we have found such a wonderful community of Christians. It’s been the icing on the cake for our retirement move.

Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. Galatians 6:2

They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Acts 2:42

A Personal Holiness

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I took a political science class when I was in college. One of the assignments was to post a political sign in a public place for the upcoming election. I don’t remember all the details, but it might have been a school board election. I just knew that I didn’t want to participate in the assignment, but it was part of the grade for the class. My sister took her sign to a small grocery store, and I took mine to the post office. How was I to know post offices can’t publicly support candidates? So, I did what any good American would do. I taped the sign to my car window. That way anyone I drove by could see the sign. Genius!

This assignment was one I wasn’t interested in doing. At the time, I had absolutely no interest in politics or political candidates. I only fulfilled the assignment so I could honestly report back that I did it. I didn’t care how well or accurately I had done the job, I just knew that it had to be done. I completed the assignment and passed the class. I did as little as was needed to fulfill my obligation.

I sometimes have the same attitude about my morning walk. I don’t always want to take the walk, but I know that it’s best if I do it. I don’t expect to be graded for my effort, and no one is holding me accountable for my walking. I just know it’s a healthy activity I should do. I had recently sloughed off because I caught a cold. So, I took some time off from my morning routine. And even though it’s been five weeks since I was sick, I haven’t gotten back in the habit of walking. Honestly, I haven’t really missed it, but I know I need to put my walking shoes back on.

On Monday morning this week, whether I wanted to or not, I headed out the door. My route only takes about twenty minutes, and it’s a good habit to have. Why do I try to avoid it? So, I found myself out walking two mornings this week. I’ve found an excuse not to do it the rest of the week, so now I’m working hard to change my attitude about the “interruption” to my morning. It’s one small activity I can check off my daily to-do list, and it isn’t even painful. Why do I tell myself that it’s a bother when it’s actually good for me? Laziness can be such a killer.

But as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, “You shall be holy, for I am holy. 1 Peter 1:15-16

I wonder. How many Christians actually prioritize their walk with Christ? Do we think the relationship will just grow on its own? Do we make sure to avoid sin? Have we Christians become lazy when it comes to living a holy life? Do we have a good attitude about exhibiting godliness to those we encounter on a daily basis? Do we avoid sin? Or, do we think others will understand if we have a bad reputation, or if we make it a regular habit of speaking ill of others while also claiming to be a Christian? What happens when someone we trust finds us involved in an activity that we both know dishonors God? Are we concerned when our selfish actions speak louder than our verbal commitment to God? Do we who call ourselves Christians actually live a holy life?

What exactly is holy living, anyway? What is holiness?

A holy life is one that is lived separate from the secular life. It’s a life lived in agreement with biblical teaching. It’s living our life in God’s will, instead of just barely fitting God into our life or keeping him on the fringes. We deliberately separate ourselves from sin.

And the sad thing is that perhaps many Christians don’t even care about holiness. They don’t care that their behavior isn’t any different from someone who doesn’t claim to be a follower of Christ. But when we say we are Christians, what sets us apart from those who aren’t? There has to be a difference. Otherwise, what’s the point of Christ’s sacrificial death on the cross? It wasn’t for nothing. And it certainly wasn’t for us to celebrate the Easter bunny. Holiness is an essential part of living a growing Christian life.

It may be easy to slough off on developing a deep walk with Christ and wholeheartedly following him. Any relationship takes work, and it isn’t always easy. There are hills and there are valleys. But the long, slow walk of obedience is the path of peace and deep fulfillment. Holy living isn’t for the weak. Some will say it means sacrificing what we desire for what God wants for us. And yes. There are sacrifices. How can it be called bad when someone actually relinquishes their selfish pride or stops lying?

And here’s the kicker. Jesus expects obedience out of his followers. How can we call ourselves a follower if we’re not actually following his teachings? It’s not a one-sided relationship. In order to live without spot or blemish as it says in the book of Ephesians, we need to figure out the difference between pure and impure motives and actions. That’s holy living in a nutshell. We must pursue a holy life every single day until Jesus calls us home.

He did this to present her to himself as a glorious church without a spot or wrinkle or any other blemish. Instead, she will be holy and without fault. Ephesians 5:27

In my college days, I completed my assignment, not because I was interested in politics but so I would receive a passing grade. And I walk now because it’s a healthy step in aging gracefully. It’s good for me. But living a holy life is not a recommendation by God. It’s a requirement.

Put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness. Ephesians 4:22-24

When Your Heart Skips A Beat

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What crosses your mind when someone brings up their faith or Christianity or their church service last Sunday? Are you all in for the conversation, or do you try to duck out and spare yourself some grief? Does your heart skip a beat when someone mentions that God is good or that He has answered their prayer in a great and mighty way? Do you want to be swallowed up by the earth at that very moment because you’re uncomfortable with the subject? Or would you be genuinely interested in what they had to say?

Many people, Christian or not, try to avoid conversations about the Bible or church or faith in general. Perhaps they think they’re not educated enough to speak about those issues. Perhaps they don’t have faith and don’t want others to know. Perhaps they are a believer, but don’t want others to know. Some people just want to avoid the topic, no matter what.

If you had been alive during the time of Jesus’ birth, you would have been in one of two camps. Either your heart skipped a beat when you heard the news, because you knew this long awaited event was the best thing that had ever happened to mankind. You knew this was the event that had been promised so many years ago and it had finally happened in your lifetime. This was incredible news! Or. Your heart skipped a beat because you were enraged that someone, and of all things a tiny baby, was said to be the Savior of the world. You knew you would fight this announcement at all costs. Because it just couldn’t be true. How could it be? A baby is no savior. Who cares about the stories of the star in the east and the prophesies of a Messiah. This baby is nothing special, and you were determined to squelch all rumors that he was.

And here’s what we know today. The good news of Jesus Christ’s birth, death and resurrection still causes a mixed reaction. Multitudes experience a life-changing event when they repent of their sins and choose to follow Him. They know their lives have been changed, and they want to let others know. On the other hand, there are many others who reject the good news of salvation and want nothing to do with it. They reject it outright and oppose it as if it were the kiss of death. They will oppose all talk of the subject.

And here’s what we also know. We each have a choice as to how we will handle the news of Christ’s offer of salvation. We can accept it and follow the path to eternal life with him. Or we can reject it, which means we will wallow in sin. And living a sinful life will look different for everyone. The life of someone not following Christ may be very successful and full of material possessions. They may achieve at the highest level of corporate success. They may be able to afford all the latest gadgets and toys and vacations and pleasures that money can afford. But they reject any discussion about the Savior of the world. Success in this life doesn’t mean that someone isn’t a follower of Christ, but it also doesn’t mean they are. And just because someone doesn’t live a life that is questionable doesn’t mean they are living forgiven.

Choose this day whom you will serve. Joshua 24:15

God isn’t afraid of our choices, but he knows the end result of what we choose. After all, he allows his angels to choose and a host of them chose unwisely. And he’s not afraid of skepticism or doubt. That’s normal in life. But when we choose to challenge him, we need to know exactly who and what we’re dealing with. When we choose to ignore him, we need to know the full extent of the choice we’ve just made.

I want to be careful when I say this, but the rejection of Christ is an acceptance of the evil one himself, Satan. Many who reject Christ may say they’re not Satan lovers, but they’ve rejected Christ. So who do they think they’re following if it’s not Christ? I know. It’s an uncomfortable thought, and it may sound harsh. Most people who don’t accept the teachings of Christ don’t claim to be Satan worshippers. They don’t claim to follow the leader of the underworld. They may believe they are self-made and self-fulfilled and don’t need God in their lives. They don’t know the capabilities of the one who thought he could out-God God. They don’t know that he lost in his quest of self importance and pride to de-throne God. And that’s exactly why he’s no longer living in the presence of God Almighty. They don’t know that God threw him and his host of angels out of heaven and has doomed them to an eternity in hell. His name was Lucifer, and he was once a high ranking angel. Now he’s known as Satan and is the leader of darkness.

Now war arose in heaven, Michael and his angels fighting against the dragon. And the dragon and his angels fought back, but he was defeated, and there was no longer any place for them in heaven. And the great dragon was thrown down, that ancient serpent, who is called the devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world—he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him. And I heard a loud voice in heaven, saying, “Now the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Christ have come, for the accuser of our brothers has been thrown down, who accuses them day and night before our God. And they have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, for they loved not their lives even unto death. Revelation 12:7-11

How you are fallen from heaven, O shining star, son of the morning! You have been thrown down to the earth, you who destroyed the nations of the world. For you said to yourself, ‘I will ascend to heaven and set my throne above God’s stars. I will preside on the mountain of the gods far away in the north. I will climb to the highest heavens and be like the Most High.’ Instead, you will be brought down to the place of the dead, down to its lowest depths. Isaiah 14:12-15

Many call themselves Christians, yet they haven’t repented of their sins. But Christianity is a humbling act of confession and turning from all sinful behavior. It’s a commitment to living a life in fellowship with Jesus Christ. There is no middle ground. If we haven’t chosen Christ as our Lord and Savior, he will not recognize us on the day we stand in judgment before him.

Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels.’ Matthew 25:41

In Joshua 24:14-28, Joshua implored the Israelites to choose to serve the Lord, and they promised they would. He knew exactly what punishment would lie ahead for them if they turned their backs on God. He told them plainly that he and his household would serve the Lord, and they must choose who they would serve. Just as Joshua chose and all of Israel had to choose, so does everyone else even today. Who do you choose to follow? One more question. When you’re face to face with God on judgment day, will your heart skip a beat because you’re being ushered into his presence for eternity or because you’re not?

For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. Romans 10:13

Helping Others

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I don’t mean to brag, but I helped someone this week. This is someone I met last year at my church. When my husband and I learned that she and her husband lived near us, we told her to let us know if they ever needed help. We’ve repeated that offered multiple times. You see. She and her husband are up in years, and he has been diagnosed with a progressive disease. They both see the signs and issues it causes, and he recently told her that they needed to move. So they bought a house in town and need help packing up their old one. That’s where we come in.

She approached me a couple of weeks ago at church and told me that only the realtor knew of their recent home purchase. She asked if I would be able to help her with the packing. Of course, I’m willing to help. She mentioned that we had kindly offered many other times to help if she needed anything. And she wasn’t too proud to ask this time. She knew she needed the help. That’s what friends are for. To help someone in their time of need.

I’m glad she felt comfortable asking for help. I know it isn’t easy to humble ourselves and admit that we can’t do everything. And that happens more often as we age. We’re just not strong enough or sturdy enough to do heavy work. Her husband surely isn’t able to do physical work any longer. And while she’s still willing and able, cleaning out a house and purging used household items is hard work at any age. Trust me. I know. We just did that two years ago, and it’s a very painful but necessary ordeal.

So, the time has come for her to call on friends to help. And here we are. Ready and able.

Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you. Isaiah 46:4

I don’t know too much about their family situation, but they seem to have no one else to call on to help. And that’s rather sad, because I know they have family who live nearby. I’m just happy that she felt she could actually ask us for help. Because we’re more than willing. So we went and helped. I cleaned out and packed up the buffet filled with two sets of beautiful fragile china dishes, and my husband kept her husband company. I’m sure she may ask me to come back another day, and that’s ok, too.

Stand up in the presence of the aged, show respect for the elderly and revere your God. I am the Lord. Leviticus 19:32

Many times, older people are shoved aside and left to fend for themselves. Sometimes they have family nearby to help them, but other times they don’t. And there are those whose family members won’t even offer to help. But there are also many people who are afraid to ask for help. They don’t want to be a bother, so they suffer quietly and alone. There’s no need for that. Especially when they have a strong church family who would jump at the chance to lend a helping hand. No one is seeking payment or recognition. It’s just the Christian thing to do to step in when someone is in need.

We never know when we may be in a similar situation. When we can no longer pack up boxes or lift and move heavy items. And we may not have family nearby or anyone we feel comfortable leaning on. What happens then? Who will we call on?

And it isn’t just the older crowd who needs help. At times, it can be a young person who isn’t living near family. And they have no one close by. Perhaps they are new to an area and don’t have any close friends. They may need help. Who do they call? When we see someone in need and we have the time and means to help, shouldn’t we extend a hand?

I recall just two short years ago when I was new to the area where we now live, I only knew my family members who lived nearby. It seemed almost every week I was having a new crisis with the house we bought. And I had no one else to call. My family came through every single time. I’m not sure what I would have done without them.

We don’t have to act all tough and rugged and pretend everything is great, all the while wilting on the inside. That’s no way to live. We aren’t considered a failure just because we need help. No one can do everything all the time. And, no one knows we have a need unless we share it. There’s no reason to protect ourselves and isolate from those around us who would be willing to lend a hand if only we shared our need. Most people are willing to help someone, if only they knew.

God didn’t create us to be totally self-sufficient. He blesses each of us with many different gifts, and then he gives us opportunities to use them. Those gifts can’t be hoarded and kept to ourselves. They are to be used to bless others who have a need for what we have to offer. My prayer is that I will be willing and able to help others the next time I’m asked. I’m sure the day will come again when I will be the needy one calling on others, and I’ll appreciate the help they will give. But until that day comes, I’ll be glad to help when the need arises.

So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith. Galatians 6:10

Do to others as you would have them do to you. Luke 6:31

The Missing Dime

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There’s a certain spot on one of the streets I walk in my neighborhood that has something I’ve noticed. What I’ve seen is just a simple dirty dime that someone dropped on the road. And no one has picked it up. I’ve often thought to stop and put it in my pocket, but I never have. And then one morning last week, I noticed the dime was gone. I looked all around the area to see if it had just been moved. But no. Someone other than me had dared to pick it up and claim it as their own. And that suits me fine.

What can a single dime buy these days, anyway? Nothing. And I’ve noticed that now when I walk in that particular area, I don’t even stop to consider that a dime used to be on the road. I don’t even think of it. Before the dime went missing, I would start to wonder if it was still there whenever I approached the spot. Now I don’t have to wonder any longer. I can think on other things.

But I do wonder who might have collected the coin. Who thought a dime was worth saving? Would they add it to their rainy day jar? Or, did they wash it and give it to their child or grandchild? Did someone just push it into the grass? And I see others walking the same path I take, so it could be one of the other walkers who picked it up. I’ll never know. All I know is that it was once on the road and now it isn’t. It’s found a new home.

I also wonder if I would have felt that my life had changed it I had picked up that dime. Well, I already know the answer. It wouldn’t have. I’m not even sure what I would have done with it. I probably would have put it in my coin purse and carried on. I wouldn’t have given it a second thought. But I would have had an extra ten cents to my name. Now I don’t.

I didn’t leave the dime on the road because I felt it wasn’t mine to take. I’m not really sure why I never picked it up, other than the fact that it was only ten cents. Most likely, it was because I knew the dime wouldn’t change a thing in my life. Now, if it was a ten dollar bill, I wouldn’t have thought twice about it. But, a dime? It didn’t entice me.

And the thing is, the person who dropped the dime didn’t return to pick it up. Were they aware they had lost the dime, or did they just shrug and say, “it’s only a dime” and carry on? But here’s the other thing. The location where the dime was located wasn’t a spot where a car would park. And it wasn’t an area where someone would be digging through their pockets or wallet for change. It was close to the stop sign. So, how did they lose the dime in that exact spot? No one just throws a dime out a car window or empties their pocket while walking their dog.

For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost. Luke 19:10

I’m reminded of the parable in the Bible that tells of a woman who lost one of her ten coins. She searched diligently to find the coin. And when it was located, she called everyone to celebrate with her. Her ten coins were safe and sound.

The coin I found but never claimed wasn’t really mine. It didn’t bother me when someone else had picked it up and pocketed it for themselves. The woman in the parable knew the lost coin was hers and desperately searched until she found it. Perhaps the ten coins were all she had left. And she swept the floor and searched until the one was found. She called in her friends, and they rejoiced with her on that happy occasion. I had nothing to celebrate when someone else picked up the coin, but perhaps they thought it was a great find.

I think of the young man who made a decision earlier this year to follow Christ. He had been lost, but when his eyes were opened to his need for a Savior he accepted the call to surrender his life. And then he and his family celebrated his newfound faith. A sinner had been saved.

Every time a lost soul repents of their sins and makes a commitment to serve Christ is a joyous occasion. Even the angels celebrate. The soul of a man is worth much more than a lost coin. Lost coins can be found and then hidden away for safe keeping. A soul that has been found and saved has now entered into a relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ. There is much to be thankful for in that event. The coin is of little value, but God prizes the soul that calls on him. Those who call on the name of the Lord and are saved will be with him in eternity. Those who don’t will be separated from God.

The coin I found on the road was most likely very dirty. It had been run over time and time again by vehicles as they went their way, never knowing the coin was under their tires. A soul that is completely dirty with sin can be washed white as snow regardless of any type of sin. God’s forgiveness is full and complete and starts the slate brand new. It’s a liberating feeling to be cleansed by the blood of the Lamb in forgiveness.

Or what woman, having ten silver coins, if she loses one coin, does not light a lamp and sweep the house and seek diligently until she finds it? And when she has found it, she calls together her friends and neighbors, saying, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found the coin that I had lost.’ Just so, I tell you, there is joy before the angels of God over one sinner who repents. Luke 15:8-10

Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance. Luke 15:7

A Nation That Has Forgotten God

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I have lived on this earth long enough to remember our great nation’s two hundredth birthday. Yes, I’m of that age. It was the summer before my senior year of high school. I recall being slightly jealous of the senior class that graduated that year, because they could say they graduated the year of the big birthday of our nation. It was a trivial thought, but I thought it. And now somehow fifty years have passed. Far too quickly, I might add. But here we are.

As I reflect back on the last fifty years, I’ve seen many changes in this land. In the people. Some good changes. And some not so good. Progress is good if it’s done with the best intentions and in the best interest of the people. Some ideas for change should never even pass the lips of the one with the idea. They’re that bad. But again, here we are. Good and bad changes have transpired in the fifty years since we last celebrated a big birthday for our country.

As those Englanders boarded that ship to America, they were hoping for change. Good change. They were looking for freedom to express their own faith and beliefs without fear of persecution. They wanted the freedom to govern themselves with equality and justice for all. So they moved.

And we know that freedom isn’t exactly free. It comes with a great price. Just ask those pilgrims who traveled so far to enter this land and make it their home. They lost many of their people after they arrived. Life was hard. They came with nothing to a place with nothing. They had to build their lives from scratch. And look at us today. Many of us just want handouts. Or we give handouts to those who come wanting something for nothing.

I don’t watch soccer, but I’ve been seeing stories of visitors from Europe traveling our great country. They’re here for the World Cup, and they’re just in time to celebrate our nation’s birthday with us. And they’re in awe. They’re seeing the results of the hard work of their forefathers who sacrificed to move here. And they like what they see. We who have lived here for generations take our freedom and what they call luxuries as a right. We demand our rights, even if they are dangerous and damaging. And we think nothing of it. We’ve become desensitized to the wealth that we have. Our middle class lives far beyond what the upper class of other countries does. In some ways. And we take it all for granted. Perhaps when they return home, they’ll be as jealous of Americans as I was of the class that graduated fifty years ago.

When I say “we”, I’m speaking of a collective we. Not all Americans have turned their back on this county, but some have. That group seems to have the loudest voices, and they’re being heard. And yet they stay here. Really. They’re a minority, but they’re changing the culture of this great country. And we’re headed down a dangerous path if they have their way. Mark my words. And it’s interestingly refreshing to hear the Europeans praise our land as they have fallen in love with it. And yet we don’t seem to do the same. We’ve become hardened to the good that we have. And we want more. Or we want something else that is a bit more unseemly.

Two hundred and fifty years ago, a group of men signed a document declaring their independence from their native land. And history was set in place. As we look back, we have much to be thankful for and much to still accomplish. You could say we’ve come a long way, baby, but it now seems as if we’re backtracking instead of moving forward. Oh. I’m not talking about industrial inventions and progress. I’m talking about cultural swings into a perverse belief system that reflects nothing our founding fathers set forth. We can do better. We must do better. And there’s no better time than the present.

How grateful we ought to be that we can meet together to worship God after that form which best satisfies our consciences without any fear of being hunted down by the authorities of the land…We worship God in unlimited liberty, and we ought to be exceedingly glad of the privilege, and infinitely more grateful for it than we are…Blessed is the land in which we dwell, and blessed are the days in which we live, when in all peace and quietness we worship God in public and sing his high praises as loudly as we please. Great God of peace, thou hast give us this peace, and in remembrance of our hunted forefathers we bless thee with our whole hearts! ~Charles Spurgeon

Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, the people whom he has chosen as his heritage! Psalm 33:12

The state of our country reminds me of the Israelites who left Egypt to pursue God’s call to a promised land. It was a hard road for them, because time after time they turned their back on him. They tried to do things their way. And it backfired every time. Unlike the pilgrims who sailed for over two months to cross the ocean to this land, they wandered in the desert for forty years because of their disobedience. And everyone who left Egypt on that fateful night died before they were able to enter Canaan, the land God had promised to them. All but one of the one hundred two passengers on the Mayflower survived their trip.

The Israelites were God’s chosen people. And yet, they’re a great example of a nation that turned their back on God. God chose Canaan as their new home, because he knew it would give them a life of abundance. They had multitudes of fresh food and water. They conquered cities and took over the land. Each of the twelve tribes moved to their designated areas of the country. And they settled in. But settling in wasn’t enough for them. Instead of fully obeying God by destroying everyone who had lived in Canaan, they allowed some to live. And over time, the original inhabitants of the land persuaded them to abandon God and worship their idols. They married and had families with the people they were slated to annihilate.

Each time the Israelites found themselves at a crossroad of hardship and desperation, they remembered how God had led them on the journey to this new homeland. And they turned their backs on their idols and once again worshipped God. But their commitment would continue to wane until finally God had had enough. He allowed them to be conquered by the Babylonians. Many of the elite Israelites were sent into exile in a foreign land where they had to identify as someone they weren’t. This continued for seventy years when they were allowed to return home to rebuild their land.

I think of the state of our nation and how what had started as a nation under God has become a nation that ignores God. We are on the same destructive path that Israel walked, and we seem content to do it. No remorse. Oh sure. They are plenty who are enraged that our nation has fallen so low in our morality and ethics. It seems that everything goes these days. We freely kill unborn babies and applaud men in women’s sports. We overlook the unethical behavior of elected leaders and call it good. We ignore the laws of the land and welcome those who enter our country without proper authorization. We are a country wallowing in deep decay.

In his Farewell Address to the nation the first president of this country, George Washington, discussed religion and morality as a means to support political prosperity. His view was that while some individuals of “refined education” might maintain morality without religion, the same couldn’t be expected to hold true for a nation as a whole. How right he was.

Let us with caution indulge the supposition that morality can be maintained without religion. Reason and experience both forbid us to expect that national morality can prevail in exclusion of religious principle. ~George Washington

I believe George Washing was onto something, but I believe religion alone isn’t the answer. We can be religious about anything. It is a personal relationship with God and a commitment to serve and obey him alone that will turn individual lives around. Godly leaders in our country can right the ship that has been steadfastly sinking over these past decades. Prayer and commitment to God Almighty can save this nation and delay any judgment and punishment that is headed our way. Oh. We as a nation won’t get off easy when God judges us. But we can repent today and commit to following him. One person at a time can help turn the tide and get the country back on course to being a Christian nation.

Knee Injury

~ mercyfortheday ~ 1 Comment

I got the MRI results a week ago. All suspicions are now laid to rest. I didn’t know that one knee could have so many issues all at the same time and still function normally. Torn meniscus. Sprained MCL. Deteriorating cartilage because the knee doesn’t track correctly. Whatever that means. And a Baker’s cyst on top of all that. That’s all happening to my knee at any one given moment. And I’m not really in pain. Should I be?

The doctor advised me to schedule physical therapy, so that starts next week. But I don’t think that physical therapy can heal a torn meniscus. The chiropractor said he couldn’t and stopped all treatment. So I wait. And I don’t play pickleball, which by the way, was the initiator of the injuries last fall. I just thought the tightening of the calf was my only problem until it didn’t heal. And it became aggravated every time I tried to play. If only I’d had the MRI back then, I could have been ready for spring pickleball season.

I’ve come to the conclusion that someone needs to tell people who are growing older not to try to act too young. It will catch up with you. But here’s the thing. I wasn’t trying to act young. I was trying to learn a new hobby and stay active. And now look what it’s done to me. I just want to play pickleball. And no. I’m not athletic. I’ve learned a fun sport in my older age, and I love it. And now I can’t shouldn’t play.

I read that a compression sleeve won’t help, even if it is made with copper or bamboo. I’m told to wear a hinged knee brace if I want to play. And yes, I’m trying to avoid surgery. But we’ll see what happens down the road. The chiropractor told me that if I wanted to play pickleball again, I would need surgery. My doctor says to forge ahead with physical therapy, and then we’ll talk.

For the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and chastises every son whom he receives. Hebrews 12:6

The Christian lives a life of constant pruning. It’s a sanctifying life that we live, once we accept Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior. And by that, I mean it is a continual growing in our faith. We don’t become a Christian and then stop learning. We must read our Bibles and pray. We must attend church and spend time with fellow believers who can disciple and mentor us. A new Christian will have many questions about their newfound faith. They will possibly have habits and interests that God prunes out of their lives. They may have to extend their friendships to people who will challenge them to grow and not turn away from God. They will experience temptations that they will need to resist. It will not be an easy process, but it is a fulfilling life that’s lived in obedience to Jesus Christ.

During times of trial, our faith is pruned in ways we never imagined. Trusting God throughout the deepest, darkest times may seem ridiculous to those outside the faith. But to those who are true followers of Christ, there is no other way to live. There are moments when God is the only constant in life, and He is enough. During those dark moments, we have to ask ourselves if God is enough even if life never improves. Can we trust God in those moments not knowing what the future holds? And the answer is a resounding “yes”. Always yes.

You may ask how pruning in the Christian life compares to a knee injury. My knee is suffering the attempts I’ve made to establish a new activity in my life. I pushed it to its limits, and it rebelled. Now I have to rebuild the knee in order for it to heal and function normally. The same is true in our walk with Christ. When all our efforts at being the commander of our own life miserably fail, we can turn to God and he will guide us through recovery and healing. Oh. Our sinful attempts at living life our way may have lifelong consequences. But there can be a freeing, trusting relationship with God knowing that he is now the guiding source in life.

I may never completely trust my knee again, but I can work toward as thorough a healing as my body will allow. And I have to be comfortable knowing that. Sure. I should be able to play pickleball again, but I will be cautious knowing what could happen if I twist my knee into an uncomfortable position. The same holds true for my faith. If I try to twist my conscience into thinking that my ways are better than God’s, I will see very uncomfortable results when I stand before God on judgment day.

The soul-master of sin has so marred man’s sweet countenance that it is no more like the comeliness God created than the fiend of hell’s similarity to the holy angel which he had been in heaven. But by His grace Christ has undertaken to heal this wound which sin has given to man’s nature. His healing power is at work in his elect, but the cure is not yet so complete that no scars remain; this, then, is the uncomeliness which sincerity covers. ~William Gurnall, The Christian in Complete Armour

I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. John 15:1-5

Defending Your Faith

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A few weeks ago, a young man was baptized at our church. Our church doesn’t schedule one or two baptisms a year. They baptize someone as soon as the person says they’re ready after they’ve accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. No waiting. Let’s just get it done. And this baptism was very special. Oh. Our pastor made sure to remind the congregation that every baptism is special, but this one pretty much takes the cake. Everyone who is baptized at our church gives their testimony before they go under the water, so everyone can hear their salvation story. It isn’t an act they’re playing in front of a group of people. Their salvation is the real deal.

So. You ask. What made the baptism of this young man so special? I may not have his entire story correct, but here’s what I know. This young man came to this country within the last year from an Islamic country. He grew up in a strict Muslim home. He adopted his family’s faith, of course. He taught the beliefs. He sang in their services. He proselytized. He was a firm believer of Islam. And then he came to this country. At some point, he started to have doubts. He realized he no longer believed what he had been taught. So he sought out people of other faiths, all the way from atheism to Christianity. And he soon realized that deep down Christianity was the true faith he should follow.

After wrestling with God for awhile, he surrendered his life to his Creator and Heavenly Father. Oh. He knew the personal cost. If he were to ever return to his home country, he would lose his life. He realizes he may never be allowed to return. And he will not be able to see some of his family members ever again. But he has made the decision to follow Christ, at all costs. And so, he was baptized.

Yes. There is a price to pay for our faith. For those of us born in a country that celebrates religious freedom, we don’t give our religious freedom a second thought. But to someone such as this young man, he knows the price he would pay if he were to return home. He would pay with his life.

But in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect. 1 Peter 3:15

Then just a few days ago, I was listening to the Relatable podcast where Allie Beth Stuckey interviewed Shahriq Khan, who is an ex-Muslim. This young man was raised in this country by very devout Muslim parents. He too became very devout in his faith and loved to share it with others. He would challenge Christians about their faith and found that they couldn’t really defend their beliefs. But during college, he began to have doubts. He gave up his faith and wasn’t sure what he believed. Like the young man at my church, he considered atheism and then he looked at Christianity. When he started searching for the truth, friends suggested he read the Bible. As he read and studied the Word of God, he realized Christianity was the truth. The way, the truth and the life. When he compared the stories in the Bible to the stories in the Quran, he found that the Quranic stories weren’t factual. He had been taught lies. He became a Christian and eventually began sharing his newfound faith.

And here’s the kicker. Here’s where we followers of Christ can learn from this young man. Since he knew the ins and outs of the Islamic faith, as a Christian he knew how to debate his Muslim family and friends. He knew the strengths and weaknesses of the Muslim faith. He knew that, as a Muslim, he had been taught how to counter the arguments Christians made against Islam. As a Muslim he learned how to defend his Muslim faith, and he did so proudly. But as a Christian, he then had to flip the switch and argue the strengths of the biblical gospel compared to the defects of the Islamic teachings. So he dug deep into God’s Word to prepare himself to counter the teachings of Islam.

This young man has started a ministry that teaches Christians how to dismantle the untruths of the Islamic faith when talking to Muslims. And this ministry is helping to turn Muslims to Christ. All because faithful Christians shared the Good News of salvation with a lost Muslim, who is now sharing his Christian faith with other Muslims. His goal is not to push Muslims out of our country. He wants to win them to Christ. We should join the fight with him and learn to share our faith with not only Muslims but with anyone who doesn’t know Christ.

Believers today have a responsibility to share their biblical faith with those who don’t believe. We can’t just go to church and then do nothing. We must study God’s Word and prepare and train to share the Good News that we’ve been taught. We must know how to refute the lies that Satan has planted in the hearts of so many who are lost. We can’t wait for the next person to speak up. We must do our part in sharing the Gospel.

We all have a mission field that we are serving. Do you recognize those in your sphere of influence who are spiritually lost? Do you know and understand your faith well enough to defend it to someone who believes differently? Are you willing to learn how to defend your faith? We only have so much time to reach the lost. If each of us who call ourselves believers aren’t doing our part, who will? How will the lost be won to Christ if Christians don’t share the Good News?

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? Romans 10:14

Attitude Check on Aisle Four

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I was in the grocery store, and I was in a hurry. I was trying to get all my errands run before my appointment, and I was rushing. Oh, I know it was all my fault, but here’s how the grocery shopping went. I rushed through the store, gathering up the items I needed. Then I went to stand in line, and there were three people in front of me with only one cashier working.

This grocery store is known for slow cashiers and even slower baggers. But there I was standing in line behind two people who were waiting for the one at the cashier to finish, and that transaction was taking awhile. I’m not sure why, but they were going slow. I dared not look at the clock because I didn’t know want to know what time it was. I knew my appointment was fast approaching, But here I stood with a cart full of groceries, and I was determined to pay for them and take them home with me.

First cart in line went through with a few items, and they went slowly. As the couple in front of me was checking out, I saw the cashier put a package of meat under the counter. Toward the end of scanning their groceries, the woman customer left the line and went to get a new package of meat. I was annoyed, to say the least. I knew I had little time, and here I was waiting for somebody to get another item. They had picked up one that had an expired date on it and didn’t want to buy expired meat.

As I stood there waiting impatiently, I reminded myself that I was the Christian here. I needed to represent Christ, just as he would have lived. But in that moment, I wasn’t feeling holy. I wanted to become like Jesus as he threw the the money changers out of the temple. I wanted to act in a holy rage and tell them I was in a hurry, and could they please move along. I wanted them to respect my schedule and my needs, but I stood there quietly. Yep, I drummed my fingers on the cart. I tried not to look at them, because I knew I wouldn’t have a happy look. I had an attitude problem. Finally, the woman reappeared with a new package of meat. They got checked out, and then it was my turn to have my groceries scanned.

I emptied my cart as fast as I could, and the cashier began scanning the items. He picked up a can of green beans that was dented, badly dented. He asked me if I wanted the dented can. Yes. I said I don’t have time to get another can. And he said, I’ll give them to you for 50 cents or for $1. Which would you prefer? I don’t care. So he settled on $1.

And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. Philippians 4:8

The Bagger was slow as always, taking his sweet time. I finally had to help him put the groceries in my cart because he was just dawdling. I don’t know what goes through his mind. He never has a sense of urgency about doing his job. As we were putting the last items in the cart, he almost forgot one bag. So I had to hurry and put it in my cart. I needed to leave. I rushed to my car and unloaded all my groceries. As I pulled away from the grocery store, I realized I still had 30 minutes before I needed to get to the next appointment. I was going to make it on time. Why was I even worried? Why did I let myself get into such a stew over nothing?

When the spirit or the heart is the stage whereon sin is enacted, it is a spiritual sin; such are all impure thoughts, vile affections, and desires which do not break forth into overt action but are nonetheless real acts of the inner man. As with all sin, Satan is the great, unseen instigator of every sin of the heart. Keep a close watch on your heart.

~William Gurnall, The Christian in Complete Armour

My bad attitude might not have been obvious to the people standing near me in that grocery store, but I knew that God had seen it. I knew that he was probably shaking his head knowing I had plenty of time to get to my next appointment. And then once I got to my destination, I would have to sit in my car for 15 minutes before going into the office. Otherwise I would have been waiting an extra long time in the doctor’s office.

And I just have to ask, why do I do this to myself? Why do I get all in a tizzy for no reason? I don’t know. It’s just the way I’m made. Probably nobody else in history has this same problem, but there I am being so human. And all the while knowing I’m a Christian and I don’t know if these other people are, and they were kind. The woman was apologetic for having to leave the line and get a new item. Yet I was frustrated. Thank goodness I didn’t actually say anything, because there was no need. I knew there was no need, but in my frustration I had plenty of unkind thoughts swirling in my head.

I can’t even say, Father forgive me, for I know not what I do, because I knew what I was doing. I knew my attitude was wrong. I knew my thinking was wrong, and I thought it anyway. So still I must say, Father, forgive me, especially when I know I’m wrong. Help me to be more like you in my words, in my actions, in my thoughts, in my attitudes, in the way I approach people. Help me to show kindness. Even if someone isn’t doing a good job. I can help them. I can be a good example.
Help me, Father, I need you.

I need Thee every hour,
  Most gracious Lord;
No tender voice like Thine
  Can peace afford.

I need Thee, oh, I need Thee;
  Every hour I need Thee;
Oh, bless me now, my Savior!
    I come to Thee.

I need Thee every hour,
  Stay Thou near by;
Temptations lose their power
  When Thou art nigh.

I need Thee every hour,
  In joy or pain;
Come quickly and abide,
  Or life is vain.

I need Thee every hour,
  Teach me Thy will;
And Thy rich promises
  In me fulfill.

I need Thee every hour,
  Most Holy One;
Oh, make me Thine indeed,
  Thou blessed Son.

~Annie Sherwood Hawkes/Robert Lowry