Recognizing God's Authority

Good Morning!

I believe we all face the challenge of believing God. I think that is a human flaw … we just cannot believe that God is capable of doing all that He does. Unbelief was a problem that the nation Israel had almost from its inception. When we read the history of Israel we all too often find instance where Israel failed to trust God and paid the penalty for it.

Today we want to look at a person who was not a Jew but demonstrated great faith in God.

Matthew 8:5-13 (New International Version)
The Faith of the Centurion
5

When Jesus had entered Capernaum, a centurion came to him, asking for help. 6 “Lord,” he said, “my servant lies at home paralyzed, suffering terribly.”
7 Jesus said to him, “Shall I come and heal him?”
8 The centurion replied, “Lord, I do not deserve to have you come under my roof. But just say the word, and my servant will be healed. 9 For I myself am a man under authority, with soldiers under me. I tell this one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and that one, ‘Come,’ and he comes. I say to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.”
10 When Jesus heard this, he was amazed and said to those following him, “Truly I tell you, I have not found anyone in Israel with such great faith. 11 I say to you that many will come from the east and the west, and will take their places at the feast with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven. 12 But the subjects of the kingdom will be thrown outside, into the darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.”

13 Then Jesus said to the centurion, “Go! Let it be done just as you believed it would.” And his servant was healed at that moment.

The centurion obviously had heard of Jesus because he came to Him, asking for help. Can you imagine a Roman soldier in charge of one hundred men asking – not demanding – asking for help? Jesus responded by offering to come to heal the servant … meaning He would enter the home of a Gentile and defile Himself. Do you remember the teaching about carrying the cloak? The Roman centurion also understood Jewish law. I imagine he had seen reluctance to enter his home before and had found out that no Jew would come under his roof. But he also understood authority … because he had authority. Somehow the Roman centurion recognized that Jesus could just speak the word and his servant would be healed. Jesus saw the trust that the centurion had and remarked that no one in Israel had demonstrated that level of faith … a faith that was necessary to escape eternal punishment.

We live in a world that demands concrete proof before most will accept. Faith, though, is based on just taking God at His word. It is a challenge in this world but one each of us must come to accept. The phrase is “I believe, help thou my unbelief”. Learn to trust God in the little things and He will lead you to trust Him in the big things too.

Agape’


Mr. Jim

Seeing God In It

Good Morning!

Memorial Day- a day to honor those men and women who sacrificed their lives so that we might have the freedoms we enjoy today. Let us not let this day pass without offering a word of thanks for them.

When our Bible study group meets, we begin our sessions doing two things: (1) sharing with each other the blessings God has given us and (2) sharing prayer requests. I think the sharing of the blessings of God is vital. All too often we forget that God is active in our lives.

Thursday night, Ellen was sharing about the family’s trip to California to see Jake graduate. During the flight, Keith had a medical issue. It was scary. But then Ellen made this comment: “here’s the “God” in it.” Two rows up from them was a nurse practitioner who immediately sprang into action. Several rows back were both a second nurse practitioner and a physician who came to Keith’s aid.

Seeing God in our lives is a good thing. It reminds us that we aren’t making our earthly journey alone. We can face the challenges that life brings to all people with confidence, knowing that all things work together for good for those who love Him, who have been called for His purpose.

Some may say having the nurse practitioners and physician was just a coincidence? I am sure there are physicians and nurse practitioners who fly every day. And I am sure that they would come to the aid of anyone who was in need. Why then do we see “the God in it”? I believe that the presence of these folks is not a coincidence even for those who have yet to believe. The difference is that believers don’t chalk it up to “luck” or “coincidence” but have the sight to see the involvement of God in each person’s life.

Yes … God is involved in the life of every human being. His heart’s desire is that all of us would want to have a relationship with Him. He knows there will be many who will turn away … but He still calls each and every one of us to Him. God is involved in your life. See His working in your life. Share His working in your life.

1 Peter 5:6-7 (English Standard Version)

6 Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, 7 casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.

Agape’


Mr. Jim

Authority

Good Morning!

Matthew 7:28-29 (New International Version)

28 When Jesus had finished saying these things, the crowds were amazed at his teaching, 29 because he taught as one who had authority, and not as their teachers of the law.

Well, it has taken us nine days to walk through the Sermon on the Mount. If we were face to face, what teaching of Jesus would you tell me was most important to you? How do these teaching touch your life?

I like the way Matthew wraps up this section of his Gospel – with the crowds who were listening being amazed at the teachings of Jesus. Why? They were amazed because Jesus taught with authority. In our 21st century world we cannot appreciate what it was like to hear Jesus for the first time. He wasn’t a rock star. He didn’t have a press secretary or an advance team. He was a wanderer who didn’t have a place to stay. He didn’t have the garments of success … no priestly robes adorned His body. Still, people listened – because He spoke with authority.

Jesus could speak with authority because He was the Author. He knew the heart of God because He was God made flesh. He knew the spirit of the Law because He spoke the Law into being. His word was not subject to debate – no argument could be raised against it.

Here’s the neat thing for us, though: we too can speak with authority … because we know the Author. We can know the heart of God for God dwells within us. We can grasp the spirit of the Law because His Spirit is in our heart. We need not debate for His Word is truth without any mixture of error. We are His … enough said.

Have a good Memorial Day weekend! If you get a chance, hug a soldier (active or retired) or a police officer or fireman – even if you are a guy. Tell them “thank you” for protecting our freedom and our lives. Remember those who have fallen in battle for our freedoms. And be safe!

Agape’


Mr. Jim

Finishing Up

Good Morning!

Let’s take on the rest of the Sermon on the Mount today. I know it is a lot to cover … but I am excited about tomorrow’s last segment.

Jesus talks about a new relationship with Yahweh – the One who is so sacred that His name isn’t even mentioned. How do you view God? Do you fear Him? I am not talking just respect but actually being afraid of Him. I believe in the time of Christ, God was not viewed as a Father but rather as an Avenger. Is that a concept that you might have harbored?

Think back to Genesis – the Beginnings. Why did God create Adam? And why did God create Eve? After God had made all of what we know of as life, He said “Let us create man in our image.” Why did God want to create man in His image? Why not just make another donkey … okay, I know some of you are thinking He did and called His creation “Jim”. Well the answer is found a little later in the Genesis account as we see God having conversation with His creation Adam. God desired to have a relationship with man. Jesus refers to Almighty God as “Father” … not just because He was God’s only Son but also because we can be His children as well. So when Jesus talks about God’s nature, our picture of God can change from the One who Avenges to the One who Provides. Listen:

Matthew 7:7-12 (New International Version)
Ask, Seek, Knock

7 “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. 8 For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.
9 “Which of you, if your son asks for bread, will give him a stone? 10 Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? 11 If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him! 12 So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.

God has blessed Miss N and me with five children – you all know that. All of them are grown and have become productive adults who provide for themselves. But they know – at least I hope they know – that if a need arises, Mawmaw and Pop will give meet the need to the extent of our ability to give. Why? Because they are our children and we love them.

In 1976, we almost lost Michael. He had a form of pneumonia that caused him to be placed in a breathing tent in Clayton General (now Southern Regional) hospital for a period of two weeks. Miss N and I were living from paycheck to paycheck at the time … and didn’t have the financial resources to cover a long hospital stay even if the health insurance paid. A couple in our church, Dave and Donna Mulder, came to us and offered an open ended loan to pay the hospital. Look at verse 12. God, our Father, provided my brother and sister Dave and Donna to meet our need. And it taught me something … “do unto others” is not just about being nice to each other but about being involved with each other to the extent that one is willing to do what the world would see as dumb.

Moving forward:

Matthew 7:13-14 (New International Version)
The Narrow and Wide Gates

13 “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. 14 But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.

The Christian life requires focus. Our focus is simple … Jesus Christ. Many will accuse us of not being inclusive because we do not accept their version of religion. We don’t because ours is not a religion – it is a relationship. Does Islam offer a relationship with Mohammed? Does Buddhism offer a relationship with the Buddha? Do any of the religions of the world offer you freedom from the curse of the Law? No … but Jesus does. So, yes, our focus is narrow – because Jesus said “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No one comes to the Father but by me.” We cannot honestly represent Him if we alter that message.

And we continue:

Matthew 7:15-23 (New International Version)
True and False Prophets

15 “Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. 16 By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? 17 Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. 18 A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. 19 Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 20 Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them.

True and False Disciples

21 “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. 22 Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?’ 23 Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’

Am I getting confused or is Jesus telling me to judge someone? No – we are not passing judgment but we are called upon to be aware of what is true and what is false. There are many examples of people who have used the name of Jesus to attempt to gain personal wealth and / or fame. And each has dealt a definite blow to the cause of Christ as their schemes have been discovered. Be wise is what Jesus is telling me. Understand Me, He cautions. Don’t fall for the glitter or the false promise but look for My Hand working.


Matthew 7:24-27 (New International Version)
The Wise and Foolish Builders

24 “Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. 25 The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. 26 But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. 27 The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.”

Christ concludes with the admonition to build our lives on the solid rock of faith in Him. But we must build – not allow the building materials He has provided to sit unused. I have Cud’n Kate’s Bible. The cover is off of it. The pages are fragile from wear. Little notes are scattered here and there in the Scriptures to remind herself of a good sermon point or a nugget of wisdom given by God. Up until the day she died, Cud’n Kate managed to make her way to St. Mark’s Methodist Church at Peachtree and Fifth every Sunday. Her day to day was filled with “Back to the Bible” hour on the radio. She used the building materials God provided her to build her life on the Solid Rock of faith in Jesus Christ. That faith led a seven year old boy to trust Jesus … and build his little life on that same solid foundation. Jesus has never failed me … and He never will.

Agape’


Mr. Jim

Back to the Sermon

Good Morning!

Well, I gave you a day off … but now, back to the Sermon on the Mount. Remember, the conjecture here is that Jesus is giving a parallel to the Mount Sinai event where the Law was presented. Jesus is putting the Law into a new perspective as He explains our true relationship with God.

He has shared the basics in the Beatitudes. He has told us about our importance (salt and light). He has warned us against carrying hatred in our heart. He has taught us to pray. He has pointed out the provisions of God for our lives. So what’s next?

Matthew 7:1-6 (New International Version)
Judging Others

1 “Do not judge, or you too will be judged. 2 For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.
3 “Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? 4 How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? 5 You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.
6 “Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces.

What is Jesus telling His disciples here? Remember, His primary opposition comes not from “sinners” but from the people who are the religious leaders in Jerusalem. They had taken it upon themselves to make sure that people observed the Law … of course, with a little exception here and there for those in the know. Jesus wants His disciples to walk circumspectly … that is, to be aware of their own shortcomings so they can seek forgiveness from God. That is why He gave us the teaching in verses 3-5. I heard a preacher once say that the speck and the plank are the same size … it is just one is close up, the other far away. It is a matter of perspective.

Now does Jesus mean that we are NEVER to judge? I don’t think so. We have to make critical judgments every day … and that is a healthy exercise. But we aren’t to establish ourselves as the “authority” … that position belongs to Christ Jesus, our Lord. In fact, if I see a brother or sister in trouble, I am supposed to help out – not point out.

So what about that sixth verse? Jesus understood that His teachings were so radical that some of the folks would never accept them. He knew that many in the religious community would take His teachings and twist them against Him. You know, it isn’t so different today. Far too often, those who oppose Christ will pervert the message – picking and choosing the parts they want to ridicule – omitting the truth. So there are times that it is wise to keep the message close.

Well, there are just a few more verses and then we will move on. Let me know what you think. It is always helpful to have your input.

Agape’


Mr. Jim

Something I Overlooked

Good Morning!

I need to take a break from the Sermon on the Mount this morning. We will get back to it – but I saw something in our Sunday night Bible “scan” that I just cannot wait to share. We will get back to Matthew 7 before you know it.

Almost forty years ago I sat in the home of a person who lived in the Castaway Shores apartment complex on Riverdale Road. Now it isn’t Castaway Shores anymore and the person I shared with has long ago moved on, but something that she said has stayed with me for all this time. I was sharing with her the Gospel of Jesus Christ when she said point blank that she was too vile to be saved. She referenced the book of Revelations with the verse regarding the blotting out of a person’s name. Her point was that she was too unworthy to receive the salvation offered by Jesus Christ.

I wish I had seen the verse in Matthew 8 before – but like so many times, I read over it and missed the meaning. Here is the passage – see if you spot it:

Matthew 8:1-4 (New International Version)
Jesus Heals a Man With Leprosy

1 When Jesus came down from the mountainside, large crowds followed him. 2 A man with leprosy[a] came and knelt before him and said, “Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean.”
3 Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man. “I am willing,” he said. “Be clean!” Immediately he was cleansed of his leprosy. 4 Then Jesus said to him, “See that you don’t tell anyone. But go, show yourself to the priest and offer the gift Moses commanded, as a testimony to them.”

Footnotes:
a. Matthew 8:2 The Greek word traditionally translated leprosy was used for various diseases affecting the skin.


Did you see it? Or did it pass you by like it did me so many times?

Jewish law concerning a person with leprosy was pretty strict. Here is just one aspect:

Leviticus 13:45-46 (New International Version)

45 “Anyone with such a defiling disease must wear torn clothes, let their hair be unkempt,[a] cover the lower part of their face and cry out, ‘Unclean! Unclean!’ 46 As long as they have the disease they remain unclean. They must live alone; they must live outside the camp.

Footnotes:
a. Leviticus 13:45 Or clothes, uncover their head

Imagine being a leper in the time of Jesus. Being outside the camp meant that you were separated from society – and, unlike today, there was no place where you could go. You had to cry out “unclean! Unclean!” whenever you encountered anyone. People avoided you. They didn’t want the disease. You were a leper.

Have you seen it yet?

Matthew 8-10 is about the authority of Jesus. In this passage, we are seeing the authority of Jesus to heal a leper from the disease that ate his skin. The man with leprosy made his way through the crowd – I imagine pretty easily as everyone would avoid contact with this unclean person. He knelt before Jesus and proclaimed his simple faith that if Jesus desired, he would be healed.

You see it?!!!

JESUS TOUCHED HIM!!! Jesus reached out and touched this man with a defiling disease – and said “I am willing.”

Did Jesus break the Law by doing this? I think the Author of the Law can supersede the Law when He chooses. No, Jesus showed His authority over the Law and over the illness by reaching out and touching this leper.

And I began to think - many years ago I had a defiling disease called a sin nature. And although I was surrounded by thousands, I was outside the camp of God because of my disease. And I was absolutely hopeless. Until Jesus reached out and touched me – an unclean, unworthy individual in danger of having my name blotted out from the Lamb’s Book of Life. The one and only thing I could do was to come to Him and say “Lord, if You are willing, you can make me clean.” And He said “I am willing.”

How I wish I had seen this passage nearly forty years ago. How I hope that God has sent another to pick up my slack. How I hope that today you have felt His touch and heard His voice say “I am willing”.

God bless you today.

Agape’


Mr. Jim

Prayer Need:
My golf buddy, Walter Widemond, is entering the hospital today to have a wire on his pacemaker reattached. We walked nine last night – and he did well. We spent the time talking about collard greens, pot likker, macaroni and cheese, blackeyed peas and cornbread followed by a freshly baked peach cobbler. I don’t remember what our score was … the ball was too wet with slobber.

The Sermon on the Mount - Treasures

Good Morning!

A co-worker and I were discussing some of the issues he was having with his only child. He had come to me, not asking for advice but asking what I had done in certain situations. In the course of our conversation, he brought up the fact that he and his wife had thought to begin attending church when his child was very young but were turned off when (whether by his perception or by fact) all they ever heard were appeals for donations and giving. And I understood what he was saying.

In the next segment we are going to look at in Christ’s Sermon on the Mount, we are going talk about treasure.

Matthew 6:19-34 (New International Version)
Treasures in Heaven

19 “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. 20 But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
22 “The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy,[a] your whole body will be full of light. 23 But if your eyes are unhealthy,[b] your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness!
24 “No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.

Do Not Worry

25 “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? 26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27 Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life[c]?
28 “And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. 29 Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. 30 If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith? 31 So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

Footnotes:
a. Matthew 6:22 The Greek for healthy here implies generous.
b. Matthew 6:23 The Greek for unhealthy here implies stingy.
c. Matthew 6:27 Or single cubit to your height

As some of you know, I work in the financial services industry. For the last 34 years, I have been involved in the administration of a defined benefit pension plan. I also have assisted in the administration of a defined contribution plan. Those are fancy names for the pension plan and the 401k plan our company offers to its employees. Our task is to help people lay up “treasure” for their retirement years. And I admit that as I near the end of my working career, I spend more time looking at the “numbers” than I did in the past. I have seen many success stories and also witnessed some gigantic failures. So I understand the need to plan – and I support it … but -

What Christ is warning us about is becoming too focused on the future and forgetting the task He set before us. The treasure of earth is vulnerable to attack – as many of you who are going through the current economic crisis can attest. But the treasure of heaven is eternal and safe. So what is treasured in heaven? Well, as many of my readers might remember, what God really treasures is you. And what we should treasure is each other – even when it is difficult to do so.

I think the whole segment is wrapped up in verse 33 – seek first His kingdom and His righteousness. Our focus should not be on how much we can accumulate in earthly gain but how fervent our seeking Him can be. In Ray Price’s song “Until Then” there is a lyric line that goes “The things of earth will dim and lose their pleasure; if we recall they are borrowed for a while; and things of earth that cause the heart to tremble, remembered there will only bring a smile.”

The treasures of God are eternal. They are Abraham; Issac, Jacob and all their descendants. They are Fannie Crosby and all who have sung her songs from their heart. They are Billy Graham and the thousands who received the message of Christ through his preaching. The list of God’s treasure is too many to mention. They are you … and they are me – prized more than the finest gold and purest silver in the eyes of God. You are special and God loves you. So don’t worry – set your eyes upon Him – seek after His kingdom and after His righteousness – and all these things will be added to you.

God bless you.

Agape’


Mr. Jim

Goodbye, World, Goodbye

Good Morning!

I was going to post a continuation of our Matthew study … but thought I should at least mention that this could very well be the last post I will be making as the world is scheduled to end tomorrow, May 21 - or so some say. So, just in case, I wanted to tell you “goodbye” and “good luck” and all those other sayings we make when we are parting.

BUT WAIT!!! If I am going, so are you – right? So it isn’t “goodbye”, we should be saying “hello” and “welcome to my mansion on Golden Street” and all those other greetings that we say when we get together. Why, I bet I’ll even stay awake through the sermon Sunday … which will seem to last for, well, eternity.

Seriously, though – I am quite ready if Jesus comes tomorrow. But I am also ready if God decides to delay Christ’s return until some other day in our history. The task God appointed me to do remains until Christ does come. Let’s take a look at the following passage:

Acts 1:6-11 (New International Version)

6 Then they gathered around him and asked him, “Lord, are you at this time going to restore the kingdom to Israel?”
7 He said to them: “It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority. 8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
9 After he said this, he was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight.
10 They were looking intently up into the sky as he was going, when suddenly two men dressed in white stood beside them. 11 “Men of Galilee,” they said, “why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven.”

My buddy, Pastor James Cook of Victory Baptist Church in Mableton posted an article debunking the Harold Camping Family Radio group’s prediction. My comment in response was this:

“Have you ever pondered what it would be like to be the person who shared the Gospel message with the person on whom our Heavenly Father deems to be the last one? Our task is not to be looking to the sky but leading (people) to the Cross.”

And I really feel that way.

Look, the only positive actions you or I can take in preparation for Christ’s coming is to share the Gospel and to build the Body. Speculating about Christ’s coming will not hasten the day. Studying over it is good but only if it spurs us to more fervent action.

The World scoffs at the billboards and signs and pronouncements about His coming. They rightly say that all this has been predicted before – and did not come to pass. They have a right to be skeptical. We have been warned to NOT attempt to predict when God will bring this age to an end. We have been commissioned to carry the message.

BUT … Lord, if today is the day, I will rejoice. If not, I will rejoice in the fact that You have provided one more opportunity for one more person to come to You. Either way, I will rejoice in the great salvation You have provided for me.

Soooooo … if the Lord comes, then “I’ll see you at the House”. Otherwise, “have a good weekend – a new post for Monday!”

Agape’


Mr. Jim

The Sermon on the Mount - Continued

05/19/2011

Good Morning!

The next segment of Christ’s teaching talks about how His disciples are to practice their faith. The backdrop, I believe, for this segment is the way that the religious leaders (Pharisees and Sadducees) acted in front of people. Now I am sure there were some in these groups who were humble – but I am also certain that the majority wanted people to know that they were “righteous”. This prideful display was their downfall. Anyway, let’s take a quick look:

Matthew 6:1-5 (New International Version)
Giving to the Needy

1 “Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven.
2 “So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. 3 But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, 4 so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.

Years ago in the Baptist church, you would get a pin if you had perfect attendance in Sunday school for a full year. And I don’t see anything wrong with being recognized for faithfulness … until it becomes a badge of pride. (To be certain, attending a Sunday school class I teach for a full year without missing deserves some kind of reward for endurance and long-suffering.) I think Jesus is teaching that our relationship with God is just that: with God. When we start trumpeting that special relationship for purpose of gaining personal glory, we cheapen the relationship. On the other hand, when we enjoy our relationship with God, we really don’t have to tell anybody. Like Moses, our countenance gives us away. I mean it!

Matthew 6:6-14
Prayer

5 “And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. 6 But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. 7 And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words. 8 Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.
9 “This, then, is how you should pray:
“‘Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name,
10 your kingdom come,
your will be done,
on earth as it is in heaven.
11 Give us today our daily bread.
12 And forgive us our debts,
as we also have forgiven our debtors.
13 And lead us not into temptation,[a]
but deliver us from the evil one.[b]’
14 For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. 15 But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.

Most of my Catholic friends will recognize these verses as they are the “Our Father” handed down by the priest in confession. Some of my Catholic friends (Joe?, Mike?) MIGHT have had to recite these verses quite often. I know I would have if I had been Catholic. But us Presbyterians got away with “murder”.

Again, Jesus is cautioning us to value the special relationship we have with our Father, God.
And He is telling us to “keep it simple”.
Verse 9 honors God.
Verse 10 asks for His glory.
Verse 11 asks for His provision.
Verse 12 asks for His forgiveness.
Verse 13 asks for His guidance. And I am sure you note that it seems to be missing the ending – just look at the footnote below.

I can honestly report that since I was nine, verse 14 has been a focal point for me. Forgiving others is real hard to do – especially when they have hurt you. But how are we going to be able to understand or accept God’s forgiveness if we haven’t experienced it from both angles – both as one who has been forgiven and as one who has forgave another? I don’t take this verse as a threat but rather as a teaching so I can learn the value of forgiving.

Matthew 6:15-18
Fasting

16 “When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. 17 But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, 18 so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.

Footnotes:
a. Matthew 6:13 The Greek for temptation can also mean testing.
b. Matthew 6:13 Or from evil; some late manuscripts one, / for yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.

Jesus finishes this segment by returning to admonish us to honor our special personal relationship with God. I think of it like the relationships I have with each of my children. Each relationship is different – but all are precious to me as their father. Each of my children is unique - I wouldn’t have it any other way. And each of us is unique – God built us just the way we are. We don’t need to trumpet our uniqueness – God has already done that. We just have to revel in the joy of His presence in our lives.

Well, I wonder what Jesus said next….

Have a good day!

Agape’


Mr. Jim

Sermon on The Mount - Part 3

Good Morning!

I need your feedback. I want the Good Mornings to have relevance in your life and not to become too “preachy”. And I know I cannot please everyone all the time – but if I am getting too deep into teaching and you are not finding the morning devotions helpful – don’t quit reading – tell me!!! Sometimes what I find interesting may not fit your eye. Just let me know what you think.

As I said Monday, I had never thought of the Sermon on the Mount as being Jesus laying out the blueprint for His church in a manner similar to what God did through Moses at Mount Sinai. It is an interesting concept …that has been in my thoughts. In our focus today, Jesus talks about the Law of Moses … and provides more insight to God’s thinking on these Laws. He begins by assuring us that the Law is still appropriate:

Matthew 5:17-20 (New International Version)
The Fulfillment of the Law

17 “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. 18 For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished. 19 Therefore anyone who sets aside one of the least of these commands and teaches others accordingly will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever practices and teaches these commands will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. 20 For I tell you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven

.

As believers in Christ, we are free from the curse of the Law – but we are not free from Law. Does that make sense? The curse of the Law is death (separation from God) because the Law proves that we are all sinners. But the Law is still effective in determining how we can live with one another. Jesus wants us to honor ALL of God’s Word – not just the part that fits easily in our lifestyle. God gave us the Law for our benefit. Many of us see the Law as a burden. In the next few verses, Jesus takes portions of the Law and explains them to His disciples:

Matthew 5:21-43
Murder

21 “You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘You shall not murder,[a] and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.’ 22 But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister[b][c] will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to a brother or sister, ‘Raca,’[d] is answerable to the court. And anyone who says, ‘You fool!’ will be in danger of the fire of hell.
23 “Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, 24 leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.
25 “Settle matters quickly with your adversary who is taking you to court. Do it while you are still together on the way, or your adversary may hand you over to the judge, and the judge may hand you over to the officer, and you may be thrown into prison. 26 Truly I tell you, you will not get out until you have paid the last penny.

Adultery

27 “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’[e] 28 But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart. 29 If your right eye causes you to stumble, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell. 30 And if your right hand causes you to stumble, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to go into hell.

Divorce

31 “It has been said, ‘Anyone who divorces his wife must give her a certificate of divorce.’[f] 32 But I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, makes her the victim of adultery, and anyone who marries a divorced woman commits adultery.

Oaths

33 “Again, you have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘Do not break your oath, but fulfill to the Lord the vows you have made.’ 34 But I tell you, do not swear an oath at all: either by heaven, for it is God’s throne; 35 or by the earth, for it is his footstool; or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the Great King. 36 And do not swear by your head, for you cannot make even one hair white or black. 37 All you need to say is simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything beyond this comes from the evil one.[g]

Eye for Eye

38 “You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’[h] 39 But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also. 40 And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well. 41 If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles. 42 Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.

Love for Enemies

43 “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor[i] and hate your enemy.’

Footnotes:
a. Matthew 5:21 Exodus 20:13
b. Matthew 5:22 The Greek word for brother or sister (adelphos) refers here to a fellow disciple, whether man or woman; also in verse 23.
c. Matthew 5:22 Some manuscripts brother or sister without cause
d. Matthew 5:22 An Aramaic term of contempt
e. Matthew 5:27 Exodus 20:14
f. Matthew 5:31 Deut. 24:1
g. Matthew 5:37 Or from evil
h. Matthew 5:38 Exodus 21:24; Lev. 24:20; Deut. 19:21
i. Matthew 5:43 Lev. 19:18

I ask myself what the overriding theme is of Jesus’ teaching here. For me, Jesus is telling me to think beyond the basic law to the meaning behind the law. For example, I may not “murder” anyone – but if I hate them, I might as well have murdered them because I have done so in my heart. Or I may not actually engage in adultery – but if I look on a woman and have only lustful desire in my mind, I have sinned against her, my spouse, myself and my God. And so on throughout the teaching. In essence, Jesus wants me to become a thinker as well as a doer. He wants me to evaluate the impact of my actions and thoughts in light of God’s Word.

Well, I look forward to getting some feedback from you. Don’t be shy – tell me what you think. You are special people to me. Thank you for your patience.

Agape’


Mr. Jim

Sermon on the Mount ... Part 2

Good Morning!

Matthew 5:13-14 (New International Version)
Salt and Light

13 “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.
14 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.

Continuing our commentary on the preacher’s idea of Jesus giving the blueprint for the church in His Sermon on the Mount – after outlining the attributes of a follower in the Beatitudes, Jesus then makes the above statement to His disciples.

Salt had many uses in historical times – but the primary uses were for flavoring and preserving. Remember there was no refrigeration in the time of Christ so salt was used in the drying process that preserved meat and fish. It was also used to flavor food – much like we use it today. What does Jesus mean, then, when He tells His disciples that they are the salt of the earth? Well, if we take the two common meanings, we know that those who are disciples are also disciple makers. In the process the lives of others are preserved. Similarly, the disciples added the flavor of Christ into the lives of those with whom they shared Christ.

Jesus also told His disciples that they were the light of the world. Again, what does light do? Well, it illuminates and, at the same time, identifies. The other night Eddie Cat – one of our many companions – wasn’t “in” for the night. I called his name a couple of times – and I could hear his meow but I couldn’t see him. So I got out a flashlight and began to look around the backyard. Eventually I was able to identify where his meow was coming from and removed the impediment that prevented him from coming in. The flashlight illuminated the yard so I could see. When the disciples shared the Gospel, they illuminated the sin that separates. At the same time, a light place in a window also identifies a place of safety or gives warning to danger (such as a lighthouse). Jesus was telling His disciples that they would point people to safety.

We are also disciples of Jesus Christ. We, too, are salt and light. When Jesus was talking about His church, He points out that we are to carry the Gospel message to all around us. Let’s not lose our saltiness. Let’s not let our light dim. Let our lives be ones that preserve, flavor, illuminate and point to safety – on this, another good day in Christ Jesus, our Lord.

Agape’


Mr. Jim

The Sermon on the Mount

Good Morning!

Our preacher peaked my interest last night as we began our quick review of the book of Matthew. He asked what Jesus was doing when He sat down to deliver what we refer to as the Sermon on the Mount? After a few guesses, the preacher said that Jesus was outlining a new order of faith. He wasn’t doing away with the Law of Moses but the old system of sacrifices was on the way out. Why? I think because Jesus knew that in the future animal sacrifices would not be needed – for He was the sacrifice. And when you look at the structure of the Sermon, it does appear that Jesus was doing something that was parallel to the Pentateuch. Let’s take a quick look at the first part of the Sermon:

Matthew 5 (New International Version)
Introduction to the Sermon on the Mount

1 Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, 2 and he began to teach them.

Jesus took the sitting position because that is the position of authority that the teacher in a synagogue would assume. His message was to His followers – not necessarily the general public. The disciples had to approach Him – and then He would teach.

The Beatitudes
He said:
3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

What does it mean to be “poor in spirit”? Doesn’t it require great spirituality to be entitled to enter the kingdom of God? Isn’t the kingdom of heaven limited to those of us who are spiritual giants? Or, is the person whose faith is so simple as to believe what God is true first in line? God doesn’t use the same measuring stick we do. His sees the heart of a person.

4 Blessed are those who mourn,
for they will be comforted.

What is the reason for mourning? Is Jesus talking about someone who has lost a loved one to death? Or is He talking about those who realize their separation from God because of their sin – and who miss the relationship? God comforts those who seek a restoration of such a relationship.

5 Blessed are the meek,
for they will inherit the earth.

What is meekness? Well, it isn’t weakness. Instead, meekness comes when one realizes his or her incapacity. Meekness is the first step to reliance upon a greater power for provision.

6 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,
for they will be filled.

Jesus is telling us that our desire for righteousness must be genuine. Remember, His adversaries were those who were religious leaders. They assumed they were righteous – and then were very human and very unrighteous. We have to seek righteousness – actually desire it as food for the soul.

7 Blessed are the merciful,
for they will be shown mercy.

How can we be merciful? Where do we get the opportunity to show our mercy towards another? Well, think about that person who just insulted you or who just wronged you. How do you feel about them. Are you willing to show them mercy?

8 Blessed are the pure in heart,
for they will see God.

Whenever I see the term “pure in heart” I think of a small child who just trusts. And the truth of the matter is that unless I am willing to “just trust”, I won’t be able to see God.

9 Blessed are the peacemakers,
for they will be called children of God.

What does it mean to be a peacemaker? Who are we making peace with? Or, better yet, who are we trying to help make peace with? I see it from an evangelistic viewpoint. People are at war with God – and we have the message of peace.

10 Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Persecution will come whenever we are doing God’s will. We are an adversary to Satan and his evil schemes. We are an adversary to those who want to live life by their own rules. We continue to try.

11 “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. 12 Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

People will insult us. People will revile us. But God is with us.

Now, the parallel in this first section is the Ten Commandments. Moses received the Ten Commandments and shared them with the people. Jesus didn’t do away with the commandments – we shall soon see that He expounded on them. But the Beatitudes is the groundwork for our faith. In these nine statements, Christ is outlining the relationships that result from our actions.

We will take a look at some more of the sermon tomorrow. Have a good Monday!

Agape’


Mr. Jim

Prayer Need:
From Mike Radcliff:
I'm praying for a friend that is having a rough time now...displaced from his wife and child due a job layoff and had to take a job many states away...now his family is falling apart. Please pray for this family, although most of you don't know to whom my heart is requesting help.

In The Race

Good Morning!

I am already missing the Bible study we usually have on Thursday night. We are foregoing the study so Keith and Ellen can get ready to go to California to see their son Jake graduate summa cum laude from the Bible college there. I am excited for Jake. He has a heart for God and a willingness to devote himself to God. After his graduation he will be heading to South Africa on mission. Congratulations to Jake Brewer on his graduation.

Our Bible study has progressed to the ninth chapter of 1st Corinthians. In it, Paul talks about his rights and his responsibility. You see, we all have rights. And there are times that we need to insist upon them. But at the same time, we have the responsibility to understand our role in life. Our goal is to share the Gospel message with people and help them come to know Christ as we know Him. Sometimes that means our “rights” have to be subjugated in order to share the message. Paul knew that! And he purposed that the job of sharing Christ came before any right.

It is sort of like the axiom about finding a place to sit at a banquet. It is better to take a lesser seat and be asked to move to the head table than to be asked to move from the head table to a lesser seat. One may certainly have the right to sit in the finest chair … but let the host seat you there.

I really like the last few verses of 1st Corinthians 9:

1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (New International Version, ©2011)
The Need for Self-Discipline

24 Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. 25 Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. 26 Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. 27 No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.

We are most assuredly in a race. Our competition is time … for we do not know how long any of those around us might have before their earthly sojourn is complete and their race is over. The prize we seek is to see them with us in glory. Each will be a jewel in the crown that will be worn by our Savior, Christ the Lord. Seek the prize, folks … seek the prize.

Agape’


Mr. Jim

Cyrus

Good Morning!

Our Bible study lesson for Sunday references the book of Ezra. I could ask for a show of hands of everyone who has ever read or studied Ezra … but I won’t. In a nutshell, Ezra is a companion book to Nehemiah as it deals with the return of Israel after the Babylonian captivity.

I am intrigued by the first four verses. Here’s the whole first chapter:

Ezra 1 (New International Version, ©2011)
Cyrus Helps the Exiles to Return
1 In the first year of Cyrus king of Persia, in order to fulfill the word of the LORD spoken by Jeremiah, the LORD moved the heart of Cyrus king of Persia to make a proclamation throughout his realm and also to put it in writing:
2 “This is what Cyrus king of Persia says:
“‘The LORD, the God of heaven, has given me all the kingdoms of the earth and he has appointed me to build a temple for him at Jerusalem in Judah. 3 Any of his people among you may go up to Jerusalem in Judah and build the temple of the LORD, the God of Israel, the God who is in Jerusalem, and may their God be with them. 4 And in any locality where survivors may now be living, the people are to provide them with silver and gold, with goods and livestock, and with freewill offerings for the temple of God in Jerusalem.’”
5 Then the family heads of Judah and Benjamin, and the priests and Levites—everyone whose heart God had moved—prepared to go up and build the house of the LORD in Jerusalem. 6 All their neighbors assisted them with articles of silver and gold, with goods and livestock, and with valuable gifts, in addition to all the freewill offerings.
7 Moreover, King Cyrus brought out the articles belonging to the temple of the LORD, which Nebuchadnezzar had carried away from Jerusalem and had placed in the temple of his god.[a] 8 Cyrus king of Persia had them brought by Mithredath the treasurer, who counted them out to Sheshbazzar the prince of Judah.
9 This was the inventory:
gold dishes 30
silver dishes 1,000
silver pans[b] 29
10 gold bowls 30
matching silver bowls 410
other articles 1,000
11 In all, there were 5,400 articles of gold and of silver. Sheshbazzar brought all these along with the exiles when they came up from Babylon to Jerusalem.
Footnotes:
a. Ezra 1:7 Or gods
b. Ezra 1:9 The meaning of the Hebrew for this word is uncertain.

There are a couple of things that strike me right off in verse: (1) fulfilling of the word of the Lord spoken by Jeremiah (Jeremiah 25:11-14; Jeremiah 29:10) and (2) the LORD moved the heart of Cyrus, king of Persia.

Jeremiah 25:11-14 (New International Version, ©2011)
11 This whole country will become a desolate wasteland, and these nations will serve the king of Babylon seventy years.
12 “But when the seventy years are fulfilled, I will punish the king of Babylon and his nation, the land of the Babylonians,[a] for their guilt,” declares the LORD, “and will make it desolate forever. 13 I will bring on that land all the things I have spoken against it, all that are written in this book and prophesied by Jeremiah against all the nations. 14 They themselves will be enslaved by many nations and great kings; I will repay them according to their deeds and the work of their hands.”
Footnotes:
a. Jeremiah 25:12 Or Chaldeans

Israel was taken captive by the Babylonians in 597 BC. Babylon fell to the Persians in 539 BC and the Jews returned to Israel around 520 BC. Actually there were a series of deportations from Israel, the last being around 587 BC. So Israel was in captivity approximately seventy years.

Another interesting factoid I found in my quick study of background was that Isaiah had prophesied the following:

Isaiah 44:24-28 (New International Version, ©2011)
Jerusalem to Be Inhabited
24 “This is what the LORD says—
your Redeemer, who formed you in the womb:
I am the LORD,
the Maker of all things,
who stretches out the heavens,
who spreads out the earth by myself,
25 who foils the signs of false prophets
and makes fools of diviners,
who overthrows the learning of the wise
and turns it into nonsense,
26 who carries out the words of his servants
and fulfills the predictions of his messengers,
who says of Jerusalem, ‘It shall be inhabited,’
of the towns of Judah, ‘They shall be rebuilt,’
and of their ruins, ‘I will restore them,’
27 who says to the watery deep, ‘Be dry,
and I will dry up your streams,’
28 who says of Cyrus, ‘He is my shepherd
and will accomplish all that I please;
he will say of Jerusalem, “Let it be rebuilt,”
and of the temple, “Let its foundations be laid.”’

Isaiah 45:1 (New International Version, ©2011)
1 “This is what the LORD says to his anointed,
to Cyrus, whose right hand I take hold of
to subdue nations before him
and to strip kings of their armor,
to open doors before him
so that gates will not be shut:

Isaiah’s prophesy occurred 140 years before it happened. Imagine, a prophesy down to the very name of the individual. If you want to get real excited, read the rest of Isaiah 45 and you will see that Isaiah had prophesized the very things that Cyrus declared.

So what is the point? Cyrus wasn’t a Jew! Cyrus was a Persian. But God used Cyrus anyway. You know, sometimes it seems that the whole world is coming down on us Christians … and that we are alone. But our God can use anybody any time and any way in which He sees fit. So don’t be discouraged … God can and will overcome.

Agape’


Mr. Jim

Pious Bias

Good Morning!

Have you ever heard of “pious bias”? I ran into that phrase while studying for Sunday morning’s Bible study lesson. We were studying the book of Esther so I checked out what my favorite living Bible commentator has to say about the book. In his introduction to Esther, Bob Deffinbaugh accuses us of having “pious bias” which is where we ascribe holiness to someone where there might not be. Here’s his reasoning:

1. The events take place in Susa (which is now in Iran). Now, the timing is after the Babylonian captivity had ended and God had instructed the people to return to the Promised Land. So why were Mordecai and Esther still in Persia? Had they chosen to remain … in other words, to be disobedient?
2. The character of Mordecai and even Esther are somewhat in question. Mordecai was Esther’s uncle and guardian. When he saw an opportunity, he had Esther enter into a contest to replace Vashti as queen. Now one of the requirements was that she “please” the king (Xerxes I). So good old uncle Mordecai was willing to pimp his niece to gain position at court. Later, Mordecai attempts to manipulate his niece into saving his life. But Esther doesn’t escape notice either. She conceals the fact that she is a Jew so that she can become queen. And she deceives the king and Haman rather than be straightforward with the king about Haman’s threat.
3. Not once in the book is either God or prayer mentioned. Esther does ask that the Jews of Susa fast for three days … and one can imply that fasting was accompanied with prayer … but prayer is not specifically mentioned.

Deffinbaugh is not alone in his thinking. Neither Martin Luther nor John Calvin commented on the book … and it has been said that Luther wished that the book were not in the canon of Scriptures.

Now that is all the “bad” stuff I am going to say about the book. Here are some of the good points to think about:

1. Was it a coincidence that Vashti decided to not report for duty and was thus deposed?
2. Was it a mere chance that Esther was the most favorable of all the queen prospects?
3. Did Mordecai just happen to be in the right place at the right time to overhear the plot against the king?
4. Did the king just happen to remember Mordecai before Haman appeared the next day?

And so on…

What am I trying to say? Okay, let’s assume Deffinbaugh is right and Mordecai and Esther aren’t the champions of faith that we make them out to be. What we are still seeing is God’s omniscient hand in protecting these disobedient non-practicing Jews. And, come to think of it, God did the same thing for me when I was in rebellion against Him. Why? Because God knew my heart … and He knew my future.

I will admit that I was surprised when I read Deffinbaugh’s take on the book of Esther. But as I thought about it, I began to see that the story is more about God’s intervention than Esther’s heroics. And, somehow, it gives me peace about how God loves me.


Agape’


Mr. Jim

Mom

Good Morning!

I got a call from Mom late yesterday. She made the trip from Hayesville to Acworth to spend the next ten days or so with my sister Claire and then with her sister, Bette. My daughter Heather refers to Grandma Leta and Aunt Bette as “steel magnolias”. If you are familiar with the plot of the movie by that name, you know it is about a group of women who support each other through life’s ups and downs – even the death of a beloved daughter. And in a lot of ways, Mother and Aunt Bette are just like that … having experienced life’s often rugged road as sisters who love each other.

There were two other sisters as well – Aunt Cynthia (Sue Sue is what we called her when we were small) and Aunt Jane. If my memory serves me, although each had a different personality, there was strong bond between these four sisters that enabled them to support each other even over great distances. Cynthia died in 1993 – a victim of Alzheimer’s. Aunt Jane died in 2007 after a long, successful life. So now there are just the two remaining – but still strong in their love.

We celebrate Mothers this weekend. I hope you can tell from my writings that I truly love my Mom. Sometimes we don’t get along … and sometimes our exchanges can be sharp … but I do love her and respect her for all that she has done for my brother, sister and me. Mom will be 88 this year if the Lord allows. She has learned to let the Clay County Transit drive her to Atlanta if we can’t come get her. It is a good thing – believe me!!! She is having to have the Clay County Mountain Nurses come by more frequently … and has been told to rest twice a day. She told me that in her call … and then voiced her regret at not being able to do as much as before. But with the next breath, she was back to her positive self, stating she was going to get better.

God’s Word tells us that we are to honor our Mothers and Fathers. Sometimes I find the latter a little difficult … but I never have to worry about honoring my Mom. And you know, I think my children will say the same about their Mom. They truly were blessed with one of the best. I imagine our phone will be ringing off the hook Sunday as each one calls to tell her how important she is to them.

If you are a Mom, let me take this opportunity to wish you a very happy Mother’s Day.

Agape’


Mr. Jim

Privileged

Good Morning!

I was blessed yesterday. I was coming off the tee box on hole number 5 when I thought I saw a bluebird. I moved as quietly as I could to see how close I could get. Sure enough – it was an Eastern Bluebird … wings and body of royal blue, an orange blaze on his chest, white underbelly. What a beautiful sight!!!

I am not much of a bird watcher … not knowing the different species and names of the birds. I just like watching them. It reminds me of the passage about God’s care for us.

Matthew 6:25-34 (New International Version, ©2011)
Do Not Worry
25 “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? 26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27 Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life[a]?
28 “And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. 29 Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. 30 If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith? 31 So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
Footnotes:
a. Matthew 6:27 Or single cubit to your height

I am reminded of the struggles of my youth. Dad had left … and I mean, really had left. Our last contact with him was at Christmas 1957. So Mom was left with trying to raise three children on a secretary’s salary. And, in 1957, we are talking about much less than $100 a week. So things were tight. Still, with the help of Grandma Ward, Mother managed to keep a roof over our heads, clothes on our backs, and food in our tummies. I am certain there were many times there was more month than money … but we rarely realized our “plight”.

Mom used to talk about “when my ship comes in”. Well, our ship never came … but we didn’t know it. I am convinced that God’s hand was upon us every one of those days. I am also convinced His hand has been upon Miss N and me all of our days. Yes, there have been tight times … and still might be in the future. But we know that God provides for our every need – including the need to see a blue bird on a Wednesday on the golf course. What a blessing.

Agape’


Mr. Jim

Loving Each Other

Good Morning!

Romans 12:9-13 (New International Version, ©2011)
Love in Action
9 Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. 10 Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. 11 Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. 12 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 13 Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.

One of my co-workers has been sharing some of the goings on in her church. I don’t know if you would call it gossip because I really don’t know anyone other than her – and the issues are some common to many churches regardless of denomination. It seems they are in a money crunch – I would imagine that most church bodies are feeling the pinch nowadays. And they have had to institute some cost cutting measures – including having to let some staff go. Therein lies the basis for conflict – and conflict has come. And with it, hurt feelings and anger and all the accompanying stuff that goes on.

So how do we show sincere love for one another? How can we show our devotion to one another in love?

Well, I know that financial resources are and will always be in short supply in the majority of our church bodies. And I know that sometimes the remedy to the short supply is to take what appears to be draconian measures. People get hurt. Things that should be done don’t get done. And discouragement seems to reign.

I wish I had a good answer to the money problems that face our church bodies. I don’t. I believe God is capable of taking the meager resources we have and doubling and tripling them. After all, He managed to feed thousands on five loaves and two fish. I guess He can handle the light bill, the water bill, the gas bill, and so on. Perhaps we need to get down to near no resources to appreciate His power.

Here’s what I do know. Jesus told me to love my fellow Christian no matter what. Sometimes that is easy. Many times it isn’t. And I am quite certain there are a number of folks who find me to be difficult, opinionated, etc. Still, you are to love me and I am to love you. And I am not talking “plastic” love. I am talking sincere, devoted love … love that cares about the hurts and the heartaches you are feeling. So let’s break down what Paul tells:

(1) Our love must be sincere. How often have you heard someone say they loved you but you knew better?
(2) We should hate evil and cling to good. In short, we should see “the good” in people.
(3) Our love must go beyond the spoken word to the action – even if it hurts.
(4) We must be devoted to one another in love. Our love for our Christian brother and sister must be a constant love – not one that throws a person away because of some dispute. We must work through our disagreements or in spite of our disagreements.
(5) Honor one another above yourselves. I think Paul hit the nail on the head here. Usually the most violent disagreements come when we want our way and are unwilling to even consider anything else.
(6) Never be lacking in zeal but keep up your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. I had a deacon stop me at church Sunday and pay me quite a compliment. She told me that a prayer I had uttered had really lifted her up because of my enthusiasm. We should never let discouragement defeat us – we serve God Almighty.
(7) Be joyful in hope – patient in affliction – faithful in prayer. Enough said.
(8) Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. To do this, you have to have loved them enough to know there was a need.
(9) Practice hospitality. Welcome people. Open your heart and allow them to come into your life. Show them the love of Christ in yours.

Well, I don’t know what will happen with my friend’s church. I hope apologies will be made and accepted. I hope relationships are patched up and made stronger. I hope each person will learn to love one another. Of course, we can always pray that will happen even if we don’t know the people by name.

Have a blessed day!

Agape’


Mr. Jim

Usama bin Laden

Good Morning!

The first thing I heard yesterday morning was that Osama bin Laden had been killed by U.S. forces in a firefight in Pakistan. The next thing I heard was people cheering. And I asked myself – should I cheer the death of anyone – even my enemy?

I brought this subject to the golf course Monday night. I was playing with Mike and Harold. I asked the question – I think I kind of through Harold’s game off a little in the process. On one hand, we have a person who has been instrumental in many plots to kill people and has been successful in some. And it is true that he won’t be doing that anymore. And perhaps it is true judgment that he has received. Still, should I rejoice? Or should I accept his death as a necessary act that must take place – but with a sense of regret that this one man was so evil as he had to be destroyed. I don’t know. I am struggling with the rejoicing, not with the death … but I am sure God will give me peace about the issue. I thank God for the brave young men who carried out the mission. I thank God that none of our fellows were killed or injured. I know bin Laden’s death will not bring to the end the conflict … only the return of our Lord will bring true peace to our world. I look forward with eager anticipation to that day. I thank both Harold and Michael for mulling this over with me on twelve, thirteen and beyond. It is good to have friends like Mike and Harold to bounce thoughts off of.

Today is the anniversary of the birth of my youngest child. Miss N had a pretty easy time (comparatively) in childbirth. Usually, when she went into labor, we knew to get to the hospital pretty quick … or else. Well, it just so happened that Norma went into labor after I had left for work on that Monday many years ago. I was actually in the health club in an exercise class when the call came. Jason Gilliland – the retired Secretary of Life of Georgia – offered a full scholarship to Emory if we would name our child Jason. He was just kidding – I think. Anyway, I hurriedly dressed, thinking I had to get home and then to the hospital. Before I left, though, I was told that Ginny’s husband Carl was taking Norma to Southern Regional. I barely got to the hospital before Stephen David Gant was born on May 3, 1982. He completed our family … four boys and one girl. I am a blessed man. The Psalmist said it best:

Psalm 127:3-5 (New International Version, ©2011)
3 Children are a heritage from the LORD,
offspring a reward from him.
4 Like arrows in the hands of a warrior
are children born in one’s youth.
5 Blessed is the man
whose quiver is full of them.
They will not be put to shame
when they contend with their opponents in court.

Now that doesn’t mean that we never have conflict or that we don’t have times of separation. But I believe it means that we can trust God that He can work through our struggles. Anyway – Happy Birthday, David from Mom and Pop!

And each of you have a blessed day as well.


Agape’


Mr. Jim

Larry

Good Morning!

A few weeks ago I shared with you some memories of my good friend Scrap Wheeler. Our pastor at First Baptist Red Oak was Larry Stewart. I remember him as a bigger than life man. He had an easy going nature that just won people over … and he had a voice that wouldn’t quit. I still have the recording he made back in the late sixties – good old Southern Gospel tunes that complemented his rich baritone voice.

Larry passed away on May 2, 1981 from heart attack. I think he was forty seven at the time … but I may be wrong about that. Anyway, he was too young – or at least it seemed that way to me. So as I begin this morning, I am thinking about my pastor and my friend Larry Stewart. One of the songs he sang was “Until Then”. Here is the lyric:

(Stuart Hamblen)

(Until the day God calls me home)

My heart can sing when I pause to remember
A heartache here is but a stepping stone
Along a path that's winding always upward
This troubled world is not my final home.

But until then my heart will go on singing
Until then with joy I'll carry on
Until the day my eyes behold my Saviour
Until the day God calls me home.

The things of earth will dim and lose their value
If we recall they're borrowed for a while
And things of earth that cause this heart to tremble
Remember there will only bring a smile.

But until then my heart will go on singing
Until then with joy I'll carry on
Until the day my eyes behold my Saviour
Until the day God calls me home

You know, we all know that the time will come when God does call us home. Some of us will go early – like Larry. Some of us will hang around for a good long while. But our ultimate destination is home – where Jesus is. I imagine the song will be on my mind all day today. I will hear Larry singing it … and remember him fondly.

I trust you will have a good Monday.

Agape’


Mr. Jim