7-31-10 Saturday, 7:58 am Springfield; 74 degrees, partly cloudy.
Another night of rough sleeping, including a call at 1:15 which I was glad to take related to a death in a friend’s family. This morning I will stop by church as women gather for the spiritual spa. I will pick up some food from our small group and deliver it to one of our members who is hurting from the events of this week. I will visit a nursing home, and a couple of hospitals. My afternoon and evening will be invested in sermon planning for the months to come, as thankfully the Van Giesens will bring the message tomorrow at Wesley.
Romans 14
This is a great chapter for me as I prepare to preach about Christ-followers and religious cults. Last night I was working on my sermon related to Mormonism, and reading the biography of Joseph Smith. Rom 14:4 “Who are you to judge the servant of another? To his own master (lord) he stands or falls;” This is a great caution for me, to approach Mormons and Jehovah Witnesses.
The rest of this chapter is instructional about self-denial on behalf of others and living with full conviction in obeying God. The presenting issues included those who observed special days and those who treated every day equally; those who avoided meat, either because it had possibly been offered to an idol, or simply to avoid any impurity; and what type of drink was acceptable for followers of the way. Verse 17 is crucial “for the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. (18) For he who in this way serves Christ is acceptable to God and approved by men.”
May it be so in my life, and in the life of the people entrusted to my leadership as a pastor. Lord, may my preaching be filled with grace, and my complete purpose be for the growth and health of all whom you call to follow you. Guide me today as I serve you with righteousness, peace and joy.
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Friday, July 30, 2010
July 30, 2010
7-30-10 Friday, 7:54 am Springfield; 73 degrees, sunny, birds quietly chirping, dogs barking.
I had a rough night of sleeping last night. Yesterday following my lunch I visited several folks in the hospital, including one who died last night, and one whose heart had stopped as I visited. He was transferred to the ICU and was stabilized, and by 10 pm was beginning to respond. I felt God’s Holy Spirit clearly guiding my steps yesterday. I pray the same for today.
My sermon planning was set aside yesterday with the hospital calls, and I will pick it up this morning. I have all day and evening, and the same tomorrow. I have pondered attending a 5:00 pm Sat. service to experience it as I ponder if and when we should add additional worship options.
Romans 13:1-14
This is a chapter about obeying the law, paying taxes, respecting authority and in summary “love your neighbor as yourself.” Verse 12 states “The night is almost gone; the day of salvation will soon be here. So remove your dark deeds like dirty clothes, and put on the shining armor of right living.” This reminds me of the urgency of living each day in the “shining armor of right living”, taking a “long view of this short life”. I must be careful to apply this scripture to myself first, before inferring application to anyone else.
I was speaking with a young man yesterday to whom this whole chapter applies, and I am recommending Teen Challenge as a vehicle for him to “clothe himself with the presence of the Lord Jesus Christ. And don’t let yourself think about ways to indulge your evil desires. (verse 14).
This morning I glanced at the paper and it chronicled the last 15 years of the 30 year-old accused of murdering two elderly people in their home near Lebanon on Monday. It reminds me of our nation’s problem with crime and prisons. His execution would be a great remedy. We have over one million men and women incarcerated, and for many the prison experience hardens them and furthers their life of crime. Residivisum is around 66%. I have three inmates with whom I correspond. I need to write them today, along with a young man at Boys Town.
Guide me Lord in the work of preparing the preaching schedule, and attending to the pastoral needs of the Wesley congregation. You are the great shepherd of the sheep, and it is a privilege to serve under Your Lordship.
I had a rough night of sleeping last night. Yesterday following my lunch I visited several folks in the hospital, including one who died last night, and one whose heart had stopped as I visited. He was transferred to the ICU and was stabilized, and by 10 pm was beginning to respond. I felt God’s Holy Spirit clearly guiding my steps yesterday. I pray the same for today.
My sermon planning was set aside yesterday with the hospital calls, and I will pick it up this morning. I have all day and evening, and the same tomorrow. I have pondered attending a 5:00 pm Sat. service to experience it as I ponder if and when we should add additional worship options.
Romans 13:1-14
This is a chapter about obeying the law, paying taxes, respecting authority and in summary “love your neighbor as yourself.” Verse 12 states “The night is almost gone; the day of salvation will soon be here. So remove your dark deeds like dirty clothes, and put on the shining armor of right living.” This reminds me of the urgency of living each day in the “shining armor of right living”, taking a “long view of this short life”. I must be careful to apply this scripture to myself first, before inferring application to anyone else.
I was speaking with a young man yesterday to whom this whole chapter applies, and I am recommending Teen Challenge as a vehicle for him to “clothe himself with the presence of the Lord Jesus Christ. And don’t let yourself think about ways to indulge your evil desires. (verse 14).
This morning I glanced at the paper and it chronicled the last 15 years of the 30 year-old accused of murdering two elderly people in their home near Lebanon on Monday. It reminds me of our nation’s problem with crime and prisons. His execution would be a great remedy. We have over one million men and women incarcerated, and for many the prison experience hardens them and furthers their life of crime. Residivisum is around 66%. I have three inmates with whom I correspond. I need to write them today, along with a young man at Boys Town.
Guide me Lord in the work of preparing the preaching schedule, and attending to the pastoral needs of the Wesley congregation. You are the great shepherd of the sheep, and it is a privilege to serve under Your Lordship.
Thursday, July 29, 2010
July 29, 2010
7-29-10 Thursday, 7:40 am Springfield, 74 degrees, sunny, humid.
It was harder than usual to get up this morning. I had a long day yesterday, ran 4 miles in the noon heat, and ended up with 12,000 paces on my pedometer. Today I will continue sermon planning and research, which I enjoy very much, along with some pastoral work. I received an email from Audrey sent last night saying they had arrived safely, and everything was going well. This morning they will celebrate holy communion with the elements we consecrated as they were leaving.
Romans 12:1-21 The practical application of the preceding teachings.
This chapter dovetails with the preparation I have been doing for the fall series on fruitfulness. As I read it from the Wesley Study Bible, the notes refer me to Wesley’s sermon #40 “Christian Perfection”. I will read this sermon this morning and glean it for relevant contribution to this series I am working on.
Verses 11-12 speak to me this morning: “Do not lag in zeal, be ardent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer.” Each of these phrases is clear, direct, instructional. I must absorb them today and live them out.
I just took a call from a young man who is homeless. He and I will meet for lunch. I am seeking to be Christ’s presence in his life. Guide me Holy Lord, as I serve you today – in ministry, in planning, rejoicing in hope, patient in suffering and preserving in prayer.
It was harder than usual to get up this morning. I had a long day yesterday, ran 4 miles in the noon heat, and ended up with 12,000 paces on my pedometer. Today I will continue sermon planning and research, which I enjoy very much, along with some pastoral work. I received an email from Audrey sent last night saying they had arrived safely, and everything was going well. This morning they will celebrate holy communion with the elements we consecrated as they were leaving.
Romans 12:1-21 The practical application of the preceding teachings.
This chapter dovetails with the preparation I have been doing for the fall series on fruitfulness. As I read it from the Wesley Study Bible, the notes refer me to Wesley’s sermon #40 “Christian Perfection”. I will read this sermon this morning and glean it for relevant contribution to this series I am working on.
Verses 11-12 speak to me this morning: “Do not lag in zeal, be ardent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer.” Each of these phrases is clear, direct, instructional. I must absorb them today and live them out.
I just took a call from a young man who is homeless. He and I will meet for lunch. I am seeking to be Christ’s presence in his life. Guide me Holy Lord, as I serve you today – in ministry, in planning, rejoicing in hope, patient in suffering and preserving in prayer.
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
July 28, 2010
7-28-10 Wednesday, 5:43 am Springfield, 72 degrees, bright ¾ moon in the southwest, birds just beginning to sing.
Audrey and the team heading to Honduras should be just about ready to board their 6:10 flight out of Kansas City en route to Houston. They will be in Tegucigalpa before noon. It is quiet here. As hard as it is for me to get out of bed on any given morning, I appreciate and enjoy the early morning. For the next few days I will be doing the work of planning and preparing the preaching schedule for the next few months. For the last three years I have done this from a state park in Kentucky, and this year I will do so from Springfield. Now for the Word.
Romans 11:13-36
Paul continues to write about the Jews, as he addresses the gentile recipients of his letter. He reminds them that they have been grafted in because of the unbelief of God’s chosen people. In verses 20-24 Paul makes the point that the natural branches of the cultivated olive tree, broken off for unbelief can certainly be grafted in again into their own tree. “Thus all Israel will be saved” (verse 26) So, through the belief in God’s saving power, made available to us beyond God’s original chosen people, those chosen people, the Jews will also have access through faith.
Dan Sered spoke to us at Wesley this spring about the work of Jews for Jesus in Israel. He is a son of Israel, his father fighting for Israel in their wars from 1967 forward. His father and mother are secular Jews. I continue to hold loosely the questions of the role of modern Israel in the overall plan of God. Even so, I hold fast and am motivated to pour all my strength and energy into building God’s kingdom through the church, which is clearly his people and his plan for this generation. Guide me today Lord as I plan and discern and prepare for the preaching of your word in the coming months.
Audrey and the team heading to Honduras should be just about ready to board their 6:10 flight out of Kansas City en route to Houston. They will be in Tegucigalpa before noon. It is quiet here. As hard as it is for me to get out of bed on any given morning, I appreciate and enjoy the early morning. For the next few days I will be doing the work of planning and preparing the preaching schedule for the next few months. For the last three years I have done this from a state park in Kentucky, and this year I will do so from Springfield. Now for the Word.
Romans 11:13-36
Paul continues to write about the Jews, as he addresses the gentile recipients of his letter. He reminds them that they have been grafted in because of the unbelief of God’s chosen people. In verses 20-24 Paul makes the point that the natural branches of the cultivated olive tree, broken off for unbelief can certainly be grafted in again into their own tree. “Thus all Israel will be saved” (verse 26) So, through the belief in God’s saving power, made available to us beyond God’s original chosen people, those chosen people, the Jews will also have access through faith.
Dan Sered spoke to us at Wesley this spring about the work of Jews for Jesus in Israel. He is a son of Israel, his father fighting for Israel in their wars from 1967 forward. His father and mother are secular Jews. I continue to hold loosely the questions of the role of modern Israel in the overall plan of God. Even so, I hold fast and am motivated to pour all my strength and energy into building God’s kingdom through the church, which is clearly his people and his plan for this generation. Guide me today Lord as I plan and discern and prepare for the preaching of your word in the coming months.
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
July 27, 2010
7-27-10 Tuesday, 7:18 am Springfield, 73 degrees
Yesterday was well spent. At the end of the day I had supported Audrey in her final full day before leaving for Honduras, made arrangements for a fence to be installed around our yard, exercised at the gym, and worked in the garden and yard. I feel rested, stretched, and ready for this day of ministry and service. I will be at the church office for prayer at 9:00, worship planning at 10:00, and then lunch with one of our young men at 12:30. Mid afternoon I will come home to help in the final packing and loading, and then drive Audrey to Church at 5:30 for the group departure for Kansas City at 6:15.
Rom 10:14 – 11:12
Verses 14-15 are especially pertinent for today “But how can they call on him to save them unless they believe in him? And how can they believe in him if they have never heard about him? And How can they hear about him unless someone tells them? And how will anyone go and tell them without being sent? This is why the scriptures say, ‘How beautiful are the feet of messengers who bring good news!’”
We send 10 messengers to Honduras today. Their feet are beautiful, their hands are beautiful, their suitcases are carrying blessings. These 2 verses also speak to the triangle of knowledge, experience and community, addressing specifically the knowledge required to experience the faith journey. This is a most helpful rubric concerning the Christian life.
Paul continues his treatise with the issue of the rejection by the Jews of the good news of God, and the opportunity the Gentiles have because the Jews have not accepted God’s prevenient grace. I am one of the gentiles who has so benefitted from God’s grace, and now I am privileged to tell people, near and far, about Jesus and His salvation.
Today Lord I am your servant. Guide me feet as I serve you as a shepherd in Springfield, and as a steward of your mercy and grace. I look forward to the ways your love will flow in and through this day.
Yesterday was well spent. At the end of the day I had supported Audrey in her final full day before leaving for Honduras, made arrangements for a fence to be installed around our yard, exercised at the gym, and worked in the garden and yard. I feel rested, stretched, and ready for this day of ministry and service. I will be at the church office for prayer at 9:00, worship planning at 10:00, and then lunch with one of our young men at 12:30. Mid afternoon I will come home to help in the final packing and loading, and then drive Audrey to Church at 5:30 for the group departure for Kansas City at 6:15.
Rom 10:14 – 11:12
Verses 14-15 are especially pertinent for today “But how can they call on him to save them unless they believe in him? And how can they believe in him if they have never heard about him? And How can they hear about him unless someone tells them? And how will anyone go and tell them without being sent? This is why the scriptures say, ‘How beautiful are the feet of messengers who bring good news!’”
We send 10 messengers to Honduras today. Their feet are beautiful, their hands are beautiful, their suitcases are carrying blessings. These 2 verses also speak to the triangle of knowledge, experience and community, addressing specifically the knowledge required to experience the faith journey. This is a most helpful rubric concerning the Christian life.
Paul continues his treatise with the issue of the rejection by the Jews of the good news of God, and the opportunity the Gentiles have because the Jews have not accepted God’s prevenient grace. I am one of the gentiles who has so benefitted from God’s grace, and now I am privileged to tell people, near and far, about Jesus and His salvation.
Today Lord I am your servant. Guide me feet as I serve you as a shepherd in Springfield, and as a steward of your mercy and grace. I look forward to the ways your love will flow in and through this day.
Monday, July 26, 2010
July 26, 2010
7-26-10 Monday, 8:30 am Springfield, 75 degrees, sunny.
I am writing from my deck, with humming birds feasting at my feeder, insects humming in the trees, a dog barking, and the breeze gently blowing. This is a beautiful setting for morning devotions. I stayed up late until the Cardinals beat the Cubs in the 11th inning, knowing that today is my day off and I could sleep in if needed. Audrey and I both got up around 7:00, and have been enjoying the news and fresh coffee together. Today is her last full day here before leading the team to Honduras.
Romans 9:25-10:13
This passage really speaks to me this morning about the clarity and simplicity of God’s plan of salvation for all people. I read this in the context of preparing for a series of sermons on the cults, and their clouding of the simple gospel. Paul continues to communicate his love for his people, the Jews, God’s chosen ones. He describes how they missed God’s intention as they stumbled over trying to gain God’s approval by keeping the law in total.
Paul quotes Hosea 2:23 in which God says that “those who were not my people, I will now call my people.” In Romans 10:9 he lays it out clearly: “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” And then in verse 13 he concludes “For ‘Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.’” (quoting from Joel 2:32)
I love to study the scriptures! Even as I have been familiar with this scripture since 1974, it is part of the “Roman road” group of scriptures, to read it fresh today, in the context of ministry and service where I live today, provides newness, reminder, and revs up my enthusiasm for the message of salvation today. On Saturday I had a great experience with Tom Albin at the School of Lay Ministry in Fayette. I presented a practical example of small groups in the church. He was the main weekend presenter and he was working from a triangle of knowledge, experience and community. This makes great sense to me, and I see the role and relationship of all three. Guide me holy Lord as I work with these three concepts.
I am writing from my deck, with humming birds feasting at my feeder, insects humming in the trees, a dog barking, and the breeze gently blowing. This is a beautiful setting for morning devotions. I stayed up late until the Cardinals beat the Cubs in the 11th inning, knowing that today is my day off and I could sleep in if needed. Audrey and I both got up around 7:00, and have been enjoying the news and fresh coffee together. Today is her last full day here before leading the team to Honduras.
Romans 9:25-10:13
This passage really speaks to me this morning about the clarity and simplicity of God’s plan of salvation for all people. I read this in the context of preparing for a series of sermons on the cults, and their clouding of the simple gospel. Paul continues to communicate his love for his people, the Jews, God’s chosen ones. He describes how they missed God’s intention as they stumbled over trying to gain God’s approval by keeping the law in total.
Paul quotes Hosea 2:23 in which God says that “those who were not my people, I will now call my people.” In Romans 10:9 he lays it out clearly: “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” And then in verse 13 he concludes “For ‘Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.’” (quoting from Joel 2:32)
I love to study the scriptures! Even as I have been familiar with this scripture since 1974, it is part of the “Roman road” group of scriptures, to read it fresh today, in the context of ministry and service where I live today, provides newness, reminder, and revs up my enthusiasm for the message of salvation today. On Saturday I had a great experience with Tom Albin at the School of Lay Ministry in Fayette. I presented a practical example of small groups in the church. He was the main weekend presenter and he was working from a triangle of knowledge, experience and community. This makes great sense to me, and I see the role and relationship of all three. Guide me holy Lord as I work with these three concepts.
Sunday, July 25, 2010
July 25, 2010
7-25-10 Sunday, 6:18 am Grayrock Dr.; 70 degrees, partly cloudy.
This morning Audrey will deliver the sermon, a message she has been discerning for several months about Moses and Missions. This will be my fourth Sunday in a row not to preach. I will lead in other ways throughout the services, including baptizing a baby at 11:00.
Rom 9:1-24
The writer Paul continues his logic about God’s calling. He states that he would be cut off from Christ if this would draw his fellow Jews to Christ. But he realizes this is not the answer. He describes Jacob and Esau in the womb, and God’s revelation to their mother Rebekah that the older son would serve the younger son. He then asks if God is being unfair, and affirms that it is God who decides to show mercy and we can neither choose it nor work for it.
Psalm 19 – a beautiful song that praises the beauty and effectiveness of God’s word.
“The laws of the Lord are true; each one is fair. They are more desirable than gold, even the finest gold.” (9b-10).
Today Lord I go among your people gathering to worship with the faith community called Wesley United Methodist Church. I have been apart from them for three weeks. Thank you for your calling upon my life, your mercy in my life, and your power demonstrated when your people gather to praise you and hear your word. May this be a day of new beginnings.
This morning Audrey will deliver the sermon, a message she has been discerning for several months about Moses and Missions. This will be my fourth Sunday in a row not to preach. I will lead in other ways throughout the services, including baptizing a baby at 11:00.
Rom 9:1-24
The writer Paul continues his logic about God’s calling. He states that he would be cut off from Christ if this would draw his fellow Jews to Christ. But he realizes this is not the answer. He describes Jacob and Esau in the womb, and God’s revelation to their mother Rebekah that the older son would serve the younger son. He then asks if God is being unfair, and affirms that it is God who decides to show mercy and we can neither choose it nor work for it.
Psalm 19 – a beautiful song that praises the beauty and effectiveness of God’s word.
“The laws of the Lord are true; each one is fair. They are more desirable than gold, even the finest gold.” (9b-10).
Today Lord I go among your people gathering to worship with the faith community called Wesley United Methodist Church. I have been apart from them for three weeks. Thank you for your calling upon my life, your mercy in my life, and your power demonstrated when your people gather to praise you and hear your word. May this be a day of new beginnings.
Saturday, July 24, 2010
July 24, 2010
7-24-10 Saturday, 6:50 am Grayrock, 73 degrees, clear and sunny
Today I drive to Fayette to speak at the School of Lay Ministry. Tom Albin is the main presenter on spiritual formation and the Wesley models of small group ministry. I will be the practical example person sharing my experiences. Yesterday I assembled a 6 page handout, and last night I reviewed the DVD I made in 2008 as the introduction to the first series.
Romans 8:26-39
“The Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness. …
“If God is for us, who can ever be against us?
“I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love …
These passages are full of life and power. This 8th chapter of Romans is a most significant input into the spiritual life. I memorized it in 1979. This morning these words are fresh and new and speak to my soul as I walk with God today. Guide me Holy Lord as I seek to serve you by travelling and teaching about your work in my life through small group experiences and the people who have cared for me.
Today I drive to Fayette to speak at the School of Lay Ministry. Tom Albin is the main presenter on spiritual formation and the Wesley models of small group ministry. I will be the practical example person sharing my experiences. Yesterday I assembled a 6 page handout, and last night I reviewed the DVD I made in 2008 as the introduction to the first series.
Romans 8:26-39
“The Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness. …
“If God is for us, who can ever be against us?
“I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love …
These passages are full of life and power. This 8th chapter of Romans is a most significant input into the spiritual life. I memorized it in 1979. This morning these words are fresh and new and speak to my soul as I walk with God today. Guide me Holy Lord as I seek to serve you by travelling and teaching about your work in my life through small group experiences and the people who have cared for me.
Friday, July 23, 2010
July 23, 2010
7-23-10 Friday, 5:57 am Grayrock Dr., 75 degrees, clear.
Yesterday was full of fruitful ministry. I led pastors in a peer mentoring group around the study of Ultimate Responsibility by Sue Nelson Kibbey, shared in the baptism of one of our new members with Pastor Jerry at Tablerock lake on the “Moonshine Beach”, and visited with several people at Cox South hospital. This morning I will meet with the planning committee for the Cry Out America event. My main task today is to plan and prepare for my teaching session tomorrow at the school of Lay Ministry on the topic of Small groups in the church. I am also having lunch with a young adult and discussing the possibilities of a stay in Teen Challenge.
Rom 8:9-25
22 – “For we know that the whole creation groans and suffers the pains of childbirth together until now.
23 – And not only this, but also we ourselves, having the first fruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our body.”
The oil spill in the Gulf, the paralyzed man in the hospital, the hot steamy woods of Kentucky, all groan and suffer. And even we ourselves, Christ-followers today “groan within ourselves” with the expectation for the coming “redemption of our body”, the time of our adoption as sons and daughters, already accomplished with a court date at the end of time to finalize the eternal arrangement.
I attended the court proceedings when my two nephews were adopted in St. Louis. It was a memorable experience in the judge’s quarters along with the social worker and the legal representative of the children. I imagine that Paul is referring to this type of legal adoption as a metaphor for the relationship that we will experience upon death and final transfer from this life to eternity.
Yesterday I received two books I had ordered from Amazon – Robert Wuthnow’s After the Baby Boomers, and New Religions edited by Christopher Partridge. I look forward to reading these two current works, one for my upcoming series on the cults, the other for greater knowledge of the current young adults and how I can best invest myself in their spiritual nurture. My daughter, one who is “after the baby boomers” suggested I read a book titled Being Consumed as I prepare for a session I will teach in August on materialism and simplicity.
Thank you Lord for the gift of this day, and all it will bring. Guide me as I serve you in the role of pastor.
Yesterday was full of fruitful ministry. I led pastors in a peer mentoring group around the study of Ultimate Responsibility by Sue Nelson Kibbey, shared in the baptism of one of our new members with Pastor Jerry at Tablerock lake on the “Moonshine Beach”, and visited with several people at Cox South hospital. This morning I will meet with the planning committee for the Cry Out America event. My main task today is to plan and prepare for my teaching session tomorrow at the school of Lay Ministry on the topic of Small groups in the church. I am also having lunch with a young adult and discussing the possibilities of a stay in Teen Challenge.
Rom 8:9-25
22 – “For we know that the whole creation groans and suffers the pains of childbirth together until now.
23 – And not only this, but also we ourselves, having the first fruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our body.”
The oil spill in the Gulf, the paralyzed man in the hospital, the hot steamy woods of Kentucky, all groan and suffer. And even we ourselves, Christ-followers today “groan within ourselves” with the expectation for the coming “redemption of our body”, the time of our adoption as sons and daughters, already accomplished with a court date at the end of time to finalize the eternal arrangement.
I attended the court proceedings when my two nephews were adopted in St. Louis. It was a memorable experience in the judge’s quarters along with the social worker and the legal representative of the children. I imagine that Paul is referring to this type of legal adoption as a metaphor for the relationship that we will experience upon death and final transfer from this life to eternity.
Yesterday I received two books I had ordered from Amazon – Robert Wuthnow’s After the Baby Boomers, and New Religions edited by Christopher Partridge. I look forward to reading these two current works, one for my upcoming series on the cults, the other for greater knowledge of the current young adults and how I can best invest myself in their spiritual nurture. My daughter, one who is “after the baby boomers” suggested I read a book titled Being Consumed as I prepare for a session I will teach in August on materialism and simplicity.
Thank you Lord for the gift of this day, and all it will bring. Guide me as I serve you in the role of pastor.
Thursday, July 22, 2010
July 22, 2010
7-22-10 Thursday, 7:43 am Grayrock, 75 degrees and sunny.
I had a late night at the hospital, and have struggled to get up. Today I lead a group of pastors in a “peer-mentoring”group which always has rich and substantial conversations. I will spend the next hour preparing for this group, reviewing the book by Sue Nelson Kibbey Ultimate Responsibility. Tonight I will baptize a man in Table Rock lake.
Rom 7:14-8:8
8:1-2 “So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus. And because you belong to him, the power of the life-giving spirit has freed you from the power of sin that leads to death.”
This scripture has been formative for me since 1974. No condemnation now I dread, freed from the power of sin by the life-giving Spirit. This is the crux of the new life in Christ. It is not a theory nor simply a religious argument. Guide me most precious Lord as I live today in the power of your Holy Spirit, teaching, baptizing, serving and leading in the building of your kingdom.
I had a late night at the hospital, and have struggled to get up. Today I lead a group of pastors in a “peer-mentoring”group which always has rich and substantial conversations. I will spend the next hour preparing for this group, reviewing the book by Sue Nelson Kibbey Ultimate Responsibility. Tonight I will baptize a man in Table Rock lake.
Rom 7:14-8:8
8:1-2 “So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus. And because you belong to him, the power of the life-giving spirit has freed you from the power of sin that leads to death.”
This scripture has been formative for me since 1974. No condemnation now I dread, freed from the power of sin by the life-giving Spirit. This is the crux of the new life in Christ. It is not a theory nor simply a religious argument. Guide me most precious Lord as I live today in the power of your Holy Spirit, teaching, baptizing, serving and leading in the building of your kingdom.
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
July 21, 2010
7-21-10 Wednesday, 5:30 am Grayrock Dr., Springfield MO; 76, humid, dark.
It is so good to be home with Audrey. One of the values of camping is the appreciation gained for regular life. I appreciate the washing machine which is currently cleaning my jeans and tee shirts. The air conditioning is marvelous, the electric coffee maker and the entire kitchen make life so much simpler. The toilet, the garage, the bed, the pet cats, all take on new value compared to the experiences of camping in the woods alone.
I awoke at 3:50 this morning, and made myself lie in bed until 4:50. A line of a song was stuck in my head, and I do not know why, as I have not listened to music in a while. It was from “The Piano Man”, and the line was “the waitress is practicing politics while the businessman slowly gets stoned...”
I learned last night from Meredith Harper that Ben Birdsong collapsed on the tennis courts yesterday and died. He is the station manager at The Wind, and Chalmer’s boss. Ben had taken me to lunch, with Chalmer a year ago, and we have had several conversations over the last couple of years. I really liked him, there was depth and grace flowing from him. Ben was about my age. This sudden death has caused me to contemplate eternity, the brevity of life, and the unpredictability of change. Sitting in the woods I observed a couple of standing dead trees. I do not know why they died. The previously unfortunate saplings that where growing underneath their canopy suddenly have a bright future.
I am also reminded to make sure my “affairs are in order”. I said to Audrey last night that there if I die suddenly, there is no unfinished business, I am ready to go at any time. She replied that she knew this, and of all people, she knew I would have no regrets at death. I did ask her to make sure my journal gets placed in an archive somewhere, and I need to gather up all the parts in a more manageable whole. It also occurred to me that if I would have died while camping, my family would have had a hard time figuring out how to send someone to check on me. I need to leave more clear instructions the next time I head to that piece of property called “Baxter Pines”.
Romans 7
Verse 4 “…. In order that [we may bear fruit] (one word in the greek – karpothorasomen). We have died to the law through the body of Christ, so that we may belong to another, to him who has been raised from the dead, in order that we may bear fruit for God.
This summarizes my goal for my fall sermon series – cultivating a fruitful life, which will be based on bishop Schnase’s new book, and also on insights from Steve Rankin’s unpublished manuscript (with his permission of course). Thank you Lord for this succinct summary, in the midst of Paul’s detailed and complete argument. Guide me as I live into this truth, seeking to bear fruit in may life, as I seek to define it, describe it, demonstrate it, and delight in your purposes for your people who are growing in your likeness.
It is so good to be home with Audrey. One of the values of camping is the appreciation gained for regular life. I appreciate the washing machine which is currently cleaning my jeans and tee shirts. The air conditioning is marvelous, the electric coffee maker and the entire kitchen make life so much simpler. The toilet, the garage, the bed, the pet cats, all take on new value compared to the experiences of camping in the woods alone.
I awoke at 3:50 this morning, and made myself lie in bed until 4:50. A line of a song was stuck in my head, and I do not know why, as I have not listened to music in a while. It was from “The Piano Man”, and the line was “the waitress is practicing politics while the businessman slowly gets stoned...”
I learned last night from Meredith Harper that Ben Birdsong collapsed on the tennis courts yesterday and died. He is the station manager at The Wind, and Chalmer’s boss. Ben had taken me to lunch, with Chalmer a year ago, and we have had several conversations over the last couple of years. I really liked him, there was depth and grace flowing from him. Ben was about my age. This sudden death has caused me to contemplate eternity, the brevity of life, and the unpredictability of change. Sitting in the woods I observed a couple of standing dead trees. I do not know why they died. The previously unfortunate saplings that where growing underneath their canopy suddenly have a bright future.
I am also reminded to make sure my “affairs are in order”. I said to Audrey last night that there if I die suddenly, there is no unfinished business, I am ready to go at any time. She replied that she knew this, and of all people, she knew I would have no regrets at death. I did ask her to make sure my journal gets placed in an archive somewhere, and I need to gather up all the parts in a more manageable whole. It also occurred to me that if I would have died while camping, my family would have had a hard time figuring out how to send someone to check on me. I need to leave more clear instructions the next time I head to that piece of property called “Baxter Pines”.
Romans 7
Verse 4 “…. In order that [we may bear fruit] (one word in the greek – karpothorasomen). We have died to the law through the body of Christ, so that we may belong to another, to him who has been raised from the dead, in order that we may bear fruit for God.
This summarizes my goal for my fall sermon series – cultivating a fruitful life, which will be based on bishop Schnase’s new book, and also on insights from Steve Rankin’s unpublished manuscript (with his permission of course). Thank you Lord for this succinct summary, in the midst of Paul’s detailed and complete argument. Guide me as I live into this truth, seeking to bear fruit in may life, as I seek to define it, describe it, demonstrate it, and delight in your purposes for your people who are growing in your likeness.
July 18 - 20, 2010
7-18-10 Sunday, 7:08 am Baxter Woods, near Aurora, Ky.
I have made the coffee over the fire and am comfortably sitting in the camp chair outside the cabin. Sleeping was interesting in the heat last night, but I think I got a good night’s rest. This morning I will clean up and head west to worship with Dennis Bowling in the small church he pastors. Audrey sounded very good last night as we shared about the events of our respective days.
Rom 4:13 -5:5
Paul continues to make the point about Abraham’s faith. Vss 16-17 essentially say that God’s promise (to give the whole earth to Abraham and his descendants) was not based on his obedience but on a right relationship with God that comes by faith. It is given as a free gift and we are certain to receive it, whether or not we live according to the law of Moses, if we have faith like Abraham’s.
This has great application for the church in this 21st century. Cultivating faith is so critical in this age of doing, and of course, “faith without works is dead (James)”. So this is a great living tension, faith and works. I continue to desire to work on developing a vision of the fruitful, mature Christian life. Bishop Schnase’s recent book, and the work of Steve Rankin are helpful. I will turn now to reading some of Rankin’s work, as he has emailed it to me.
His first chapter is titled “Searching for a Grown Up Faith”. Its 15 pages introduce the concept and lay out the direction of the book. He begins with a metaphor from his teenage years of training horses with his father. As I am camping near 31 horses, I am especially moved by this metaphor. I am also eager to read the rest of his book and to respond by email with my impressions.
For now (8:02) I will fix breakfast and then get ready to ride my motorcycle to church. Thank you Lord for the beauty, serenity, isolation and peace of these woods.
7-19-10 Monday, 8:15 am Baxter Pines, Kentucky, 71 degrees, clear.
My coffee is perculating in the new camp coffee pot, and the weather is beautiful. I slept in, experiencing my typical “hard to get out of the sleeping bag” phenomena that is life-long. I am up and about, the birds are singing, and I am looking forward to this day in the woods, cutting trees, treating the logs on the cabin, etc.
Rom 5:6-21
As Adam has sinned and brought guilt on humanity, so Christ’s death provides grace available for all humanity. This truth is simple, and profound. It gets right to the underlying problem of humans – sin, traces it origin and provides a solution. Sin continues to be a huge problem. Guide me Lord as I lead the faith community in the process of transformation and the war on sin.
Next, I will read another chapter of Rankin’s work on spiritual maturity. On page 13 of his second chapter entitled “The Goal – Maturity” he says “The New Testament upholds maturity as the goal of the Christian life. It is not a passing thought. Since it is firmly rooted in the scripture, it requires our best, most responsive attentiveness. The following texts reveal the attitudes and actions exemplary of spiritual maturity and they show clearly that the standard of measure is Jesus himself.”
He then proceeds to list the New testament references to maturity, or perfection. I will read more later. I truly appreciate this work of Steve, even as I see ways it could be improved. Guide me Lord as I work to put in writing the thoughts you have been pressing up me since the mid 1980s.
7-20-10 Tuesday, 8:55 am Baxter Pines, Kentucky, 76 degrees, clear, humid, light breeze, variable directions.
Well, I head home today. I am to be on the road by noon. Hopefully I can pack in an hour, and spend a couple of hours cutting firewood, and logs to take home for my “log cabin compost pile”, maybe a couple of hickory sticks to make into walking sticks, and perhaps even a pine log or two to prep for the cabin. This is relatively ambitious for the final morning here. I have a little flexibility in my departure time, and I am usually overly optimistic about what I can accomplish in a given period.
Romans 6
This is a great and profound chapter. It begins with the smart aleck question “shall we sin more so that grace can abound?” It develops quickly the thought of dieing to sin through baptism, and thus being freed from the bondage of sin, able to choose to serve God with every part of our body. Having spent Thursday morning at the Lincoln museum, remembering American slavery, and Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclaimation, this chapter takes on tangible metaphor.
Psalm 16
David is relishing God’s constant presence, even in the night. He notes what a pleasant place God has given him, a good inheritance. As I am here alone, on the piece of property that my father purchased and then gave me as an inheritance, I am grateful for these wooded acres in this peaceful setting.
Reading from Steve Rankin on Christian Maturity:
He does an excellent job listing the new testament scriptures that describe the mature, or telios person. I have read through his description of Acts. My spirit is stirred with a desire to aggressively pursue this work of describing, demonstrating and teaching Christian maturity. Guard me Lord from anything that would short-circuit my desire to be a fully-mature follower of You, the Way, the Truth and the Life.
I have made the coffee over the fire and am comfortably sitting in the camp chair outside the cabin. Sleeping was interesting in the heat last night, but I think I got a good night’s rest. This morning I will clean up and head west to worship with Dennis Bowling in the small church he pastors. Audrey sounded very good last night as we shared about the events of our respective days.
Rom 4:13 -5:5
Paul continues to make the point about Abraham’s faith. Vss 16-17 essentially say that God’s promise (to give the whole earth to Abraham and his descendants) was not based on his obedience but on a right relationship with God that comes by faith. It is given as a free gift and we are certain to receive it, whether or not we live according to the law of Moses, if we have faith like Abraham’s.
This has great application for the church in this 21st century. Cultivating faith is so critical in this age of doing, and of course, “faith without works is dead (James)”. So this is a great living tension, faith and works. I continue to desire to work on developing a vision of the fruitful, mature Christian life. Bishop Schnase’s recent book, and the work of Steve Rankin are helpful. I will turn now to reading some of Rankin’s work, as he has emailed it to me.
His first chapter is titled “Searching for a Grown Up Faith”. Its 15 pages introduce the concept and lay out the direction of the book. He begins with a metaphor from his teenage years of training horses with his father. As I am camping near 31 horses, I am especially moved by this metaphor. I am also eager to read the rest of his book and to respond by email with my impressions.
For now (8:02) I will fix breakfast and then get ready to ride my motorcycle to church. Thank you Lord for the beauty, serenity, isolation and peace of these woods.
7-19-10 Monday, 8:15 am Baxter Pines, Kentucky, 71 degrees, clear.
My coffee is perculating in the new camp coffee pot, and the weather is beautiful. I slept in, experiencing my typical “hard to get out of the sleeping bag” phenomena that is life-long. I am up and about, the birds are singing, and I am looking forward to this day in the woods, cutting trees, treating the logs on the cabin, etc.
Rom 5:6-21
As Adam has sinned and brought guilt on humanity, so Christ’s death provides grace available for all humanity. This truth is simple, and profound. It gets right to the underlying problem of humans – sin, traces it origin and provides a solution. Sin continues to be a huge problem. Guide me Lord as I lead the faith community in the process of transformation and the war on sin.
Next, I will read another chapter of Rankin’s work on spiritual maturity. On page 13 of his second chapter entitled “The Goal – Maturity” he says “The New Testament upholds maturity as the goal of the Christian life. It is not a passing thought. Since it is firmly rooted in the scripture, it requires our best, most responsive attentiveness. The following texts reveal the attitudes and actions exemplary of spiritual maturity and they show clearly that the standard of measure is Jesus himself.”
He then proceeds to list the New testament references to maturity, or perfection. I will read more later. I truly appreciate this work of Steve, even as I see ways it could be improved. Guide me Lord as I work to put in writing the thoughts you have been pressing up me since the mid 1980s.
7-20-10 Tuesday, 8:55 am Baxter Pines, Kentucky, 76 degrees, clear, humid, light breeze, variable directions.
Well, I head home today. I am to be on the road by noon. Hopefully I can pack in an hour, and spend a couple of hours cutting firewood, and logs to take home for my “log cabin compost pile”, maybe a couple of hickory sticks to make into walking sticks, and perhaps even a pine log or two to prep for the cabin. This is relatively ambitious for the final morning here. I have a little flexibility in my departure time, and I am usually overly optimistic about what I can accomplish in a given period.
Romans 6
This is a great and profound chapter. It begins with the smart aleck question “shall we sin more so that grace can abound?” It develops quickly the thought of dieing to sin through baptism, and thus being freed from the bondage of sin, able to choose to serve God with every part of our body. Having spent Thursday morning at the Lincoln museum, remembering American slavery, and Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclaimation, this chapter takes on tangible metaphor.
Psalm 16
David is relishing God’s constant presence, even in the night. He notes what a pleasant place God has given him, a good inheritance. As I am here alone, on the piece of property that my father purchased and then gave me as an inheritance, I am grateful for these wooded acres in this peaceful setting.
Reading from Steve Rankin on Christian Maturity:
He does an excellent job listing the new testament scriptures that describe the mature, or telios person. I have read through his description of Acts. My spirit is stirred with a desire to aggressively pursue this work of describing, demonstrating and teaching Christian maturity. Guard me Lord from anything that would short-circuit my desire to be a fully-mature follower of You, the Way, the Truth and the Life.
Saturday, July 17, 2010
July 17, 2010
7-17-10 Saturday, 7:43 am Grayrock, 74 degrees, clear, humid.
28 years ago today, in Cincinnati, Audrey and I went for a walk and I proposed. She accepted. The Bible she gave me to commemorate this event is inscribed with the date.
Romans 4:1-12
Paul continues the logical development of faith. He states that Abraham, the founder of the Jewish nation, had faith previous to being circumcised. “If his good deeds had made him acceptable to God, he would have had something to boast about. But that was not God’s way. For the Scriptures tell us, ‘Abraham believed God, and God counted him as righteous because of his faith.’”
I need to constantly be vigilant to cultivate my personal faith in God, and not slip into trusting in my good works. This is a temptation of every religious leader, every member of a faith community. Once a person’s heart has been transformed by the forgiveness of God and released from the burden of sin, and good works proceed from the good heart, it is so easy to then begin to trust in good works and diminish one’s faith in what God has done, is doing, and will do. Guard me today Holy Lord as I drive to Kentucky and camp alone in the woods.
28 years ago today, in Cincinnati, Audrey and I went for a walk and I proposed. She accepted. The Bible she gave me to commemorate this event is inscribed with the date.
Romans 4:1-12
Paul continues the logical development of faith. He states that Abraham, the founder of the Jewish nation, had faith previous to being circumcised. “If his good deeds had made him acceptable to God, he would have had something to boast about. But that was not God’s way. For the Scriptures tell us, ‘Abraham believed God, and God counted him as righteous because of his faith.’”
I need to constantly be vigilant to cultivate my personal faith in God, and not slip into trusting in my good works. This is a temptation of every religious leader, every member of a faith community. Once a person’s heart has been transformed by the forgiveness of God and released from the burden of sin, and good works proceed from the good heart, it is so easy to then begin to trust in good works and diminish one’s faith in what God has done, is doing, and will do. Guard me today Holy Lord as I drive to Kentucky and camp alone in the woods.
Friday, July 16, 2010
July 16, 2010
7-16-10 Friday, 5:18 am Grayrock, 71 degrees
It is good to be back home. Our 13 days on the road were wonderful, and in addition to connecting with family, Audrey and I experienced the benefit of a change of routine and a break from the everyday. This morning I awoke at 2:30 ready to get back in the routine, and forced myself to lie in bed until 4:30. Now I am up with a fresh cup of coffee and a fresh energy for the day.
Last night I read from E. Stanley Jones A Song of Ascents concerning his focus upon the kingdom of God. He clearly ties together individual salvation and the social gospel in a compelling way. On pages 152-153 he states that an English bishop once said the he (Jones) was “obsessed with the Kingdom of God.” His response was it would be a magnificent obsession, and that Jesus was so obsessed, referring to the Kingdom of God over 100 times. Jones reflects on the difference of the Kingdom of God and any form of human totalitarianism – Nazism, fascism, communism – when a person surrenders to the Kingdom of God, he or she becomes free, when a person surrenders to a human totalitarianism, the result is bondage. It was interesting for me to read about this following our visit to the Lincoln museum in Springfield, Il yesterday and to contemplate the impact of the slave trade and the southern dependency upon this institution.
The birds are making quite a racket now (5:30) as they wake up the morning. I am not hearing songbirds singing as much as a chorus of noisy chirps.
Romans 3:9-31
The main thought of this chapter has given me great comfort over the years. Quoting Psalm 14:1-3 Paul establishes that the Old Testament affirms that no one is righteous, doing good, not even one. Later in this third chapter he says it succinctly in verse 23 “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God”. As an only child I often felt that I was the only one who had really messed up. When I fully comprehended that “all have sinned and fall short…” I began to understand the gospel which is contained in verse 24 “being justified as a gift by his grace through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus.”
Thank you Lord for your grace in redemption, and the gift to me of the awareness that all people have sinned and fallen short of your glory. Guide me as I seek to live out the good news and bear fruit in my toil building your kingdom.
It is good to be back home. Our 13 days on the road were wonderful, and in addition to connecting with family, Audrey and I experienced the benefit of a change of routine and a break from the everyday. This morning I awoke at 2:30 ready to get back in the routine, and forced myself to lie in bed until 4:30. Now I am up with a fresh cup of coffee and a fresh energy for the day.
Last night I read from E. Stanley Jones A Song of Ascents concerning his focus upon the kingdom of God. He clearly ties together individual salvation and the social gospel in a compelling way. On pages 152-153 he states that an English bishop once said the he (Jones) was “obsessed with the Kingdom of God.” His response was it would be a magnificent obsession, and that Jesus was so obsessed, referring to the Kingdom of God over 100 times. Jones reflects on the difference of the Kingdom of God and any form of human totalitarianism – Nazism, fascism, communism – when a person surrenders to the Kingdom of God, he or she becomes free, when a person surrenders to a human totalitarianism, the result is bondage. It was interesting for me to read about this following our visit to the Lincoln museum in Springfield, Il yesterday and to contemplate the impact of the slave trade and the southern dependency upon this institution.
The birds are making quite a racket now (5:30) as they wake up the morning. I am not hearing songbirds singing as much as a chorus of noisy chirps.
Romans 3:9-31
The main thought of this chapter has given me great comfort over the years. Quoting Psalm 14:1-3 Paul establishes that the Old Testament affirms that no one is righteous, doing good, not even one. Later in this third chapter he says it succinctly in verse 23 “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God”. As an only child I often felt that I was the only one who had really messed up. When I fully comprehended that “all have sinned and fall short…” I began to understand the gospel which is contained in verse 24 “being justified as a gift by his grace through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus.”
Thank you Lord for your grace in redemption, and the gift to me of the awareness that all people have sinned and fallen short of your glory. Guide me as I seek to live out the good news and bear fruit in my toil building your kingdom.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
July 15, 2010
7-15-10 Thursday, 7:27 am Springfield, Illinois, hot and humid.
Audrey and I will take in the Lincoln library as we begin our final day of travelling on this vacation. It has been a very good trip, one of our best as we have connected with many different family members and had wonderful visits and catching up. The last three days at Lake Geneva were “picture perfect” and as we left we expressed hope to return some day.
Romans 2:25-3:8
Paul addresses the question about value in being a jew and practicing circumcision. He states that there is no value in being circumcised if one does not keep the whole law. 2:29 “No, a true Jew is one whose heart is right with God. And true circumcision is not merely obeying the letter of the law; rather, it is a change of heart produced by God’s Spirit. And a person with a changed heart seeks praise from God, not from people.” This verse has great application also to the historic forms of the Christian faith – Roman Catholic, Greek Orthodox, Lutheran, Presbyterian, Baptist, Methodist, Reformed, Congregational, etc. Any and all of these traditions have great value, but only if the participant experiences a change of heart produced by God’s Spirit.
Psalm 11
David affirms his trust in God for protection, and remembers that “the Lord is in his holy temple; the Lord still rules from heaven. He watches everyone closely, examining every person on earth” (verse 4).
Reading this Psalm is a useful recalibration for me of my trust in God, and my understanding that He rules from heaven. Thank You Lord for Your close attention to every person on earth, including me on this day in the middle of July, in the middle of America.
Audrey and I will take in the Lincoln library as we begin our final day of travelling on this vacation. It has been a very good trip, one of our best as we have connected with many different family members and had wonderful visits and catching up. The last three days at Lake Geneva were “picture perfect” and as we left we expressed hope to return some day.
Romans 2:25-3:8
Paul addresses the question about value in being a jew and practicing circumcision. He states that there is no value in being circumcised if one does not keep the whole law. 2:29 “No, a true Jew is one whose heart is right with God. And true circumcision is not merely obeying the letter of the law; rather, it is a change of heart produced by God’s Spirit. And a person with a changed heart seeks praise from God, not from people.” This verse has great application also to the historic forms of the Christian faith – Roman Catholic, Greek Orthodox, Lutheran, Presbyterian, Baptist, Methodist, Reformed, Congregational, etc. Any and all of these traditions have great value, but only if the participant experiences a change of heart produced by God’s Spirit.
Psalm 11
David affirms his trust in God for protection, and remembers that “the Lord is in his holy temple; the Lord still rules from heaven. He watches everyone closely, examining every person on earth” (verse 4).
Reading this Psalm is a useful recalibration for me of my trust in God, and my understanding that He rules from heaven. Thank You Lord for Your close attention to every person on earth, including me on this day in the middle of July, in the middle of America.
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
July 14, 2010
7-14-10 Wednesday, 7:23 am Lake Geneva WI; Fog covers the lake as the local police block roads for a professional bicycle race starting in a couple of hours.
My cell phone is operational! I spent a long time on the phone with technical assistance, and completed a hard reset complete with all the reconnecting required. The good news is that I have recovered everything except the last few text messages I sent. Having spent only one day in the “twilight zone” of not having the phone and not knowing if it would recover has reminded me of how transitory digital media is, and also how transitory this life is. The metaphor extends to heaven, as when this life is over, all one’s deeds are recorded and will be rewarded by the all-knowing God, with whom nothing is lost.
Romans 1: - 2:24 (July 12-14)
I am blessed by this reading of Romans. It reminds me that God sees everything, rewards good and hates evil. Paul offers grace and mercy to the gentiles, and holds the chosen people accountable for their knowledge of the law, and the bad reputation they have among the gentiles. Paul’s desire is to visit Rome and to see spiritual fruit from his ministry. Spiritual fruit is the goal of every life lived in faith to please God, and I must be regularly reminded of this. Guide me Lord as I serve You today.
My cell phone is operational! I spent a long time on the phone with technical assistance, and completed a hard reset complete with all the reconnecting required. The good news is that I have recovered everything except the last few text messages I sent. Having spent only one day in the “twilight zone” of not having the phone and not knowing if it would recover has reminded me of how transitory digital media is, and also how transitory this life is. The metaphor extends to heaven, as when this life is over, all one’s deeds are recorded and will be rewarded by the all-knowing God, with whom nothing is lost.
Romans 1: - 2:24 (July 12-14)
I am blessed by this reading of Romans. It reminds me that God sees everything, rewards good and hates evil. Paul offers grace and mercy to the gentiles, and holds the chosen people accountable for their knowledge of the law, and the bad reputation they have among the gentiles. Paul’s desire is to visit Rome and to see spiritual fruit from his ministry. Spiritual fruit is the goal of every life lived in faith to please God, and I must be regularly reminded of this. Guide me Lord as I serve You today.
July 13, 2010
7-13-10 Tuesday, Lake Geneva, Wisconsin.
Last night Audrey heard screaming in a room down the hall. Police eventually where involved, and the woman was cuffed and taken away. It was probably after 1:00 am when things got quiet again. My cell phone is malfunctioning, which is more disrupting than one might think. I have left the cell phone number and especially text messaging as the main way for folks to get in touch with me. I will need to either get it operational, or replace it in the next few days. Fortunately I downloaded all its data to this laptop at the beginning of this vacation.
I Chron 15:- 16:36
David uses the leaders among the priests and Levites to organize the transport of the ark to Jerusalem, after the failed attempt that resulted in the death of the young man who touched the ark on the wobbly wagon. David himself was wearing a priestly garment (15:27). As he worshipped before the Lord as the ark was processed into Jerusalem, his wife Michal, daughter of Saul, looked down from her window and was filled with contempt for David.
David gives to Asaph and his fellow Levites a song, recorded in 16:8 – 36. This feels very much like one of the Psalms. It attributes greatness to God alone, encourages the hearer to “search for the Lord and for his strength; continually seek Him. Remember the wonders He has performed, his miracles and the rulings he has given. … Remember his covenant forever – the commitment he made to a thousand generations.”
Yes Lord, I remember. I thank you for the New Covenant, and for your calling upon my life. Guide me as I guide others to a deeper, closer walk with you, and encourage living that is obedient and fruitful.
My causal reading these days involves Thoreau’s Walden Pond. He advocates self-reliance, as did his mentor Emmerson. He mentions that he does not have the temperament to do good works to help others. His life is not ordered around serving God, but providing for his own needs. It seems that his writings resonate with American readers because of the mythology of how we view ourselves – carving out a homeland in the wilderness with just an axe and a musket. As I prepare to head to Kentucky for a few days in the woods, I too must consider how much of that mythology is subconscious, and how I must intentionally allow God’s word to shape my heart and soul, especially given the culture in which I live and in which I have been raised.
Last night Audrey heard screaming in a room down the hall. Police eventually where involved, and the woman was cuffed and taken away. It was probably after 1:00 am when things got quiet again. My cell phone is malfunctioning, which is more disrupting than one might think. I have left the cell phone number and especially text messaging as the main way for folks to get in touch with me. I will need to either get it operational, or replace it in the next few days. Fortunately I downloaded all its data to this laptop at the beginning of this vacation.
I Chron 15:- 16:36
David uses the leaders among the priests and Levites to organize the transport of the ark to Jerusalem, after the failed attempt that resulted in the death of the young man who touched the ark on the wobbly wagon. David himself was wearing a priestly garment (15:27). As he worshipped before the Lord as the ark was processed into Jerusalem, his wife Michal, daughter of Saul, looked down from her window and was filled with contempt for David.
David gives to Asaph and his fellow Levites a song, recorded in 16:8 – 36. This feels very much like one of the Psalms. It attributes greatness to God alone, encourages the hearer to “search for the Lord and for his strength; continually seek Him. Remember the wonders He has performed, his miracles and the rulings he has given. … Remember his covenant forever – the commitment he made to a thousand generations.”
Yes Lord, I remember. I thank you for the New Covenant, and for your calling upon my life. Guide me as I guide others to a deeper, closer walk with you, and encourage living that is obedient and fruitful.
My causal reading these days involves Thoreau’s Walden Pond. He advocates self-reliance, as did his mentor Emmerson. He mentions that he does not have the temperament to do good works to help others. His life is not ordered around serving God, but providing for his own needs. It seems that his writings resonate with American readers because of the mythology of how we view ourselves – carving out a homeland in the wilderness with just an axe and a musket. As I prepare to head to Kentucky for a few days in the woods, I too must consider how much of that mythology is subconscious, and how I must intentionally allow God’s word to shape my heart and soul, especially given the culture in which I live and in which I have been raised.
Saturday, July 3, 2010
July 3, 2010
7-3-10 Saturday, 6:07 am; Another beautiful morning in the Ozarks – 67 degrees, mostly sunny as it rises in the east.
Yesterday I finished staining the deck, put away the wading pool, and mowed the lawn. Today I will work on getting the car and house ready for our trip. My body is sore from the bending, reaching, stretching, lifting, and I am fulfilled in a job well done. I have been dreading the work involved in washing and staining this deck. Now it is done until 2012.
II Kings 22:3-23:30
The word of God is discovered in the remodeling of the temple, and when read to Josiah in the 18th year of his reign, he makes sweeping reforms. He demolishes the pagan shrines, executes the pagan priests on their own altars, removes the living quarters for the male and female shrine prostitutes from within the temple and restores the celebration of the Passover. His work earned him the description in 23:25 “Never before had there been a king like Josiah, who turned to the Lord with all his heart and soul and strength, obeying all the laws of Moses. And there has never been a king like him since.”
Even so, Josiah was killed in battle by Pharoah Neco of Egypt who was aligned with the king of Assyria. Josiah is remembered as a man who feared God, worked hard to serve Him, and in fulfilling his duties as king, lost his life. Guide me Lord as I live faithfully obeying your word, serving you at home, through the church, and in the world. Guard me from the pagan practices of this culture, and lead me in the way that leads to life everlasting through the atoning blood of Jesus the Christ.
Yesterday I finished staining the deck, put away the wading pool, and mowed the lawn. Today I will work on getting the car and house ready for our trip. My body is sore from the bending, reaching, stretching, lifting, and I am fulfilled in a job well done. I have been dreading the work involved in washing and staining this deck. Now it is done until 2012.
II Kings 22:3-23:30
The word of God is discovered in the remodeling of the temple, and when read to Josiah in the 18th year of his reign, he makes sweeping reforms. He demolishes the pagan shrines, executes the pagan priests on their own altars, removes the living quarters for the male and female shrine prostitutes from within the temple and restores the celebration of the Passover. His work earned him the description in 23:25 “Never before had there been a king like Josiah, who turned to the Lord with all his heart and soul and strength, obeying all the laws of Moses. And there has never been a king like him since.”
Even so, Josiah was killed in battle by Pharoah Neco of Egypt who was aligned with the king of Assyria. Josiah is remembered as a man who feared God, worked hard to serve Him, and in fulfilling his duties as king, lost his life. Guide me Lord as I live faithfully obeying your word, serving you at home, through the church, and in the world. Guard me from the pagan practices of this culture, and lead me in the way that leads to life everlasting through the atoning blood of Jesus the Christ.
Friday, July 2, 2010
July 2, 2010
7-2-10 Friday, 8:25 am, another beautiful day in the Ozarks as viewed from my deck.
Yesterday was a day of work around church and home. I am finalizing projects and to-dos in preparation for being gone for a while, with a couple more things for today. Pastor Jerry and I will visit at 11:00 concerning some loose ends. I spend 8 hours staining this deck yesterday. Having power-washed it the day before, it was ready for the stain. Working on it brought back pleasant memories of my days as a painting contractor in the 70’s. At 9:15 pm I started cleaning the brushes etc, and my back was stiffer than I ever remember at the end of a day of painting!
We are more than halfway through the year. My “God Sightings” one-year Bible is a useful tool. Just opening it reminds me of the passing of time, and the timelessness of Scripture. We are currently near the end of II Kings, and in the later part of Acts. This format really fits my current devotional style.
II Kings 20-22:2
Hezekiah rules in Judah, and mostly pleases the Lord. Isaiah the prophet tells him his illness will result in death, and to put his things in order. Hezekiah prays and weeps, and God tells Isaiah to go back and announce that the king will live an additional 15 years. The sign chosen by Hezekiah is for the sun to go backwards 10 steps in the sundial. He is healed, and proceeds to show the Babylonian delegation all the treasures of Israel. Isaiah chastises him for this, and announces that it will all be carried away to Babylon, and life will not go well for his sons. Hezekiah shirks it off as allowing at least for him to live in peace. His comment and attitude about this reveals much about his character and outlook. I have always felt that his extra 15 years really did not benefit him, his heirs, nor the nation of Israel. Hmmm, what does this say about the extra years provided by technology?
Guide me Lord as I live this day in the light of your love and according to your will. Guard me from seeking anything for myself as I serve You with joy. Strengthen me according to your purposes and calling for my life.
Yesterday was a day of work around church and home. I am finalizing projects and to-dos in preparation for being gone for a while, with a couple more things for today. Pastor Jerry and I will visit at 11:00 concerning some loose ends. I spend 8 hours staining this deck yesterday. Having power-washed it the day before, it was ready for the stain. Working on it brought back pleasant memories of my days as a painting contractor in the 70’s. At 9:15 pm I started cleaning the brushes etc, and my back was stiffer than I ever remember at the end of a day of painting!
We are more than halfway through the year. My “God Sightings” one-year Bible is a useful tool. Just opening it reminds me of the passing of time, and the timelessness of Scripture. We are currently near the end of II Kings, and in the later part of Acts. This format really fits my current devotional style.
II Kings 20-22:2
Hezekiah rules in Judah, and mostly pleases the Lord. Isaiah the prophet tells him his illness will result in death, and to put his things in order. Hezekiah prays and weeps, and God tells Isaiah to go back and announce that the king will live an additional 15 years. The sign chosen by Hezekiah is for the sun to go backwards 10 steps in the sundial. He is healed, and proceeds to show the Babylonian delegation all the treasures of Israel. Isaiah chastises him for this, and announces that it will all be carried away to Babylon, and life will not go well for his sons. Hezekiah shirks it off as allowing at least for him to live in peace. His comment and attitude about this reveals much about his character and outlook. I have always felt that his extra 15 years really did not benefit him, his heirs, nor the nation of Israel. Hmmm, what does this say about the extra years provided by technology?
Guide me Lord as I live this day in the light of your love and according to your will. Guard me from seeking anything for myself as I serve You with joy. Strengthen me according to your purposes and calling for my life.
Thursday, July 1, 2010
July 1, 2010
7-1-10 Thursday, 7:39 am Grayrock, 62 beautiful degrees, sunny, low humidity!
Today will be a beautiful day to stain the deck. I bought the stain a year ago, my power washer finally is operational thanks to Steve Collette fixing a stuck valve, and yesterday I prepped the deck using the washer and a deck detergent. It looks nice this morning, ready to be stained after a few more hours of drying in sun.
I have several loose ends to tie up related to pastoring before hitting the road. Yesterday’s daily action sheet lists them all. I will work on them from home this morning. Thank you Lord for this wonderful day.
II Kings 18:13-19:37
King Sennacherib of Assyria is on the march, and in the 14th year of King Hezekiah’s reign in Judah the Assyrians have set their sights on Jerusalem. This chapter records the exchange between the Assyrian chief of staff and three officials from Hezekiah, an exchange viewed and heard by citizens of Jerusalem on its wall. The Assyrian stated that his army would lay siege to this city and its residents would soon be eating their own dung and drinking their own urine. That no god had yet stopped his army and their god certainly couldn’t. He offered to receive their surrender with the promise to peacefully relocate them to his country. He spoke loudly and in Hebrew so listening citizens could get the message, as well as the delegation from Hezekiah.
The prophet Isaiah learns of this, and 19:21-34 records his prophecy against Sennacherib and for the deliverance of Jerusalem. This is a beautiful chapter. As I read it I realize the peace and security that I enjoy, yet the uncertainty and possible destruction facing the Hebrews. There are so many in the world today facing uncertainty and possible destruction with no human help in sight. It behooves us who know and serve the Living God to invest ourselves in the lives of vulnerable and desperate people.
Acts 21:1-17
The Apostle Paul and his party say goodbye to the Ephesian elders and head toward Jerusalem, where it is likely he will be arrested. He says he is ready to be arrested and even killed for the sake of the gospel. May this be my posture also, even though in this culture and this time it is unlikely that my life will be in jeopardy. Guard me Lord from complacency, especially in this comfortable culture.
Today will be a beautiful day to stain the deck. I bought the stain a year ago, my power washer finally is operational thanks to Steve Collette fixing a stuck valve, and yesterday I prepped the deck using the washer and a deck detergent. It looks nice this morning, ready to be stained after a few more hours of drying in sun.
I have several loose ends to tie up related to pastoring before hitting the road. Yesterday’s daily action sheet lists them all. I will work on them from home this morning. Thank you Lord for this wonderful day.
II Kings 18:13-19:37
King Sennacherib of Assyria is on the march, and in the 14th year of King Hezekiah’s reign in Judah the Assyrians have set their sights on Jerusalem. This chapter records the exchange between the Assyrian chief of staff and three officials from Hezekiah, an exchange viewed and heard by citizens of Jerusalem on its wall. The Assyrian stated that his army would lay siege to this city and its residents would soon be eating their own dung and drinking their own urine. That no god had yet stopped his army and their god certainly couldn’t. He offered to receive their surrender with the promise to peacefully relocate them to his country. He spoke loudly and in Hebrew so listening citizens could get the message, as well as the delegation from Hezekiah.
The prophet Isaiah learns of this, and 19:21-34 records his prophecy against Sennacherib and for the deliverance of Jerusalem. This is a beautiful chapter. As I read it I realize the peace and security that I enjoy, yet the uncertainty and possible destruction facing the Hebrews. There are so many in the world today facing uncertainty and possible destruction with no human help in sight. It behooves us who know and serve the Living God to invest ourselves in the lives of vulnerable and desperate people.
Acts 21:1-17
The Apostle Paul and his party say goodbye to the Ephesian elders and head toward Jerusalem, where it is likely he will be arrested. He says he is ready to be arrested and even killed for the sake of the gospel. May this be my posture also, even though in this culture and this time it is unlikely that my life will be in jeopardy. Guard me Lord from complacency, especially in this comfortable culture.
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