3-31-11 Thursday, 6:13 am Springfield, 34 degrees
I am looking forward to Bethany’s senior recital tomorrow. She has been working hard all semester to get prepared. It will be a blessing to hear her sing the culmination of her college work in vocal performance.
Isaiah 64
In verses 1-7 the prophet longs for God to “rend the heavens and come down”, and laments that even as God acts in behalf of the one who waits for Him, the people have sinned. “For all of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous deeds are like a filthy garment.” (verse 6)
Verses 8 and 9 are some of the most often quoted scriptures from Isaiah: “But now, O Lord, Thou are our Father, we are the clay, and thou our potter; and all of us are the work of thy hand. Do not be angry beyond measure, O Lord, neither remember iniquities forever; behold, look now, all of us are Thy people.”
Yes Lord, you are the potter, I am the clay. Mold me and make me, after thy will. Even as I hear the birds singing outside the kitchen window, my heart is filled with praise for you, and my will is fully bent to thine. May every thought, every word, every action of mine be molded and shaped to accomplish your purposes through my life today.
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
March 30, 2011
3-30-11 Wednesday, 5:15 am Springfield, 35 degrees, calm.
A neighbor of ours, Jeff Steury died on Saturday, and his funeral will be at Kingsway. I hope to attend the visitation today from 6-8. I do not think I ever met him or his family, but I probably have seen them in our small subdivision. His picture in the online obituary looks familiar. Life is so brief, whether a person dies unexpectedly in their thirties, or lives to be a hundred. The Body of Christ, the church, has so much to offer a person, and it can be so easily ignored. In fact, it is easy to ignore God throughout life, and one of my goals is to move the faith community ever more into revealing God’s glory daily so that it becomes harder to ignore God as His people bear witness to His love.
Isaiah 63
In this chapter there is the image of the one, “mighty to save” who has “trodden the winepress alone”, with robes stained and spattered (verses 1-3). This seems to be an image of Christ, including but not limited to his atonement on the cross. The language reminds me of the line “he has trampled out the vintage where the grapes of wrath are stored” from the Battle Hymn of the republic. However, this line probably comes more directly from Revelation 14:19-20, an apocalyptic appeal to divine justice and deliverance from oppression in the final judgment:“And the angel thrust in his sickle into the earth, and gathered the vine of the earth, and cast it into the great winepress of the wrath of God. And the winepress was trodden without the city, and blood came out of the winepress, even unto the horse bridles, by the space of a thousand and six hundred furlongs.”
Isaiah 63:16 states “O Lord, our father; our Redeemer from of old is your name.” God is father, and this reminds me that God is my father, I am his child. The nation of Israel had God as father, but turned their backs on him, choosing instead to serve the gods of this world, including the god of their belly. As I hear the birds beginning to sing on this early morning in March, I am so thankful that God is God and has called me by name.
Lord, I have heard the joyful sound, and I know that You reign in heaven and on earth. Guide me today as I serve you with all that I am.
A neighbor of ours, Jeff Steury died on Saturday, and his funeral will be at Kingsway. I hope to attend the visitation today from 6-8. I do not think I ever met him or his family, but I probably have seen them in our small subdivision. His picture in the online obituary looks familiar. Life is so brief, whether a person dies unexpectedly in their thirties, or lives to be a hundred. The Body of Christ, the church, has so much to offer a person, and it can be so easily ignored. In fact, it is easy to ignore God throughout life, and one of my goals is to move the faith community ever more into revealing God’s glory daily so that it becomes harder to ignore God as His people bear witness to His love.
Isaiah 63
In this chapter there is the image of the one, “mighty to save” who has “trodden the winepress alone”, with robes stained and spattered (verses 1-3). This seems to be an image of Christ, including but not limited to his atonement on the cross. The language reminds me of the line “he has trampled out the vintage where the grapes of wrath are stored” from the Battle Hymn of the republic. However, this line probably comes more directly from Revelation 14:19-20, an apocalyptic appeal to divine justice and deliverance from oppression in the final judgment:“And the angel thrust in his sickle into the earth, and gathered the vine of the earth, and cast it into the great winepress of the wrath of God. And the winepress was trodden without the city, and blood came out of the winepress, even unto the horse bridles, by the space of a thousand and six hundred furlongs.”
Isaiah 63:16 states “O Lord, our father; our Redeemer from of old is your name.” God is father, and this reminds me that God is my father, I am his child. The nation of Israel had God as father, but turned their backs on him, choosing instead to serve the gods of this world, including the god of their belly. As I hear the birds beginning to sing on this early morning in March, I am so thankful that God is God and has called me by name.
Lord, I have heard the joyful sound, and I know that You reign in heaven and on earth. Guide me today as I serve you with all that I am.
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
March 29, 2011
3-29-11 Tuesday, 6:02 am Springfield, 44 degrees, cloudy and calm.
I have a day full of meetings, with my discretionary time being this morning until 8:45, when I will greet the children at Kids of Creation. Yesterday was a good day at the office, an unusual Monday for me. As I look forward on my calendar, there are about three weeks where working Monday and taking Friday off will be necessary. Early in my ministry I took Fridays as my sabbath, and it worked okay. For the last four years I have developed a strong weekly routine that has made Monday my seventh day, upon which I rest. Guide me Lord as I seek to honor the sabbath.
Isaiah 62
In this chapter God tells His people that in the future they will no longer be called “forsaken”. His pet name for them (and for us) will be “My delight is in her”. Through the fall of Jerusalem and the Babylonian captivity it could have appeared that God had forsaken His people. Isaiah is writing before the captivity, and his words must have been sustaining for the faithful who believed that “the arm of the Lord is not too short to save, nor His ear too dull to hear” (59:1).
In verse 4 the prophet refers to the land of Israel itself (in Hebrew) as “Beulah”. This is the origin of the hymn “I’m dwelling in Beulah land”. The term means married, or lived in, or possessed by. Throughout scripture the people of God are referred to as His bride, all the way into the last book of the Bible which describes the wedding feast of the lamb. It is my privilege to labor in getting the bride ready for her husband, as I work shepherding the church through this unique period of history.
As I contemplate a 4 part series of sermons on Isaiah, maybe in June, here are some possible themes:
The temptation to trust in the work of human hands rather than God.
The hope of the servant, the Messiah coming to save
The special relationship God has with His people
The plan for the salvation of the nations through the people of God
I could design daily scripture readings and small group questions. Guide me Lord in my serving, in our planning, in the work of the church, your body, your bride, your possession, bought with a price.
I have a day full of meetings, with my discretionary time being this morning until 8:45, when I will greet the children at Kids of Creation. Yesterday was a good day at the office, an unusual Monday for me. As I look forward on my calendar, there are about three weeks where working Monday and taking Friday off will be necessary. Early in my ministry I took Fridays as my sabbath, and it worked okay. For the last four years I have developed a strong weekly routine that has made Monday my seventh day, upon which I rest. Guide me Lord as I seek to honor the sabbath.
Isaiah 62
In this chapter God tells His people that in the future they will no longer be called “forsaken”. His pet name for them (and for us) will be “My delight is in her”. Through the fall of Jerusalem and the Babylonian captivity it could have appeared that God had forsaken His people. Isaiah is writing before the captivity, and his words must have been sustaining for the faithful who believed that “the arm of the Lord is not too short to save, nor His ear too dull to hear” (59:1).
In verse 4 the prophet refers to the land of Israel itself (in Hebrew) as “Beulah”. This is the origin of the hymn “I’m dwelling in Beulah land”. The term means married, or lived in, or possessed by. Throughout scripture the people of God are referred to as His bride, all the way into the last book of the Bible which describes the wedding feast of the lamb. It is my privilege to labor in getting the bride ready for her husband, as I work shepherding the church through this unique period of history.
As I contemplate a 4 part series of sermons on Isaiah, maybe in June, here are some possible themes:
The temptation to trust in the work of human hands rather than God.
The hope of the servant, the Messiah coming to save
The special relationship God has with His people
The plan for the salvation of the nations through the people of God
I could design daily scripture readings and small group questions. Guide me Lord in my serving, in our planning, in the work of the church, your body, your bride, your possession, bought with a price.
Monday, March 28, 2011
March 28, 2011
3-28-11 Monday, 4:52 am Springfield, 31 degrees, light dusting of snow!
It feels good to get up early, feeling rested, and to see snow on the rooftops. I am leaning into this week, with a day at the office today to work ahead, given that I will be attending Bethany’s senior recital on Friday. Yesterday was a good day of worship and ministry as we wrapped up the eight week series entitled “Life Hurts, God Heals.”
Isaiah 61
“The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me; because the Lord hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives ... To proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all that mourn.” (verses 1-2, quoted by Jesus in Luke 4:17-21 as he reads scripture in the synagogue)
These verses clearly point to Jesus, who claims them as prophecy which he fulfilled. Claiming them as such got him thrown out of the synagogue and almost killed (Luke 4:29). That Jesus read this passage, was familiar with this book of the Old Testament strengthens my interest in this prophecy and my desire to preach and teach its message. I am considering calling Tim LaHaye today and inviting him to Wesley, perhaps in conjunction with a series of messages from Isaiah.
The words in verse three were put to music that I sang in the 70’s at the Youth For Christ meetings I attended on the Anderson’s farm: “[He] gave them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he might be glorified.” Perhaps David Ingles recorded this song. I desire to work hard establishing God’s forest, “the planting of the Lord”, “trees of righteousness”. In Kentucky there is a pine forest that my dad and I planted between 1972 and 1976 which is regenerating itself. My hope is to continue to plant and cultivate spiritual trees (God’s servants) who will regenerate (develop disciples) increasingly into the future.
Thank you Lord for Mondays. May the work of my hands, the words of my mouth, the thoughts of my mind and the feelings from my heart be honoring to You, and extend Your kingdom on earth today.
It feels good to get up early, feeling rested, and to see snow on the rooftops. I am leaning into this week, with a day at the office today to work ahead, given that I will be attending Bethany’s senior recital on Friday. Yesterday was a good day of worship and ministry as we wrapped up the eight week series entitled “Life Hurts, God Heals.”
Isaiah 61
“The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me; because the Lord hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives ... To proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all that mourn.” (verses 1-2, quoted by Jesus in Luke 4:17-21 as he reads scripture in the synagogue)
These verses clearly point to Jesus, who claims them as prophecy which he fulfilled. Claiming them as such got him thrown out of the synagogue and almost killed (Luke 4:29). That Jesus read this passage, was familiar with this book of the Old Testament strengthens my interest in this prophecy and my desire to preach and teach its message. I am considering calling Tim LaHaye today and inviting him to Wesley, perhaps in conjunction with a series of messages from Isaiah.
The words in verse three were put to music that I sang in the 70’s at the Youth For Christ meetings I attended on the Anderson’s farm: “[He] gave them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he might be glorified.” Perhaps David Ingles recorded this song. I desire to work hard establishing God’s forest, “the planting of the Lord”, “trees of righteousness”. In Kentucky there is a pine forest that my dad and I planted between 1972 and 1976 which is regenerating itself. My hope is to continue to plant and cultivate spiritual trees (God’s servants) who will regenerate (develop disciples) increasingly into the future.
Thank you Lord for Mondays. May the work of my hands, the words of my mouth, the thoughts of my mind and the feelings from my heart be honoring to You, and extend Your kingdom on earth today.
Sunday, March 27, 2011
March 27, 2011
3-27-11 Sunday, 6:07 am Springfield, 30 degrees.
Oh I am looking forward to the morning worship services! My theme is “the sharing choice” and I will use the concept of the “wounded healer” and the life of Henri Nouwen to illustrate. My scripture for the morning is:
II Cor 1:3-7
3 All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort. 4 He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us. 5 For the more we suffer for Christ, the more God will shower us with his comfort through Christ. 6 Even when we are weighed down with troubles, it is for your comfort and salvation! For when we ourselves are comforted, we will certainly comfort you. Then you can patiently endure the same things we suffer. 7 We are confident that as you share in our sufferings, you will also share in the comfort God gives us.
Truly the apostle Paul endured many troubles, was comforted by God, and then was able to give others the same comfort that God had given him. I think of the troubles endured by John Wesley, Detrich Bonhoeffer, John Wycliffe, Isaiah, Jeremiah, David, etc. It was Paul who referred to his troubles as “this momentary slight affliction” even as he had been beaten and was under arrest awaiting execution. I must be constantly mindful that the goal of life is not ease and comfort, but obedience and spiritual fruitfulness.
Guide me today Lord as I serve you with joy, shepherding your people as we journey together in Your care.
Oh I am looking forward to the morning worship services! My theme is “the sharing choice” and I will use the concept of the “wounded healer” and the life of Henri Nouwen to illustrate. My scripture for the morning is:
II Cor 1:3-7
3 All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort. 4 He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us. 5 For the more we suffer for Christ, the more God will shower us with his comfort through Christ. 6 Even when we are weighed down with troubles, it is for your comfort and salvation! For when we ourselves are comforted, we will certainly comfort you. Then you can patiently endure the same things we suffer. 7 We are confident that as you share in our sufferings, you will also share in the comfort God gives us.
Truly the apostle Paul endured many troubles, was comforted by God, and then was able to give others the same comfort that God had given him. I think of the troubles endured by John Wesley, Detrich Bonhoeffer, John Wycliffe, Isaiah, Jeremiah, David, etc. It was Paul who referred to his troubles as “this momentary slight affliction” even as he had been beaten and was under arrest awaiting execution. I must be constantly mindful that the goal of life is not ease and comfort, but obedience and spiritual fruitfulness.
Guide me today Lord as I serve you with joy, shepherding your people as we journey together in Your care.
Saturday, March 26, 2011
Mardh 26, 2011
3-26-11 Saturday, 6:33 am Springfield, 36 degrees, lightening, thunder.
Interesting weather as we march through the season! Lows in the 20s for the next three nights. Yesterday I finally got to the gym, and my body is adequately sore, reflective of a decent workout. Today we have the UMM breakfast, then a 10:00 staff parish meeting with our district superintendent and the new pastor assigned in conjunction with our college-age ministry grant. Yesterday I conducted two exit interviews for staff departing employment at Wesley – one was very pleasant, one very difficult. Tomorrow I wrap up the series “Life Hurts, God Heals” as I teach about the concept of the wounded healer.
Isaiah 60
Chapters 60-62 are the centerpiece of the section including chapters 56-66. Oswald identifies 8 themes occurring throughout these three chapters: “God will save his people; he will give light to them; he will share his glory with them; the nations will be drawn to what they see of God in Israel; they will restore Zions’s children to her; they will bring their wealth to give to Israel’s God; those who had oppressed Israel will be brought low and she will be exalted over them; she will both experience and exemplify the righteousness of God.” Oswalt, page 535)
As I read this chapter, I was struck by the line in verse 6 which says “They will bring gold and frankincense, and will bear good news of the praises of the Lord.” This points to Jesus, to the wise men and their gifts, and to the gospel entrusted to the church.
May my work today bring glory to you, most holy Lord. May your righteousness be evident through my life today and through your church.
Interesting weather as we march through the season! Lows in the 20s for the next three nights. Yesterday I finally got to the gym, and my body is adequately sore, reflective of a decent workout. Today we have the UMM breakfast, then a 10:00 staff parish meeting with our district superintendent and the new pastor assigned in conjunction with our college-age ministry grant. Yesterday I conducted two exit interviews for staff departing employment at Wesley – one was very pleasant, one very difficult. Tomorrow I wrap up the series “Life Hurts, God Heals” as I teach about the concept of the wounded healer.
Isaiah 60
Chapters 60-62 are the centerpiece of the section including chapters 56-66. Oswald identifies 8 themes occurring throughout these three chapters: “God will save his people; he will give light to them; he will share his glory with them; the nations will be drawn to what they see of God in Israel; they will restore Zions’s children to her; they will bring their wealth to give to Israel’s God; those who had oppressed Israel will be brought low and she will be exalted over them; she will both experience and exemplify the righteousness of God.” Oswalt, page 535)
As I read this chapter, I was struck by the line in verse 6 which says “They will bring gold and frankincense, and will bear good news of the praises of the Lord.” This points to Jesus, to the wise men and their gifts, and to the gospel entrusted to the church.
May my work today bring glory to you, most holy Lord. May your righteousness be evident through my life today and through your church.
Friday, March 25, 2011
March 25, 2011
3-25-11 Friday, 7:22 am Springfield, 33 degrees, rain, with bits of ice (sleet?).
Yesterday and today are developing into strenuous days in my schedule. My message for Sunday is shaping up well around the theme of the wounded healer, and I will use a biographical approach to illustrate, featuring the writings and life of Henri Nouwen. Tomorrow we have the United Methodist Men’s meeting, and then the 10:00 staff parish meeting. I had a nice visit with Steve P. Last night, from whom I purchased the Concours, as I picked up from him an old windshield, a tank bag and extra keys for the bike. I am glad to have made his acquaintance, and I look forward to developing that friendship.
Isaiah 59
The opening verse of this chapter describes the strength of the Lord, verses 2-15 describe how the people’s iniquities have made a separation between them and God, and the last paragraph, 15b-21 describes what God sees and what God will do.
Verse 1: “Behold, the Lord’s hand is not so short that it cannot save; neither is His ear so dull that it cannot hear.”
Verse 21: “’And as for Me, this is My covenant with them,’ says the Lord: ‘My Spirit which is upon you, and my words which I have put in your mouth, shall not depart from your mouth, nor from the mouth of your offspring ... from now and forever.’”
This chapter contains a microcosm of the message of the gospel – God is strong, people have sinned, God will save. Guide me Lord as I live this today, as I work hard in the life of the body of Christ, seeking righteousness, honesty. May nothing separate me from You in the work of this day.
Yesterday and today are developing into strenuous days in my schedule. My message for Sunday is shaping up well around the theme of the wounded healer, and I will use a biographical approach to illustrate, featuring the writings and life of Henri Nouwen. Tomorrow we have the United Methodist Men’s meeting, and then the 10:00 staff parish meeting. I had a nice visit with Steve P. Last night, from whom I purchased the Concours, as I picked up from him an old windshield, a tank bag and extra keys for the bike. I am glad to have made his acquaintance, and I look forward to developing that friendship.
Isaiah 59
The opening verse of this chapter describes the strength of the Lord, verses 2-15 describe how the people’s iniquities have made a separation between them and God, and the last paragraph, 15b-21 describes what God sees and what God will do.
Verse 1: “Behold, the Lord’s hand is not so short that it cannot save; neither is His ear so dull that it cannot hear.”
Verse 21: “’And as for Me, this is My covenant with them,’ says the Lord: ‘My Spirit which is upon you, and my words which I have put in your mouth, shall not depart from your mouth, nor from the mouth of your offspring ... from now and forever.’”
This chapter contains a microcosm of the message of the gospel – God is strong, people have sinned, God will save. Guide me Lord as I live this today, as I work hard in the life of the body of Christ, seeking righteousness, honesty. May nothing separate me from You in the work of this day.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
March 24, 2011
3-24-11 6:57 am Springfield, 32 degrees cloudy.
A cold front has blown through, and the sunny, warm days are gone. Now back to cold and cloudy days. I have much discretionary time during the next two days to work on sermon preparation and worship planning. Saturday is full of meetings. Last night there was a great celebration of Ed Smith’s ministry at Wesley. 248 people bought dinner and enjoyed a program designed by Larry H which honored Ed and roasted him a little. It was just what I had imagined as a fitting tribute to a beloved staff member.
Isaiah 58
This chapter communicates the difference between formal religion and a real relationship with God. In the first five verses, the inference is that the house of Jacob goes about the religious practices and ceremonies, ignoring the true heart of God. They ask “Why have we fasted and Thou did not see?” (verse3)
Verses 6-14 are a description of the genuine practices that advance a relationship with God as they understand and implement the will of God: “Is this not the fast that I choose, to loosen the bonds of wickedness, to undo the bands of the yoke, and to let the oppressed go free, and break every yoke? Is is not to divide your bread with the hungry, and bring the homeless poor into the house; when you see the naked, to cover him; and not to hide yourself from your own flesh?” (verses 6-7)
My desire today Lord is to do your will, to live in union with your heart, attuned to your purposes. Guide my steps, my planning and preparation, that all I do will advance your kingdom. Guard me from ever being simply religious, doing religious work, developing religious people! Come Lord Jesus.
A cold front has blown through, and the sunny, warm days are gone. Now back to cold and cloudy days. I have much discretionary time during the next two days to work on sermon preparation and worship planning. Saturday is full of meetings. Last night there was a great celebration of Ed Smith’s ministry at Wesley. 248 people bought dinner and enjoyed a program designed by Larry H which honored Ed and roasted him a little. It was just what I had imagined as a fitting tribute to a beloved staff member.
Isaiah 58
This chapter communicates the difference between formal religion and a real relationship with God. In the first five verses, the inference is that the house of Jacob goes about the religious practices and ceremonies, ignoring the true heart of God. They ask “Why have we fasted and Thou did not see?” (verse3)
Verses 6-14 are a description of the genuine practices that advance a relationship with God as they understand and implement the will of God: “Is this not the fast that I choose, to loosen the bonds of wickedness, to undo the bands of the yoke, and to let the oppressed go free, and break every yoke? Is is not to divide your bread with the hungry, and bring the homeless poor into the house; when you see the naked, to cover him; and not to hide yourself from your own flesh?” (verses 6-7)
My desire today Lord is to do your will, to live in union with your heart, attuned to your purposes. Guide my steps, my planning and preparation, that all I do will advance your kingdom. Guard me from ever being simply religious, doing religious work, developing religious people! Come Lord Jesus.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
March 23, 2011
3-23-11 Wednesday, 7:00 am Springfield, 58 degrees, partly cloudy.
I start this morning with an 8:00 dental checkup and cleaning, and then on to a 10:00executive staff meeting in which we work on our mission driven job descriptions. Doug Anderson led us through a session of how to develop this type of job descriptions. I will review his notes, and have mine ready by the start of the meeting. This evening at WOW we celebrate the ministry of Ed Smith.
Isaiah 57
Verse13b “but he who takes refuge in Me shall inherit the land, and shall possess My holy mountain.”
Today Lord I take refuge in You, I do not trust in anything or anyone for my life. You are the center of my existence, the totality of my hope, the substance of my security. It is with confidence and peace that I journey into this day.
I start this morning with an 8:00 dental checkup and cleaning, and then on to a 10:00executive staff meeting in which we work on our mission driven job descriptions. Doug Anderson led us through a session of how to develop this type of job descriptions. I will review his notes, and have mine ready by the start of the meeting. This evening at WOW we celebrate the ministry of Ed Smith.
Isaiah 57
Verse13b “but he who takes refuge in Me shall inherit the land, and shall possess My holy mountain.”
Today Lord I take refuge in You, I do not trust in anything or anyone for my life. You are the center of my existence, the totality of my hope, the substance of my security. It is with confidence and peace that I journey into this day.
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
March 22, 2011
3-22-11 Tuesday, 6:15 am Springfield, 61 degrees, heading toward a high of 80, with 40 mph winds.
Yesterday was a very good sabbath. I feel rested and that the day included accomplishing several items around the house. This is slightly conflicted, as a sabbath is best when nothing is “done” (I was intentional not to “do” any work related to church, and am ready to dive into that work today.) My lawn is fertilized, my garage trim is painted, I got the motorcycle inspected and sold the scooter (thanks Joe!). Today will begin a busy week. I have a breakfast meeting with a couple of pastors from another church who are interested in the “Contagious Christian” small group series we did two years ago. At nine we pray as a staff, at 10we meet for worship planning. This afternoon I chair the district ordained ministry team, at 4:30 meet with the Sunday Morning Experience team, and at 6:30 host our life group. Guide me holy Lord on this day.
Isaiah 56
Those who keep God’s sabbath, who choose what pleases Him, who hold fast to his covenant, who minister to Him, who love the name of the Lord “even those will I bring to My holy mountain, and make them joyful in My house of prayer... for my house will be called a house of prayer for all people.” (verse 7)
Thank you Lord for this chapter and its implications. May my work today be part of leading people to fully participate in your House of Prayer, in guiding them to choose what pleases you, and holding fast to your covenant. May this be true in my life each hour of this day.
Yesterday was a very good sabbath. I feel rested and that the day included accomplishing several items around the house. This is slightly conflicted, as a sabbath is best when nothing is “done” (I was intentional not to “do” any work related to church, and am ready to dive into that work today.) My lawn is fertilized, my garage trim is painted, I got the motorcycle inspected and sold the scooter (thanks Joe!). Today will begin a busy week. I have a breakfast meeting with a couple of pastors from another church who are interested in the “Contagious Christian” small group series we did two years ago. At nine we pray as a staff, at 10we meet for worship planning. This afternoon I chair the district ordained ministry team, at 4:30 meet with the Sunday Morning Experience team, and at 6:30 host our life group. Guide me holy Lord on this day.
Isaiah 56
Those who keep God’s sabbath, who choose what pleases Him, who hold fast to his covenant, who minister to Him, who love the name of the Lord “even those will I bring to My holy mountain, and make them joyful in My house of prayer... for my house will be called a house of prayer for all people.” (verse 7)
Thank you Lord for this chapter and its implications. May my work today be part of leading people to fully participate in your House of Prayer, in guiding them to choose what pleases you, and holding fast to your covenant. May this be true in my life each hour of this day.
Monday, March 21, 2011
March 21, 2011
3-21-11 Monday, 6:59 am Springfield, 62 degrees, cloudy, birds singing
This will be the first full day of spring, and the high will reach 80. Yesterday worship was fulfilling, with many varied aspects to the four services, including the commissioning of Stephen Ministers. A group of students from Marshall, West Virginia attended the 8:15 am service, en route to a VIM trip in Texas. In the afternoon I met with several folks at the Meet-the-pastors coffee, and then with a college aged couple who are engaged. Between morning worship and afternoon meetings I rode the Concours south on 160 about 20 miles in the afternoon heat. The bike performed well after its tune up, new tires, and overall reconditioning. It is heavier and more powerful than the KLR, and seems to melt the miles away as purported by its advocates. It will be my all weather, long distance steed.
Isaiah 55
What a great chapter! It continues Isaiah’s celebration of the work of the Servant, and moves from a descriptive mode to a prescriptive mode. This chapter has two segments, verses 1-5 and 6-13. In verses 1-5 “everyone who thirsts” is invited to “come to the waters...listen carefully to me and eat what is good.” An everlasting covenant is offered, referencing the covenant with David, and extending it beyond the nation of Israel.
Verses 6-13 seem to me like a box of Sees candy – every word a morsel, every verse worth memorizing and tasting all day long – “Seek the Lord while He may be found; call upon Him while He is near. Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; and let him return to the Lord, and He will have compassion on him; and to our God, For He will abundantly pardon. For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are my ways your ways, declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways.” (verses 6-9)
Verses 10 – 11 liken the word of God to rain which generates the harvest, and so God’s word “shall not return to Me empty, without accomplishing what I desire.”
Lord, thirsty I have come to your waters. Spiritually poor I trust in you and live in your covenant of grace. Your Word is precious to me, watering my soul, and I desire to produce spiritual fruit in every season of my life, in every way possible. Use me today, on this day of rest and recreation as I live joyfully in your presence.
This will be the first full day of spring, and the high will reach 80. Yesterday worship was fulfilling, with many varied aspects to the four services, including the commissioning of Stephen Ministers. A group of students from Marshall, West Virginia attended the 8:15 am service, en route to a VIM trip in Texas. In the afternoon I met with several folks at the Meet-the-pastors coffee, and then with a college aged couple who are engaged. Between morning worship and afternoon meetings I rode the Concours south on 160 about 20 miles in the afternoon heat. The bike performed well after its tune up, new tires, and overall reconditioning. It is heavier and more powerful than the KLR, and seems to melt the miles away as purported by its advocates. It will be my all weather, long distance steed.
Isaiah 55
What a great chapter! It continues Isaiah’s celebration of the work of the Servant, and moves from a descriptive mode to a prescriptive mode. This chapter has two segments, verses 1-5 and 6-13. In verses 1-5 “everyone who thirsts” is invited to “come to the waters...listen carefully to me and eat what is good.” An everlasting covenant is offered, referencing the covenant with David, and extending it beyond the nation of Israel.
Verses 6-13 seem to me like a box of Sees candy – every word a morsel, every verse worth memorizing and tasting all day long – “Seek the Lord while He may be found; call upon Him while He is near. Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; and let him return to the Lord, and He will have compassion on him; and to our God, For He will abundantly pardon. For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are my ways your ways, declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways.” (verses 6-9)
Verses 10 – 11 liken the word of God to rain which generates the harvest, and so God’s word “shall not return to Me empty, without accomplishing what I desire.”
Lord, thirsty I have come to your waters. Spiritually poor I trust in you and live in your covenant of grace. Your Word is precious to me, watering my soul, and I desire to produce spiritual fruit in every season of my life, in every way possible. Use me today, on this day of rest and recreation as I live joyfully in your presence.
Sunday, March 20, 2011
March 20, 2011
3-20-11 Sunday, 5:34 am Springfield, 53 degrees, Supra full moon glowing through the haze.
I intentionally went to bed early last night (9:45), and am rested and ready for this day. The birds have started singing, even though there is no daylight, just the light of the “supra” full moon, as it is the closest to earth in its 19 year cycle (someday I will study the solar system again and get a clear picture of the planets, sun and moon.) In my mind, I am almost clear, but can’t put my finger on what happens every 28 days with the moon, and what this 19 year cycle amounts to. I know that Venus appears in the morning, but can’t exactly picture why it disappears. There are many other things I have a fuzzy knowledge about, such as auto mechanics, that if I studied I would gain clarity. But, alas, there is only so much time. I want to be clear about discipleship, and what it takes to grow in faith and in love.
This morning I am preaching/teaching about the growth choice. I am using a difficult parable to start with, and my hope is to create a wholesome desire to grow. Christ is the answer, a life filled with the presence of Jesus and lived surrendered to his will is a growing life.
Philippians 3:7-15
Paul states that whatever things were gain to him, he has counted as loss for the sake of Christ. The focus of his life is knowing Christ Jesus as his Lord, gaining Christ, being found in Him, that he might know Him and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of his sufferings, being conformed to his death, in order that he might obtain the resurrection from the dead. Yes!!!!!
I intentionally went to bed early last night (9:45), and am rested and ready for this day. The birds have started singing, even though there is no daylight, just the light of the “supra” full moon, as it is the closest to earth in its 19 year cycle (someday I will study the solar system again and get a clear picture of the planets, sun and moon.) In my mind, I am almost clear, but can’t put my finger on what happens every 28 days with the moon, and what this 19 year cycle amounts to. I know that Venus appears in the morning, but can’t exactly picture why it disappears. There are many other things I have a fuzzy knowledge about, such as auto mechanics, that if I studied I would gain clarity. But, alas, there is only so much time. I want to be clear about discipleship, and what it takes to grow in faith and in love.
This morning I am preaching/teaching about the growth choice. I am using a difficult parable to start with, and my hope is to create a wholesome desire to grow. Christ is the answer, a life filled with the presence of Jesus and lived surrendered to his will is a growing life.
Philippians 3:7-15
Paul states that whatever things were gain to him, he has counted as loss for the sake of Christ. The focus of his life is knowing Christ Jesus as his Lord, gaining Christ, being found in Him, that he might know Him and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of his sufferings, being conformed to his death, in order that he might obtain the resurrection from the dead. Yes!!!!!
Saturday, March 19, 2011
March 19, 2011
3-19-11 Saturday, 7:50 am Springfield, 47 degrees, Sunrise at 7:19 am, sunset at 7:24 pm (2-3 minutes a day of additional daylight adds up).
Isaiah 54
Chapter 54 (followed also by 55) is “a lyrical announcement of salvation, and a call to participate in and rejoice in its reality.” (Oswald) Coming just after the chapter on the suffering servant, this chapter tells Israel to “Shout for joy, O barren one, ... enlarge the place of your tent, stretch out the curtains of your dwellings...” (verses 1-2) As the people of Judah have been captives in Babylon, God will deliver them and return them to Palestine. The most important aspect is that God Himself is their husband, “whose name is the Lord of Hosts; and your Redeemer is the Holy One of Israel, Who is called the God of all the earth.” (verse 5)
The last verse of the chapter has been put to music in a contemporary worship song: “No weapon that is formed against you shall prosper...” As a spiritual son of Israel, a servant in the body of Christ, I must rejoice daily in what God has done in bringing about salvation, and rejoice in its reality. Today I am experiencing a "funk", probably related to my travels, the cloudy day, the funeral lunch at Wesley, and the many unfinished and pending items on my to-do list. I look forward to worship tomorrow and to teaching on the growth choice as together we grow closer to God and more fruitful in the kingdom, enlarging the place of our tents.
Guide me today Lord, on this cloudy, quiet Saturday as I study your Word, prepare the message you have called me to deliver, and pastor your people.
Isaiah 54
Chapter 54 (followed also by 55) is “a lyrical announcement of salvation, and a call to participate in and rejoice in its reality.” (Oswald) Coming just after the chapter on the suffering servant, this chapter tells Israel to “Shout for joy, O barren one, ... enlarge the place of your tent, stretch out the curtains of your dwellings...” (verses 1-2) As the people of Judah have been captives in Babylon, God will deliver them and return them to Palestine. The most important aspect is that God Himself is their husband, “whose name is the Lord of Hosts; and your Redeemer is the Holy One of Israel, Who is called the God of all the earth.” (verse 5)
The last verse of the chapter has been put to music in a contemporary worship song: “No weapon that is formed against you shall prosper...” As a spiritual son of Israel, a servant in the body of Christ, I must rejoice daily in what God has done in bringing about salvation, and rejoice in its reality. Today I am experiencing a "funk", probably related to my travels, the cloudy day, the funeral lunch at Wesley, and the many unfinished and pending items on my to-do list. I look forward to worship tomorrow and to teaching on the growth choice as together we grow closer to God and more fruitful in the kingdom, enlarging the place of our tents.
Guide me today Lord, on this cloudy, quiet Saturday as I study your Word, prepare the message you have called me to deliver, and pastor your people.
Friday, March 18, 2011
March 18, 2011
3-18-11 Friday, 6:46 am Springfield, 56 degrees, sunrise at 7:20 am, sunset tonight at 7:23!
We drove long and hard yesterday, leaving Wilmore at noon, and arriving home at 9:00 pm. The meetings with the alumni council were good, and we made progress on the goals for the council. I have today and tomorrow to work on my message for this weekend, to catch up with my small group and peer mentor group which met in my absence, and to work forward on the HCI prescriptions, especially the vision process and the mission audit task force.
The new tires were delivered for the Concours, and I will take them to the mechanic this morning, and hopefully pick up the bike late this afternoon. I have a verbal agreement to trade in my KLR to the dealer, which leaves me only the Bajaj scooter to sell.
Isaiah 53
“Who has believed our message? And to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed? For He grew up before Him like a tender shoot, and like a root out of parched ground; He has not stately form or majesty that we should look upon Him, nor appearance that we should be attracted to Him, he was despised and forsaken of men, a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief; and like one from whom men hide their face, he was despised, and we did not esteem Him.” (verses 1-3, NASB)
This chapter of Isaiah is a powerful witness to the person and work of Christ. The first verse is quoted in the Gospel of John, 12:38, as Jesus was performing many signs for the Jewish people, but they were not believing in Him. In my generation, of scientific advancement and sophisticated academic studies, most people will miss the revelation of the arm (strength) of the Lord. For example – there is a nuclear reactor in Japan approaching a meltdown as a result of the damage from the 9.0 earthquake last week. If God reveals His strength by stopping this disaster, who would believe it? When a person is healed, or an impossible situation redeemed, who believes that it is God?
This prophetic chapter about Christ continues: “Surely our griefs He Himself bore, and our sorrows He carried; yet we ourselves esteemed Him stricken, smitten of God and afflicted. But He was pierced through for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; the chastening for our well-being fell upon Him, and by His scourging (stripes) we are healed.” (Verses 5-6) The suffering of Jesus, rejected by people, beaten by soldiers, nailed to a cross to suffer and die for our salvation, happened exactly as prophesied hundreds of years before He was born to Mary and was raised in Galilee.
Today, March 18, 2011 I will live confidently upon the promises of God, relying upon the work of Christ on the cross for my salvation, and I will endeavor to have beautiful feet, bringing good news to people in the bondage of sin and suffering for whom Christ died. Guide me most holy Lord today.
We drove long and hard yesterday, leaving Wilmore at noon, and arriving home at 9:00 pm. The meetings with the alumni council were good, and we made progress on the goals for the council. I have today and tomorrow to work on my message for this weekend, to catch up with my small group and peer mentor group which met in my absence, and to work forward on the HCI prescriptions, especially the vision process and the mission audit task force.
The new tires were delivered for the Concours, and I will take them to the mechanic this morning, and hopefully pick up the bike late this afternoon. I have a verbal agreement to trade in my KLR to the dealer, which leaves me only the Bajaj scooter to sell.
Isaiah 53
“Who has believed our message? And to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed? For He grew up before Him like a tender shoot, and like a root out of parched ground; He has not stately form or majesty that we should look upon Him, nor appearance that we should be attracted to Him, he was despised and forsaken of men, a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief; and like one from whom men hide their face, he was despised, and we did not esteem Him.” (verses 1-3, NASB)
This chapter of Isaiah is a powerful witness to the person and work of Christ. The first verse is quoted in the Gospel of John, 12:38, as Jesus was performing many signs for the Jewish people, but they were not believing in Him. In my generation, of scientific advancement and sophisticated academic studies, most people will miss the revelation of the arm (strength) of the Lord. For example – there is a nuclear reactor in Japan approaching a meltdown as a result of the damage from the 9.0 earthquake last week. If God reveals His strength by stopping this disaster, who would believe it? When a person is healed, or an impossible situation redeemed, who believes that it is God?
This prophetic chapter about Christ continues: “Surely our griefs He Himself bore, and our sorrows He carried; yet we ourselves esteemed Him stricken, smitten of God and afflicted. But He was pierced through for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; the chastening for our well-being fell upon Him, and by His scourging (stripes) we are healed.” (Verses 5-6) The suffering of Jesus, rejected by people, beaten by soldiers, nailed to a cross to suffer and die for our salvation, happened exactly as prophesied hundreds of years before He was born to Mary and was raised in Galilee.
Today, March 18, 2011 I will live confidently upon the promises of God, relying upon the work of Christ on the cross for my salvation, and I will endeavor to have beautiful feet, bringing good news to people in the bondage of sin and suffering for whom Christ died. Guide me most holy Lord today.
Thursday, March 17, 2011
March 17, 2011
3-17-11 Thursday, 6:36 am Wilmore, 41 degrees, clear.
Last night we had dinner at Rose Hill, the president’s residence. Audrey and I had a nice time, along with the other members of the Alumni Council and some of their spouses. Afterward we visited Jenny, a friend from college and seminary days at her apartment. Today we have a breakfast meeting, then two hours with the affinity group chairs, and we will head home. I am missing my peer mentoring group this morning, and I have others hosting and leading it.
As part of my devotions this morning I will write the 10 questions for the discipleship task force that met yesterday, as we work on becoming a large UMC that works hard on truly making disciples.
Isaiah 52
Verses 1-6 addresses the people of Zion who have been oppressed and taken captive. They (we) are told to Awake, cloth yourself in strength, shake yourself from the dust, loose yourself from the chains around your neck. “Therefore My people shall know My name” is the strength of those who follow God.
Verses 7-15 shift to the coming victory and freedom God will proclaim. Verse 7 is one of the most beautiful verses of Isaiah: “How lovely on the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news, who announces peace and brings good news of happiness, who announces salvation, and says to Zion, ‘your God reigns!’” I love this verse and it speaks to me about the aspect of my calling to announce good news, to announce salvation and to teach about the reign of God to my generation. Guide me today Lord as I go about serving as your messenger and herald of good news.
Last night we had dinner at Rose Hill, the president’s residence. Audrey and I had a nice time, along with the other members of the Alumni Council and some of their spouses. Afterward we visited Jenny, a friend from college and seminary days at her apartment. Today we have a breakfast meeting, then two hours with the affinity group chairs, and we will head home. I am missing my peer mentoring group this morning, and I have others hosting and leading it.
As part of my devotions this morning I will write the 10 questions for the discipleship task force that met yesterday, as we work on becoming a large UMC that works hard on truly making disciples.
Isaiah 52
Verses 1-6 addresses the people of Zion who have been oppressed and taken captive. They (we) are told to Awake, cloth yourself in strength, shake yourself from the dust, loose yourself from the chains around your neck. “Therefore My people shall know My name” is the strength of those who follow God.
Verses 7-15 shift to the coming victory and freedom God will proclaim. Verse 7 is one of the most beautiful verses of Isaiah: “How lovely on the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news, who announces peace and brings good news of happiness, who announces salvation, and says to Zion, ‘your God reigns!’” I love this verse and it speaks to me about the aspect of my calling to announce good news, to announce salvation and to teach about the reign of God to my generation. Guide me today Lord as I go about serving as your messenger and herald of good news.
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
March 16, 2011
3-16-11 Wednesday, 7:11 am Wilmore, 40 degrees, breezy.
Yesterday was a good day of meetings, planning and fellowship. I wrote my pastor’s pen and worked on my sermon as well as being present for each session of the Asbury Alumni Council. Today we have another day of meetings, finishing up with dinner at Rose Hill, the president’s residence. I had good conversation with several pastors about their churches, especially the pastor of Mt. Pisgah in north Atlanta. He has defined discipleship with 5 statements describing what a disciple of Jesus Christ does.
Isaiah 51
Verses 1-3 address people who pursue righteousness, who seek the Lord.
Verses 4-8 are God’s statements to His people – even though the sky will vanish like smoke and the earth wear out like a garment, His salvation shall be forever, and His righteousness shall not wane.
Verses 9-11 address God, reminding Him of his great acts in the past, and pointing to the future when:
“the redeemed of the Lord will return, and come with singing unto Zion, and everlasting joy will be upon their heads. They will obtain gladness and joy, and sorrow, and sighing will flee away.” (Bible song I learned in the 70s)
This is a beautiful chapter, with various voices. This morning with limited time to read it I am reminded of the work of God on behalf of His people, and how that in the middle of history as I am, I must daily realize that God is not finished yet. Yesterday I was reminded of Bonhoeffer’s words that when Jesus says “follow me”, he means “come and die with me”. I look forward to the end of time, when gladness and joy will be obtained, and sorrow will flee away. In the mean time I aim to live as a fully devoted follower of Christ, who worships, cares, and serves.
Yesterday was a good day of meetings, planning and fellowship. I wrote my pastor’s pen and worked on my sermon as well as being present for each session of the Asbury Alumni Council. Today we have another day of meetings, finishing up with dinner at Rose Hill, the president’s residence. I had good conversation with several pastors about their churches, especially the pastor of Mt. Pisgah in north Atlanta. He has defined discipleship with 5 statements describing what a disciple of Jesus Christ does.
Isaiah 51
Verses 1-3 address people who pursue righteousness, who seek the Lord.
Verses 4-8 are God’s statements to His people – even though the sky will vanish like smoke and the earth wear out like a garment, His salvation shall be forever, and His righteousness shall not wane.
Verses 9-11 address God, reminding Him of his great acts in the past, and pointing to the future when:
“the redeemed of the Lord will return, and come with singing unto Zion, and everlasting joy will be upon their heads. They will obtain gladness and joy, and sorrow, and sighing will flee away.” (Bible song I learned in the 70s)
This is a beautiful chapter, with various voices. This morning with limited time to read it I am reminded of the work of God on behalf of His people, and how that in the middle of history as I am, I must daily realize that God is not finished yet. Yesterday I was reminded of Bonhoeffer’s words that when Jesus says “follow me”, he means “come and die with me”. I look forward to the end of time, when gladness and joy will be obtained, and sorrow will flee away. In the mean time I aim to live as a fully devoted follower of Christ, who worships, cares, and serves.
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
March 15, 2011
3-15-11 Tuesday, 8:37 am (eastern daylight savings time), Wilmore Ky, 43 degrees, cloudy.
Audrey and I had a nice drive across Missouri and Kentucky yesterday, covering 600 miles, with a stop at Baxter Pines near Aurora. The weather was soggy, so we simply drove around the outside of the property, noticing the trees and the effects of an apparent winter ice storm. We arrived here at Asbury shortly before midnight. Today I have meetings with the alumni council from noon through dinner. This morning I will work on items for Wesley, including my pastor’s pen, etc.
Isaiah 50
In verses 1-3 God addresses Israel with the reason for their distress, and reminds them of His power, alluding to the Exodus.
Verses 4-11 are the words of the Servant. Scholars have many theories about who this is, from it being the collective Israel, to being “deutero-Isaiah” himself. I believe, along with Oswald that the Servant in this passage and the others in Isaiah is Jesus, the suffering servant whom God sent to be the savior of his people and the world. I am privileged to be one of his disciples, and to be entrusted with the message of salvation and hope which he proclaimed, taught, and modelled to the end of his earthly life.
Guide me today Lord as your servant, obeying your will, investing this short life in building your kingdom.
Audrey and I had a nice drive across Missouri and Kentucky yesterday, covering 600 miles, with a stop at Baxter Pines near Aurora. The weather was soggy, so we simply drove around the outside of the property, noticing the trees and the effects of an apparent winter ice storm. We arrived here at Asbury shortly before midnight. Today I have meetings with the alumni council from noon through dinner. This morning I will work on items for Wesley, including my pastor’s pen, etc.
Isaiah 50
In verses 1-3 God addresses Israel with the reason for their distress, and reminds them of His power, alluding to the Exodus.
Verses 4-11 are the words of the Servant. Scholars have many theories about who this is, from it being the collective Israel, to being “deutero-Isaiah” himself. I believe, along with Oswald that the Servant in this passage and the others in Isaiah is Jesus, the suffering servant whom God sent to be the savior of his people and the world. I am privileged to be one of his disciples, and to be entrusted with the message of salvation and hope which he proclaimed, taught, and modelled to the end of his earthly life.
Guide me today Lord as your servant, obeying your will, investing this short life in building your kingdom.
Monday, March 14, 2011
March 14, 2011
3-14-11 Monday, 7:16 am Springfield, 35 degrees, predawn.
The birds are singing, oblivious to the artificial advance of the clocks by one hour. At 7:00 it was still pitch black outside, and my body clock is not yet adjusted to this new time. I will lose another hour tonight as I drive to Kentucky for the Asbury seminary alumni council. This morning I will purchase the meat and rolls for the funeral hosted today for Wayne James. The news is reporting on the disaster in Japan, including the potential nuclear meltdown of 3-6 of their reactors. Earthquake specialists are predicting that the San Andreas fault is next, and with Bethany in school near that fault I am paying attention to this prediction.
Isaiah 49
Verse 23b “and you will know that I am the Lord; those who hopefully wait for Me will not be put to shame.” Yes Lord, I hopefully wait for you, obeying your word, trusting in You for salvation.
The first 7 verses of this chapter refer to God’s servant. Verse six describes the work of this Servant, as not only restoring Israel, but also being a “light to the nations so that My salvation may reach to the end of the earth.” As technology has “flattened” the earth, and communication reaches readily around the globe, it is a joy to serve Jesus Christ who is the light to the nations. In this scientific era will people believe in the power of God to save? I might have twenty or so years left to proclaim the goodness of God, to testify to His power in my life and to build the church, His body. Guide me Lord today as I labor for you in this world in which I live.
The birds are singing, oblivious to the artificial advance of the clocks by one hour. At 7:00 it was still pitch black outside, and my body clock is not yet adjusted to this new time. I will lose another hour tonight as I drive to Kentucky for the Asbury seminary alumni council. This morning I will purchase the meat and rolls for the funeral hosted today for Wayne James. The news is reporting on the disaster in Japan, including the potential nuclear meltdown of 3-6 of their reactors. Earthquake specialists are predicting that the San Andreas fault is next, and with Bethany in school near that fault I am paying attention to this prediction.
Isaiah 49
Verse 23b “and you will know that I am the Lord; those who hopefully wait for Me will not be put to shame.” Yes Lord, I hopefully wait for you, obeying your word, trusting in You for salvation.
The first 7 verses of this chapter refer to God’s servant. Verse six describes the work of this Servant, as not only restoring Israel, but also being a “light to the nations so that My salvation may reach to the end of the earth.” As technology has “flattened” the earth, and communication reaches readily around the globe, it is a joy to serve Jesus Christ who is the light to the nations. In this scientific era will people believe in the power of God to save? I might have twenty or so years left to proclaim the goodness of God, to testify to His power in my life and to build the church, His body. Guide me Lord today as I labor for you in this world in which I live.
Saturday, March 12, 2011
March 12, 2011
3-12-11 Saturday, 6:32 am Springfield, clear, 36 degrees.
I stepped out onto the deck and experienced the beauty of the moments before sunrise. The birds are singing, the earth appears ready to burst forth into springtime. My garden awaits the vegetables and flowers which I have sprouted in the basement. The last frost is about a month away, after which I will plant and tend the tomatoes, okra, zucchini and marigolds. It seems healthy for me to daily pay attention to the natural world, the weather, the growing season, as otherwise it is too easy to be insulated in home and car and office. Riding a motorcycle also helps me stay closer to the natural world as I ride through the elements. The Kawasaki mechanics are about finished with the tune up of the Concours, but are having difficulty getting tires.
Isaiah 48
The message continues to be the revelation of who God is, what God has done, and how the people of Judah have had this revelation for a long time. Verses 17-19 speak to me this morning:
“Thus says the Lord, your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: ‘I am the Lord your God, who teaches you to profit, who leads you in the way you should go. If only you had paid attention to my commandments! Then your well-being would have been like a river, and your righteousness like the waves of the sea. Your descendants would have been like the sand, and your offspring like its grains; their name would never be cut off or destroyed from my presence.’”
I pay attention to God’s commandments, and I teach and lead a congregation in paying attention to them. The promised results are powerful: “well-being like a river, righteousness like the waves of the sea!” Guide me Lord today as I visit and share with a family about baptism and their children, celebrate with the Upward participants and officiate at the wedding of two delightful young adults at the Pythian Castle. Use the message I am preparing on your beatitude “blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy” to foster well-being like a river. In Jesus name I pray this morning.
I stepped out onto the deck and experienced the beauty of the moments before sunrise. The birds are singing, the earth appears ready to burst forth into springtime. My garden awaits the vegetables and flowers which I have sprouted in the basement. The last frost is about a month away, after which I will plant and tend the tomatoes, okra, zucchini and marigolds. It seems healthy for me to daily pay attention to the natural world, the weather, the growing season, as otherwise it is too easy to be insulated in home and car and office. Riding a motorcycle also helps me stay closer to the natural world as I ride through the elements. The Kawasaki mechanics are about finished with the tune up of the Concours, but are having difficulty getting tires.
Isaiah 48
The message continues to be the revelation of who God is, what God has done, and how the people of Judah have had this revelation for a long time. Verses 17-19 speak to me this morning:
“Thus says the Lord, your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: ‘I am the Lord your God, who teaches you to profit, who leads you in the way you should go. If only you had paid attention to my commandments! Then your well-being would have been like a river, and your righteousness like the waves of the sea. Your descendants would have been like the sand, and your offspring like its grains; their name would never be cut off or destroyed from my presence.’”
I pay attention to God’s commandments, and I teach and lead a congregation in paying attention to them. The promised results are powerful: “well-being like a river, righteousness like the waves of the sea!” Guide me Lord today as I visit and share with a family about baptism and their children, celebrate with the Upward participants and officiate at the wedding of two delightful young adults at the Pythian Castle. Use the message I am preparing on your beatitude “blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy” to foster well-being like a river. In Jesus name I pray this morning.
Friday, March 11, 2011
March 11, 2011
3-11-11 Friday, 7:00 am Springfield, 31 degrees, clear.
The sun is beautiful, rising in the east, shining on the houses out my back window. This weekend we spring ahead, and sunset will move later by an hour, to 7:18, and sunrise will be later, to 7:25. On Easter, Sunrise will be at 6:25 am, sunset at 7:56 pm. I am always interested in the times of sunrise and sunset, because they progress so steadily throughout the year, almost imperceptably, and the daily addition of a minute or two over several months adds up to hours of more daylight.
Isaiah 47
The defeat and impending shame of the virgin daughter of Babylon, who will be hauled out of luxury, her nakedness exposed, she will be put to manual labor grinding meal with the millstone. The prophet represents Babylon as a beautiful and arrogant woman, who trusted in herself, who “felt secure in your wickedness” (verse 10). Like all people who trust in themselves, she will be humiliated. Even though Babylon had captured many nations, including Judah, she was not the master of her own fate. She was part of God’s plan for redemption through Israel.
Every human, and every nation has the temptation of self-reliance, resulting in arrogance. The United States was built by men and women who accomplished amazing feats, and the best were hard working, self-sacrificing people who relied upon God, serving God and viewing life as a stewardship of the gifts of God. Guide me today, holy Lord as I seek to take the same approach, as I guard against any temptation to be self-reliant or arrogant. I desire to be merciful, meek, pure in heart and spiritually poor. Guide me in your Way, Holy Master and Captain of my soul.
The sun is beautiful, rising in the east, shining on the houses out my back window. This weekend we spring ahead, and sunset will move later by an hour, to 7:18, and sunrise will be later, to 7:25. On Easter, Sunrise will be at 6:25 am, sunset at 7:56 pm. I am always interested in the times of sunrise and sunset, because they progress so steadily throughout the year, almost imperceptably, and the daily addition of a minute or two over several months adds up to hours of more daylight.
Isaiah 47
The defeat and impending shame of the virgin daughter of Babylon, who will be hauled out of luxury, her nakedness exposed, she will be put to manual labor grinding meal with the millstone. The prophet represents Babylon as a beautiful and arrogant woman, who trusted in herself, who “felt secure in your wickedness” (verse 10). Like all people who trust in themselves, she will be humiliated. Even though Babylon had captured many nations, including Judah, she was not the master of her own fate. She was part of God’s plan for redemption through Israel.
Every human, and every nation has the temptation of self-reliance, resulting in arrogance. The United States was built by men and women who accomplished amazing feats, and the best were hard working, self-sacrificing people who relied upon God, serving God and viewing life as a stewardship of the gifts of God. Guide me today, holy Lord as I seek to take the same approach, as I guard against any temptation to be self-reliant or arrogant. I desire to be merciful, meek, pure in heart and spiritually poor. Guide me in your Way, Holy Master and Captain of my soul.
Thursday, March 10, 2011
March 10, 2011
3-10-11 Thursday, 5:38 am Springfield, 31 degrees, cloudy
I just read an article about the calculation for Easter Sunday, posted on the website of the USNO Astronomical Applications Department. It is complicated, and interesting to note that basically Easter falls on the first Sunday following the full moon occuring after the spring Equinox which is fixed on March 21. So, Easter can occur between March 22 and April 25. This year it falls on April 24, one of the latest possible dates.
Isaiah 46
“Bel crouches, Nebo cowers; their images have gone to beast and cow.” (verse 1) Bel and Nebo are two of the chief gods of Babylon (Oswald), and this section continues the theme begun in 45:20. God is superior to pagan gods in every way, but especially in his ability to deliver from the tragedies of life (Oswald).
God says to his people “Listen to me, O house of Jacob, and all the remnant of the house of Israel, you have been borne by me from birth, and have been carried from the womb; Even to your old age, I shall be the same, and even to your graying years I shall bear you! I have done it, and I shall carry you; and I shall bear you, and I shall deliver you.” (verses 3-4) I am in my graying years, and I recognize that God, who is the same, has carried me, borne, me and shall deliver me. I must never substitute trust in anything made by humans for the protection and deliverance that comes only from God.
Last night we began Lent with the imposition of ashes and a large congregation gathered at Wesley. My message was simple – spiritual training is more important than physical training – read your Bible, pray, fast and you will draw closer to God and be prepared to celebrate the resurrection – at Easter and the end of time. Guide me today Lord on this second day of Lent, as I read your Word in Isaiah, pray without ceasing, and prepare for fasting tomorrow.
I just read an article about the calculation for Easter Sunday, posted on the website of the USNO Astronomical Applications Department. It is complicated, and interesting to note that basically Easter falls on the first Sunday following the full moon occuring after the spring Equinox which is fixed on March 21. So, Easter can occur between March 22 and April 25. This year it falls on April 24, one of the latest possible dates.
Isaiah 46
“Bel crouches, Nebo cowers; their images have gone to beast and cow.” (verse 1) Bel and Nebo are two of the chief gods of Babylon (Oswald), and this section continues the theme begun in 45:20. God is superior to pagan gods in every way, but especially in his ability to deliver from the tragedies of life (Oswald).
God says to his people “Listen to me, O house of Jacob, and all the remnant of the house of Israel, you have been borne by me from birth, and have been carried from the womb; Even to your old age, I shall be the same, and even to your graying years I shall bear you! I have done it, and I shall carry you; and I shall bear you, and I shall deliver you.” (verses 3-4) I am in my graying years, and I recognize that God, who is the same, has carried me, borne, me and shall deliver me. I must never substitute trust in anything made by humans for the protection and deliverance that comes only from God.
Last night we began Lent with the imposition of ashes and a large congregation gathered at Wesley. My message was simple – spiritual training is more important than physical training – read your Bible, pray, fast and you will draw closer to God and be prepared to celebrate the resurrection – at Easter and the end of time. Guide me today Lord on this second day of Lent, as I read your Word in Isaiah, pray without ceasing, and prepare for fasting tomorrow.
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
March 9, 2011
3-9-11 Ash Wednesday, 6:37 am Springfield, 36 degrees, cloudy.
Today is the beginning of Lent, a season of preparation for the celebration of Easter. I have breakfast with a pastor, morning staff meeting, executive leadership team in the afternoon. We will have a service tonight at 6:00 pm at Wesley in which there will be singing, a brief meditation, and a time of commitment around the imposition of ashes to the forehead or hand of worshippers. I always appreciate the dedication and devotion of people who attend Ash Wednesday services and adopt Lenten disciplines.
Isaiah 45
Verses 23-24 “I have sworn by Myself, The word has gone forth from My mouth in righteousness and will not turn back, that to me every knee will bow, every tongue will swear allegiance. They will say of Me, ‘Only in the Lord are righteousness and strength.’”
Yes Lord! Your word is powerful, sharper than a double edged sword. I bow my knee to You, I swear allegiance to You, in whom is righteousness and strength! Guide me every step this day, my every word, every thought, every idea.
Today is the beginning of Lent, a season of preparation for the celebration of Easter. I have breakfast with a pastor, morning staff meeting, executive leadership team in the afternoon. We will have a service tonight at 6:00 pm at Wesley in which there will be singing, a brief meditation, and a time of commitment around the imposition of ashes to the forehead or hand of worshippers. I always appreciate the dedication and devotion of people who attend Ash Wednesday services and adopt Lenten disciplines.
Isaiah 45
Verses 23-24 “I have sworn by Myself, The word has gone forth from My mouth in righteousness and will not turn back, that to me every knee will bow, every tongue will swear allegiance. They will say of Me, ‘Only in the Lord are righteousness and strength.’”
Yes Lord! Your word is powerful, sharper than a double edged sword. I bow my knee to You, I swear allegiance to You, in whom is righteousness and strength! Guide me every step this day, my every word, every thought, every idea.
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
March 8, 2011
3-8-11 Tuesday, 6:50 am Springfield, 41 degrees, raining.
I have a full week of work ahead, and I am rested and ready. We had a good trip home from O’Fallon and spent a relaxing evening watching a couple of movies here at home. Today I look forward to greeting kids as they arrive at our preschool, praying with the staff, leading the worship planning process, leading the Sunday task force, and leading the Baxter Life Group.
Isaiah 44
Verse 3: “For I will pour out water on the thirsty land and streams on the dry ground; I will pour out my Spirit on your offspring, and my blessing on your descendants;” I made a note in the margin of this Bible “A promise to Bruce Baxter recognized on 8-20-84.” This would have been when Audrey was 4 ½ months along with David, who was born in January, 85. The theme of this chapter is comfort to the people of God, which speaks directly to the people who follow Christ in 2011.
Verse 2: “Thus says the Lord who made you and formed you from the womb, who will help you, ‘do not fear, O Jacob My servant; and you Jeshurun whom I have chosen.’” Jeshurun is a term that indicates “informed affection”, that God holds His people in his heart (Oswald). It is comforting to know, that even as I hold my offspring in my heart on a daily basis, my creator holds me in His heart, and I am among the Jeshurun.
Water for a dry land is a promise of renewal, of which the people of God are in constant need. Even as I hear rain on the roof this morning, and think of my little garden plot in which I worked the dirt last week, I recognize that I am in need of renewal, and must live in the presence of the living water of God.
Guide me today Lord as I serve You with joy. May my thoughts be your thoughts, my words your words, my actions fully according to your will and purposes.
I have a full week of work ahead, and I am rested and ready. We had a good trip home from O’Fallon and spent a relaxing evening watching a couple of movies here at home. Today I look forward to greeting kids as they arrive at our preschool, praying with the staff, leading the worship planning process, leading the Sunday task force, and leading the Baxter Life Group.
Isaiah 44
Verse 3: “For I will pour out water on the thirsty land and streams on the dry ground; I will pour out my Spirit on your offspring, and my blessing on your descendants;” I made a note in the margin of this Bible “A promise to Bruce Baxter recognized on 8-20-84.” This would have been when Audrey was 4 ½ months along with David, who was born in January, 85. The theme of this chapter is comfort to the people of God, which speaks directly to the people who follow Christ in 2011.
Verse 2: “Thus says the Lord who made you and formed you from the womb, who will help you, ‘do not fear, O Jacob My servant; and you Jeshurun whom I have chosen.’” Jeshurun is a term that indicates “informed affection”, that God holds His people in his heart (Oswald). It is comforting to know, that even as I hold my offspring in my heart on a daily basis, my creator holds me in His heart, and I am among the Jeshurun.
Water for a dry land is a promise of renewal, of which the people of God are in constant need. Even as I hear rain on the roof this morning, and think of my little garden plot in which I worked the dirt last week, I recognize that I am in need of renewal, and must live in the presence of the living water of God.
Guide me today Lord as I serve You with joy. May my thoughts be your thoughts, my words your words, my actions fully according to your will and purposes.
Monday, March 7, 2011
March 7, 2011
3-7-11 Monday, 6:10 am O”Fallon, 33 degrees, cloudy
I have just awakened from a good night's sleep here at David and Danelle’s apartment, after a long and fulfilling day of ministry. Preaching at the three services at SunRise, lunch with the Blues, church reception from 2:30 – 6:00 and dinner with the Casillas involved great fellowship, wonderful reconnecting, and lots of memories. We drive home this morning, and then focus on a full week of ministry at Wesley.
Isaiah 44
In this chapter God reminds the people the difference between God the creator, and gods that are no gods at all, carved out of wood, or made by the blacksmith. “God, King of Israel, your Redeemer, God-of-the-angel-armies, says: ‘I’m first, I’m last, and everything in between. I’m the only God there is.’” (verse 6)
The church is of God and will remain until the end of time. Being at SunRise this weekend has reminded me of the power of God to birth a community, and the work of the Holy Spirit to sustain it. As the founding pastor, entrusted with the visioning process and the design of the body life, I am amazed at the work of God that is changing lives and “populating heaven”. This gives me even greater energy to be about the work of pastoring and shepherding the Wesley congregation.
Guide me today Lord, as I drive highway 44 and rest in preparation for a great week of serving you in the community called Wesley United Methodist Church, Springfield, Missouri, Amen.
I have just awakened from a good night's sleep here at David and Danelle’s apartment, after a long and fulfilling day of ministry. Preaching at the three services at SunRise, lunch with the Blues, church reception from 2:30 – 6:00 and dinner with the Casillas involved great fellowship, wonderful reconnecting, and lots of memories. We drive home this morning, and then focus on a full week of ministry at Wesley.
Isaiah 44
In this chapter God reminds the people the difference between God the creator, and gods that are no gods at all, carved out of wood, or made by the blacksmith. “God, King of Israel, your Redeemer, God-of-the-angel-armies, says: ‘I’m first, I’m last, and everything in between. I’m the only God there is.’” (verse 6)
The church is of God and will remain until the end of time. Being at SunRise this weekend has reminded me of the power of God to birth a community, and the work of the Holy Spirit to sustain it. As the founding pastor, entrusted with the visioning process and the design of the body life, I am amazed at the work of God that is changing lives and “populating heaven”. This gives me even greater energy to be about the work of pastoring and shepherding the Wesley congregation.
Guide me today Lord, as I drive highway 44 and rest in preparation for a great week of serving you in the community called Wesley United Methodist Church, Springfield, Missouri, Amen.
Saturday, March 5, 2011
March 5, 2011
3-5-11 Saturday, 7:15 am, 31 degrees, cloudy.
We have a nesting pair of bluebirds! This is the third year I have put out a bluebird house, and it is a little tricky to get a pair of the state birds to use it. Bluebirds are territorial, needing at least 300 feet of separation from each other. Sometimes sparrows beat them to it. Last night I saw the pair, and this morning I saw one of them fly from the house. There is something gratifying about providing a good habitat for these creatures. I placed a second bluebird house across the yard on my back fence, and in it a very proud pair of sparrows is building a nest.
Tonight I preach at SunRise on the twentieth anniversary of the first worship service. I am looking forward to bringing a 20 minute message on “Living Water”. Tomorrow there will be three services and then an afternoon reception. Pastor Jerry is preaching the 4 services at Wesley.
Isaiah 43
This is such a beautiful expression of God’s love and care for His people! “But now says the Lord, your Creator, O Jacob, and he who formed you, O Israel, Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are Mine!” (verse 1) “Do not fear, for I am with you” (verse 5) In verse 14 God refers to Himself as “the Lord your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel.” This chapter makes it clear that God has provided what is needed for the people of Israel, including what they (and we) need the most: “I, even I, am the one who wipes out your transgressions for My own sake; and I will not remember your sins.” (verse 23)
This chapter also contains clear teaching about who God is: “... I am He. Before Me there was no God formed, And there will be none after Me. I, even I am the Lord; and there is no savior besides Me ... Even from eternity I am He; and there is none who can deliver out of My hand; I act and who can reverse it?” (verses 10-13) On this cold, wet, morning in late winter it is so helpful for me to remember who God is, and what God does, recalibrating my human brain as it precesses toward thinking that I am in charge and that I could save myself. (precession is a mechanical process involving disturbing torque!)
Thank You Lord for this chapter of Holy Scripture. My steps are ordered by You, and I will serve you with joy and gladness today.
We have a nesting pair of bluebirds! This is the third year I have put out a bluebird house, and it is a little tricky to get a pair of the state birds to use it. Bluebirds are territorial, needing at least 300 feet of separation from each other. Sometimes sparrows beat them to it. Last night I saw the pair, and this morning I saw one of them fly from the house. There is something gratifying about providing a good habitat for these creatures. I placed a second bluebird house across the yard on my back fence, and in it a very proud pair of sparrows is building a nest.
Tonight I preach at SunRise on the twentieth anniversary of the first worship service. I am looking forward to bringing a 20 minute message on “Living Water”. Tomorrow there will be three services and then an afternoon reception. Pastor Jerry is preaching the 4 services at Wesley.
Isaiah 43
This is such a beautiful expression of God’s love and care for His people! “But now says the Lord, your Creator, O Jacob, and he who formed you, O Israel, Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are Mine!” (verse 1) “Do not fear, for I am with you” (verse 5) In verse 14 God refers to Himself as “the Lord your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel.” This chapter makes it clear that God has provided what is needed for the people of Israel, including what they (and we) need the most: “I, even I, am the one who wipes out your transgressions for My own sake; and I will not remember your sins.” (verse 23)
This chapter also contains clear teaching about who God is: “... I am He. Before Me there was no God formed, And there will be none after Me. I, even I am the Lord; and there is no savior besides Me ... Even from eternity I am He; and there is none who can deliver out of My hand; I act and who can reverse it?” (verses 10-13) On this cold, wet, morning in late winter it is so helpful for me to remember who God is, and what God does, recalibrating my human brain as it precesses toward thinking that I am in charge and that I could save myself. (precession is a mechanical process involving disturbing torque!)
Thank You Lord for this chapter of Holy Scripture. My steps are ordered by You, and I will serve you with joy and gladness today.
Friday, March 4, 2011
March 4, 2011
3-4-11 Friday, 7:41 am Springfield, 50 degrees, sun through thin clouds, birds singing.
It is good to be home. The work of the board of ordained ministry is hard, and valuable to the church. Last night Audrey and I attended a concert at the James River Church, featuring Chris Tomlin and including Louie Giglio, founder of the Passion movement, and Passion Church in Atlanta. Formerly, he was leader of a college movement on the Baylor campus, and in Atlanta, a member of Andy Stanley’s church.
We so enjoyed the concert, which was much more an evening of worship and praise, with the packed auditorium singing Tomlin’s unique songs and inspired by Giglio’s teaching and energy for a God-centered life. Worshipping in that context reminded me of when I was 19 years old, a new, fully devoted follower of Christ, and worshipping in a large “box” church, praising God with the contemporary songs of 1975. I am inspired to invest all of my energy in pointing people to God and calling forth a people who will serve Him with their entire beings during this brief journey on planet earth.
Isaiah 42
“Behold, My Servant whom I uphold; My chosen one in whom My soul delights. I have put My Spirit upon Him; He will bring forth justice to the nations. … A bruised reed He will not break, and a dimly burning wick He will not extinguish.” (verses 1-3) This clear description of Jesus is beautiful. In various ways throughout the 66 chapters of Isaiah the Savior is described, promised, longed for and anticipated. Thus this book can be referred to as the “Gospel” of Isaiah! Verses 1-13 have blessed me deeply this morning.
Verse 8: “I am the Lord, that is My name; I will not give My glory to another, Nor My praise to graven images.” One of the significant problems of the people of God was (is) placing anything in the role of God in one’s life – money, hired armies, fame, health, happiness, etc. I must daily examine me life to make sure I am not doing so in this modern world context which I live and breathe. I desire for my response to be that of verse 10: “Sing to the Lord a new song, Sing His praise from the end of the earth! You who go down to the sea, and all that is in it.”
Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me bless His holy Name! Let God arise, His enemies be scattered. Guide me today, most Holy Lord in all I think and speak and do as Your servant.
It is good to be home. The work of the board of ordained ministry is hard, and valuable to the church. Last night Audrey and I attended a concert at the James River Church, featuring Chris Tomlin and including Louie Giglio, founder of the Passion movement, and Passion Church in Atlanta. Formerly, he was leader of a college movement on the Baylor campus, and in Atlanta, a member of Andy Stanley’s church.
We so enjoyed the concert, which was much more an evening of worship and praise, with the packed auditorium singing Tomlin’s unique songs and inspired by Giglio’s teaching and energy for a God-centered life. Worshipping in that context reminded me of when I was 19 years old, a new, fully devoted follower of Christ, and worshipping in a large “box” church, praising God with the contemporary songs of 1975. I am inspired to invest all of my energy in pointing people to God and calling forth a people who will serve Him with their entire beings during this brief journey on planet earth.
Isaiah 42
“Behold, My Servant whom I uphold; My chosen one in whom My soul delights. I have put My Spirit upon Him; He will bring forth justice to the nations. … A bruised reed He will not break, and a dimly burning wick He will not extinguish.” (verses 1-3) This clear description of Jesus is beautiful. In various ways throughout the 66 chapters of Isaiah the Savior is described, promised, longed for and anticipated. Thus this book can be referred to as the “Gospel” of Isaiah! Verses 1-13 have blessed me deeply this morning.
Verse 8: “I am the Lord, that is My name; I will not give My glory to another, Nor My praise to graven images.” One of the significant problems of the people of God was (is) placing anything in the role of God in one’s life – money, hired armies, fame, health, happiness, etc. I must daily examine me life to make sure I am not doing so in this modern world context which I live and breathe. I desire for my response to be that of verse 10: “Sing to the Lord a new song, Sing His praise from the end of the earth! You who go down to the sea, and all that is in it.”
Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me bless His holy Name! Let God arise, His enemies be scattered. Guide me today, most Holy Lord in all I think and speak and do as Your servant.
Thursday, March 3, 2011
March 3, 2011
3-3-11 Thursday, 5:45 am Columbia, 40 degrees, clear.
Today we finish up the work of the Board of Ordained Ministry as we meet through the morning. Jerry and I will ride back to Springfield together, with him driving as I work on sermon for the weekend at SunRise. Yesterday we met from 9:00 am until 8:30 pm, with two hour break for lunch. I was able to get in a 4 mile run, which felt great. If I exercise this morning, that will be three out of the four days here.
Isaiah 41
Verses 17-18: “The afflicted and needy are seeking water, but there is none, and their tongue is parched with thirst; I the Lord will answer them Myself, as the God of Israel I will not forsake them. I will open rivers on the bare heights, and springs in the midst of the valleys…” These verses remind me of Jesus at the well in Samaria stating to the woman that he could give her living water, that she would thirst no more. I am preaching on this verse at SunRise, returning this weekend as the founding pastor to O’Fallon, on the 20th anniversary of the first worship service of that new church.
Verses 21-24 are a mocking of idols and false gods who cannot predict the future, and whose “work amounts to nothing”. Israel, along with people before and after, have or will encounter the temptation to trust in someone or something other than God. This is especially true in my generation. I fully trust in God, and intend to do so until He receives me home into His arms for eternity. Guide me today, Holy Lord, as I trust You, and am not afraid, as I look to You for the source of my strength, wisdom and discernment.
Today we finish up the work of the Board of Ordained Ministry as we meet through the morning. Jerry and I will ride back to Springfield together, with him driving as I work on sermon for the weekend at SunRise. Yesterday we met from 9:00 am until 8:30 pm, with two hour break for lunch. I was able to get in a 4 mile run, which felt great. If I exercise this morning, that will be three out of the four days here.
Isaiah 41
Verses 17-18: “The afflicted and needy are seeking water, but there is none, and their tongue is parched with thirst; I the Lord will answer them Myself, as the God of Israel I will not forsake them. I will open rivers on the bare heights, and springs in the midst of the valleys…” These verses remind me of Jesus at the well in Samaria stating to the woman that he could give her living water, that she would thirst no more. I am preaching on this verse at SunRise, returning this weekend as the founding pastor to O’Fallon, on the 20th anniversary of the first worship service of that new church.
Verses 21-24 are a mocking of idols and false gods who cannot predict the future, and whose “work amounts to nothing”. Israel, along with people before and after, have or will encounter the temptation to trust in someone or something other than God. This is especially true in my generation. I fully trust in God, and intend to do so until He receives me home into His arms for eternity. Guide me today, Holy Lord, as I trust You, and am not afraid, as I look to You for the source of my strength, wisdom and discernment.
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
March 2, 2011
3-2-11 Wednesday, 6:09 am 36 degrees.
The eastern sky shows the beginning of dawn, the crescent moon, and Venus (Neptune and Mars are below the moon and above the sun, but not visible to the unassisted eye). My body would like a little more rest, but I am up and at ‘um, with a long day of Board of Ordained Ministry work ahead. We will deliberate this morning, voting on all candidates who are eligible for ordination, and then in the afternoon and evening, we will interview all candidates eligible for commissioning.
Isaiah 40
What a great chapter! It marks the beginning of the second half of Isaiah, many call chapters 40-66 Deutero-Isaiah because it is so different from the first 39 chapters. I ascribe to the unity of the book, believing that the one author, the prophet Isaiah wrote the entire book.
“Comfort, o comfort my people, says your God (verse 1).
“A voice is calling, clear the way for the Lord in the wilderness, make smooth in the desert a highway for our God… (verse 3)
“The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God stands forever. (verse 8)
“Those who wait upon the Lord will gain new strength, they will mount up with wings like eagles, they will run and not get tired, they will walk and not become weary. (verse 31)
Guide me today Lord as I work as a pastor to comfort Your people, to clear the way for You in the wilderness, preaching and teaching Your eternal word, waiting upon you and receiving your strength!” From the middle of the United States, in these my middle-aged years, may I be in the center of your will today, and each day until eternity.
The eastern sky shows the beginning of dawn, the crescent moon, and Venus (Neptune and Mars are below the moon and above the sun, but not visible to the unassisted eye). My body would like a little more rest, but I am up and at ‘um, with a long day of Board of Ordained Ministry work ahead. We will deliberate this morning, voting on all candidates who are eligible for ordination, and then in the afternoon and evening, we will interview all candidates eligible for commissioning.
Isaiah 40
What a great chapter! It marks the beginning of the second half of Isaiah, many call chapters 40-66 Deutero-Isaiah because it is so different from the first 39 chapters. I ascribe to the unity of the book, believing that the one author, the prophet Isaiah wrote the entire book.
“Comfort, o comfort my people, says your God (verse 1).
“A voice is calling, clear the way for the Lord in the wilderness, make smooth in the desert a highway for our God… (verse 3)
“The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God stands forever. (verse 8)
“Those who wait upon the Lord will gain new strength, they will mount up with wings like eagles, they will run and not get tired, they will walk and not become weary. (verse 31)
Guide me today Lord as I work as a pastor to comfort Your people, to clear the way for You in the wilderness, preaching and teaching Your eternal word, waiting upon you and receiving your strength!” From the middle of the United States, in these my middle-aged years, may I be in the center of your will today, and each day until eternity.
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
March 1, 2011
3-1-11 Tuesday, 5:59 am , 26 degrees, clear
The first day of March! I always enjoy writing the new month for the first time, usually here in my journal. Typically this is the month known for strong winds and moderating temperatures, with always the possibility of snow. Gardening and yard work will increase, and the seeds I started on Saturday (tomatoes, zucchini, okra and marigolds) will sprout in the basement. April 15 is the average last frost for this area and I will plant them outside in my small garden.
We had good interviews yesterday with the board of ordained ministry. Our team has eight more interviews today, and 8 tomorrow. This is a somewhat grueling schedule, but necessary because of the cancellations forced by the blizzard 4 weeks ago. I remember well my board interviews in 1982 and 1985 as a seminary student and young pastor.
Isaiah 39
After his miraculous healing, Hezekiah entertains diginitaries from Babylon. He shows off all of his wealth. Babylon was encouraging countries to rebel against Assyria, and in this act Hezekiah falls into the temptation to trust human alliances and foreign powers rather than God. The prophet Isaiah pays an uninvited visit to the king, and rebukes him for his actions, prophecying that the wealth of Judah will one day be carried off to Babylon (Oswald observes “that which we trust in place of God will one day turn and destroy us”). Hezekiah accepts this prophecy, and seems glad that at least it will not happen in his day.
Guide me Lord as I trust completely in you. Thank you for this record of your dealings with the nation of Judah and its kings, prophets and people. Give me wisdom and discernment as a pastor in 2011 and as a member of the team which credentials pastors. Bless the flock called Wesley in Springfield, and especially those going through difficulties this week.
The first day of March! I always enjoy writing the new month for the first time, usually here in my journal. Typically this is the month known for strong winds and moderating temperatures, with always the possibility of snow. Gardening and yard work will increase, and the seeds I started on Saturday (tomatoes, zucchini, okra and marigolds) will sprout in the basement. April 15 is the average last frost for this area and I will plant them outside in my small garden.
We had good interviews yesterday with the board of ordained ministry. Our team has eight more interviews today, and 8 tomorrow. This is a somewhat grueling schedule, but necessary because of the cancellations forced by the blizzard 4 weeks ago. I remember well my board interviews in 1982 and 1985 as a seminary student and young pastor.
Isaiah 39
After his miraculous healing, Hezekiah entertains diginitaries from Babylon. He shows off all of his wealth. Babylon was encouraging countries to rebel against Assyria, and in this act Hezekiah falls into the temptation to trust human alliances and foreign powers rather than God. The prophet Isaiah pays an uninvited visit to the king, and rebukes him for his actions, prophecying that the wealth of Judah will one day be carried off to Babylon (Oswald observes “that which we trust in place of God will one day turn and destroy us”). Hezekiah accepts this prophecy, and seems glad that at least it will not happen in his day.
Guide me Lord as I trust completely in you. Thank you for this record of your dealings with the nation of Judah and its kings, prophets and people. Give me wisdom and discernment as a pastor in 2011 and as a member of the team which credentials pastors. Bless the flock called Wesley in Springfield, and especially those going through difficulties this week.
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