Pastor Marty's Blog

Proclaim Jesus as Lord

2012-02-14T09:50:00.002-06:00

Conversations about God can be very vague. In fact, people in such a discussion may not even mention the word "God" and instead speak about a higher power or a supreme being. Much in conversation can be quite nebulous. However, when we mention Jesus, everything seems to change. He is the image of the invisible God. We now know more about God's character and being through Jesus.

This coming Sunday is Transfiguration Sunday and invites us to look at Jesus being with his inner circle of disciples and who becomes transfigured. They behold him in all his glory; thereby, witnessing the glory of God.

The apostle Paul in writing to the Corinthians said: "For we do not proclaim ourselves; we proclaim Jesus Christ as Lord and ourselves as your slaves for Jesus' sake. For it is the God who said, 'Let light shine out of darkness,' who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ." 2 Cor. 4:5-6

Jesus is to be lifted up and not ourselves. As much as we might like to boast about a strong faith, ultimately Jesus is to be held high.

The phrase "Jesus is Lord" was probably the first creed of the church, which is an expression recorded for us in the New Testament. If we do proclaim Jesus as Lord, it has profound implications for us in terms of our own living and whom we serve.

My sermon on Sunday will focus on the implications of this kind of confession, having us look at intellectual, moral, political, vocational, and global dimensions.

Running to Win the Imperishable Wreath

2012-02-07T17:00:00.004-06:00

Have you ever felt like you were doing so many things and getting nowhere? There was plenty of activity, but no real clear focus to what you are doing? You couldn't see where you were headed? You were caught up in an "activity trap."

Ministers have to deal with this in their work as well as folks in other lines of work. In addition, it comes to all of us in our individual lives. We can be caught up in a flurry of activity and find ourselves getting nowhere. We need meaning and a focus in what we do.

This Sunday, my sermon will help us to examine our lives to make sure that we do have a focus. I will be using the words of the apostle Paul: "So I do not run aimlessly, nor do I box as though beating the air" (1 Corinthians 9:26). Paul was using the metaphor of a race (and boxing) for the Christian life. He wanted to win the race of the Christian life and to receive an imperishable wreath. The apostle also felt the need to exercise self-control.

Think about your own life. Do you have a clear focus in how you are living and where you are headed? Do you get swept away with every fashion and craze that come along? Are you focusing your life on Jesus Christ and the life that he desire for you?

In the end, this focus is what will matter and give direction and meaning to everything else in our lives.

Soaring on the Wings of an Eagle

2012-01-31T11:37:00.002-06:00

Can you still hold onto God in tough times?

Maybe financially, your situation has gone from bad to worse...
Maybe you are dealing with tough problems in the family...
Maybe you are longing for better days for your health...
Maybe you have been working a lifetime to accomplish certain goals, but even today they still seem elusive...

Do you just give up, or would you be willing to hold onto the power of God?

The reading from Isaiah 40:26 - 31 for this Sunday gives us words of hope. We read in reference to God,

"He gives power to the faint,
and strengthens the powerless.
Even youths will faint and be weary,
and the young will fall exhausted;
but those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength,
they shall mount up with wings like eagles,
they shall run and not be weary,
they shall walk and not faint. (vs. 29-31)

For Israel, it was a time of Babylonian captivity. Even though they were aware that it would come to an end they were still wondering if the time to come would be real. These words from the prophet give hope in the God who created them.

In their waiting they will find strength by keeping faith in God. God will provide strength in their own weariness.

For you and me, it's easy to just give up on what we hope for - or even on life itself. Yet, God can help to carry us through and even provide that new day to dawn. My sermon will explore the greatness of our God to carry us through such times.

Being Freed from What Enslaves Us"

2012-01-24T08:57:00.004-06:00

As you began this year, maybe you made some New Year's Resolutions for yourself. However, by this time already, you realize that one or more have not been kept. There seems to be a powerful force within you - perhaps regarding some bad habit - that is just enslaving you. You can't get rid of it.

Enter now into the Gospel story (Mark 1:21-28) for this Sunday (January 29), where we learn of Jesus' power over destructive forces. The story deals with Jesus' confrontation with a man possessed by an unclean spirit as Jesus is teaching in a synagogue. The evil spirit recognizes Jesus and cries out to him.

Jesus, seeing how this man is really in bondage, then speaks words to the evil spirit, "Be silent and come out of him!" Immediately, the spirit is gone and the man is restored to wholeness.

There might be destructive forces that are at work in our own lives that seek to enslave us. What shall we do? Just say we have to live with them, especially if they are keeping us from living the life that Jesus desires of us?

There is a better way. It is by asking for the Lord's help. With his power (and authority as mentioned in our Gospel) Jesus can free you of what is troubling you.

My message on Sunday will delve deeper into this struggle we all face and how we can be empowered with Jesus' help to be freed from what enslaves us.

Being Called for Mission

2012-01-17T10:35:00.002-06:00

The story of Jonah usually receives attention regarding being swallowed by a great fish. However, the story has even greater ramifications. Among them, is the willingness to bring God's word to people we might dislike or for whom we have no interest at all.

Jonah was called to bring a message of repentance to the people of Nineveh, the capital of the Assyrians. These folks were ruthless individuals, being very brutal among people they sought to conquer (even Israel).

Jonah doesn't think they deserve to hear God's word of repentance, so he makes a 180 degree turn and ends up being swallowed by a great fish. Jonah is given a second chance - a second call by God - to go to Nineveh.

Jonah goes with his message and the people do repent! Maybe not what Jonah had expected.

You and I must take up our call to be witnesses in our world. To whom might God be sending us? Will we be eager to share God's story with them?

My message will focus on the reading from Jonah 3:1-10.

Extending the Invitation: Come and See

2012-01-10T10:12:00.002-06:00

Extending the invitation to someone for coming to church is not always easy. We might fear rejection or think within ourselves that the person would have no interest in church, or that the person would simply be hostile to the church.

Let's look at the situation of Philip and Nathanael that might help us along in this area. Jesus calls Philip to follow him and then Philip goes to Nathanael to extend an invitation of him to follow Jesus. Nathanael, however, has some reservations. He comments to Philip, "Can anything good come out of Nazareth?" Maybe Nathanael had a poor image of some folks he knew from Nazareth.

Nevertheless, Philip extends the invitation to Nathanael when he says, "Come and see."

Let's think of our own situation. Maybe there are some folks who are unchurched to whom we might wonder if they would have any interest at all in church (or Jesus Christ). Can we still be courageous enough to extend the invitation?

This Sunday I will explore our interaction with others who are unchurched, based on the Gospel Reading, which is John 1:43-51.

But, I Have Been Baptized

2012-01-03T10:16:00.002-06:00

Baptism is one of those events in church that only happens to us once. However, I wonder how much we really reflect on the meaning of it as well as draw upon it for its richness in meaning when it's been many years since it took place?

Peter when he addressed the crowd on the day of Pentecost said, ‘Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ so that your sins may be forgiven; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is for you, for your children, and for all who are far away, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to him.’ Acts 2:38-39

It's remembering the blessings that come from baptism that can help us in our Christian living. We realize how much God desires to forgive our sins as well as how we are empowered with the gift of the Holy Spirit. On this coming Sunday, we remember the baptism of our Lord. Jesus himself submitted to John's baptism in order to "fulfill all righteousness." He identified with us sinners so that by his sinless life we could have the forgiveness of our sins.

Jesus' baptism led him into his public ministry. He knew who he was as the beloved Son of God. We would do well to remember the claim God has on us so that we can have strength and power for daily living.

I would invite you then on this Sunday to remember what God has done to you through baptism; and also, if you are a godparent, to remember your godchildren and pray for them.

Remember, too, as Martin Luther did, "But, I Have Been Baptized!"

The Journey: From Nazareth to Bethlehem

2011-12-20T08:31:00.004-06:00

Mary and Joseph undertook a 75 mile journey that would result in the birth of our Savior. In recalling the circumstances surrounding the birth, we would note several things.

First, what set the stage for the place of Jesus' birth was a decree for all to be registered in the town of their heritage. The town would be for Joseph's ancestry, which would be the town of Bethlehem. We also remember the prophecy about Bethlehem in the book of Micah (5:2-4).

Then, we note that Mary is pregnant and even in this condition undergoes the journey, which probably caused some anxiety among her and Joseph.

Finally, we note that when they arrive in Bethlehem, there is no place for them to stay! They must settle for a cave, a less than ideal situation for the birth.

Luke, the Gospel writer, frames the story as a narrative giving us the historical setting by mentioning the emperor. Luke is reporting the greatest moment in history. It is the Son of God entering into our humanity. This birth is truly God's ultimate revelation and God seeking to come to us in a way that would demonstrate the depth of divine love.

The story, as humble as it is, ought to cause us to pause and remember this great event in history - all orchestrated by God. I hope you can come and adore the Christ-child this weekend. We can be thankful that God has sent Jesus to be the Savior of the world. We need to worship him.

Tree Decorating with Chrismons

2011-12-13T10:24:00.005-06:00

This Sunday will be the occasion for us to decorate the tree in the sanctuary. The decorating will be done during worship where an explanation will be given for each ornament. The chrismons were made by members of the church years ago. The various symbols, for the most part, highlight the life of Christ.

I look forward to this service that will add the final touch of decorating.

Also, the Praise Dancers from St. Paul Lutheran Church in Chicago will be present to give us special music and their interpretations with dance.

Making Witness to Jesus during This Season

2011-12-06T10:24:00.003-06:00

This coming Sunday (December 11) is the Third Sunday of Advent and we light three candles on our Advent Log. The third candle is pink in color that represents the theme of rejoicing.

We can think of the light in these candles in the context of Jesus being the light of the world. In this Sunday's Gospel we have the words "There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. He came as a witness to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him. " John 1:6-7.

John came to help prepare folks for Jesus' public ministry. John wanted to make absolutely clear that he was not the "light." He came merely to point to Jesus, who is the light.

At this time of the year, it's easy to get caught up in ourselves in our preparation for the holidays. However, we also need to know that it is Jesus' birthday that we are celebrating at the end of the month. How will you bear witness to this light this season?

Since the pink Advent candle is lit for this Sunday, I would like to think that it is with a sense of "joy" within us that we can bear witness. While many people might appear despondent or gloomy, we can witness by the joy that we exhibit. My message on Sunday will have us go into greater depth on how we can bear witness to the light.

Designing Your Christmas Celebration

2011-11-29T11:14:00.003-06:00

Undoubtedly, this is a very busy time of the year for all of us. We are involved in many activities with shopping, decorating, parties, baking, etc. It is a time when many retail stores have a huge upsurge with their sales.

Amid all the lure of products for us to buy, we might find ourselves thinking that the more we purchase, the more we will be fulfilled in this time of the year. However, we probably know from experience that we can find ourselves unfulfilled as we come to Christmas because we have overspent. We have probably spent time in activities as well that have left us with an empty feeling.

That is why we do need to look carefully at our preparations and what we want this time to mean for us. The words in Isaiah 40 come to us, "A voice cries out: In the wilderness prepare the way of the Lord, make straight in the desert a highway for our God." (verse 3) In heeding this voice, we need to prepare ourselves by navigating through all the messages of commercialism for this season. We need to find a direct path that enables us to have our focus on God's coming to us in the Christ-child and the implications for what we do.

While there might be circumstances beyond our control, for the most part we do find our meaning by the choices that we make in how we want to celebrate this festive season. My message on Sunday will help us to design a meaningful and spirit-filled celebration.

Preparing Your Heart for Christmas

2011-11-21T14:37:00.003-06:00

With this Sunday as the First Sunday in Advent , I begin a three-part sermon series on "Let's Get Ready for Christmas." My message on Sunday will be on preparing your heart for Christmas, which will focus on the Old Testament reading, Isaiah 64:1-9.

This reading brings us to a lament. You read of the mournful posture that takes place as Israel realizes what the people have been through in Babylonian exile. It is a stance of sorrow, as they realize the gravity of their sin.

While we might try to be as upbeat as we can as we move toward Christmas, this text calls for us to remember that we do need to recognize the gravity of our condition before God. That's why there was a Christmas.

This Advent season - early on - can call for some deep inner reflection. I'm sure there might be people already experiencing the "holiday blues" and need to deal with it. The strength for dealing with whatever discouragement/depression we feel comes out in this text for this Sunday.

My sermon will focus on what this text says to us that helps give us the encouragement to move forward and have a meaningful celebration of Christmas.

Jesus: When Did We See You?

2011-11-15T10:56:00.003-06:00

This coming Sunday in the church is the last Sunday in the liturgical year and is known as 'Christ the King.' As the year revolves around the person of Jesus, we come now at the end to honor him with the title of king. He is king over all creation.

The Gospel Reading (Matthew 25:31-46) is about Jesus coming at the end of time and who will "sit on the throne of his glory." All the nations are gathered before him and he will separate people like a shepherd who separates the sheep from the goats. The sheep (righteous) will go on his right side and the goats (unrighteous) will go on his left. Those on the right will inherit the kingdom (be saved).

What strikes us in this story is that Jesus indicates to the righteous that they had given him food, drink, and welcomed him. However, the righteous can't figure out when they would have done this. Jesus indicates that when they have helped the hungry, the thirty, or the stranger in our world, they have helped him. In other words, when we help the "least" among us it is as if we are helping our Lord.

How many times have we had missed opportunities! Jesus is right before us in the person who is hurting and needs help. This message ought to have us take notice. We do as people of faith bear a responsibility to help our neighbor in need if we have faith. I will focus on our helping the needy in my message on Sunday.

What Investments Are You Making?

2011-11-08T10:27:00.002-06:00

This Sunday will be my message on stewardship. When I do talk about stewardship, I think not only about how we use our money, but also how much are we using all the gifts God has given to us.

The Gospel Reading (Matthew 25: 14-30) for this Sunday brings us to the Parable of the Talents. (The talent being a unit of money equal to 15 years of wages!) The owner goes on a journey and gives one slave 5 talents, another 2 talents, and another 1 talent. Each was given "according to his ability." The slaves with the 5 and 2 talents invest and double what they had been given. However, the slave with the 1 talent buries it in the ground. The master returns and commends the two slaves who had invested. The slave who buried his talent has his money taken away from him and given to the one who had the 5 talents.

Jesus was saying that we must "invest" what we have. I know that this sounds risky, especially when it comes to our money. Giving to the church may not be our priority because we have so many other expenses in life. Don't we also need to be saving for what might happen years from now? I believe there is no better investment than using our money for the kingdom of God. We are building for eternity.

I believe we also need to look at the abilities or gifts that we have. These gifts also, we think of as "talents." Do we use them? Jesus is saying in this parable that we dare not let our gifts lie dormant. They have been given to us to use!

How do you measure up in terms of your investment strategy for the kingdom of God? Are you just holding back and playing it safe? Or are you willing to take risks to help further the kingdom of God? Remember, the two slaves who invested were able to multiply what they had. With God's blessings, you and I can do the same.

We Have Not Been Left as Orphans

2011-11-01T09:27:00.002-06:00

This coming Sunday is All Saints Sunday. It's a day for us to remember the whole company of saints - living and dead. We will especially remember in our worship those in the congregation who have been called to their eternal glory during this year.

The focus for my message will be on 1 John 3:1-3. We have John writing, "See what love the Father has given us, that we should be called children of God; and that is what we are." (1 John 3:1) Saints have been called into a special relationship with God. God is like a parent to us. Elsewhere in Scripture the imagery of adoption is used.

The point here is that God has a personal relationship with us. We have not been left as orphans. Do you feel a close connection to God? Do you feel that God only wants the best for you?

On this All Saints Sunday, I believe, it is important for us to remember this relationship. I will be addressing implications of our relationship as we are those who have been called (sent) to do God's work in our world.

Renewal in the Church

2011-10-25T10:22:00.003-05:00

This coming Sunday is Reformation Sunday. It brings us back to our heritage in the Lutheran Church. While we in the Lutheran Church appreciate the work of Martin Luther, we would remember, too, that his desire was not for creating a new denomination. He only wanted reform within the Roman Catholic Church.

In looking to the Reformation era, it is important to remember that there were others, in addition to Martin Luther, who played a role in reform who were in other countries. We would think of John Calvin, Ulrich Zwingli, John Knox, and Thomas Cranmer.

In thinking about reform, it is important to note that it was not so much about establishing something entirely new, as it was rediscovering what had become lost. Luther and others sought to bring back what had been lost in the church, but has always been in Scripture. Foremost, was the idea of God's grace for our salvation.

Even for us in the church today, Scripture needs to be primary. That is why we continually need to be students of the Bible. My message on Sunday will reflect on the theme of "renewal" as based on Scripture.

Holy Living: Reflecting the Image of God

2011-10-18T10:30:00.003-05:00

If there is one attribute of God that is supreme, it is the holiness of God. It is the only attribute mentioned three times together in Scripture, which we find in Isaiah 6. This holiness of God puts God in a category of its own.

We may be tempted here to think of holy living as being only without wrongdoing (without sin) in our lives. Rather, we need to think of how this holiness is lived out. In the First Reading for this coming Sunday we find the words: "You shall be holy, for I the Lord your God am holy." (Leviticus 19:2). The holiness of God gets defined by what follows in this chapter - not rendering an unjust judgment, not being partial to the poor or to the great, not slandering, not hating, but being filled with love for one's neighbor.

It is in this regard that we are embracing holy living. We are reflecting the very image of God.

My sermon on Sunday will help us to look deeper into the holiness of God and how we can move more in the direction of holy living.

The Strange Workings of God

2011-10-11T10:12:00.003-05:00

How do you see God working in the world? Is it strictly through the church or by people who are called Christian? Can you believe that God could use people with no faith at all to accomplish his purposes?

The Bible gives us a glimpse of the strange working of God, who decides to use a pagan king by the name of Cyrus to deliver the Israelites from exile. The Israelites had been in exile for some seventy years. After experiencing this time in exile as judgment, God decides to free them. God uses King Cyrus of Persia to free the Israelites.

What is interesting here is that Cyrus is referred to as God's "anointed" as recoded in Isaiah 45:1. The word in Hebrew was used for the kings of Israel, who were anointed upon taking the throne. Can you picture how shocking to the people of Israel it was to hear a secular ruler being referred to as God's anointed? This word in Hebrew brings us the word Messiah, which translates as "Christ" in the Greek.

God's anointed one in Cyrus was on the same level as the Messiah! What this highlights for us is that God can use secular rulers (and other non-Christians) to help bring about divine workings in our world.

What I want to explore in my sermon on Sunday, is how important it is to be in touch with what God might be doing even from secular folks around us. We can then plug into what God is doing.

American Idol/Dancing with the Stars - Living in a Celebrity Culture

2011-09-27T10:42:00.002-05:00

We live in a culture that is filled with celebrities. Many of them we watch on TV. We might give attention to them on a regular basis and perhaps want to know many of the details of their lives. In fact, we might wish that we could be like them or at least, if we could, someday have our own 15 minutes of fame.

Two television programs hit home to me on this celebrity thing - American Idol and Dancing with the Stars. American Idol, for instance, seeks to raise up "stars" who will achieve fame after a fashion.

What is behind this fascination? I believe it is that each of us would like to know that we are important. We want to know that we matter.

Here's the point: You and I as people of faith do matter to God. We are celebrities in God's sight because of what Jesus Christ has done to redeem us. We have become God's children. Regardless of how a TV audience might vote for us to be in the kingdom, as baptized children of God, we are precious. Who we are before God is what matters!

Reflect on this passage of Scripture: "Let anyone who has an ear listen to what the Spirit is saying to the churches. To everyone who conquers I will give some of the hidden manna, and I will give a white stone, and on the white stone is written a new name that no one knows except the one who receives it." (Revelation 2:17) Yes, each of us is special before God and will be known with a name!

Living in a Facebook Culture: The Longing to Connect

2011-09-19T13:53:00.005-05:00

Social Media has become a significant part of our culture with Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Flickr, etc. We long to connect and share our experiences with others. While we see businesses making use of social media, we also have the church and other non-profits using this media.

With Facebook having some 750 million users, we observe that there is a longing to connect with others. In our culture now, we can use technology in order to stay in touch with others.

We have "friends" on Facebook and it is interesting to explore what the word "friend" means to us in terms of the level of intimacy.

For us as people of faith, the ultimate connection comes with Jesus Christ as we are in the body of Christ. Throughout the New Testament, we read about how we are to care for others. We are to "rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep." Romans 12:15 The church ought to be the ultimate place where people are connecting and can empathize with one another.

My sermon on Sunday will explore the impact of Facebook on how we think about church today as well as possibilities for using social media in the service of the church.

Movie - "The King's Speech" - Embracing Your Humanity

2011-09-12T11:59:00.008-05:00

I continue in my series on "Faith and Culture" by looking this Sunday at the movie The King's Speech, which won the Best Picture in the Academy Awards this year. The movie highlights how King George VI, despite a speech impediment, was able to rise to the occasion to speak to the nation when England was going to war.

The story of King George VI has us consider how much we are willing to embrace our humanity. I believe that we all have some sort of "disability" that we have to deal with in our lives. We might not be eloquent speakers or we might be shy. Even a physical disability might hinder us from really accomplishing what we would like to achieve.

The apostle Paul wrote to the Corinthians "We have this treasure in clay jars, so that it may be made clear that this extraordinary power belongs to God and does not come from us." (2 Cor. 4:7) St. Paul is talking about the power of the Gospel to come through us amid our humanness. Even through our weakness, God can still work.

Think of Moses who could not speak eloquently. Think of the apostle Paul who had a "thorn in the flesh." These "disabilities" could have halted these servants of God in their tracks. Yet, they moved forward and with God's help and blessing were able to do God's work.

Do you feel that you can't do work for the kingdom of God because you just don't have enough talent? If so, I would ask you to reconsider and believe that God can still use you for the kingdom. Here is where we shouldn't fear to let our humanity show. People will then see us as being genuine, as being real -like them. We can blend it into our story of faith.

Remembering 9/11 - the 10th Anniversary

2011-09-06T10:19:00.000-05:00

via iStockPhoto

The above photo shows the light beams from where the World Trade Center Towers were as a tribute to the victims of this event. We come now to the 10th Anniversary of this tragedy for our nation.

I believe it is a time for us to remember the families who lost loved ones in this event and also for the first responders (police and firefighters) who lost their lives in their rescue attempts.

In the ten years since this tragedy, our nation has become involved in two wars, where we have lost twice as many soldiers as lives which were lost in 9/11. Our national security has become tighter and we live today more in fear.

I would propose that as we look at the light beams of the photo that we also notice how they point us upward; that is, to look beyond the clouds to what our faith brings to us. We have Jesus who is stronger than all the evil in the world. My sermon on Sunday will have us look at 9/11 through eyes of faith.

Being Clothed with Christ

2011-08-29T12:59:00.005-05:00

The shirt I am wearing is one that I had recently purchased. I discovered that it was made in the USA. Certainly, on this upcoming Labor Day weekend, we reflect on our workers nationwide as well as having pride in what we do produce in our country.

On another level, I also am aware of what it means to be wearing this shirt. I usually wear it for my ministerial duties. It makes me aware of being a servant of God.

The apostle Paul writes in this Sunday's reading: "put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires." (Romans 13:14) Paul is moving here into the realm of our spiritual clothing. Faith in Christ ought to make a difference.

How convincing can we be if the world does not see a different way of living that comes from us? It's easy and tempting to just satisfy our own desires. We must move into the higher realm of living as Christ's people. We ought to be able to make a lasting impression upon those who come into our sphere of influence. My sermon on Sunday will delve into the "spiritual clothing" that God desires for us.

Eating and Digesting the Word of God

2011-08-22T13:08:00.006-05:00

The Bible on my desk is one of the first Bibles I acquired and is a King James Version. It was given to me as a gift with my name inscribed on it. This year marks the 400th anniversary of the translation of the King James Bible. Although it is not the first Bible to be put into the English language, it is a translation, which is in the language of the royal court, and has held its own through many centuries.

My focus on Sunday will be on being attentive to the words of Scripture. We read in our lesson for this Sunday words from the prophet Jeremiah, "Your words were found, and I ate them, and your words became to me a joy and the delight of my heart." (Jeremiah 15:16)

I have often mentioned that one cannot just do a cursory reading of Scripture. One must be willing to "chew" on the word of God and really let it become digested into one's being. It is this word that can be a delight for what it brings to us.

We read of two other instances in Scripture where this metaphor of eating Scripture occurs, which is in Revelation 10 and Ezekiel 3. In fact, when John eats the scroll it became bittersweet to him.

The word of God might not always be a delight because of what it demands of us. We might not always like what God is trying to say to us. My sermon on Sunday will have us look at our interaction with Scripture.

Look to the Rock from which You Were Hewn

2011-08-15T08:36:00.004-05:00

"Look to the rock from which you were hewn....look to Abraham your father and to Sarah who bore you." Isaiah 51:1-2

A rock becomes a strong metaphor for God in Scripture as we find in Deuteronomy 32 and Psalm 19. The text from Isaiah 51 for this Sunday invites Israel to consider their origins as they were coming out of a time of exile. The city of Jerusalem had been destroyed as well as their temple. Was their any reason to hope that anything good could still come?

If Israel were to hope in God who made them and who promised great things for them through Abraham and Sarah, they could still go on without falling into the deepest despair.

This text would call us to look back to those who have preceded us in faith. Jesus himself was a "son of Abraham" and we can look to what hope Jesus gives to us in trying times.

I think of what our nation is going through with our economy and the high unemployment. Can we still have hope that better days are ahead? If we feel a touch of despair then we need to return to our faith. My sermon on Sunday will have us look at what it means look to the foundation of our faith in order to have hope for the future.

With Jesus' Blessing, We Can Make a Difference

2011-07-26T10:36:00.003-05:00

How often do we in the church feel that we have too little resources to accomplish anything? We don't have enough talented people, not enough space, or we don't have enough money. These limitations that we easily feel can sideline us from wanting to be involved in mission and doing the work of our Lord.

Our Gospel reading (Matthew 14:13-21) for this Sunday invites us to consider that with Jesus' blessing we can have all that we need to carry on his work. The Gospel presents us with the story of Jesus feeding the multitude. Where the disciples had only five loaves of bread and two fish, with Jesus' blessing, there was more than enough food for over 5,000 people!

We note in this account that Jesus had asked the disciples to feed the crowd. The disciples realized the little food they had, but with Jesus' blessing everything changed and there were baskets of bread that remained.

My sermon on Sunday will explore how Jesus desires to use us in doing his work and to see that what resources we have might be enough for what Jesus wants to accomplish through us. Will we seek to use what we have in Jesus' name? I invite you read and contemplate this story as you prepare for worship this Sunday.

Will You Settle for Less Than the Kingdom of Heaven?

2011-07-19T10:34:00.003-05:00

"The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up; then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field." Matthew 13:44

How valuable is the kingdom of heaven to you? Are there circumstances in your life that are demanding more attention and would appear to be of more value than the kingdom?

Jesus told a series of parables in this Sunday's Gospel reading (Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52) in order to illustrate the value and the power of the kingdom. If the kingdom of heaven is important to you, then you will be willing to give and do anything to possess it in your life!

In addition, he talked about the power of the kingdom in two of the parables, which focused on a mustard seed and yeast. Both have the power to grow and transform. That little mustard seed will grow many times over to produce a sizable tree.

We as disciples of our Lord need to be thinking of the value and power of God's kingdom in our own lives. I believe much of our inactivity comes from the fact that we don't believe in the explosive power of God's word. It can do mighty things! So, where and how does the kingdom of heaven play into your life?

Shall We Rip Out the Weeds?

2011-07-12T10:25:00.002-05:00

Anyone who has done any gardening knows that weeds are a fact of life. They seem to pop up regardless of what is planted. Surely, you wouldn't want to leave the weeds there since they could interfere with the growth of the good plants and who would want to look at such an unsightly garden if the weeds are left untouched?

You and I would be tempted to have the same reaction as the slaves in this Sunday's parable (Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43), who in seeing the planting of wheat in the field asked the householder about ripping out the weeds that seemed to have sprouted up without anyone noticing how quickly they appeared.

The householder replies that the slaves are not to touch the weeds; for in doing so, the good wheat might be uprooted along with the weeds. It's important to remember that in Palestine the wheat that was grown and the weeds that appeared looked similar as they both began to grow. It is at harvest time that the reapers can then make the division and burn the weeds.

We have to ask: What was Jesus' purpose in speaking this parable?

Jesus realized that there were those who were not accepting his message. Even in the church there would be people whose faith would be suspect. But who are we to judge? Can we always rightfully judge who is worthy and who is not worthy of the kingdom of God?

In my message on Sunday I will explore further the meaning of this parable for us as we look at the church and intermingle with all kinds of folks!

Making Yourself to be Good Soil for God's Word

2011-07-05T10:22:00.002-05:00

This Sunday's message will focus on the Parable of the Sower as presented in Mathew 13:1-9, 18-23. In fact, my preaching will continue with the parables for the next several weeks.

In this Sunday's Gospel we learn about a sower who sows seed on the ground and only a small portion really takes root to germinate. The unproductive seeds fall on a beaten path where birds grabbed the seeds, or fall on rocky ground not taking root, or fall among thorns and the thorns choked them.

When Jesus told this parable he wanted to convey that his word would not always be receptive by people. There would be folks who would be nonchalant in terms of their attitude toward the word and Satan would snatch away whatever they had received. It could be that for some folks they are immediately enthused about what they hear in God's word and then that enthusiasm wanes and they fall away. It could be that the cares of this life distract those who have heard the word and the word as the seed never really grows into full bloom.

However, Jesus did mention that there is the good soil where the word of God takes root and matures and is quite productive. Here Jesus calls us to examine what kind of soil we are when we hear the word of God. It doesn't take much to become distracted by the cares of this world! I believe we do have to work hard to allow God's word to take root in our lives so that we can live in obedience to God's word. How we do this is what I will present in my message.

Jesus told parables to call folks to action. By our hearing of this parable he calls you and me to become fully engaged in God's word so that it yields an abundant harvest in our lives.

Who Will Respond to the Gospel?

2011-06-28T10:55:00.006-05:00

We certainly might figure we have a big and difficult task before us in spreading the Gospel. Not everyone will be receptive to it. We might figure its appeal has lost its luster in a culture of much scientific knowledge.

Jesus recognized that many folks in his own generation did not respond to him or for that matter to the message of John the Baptist. Jesus compared his generation to "children sitting in the marketplaces and calling to one another, 'We played the flute for you, and you did not dance; we wailed, and you did not mourn.'" (Matthew 11:16-17) The people were unresponsive to either the joy of the message or the sadness it might bring.

Then Jesus went on to say, "I have hidden these things from the wise and the intelligent and have revealed them to infants." (Matthew 11:25) Through our own intellectual pride we can miss the simple message of the Gospel. In bringing this message to others, our task is not to argue with reason, but to let God do the work through the Holy Spirit as we present the name and work of Jesus to others. It comes as a gift from God.

For us as disciples, our task is to have a child-like faith that we can present to others and pray for God's blessings.

Giving and Receiving Welcome

2011-06-21T10:45:00.005-05:00

We see the welcome sign put out in many places: from signs we notice driving into villages to the welcome mat on the doorstep of many homes. Extending a welcome to others is at the heart of the Gospel. It is also to be at the heart of the Christian life.

We have the words of Jesus in addressing his disciples: "Whoever welcomes you welcomes me, and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me...and whoever gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones in the name of a disciple—truly I tell you, none of these will lose their reward. " (Matthew 10:40 - 42)

As the early disciples went from town to town in their mission work, they would know that as they were welcomed, it is as if the people in those towns were welcoming Jesus himself. Those disciples perhaps would also have the occasion to welcome other believers who were traveling and came into their presence.

I feel we also need to realize that there are many non-church folks who help churches and Christians in their work. I think of the Benefit Concerts held at Savior Divine where some of the musicians are not members of the church; and in fact, may not be Christian at all but have offered their services to help the congregation.

My sermon on Sunday will explore the dual focus of giving welcome to other Christians who come into our midst as well as what it is like to be on the receiving end!

The Trinity at Creation

2011-06-14T08:57:00.002-05:00

This coming Sunday is Trinity Sunday. It's a celebration in the church that refers to a doctrine as opposed to it being an event in the life of Jesus Christ. The early church spent much time formulating this doctrine and and had produced the Nicene and Apostles' Creeds, which we use for worship. We confess our faith in a Triune God.

Included in the Scripture lessons appointed for this Sunday is a reading from Genesis Chapter 1, dealing with creation. While we still try to figure out from a scientific viewpoint how the world was created and how it figures in with the account from Genesis, we will miss the point if we try to read Genesis 1 only from a scientific viewpoint. Foremost, the account is one of faith. The Israelites who had come to know God, were able to affirm that the God who had chosen them and led them out of Egypt, is the same God who made all things. The account reveals the power of God's spoken word and that God viewed the creation as "good."

My sermon on Sunday will focus on how this story of creation relates to all three persons of the Trinity - Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

The Spirit's Coming in Power

2011-06-07T10:16:00.005-05:00

This Sunday brings us to another time in which to celebrate the Spirit's coming on the festival day of Pentecost. Originally, it was an agricultural festival, but then became the occasion for the Spirit to appear as Jesus had promised.

We notice that there were 120 believers who were waiting and praying as Jesus had instructed them. Probably many thoughts were going through their minds regarding Jesus' promise of the Spirit.

When will the Spirit come?
How will it happen?
What will it mean for us?

The Spirit's coming came in no small measure by appearing with wind and fire and enabling those disciples to speak in different languages. What is remarkable here is what the Spirit enabled those disciples to do. We notice how at once they became witnesses to God's good deeds. Where they had been timid, they now became bold in proclaiming the work of God.

I wonder how much we believe in the power of the Spirit to work in us and for God to work through us? This thought I will explore in my message on Sunday! It will be a festive time with the red balloons in our sanctuary!

Your Vocational Well-being

2011-05-31T10:24:00.002-05:00

I come now the last segment in my sermon series on wellness that deals with your vocational wellness. It's easy to just think of the word "vocation" as referring only to one's career. When I was in high school, we had a certain track of courses that were for vocational training, where you would not go on to college.

Certainly, in the work you might do for a living, it is important to be doing something that will be challenging and meaningful for you. It's a place where you feel you can make a contribution.

I want to expand our meaning of vocation to think of the life that God has called us to lead. The apostle Paul wrote: "I therefore, the prisoner in the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of the calling to which you have been called..." Ephesians 4:1 This calling is one in which we are living the life that God desires of us wherever we might be.

Think about the various stations of life that you have as a family member, co-worker, member of a church, or community volunteer. How do you see yourself as living out the life that God is calling you? I will explore this question more in my message on Sunday.

Your Intellectual Well-being

2011-05-24T10:32:00.003-05:00

How much to you use your mind? How often do you find yourself in an active mode versus a passive mode with your mind?

The commentary on the Wholeness Wheel developed by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America states that "The mind is a terrible thing to waste."

Consider this passage from Scripture: "It is the glory of God to conceal things, but the glory of kings is to search things out." Proverbs 25:2 I believe that God delights in our discoveries of what has been created.

God has given each of us a mind that we might use it to his glory. The Greek word for "disciple" means "learner." You and I as disciples of our Lord are to be continual learners. To use our minds means that we use both hemispheres of the brain- left and right. It is the right hemisphere with creativity and imagination that we in the church need to capture more than ever. We need to use our minds to think about how we can be the light and salt of the earth. We need to think of how as a church we can create a compelling vision that will lead us into new territory.

My sermon on Sunday will explore developing our intellectual resources for God's glory.

Your Emotional Well-being

2011-05-17T10:59:00.002-05:00

This Sunday I am preaching on our emotional well-being and I am reminded that God had created us with the whole range of emotions. These emotions can range from anger to joy. I believe it is important that we own our own emotions and feeling. They signal something that is going on inside us. If we are angry or sad, then we need to own that feeling and ask ourselves what might be cause such emotions.

We also need to express our emotions appropriately. Paul wrote to the Ephesians, "Be angry but do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger." Ephesians 4: 26 For our well-being it is important to express ourselves, but also know our limits.

Jesus helps us to deal with our emotions so that we might be well. Consider that his disciples had gone through many kinds of emotions in their ministry with him. In our Gospel reading for this Sunday, we come to the time when Jesus is eating the Passover with his disciples just prior to his crucifixion. Jesus says to them, "Do not let your hearts be troubled. Believe in God, believe also in me." John 14:1

By believing in him, we can deal with our emotions in an appropriate manner.

This Sunday, I will enlarge on what our various emotions mean to us and how our faith helps us to handle them.

Your Financial Well-being

2011-05-10T09:08:00.003-05:00

I take up the third part of the Wholeness Wheel this Sunday by looking at our financial well-being. The Great Recession has resulted in high unemployment coupled with loss in investments as well as the value of one's home. So, how do we look at our financial picture?

I believe in order to be good stewards of our finances we need to know where our money is going each month. Are we living beyond our means? If we are, then we won't have money left over for church or for helping those in need.

God had given the tithe as the standard in the Old Testament - not that one's giving need only be 10 percent but that the tithe represents the "first fruits" of one's income. It's interesting that it is the "first fruits" and not the "last fruits." In other words, God doesn't want the leftovers.

I believe we need to analyze our lifestyle to make sure that we aren't overspending and have money to give to God (church) as well as to other causes. The call may be for you to examine your lifestyle and see how you fare financially.

My message on Sunday will have us look at the blessings that come when we have our spending under control!

Your Physical Well-being

2011-05-03T10:19:00.003-05:00

On this Mother's Day on Sunday we would remember the words of Psalm 139:

"For it was you who formed my inward parts;
you knit me together in my mother’s womb.
I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.
Wonderful are your works;
that I know very well. " vs.13-14

We thank God for the gift of life that has come from our mothers. It is also in recognition that we have been "fearfully and wonderfully made" by God's creative work. It is this body that God has given to each of us that we are to exercise care.

Caring for our physical well-being involves eating well nutritionally, getting a proper amount of exercise, handling stress well, and also getting ample sleep each night. Our lifestyle has much to contribute to our physical well-being. Living in a culture that is heavy on fast foods, being sleep-deprived, and being sedentary, we must work to do those things that will help us to stay in the best physical condition possible.

I believe that taking care of ourselves is a stewardship issue. When we take care of ourselves properly we can be in best service to live out our discipleship.

In my sermon on Sunday, I will focus on the various aspects that make up our physical well-being and also provide worshipers with a handout, which is a chart where you can monitor the things you do each day over a four week period for your health.

Your Social/Interpersonal Well-being

2011-04-26T10:41:00.007-05:00

The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America has had a concern for the well-being of its professional leaders. It is important for those serving to be in the best shape possible in being of service to our Lord. The church developed the wholeness wheel that would help church workers look at various facets of one's life. They include the following:

1. Social/Interpersonal
2. Physical
3. Financial
4. Emotional
5. Intellectual
6. Vocation

I believe that all of us as followers of Christ need to be concerned about our total well-being. It comes down to being a stewardship issue. The better shape we are in - the better we are able to live out our discipleship.

This Sunday I begin a six week sermon series on these various facets of our lives, by focusing on our social/interpersonal well-being. The Gospel reading from John 20:19-31 gives us some insight into this topic. The disciples are huddled together behind closed doors on that evening of Jesus' resurrection.

Why were they together? They could have easily fled and everyone gone off on his own. The fact that Jesus was crucified left them in a state of shock and despair. However, they decided to stay together because they found the support in one another. Their relationship with each other was significant on this day.

We must also examine our own network of relationships. Are they superficial? Do we have any deep and satisfying relationships that will help us to celebrate life's good times and also to support in difficult times?

The sermon on Sunday will focus on the importance of our relationships.

Christ the Victor

2011-04-19T10:25:00.002-05:00

Jesus' death on the cross on that Friday signified to many that his life had ended in a terrible tragedy. Jesus had gathered a small following and now it looked like his movement abruptly came to an end. He did not overtake the Romans and lead his people to victory. His life seemed like a failure.

Until.....

The Sunday morning following when the women went to the tomb and found it empty. The women also encountered the message of the angel: "Do not be afraid; I know that you are looking for Jesus who was crucified. He is not here; for he has been raised, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay." Matthew 28:5, 6

What momentous words to hear! This Jesus who was crucified has risen from the dead!

The message of Easter speaks clearly to us of Jesus being the victor. He has overcome death and the grave. Even the power of Satan would not hold him back.

The message ought to also resonate with us as death is all around us and even when we face difficult times in our lives. Can we rely on the power of a living Lord? My message on Sunday will focus on the power of Christ's resurrection.

The Passion Narrative

2011-04-12T10:46:00.004-05:00

This coming Sunday has been designated as Palm/Passion Sunday. My emphasis will be more on the Passion than on Jesus' riding into the Holy City. The Passion story from Matthew's Gospel will be read with seven readers from the congregation.

The Passion story forms about one-third of Matthew's Gospel (the same with Mark and Luke and about one-half of John's Gospel). Why so much attention to this time in Jesus' life? Could not more attention have been spent on recording the miracles and teachings of Jesus? I believe the evangelists devoted so much attention because this was tied in with his death and resurrection - the important events for our salvation. As we read through the trials we discover the interaction Jesus has with the Jewish and Roman authorities. These times were also part of us seeing Jesus' humanity to the fullest along with his suffering.

It is important for us to understand what Jesus all endured so that we can appreciate what Easter means to us. It's so tempting to want to skip from the Palm Sunday event to Easter Sunday. We must also take in what Jesus suffered in Holy Week.

I look forward to having us hear this story once again in our time of worship and hope that you will also take time to review the narrative for yourself.

When All Seems to Be Lost

2011-04-05T10:18:00.002-05:00

The housing market in our country has really gone for a nose dive. House prices last year for the most part still declined. One wonders: Will we ever get out of this slump? If so, what will it take for our homes to pick up value once again?

Maybe you have gone through some tragedy in your own life and wondered if there was still any hope for recovery?

The lesson for this Sunday from Ezekiel 37:1-14 brings us to the prophet Ezekiel having a vision of dry bones that then take on new life. Such was the condition for Israel that had suffered the fate of their city, Jerusalem, being captured by the Babylonians, the temple destroyed, and the people were taken into exile. Was there any hope amid this terrible devastation?

God seeks to bring a good word to Ezekiel. With the vision of dry bones that come to life, God is saying that the nation will be revived. However, it will be through God's power!

For us in our lives, we, too, need to look in faith to God's power to restore what has become lifeless and hopeless. My sermon on Sunday will help us to dig deeper into these moments in life and what our faith calls us to do.

"Live as Children of Light"

2011-03-29T09:12:00.003-06:00

"For once you were darkness, but now in the Lord you are light. Live as children of light." Ephesians 5:8

The apostle Paul is using the metaphor of light and darkness to explain how Christians are to live. Paul mentions here that once they were darkness. Note that he does not say that they are in darkness; rather darkness is a part of them.

We cannot escape our own sinful nature. It is something that is not passive but active. When Christ comes into a person's life, that person ought to live by the power of the light of Christ. The light of Christ ought to shed light on every aspect of one's living.

The Christian community, likewise, is to be a contrast community - not living in the ways of the world. It a call for all of us in the church to examine how we are living in the light of Christ and as Paul says in the next verse: "For the fruit of the light is found in all that is good and right and true." We in the church ought to be lifting up these qualities!

This season of Lent can be a time of reflecting on the darkness within your own life. You can let the light of Christ shine in you and bring renewal.

My sermon on Sunday will focus on how Jesus' light can transform us.

Is the Lord Among Us or Not?

2011-03-22T09:19:00.003-06:00

Is the Lord among us or not? Do we not find ourselves asking this question at times? It might be at a time of unemployment, dealing with a tragedy in the family, or for that matter at any time of hardship.

The reason for our questioning is that we find ourselves in the "wilderness." We are going through hard and difficult times. It seems like maybe the Lord has abandoned us.

This question became real for the Israelites after they had secured their freedom from Egypt and were wandering in the wilderness. They were finding themselves with insufficient water. They felt they were better off being back in slavery in Egypt. Yet, we discover that God provided water for them.

We can find ourselves in the wilderness from time to time and might ask this same question: "Is the Lord with me or not?" The question can also be asked by congregations that are going through difficult times.

My sermon on Sunday will help us examine our faith when we are in such times.

How Is Your Journey Going?

2011-03-15T09:20:00.002-06:00

I have had several opportunities to walk the labyrinth. In doing this meditative exercise to reflect on my spiritual journey, I noticed that it was non-linear. There are twists and turns that take place as you walk the labyrinth. The path that leads to the center could not easily be seen.

The First Reading for this Sunday has Abraham being called by God and sent on a journey. God says to him... "Go from your country and your kindred and your father's house to the land that I will show you." Genesis 12:1 Abraham was entering new territory, not knowing what was going to happen along the way.

Do you see yourself as being on a journey - one where God will lead you, although you will not know every step of the way? Are you open to God's leading that might take you to new places?

This Sunday, I explore in greater depth the journey that God is calling us to make in our lives.

Will You Take God Seriously?

2011-03-08T10:07:00.003-06:00

Has something ever captured your attention that you wanted more and more of it? Has it then led you to not give attention to other things that you normally do in your life - things that are necessary and important to you?

We all have to deal with temptation in our lives. When something looks very attractive, how often do we sit down and evaluate its worth for getting involved with it? Many times, I'm sure, we just act on impulse.

The story in Genesis 3 of the serpent tempting Eve brings us to the fact that she (and Adam) did not take God very seriously. They were given limitations in the garden, but that fell by the wayside when Satan entered the scene. The enticement came first on a theological level through the words of Satan and then through the senses.

I believe we also need to be on the lookout for what looks attractive and that can pull us away from God. Satan is willing to work overtime to lure us away from our Creator. The problem here is that it comes so innocently.

My sermon on Sunday will have us look at the impact of this story of the disobedience of Adam and Eve and how it continually plays out today even for us.

Beholding Jesus' Glory

2011-03-01T10:24:00.003-06:00

For many of the Sundays in this season of Epiphany, I have been looking at "epiphanies" that occur in Scripture where God shows up. This coming Sunday is the commemoration of Jesus being transfigured and represents the climax to this season.

I wonder how much we seek to behold the glory and splendor of Jesus?

Jesus revealed his glory to his inner circle of disciples - Peter, James, and John. They were privileged to catch a glimpse of Jesus' greatness. His whole being became transformed on that mountain.

Then, there was a voice from heaven, "This is my Son, the Beloved; with him I am well pleased; listen to him." (Matthew 17:5) There are many voices in our world that we might seek to follow. They might really command our attention. However, how willing are we to listen to what Jesus says to us? Do his words in Scripture still command our attention?

My sermon on Sunday will focus on this aspect of Jesus' authority in our lives. May your worship on Transfiguration Sunday be a blessing to you in beholding the greatness of Jesus Christ!

Proclaiming Your Faith"

2011-02-22T10:28:00.002-06:00

How many opportunities have you had to articulate your faith? Have they been few and far between? Would you be ready to speak of your faith on a moment's notice?

We read in 1 Peter 3:15 "Always be ready to make your defense to anyone who demands from you an account of the hope that is in you."

This coming Sunday I will have us look at what things we can consider that will help us articulate our faith. Here are some of the reference points:

1. What story in the Bible would summarize your experience?
2. How has Jesus made an impact on your life?
3. What hymn of the church do you really resonate with that would help you speak about your faith?
4. How has being a member of your congregation made a difference in your life?
5. What might be a 30 second witness that you could give of the Christian faith?

I think we all need to do some preparation. When the time comes to share our faith, we are ready. I will take the opportunity on Sunday to help prepare ourselves to be witnesses for our Lord.

The Battle of Jericho

2011-02-15T09:56:00.004-06:00

One of the most decisive battles that Israel was engaged in after entering the Promised Land was the takeover of the city of Jericho. The method of victory is what ought to be of note to us as this was a time in which God shows up to lead the people to victory.

The Israelites were instructed to march around the city once each day for six days and then on the seventh day to march around it seven times, to have the trumpets blow, and then the people were to shout. The people did as God instructed and the walls came tumbling down.

One might wonder: Why did Israel have to march around the city for seven days? Wouldn't one day have been sufficient? It seems like for the Israelites there was this "holy anticipation" of what God was going to do. God had said to the Israelites from the beginning that they would take the city. In those seven days, they are preparing themselves for what God was going to do.

Maybe there is something that we desire and need to be persistent in prayer. One day would not be enough. God might desire us to continue to pray in order that we realize its not by our strength but by the Lord's strength that deliverance comes.

What might be the Jericho in your life? Are you ready to be continually focused until God's deliverance comes?

Going Across to the Other Side

2011-02-04T11:41:00.004-06:00

This Sunday my sermon will build upon an evangelism workshop that I and others in the congregation attended. We will look at the story of Jesus crossing the Sea of Galilee and entering the territory of the Gerasenes (Mark 4 -5). A man possessed with a demon gets healed by Jesus and becomes a witness for the Lord in his hometown.

A couple of things stand out in this story.

1. Jesus directs his disciples to go with him to "the other side" of the lake.

How much might we want to just stay on the same side of town to do the Lord's work? Are we willing to go "to the other side" in order to reach folks who might be different from us. The challenge today is certainly multicultural, but also in dealing as much with people who are poorer than us or richer than us. I believe it's easy for a congregation to feel comfortable with a certain "population segment" in which to minister. Jesus, however, goes to the other side to confront folks who were different.

2. Jesus upon arriving on the other side heals a man possessed by a demon, who then becomes a witness for the Lord.

This man was deeply possessed by an evil power. Jesus expels the demon and then what is noteworthy is that the healed man wants to follow Jesus. Jesus, however, directs him to return to his hometown and declare what he has experienced! Maybe it is easy to want to just stay within the group of the church as opposed to going out to the farthest corners of our towns to do ministry. It calls us to be where people might be neglected or being a different ethnic group. Can we take up the challenge?

Gideon Demands a Sign

2011-02-01T08:12:00.003-06:00

I continue in my series on epiphanies with the story of Gideon who has to step up to the plate to deliver his people. The situation is that the Midianites have gained control of the Israelites. This takeover comes due the wickedness of Israel. Now, God will deliver Israel and Gideon, a farmer, is the appointed man in charge.

An angel comes to Gideon telling him about this news. God mentions to Gideon that he will be able to defeat the Midianites. Gideon objects because he is from the weakest clan.

Gideon demands a sign. God actually gives several signs - the one that we are probably most familiar is the fleece of wool on the ground that would have dew where the rest of the ground would not.

I think that we often demands signs to know if we are really called by God for a task and if we actually feel up to the job.

Gideon is a farmer and God acknowledges him as being a mighty warrior! What a transformation that takes place in what God calls him to do.

The task might seem overwhelming for us in what God calls us to do. However, with his power we can do the service that has been laid upon us. My message on Sunday will focus on letting God's power work in our lives when we are called for a task.

Surviving a Fiery Furnace

2011-01-25T10:32:00.003-06:00

We never know when our faith will get tested. We might be called to do things that go contrary to our faith. We might even end up doing something that denies the very God we believe.

My sermon on Sunday will focus on the three men, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, whose faith gets tested. Their story is recorded in Daniel 3. The Jews are in exile in Babylon and King Nebuchadnezzar demands everyone to worship a huge statue that has been made of him. The three Jews have a job under the king, but refuse to bow down to this statue.

Because of their refusal, the king orders them to be thrown into a fiery furnace. It is heated to be seven times hotter. Amazingly, while in this furnace, the three men are not burned; and then miraculously a fourth person (angel) appears. Amid their faithfulness, God shows up in the presence of an angel.

After the king notices what has taken place, he then promotes Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego to new positions. The change that takes place here is because of their faithfulness. My sermon on Sunday will explore what our integrity means when our faith is tested.

Elijah vs. the Prophets of Baal

2011-01-18T10:17:00.003-06:00

Are there not times when you might feel: What can I accomplish for the kingdom of God? I am only one person. Maybe it is that God can make the difference. This brings me to the story of Elijah and the prophets of Baal.

The prophet Elijah in coming face to face with the prophets of Baal is all about power (1 Kings 18). Who is stronger - Elijah's God or Baal? Baal was known as the storm god for the Canaanites.

Elijah as one individual confronts the 450 prophets of Baal on Mt. Carmel. He and the prophets of Baal are to call upon their own "god" to see who can produce fire on a sacrifice. The prophets of Baal pray for hours on end, but nothing happens. Elijah ups the ante by pouring water on the sacrifice and calls upon God to produce fire. Fire comes!

It's easy for us as Christians to think that we are outnumbered at times. It's also easy for us to think that God is unable to do for what we pray.

How big is your God? Big enough to accomplish for what you ask?

I think we need to believe that all things are possible with God. When we pray we never know when or how our prayer might be answered!

I will explore our concept of God in my sermon this Sunday.

A Burning Bush

2011-01-11T10:22:00.003-06:00

This Sunday I begin my sermon series on "Epiphanies - Signs of God's Presence." I will have us look at times when God shows up, sometimes in some rather dramatic ways in order to be revealed.

This Sunday I focus on Moses experiencing God at the burning bush. (Exodus 3). Moses is out tending sheep and suddenly notices a bush that is on fire, yet the bush is not being consumed by the fire.

It becomes the occasion when God is revealed to him in the words, "I am who I am." That is the meaning of the divine name, Yahweh. While it reveals a name for God, as you can tell, it also conceals. The revelation would continue in Jesus' coming as we notice the many "I am" sayings in John's Gospel.

What we notice about this burning bush story is that God can appear at any place and at any time. Have you ever stopped to think about the burning bushes in your own life? How might have you felt God's presence?

With this experience, Moses also received his marching orders. He was to lead the people of Israel out of their bondage in Egypt. You and I never know when we might experience God's call to help in doing God's work in our world.

On Sunday, I will delve further into the meaning of this story of Moses for our lives.

Being the Beloved: Baptismal Identity

2011-01-04T10:20:00.003-06:00

This coming Sunday is the celebration of Jesus' baptism that brings us squarely into the season of Epiphany. I wonder how many of us think back to our own baptism. Maybe it is that many of us were baptized as infants and may not think back to it all that much.

Baptism is what gives us an identity. We have been brought into God's family. It was purely an act of God to take us back into the fold considering what sin had done. We received the forgiveness of sins. The Holy Spirit began work in us.

I focus this Sunday on the words that Jesus hears at the time of his baptism. "This is my Son, the Beloved, with whom I am well pleased." Matthew 3:17 Jesus receives affirmation of his relationship to his heavenly Father. This act of baptism launches him into his public ministry.

In our baptism we ought to have this same feeling of being loved by God. We have the words in 1 John "In this is love, not that we loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the atoning sacrifice for our sins." God had first loved us. We are special. We are of infinite worth before God.

In a world where there is much that can lead us to develop negative feelings about ourselves, we must remember that we have been chosen by God. Let those words ring out in your life: You have been baptized!!

Reflections on Christmas

2010-12-21T08:57:00.004-06:00

The Christmas story comes as one that is filled with peace and conflict. Mary and Joseph must travel to Bethlehem in order to comply with the census. They make the long journey and discover that once they reach their destination, there is "no room at the inn." It is in the quiet of the night that the Savior of the world is born.

Shepherds would make the journey and magi from the East would come bearing gifts. They would come to admire this child - and behold this stupendous working of God!

Then, Joseph is warned in a dream, to flee to Egypt in order to escape the wrath of Herod. The Holy Family must leave for safety. Herod the Great realizes that the King of the Jews is born; he feels threatened and decides to kill all children in Bethlehem two years and younger.

This story shows us God's providential care in time of danger. Nothing - not even the evil workings of Herod the Great - would destroy the plans of God to have Jesus live on this earth.

What contrast we experience in this story as the angels sang words of peace at Jesus birth, only to realize that Jesus later must flee for his life.

Let us come to worship this one who has been born King of the Jews and our Savior!

Tree Decorating & Praise Dancers

2010-12-14T10:25:00.004-06:00

This coming Sunday the Christmas Tree will be decorated during the time of worship. Worshipers will be placing chrismons on the tree. A chrismon is a symbol representing an aspect of the life of Christ. The explanation of the symbol will be read as the chrismon is placed on the tree. Actually, the whole liturgical year revolves around the life of Jesus.

The color "green" on the tree signifies everlasting life. We would remember that Jesus came to bring us everlasting life.

We also will be having the Praise Dancers from St. Paul Lutheran School in Chicago. Dancing is a way of glorifying God through movement of the body.

I look forward to this time of celebration in getting ready for Christmas Eve!

John the Baptist

2010-12-07T10:23:00.002-06:00

This Sunday we turn our attention to the person of John the Baptist. His mother, Elizabeth, and Mary, the mother of our Lord, were related in some fashion. The word used in some translations is "kinswoman" in referring to Elizabeth. This relationship would have John connected to the family tree of Jesus.

We now have John coming on the scene to prepare folks for Jesus' public ministry. John is one who calls people to repentance. They need to repent in order to receive the good news of Jesus into their lives.

Our Gospel Reading for Sunday has John in prison. He now wonders if Jesus is the Messiah. So, John sends his followers to inquire of Jesus if he is the one promised long ago to come. Jesus tells John's disciples to notice what is taking place - healings come about, the dead are raised, and the poor have good news preached to them.

Notice, not a direct answer from Jesus, but we discover Jesus telling John to pay attention to what is happening in the world! The signs of the Messiah's presence are there.

Sometimes, we, took, can harbor doubts about Jesus as being the one whom God has sent. This Jesus of Nazareth might not meet our expectations. But then, maybe we need to look around at what good is being done by God's people, by the church. Jesus' disciples are his hands and feet to do his ministry. What do you see?

Prophecy of a King to Come

2010-11-30T10:47:00.004-06:00

This coming Sunday I continue in my sermon series on "Jesus' Family Tree." I will use as my text the appointed Old Testament lesson from Isaiah 11. We have the words: "A shoot shall come out from the stump of Jesse, and a branch shall grow out of his roots." Is. 11:1

Jesse was the father of King David. It is in this lineage that the promised Messiah was to come.

Many of the kings of Israel did not do their job very well and often incurred God's displeasure. However, a new king was to come who would be different. Isaiah is still trying to keep hope alive for the people of Israel, some 400 years after kingship began for the people of Israel.

Isaiah states further that this king shall not judge by what his eyes see, or decide by what his ears hear; but with righteousness will judge the poor, and decide with equity for the meek of the earth. (verses 3 & 4).

In our world we long for someone who has compassion upon people and judges differently from human standards. Jesus fits this description. The Beatitudes ring out with this truth.

His kingly rule can also influence our lives. Jesus is one whom we can look to as one who will understand us - no matter what.

The Genealogy of Jesus

2010-11-23T09:15:00.003-06:00

I begin my Advent series on "Jesus' Family Tree" Here's my intro.....

Who Are You?

2010-11-16T10:45:00.003-06:00

This Sunday I continue my sermon series on Identity Theft by focusing on our own individual identity with our gifts.

There are many things that might shape our identity: from the school from which we graduated; from the musical group we listen to; from our favorite radio station, or from the type of car we drive. These things alone might shape our identity.

However, I believes what trumps all of these things is the identity that God has bestowed on us. We are children of God. God has laid a claim on us by redeeming us in Jesus Christ. If we have been baptized, we have been marked with the cross of Christ - forever. We are part of a gifted community.

The task for us also is to recognize our uniqueness. We were not created to be a carbon copy of someone else. We also need to utilize our God-given talents to the fullest. I noted on a visit to an exhibit about Leonarda da Vinci during my vacation in Washington, D.C. how many different hats he wore. He was an inventor, painter, architect. The amazing thing is that he was able to bring out the many talents he had. Just take a look at how he is described in Wikipedia.

As the apostle Paul was writing to Timothy, he wrote that Timothy should rekindle the gift he had received. 2 Timothy 1:6. Maybe it's time for you to rekindle whatever lies dormant within you.

This Sunday I explore living out our identity in God and Jesus Christ.

What is special or remarkable about you? You can be a blessing to others by how you live out your life!

Who Owns Your Money?

2010-11-08T16:09:00.003-06:00

I begin my stewardship series this Sunday. This video highlights my message .

Blessedness for Saints

2010-11-02T09:19:00.002-06:00

Throughout the year one finds specific saints days for observance, but on this coming Sunday we celebrate All Saints Sunday. We recognize all those who have died in the Lord as well as the faithful living today.

My focus on Sunday will be on the Beatitudes that come to us in Luke 6:20-31. Here Jesus speaks of blessedness for those who are poor, those who are hungry, those who are in sorrow, and those who suffer from persecution. We need to remember the audience for these words. It was the lonely, the sick, the outcast; in other words those who were the least in society. Here Jesus is now saying that they are blessed!

These words help to put in perspective that we recognize our blessedness even in our brokenness. We may not feel that we are much before God if we are poor or have experienced much tragedy in life. Here, Jesus is saying that even in the worst of times, we can consider ourselves blessed.

This blessedness comes only because of the one who is speaking these words. Jesus himself endured poverty, loneliness, forsakenness, and sorrow. He gave his life for you and me so that we would become empowered to realize that we mean much to him.

Jesus also mentions that we are to rejoice since our reward is in heaven! Yes, we need to take the long view!

How do you see yourself as a saint? Do you see yourself as insignificant or do you see yourself as being of infinite worth before God?

God Is Our Refuge and Strength

2010-10-26T10:26:00.004-05:00

Have you ever felt like your world is coming apart? One thing goes wrong after another. You never expected such upheaval and such chaos in your life? Where do you turn for help and support?

This is the question I will be addressing in my sermon on Sunday as I look at Psalm 46, which says, "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear, though the earth should change, though the mountains shake in the heart of the sea; though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble with its tumult." Ps. 46:1-3

When the world seems to be caving in on us, we learn that we can find our help in God. The very one who made heaven and Earth, is one we can trust amid life's tumultuous events.

It is this psalm that inspired Martin Luther to write the hymn, "A Mighty Fortress Is Our God." Luther himself experienced tumultuous times in his life and knew that his strength was in God.

I hope you will have a blessed Reformation Day celebration!

Relationship Building - One Encounter at a Time

2010-10-19T10:40:00.003-05:00

Evangelism in the past has emphasized mailings to new residents, putting doorknob cards on homes, and sending publicity to newspapers. While these might be good in making the church more visible, there is nothing that compares to personal contact that is made with someone who is unchurched.

This Sunday, I will be exploring the impact that we can make with others with whom we come into contact. We never know what divine appointment God might have in mind for you and me. I believe it that as we take a personal interest in others, it is then that we begin to see another's pain or search for meaning. It is here that we can begin to move them toward spiritual conversation.

The apostle Paul wrote that we are "the aroma of Christ." (2 Corinthians 2:15-17) What kind of fragrance do we give off to those with whom we meet? Can others "sense" something special in us as Christians that is different from the world?

As disciples of our Lord we are encouraged to build relationships with others so that we might draw them closer to Jesus Christ.

How much do you associate with those who are unchurched? Whom do you know that you might want to get to know better and make Christ known to them?

Opening Our Eyes to God's Work in the World

2010-10-12T10:29:00.003-05:00

How much do we see God at work in our world? I think that this is an important question for those of us who are followers of Jesus Christ. Are we keenly aware of what is happening around us to notice and discern the meaning of what is taking place? This observing is important because it enables us to tap into what God is doing.

We would notice that when it came to people in Jesus' day, they did not easily recognize him. On the day of the resurrection, Mary Magdalene saw a man whom she at first thought was the gardener - not Jesus. Later, when Jesus was on the sea shore and the disciples were out fishing, the disciples at first did not recognize Jesus for who he was.

How discerning are we in recognizing Jesus at work in our world today?

In terms of discipleship and witnessing, it is important to see how the Spirit might be active in a person's life - especially someone who is unchurched. Maybe a strange turn of events has taken place where someone you know is searching for meaning. Can you help him or her along to begin thinking about God at work in their life?

On the cross, there was plaque with an inscription that Jesus was the "King of the Jews." How many people really saw him as "king?"

I invite you to observe where God might be working around you and in the people who cross your path. Might you be able to help them to see that God is active in their life?

"A Hole in the Roof: Developing an Innovative Mindset for Discipleship"

2010-10-05T10:31:00.004-05:00

This Sunday I want to focus on innovation for discipleship; specifically, how we can bring people to Jesus.

I use as the basis of my message the story of four individuals bringing their friend , who is paralyzed, to Jesus as recorded in Mark 2:1-11. Jesus is at his home in Capernaum with a crowd of people who have gathered. The four men are carrying their friend on a mat, but discover that because of the crowd they can't get anywhere near Jesus. For them to do so, it took a little ingenuity. The four men look and discover a stairway leading up to the roof. That might be the way to get their friend to Jesus. They climb to the top of the house and dig a hole, whereby they let down their friend to Jesus' presence through the roof.

Jesus heals this man and also pronounces words of forgiveness.

What's magical about this story is what the four men had to do to get their friend to Jesus. They had to be innovative. I wonder for us in our lives how much we are willing to be innovative in order to bring people to Jesus. It might be a special way of framing an invitation. It might mean a special way of relating to people outside the church. How can we use our creativity to bring someone to experience the good news of Jesus Christ?

This man received healing - physical and spiritual. No doubt, Jesus also touched this man in an emotional way. There will be an opportunity in worship on Sunday to receive the individual prayer for the healing of body, mind, and spirit. We would remember the holistic nature of Jesus' ministry.

Have you ever been "paralyzed" i.e. stuck in some way in your life where you needed a power above yourself? How might you begin to think of creative ways to bring someone to Jesus.?

Being the Church Everywhere - 24/7

2010-09-28T11:24:00.005-05:00

This Sunday Savior Divine celebrates 70 years of ministry. The photo shows the start of the congregation back in 1940. It got its start in a building that was constructed as a tavern. It was transformed to be a church. The congregation has worshiped in several different buildings since that time.

I'm reminded of the word of the apostle Paul to the Athenians in speaking about God: "From one ancestor he made all nations to inhabit the whole earth, and he allotted the times of their existence and the boundaries of the places where they would live, so that they would search for God and perhaps grope for him and find him—though indeed he is not far from each one of us." Acts 17:26 Every anniversary is an opportunity to be reminded that God has placed us in a special place and time to do the work of ministry.

This year alone Savior Divine has instituted bus transportation, established a Turnaround Team, finished the last segment of the daycare from Moraine Valley Community College, and had Life Line Screening come to our facility.

One thing I noticed in preparation for Sunday is that the congregation has gone through a variety of changes from its inception back in 1940, which includes several name changes, meeting in different buildings, making the adjustment to different pastors and members. The reality is that change is a constant for congregational life.

The challenge for us now is what change(s) might we need to make in order to help bring the church to others in today's world. Or how can we can we communicate the good news to people around us?

I welcome this time of celebration in that we not only look back in time but also think about a new chapter for the congregation.

Praising God in Song

2010-09-19T13:32:00.003-05:00

Music has been God’s gift to us and certainly has been used abundantly in worship.

I’m reminded of the words from the apostle Paul, “¹⁶Let the word of Christ^* dwell in you richly; teach and admonish one another in all wisdom; and with gratitude in your hearts sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs to God.^* ¹⁷And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” Colossians 3

A strong tradition of hymnody exists to help worshipers give their praise and thanks to God. From singing parts of the liturgy to singing hymns, the people of God with one voice are lifting up their hearts to God.

This Sunday will be an opportunity to delve richly into the heritage of hymns that the church has.

To Be a Blessing to Others

2010-09-14T10:43:00.002-05:00

I continue this Sunday in my Discipleship 2.0 series by focusing on blessing. We read in Genesis 12: 1-3

"Now the Lord said to Abram, ‘Go from your country and your kindred and your father’s house to the land that I will show you. I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you, and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and the one who curses you I will curse; and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.’ NRSV

Abraham had received God's favor. After all the cycle of sin and judgment in the previous years, we come now to what God will do through one individual and his offspring. Note here that blessing through Abraham will come to all the families of the earth. This is where you and I come into the picture.

As God has blessed us with many spiritual and temporal blessings, we are to be a blessing to others. Have you ever received a blessing from anyone? Maybe it was in the form of a gift, or wisdom and guidance, or just a general word of praise encouraging you to move in a certain direction. Maybe someone fervently had prayed for you and that prayer was answered.

The task for us in our discipleship to explore ways in which we can be a blessing to others. My sermon on Sunday will delve deeper into this subject.

Have you received a blessing from someone recently that you can identify? Can you think of ways in which you can be a blessing to others?

Let Jesus Be Manifest in You

2010-09-07T10:51:00.004-05:00

There have been many religious leaders who have had numerous followers as we think about various world religions. The teachings of these leaders may have become very attractive. However, there is one thing that separates Christianity from the rest of the religions. With Jesus, we have a personal relationship with him - even after his death.

Approximately 200 times the New Testament mentions that we are "in Christ." He dwells in the life of each believer. We have a living relationship with him.

With Jesus dwelling in us, we are, therefore, to be conformed to his image. The apostle Paul wrote: "And all of us, with unveiled faces, seeing the glory of the Lord as though reflected in a mirror, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another; for this comes from the Lord, the Spirit. " 2 Corinthians 3:18

There is supposed to be something happening in us, where our lives are influenced by the living Jesus. Think of your own life, is there a continual transformation that is taking place?

We are to let Jesus be manifest in us through our words and deeds. There ought to be something extraordinary that people see in us because of this indwelling of our Lord. I'm afraid that too much today, there is little difference between the follower of Christ and the one who doesn't know him.

Our goal for discipleship is to be conformed more and more to his image. We need to work on it on a daily basis. We become his witness to the world.

How is Jesus being manifest in your life? Anything that is distinctive with you? Are you, as the apostle Paul wrote, "a living epistle" for others to read?

Count the Cost

2010-08-31T10:34:00.003-05:00

"For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not first sit down and estimate the cost, to see whether he has enough to complete it?" Luke 14:28

There are some building projects - some very ambitious - that get started and never come to completion, or struggle financially to finish.

There might be projects that we undertake, where we have not seriously thought out what it will cost. Jesus alerts us in Sunday's Gospel (Luke 14:25-33) that we are to count the cost. If you are going on a vacation, for instance, you must factor in all the expenses that will occur; otherwise, you will find yourself running short.

Jesus wanted anyone who was going to follow him to count the cost and realize what it would involve. Is there the willingness to make the necessary sacrifices?

Jesus points his disciples-to-be to look at three areas of their lives:
1. How much do they love family in relation to him?
2. How much do they love their possessions in relation to him?
3. How much are they willing to "carry the cross."

Our Lord is indicating that our priority must be with him. Oftentimes, we want the best of both worlds. This type of living leads to a compromise of our discipleship. Jesus told us that we are to be in the world, but not of the world.

My sermon this Sunday will be the kickoff for a series entitles "Discipleship 2.0" It will have us look at what how we can become more engaged in really living as disciples for our Lord.

How would you rate yourself in terms of how you are doing in being a discipleship for Jesus? What areas might you need to devote some work?

Welcoming the Stranger: An Act of Biblical Hospitality

2010-08-24T10:51:00.002-05:00

As our society has become more impersonal, we have a greater challenge in showing hospitality to others. Probably today more than ever, we live with fear of the stranger. We don't know how others will react to us.

My sermon on Sunday will explore how the Bible directs us to a welcoming stance with the stranger. The text is "Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it." Hebrews 13:2

Hospitality is not only about giving, but also about receiving. Consider the three visitors who came to Abraham's tent (Genesis 18). They were welcomed with food by Abraham and Sarah. Abraham and his wife, in turn, received a blessing in being informed that Sarah would have a child.

It's easy for us to think of hospitality in terms of offering a few refreshments to guests. We need to think beyond that to creating the space to allow the stranger to share the gifts he or she has. They could be a blessing to us. Every encounter with the stranger has the potential for receiving a blessing.

God's hospitality was shown to us in Jesus Christ. We have been welcomed as strangers into the kingdom of God by Jesus' life, death, and resurrection. We can ever be grateful for God being hospitable to us.

In what ways from your experience has the church shown hospitality to the stranger? How can the church more effectively "welcome the stranger?"

To Have a Place to Call Home

2010-08-17T10:34:00.002-05:00

We've grown accustomed to this world. We have built houses, acquired possessions, and traveled to many places. We live by what can see and touch.

Now, how much do we stake our lives on these things?

The writer to the Hebrews wanted his readers to place their ultimate trust in what cannot be seen. "But you have come to Mount Zion and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to innumerable angels in festal gathering, and to the assembly..." Hebrews 12:22 The audience for the author were Jews converted to Christianity who were in danger of reverting back to their Jewish faith. The author was convincing these individuals that what they have in their faith in Christ is priceless. Jesus is the mediator of a new covenant that is not based on fear, but on grace.

How often are we wrapped up in the things of this life - so much that we place all of our trust in what we have here on this Earth.

By our faith we now have our true home in the heavenly Jerusalem. It is the place for peace and security amid the turbulence of this life.

My sermon on Sunday based on Hebrews 12:19-29 will explore keeping our focus on our heavenly home.

Our Words versus God's Words

2010-08-10T10:35:00.002-05:00

Whose word can you believe? Sometimes we do hear an argument from various angles, and we don't know who might be speaking the truth. In some important matters , it seems as if almost everyone has an opinion. There are people who feel that they have the ability to predict what is to come - almost as if they have inside knowledge. We must be those who are willing to receive such words with caution. Are these words human opinions or do they reflect the truth of Scripture?

Jeremiah, the prophet, had to deal with words that came from false prophets. The difference between God's word and these human words was like the difference between wheat from chaff. We have Jeremiah recording God's word: "Let the prophet who has a dream tell his dream, but let the one who has my word speak it faithfully. For what has straw to do with grain?" declares the LORD. "Is not my word like fire," declares the LORD, "and like a hammer that breaks a rock in pieces?" Jeremiah 23:28-29

God's word is powerful. It can be a hopeful word, a judgmental word, or a refining word. We must be aware of the various voices that come our way; above all, holding to the word of God.

How have you felt the power of God's word in your own life?

How Well Can You Bargain?

2010-07-20T10:07:00.003-05:00

Do you like to bargain? I know that some folks are good at it and enjoy doing it. Others, like me, wish they would never have to be involved in such negotiations. Anyone who has purchased a home or bought a car, knows that the door is open to bargain. In the case of a home or car you want the best deal possible, where you are spending the least amount of money. You are looking out for yourself.

The Old Testament reading for this Sunday is about Abraham bargaining with God. In this case Abraham's dealings were not for himself but for the residents of Sodom. God had mentioned to Abraham that the city of Sodom would be destroyed because of the wickedness of the people. Abraham had somewhat of a vested interest since his nephew Lot and his family lived there.

Abraham, however, is concerned that the whole city would be spared. So he asks God: If only 50 righteous are there, could the city be spared? God agrees to save the city. More negotiating occurs and eventually Abraham gets God down to 10 righteous, where the city would be spared.

As this story ends, Lot and his family are removed before destruction comes.

We might cherish bargaining with God: "God, if you do this....then I will...." In other words, it's not just asking for something to happen as an answer to prayer, but the willingness to make some commitment - perhaps to sweeten the deal with God! Maybe you are desperate to be healed and are willing to bargain.

We can be thankful that Jesus has enabled us in his name to approach God. Jesus even told a parable about the persistence of a going to a friend's house and being persistent in knocking until the request is granted. Here, we don't have to bargain, but rely on the mercy and grace of God.

Have you ever bargained with God? How did you feel about doing it?

What Is Most Important in Your Life?

2010-07-13T10:04:00.004-05:00

Distractions, distractions, distractions. Maybe you're like me and find it easy to become distracted by things occurring around you. Or you start one project and notice that something else needs attention. This secondary thing can then lead to a third project. It gets to the point where you feel you have lost your way and are in a reactive mode all the time.

The story in this Sunday's Gospel (Luke 10:38-42) warns us to be careful about distractions. Jesus is invited into the home of Martha and Mary. When Jesus arrives Martha is busy preparing a meal, but Mary occupies herself by sitting at Jesus' feet and listening to him. Martha resents her sister not helping with the meal and brings her complaint to Jesus. Jesus' reply is "Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things; there is need of only one thing."

Distractions can pull us away from spending time with Jesus. Notice that Martha's distraction was not anything bad per se; it is that she was not recognizing what is most important in her life!

I believe that we all have to examine our priorities in life. We do have to look at how much of our lives we are giving to being nourished by our Lord himself. Am I being fed by the 'bread of life' that can transform my living?

This story calls us to examine our own lives and "busyness" to make sure that we are doing the "one thing needful."

Who Is My Neighbor?

2010-07-06T10:14:00.004-05:00

This Sunday's message will focus on the parable of the Good Samaritan, heralded as one of the two greatest short stories ever written. It is a multifaceted story that can be approached in many dimensions.

While the lawyer in this story wanted to know the secret to eternal life and then eventually justify that he had done everything correctly, he is confronted with a powerful story - "A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho...."

We do face the challenge of helping others in the midst of desperate need. Should I get involved? What about my own safety? Do I have the time to help?

The story reveals for us the interruption that came from the Samaritan. He was willing to go out of his way to help this man who was left for being almost dead. He could have easily gone on his way only thinking to himself that he was lucky nothing like this had happened to him.

The same challenge is for us today to respond to those who need help. We must remember that Jesus is our Good Samaritan and decided to help us in our desperation by coming to this Earth and giving his life on the cross that would give us eternal life.

How would you rate your life in terms of helping others?

The Disciples' Work: Deployed and Debriefed

2010-06-29T08:56:00.004-05:00

We often think of the twelve disciples as carrying the whole load as Jesus started his ministry. However, as we read in our Gospel for this Sunday (Luke 10:1-11, 16-20) Jesus enlisted 70 others to do his work. The reason was that "the harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few."

The reality for us today is that we have a shortage of workers. Jesus still needs people who are willing to be "deployed" and do ministry outside the walls of the church building. The personal contact is what helps people to experience that the "kingdom of God has come near."

We notice what Jesus said to these workers about this deployment.

1. They were to go out two by two.
2. They would be sent out as lambs in the midst of wolves.
3. They were to say "peace to this house" upon visiting someone.
4. They were to carry no purse, no bag, no sandals.

After they came back from their mission, they had a time of "debriefing." They could discuss what had happened. They recognized even the power they had over demons!

We also need to have this same sense of mission to help bring the kingdom of God to others. We are the hands and feet of Jesus. The harvest is ready and the Lord needs us to be the laborers. How shall we be trained for the task? What should we do to help advance the kingdom of God?

An important question one gets from this text: Why do you think Jesus sent these workers out in pairs?

Christ Has Set Us Free!

2010-06-22T10:30:00.002-05:00

Everyone wants freedom. Everyone wants to believe that they are free to make their own decisions. It's a good thought, but this freedom can get us into trouble if we are not careful.

Being cautious with freedom was a concern for the apostle Paul as he wrote to the Galatians. "For you were called to freedom, brothers and sisters, only do not use your freedom as an opportunity or self-indulgence, but through love become slaves to one another." Galatians 5:13

Paul declared to the converts of his day that believing in Christ set you free from having to submit to Jewish laws in order to be a full-fledged Christian. Paul went one step further to say that believing in Christ for your salvation might be viewed as a license to sin.

It doesn't take much to believe that if I am saved by faith and God's grace, I can do whatever I so desire. In the end, I will be forgiven. So why not live it up now! This kind of thinking diminishes the grace of God. We are saved by God' s grace in order to be free to live for God. We are free to live under the Spirit's direction so that we exhibit the fruit of the Spirit. Our freedom and by the Spirit's guidance will enable us to live in "love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control." Galatians 5:22

Freedom is not a license for doing whatever you want. It is a license to live fully for Christ.

How might a sense of freedom be abused today? Do you feel that you are living in freedom for Christ?

My sermon on Sunday will focus on Galatians 5:1,13-25.

Being Bound, Then Healed

2010-06-14T11:13:00.003-05:00

Have you ever tried to free yourself from a bad habit? Were you able to do it or are you still struggling?

Sunday's Gospel Reading (Luke 8:26-39) presents us with the story of a man possessed by a legion of demons and was trapped. He was "beside" himself, entrapped to live among the dead.

Jesus approaches this man and has a confrontation with him. The evil power's name is 'legion.' It means literally, a contingent of 6,000 soldiers in the Roman army. In other words, this man was in total bondage. Recognizing the power of Jesus' presence, the demons then ask to leave the man and enter the swine. The swine upon receiving the demons, then rush headlong into the lake and were drowned.

For us, we need to be aware of evil thoughts and evil impulses and to know that Jesus can help us to be freed from them. We need to believe that we do not need to be kept captive to such demonic forces. It is Jesus' power that can heal us.

I note especially what happened next in this story. Jesus sent this man to his home commanding him to declare how much God has done! I believe we need also to testify to others when God has worked in our lives and brought about healing of any kind. We have a golden opportunity to witness to the Lord!

Is there anything that is holding you captive today? Are you willing to let Jesus enter into your life heal you and make you free? How much have you declared what God has done when you have overcome evil?

How Far Does Your Welcome Extend?

2010-06-08T08:53:00.004-05:00

Have you ever had a party where someone came to "crash" it? Someone whom you deemed an "undesirable?" If this happened, what was your response?

The Gospel reading for Sunday, June 13, is a story of a Pharisee asking Jesus over for dinner. During the course of that dinner a woman, who has a bad reputation and known here as a sinner, comes to crash the party. A couple of significant things take place that are noteworthy.

1. The Pharisee didn't extend a customary welcome to Jesus or to this woman.
2. Jesus allows this woman, who is a sinner, to wash his feet and kiss them and then anoint them.

The Pharisee couldn't understand how Jesus would allow such a woman to touch him. Jesus' reply to him comes by telling him a story - a parable. It is about two people who have debts. One owes ten times what the other owes. Both debtors are forgiven their debts. Who has more appreciation?

Each of us needs to examine our own lives. Do you identify more with the Pharisee or more with the woman.? Do you find yourself more critical of others or do you see more your own shortcomings? If it is with the latter, then you will be focused on Jesus. By knowing how much you are forgiven, you will be accepting of others and also will be more drawn to Jesus!

Compassion Changed Everything

2010-06-01T09:53:00.002-05:00

There is probably nothing that brings more sorrow and is more devastating than the loss of a loved one. There is a certain finality to death.

However, the story in this Sunday's Gospel brings us to Jesus bringing back someone from the dead. He is going through the city of Nain and comes upon a funeral procession taking place. A widow's only son was being buried. We read that when Jesus saw the widow, "he had compassion for her and said to her, 'Do not weep.'" (Luke 7:13) He then touched the bier and the boy came alive.

We would note that Jesus had compassion. This feeling tells us of the motive for Jesus bringing the widow's son back to life. Jesus' heart was beating for her in her plight. Maybe she was dependent upon her son for her survival.

Jesus' compassion also gives a glimpse into his very heart, which also mirrors the heart of God. There might be circumstances that you have gone through where you didn't know if someone really cared about your or whether you would even survive. You can know that Jesus' heart is beating for you.

The story in itself also foreshadows the resurrection at the end of time. We also will rise to new life when Jesus returns and to have glorified bodies. We can be thankful that Jesus has compassion on us!

Have you ever had a time when you had a tremendous loss and were wondering how you were going to survive? Did you realize that Jesus was thinking of you?

Blessings from the Trinity

2010-05-25T10:19:00.003-05:00

This Sunday is another festival day in the church - Trinity Sunday. It commemorates what we have know as a doctrine of the church. Although the word "trinity" is not in the Bible, it is a doctrine that we derive from looking at Scripture as a whole. All three persons of the Trinity act in concert. There are also verses that have Father, Son, and Holy Spirit mentioned together.

I focus this Sunday on the Second Reading from Romans 5:1-5, which speaks about the peace we have with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. What a blessing this is! We only need to think of the hostility that was created between humanity and God when sin entered into the world. There is absolutely no way that we can pay back the debt that is owed to God.

God took the initiative the settle the score. However, it cost nothing less than God giving up Jesus for our sins. We now have peace with God. We don't have to lose sleep over whether or not we are going to be saved.

The other "blessings" come to us according to what the apostle Paul wrote are as follows:

1. Having access to the grace of God
2. Sharing in the glory of God
3. Having God's love poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit

The apostle Paul also wrote in the same context that even though we may suffer, suffering will lead to endurance, that produces character, that produces hope - and a hope that will not disappoint us.

Are you able to look beyond whatever suffering might come your way to the hope that God has provided for you?

The Spirit's Power on Pentecost

2010-05-18T10:28:00.004-05:00

Pentecost's liturgical color is red. It is the color of fire. Tongues of fire appeared on the heads of those disciples when the Spirit came upon them.

The Spirit's coming indicated the unpredictable nature of how God works as well as the power of God. The disciples had been in a praying mode after Jesus ascended into heaven. At the time of his ascension, Jesus had indicated that the Holy Spirit would come. Jesus' work would continue here on Earth with a new entity, with the very Spirit of God. However, those disciples did not know when this Spirit would come.

When the Spirit did come, it was with the rush of a mighty wind and with flames of fire. However, it wasn't just a display of these signs. The Spirit enabled those disciples to speak in other languages, where they talked about the good deeds of God. Those who were in Jerusalem for the festival of Pentecost were able to hear in their own language.

I think it's important for us to understand this aspect of what happened! Communication was being done in the language that the people could understand. You might say it was cross-cultural evangelism.

This communication is our task today. As we think of being cross-cultural, it might have to do with language or it might have to do with race. Cross-cultural might also include analyzing what people are attracted to in our popular culture and relating the Gospel to it. Our task is to find the "missional code" that will bring the good news in the context of the people we are trying to reach. My sermon on Sunday will explore this aspect regarding the event of Pentecost.

What stands out for you in this story? How might the church help to bridge the cultural gap?

I Am Coming Soon

2010-05-11T08:29:00.003-05:00

This Sunday, May 16, brings me to the end of my sermon series on Revelation. My focus will be on Chapter 22, the last chapter in the New Testament.

The chapter serves as an epilogue to the book with a warning about adding to or subtracting from the words written in the book.

Three times we have the words of Jesus: "I am coming soon." These words of our Lord signify to us that all history is centered around him. He is the alpha and the omega, the beginning and the end. We might wonder about that word 'soon.' The early Christians had the expectation of the imminent return of Jesus. However, we know today that 2,000 years have passed and Jesus has not returned.

In Jesus' reckoning of time, it is soon. We also have the words of Jesus in the Gospels that the Son of Man is coming at an unexpected hour. That is why we cannot try to calculate Jesus' return. Amid all of the predictions and amid all of the natural disasters that occur, the timing is still left to God.

I will provide a summary in my sermon about the book as a whole, emphasizing that we interpret it for its significance with first century Christianity. The book was intended to give hope to Christians undergoing persecution. For the rest of us, it gives us hope that all is not lost despite the world tragedies we might witness. Despite all the evil that occurs in the world, all will not be lost. All history is moving toward Jesus coming again and the new Jerusalem.

Do you find this book giving hope for you in your life today? What aspects of the book still trouble you?

The New Jerusalem: The Renewal of the Earth

2010-05-04T10:10:00.002-05:00

This coming Sunday my focus is on Revelation 21. After we have read about all the natural catastrophes with the bowls of wrath being poured out upon the earth, we finally come to where God will bring about the restored creation.

We have these opening words in the Chapter 21:

"Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth; for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. And I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. "

Here are some characteristics this new Jerusalem:

1. There is no sea
2. There is no temple
3. The glory of God is its light
4. All tears will be wiped away
5. No more death
6. The kings of the earth will bring their wealth into it.

We have a God who declares: "I make all things new." This is the type of God we have, who continues to love us and seeks to restore what has been lost. Many of the promises given to the seven churches earlier in this book are now confirmed by what God brings in this chapter!

For all of John's readers who are experiencing persecution, they can find solace in that God will provide a future for them.

While we have an emphasis on ecology and the "Green Revolution" today, God will go beyond what we can ever imagine. Even amid our own failure to care for the Earth, God will bring about a new creation.

Do you look forward to the new landscape that is to come? Do you have hope in the Architect of all creation that there will be a new day?

Evil Powers at Work

2010-04-27T10:20:00.004-05:00

I have selected Chapters 12 and 13 from Revelation to include in my sermon series. These chapters highlight the cosmic struggle that is going on as well as having us see the exotic imagery present in this book to communicate John's message to his readers.

The opening of Chapter 12 brings us to the dragon who wants to devour the woman's child when she gives birth. The child is born, but the child is taken up to heaven and the dragon is unable to do any harm. Then, the archangel, Michael, defeats the dragon. The dragon is identified as Satan. The child born is a reference to Jesus.

We know that Satan had confronted Jesus during his ministry; yet was unable to do any harm to the Son of God. A defeat was given to Satan by Jesus' death on the cross.

In Chapter 13, we get to the two beasts. First of all, the beast that rises out of the sea has seven heads and one of its heads seems to have a mortal wound and was healed. The reference here is probably to the Emperor Nero, who committed suicide and there was hope that he would return.

The second beast rises out of the earth and caused people to worship the first beast. It does great signs. It gives breath to the image of the first beast. Here we have the cult of emperor worship being espoused.

The two beasts have us be aware of the corrupting powers of our world today. In first century Rome, some of the emperors wanted to be worshiped as "god." Anyone or anything today that demands our allegiance, so that we would "worship" it, needs our attention.

Can you think of examples from our world and society today that would call upon our allegiance over and against God?

Loyalty Rewarded and Those Mysterious Numbers

2010-04-18T13:18:00.002-05:00

On Sunday, April 25, my focus will be on Chapter 7 of Revelation. In this chapter, John sees angels holding back the four winds of the Earth until the servants of God are marked with a seal on their foreheads. The number of those sealed is 144,000, which represents 12,000 sealed from each of the twelve tribes of Israel.

What do we make of this number 144,000? Only that many to be saved? Only that many to suffer martyrdom? The number is symbolic of the entire church. The interpretation comes from later in this chapter where John writes about beholding a great multitude which no one could number.

Those who are saved have washed their robes in the blood of the Lamb. They have been made white. These words have special meaning for those who have gone through the great tribulation (persecution for their faith). This chapter of Revelation says to us that our salvation is not by our efforts. It comes from Jesus' shedding his blood on the cross. He cleanses us from our sin so that we appear to be pure and righteous (white) before God in heaven.

We are invited to remember that our salvation belongs to the work of God. Even as Jesus has done all that is necessary, we are to respond with our praise to God.

We also note in this chapter that the Lamb will be the shepherd for this multitude and will guide them to springs of the water of life. On this Good Shepherd Sunday, we can be assured that we will be led by Jesus to such refreshing places as we enter eternal glory.

How do you respond to the fact that Jesus has done everything for your salvation?

Worshiping God

2010-04-12T19:06:00.003-05:00

I continue my sermon series on "Unraveling the Mystery of the Book of Revelation" by focusing on Chapters 4 & 5.

It is here that John in his vision enters a room where he beholds the throne of God. Around this throne are twenty-four thrones where the elders sit. There are also four living creatures in their midst which are like a lion, like an ox, like an eagle, and like a human being.

John notices that the one in the middle who is seated on the throne has in his right hand a scroll with seven seals. Then, an angels cries out: Who is worthy to open the seals on the scroll? John sees no one in all the universe worthy to do it. He weeps bitterly. One of the elders mentions that the Lamb is worthy. Jesus, the "lion from the tribe of Judah" is worthy to open the scroll.

What I like about this whole scene and what will be the focus of my message is the worship that is given to God and to Jesus. How different it will be in heaven. So much of our worship falls short of what now exists in heaven. Once we are in heaven, there will be no distractions except for us to give our utmost praise to our Creator and to the Jesus, the Lamb of God.

It makes us think of how much of our daily energy gets spent on worshiping God. Even in our Sunday worship, our minds can get distracted. In heaven we will want to worship God and Jesus for who they are and for what they have done. Why not try to make it as much as a reality as we can in this life! We are called to love God with all our heart, mind, soul, and strength.

How would you rate your own worship of God? Do you give much praise and thanksgiving to God?

Letters to the Seven Churches of Revelation

2010-04-05T10:46:00.002-05:00

Intro to Revelation from Marty Pauschke on Vimeo.

The Resurrection: Just as Jesus Had Said

2010-03-30T09:28:00.002-06:00

This coming Sunday we celebrate the event of the resurrection. We once again remember the power of God in bringing life out of death.

We go back to that Easter morning. The women come to the tomb to anoint the body. They discover that the stone is rolled away from the tomb and are perplexed. They then enter the tomb only to find two angels who question the women why they are looking for the living among the dead. They indicate to the women that they shouldn't have been that perplexed; after all, Jesus had mentioned to them that the Son of Man must be handed over to sinners, be crucified, and on the third day rise! The women then recall Jesus' words. That made all the difference!

Even when Peter is told about the empty tomb he, too, needs to run to the tomb to see if it is true.

How hard do we find it to really believe Jesus' words. To me, the resurrection is Jesus' promises par excellence coming to fruition. We need to asses whether we can believe that Jesus is going to hold true to all the promises in Scripture.

For you and me, it might be about living again after our death. It might be about Jesus' promise to answer prayer. It might be about the promise of bearing fruit if we remain in him.

Where do you stand in your level of belief in what Jesus has spoken? What can you do to bolster your doubts?

Have the Same MInd that Was in Jesus

2010-03-23T09:20:00.002-06:00

This Sunday we come to Palm/Passion Sunday. Amid all the celebration with the palm branches and singing of 'hosannas' we would remember that it really was a display of humility as Jesus rode into the holy city. He came as a king riding on a donkey. He knew he was entering the holy city to die.

The apostle Paul wrote in Philippians 2:5-8

Let the same mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus,
who, though he was in the form of God,
did not regard equality with God
as something to be exploited,
but emptied himself,
taking the form of a slave,
being born in human likeness.
And being found in human form,
he humbled himself
and became obedient to the point of death—
even death on a cross.

We note here that Jesus in becoming a man sought to humble himself and be in service to us. He did not wish to exploit the power or the glory that was rightfully his! His love for you and me was voluntary on his part, all so that we could be redeemed.

The apostle Paul is saying that we also need to have this "same mind." We are to act in humility by being willing to serve others. It might be hard not to let your ego get in the way. We are to let the mind of Christ control us in our dealings with others.

This humility also included his obedience to fulfill the mission of his heavenly Father. Jesus was willing to submit himself to the cross, even though he was one who knew no sin.

Can you think of important moments when you consciously acted in a way that showed your humility, where you could have gone the other way and exalted yourself?

Jesus Prayers for HIs Disciples

2010-03-16T09:20:00.002-06:00

We come now to the final part (John 17) of Jesus' Farewell Message at the Last Supper, and we find him praying. Praying had been his habit throughout his public ministry, so that we shouldn't find it strange that at this critical time in his life he offers up words of prayer. This section has been known as the "High Priestly Prayer" because Jesus is making intercession for those who believe in him.

Some of the main thoughts of what Jesus prays for are as follows:

1. He himself wanted to receive glory
2. That his followers would be protected from Satan
3. For his disciples to be where he is going
4. His followers would be kept safe by the power of God's name
5. His followers would be sanctified in truth.
6. His followers would be one.

What seems to stand out in this section is that Jesus is praying for the well-being of his disciples and that they would be one, having the same unity and closeness that he has with his heavenly Father.

We think today of the many different denominations and independent churches that are in existence. Can we transcend the many differences that exist to see what we have in common? Instead of being in competition, can we work together for a common cause of making known Jesus to all the world? Working within the framework of this oneness isn't always easy, but it is helpful I believe to remember that this is what Jesus prayed for in his farewell message.

What might be done to help foster a oneness among Jesus' followers? What can we celebrate that already exists?

Why It Is Good for Jesus to Leave

2010-03-09T10:20:00.002-06:00

This next section of the Farewell Message of Jesus in John 16 brings us to Jesus focusing more on the work of the Holy Spirit. Jesus must leave in order for the Spirit to come. The Spirit will be a continuation of the work of Jesus, by bringing his followers to a full understanding about him.

We might wonder if it wouldn't have been better for Jesus just to remain on this Earth after the resurrection? Wouldn't this be more beneficial for people to actually see the one in whom they place their faith? Jesus indicates that his followers will not be left on their own since the Spirit will guide them into all truth.

Jesus mentions about the Holy Spirit: "When he comes, he will prove the world wrong about sin, righteousness, and judgment: about sin, because they do not believe in me; about righteousness, because I am going to the Father and you will see me no longer; about judgment, because the ruler of this world has been condemned." John 16:8-11

The Holy Spirit will have a definite role to play after Jesus has left this Earth for his disciples and for the world.

The chapter brings to us a bittersweet message as it not only talks about the gladness believers in him will have but also mentions that they will be faced with persecution. I wonder what it was like for those disciples hearing this from Jesus and how they were processing it emotionally. Jesus comforts them by saying that their sadness will turn into gladness.

Do you rely on the Holy Spirit to help you grow in those things about Jesus with which you might be struggling?

Jesus the Vine - We the Branches

2010-03-02T10:27:00.002-06:00

I would think that every parent wants their children to have the best standard of living possible if not to exceed what their parents had. If the parents didn't attend college, the expectation and hope is that the children will graduate from college. Parents want their children to do well in life.

I find a similar feeling being expressed as Jesus addresses his disciples at the Last Supper. He wants them to be productive when he leaves them. Jesus said to them: "Very truly, I tell you, the one who believes in me will also do the works that I do and, in fact, will do greater works than these, because I am going to the Father. " John 14:12

Now, in John 15, which will be my focus for this Sunday, we have Jesus talking about his followers bearing much fruit. He uses the analogy of a vine. He says to them: "I am the true vine, and my Father is the vine-grower. He removes every branch in me that bears no fruit. Every branch that bears fruit he prunes to make it bear more fruit. "

Jesus wants us to help expand the kingdom of God. However, if we want to be fruitful we must abide in Jesus just as a branch is attached to the vine. The branch gets its sustenance from the vine; likewise, we get our nourishment and power from abiding in Jesus.

How many of our endeavors are undertaken without prayer? How many of our endeavors are undertaken without believing what Jesus can do through us? I believe we do need to have faith and to believe in what we can accomplish.

The analogy of the vine and branches with pruning makes us realize that even when we are successful, God is still going to refine us so that we can bear even more fruit. We can't do the work of God just by ourselves. We must have Jesus as our partner in what we do.

What is your relationship to Jesus? Do you see him as a friend who can help you along as you seek to live as his follower?

Jesus Is the Way to the Father

2010-02-23T10:43:00.003-06:00

I continue in my sermon series this Sunday with Chapter 14 in John's Gospel. Jesus is seeking to comfort his disciples, knowing that he was going to be leaving them. He knows that there is a measure of sorrow in their hearts over his departure.

In order to reassure them, he says to them: "Do not let your hearts be troubled. Believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house there are many dwelling-places. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you?" John 14:1

He might be leaving them, but it is for the purpose of making preparations for their heavenly home. It may be just as hard for us to live without Jesus' physical presence; yet, Jesus is preparing the way for our home in heaven.

Jesus makes a rather direct statement to them when he says, "I am the way, the truth, and the life." John 14:6 He is the way for us to come unto God the Father. Jesus is the one who embodied the truth of God by his existence and his teachings. Jesus is the 'life' because of the kind of life he brings to the world. He came for us to have even the abundant life here on this Earth.

In this chapter Jesus also shows his close connection to his heavenly Father. It is in response to a question by Philip regarding Jesus showing them the Father. Jesus replies: "Whoever has seen me has seen the Father."

Jesus is the revelation of God. We learn about God through the person of Jesus. There is no need for anything spectacular to happen for Philip. Jesus' presence is enough to show him God.

The legacy Jesus gives here in addition to their heavenly home is that those disciples (and us) are empowered to do greater works.

Have you ever thought of being empowered to do greater works than Jesus? It may be not so much in doing spectacular miracles, but in bringing people to faith in him and also in the power of your prayers!

Jesus Gives a New Commandment

2010-02-16T11:50:00.002-06:00

If you knew you were going to die shortly, what would you want to say to your loved ones or friends? What would be uppermost in your mind? What kind of legacy would you want to leave?

Beginning this Sunday, I begin a sermon series on "The Farewell Message of Jesus" as recorded for us in John 13 - 17. These words represent a long discourse that Jesus gave to his disciples when he is gathered at meal with them. He knew is death was to come shortly.

This Sunday I will focus on Jesus giving a new commandment to his disciples. He said, "I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.’ John 13:34-35

Jesus is talking about love being present among his followers. What prompts this love? The foundation of this love was his own self-sacrifice for them, to the point of laying down his life on the cross. They were to realize the depth of the love he has for them, and he was expecting the same love that they would have for one another.

He even desired that this love would become an identifying mark of his followers. It would not be just that they believed in him, but that they exhibited a special way of life.

Do you believe that there is enough love in the body of Christ for the world to say with no uncertainty, this is the church among those who profess the name of Christ?

Seeing Jesus' Glory

2010-02-09T10:48:00.002-06:00

This Sunday brings us to the Festival of the Transfiguration. It was a momentous time for Peter, James, and John in seeing Jesus' being transfigured. This inner circle of Jesus had the rare opportunity to see Jesus' glory. However, those three disciples were not alone. Moses and Elijah had also appeared "in glory." These two saints of God were speaking about Jesus' departure or what would be his death. How cool it was for Jesus to bolster the faith of those disciples by being transfigured!

I wonder if we feel that Jesus' glory is just a thing of the past. I believe that as Jesus lives today, we also get a glimpse from time to time of his glory as he shines in our lives. Think of such situations:

1. You receive an amazing cure from an illness which you thought would never go away.
2. You received an unexpected gift that helps you along in your living.
3. You come to a greater understanding of God's word for yourself that you never saw before.
4. You discover synergy at work as you are involved with other Christians and come up with ideas you never thought possible.
5. The congregation suddenly sees a new opportunity for reaching people with the gospel.

I believe we just need to be attentive to our surroundings and believe that every moment is pregnant with possibility of Jesus' glory shining through to us.

Do you believe that Jesus can still shine into your life? How much do you seek to live in expectation of it?

The Mystery of Unanswered Prayer

2010-02-02T11:38:00.003-06:00

I believe that anyone who has immersed oneself in prayer has found instances where it seemed like a specific prayer was not answered. Great effort might have been put into prayer, but it seemed like it yielded no results.

How do we understand such times, what might seem as God's lack of concern for us?

The Bible offers us some insight into this mystery. We read, for instance, "You ask and do not receive, because you ask wrongly, in order to spend what you get on your pleasures." James 4:3 We might ask for what will not benefit us or even hurt us; if so, God will not grant the request. We might be very self-centered in our request, whereas God is looking for what will glorify him.

Then, it might be that God has something else in store for us. Think of the apostle Paul who had a thorn in the flesh. He prayed three times for the Lord to take it away, but it was not removed. God had a purpose for allowing whatever that thorn might have been to be in Paul's life. As we read on, we learn that God's grace was sufficient for him. Paul was able to live with what he had because of knowing the kind of God he had.

When we pray, we most often will do our best to pray for what we need. Certainly, it is important that we believe God will grant our request. However, we must always be open with the thought that God might have other plans, even bigger plans for us.

How have you handled unanswered prayer? In such times, has it changed for what you were praying?