Odyssey of an Albatross

Pleasant Stone Devotional Meditation: January 28

2012-01-28T06:36:00.003-06:00

"He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth: he is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and a sheep before the shearers is dumb, so he opened not his mouth" ~ Isaiah 53:7

One of the most majestic things about Jesus was the way he stood before Pilate and said nothing. He didn't sulk. He didn't jut His chin in defiance. He didn't bite His lip to keep from talking. He simply stood there when He was accused and "answered nothing." "He was oppressed, and he was afflicted yet he opened not his mouth ..." His silence was so majestic and so cutting that it shattered the poise of all those about Him and caused them to scream and tear their clothing like mad people in their fury at His calm. But His poise held. He was being held by the Father. And as their fury rose, His silence rose. And His silence in the face of affliction should have proven to them that He would rise too no matter what they did to cut Him down! "He was oppressed and he was afflicted ... and he answered to him never a word; insomuch that the governor marvelled greatly." His silence was so God-like that the governor marveled at it. His silence was so God-like that Pilate tried to maneuver a way out of any part of His crucifixion! His silence was so deep, all who beheld it must have known that kind of silence is possible only with God. Can we know it now as we stand before our "shearers"? Yes. We can be silent too. The same Christ who was silent then has come to dwell within us. We can learn to be willing to be misunderstood. Even by those we love. "Christ in me" ... my only hope of silence in the midst of anything.

"... nevertheless ... not I, but Christ liveth in me."

Pleasant Stone Devotional Meditation: January 27

2012-01-27T05:29:00.003-06:00

"... he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed" ~ Isaiah 53:5

When our wounds are laid up against His wounds we are healed. Those of us who have tried this close, personal relationship with the living Christ know this is true. Those of us who have watched Him stand and wait until our anger dies down or until our selfish weeping is through, know that Jesus Christ was wounded for our iniquities. The same patience and love that held Him to the Cross keeps Him waiting now, while we run our little self-fevered courses of rebellion. This kind of selfless waiting is only possible with Christ. Only Christ is sinless. And so we know that it was for our sin that He was bruised. We also know that our sin still bruises that tender Heart of love. We know that it was "chastisement" to this pure, sinless, Son of God to hand there in such shame for our sin. But it is not chastisement of an angry Father that put Him there. Such distortion of the Heart of the One who gave His only begotten Son is blasphemy! God did not create sin. Sin is simply the ugly, diseased consequence of wrong action on the part of man. And wonder of Holy wonders, God holds Himself responsible for it! God was in Christ on Calvary reconciling us to Himself. He did it of His own choosing. He wanted us to be peaceful. He knew there could be no peace as long as sin separated us from Him. That's why the chastisement of our sin was upon Him. He was making "peace by the blood of His Cross."

"... with his stripes we are healed."

Pleasant Stone Devotional Meditation January 26

2012-01-26T05:24:00.002-06:00

“ … yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted” ~ Isaiah 53:4b

Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted.” Tap this magnificent verse lightly and watch it cleave to expose a facet many never see. One I [Eugenia Price, the author] missed for a long, long time. Sometimes men and women have clung to life because they have been able to cling to the first part of this verse about God’s having already borne our griefs and carried our sorrows, but then some turn away at that point. I did. My heart leaped up with adoration and rested in my relief that Christ on the Cross of Calvary had already taken my grief and my sorrow as well as my sin into His great Heart. I rejoiced that He had smothered them to death there in His Love. I knew it had broken His Heart but I also knew there was no other way for me so I just accepted the gift of what He had done and tried to give thanks. But still there was unrest so deep down in my own heart that I seldom permitted it to reach the surface. And that unrest came when I read the end of Isaiah 53:4! I wanted God and Christ to be one and the same. That’s why I finally became a Christian. I wanted it to be true when Jesus said “I and the Father are one.” Then how could God smite the Christ who had saved me? “Rejoice and again I say rejoice,” because cleave this “pleasant clear stone” to its heart and you see as I have seen at last, that God actually smote Himself four our sin! “Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows …” but just as surely He afflicted Himself, as the Lord God “laid on him (self) the iniquity of us all.”

“… God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself …”

Pleasant Stone Devotional Meditation January 25

2012-01-25T08:31:00.002-06:00

”Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows …” ~ Isaiah 53:4a

This precious “stone rests as well in either my collection of “clear stones” or “purple stones” or “red stones.” Surely it contains all anyone could ever need for comfort in time of sorrow. I have put the “purple stones” in that collection. None of us escapes trouble, and my own heart longed to have ready a treasure-pile of “purple stones,” little reassurances from God’s own Word, when those times should come. As they will for us all. Surely, this “stone” could also be among the “red stones” … verses concerning His very Life become ours. But somehow it seems necessary that we look at it in its diamond-sharp “clear stone” nature first. After all, words of comfort are just words of comfort unless, they are backed up by action. This verse “cuts right through!” God has backed up every beautiful phrase of comfort from Genesis to Revelation in this great action He took in Christ on the Cross two thousand years ago. Perhaps as you sit there reading this, your very heart is numb with grief. So numb that what I have written makes little or no impression. That’s all right. God knows that too. And it does not change the fact that He has already borne your sorrow. And because He is alive right now and not at all limited by time as we know it, He is right no still bearing your sorrow and is right now still carrying your grief! If you can do no more than just look at Him right now, that’s enough.

“Look unto me and be ye saved … Surely he hath born our griefs and carried our sorrows …”

Pleasant Stone Devotional Meditation January 24

2012-01-24T07:01:00.003-06:00

”O that thou hadst hearkened to my commandments! Then had thy peace been as a river, and thy righteousness as the waves of the sea” ~ Isaiah 48:18

God will lead us in the way that we should go and in the way He knows is the only way along which we will benefit. “I am the Lord thy God which teacheth thee to profit …” God leads us as He does, not to be hard. Not to prove His power over us. Not to make our lives miserable. Not to frustrate us. He leads as He leads because He knows us exactly as we are. He knows us as we are now, and what went before in your life and in mine. Knows us as we are now and what lies ahead too. God knows. And only God knows fully. And so He leads us as He leads not only from wisdom, but from love. If what He is asking you to do right now as you read these words seems too hard (as something He is asking of me as I write these words seems “too hard”) by His grace, we can both remember who He is. We can remember that the same Heart that reminds throughout the Old Testament that “I am the Lord thy God which teacheth thee to profit” is the very same Heart that ached in the human breast of the Lord Jesus as He looked out over Jerusalem just before they killed him and sobbed: “… how often would I have gathered thy children together, as a hen doth gather her brood under her wings, and ye would not!” “O that thou hadst hearkened to my commandments! Then had thy peace been as a river…” But it is not too late. Even if you have fallen, it is not too late.

“… him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out …. Come unto me …”

Pleasant Stone Devotional Meditation January 23

2012-01-23T06:52:00.002-06:00

“… I am the Lord thy God which teacheth thee to profit, which leadeth thee by the way that thou shouldest go” ~ Isaiah 48:17b

According to Webster, the verb “profit” means “to improve, to become efficient” or “to benefit.” Again and again in many parts of the Holy Bible, God reminds us that His whole idea is for our gain. “… I am the Lord thy God which teacheth thee to profit …” To improve. To become more efficient. To benefit. Jesus himself declares that He came that we might have a more abundant life. Nowhere does God indicate by word or action that His purpose is to hold us down. To force us into a strange pattern where we must “sit on the lid” and suffer Him to be God while we cringe and obey out of fear. Proper “fear” for God is proper respect for Him. Proper fear of God is simply sanity. It is simply being reasonable. After all, He is God. But over and over again He reminds us that He not only will lead us by the way we should go, but that He does it because His way is the only way that really works to our benefit in the long run. If the teachings of Jesus Christ seem too strict, it is simply because we have strayed so far from what He intended us to be. “Without him [Jesus] was not anything made that was made.” He was there in the beginning and He is teaching what He knows will work to our advantage throughout eternity --- but also now! He commands what He commands, because He knows nothing else will work.

“I know the thoughts I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an EXPECTED end.”

Pleasant Stone Devotional Meditation January 22

2012-01-23T06:46:00.001-06:00

“I have shewed thee new things from this time, even hidden things, and thou didst not know them. They are created now, and not from the beginning; even before the day when thou heardest them not; lest thou shouldst say, Behold, I knew them” ~ Isaiah 48:6,7

The self-conscious “stoutheart” will say even to God: “Why do I need to go through this humiliating experience? I’ve already learned that lesson thoroughly.” And God replies: “I have shewed thee new things … created now … even before the day when thou heardest them not: lest thou shouldest say, Behold I (already) knew them.” God will go to all lengths to teach us what we need to know. Even to creating new things? Even to creating new wisdom? New need for lessons learned? Yes! At least that’s what God tells us in this ice-sharp “clear stone” we are sharing today. “They are created now …” God will stay ahead of us. After all, He is God. He is before and after eternity. And He remains God, not to belittle us, but to give us cause to worship Him. How He loves us. How much more patient and how much less tolerant is God of us than we are of ourselves. Our first parents broke themselves over God’s lovely command to them that they never try to “play God.” That they remain in the glorious relationship of Father and children. They were swayed by their “stouthearts” and shook their fists at the sky over Eden shouting in effect: “Behold, we knew them!” God does not want to look again on us His redeemed ones, with our “stouthearts” broken and bleeding as do all human hearts until Christ heals them by His wounds. “A humble and a contrite heart God does not despise” … a humble and a contrite heart is a peaceful heart because it has hearkened unto God and has been made whole.

“… Learn from me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.”

Pleasant Stone Devotional Meditation: January 21

2012-01-21T07:32:00.002-06:00

"Hearken unto me, ye stouthearted, that are far from righteousness" ~ Isaiah 46:12

Almost every alma mater song in the world has the phrase "shouthearted" tucked or squeezed somewhere into its shakey rhyme scheme. A phrase designed to create a swelling in the chest and a "go get 'em" spirit among those who unite their "stouthearts" in song. Now, don't misunderstand me. I loved three alma mater songs very much. As I remember, all three had something to do with what I fancied to be my "stoutheart" --- and the "stouthearts" of my classmates. Actually, I remember the school song when I [Eugenia Price, the author] was in Lincoln Junior High back in Charleston, West Virginia and it had its "stouthearted" phrase couched in words which urged us all ." to "have sand"! This, I assume, meant "grit." At any rate, a kind of synonym for a stoutheart, and it rhymed with "land," which it needed to do. We've all been taught that stoutheartedness is a characteristic much to be desired and sung about. And far be it from me to frown upon true courage. But God warns sharply that we are to "hearken unto Him" if we have begun to depend on our own stouthearts! Upon our own abilities. You are not alone if you have fallen into that pit too. I fell with a thud as I began the writing of this very book. Two weeks of meditations went quite easily and then God had to cause me to "hearken unto Him." My "stoutheart" was broken and melted, until I remembered that I couldn't write about the things of God even with my "stoutheart." Especially with my "stoutheart"! "Christ in me" --- my only hope of anything became everything again. I remembered "it is not I, but Christ." We will go on sharing now. "Hearkening to Him" ... remembering that we are not our own. We have been bought with a price.

"Hearken unto me, ye stouthearted, that are far from righteousness: I bring near my righteousness; it shall not be far off."

Pleasant Stone Devotional Meditation: January 20

2012-01-20T15:35:00.003-06:00

"To whom then will ye liken God? Or what likeness will ye compare unto him? To whom then will ye liken me... saith the Holy One" ~ Isaiah 40:18, 25a

One day we will all know about going home. One day we will all know about God. What He's really like. One day we will understand what it is He is doing. For now, it is enough to know that "No man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten Son which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared him." "To whom then will ye liken God? "I and the Father are one." This is the word of Jesus Christ "on the bosom of the Father,""Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high." We liken the Holy One of Israel to Christ. We dare to do this on God's own authority. For God was in Christ on the Cross of Calvary, as Jesus was, "by himself purging our sins." God was in Christ reconciling us to Himself and giving us holy authority to declare and to experience the fact that when we see Christ, we see the Father also. It is well to remind ourselves of this over and over again. "If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also; ... he that hath seen me hath seen the Father ... I and the Father are one."

Pleasant Stone Devotional Meditation: January 19

2012-01-19T16:32:00.004-06:00

"I also will choose their delusions, and will bring their fears upon them: because when I called, none did answer; when I spake, they did not hear: but they did evil before mine eyes, and chose that in which I delighted not" ~ Isaiah 66:4

For many months after I became a Christian, I shuddered at passages like this in the Old Testament. They made God the Father seem so unlike Christ! Intellectually, I believed Christ and God were One. But my heart rebelled at passages which spoke of God's bringing fears upon us and choosing our delusions because we did evil before His eyes. Everything in me wanted the Father to turn out to be what the Gospel of John said He was. I could trust everything I knew about Christ. And I could never, in the wildest reaches of even my writer's imagination, conceive of Jesus Christ bringing fears down upon someone. Nothing inside the Heart that broke on Calvary pointed to that. What was wrong? Wasn't this passage in Isaiah God's Word too? Wasn't it God (One with Christ) merely clarifying Himself for me. The same God who created my mind in the way He knew would function best, was merely proving Himself to be a God of His Word. One whose moral laws were consistent with His laws of creation. If I chose to do evil before His eyes, certain fears and delusions would be the inevitable consequences of my choosing. God's part here is that He simply chose to create the mind in a certain way. If I choose to disobey His plan for me, specific fears and specific delusions will result. This no longer causes me to rebel. It causes me to rejoice. He is a dependable God and I can count on fears and delusions when I disobey.

"I am he; I am the first, I also am the last. ... O God, my heart is fixed: I will sing and give praise."

Pleasant Stone Devotional Meditation: January 18

2012-01-18T10:45:00.003-06:00

"... If any man come after me ..." ~ Luke 9:23

I [Eugenia Price] have dedicated this book to one of God's greatest ladies, Anna Mow, who first impressed upon me the fact that every normal person is born with a "chooser." Most of us never use our "choosers" enough to develop their "muscles," but we all have them. Jesus recognized this fact, of course. "... Without him was not anything made that was made." He was right there when all the component parts of the human mind including a "chooser" were conceived in the mind of God. "I and the Father are one." He knows about the necessity of our choosing. However, being one with the Holy Spirit also, Jesus was not ignoring the fact that we must be empowered by the Holy Spirit in order to choose God's way. We have all the power we need to choose the Devil's way. That comes "naturally." But still our "choosers" are to be in operation under the power of the Spirit according to the plan of God, and for a reason we cannot fathom, He continues to respect our free wills. That is why Jesus said: "If any man will come after me ..." We must choose! Not only must we decide what it is that we must have changed in our thought lives, we must decide to let God change it. When we choose to be delivered, we are given the power to follow Him in the deliverance process whatever it costs. You and I can cast out those wrong thoughts at once in the Name and in the power of Jesus. Again, we have the Lord's own word for that:

"... I go unto my Father. And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son."

Pleasant Stone Devotional Meditation: January 17

2012-01-17T07:04:00.004-06:00

"Hell is naked before him, and destruction hath no covering. He stretcheth out the north over the empty place, and hangeth the earth upon nothing. He bindeth up the waters in his thick clouds: and the cloud is not rent under them. He holdeth back the face of his throne, and spreadeth his could upon it. He hath compassed the waters with bounds, until the day and night come to an end. The pillars of heaven tremble and are astonished at his reproof. He divideth the seas with his power, and by his understanding he smiteth through the proud. By his spirit he hath garnished the heavens; his hand hath formed the crooked serpent. Lo these are parts of his ways: but how little a portion is heard of him? But the thunder of his power who can understand?" ~ Job 26:6-14

These are only "parts of his ways"! Even in the face of the magnificent failure of these words to contain Him as He is, we tremble and hold back and refuse to act as though we believe that this God who "divideth the sea with his power" is powerful enough to change our minds. If he is powerful enough to create the human mind, doesn't it make sense that He is also powerful enough to transform it? Can we trust God with our minds? Or do we need to remain victims of our wrong thought habits? We must decide once and for all that we do not. And once we have decided, then we must also choose. We must choose to believe once and for all, that the crucified and risen follower of a crucified and risen Lord need not remain a victim of anything. He has already become a victim for us on Calvary's Cross. We can be victors in all things. Even in our thoughts. We can be free if we choose to be. For Jesus Himself said: "If the Son therefore shall make you free, you shall be free indeed!" "Hell is naked before him, and destruction hath no covering. ... my substance was not hid from thee, when I was made in secret, and curiously wrought in the lowest parts of the earth."

Pleasant Stone Devotional Meditation: January 17

2012-01-17T07:04:00.001-06:00

Pleasant Stone Devotional Meditation: January 16

2012-01-16T07:38:00.004-06:00

"... out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh. ... I say unto you, That every idle word the men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned" ~ Matthew 12:34b, 36, 37

Here the cleavage is complete. The diamond-hard truth of this verse cuts completely through the secret facets of every warning from God about the necessity of a clean heart and a clean mind. In words that seem purposely exaggerated so as to grab our attention, Jesus declares that so important are the thoughts of our hearts that our words will either justify or condemn us. At first observation this seems fantastic. Knowing the lethargy of the human mind, Jesus often shocks us into attention. It seems to me He did this here. He also phrases things to make us think. By saying our words will justify or condemn us, He is urging us to go back to the truth behind this statement: "A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things." When we stand before Him we will stand exposed with our hearts showing. What will God see? Exactly what He sees now. Two days ago we asked if we dare pray this prayer. Now the question --- do we dare not to pray it?

"Search me, O God ... and see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way of everlasting. Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength and my redeemer."

Pleasant Stone Devotional Meditation: January 15

2012-01-15T13:13:00.003-06:00

“Those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart…” ~ Matthew 15:18a

This is one of the New Testament verses which the last verse of Psalm 19 “split” to expose new and hidden depths for me. Yesterday’s “clear stone” (Psalm 19:14) is placed forever in my collection of diamond-hard stones that “cut right through.” We cannot speak or pray creatively unless the very thoughts of our hearts are clear with the clarity of Christ Himself. We may write and speak and pray aloud and do good works. We may even lead someone to Christ now and then, but all the words of our mouths cannot be acceptable to God until all the dark corners of our thoughts are thrown open to His cleansing Presence. One verse cleaves another… and I know yesterday’s “clear stone” is a true clear stone because Jesus Himself declared “… for those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart …” And He added that it is they which defile a man. “Let … the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight…” More, much more than what we do, it is what we think that defiles us. This in turn lights up another New Testament verse: “… Come out … and be ye separate …” I cannot live a separated life unless my every thought is in accord with what I see inside the Heart that broke on Calvary! Only then am I living a life separated from all that is against God. God is Love. And if I cling to my right even to think unkind thoughts, I am separated from God on that point. Jesus Christ declares that all sin begins in the thought life! “For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies: These are the things which defile a man …”

“Search me, O God … and see if there be any wicked way in me…”

Pleasant Stone Devotional Meditation: January 14

2012-01-14T07:05:00.006-06:00

"Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength and my redeemer" ~ Psalm 19:14

For a few years this verse seemed one of those less pungent ones to me. I had heard it repeated at numberless women's meetings where I spoke and like some other much-memorized verses, it had never done anything startling to me. But that is the way of our growth in Christ. Daily reading of the Bible, whether we get anything from it consciously or not, is a "must," because everything we read or hear drops down into our subconscious minds and then on the day when we need it, the Holy Spirit "explodes" it up into our consciousness with sharp, fresh meaning. As I began to grasp the desperate necessity to bring my thought life into captivity to Christ, this verse from the Psalms leaped from the page and began its "diamond-cleavage" of several other verses far over in the New Testament! David wrote it. And David knew what he was capable of doing when for a brief time he did not keep his heart fixed on God. Therefore David cried --- and I don't believe he chanted it --- I believe he cried: "Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength and my Redeemer!" David knew that his words would indicate the condition of his heart. He knew he could not redeem his own thoughts. He had no strength to do it. And so he cried to the Lord, acknowledging his own need of a strong redeemer. Do you dare pray this prayer right now? Do I?

"Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way of the everlasting."

Pleasant Stone Devotional Meditation: January 13

2012-01-13T06:04:00.003-06:00

"Wither shall I go from thy spirit? Or wither shall I flee from thy presence?" ~ Psalm 139:7

Until very recently I recoiled now and then at the thought that I could not get away from the Presence of God. Anyone who has lived away from Him as an adult will understand this. The down-pull in us draws us back to run here and there --- wildly at times, in search of an old, familiar place where He won't haunt us by His nearness. But He said: "Lo, I am with you always ... " And He is. He is there a the close of every willful act against Him. Walking beside us as we try to walk away from a job He has asked us to do. He is there at the bottom of every empty bottle for every alcoholic who has received Him as Saviour, but who is still not following Him as Lord. "If I make my bed in hell, behold thou art there." There are no "cozy corners" where we can get away fro Him. And at last I am glad. Because if I could get away from Him, that would mean He had forsaken me too. And He does not break His promises. "I will never leave or forsake you" and in the moment between you and your pillow at night after you have forsaken Him, you will know that He never breaks His promises to us. You will know He never leaves us. You will know He is still there. I know it too. "... When I wake, I am still with thee." Never, never never alone.

"I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee."

Pleasant Stone Devotional Meditation: January 12

2012-01-12T10:15:00.006-06:00

"For there is not a word in my tongue, but, lo, O Lord, thou knowest it altogether. Thou hast beset me behind and before, and laid thine hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high, I cannot attain unto it" ~ Psalm 139:4-6

Sometime ago I had the unique experience of conducting a Deeper Life Conference with teenagers at Mound Keswick in Minnesota. Each young person was already a believer in Jesus Christ. We were all there to go deeper. Or higher, as my deer friend Dr. Walter Wilson, once corrected me. In going "higher" we went deeply into the fact that only God, through the Holy Spirit, can re-form our unconscious depths. We spoke of the shadows and darkness and filth lurking there. And one young lady stopped listening at that point and came to me later trembling with fear at what might be in her subconscious! She had shut her ears just when the glory part came. Without the indwelling Holy Spirit at work in our depths, there is a reason for panic. Psychiatry can bring up the twisted ugliness and just bringing it up "for air" relieves some tension and lessens the immediate danger. But the best psychiatry can do is to leave the complexes and neuroses there squirming on the table. Only the blood of Jesus Christ redeems. And there are no depths too dark nor too far down for His blood to cleanse. These depths are unfathomable to the human mind. But not to God. He is there right now working in the depths of you and here working in the depths of me. What a glorious relief! I can just go on. By faith.

"Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high, I cannot attain unto it"

Pleasant Stone Devotional Meditation: January 11

2012-01-11T09:51:00.005-06:00

"O Lord, thou hast searched me, and known me. Thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising, thou understandest my thought afar off. Thou compassest my path and my lying down, and art acquainted with all my ways" ~ Psalm 139:1-3

Read all of Psalm 139. And then read it again. And again. It is a study in depth psychology. It is a frightening study until we grasp the tremendous fact that God knows all of the unfathomable depths of our beings. Our subconscious minds are like baskets. Into them has dropped everything we have ever heard, spoken or thought. And we cannot control them. But God knows all about subconscious minds as well as conscious minds. He created them in the first place. They are not too much for Him at all. He knows. That has come to be a daily greater relief to me. He is "acquainted with all my ways" and still He loves me. Each time something frightening floats to the surface of my subconscious mind and registers its ugly self on my consciousness, I deliberately remind myself that God is not shocked by the things I am just now seeing about me. "While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." He is unshockable and unshakable, and He is, in the Person of the blessed Holy Spirit, constantly at work in the shadowy depths of our subconscious minds. This is His domain if we are Christians. Here we have no control. And even when consciously we feel out of touch with God, we can absolutely rest on the fact that he is not out of touch with us. He is there in the depths right now working. We have His own word for the fact that He is there:

"... If any man ... open the door, I will come in ... I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee."

Pleasant Stone Devotional Meditation: January 10

2012-01-10T10:11:00.005-06:00

"And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth. So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created him; male and female created he them" ~ Genesis 1:26, 27

There is no such thing as a dark corner where anyone can be completely alone. For many years, before I became a Christian, I sought an impossible state described by Lord Byron as "a life withing itself that breathes without mankind." Any human being seeking a life completely shut off from mankind is simply illustrating the disposition of sin. Any human being who lives as though it's no one's business but his own, is not only trying the impossible, but is stamping his foot and shaking his fist in God's face as he shouts his right to live his own life! There is no such thing as a cozy corner where you and I can go to think our own thoughts as we want to think them so that no one will know. We are what we think. If we think ourselves to be humble, gifted, charming people, we will go right out of our "cozy corner" and act haughty and cold. If we think critical thoughts of someone while we are in our "corner", we will leave our corner to find our would-be polite phrases dripping acid. Whether we like it or not we live in a world populated by other people who see us as we are. So does God. But we can thank this Creator God that He also sees us as we can be when our thoughts are taken captive by the One who died to redeem our minds as well as our souls.

"... Be renewed in the spirit of your mind... casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ."

Pleasant Stone Devotional Meditation: January 9

2012-01-09T08:24:00.005-06:00

"For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he..." ~ Proverbs 23:7

Cleave to this "clear stone" and dare to look at the source from which it sprang: The mind of God. This is God's own analysis. It is not a psychological concept arrived at by any man. God quite simply tells us that we are not what we think we are. Quite the reverse. We are what we think! It seemed strange to me at first that the writer of the book of Proverbs would use the verb "think" in connection with the noun "heart." We associate feeling with our hearts and thinking with our minds. But if we pay close attention, we soon discover that when the Holy Spirit speaks of the "heart" of man, He is including the mind and more. He means the central core of our beings. Our mind-hearts. The part of us which thinks, wills, chooses and loves. The part of us which will one day stand before God. The part of us which is us: Our spirits. Numerous in my collection of "pleasant stones" are the diamond sharp verses which seem almost to attempt to shock us into allowing Christ to take captive our thought lives. "For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he..." How do we think in our hearts when we believe no-one is looking or listening? How do we think? What do we think? "O Lord, thou hast searched me, and known me." God knows. We can only ask Him for the courage to look at our own secret hearts and face what we see there! The analysis of God remains:

"For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he..."

Pleasant Stone Devotional Meditation: January 8

2012-01-08T08:33:00.005-06:00

",,, we wait for light, but behold obscurity; for brightness, but we walk in darkness. We grope for the wall like the blind, and we grope as if we had no eyes: we stumble at noon day as in the night; we are in desolate places as dead men" ~ Isaiah 59:9b, 10

How can this be if Jesus Christ has come a light unto the world? He has come. Make no mistake about that. He is here. Now. The Bible is filled with reports of His Presence. With guarantees of His Presence. But, as with everything else within the depth and height and breadth of this greatest Book, the promise of the Light of His Presence is not ours until we take it by faith for ourselves. We do grope for the wall like the blind. We do grope as if we had no eyes. We do stumble at noon day as in the night. We are waiting for light as though Christ had not yet come. He has come. And we can stop "beholding obscurity" the very instant we lay hold of the fact of His Presence by faith. He is here right now. If you are still beholding only obscurity, realize that He said He would never leave us and as you go on about your day's activities, you will begin to realize (when you least expect it) that the "darkness is past and the true light now shineth." Even if you don't feel anything, go on about your day, claiming His Presence every time a shadow crosses your mind. "By faith we are saved" from beholding "obscurity." "By faith we are saved" from the unnecessary moods of darkness. Take His Presence and begin to practice it --- by faith. As always, we have His Word for it:

"I am come a light unto the world, that whosoever believeth on me should not abide in darkness."

Pleasant Stone Devotional Meditation: January 7

2012-01-07T09:06:00.005-06:00

"...the Lord shall be unto thee an everlasting light, and thy God thy glory" ~ Isaiah 60:19b

Tap this stone lightly in just the right place and it splits to expose a facet of diamond hard truth which causes us to wince and close the Book or come again for further cleansing at the feet of the One who has promised that He Himself shall be unto us an everlasting light! An everlasting light exposing us as we are all the way to the very depths of our beings. Even the prodigal son had to "come to" himself before he had sense enough to go home to his father. We need to "come to" ourselves. To see us as the way we are. We cannot begin to explore the deep places until we have allowed the Light of Calvary to shine into the shallow corners first. We may cry out sincerely for oneness with Christ, for power in our Christian lives. But "the Lord shall be unto thee an everlasting light" and we need to look by the light of the Lord. We cannot plead lack of light. The light is the Lord. We need to look at the thin, wiry streak of criticism twisted through our natures. We need to look at the unlove we feel toward that particular Christian brother or sister. We need to look at the blunt self defense we try to disguise under the cape of intercession for someone for someone else's shortcomings. We need to look at all this and more in the light of the One who is our everlasting light. If we do, we don't dare plead blindness or lack of illumination. He has promised to be our everlasting light, and "in Him is no darkness at all."

"... I am the light of the world. ... The darkness is past and the true light now shineth."

Pleasant Stone Devotional Meditation: January 6

2012-01-06T08:19:00.005-06:00

“Then thou shalt see, and flow together …” ~ Isaiah 60:5a

When the light is turned on we can see. When it is dark we stumble and sometimes we fall, simply because we cannot see. We go this way and that, not knowing which is the way. We seem to go a dozen directions at once. One direction, chosen in fear, only leads to more fear. Another, chosen in confusion, leads to more confusion. We are out of balance. Out of perspective. We are perplexed and divided and acting as though we are several people instead of one. We confuse ourselves and those around us. We are confusion. It is dark. Our roads leading to nowhere are all dead end streets. Isaiah still cries to us, cleaving the “clear stone” again: “Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee … Then thou shalt see, and flow together.” Perplexities and stumblings and personality quirks and character contradictions and wrong directions and wasted efforts all “flow together” as we are brought into wholeness in Christ. “… The darkness is past, and the true light now shineth.” Balance is back, perspective is clear. We are no longer a bundle of contradictions. We have been unified. The stray ends are tied. “I am come a light into the world …” We can see now. And we can flow together.

Then thou shalt see, and flow together

Pleasant Stone Devotional Meditation: January 5

2012-01-05T09:20:00.006-06:00

“For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light” ~ Ephesians 5:8

God makes it very plain to us that we were not only in darkness --- but that we were darkness. But He makes it just as plain that since Christ indwells us, we actually are light. Here the cutting edge of this “clear stone” truth cleaves right to the dark core of our unwillingness to act as though what God says is true. “Cuts right through” to the dark center of our refusal to be what God has said we are in Christ. “… but now are ye light in the Lord …” We are beginning this year with the Lord of Light Himself. “I am come a light unto the world, that whosoever believeth on me should not abide in darkness.” Either Jesus Christ knew about Himself and spoke accurately of Himself or He did not. He has said He will never leave us or forsake us. He has declared Himself to be the Light of the world. The diamond clear words of Isaiah ring down through the ages, reaching us still diamond clear: “Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee!” The glory … the very character … the very Light of God Himself is risen upon us and we sit in the corner and clutch at the darkness of our pet iniquities and complain “humbly” that we have lost our touch with God. My life is full of problems too. Just like yours. I also feel at times that I have lost my touch with God. What we feel is beside the point. Jesus is the Light of the world and He has risen in our lives and no amount of darkness can put Him out! This is fact:

"... I am the light of the world… in him is no darkness at all."

Pleasant Stone Devotional Meditation: January 4

2012-01-04T07:58:00.004-06:00

“Behold, the Lord’s hand is not shortened, that it cannot save…” ~ Isaiah 59:1

In every other religion but Christianity, man is seeking God. Man is trying to earn his salvation. Trying to achieve his oneness with God as he understands Him. We have God’s own word for it that we cannot earn our salvation, that we are saved by faith. We also have God’s own word for it that His hand is not shortened. That He is the Saviour. A young college professor, who had grown dissatisfied with the cold orthodoxy upon which he had been fed, asked a question which [the author] never forgot: “What is the most important thing to believe?” [The author] made an appointment to meet him in a city near the college town where he taught, but in the interim she asked one after another of God’s older saints whom she’d met along the way --- “What is the important thing” She received some penetrating answers. And then she received the one she knew was the answer: “The important thing to believe is that Jesus saves!” No one else. Only Jesus. “Thou shalt call His name Jesus: for He shall save His people from their sins.” The important thing is that we can begin with the One who Himself is our salvation. “Thou shalt call His name Jesus…” and this same Jesus who saves is not only the Saviour, He is also the Light which points out our sins. There is no question but that His arm will reach all the way to where we are. There is no question about His power to save. There is no question about the penetrating power of His light. The only question is will we open our eyes and look?

"… It is I; be not afraid."

Pleasant Stone Devotional Meditation: January 3

2012-01-03T08:06:00.005-06:00

“But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear.” ~ Isaiah 59:2

Oneness with the Living Person, Jesus Christ, is the secret of victorious daily life. Jesus Prayed for this oneness in the garden of Gethsemane just before they killed Him. The most perverted characteristic about us is that we somehow fall into the trap of believing that we must persuade God to hear us and then plead with Him to remember our request long enough to grant it. We are so inclined to put the blame on God when our prayers for a sense of His nearness are seemingly not answered. We have His word for it that He will never leave us nor forsake us and yet in what we hope are “humble phrases,” we speak of our spiritual coldness and run from conference to conference and book to book and leader to leader “complaining” that we have lost our touch with God. We blame God if not in our carefully chosen words, in our attitudes. Most of all, we blame Him in our refusal of the state of oneness with Christ for which He prayed in the garden before they crucified Him. “Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am…” “But your iniquities have separated between you and your God.” God has not hidden His face. “… Your sins have hid his face from you.” He will not hear our prayer for peace and a sense of oneness until He can here our prayer for deliverance from those sins which have hid His face from us. And He cannot hear our prayer for deliverance until we are willing to be delivered. Our part is to ask and then not be afraid to receive.

Fear not: for I have redeemed the, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine.

Pleasant Stone Devotional Meditation: January 2

2012-01-02T05:45:00.005-06:00

"I am the Lord; that is my name: ... and new things I declare: before they sprung forth I tell you of them" ~ Isaiah 42:8a, 9b

If we believe Jesus Christ Himself when He declares Himself to be "the beginning and the end," we also believe Him when He declares that "I and the Father are one." So the Prophet Isaiah, writing of "the Lord" wrote of this same Jesus Christ who Himself is the beginning and the end. But we do not begin merely with the miraculous birth of Jesus, nor with the tender healer of mankind's pain and sickness and sin. We do not dare even to begin with the sacrificial death of Jesus. We dare only to begin with the Living Lord Jesus who was in the beginning and before it, who got up and walked out of that tomb and who lives on this our second day of sharing and forever. And who promises to tell us of the new things before they "spring forth"! "I am the Lord; that is my name: ... and new things do I declare: before they spring forth I tell you of them." Does He mean He will warn us exactly of each upcoming failure or tragedy or success? No. If He did, we would begin to depend upon His warnings. Tap this "clear stone" lightly and watch it cleave to show you this new and deeper truth: "In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world." And this Lord has already overcome whatever comes to us in this or any new year. If it is tragedy, He has overcome it. If it is sickness, He has overcome it. If it is death, He has overcome that. If it is sudden success, He has overcome that. Whatever comes, "before they spring forth," Jesus Christ Himself tells us that He has already overcome it!

I am the Lord: that is my name...

Pleasant Stone Devotional Meditation: January 1

2012-01-01T08:58:00.010-06:00

Many years ago, Share My Pleasant Stones by Eugenia Price was gifted to me. It was written in 1957 and my copy notes it was in the 24th printing as of 1976. I had loaned my copy and mid year was looking for it. It was never returned. But Christ gives us what we need, and I was able to pick it up, on my first stop, at a used bookstore for only a dollar. I hope, as I go back through her devotional meditations this year, you'll be inspired, encouraged, uplifted and blessed. May all those who are His have ears to hear, hear and may those who do not yet know Him awake and be found. We are all precious to Him. We are his treasures. We are turning, tumbling, and being refined to shine and reflect His light brothers and sisters. Travel with me through this fine book and peace be with you. ~ The Albatross

"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God... And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us." ~ John 1:1, 14a

There is only one place to begin. And that is in the beginning. And let our hearts rejoice that "In the beginning was the Word" and that Word became flesh... became a Man, in the person of Jesus Christ. This is the greatest relief I know. This is the greatest fact in all history. There is no other place to begin except to rest the central confidence of our lives in the fact that God did reveal Himself in Jesus and that He is alive now. When we begin at any other point, we get lost. More accurately, we realize we are already lost. Only He is a Redeemer. Only He offers forgiveness. Only He offers a way out of temptation. Only He offers a way to make use of suffering. Only Jesus Christ offers eternal Life, because only He is eternal Life. We are beginning and there is no other place to begin except with the glorious fact of Jesus Christ, who Himself is the beginning and the end. Cutting through all our confusion as to where this year may end, is the "water-white" flawless fact of Jesus Christ, who will be there when it ends as He is here now in the beginning!

I, am He that liveth, and was dead; and... am alive for evermore. I am the beginning and the end.

I danced in the morning when the world was young. I danced in the moon and the stars and the sun. I came down from heaven and I danced on the earth. At Bethlehem I had my birth. Dance, dance, wherever you may be I am the Lord of the dance, said He and I lead you all, wherever you may be. And I lead you all in the dance, said He. I danced for the scribes and the Pharisees. They wouldn't dance, they wouldn't follow me. I danced for the fishermen James and John they came with me so the dance went on. Dance, dance, wherever you may be I am the Lord of the dance, said He and I lead you all, wherever you may be. And I lead you all in the dance, said He. I danced on the Sabbath and I cured the lame. The holy people said it was a shame. They ripped, they stripped, they hung me high; left me there on the cross to die. Dance, dance, wherever you may be I am the Lord of the dance, said He and I lead you all, wherever you may be. And I lead you all in the dance, said He. I danced on a Friday when the world turned black. It's hard to dance with the devil on your back. They buried my body, they thought I was gone but I am the dance, and the dance goes on. Dance, dance, wherever you may be I am the Lord of the dance, said He and I lead you all, wherever you may be. And I lead you all in the dance, said He. They cut me down and I leapt up high. I am the Life that will never, never die. I'll live in you if you'll live in me, I am the Lord of the dance, said He. Dance, dance, wherever you may be I am the Lord of the dance, said He and I lead you all, wherever you may be. And I lead you all in the dance, said He. [Lord of the Dance by Sidney Carter]

God's Jewels by Arthur W. Pink (1886-1952)

2011-12-31T08:43:00.019-06:00

"And they shall be Mine, says the Lord Almighty, in that day when I make up My jewels" (Mal. 3:17). To whom is God here referring? Who are the favored ones whom He terms His "jewels"? The previous verse tells us, "Then those who feared the Lord talked with each other, and the Lord listened and heard. A scroll of remembrance was written in his presence concerning those who feared the Lord and honored his name." A twofold description is there given by which the people of God may be identified: they have a reverential awe and profound respect of God's majesty and authority; they have a deep love and adoration for Him — evidenced by their thinking upon His name. It almost surprises one to learn that the great and self-sufficient God has "jewels," but our surprise increases to astonishment when we learn that these "jewels" are living creatures, and astonishment gives place to overwhelming amazement when we discover that these living creatures are fallen and depraved sinners redeemed from among the children of men. Truly, nothing but Divine grace would ever liken such wretched worms of the dust, unto precious stones. Yet that is the very thing which we find God doing in our text. It is not the unfallen angels, nor the holy seraphim and exalted cherubim who are spoken of as Jehovah's valued treasure, but lost and ruined sinners saved by amazing grace! Saints are likened unto wheat, fish, trees, stars, but here to "jewels"; the figure is a deeply interesting and instructive one. In Isaiah 55:8-9 we read, "For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, says the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts." This is seen in the difference between human and Divine estimates of relative values. The world's standard of worth is very different from that of God's. Who are the immortals of human history? Caesar, Charlemagne, Napoleon: soldiers and warriors. Among statesmen and politicians we may mention Gladstone and Lincoln: among dramatists, Goethe and Shakespeare. Those were great in the eyes of earth; but who were great in the eyes of Heaven? For the most part they were unknown down here. They were humble and lowly, insignificant in the affairs of the world. Their names were never chronicled among men; but they were written in the Lamb's Book of Life!

It is noteworthy that our text is found in the book of Malachi, the last book of the Old Testament, which corresponds in many respects with the character of our days, as we seem to be nearing the end of the New Testament era. As the late C. H. Spurgeon pointed out, "These words were spoken in a very graceless age, when religion was peculiarly distasteful to men; when they scoffed at God's altar, and said of His service, 'What a weariness it is!' and scornfully asked, 'What profit is it that we have kept His ordinance?' Yet even those dark nights were not uncheered by bright stars. Though the house of national worship was often deserted, there were secret conventicles of those who 'feared the Lord,' and who 'spoke often one to another,' and our God, who regards quality more than quantity, had respect to these elect twos and threes. He 'hearkened and heard,' and so approved of that which He heard that He takes notes of it, and declared that He will publish it. 'A book of remembrance was written before Him for them that feared the Lord, and that thought upon His name'! Yes, and He valued so much these hidden ones that He called them His 'jewels,' and declared in the great day when He should gather together His retinue, His regalia, the peculiar treasure of kings, He would look upon these hidden ones as being more priceless than emeralds, rubies, or pearls."

So it is now when all godly testimony has broken down, when Christendom is in spiritual ruins. Many of God's dear children no longer have the privilege of church fellowship, for they dare not attend the modern "synagogues of Satan." But some of them still have the joy of meeting with little groups of fellow pilgrims, seeking to strengthen one another's hands as they journey through this wilderness scene. But there are others of God's "scattered" (John 11:52) saints, who are cut off from practically all real Christian fellowship, isolated ones, who have to mourn with David, "I watch, and am as a sparrow alone upon the housetop" (Psalm 102:7). Yet, though they can no longer "speak often one to another," they still have the holy and blessed privilege of thinking upon that Name which is above every name. These, too, shall be numbered among His precious treasure in the day when He shall "make up His jewels." Let us now endeavor to ponder this beautiful figure, and reverently enquire why the Lord has likened His people to "jewels."

1. Because of their inestimable VALUE in His sight.

This is an exceedingly hard thing for the Christian to really grasp, for he feels such a wretched and worthless creature in himself. That the Lord of Glory should deem him of any consequence is difficult to conceive, that He regards him as of great worth "passes knowledge." Yet so it is.

The Scriptures are very plain on this point. They declare, "For the Lord's portion is His people" (Deut. 32:9). They speak of, "The riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints" (Eph. 1:18). The Lord Jesus likens His Church unto "one pearl of great price," so that He "went and sold all that He had, and bought it" (Matt. 13:46).

From the remotest antiquity men have thought much of precious stones, and fabulous prices have been paid for them. With great ardor and toil, do men hunt after gold, but with even greater eagerness and labor will they seek the diamond. Hundreds of men will labor for a whole year in one of the diamond mines of Africa, and the entire result of their efforts may be held in the palm of your hand. Princes have been known to barter their estates in order to obtain some gem of peculiar brilliance and rare excellence. More desirable still are His saints in the esteem of the Lord Jesus. The value of a thing in the eyes of its possessor may be gauged by the price he was willing to pay for it. So valuable was the Church unto Christ that He gave Himself for it, and shed His "precious blood" to purchase it for Himself. Thus, the saints are likened unto "jewels" because of the great value which the Lord places upon them.

2. Because of their DIVINE CREATION.

"A jewel is the production of God. Diamonds have been burned, and other jewels have been resolved into their elements; but, after the most laborious attempts, no chemist has yet been able to make a diamond. Men can cut the Gordian knot, but they cannot tie it again. Lives have been wasted in attempts to produce precious stones, but the discovery is still unmade; they are the secret productions of God's own skill, and chemists fail to tell how they are produced, then though they know their elements. So the world thinks it knows what a Christian is, but it cannot make one. All the wit in the world put together could not find out the secret of the heaven-born life; and all the sacraments, vestments, priests, prayers, and paraphernalia of Popery cannot create a Christian. The Lord alone can create a child of grace, and a Christian is as much a miracle, as was Lazarus when he rose from the tomb. It is as great a work of Deity to create a believer as it is to create a world!" (C.H. Spurgeon)

This is the basic reason why the saints are precious unto the heart of the Lord Jesus: He regards and receives them as the Father's workmanship, the Father's gift unto Him. This comes out, again and again in that wondrous 17th Chapter of John: "I have manifested Your name unto the men which You gave Me out of the world: Yours they were, and You gave them Me" (v. 6). "I pray for them: I pray not for the world, but for those whom You have given Me; for they are Yours" (v. 9).

From all eternity Christ viewed them in the glass of God's decrees, and before the foundations of the earth were laid His "delights were with the sons of men" (Proverbs 8:31). Because the Father had, by His predestinating purpose, fashioned His elect as vessels "unto honor" (Romans 9:21) the Son prizes them as of infinite value.

3. Because of their RARITY.

It is this, chiefly, which constitutes the value of precious stones. Were they numerous and common, found in the soil of every man's garden, they would not be so costly, nor so highly esteemed. The number of perfect large diamonds, called paragons, is very small; and so we read, "Not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called" (1 Cor. 1:26). Possibly the disparity between diamonds and the pebbles of the brook is no greater than that which exists, numerically, between the regenerate and the unregenerate. The Lord Jesus plainly declared that God's flock is only a "little" one (Luke 12:32), and that few find that narrow way that leads unto Life (Matt. 7:14). God had never likened His people unto "jewels" had they been nearly so numerous as is now popularly supposed.

4. Because of their BEAUTY.

The jewel is prized for its luster. It is the brilliance of the gem which, in a great measure, is the evidence and test of its value. It is said that the colors of jewels are the brightest known, and are the nearest approaches to the rays of the solar spectrum that have yet been discovered. See how the diamond flashes and sparkles! And yet its beauty and brilliance are not so much inherent. Examine it in a dark room, and it emits no radiance. It is simply a reflector: its glory is borrowed from the light. So it is with the saint: his loveliness is a loveliness which has been placed upon him, imputed to him. "I will greatly rejoice in the Lord, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for He has clothed me with the garments of salvation, He has covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decks himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels" (Isaiah 61:10). It is very blessed to develop this aspect of our subject. To His disciples the Lord Jesus said, "You are the light of the world" (Matt. 5:14), and why are they so? Because He could say "I am the light of the world" (John 8:12). The light of a Christian is a reflected one. That supplies the key to that little understood exhortation, "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven" (Matt. 5:16): "so shine" that Christ gets all the glory; "so shine" that we make it clear and plain to all that whatever goodness or righteousness there is in us, and whatever fruits are produced by us, all is from Christ as the Root. "For you were once darkness, but now are you light in the Lord" (Eph. 5:8)—yes "in the Lord"!

5. Because of their VARIETY.

Precious stones vary considerably both in color and in size, kind and value, brilliance and worth. If order is Heaven's first law, variety is certainly its second, for there is no uniformity in the ways and works of God, though there is a blessed underlying unity. So it is among gems, all are valuable, but all are not the same. There is the clear diamond, the red ruby, the green emerald, the blue sapphire, the violet amethyst. Probably there is not a single ray of the spectrum which is not reflected by some of them. So it is among the saints. All are God's children, all bear the marks of the Divine "workmanship" (Eph. 2:10), all are equally precious to Christ, but all are not alike. Beautifully was this typified of old in the breastplate of Israel's high priest: twelve different precious stones adorned it, representing the tribes of Israel. No two of these gems were alike, but all were equally near to Aaron's heart!

This brings before us an important aspect of the truth which we do well to ponder. What difference we perceive between Thomas and John, between Peter and Paul; yet all were the Apostles of Christ. So it is now among the saints: there is almost endless variety in their capacities, their talents, their growth, the varying graces which they manifest. No one gem reflects all the colors of the spectrum, and no one believer exhibits all the excellencies of Christ.

As the varied rays of the spectrum are distributed among jewels, so the varied excellencies of Christ are distributed among His people: one is conspicuous for meekness, another for courage; one for gentleness, another for firmness; one for patience, another for love. God's people are not all alike, and never will be; and all attempts at uniformity must fail. But it matters little whether we shine with the sapphire's blue, or the emerald's green, or the ruby's red—so long as we are the Lord's on the Day when He makes up His jewels.

6. Because of their DURABILITY.

Precious stones are one of the very few things in this world which, notwithstanding the flight of time, neither decay nor die; and thus do they strikingly intimate in the natural realm, that eternal life which pertains to the spiritual world. Diamonds are exceedingly hard: many of them will cut glass, while they cannot be scratched with the sharpest file. Many of them will be uninjured by the most potent acid; they will endure the test of fire; they are practically imperishable. In this also they resemble the Christian, who has within him a principle which is incorruptible, undefiled, and destined to endure forever. The world has often tried to destroy God's people, but all their efforts to do so have been futile. The empty professor, the sham gem, is like a "paste" diamond: it quickly succumbs to trial; but the genuine child of God endures to the end, and shall reign with Christ forever and ever.

7. Because of their HISTORY.

This is very striking indeed, and a separate sermon might well be devoted to enlarging thereon. First, think of their lowly origin. Trees grow in parks, and flowers in the garden—but jewels are discovered in the mud and mire of earth. Even the lovely pearl is housed in the rough and unsightly shell of the oyster; while diamonds are found in the deep mines, in the depths of the earth.

What a parable and picture of the joint-heirs with Christ in their natural state! each of which has to own, "Behold, I was shaped in iniquity, and in sin did my mother conceive me" (Psalm 51:5). Well did God say to Israel of old, "Look unto the rock whence you are hewn, and to the hole of the pit whence you are dug" (Isaiah 51:1). O the lowly origin of the Christian: "He brought me up also out of an horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock" (Psalm 40:2).

Second, consider the cutting of them. As the precious gem has been located and removed from its original position, the skillful fingers of the lapidary must work upon it. It has to be cut into a proper shape and many facets given to it, for in its original state it is rough and unsymmetrical. So it is with the elect of God. In their natural state they are "darkness" and quite incapable of reflecting the Light. But the Divine Lapidary, the Holy Spirit, after having sought them out, regenerates them.

And what is the instrument He employs in this work? Why, the Word of God, which is "living, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit" (Heb. 4:12). There is the spiritual cutting of God's "jewels." The "sword of the Spirit" (Eph. 6:17) enters the conscience, searches the heart—and cuts down pride, self-will, and self-righteousness.

Third, consider the polishing of them. This also forms an important part of the lapidary's work: he must smooth down the rough edges, and polish each facet so that it may sparkle the more gloriously; and often that is a long and tedious process. Thus it is in the history of the Christian. God does not take him to Glory the moment he is regenerated. No, though a spiritual life has been communicated to him, he needs to pass through many and varied experiences before he is ripe and ready for Heaven. Ah, does not the spiritual reader perceive what we now have in mind? The reason you are still left in this world is because the Spirit has not yet finished the work of polishing your soul; you are not yet ready to be placed among the crown-jewels of the King. Here, then, is a comforting and heartening thought: let us seek to remind ourselves when passing through fiery trials, when smarting under chastisement—that it is part of the polishing process!

8. Because of their glorious DESTINY.

"You will be a glorious crown in the Lord’s hand, and a royal diadem in the palm of your God" (Isaiah 62:3). What marvelous words are these—for faith and hope to lay hold of, for our feeble intellects cannot grasp them! Wondrous is it to think of rough stones, which first look like small pebbles, being found in the mud and mire of earth; then cut and polished until they scintillate with a brilliancy surpassing any earthly object, and being given an honored place in the diadem of a monarch. But infinitely more wonderful is it that poor lost sinners, saved by sovereign grace, should be among the crown-jewels of the Son of God. But He will yet "present us faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy" (Jude 24). Then shall He say to the Father, "The glory which You gave Me I have given them" (John 17:22). Then shall be fulfilled that word, "When He shall come to be glorified in His saints, and to be admired in all them that believe" (2 Thess. 1:10). "And they shall be Mine, says the Lord Almighty, in that day when I make up My jewels" (Mal. 3:17). That Day has not yet arrived, but it is not far distant: "For yet a little while, and He who shall come will come, and will not tarry" (Heb. 10:37). What is meant by "When I make up My jewels"? Is it not when the complete number of His redeemed are regenerated and polished? Is it not when He shall descend from Heaven with a shout, resurrect the sleeping saints and transform the living ones and rapture them together, so that we shall "ever be with the Lord" (1 Thess. 4:16, 17): "make up" (Mal. 3:17), "caught up" (1 Thess. 4:17)! One once wrote: "Earthly jewels sometimes get separated from their owner, Christ's jewels never: 'For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life . . . nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord' (Romans 8:38, 39). Earthly jewels are sometimes lost — Christ's jewels never: 'I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of My hand' (John 10:28). Earthly jewels are sometimes stolen — Christ's jewels never: 'in Heaven, where neither moth nor rust does corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal' (Matt. 6:20)."

Are you sure that you are one of Christ's jewels? Then seek to shine for Him now.

Raising the Standard: Kindness Is Returning Good For Evil

2011-12-30T08:00:00.006-06:00

"Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good." ~ Romans 12:20-21

Living Lessons on Kindness:

The kindness of returning good for evil is totally opposite to our natural inclinations. Therefore, this type of kindness can only be carried out by an act of faith in God's Word. Unexpected rewards are waiting for a person who practices it. Such was the case when a rival used every opportunity to belittle and ridicule one who was envied. The anguish and personal distress that this continual attack produced forced the victim to make an amazing vow that brought great benefit to many people including the rival.

The most painful enemies are usually those who were closest to u. Their unexpected attacks are often allowed by God to bring us to the place of crying out to Him. Who greatly benefited God's people by using a difficult family conflict as motivation to make a significant covenant with the Lord? Hannah.

How Is Returning Good for Evil Illustrated in Scripture?

The contrasting lives of two people are woven together into one of the most unique and significant accounts in Scripture. Both of them knew the Lord and wanted to please Him. Both of them had painful relationships within their own families. Each was being mocked and tormented day after day and year after year. In each family God desired to do a special work through the children. But that would require both of these individuals cry out to God and give to Him that which they cherished the most. At this point the responses and results in the lives of these two individuals became remarkably different. One day the younger of the two traveled to the city of the older. Both of them met for the first time in the house of the Lord. It was here that the younger set the example that the older should have followed. With deep agony of soul this young victim of continual reviling silently cried out to the Lord and then entered into a vow that was to have great significance in the days to come. The sincerity of this act of worship was misunderstood by the older individual and further abuse came in the form of a false accusation. However, the younger gave a kind response and gained the assurance that God had heard her prayer. Several years later, the younger was able to return good for the older's insulting remark. The younger brought a very special gift to the older. That gift became a continual encouragement to him, but also a constant reminder that he should follow the younger's example. he refused to do so. As a result, the nation under his spiritual leadership suffered a disastrous military defeat, and the enemy captured the ark of God's glory. Through that battle the sons whom he should have consecrated to God were killed, and he fell to his death. The example he had refused to follow was that of Hannah, a young wife, who after years of torment from a jealous and competing wife, cried out to the Lord for a son. The son that God gave became her gift back to the Lord. Her son, Samuel, served Eli, the high priest who had falsely accused her of being drunk when she prayed in anguish for a son. Samuel also became a great gift to the nation of Israel. He restored the spiritual strength of the people and led the armies to victory. He was his mother's means of returning good for evil, and God crowned his ministry by returning to the nation the treasured ark of His glory. [From 1 Samuel 1-6]

What Was the Full Significance of Hanna's Vow?

Hannah desperately desired a son. She knew that the "Lord of Hosts" who controlled the heavenly powers could also take away her barrenness. She asked that He look on her, remember her, and give her a son. If God granted her request, Hannah promised two things in return. "...I will give him unto the Lord all the days of his life, and there shall no razor come upon his head." (1 Samuel 1:11). As a Levite, Hannah's son would be required to serve periodically at the tabernacle. But Hannah was committing her son to serve for his entire life. She second part of her promise was the Nazarite vow. This commitment included totally abstaining from whine and all intoxicating drink, letting his hair grow, and avoiding defilement by corpses. (See Numbers 6.) The positive nature of these prohibitions lies in the special devotion and consecration to the Lord which they signify. Abstinence from intoxicating drink maintained clearness of mind and avoided the danger of sensual indulgences which hinder communication with God. Long hair identified the Nazarite as one particularly set apart from the affairs of life and separated to the work of God. Avoiding contact with the dead symbolized purity from moral defilement and complete dedication to the living God. Such devotion and commitment would be required from Hannah's son, who was to perform such an important function in the nation.

Why Was Eli so Quick to Accuse Hannah?

The high priest was probably trying to prevent improper or disrespectful activity in the vicinity of the tabernacle. When He observed Hannah moving her lips without speaking aloud, he assumed the worst and accused her of drunkenness. It is probable that Eli had seen drunken people in the tabernacle area, especially during the annual feasts. What had been intended as a time of worship celebration, and joy had degenerated into occasions for overindulgence and sensuality. Eli's own sons, Hophni and Phinehas, were guilty in this area. (See 1 Samuel 2:13-16, 22.) Eli acknowledged his mistake, however, when Hannah explained her situation. "Then Eli answered and said, Go in peace; and the God of Israel grant thee thy petition that thou hast asked of him" (1 Samuel 1:17).

What Was Hannah's Real Need?

Hannah was anxious, grieved, and bitter in spirit. Elkanah believed that Hannah needed to know how much he loved and appreciated her. (See 1 Samuel 1:8.) Peninnah felt that her rival was loved too much and needed to be humbled. (See 1 Samuel 1:4-6.) Eli thought that she had had too much to drink. (See 1 Samuel 1:14.) Hannah believed that the solution was a son. (See 1 Samuel 1:11.) What proved to be the most joyful and satisfying event in her life, however, was not receiving the gift of a son, but giving him back to the Lord. It was on the occasion of bringing Samuel back to the tabernacle that Hannah's heart was bursting with praise and adoration. She was as full of joy as she had been of grief. (See 1 Samuel 1:1-10.) Hannah's true need was for something of worth to Give to God. Her real joy came not from receiving but from giving.

Illustrated in the World of Nature:

Pelicans are among the largest birds in the world. Their body length, including the bill, may extend four to six feet. Their wing spread can be from five to ten feet, and an individual bird can weigh from six to twenty-five pounds. There are seven species of pelicans, the most widely known being the brown pelican of the Atlantic, Gulf, and the Pacific coasts. The only food that the brown pelican eats is fish. After World War I, Gulf fishermen complained that pelicans were eating too many fish and reducing the size of their catch. Studies have shown that the pelican eats fish that have little, if any commercial value.

How Is Returning Good for Evil Illustrated in the World of Nature?

In a desolate marshy inlet, a three day watch was coming to an end. Both feet of a huge waterfowl were cupped around two eggs which he had been keeping warm. When his mate arrived, he stepped off the nest, stretched out his seven foot wings, and climbed into the morning breeze. For three days he had not eaten; now he was able to take care of his hunger by using his God-given equipment to catch fish. He flew to an altitude of seventy feet; there he spotted a fish just below the surface of the water. The giant bird wheeled in flight and began to dive. With wings and legs outstretched, he looked very awkward as he descended. The awkwardness was intensified as he twisted his body; yet he always kept his eyes fixed on the target. Then, less than a foot above the water, he quickly folded back his wings, stretched his feet beneath his tail, thrust his neck forward, and parted the waters with a mighty splash. Beneath the surface he opened his long bill, and his pouch quickly filled with two and a half gallons of water, plus his fish. The skin of his pouch was stretched so tightly that the blood vessels could be seen. He bobbed to the surface and began to drain water from his pouch, being careful to contain the fish. Just then a screaming gull flew down and landed on the head of this huge bird. The gull looked small by comparison. The crafty gull had been waiting for just this moment. It hoped back and forth to keep its balance and slowly worked its way onto the long bill while his host finished draining the salt water from his pouch. Then, in one quick, bold move the thieving sea gull grabbed the fish out of the pouch and with a quick toss of its head flipped it into the air and swallowed it. Then it turned, stepped in the face of its provider, and flew into the air. With four quick beats the great bird lifted himself out of the water and followed the thief. As he reached an altitude of the gull, he again wheeled and dove. The gull screamed and darted aside, but the great bird's target was not the gull; he had spotted a school of fish. His second dive produced more fish. Once again the sea gull picked off one for itself. The patient provider swallowed the rest and flew back to its nest. By returning good for evil, the pelican was rewarded in at least two ways. First, he increased his fish catching skills. Second, he was prepared for the gentle and generous care of his own young. When they hatched, they would be picking fish out of his pouch for thee months!

The Characteristics of the Pelican in Scripture:

The pelican provides ample illustrations of Christ's relationship to the church and our work as Christians. Just as the male pelican selects the nesting site and then allows for a long courtship, so Christ is making preparations for the Church. "...I go to prepare a place for you" (John 14:2). The tender care the pelican gives its young is a picture not only of Christ's care of the Church, but of the nurture which parents must give to their children. (See Ephesians 6:4.) Just as the pelican could not have successful hatches without regular fasting, so Christ emphasized the importance of fasting for the success of Christians.

"...When ye fast...thy Father, with seeth in secret, shall reward thee openly" ~ Matthew 6:16, 18

The unusual abilities of the pelican to catch fish attracts birds that rob him. His response to them is an illustration of the patient kindness which Christians should have toward those who wrong them.

"Not rendering evil for evil... but contrariwise blessing..." ~ 1 Peter 3:9

The silent loneliness of the pelican in the wilderness marshes was referred to by David.

"I am like a pelican of the wilderness..." ~ Psalm 102:6

The bowing of pelican mates to each other at their nesting site is a picture of the honor that should exist between husband and wife. (See Ephesians 5:22-25.)

Raising the Standard: Kindness Is Giving Honor To Whom Honor Is Due

2011-12-29T05:56:00.009-06:00

"Honour thy father and thy mother..." ~ Deuteronomy 5:16

"Be kindly affectioned on to another with brotherly love; in honour of preferring one another." ~ Romans 12:10

"...'[If] one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it." ~ 1 Corinthians 12:26

Living Lessons on Kindness From the Pages of Scripture:

The world says, "the good that men do is soon forgotten, the evil lives on forever." God says, "The memory of the just is blessed but the name of the wicked shall rot" (Proverbs 10"7). By honoring the memory of those who benefited our lives, we are performing a kindness that fulfills an important purpose of the Lord. Only after the death of a righteous person did another person fully appreciate the benefits that had been received. It was then that the memory of that righteous person was properly honored. Who was the man who did not fully understand or appreciate what he had received until after the giver was dead? It was then that he properly honored his memory. Nicodemus.

How is Giving Honor to Whom Honor is Due Illustrated in Scripture?

The shocking event that caused other men to flee in fear caused him to advance in boldness. What brought discouragement to others brought confidence and reassurance to him. He was a ruler. It was his job to know what was taking place among his people, so when he began to hear alarming reports of a countermovement in his country, he decided to investigate. From behind the scenes, he gathered all the information he could. The more he learned, the more baffled and confused he became. Facts just did not add up in his mind. He concluded that his next step must be a private meeting with the movement's leader. But how could he get to him? During the day the leader was constantly surrounded by hostile critics and zealous followers. He concluded that the best time would be at night. Arrangements were made, and when the night arrived, he was present with carefully thought out questions. No sooner had the conversation begun than the one whom he was questioning made an unusual statement and an even more unusual analogy. The analogy related to an event which had taken place in their nation's history many years earlier. Thousands of poisonous snakes had come in and bitten the people. When the victims cried out to God, He commanded Moses to make a brass snake and nail it on a pole. Then all those who believed the Word of God were to go outside the camp and look at that snake. Those who obeyed were healed. The baffled ruler slipped out into the darkness of that night still pondering what he had heard. He continued to listen and watch and think. Then one day it all became clear. The one who gave him that analogy was nailed to a wooden cross just as the serpent was nailed to the pole. Now it was opportunity to fulfill that analogy. He got up, walked outside the city, and looked upon Jesus, fully believing the Word of God. Then, Nicodemus honored Christ by providing one hundred pounds of myrrh and aloes for His burial. [From John 3:1-21; 19:16-40]

Why Did Nicodemus Come to Jesus at Night?

The Pharisee's decision to visit Jesus during the evening may have been motivated simply by caution and convenience. Nicodemus was an influential leader. People looked to him for advice and counsel in religious matters. He wanted to know what Jesus was teaching to compare it to the traditional teaching of the scribes. He felt that this could best be accomplished by means of a private interview, away from the atmosphere of hostile critics and zealous followers. Furthermore, it was almost impossible to find time to meet with the Lord during the day. Because of His ministry of healing, Jesus was besieged by crowds. A quiet, uninterrupted discussion during the evening hours, possibly in the home of one of the disciples, would have been ideal for Nicodemus's purpose.

Who Did Nicodemus Think Jesus Was at First?

Nicodemus thought Jesus was a prophet like Moses, Joshua, Elijah, and Elisha. "...Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him" (John 3:2). Nicodemus knew that miracles in his nation's history were relatively rare. Most had occurred during two periods --- the first during Israel's deliverance from Egypt and their occupation of Canaan, the second during a time of great apostasy under the reign of Ahab. Throughout both eras, God used miracles to warn the wicked and to encourage the faithful. Now Jesus performed signs and wonders of the same nature as these former men of God, and Nicodemus was perceptive enough to recognize this. It is significant that he was open to the truth and had not hardened his heart like some of his fellow Pharisees who had attributed Jesus' works to Beelzebub, the prince of the devils. (See Matthew 12:22-24.) To Nicodemus, Jesus was a man from God, but He was still only a man.

Why Did Nicodemus Become So Bold After the Lord's Death?

It is interesting that the same event which caused the Lord's disciples to desert and deny Him, to become discouraged and to cower in fear behind closed doors, had just the opposite effect on Nicodemus. Why did he take no thought for his reputation, position, or wealth to assist in the burial of Jesus? The disciples viewed the crucifixion as a catastrophe, ending their cause and future hopes. Nicodemus was stirred to action by the same event. Nicodemus had believed that Jesus was a prophet sent by God. Jesus had told him, "And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life" (John 3:14-15). When Nicodemus saw Jesus lifted up on the cross, he remembered those words. This story which Nicodemus knew so well took on new meaning. Jesus was not just a prophet, He was the Suffering Servant predicted by Isaiah. He was more than a prophet, He was his Redeemer.

Illustrated in the World of Nature:

There are two kinds of lemmings --- the common and the collared. Only collard lemmings turn white in the winter. The arctic lemming of North America is one of several collared varieties. It is clearly distinguished from the common lemming by a golden collar that contrasts with its chestnut pelt. Lemmings are plump little animals related to the mouse. They are from four to five inches long including their stubby tails. They eat tremendous amounts of food and carry out emigrations every three to four years.

How Are the Consequences of Unkindness Illustrated in the World of Nature?

Shrill hissing and sharp, snapping teeth served as a warning to either move or get bitten. These ominous sounds did not come from some attacking predator. They came from a neighbor --- one of his own kind. This fellow lemming could have had plenty to eat if he would just move to a different level on the mountainous terrain. But the intruder wanted what he saw at that moment and was willing to fight for it. Another his was given and then sharp teeth flashed in the cold arctic air --- the defender was bitten. The wounded lemming was forced to leave the safety of his nest and feeding ground and retreat to unfamiliar territory. There he encountered more hissing and snapping from other lemmings who had also been forced to abandon their nests. After receiving several more wounds, he fled down the mountainside. Soon many others followed him and forced him to move again. This continued until one day he found himself at the edge of a high cliff overlooking a mountain river. His attempt to retrace his steps was prevented by fellow lemmings. Panic gripped him as he found himself being pushed over the precipice. Down he went, rolling, bouncing, and tumbling into the swirling water below! He surfaced and swam frantically to the bank. As he crawled up on the shore, hundreds more followed him. Soon their ranks were swelled with converging migrations of other lemmings. Hissing and biting continued among them as new destruction came upon them. Caribou used their sharp hooves to trample many, while they bit and swallowed others whole. The crowded conditions produced new hazards to their survival as an epidemic of "lemming fever" broke out among them, decimating their ranks. Then hungry bears, attracted to the hordes, devoured as many lemmings as they could. One destruction after another came as the contentious throng continued slowly down the mountainside. The more they traveled together, the more aggressive they became. Noisy fights broke out among them. Suddenly, the lemming halted. Before him was a large body of water; he was a good swimmer, but the choppy waves signaled danger. Forced by the press of the crowd, he plunged in --- and there was no turning back. Squabbles ended as each one swam desperately forward. Some were able to swim farther than others, but none reached the other shore. This destruction is a vivid illustration of the consequences of unkindness.

The Characteristics of the Arctic Lemming in Scripture:

The voracious appetite and irritable nature of the lemming provide a vivid illustration of what happens among people who sacrifice kindness for personal gain.

"From whence com wars and fightings among you? come they not hence, even if your lusts that war in your members?" ~ James 4:1

Lemmings fight each other to feed themselves. Scripture warns against such behavior among Christians.

"But if ye bite and devour one another, take heed that ye be not consumed one of another" ~ Galatians 5:15

In the beginning, mankind tended to become like lemmings by congregating in cities rather than scattering throughout the world.

"So the Lord scattered them abroad from thence upon the face of all the earth: and they left off to build the city" ~ Genesis 11:8

The dangers of the herd instinct among the lemmings is a precise illustration of the dangers of joining a demonstration against authority. (See Exodus 23:2.) The amazing march of the lemmings to destruction is a tragic illustration of crowd pressure among unbelievers.

"Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat" ~ Matthew 7:13

Raising the Standard: Kindness Is Bringing Joy Out Of Sorrow

2011-12-28T10:18:00.008-06:00

"I have not hid thy righteousness within my heart; I have declared thy faithfulness and thy salvation: I have not concealed thy lovingkindness and thy truth from the great congregation." ~ Psalm 40:10

Living Lessons on Kindness:

The loss of a loved one or the depletion of financial resources can produce bitterness. These same circumstances can also open up a life to the amazing potential of daily dependence upon our heavenly Father. One believer who had suffered the loss of a partner and financial provisions responded correctly and experienced unusual freedom and security. The outward evidence of trust in God's lovingkindness was so unusual that it brought public acclaim and inspired untold numbers of other believers to depend upon God's faithfulness. Who demonstrated the principle that kindness in giving is not measured by how much is given? The poor widow.

How Is Bringing Joy Out of Sorrow Illustrated in Scripture?

A spirit of celebration filled the city as thousands of men and their sons converged upon the temple area from all parts of the land. They were there to take part in the week long feast of unleavened bread. Happy reunions took place among friends who had not seen each other for several months. Music echoed over the hillsides as worshipers ascended to the city. the baaing of sheep and lowing of cattle being led to the temple added to the special sounds of the day. While all this was taking place, one person stood alone, watching as the people passed. She noticed the items which men and their sons had brought for the presentation of sacrificial gifts. This was one of the highlights of the feast. As she observed the jubilant crowds, she realized that she had neither father, son, husband, nor gift. Since the death of her husband, times had been difficult for her. She barely had enough money for food. The sum total of all her money could buy only an eighth of a loaf of bread! She followed the crowds at the temple, giving a warm smile to all who met her eyes. As she walked, there was much to think about. The God whom she worshiped was the same God whom Elisha served. God worked through Elisha to take care of a widow and her son for many months when she gave her last bit of food to him. Then there was the example of Anna, who had gone throughout the city thirty-three years earlier proclaiming that the Messiah had been born and that she had seen him with her own eyes. Anna was also a widow. For eighty-five years she had trusted the Lord for her provisions through fasting and prayer. What a beautiful example she was! Suddenly this woman knew what she would do. She increased her step and headed for the east side of the temple area. As the entered the court of the women, the crowds were especially large3. She walked over and stood in one of the lines. The line slowly moved toward a box with a trumpet shaped mouth. Those in front of her contributed valuable silver and bronze coins. Some gave bags of money. As she neared the box, she reached out her hand and threw in the money that was in it --- two little coins. They were all she had. As she turned to walk away, she noticed a man who had been watching those giving. He seemed encouraged by her gift. He called together his disciples and in a rich, clear voice she heard Him say. "Truly I say to you, this poor widow has given more than all who have given to the treasury. For they gave out of their abundance, but she out of her want gave all that she had!" Out of her sorrow and poverty this poor widow brought joy to the heart of Jesus by illustrating the true meaning of sacrificial giving [From Mark 12:41-44; and Luke 2:36-38]

How Did the Scribes "Devour Widows' Houses"?

The scribes, responsible for the teaching of God's Word, were themselves living contrary to the Law's demands. When Jesus accused them of devouring the houses of widows, He referred to their destructive teaching and possibly to their actions as well. The Law of God was sensitive to the greater needs of widows. As God's representatives, the leaders of Israel were to protect the legal rights of widows and to make sure that they were fed and clothed. (See Deuteronomy 10:17-18.) Grapes, grain, and olives were to be available for them to glean. (See Deuteronomy 24:19-21.) Widows were also to be included in the third year tithe. (See Deuteronomy 14:28-29.) But the teaching of the scribes provided ways for hard hearted people to evade these merciful commands. For instance, the scribes taught that a son could vow to devote to God everything he would otherwise have used to support his mother. The son gained the praise of men while his mother lived in poverty. (See Matthew 15:3-9.) The famous rabbi, Hillel, devised a "legal" way to evade the Law's command to cancel debts during the Sabbatical year. One tragic result of this scheme was to deprive widows who were in debt of the ownership of their houses. The Lord may also have been referring to the scribe's habit of taking advantage of the hospitality of people of limited means. Since it was technically forbidden to accept remuneration for their teaching, the scribes themselves were often poor. Yet they were not reluctant to accept contributions from those who were least able to give.

What Was the Value of the Poor Widow's Offering?

In the eyes of men, her offering was practically worthless. We know that "...she threw in two mites, which made a farthing" (Mark 12:42). Jerusalem's fund of food for transients set the daily ration at no less than the equivalent of one loaf of bread. At that time a loaf was worth a twelfth of a denarius, or about sixteen mites. Thus, the entire wealth of the poor widow was one-eighth of a loaf of bread, one-eighth he daily ration of a beggar. But her offering was of inestimable worth in the eyes of God. The Lord saw in her heart genuine love and total trust in her faithful Provider. He measured her offering not by what she gave, but by what she kept for herself.

For What Purpose Was the Widow's Offering Used?

Her offering provided for the physical functioning of the temple. Four of the thirteen collection boxes were freewill offerings. The others were for tribute money. The widow's two mites fell far short of the required half-shekel tribute amount. Thus, you can assume she was presenting the customary freewill offering given in association with the Feast of Unleavened Bread. The proceeds from the four freewill boxes were designated for wood, incense, temple decorations, and burnt offerings. These represented the major expenses of the temple. It is significant that even though the chief priests and temple leaders were corrupt at that time, the Lord still praised the widow for contributing to the temple's support. Although some had turned the temple into a den of thieves, it was still considered by the Lord to be the house of prayer. (See Luke 19:46.)

Illustrated in the World of Nature:

The life cycle of the monarch butterfly has four distinct stages: egg, caterpillar, pupa, and adult. Each stage is a separate and distinct living creature. But it is during the pupa stage that the caterpillar undergoes a radical metamorphosis, which changes it into a butterfly. Although scientists understood much about this complex metamorphosis, for many years they did not know what happened to the monarch during the winter months. It was not until the mid-1970's that the monarchs were tracked to their wintering grounds in central Mexico. They had flown distances in excess of 2,5000 miles during their short lifetimes.

How Is the Benefit of Bitter Experiences Illustrated in the World of Nature?

A beautifully colored monarch butterfly felt itself being jerked from the sky by a hungry predator which seemed to come out of nowhere. Its blue crested captor flew up to its nest. The stunned monarch was then released a few inches from three hungry mouths that were open wide, demanding to be fed. Just then the mate of the blue jay arrived and dropped a large juicy grasshopper at the feet of its feeding young. Immediately, the blue jay tore apart the grasshopper and poked the bits and pieces into each hungry mouth. Then it looked around for additional food. The jay that brought in the monarch watched in total surprise as its more mature mate stepped over to the monarch, picked him up and dropped him out of the nest. The uninjured monarch flew away to the fragrant flowers of the field below. This unexpected freedom was the result of what the monarch experienced when he was young. During his caterpillar stage, the bitter leaves of a poisonous plant was the only food available to him. Amazingly, he was not damaged by the toxins in the plant. However, they would remain in his system for the rest of his life. It was this very diet that now saved him from the hungry mouths of the blue jays. When the blue jay saw the monarch, the jay was immediately reminded of the first and last monarch that it had ever caught. Hoping to satisfy its hunger, the blue jay had swallowed a monarch in midair. Within a few minutes the blue jay became sick; its stomach seemed to be twisting and turning inside out. The pain and discomfort became worse and worse until the jay was finally gripped with convulsions. It vomited out the remains of the butterfly along with the rest of the day's catch. Once the butterfly was out of its stomach, the blue jay had instant relief. It had never experienced anything like this before and would never choose to do so again. Thereafter, in its search for food, the blue jay avoided anything that looked like a monarch. Not only could monarchs fly by this blue jay without harm, but viceroy butterflies could also carry on in their work in safety. The viceroy butterflies had never eaten the poisonous leaves of the milkweed plant. However, they had orange and black markings similar to a monarch butterfly. Thus, the bitter diet of the monarch's early days not only saved its own life but kindly benefited the lives of other butterflies.

The Characteristics of the Monarch Butterfly in Scripture:

The unique ability of the monarch butterfly to tolerate the toxins of the milkweed plant provides a picture of the need for Christians to endure the bitterness of discipline, trial, and persecution. The monarch butterfly absorbs bitter toxins during its early development, which protects its life when it matures. Similarly, God allows harsh experiences in our youth. "It is good for a man that he bear the yoke in his youth...He giveth his cheek to him that smiteth him...For the Lord will not cast off for ever" (Lamentations 3:27; 30-31).

"But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you" ~ 1 Peter 5:10

More importantly, bitter experiences help to conform us to the image of Christ.

"And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. For whom he did foreknow, he did also predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son..." ~ Romans 8:28-29

Perhaps the most spectacular characteristic of the butterfly is that it illustrates conformity to Christ as its transformation from caterpillar to butterfly. In going through its metamorphosis, it not only illustrates the truth of Christ's resurrection, but also the principle of the birth, death, and fulfillment of a vision. "It is sown in dishonor; it is raised in glory..." (1 Corinthians 15:43).

Raising the Standard: Kindness Is Using A Gift To Show The Worth Of A Person

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The purpose of all giving must be to demonstrate your love for Christ. For "though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity [love], it profiteth me nothing" (1 Corinthians 13:3). When someone with the gift of giving sees Christ as the real recipient of his gifts, he or she is motivated to meet needs which other overlook.

"...Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me." ~ Matthew 25:40

"But God commendeth his love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." ~ Romans 5:8

Living Lessons on Kindness From the Pages of Scripture:

A warm, loving smile is a precious gift to a lonely person, and precise words, properly spoken, are often more appreciated than silver or gold. "A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver" (Proverbs 25:11). Such kindnesses are usually learned during times of personal suffering. In those times God gives comfort and counsel which can then be passed on to others in their times of trouble. One who received and gave comfort during a time of deep sorrow illustrates for us the importance of using these gifts to show the worth of a person. An act of kindness is far more than meeting a physical need. It is emphasizing the worth of a person. It is honoring God's design for a life. Who was one that gave such an honor to Christ when He needed it most? Mary Magdalene at the foot of the cross.

How Is Strengthening the heart of a Discouraged Person Illustrated in Scripture?

After His arrest in the middle of the night, Jesus was brought before the Sanhedrin, the Jewish supreme court. During questioning by the high priest, a soldier struck Jesus across the face. The palace guards then blindfolded Him and taunted Him to identify them as each one passed by, spitting on Him and striking Him in the face. By the next morning, Jesus was battered, bruised, dehydrated, and exhausted from a sleepless night. He was taken to the Roman fortress and brought before an angry mob. They shouted, Crucify Him!" Pilate had Him beaten. The heavy thongs of the whip cut through the skin of His back and soon turned it into a mass of torn, bleeding tissue. The Roman soldiers compounded His torment by throwing a cloak over his lacerated back and by mocking Him. Sharp thorns were pressed into His scalp, producing copious bleeding. The cloak was then ripped off, reopening His wounds, and the heavy beam of the cross was placed on His bleeding shoulder. The grim procession slowly proceeded toward the execution site. At Golgotha, large, wrought iron nails were driven through His wrists and deep into the beam. While hanging on the cross, the searing agony of the nails tore through the nerves of the skin. Great waves of cramps swept over His muscles, knotting them in deep, relentless, throbbing pain. For hours, this limitless torture continued. Soon another agony began a crushing pain deep within His chest. His compressed heart struggled to pump thick, sluggish blood through His veins. His tortured lungs made frantic efforts to gasp in small gulps of air. His dehydrated body sent its message screaming to His brain, and He cried out, "I thirst!" He looked down from the cross, and in that dreadful hour He received something more refreshing than a drink of water --- a look of reassurance from one who believed in Him and who was committed to Him regardless of what others thought of Him. This friend who had been delivered from the bondage of tormenting spirits honored Him as a person by identifying with Him while others mocked Him and railed upon Him. She honored the great work which He came to perform by assisting with His burial and was the last to leave the tomb. The kindness of Mary Magdalene was singularly rewarded by Christ. She became the first one to whom He appeared after His resurrection. He returned her kindness by strengthening her heart with the truth of His resurrection. [From John 18:12-20:18]

Why Did Jesus First Appear to Mary Magdalene?

The resurrection appearances of Christ can teach us much. We learn that the risen Lord is just as tender, compassionate, and loving as He was while living among men. On that first Easter morning, Mary Magdalene missed her Lord greatly. The disciples, of course, felt great loss, but they were preoccupied with their fear of the Jews and remained in hiding behind locked doors. (See John 20:19.) It was Mary who had maintained a vigil at the tomb and stood there, weeping. In an act of love, the Lord appeared to her and gave her hope. Later that day He appeared to the disciples, who had refused to believe her report. (See John 19-20.) But Thomas was not present then; and in order to stimulate Thomas's weak faith, the Lord made another appearance eight days later. (See John 20:26-27.) The risen Lord chose not to over persuade men into His kingdom. Jesus appeared only to believers. Although He was crucified publicly and was subjected to the insults of His enemies, He did not show Himself to unbelievers in His resurrected body. How easy it would have been for Him to have appeared before the members of the Sanhedrin who had tried Him for blasphemy. But salvation is by faith. He gives men the evidence of His Word. "...Blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed" (John 20:29).

Why Did the Lord Ask Mary Not to Touch Him?

When Mary recognized the voice of Jesus, she tried to cling to her Master and keep Him in her presence. But the Lord said to Mary, "... Touch me not; for I am not yet ascended to my Father..." (John 20:17). Nothing could prevent Him from completing His ascent and entering into His rightful inheritance. The very thing Mary desired, His comfort and companionship, would be frustrated if she held on to Him. The Lord would send the Holy Spirit to comfort, teach, and abide with Mary at all times. (See John 14:26-28.)

Why Did the Disciples Disbelieve Mary's Testimony?

When Mary told Peter and John that the stone had been removed and that the Lord's body had been taken, they believed her without any doubt and ran to the tomb to investigate. (See John 20:1-4.) But when Mary testified that she had seen the risen Lord, the disciples dismissed her claim. "And they, when they had heard that he was alive, and had been seen of her, believed not" (Mark 16:11). Later, when the Lord appeared to them, He "...upbraided them with their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they believed not them which had seen him after he was risen" (Mark 16:14). The same is true for us today. We have not seen the risen Lord with our own eyes, but we have credible witnesses like Mary and many others who did. He expects us to believe His Word and to act in faith on the basis of it.

Illustrated in the World of Nature:

The redpoll looks like a small brown sparrow. It is about five and a half inches long, with a bright red cap and black chin. It lives in the low arctic tundra in areas where the tree growth has been stunted. When winters in the Arctic are severe, the redpoll migrates to Canada and the northern United States. In summer it feeds on insects, while in winter it eats only seeds. It is against the law to keep a redpoll in captivity.

How is the Secret of Longsuffering Illustrated in the World of Nature?

An arctic explorer struggled onward against bitter cold temperatures. It was fifty degrees below zero. His strength was drained after battling unexpected storms. His food supply would barely sustain him back to the base camp. Icy winds cut through his clothes, and finally the exhausted man slumped to the frozen tundra. He cried out to God for help, although he did not know what God would do in this desolate wilderness. Suddenly, he heard an unusual sound. He listened more closely. The sound was getting louder. It was bright and cheery. He turned around, and there to his surprise was another arctic traveler. This one had gained far more experience than he had in traveling throughout the polar regions. During a two month period, this veteran traveler had covered thousands of miles of arctic territory. The weary explorer had heard about this famous traveler, and he recalled what he knew about him. He listened to him and watched him demonstrate the secret that kept him going while others gave up. First, he went over to a nearby bush and shook a branch until many of its seeds fell on the snow-crushed tundra. Then, he quickly picked up all the seeds and went over to a sheltered place and sat down, and one by one cracked open the seeds which he had gathered. He gained nourishment from each one. As long as he had a supply of seeds and slowly ate them, he had amazing strength and an unusual ability to withstand arctic conditions. As the explorer watched, he understood the life giving message that he had just received. He had learned many Scripture verses as a young boy but had failed to gain strength by meditating on them day and night. He had been depending on his own strength, and that had been exhausted. He remembered the words of Isaiah 40:31 which this arctic traveler had just demonstrated. "...They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings...they shall run and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint." With that verse strengthening his heart and mind, the revived explorer stood up and walked on. God had answered his prayer for help by demonstrating the importance of meditating on Scripture. The more experienced traveler was the common redpoll. This arctic bird gave a valuable gift of kindness to the explorer by giving this secret of longsuffering.

The Characteristics of the Redpoll in Scripture:

The common redpoll's characteristic of storing seeds in an esophageal pouch and bringing them up again for nourishment is a clear picture of the process of Scriptural meditation. Scripture is compared to seeds, "...The seed is the word of God" (Luke 8:11). The redpoll searches for seeds daily. The early Christians "...received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily..." (Acts 17:11). We are to do the same. Once found, Scripture must be taken and stored in the heart, as emphasized in the following verses.

"Thy words were found, and I did eat them, and thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart..." ~ Jeremiah 15:16

"Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee" ~ Psalm 119:11

The redpoll's ability to bring the seeds up again day and night is a parallel to the command of God to meditate on His Word day and night.

"...Thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success" ~ Joshua 1:8

As the redpoll cracks open the seeds, it reingests them. We are to "crack open" the words of truth in order to gain the rich application and meaning of each one. (See 2 Timothy 2:15.)

Raising the Standard: Thriftiness Is Taking Care Of What I Have To Extend Its Usefulness

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"The slothful man roasteth not that which he took in hunting: but the substance of a diligent man is precious." ~ Proverbs 12:27

Living Lessons on Thriftiness:

In order to properly care for our possessions, we must first recognize that what we have has been entrusted to us by the Lord. Only then can we view ourselves as stewards and have the excitement in life that comes by using our resources to advance God's Kingdom. Cleanliness is a vital part of thriftiness. Cleanliness is not "next to godliness," it is "part of Godliness." One of the most successful kings of Judah demonstrated through his life and work how cleansing and care of God's possessions must begin within the heart and life of God's people.

God promises that if judgment begins at the house of God, He will deal with the heathen. (See 1 Peter 4:17.) Who was the king that began a spiritual cleansing and by it marked the end of a cruel heathen empire? Josiah.

How is the Need to Take Care of Possessions Illustrated in Scripture?

The year was 632 B.C. An Assyrian emperor educated by the priests of his day looked from his huge palace in Nineveh to the amazing architectural achievements of his city. There was the famous library with priceless historical records. Then there was the magnificent aqueduct with huge archways over the valley brook. It was constructed with millions of large, cut limestone blocks. Also under his leadership was a well trained army, which had maintained control of conquered territories through ruthless and brutal tactics. In that same year, a sixteen year old king, who lived within the domain of that emperor, began to seek after the Lord God that made heaven and earth. His seeking after God was in contrast to the wicked rule of his father. However, his grandfather had repented of his wicked ways at the end of his reign and had begun to tear down the false worship centers in the land. As the youthful king began to seek the Lord, the grip of that powerful emperor suddenly weakened to the point that he had to flee from Nineveh and rule the empire from a new western location. Four years later, that young, God-fearing king began to cleanse his kingdom from the perversion and immorality accepted through the false philosophies which permeated the music, art and sculptures of the day. He and those with him broke down carved and molten images, ground them into dust, and threw the dust upon the graves of those who had worshiped them. It is significant that after this was accomplished, God heralded the end of the Assyrian empire with the death of its brilliant ruler --- Ashurbanipal. Josiah, the Godly king of Judah, at the age of twenty six, began the monumental task of repairing the house of the Lord. Large, hewn stones were pulled to the site to rebuild sections that were broken down, and timber was brought in for floors and couplings. As their work progressed, God crowned their efforts with a valuable discovery --- a book of the Law of the Lord, given by Moses. It had been lost for many years. In caring for the things entrusted to him, king Josiah gained valuable direction for his life and his leadership. [From 2 Chronicles 34]

How Was Josiah Influenced to Seek the Lord?

Although Josiah grew up in the court of two of the most disobedient kings of Judah, it is likely that he received Godly instruction when young. He was born six years before the death of his grandfather, Manasseh, in a time of brief reform. King Manasseh had been captured by the Assyrians and thoroughly humiliated by them. After his release, he was allowed to regain his throne in Jerusalem Because of this experience, his heart was softened, and he "...commanded Judah to serve the Lord God of Israel" (2 Chronicles 33:16). Josiah's very name hints to the climate of the time. His name resumed the custom of compounding royal names with that of Jehovah. Josiah means "may the Lord support or heal." The new freedom and encouragement for followers of the Lord, which resulted from Manasseh's change of heart, provided the Godly remnant among the priests an opportunity to train the royal prince. These same tutors were probably allowed to continue their teaching duties through the rule of king Amon and during the early years of Josiah's reign.

How Did Josiah Encourage the People to Follow the Lord?

First, he set a good example. "And he did that which was right in the sight of the Lord, and walked in all the way of David his father..." (2 Kings 22:2). Second, Josiah destroyed the centers of pagan worship and the idolatrous priests who were leading the people astray. Third, he began reconstruction of the temple in order to reinstate proper worship of Jehovah. Fourth, when confronted with the Law, he acknowledged the sins of his fathers and the people and fully repented. He then gathered all the people great and small, "...and he read in their ears all the words of the book of the covenant..." (2 Chronicles 34:30). Josiah committed himself to obey the Law and urged the people to do the same. He destroyed the centers of false worship, removing the temptation to resume activities after the initial stages of reform. He reinstituted the Passover and generously provided sacrificial animals from his own herds. "And there was no passover like to that kept in Israel from the days of Samuel the prophet; neither did all the kings of Israel keep such a passover as Josiah kept..." (2 Chronicles 35:18).

Were Josiah's Reforms Politically Motivated?

The king might be accused of merely being an astute politician by instituting religious reform. Refurbishing the temple and destroying competing religious centers could be viewed as an attempt to centralize the kingdom in Jerusalem and reunite the remnant remaining in the north. Destroying Assyrian idols could be considered a bold, calculated insult to the weakened northern empire, a declaration of complete independence. But there is evidence to believe that Josiah's reforms were motivated primarily out of a pure love for the Lord. When he heard the Law, "...he rent his clothes" (2 Chronicles 34:19). Huldah the prophetess declared Josiah's heart to be pure. "Because thine heart was tender, and thou didst humble thyself before God... and didst rent thy clothes, and weep before me; I have even heard thee also, saith the Lord" (2 Chronicles 34:27). Jeremiah, in the prophet's lament, declared Josiah to be a just, unselfish judge who had compassion on the poor. (See Jeremiah 22:11-16.)

Illustrated in the World of Nature:

Once called the "blue robin," the bluebird wears the colors found in the flag of the United States of America. It has a brilliant blue back, a red chest, and a white underside. Bluebirds are extremely beneficial. They eat harmful insects by the thousands. A single bird may eat as many as 50,000 cutworms in a season. In the winter bluebirds eat wild berries, including those of the mistletoe and poison ivy. The young weigh only three grams when they hatch but multiply their weight nine times in two weeks.

How is the Need to Take Care of Resources Illustrated in the World of Nature?

While the Second World War was causing British people to live in daily dread of German attacks, another war was taking place in the fields of America. Longtime residents feared a threat from the sky just as real as the German rockets in Britain. The eerie sound of sirens in Britain caused the inhabitants to run to the safety of their bomb shelters. The shrieking sound of the terror in American skies caused country residents to flee to the safety of their homes. After the raids, the dead were strewn about both Britain and America. Parents in both countries would train their young how to detect the enemy flying overhead and give stern warnings not to wander far from safety. After air attacks, mothers were kept busy cleaning their homes and removing debris. While the mothers were taking care of their infants, the fathers were teaching their youth and preparing them to assist with family responsibilities. One day in a peaceful countryside in America the dreaded alarm was given --- the aggressive attackers were coming. Quickly, the residents fled to their homes. Mothers huddled with their young while fathers sat nervously waiting. Moments later, thousands of invaders descended from the sky. Some landed in the open field, others in trees. As soon as the invaders surveyed the territory they entered the homes. Brazenly they burst in and forced the occupants out. If there were infants in the home, they threw them out in the dirt. Many of them perished. The cruel invaders then treated the homes as their own, confiscating the contents for their own use. No longer was the sound of happy singing to be heard in this region. Instead, there would be the strange sound of the new arrivals. Once they were established in their stolen homes, they advanced into new territories, plundering the crops of berries, cherries, apples, and pears. When news of this reached the cities of America, it caused alarm and concern, but little could be done. The intruders were so well equipped to survive in America that they had multiplied into millions. Those whom they displaced dwindled in number. The invaders from the sky who descended upon American fields were starlings. The longtime residents which they displaced and scattered were the red, white, and blue eastern bluebirds. During the Second World War the starlings multiplied into millions and reduced the bluebird population by ninety percent. Ironically, starlings were introduced to America when about one hundred of them were imported from Great Britain in 1890-1891. The bluebirds that have remained have done so because of their thriftiness in finding and maintain homes which the starlings could not enter.

The Characteristics of the Bluebird in Scripture:

The importance of the nest to the survival of the bluebird provides significant parallels to the importance of the home for the continuing health and well being of the family. The danger of a bluebird being forced to aimlessly wander from its nest is compared to the danger of a parent or child wandering away from his home.

"As a bird that wandereth from her nest, so is a man that wandereth from his place" ~ Proverbs 27:8 (Also see Isaiah 16:2.)

The affection and care of the male bluebird for his partner speaks of the self sacrifice which the husband is to provide for his wife. (See Ephesians 5:25.) As the male bluebird teaches its young, so fathers are to bring up their children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. (See Ephesians 6:4.) The large number of offspring that the bluebirds have coincides with God's command to parents, "...Be fruitful, and multiply..." (Genesis 1:28). The teaching of older chicks to help with the rearing of the young illustrates the admonition of 1 Timothy 5:4 to learn first to show piety at home. The mother bluebird's amazing care of the nest is a beautiful example of being a keeper at home. (See Titus 2:5.)

A Christmas Prayer

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Lord, this is my prayer. Not only on Christmas day but until I see You face to face may I live my life this way: Just like the baby Jesus I ever hope to be, resting in Your loving arms trusting in Your sovereignty. And like the growing Christ child in wisdom daily learning, may I ever seek to know You with my mind and spirit yearning. Like the Son so faithful let me follow in Your light, meek and bold, humble and strong - not afraid to face the night. Nor cowardly to suffer and stand for truth alone, knowing that Your kingdom awaits my going home. Not afraid to sacrifice though great may be the cost, mindful how You rescued me from broken-hearted loss. Like my risen Savior: the babe, the child, the Son, may my life forever speak of who You are and all You've done. So while this world rejoices And celebrates Your birth, I treasure You, the greatest gift unequaled in Your worth. I long to hear the same words that welcomed home Your Son, 'Come, good and faithful servant,' Your Master says, 'Well done.' And may heaven welcome others who will join with me in praise because I lived for Jesus Christ not only Christmas Day. Amen ~ By Mary Fairchild Merry Christmas brother and sister Christians... blessings be with you and yours and my you stay rooted in faith, with the Word in your mouths. ~ The Albatross

Raising the Standard: Thriftiness Is Learning How To Live With Basic Provisions

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"Remove far from me vanity and lies: give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with food convenient for me: Lest I be full and deny thee, and say, Who is the Lord? or lest I be poor, and steal and take the name of my God in vain." ~ Proverbs 30:8-9

Living Lessons On Thriftiness From The Pages Of Scripture:

Thriftiness involves learning to live on less. This does not mean just reducing a high standard of living. It means learning to be content with food and clothing. (See 1 Timothy 6:8.) Once, a man was offered great treasures if he would learn how to be content with he basics. The man, however, was unable to even attempt it. He possessed riches which to him seemed greater than the ones he would receive. He went away with great sorrow.

Who was the man that was unable to receive great treasures because he was absorbed in personal treasures which would soon be lost? The young rich ruler.

How is the Importance of Learning to Live with the Basics Illustrated in Scripture?

One day two rulers met together. The fact that their meeting was recorded in history is an indication of its importance. It turned out to have far reaching implications. Both rulers were young, came from wealthy backgrounds, and were aware of all the riches which were available to them. Both rulers had been trained in the Law of God and both had purposed to keep His commandments. Each one was aware of the importance of life after death, and uppermost in each of their minds at that moment was eternal life. There were also differences between these two rulers. One was older and more mature. The older ruler possessed far greater riches than the younger even imagined. The more mature ruler had a far greater grasp of God's Law and its true meaning. However, he was deeply impressed by the young ruler and desired to greatly increase his riches. In order to prepare the young ruler for the treasures that he would receive, he quoted several commandments. The young ruler quickly responded, "All of these commandments I have kept from my youth up." These commandments, however, are summed up by the following word, "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all they heart... and thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself." Based on this, the older ruler gave him a perceptive test. Failing the test would reveal that he did not understand the basic principles upon which the Law or life were built. If he passed the test, he would immediately receive vast treasures which would make his present possessions seem insignificant by comparison. The test Jesus gave him was to sell his possessions and give the money to the poor, whom he had just implied he loved as himself. It is not hard to keep money for oneself. The rich young ruler understood the test and slowly walked away sorrowing. He had never learned the valuable secret of thriftiness which would allow him to be secure with basic provisions. [From Matthew 19:16-22]

What Was the Rich Young Ruler's Real Purpose in Coming to Jesus?

When the young man knelt before Jesus and asked, "...What shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?" (Mark 10:17), he was not acknowledging a need for salvation from sin. To him eternal life merely meant a life which experienced the full blessings of salvation. He was taught that the way to blessing was to please God by performing good works such as giving alms to the poor, reciting daily prayers, and fasting twice a week --- three methods taught by the religious leaders. (See Matthew 6:1-18.) The young man believed he was already in good standing with God because of his strict adherence to the letter of the Law as weakened by the rabbis. But he was not at peace. He wanted a special task which he could perform, possibly using his influence and resources, in order to receive his special blessing and standing before God. When the Philippian jailer fell down before Paul and Silas and asked, "...Sirs, what must I do to be saved?" he clearly recognized his need for salvation. Paul and Silas could immediately reply, "...Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved..." (Acts 16:30-31). But the rich young man had not yet recognized his great need and could not trust in Jesus while still trusting in his wealth. (See Matthew 6:24.)

Why Did Christ Ask the Ruler to Give Everything to the Poor?

The Lord gave the young man a very challenging assignment --- to give everything he owned to the poor. It was not uncommon for pious Jews to give away one-fifth of their income to the poor. The rich man would probably have given more than that to purchase the peace he lacked. But to give everything away would remove him from the wealthy class altogether. He would no longer have his luxuries, his servants, his friends, his security, or his power. Jesus knew that possessions owned this man and not the man his possessions. He was chained to the world system by his love of money, and the Lord knew the young man would struggle with money as long as he owned it. He needed to learn to trust in God alone.

Why Were the Disciples "Astonished Out of Measure" at Christ's Response?

After the young man sadly departed, Jesus told the disciples, "...How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God!" He went on, "It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God" (Mark 10:23, 25). The disciples thought the young man was an ideal candidate for the kingdom. Although they themselves had left all to follow Jesus, they still clung to the common opinion that the wealthy were looked upon more favorably by God. Were not the rich more blessed? Were they not able to give more alms and preform greater acts to earn God's favor? But Jesus said without ambiguity that is impossible for a man to earn favor with God through is wealth. Man cannot earn salvation. But God can reach out in grace and provide a way for him. The only requirement is a recognition of this fact and humble reception of it. These things are especially hard for the rich who are not accustomed to admitting the need or receiving help. But God can even change the heart of the rich.

Illustrated in the World of nature:

The alligator snapping turtle is the largest fresh water turtle found in North America. It often reaches weights of 150 to 200 pounds and lengths of more than four feet. Since these turtles do not stop growing, fifty year old "monster" snappers have been found that have weighed over 400 pounds. Alligator snapping turtles are not as aggressive as common snapping turtles. When disturbed in the water, they are more likely to sit passively with their mouths open. If disturbed out of water they strike only at objects the come very close to them. When picked up, their most common defense is to eject large amounts of liquid.

How is the Potential of Living With Less Illustrated in the World of Nature?

An eighty pound creature pushed his way through the tall grass like a massive armored tank. When he reached the edge of a small, secluded lake, he slowly stretched out his leathery neck and raised in like a large turret with two active periscopes. With no further introduction he plunged into the water and slid beneath its surface. His new world revealed a wide variety of potential meals: schools of fish, frogs, mussels, snails, and vegetation. Instead of immediately grabbing up a meal, the new monarch of the lake swam to the bottom and settled half-buried in the soft mud and underwater growth. He looked like a large rock. There he remained throughout the day except for brief trips to the surface to breathe. Soon a blue gill was attracted to something and swam straight for the camouflaged creature. A moment later it vanished. Two days later another small pan fish was curiously drawn to the rock like form --- it, too, disappeared. As the days grew shorter and the water colder, the submerged creature rarely needed to surface for air. He remained on the bottom of the lake. Over the next few weeks, his meals were spaced further and further apart. Rather than building up a store of food as other hibernating animals do, he ate less and less. He was in the process of cleansing his digestive system. Finally, he ate nothing at all. When his system was empty of all food, the great creature covered its entire with mud and began a fast which would last the entire winter. His discipline in not eating is extraordinary considering the amazing ability he has to easily catch food. The fish that were strangely attracted mouth were drawn there by a very effective lure. Whenever this creature was hungry, he simply opened his mouth. Suddenly, something that looked like a pink worm appeared. Slowly the worm wiggled back and forth. Its motion would catch the attention of a hungry fish. It would swim toward the lure and then --- snap! The water would swirl and the fish would disappear. The "worm" was actually a growth attached to the middle of the giant snapping turtle's tongue. By pulling down on one side of the tongue and then the other side, he could cause his built-in worm to wiggle. The action was so lifelike that it lured unsuspecting fish right into his open mouth. With this feeding ability, the alligator snapping turtle becomes and outstanding demonstration of the discipline of living with less.

The Characteristics of the Alligator Snapping Turtle in Scripture:

The alligator snapping turtle illustrates one of the essential disciplines that must be learned by every Christian who desires the spiritual rewards of living within basic provisions. The discipline is fasting. The alligator snapping turtle finds seclusion to engage in its fasting. Jesus promises that if we fast secretly, He will reward us openly. (See Matthew 6:18.) Esther and all her companions fasted for three days and God rewarded them with deliverance from their enemies. (See Esther 4:16.) Nehemiah fasted for several days and God rewarded him with direction and provision for accomplishing a great work. (See Nehemiah 1-2.) Extended fasting for the alligator snapping turtle marks a new season for its life. The same was true for Moses, Daniel, Christ, Paul and others. The alligator snapping turtle also illustrates the trap that food can be to Christians who do not conquer uncontrolled appetites. Just as the alligator snapping turtle ensnares unsuspecting victims with the bait of its dangling tongue, so Adam and Eve fell victim to their appetite. (See Genesis 3:6.) The mixed multitude in the wilderness learned the same hard lesson. "And he gave them their request; but sent leanness into their soul" (Psalm 106:15).

It's Christmas Eve... A prayer, A song, and A blessing.

2011-12-24T15:32:00.004-06:00

Gracious, loving and merciful God, on this Christmas Eve, as the light of your Word penetrates our hearts, as we are reminded of the gift of life and faith, as the glories of the heavenly hosts are echoed in our church, we open ourselves up to your Spirit and give you thanks. We are grateful, Lord Jesus, that your story has become our story, and we celebrate your birth. Continue, we pray, to instill in us a profound sense of your abiding presence, and help us to take to heart the wonder of your love, that we may walk in your ways and delight in your will. Help us, Lord God, to be the faithful, gracious, loving, giving and forgiving people you would have us be. In the name of your beloved Jesus I pray, Amen.

A CHRISTMAS BLESSING

God grant you the light of Christmas,which is faith; the warmth of Christmas,which is purity; the righteousness of Christmas, which is justice; the belief in Christmas, which is truth; the all of Christmas, which is Christ.

Raising the Standard: Thriftiness Is Preparing For Known Needs During Times Of Plenty

2011-12-24T06:04:00.007-06:00

"And God is able to make all grace abound toward you: that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work." ~ 2 Corinthians

Lessons on Thriftiness from the Pages of Scripture:

Wise saving during times of plenty avoids self indulgence and makes it possible to distribute to the needs of the saints. (See Romans 12:13.) When saving is practiced out of fear of an unknown future, it tends to produce hoarding and greed. The result is the heaping up of treasures, which God Condemns. (See Psalm 39:6.) When saving is carried out for the purpose of meeting needs as God reveals them, it produces faith and unity among Christians. God illustrated the potential of such giving through the dedicated work of a leader in the church at Corinth.

In 52 A.D. the Roman deputy of Corinth almost heard Paul speak. This deputy, Gallio was the older brother of the famous Seneca, whose philosophies he believed. When these were later discredited by Nero, Seneca and Gallio both committed suicide. In contrast, what respected citizen of Corinth heard the Gospel and believed? Gaius of Corinth.

An angry mob shoved a wealthy and respect citizen of Corinth aside and moved in to seize his courageous house guest. The assortment of confused religious leaders, misguided worshipers, and town rabble then moved down the main thoroughfare to the Roman judgment hall. The newly appointed Roman deputy came out to the rostrum and listened to the frenzied demands for punishment and banishment. Gallio, the deputy, looked at the accused and recalled the bitter cup of public scorn that his family had recently endured, and would probably endure again. With sympathetic understanding, he decided to protect the accused and his followers --- whatever their views may be. Just then the condemned guest attempted to speak, but Gallio interrupted him and said to the threatening crowd, "if it were a matter of wrong or wicked lewdness, I would listen to you. But since it is a question of your own religious laws, I will not be a judge of such matters." He then drove them all out of the judgment hall. The God-fearing host was greatly relieved. Now he and other believers would be free to prosper in their work and witness. His guest had risked his life to bring the Gospel to them. How could they show their gratefulness? The answer soon came when he learned of a special need. A serious famine in Jerusalem was causing many Christians to suffer hunger. How fitting that such a need would be met by the citizens of Corinth. This very city was restored by Julius Caesar as a Roman colony to help poor people improve their living conditions. It was now the wealthiest seaport in the world. In these times of plenty the Corinthian believers and Gaius, host of the Apostle Paul, demonstrated thriftiness by setting aside funds for the famine stricken Christians at Jerusalem. [From Acts:1-18 and 2 Corinthians 8]

In What Way Did Paul Commend Gaius to the Roman Christians?

At the conclusion of his letter to the Romans, Paul sent greetings from the Corinthian Christians and from Gaius. He used the occasion to commend Gaius by identifying him as "...mine host, and of the whole church..." (Romans 16:23). It is not certain precisely what Paul meant by the second phrase "and the whole church." It is likely that the church continued to meet in Gaius's home. (See Acts 18:7.) The phrase may indicate that he provided lodging to many who flocked to his house while Paul was present. It may also mean that Gaius had a reputation for hospitality toward believers traveling through Corinth. In any case, Gaius met Paul's requirement that leaders of the church be "given to hospitality" and "a lover of hospitality." (See 1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:8.)

How Did Paul Boast About the Corinthian Believers?

One of Paul's greatest desires was to help the very poor and persecuted Christians of Jerusalem. He wanted to unify the Body of Christ and remove the tension between Jewish and Gentile believers. The church at Corinth was more able than most to contribute to this cause. The Corinthians had been spared the severe persecution which had affected many other Gentile churches. In Paul's first letter to the Corinthians, he exhorted them to systematically set aside a portion of their income in order to be prepared when he came. Although other problems and divisions in that church caused Paul concern, he was almost apologetic when reminding them of the collection "For as touching the ministering to the saints, it is superfluous for me to write to you: For I know the forwardness of your mind, for which I boast of you to them of Macedonia..." (2 Corinthians 9:1-2). The Corinthians, who constituted the main church of Achaia, had been ready with their gifts for over a year. It is most likely that the generous and hospitable Gaius was a leading force and example in this ministry.

Why Were the Corinthians Able to Help Supply the Needs of Others?

God used the political influence of the Roman ruler Gallio to protect the Corinthian Christians. Many times Paul's preaching resulted in intense persecution. The initiators were often Jews who accused Paul of being a heretic. In fact, Paul's recent ministry in Thessalonica had been shortened because of Jews "moved with envy". (See Acts 17:5.) Jason, Paul's host there, had also suffered. In Ephesus, idol making silversmiths led the persecution effort. As a result of such harassment, Christians often lost their jobs, were reduced to poverty, and had little to share with others. Those in Jerusalem were particularly in need. But such was not the case in Corinth. When a Jewish mob dragged Paul before the Roman proconsul Gallio, he refused to be intimidated by the influential Jews and decided to take sides. Gallio judged Paul innocent under Roman law and afforded him the protection of that law. As a result, the Corinthian Christians were protected from the persecution experienced in other cities. Now Paul expected them to use their surplus to help others. (See 2 Corinthians 8:13-15.)

Illustrated in the World of Nature:

Acorn woodpeckers stand about nine inches tall. They live in groups of two to twelve members, with four to eight being the most common. Half of the bird's diet is made up of acorns which it not only eats in the fall but also stores in tree granaries to eat in the winter. All members of the group share in the work of harvesting and storing acorns. No individual bird has its own storage tree. Acorn woodpeckers also defend their territory, raise their young, and maintain their storage site as a group.

How is Saving During Times of Plenty Illustrated in the World of Nature?

One of the most important lessons about life can be learned from the labors of two different kinds of workers in the country fields. Both of these workers toiled long hours during the springtime and summer. Both enjoyed an abundant harvest and both gathered in all the provisions they could. Yet, each worker had an entirely different motive for working, and therein lies the valuable lesson that must be learned. The wise worker started early in the morning and labored until evening. His diligence was amazing, as well as his ability not to be distracted from his primary goal of a fruitful harvest. Each item that he harvested was carefully stored. He used his head in a unique way to make sure that his crop was securely protected, often moving each item at least two or three times. During his lifetime, he gathered tons of food, and many in his community benefited from his labors. The foolish worker also labored long hours during the day and into the night. He used all the farming knowledge he had to raise a crop. His efforts were rewarded with a bumper harvest far greater, in fact, than he could even store in his barns. It was at this point that his goal for working became clear. He said to himself, "I now have an abundant supply for many years. I will store it in bigger barns and retire to a life of ease." He saved during times of plenty so that he would not be dependent upon God for his daily food. He thought that he could now depend only upon himself and thus live the way he wanted. He would "eat, drink, and be merry." God said to this worker, "You fool. This night your soul will be required of you. Then who shall own those things which you have provided?" On the other hand, God praised the wise worker and his fellow creatures by telling us to think about them and learn from their ways. Their purpose in working is not to heap up provisions for a future life of ease, but to provide for their needs in daily dependence upon God. The acorn woodpecker, who stores his harvest in trees and posts, has no thought of a retirement to ease. He works to store provisions during times of plenty for the needs of his family, his fellow workers, and others in his community who depend on his skillful labors.

The Characteristics of the Acorn Woodpecker in Scripture:

The acorn woodpecker is unique to the realm of birds in that during times of plenty it "reaps and gathers into barns." In Matthew 6:26 God instructs us to consider the fowls of the air which do not sow or reap or gather into barns, "..yet your heavenly Father feedeth them..." Thus, God uses the labor of the acorn woodpecker to help carry out His commitment to provide food for other birds. In the same way, God allows some Christians to provide for others who have special needs.

"...That now at this time your abundance may be a supply for their want, that their abundance also may be a supply for your want..." ~ 2 Corinthians 8:14

The amazing diligence of the acorn woodpecker is a sharp rebuke to the slothful man described in Proverbs 20:4. "...Therefore shall he beg in harvest, and have nothing." As the acorn woodpecker secures thousands of acorns in its storehouses, it illustrates the condition of the righteous man in Psalm 112:3. "Wealth and riches shall be in his house..." Just as the acorn woodpecker does not gather only for himself, the righteous man is one who "...hath dispersed, he hath given to the poor; his righteousness endureth for ever..." (Psalm 112:9).

Raising the Standard: Thriftiness Is Making The Most Of Limited Resources

2011-12-23T09:55:00.007-06:00

"If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches?" ~ Luke 16:11

"Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful." ~ 1 Corinthians 4:2

"Redeeming the time, because the days are evil." ~ Ephesians 5:16

Living Lessons on Thriftiness From the Pages of Scripture:

The purpose of thriftiness is not to hoard more for ourselves, but to live on less so that we have more to give to others. God is the master of making a little go far. He kept the Israelites' shoes intact for forty years in the wilderness, and multiplied a cup of oil for a widow and her two sons. During a time of special need, Jesus demonstrated how He could make the best use of another's limited resource when it was first given to Him. How is the Need to Make the Best Use of Limited Resources Illustrated in Scripture?

This is the story of two young boys. Although living at different times in history, each one saw the miraculous provision of God for his family in response to his faith and obedience. The first boy was the older son of a widow during Elisha's day. Who was the second boy? The boy with loaves and fish.

The quiet weeping of a mother could be heard by her son. He understood; he, too, shared in her sorrow. His father had died. They were a close family, and the father was greatly missed by him, his mother, and his little brother. But the loss of the father was now to be deepened by further tragedy. The creditors were coming to take the boy and his younger brother away from their sorrowing mother. They would have to work to pay off the debts which their father had accumulated. With no food in the house except a pot of oil, the grieving mother had nowhere to turn but to the Lord. Who began to work in a very unique and marvelous way. God directed the prophet Elisha to tell the mother to get empty pots and pans from her neighbors. "Get as many as you can," he said. The boy and his brother worked with their mother, and soon they had a house full of empty pots. Then they shut the door. The older son began bringing the pots to his mother. She poured her oil into each one according to the instructions of the prophet. Miraculously the oil was never used up. It filled every container! The jubilant widow sold this oil, paid the creditors, and lived on the rest. The account of this widow and her sons was passed on years later to another young boy. He also had a mother in need. Their provisions for food were sparse. Rather than having rich wheat, they survived on barley, the grain of the poor. Like the widow's son of earlier years, this boy purposed to help his mother. One day he listened to the excitement of villagers going out into the countryside to hear a wise teacher. That gave him an idea. He went home, got what he needed, and hurried out to join them. That day the boy listened to the rich and refreshing truths of Christ. The boy's faith was stirred as he heard and understood. He decided to put the teachings on giving into action and made his way up to the front of the crowd. He told a disciple by the name of Andrew that he wanted to give something to Christ. Andrew agreed to tell Jesus about his offer. A few minutes later Andrew returned and received from the boy a basket of five barley loaves and two fish. Christ blessed the, broke them, and then gave them to His disciples to feed over 5,000 people! Not only did Christ satisfy the hungry multitude, but He had His disciples gather up twelve baskets of food that was left over. With these baskets Christ was able to demonstrate to this boy and his mother the potential of multiplied returns when limited resources are first given to Him. {From 2 Kings 4:1-7 and John 6:5-14]

Why Was the Boy the Only One With Food?

The fact that the boy had five loaves of bread suggests that the food was intended for sale rather than for his own use. It was just too much for one person to eat. There was a food supply in Jerusalem designated for the poor. A daily ration was the equivalent of one loaf of bread. The loaves were usually flat, about seven inches across and one inch thick. Thus, five loaves would have met the daily needs of five men. The boy was probably a bread vendor working in the market places. When the people left the city in the morning, he followed them. From the word in John's account which is used to describe the fish, we know that they were cooked or roasted and intended to be used as a relish for the bread. The fact that the loaves were made of barley is significant. Barley bread was a staple in the diet of poor people. The growing season for barley was shorter than that for wheat, and the grain thrived in less futile soil. As a result, the price of barley grain was about half that of wheat. (See 2 Kings 7:1.) The boy may have been trying to help support a very poor family by selling barley bread to other poor people.

What Did the Boy Gain by Giving Jesus All of His Food?

First, he gained a good meal. His job was to sell his food, not to eat it. By giving the bread and fish to Jesus, the boy was able to eat as much as he wanted along with everyone else in the crowd. Second, he gained a valuable lesson in business. Solomon had advised the businessmen of his day, "Cast thy bread [literally, barley loaves] upon the waters: for thou shalt find it after many days" (Ecclesiastes 11:1). The boy could have exploited the situation by selling the loaves to the highest bidders. But when Andrew asked for the food, he gave it up recognizing a wiser investment. The boy benefited in another way by entrusting all of his resources to the Lord. After the meal was over, the disciples were asked to "...gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost" (John 6:12). It is likely that the twelve baskets of food which remained were given back to the boy. Finally, he gained a full and personal impact of the miracle. It was his food that the Lord used to feed the crowd. This was no mere man. This was truly the Son of God.

Why Do All Four Gospels Record This Particular Miracle?

The miracle has profound meaning as to the Lord's nature. Jesus explained its significance the following day in Capernaum. The crowds wanted to make Him their king. He had satisfied their hunger with barley bread and fish, and now they desired more miracles of a similar kind. But the Lord rebuked them for missing the point. "... Ye seek me, not because ye saw the miracles, but because ye did eat of the loaves, and were filled. Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you: for him hath God the Father sealed" (John 6:26-27). The poor wanted a Messiah to deliver them from the oppression of the rich. Jesus declared that they were just as needy spiritually and should hunger instead for spiritual food. He claimed to be the Bread which alone could satisfy their needs. "I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever: and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world" (John 6:51).

Illustrated in the World of Nature:

There are over 14,000 different kinds of mosses. Some varieties grow in hot deserts while others grow on the mountains of Antarctica. One species of moss grows 180 feet underwater. Most moss plants have a typical compact shape and grow in dense clusters close to the ground. One such moss, known as sphagnum moss, grows new generations on top of dead ones, forming thick layers of a substance called peat. In some countries peat is used for fuel and in the manufacture of paper and fabrics.

How is Making the Best Use of Limited Resources Illustrated in the World of Nature?

History provides the amazing accounts of two field workers. One was more famous, or rather infamous, and the other was more common. From outward appearances they both looked alike, but what a vast difference on the inside! And what a stark contrast resulted from their work. One day the older and more mature field worker passed by a piece of land that no one wanted. It was filled with rocks. It was so barren and desolate that hardly a patch of grass could be seen anywhere on it. This was just the kind of challenge that he wanted. He went to work immediately exercising all the abilities which God had entrusted to him. It was hard work, but finally he was able to get established. He had a major advantage over his look-alike, younger field worker. His way of life required less resources, and he made the best use of everything he had. His basic motivation was to give rather than to get. While he carried out this incredible work of reclaiming the soil, the younger field worker happened to wander by a lush potato field. It was here that he went to work. He was also very diligent. His purpose, however, was to take from others and consume it himself. The potato fields provided an ideal place for this. Unnoticed at first, he began to feed on the potatoes. Soon he claimed more and more for himself. When the owners of the field finally caught up with him, he had already put into motion a devastating plan that was impossible for them to stop. Potato field after potato field came under his control, and whatever fell into his hand he destroyed. Soon the people in nearby villages were concerned, and those who lived in the cities became alarmed. They all depended upon the potato for their survival, both physically and financially. The potato was the staple crop of their country. For two devastating years this destructive field worker carried out his deadly work. Soon, people began to die of starvation. They died by the thousands. By the time this field worker was finished, about 750,000 people had died. This destructive field worker was the spore, or seed, of a fungus. He was the cause of the 1847 potato famine in Ireland. Meanwhile, his look-alike field worker continued to accomplish marvelous changes in the rocky land. It was becoming an area that would eventually sustain the lives of many cattle. This worker was literally turning the surface of the rocks into soil, and the longer he worked, the more he increased its richness. This farm worker was the spore, or seed, of the moss, which continues to be a living demonstration of the potential of thriftiness.

The Characteristics of the Moss in Scripture:

The moss plant can do in the natural world what God tells us to do in the spiritual world --- cling to the rock and grow. In Scripture a rock is a symbol of Christ. "...That Rock was Christ" (1 Corinthians 10:4). Christians are to build their lives on the Rock.

"...A wise man...built his house upon a rock" ~ Matthew 7:24

Christ established His Church upon the Rock.

"...Upon this rock I will build my church..." ~ Matthew 16:18

Moss is able to cling to a rock and grow because it requires so little for survival. Thus Christians are instructed, "...Having food and raiment let us be therewith content" (1 Timothy 6:8). Moss also retains water in itself, and thus its roots have the primary purpose of anchoring the moss plant to the rock. The high moisture retention allows the moss to grow during times of drought. Jesus compares those who receive His Word and then fall away from it, to a seed that falls in stony places. They "dry up" because they have no root in themselves. (See Matthew 13:20-21.) In contrast to this, the seed (or spores) of moss do remain because they have water within themselves. As moss clings to the rock, it turns the rock into soil for its own future growth as well as that of other plants. As Christians, we are to edify the lives of others as we grow in Christ.

Raising the Standard: Resourcefulness Is Extending My Ability To Give By Avoiding Entrapments

2011-12-22T07:18:00.007-06:00

"A prudent man foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself: but the simple pass on, and are punished." ~ Proverbs 22:3

Living Lessons on Resourcefulness From The Pages Of Scripture:

The more we give, the more dangers there are of entrapments which will cut off our ability to give. Thus, one of the most important ingredients of resourcefulness is a practical working knowledge of human nature. By it we recognize when and how to give a gift, as well as discern what kind of a gift to give to avoid entrapments. A wise advisor to the king used the resource of understanding human nature to root out rebellion and restore the king. His resourcefulness has also greatly enriched our lives.

How Is Wisdom To Escape Entrapment Illustrated In Scripture?

An advisor to a king was asked to give counsel. The lives of thousands of people and the future of the kingdom itself would be determined by what he said. Who was he? Hushai. Fifty men ran down the street and called in unison, "Prepare the way for the prince." The royally dressed prince followed in his lavish chariot. He directed an entreating smile to bystanders who stared at this spectacle of pride and self-assertiveness. One bystander, however, was an advisor to the king. He carefully evaluated this scene. During the months that followed a strange heaviness settled over the land. Something ominous was in the air. One day a breathless runner reached the palace. He gave the shocking news of a major conspiracy. The king immediately sensed his danger and fled with his family and followers. On the way, he heard more foreboding news. His chief counselor had defected. When the king heard this, he cried out, "O Lord turn his counsel into foolishness." As if in answer to this prayer, a faithful advisor arrived. The king welcomed him and quickly sent him back to the city to try to counteract the wise advice that his former chief counselor would give the rebel leader. The faithful advisor returned to the capital and greeted the rebel leader when he triumphantly entered the city. He offered his counsel, and it was cautiously accepted. Soon the proud and new leader needed advice. How could he capture and kill the king? The king's former chief counselor told him what to do." Attack quickly and kill only the king." The king's faithful advisor knew that this plan would be successful. How could he convince the rebel leader not to carry it out? At that moment, the scene of this rebel leader in his chariot with fifty men attending him became significant. The counselor wisely said, "I would advise you to gather our entire nation together, and you lead the army out to battle against the king." The idea appealed to the vain rebel, and he gave orders to carry it out. When the chief counselor saw that his counsel was rejected, he went home and hanged himself. He knew that the rebel would be defeated and that he would be killed as a traitor. Meanwhile, exiled King David was given the time that he needed to regroup his forces and prepare for the battle. When the armies met, his rebel son's forces were defeated. Absalom tried to escape, but his head caught in the branches of an oak tree, and he was killed by Joab. The king had escaped entrapment because of the resourcefulness of his faithful counselor, Hushai. [From 2 Samuel 15-18]

What Does Hushai Teach Us About Friendship?

The fact that Hushai enjoyed an intimate friendship with David is indicated by repeated references as "David's friend." (See 2 Samuel 15:37; 16:16-17; 1 Chronicles 27:33.) One quality expected of a friendship is constancy. Most people have friends in good times (see Proverbs 14:20; 19:4, 6-7), but Hushai was the kind of friend "...that sticketh closer than a brother" (Proverbs 18:24) and "...loveth at all times..." (Proverbs 17:17). David had been wounded by the betrayal of his son, his tribe, and his most effective advisor. Hushai's love, however, endured through adversity. Another aspect of friendship is tact, being sensitive to the feelings and mood of another. (See Proverbs 25:17-20; 27:14.) Solomon expressed this idea. "A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance" (Ecclesiastes 3:4). Paul also spoke of it: "Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep" (Romans 12:15). "And it came to pass, that when David was come... behold, Hushai the Archite came to meet him with his coat rent, and earth upon his head" (2 Samuel 15:32).

What Does Hushai Teach Us About Wisdom?

Both Ahithophel and Hushai had applied their hearts unto wisdom and had sought for it diligently. They were two of the wisest men in the entire nation. They could both assimilate facts and immediately perceive the very heart of a matter. They knew what questions to ask and what answers to listen for. In fact, Ahithophel had a greater reputation for wisdom than Hushai. But, Ahithophel used his superior skills for a wicked cause, and as a result Hushai was able to defeat him. Hushai teaches us that if we apply our skills in the work of the Lord, He will prosper our effort. Even if our abilities do not measure up to the abilities of others. he can effectively use what we consecrate to Him. Hushai teaches us that true wisdom comes from the Lord (see Proverbs 1:7; 9?10; 15:33), true wisdom may be asked of the Lord (see James 1:5), and true wisdom is able to "confound the wise." (See 1 Corinthians 1:27.)

What Strategy Did Hushai Use to Defeat Absalom and Ahithophel?

Hushai appealed to major weaknesses in Absalom's character. Absalom was proud. He had become accustomed to flattery because of his handsome appearance and beautiful hair. (See 2 Samuel 14:25-26.) He was fond of pomp and "...prepared him chariots and horses, and fifty men to run before him" (2 Samuel 15:1). He sought the praise of men even at the expense of his father's reputation. (See 2 Samuel 15:2-6.) Hushai capitalized on these weaknesses by encouraging Absalom to visualize himself leading the huge and powerful army of Israel in attack. He envisioned for Absalom a glorious campaign with sure victory. The strategy was not only personally safer than Ahithophel's surprise attack, but it was much more dramatic. The advice of Hushai was adopted, which gave David the time that he needed to turn the situation around.

Illustrated in the World of Nature:

The muskellunge, or muskie, is a predator fish with a body about five to six times as long as it is around. Like other members of the pike family, it has a head shaped like a duck's bill. Its fins are set much farther back on its body than fins on other fish, and its sides are typically marked with dark vertical bars. A large muskie requires several acres of water to supply it with sufficient food. Growing from an egg one-tenth of an inch long, an average muskie reaches three to four feet in length. In its lifetime, it will have eaten over four tons of food.

How is the God-given Ability to Escape Entrapment Illustrated in the World of Nature?

A sleek, four and one half foot muskie slowly weaved his way through the tall underwater weeds. The muskie's olive green back matched the dark lake bottom, and rippled stripes on his sides blended with the water plants. Suddenly, he spotted what looked like a meal moving through the lily pads up near the surface. In a burst of speed he headed for the object. His six inch wide mouth opened and then closed across his intended meal. Too late, he realized that he had bitten onto a sharp pronged fishing lure. Several times before he had struck lures; however, each time he had been able to spit them out. This time a quick strong jerk sank the sharp hooks deep into his mouth. With a swift flick of his tail, he attempted to swim away. But now he was aware that he was no longer free. A taut line was connected to the lure that was hooked in his mouth. With great effort he tried to pull himself loose. Each time the taut line held him captive. He then changed his approach. With a swift run he broke the surface of the water and made a spectacular leap into the air. As he danced on the tip of his tail, he threw his head back and forth trying to fling the lure out of his mouth. Unsuccessful, he toppled back into the water with a splash. As the water closed in around him he dove for the bottom. He lay there motionless for several moments. Then he began to rise and swim straight toward the ominous hull from which the line came. He circled it again and again instinctively sensing that a tangled line would produce slackness which would give greater opportunity to fling the lure from his mouth. However, the line was kept free and he remained securely attached. As his powerful body began to tire he found himself being pulled toward the boat. He dove again and again in fruitless attempts to gain his freedom. Finally, with strength dissipated, the muskie was pulled into a net and hauled up into the boat. A cheer of delight echoed across the water as the hooks were removed from this trophy catch. Soon the motor on the boat was started, and the triumphant captor headed for the shore. Deep within the muskie, the instinct for escape stirred. He summoned one final burst of energy and without warning unleashed a mighty series of flips in the boat. His tail failed like a windmill. His sharp teeth were an awesome warning not to get near. On his one final leap he managed to throw himself over the side of the boat. The stunned fisherman helplessly watched as his prize disappeared below the surface of the water. Once again the great muskie had prolonged his life by resourcefully using his God-given abilities to escape entrapment.

The Characteristics of the Muskie in Scripture:

The unusual ability of the muskie to elude clever bait and even avoid capture when hooked is a characteristic that has rich spiritual application for every Christian. The muskie does not jump at every lure, just as the Christian should suspect and reject temptations.

"But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust..." ~ James 1:14

Even when snared, the muskie does not surrender in defeat, but gives his immediate and full attention to escape. God gives similar instruction to a man caught in a financial trap.

"Give not sleep to thine eyes, nor slumber to thine eyelids. Deliver thyself..." ~ Proverbs 6:4-5

When hooked, the muskie's first response is to flee. Often its strength and speed will break the line, and acids will cause the hook to eventually drop away. Scripture warns youths who are hooked by the allurements of immorality to "flee also youthful lusts..." (2 Timothy 2:22). If the muskie cannot break the line, it goes deep.

"Counsel in the heart of man is like deep water..."

~ Proverbs 20:5 The muskie's final lunge is an apt picture of our need to cry out to God when escape looks impossible.

"... Call upon me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify me" ~ Psalm 50:15

Raising the Standard: Resourcefulness Is Recognizing That Valuable Resources Come Out Of Right Relationships

2011-12-21T08:58:00.008-06:00

"Honour thy father and mother... that it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth." ~ Ephesians 6:2-3

"House and riches are the inheritance of fathers: and a prudent wife is from the Lord." ~ Proverbs 19:14

"Lo, children are an heritage of the Lord: and the fruit of the womb is his reward." ~ Psalm 127:3

Living Lessons on Resourcefulness From the Pages of Scripture:

Giving must be based on receiving. We came into the world with nothing, God asks, "... What hast thou that thou didst not receive?..." (1 Corinthians 4:7). Valuable resources are received by maintaining God given relationships. God will enable a wise receiver of these resources to give to others. Just as valuable resources can be gained by maintaining right relationships, tragic losses will occur when important relationships are broken for selfish purposes. God provides an awesome illustration of this principle in Scripture. Who gained great resources by standing "shoulder to shoulder" with his father and with God but later "broke rank" for selfish reasons and passed a legacy of deception and division to many generations? Isaac. In the year 1965 B.C. a caravan arrived at a distant city. The leader of the caravan nervously watched as several men approached. The men responded exactly as he had feared. As they gave him a quick greeting, their eyes were attracted to his beautiful wife. Their attention deepened his alarm as he thought to himself, "They will kill me so they can marry her." One of the men interrupted his thoughts, "Who, may I ask, is this beautiful woman?" "She is my sister," he quickly responded. Immediately their attitudes changed toward him. They treated him like a long lost brother and offered their help in any way he could use it. He declined and finally the eager men left. In the months that followed, his sensitive conscience forced him to justify the lie that he had told. "After all, " he concluded, "I'm only following the example of my father". He was a Godly man, and he gave the same response. Nothing ever came of it. And besides, what good would I be to God if I were dead? For a long time he was careful to conceal his deception in public, and his family cooperated with his scheme. They cooperated too well. Years later, the eyes of that man grew dim. He called in his firstborn son and said, "Go out into the field and kill a deer. Make me a venison dinner --- the kind I love! Then I will give you a special blessing." The son left with eager anticipation. Soon the father smelled the savory meat that he loved. But when the meal was brought to him, something seemed to be wrong. "How is it that you found a deer so quickly? he asked. "Because the Lord thy God brought it to me," he responded his son. The answer increased the old man's apprehension. "Come here, my son, so that I can be sure that you are my firstborn son." His son obeyed and satisfied the father's concerns. The father then ate the meal and gave the coveted blessing. The son had no sooner left the room when a voice rang out to the father. "Let my father arise and eat of his son's venison and bless me." Panic gripped the father's heart as he asked, "Who are you?" and heard the reply, "I am your firstborn son." At that moment the old father began to tremble. Immediately the father realized what had happened. His second-born son had done to him what he had done to others --- pretended to be a brother that he was not! Isaac's lie continued a legacy of deception and division for generations to come. [From Genesis 20,27]

How Did Isaac Receive A "Mixed" Heritage?

Isaac received a full and rich inheritance from his father, since he was the son of promise. (See Genesis 25:5.) Also because of Isaac's submission to his father's direction for marriage, he received a beautiful wife whom he loved. (See Genesis 24:67.) However, God explains that the sins of the fathers are also passed on to the children to the third and fourth generation. (See Exodus 20:5.) Abraham not only passed on to Isaac the general sin nature from Adam, but he also passed on his own special tendency of deception. Isaac's father was a great man of faith. He was the friend of God. However, Scripture records his "half lie" about his wife to protect his own life. (See Genesis 20.)

Why Was Isaac Responsible For His Own Responses?

Isaac received God's empowering grace to overcome the sins of his forefathers --- just as all of us do through the faith in Christ's sacrificial work: "...Where sin abounded, grace did much more abound" (Romans 5:20). Isaac was therefore fully responsible for engaging in the same deception as his father. He too lied about his wife in order to save his own life, and by so doing he placed her in moral jeopardy. (See Genesis 26:6-11.) His actions were directly contrary to God's design that a husband should lay down his life for his wife as Christ did for the Church. (See Ephesians 5:25.) God used a Philistine king to rebuke Isaac for his deception. (See Genesis 26:10.)

How Did Isaac Lose His Most Valuable Resources?

Isaac was of a sensitive spirit. When conflicts arose over the wells that his servants had dug, he refused to fight over them. Instead, he turned them over to the contending herdsmen. (See Genesis 26:19-22.) The loss of two valuable wells to Abimelech could be considered restitution for the gifts Isaac received from him under false pretense. However, Isaac also diminished the potential of his own marriage and family to be a Godly influence. His wife and son used deception on him to steal the blessing from his favorite son, Esau. Esau caused his father and mother grief by marrying a Hittite girl. (See Genesis 26:34.) Isaac's greatest loss, however was in the ranks of his grandchildren. They were his crown since "Children's children are the crown of old men..." (Proverbs 17:6). The deception multiplied in his grandchildren. The sons of Jacob sold Joseph into slavery and deceived their father into believing that Joseph was slain by a wild beast. That action resulted in God's discipline of the grandchildren and their descendants. for 430 years they served as slaves in Egypt --- the high cost of broken relationships through deception!

Illustrated In The World Of Nature:

Musk oxen live in the Arctic where the summers are but one long day, and the winters are an endless night. They roam in the treeless tundra in small herds of less than one hundred. Their compact bodies and short legs, which help conserve vital body heat, are covered by a thick outer layer of coarse, dark brown hair. The coat is so thick that it sheds both snow and rain. The inner coat of soft brown hair provides insulation against temperatures that approach -100 degrees Fahrenheit. Musk oxen do not migrate but seek exposed, windswept slopes where the snow is shallow and food is more easily accessible.

How Are the Resources of Right Relationships Illustrated in the World of Nature?

Shortly after daybreak an arctic explorer stood at the base of an eight thousand foot mountain. The temperature was thirty degrees below zero. He studied the frigid environment approximately six hundred miles from the North Pole. Suddenly, a strange feeling overcame him and he considered turning back. His uneasiness was heightened by an unusual pattern of tracks in the snow. He quickly recognized that most of the prints belonged to arctic wolves. As he climbed the mountain, the wolf prints disappeared. However, he still sensed an eerie presence. Something was watching him. Pulling himself up to the next snowy rise, the explorer was stunned by a rush of fur that flashed by his face! Wolves!? No. Musk oxen. The shaggy animals swiftly formed a defensive circle. With their long "guard hair" flowing in the arctic wind ,they stood shoulder to shoulder facing forward with heads and horns lowered. The young calves huddled safely in the center of their impenetrable wall. The awestruck explorer backed away, photographed the amazing sight, and hastily retreated down the mountainside. Along the way he again noticed the wolf prints. He tried to reassure himself as he frantically stumbled through the deep snow. "Wolves don't attack humans! Do they?" After four hours of struggling through the snow, the exhausted explorer reached his snowmobile. Now he was safe -- he thought. His base camp was still twenty-six miles away and he remembered that he had experienced trouble with his drive belt slipping on his way to the mountain. In fear and apprehension he nervously turned the ignition key. He revved up the engine and started out over the white expanse of barren tundra and frozen lakes. A half mile from camp, out of the corner of his eye he spotted a bolt of white fur on the move. His first thought was "polar bear," but a split second later he knew it was a wolf. He then spotted another wolf in the distance and realized that they were running full speed at him. Under full throttle he sped toward his camp, he hit the kill switch and dashed into his flimsy shelter. He blocked the door and peered through the small window of his shack. Only five feet away stood the huge wolves. Their fearless expressions sent a wave of terror up and down his spine. He knew that it would have been no contest between himself and just one wolf. His knees shook uncontrollably for an hour as the wolves encircled the cabin. During the four day siege, he began to understand why the wolf tracks had stopped on the mountainside. The wolves were no match for the combined protection that the musk oxen gave to each other. But the wolves were fearless against one man who tried to make it on his own. (A true story that took place in Canada's Northwest Territories in 1984 during preparation's for a historic walk to the North Pole in 1985.)

The Characteristics of the Musk Ox in Scripture:

The mutual defense that musk oxen provide is a significant illustration of the protection which Christians are to give each other. The musk ox knows that the wolf is out to destroy the weak and the young among its ranks, and the entire herd resolutely refuses to let this occur. Christ warned his disciples, "Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly are ravening wolves" (Matthew 7:15). Paul further warned, "For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock" (Acts 20:29). Other herds and flocks flee from wolves, allowing them to destroy the weak and the young. The musk oxen unite, stand shoulder to shoulder, and face their enemy. Similarly, Christians are to strengthen one another, "Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is..." (Hebrews 10:25). When it comes to standing and facing our enemy, we are commanded to "... stand against the wiles of the devil... and having done all, to stand" (Ephesians 6:11, 13). Outside enemies should only reinforce the awareness of our need for one another. (See 1 Corinthians 12:20-26.)

It's time to start warming up for glad tidings: One King

2011-12-20T13:02:00.002-06:00

Raising the Standard: Resourcefulness Is Using My Time, Money, and Possessions To Extend The Work Of God

2011-12-20T05:49:00.007-06:00

"Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of thine hand to do it." ~ Proverbs 3:27

Living Lessons on Resourcefulness From the Pages of Scripture:

Among the valuable resources that we tend to overlook are strength, health, friendships, and time. Each day God gives every person twenty-four hours. The joy which we experience in life is directly related to the wisdom by which we invest this valuable resource to advance the kingdom of God. What is true for time is also true for other resources, and what is true for individuals is true for kings. Two kings in Scripture provide a significant contrast in their use of the same natural resource. One invested it wisely and experienced God's blessing upon himself and his nation. The second invested it unwisely and brought total destruction to his nation. Two kings ruled the same nation at different times in history. Each king had the benefit of the same resources. One used them to promote freedom and the other to promote bondage. Who was the first king? King Hiram of Tyre.

How Is The Need To Make Wise Use Of Resources Illustrated In Scripture?

A powerful army arrived and began taking up positions around three sides of the city. The soldiers were greeted with walls one hundred and fifty feet high. The invaders were prepared for a long and difficult siege. Inside the city, the proud citizens remained confident. This was not the first time in their long history that invading armies had surrounded them. They continued trading their silver coins which pictured an eagle with a palm branch and the inscription "Under divine guidance and impregnable." Up to this point that inscription was accurate --- not because of them but because of the wisdom of a previous king. Many years earlier, a wise king surveyed the magnificent cedar forests surrounding his kingdom. He decided to send lumber from them as a special gift to a neighboring king. This act of generosity established a significant relationship between the two nations and God. This king and his nation became world famous as a trade center. Their power and prestige was remarkable since they were a small country. But under a later king, their lust for gain caused their trading to expand to that which brought God's judgment. Godly prophets had warned, "By the multitude of thy merchandise they have filled the midst of thee with violence." The bills of lading included iron, tin, lead, slaves, emeralds, wheat, oil, whine, spices, gold and rich apparel. Among their slaves were the people of God whom they sold to other nations. These were the very people whom that earlier king had benefited. God promised that those who blessed His people would be blessed and those who cursed His people would be cursed. The present siege was a fulfillment of God's judgment. After thirteen years, the great city of Tyre fell to the Babylonian army. The city and people were destroyed. The king who was judged had used the cedars of Lebanon to build ships which carried the people of God into slavery. This was a striking contrast to King Hiram, who years earlier had used the same cedar tree forests to furnish lumber for the temple of God. [From 2 Samuel5:11-12, 1 Kings 5:10:11, and Ezekiel 27-28:19]

How Was Hiram Used By God To Encourage David?

When David was a young man, he received some staggering promises from the Lord. While just a shepherd, he was anointed to be king of Israel by the prophet Samuel. (See 1 Samuel 16:13.) After Saul's death, David was proclaimed king by the tribe of Judah. He pursued peace with the rest of the nation and fought and defeated their enemies. Finally David was asked by the elders of Israel to be their king as well. (See 2 Samuel 5:1-3.) David conquered the Jebusite stronghold of Zion in Jerusalem and moved his headquarters there. It was there that the Lord motivated Hiram of Tyre to encourage David by building him a beautiful palace in Jerusalem. "And David perceived that the Lord had established him king over Israel, and that he had exalted his kingdom for his people Israel's sake"(2 Samuel 5:12). David was in Jerusalem as the head of a unified nation, and now his most prosperous and influential neighbor had given official recognition to his kingdom. The great promises of God given in his youth were now a reality.

What Motivated Hiram To Be Generous Toward David And Solomon?

Hiram was not generous simply to placate a strong neighbor. It is true that Israel's army had become powerful under David's leadership, but the Phoenician navy and the offshore island fortress of Tyre gave Hiram a measure of immunity against Israeli attack. Hiram was generous because he recognized David and later Solomon as men of great wisdom and leadership. He was attracted to David as a person as well as a power. He had observed David's rise to leadership and knew that such a man would guide Israel to peace and prosperity for years to come. When Solomon was appointed as David's successor, Hiram pledged continued support, "...for Hiram was ever a lover of David" (1 Kings 5:1). There is no doubt that Hiram was motivated by the best interests of his own country, but he was also motivated by personal respect and a deep friendship with these two kings of Israel.

Was Hiram A Wise Ruler?

Yes, he was. Hiram knew his country's weaknesses and strengths and adapted his policies accordingly. He was renowned as a builder of magnificent edifices. He was considered brilliant in foreign and domestic policy. The Jewish historian, Josephus, records Dius the Phoenician's account of an interesting game played by Hiram and Solomon. The men exchanged riddles and offered prizes for their solutions. It is said that although Solomon proved to be superior in wisdom, Hiram found a man of Tyre who finally invented a riddle that even Solomon could not solve (Against Apion I, Section 17). Hiram was what Jesus referred to as "worldly wise" in the parable of the dishonest steward. "...For the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light" (Luke 16:8). There is no evidence to indicate that Hiram gave up his pagan beliefs. He did, however, have a certain amount of spiritual perception. "And it came to pass, when Hiram heard the words of Solomon, that he rejoiced greatly, and said, Blessed be the Lord this day, which hath given unto David a wise son over this great people" (1 Kings 5:7). It is unfortunate that Solomon became such a poor representative of Jehovah as he grew older.

Illustrated In The World of Nature:

The egret is perhaps the most elegant and graceful of all of the herons. Standing about three feet tall with a heavy yellow bill, black feet, and long white plumes, it nests throughout the marshes and wetlands of both North and South America. It is an excellent hunter stalking its prey with slow, deliberate steps. The white plumes for which the egret is famous nearly led to its extinction in the late 1800s. The beautiful white feather plumes on the back of the egret bounced rhythmically in the air as he picked up a twig and then bowed respectfully before his mate. The graceful ceremony was repeated several times. Then both egrets sprang into the air and seemed to defy gravity as their huge wings slowly lifted them higher and higher. They had chosen their nesting site in the crotch of a tree one hundred twenty feet above the lonely marsh. Three eggs were laid in the nest, and the parents began the long vigil of incubation. One night there was a violent storm. The tall tree swayed dangerously in the wind. The thinly lined nest was unable to prevent two eggs from slipping through the loose construction and falling on the rocks below. The mother egret carefully guarded the remaining egg. Finally the day arrived for the little egret to break through the shell, totally dependent upon its parents for survival. However, a new threat faced all three of them. Food had become unusually scarce. Each day it became harder to locate fish, frogs, snakes, or crayfish. One day the egrets saw a visitor in a nearby meadow. They watched as he tossed a crust of bread into the bush. When he left, the male egret gracefully glided down, picked up the crust in its long, pointed bill, and flew back to his hungry family. His mate quickly broke off portions of the crust and gave them to her chick. While the chick was eating, its mother also devoured several pieces. In a very short time, only one piece of the crust remained. Rather than giving it to the chick or its mother, the male grabbed it and flew out of the nest. He landed at the edge of an inlet in the marsh. Slowly he walked out on the water. Then he waited. A delicious looking bass cautiously swam up to the bread and began nibbling on it. The egret slowly coiled his neck as the bass began to swim away. Then, in a flash of whiteness, the long neck struck out, piercing the water. He withdrew his beak, flipped the bass into the air, and caught it in his mouth. Then he returned to the nest. Now he was able to share a nourishing fish with his hungry family because he had made the best use of a limited resource.

The Characteristics of the American Egret in Scripture:

The egret belongs to the heron and bittern family. Both the heron and the bittern are identified in Scripture as unclean birds and therefore are not to be eaten by man. (See Leviticus 11:19.) The most striking characteristics of the American egret are its beauty and its subtlety. It is significant that these are the same two qualities that were combined by Satan and the serpent when they beguiled Eve. (See Genesis 3:1.) The witness of the egret and its flowing plumes during mating season can picture either Christ in His beauty or Satan in his deception, since he appears as an angel of light. (See 2 Corinthians 11:14.) God describes the beauty that He gave to Satan in Ezekiel 28:12, "... Thou sealest up the sum, full of wisdom, and perfect in beauty." The long, snakelike neck of the egret and its barren appearance before maturity not only bear a striking resemblance to the cursed serpent, but to serve as a reminder that if we allow Satan to use our resources for his purposes, the glory that God gave us will also be destroyed. "When thou with rebukes dost correct man for iniquity, thou makest his beauty to consume away like a moth..." (Psalm 39:11).

Raising the Standard: Resourcefulness Is Seeing Resources That Are Overlooked By Those Around Me

2011-12-19T09:33:00.005-06:00

"And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth." ~ Genesis 1:28

Lessons on Resourcefulness From The Pages Of Scripture:

A life and death battle will always rage between the unresourceful, who depend on human reasoning, and the resourceful who depend on Godly creativity to reveal unseen provisions. Nowhere in Scripture is the eternal warfare more vividly portrayed than through the ministry of two men. They became a threat to the evil rulers of their day. They used resourcefulness to provide food for the hungry, strengthen the hands of those around them, and advanced the work of God.

Resourcefulness is a requirement and also a result of fulfilling God's first command to "... be fruitful and multiply" (Genesis 1:28). Lack of resourcefulness will encourage the lie that we must limit births because "we are running out of natural resources." Who were the two men who demonstrated unusual resourcefulness in order to provide food, but were condemned for it by jealous rulers who wanted to increase their own power? Ahimelech and our Lord Jesus Christ.

How Is Seeing Overlooked Resources Illustrated In Scripture?

A group of men hurried down the trail. Thew were fleeing for their lives, having been falsely accused. Weary and hungry, they arrived at a temporary place of safety. The leader in charge looked at the men in surprise as they asked him for something to eat. The Godly leader explained that no food was available. The men had only a few moments to spare and urged their kindly host to think of some way to help them. Finally a creative way was worked out to meet their need. However, in the shadows an evil man watched what happened and later informed the king. The news pleased the jealous king. It provided for him an excuse to destroy the kindly spiritual leader whom he looked upon as a troublesome rival. The vengeful king sent out messengers and had him arrested. Angrily the king accused the loyal leader of breaking the Law. The leader assured the king that he had acted by the true spirit of the Law. The king coldly brushed him aside and called for his execution. The soldiers stood in astonishment at such an order. This leader was highly respected. They could not bring themselves to kill him. The frustrated king then called for the evil man who had reported the event. This willing foreigner took the sword and carried out the bloody assignment. The second resourceful man lived many years later. He too fed a hungry group of men, but in the process, evil men were watching His actions and later reported Him to jealous officials. They looked upon this spiritual leader as a threat to their authority. Eventually they brought Him into court and accused Him of breaking the Law. He, too, received a sentence of death which was carried out by foreign executioners. We recognize this second leader as the Lord Jesus Christ. He defended His disciples when they ate grain on the Sabbath day. It was then that He honored the first resourceful, Ahimelech, the high priest who gave the showbread to David and his men in the day of King Saul. [From 1 Samuel 21-22 and Matthew 12:1-4]

Why Did David Not Tell Ahimelech The Truth?

He feared what the consequences would be for Ahimelech. When David arrived at Nob, he noticed a high-ranking member of Saul's court, "...Doeg, an Edomite, the chiefest of the herdsmen..." (1 Samuel 21:7). Doeg had been detained at the tabernacle for an unstated reason. David knew Doeg would tell Saul everything that happened. (See 1 Samuel 22:22.) He did not want to give Doeg any reason to give a bad report about Ahimelech to Saul. Aiding a fugitive was an acto of treason punishable by death. Once Ahimelech's suspicions were aroused, David said, "...The king hath commanded me a business, and hath said unto me, Let no man know any thing of the business whereabout I send thee..." (1 Samuel 21:2). David thought that his lie would protect Ahimelech, but he underestimated Doeg's wickedness. When Doeg reported to Saul, he accused Ahimelech of aiding David and later carried out Saul's cruel order to kill the priest. In this tragic chapter of passion and politics, Ahimelech forfeited his life.

Was Ahimelech Wrong To Give David The Showbread?

The Levitical Law declared that the showbread "... shall be Aaron's and his sons'; and they shall eat it in the holy place: for it is most holy unto him of the offerings of the Lord made by fire by a perpetual statute" (Leviticus 24:9). But there were other commands in the Law that compelled one to help a neighbor in need (see Leviticus 19:18, 33-34). Ahimelech had to discern the spirit of the Law. The intent of the Law was a warning not to use things separated unto God in a profane or disrespectful manner. A person ceremonially unclean was specifically forbidden to eat of the holy thing (see Leviticus 22:6, 10). Ahimelech insisted that David and his men be clean (see 1 Samuel 21:4). When Jesus referred to this event, He did not condemn Ahimelech. On the contrary, He used the incident to explain the picking of grain by Himself and His disciples on the Sabbath. (See Matthew 12:3-7; Mark 2:25-26; Luke 6:3-5.)

Why Did Saul React So Violently Against Ahimelech?

Saul's cruel reaction was a ruthless effort to consolidate his political power. Saul was becoming more and more jealous of sharing authority with the prophets and priests. When God permitted the nation of Israel to have a king, He established restrictions on the king's authority because God was still to be regarded as the nation's leader. The office of prophet was established to reveal God's specific will. The function of the priests was to instruct the people and the king in God's general will as revealed in the Law. In a twofold act of disobedience to Samuel, Saul had rejected the office of prophet. (See 1 Samuel 13:13; 15:19.) Now Saul had an opportunity to rid himself of the priests too. In spite of Ahimelech's plea of allegiance, Saul chose to believe the lies of Doeg. In an effort to destroy this important branch of power in Israel, Saul ordered Ahimelech and eighty-five other priests, their families, and their children to be killed. (See 1 Samuel 22:17-19.)

Illustrated In The World Of Nature:

Fleas are curiously flat insects, usually less than one-sixteenth of an inch long. They feed on the blood of most mammals and birds and can also infest humans, at least temporarily. Being a true insect, the flea goes through a complete metamorphosis of four stages. The flea was once a major health problem in American homes but it has now been virtually eliminated as a household pest. There are at least 2,000 different types of fleas. Over half of these have been identified in the last thirty years. Each flea prefers its own type of host such as a cat, dog, rabbit, or human being.

How Is The Warfare Of Resourcefulness Illustrated In The World Of Nature?

A covered wagon slowly moved across the open prairie. Long, hard miles and unexpected challenges had already convinced the pioneer family that survival depended on their ability to be resourceful One of the more difficult problems they had encountered was a prolonged attack by mysterious intruders. The intruders had also sown resourcefulness as they cleverly concealed themselves and evaded detection. At first they were tolerated, in light of more pressing matters, but soon the combined efforts of each family member were needed to fight against them. It was with great joy and much relief that the family finally arrived at the site of their new homestead. In a few weeks a cabin and a small chicken coop had been built. Early one morning one of the children came running from the chicken coop shouting," They're back again!" The entire family again battled for hours defending against the persistent intruders. Several nights later the bloodthirsty creatures returned. Silently, one slipped out of his hiding place and approached his victim. With a spectacular leap his armor-plated body landed on the unsuspecting prey. Without warning, he cut a small slit in the surface of the skin and began to extract blood. Some of it spilled on the floor where it would later become useful. With amazing agility, he leaped to the floor below where he was joined by his partner. Together they concealed hundreds of tiny eggs in the floor cracks near the blood. A few days later, as the sun peeked over the prairie horizon, chicken eggs began to hatch. The small chicken coop was soon filled with the sound of chirping chicks. What could not be heard was the hatching of other eggs in the rough-hewn planks of the floor. The lovable chicks were instantly adopted as an important part of the homestead. However, as the chicks grew, the new offspring of the intruders began to attack the helpless chicks. Frustration turned to anger for the pioneer family. This anger became a spiritual defeat and only added to the frustration of their physical defeat. Finally they realized that the only way they could win both battles was not by eradicating their enemies but by controlling them. They could only achieve this by maintaining cleanliness of their hearts, lives, and everything they owned. Only then could they hope to overcome the resourcefulness of the little flea that had been a bothersome hitchhiker on one of the chickens they had brought to their new homestead.

The Characteristics Of The Flea In Scripture:

The flea is the most annoying insect in the East. It uses its resourcefulness to continually irritate its host and transmit devastating diseases to large numbers of people in short periods of time. When Pharaoh refused to free Israel from slavery in Egypt, God sent different "... sorts of flies, and lice..." (Psalm 105:31) upon the Egyptians. The Hebrew word for lice, ken, means a fastening or biting insect. These are characteristics of fleas as well as of lice and the word is used for both. It is significant that the magicians of Egypt could not duplicate the flea as they could the first two plagues that came upon Egypt. In fact, it was the flea that caused the distressed magicians to observe, "... This is the finger of God..." (Exodus 8:19). Perhaps the thought of God's judgment was in the mind of David when he was fleeing from Saul. After cutting off Saul's robe, but sparing his life, David called out to Saul, "After whom is the king of Israel come out?... After a flea" (1 Samuel 24:14). No doubt David's primary purpose, however, was to convince the king of his harmlessness and his insignificance. David repeated the comparison in 1 Samuel 26:20.

Raising the Standard: Punctuality Is Remembering Anniversaries That Are Important To Others

2011-12-18T08:46:00.003-06:00

"And this day shall be unto you for a memorial; and ye shall keep it a feast to the Lord throughout your generations...Thou shalt therefore keep this ordinance in his season from year to year." ~ Exodus 12:14; 13:10

Living Lessons On Punctuality:

Anniversaries are memorials of the past and milestones for the future. They preserve the heritage of former generations and provide stability for future ones. The very nature of anniversaries requires the discipline of punctuality. "In the fullness of time," God accomplished the most important event in history. During that period, there was tension between two world powers. When this is understood, it sheds light on why one of these powers attempted to destroy the most important anniversary in the world

How Is The Importance Of Remembering Anniversaries Illustrated In Scripture?

Anniversaries are so important to God that He built the life of His nation and the Christian world around them. Who might well hold the world's record for expending the most time, energy, and money to honor a very significant Christian anniversary? The Magi. The Parthian kings of Persia advanced westward against the expanding Roman Empire in 53 B.C. The two major military powers met in battle approximately one hundred miles west of Antioch in Palestine. The well disciplined Roman army proved no match for the skillful Persian cavalry. Seven Roman legions, each consisting of over 5,000 fighting men, were destroyed. Ten thousand Roman soldiers were captured and the myth of Roman invincibility was shattered. Thirteen years later the Roman senate appointed Herod as king of the Jews and dispatched him to the eastern fringes of their empire to guard against future Persian aggression. Herod relished his new position and power. He answered only to the emperor in Rome. Internal affairs were left completely in his hands, and Roman legates did not require the "puppet ruler" to pay tribute money. Despite his newly acquired benefits, Herod recognized the precarious position of his kingdom. Anyone suspected of disloyalty or subversion was swiftly eliminated. Although there were minor uprisings and rivalries, Persia remained Herod's greatest concern. One day he became greatly alarmed when a Persian delegation entered his royal city. Their request to meet with the king caused further panic. Suspecting a plot, Herod increased the number of guards around the garrison and cautiously invited them into his presence. The Persian representatives entered with impressive pomp and ceremony. These foreign officials were responsible to appoint the next king of the Persian Empire. Herod's eyes brightened with ambition, but his vain thoughts were quickly dispelled when the dignitaries announced that they had come to honor the next king of the Jews. The startled sovereign bitterly thought to himself, "I am the king of the Jews." He feigned interest in their mission and inquired as to the whereabouts of this new king. Finally, the delegation was dismissed with orders to report back to the palace. A short time later, the Persian noblemen knelt in the presence of the one whom they had traveled so far to honor. They presented royal gifts to Christ. Then they returned to their Persian capital. When Herod realized that the delegation had left without returning to him, he attempted in vain to destroy the "rival" king. The spiritual kingdom of Christ ultimately conquered the pagan Roman Empire. The empire then established the birth of Christ as the focal point of history so that all men would honor its anniversary. Today every time a date is written, it officially commemorates "the year of our Lord." [From Matthew 2:1-21]

Why Did The Magi Associate A Star With The King Of The Jews?

The unusual star was used to confirm, rather than initiate, the Magi's belief in the coming Messiah. Just as Jesus confirmed Himself to the fishermen through their knowledge of fish (see Luke 5:1-11), so the Lord drew the Magi to Himself through their knowledge of the heavens. The Magi were undoubtedly familiar with the Messianic prophecies of the Old Testament, since the Scriptures had been known to them for centuries. Daniel, "Chief of the Magi" for a time, must have explained to them about the coming Messiah. The prophecy of Balaam may have led some to expect a star as a sign. "I shall see him, but not now: I shall behold him, but not nigh: there shall come a Star out of Jacob, and a Sceptre shall rise out of Israel..." (Numbers 24:17). Isaiah's words may also have contributed to this expectation. "And the Gentiles shall come to thy light, and kings to the brightness of thy rising" (Isaiah 60:3). Daniel himself predicted the coming of the Messiah and dated that coming near the time of the Magi's observation (see Daniel 9:25). Thus, an unusual astronomical phenomenon directed the Magi's thinking to the prophecies of the Messiah in Scripture. This in turn motivated them to pursue their search in the direction of the Jewish capital of Jerusalem.

Why Was Herod So Disturbed By The Visit Of The Magi?

Herod was aware of the fervid Messianism which had been gathering strength during the first century B.C. The Jews knew the promise that a descendant of David would be born in Bethlehem who would rule the nation in peace (see Micah 5:2). The previous outrages of the Maccabean age and the present harsh Roman rule greatly stimulated the expectation of a coming Messiah. Herod, not a Jew by birth, did not qualify as their deliverer. The Jews' increasing displeasure with Herod and their anticipation of his replacement led to a climate of fear and suspicion. In fact, Herod had become so paranoid that two of his own sons were strangled under suspicion of treason. Herod took great pride in the title "king" which had been given to him by the Roman Senate. When the Magi came to Jerusalem and inquired, "...Where is he that is born King of the Jews?...", it is not surprising that such a man would be troubled. (See Matthew 2:2.)

What Was Significant About The Gifts Of The Magi?

The Magi presented gold, frankincense, and myrrh to Christ. Gold was the most precious of metals and represented anything of great value. (See Proverbs 3:14; 8:10, 19) Gold was worthy of use in worship. (See Exodus 25.) Their gift of gold signified the Magi's belief that this babe was indeed born a king. The other gifts, frankincense and myrrh, were also used in the worship of Jehovah. Frankincense, derived from the resin of special trees produced a sweet pleasant odor. It was used to make holy incense for the tabernacle. (See Exodus 30:34-36.) Both frankincense and myrrh were found in the perfume worn by kings. (See Song of Solomon 3:6.) The Magi had brought gifts worthy of a king.

Illustrated In The World Of Nature:

The cliff swallow, which is common to all parts of North America, is about six inches long with a whitish forehead, steel blue upper body, grayish underside, chestnut-colored head and throat, and reddish brown rump. The cliff swallows is one of the more than eighty members of the swallow family. Before North America was settled by the Indians, the cliff swallow nested on cliffs. Now, as the bird has adapted to civilization, it attaches its nest primarily to man-made structures. It prefers rural areas where stables and dung heaps provide a breeding ground for the flying insects it eats.

How Is The Importance Of Anniversaries Illustrated In The World Of Nature?

Two people in the widely separated parts of the country took a marker and carefully circled a special day on their calendars. They each circled the same date, but with two very different celebrations in mind. One calendar hung in the kitchen of an attractive woman. She smiled with anticipation every time she glanced at the big red circle around March 19th. Whenever she visited a store she thoughtfully wandered through the gift section searching for something that would best express the importance of that day. As the special day approached, she purchased a gift and lovingly wrapped it. She also enclosed a beautiful card with a carefully written message. The other calendar hung in a small town hall in southern California. Beaming with anticipation, the mayor leaned back in his chair and imagined the excitement that would fill his community with the arrival of March 19th. The mayor called special meetings with local officials and established blue ribbon committees. Elaborate plans were worked to make this the most memorable celebration the town had ever seen. As march 19th drew near, banners were hung along the main streets and streamers decorated storefronts. The citizens of the town would add to the occasion with festive outfits and colored signs. March 19th marked two very important arrivals. The young woman was confident that the one she was expecting would return from a trip and join her in celebrating the happiness of the occasion. The residents of the western town could not be quite as confident. However many years of punctuality had inspired an admiration for their notable arrival. In fact, that was what they were celebrating. The day finally came. Thousands of enthusiastic tourists and townspeople crowded into the streets of that California town. Many carried binoculars to catch the first glimpse of their famous guests. Others bought souvenirs to commemorate the event they were about to witness. Suddenly, a shout went up from several in the crowd. Heads turned and eyes strained. The distinguished guests had arrived on the very day that they were expected! Now the people could begin the celebration. The cliff swallows had not disappointed them! March 19th also arrived for the loving wife. All day long she waited with excitement for her husband to call. This was their wedding anniversary. Friends and relatives who were aware of her preparations called to ask how her husband had surprised her. That evening her husband came home. Glancing at the calendar that was hanging in the kitchen, he noticed the circled date. He realized that he had forgotten the anniversary that was so important to his wife and that should have been equally important to him. For this preoccupied husband the punctuality of the cliff swallow has a vital message. Year after year these birds travel thousands of miles to return to San Juan Capistrano on March 19th. Their punctuality brings great joy to those who wait to celebrate their arrival, just as we can bring joy to others by remembering important anniversaries.

The Characteristics Of The Cliff Swallow In Scripture:

The cliff swallow is a migratory bird. It is mentioned at least four times in Scripture. The tiny bird's most famous characteristic, returning at a predictable time, is referred to in Jeremiah 8:7:

"... The swallow[s] observe the time of their coming; but my people know not the judgment of the Lord.
"

Just as their are fixed times for the arrival of the swallow, there are fixed times for God's judgment. God reasons that if people can recognize when the swallow returns, they should be able to recognize the signs of His judgments and repent of their wickedness. Isaiah gives a similar message but emphasizes the persistent sounds of the swallow to illustrate his continual warnings.

"Like a crane or a swallow, so did I chatter: I did mourn as a dove..." ~ Isaiah 38:14

The 'chatter' of the swallow is not a loud, raucous sound, but a quiet cooing. Elijah learned on the mountain that God spoke most powerfully in a "still small voice." (See 1 Kings 19:12) Proverbs 26:2 reveals how an undeserved curse is as unpredictable as the flight of the swallow and returns to the one who spoke it without affecting the one who was cursed. Psalm 84:3 has a literal and figurative significance. Just as the swallow makes his nest and raises its young near the altar of the Lord, so the Christian and his family should desire to dwell in God's presence.

Raising the Standard: Punctuality Is Meeting Basic Needs When Others Are Unable To Do So

2011-12-17T06:13:00.007-06:00

"...Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me." ~ Matthew 25:40

Living Lessons On Punctuality From the Pages of Scripture:

The ability to detect needs in the lives of others usually comes by experiencing these same needs in ourselves. Similarly, the most thoughtful and appreciated gifts are often those which the giver would like to receive himself. When an embattled king fled to the wilderness, an alert man promptly brought him an abundance of practical provisions. The first item on the list is as significant as it is unusual. It suggests that the giver needed the same in a similar emergency.

Who gained recognition in Scripture because of his generosity to a king during a time of national crisis? Barzillai.

How Is Giving To Needs Which Others Are Not Able To Meet Illustrated In Scripture?

He lived in the land of Gilead, east of the river Jordan. God called him "a very great man" for good reason. During many years of life he experienced the joys of serving as a priest of the Lord. But in that capacity he also tasted hardships, sorrows, and disappointments. The faithful priest became neither proud over success nor bitter over defeats. Instead, he developed a keen sensitivity to the needs of others and a generosity in meeting them. One day he learned that a revolt was taking place in his nation and that his beloved king was being forced to flee for his very life. The king was even now seeking refuge in a large forest near this great man's home. Quickly he met with two other friends and together they gathered a huge supply of vital provisions for the king and those who fled with him. As they did this, they must have realized that such an act would be considered treason by the rebel leader. If the exiled king was unsuccessful in regaining the throne, this man and his friends would no doubt be killed. However, he lived up to the meaning of his name --- iron hearted, and courageously brought the provisions to the king in his wilderness camp. Included in his gift were wheat, barley, flour, corn, beans, honey, butter, sheep, cheese, and cattle. But first on the list was something both unique and significant. It revealed the ability of this great man to detect special needs. He brought beds for the use of the king and his men. Refreshed and encouraged by all of these provisions, the king and his men went out to battle, and God gave them the victory. The rebel leader was killed and the king made preparations to return to his city. Once again this great man gave the king assistance. The king was so moved by this kindness that he invited the man to return with him and eat at his royal table. This special invitation was humbly declined, as the great man explained that he was eighty years old and that he might become a burden to the king. However, he did offer to have his son take his place. The king welcomed the idea and brought Chimham back to the palace. In the years that followed, this son not only served the king but many others as well. He founded an in to care for travelers and strangers. This was very unusual in that day. So successful was this inn that it continued to be used for hundreds of years. In fact, it was mentioned by the prophet Jeremiah, 435 years later. Another fact that makes this inn and the history behind it even more significant. Many years later, a couple inquired at a very popular inn. It was already filled; however the inn keeper graciously provided what accommodations he could. The inn that Chimham established was by Bethlehem, the same city in which Christ was born. The beds which Barzillai gave to David in the wilderness established a tradition which his descendants continued. God may have honored this family by allowing one of its members to meet a need for Christ which others were unable to meet. [From 2 Samuel 17:27-29; 19:31-39 and Jeremiah 41:17]

What Danger Did Barzillai Risk By Helping David?

Barzillai and his family risked the sure vengeance of Absalom if he succeeded in his rebellion. At the time Barzillai first assisted David, Absalom clearly had the advantage. He enjoyed the outward support of the entire nation. The soldiers at his disposal were like "...the sand that is by the sea for multitude..." (2 Samuel 17:11). The city of Mahanaim was of little help in David's defense. "Moreover, if he be gotten into a city, then shall all Israel bring ropes to that city, and we will draw it into the river, until there be not one small stone found there" (2 Samuel 17:13). Should Absalom succeed there was no hope that mercy would be shown to David's supporters. Absalom had murdered his brother and betrayed his father. David himself did not expect his son to show pity. "...Arise, and let us flee; for we shall not else escape from Absalom: make speed to depart, lest he overtake us suddenly..." (2 Samuel 15:14). Barzillai committed himself to David's cause at the darkest hour because he would not be part of the wicked rebellion.

Why Did Barzillai Refuse David's Offer To Come To Jerusalem?

David was grateful to Barzillai for his courageous and generous support. He wanted to repay him for his kindness and would spare no expense or effort to make him comfortable in Jerusalem. But Barzillai's response gives another view of his exemplary character. He was not interested in power, advantage, or palace pleasures. "...Can I discern between good and evil? Can thy servant taste what I eat or what I drink? Can I hear any more of the voice of singing men and singing women?..." (2 Samuel 19:35). He preferred to die near his beloved home in Gilead where he could continue his influence for good. Rather than be a burden to David in Jerusalem, he would be a beneficial ally in Gilead.

What Does Barzillai Teach Us About Giving?

Barzillai demonstrates giving with a pure heart. His motive was simply stated, "...the people is hungry, and weary, and thirsty..." (2 Samuel 17:29). What a contrast he provides to the impure motives of Mephibosheth's servant, Ziba. In similar circumstances he deceitfully gave his master's goods to David to gain his master's land. (See 2 Samuel 16:1-4.) What a contrast to the Pharisees who later would gather a crowd when they gave alms in order to win their applause. (See Matthew 6:2.) Barzillai was interested only in the Lord's approval. He also demonstrated the importance of giving to those in need. God uses even the smallest acts of kindness in ways we cannot imagine. Barzillai knew that David was in need, but he could not have known how deeply discouraged and depressed he was. He had not seen the king leave Jerusalem when he "...wept as he went up, and had his head covered, and he went barefoot..." (2 Samuel 15:30). The Lord used Barsillai as His instrument to encourage David. Barzillai illustrates the principle, "For I was an hungered, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in... Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my bretheren, ye have done it unto me" (Matthew 25:35, 40.)

Illustrated In The World Of Nature:

Symplocarpus foetidus means, literally, "a foul smelling plant with a united fruit." Found in the swamps of eastern and central North America, it grows a brownish purple and yellow hood that surrounds a large cluster of small yellow flowers. The skunk cabbage looks so much like a tropical plant, that street vendors once gathered thousands from the swamps of New Jersey and sold them in New York as exotic lilies. As the first plant that appears in spring, it often provided lifesaving food for early settlers and Indians whose winter provisions had run out.

How Is Meeting Needs When Others Are Unable To Do So Illustrated In The World Of Nature?

A large black bear emerged from its winter den and lumbered into the forest. Its massive paws left a clear trail in the snow that still covered the ground. Because of the snowfall, the hungry bear was unable to locate any green plants or fresh berries. Determined to find food, it approached a large beehive. With one swipe of its powerful paw, the bear knocked the hive to the ground. Breaking it open, the famished bear quickly began to devour the sticky honeycombs. The startled bees tried in vain to defend their home and store of provisions, but the bear stomped on the fragments of the hive, killing many of the bees. The dazed survivors fled the scene of destruction, but realized that it would only be a matter of seconds before they would perish. It was almost too cold for them to fly, and they possessed only enough energy to travel a very short distance. At this time of year there would be no flowers filled with nectar to replenish their strength. Suddenly the bees sensed the sweet aroma of nectar. How could this be? It was only February, long before any forest flowers would appear. Throughout the swamp, little patches of snow had melted beside strange looking hoods that had poked up through the ice and snow. These unique plants had been prepared for such an emergency as this. The bees dropped down for a closer look. They saw a small cluster of yellow flowers within each protective hood. The flowers had actually developed during the previous fall and were shielded from the harsh winter by their brownish purple hoods. Entering the hoods, the bees discovered another remarkable feature - an internal temperature of seventy two degrees. The excited bees flew from plant to plant gaining warmth and restoring their energy. After collecting an ample supply of nectar, they traveled the final distance to the safety of a new home. The bees survived because the skunk cabbage had met basic needs when other plants were unable to do so.

The Characteristics of the Skunk Cabbage in Scripture:

The skunk cabbage is a flower. Its unique characteristics have clear parallels in Scripture. Its ability to provide food and warmth while other plants are still dormant is a picture of God's command to believers to be ready at all times to share food and clothing with those who come to them with special needs (see Isaiah 58:7). The skunk cabbage makes a spectacular appearance, but if winds are too cold, it will soon perish. God repeatedly affirms in Scripture that man's life is like a flower, and "...as a flower of the field, so he flourisheth. For the wind passeth over it, and it is gone..." (Psalm 103:15-16). The skunk cabbage, like our lives, contains a mixture of the bitter and the sweet. God wants each of us, by meditating on His Word, to transform every experience into healthful spiritual food that we can share with others. The bee illustrates this by turning the nectar of the skunk cabbage into honey. (See Psalm 119:103) The amazing root system of the skunk cabbage allows it to overcome many adverse weather conditions. A Christian who has no roots in the Word will wither when pressures come, because he has no "....root in himself, but dureth for a while: for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word by and by he is offended" (Matthew 13:21).

One Death Paralyzes, One Death Frees...

2011-12-16T10:21:00.002-06:00

What a difference a year makes... Last night I lost a friend an mentor, a Christian sister who was the bestower of many blessings in my life for the short time I knew her. My friend Margaret was 90 and a half. She taught me a lot about Celiac's disease and we fellowshiped together for a year. I had a surgery 4 weeks ago... and 3 days after my surgery she was diagnosed with bladder cancer. She was a fiercely devoted woman of God and strong in devotion and faith. The end of her prayers with me (we would take turns) was, "Lord lift us, uphold us, guide us sustain us, in Christ's name amen." She passed away last night succumbing to her cancer... but she received many blessing and shared them with me. Jesus has a way of healing... giving us what we need. I am grateful today for the undeserved and unexpected gift of my friend Margaret and my heart, soul, spirit and lips are full of praise. Her life and faith blasted me back from the desert and the tears I shed today are not for her loss... because I know with all certainty that she has rejoined those in heaven. The tears were gratitude.

"Then I heard a voice from heaven saying to me, “Write: ‘Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.’” “Yes,” says the Spirit, “that they may rest from their labors, and their works follow them.” ~ Revelation 14:13

I can finish what I started, I have been freed by the walk of grace and faith of my friend. I intend to finish the Raising the Standard Series in memoriam of my friend. There are about 14 more key points so hold on to your hats... Even in my silence for most of this year... I am encouraged by the views and visits. Father God, as I endeavor to accept the challenge You put on my spirit, let thy will be done that my hands are free to do your will. And Lord, for all who read here lift us, uphold us, guide us sustain us, in Christ's name amen.

Raising the Standard: Punctuality Is Honoring God's Ways By the Timing of a Gift

2011-12-16T08:54:00.010-06:00

"...Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams. For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry..." ~ 1 Samuel 15:22-23

From the Pages of Scripture: Living Lessons on Punctuality

When God exalts a man with honor and ability, it is very easy for that man to depend upon himself rather than upon the Lord in a time of desperate need. The results are tragic. God gives us a sobering illustration of a humble man who was singularly honored by the Lord. However, in a time of national distress, he violated the principles of punctuality by giving an inappropriate gift to the Lord. Those who fail to understand the ways of God would conclude that God's judgment for his presumption was too harsh. However, his life emphasizes the truth that when God raises up a man, He does it to demonstrate His ways before others, especially in difficult circumstances.

How Are the Consequences of a Gift That Dishonors the Ways of God Illustrated in Scripture?

One of the ways that God maintains humility in the life of a leader is by establishing a division of power. God gave the authority to govern His people to the kings of Israel. The kings were to be limited by the counsel and influence of the priests. Who in Scripture tried to disrupt this delicate balance of power by accusing a priest of tardiness and offering a presumptuous gift? Saul. The leader of the nation's newly formed army was worried. The night before more of his soldiers had slipped into the darkness, hiding in nearby caves and escaping to neighboring countries. In the distance the clamor of thirty thousand charioteers, six thousand horsemen, and a multitude of soldiers could be heard. The troubled leader looked nervously down the road awaiting the arrival of God's anointed priest. The priest had promised that he would arrive in seven days. The seventh day had come. "Where was the priest?" the impatient leader began to reason within himself. "He may be anointed by the Lord, but so am I. God has called me to fight this battle. If I delay much longer, my entire army will desert me. If I go out to battle before the priest comes, I will not have to share the leadership with him." The leader proudly remembered his last battle. Many had mocked him when he had been appointed. They claimed that he was weak and ineffective, but they had to take their words back when he was victorious. Surely God would give him the victory once again. Before the battle could begin, a vital procedure had to be carried out. A sacrifice had to be offered. This was the priest's duty and responsibility, but he appeared to be tardy. Finally, the orders were given. Several soldiers gathered large rocks and constructed an altar. Others collected wood and a sacrificial lamb. The leader ceremoniously slew the lamb and placed it on the altar. Six hundred men quietly watched as he solemnly ignited the wood. The flames slowly consumed the sacrifice. The commander quickly ordered his troops to prepare for battle. Suddenly the priest entered the camp. He looked at the altar in disbelief and then focused his penetrating eyes on the leader. "What have you done?" demanded the priest. "When I saw that my men were leaving and you had not yet come in the time that you specified that the enemy was gathering for war, I feared that they would attack me before I made supplication to the Lord. So I forced myself to offer a burnt offering." Sadness fell over the countenance of the Godly priest. Years earlier he had anointed this leader to be the first king of Israel. "You have acted foolishly and violated God's command. If you had followed my instructions, your kingdom would have been established forever. Now, because of your disobedience, God will search out a man after His own heart." On that day the kingdom was taken from Saul and given to David, because the ways of God had been dishonored by an improper gift. [From 1 Samuel 13:5-14]

Why Did God Choose Saul to be the Nation's First King?

God gave the people what they desired. They wanted a king. When Samuel protested, they replied, "... Nay; but we will have a king over us; That we also may be like all the nations; and that our king may judge us, and go out before us, and fight our battles" (1 Samuel 8:19-20). Saul possessed physical qualities which the people were looking for. He was young, handsome, strong, and he stood head and shoulders over the rest. In addition to these characteristics, he had qualities which could have made him a good king. He was humble, willing to admit his unimportance as a Benjamite. He did not seek power or leadership; he even tried to evade it. (See 1 Samuel 9:21; 10:22) He was attentive to Samuel in the beginning (see 1 Samuel 10:2-14) and demonstrated alertness to the prompting of God's Spirit during the crisis concerning the men of Jabesh-gilead. (See 1 Samuel 11:6) Even after the resounding victory, he evidenced no pride. On the contrary, he refused to allow his critics to be punished. (See 1 Samuel 10:27; 11:12-13) Saul could have become a good king had he not rejected the Lord's counsel through Samuel.

How Did God Prepare Saul for His First Test?

Saul's first test was simply to wait for Samuel at Gilgal. In light of the circumstances we might excuse Saul for his impatience. But the seventh day was not yet over, and Samuel had promised to arrive on that day. Saul had no reason to disbelieve him. On the contrary, this command was the last of four given to Saul. The first three happened just as foretold (see 1 Samuel 10:9). Furthermore Saul had been chosen king though an amazing set of circumstances. The Lord was stretching Saul's faith. He had prepared him by confirming in many ways Samuel's prophetic office. But Saul failed the test. His faith shrank rather than grew. He acted impulsively because of the external circumstances rather than with faith on the basis of past evidence. He was unable to trust God and was thus unfit to lead God's people.

Why was the Punishment for Saul's Disobedience so Severe?

When Saul offered sacrifices without waiting for Samuel, he publicly declared to those six hundred soldiers that he was able to make war against the Philistines without the counsel of God. Samuel was coming not just to consecrate the men for battle but also to advise Saul on military strategy. His command was clear, "...seven days shalt thou tarry, til I come to thee, and shew thee what thou shalt do"(1 Samuel 10:8). Saul's act, therefore, was one of rebellion against the true, heavenly commander, the "captain of the host of the Lord." (See Joshua 5:14) How could God bless His people if their king disregarded His counsel? In addition Saul set a precedent with his rash action which could cause his sons and followers to stumble. If he could neglect the important commands of God's prophet, why could they not do the same? If Saul's disregard for God's spokesman was imitated, it would not be long before Samuel or any other prophet would be silenced. Then Israel would indeed be like the nations surrounding it.

Illustrated in the World of Nature: Elk

The elk is a majestic wilderness animal standing five feet tall at the shoulders and weighing up to 1,100 pounds. The animal is beautifully proportioned and is the wildest of this continent's deer. The name "elk" originally belonged to the European moose. Early English colonists gave the name to the animal the American Indian called "wapiti". In the days of the Early West, elk inhabited the plains of Montana, Wyoming, and the Dakotas. Today they are found almost entirely in the high mountains of the West.

How is the Timing of a Gift Illustrated in the World of Nature?

The young elk watched in awe as his majestic father reared up on powerful hind legs and aggressively charged a rival bull elk. The intruder was no match for his father's overpowering strength and menacing rack. With one mighty blow he sent the unwelcome challenger reeling into the underbrush. Wounded from the encounter, the rival hastily retreated into the forest. It was late autumn, snow was falling on the mountains, and the lush alfalfa pastures would soon be covered with a thick white blanket for the winter. Without warning, two hungry wolves burst through the brush near the edge of the field. They paused for an instant. With a twinge of fear, the young elk looked apprehensively at his father. Surely he would protect him from this impending danger. Then with the wolves out of the way, he could graze to his heart's content in the pasture. Surprisingly, the large bull stood still and silently beckoned to his son. With a whirl, he turned his massive frame and bolted toward a nearby mountainside. The young elk followed close behind his father as other wolves broke through the thickets and joined the two scouts in pursuit. The life-and-death sprint was an even race until the elk reached the rocky slopes of the mountain. Higher and higher they climbed. As the air grew colder, the hot breath of the elk formed clouds of steamy vapor. The higher they climbed, the stronger the elk appeared to their weary pursuers. Finally, the wolves abandoned the chase. The young elk affectionately nuzzled his father, who had given him a valuable lesson. There is a time to give protection and a time to flee. The experienced elk had given his son a better gift by teaching him to flee from dangers that would damage his life.

The Characteristics of the Elk in Scripture:

The royal elk presents a vivid picture of the life and ministry of King David and of every Christian who desires fellowship with God and victory over sin. In the spring the horns of the elk bud and grow rapidly into a majestic rack. God invited David to dwell with Him in Mount Zion and promised, "There will I make the horn of David to bud..." (Psalm 132:17). God then told David how his horn would grow.

"He hath dispersed, he hath given to the poor, his righteousness endureth for ever, his horn shall be exhalted with honour" (Psalm 112:9)

God assured David that he would always have enemies, and that their purpose was to motivate him to honor the ways of God.

"The wicked shall see it, and be grieved; he shall gnash with his teeth, and melt away..." (Psalm 112:10)

When David was pursued by Saul, he could have depended upon past abilities, honors, and popularity; instead, he fled to the mountains. There he borrowed more imagery from the life of the elk.

"He maketh my feet like hinds' feet: and setteth me upon my high places" (2 Samuel 22:34, see also Psalm 18:33)

David looked up to his mountain fortress and saw in it a symbol of God and His protection.

"And he said, The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer, The god of my rock; in Him I trust..." (2 Samuel 22:2-3)

My apologies... death in the family.

2011-06-23T09:11:00.002-05:00

Lost my father in law to end stage lung cancer. Came unachored for a time... walked through the valley of death and some pretty serious depression. Ready to resume this evening. Blessings, The Albatross

Ascension Sky

2011-04-24T07:17:00.009-05:00

Thursday June 2nd is the 40th Day of Easter. So as not to confuse, noted here because I left the article below intact. My prayer for you all this Easter Sunday by Helen Steiner Rice: "God, give us eyes to see the beauty of the spring, and to behold Your majesty in every living thing - and may we see in lacy leaves and every budding flower the Hand that rules the universe with gentleness and power - and may this Easter grandeur that spring lavishly imparts awaken faded flowers of faith lying dormant in our hearts, and give us ears to hear, dear God, the springtime song of birds with messages more meaningful than man's often empty words telling harried human beings who are lost in dark despair - "Be like us and do not worry for God has you in His care".

A sermon by Siegfried S. Johnson on the Sixth Sunday of Easter, May 17, 2009 Volume 1 Number 43, First United Methodist Church, Mountain Home, Arkansas "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

“Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking up toward heaven? This Jesus, who has been taken up from you into heaven,will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven.”~ Acts 1:11

This Thursday, Christians throughout the world will celebrate Jesus’ Ascension. The sky this Thursday will be Ascension Sky. If the four gospels declare Easter’s empty tomb, the book of Acts picks up the story with the resurrected Jesus ascending into heaven, an event, according to Luke, occurring forty days after Easter. Clearly, the Ascension is a vital component of the New Testament’s Easter narrative, highlighted in the early creeds of the church. This morning we affirmed our faith together in the words of the Apostle’s Creed, “the third day he rose from the dead, ascended into heaven, and sitteth at the right hand of God the Father Almighty, from thence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead.” In our creeds, the Ascension occupies equal footing with the Resurrection and Christ’s Return. Yet, for most Protestants in North America, the day passes largely unnoticed. Certainly we Methodists don’t emphasize it. This is at odds with the Christian world of the east, where the Ascension is a major feast day within the Orthodox tradition. Even among Protestants the emphasis varies. In Germany, with its strong Lutheran tradition, Ascension Thursday is a school holiday. So central is the Ascension to Lutheran tradition that many churches use the Ascension in their church names. I Googled “Ascension Lutheran Church” and found churches with this name throughout the world, but Googling Ascension United Methodist Church, I found not a single church. What about another of the mainline churches, Presbyterianism? At a denominational site, “What Presbyterians Believe,” I found, “Most Presbyterians consider the Ascension to be an exotic notion, something reserved for Eastern Orthodox Christians or Roman Catholics. We do not typically see Presbyterian churches named Ascension Presbyterian Church. So it may take us by surprise to discover how important the Ascension was to John Calvin. So important to our ancient forbears that they made it a part of the earliest Christian creeds. Early Christians saw the Ascension as a promise of great things to come for all believers.”

Rev. Keenan Kelsey, a Presbyterian pastor from San Francisco, writes of visiting Chartres Cathedral in France, one of the greatest achievements in the history of architecture and a pilgrim destination since the 12th century. Some will recall I spoke recently about the famous labyrinth at Chartres Cathedral. Rev. Kelsey describes her awe in viewing the scenes sculpted in stone, forty-one friezes depicting biblical scenes which adorn this astounding Gothic structure. She writes of the wonder that gripped her as she toured the church when, suddenly, she found herself inexplicably laughing. “Into the hushed and echoing sacred space, into the meditations and whispers of meandering visitors, I guffawed. I surprised and embarrassed myself. I couldn’t help it. In the midst of all the seriousness, the carved scene of the Ascension showed earnest and distressed disciples gazing up, and Jesus’ feet dangling down from the top of the stone frame. It was really very funny.”

Rev. Kelsey was so shocked at her reaction to this frieze which was, after all, depicting an event that is a central part of her faith and creed, that she set out to explore why the Ascension story somehow hadn’t made it in to her theological framework in the same way as, say, the Resurrection. To what extent was her reaction to the frieze an expression of her incredulity at the idea of the Ascension? Perhaps, she wondered, born and raised in the West, had her theology accommodated scientific discovery in a way that disallowed her to conceive of heaven as a physical place in the sky, something that, to her, the Ascension seemed to suggest? Reading her story caused me to reflect on how the Ascension has faded from emphasis in our Holy Land visits. Most Protestant pastors from the United States who lead tours to the Holy Land, me included, don’t take their groups to the Ascension sites on the Mount of Olives. We are careful to point out the magnificent spire of the Russian Orthodox Church of the Ascension, and the smaller Chapel of the Ascension, an octagonal chapel from the Crusader period that covers a footprint which, tradition says, is the last spot Jesus stood prior to the Ascension. I thought of my first visit there when I read Rev. Kelsey’s comments. Looking at the footprint, I had a sense of “Are you kidding?” At least for Protestant pastors from the West, the site conveys more the sense of superstition than of wonder. So I’ve asked myself this week, what is the liturgical and theological significance of the Ascension? What can we learn from gazing into the Ascension Sky?

Well, let’s begin by recalling the Ascension as moment of profound change for the disciples. Change is often experienced as loss and, because it is so uncomfortable, it is often resisted. This is why we read from John 14 this morning, where Jesus prepares his disciples for his Ascension, telling them that when he goes to the Father, he will send the Holy Spirit, and that in the power of this Holy Spirit, “You will do the works that I do, and greater works than these, BECAUSE I am going to the Father.” Ascension Sky was to the disciples, not the feet of their teacher dangling from a cloud, but rather a sky beckoning them toward the blue of the horizon. Ascension Sky is what every graduate is staring at, a change in life filled with promise and potential.

My title Ascension Sky, is my nod to a great film from 1999, October Sky, a true story based on Homer Hickam Jr.’s book Rocket Boys. The story takes place in 1957 when Homer, the son of a tough coalmine superintendent from Coalwood, West Virginia, was a junior in high school. The story begins with Homer’s gaze not skyward, but downward, into the coalmines. He dared not look up. In 1957, few kids from Coalwood were able to go to college. Scholarship opportunities weren’t as abundant then as they are today. Most boys finished high school and were hired to work in the coalmines. Local girls married those boys. Those who did go to college usually did so by winning athletic scholarships. While Homer hated the thought of spending his life in the coalmines, he wasn’t talented in sports, so his future in the mines seemed fairly certain. Homer didn’t dare look up. His gaze was earthward, downward into the mines. Until Sputnik. In 1957 Homer gazed into the heavens, and that October Sky gave birth to a dream. Sputnik, the Russian satellite that was the first to achieve orbit, was visible as it blazed across the sky. It was a world-changing event, a dark and foreboding signal during the Cold War that the Russians were a step up on America’s space program. One of Homer’s friends responded to that fear, “Let the Russians have space. We’ve got rock and roll.” But for Homer, gazing into that October Sky fueled a dream. Homer and his friends, the Rocket Boys, began test-firing their own rockets, enduring much ridicule and opposition from family and community. The opening words of the book are, “Until I began to build and launch rockets, I didn’t know my home town was at war with itself over its children, and that my parents were locked in a kind of bloodless combat over how my brother and I would live our lives.” Some wanted tradition to be honored. Down into the coalmines. Others, particularly Homer’s science teacher, Ms. Riley, who was thrilled at his newfound interest, wanted kids exposed to opportunity to go to college, to have new opportunities.

I see this same struggle in Acts 1, when the disciples say to Jesus, “Lord, is this the time you will restore the kingdom to Israel?” Ah, it’s hard to shed the old notions. For the kids of Coalwood, the assumption was that graduates’ best opportunity was in the coalmines. For the disciples, the assumption was that their best opportunity would be when Israel ended Roman occupation and stood on her own. Jesus beckoned their eyes to look beyond the Land, beyond politics, beyond kings and emperors. Jesus asked them to look to the world, promising that his Ascension would open the door for the Spirit to come and empower them to spread the Good News of a different kingdom, one of hope and life. It took the disciples a while to adjust to the hope offered when they looked toward the Ascension Sky. And it took Homer and Coalwood time to adjust to the hope he found in October Sky. He began learning all they could about rockets. With an autographed picture of atomic physicist Werner von Braun at his side, Homer began test-firing his own rockets. Though misunderstood at first, his dream led him to develop a high school science project that won the state science fair and, with it, a scholarship to college, and led to a long career at NASA. At his retirement he was training astronauts for Space Shuttle missions.

In the “For What It’s Worth” department, Homer at first didn’t like that the studio rejected his title of Rocket Boys in favor of October Sky. But he was sold on the idea when he realized that October Sky was an anagram of Rocket Boys, i.e., October Sky used the exact same letters, re-arranged, as Rocket Boys.

Perhaps there’s an Ascension Sky lesson in that for the church. If we look skyward, toward an Ascension Sky, we find ourselves open to change, to a re-arranging of our perspective. We refuse to be locked in to one way of thinking. Ascension Sky fuels a dream even as it re-directs our gaze to those around us, to what the church can be, to what we can be as disciples of Jesus Christ within the church – to Jerusalem, to Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.

Homer is now retired from NASA. He wrote an article some years back for the Wall Street Journal in which he encouraged the Bush Administration to pursue space, and particularly his passion, SSTO technology — Single Stage to Orbit. That simply means developing spacecraft that can get into orbit without having to drop stages along the way. You can see why it would be the Holy Grail of the space business by simply imagining how expensive it would be if a truck had to throw off several engines every time it made a cross country haul. It’s easy to see the benefits of SSTO. Homer opens his article by quoting Robert Heinlein, “Reach low orbit and you’re halfway to anywhere in the solar system.” In other words, once you lift out of the gravity well of Planet Earth, the vast majority of the difficult lifting work has been accomplished.

Perhaps that’s what Jesus is saying in our passage from John. “Very truly, I tell you, the one who believes in me will also do the works that I do . . . and greater works than these, because I am going to the Father.” How could we, the disciples might have pondered, possibly do greater works than Jesus? Perhaps the answer if found in Heinlein’s words: “I’ve done the heavy lifting. Now, you’re halfway to anywhere you want to go. My lift, the lift of my resurrection and ascension, has propelled you away from the powerful gravity well of Death.”

Death and Dust pull at us with an infinitely stronger tug than ever the dusty coalmines of West Virginia could have tugged at Homer’s future. Death inevitably drags us into its shadows, but because Christ has overcome, we too can rise like the phoenix from the ashy dust of death and soar to the heavens. We began the Easter season by singing the words of Charles Wesley’s Christ the Lord is Risen Today,

“Soar we now where Christ has led, following our exalted head; Made like Him, like Him we rise; ours the cross, the grave, the skies.”

We are called to soar with Christ. I hope that this Thursday you will take a moment to gaze into an Ascension Sky, and there be reminded of your high calling. Sources: Homer Hickam, Jr., “The Path to Greatness,” in The Wall Street Journal, March 7, 2001.

Good Friday 2011

2011-04-23T07:34:00.003-05:00

Raising The Standard: Punctuality Is Responding Immediately When God Directs Me To Give A Gift

2011-04-14T07:12:00.007-05:00

Punctuality is showing high esteem for other people and their time, "To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven." ~ Ecclesiastes 3:1

Gifts that are given at the wrong time can actually damage the ones who receive them. For this reason, a wise giver will discern and obey the promptings of the Holy Spirit on when to give or to withhold a gift.

For today's key point, "And when they came, every one whose heart stirred him up, and every one whom his spirit made willing, and they brought the Lord's offering to the work of the tabernacle of the congregation, and for all his service, and for the holy garments." ~ Exodus 35:21

From The Pages Of Scripture:

To be punctual in giving is to cooperate with the bigger schedule and purpose of God. The gifts which we give according to His timing are like precious jewels in the eyes of those who receive them and those who benefit from them. They reflect a multitude of spiritual truths. One day a man was asked by his friend to give a very precious gift --- the most precious that he possessed. The man recognized that this gift was in harmony with God's larger program and he quickly gave it. This gift took on greater significance than the giver ever imagined. It continues to communicate an important message for us today.

When God prompts us to give a gift, He does so out of His infinite wisdom and foreknowledge. Our response will have far greater significance than the fulfillment of just one need. Who gave a gift that took on historic importance because it fulfilled the guidelines of punctuality?

Two young men started out on a very important journey. Their objective was so important that it was later recorded in history. The similarities between these two men are remarkable. Both men were sons of promise. The times and circumstances of their births were miraculously predicted by God. They were brought into the world by godly mothers, who expected mighty accomplishments from them. Each mother was greatly praised in Scripture. These young men lived in the same country and were trained by their fathers in a family business. Both were strong and courageous and greatly loved by their fathers. Both sons began to prepare early in the morning for this special journey. As they walked, the way became more and more difficult. The two men were accompanied by their fathers on this momentous journey. Although others followed along, only the two fathers and one of the sons recognized the true significance of the historic trip. When these two young men neared their destination, they had to leave their companions behind. However, their companions were assured that they would return. Both returned after their journey. The most amazing similarity of all can be seen in the things that took place when they reached their destination. These events should reveal the identity of the two men. Both carried heavy wood up the mountainside. Both men allowed themselves to be bound and laid on the rough wood which they had carried. They were willing to give up their lives, for this was the purpose of their trup. At this agonizing moment both fathers turned their faces away from their sons. God was well pleased with the faithfulness of each young man and they both left the mountain for another three day journey. Time and place are the basic differences between these two memorable journeys. Isaac carried a heavy bundle of sticks up the side of Mount Moriah, and Christ carried His cross kkup the side of nearby Golgotha. Abraham's obedience to God's instructions and his willingness to give his only son provides a marvelous picture of God's gift of His Son. If Abraham had not obeyed God in the timing of the gift of his son, he owuld have destroyed the analogy of God's gift of His Son two thousand years later. [From Genesis 22 and Matthew 27]

Why Did God Ask Abraham To Sacrifice His Beloved Son, Isaac?

God had commanded against murder, "Whoso sheddeth man's blood, by man shall his blood be shed: for in the image of God made he man" (Genesis 9:6). He later reiterated this command to the nation of Israel, "Thou shalt not kill" (Exodus 20:13). In the Law, human sacrifice was regarded as the abomination of Molech worship (see Leviticus 18:21, 20:1-5). When the Israelites and their kings burned their children in misguided worship, they were severely punished. It was an abomination which provoked the Lord to anger. The practitioners were considered slaves of evil (see 2 Kings 16:3; 17:17; 21:6). Why then would God subject Abraham to such a perplexing test? The answer to this dilemma is that it was not Isaac whom God wanted, but Abraham; not the death of Isaac, but the death in Abraham of anything which would divide his affection toward God. There is strong New Testament evidence that God explained to Abraham ahead of time what He was about to do. When Jesus called His disciples friends, He did so because " ... all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you" (John 15:15). Scripture affirms that Abraham was the friend of God (see James 2:23). Furthermore, his faith was based on the belief that God would raise up his son from the dead (see Hebrews 11:19). Thus, in either case he planned to return with Isaac.

Why Is Abraham Called The Father Of Faith?

It was Abraham who first pictured the nature of saving faith (see Romans 4:16). The New Testament declares, "... Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved ..." (Acts 16:31). (See John 3:26.) But it is not mere intellectual assent that leads to salvation. The demons also believe true facts about God, but to no avail (see James 2:19). Belief which leads to salvation is the type of belief demonstrated by Abraham. "Even as Abraham believed God, it was accounted to him for righteousness. Know ye therefore that they which are of faith, the same are the children of Abraham" (Galatians 3:6-7). What did Abraham believe? He believed that the Messiah was coming as the descendant of Isaac to conquer sin and death (see Genesis 12:3; 17-19). Today our faith is to be the same as Abraham's, except we believe that Jesus, who was the descendant of Isaac through Mary, is that promised Messiah. We not only believe that God could raise one from the dead, we believe that He did, in fact, raise Jesus from the dead (see 1 Corinthians 15:1-4).

Is There Any Significance To The Site Of Abraham's Sacrifice?

God chose the site. Abraham was living in Beersheba when God said, "... Get thee into the land of Moriah; and offer him there for a burnt offering..." (Genesis 22:2). Jewish literature and Josephys specify that the Temple was built on Mount Moriah, the location of Abraham's sacrifice. It was near this same place that Jesus was later crucified. The place called "Golgotha" was located "without the gate" of Jerusalem (see Matthew 27:33; Hebrews 13:12). But at this sacrifice, heaven remained silent. No substitute ram replaced the Son of God, for He was the Lamb of God. He was raised again on the third day to demonstrate the victory that has been won for all who believe.

Illustrated In The World Of Nature:

The grunion is a member of a family of fish called "silversides." They inhabit the coastal waters of southern California. Other silversides include swordtails, commonly found in tropical aquariums; shiners, often used as fishing bait; skipjacks, and jacksmelt. All are characterized by a silver band running along each side. The grunion possess the unique ability to spawn on land. Grunion fry can feed on small bits of plankton as soon as they hatch, and they actually begin to grow as they are washed off the beach. Maturing in less than a year, they grow to be 5 to 7 inches long.

How Is The Need To Obey God's Timing For Giving Illustrated In The World Of Nature?

On a chilley evening in March, a crowd gathered on a southern California beach. They had come to see for themselves one of God's most spectacular demonstrations of precise timing. They sat down and waited patiently as the rising tide broke higher and higher against the beach. The brilliant orange sun disappeared beneath the horizon of the ocean. The last shades of daylight soon vanished. A new moon began to reflect against the shimmering surface of the water. The crowd waited quietly. They observed a definite change in the tide had taken place. Each wave seemed to drain more water from the beach than it left behind. Soon, the ocean surf near the beach sparkled like a sea full of silver coins. Suddenly, several shiny objects tumbled onto the shore. The moonlight lit up their bright bodies as they persistently fought the undertow of the receding waves. A hush came over the crowd as a group of male grunions investigated the conditions alone the beach. More waves hit the beach and when they receded, only wet sand and foam remained. Minutes passed and then it happened. The surf crashed against the shore covering the beach with a mass of squirming fish. Each wave added to their numbers. The female grunions, swollen with eggs, flicked their tails into the wet sand and arched upward. They used their tails like a drill to bury themselves up to their gills. At that moment they deposited their fully developed eggs. The mails then flopped and twisted across the beach. They coiled around the females and fertilized the eggs. With their precious gift of new life placed in the proper depth and level of the beach, the grunions began to wriggle free from the sand and flop toward the receding waters. A shout went up from the waiting crowd. They ran along the beach scooping up the remaining fish and depositing them into plastic buckets. For every grunion they captured, ten other grunions slipped back into the ocean. As those patient fishermen left for home with their catch, they marvled at what they had just witnessed. To insure the survival of their young, the grunions not only chose the right day, but also the right wave before they came to spawn their young. If the parent fish had come a day too soon, the freshly laid eggs would have been washed out to sea with the next night's higher tide. If they would have arrived a day too late, their young would have been stranded on the beach when they hatched. The punctuality of the grunion is a wonder of God's creation.

The Characteristics Of The Grunion In Scripture:

Both fishing and precise timing figure prominently in the ministry and message of Christ. At least one-third of the twelve apostles were fishermen by trade, and much of Christ's ministry occurred along the seashore. Christ used the precise timing and location of a school of fish to help Peter recognize His Lordship (see John 21:6-8). He used the exact timing of catching one particular fish to pay a tax (see Matthew 17:27). He multiplied two fish to feed 5,000 (see Matthew 14:19) and prepared a fish breakfast for His discouraged disciples (see John 21:9). In fact, the fish became the symbol of early Christians because its Greek letters formed an acrostic of the phrase, "Jesus Christ is God our Savior". The patient fishermen who discerned the time of the grunions' appearing were in sharp contrast to the nation of Israel, who should have discerned the time of Christ's coming:

"...Ye can discern the face of the sky; but can ye not discern the signs of the times?" ~ Matthew 16:3

Just as the tide reached its peak on the shore, so Christ will come again when:

"... the times of the Gentiles be fufilled..." ~ Luke 21:24-28

Meanwhile God tells us that is is "... high time to awake ... for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed" (Romans 13:11).

Raising The Standard: Gratefulness Is Accepting Difficulties As Part of God's Loving Provision

2011-04-08T07:19:00.006-05:00

"... Despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him. For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth." ~ Hebrews 12:5-6

From The Pages Of Scripture:

God led Abraham to the land of Cannan and promised to give it to him and all his descendants. Following this, a famine broke out in the land. Instead of staying in the land and digging deeper wells, Abraham went down to Egypt and sowed the seeds of future destruction. Many years later, one of Abraham's descendants remained in the Promised Land during a time of severe famine. This adversity turned out to be God's means of giving him and his descendants a priceless heritage.

David testified that during all his years he had never seen the righteous forsaken or their children begging bread. Which one of David's forefathers demonstrated this truth by remaining in the Promised Land during a famine while many of his relatives fled to a neighboring country? Boaz.

It was time for God's judgment to fall upon the nation. Prosperity had caused people to become sensual and self-sufficient. Every man did what was right in his own eyes. God's hand of discipline affected the crops, resulting in a severe famine. Soon family after family abandoned the homeland, failing to grasp the real meaning of the scorched soil and withered crops. When the relatives of one godly man decided to leave the country, he determined to remain in Israel and trust God for his needs. During the next ten years, he diligently cared for his land. Each fall this hardworking farmer gathered in his precious crop and thanked God for it, whether it was sparse or abundant. He also allowed the poor to share in whatever yield his fields produced. God began to bless his spirit of generosity. With the increased income from the more successful harvests, he was able to purchase surrounding fields. Soon he had become greatly respected and admired as a prosperous, yet generous landowner. One day he greeted the workers in one of his fields. They cheerfully replied, "The Lord bless you." It was then that this godly man noticed a young woman gleaning barley. He was immediately attracted by special character qualities that he saw in her. When he asked his foreman about the young woman, the foreman confirmed his impressions. After briefly talking with her, the wealthy land owner marveled at how she further demonstrated the qualities that had first drawn him to her. He realized that both of them had experienced adversity and had learned how to praise God through it. She had been through deep sorrows. Her husband and several of her relatives had died. She was without financial resources, but had learned to trust God for her daily needs. She responded with deep gratefulness to every kindness that was shown to her. When this generous land owner gave her the freedom to glean among the sheaves and quench her thirst from his water, she humbly knelt and sincerely thanked him. Because they both thanked the Lord for the discipline of adversity, God brought Boaz and Ruth together in marriage, and a son was born named Obed. Obed later had a son name Jesse who grew up to have a son named David. [From Ruth 1-4]

What Was The Cause of Boaz's Prosperity?

Boaz was a beneficiary of the sure promise of God given to the nation of Israel. "This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shall make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success." (Joshua 1:8) A careful examination of Boaz's dealings with Naomi and Ruth reveals that he was very familiar with God's Law. But Boaz did not obey only the letter of the Law. He went beyond the letter and obeyed from his heart the spirit of the Law. For example, the Law provided for the poor by commanding farmers not to harvest the corners of their fields clean and not to gather up grain dropped by the reapers (see Leviticus 19:9). Boaz went beyond his duty for Ruth and actually ordered his workers to leave whole handfuls of grain for her to find. (see Ruth 2:16) If a man died, the Law provided for the redemption of his property and posterity by urging his brothers to marry the widow. Their firstborn son would then bear the name of the deceased (see Deuteronomy 25:5-6). Boaz could have refused to marry Ruth according to the letter of the Law because he was not Elimelech's brother. But the intention of the Law --- to help a man's widow --- was clear, and he consented to marry her. Boaz knew the Law of God. He meditated on the meaning of the Law and sought to obey it according to its full intent. As a result he prospered according to the promise.

How Did Boaz View Naomi And Ruth's Adversity?

Boaz viewed these pathetically poor women returning from Moab through the eyes of mercy and love. Others viewed them with apathy, contempt, and superstition. For example, Naomi's family was indifferent to her need for food. (see Ruth 2:18) Superstition may have been a factor in the nearer relatives unwillingness to marry Ruth. He explained his refusal, "... Lest I may mar mine own inheritance..." (Ruth 4:6). Because the men in Elimelech's family had died, Ruth and Naomi were considered "bad luck". The nearer kinsman did not want his family to die as they had. Another example of this occurred when Judah did not want his son, Shelah, to marry Tamar (see Genesis 38). Boaz, on the other hand, helped his family members, and treated them with dignity. He saw the hand of God in the lives of these women and sought to cooperate in God's perfect will for them.

In What Ways Did God Reward Boaz For His Kindness?

The Lord rewarded him with a good name. He received the blessing of the city elders (see Ruth 4:11-12). He was blessed by finding, and marrying a virtuous woman "... For her price is far above rubies. The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil" (Proverbs 31:10-11). He was also blessed with a godly seed, "... And Boaz betag Obed, and Obed begat Jesse, and Jesse begat David". (Ruth 4:21-22 and see also Proverbs 17:6)

Illustrated In The World Of Nature:

The bald eagle is one of the largest and most handsome members of the raptor family. The term"bald" has nothing to do with any lack of feathers on its head. It is called "bald" because of the sharp pattern of its white head, dark body, and white tail. Its broad, strong wings enable the eagle to carry objects which approach its own weight of approximately twelve pounds. As a symbol of strength and freedom, the bald eagle appears on money, flags, stamps, and buildings; and it was even the ancient hieroglyphic symbol which lead to the modern letter "a".

How Is The Need To Thank God For The Disciplines Of Adversity Illustrated In The World Of Nature?

A magnificent eagle soared to the heights of a rocky crag and calmly turned to witness a spectacular sight in the wilderness below. A vast multitude of men, women, and children had entered his desolate domain. High atop the mountain, a little eaglet cried out for food, and seemingly out of nowhere a nutritious meal appeared. Far below a similar cry went up for food, and out of the heavens God provided delicious manna. When the thirsty people pleaded for water, God fulfilled their need in a miraculous way. A rock was struck and water gushed forth. As if to amplify this spiritual picture, the eagle provided a drink for its young one --- the blood of a slain lamb. After the people grew weary of manna, God provided an abundance of quail. Similarly, the eagle supplied the eaglet with fresh meat. Many times the eaglet's cries seemed to go unheeded. But high above, the alert eyes of the soaring parent carefully watched. Vital skills were being taught through the motivation of hunger. One day the powerful eagle fluttered over its nest. It was time for the eaglet to venture into the desert sky. God gave a comparable signal to His fledgling nation. The cloudy pillar that had hovered over their place of worship moved forward, indicating that it was time to advance. The prospective parent pushed the young bird out of the nest, forcing the eaglet to use its own wings. After a few desperate flaps, the eaglet faltered. Instantly the eagle swooped down alongside the young bird. The updraft, created by the eagle's wings, provided the necessary lift for the fledgling to maintain flight. In the distance, the echos of clashing swords and shouts of war could be heard as God led His nation through their first battle. Just as the eagle's wings aided its young, the uplifted hands of the nation's leader in a gesture of prayer turned the tide of the battle and provided victory. The harsh disciplines of wilderness training were as vital for the young nation of Israel as they were for the survival of the eaglet. Later God used the eagle to illustrate that important wilderness experience. "As an eagle stirreth up her nest, fluttereth over her young, spreadeth abroad her wings, taketh them, beareth them on her wings: So the Lord alone did lead [His people through the wilderness]..." (Deuteronomy 32:11-12).

The Characteristics Of The Bald Eagle In Scripture:

Often God uses the majestic appearance and awesome skills of the eagle to symbolize important truths for His people. God warns that a rebellious youth attracts destructive companions like carrion draws hungry eagles:

"The eye that mocketh at his father, and despiseth to obey his mother, the ravens of the valley shall pick it out, and the young eagles shall eat it." ~ Proverbs 30:17

God explains that a man who puts his trust in riches will see them "... fly away as an eagle toward heaven" (Proverbs 23:5). The rich man's wealth will be dissipated when trouble comes just as the updrafts of a storm carry the eagle out of sight. God warned His people on numerous occasions that if they persisted in evil,, He would send armies against them that would be "... as swift as the eagle flieth..." (Deuteronomy 28:49). The eagle's ability to overcome the law of gravity by stretching out its wings in flight is an important analogy of the Christian's ability to rise above the law of sin by entering into Christ's victory and by engrafting God's Word into his own soul:

"But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings of eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint." ~ Isaiah 40:31

30 Minutes on Islam With Robert Spencer

2011-04-05T05:50:00.005-05:00

On the heels I woke up this morning and was considering the Koran burning and the media response. I doubt I would burn a Koran. But in a free society believe I could if I wanted to. This reminded me that not all things are prudent for a Christian in Scripture. However I reject that a pebble falls in the U.S. (someone burns a Koran) in Florida... and that riots in Afganistan resulting in death is an acceptable assessment. The truth is that Islam and the culture of the society in the Middle East is in far more dire condition. Acting in such a manner, over the destruction of a book, cartoons of Mohammed, or whatever the next percieved offense may be. In a free society, the matter of percieved offense should not affect our policies. I am offended by the practice of genital mutilation of women and girls. I am offended of the status of women in Islamic societies. I am offended by indentured servitude and the practice of slavery. I am offended by the entering into marriage of girls as young as 9. I am offended by the sexualization of children and child abuse and sexual abuse of both sexes. I am offended by zealots and proponents of a perversion of a religion that seeks trans-national subjigation and world domination. I am offended that the the glorification of death by a "faith" has lead to the suicide, murder, and slaughter of so many.

God Our Creator, who made the earth a peaceful garden, help us restore that peace wherever it has been broken by terrorism and injustice, especially in the Middle East. We repent for the times when religious language has fostered hatred and division. . . . Bring healing to those whose lives have been shattered by violence. Instill a renewed spirit of reconciliation in thosewho lead our people politically and religiously. . . . Amen ~ Reverend John T. Pawlikowski, OSM Catholic Theological Union, Chicago, IL

Lord God. . . Bless all your children in the Middle East with the gift of peace. Reach out and embrace Muslims, Jews and Christians. Dry their tears with your gentle hands. Surround their trembling bodies with your loving arms. Replace their fears with the hope and vision of peaceful times to come. . . . Amen ~The Reverend Said Ailabouni,Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, Chicago, IL

In the name of God, Most Gracious, Most Merciful. Accept our prayer to sustain us and our brothers and sisters of different beliefs in our desire for peace. . . Help us to find this peace in our living together, and in mutual sustenance with our neighbors. . . . Amen ~ Mian Ashraf, New England Islamic Center, Sharon, MA

Raising The Standard: Gratefulness Is Multiplying The Ministry Of Those Who Have Given To Me

2011-04-02T16:50:00.005-05:00

"And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work." ~ 2 Corinthians 9:8

"... Freely ye have received, freely give." ~ Matthew 10:8

From The Pages Of Scripture:

God exhorts us to present ourselves as a living sacrifice to Him (see Romans 12:1-2). Only as we die to personal ambitions can we properly use the gifts that we have received from God and others. A great Christian in the early Church illustrated these truths. He lived during the reign of Nero and was personally affected by the godlessness of that wicked emperor's life. As a courageous and tireless Christian, he demonstrates for us one of the most beautiful testimonies of true gratefulness by multiplying the ministry of the one who brought the Gospel to him.

A grateful Christian in Thessalonica provides a striking contrast to a selfish emperor in Rome. This Christian enjoys today what the emperor lost his kingdom trying to obtain. Who is he? Aristarchus.

When Nero was a young man, his mother and stepfather determined that they would prepare him to become the next emperor of Rome. They hired the best available Greek tutors to school their son in science and the humanities. During these formative years, Nero's humanistic teachers instilled in him their ungodly philosophy. In A.D. 54 Nero was officially crowned emperor. After taking power, he quickly poisoned his stepfather's son. Tiring of her continual interference, Nero murdered his own mother. He also killed his wife and married another woman. While Nero was establishing his evil reign and pursuing his study of music and Greek philosophy, a significant event took place in the eastern region of the empire. A prominent citizen of Thessalonica cried out to the Lord to send someone to teach him the truth. God answered his prayer by giving Paul the "Macedonian call." After the man of Thessalonica heard the truth, he was so grateful that he dedicated his life to carry the Gospel to others. He sailed with Paul to the seat of the proconsul from which the whole province of Asia could be influenced. Paul's preaching and the witness of this godly Christian were extremely effective in this stronghold of paganism. Condemning the idols that were fashioned to worship the sensual goddess Diana threatened the corrupt business of the local silversmiths. Led by the angry craftsmen, a mob seized the courageous witness from Thessalonica. For two hours his life hung in a delicate balance before he was finally freed. Undaunted by this dangerous experience, the dedicated ambassador of God returned home to collect a generous offering. Along with the Apostle Paul, he transported the gift to suffering Christians in Jerusalem. When Paul was captured in Jerusalem and appealed to Caesar, this courageous companion went with him to Rome. It was there that his life was directly affected by Nero. Fire broke out in Rome and a significant part of the city was burned. Nero, who was suspected of setting the fire, seized upon the incident to blame the Christians. He put many to death, including Paul and his dedicated servant from Thessalonica. But God always writes the last chapter. By multiplying the gift of salvation that he had received, Aristarchus along with Paul and others dealt a fatal blow to the ungodly philosophy of the day. Nero later left Rome to sing in a music festival in Greece. When he returned, he found his kingdom in the midst of civil war. Aristarchus left Rome as a triumphant martyr and still sings the praises of Him whose kingdom is from everlasting to everlasting. [From Acts 19:21-20:38]

How Did Aristarchus Recognize The Value Of The Gift Of Salvation?

Each time Luke mentions Aristarchus, he is curiously identified with his home locale, something Luke seldom did when writing about others. Aristarchus is referred to as a Macedonian (see Acts 19:29), a Thessalonian (see Acts 20:4), or as both (see Acts 27:2). This suggests that he was a well known figure in that part of the world and also indicates that he may have been a man of means. The city of Thessalonica enjoyed local autonomy and was the most prosperous of all the Macedonian cities. It was a major seaport located on the main Roman trade route. When Aristarchus heard the good news of the gift of salvation, he recognized its value as exceeding any of his possessions. He was like the man in the parable "who, when he had found one pearl of a great price, went and sold all that he had, and bought it" (Matthew 13:46). Aristarchus exchanged prosperity for persecution (see Acts 17:5). He endured hardship with Paul as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. He did these things not to earn his salvation, but in appreciation for it.

How Did Aristarchus Express His Gratitude To The Apostle Paul?

Aristarchus expressed his gratitude in friendship, unswerving loyalty, and dedicated service. Paul was the human instrument used by the Lord to bring the Gospel to the Macedonians. He was a man of strong affections, whose epistles reveal a heart overflowing with love for many individuals mentioned by name. Paul valued companionship and almost always traveled and labored with others. When Paul was left in Athens without co-workers, he sent for Silas and Timothy "to come to him with all speed." (see Acts 17:14-15). Aristarchus was privileged to become Paul's intimate and valued companion. He shared Paul's labors, travels, and hardships, enduring through both good and bad times. When Paul was under house arrest in Rome, he was allowed a companion to share his confinement. Aristarchus and Epapharas probably alternated serving in this assignment. The Apostle gratefully acknowledged the restrictions Aristarchus endured when he warmly referred to him as "my fellow prisoner" (see Colossians 4:10).

How Did The Macedonian Churches Express Their Gratitude To God?

Paul commended the Macedonians, "For it hath pleased them of Macedonia and Achaia to make a certain contribution for the poor saints which are at Jerusalem. It hath pleased them verily; and their debtors they are. For if the Gentiles have been made partakers of their spiritual things, their duty is also to minister unto them in carnal things" (Romans 15:26-27). Paul cited the Macedonian churches at Philippi, Thessalonica, and Berea as examples of sacrificial giving when he wrote to the more prosperous and the less persecuted Corinthians. In spite of their "deep poverty" which resulted from "a great trial of affliction," they gave to the poor of Jerusalem "to their power" and even "beyond their power." And they gave with an attitude of abounding joy (see 2 Corinthians 8:1-5). The Macedonian churches had received spiritual treasure through the nation of Israel and were more than willing to share their earthly treasure by helping God's chosen people in their distress.

Illustrated In The World Of Nature:

There are at least thirteen species of maple trees in the United States. Of these, the sugar maple is the most important. Also called the rock or hard maple, it is an attractive tree that can grow to a height of 135 feet with a trunk five feet in diameter. The production of maple syrup from maple sugar water is a major business in the northern United States. Each day during the spring, the sugar water is collected and taken to a sugar house. By flowing through a series of evaporation tanks, the liquid is condensed to produce maple syrup.

How Is The Process Of Multiplying The Ministry Of Those Who Give To Us Illustrated In The World Of Nature?

The footsteps of a solitary Indian crunching through the snow broke the stillness of the early morning. With great skill, the brave took one powerful swing with his tomahawk and then quietly watched the results. The one he had injured was revered by all the members of that early American settlement. They held him in high esteem for his impressive age and stately appearance. He had seen God work many times during his long life. He had passed the test of time and had weathered countless storms. Because of his outstanding qualities, he was chosen to be the central figure of the struggling little colony. Often the Pilgrim families came to visit him. They included him in picnics and other outings and enjoyed the sense of security he provided. Councils with the Indians were always held in his presence. He supervised their deliberations and gently nodded as both sides reached agreements. He warned the settlers of approaching danger from violent storms. When they saw him waving, the settlers would hurry to the shelter of their cabins. As the seasons passed things began to change. The busy colonists had little time for him. During this period, he also experienced a barrenness in his own life. He became quiet and withdrawn, and now he was wounded. The wound produced no ordinary results. He did not become bitter. Instead he demonstrated a new sweetness from his inner being. His response caused the Pilgrims to once again gather around him. They received a new measure of strength and vitality from his life. He was able to draw upon all that God had given him over the years and share it with those around him in a remarkable way. As he refreshed them, the thankful Pilgrims praised God for His marvelous provision through the life of this stalwart member of their community. By inflicting the wound, the Indian had revealed something that the settlers had never seen or tasted before. Thereafter, they looked upon this dignified resident not only as the majestic maple tree in the center of their village, but as the giver of rich maple sugar water at the end of a long, cold winter. The Pilgrims eagerly gathered the precious liquid from the maple tree. By investing their time and energy, they turned the sugar water into delicious syrup. The syrup became a highly sought after product which they shared with others. By sharing what they had received, both the maple tree and the settlers multiplied the provision that God had freely given to them.

The Maple Tree In Scripture:

The conditions that allow the maple tree to produce rich, sweet syrup are highly symbolic of a similar process in the Christian life which produces spiritual fruit. The maple tree must be mature before it is able to produce the sought after maple syrup. The older the tree, the more syrup it is able to produce. Older and more mature Christians are instructed by God to give spiritual food to the younger ones.

"The elders which are among you I exhort... Feed the flock of God..." ~ 1 Peter 5:1-2

The bountiful product of the maple tree must be harvested during a season that follows the harsh testings of winter cold and snow. God reminds us that one who finds nourishment during barren seasons by putting his roots deep into the Word shall produce:

"... his fruit in his season..." ~ Psalm 1:3

Before the maple tree can benefit others, it must be wounded by cutting. The more cuts it receives, the greater the flow will be from its inner life. Paul explained that the troubles he experienced were directly related to the spiritual nourishment he was able to give other Christians (see 2 Corinthians 1:2-11). The maple syrup from the tree must be further purified just as our words and actions must be refined by the purifying fire of God's Word (see 1 Peter 4:12-13).

Raising The Standard: Gratefulness Is Paying My Debt Of Love Out Of The Firstfruits Of My Increase

2011-03-21T18:14:00.009-05:00

"Humour the Lord with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase: So shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall be burst out with new wine." ~ Proverbs 3:9-10

From The Pages Of Scripture:

Grateful praise is a vital, energy-producing power in our lives. However, gratefulness is destroyed by the false assumption that God owes us a full, happy, and healthy life. One day Christ performed a miracle, and out of the contrasting responses to it, we learn how the principle of tithing can protect us from the destruction of an ungrateful spirit. Ingratitude is like a disfiguring blight on the soul. An ungrateful person may be unconcerned because their attitude is often concealed. However, anyone who gives to that person will quickly detect the problem. Who in Scripture demonstrated genuine gratefulness out of the firstfruits of what he received and in so doing gained an even greater gift? The grateful leper.

How Is The Gratefulness Of Firstfruits Illustrated In Scripture?

The kind teacher just stood there for several moments. He marveled at the gift he had just received. Finally, he spoke to the grateful man who had given it to him and asked him a very pointed question. That question caused the man to reflect back over many years. He remembered the horrifying day when he had first noticed that something was wrong. A tiny patch of skin on his cheek had become discolored and soon the pinkish blotch began to spread. Before long, he had lost all feeling in his skin and his eyebrows began to disappear. Spongy tumor-like growths began to cover his face and body. Internal organs also suffered from damaging disease. Marked deformities occurred in his hands and feet as the tissues between his bones deteriorated. The sensory nerve endings in his hands and feet no longer responded to heat or pain. As a result, he became the victim of numerous accidental injuries. People who had once filled his life with joy and fellowship now required him to call out the frightening words, "Unclean, unclean" wherever he approached. When they heard these words, the were filled with fear and pity and scattered. His only companions were foreigners who were afflicted with the same condition. The discouraged invalid soon discovered that those around him were infected with an even greater affliction --- deeply rooted bitterness. Humanly speaking, they all had good reason to be bitter. There was no hope for a cure and their progressive deterioration left them vulnerable to many other ailments. The man who now knelt before the teacher had received total healing of his leprosy. He had discovered the miracle on his way to see the priest. It seemed only proper to use the first portion of his newly acquired healthy and strength to return and give sincere thanks. The gift of gratefulness deeply impressed the one who had healed him. but it also prompted him to ask an important question, "Where are the other nine?" Ten lepers were healed, but only this Samaritan returned to give thanks. His grateful heart earned him an even greater gift from the Lord Jesus --- healing in his soul from the bitterness that would continue to consume his former companions. [from Luke 17:11-19]

Why Did Jesus Tell The Lepers To See The Priests?

When the Lord heard the lepers' pitiful cries, He neither touched them nor said, "You are cured!" Rather, He told them to go in their leprous condition and show themselves to the priests. According to Mosiac Law, priests were to inspect their skin to certify that they were fully healed (see Leviticus 14:1-3). The Lord put their faith to the test by asking them to act as though they had already been healed. As they obeyed His command, so it happened. "... And it came to pass, that as they went, they were cleansed" (Luke 17:14). In addition to fulfilling the Law's command, it is likely that the Lord wanted these men to be a testimony to the priests that they might believe in Him as the Messiah. When He had healed a leper on a previous occasion, He charged him to "... tell no man: but go, and show thyself to the priest, and offer for thy cleansing, according as Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them" (Luke 5:14). After the Lord's resurrection, the priests remembered these things, "... and a great company of the priests were obedient of the faith" (Acts 6:7).

Why Did Only One Leper Return To Thank Jesus?

The test states, " ... and he was a Samaritan" (Luke 17:16). The Samaritans were a despised people. One Jewish author spoke of them as "no nation" and as "the foolish people that dwell in Schechem". When the Jews destroyed the Samaritans' temple on the Mount Gerizim about 128 B.C., the breach between the two groups was final. It is an indication of the horror of leprosy that nine Jews would even consent to live with a Samaritan. But Samaritans, like the publicans, harlots, and sinners, were in general more open to the Gospel. The New Testament almost always speaks favorably of them, and they are portrayed as people who responded enthusiastically to Jesus Himself and to the Apostles of the early Church. Apparently, they did not have as much difficulty recognizing their need for salvation.

What Does The Grateful Leper Teach Us About God's Kingdom?

The grateful leper teaches us that faith is the only basis for membership in God's kingdom. This Samaritan was brought into the kingdom because he believed. The nine Jews, who thought they were already in the kingdom, were excluded. Many Jews felt that they deserved salvation because they were the descendants of righteous Abraham. They did not appreciate God's goodness and benefits because they expected them. Although the Jewish lepers recognized their need of healing, they felt no spiritual need. When Jesus told some Jews that being natural descendants of Abraham was not sufficient to merit salvation, they became incensed and said He was born of fornication. They also accused Him of being a Samaritan and of having a devil (see John 8:41, 48). Their pride prevented them from entering into the kingdom. The Samaritan was not proud in spirit, but, rather, he was poor in spirit. To him belonged the promise, "Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 5:3).

Illustrated In The World Of Nature:

While there are over 900 different varieties of mistletoe, only two are commonly found in the United States: the leafy, or Christmas mistletoe, which is popular Christmas decoration, and the lesser known dwarf mistletoe. Both kinds of mistletoe are parasites. The mistletoe plant grows only one place --- two to three feet in diameter. Dwarf mistletoe is a serious problem in some areas of the southern United States because it grows on commercially produced trees such as fir and pine. Neither kind of mistletoe has roots of its own, and both are dependent on the water and minerals provided by the tree on which they live.

How Is The Need To Avoid Ungrateful People Illustrated In The World Of Nature?

The story that we now have to tell is a lurid one, but it must be told. A group of well-established residents of a forest community decided it was time to warn their young ones of a seductive stranger. She was very attractive in outward appearance, but her fruit was bitter and full of death. The young ones looked up to their elders and listened intently as the older sages of the community drew upon many years of experience to vividly and effectively sound the alarm. "Her pattern is to slip into community undetected and take up residence as though she were one of us. She may wait several years before making her first move, but then she begins to deceptively work her way into the heart of an unsuspecting victim. "She has no roots and is totally unpredictable. From outward appearance she would give no indication of being a threat. However, when the right conditions exist, she attaches herself to her victim and begins sapping him of life-giving strength and vitality. "For many years this delusive stranger has been involved in the occult, taking on the characteristics of darkness. She avoids the light. She is like a cancer in the life of her unsuspecting host and slowly but surely breaks down his defenses with her subtle designs. "only too late will her host realize just how destructive she really is. When life is finally ebbing will he wonder why he did not listen to the warnings of those who have watched her work again and again." "She avoids more mature residents and instead chooses to work her lustful wiles on tender youths. Wherever she goes, she encourages inappropriate conduct by promoting promiscuity." "She is totally selfish, always stealing from her victim to satisfy her own desires. Others will admire her for her beauty and even take what she has to give the, but her fruit will soon poison them. She formerly worked in a hospital, but left only a trail of miser and woe." The wise elders then pointed to a large scar in one of their members and explained to their wide eyed listeners, "Do you see that horrible scar? It will disfigure him for the rest of his life. He is an example of what we are trying to warn you about. She was with him for many years and he could not get rid of her. It took a major catastrophe to free him from her destructive power, and now look at what is left." They concluded their somber message by saying, "Your best hope of escape is to consistently look up to your Creator, to give Him continual praise from a grateful heart, and to pray that He will deliver you from this seductive stranger." These long standing residents are mighty oaks and tall cedars warning the younger trees about the deadly parasite known as mistletoe.

The Characteristics Of The Mistletoe In Scripture:

Scripture abounds with references on the characteristics of the mistletoe. With its parasitic nature and slow destruction of its victim, the mistletoe presents a vivid illustration of the work of evil. This explains its wide use in occult circles. Like the tree in Genesis 3:3-19, the color, shape, and texture of the mistletoe are very attractive, but its fruit is highly poisonous. The seeds of the mistletoe, like temptations, spread to other trees by their own power and through the appetites of those that indulge in them (see James 1:13-15 and 1 Corinthians 15:33). The infection and distorted growth which a mistletoe seed produces in a new victim depict the corrupting force of sin sown in a life. Once a tree is infected by a seed, it will take several years before the growth of the mistletoe plant begins, much like secret sin that its victim attempts to cover up (Galatians 6:7-8). The deceptive camouflage of some mistletoe is a picture of the envoys of Satan who appear as ministers of righteousness to deceive unsuspecting Christians (see 2 Corinthians 11:13-15).

In Memorium: Walt, my beloved Father in Law

God grant you eternity in heaven in His service. We miss you and thank you for your love, kindness and sevice in this world. Thank you for your steadfast love and courage. We miss you. RIP father.

Raising The Standard: Gratefulness Is Giving Expressions Of Appretiation That Will Honor The Design Of God

2011-03-13T17:27:00.009-05:00

"For who maketh thee to differ from another? And what hast thou that thou didst not receive? Now if thou didst receive it, why dost though glory, as if thou hadst not received it?" ~ 1 Corinthians 4:7

Gratefulness in giving:

At the heart of all true giving there must be a spirit of genuine gratefulness. Only as we recognize the truth that we have "freely received" will we be able to obey the instruction to "freely give." (See Matthew 10:8) Our first recipient of gratefulness must be the Lord since "every good gift and every perfect gift is from above..." (James 1:17). When God is given His proper praise, we then receive direction from Him on how to effectively express gratefulness to others.

"That I may publish with the voice of thanksgiving, and tell all my wondrous works." ~ Psalm 26:7

From The Pages Of Scripture:

People will often express their deepest gratefulness by giving you the very gift which they would like to receive. This is not only true among individuals, it is also true between God and people. God's greatest gift to us was the sacrifice of His Son. Therefore, from the beginning of mankind God delighted in the sweet savor of a correctly offered sacrifice. One man who gave such a gift was attacked by another who attempted to use his gift to exalt his own achievements rather than the redemptive work of Christ.

The true worth of a gift can only be measured by the receiver. Therefore, two mites were worth more than costly treasures and obedience preferred over sacrifice. Who in Scripture gave a gift that was highly treasured by the receiver but ended in the death of the giver? Cain and Abel.

An angry man burst into his home. His raging voice shattered the quietness of the dwelling. He had done his best, but had been humiliated. His grieving parents tried to reason with him, but he glared at them with resentment. He refused to listen to their reasoning and stormed out of the house. The parents in sorrow. Their son's irrational outburst served as a painful reminder of their past sin. They quietly recalled the day he had been born. He had been their joy and hope for the future. They had given him special attention and instructed him in the ways of God. However something had gone wrong in his heart. He had become proud and decided to do things in his own way. When his way was not acceptable, he reacted. In the tension of the moment, another member of the household followed him into the fields and firmly but lovingly rebuked the angry young man for his actions and attitudes. His concern and reproof stung the heart of the listener as he recognized the truth contained in each statement. At that critical moment, he had a choice to make. Hundreds of years later a similar scene took place. A Godly prophet stood before a crowd of frustrated people. They had tried to serve the Lord and prosper, but in their own way. God had turned His back on them. The prophet solemnly proclaimed, "Thus says God, "Why do you transgress the commandments of the Lord so that you do not prosper? Because you have forsaken the Lord, He has also forsaken you!" At that moment those who listened to the words of the prophet were confronted with the same choice as the young man in the field. Both made the same decision. The crowd rejected the prophet's admonitions. Infuriated by his rebukes, they rose up and killed him. The young man in the field also rose up against his messenger of truth and slew him. The young man was angry because he had given a gift to God and it was rejected. The one who rebuked him had also given a gift --- a perfect lamb. The lamb foreshadowed the death of Christ and His payment for sin. This sacrifice was accepted by the Lord. The message of that offering and reproof was later praised by Christ Himself as He rebuked the nation of Israel.
"Behold I sent to you prophets so that upon you may come all the righteous blood shed upon the earth, from the blood of righteous Abel to the blood of Zacharias son of Barachias, whom you slew between the temple and the altar."
Cain presented the fruit of the ground as an offering to the Lord --- it was rejected. Abel's offering of a lamb was an expression of gratefulness that honored the design of God's plan of redemption --- it was accepted. [From Genesis 4; 2 Chronicles 24:20; and Matthew 23:34-35]

Why Did Eve Name Her Second Son Abel?

The literal meaning of "Abel" is "breath, vanity, or vapor." Before Adam and Eve sinned, they and their descendants had the potential of living indefinitely. But God warned that on the very day that they sinned, that potential would end. After the Fall God compares life to a vapor "...For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away" (James 4:14). Solomon summed up all of life in the word vanity (see Ecclesiastes 1:2). And Isaiah comments, "Cease ye from man, whose breath is in his nostrils..." (Isaiah 2:22). Abel's name was thus a continual reminder of the brevity of life and the need to live each day in the fear of God.

How Did Abel Achieve The Status Of A Prophet?

Old Testament prophets proclaimed God's truth. They vigorously confronted God's people when they turned from God's ways. They were living epistles of God's message and usually suffered persecution and sometimes death. Jesus acknowledged that Abel was such a prophet when He said, "Woe unto you! ... The blood of all the prophets, which was shed from the foundation of the world, may be required of this generation; From the blood of Abel unto the blood of Zacharias..." (Luke 11:47, 50-51). A further function of the prophet is to speak with authority about Christ's righteousness and redemptive work. The offering which Abel gave to the Lord so precisely fulfilled the picture of Christ's atonement for sin that his offering is listed with special distinction in Hebrews 11:4. "By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh." Abel fulfilled all the functions of a prophet when he sacrificed to the Lord and then talked with Cain in the field. Scripture clearly indicates that Cain's wrath was not toward Abel but to the truth that he lived and spoke.

What Did Abel Have In Common With Jacob?

Both were secondborn. Both had older brothers who forsook the Lord. And both were recognized by God for their efforts to seek Him. These similarities may also indicate that Abel demonstrated characteristics of secondborn children which were so obvious in Jacob. A secondborn child tends to need greater approval and is often more competitive to get it. The secondborn tends to have a greater capacity for loyalty. When Jacob saw that his older brother despised his birthright, he eagerly bought it up. It may be that Abel similarly snatched up the opportunity of the spiritual heritage which Cain despised. Abel like Jacob developed the heart of a shepherd and, with the accompanying qualities, understood more clearly how to give a gift that honored the designs of the chief Shepherd.

Illustrated In The World Of Nature:

Aphids are small pear shaped insects rarely more than one-eighth of an inch long. They come in a variety of colors including yellowish green, dark green, black and brown. Because they pierce the moist tissues of plants and suck them dry, they do considerable damage to cultivated crops, particularly cotton and corn. Amazingly, these feeble creatures migrate incredible distances, perhaps covering sixty miles in a single day. Fortunately, aphids have many enemies which help to keep their numbers in check.

How Is Appreciation That Honors The Design Of God Illustrated In The World Of Nature?

The injured leopard stared nervously into the rain forest. Snarling and pawing the ground, the restless cat frantically tried to escape the hunter's snare. The leopard instinctively sensed that it must flee from an unseen danger. Slowly and methodically the deadly foe approached --- a long column of migrating driver ants,. The determined attackers marched forward, devouring everything in their path. As they advanced, the terrified leopard yanked the steel cable in a final but fruitless effort to escape. Within several hours the once powerful cat had been turned into a pile of bones. The driver ants relentlessly pushed on, not realizing that their next confrontation would be with a much more formidable adversary. Unlike the leopard, a colony of harvester ants had no intentions of fleeing. They would stand their ground and fight to the death. As the aggressive driver ants entered the fields of harvester ants, the battle began. Workers swiftly returned from their food trails to join in the defense of their colony. With jaws open for action, the harvester ants reared up against the vicious invaders. While on harvester ant grabbed a charging enemy by a leg or an antenna, another defender would tear the intruder apart with its powerful jaws. As the brave harvester ants fell, others rushed to take their places. The long column of ruthless aggressors seemed endless. Finally, with sheer numbers, the driver ants overran the community. The courageous harvester ants had not only fought for their own survival. They had also provided protection for a group of fellow workers that had faithfully benefited their colony. Throughout the summer these co-laborers had diligently worked to produce honeydew for the harvester ants. Several pounds of it had already been stored in the ants' nest in preparation for the coming winter. These loyal friends of the harvester ants were aphids. The tiny workers enjoyed an unusual compatibility with the industrious ants. The aphids were not strong in themselves. They depended on the ants for protection. In return, the aphids produced a continual source of sweet honeydew sugar to strengthen the ants for the work they were to accomplish. The ants and the aphids displayed an extraordinary sense of service and appreciation for each other that honored the design of God.

The Characteristics Of The Aphid And Ant In Scripture:

Scripture reveals that the ways of the ant contain valuable lessons for successful living.

"Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise: Which having no guide, overseer, or ruler, Provideth her meat in the summer, and gathereth her food in the harvest" ~ Proverbs 6:6-8

With no guide, overseer, or ruler to force or coerce, the ants' incredible diligence and achievement must come from another motivation --- their mutual interdependence upon one another and upon those that become a part of their community. This is precisely the type of edification that Christ called for in the local church (See Ephesians 4:16). Although not related to the ant, the aphid becomes a part of the ant's community. The interaction between the ant and the aphid gives the clearest explanation of how the ant provides (sets aright, establishes) her meat (feed for the preparation of food) in the summer, and gathers (brings in) her food (edible products and food sources) in the harvest. The aphid is able to multiply rapidly and destroy crops. Thus it is one of those "pestilences" which God uses to judge His people and the wicked when they violate His ways (See 1 Kings 8:35-39).

NPR Big Shot ... "It's not Political, it's anti intellectual... to Muslim Brotherhood of America posers. No Agenda? Think Again.

2011-03-08T19:00:00.013-06:00

NPR Cans Ronald Schiller

Posted Tuesday, March 08, 2011 5:34 PM | By David Weigel Update adding part 2... We can shield you and make your donation anonymous: That, from the new statement from NPR's Dana Rehm, is the shoe that took all day to drop. The entire statement, which also clarifies that Schiller decided to leave before the sting occurred:

"The comments contained in the video released today are contrary to everything we stand for, and we completely disavow the views expressed. NPR is fair and open minded about the people we cover. Our reporting reflects those values every single day – in the civility of our programming, the range of opinions we reflect and the diversity of stories we tell. The assertion that NPR and public radio stations would be better off without federal funding does not reflect reality. The elimination of federal funding would significantly damage public broadcasting as a whole."

Prior to the lunch meeting presented in the edited video, Ron Schiller had informed NPR that he was resigning from his position to take a new job. His resignation was announced publicly last week, and he was expected to depart in May. While we review this situation, he has been placed on administrative leave. David Folkenflik has more, including the key detail that the the "administrative leave" is, yes, confirmation that Schiller is gone. Schiller's first day at the Aspen Institute is April 1; I've checked in with the institute just to make sure he's still starting there.

Cut and paste: http://www.npr.org/blogs/thetwo-way/2011/03/08/134358398/in-video-npr-exec-slams-tea-party-questions-need-for-federal-funds?ft=1&f=1001&sc=tw&utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter

Journalistic ethics? Please. That, sadly has become an oxymoron. Follow your conscience people, and check out (yeah another cut an paste, sorry) http://honestreporting.com/media-critiques-resources/