Serving the Poor – Dave R Phillips

January 1, 2022January 1, 2022

Just Get a Job!

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard, “why don’t they just get a job?” After all, unemployment is at an all-time low, and jobs abound in our County. The quote, of course, is a visceral response to seeing someone who is in deep poverty and perhaps experiencing homelessness. Putting people in a box and labeling them “homeless” or “bum” or “deadbeat” is the opposite of what Christ has called us to do.

The main problem with “why don’t they…” is our insensitivity to the person we are referring to. There is no “they” in the population of people struggling with addiction or homelessness. “They” are individuals made in the image of God (see Imago Dei). God was willing to send his son to us as a baby, fully God, fully human, and subjected himself to our depravity because he cares that much about each individual. “They” are hurting. “We” should love our neighbors (not my original idea).

Proximity Matters

Bob Goff’s book, Everybody, Always, provides many keen insights that help guide this discussion. in the opening chapter, Bob confesses that “What I’ve come to realize is if I really want to ‘meet Jesus,’ then I have to get a lot closer to the people He created. All of them, not just some of them.” (p.5) And “What I’ve learned following Jesus is we only really find our identities by engaging the people we’ve been avoiding.” (p.7)

Andy Stanley’s brilliant sermon, Like Stars in the Sky, hammers the point that I’ve quoted more times than I can count (at about 35:50 into the video):

The farther you are from the problem, the simpler the solution appears to be.
Andy Stanley

From a distance, it seems like the answer is simple: just get a job, and everything will be fine! But when we stop and think about the person, the human created in God’s image, we know it’s more complicated than that. No one grows up hoping to be the guy outside of Walmart with a sign begging for money or a meal. No one. Someone in this position has arrived after significant emotional events in their lives, including poor choices and bad decisions.

…Jesus saw loving God and loving our neighbors as one inseparable mandate. They were tied for first in Jesus’ mind. No one expects us to love them flawlessly, but we can love them fearlessly, furiously, and unreasonably.
Bob Goff, Everybody, Always, p. 19

We must make a choice. We can sit in our elevated positions and cast judgment, “they should just get a job!” or we can meet some of the “they,” listen to their stories, develop empathy for the trauma in their lives, and learn to love our neighbors as ourselves fully. I’m not about to pretend this is easy. I can almost guarantee you’ll be hurt, and it’s quite likely to cost you both financially and emotionally (the latter more than the former). You’ll question your motivations and might even be scorned by family and friends, and you may never see the results directly, but it is worth the pain. You will grow in your faith and maturity in Christ.

How to Get Close

Moving from spectator to participant was one of Jesus’ primary mandates.

Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
Matthew 28:18-20

Teaching point: make sure you read the full context of the above quotation. You’ll notice that even at this point, “some doubted.” That doesn’t give us a license to doubt; instead, it merely shows us that God understands our reluctance to get involved — he understands our fear. Go anyway.

There are several places to get involved and get closer to our area’s deep needs (see the Community Resource Guide for ideas). You might start helping out at a local food pantry or feeding ministry. You could end up serving at an emergency shelter or agency that provides showers and laundry services for those who have no access to water or can’t afford to wash their clothes.

Find something that speaks to your heart. This year, choose to get your hands dirty by exercising my wife’s super-power of “just showing up!” When we humble ourselves and serve one another, our hearts will soften. We will walk away with a fresh perspective on the complexities of systemic and personal issues. It’s my sincere belief that once we’ve invested hours into humbly serving others, we won’t simply quip “get a job” anymore. And I assure you you’ll make some incredible friends along the way. I pray you’ll take me up on the challenge!

Happy New Year’s Day to all. Go and make this year better than the last by making your presence known.

March 20, 2021March 20, 2021

Beautiful Creation

I want you to step into your imagination for a moment. Imagine you’ve never heard about the Bible; you know nothing about it at all. You and I are talking, and I explain that this is a magnificent book that contains incredible stories. It’s filled with violence, sex, hate, greed, and much, much more! But when you step back and take it in as a whole, you’ll discover it’s really a love story about reconciliation. In our conversation, I give you just enough information to whet your appetite, and then I hand you a copy of this amazing manuscript for your very own. In your eagerness to discover the treasure, you open the Bible to Acts 2, and here’s what you read:

Then Peter stood up with the Eleven, raised his voice and addressed the crowd: “Fellow Jews and all of you who live in Jerusalem, let me explain this to you; listen carefully to what I say. These people are not drunk, as you suppose. It’s only nine in the morning!… Acts 2:14-15

Right off the bat, you get the idea that there’s something exciting happening. This character, Peter, addresses a large group of people that must have been at some huge party. You continue to read.

This man was handed over to you by God’s deliberate plan and foreknowledge; and you, with the help of wicked men, put him to death by nailing him to the cross. But God raised him from the dead, freeing him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on him. God has raised this Jesus to life, and we are all witnesses of it. Acts 2:23-24, 32

Now, this is really getting interesting! Apparently, a bunch of people brutally killed someone that somehow escaped death. Fascinating!

Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day. Acts 2:41

In just a few minutes, you’re hooked! The description you heard about this book is beyond comprehension. This guy, Peter, must be one of the main characters, someone who is amazing. After his speech, thousands of people are converted. Peter is incredible, right?

But wait.

The very same man you admire here was afraid to admit he even knew Jesus just a few months before the event you’re reading about now. Take a moment and think about what you were doing 10 weeks ago. Here’s an example of Peter about that same timeframe:

And when some there had kindled a fire in the middle of the courtyard and had sat down together, Peter sat down with them. A servant girl saw him seated there in the firelight. She looked closely at him and said, “This man was with him.” But he denied it. “Woman, I don’t know him,” he said. Luke 22:55-57

A servant girl called him out. Peter would go on to deny Jesus two more times before sunrise. You probably know the story.

It gets worse. Sometime earlier, Jesus was trying to explain to the disciples that he would have to die on the cross for all the world when Peter objects:

Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him. “Never, Lord!” he said. “This shall never happen to you!” Jesus turned and said to Peter, “Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the concerns of God, but merely human concerns.” Matthew 16:22-23

Peter rebuking Jesus. Yep, this is the same Peter in Acts 2. Well, it is the same person, but something has dramatically changed.

Frankly, I’m surprised that Jesus didn’t eliminate Peter from the select group of disciples at this point. He is unworthy to be on the shortlist of leaders from all accounts, let alone the primary preacher we are currently reading about.

Take a look at moments before that last quote from Matthew:

“But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?” Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” Jesus replied, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by flesh and blood, but by my Father in heaven. And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it. Matthew 16:15-18

Which is it? Peter, the Rock, or Peter possessed by Satan? Crazy, isn’t it?

Through all of the ups and downs we watch Peter go through, we get a glimpse of our own shortcomings. I’m most certainly not trying to compare myself to the Apostle Peter, but the stories presented in the Bible give me hope. If someone as hot-headed as Peter can become the pastor we see in Acts, there is hope for each of us.

Beautiful Creation

Here’s the challenge, the main purpose of this post. While we’re quick to write ourselves into the story and show gratitude for God’s grace and mercy, my goal here is to help us see the Imago Dei (image of God) in every person we meet.

Last week, I had the privilege of speaking to men and women from various helping agencies from Anderson, South Carolina, who do this very thing. Those they serve daily may not look like Peter today, but they are served with respect, love, and kindness, for each has been created in the image of God. And what God creates is not just good; it is very good indeed. If time would have permitted, I could have gone around the room and shared an example of those who were transformed, who probably looked like Peter in his early days. Myself included. The sin that held me in its grasp has been forgiven, but more than that, the man I am today is no longer tainted by my past failures. Jesus has forgiven me. He stands ready to forgive you and anyone else who repents and receives the gift so freely given.

The outward appearance of many we meet might not look like a powerful disciple of Christ, but let’s learn to look beyond current circumstances and see the potential that exists in each person through the power of the Holy Spirit. I pray we can see the potential future that resides in every person we meet, a story that looks very different than the one that defines them today.

Jesus could have easily dismissed Peter from the disciples, but our Lord is gracious, abounding in love. He was able to see what Peter would become. I believe we have the privilege of reading about Peter throughout the Gospel accounts (and Acts) to inspire us to disciple others.

May we look at those we meet, wealthy or poor, in the mistaken eyes of our society and see who they can become, who they really are in Christ Jesus. Let us be a people that help people find their identity in Christ for his sake and God’s glory through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.” Mark 12:30-31

January 20, 2021January 21, 2021

Dear Church

Dear Church,

It’s time to wake up again. People struggle with addiction, homelessness, depression, anxiety, pornography, lust, anger, greed, and all sorts of issues you are well aware of yet do little to address. You want people to worship Jesus, which is good, but you are not willing to invest time or resources into helping someone in need. Even worse, you define someone in need as those you despise–those who find themselves living on the streets or in homeless shelters. You are bankrupt if you have no desire to help those created in the image of God for whom Jesus came and died to rescue. The opportunity is endless. You know that the need is far greater than those who are financially poor or have burned familial ties. It’s not confined to those who are served at soup kitchens or shelters; it’s much more pervasive than that which is so apparent. Many people in need drive nice cars, live in fine neighborhoods and smile when asked how it’s going.

Dear church, please return to your task of equipping the saints. There are those in your congregations who wake up every morning with a sense that they are their brother’s keeper, that they must do something to help someone else. They are truly those who find Jesus in a world gone mad with idolatry. These Christ-followers go about their work with a sense of calling and are in touch with gifts given by the Spirit. These faithful are most often unseen because they do not shine a light on themselves. They need your support and encouragement more now than ever.

Sadly, most are in a world of self-centered activism, which believes they will earn favor by winning a perfect attendance award or “saving” someone else. When we behave this way, we are lost in religion. Many of this group can point to references in the Bible that identify reprehensible activities, interpret Scripture in multiple languages, cross-referenced to demonstrate their hours of study, yet are unwilling to put words into action. Stop. Enough.

My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires. Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you. Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world. James 1:19-22, 27

I, too, am guilty

How can I be so emotional about these observations? It’s simple. I’m a product of the system that created scores of Christians without teaching them how to follow Christ. We learned that grace is cheap, that we could count “salvations” achieved as if playing a video game. My own words convict me. In the last few years, I have begun to see what is possible by connecting passionate people to Christ-centered missional activities. This is most easily demonstrated on the street, but that’s just where it’s most visible.

Step Zero

The journey begins before we take the first step. I call this Step Zero. I’ll explain more in a separate post, but here’s a brief description. When we receive Christ, when the Spirit enters and radically changes us, we are reborn. Part of that birth is the giving of gifts by the Spirit for the building up of the Church. Christ’s church. Not a building or human-led organization, but the big-C Church. Most churches have an assimilation process designed to help navigate this journey. I know about this from my experience as a staff member of several churches. The sad reality is that most of the effort focuses on serving the little-c church. While much of this activity is based on good intentions, it most often misses Step Zero. When we invest the time and energy into helping people figure out Step Zero, we set them up for huge Kingdom wins for the big-C Church.

Doing Life Together — Truly Loving our Neighbors

What about affordable housing, childcare, homelessness, employment, transportation, medical needs, etc.? Instead of what can’t be done, let’s realize what can happen. Here are some examples:

If every church organization had a single house that could shelter four people, we would have no homelessness.
If someone in every church adopted one child, we would radically change the foster care system, eliminate a large percentage of criminal activity, have a profoundly positive impact on addiction, and much more. No more unwanted children!
If a handful of people in each church reached out to young parents and helped nurture their children, we would eliminate the need for affordable childcare.

The list goes on and on. It’s all based on loving our neighbor, and it begins with knowing your neighbor.

The key is Step Zero. These ifs are based on each being truly Christ-centered with people working within their Spirit-powered gifts. For example, if your heart burns for kids left in the foster care system, learn how to adopt a child.

Imagine a world where churches took care of just these three things. Once we begin, there is no stopping such a vibrant church. People would eagerly flock to churches that love and care for people this radically. We would have to figure out how to train and equip people for getting better at each of the things they’ve been called to do. Church staff and volunteers will need to invest incredible amounts of time, energy, and money into people and communities for support.

We don’t need another government program. Instead, we need wise and shrewd managers to figure out how to make programs work for our benefit, not the other way around. We need to get involved in politics not to see our name on a ballot but to make sure our view is properly represented in political decisions. If we withdraw, we will be removed. Don’t miss this last point. We are in this world, but not of this world.

True Worship Gatherings

Then, my friend, when we get together to worship corporately, it would be a fantastic event! People who have been giving all week long within their Spirit-given gifts would be worshipping the One True Lord of all with everything they’ve got. God’s word would powerfully uplift, encourage, and equip the saints for another week of battling against the enemies in this world.

A Warning

Do not expect others to accept these thoughts readily. You should expect resistance. As you begin to put these ideas into practice, you will make mistakes. It will be painful, embarrassing, even costly. Jesus, in some of his last words to the disciples, left them with this assurance:

If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you. John 15:18-19

The ensuing verses explain how the Spirit will provide everything we need.

I’m here to declare it is worth the cost. Be willing to take a risk for an eternal reward. Think more about the next generation than the one that fills the pews or watches sermons online. Empower and equip. The Spirit is ready and willing. One of the other most important messages Jesus gave to his disciples is something I still have a hard time understanding:

Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it. John 14:12-14

Dear church, I know you believe in Jesus, but do you remember this promise? Do you still weep when you read, “And the door was shut” (Matthew 25:10)?

All things are possible, but not everything is beneficial. Dear church, it’s time to rethink your “come and see” approach by encouraging everyone to “go and do” that which the Spirit has called each person.

Finally, dear church, I love you. These words are hard to say and most likely difficult to accept. I cry when I read John’s words at the beginning of Revelation. So many large and worldly churches have a voice in leading people astray. Please take time to insert your church’s name in Revelation 2 and 3, then ask for forgiveness and move forward today.

Dear God, help us to seek first your Kingdom. Give us the courage, strength, knowledge, wisdom, discernment, and mostly, the love to carry out your work to each and every person in our midst. Amen.

November 7, 2020

Spiritual Blindness

My dear friend, mentor, teacher, and co-worker in the mission field we call life on earth has recently challenged me to focus on Spiritual Formation as a topic of great concern. Greg Wiens pointed me to a few books in particular: The Critical Journey: Stages in the Life of Faith¹ and Renovation of the Heart: Putting on the Character of Christ². While it’s not a new field of study, the significance of the “journey” cannot be overstated. To begin with, we need to recognize we’re on a journey that we’re all growing in our faith (or not).

Step Zero

I refer to this awakening as Step Zero. While it sounds simple, I’m afraid it’s much more difficult than I can express in just a few words. We all suffer from some level of spiritual blindness. As I begin to peel back the layers and understand more about this topic, I can’t help but see things differently. To begin with, my own vision is skewed and distorted in ways I have yet to consider. While there’s no quick and easy fix for this dilemma, part of the answer begins with the humble confession: I’m spiritually blind!

This morning I wrote a post for HOPE Missions that addresses this subject briefly. I’d be honored if you took a moment to look at that post and pray for those who serve the least, the lost, and the lonely with humble hearts and open hands every single week. Here’s the post:

Give Me Eyes to See

Part of the solution is to serve others: serving is healing. When we serve others, we take on the nature of Jesus Christ.

Who, being in very nature God,
    did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage;
rather, he made himself nothing
    by taking the very nature of a servant,
    being made in human likeness.
And being found in appearance as a man,
    he humbled himself
    by becoming obedient to death—
        even death on a cross! Philippians 2:6-8

Don’t Do This Alone – Koinonia

One of the keys to moving from blindness to seeing clearly is to find someone to venture on the journey with. This might be your spouse or a good friend, but don’t limit yourself to the possibility that other like-minded Christ-followers will challenge and inspire you. This is true, Koinonia.

Part of what I get to do these days is lead a Bible study focused on the Gospel of John. As we read one passage at a time, it never ceases to amaze me how the people are surprised at Jesus’ teaching. But what really catches my eye is that the disciples, those closest to Jesus, were just as confused. They didn’t get it while he was teaching. I find this to be quite comforting. If they didn’t immediately get the meaning of the message when Jesus taught, there’s a good chance that I won’t get it right the first time either! Yet one more reason to find someone to study with.

“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened. Matthew 7:7-8

The Church Scattered

Ah, but you raise your hand and object, “there’s a pandemic, we can’t gather!” No, my friend, that is not the case. I believe the present pandemic is a gift from God to scatter his people to advance the kingdom. I’ll save that thought for another post, but don’t look for excuses not to venture out. I love what Jeremiah had to say to those exiled centuries ago:

You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you,” declares the Lord, “and will bring you back from captivity. I will gather you from all the nations and places where I have banished you,” declares the Lord, “and will bring you back to the place from which I carried you into exile.” Jeremiah 29:13-14

The present pandemic feels like an exile to Babylon. It seems like we’ve been scattered and torn apart. For many, this is probably true. Their world revolved around a routine that required little thinking or planning — just show up, sit down, and listen to the preacher. While that’s a good habit, it’s far from going forth and making disciples of all nations (see Matthew 28:19-20).

Here’s my pointed exhortation: we’re blind.

And here’s the opportunity:

“It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.” Mark 2:17

It all begins with Step Zero.

As we studied John 7 this week, the NIV Application Commentary pointed out that at certain points during the Festival of Tabernacles, the people would sing Psalms 113-118 as they worshiped God. When I first saw that, I missed the opportunity. I was blind. Then it occurred to me: read Psalms 113-118 as if I were worshiping along with them. What a concept! Take a look at the link. Many parts of these songs remind us that God is so good to us. He will lead us through the present difficulties if and when we lean on him.

Final Thought

Thanks to Greg, I have some way to navigate through my spiritual blindness on the heels of Dallas Willard, Eugene Peterson, Janet Hagberg, Robert Guelich, and others who have dedicated their lives to teaching and writing. It doesn’t have to be mysterious, but I know it will not be easy. That’s good.

My challenge to you is to awake from your blindness, change your glasses, get a new prescription, and lean on Christ with others who are like-minded. My prayer is you will find this difficult and awkward at times, but more rewarding than any could possibly imagine.

Not to us, Lord, not to us
but to your name be the glory,
because of your love and faithfulness. Psalm 115:1

Amen.

September 16, 2020

Gratitude and Patience

Read: Psalm 105

One of the many things I appreciate about our Jewish heritage is how they teach us to honor God through traditions that embrace humble gratitude. Psalm 105 is one example of a song that invites us to worship the Lord for what he’s done for his people by summarizing significant events of the past. We need to remember to have a heart of gratitude for what God has done in the past for us:

⁵ Remember the wonders he has done,
his miracles, and the judgments he pronounced,
⁶ you his servants, the descendants of Abraham,
his chosen ones, the children of Jacob.
⁷ He is the Lord our God;
his judgments are in all the earth.
Psalm 105:5-7

The psalmist begins with words of praise in general, then gets specific. We’re prompted to remember Abraham, Issac, Jacob, and Moses in a matter of a few stanzas. As I read the list of these great patriarchs of our faith, I can’t help but think about how many years passed from one to the other. Abraham left his home country and set out for an unknown destination without any guarantees.

By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going. Hebrews 11:8

How long did it take for Abraham to receive his inheritance? What did he receive? The reality is that Abraham had no idea of what was coming or when it might come. Yet he was faithful.

Abraham also demonstrated great patience. His obedience allowed the story to continue through Issac, Jacob, and Joseph (Israel). Then there was a very long period of silence, some 430 years in the land of Ham, that is, Egypt. Finally, Moses was called to set God’s people free, and a new chapter begins for the Israelites.

Over four hundred years! Then, after escaping the Egyptians, Moses led the people to the Promised Land for years, wandering through the desert, teaching them the ways of the Lord. Years and years go by before finally getting to their new home.

The psalmist is reflecting on all of this heritage as a reminder to the people to be grateful for what God has done and to be patient as he works out his plan for their salvation. Both are critical components of faith: believing without seeing.

In our current circumstance, we find ourselves in the seventh or eighth month of a pandemic, depending on when you start counting. Months, not years. Not decades. Not generations. Just a number of months. But when you hear people talk about Covid-19, you might think it’s been going on for years with no end in sight. How much longer with these restrictions be in place? When will we be able to gather in large groups again? Oh my, it’s been way too long!

While it might feel like an eternity, I’m reminded by this psalm that God is faithful, that he will prevail, and I need to remember how he has always come through in the past.

I need to learn to be patient and express my gratitude for what he’s done for me in the past with complete confidence that he will provide for my future, however foggy that might be to me.

⁴³ He brought out his people with rejoicing,
his chosen ones with shouts of joy;
⁴⁴ he gave them the lands of the nations,
and they fell heir to what others had toiled for—
⁴⁵ that they might keep his precepts
and observe his laws.
Praise the Lord.
Psalm 105:43-45

Lord, help us to remember and be patient!

September 8, 2020

Bronze Snake

Read John 3:1-21

A few weeks ago, we started a Bible study at Honey’s Place to provide a place for our friends living on the fringes of society to find some Spiritual nourishment. We meet outside to limit contact and concern about Covid-19. Our desire is for the Gospel to become more contagious than any virus ever could. As promised, the Holy Spirit is present, and the Word of God is alive and well, touching the hearts of those who attend.

I wanted to start a Bible study on the Gospel of John about two years ago. As I looked around at options, nothing seemed to make sense. Instead of a group study, I ended up blogging through the Gospel and John’s epistles in a rather long series of posts: John: Introduction. I’m thankful for the delayed start. I would never have thought we’d be reading through John’s Gospel on the sidewalk in metal chairs, but the wait was most definitely ordained.

The series of posts linked above provide some modest insight into John’s writing (other than Revelation). Still, I’ve learned something amazing this time around: sharing with a group is far better than sitting alone. As I prepare for the Bible study, I read through the relevant post and prepare some highlights for the small group that attends on Tuesday and Thursday mornings. On my way to meet with the dozen or so participants, I pray for specific insight for my friends and me.

Today’s post is one of many meaningful moments that happened as we were reading and studying the interaction with Jesus and Nicodemus. I’ll set the stage briefly, but I hope you will take time to read the first part of chapter 3 to get your thoughts aligned as we focus on these two verses:

Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the wilderness, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, that everyone who believes may have eternal life in him. John 3:14-15

If you’re a fan of the red-letter Bible as I am, you’ll notice that the red letters stop at the end of verse 15, just before the most famous verse in the Bible. The first 15 verses capture the interaction between Jesus and Nicodemus, a prominent Pharisee that came to visit Jesus under the cover of darkness. I believe Nicodemus is genuinely interested in what Jesus has to say, but by verse 9, he is speechless. Jesus patiently teaches the “teacher of Israel.” in the following text. John gives us just a few highlights of the conversation, then summarizes the entire evening in John 3:16-21.

Our discussion a few mornings ago was riveting. We were all moved by the weight of the moment. The Spirit was tugging on our hearts. When we looked back to understand John 3:14-15, I made the statement that I didn’t know why God told Moses to create a bronze snake and raise it on a pole, but Jesus used this incredible event to teach Nicodemus — and us.

Take a moment to read the event: Numbers 21:4-9. The key verse is here:

…when anyone was bitten by a snake and looked at the bronze snake, they lived. Numbers 21:9b

As I read the verse above and confessed I didn’t understand the solution, the Spirit interceded, and this thought occurred to me. Imagine you were there, grumbling with the other Israelites under the leadership of Moses. You get bitten by a snake, and your leg begins to swell. You’ve watched hundreds of people die as a result of the same incident. Even though you were careful, you’ve become a victim. Then someone tells you there is a solution: look at the bronze snake, and you’ll be healed. It sounds ridiculous, but you know you’re about to die, so you listen to the advice and look at the snake, and without explanation, you are healed.

Can you imagine your joy at that moment? You went from death to life by merely looking at a snake! How would you respond to such an event? To begin with, I’d tell everyone I knew that there was a cure for an otherwise fatal bite. What would you do if you found someone who was bitten by a snake? I’m quite sure you would tell them to look at the snake and be healed. You would probably go out of your way to let people know there is a solution for an otherwise deadly event.

Jesus tells Nicodemus there is a solution for his otherwise deadly predicament, but this solution is far more than physical healing; this is about eternal salvation. Looking at the bronze snake provided temporary relief for the body, but those who believe in the Son of Man will find eternal peace.

There are two crucial requirements here: 1) we need to recognize that we have been bitten by a deadly disease called sin, and 2) the solution is right there in front of us, Jesus, hanging on a cross. If we understand the state we’re in, the only question that remains is this: do we believe that Jesus, the Son of Man, can heal our very soul?

that everyone who believes may have eternal life in him. John 3:15

If the answers are yes and yes, John 3:16 summarizes the response we need to make.

But there is more. If we were back in the days of Moses, wouldn’t we tell anyone we met about the bronze snake? Of course, we would. However, we are well beyond that event and have full knowledge of Jesus’ atoning death and resurrection — we know the solution for eternal life with God. How can we not tell the world?

Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age. Matthew 28:19-20

I’ve read about the bronze snake and even the interaction with Nicodemus many times, but I never really got the connection until a few weeks ago. I love how the Spirit works. May this revelation help fuel your desire to fulfill Jesus’ command to go and make disciples.

August 26, 2020August 26, 2020

The Fount of Every Blessing

Wednesday Prayer for South Main Chapel & Mercy Center

On behalf of Pastor Kurt Stutler,

Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave himself for our sins to rescue us from the present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen. Galatians 1:3-5

Welcome, family and friends of South Main Chapel and Mercy Center, and to others who have chosen to pause during this pandemic to remember God’s promise, to sing, and pray that we might nourish our souls.

The Apostle Paul began his letters with words like this to remind those who hear his message to give God the glory for rescuing us. His letters were read to followers of Jesus all over the land. Whether there was one or two or an entire congregation of people, they gathered to listen to his teaching. Paul faithfully began his messages by first giving God the glory and acknowledging Jesus as Lord and Savior. So must we.

This week, we are prompted to read portions of Psalm 105. In just 45 verses, the psalmist summarizes God’s faithfulness through times of great trouble. From Abraham to Jacob, through famine and great trials, for a thousand generations, we are assured that God will not forget the oath sworn to Issac. I can imagine our Jewish forefathers singing this psalm with great joy as they recall the stories of old and seek to encourage one another.

May we be encouraged as we read these key verses of Psalm 105 that capture this theme:

¹Give praise to the Lord, proclaim his name;
make known among the nations what he has done.
²Sing to him, sing praise to him;
tell of all his wonderful acts.
³Glory in his holy name;
let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice.
⁴Look to the Lord and his strength;
seek his face always.

⁵Remember the wonders he has done,
his miracles, and the judgments he pronounced,
⁶you his servants, the descendants of Abraham,
his chosen ones, the children of Jacob.

Psalm 105:1-6

²³Then Israel entered Egypt;
Jacob resided as a foreigner in the land of Ham.
²⁴The Lord made his people very fruitful;
he made them too numerous for their foes,
²⁵whose hearts he turned to hate his people,
to conspire against his servants.
²⁶He sent Moses his servant,
and Aaron, whom he had chosen.

Psalm 105:23-26

^45bPraise the Lord.

Psalm 105:45b

Praise the Lord!

This psalm helps us remember that we are not the first to endure hardships. When we read through the ancient stories, our present struggles seem to pale in comparison, but that isn’t the point. It’s not about comparison. Instead, focus on the main theme:

God is faithful.

He is the source of every blessing, and he will not forget his people. He will not forget you and me during times of difficulty.

A famous hymn comes to mind as I reflect on these words, Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing. In 1758, Robert Robinson reflected on the trials in his life and reminded us of God’s promise, that streams of mercy are always flowing, his redeeming grace is never-ending. Even when we wander, even when we find ourselves far from God, he will remain steadfast.

Here are three verses of Hymn 400 to remind us of God’s love.

Come, Thou Fount of every blessing
Tune my heart to sing Thy grace
Streams of mercy, never ceasing
Call for songs of loudest praise
Teach me some melodious sonnet
Sung by flaming tongues above
Praise the mount, I’m fixed upon it
Mount of Thy redeeming love.

Here I raise my Ebenezer
Hither by Thy help I’ve come
And I hope, by Thy good pleasure
Safely to arrive at home
Jesus sought me when a stranger
Wandering from the face of God
He, to rescue me from danger
Interposed His precious blood

Oh, to grace how great a debtor
Daily I’m constrained to be!
Let that goodness like a fetter
Bind my wandering heart to Thee
Prone to wander, Lord, I feel it
Prone to leave the God I love!
Here’s my heart, oh, take and seal it
Seal it for Thy courts above.

Prayer

God, our Father, hear our confession as we admit our hearts and minds tend to wander even when we know better. Thank you for songs that remind us that you sent your son to walk amongst us and that he willingly shed his blood for our sins to redeem all who call Jesus Lord and Savior. As we enter this seventh month of pandemic and uncertainty, may we continue to lean on your Word for strength and assurance. Give us patience in the process, wisdom to act appropriately, and grace when we stumble. Jesus, grant us your peace even though we find ourselves physically distant, keep us connected through your Spirit.

May our words and actions be wrapped in kindness to others, to family, friends, neighbors, and strangers. May we learn new ways to love you, our Lord, our God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength; and help us to love our neighbors as ourselves. May our unity, our commitment, our love for each other be more contagious than any coronavirus ever could be. And may eternity provide evidence of those that chose Christ in these troubled times.

Grant us your peace.

Amen.

Notes:

NIV Biblical Theology Study Bible: This psalm explains how the Lord was faithful in keeping his covenant regarding the land, particularly emphasizing how this led him to overcome the most powerful nation on earth at the time and the challenges that the harsh desert sojourn posed both before and after the exodus. The Lord will not allow anything—no matter how daunting—to nullify his commitment to the covenant promises he has made.
https://daverphillips.com/abijah-asa-and-jehoshaphat-come-thou-fount/
The story behind the song
Discipleship Ministries on Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing

April 7, 2020

Covid-19 Prayer

Our Heavenly Father, we acknowledge you as the mighty God, creator of earth, ruler of all that is, all that was, and all that will be.

With your help, Lord, when this pandemic is over, we will be a better people because you sent us to our rooms to re-learn what family is all about. Help us to learn that loving our neighbor actually includes the people that live next to us. Help us not to forget lessons we are still learning during this crisis. May we be stronger for having endured social distancing for the greater good of all.

Holy Father, we need your help. We cannot see beyond the mountain in front of us that professionals call “the curve.” We don’t know what the other side looks like and we struggle to admit we are powerless. Our faith is weak. But with your help may we exclaim,

I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief! Mark 9:24

Holy Spirit, give us an abundance of grace that is matched by the courage to face difficult days ahead. Let our courage be wrapped in kindness to others, to family, friends, neighbors, and strangers. May we learn new ways to love the Lord our God with all our heart and love our neighbors as ourself. Make this become a new normal for us as the Body of Christ. In so doing, may people from all walks of life be drawn to you, Lord, as we celebrate this Easter like never before. May our unity, our commitment, our love for each other be more contagious than any coronavirus ever could be. And may eternity provide evidence of those that chose Christ in these troubled times.

Lord, when historians write stories about the time when we struggled with COVID-19, I pray they highlight the bravery of our frontline workers: nurses, doctors, orderlies, janitors, technicians, and the like; the resiliency of our first responders: the emergency medical technicians, law enforcement officers, firefighters, paramedics, dispatchers, and support crews; and the tenacity of medical professionals that solved complex problems with creative solutions until this virus was completely vanquished.

I pray for divine protection over each one that is in harm’s way. Protect them and bless their families as they suit up with whatever armor is available to guard them against this disease.

I pray above all else that we give you the glory for each new invention and innovation that renders this disease a thing of the past, a sickness that once threatened the earth now conquered.

Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen. Ephesians 3:20-21

Amen.

March 1, 2020March 1, 2020

Not So With You

One of my favorite verses in Scripture is from Matthew’s incredible account of Jesus’ response to a mother’s request. The mother of the Zebedee sons (James and John), later identified as Salome*, has one favor to ask of Jesus:

Then the mother of Zebedee’s sons came to Jesus with her sons and, kneeling down, asked a favor ‘What is it you want?’ he asked. She said, “Grant that one of these two sons of mine may sit at your right and the other at your left in your kingdom.’ Matthew 20:20-21

If the NIVAC* is accurate, Salome’s request isn’t really out of the question. She’s part of the entourage that’s been with Jesus since the beginning of his ministry. We find another clue in the previous chapter where Jesus tells them, “you who have followed me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel” (see: Matthew 19:28).

Mark’s account of the scene (Mark 10:35-45) has James and John making the request themselves. The point of the story is not to focus on the requestor, but to emphasize the origin of the misguided thought.

Jesus makes it clear,

“You don’t know what you are asking,’ Jesus said to them. “Can you drink the cup I am going to drink?’ Matthew 20:22a

In my imagination, the room becomes awkwardly quiet. If we were there during times like these, I think we could feel the weight of the moment even as the words escape our lips, “we can” (Matthew 20:22b). What once seems plausible now meets the ridiculous. But Jesus continues to speak with kindness from a position of great authority. The heaviness gets the attention of the other disciples, and it doesn’t take long for them to catch wind of the discussion.

When the ten heard about this, they were indignant with the two brothers. Matthew 20:24

The Teachable Moment

Jesus now has the attention of everyone in the group. All ears and eyes are focused on what he has to say.

You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave—just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many. Matthew 20:25-28

John would later capture a prime example of the Son of Man serving his disciples by washing their feet in John 13:4-6 before the Last Supper in the Upper Room. Jesus didn’t need to show another sign of his willingness to serve, but the significance put an exclamation point at the end of the statement.

The point of these examples and this discussion rests in just four words shown in bold above: Not so with you. Throughout the history of Israel, the people wanted to be like everyone else. “We want a king over us” (1 Samuel 8:18-20). From the days of Moses, God intended to raise a generation of people that were a distinct example for the world to follow.

I will make a distinction between my people and your people. Exodus 8:23

Standing in front of Pharaoh, Moses declared God’s intention that would follow the Israelites through history. We are to be different than the world around us. The world wants men to rule over them, but not so with you. Nations call us to accept standards imposed equally on everyone, but not so with you. Our society turns its back on the lost, the least, and the lonely, but not so with you. Not so with you.

We are to be a people that serve one another just as Christ came to serve. But the focus isn’t so much on serving as it is on not putting ourselves in the driver’s seat. Jesus’ example was to demonstrate how to honor God above everything else. Serving others is not meant to earn our way into heaven; we know this is not possible. Instead, serving others is our way of pointing people to Christ. Here I am serving you this plate of food, just like Jesus would do if he were here. Here we are washing your feet before supper, just like Jesus did in the Upper Room.

Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. John 13:14-5

Whenever we serve with this in mind, we honor Christ. Our posture of serving gives God the glory, not man.

I have many thoughts to share on this subject, but for the sake of brevity, I’ll hold them for later discussion at this point. My prayer is you will see those four words and take them to heart as you go about your day. We are to be a people that are distinct and separate from the world to point people to Jesus.

Not so with you.

I leave you with the words of Psalm 67.

May God be gracious to us and bless us
and make his face shine on us—
so that your ways may be known on earth,
your salvation among all nations.

May the peoples praise you, God;
may all the peoples praise you.
May the nations be glad and sing for joy,
for you rule the peoples with equity
and guide the nations of the earth.
May the peoples praise you, God;
may all the peoples praise you.

The land yields its harvest;
God, our God, blesses us.
May God bless us still,
so that all the ends of the earth will fear him.

^*Wilkins, Michael J. NIVAC Bundle 6: Gospels, Acts (The NIV Application Commentary). Zondervan Academic. Kindle Edition. Later identified as Salome, she is among the women who attends Jesus at the cross and witnesses the empty tomb (cf. 27:56; Mark 15:40; 16:1). The best clarification of the listings of the women identify Salome as the sister of Mary, Jesus’ mother (cf. John 19:25). So she is Jesus’ aunt, and her sons, James and John, are his cousins on his mother’s side.

February 12, 2020February 12, 2020

Greatest Love

When I look at the Bible, online or a printed edition, I’m one of those who like to see the words of Jesus in red. The red letters prompt me to read a bit slower, be more meticulous, and pay close attention to the terms. Those who first wrote the text we now call the Bible must have savored every word that Jesus spoke. Given their background in keeping a flawless oral history, I can imagine they tested each other after one of Jesus’ sermons to make sure they captured every word he said. They wanted to be accurate. It was their signature.

If you’re with me on the red-letter editions of the Bible, you may have noticed there aren’t that many entirely red chapters. I know the chapter and verse numbering scheme is somewhat mechanical, but it is a consistent division across translations, so it has some inherent value.

Today we’re reading from John 15. The main focus of this post centers on verse 13, but I couldn’t help but notice the red letters that surround the words. The entire text is one of those rare red-letter chapters. At the very least, this means we should be careful when examining only one verse, though it’s often quoted by itself.

Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. John 15:13

Taken at face value, we probably don’t struggle with this idea. Coming from a military background, the thought is a bit more concrete for me than perhaps many who have not been challenged to consider this is a reality faced on a daily basis. Our law enforcement friends feel the same pressure. But it’s not limited to those in lethal occupations. There are many others who would willingly sacrifice their life in place of a child, spouse, or dear friend. The latter concept is the point of Jesus’ statement. A child or spouse is one thing, but a friend is a different matter altogether. You don’t become a true friend overnight. Let’s zoom out a bit and look at the context.

Jesus is preparing his beloved disciples for the events that are about to transpire in just a few hours. I think that’s one reason this is a red-letter chapter. They are carefully listening to what Jesus is saying. The scene I’m trying to depict is one of incredible compassion for those few who are about to come under immense pressure. Jesus begins by washing their feet (John 13:1-17), then warns them about Judas’ betrayal (John 13:18-30), and prepares Peter for his unthinkable denials (John 13:31-38). These words trouble the disciples, as we can imagine, so Jesus chooses words to assure them they will not be alone, even when he is gone.

As we begin chapter 15, Jesus changes the rich imagery to state that he is the true vine, the source of all life. Last year I got caught up in the “if” words included in this text when I wrote about the true vine. It’s a promise that will endure. Complete joy awaits those who land on the right side of the “if” statements.

I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. John 15:11-12

Within this framework, Jesus ties the knot:

Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. John 15:13

Over the course of some three years prior to this gathering in the Upper Room, Jesus demonstrated what it means to be a loving person over and over again. Dallas Willard reminds us that “In the deepest sense, love is not something you choose to do; it is what you become—a loving person.“¹ God wants a thriving relationship with each and every person regardless of status and Jesus is telling us plainly that he is willing to lay down his life for us — his friends.

Serving the Least

Let’s draw a line back to the theme of this series — serving the least, the lost, and the lonely. I think it’s safe to say that most Christians declare that they want to be like Jesus. The reason we read the Bible, worship with music, preach, teach, disciple, evangelize, etc., is to become more like Jesus. As we inch closer to this ideal state we come to the point where we have to love as Jesus loves. We must strive to be friends that are willing to die for one another. It’s this willingness that separates those on one side of the “if” statement.

You are my friends if you do what I command. John 15:14

Jesus, God incarnate, wants to be our friend. The Son of Man came to serve. He demonstrated this over and over again. He healed the lame, brought sight to the blind, and led by example for all to see.

The red letters continue through the rest of the chapter and mostly through chapter 17, the most amazing prayer recorded in the Bible. Take a few minutes and read the text. Imagine Jesus sitting in the room with you as he speaks these words for the first time. Slowly and deliberately, to make sure you hear and understand the significance.

The last song that Rich Mullins recorded was an attempt to capture the essence of these thoughts. As he sat in an old church building with his cassette recorder, pencil, and paper, he left us with this thought: “That where I am, there you may also be.” I particularly like the rough recording featured in this video.

Jesus’ greatest desire is to welcome all to his kingdom. Everyone is invited, but not all will accept. We don’t get to control that, but we do have the responsibility to provide the opportunity. That will look different for everyone, but that doesn’t let anyone off the hook.

How can we best serve the least, the lost, and the lonely? Do what Jesus commands. Love God. Love your neighbor as yourself. When we love others without reservation, we will make true friends. The kind of friends I would lay down my life for. How about you?

¹Dallas Willard, Life Without Lack, p. 170.