Staff Reading – Page 2 – Dave R Phillips

December 14, 2015

Arrival at Bethany

Just a week before Passover, Jesus arrives at Bethany. The Pharisees and chief priests are on high alert, looking for Jesus, wanting to arrest him and complete their mission to kill him. Apparently they have Lazarus in their sights as well.

Mary, the sister of Lazarus, pours expensive perfume on the feet of Jesus–crazy thing number one–then wipes it with her hair–crazy thing number two. The house is filled with a pleasing aroma. How Mary acquired such a large amount of perfume is not explained, but it must have been something that took a lot of time. Her loyalty to Jesus began before he raised Lazarus from the dead, an event that cemented her resolve beyond comprehension. I like to believe she was looking for the opportunity to do this crazy thing and the Holy Spirit prompted her to act in this place at this time.

Such extravagance sets Judas’ heart firmly against Jesus. In any ministry there are debates about what should be done, when and where, etc. Judas was probably the one that kept asking logistical, seemingly practical questions about their next steps. Time and time again, the other disciples, as well as Jesus, kept doing that which just wasn’t logical. The voice in Judas’ head must have kept moving him on a different path and this was just another example of how Jesus and “those disciples” missed the practical point of ministry. What is Jesus thinking? “Leave her alone,” Jesus replies. Judas’ mind must have been going in all directions like an OCD person playing pick-up sticks.

The crowds are continuing to swell as stories about Jesus grow. People want to see Jesus and Lazarus. The chief priests want nothing to do with this and are looking for ways to put an end to this “distracting” regime.

For on account of him many of the Jews were going over to Jesus and believing in him.

Jesus sees it all. He sees Judas’ heart hardened completely in this moment. This has to be an incredibly painful moment for Jesus. God does not find joy in seeing the lost. I fully believe that God wants all to come to him, but there are so many who simply choose to go their own way.

Lord, during this Christmas season help us to see the plans you have for us, your plans and not ours. Show us how to take what we have, precious gifts or everyday attire and freely give them to you for your kingdom here on earth.

Bible Gateway Links:

John 11:55-12:11

Commentary Links at BibleHub.com:

John 11:55

December 1, 2015

Until I Return — Parable of the Ten Minas

The Parable of the Talents (bags of gold in NIV 2011) and Ten Minas have many similarities that might be summarized by saying, doing nothing is unacceptable. Do something with what you’ve been given.

Resources (talents) + Labor (work) + Time = Profit^[1]

From the reference in Bible.org we see a formula for the adage I grew up with. I can still hear my dad saying, “work hard, the cream will always rise to the top.” Whether profit or cream, working hard is just the way we’re designed. Add integrity to that principle and I believe you have a faithful formula for life.

Integrity * (Resources + Labor + Time) = Greater Profit

Not to get all geeky with formulas, I just think it’s important to include integrity in the equation. Do what you said you would do. Walk with integrity.

This morning, my focus is not so much on the servants that did something, but on the one who buried his talent or hid his mina. Is there integrity if you say, “I will do nothing,” and then follow through and do nothing? While that might be consistent, Jesus is pretty clear here, that is unacceptable. Each has been given something, some talent, some ability–do something!

In our star-studded culture that thrives on self-centered comparisons this might be difficult to appreciate. But fame and fortune are fleeting in this life. The purpose of the parables is not to applaud our business savvy, rather it’s to get us thinking about the eternal future, preparing us for far greater things. Take a look at the introductory words in Luke:

While they were listening to this [For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost], he went on to tell them a parable, because he was near Jerusalem and the people thought that the kingdom of God was going to appear at once.

They, or in this case, we, were just reading about Zacchaeus and how Jesus has come to seek and save the lost when he expands the concept with this parable. The stakes are eternally high. Some will be gained into the kingdom and some will be lost forever. We have a responsibility to grow the kingdom with God’s inspiration and help. Here’s the compelling part of the story: we can do something, we can have a positive impact! We don’t know when Jesus will return again, so stop trying to figure that out and do something with what we’ve been given, whatever time we have in this life, let’s use it for great gain in the name of Jesus.

^[1]See Bible.org post (in detail)

*mina == about three months’ wages

Bible Gateway Links:

Matthew 25:14-30, Luke 19:11-28

Commentary Links at BibleHub.com:

November 30, 2015

Salvation of Zacchaeus

One of the favorite stories for children’s pastors, the imagery of this story is fascinating. Zacchaeus is a short man physically and a wealthy man despised by many. As a chief tax collector, he was the tax collector’s tax collector! We’ve read many times that tax collectors were not well thought of, so here we have even more reason to appreciate the predicament.

He wanted to see who Jesus was…so he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore-fig tree to see him

The first thing that strikes me is that this wealthy man has to resort to a child-like endeavor to see Jesus. He doesn’t have friends to lift him up nor relations with officials that would arrange a meeting (initially, he just wanted to see who Jesus was). Instead, this not-so-young man has to climb a tree along the route.

The rest of the story provides some insight. Something has happened to Zacchaeus that motivated his actions. This wasn’t just a siting of someone walking by, I believe Zacchaeus was much more hopeful than that. I think he was presenting himself as a child to Jesus, not because he read the scripture (that didn’t exist in printed form), not because he was checking a checklist, but because he was truly humble and saw this opportunity to change his life walking his direction.

Jesus immediately picks up the story and as usual does the remarkable and extraordinary:

Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today.

There’s no indication that they had met before this or any explanation that Jesus knew Zacchaeus in human terms, but here we see Jesus calling him by name as he’s perched in a tree. Perhaps Zacchaeus was that well known and perhaps he was feared to some degree since we see no direct words toward him, just muttering. Yet there is no embarrassment or shame. Zacchaeus shimmies down the tree and welcomes Jesus gladly! As the people begin to mutter, he says to Jesus he will give away half of his possessions to the poor and 4x to any he has cheated…before Jesus utters a word about salvation.

For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.

Here we are referred back to Ezekiel 34:11-16, part of the prophecy that proclaims the Lord will be Israel’s shepherd. Jesus is on a mission to seek and save the lost and Zacchaeus provides a perfect lesson: humble yourself before the Lord and he will save you.

We are commanded to take up that mission and continue to seek those who are far from Christ, those who don’t know. Lord help us to see these opportunities to look beyond what the world sees, straight to the heart.

Bible Gateway Links:

Luke 19:1-10

Commentary Links at BibleHub.com:

Luke 19:1

November 29, 2015

Healing of blind Bartimaeus and his companion

Though many rebuked the blind men for shouting out to Jesus, they continued and even got louder. Interesting.

Bartimaeus and his companion heard the commotion, they knew something unusual was happening and so they asked for clarification and found out that “Jesus of Nazareth is passing by.” This might be the only opportunity they get to actually be healed. No doubt they’ve heard the news about Jesus and the miraculous healing of others so they shout out, they don’t hold back, there is no room for being shy at this point!

Jesus hears through the crowd, through the rebukes and asks them a question that forces them to prioritize their request: “What do you want me to do for you?” Bartimaeus doesn’t ask for fame, fortune, riches and gold, he simple says, “Lord, I want to see.” This is a statement of faith wrapped up in what seems to be a simple request, but it is huge for these two–Jesus gives them sight. They immediately began to follow Jesus while praising God.

What is it that we want? What can I ask for that Jesus should respond with such compassion? I hope it has nothing to do with stuff, with Black Friday or Cyber Monday. Deep inside, I hope that we all can find where we are blind and unashamedly shout out to Jesus: Heal Me!

Bible Gateway Links:

Matthew 20:29-34, Mark 10:46-52, Luke 18:35-43

Commentary Links at BibleHub.com:

November 27, 2015

James and John and Mom — Request for Honored Positions

In this passage we find the Zebedee’s approaching Jesus to ask for a privilege: the brothers, James and John, want to be seated to the left and right of Jesus–at his side. Why would they ask such a thing? Most of the times I’ve read this, I just think they are being foolish, even self-serving, but this morning, the day after Thanksgiving, I wonder if they just wanted to be close to their master at all times. Maybe I’m just feeling a little more compassionate today!

Jesus asks, can you drink from the cup I am going to drink? Their response is clear and concise: “we can.” By now they’ve heard the prediction of his arrest, death and resurrection at least three times, so they know what he’s referring to, at least in concept. They show some incredible faith with this answer. Whatever happens to you, whatever they do to you, we are willing to take that on ourselves. Jesus’ response is interesting, he doesn’t argue whether or not they can, really he affirms the statement:

You will indeed drink from my cup

Though their request is bold, even a bit arrogant, Jesus is patient with them and explains that this is one request that he simply will not grant. “These places belong to those for whom they have been prepared by my Father.”

Jesus doesn’t say they are crazy for asking, but the other disciples aren’t so sure, they became indignant, so Jesus calls a meeting. Here he sets the record straight and reminds us all our duty is not to be served but to serve others:

…the Son of Man did not come to be served,
but to serve,
and
to give his life as a ransom for many.

We are reminded of how Jesus served others every day, how he healed, spoke and taught–how he demonstrated servant leadership beyond human understanding. The subject of sitting on the left and right-side of Jesus in glory seems to be set aside quickly while the concept of serving others takes center stage. We’re not to argue with positional authority or pride, just serve others.

Lord, I am so thankful for the opportunity to serve! Please give me wisdom, strength and courage to do so without concern for fame and fortune, position or honor. Help me to keep you in the center of all things at all time.

Bible Gateway Links:

Matthew 20:20-28, Mark 10:35-45

Commentary Links at BibleHub.com:

November 25, 2015

Jesus Predicts His Death a Third Time

At this point, Jesus is headed to Jerusalem with his disciples and others who are following. Once again, Jesus predicts his arrest, inquisition, death and resurrection. Once again, the disciples are left scratching their heads trying to understand this consistent message from Jesus.

Two phrases caught my attention this morning: 1) Jesus took his disciples aside and 2) he will be raised to life!

To the disciples Jesus was the Messiah, but he was also a man, someone they were doing life with by all indications. They ate, slept, walked, talked, I suspect they laughed, cried and generally just got along as an incredible band of brothers. In all three Synoptic accounts Jesus takes time to address them as his inner circle:

he took the Twelve aside

It’s difficult to wrap my mind around the scene, but here is Jesus, the Son of God, our Savior, the Messiah, huddling with his disciples to go over the play one more time, ‘Okay guys, here’s how this is going to happen…’ The humanity exhibited here is at least a reminder for us to be humble, not to think too much of ourselves. I just love the way he cares for his disciples.

The second phrase is probably the most important concept that defines Christianity:

he will be raised to life!

Jesus isn’t talking about a mythical figure, he is referring to himself, to an event that has no precedent. The disciples don’t really understand what’s happening, but I’m sure they are listening intently. Perhaps they just hear the words and conclude something like: bad stuff is going to happen, no surprise because the Pharisees seem bent on trapping Jesus, then it will get better. There was no way they could process what was going to happen. No way to understand the grief they would feel when they watch the soldiers nail him to the cross. Impossible to appreciate the agony of physical torture that was all too real.

Looking back on these times when Jesus predicted his death and resurrection they record these words for us to show it is hard to understand and appreciate, but it is real. When we talk to pre-Christians we need to understand our message might seem simple, but it is difficult to understand, even impossible without the prompting of the Holy Spirit. Our role is to build relationships and to consistently show the love of Christ. It helps to appreciate this was something that those closest to Jesus didn’t really understand. The beauty of having the Bible to read and think about.

Bible Gateway Links:

Matthew 20:17-19, Mark 10:32-34, Luke 18:31-34

Commentary Links at BibleHub.com:

November 24, 2015

Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard

Entitlement. That’s the word that rings out in this parable. We’ve been taught in this country that we are entitled in many ways. I don’t think this was the intent of preceding generations when they proclaimed lofty goals for every American citizen. Over time, perhaps through the legal system, the individual wins out over the masses and the culture is changed to one where each person must have their way. This self-centered approach to life can only lead down a path that is far from Christ. The church has a lot to offer to help, but the task is difficult in this environment.

Jesus tells this parable where some are hired early in the morning, some a 9am, Noon, 3pm and as late as 5pm. When evening came, just an hour after the last workers were hired, the owner of the vineyard paid the workers in reverse order–and he paid them all the same. The ones who started early that morning grumbled. Surely they were entitled to more! However, the landowner reminds them they agreed to the wages at the beginning of the day and sent them on their way.

Lord help us to be thankful for whatever we have be given and help us to recognize you are the only one entitled and worthy of praise.

Bible Gateway Links:

Matthew 20:1-16

Commentary Links at BibleHub.com:

Matthew 20:1

November 23, 2015

The Rich and the Kingdom of God

The Rich man in this passage begs Jesus to answer his burning question, “What must I do to inherit eternal life?” Jesus clearly explains this is a gift to be given, not a thing to acquire. It’s interesting that Jesus highlights some of the Ten Commandments, certainly something every Jew would know well. If we consider the first four are summarized in a phrase, “No one is good–except God alone,” the one commandment that is not specified is the missing ingredient for this man: “you shall not covet.”

Interesting that this man who has kept God’s commandments since he was a boy didn’t notice the missing commandment. Jesus explains that he lacks one thing: sell all your stuff and follow me. In a flash Jesus penetrates the man’s disguise and reveals his heart. “When he heard this, he became very sad, because he was very wealthy.”

Should we conclude, if you own anything, if you’re not serving Christ alone, you cannot be saved? Fortunately for us, the disciples hear this teaching and ask, “Who then can be saved?” Let there be no doubt,

With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.

Without the disciples question and Jesus’ clarifying response, I might be troubled and feel trapped by the apparent wealth of my surroundings compared to others. Ah, but perhaps that’s the real insight here: “compared to others,” the tenth commandment. Do I dwell on what I have compared with others? Am I enamored by the latest shiny object? Or do I use what God has provided me as tools to do His work? My prayer is for the latter, though I’m guilty of desiring some things, I pray that I never forget this is all temporary and that many, many people are lost in this world. It is my desire to use everything I’ve been entrusted with to take care of my family (an incredible blessing) and reach the lost. In short, to be a good steward of all God has given me.

Bible Gateway Links:

Matthew 19:16-30, Mark 10:17-31, Luke 18:18-30

Commentary Links at BibleHub.com:

November 22, 2015

Example of little children in relation to the kingdom

The Synoptic Gospels all include a record of people bringing children to Jesus. The disciples rebuke them, but Jesus corrects them and invites the children to come and sit in his arms. He blessed them and used their innocence to remind us that the Kingdom of God is a gift, not something we can earn with our “great” accomplishments.

Little children are helpless, dependent on their parents, lost without their direction. For those who have children, this simple example will resonate deeply. Our world changed when our first child was born. No longer just a couple, we became parents. It wasn’t a surprise, but the weight of the responsibility reshaped us as individuals. In many ways it humbled us.

Jesus points to the kingdom of God, the ultimate Father, and reminds us how we must become to enter His presence.

Bible Gateway Links:

Matthew 19:13-15, Mark 10:13-16, Luke 18:15-17,

Commentary Links at BibleHub.com:

November 21, 2015

Jesus’ brief teaching on Divorce

I included “brief” in the title for this post because Jesus doesn’t need a lot of words on this topic. It’s clear and concise. Yet this is a volatile and personal topic that demands our attention. No, we don’t need more words from Jesus on the topic. As followers for Christ we enter marriage with the desire for this to be the union of one man and one woman, “and the two will become one flesh.” That is our commitment in marriage.

Matthew’s record of this teaching includes one exception for which divorce: sexual immorality, i.e., adultery, violation of the seventh commandment. Earlier in Matthew (Matthew 5:27-30), Jesus broadens the definition of adultery that convicts us all! Fortunately for us we can come to Jesus for forgiveness and mend our ways.

Both accounts agree that Moses’ law was given because their “hearts were hard.” If we take time to get to know the people Moses was leading we will gain a better appreciation for that description. Their hearts were not open to what God was giving them, they couldn’t see the favor poured out on their behalf. But there were a few that stood out.

It is profound that Jesus reiterates God’s plan for male and female while at the same time recognizing not everyone will marry. Those who choose not to marry are called to a life of celibacy, something the Roman Catholic church demands of Priests and Nuns. Paul would agree with this position and echo Jesus’ words that it would be better for some not to marry.

This is a deep and wide topic that I’m not attempting to cover in 400 words. What I believe with all my heart is this: God honors the marriage of one man and one woman when they seek to honor Him. My prayer is God will be honored in all marriages. For those who do not have God in their marriage I pray they will find Him and reaffirm their vows in tribute to the One that gives us life.

One of the interesting thoughts in the notes in this passage is the idea that the Pharisees were wrestling with John the Baptist’s condemnation of Herod, ultimately the reason for his death. It’s a bit of a rabbit trail from the text, but a note I wanted to capture while thinking about the topic.

Bible Gateway Links:

Matthew 5:31-32, Matthew 19:1-12, Mark 10:1-12,