Tag: leader

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Ezra Reads the Law — All Commit to Serve the Lord

Read: Nehemiah 7:73b-10:39

Nehemiah wasn’t just building a wall, there was purpose beyond simple fortification and construction. As I type this a song is playing in my head that just won’t stop — Wonder (Hillsong UNITED, 2017). The artists paint the picture in words and music to pay tribute to those who have only seen the world in gray, those who have been color blind. Through the wonder of modern science, they put on glasses that let them see all the colors God has for us to see and they weep with overwhelming joy. The wonder of our God who lavishes grace upon grace that we could see the world through his eyes.

This is the world Nehemiah was attempting to see and Ezra was the priest who knew the Law more than anyone. For this time and in this place, these were the most wonderful words that could be spoken for God’s people.

He read it aloud from daybreak till noon as he faced the square before the Water Gate in the presence of the men, women and others who could understand. And all the people listened attentively to the Book of the Law. Nehemiah 8:3

Men, women and others: this is an event that invites all to participate who can understand. The people gathered with great anticipation as Ezra read the 1,000+ year old words of God through the hand of Moses. Sometimes we have to go without something to appreciate it more. There are stories of people coming to faith after being taken as hostages or significant life events that destroyed personal belongings. We become so accustomed to having things, to our routine, that we often miss miracles that happen before our eyes each day.

Trust me, I don’t pray for bad times in order to remember the good, but sometimes I wonder.

They read from the Book of the Law of God, making it clear and giving the meaning so that the people understood what was being read. Nehemiah 8:8

From the days of Joshua son of Nun until that day, the Israelites had not celebrated it like this. And their joy was very great. Nehemiah 8:17

Such an incredible outpouring of love and devotion to God for his incredible mercy. The people were called to a great confession.

But you are a forgiving God, gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love. Therefore you did not desert them, even when they cast for themselves an image of a calf and said, ‘This is your god, who brought you up out of Egypt,’ or when they committed awful blasphemies. Nehemiah 9:17-18

We serve a God who chooses not to desert us when we are at our worst! This is the God I serve, the One who regards a relationship with each of us a priority. Such an overwhelming thought.

Chapter 9 summarizes the Old Testament, the rollercoaster journey of God’s people, our ancestors, as they went through highs and lows, listening and rebellion, from good to bad to worse. The people remembered that which was forgotten and agreed to change their ways.

Once again, Nehemiah lists people by name, those who committed themselves to keeping the Law, the Levites, leaders, gatekeepers, musicians, temple servants and all who separated themselves from the surrounding nations–all who reclaimed their faith:

bind themselves with a curse and an oath to follow the Law of God given through Moses the servant of God and to obey carefully all the commands, regulations and decrees of the Lord our Lord. Nehemiah 10:29

“In view of all this, we are making a binding agreement, putting it in writing, and our leaders, our Levites and our priests are affixing their seals to it.” Nehemiah 9:38

“We will not neglect the house of our God.” Nehemiah 10:39

Though I am undeserving, I am willing to put my name on the list. I will commit to being a servant of Christ above all others. I will be a faithful husband to my amazing wife and father to our daughters as best as I know how. I will be the best neighbor I can be and a friend to friends like never before so the world will know of the love of Christ.

By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” John 13:35

Will you add your name to the list?

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Fake News: More Opposition for Nehemiah

Read: Nehemiah 6:1-7:73a

Fake news is not a new thing, just a phrase that we hear more often these days. Simply put, fake news is a lie. We’ve been dealing with the issue since the days of Adam and Eve and here we witness Nehemiah’s response to Sanballat’s lies to lure him away from Jerusalem.

Round One

Four times Sanballat sent the same message:

Sanballat and Geshem sent me this message: “Come, let us meet together in one of the villages on the plain of Ono.” But they were scheming to harm me; so I sent messengers to them with this reply: “I am carrying on a great project and cannot go down. Why should the work stop while I leave it and go down to you?” Nehemiah 6:2-3

The fifth time Sanballat does his best to stir up rumors and gossip by providing an unsealed letter with words of accusation, supposedly the reason for the meeting in Ono.

“It is reported among the nations—and Geshem says it is true—that you and the Jews are plotting to revolt, and therefore you are building the wall. Moreover, according to these reports you are about to become their king and have even appointed prophets to make this proclamation about you in Jerusalem: ‘There is a king in Judah!’ Now this report will get back to the king; so come, let us meet together.” Nehemiah 6:6-7

Nehemiah flatly denies the accusations, the fake news Sanballat was inventing, and sends a prompt response. Then he took action: he prayed. Throughout the book, Nehemiah stops to pray as his story unfolds.

Round Two

Nehemiah visits a shut-in, Shemaiah, a kind gesture to begin with, but here is another attempt to lure him away from the work God has put in his hands.

“Let us meet in the house of God, inside the temple, and let us close the temple doors, because men are coming to kill you—by night they are coming to kill you.” Nehemiah 6:10

Nehemiah is shrewd enough to see through the simple scheme of Tobiah that would lure him into sin (he was not a priest and therefore was not allowed) and then in secret he would no doubt be killed.

His response, once again, prayer.

Walls Complete

It’s amazing to read that the reconstruction of the walls was completed in 52 days. For the Israelites, Nehemiah was the catalyst they needed to focus on a single-minded mission that gave them several positive outcomes:

  1. unified the people
  2. reinforced their belief in God with tangible evidence
  3. provided sanctuary
  4. demoralized surrounding nations
  5. discredited those against the plan
  6. taught them to pray and act
  7. blessed he dedicated people who sacrificed to see the work done

These are just a few thoughts about the profoundly positive impact Nehemiah made on the people of Israel, his people, for the glory of God.

As a spacious and safe city, he needed a method for selecting those who would be honored to live within the walls — obviously not everyone would fit. Over 42,000 people were selected from the genealogical records. More details to follow in the coming chapters. Nehemiah wasn’t trying to draw attention to himself, his mission was temporary and with great purpose. He selects Hanani and Hananiah to govern Jerusalem so he can return to his full-time job back in Susa.

I love the catalytic nature of Nehemiah’s work, his incredible leadership, the focus on mission and his devotion to God intertwined in this compelling story. The church needs people like Nehemiah. Lord, help me to learn from this story, to find modern day Nehemiah’s who can come in and reset your people and restore the community of faith you desire here on earth.

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Nehemiah Has A Plan

Read: Nehemiah 2-3

I’m in no hurry to run through this fabulous story. In my imagination, Nehemiah had lots of discretionary time on his hands. After all, how much time could it really take to be a cupbearer? I can see Nehemiah in his office writing out details on his dry-erase board, sketching plans from memory, having his brothers and fellow Jews take a look and make sure he’s remembering correctly. All the while, his waiting the that moment.

In the few months since Nehemiah heard the sad news about Jerusalem, he prayed and fasted and asked God for insight as he confessed for sins he probably never considered. Then the day came when the king noticed.

The king said to me, “What is it you want?” Nehemiah 2:4

King Artaxerxes asked two questions, “How long will your journey take, and when will you get back?” and Nehemiah responded with his plan Nehemiah 2:7-9:

  • may I have letters to the governors of Trans-Euphrates for safe-conduct until I arrive in Judah?
  • may I have a letter to Asaph, so he will give me timber
    • to make beams for the gates of the citadel by the temple and
    • for the city wall and
    • for the residence I will occupy?”
  • The king had also sent army officers and cavalry with me.

Sanballat, governor over Samaria*, and Tobiah, governor over Transjordan under the Persians*, were not pleased. Tobiah, in particular, was connected to Eliashib the priest. Watch these characters as the play unfolds.

Inspection of the Walls

Even if the king sent only a few officers with Nehemiah, his arrival in Jerusalem could not have been missed. He waited three days to begin his inspection, but this was still a secret mission at this point. Nehemiah went out at night to inspect the walls.

The officials did not know where I had gone or what I was doing, because as yet I had said nothing to the Jews or the priests or nobles or officials or any others who would be doing the work. Nehemiah 2:16

Nehemiah gathered the intelligence he needed and was ready to talk to his brothers, those in charge of Jerusalem. It’s no surprise to me that they were motivated to agree with Nehemiah’s plan. We don’t see all the details in the text, but we know the project was completed in record time which leaves me with the belief that his plan was incredibly detailed: quantity of timbers, where they should go and when each needed to show up on the job site. Any construction manager would read the story of Nehemiah and gasp at the incredible results and agree he was a master planner.

Nehemiah Named the Key Workers

Chapter 3 is all about giving credit to the people who did the work. In 32 verses, Nehemiah captures the names and positions of 40+ men who participated in the reconstruction of about 45 sections. His list includes goldsmiths, priests, perfume-makers, daughters; some lazy and others who worked zealously, some in positions of authority and even the sixth son of Zalaph joined in the work.

A couple of thoughts come to mind here: 1) Nehemiah knew the people and 2) he took time to document the names and heritage of the people that helped. My supposition is that Nehemiah’s full-time job was one that required knowledge of a lot of moving parts and people. He kept track of who did what and when and where pieces moved–that’s how he ensured the king was safe as a cupbearer. Those skills are put to use in rebuilding the walls, but even more, Nehemiah is rebuilding the people by writing down their names and giving them recognition. So many leadership lessons to learn here!

Don’t miss this: Nehemiah knew that people ultimately mattered while at the same time he attended to the business of rebuilding the wall. He balanced both–an incredible CEO.

I believe Nehemiah devoted himself to learning who was in Jerusalem, who could be counted on to do great work, those who were going to need extra supervision and those who needed to be under careful watch. Kinda sounds like a typical group of people, whether in a church as staff and volunteers or in a business with hourly and salaried professionals. People matter to God, so they should matter to us. No doubt Nehemiah’s ability to keep track of all these people was based on his gifts and talents, his personal wiring and incredible tenacity, but we can do the same if we recognize the importance of those we interact with every day. His success was a result of taking time to pray and ask God for very specific help. Prayer and people, the DNA of Nehemiah.

Lord, thank you for the details in these chapters that honor Nehemiah’s commitment to doing your work. May we learn from his example and do the work of your kingdom on earth here in our own towns and villages.

 

*NIV Study Bible notes–likely position of Sanballat and Tobiah based on context and historical documents.

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Ezra Returns to Jerusalem; Deals with Great Sin

Read: Ezra 7-10

Ezra receives the royal blessing to return to Jerusalem, along with all the Jews who want to go with him. The “blank check” he’s given is quite incredible and it makes me wonder what prompted Artaxerxes to be so supportive. It would be interesting to know definitively who Artaxerxes was since the surrounding references point to Daniel (Darius) and Esther (Xerxes). After Googling around a bit, I landed on the Jewish Encyclopedia which provides some details:

Artaxerxes was the second son of Xerxes, who was murdered in the summer of 465 by his all-powerful vizir Artaban. The murderer accused the king’s eldest son Darius of the crime, with the result that Darius was slain by his younger brother Artaxerxes, who then mounted the throne.*

Given my cursory research, I’m far from being an expert on the subject, but it the cite above is generally consistent with other sources. It’s primarily interesting in understanding the context of Ezra’s return. In Esther we see that Mordecai is the second in charge under Xerxes and we also know that Nehemiah is Artaxerxes’ cupbearer given special permission to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem during his reign (from year 20 to 32 based on Nehemiah 2:1 and Nehemiah 13:6).

Why did the king of such a vast empire show such favor the Ezra? Was it all favorable? Or did some of the king’s cohorts suggest letting the Jews go because their strange beliefs? It’s interesting to ponder why, but that leads to a rabbit trail that I’ll set aside for another day.

What we do see from the text is Ezra gets the golden ticket to return to Jerusalem.

Now I decree that any of the Israelites in my kingdom, including priests and Levites, who volunteer to go to Jerusalem with you, may go. Ezra 7:13

Ezra recognizes this great favor can only come from the Lord:

Praise be to the Lord, the God of our ancestors, who has put it into the king’s heart to bring honor to the house of the Lord in Jerusalem in this way and who has extended his good favor to me before the king and his advisers and all the king’s powerful officials. Ezra 7:27-28

Perhaps this is our main lesson: first, we give God the credit and then we trust God to follow through:

I was ashamed to ask the king for soldiers and horsemen to protect us from enemies on the road, because we had told the king, “The gracious hand of our God is on everyone who looks to him, but his great anger is against all who forsake him.” Ezra 8:22

The hand of our God was on us, and he protected us from enemies and bandits along the way. Ezra 8:31

And so they return to the Promised Land after years in exile. All good, yes? Actually, not so good.

“The people of Israel, including the priests and the Levites, have not kept themselves separate from the neighboring peoples with their detestable practices… They have taken some of their daughters as wives for themselves and their sons, and have mingled the holy race with the peoples around them. And the leaders and officials have led the way in this unfaithfulness.”

When I heard this, I tore my tunic and cloak, pulled hair from my head and beard and sat down appalled. Ezra 9:1-3

If the problem were simply interracial marriage, Ezra could have dealt with that, but marriage in those days was quite different. By marrying outside of the remnant, you inherit the family gods and practices along with it. The path can only lead back to that which stoked the wrath of God in the first place. Ezra wastes no time in dealing with this atrocity. He calls a meeting of all the leaders with a powerful requirement to attend:

Anyone who failed to appear within three days would forfeit all his property, in accordance with the decision of the officials and elders, and would himself be expelled from the assembly of the exiles. Ezra 10:8

Show up or get kicked out! That’s pretty simple.

The great assembly met and all but four agreed to separate from the foreigners. The complex investigation is completed and those who were specifically guilty are listed for inspection, including Eliashib from the musicians.

Ezra was a devoted disciple of Moses, one who worked hard to uphold the law and embrace the Lord as he understood. A powerful priest who no doubt was great at discerning God’s will for the people, but not an architect or construction supervisor. For that, we look to Nehemiah.

The church at large has much to learn from Ezra. The one thing I take from this is to know your strengths and work within that which you are specifically gifted. Understand that the Lord can move in mighty ways and is not limited by individuals, but the Spirit gives gifts for a reason and His timing is always better than our plans. Lord, helps us to lean on you more today than yesterday, to hear your voice above all the noise of this world!

 

 

*Reference: http://www.jewishencyclopedia.com/articles/1827-artaxerxes-i

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Esther Part 3: Mordecai

Read: Esther 8-10

As we conclude the book of Esther this morning, I’m reminded that we at a point in Jewish history where they are about to return to Jerusalem from exile. We don’t see those words in Esther, but the hope written in the prophets and spoken to one another in captivity must have been on their minds. They held onto the belief that one day they would return.

Here are some highlights from chapter 8:

And Mordecai came into the presence of the king, for Esther had told how he was related to her. The king took off his signet ring, which he had reclaimed from Haman, and presented it to Mordecai. And Esther appointed him over Haman’s estate. Esther 8:1-2

Now write another decree in the king’s name in behalf of the Jews as seems best to you, and seal it with the king’s signet ring—for no document written in the king’s name and sealed with his ring can be revoked.” They wrote out all Mordecai’s orders to the Jews, and to the satraps, governors and nobles of the 127 provinces stretching from India to Cush.Esther 8:8,9

The king’s edict granted the Jews in every city the right to assemble and protect themselves; to destroy, kill and annihilate the armed men of any nationality or province who might attack them and their women and children, and to plunder the property of their enemies. Esther 8:11

When Mordecai left the king’s presence, he was wearing royal garments of blue and white, a large crown of gold and a purple robe of fine linen. And the city of Susa held a joyous celebration. Esther 8:15

What a change of events!! Queen Esther shows her adept skills inside the palace and Mordecai proves himself to be a national-level leader for the Jews while still in exile under Xerxes. From sackcloth and ashes to royal garments, Mordecai’s role is firmly established. Truly an amazing turn of events.

Chapter 9 records the successful implementation of the edicts–the Jews won the day over their adversaries. It’s interesting to note that three times we read, “they did not take the plunder” (Esther 9:10,15,16). They defended themselves, were victorious in battle, but they were not looking to steal from their captors. My initial thought on this is they truly thought the return from exile was imminent and didn’t want or need a bunch of stuff to hold them back. At the same time, they wanted to prove themselves worthy by not wanting to appear greedy.

Mordecai established the Feast of Purim:

the time when the Jews got relief from their enemies, and as the month when their sorrow was turned into joy and their mourning into a day of celebration. He wrote them to observe the days as days of feasting and joy and giving presents of food to one another and gifts to the poor. Esther 9:22

Queen Esther confirmed the celebration to affirm the words from Mordecai the Jew. Quite the duo.

So Queen Esther, daughter of Abihail, along with Mordecai the Jew, wrote with full authority to confirm this second letter concerning Purim. Esther 9:29

Ending on a high note:

Mordecai the Jew was second in rank to King Xerxes, preeminent among the Jews, and held in high esteem by his many fellow Jews, because he worked for the good of his people and spoke up for the welfare of all the Jews. Esther 10:3

The stage is set for the return from exile, not that this will be easy, but this story must have fueled the hope that was spreading among the Jews.

I can’t begin to imagine what it’s like to live in exile, to be under martial law, being subjected by an overlord that is bent on annihilation of me and my brothers and sisters in Christ. This is what it must feel like for the underground Christian churches in Eastern Europe, China, India, etc.

It’s hard to believe that from 1933 to 1945 some six million Jews were rounded up, tortured and murdered under the authority of Hitler. Hard to believe, but true. Haman’s hate lives in dark places within some who have bought into the lies of the great deceiver.

We are not held in concentration camps in this country, but I wonder if that’s what it takes to ignite the flame of Christ in our eyes, in our words and our daily activity. Lord, help us to take advantage of the freedom we enjoy to spread the Gospel, the Great News of salvation and healing in a land that is darker than we want to admit.

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Project Stalled — Prophets Step In

Read: Ezra 5-6, Haggai 1-2 and Zechariah 1-6

We left the story at the point where it appears the opposition has won, the work in Jerusalem came to a halt. Does that read like an ancient headline or a text you just received?

Now Haggai the prophet and Zechariah the prophet, a descendant of Iddo, prophesied to the Jews in Judah and Jerusalem in the name of the God of Israel, who was over them. Then Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel and Joshua son of Jozadak set to work to rebuild the house of God in Jerusalem. And the prophets of God were with them, supporting them. Ezra 5:1-2

The first words of Haggai are stern and strong:

“You expected much, but see, it turned out to be little. What you brought home, I blew away. Why?” declares the Lord Almighty. “Because of my house, which remains a ruin, while each of you is busy with your own house. Haggai 1:9

Zerubbabel and Joshua received the message well, they heard the word of the Lord through Haggai and as a result blessings flowed upon them for the sake of Jerusalem and for God’s glory.

Then Haggai, the Lord’s messenger, gave this message of the Lord to the people: “I am with you,” declares the Lord. Haggai 1:13

Those four words, “I am with you,” are perhaps the most powerful words anyone in ministry can possibly hear. When the Lord speaks these few words over your ministry, the world stands still. We know that if God is with us, there is absolutely nothing that will stand in the way–nothing!

A month later, Haggai speaks more words of encouragement for Zerubbabel and Joshua,

But now be strong, Zerubbabel,’ declares the Lord. ‘Be strong, Joshua son of Jozadak, the high priest. Be strong, all you people of the land,’ declares the Lord, ‘and work. For I am with you,’ declares the Lord Almighty. ‘This is what I covenanted with you when you came out of Egypt. And my Spirit remains among you. Do not fear.’ Haggai 2:4-5

Seriously folks, these are the words I long to hear, be strong, for I am with you and do not fear. Enough said, let’s go out and do God’s work with all our might!

Zechariah joins in with Haggai to speak truth and provide amazing encouragement:

‘Return to me,’ declares the Lord Almighty, ‘and I will return to you,’ says the Lord Almighty. Do not be like your ancestors, … “Then they repented and said, ‘The Lord Almighty has done to us what our ways and practices deserve, just as he determined to do.’”
Zechariah 1:3-4,6

Zechariah 2, A Man With A Measuring Line, tells the Israelites to leave Babylon, to come home!

“Shout and be glad, Daughter Zion. For I am coming, and I will live among you,” declares the Lord. Zechariah 2:10

Joshua is given new clothes and a turban in Zechariah 3–blessed and called by God to lead the people from exile.  Then Zerubbabel is blessed in chapter 4:

“This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel: ‘Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the Lord Almighty. “What are you, mighty mountain? Before Zerubbabel you will become level ground. Then he will bring out the capstone to shouts of ‘God bless it! God bless it!’” Zechariah 4:6-7

Wow! Such amazing words of encouragement! Yesterday, call me weird, but I read aloud the two chapters of Haggai and most of Zechariah as if preaching a sermon. There are days, even months, when we need to hear such stirring words. The Spirit of God is not idle.

Zechariah 5 depicts evil being purged from Jerusalem, the iniquity of the people is removed from the land. Joshua is crowned as king in Zechariah 6, he will be a priest on the throne and there will be harmony between priests and rulers.  We’ll pick up with chapter 7 a bit later as it jumps ahead a few years.

And so, with those words of assurance, the story in Ezra 5 picks up the pace and a bold letter is written to King Darius to search his records and see that the rebuilding project was indeed sanctioned by his predecessor.

Then let the king send us his decision in this matter. Ezra 5:17

Not only did King Cyrus authorize the rebuilding, he offered to fund it!

Their expenses are to be fully paid out of the royal treasury, from the revenues of Trans-Euphrates, so that the work will not stop. Ezra 6:8

Punishment for disobeying this command:

Furthermore, I decree that if anyone defies this edict, a beam is to be pulled from their house and they are to be impaled on it. And for this crime their house is to be made a pile of rubble. Ezra 6:11

There’s nothing like a story with a happy ending:

So the elders of the Jews continued to build and prosper under the preaching of Haggai the prophet and Zechariah Ezra 6:14

As we seek ways to build God’s kingdom here on earth, I pray for such clear and bold prophecy. Those returning from exile were not wrong, it just looked like it from the reaction of those who did not want them to succeed. They were on the right path, but they needed to hear the message from God through Haggai and Zechariah and they did not disappoint the leaders! Lord, show us our iniquities, pack them up in a box and ship them to Babylon, wherever that is these days! Show us clearly what you would have us do this day for your purpose.

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Ezra: Return from Exile, Rebuilding Begins and Opposition Mounts

Read: Ezra 1-4

Finally, the remnant are able to return from exile, but this is just the beginning. Those who have occupied the land are not interested in seeing the Israelites succeed. Sound like a familiar scenario?

the Lord moved the heart of Cyrus king of Persia to make a proclamation throughout his realm and also to put it in writing: “This is what Cyrus king of Persia says: “‘The Lord, the God of heaven, has given me all the kingdoms of the earth and he has appointed me to build a temple for him at Jerusalem in Judah. Any of his people among you may go up to Jerusalem in Judah and build the temple of the Lord, the God of Israel, the God who is in Jerusalem, and may their God be with them.
Ezra 1:3

Chapter 2 provides a list that shows the count of men from various families, priests, Levites, musicians, gatekeepers, temple servants and others that returned from exile. Even some that were excluded because they couldn’t find proper documentation.

It’s interesting to me that the musicians are distinguished whenever we see these lists. There is something about music that draws people to God. Not a large number, but they must have been important enough to be listed separately (along with the gatekeepers).

The priests, the Levites, the musicians, the gatekeepers and the temple servants settled in their own towns, along with some of the other people, and the rest of the Israelites settled in their towns. Ezra 2:70

They took seven months to get settled, then gathered to worship. They were afraid of those who surrounded them, but with the leadership of Joshua and Zerubbabel, the sacrificial system was restarted:

Then Joshua son of Jozadak and his fellow priests and Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel and his associates began to build the altar of the God of Israel to sacrifice burnt offerings on it, in accordance with what is written in the Law of Moses the man of God. Ezra 3:2

Building an altar and sacrificing to God was not trivial in that time. There were plenty of eyes from not-so-friendly neighbors watching them closely. We definitely get that sense these days when we’re launching or relaunching a church. Non-profits don’t want competition for their space, though they may never come forward and say as much, they all know donor contributions are a limited resource.

Perhaps this is why Joshua and Zerubbabel waited for seven months before they began the rebuilding project. The foundation is reestablished and the pent-up excitement of the people cannot be withheld any longer!

With praise and thanksgiving they sang to the Lord:
“He is good; his love toward Israel endures forever.”
Ezra 3:11

The youth had heard all the stories of old their entire lives, now they get to be a part of this incredible moment!

But many of the older priests and Levites and family heads, who had seen the former temple, wept aloud when they saw the foundation of this temple being laid, while many others shouted for joy. No one could distinguish the sound of the shouts of joy from the sound of weeping, because the people made so much noise. And the sound was heard far away.
Ezra 3:12-13

The oldest of the elders still remember the day when they worshipped freely. Those memories come rushing in and overtake them. It’s hard to imagine the elation and excitement in this country where we live in opulence. Where we decide what channel to watch, what diet we choose, etc. Freedom is not fully understood without the absence of the same. Lord, I pray we learn without imprisonment!

Opposition is Mounting

Why is it that someone’s joy and excitement stirs up jealousy in others? What is this part of the fallen nature of humanity? In chapter 4, the people around Jerusalem, those not part of the chosen families, show up to join in the festivities, but their hearts are bent on trouble.

But Zerubbabel, Joshua and the rest of the heads of the families of Israel answered, “You have no part with us in building a temple to our God. We alone will build it for the Lord, the God of Israel, as King Cyrus, the king of Persia, commanded us.” Then the peoples around them set out to discourage the people of Judah and make them afraid to go on building. Ezra 4:3-4

More than just discouraging the people, they were actively seeking to derail progress:

They bribed officials to work against them and frustrate their plans during the entire reign of Cyrus king of Persia and down to the reign of Darius king of Persia. Ezra 4:5

These people appealed to Artaxerxes with misinformation about the purpose of our ancestors, calling them wicked and rebellious people, trying to avoid paying him taxes, dishonoring the king, etc.

We inform the king that if this city is built and its walls are restored, you will be left with nothing in Trans-Euphrates. Ezra 4:16

Their appeal was heard by the king’s court.

As soon as the copy of the letter of King Artaxerxes was read to Rehum and Shimshai the secretary and their associates, they went immediately to the Jews in Jerusalem and compelled them by force to stop. Thus the work on the house of God in Jerusalem came to a standstill until the second year of the reign of Darius king of Persia. Ezra 4:23-24

Hiding is not the answer. Nor is arming ourselves with weapons. This reminds me of Jesus’ words to the disciples:

“I am sending you out like sheep among wolves.
Therefore be as shrewd as snakes
and as innocent as doves.
Matthew 10:16

Our battle may not be against flesh and blood, but there are many who would love to see us fail. The key is to carefully examine all that we are doing and see the direct connection between our actions, desires and plans to the great commission and calling of Jesus. When these lines are fuzzy, I would suggest that the opposition will frustrate the best of good intentions. At the same time, I believe that if we are walking in step with the Spirit, there is nothing that can stand in our way.

Lord, may we see your plans clearly in our hearts and in our minds.

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Jonah: A Man Like Me?

Read: Jonah 1-4

Jonah is a short story that has captured the imaginations of countless people of all ages, but especially children in Sunday Schools and Vacation Bible Schools around the globe. It’s ironic that children enjoy the story while adults, if they would answer honestly, will most likely say it’s a fictional or allegorical work based on legend or folklore.

The NIV Study Bible provides this insight:

Although their specific suggestions range from fictional short story to allegory to parable, they share the common assumption that the account sprang essentially from the author’s imagination, despite its serious and gracious message. On the other hand, it must be acknowledged that Biblical narrators were more than historians.
They [Old Testament prophets] interpretatively recounted the past with the unswerving purpose of bringing it to bear on the present and the future. In the portrayal of past events, they used their materials to achieve this purpose effectively. Nonetheless, the integrity with which they treated the past ought not to be questioned. The book of Jonah recounts real events in the life and ministry of the prophet himself.

Why is it that we choose to believe one miracle and not another? We are so well educated that we think we can explain the universe, but in reality, through many apologetic arguments, at some point, we have to step out on faith. I’m not suggesting we put on blinders or act ignorant, but if we believe in a God that created the universe out of nothing, at some level it is possible that the same God could create a divine appointment between prophet and fish.

Then there’s the red-letter evidence in Matthew, the words of Jesus himself:

38 Then some of the Pharisees and teachers of the law said to him, “Teacher, we want to see a sign from you.” 39 He answered, “A wicked and adulterous generation asks for a sign! But none will be given it except the sign of the prophet Jonah. 40 For as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of a huge fish, so the Son of Man will be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth. 41 The men of Nineveh will stand up at the judgment with this generation and condemn it; for they repented at the preaching of Jonah, and now something greater than Jonah is here.
Matthew 12:38-41

I have much to learn and I don’t claim to have any knowledge at all except that I believe in the incarnational life of Jesus Christ, his death by crucifixion and subsequent miraculous resurrection. These beliefs already put me in the crazy pen, why not add the story of Jonah?

The Story

God tells Jonah to preach redemption to the evil city of Nineveh, a city so large that it would take three days to walk around it. That’s huge! Jonah decides to run away rather than be subjected to the humiliation of preaching in such a place as Nineveh. He pays for passage on a boat in the opposite direction and the trouble begins.

The superstitious sailors see the storm as a sign, something from the sea-gods must be happening. They cast lots and determine Jonah is the culprit. After Jonah begs them, they toss him overboard and the sea calms down.

At this the men greatly feared the Lord, and they offered a sacrifice to the Lord and made vows to him. Jonah 1:16

Jonah’s first converts are on the boat after they are saved by removing him.

Chapter 2 contains Jonah’s short prayer in the belly of the fish, his repentance is recounted briefly here. Three days and nights is a long time to be trapped inside, plenty of time to think about mistakes and misgivings!

Chapter 3 describes Jonah’s renewed mission — he preaches to the Ninevites and they repent!

The Ninevites believed God. A fast was proclaimed, and all of them, from the greatest to the least, put on sackcloth. Jonah 3:5

Chapter 4 provides Jonah’s pathetic response, this is where I draw the title for this post, is this my response to God when his voice clearly tells me to do one thing and I choose to do another?

He prayed to the Lord, “Isn’t this what I said, Lord, when I was still at home? That is what I tried to forestall by fleeing to Tarshish. I knew that you are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love, a God who relents from sending calamity. Jonah 4:2

Jonah’s mission was so successful that he wanted to die. These corrupt people, those who lived in great extravagance and self-absorbed living, actually repented and would reap the rewards for turning to God. Historically, we know this doesn’t last long, but for some, it seems, eternity was changed–they turned to God. Jonah is comforted by a plant, then God takes the plant away. God is in control the entire time, but Jonah has a part to play, he has a story to tell and many lives hang in the balance.

Jonah’s main flaw: he didn’t love the Ninevites as God loves all people. I continue to pray for God’s help in learning how to love as He loves, to see people as He sees them. When I get a taste for that kind of love, I know it’s real, but it’s hard to express in words.

Lord, help me to love as you do, at least one bit more today than yesterday. Help me to put aside the lessons this world has taught me and let me focus on your words, your actions, your ways.

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Hosea: The Love of God

Read: Hosea 11-14

The narrative of Hosea is complete, the love of God prevails. I cannot escape the love of God intertwined in every word I read these days. For today’s reading, if you use the Bible Gateway link above, turn off titles and verse numbers and read the text like Hosea narrated it, let the poetry speak to your heart and may we all be nudged a little bit closer to the God of the universe who loves us with great passion.

My heart is changed within me;
all my compassion is aroused.
I will not carry out my fierce anger,
nor will I devastate Ephraim again.
Hosea 11:8-9

Hosea provides some historical highlights for Israel to consider. He reflects on Jacob’s deceptions for gain and Moses’ leadership. He includes Israel’s demand for kings to rule over them, but we cannot escape the missteps, the wandering hearts of men.

But you must return to your God;
maintain love and justice,
and wait for your God always.
Hosea 12:6

Their ways are far from God:

It is said of these people,
“They offer human sacrifices!
They kiss calf-idols!”
Therefore they will be like the morning mist,
like the early dew that disappears,
like chaff swirling from a threshing floor,
like smoke escaping through a window.
Hosea 13:2-3

I can’t help but read these words and think about how clinical we’ve become as a people, when medical doctors, trained physicians, can systematically destroy babies in the womb because, in their definition, they are mere fetuses. We are not so far removed from these ancient ancestors we look down upon.

Yet, the love of God prevails. In the very next verse:

“But I have been the Lord your God
ever since you came out of Egypt.
You shall acknowledge no God but me,
no Savior except me.
Hosea 13:4

Fools! Only fools would misunderstand what God has done for his people:

Pains as of a woman in childbirth come to him,
but he is a child without wisdom;
when the time arrives,
he doesn’t have the sense to come out of the womb.
Hosea 13:13

Not enough sense to be born? Seriously, Hosea, that’s a bit extreme! But here’s the conclusion as we ride this rollercoaster of emotion:

“I will heal their waywardness
and love them freely,
for my anger has turned away from them.
I will be like the dew to Israel;
he will blossom like a lily.
Like a cedar of Lebanon
he will send down his roots;
his young shoots will grow.
Hosea 14:4-6

God will love us freely.

Yes, those are the words I picked out of the text to highlight and remember. “I will heal their waywardness and love them freely.”

I wish Rich Mullins were alive these days. I listened to “The Love of God” again this morning. It’s short and profound. Not perfect, but real. We need to stop trying for perfection anyway, don’t we? If Rich were around today, I think his arrangements would have had fewer strings and probably spoken word segments or perhaps he would have invented something completely new. Whatever the case, may the unquenchable love of God pour over you today. I challenge you to say, “I love you” to someone new–and mean it. It’s risky and will likely be misunderstood, but imagine if Jesus was physically standing there beside you. Would he not say those words to even the strangest of strangers?

In Beth Ehlert’s devotion last night, she reminded us that our identity is found first in Jesus. He lives in each of us. Be perfect (Matthew 5:48). Go and spread the love of God somewhere today.

And if the Spirit of him
who raised Jesus from the dead
is living in you,
he who raised Christ from the dead
will also give life to your mortal bodies
because of his Spirit who lives in you.
Romans 8:11

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Hosea: Israel’s Addiction to Prostitution

Read: Hosea 4:1-6:3

I really believe the people of Israel know they are out of step with God, deeply in sin, to the point that they cannot see their way out. My heart breaks for the common family working in the fields, those trying to be faithful to God while their leaders chase fantasies. Hosea’s direction is clear:

“But let no one bring a charge,
let no one accuse another,
for your people are like those
who bring charges against a priest.
You stumble day and night,
and the prophets stumble with you.
So I will destroy your mother—
my people are destroyed from lack of knowledge.
Hosea 4:3-6

Hosea continues to sharpen the verdict: “they exchanged their glorious God for something disgraceful” (Hosea 4:7). Watch out church! At least that which we call church these days. The ancient words of Hosea ring clear, but do they speak into the 21st century? Do they point to our institutionalized religion?

Perhaps this is Hosea’s apologetic for God’s direction to marry Gomer:

“They will eat but not have enough;
they will engage in prostitution but not flourish,
because they have deserted the Lord
to give themselves to prostitution;
old wine and new wine
take away their understanding.
Hosea 4:10-11

He has first-hand knowledge of the emptiness felt by prostitution. In today’s culture we might substitute the word pornography, that which seems to be rampant in our society, in our extravagance. Other vices as well, I’m sure, the result is the same, they “take away their understanding.”

A spirit of prostitution is in their heart;
they do not acknowledge the Lord.
Hosea 5:4

God will not allow such behavior to go unpunished:

For I will be like a lion to Ephraim,
like a great lion to Judah.
I will tear them to pieces and go away;
I will carry them off, with no one to rescue them.
Then I will return to my lair
until they have borne their guilt
and seek my face—
in their misery
they will earnestly seek me.”
Hosea 5:14-15

Once again the message doesn’t end there, though we surely deserve it! How many times will you offer these words?

“Come, let us return to the Lord.
He has torn us to pieces
but he will heal us;
he has injured us
but he will bind up our wounds.
After two days he will revive us;
on the third day he will restore us,
that we may live in his presence.
Let us acknowledge the Lord;
let us press on to acknowledge him.
As surely as the sun rises,
he will appear;
he will come to us like the winter rains,
like the spring rains that water the earth.”
Hosea 6:1-3

Please read these words and take comfort: As surely as the sun rises, he will appear. God is not nearly done yet, his love is far greater than the laws of this promiscuous country that just celebrated it’s 241st anniversary. But that doesn’t mean there won’t be pain in the process.

This assurance gives us hope. If Israel can be so brazen as to turn to idols and explicitly walk away from God, surely there is hope for us. Lord, reveal that which we have put on our shelves as household idols, show us how we have embraced prostitution in our lives. Shake us from our slumber and into your marvelous light! Your example to Hosea was hundreds of years before Jesus walked on earth and took away any excuses we might have. Even today, Lord, move us deep within.

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