Tag: love

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The Year of the Lord’s Favor

Suddenly, Thanksgiving and Black Friday are in the rearview mirror. Advent is upon us. This season of hope insists that we look for words of encouragement beyond the sobering headlines. As I wander through the hundreds of verses chosen for this particular study, the words of Isaiah grab my attention. Chapter 61 begins with these three sentences unevenly distributed across the first three verses. I encourage you to pause between each as you read these carefully scribed thoughts:

The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me,
because the Lord has anointed me
to proclaim good news to the poor.
Isaiah 61:1a

He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,
to proclaim freedom for the captives
and release from darkness for the prisoners,
to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor
and the day of vengeance of our God,
to comfort all who mourn,
and provide for those who grieve in Zion—
to bestow on them a crown of beauty
instead of ashes,
the oil of joy
instead of mourning,
and a garment of praise
instead of a spirit of despair.
Isaiah 61:1b-3a

They will be called oaks of righteousness,
a planting of the Lord
for the display of his splendor.
Isaiah 61:3b

Reflections

Luke records that Jesus used Isaiah’s words at the beginning of his earthly ministry. The significance of this reference might be difficult for us to appreciate. At this point in Jesus’ life on earth, he’s been baptized, then seemingly disappeared to be tempted in the wilderness for 40 days. The way Luke tells the story, Jesus comes back to Galilee being praised by everyone as he returns to the local Synagogue to teach. There was something electric about his demeanor now. It seems like he’s getting traction. His next stop is to his hometown of Nazareth, where we read these words from Jesus:

The Spirit of the Lord is on me,
because he has anointed me
to proclaim good news to the poor.
He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners
and recovery of sight for the blind,
to set the oppressed free,
to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.
Luke 4:18-19

The scroll of Isaiah contained words that were about 700 years old when Jesus read the words. Generations have heard the words repeated for years. Luke tells us, “the scroll of Isaiah was handed to him.” This would have been a pretty large scroll, probably a favorite of the Jews, especially toward the end. But this time, they heard the words spoken by Jesus, and something has changed.

…the eyes of everyone in the synagogue were fastened on him. Luke 4:20

There are probably times in your life when someone says something in a way that stops you in your tracks. Frozen. Imagine the scene. Pause. In my imagination, there are no sounds whatsoever. Not a bird, no cricket, not even a child stirring in the back. Complete silence. Then Jesus says the unthinkable:

He began by saying to them, ‘Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.’ Luke 4:21

As you read the rest of Luke 4, you’ll see the story doesn’t end well. This might be difficult to appreciate if we overlook the beginning of the verse above, “He began.” Jesus had lots of things to say at that point, and he didn’t need to scroll as a prop.

Jesus taught them that the fulfillment of the scriptures is standing right in front of them. From this day forward, the captives can be freed, prisoners of their dark past can enter the light, mourning and grieving are a thing of the past! No more despair! Hear the good news!

Through Jesus Christ, all of these possibilities are a present reality. If you are captive, you are free through Christ. If you’re a prisoner, freedom is within your reach. Those lost in mourning, living without hope, shrouded in darkness are invited to bask in the glory of his light. His warm embrace awaits.

What has the Lord appointed you to proclaim? I’m confident that if you search for this answer, you will find something beautiful. One way to discover the goodness that lives inside of you is to serve the least, the lost, and the lonely in some way. You don’t need to dive in headfirst, though some have found success with this approach. If you’re already serving in some capacity, take another step into the unknown to grow your faith or invite someone else to begin their journey.

Those who have received Christ have the privilege of sharing this great news. Go out this day and show someone the love of Christ.

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I’m thankful for those who serve so well

Last night The LOT Project was overflowing with people from the surrounding community and a host of volunteers from Gospel Light Church and more. AnMed was there again to encourage and administer free flu shots as cases mount to infect some of the most vulnerable in our area. Special thanks to Bobbie Blake for organizing the effort! The food was incredible and plentiful. As my wife likes to say, “We serve an abundant God.” Indeed we do.

This particular night was just a few days before Thanksgiving. I can’t tell you how many people expressed thanks and gratitude for the kindness shown once again last night. The loving attitude is not unusual, mind you. Those who serve around Anderson pour out love and compassion to people in need every day. This is how they are wired.

Way back in Exodus, Moses conveys God’s desire for His people to live in a thriving community. The plan was unique. Unlike the neighboring regions, God wanted people to love His prized creation: people. A few verses come to mind:

Do not take advantage of the widow or the fatherless.
Do not deny justice to your poor people in their lawsuits. Exodus 22:22, 23:6

These are just two points from a long list of rules that Moses enunciated just a few chapters after receiving the Ten Commandments. While the list encourages some to become legalistic, the core of God’s plan was far from some checklist religion. In order to become distinctive from other nations, Israel would need to have rules to guide their steps. The idea was to become a community that other nations would see and have an overwhelming desire to emulate.

In our modern context, imagine a gathering of people that loved and cared for each other without reservation–a dream church for pastors. In such a church, the widow and the orphan will be part of a family. They would never be abandoned or lonely. The poor would be treated justly; in fact, it would be difficult to see people as rich and poor. People would be cared for as if they were related. Father Gregory Boyle often quotes Mother Teresa like this:

“Mother Teresa diagnosed the world’s ills in this way: we’ve just “forgotten that we belong to each other.” Kinship is what happens to us when we refuse to let that happen.’

The insight is breathtaking. What would happen if we treated everyone like family? After all, we’re all related in Christ, right?

Earlier in the day, Zoë and I were at AIM to lend a small hand to their giant operation that distributes Thanksgiving food to hundreds of families from all over the county. Next, I made a quick stop by FAVOR to grab some lunch and, once again, I got to witness servants at work, loving on people as if they were family.

By the time I got ready for bed, my heart was overflowing with joy. As I began to pray for the friends mentioned above, the list continued to grow. If I began to type the list here, this post would go on for page after page. So many caring people. My eyes started leaking as I thought about those in need being cared for by the many faithful people in our community. The names and faces kept coming to mind as I thanked God for each one.

When I see God’s plan for unity playing out in front of my eyes, how can I not be moved? I know we have a long way to go, but friends, the more we embrace one another in love, the more we remember that we belong to each other, the more God’s rules make sense. We don’t need to read the Bible like a list of dos and don’ts. We get to read the Bible as a means of understanding His infinite love and grace for His creation — that includes us!

The biblical mandate to care for the poor is just an opportunity to become more like Christ. Isn’t that what we want?

May our abundant God bless you, immeasurably!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Your brother in Christ,
Dave

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Thankful for This Day

Last night I had the privilege of joining ministers from Anderson, South Carolina, in a Thanksgiving Holiday Service. Complete with a community choir, a collection for Safe Harbor and Tabernacle of Faith, and an excellent sermon from the new guy in town (Austin Carty, Boulevard Baptist Church), we joined ranks to proclaim we are thankful for this day! Special thanks to Evangelist Doris Gray, Rebecca Powell, and Reverends James Clark, Josh Hunt, Austin Carty, Kitty Holtzclaw, and others I’m sure I failed to capture, for their efforts to eliminate barriers in our faith community. We are indeed all one.

We spent less than an hour worshipping together, but it was truly family. Grateful hearts met gracious smiles and warm embraces.  I especially liked the Community Choir’s song, “Thank You.” Perfect.

Rev Carty’s sermon was excellent! I will never read Romans 10:8-13 the same again!

If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. Romans 10:9

Austin set the stage for a greater understanding of this famous verse by reminding us of the context from which these words were offered. At a time when Caesar was “lord” by decree, and Pax Ramano was the way of the Roman Empire, merely stating “Jesus is Lord” could have devasting results. That didn’t stop Paul from declaring the truth for any that desired true salvation! We may not be under the rule of an emperor but in this day and age of political correctness, I wonder how we respond to this edict:

Will you declare, ‘Jesus is Lord?’

Would you be so bold if it might land you in jail or being nailed to a cross?

Austin pointed back to Jeremiah 28 for contrast and underscored the importance of speaking the truth boldly and without reservation. Hananiah attempted to appease the people by proclaiming words that made them happy. Jeremiah offers a sober response, as usual, and Hananiah’s fate, well, let’s just say it doesn’t go well for H. The lesson learned is one I wish we all could hear. Thanks, Austin, for encouraging and challenging words.

We live in a world divided by race, religion, politics, and wealth, to name a few. For an hour, we were none of these things. I’m thankful for that time — a mere moment in the span of a full calendar.

Bless the Lord, O My Soul

I had the privilege of leading the gathering with a song I love by Matt Redmon. The verses were written for the occasion. How I long for the day when ten thousand upon ten thousand will sing with all our might, bless the Lord, O my soul!

10,000 Reasons (Bless the Lord) – Matt Redmon
Thanksgiving 2019 verses – Dave Phillips

Chorus

Bless the Lord O my soul O my soul
Worship His Holy name
Sing like never before O my soul
I’ll worship Your Holy name

Verse 1

We’re thankful Lord, for Your many blessings
Your love so pure and a heart of gold
Wherever we may go and where’er we see another
Ten thousand souls will sing Your praise once more.

Chorus

Verse 2

We’ve gathered here in Your mighty presence
We feel Your love, yes, we know Your fame.
May all who hear Your praises sing this song unending.
Ten thousand times we lift Your holy name.

Chorus

Chorus + tag

Final Note

One final thought before hitting the “publish” button: what are you thankful for? Take time to write it down. Make a habit of reflecting on such things. I read an article this morning that provided scientific research that proves a posture of gratitude is good for mental health. (Link to Gratitude – Neuroscience)

I’ve asked several people in the last week as they waited in lines for food, “how’s it going?” Many of these weary souls simply smiled and said, “I’m blessed to be alive!” We should learn from those who appreciate the value is waking up each day. Father Gregory Boyle tells many stories in Tattoos on the Heart that intensify my gratitude. Chapter 7 begins with this quote from Leo Rock, his director of novices:

God created us–because He thought we’d enjoy it.

Father Boyle goes on to say,

We try to find a way, then, to hold our fingertips gently to the pulse of God. We watch as our hearts begin to beat as one with the One who delights in our being. Then what do we do? We exhale that same spirit of delight into the world and hope for poetry.

Jesus is Lord! Have a blessed day!

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A Contemporary Parable

Shortly after publishing the last post, Seeing Jesus, three people unsubscribed to my blog. Perhaps I hit a nerve. Or maybe I’m finally speaking about some truth that needs to be exposed. I’m not the least bit offended by someone unsubscribing from this blog. Honestly, there is nothing profound about my words. Still, I enjoy the process of writing down my thoughts, and a few friends continue to encourage me, so I’m writing yet another idea for your consideration.

Before I jump into my parable, let me set the stage by providing the scripture that came to mind.

14 What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them? 15 Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. 16 If one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it? 17 In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. James 2:14-17

I’m reminded of the Rich Mullins Screen Door song, “faith without works is like a song you can’t sing; it’s about as useless as a screen door on a submarine.”

James makes it clear; our faith provides the basis for good deeds. Faith and deeds. Zoë and I talk about the “and” requirement for meeting the needs of people across all walks of life. The need is great. We all need to lend a hand in solving many problems in our communities, but most importantly, we need to be people of action.

As I was getting ready for bed last night, I had a thought that would have kept me up writing late into the night, but I was too tired to stay up. It’s a privilege to be able to decide that I’m tired and I should go to bed, right? Earlier in the day, I was hanging around a room filled with people at Clean Start who don’t have that privilege–they don’t have that luxury.

The thought occurred to me, what if we only talked about religion but did nothing? The passage from James came to mind.

The Parable

We’ve been watching a lot of football lately. As an extravagant gift, we purchased an NFL Game Pass so we can watch an entire football game in about 45 minutes (the Condensed version). I don’t look at scores but have an algorithm that ranks games based on total points, spread, etc., so we can watch a game at night before retiring. We enjoy seeing a great game, especially one that’s close, but we do not like commercials or endless replays in super slow motion.

Now imagine a football team that met every day to discuss the rules. The last game we watched had dozens of penalties. Apparently, there needs to be a discussion about rules! Following the session on rules, the team talks about strategies, tactics, the best practices for offense and defense. I can imagine hearing the debate about defending against the run or the virtues of a long pass when the other team is caught off guard. It’s actually quite intriguing to watch. The team has all kinds of ideas, many of which have merit based on a particular scenario. But here’s the problem: all they are doing is talking about football. No one is actually on the field. The week is filled with talk. Endless talk. No action.

Now visit a local church that creates a warm, safe, and inviting gathering space for people, especially those with children. The music is invigorating. The message is captivating. Everyone is comfortable in talking about Jesus, His sacrifice, the need for salvation, repentance, and walking away from sinful temptations. Then everyone goes home. Done.

Thousands of people would not fill football stadiums to listen to someone talk about a football game. Why do thousands of people fill churches to talk about saving grace that is followed by little action?

When opportunities to serve inside the church outnumber opportunities to serve the community, I submit we have a problem. Serving in the church is great. It helps solve the logistical complexities of about 3 hours a week. Thank you for serving in the church. But if we are all about serving in the church, what have we become?

The Challenge

Do something. Anything. It doesn’t have to be something huge. It doesn’t even have to take long, but it must be something that involves loving God and loving your neighbor as yourself. Right?

Do it well and do it with all the gifts and talents that God has given you and within the time constraints that you must honor.

The Comfort

Here’s some comforting news: you’re not alone! There are hundreds of people in our County that wake up each day and wonder what they can do to make conditions better for someone else. They go to bed after a long day’s work and wake up trying to feed another family. They do simple things and great things. They are foster parents and non-profit CEOs. They are mentors, big brother, big sisters, and those that pack meals as Saturday Servants. They are all over the place, but there needs to be more.

Lord, I pray for a heart change that leads people to repentance and a great desire to love others like never before. May we be known as a people that serve and love others in ways that defy logic. Most importantly, may we honor you in all we do. May our faith lead to actions that make you smile.

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Seeing Jesus

It’s been a while since I’ve written a post blog. It’s been more than a week since I’ve stopped to study the biblical reason for serving the least, the lost, and the lonely. To be sure, I think about this all the time. But thinking about something and acting on that thought is a whole different thing. The truth is this, I’ve been changed by looking at scripture through the lens of how God cares for His people, that is to say, everyone.

We’ve been taught to love God, love our neighbors, and love ourselves. Let’s linger there for a moment. My search was straightforward. All I did was enter the phrase, “love your neighbor,” and suddenly, the screen is filled with references. When I entered that phrase with quotes in Google, I got over 4 million responses in less than a second. Wow! Here are some specific references from the Bible:

Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against anyone among your people, but love your neighbor as yourself. I am the Lord. Leviticus 19:18

And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” Matthew 22:39-40

and whatever other command there may be, are summed up in this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” Love does no harm to a neighbor. Romas 13:9-10

For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” Galatians 5:14

If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, “Love your neighbor as yourself,” you are doing right. James 2:8

The same God who distilled all of the Law into a single statement demonstrates His care throughout the Bible. From Leviticus to James, the quotes above span hundreds of years. The entire law is fulfilled. That’s a huge statement! If that’s the case, and I’m confident it is, then we must be able to find evidence of this concept throughout the Bible. When I read from this perspective, the words come to life in a whole new way.

This morning I thought about the full days of the previous week. Zoë and I have been going non-stop, it seems, often in separate directions, but on the same mission. It’s been a compelling series of events to be sure, but I haven’t had the time to stop and write down my thoughts. I’m not feeling guilty about skipping out, not at all. It’s more of a longing to get back to a place where I can sit and bask in His glory. Then I saw His face. Well, the concept of His image.

What I sensed was a warm smile that looked at me with endless patience with the assurance that He was waiting for me. Joy began to fill my heart. Real joy.

“Take your time, son. I’m right here by your side. When you’re ready, let’s pick up the discussion again. I have lots to tell you. Way more than the brief thoughts you enjoy in the Bible.”

I have complete confidence that God is in control all the time. We need to move with a sense of urgency, but not in a manic state of haste. I’m so grateful for my time with Jesus, and I’m filled with joy when I think it only gets better when we’re done with our brief time on earth in this form.

So what does this all have to do with serving the least of these? I’m glad you asked. The next time you read the Bible or hear someone teach on a particular passage, look for the ways that God is showing His love for people. Notice that we don’t need to qualify people as rich or poor, tall or short, black or white, and so forth.

As we begin to look more like Jesus, we will naturally start to love others better. But just like thinking about writing is different than acting on the idea, love only comes to life when we do something. Can you love those in poverty if you are not somehow involved in serving others? Do you really care about feeding people if you’re not serving somewhere?

It’s really not hard, but it’s rarely convenient, and it always requires sacrifice.

The Lord works righteousness and justice for all the oppressed. Psalm 103:6

God is so committed to this mission that He sent Jesus to die on the cross by the hands of the very people He was coming to save. If God is that committed, so must I move from thought to action.

Lord, we see your mighty hand in action all around us. We marvel at the way you work for good in ways that leave us speechless, at people who sacrifice without apology to reach out to those our society would rather not see. Lord, melt our hearts for that which burns in yours. Show us one small step we can make to change the direction of someone in need positively and wonderfully, even if we never see the results.

Praise the Lord, my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name. Psalm 103:1

Amen.

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Pray With Those in Need

We need to remember the power of prayer, especially as we think of those that are living in desperate conditions. I’m sure you will agree with me that there is great power in prayer. Just last week, I heard a testimony that spoke to this power and the comfort that it brought when a handful of people stopped and prayed.

Instructions on Worship
I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.  This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus,  who gave himself as a ransom for all people. This has now been witnessed to at the proper time. 1 Timothy 2:1-6

I think it’s interesting that the NIV begins this passage with the title instructions on worship. For that’s what prayer is, isn’t it? When I thought about this passage today, especially the phrase, for all people — kings and all those in authority, I began to think of people who are in need, not just the leaders in charge, all people. We read the phrase, all people, three times in this short passage, so I’m confident Paul wants us to be inclusive. There are no boundaries in Christ Jesus. He paid the price for everyone, regardless of station or level in this life.

As I begin to pray, the names and faces of several people came to mind. I had a sense of the pain that these friends must feel every day. It’s only a glimpse, a tiny portion of what they must feel every day. Their PTSD is mostly TSD. There’s not much “post” in their traumatic stress.

Then another thought occurred to me: what if we prayed with those in need? Surely it’s important to pray for our brothers and sisters, but what if we found a way to pray with them? Most churches have a prayer night or time for intercessory prayer for the people. But what would happen if we took the time to gather together, hold hands, and pray with those in need?

And so today’s post is more of a challenge than a reflection on scripture, though I hope it’s both! I do believe these actions fit the theme of the passage:

This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:3-4

Before I end this thought, please hear the reminder that this is an “and” proposition. Moving from a community of individuals toward a real community of faith will not happen by a single action, no matter how great that one step might be. We need to pray privately and together. We need to worship alone and corporately. We need to pray for those in need and with those in need. We need to pray for city and county leaders. The idea of “and” is essential.

My friend, Chad Wright-Pittman, provided this prayer to help us remember those in need:

Loving God,
Your grace and lovingkindness
toward us in Jesus Christ is unending.
Open our eyes
to those in need around us – need of any kind –
and show us
how we might pray
with and for them
that our hearts might be changed
and your kingdom might come
in some small way,
on Earth as it is in Heaven.
Amen.
Rev. Chad Wright-Pittman

Now, may the peace of Christ be with you. May His presence be made known to you in new ways. Pass that peace onto others, even those that live on the margins and sleep on the streets.

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Serve in Secret

In the famous Sermon on the Mount, Jesus raises expectations to new heights across a wide swath of issues. The list includes murder, adultery, divorce, oaths, revenge, loving our enemies, prayer, fasting, greed, worrying, judging, and giving to the needy.

1 Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven. 2“So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. 3But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, 4so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.
Matthew 6:1-4

As the words of Jesus wash over me this morning, I find myself sitting in quiet contemplation. The underlying assumption is that we are seeking to serve the needy in our communities. Everything in the short passage above assumes that we are actually reaching out to those in need. The point of the discourse is all about motivation, we’ll get to that point shortly, but the foundation is a people who know they are supposed to serve those in need.

I’m not sure our current culture identifies with this assertion. I know that sounds critical, but it seems our churches are filled with people that carve out an hour or so on Sundays but are so busy that they do not seek to serve the needy. We just don’t have time! Really?

Our Jewish ancestors knew they had a responsibility to the poor in the land. In a predominantly agrarian society, many were left out. Far before the world of finance and eBay, if you couldn’t make a living on the farm, you would quickly become poor. The poor were easy to identify. They lived at the mercy of those who had the margin to supply their needs.

Method Matters

Meeting someone’s immediate need is significant and essential. Jesus casts a light on the method, that is, our motivation behind such activity. The current study on serving the least, the lost, and the lonely is worthless if it is a study to draw attention to myself. While it is the last thing on my mind, the warning is vivid. Do not serve the poor to attract favorable attention.

You and I know this is the main point, but what happens if we get lost in the theme of keeping things secret?

3But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, 4so that your giving may be in secret. Matthew 6:3-4

Is it possible to become so intent on secrecy that we don’t talk about serving others? Have we reversed the reversal to the point that we don’t do anything? Here’s what I mean: do we stop talking about helping the needy because we’re afraid to be criticized for being self-righteous? When we stop talking about the poor, guess what happens: the poor stop being served!

When we misread Jesus’ words to the point that we stop serving others “just in case” we’re viewed as being self-serving, we have wandered into a dangerous place. Jesus never intimated that we should not help the needy. Somehow we need to announce plans to serve without becoming pious.

Father Gregory Boyle helps span the gap. If you listen to any of his talks or read his books, you will walk away with this foundational principle that defuses any hint of self-righteousness:

The measure of our compassion lies not in our service of those on the margins, but only in our willingness to see ourselves in kinship with them. The compassion of Jesus is the one we seek. The one that can stand in awe of what the poor have to carry, rather than stand judgment at how they carry it. 1

The Secret Sauce

The secret to secrecy then is to see those in need as our brothers and sisters. They are equal heirs to the throne. Equal. We are not bowing down to serve them; we are standing beside them out of love and compassion, not for any spotlight. We know there will come a day when success will not be measured in dollars or possessions. That day came when Jesus took the nails and bore our sins on the cross. His worthy sacrifice tore the veil from top to bottom and put an end to the old regime. The resurrection of Christ means that all have equal access. His life demonstrated over and over again that all lives matter to God.

By all means, serve the needy every day; serve others with a glad heart and with great joy. Lord help us to see it isn’t “us” versus “them.” Help us to see people with your eyes.

I’ll never forget the woman that spoke to me after we served breakfast for the Salvation Army. As we were getting ready to leave, she looked at me and said, “thanks for breakfast, and thanks for your smile.” That was worth more than anything in my bank account. It was a joy to hang out with the gathering for breakfast. Everyone there was welcoming and grateful. Why wouldn’t others want to join in the joy? Don’t be afraid to let others in on the secret.

Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth!
Serve the Lord with gladness!
Come into his presence with singing!

Know that the Lord, he is God!
It is he who made us, and we are his;
we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.

Enter his gates with thanksgiving,
and his courts with praise!
Give thanks to him; bless his name!

For the Lord is good;
his steadfast love endures forever,
and his faithfulness to all generations.

Psalm 100

Lord Jesus, may we learn to serve our brothers and sisters with joy. May our kindness become contagious, so others will join until there is no one among us in need.

 

1 Father Gregory Boyle expresses this in many forms. I found this on YouTube today: [video]

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Defend the Weak and the Fatherless

Asaph, a worship pastor from a few years ago, wrote a series of psalms that tells the story of Israel’s ups and downs. By the time we get toward the end of his contribution to the songbook, we read the following practical advice:

Defend the weak and the fatherless;
uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed.
Rescue the weak and the needy;
deliver them from the hand of the wicked.
Psalm 82:3-4

Asaph’s psalms read like a symphonic work for a full orchestra. The highs and lows lend themselves to rising crescendos and crashing cymbals. His dramatic flair for writing must have led to equally compelling music. I find it interesting to read psalms 50 and 73-83 together to understand Asaph’s thought process.

As David’s key music leader, I’m confident he was attuned to David’s heart. The words reflect emotions that stir in each of us if we’re honest. Frustration, impatience, and anger as people foolishly deny God’s existence following by joy when they seem to turn to Him for a while suddenly. That doesn’t last for long! Back to the pit. Deep despair for those who ignore the warnings.

By the time we get to Psalm 82, we hear the question one more time:

How long will you defend the unjust and show partiality to the wicked? Psalm 82:2

At this point, Asaph provides the two verses we focus on today. There’s no doubt that this statement is in response to their inability to care for those in need. The question we need to ask ourselves is this: are we those who defend the unjust and show partiality to the wicked? Is this us?

While I’m not one who has any desire to send others on a guilt-trip, the question is meant to cause each of us to take a close, introspective look at our hearts, but don’t dwell there. Rather than getting lost in looking back at mistakes of the past, Asaph provides guidance for our future in a few concise statements.

  • Defend the weak and the fatherless
  • Uphold the cause of the poor and those who are oppressed
  • Rescue the weak and needy
  • Deliver people from the hand of those who are wicked

Asaph’s symphony summarizes the story of Israel, of human failure, along with brief moments of glory. The music is playing in my head switches from bold major triads to dark and gloomy minors — just like the history of my life. But when we get to this section, the sun is rising, the sky is clear. The cool mist of dawn invites us into a new awakening. It’s a new day.

Let them know that you, whose name is the Lord — that you alone are the Most High over all the earth. Psalm 83:18

Today, let us agree to take on the mantle of the good judge, the true Savior. May we clothe ourselves in the righteousness of Jesus and see people through His loving and caring eyes.

 

Here’s an interesting reference for the Songs of Asaph: [Link to Website]

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Spend Yourself on Those In Need

Listen to the words of the prophet Isaiah as he cuts through the noise and calls us to true worship:

“If you do away with the yoke of oppression,
with the pointing finger and malicious talk,
and if you spend yourselves in behalf of the hungry
and satisfy the needs of the oppressed,
then your light will rise in the darkness,
and your night will become like the noonday.
The Lord will guide you always;
he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land
and will strengthen your frame.
You will be like a well-watered garden,
like a spring whose waters never fail. Isaiah 58:9b-11

The NIV Study Bible’s outline for the book of Isaiah refers to this chapter as False and True Worship1. Everything we do can be filled with worship. Please don’t mistake worship for 20+ minutes on Sundays when the band is playing!

I suppose finger-pointing and malicious talk are nothing new, but my goodness, the culture we live in, is immersed in the outrageous slandering of people right and left. I wish I had a filter for my Facebook feed that eliminated any post (or advertisement) that hinted at such things. Isaiah’s words to Israel come with a promise that I believe is relevant for us today.

Instead of spending energy on tearing people down, let’s devote ourselves to satisfying the needs of the oppressed and feeding the hungry. We shouldn’t need any incentive to do these things, but he gives us a profound promise that is meant to encourage those who work tirelessly to help others in need.

  • Your light will rise in the darkness
  • Your night will become like the noonday
  • The Lord will guide you always
  • The Lord will satisfy your needs
  • The Lord will strengthen you
  • You will flourish (a well-watered garden)
  • You will be like a spring whose waters never fail

Spending Ourselves

When we spend ourselves, that is, we pour our energy into helping those who cannot help themselves, we are doing the very thing Jesus came to do. Remember when he rebuked His disciples when they tried to dismiss the children?

People were bringing little children to Jesus for him to place his hands on them, but the disciples rebuked them. 14 When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.“
Mark 10:13-14

Why did Jesus become indignant? And why did he say, the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these? For more thoughts on the passage in Mark, see the post here.

Indignant

Unlike the text we covered a few days ago from 1 John 3:17,  where the word “pity” was translated differently, we find the word for indignant is consistently translated from the Greek: aganakteō. It’s interesting to note that the word shows up seven times in the New Testament. Jesus is beyond unhappy with the disciples’ actions, and they knew it. I imagine the scene unfolded some distance away from where Jesus was, so He had to move toward them to intervene. I also suspect that they felt the aganakteō when He arrived!

Such as These

The Kingdom of God belongs to those who cannot help themselves. Children, especially at the time of Mark’s writing, were undoubtedly vulnerable, but definitely could not speak for themselves. The example was vivid. I think the disciples felt the weight of the lesson — that’s why the story is covered in Matthew, Mark, and Luke!

I’m not trying to get sidetracked from today’s passage; instead, I’m trying to support my assertion that Isaiah’s words are relevant to us today. In other words, it’s not just some ancient text that warns our forefathers. We need to pay attention to his words as they affect our lives today.

The Reward

We don’t serve the needs of the oppressed for a financial reward. Take another look at the list of promises above. The theme of this list is all about the joy that wells up from inside; complete contentment. You’ll walk in the light, no stumbling around in darkness! Isaiah’s poetic words offer peace and security with words that are chosen to give you comfort. When I was underlining the words in my Bible, it seemed like the list just kept going. How wonderful. This is our God. He wants us to join in the joy that comes by helping others.

For those who have invested in the lives of the least, the lost, and the lonely, I’m sure you would agree. For those who have received love from someone investing in you, as Father Gregory Boyle might say, the feeling is mutual.

May we be known as people who care for others. Let us be the people that spend ourselves on behalf of the hungry and satisfy the needs of the oppressed.

 

1 The NIV Study Bible, © 1985, 1995, 2002, 2008, 2011, Zondervan, Grand Rapids, Michigan, p. 1116.

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Be blessed: Invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind

Jesus is speaking to a gathering at a prominent Pharisee’s home when He shares a parable that ends with:

But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed. Although they cannot repay you, you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous. Luke 14:13-14

Isn’t it interesting that Jesus would make a particular point to invite those who are the outcasts of society to the home of one who is the most prosperous? This amazing passage is captured by Luke and printed in red letters in my Bible — the very words of Jesus. Please pause and let that sink in.

Will Be Blessed

The NIV Application Commentary authors seem to be captivated by this passage as well. I love their thoughts here:

Though those invited cannot repay, God will reward such care in the resurrection to come (1 Cor. 4:5). Again, the promise of reward is expressed in the passive voice (“will be blessed”), which means that God gives the response. He commends those who reach out to the needy and minister to them, often in quiet ministries that no one ever sees. True righteousness does not look for a payback but is offered free of charge, graciously, just as God in Christ has forgiven us free of charge (Eph. 4:32; 5:2). NIVAC Note

Some Context for the Passage

Let’s zoom out just a bit and see if we can discern why Jesus choose this as the appropriate parable. If it helps, here’s a post I wrote a few years ago surrounding this passage: Jesus and the Pharisees.

The first words of chapter 14 provide the setting, and it’s anything but ordinary. First of all, it’s on the Sabbath, and secondly, it involves a prominent Pharisee. Crazy. Luke makes a special note that Jesus was being carefully watched, so what does Jesus do? He heals someone as they watch — dumbfounded.

One Sabbath, when Jesus went to eat in the house of a prominent Pharisee, he was being carefully watched. There in front of him was a man suffering from abnormal swelling of his body. Jesus asked the Pharisees and experts in the law, “Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath or not?” But they remained silent. So taking hold of the man, he healed him and sent him on his way. Luke 14:1-4

As I dwell on the section today, I’m struck by the scene in which the parable is presented. To begin with, this is in the home of a significant Pharisee. In today’s terms, that probably would look like a large house that would require an access code to get past a gate at the end of a long driveway.

How did Jesus get invited to the party?

There’s an incredible lesson to be learned from this alone. Not only did Jesus get invited, but He turned around and healed someone on the Sabbath, and they didn’t kick him out. The man who was healed was one of the main characters in his parable. He was unable to work because of some sickness, but Jesus was able to heal him and send him on his way. Surely the Pharisees and all those gathered had never witnessed a miracle such as this!

Jesus then looked around and addressed the way they invited the guests and how they seated them in places of honor in the form of a parable. These were intelligent men. They understood what was going on. Read the following verse:

When one of those at the table with him heard this, he said to Jesus, “Blessed is the one who will eat at the feast in the kingdom of God.” Luke 14:15

Yes! Blessed is the one invited to the feast!

Jesus drives home the point that those invited are not people who look like they should be in attendance. Those who are too busy, proud, successful, or too important won’t be at the banquet.

It seems that Jesus prefers the poor, the crippled, the blind, and the lame. Perhaps there’s something to learn from His example.

Not my words. His.

 

NIVAC Note. Wilkins, Michael J.. NIVAC Bundle 6: Gospels, Acts (The NIV Application Commentary). Zondervan Academic. Kindle Edition.

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