Revelation 11:14-19
16 Then the twenty-four elders who sit on their thrones before God fell on their faces and worshipped God, 17singing,
‘We give you thanks, Lord God Almighty,
who are and who were,
for you have taken your great power
and begun to reign.
What a relief.
I do not pretend to know where or when or in what manner but I believe that God will reign supreme. Really I believe that he is reigning now.
Tuesday, October 30, 2012
Monday, October 29, 2012
Flyers
Luke 11:14-26
24 ‘When the unclean spirit has gone out of a person, it wanders through waterless regions looking for a resting-place, but not finding any, it says, “I will return to my house from which I came.” 25 When it comes, it finds it swept and put in order. 26 Then it goes and brings seven other spirits more evil than itself, and they enter and live there; and the last state of that person is worse than the first.’
Flyers from five grocery stores. two hardware chains, two newspapers sponsored by estates agents, these are some of the regulars that accumulate on the end of our table. I clear them away into the recycle and almost immediately the pile has grown again. Yes clear out the trash and more comes to fill its space. Unless, unless one is really disciplined and keeps up with it on a daily basis, never giving it time to rest between mail box and table, dealing with each item as required.
Turn your eyes upon Jesus and look into his wonderful face and the things of earth will grow strangely dim in the light of his glory and grace. Helen Lemmel
24 ‘When the unclean spirit has gone out of a person, it wanders through waterless regions looking for a resting-place, but not finding any, it says, “I will return to my house from which I came.” 25 When it comes, it finds it swept and put in order. 26 Then it goes and brings seven other spirits more evil than itself, and they enter and live there; and the last state of that person is worse than the first.’
Flyers from five grocery stores. two hardware chains, two newspapers sponsored by estates agents, these are some of the regulars that accumulate on the end of our table. I clear them away into the recycle and almost immediately the pile has grown again. Yes clear out the trash and more comes to fill its space. Unless, unless one is really disciplined and keeps up with it on a daily basis, never giving it time to rest between mail box and table, dealing with each item as required.
Turn your eyes upon Jesus and look into his wonderful face and the things of earth will grow strangely dim in the light of his glory and grace. Helen Lemmel
Sunday, October 28, 2012
Bread, again
1 Corinthians 10:15-24
17 Because there is one bread, we who are many are one body, for we all partake of the one bread.
Flour, water, oil and yeast are the ingredients that I use to bake bread. Occasionally I will add milk or egg. I will drink water by itself. I have never tried tasting a teaspoonful of sunflower oil. I have eaten fresh yeast but never crunched on dried yeast. Flour as a snack is not good. But blend them together and bake then you have a very different result. One with an appetizing aroma that fills the house.
God the master baker can do wonders with the elements who arrive at the church door on a Sunday morning if we allow him to work through us.
17 Because there is one bread, we who are many are one body, for we all partake of the one bread.
Flour, water, oil and yeast are the ingredients that I use to bake bread. Occasionally I will add milk or egg. I will drink water by itself. I have never tried tasting a teaspoonful of sunflower oil. I have eaten fresh yeast but never crunched on dried yeast. Flour as a snack is not good. But blend them together and bake then you have a very different result. One with an appetizing aroma that fills the house.
God the master baker can do wonders with the elements who arrive at the church door on a Sunday morning if we allow him to work through us.
Saturday, October 27, 2012
Spirit of the living God, fall afresh on me.
Luke 11:1-13
9 ‘So I say to you, Ask, and it will be given to you; search, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened for you. 10 For everyone who asks receives, and everyone who searches finds, and for everyone who knocks, the door will be opened. 11 Is there anyone among you who, if your child asks for* a fish, will give a snake instead of a fish? 12 Or if the child asks for an egg, will give a scorpion? 13 If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit* to those who ask him!’
On Thursday you met Maurice. Today it is Sandra. They are people who have been sign posts on my walk towards Jesus. Most of us do not have a St Paul vision as we travel along, we meet Jesus through the people in whom he dwells.
Sandra and I worked together. Sandra introduced us to homegroups. Through homegroups in churches since then we have met many 'family' members. Homegroups are an important part of our spiritual life.
Sandra prayed. When Matthew was in hospital Sandra was one of the first people I telephoned.
Through verse 13 Sandra guided me to a knowledge and experience of the acting of the Holy Spirit in my life.
9 ‘So I say to you, Ask, and it will be given to you; search, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened for you. 10 For everyone who asks receives, and everyone who searches finds, and for everyone who knocks, the door will be opened. 11 Is there anyone among you who, if your child asks for* a fish, will give a snake instead of a fish? 12 Or if the child asks for an egg, will give a scorpion? 13 If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit* to those who ask him!’
On Thursday you met Maurice. Today it is Sandra. They are people who have been sign posts on my walk towards Jesus. Most of us do not have a St Paul vision as we travel along, we meet Jesus through the people in whom he dwells.
Sandra and I worked together. Sandra introduced us to homegroups. Through homegroups in churches since then we have met many 'family' members. Homegroups are an important part of our spiritual life.
Sandra prayed. When Matthew was in hospital Sandra was one of the first people I telephoned.
Through verse 13 Sandra guided me to a knowledge and experience of the acting of the Holy Spirit in my life.
Friday, October 26, 2012
Dinner Party
Luke 10:38-42
I like food, cooking it and eating it. I can 'waste' a happy hour thumbing through a recipe book. Thus giving a dinner party is a joy for me.
I plan ahead. I make lists. One for the house, one for the foods. I make a provisional timetable. I decide on the dishes to be served. I refine the timetable. I make a list of ingredients and check the larder. I clean and shop and bake. I lay the table and cook the meal to be ready at the after the aperitifs and nibbles. Something seems to be missing.
Talking to my guests.
I like food, cooking it and eating it. I can 'waste' a happy hour thumbing through a recipe book. Thus giving a dinner party is a joy for me.
I plan ahead. I make lists. One for the house, one for the foods. I make a provisional timetable. I decide on the dishes to be served. I refine the timetable. I make a list of ingredients and check the larder. I clean and shop and bake. I lay the table and cook the meal to be ready at the after the aperitifs and nibbles. Something seems to be missing.
Talking to my guests.
Thursday, October 25, 2012
The Way of Love
Luke 10:25-37
27 He answered, ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your mind; and your neighbour as yourself.’
The first time I discovered that this was a quote from Leviticus was on the eve of the House of Commons debate on the restoration of the death penalty for murder. Google and Hansard tell me this was 12th July 1983. We were at a homegroup meeting. i cannot remember the topic for discussion but it gravitated towards the debate the following day. Maurice, a retired bank manager was there. He quoted Leviticus 19:18, pointing out that 1918 was the year the First World War finished. Maurice was a wise and gentle man. One of the many saints whom God has put in my path as pointers to his way of love.
27 He answered, ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your mind; and your neighbour as yourself.’
The first time I discovered that this was a quote from Leviticus was on the eve of the House of Commons debate on the restoration of the death penalty for murder. Google and Hansard tell me this was 12th July 1983. We were at a homegroup meeting. i cannot remember the topic for discussion but it gravitated towards the debate the following day. Maurice, a retired bank manager was there. He quoted Leviticus 19:18, pointing out that 1918 was the year the First World War finished. Maurice was a wise and gentle man. One of the many saints whom God has put in my path as pointers to his way of love.
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
Melting and Strengthening
Psalm 119:25-48
28 My soul melts away for sorrow;
strengthen me according to your word.
The chocolatier near us makes wonderful icecream. I think my favourite is almond. It enhances most desserts. It is almost an instinctive reaction for me to take a thermal bag with me to buy icecream even though we, the icecream and I, are travelling a mere one hundred metres and in Belgian weather. Texas is different. An anxiety sets about about the icecream melting almost between the dish and the mouth; certainly between store and house. One guards against melting. Maybe carrying the analogy too far - one keeps the icecream safe so that it may energize and strengthen the body.
So it is with my soul in time of sorrow. Sorrow can melt and diminish my soul but God is true to his word and will send the means of strength. Look for Him.
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
Shadows
Psalm 36
7 How precious is your steadfast love, O God!
All people may take refuge in the shadow of your wings.
8 They feast on the abundance of your house,
and you give them drink from the river of your delights.
9 For with you is the fountain of life;
in your light we see light.
I started to write a poem, Sunlight and Shadow but the words were not coming in the right way to demonstrate the loving care of sheltering under the wings of our Lord.
There were no pictures of wintery storms and a lone mountain shed offering respite from the blustering weather. Or metaphors for the storms of life.
There were no banquets of culinary delights to tempt the taste buds or imperial champagne to strengthen the body. Or metaphors for the famine of the soul.
There were no gushing springs to quench the spiritual thirst or blazing torches giving guidance along the chosen way.
Yet Lord you are in the mundane as much as in the extraordinary.
7 How precious is your steadfast love, O God!
All people may take refuge in the shadow of your wings.
8 They feast on the abundance of your house,
and you give them drink from the river of your delights.
9 For with you is the fountain of life;
in your light we see light.
I started to write a poem, Sunlight and Shadow but the words were not coming in the right way to demonstrate the loving care of sheltering under the wings of our Lord.
There were no pictures of wintery storms and a lone mountain shed offering respite from the blustering weather. Or metaphors for the storms of life.
There were no banquets of culinary delights to tempt the taste buds or imperial champagne to strengthen the body. Or metaphors for the famine of the soul.
There were no gushing springs to quench the spiritual thirst or blazing torches giving guidance along the chosen way.
Yet Lord you are in the mundane as much as in the extraordinary.
Monday, October 22, 2012
Who are my Samaritans?
Luke 9:51-62
The question was "Who is my neighbour?" The answer, was not given but instead a story was told. Answer your own question my friend.
Today is one of the other Samaritan references. The one which exemplifies the lack of a loving relationship between the Jews and the Samaritans. The one which shows distrust and hatred on both sides.
The juxtaposition of these two readings in my life and last night's sermon by Toby Howarth prompt me to ask "Who are my Samaritans?". Who are the people for whom I have an innate distrust? Now what do I do?
The question was "Who is my neighbour?" The answer, was not given but instead a story was told. Answer your own question my friend.
Today is one of the other Samaritan references. The one which exemplifies the lack of a loving relationship between the Jews and the Samaritans. The one which shows distrust and hatred on both sides.
The juxtaposition of these two readings in my life and last night's sermon by Toby Howarth prompt me to ask "Who are my Samaritans?". Who are the people for whom I have an innate distrust? Now what do I do?
Sunday, October 21, 2012
Retreat
Matthew 16:13-20
‘Who do people say that the Son of Man is?’ 14 And they said, ‘Some say John the Baptist, but others Elijah, and still others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.’ 15 He said to them, ‘But who do you say that I am?’
Just standing and watching the ebb and flow of the incoming tide is a reminder of the big questions of life, or rather a reminder of the answers. Yes there is an Almighty, a Creator, a Lord of All Things. There must be an organizer of the waters of the world, the sun, the moon and the stars; little lambs and baby people have a designer. It is easier to spend time marvelling at these answers away from the hustle and bustle of the daily round.
They got to the Sea of Tiberias, away from the crowds. Jesus led them in gently. ‘Who do people say that the Son of Man is?’ Then ‘But who do you say that I am?’
Big questions are maybe better asked when in a secluded place, perhaps the answers seem nearer. I try to take time each day to sit and watch imaginary waves or the leaves waving in the breeze.
‘Who do people say that the Son of Man is?’ 14 And they said, ‘Some say John the Baptist, but others Elijah, and still others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.’ 15 He said to them, ‘But who do you say that I am?’
Just standing and watching the ebb and flow of the incoming tide is a reminder of the big questions of life, or rather a reminder of the answers. Yes there is an Almighty, a Creator, a Lord of All Things. There must be an organizer of the waters of the world, the sun, the moon and the stars; little lambs and baby people have a designer. It is easier to spend time marvelling at these answers away from the hustle and bustle of the daily round.
They got to the Sea of Tiberias, away from the crowds. Jesus led them in gently. ‘Who do people say that the Son of Man is?’ Then ‘But who do you say that I am?’
Big questions are maybe better asked when in a secluded place, perhaps the answers seem nearer. I try to take time each day to sit and watch imaginary waves or the leaves waving in the breeze.
Saturday, October 20, 2012
Hobby horse 2
Ecclesiasticus 1:1-10,18-27
2 The sand of the sea, the drops of rain,
and the days of eternity—who can count them?
3 The height of heaven, the breadth of the earth,
the abyss, and wisdom*—who can search them out?
4 Wisdom was created before all other things,
and prudent understanding from eternity.*
6 The root of wisdom—to whom has it been revealed?
Her subtleties—who knows them?*
8 There is but one who is wise, greatly to be feared,
seated upon his throne—the Lord.
I was slow to read. My dolls had to do sums, not for them sitting comfortably and listening to a cosy tale. They had to do their additions and multiplications. I am comfortable with numbers. I will count just to fill in the time, especially when struggling up a hill. I count the revolutions of the front wheel, or encourage myself by doing another 'four'. Numbers are my friends, English or French, maybe Dutch in the future.
My love of numbers though is surpassed by my longing for the beaches and the ocean. I can walk back and forth cross beach or stand idly staring out to sea marvelling at the rippling or billowing waves. Or watching the sand pushed and pulled by the ebb and waning of the tide. How much sand can one dig with one toe? How long will it take for the grains to dissipate? The beach is an ever engrossing source of wonder. A continual pointer to the amazing Creator.
2 The sand of the sea, the drops of rain,
and the days of eternity—who can count them?
3 The height of heaven, the breadth of the earth,
the abyss, and wisdom*—who can search them out?
4 Wisdom was created before all other things,
and prudent understanding from eternity.*
6 The root of wisdom—to whom has it been revealed?
Her subtleties—who knows them?*
8 There is but one who is wise, greatly to be feared,
seated upon his throne—the Lord.
I was slow to read. My dolls had to do sums, not for them sitting comfortably and listening to a cosy tale. They had to do their additions and multiplications. I am comfortable with numbers. I will count just to fill in the time, especially when struggling up a hill. I count the revolutions of the front wheel, or encourage myself by doing another 'four'. Numbers are my friends, English or French, maybe Dutch in the future.
My love of numbers though is surpassed by my longing for the beaches and the ocean. I can walk back and forth cross beach or stand idly staring out to sea marvelling at the rippling or billowing waves. Or watching the sand pushed and pulled by the ebb and waning of the tide. How much sand can one dig with one toe? How long will it take for the grains to dissipate? The beach is an ever engrossing source of wonder. A continual pointer to the amazing Creator.
Friday, October 19, 2012
A Hobby Horse
Sirach 1:1-10,18-27
18 The fear of the Lord is the crown of wisdom,
making peace and perfect health to flourish.*
19 She rained down knowledge and discerning comprehension,
and she heightened the glory of those who held her fast.
20 To fear the Lord is the root of wisdom,
and her branches are long life.*
Today I am going to ride my bike, not my hobby horse, to the station and take public transport to my meeting. I shall enjoy the ride alongside the peaceful waters of the canal. There will be geese and ducks sunning themselves and moorhens gently bobbing along until I arrive. meanwhile I shall marvel at the beauty of the world that our Lord has created and tell him so. That is the hobby horse.
18 The fear of the Lord is the crown of wisdom,
making peace and perfect health to flourish.*
19 She rained down knowledge and discerning comprehension,
and she heightened the glory of those who held her fast.
20 To fear the Lord is the root of wisdom,
and her branches are long life.*
Today I am going to ride my bike, not my hobby horse, to the station and take public transport to my meeting. I shall enjoy the ride alongside the peaceful waters of the canal. There will be geese and ducks sunning themselves and moorhens gently bobbing along until I arrive. meanwhile I shall marvel at the beauty of the world that our Lord has created and tell him so. That is the hobby horse.
Thursday, October 18, 2012
Rogue plants
Jonah 3:1-10,4:1-11
6 The Lord God appointed a bush,* and made it come up over Jonah, to give shade over his head, to save him from his discomfort; so Jonah was very happy about the bush. 7But when dawn came up the next day, God appointed a worm that attacked the bush, so that it withered.
Last year I had a beautiful bowl of antirrhinums. I loved looking out of the window onto the multicoloured spectacle. This year I decided not to be boring. I tried dahlias. The slugs ate most of them and I filled the gaps with geraniums. I missed the antirrhinums, partly because of the joy they have given one of my daughters every since, as a child, she discovered their snaps.
I am delighted that am not deprived of my hints to remember Naomi. Antirrhinums have planted themselves in the path, I have left them and marvel at their glory and pray for Naomi whenever I see them.
Wednesday, October 17, 2012
Bread
Psalm 14
4 Have they no knowledge, all the evildoers
who eat up my people as they eat bread,
and do not call upon the Lord?
It is usual in Belgian restaurants to be brought bread to eat whilst one is waiting for the meal to arrive. One eats this bread whilst idly chatting in anticipation of the impending culinary delights. The bread is a filler-in, of no great importance, a stop gap measure.
Lord every person whom you have created is special in your eyes. Help me to see those who I meet today athrough your eyes and to appreciate their worth.
4 Have they no knowledge, all the evildoers
who eat up my people as they eat bread,
and do not call upon the Lord?
It is usual in Belgian restaurants to be brought bread to eat whilst one is waiting for the meal to arrive. One eats this bread whilst idly chatting in anticipation of the impending culinary delights. The bread is a filler-in, of no great importance, a stop gap measure.
Lord every person whom you have created is special in your eyes. Help me to see those who I meet today athrough your eyes and to appreciate their worth.
Tuesday, October 16, 2012
Hide and seek or just hide
Psalm 10
1 Why, O Lord, do you stand far off?
Why do you hide yourself in times of trouble?
Jonah 1:1-17a
3 But Jonah set out to flee to Tarshish from the presence of the Lord. He went down to Joppa and found a ship going to Tarshish; so he paid his fare and went on board, to go with them to Tarshish, away from the presence of the Lord.
Luke 8 :40-56
45Then Jesus asked, ‘Who touched me?’ When all denied it, Peter* said, ‘Master, the crowds surround you and press in on you.’ 46But Jesus said, ‘Someone touched me; for I noticed that power had gone out from me.’ 47When the woman saw that she could not remain hidden, she came trembling; and falling down before him, she declared in the presence of all the people why she had touched him, and how she had been immediately healed. 48He said to her, ‘Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace.’
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, ready or not coming. Hide and seek was a popular neighbourhood game. My problem was that is I was 'it' I never seemed to find everyone. In fact I think they used to break the rules and move. If I was hiding I always seemed to be found first. But I liked the idea of the game. Perhaps I enjoyed the challenge that this time it would be different.
God does not play the game. He knows where we are. When we think we know what he wants to do and it is not on our list He knows. When we are timid and afraid and wish the ground would open up and swallow us he encourges us to come forward. He does not hide, we need to look.
Monday, October 15, 2012
Sunday, October 14, 2012
On the way...
Matthew 15:21-28
24 He answered, ‘I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.’
28 Then Jesus answered her, ‘Woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you wish.’ And her daughter was healed instantly.
On the way to the washing machine I saw the milk that needed putting away. With milk and laundry basket in hand my attention was caught by two dogs, one under a chair carefully watching my every move and the other attempting to trip me as I negotiated the table and chairs of the kitchen. I succumbed and fed them. There is always so much to do. We need to determine our priorities but not neglect the original agenda.
24 He answered, ‘I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.’
28 Then Jesus answered her, ‘Woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you wish.’ And her daughter was healed instantly.
On the way to the washing machine I saw the milk that needed putting away. With milk and laundry basket in hand my attention was caught by two dogs, one under a chair carefully watching my every move and the other attempting to trip me as I negotiated the table and chairs of the kitchen. I succumbed and fed them. There is always so much to do. We need to determine our priorities but not neglect the original agenda.
Saturday, October 13, 2012
Psalm 104. Hymn of Praise for the Cretor
Luke 8 : 25
He said to them, ‘Where is your faith?’ They were afraid and amazed, and said to one another, ‘Who then is this, that he commands even the winds and the water, and they obey him?’
Psalm 104
Yesterday I read a quote from Urban T. Holmes. The essence was "If you have nothing worthwhile to say then keep silent". Hence today my offering is visual rather than verbal.
2 wrapped in light as with a garment.
You stretch out the heavens like a tent,
3. you make the clouds your* chariot, you ride on the wings of the wind,
4 you make the winds your* messengers,
fire and flame your* ministers.
6 You cover it with the deep as with a garment;
the waters stood above the mountains.
8 They rose up to the mountains, ran down to the valleys
to the place that you appointed for them.
9 You set a boundary that they may not pass,
so that they might not again cover the earth.
10 You make springs gush forth in the valleys;
they flow between the hills,
11 giving drink to every wild animal;
the wild asses quench their thirst.
12 By the streams* the birds of the air have their habitation;
they sing among the branches.
14 You cause the grass to grow for the cattle,
and plants for people to use,*
to bring forth food from the earth,
23 People go out to their work
and to their labour until the evening.
16 The trees of the Lord are watered abundantly,
the cedars of Lebanon that he planted.
17 In them the birds build their nests;
the stork has its home in the fir trees.
18 The high mountains are for the wild goats;
the rocks are a refuge for the coneys.
19 You have made the moon to mark the seasons;
the sun knows its time for setting.
22 When the sun rises, they withdraw
and lie down in their dens.
24 O Lord, how manifold are your works!
In wisdom you have made them all;
the earth is full of your creatures.
25 Yonder is the sea, great and wide,
creeping things innumerable are there,
living things both small and great.
26 There go the ships,
and Leviathan that you formed to sport in it.
33 I will sing to the Lord as long as I live;
I will sing praise to my God while I have being.
34 May my meditation be pleasing to him,
for I rejoice in the Lord.
He said to them, ‘Where is your faith?’ They were afraid and amazed, and said to one another, ‘Who then is this, that he commands even the winds and the water, and they obey him?’
Psalm 104
Yesterday I read a quote from Urban T. Holmes. The essence was "If you have nothing worthwhile to say then keep silent". Hence today my offering is visual rather than verbal.
2 wrapped in light as with a garment.
You stretch out the heavens like a tent,
3. you make the clouds your* chariot, you ride on the wings of the wind,
4 you make the winds your* messengers,
fire and flame your* ministers.
6 You cover it with the deep as with a garment;
the waters stood above the mountains.
8 They rose up to the mountains, ran down to the valleys
to the place that you appointed for them.
9 You set a boundary that they may not pass,
so that they might not again cover the earth.
10 You make springs gush forth in the valleys;
they flow between the hills,
11 giving drink to every wild animal;
the wild asses quench their thirst.
12 By the streams* the birds of the air have their habitation;
they sing among the branches.
14 You cause the grass to grow for the cattle,
and plants for people to use,*
to bring forth food from the earth,
23 People go out to their work
and to their labour until the evening.
16 The trees of the Lord are watered abundantly,
the cedars of Lebanon that he planted.
17 In them the birds build their nests;
the stork has its home in the fir trees.
18 The high mountains are for the wild goats;
the rocks are a refuge for the coneys.
19 You have made the moon to mark the seasons;
the sun knows its time for setting.
22 When the sun rises, they withdraw
and lie down in their dens.
24 O Lord, how manifold are your works!
In wisdom you have made them all;
the earth is full of your creatures.
25 Yonder is the sea, great and wide,
creeping things innumerable are there,
living things both small and great.
26 There go the ships,
and Leviathan that you formed to sport in it.
33 I will sing to the Lord as long as I live;
I will sing praise to my God while I have being.
34 May my meditation be pleasing to him,
for I rejoice in the Lord.
Friday, October 12, 2012
Thursday, October 11, 2012
Truth Bending
Acts 24:1-23
Today I left home a little late for the appointed time. I would have to hurry. Unfortunately hurry was not an option. A tractor pulling a trailer followed by a bus was in front of me. Overtaking was impossible. I was doomed to be really late.
Now what did I say when I arrived? Of course I described the slow moving traffic completely omitting that I left home two minutes later than I should. Truth bending is too common.
Wednesday, October 10, 2012
Doubts
Luke 7:18-35
John the Baptist was Jesus' cousin. Their mother's were close, each had a miraculous pregnancy. John hd baptised Jesus and still he had doubts. He doubted if Jesus, his cousin could really be the one spoken of by the prophets. Jesus did not give a straight answer. He said, 'What do you see?". "Is it conventional for the blind to see and the lame to walk?"
Lord I have read the stories. On occasion I believe that you have nudged me to certain actions. Help me to see your work today and to tell my story of you.
John the Baptist was Jesus' cousin. Their mother's were close, each had a miraculous pregnancy. John hd baptised Jesus and still he had doubts. He doubted if Jesus, his cousin could really be the one spoken of by the prophets. Jesus did not give a straight answer. He said, 'What do you see?". "Is it conventional for the blind to see and the lame to walk?"
Lord I have read the stories. On occasion I believe that you have nudged me to certain actions. Help me to see your work today and to tell my story of you.
Tuesday, October 9, 2012
Resurrection stories
Luke 7:1-17
11 Soon afterwards* he went to a town called Nain, and his disciples and a large crowd went with him. 12 As he approached the gate of the town, a man who had died was being carried out. He was his mother’s only son, and she was a widow; and with her was a large crowd from the town. 13 When the Lord saw her, he had compassion for her and said to her, ‘Do not weep.’ 14 Then he came forward and touched the bier, and the bearers stood still. And he said, ‘Young man, I say to you, rise!’ 15 The dead man sat up and began to speak, and Jesus* gave him to his mother. 16 Fear seized all of them; and they glorified God, saying, ‘A great prophet has risen among us!’ and ‘God has looked favourably on his people!’ 17 This word about him spread throughout Judea and all the surrounding country.
A hollow shell of dark chocolate clad in purple foil and concealing in its cavity strawberry, almond, hazelnut filled chocolates. My childhood memories of Easter, the celebration of Jesus rising from the dead. My own children probably think of Easter egg hunts, time spent searching for little chocolate eggs in parts of the house or racing their friends towards plastic cases filled with candy at church. Yes we know about Jesus' resurrection. We may also know the story of Lazarus because he was Jesus' friend but how many know of this lad from Nain? The one who was raised because Jesus had compassion on his mother, a widow who had lost her means of support.
How many stories of Jesus do we keep to ourselves? How many little miracles do we hide because we either do not recognize them for what they are or we covet the moment? They could be telling the continuing story of the resurrected Jesus.
11 Soon afterwards* he went to a town called Nain, and his disciples and a large crowd went with him. 12 As he approached the gate of the town, a man who had died was being carried out. He was his mother’s only son, and she was a widow; and with her was a large crowd from the town. 13 When the Lord saw her, he had compassion for her and said to her, ‘Do not weep.’ 14 Then he came forward and touched the bier, and the bearers stood still. And he said, ‘Young man, I say to you, rise!’ 15 The dead man sat up and began to speak, and Jesus* gave him to his mother. 16 Fear seized all of them; and they glorified God, saying, ‘A great prophet has risen among us!’ and ‘God has looked favourably on his people!’ 17 This word about him spread throughout Judea and all the surrounding country.
A hollow shell of dark chocolate clad in purple foil and concealing in its cavity strawberry, almond, hazelnut filled chocolates. My childhood memories of Easter, the celebration of Jesus rising from the dead. My own children probably think of Easter egg hunts, time spent searching for little chocolate eggs in parts of the house or racing their friends towards plastic cases filled with candy at church. Yes we know about Jesus' resurrection. We may also know the story of Lazarus because he was Jesus' friend but how many know of this lad from Nain? The one who was raised because Jesus had compassion on his mother, a widow who had lost her means of support.
How many stories of Jesus do we keep to ourselves? How many little miracles do we hide because we either do not recognize them for what they are or we covet the moment? They could be telling the continuing story of the resurrected Jesus.
Monday, October 8, 2012
I forgot
Psalm 106:19-48
21 They forgot God, their Saviour,
who had done great things in Egypt,
Let me never forget the "thank you God" instances in my life.
21 They forgot God, their Saviour,
who had done great things in Egypt,
Let me never forget the "thank you God" instances in my life.
Friday, October 5, 2012
International Language
Acts 21:37-22:16
I go into the village bakery. I speak French, it is the only language that is understood in that place of gastronomic indulgence. It is the same in at the butcher's and the epicerie. I live in true Wallonia. French is the language in which to communicate. Now Brussels is different. Walk down the street and count how many languages you hear but probably the language you will hear most, especially if you go to the Schumann area, the seat of the EU, is English. I speak very good English but it is no use in my village.
Sometimes one needs the local language and sometimes the international one. Paul spoke to the centurion Paul spoke to the people. He had the same message for both. So do I, now I need to tell it.
I go into the village bakery. I speak French, it is the only language that is understood in that place of gastronomic indulgence. It is the same in at the butcher's and the epicerie. I live in true Wallonia. French is the language in which to communicate. Now Brussels is different. Walk down the street and count how many languages you hear but probably the language you will hear most, especially if you go to the Schumann area, the seat of the EU, is English. I speak very good English but it is no use in my village.
Sometimes one needs the local language and sometimes the international one. Paul spoke to the centurion Paul spoke to the people. He had the same message for both. So do I, now I need to tell it.
Thursday, October 4, 2012
Sunday
Luke 6:1-11
‘I ask you, is it lawful to do good or to do harm on the sabbath, to save life or to destroy it?’
My grandfather taught me how to play cards, patience, rummy, happy families, snap. He spent many hours playing with me. I still have the wastepaper basket which we used as the hole for our card aiming game. Dominoes was one of his favourites, I have that same domino set too. But he would not play crds with me on a Sunday. On Sundays we went for a walk, usually along the promenade at Neyland, but sometimes further afield. We might pack Grandma into the car and go to the real seaside, Neyland only being on a saltwater estuary. Occasionally we went for afternoon tea in a hotel. Sunday was not a day for playing games, especially card games. Sometimes Grandpa would play hymns on his piano, I still have the piano too though it is less useful that the wastepaper basket.
Sunday was a special day. Card games were sinful and therefore not to be indulged on a Sunday. I had problems with this concept when I was eight and I still do. Should I reserve my sinning for Monday to Saturday? Alternatively if it is a sin why indulge in the activity at all?
‘I ask you, is it lawful to do good or to do harm on the sabbath, to save life or to destroy it?’
My grandfather taught me how to play cards, patience, rummy, happy families, snap. He spent many hours playing with me. I still have the wastepaper basket which we used as the hole for our card aiming game. Dominoes was one of his favourites, I have that same domino set too. But he would not play crds with me on a Sunday. On Sundays we went for a walk, usually along the promenade at Neyland, but sometimes further afield. We might pack Grandma into the car and go to the real seaside, Neyland only being on a saltwater estuary. Occasionally we went for afternoon tea in a hotel. Sunday was not a day for playing games, especially card games. Sometimes Grandpa would play hymns on his piano, I still have the piano too though it is less useful that the wastepaper basket.
Sunday was a special day. Card games were sinful and therefore not to be indulged on a Sunday. I had problems with this concept when I was eight and I still do. Should I reserve my sinning for Monday to Saturday? Alternatively if it is a sin why indulge in the activity at all?
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
Wrong way
Psalm 119:121-144
128 Truly I direct my steps by all your precepts;*
I hate every false way.
133 Keep my steps steady according to your promise,
and never let iniquity have dominion over me.
I know it has happened, and more than once but as hard as I try to recall the events I cannot. times when I have taken a wrong turning, either because I was following a map with incorrect information od I was trusting my instincts which occasionally let me down. The only such journey which comes to mind was one day recently when I decided to go to the next town by bike. It was raining but I had not option, The car was with David at a meeting in Antwerpen or Le Havre. The bus journey would take two and a half hours but the bike journey only n hour and a half. I decided to risk it. T
The first obstacle was a fallen tree, blocking at waist height a much used pathway. I lifted the bike over the tree. The next was a road which the GPS had taken me down. I thought it would be fine on the bike. A tarmac road which degenerated into cobbles and then rough stone. It would be fine on a bike if it were not in the Belgian continuous rain climate. The potholes had grown in bath holes covering the whole width of the road. I turned back, gave up the idea of the short cut and kept to the main road with its traffic. The next shortcut was had Private signs large enough for me to read. I followed the main road.
I remembered from the map that there was a picturesque little lane near my destination. I was heading for that road. I missed it and took a longer way but eventually arrived, almost dry as the rain had taken a break.
I do not have a map of the area and clouds were obscuring my satellite view. How I wish I could see the same map that God uses for my life.
128 Truly I direct my steps by all your precepts;*
I hate every false way.
133 Keep my steps steady according to your promise,
and never let iniquity have dominion over me.
I know it has happened, and more than once but as hard as I try to recall the events I cannot. times when I have taken a wrong turning, either because I was following a map with incorrect information od I was trusting my instincts which occasionally let me down. The only such journey which comes to mind was one day recently when I decided to go to the next town by bike. It was raining but I had not option, The car was with David at a meeting in Antwerpen or Le Havre. The bus journey would take two and a half hours but the bike journey only n hour and a half. I decided to risk it. T
The first obstacle was a fallen tree, blocking at waist height a much used pathway. I lifted the bike over the tree. The next was a road which the GPS had taken me down. I thought it would be fine on the bike. A tarmac road which degenerated into cobbles and then rough stone. It would be fine on a bike if it were not in the Belgian continuous rain climate. The potholes had grown in bath holes covering the whole width of the road. I turned back, gave up the idea of the short cut and kept to the main road with its traffic. The next shortcut was had Private signs large enough for me to read. I followed the main road.
I remembered from the map that there was a picturesque little lane near my destination. I was heading for that road. I missed it and took a longer way but eventually arrived, almost dry as the rain had taken a break.
I do not have a map of the area and clouds were obscuring my satellite view. How I wish I could see the same map that God uses for my life.
Tuesday, October 2, 2012
Your Mat
Luke 5:12-26
‘I say to you, stand up and take your bed and go to your home.’
Jesus told the guy who had been let down through the roof that his sins had been forgiven, then he told him to take up his mat and walk. How did the man know that he could walk?
The story takes place in Capernaum, (Mark 2:1-12), one of the places where Jesus is reputed to have lived (Matt 4:14). The carpenter said “Get up and walk”. Yes, we know that he had healed many people and that he preached a very good sermon. How could this man walk? The evidence was all against it. Presumably he had been lying paralysed on his mat for years.
What would his life be like if he did get up and walk? What if he fell over after a few steps, or tomorrow, and was back on his mat? What if he could not find a job, he could no longer beg? What would be his wife’s reaction to her husband walking in through the door through which four friends had carried him out? She would be delighted. Her breadwinner was fully operational again. But would she begin to doubt? Perhaps she might think that his sickness had all been in his mind and that he had been malingering all those years. It might just be safer to stay on the mat. The whatifs can be very powerful. Fear of the unknown can be more unpalatable than very unpleasant but familiar circumstances.
How did this particular paralytic have the confidence to know that he could walk? He only had Jesus’ word for it yet he got up, rolled up his mat and he walked home.
Jesus means what he says. If he says ‘walk’ then it is all right to walk. There need be no fear of not being able to do as he says.
Jesus knew that the man would be able to walk. He knew that it might be safer to stay on the mat. Perhaps that was why he said ‘Your sins are forgiven’ before he told the man to get up and walk. He was giving the man confidence to get up and go. Jesus knew how loud the whispering whatifs can shout, their voices like the compelling sirens of the Greek gods. The sin of listening to fear was overcome.
He does not ask us to do anything that we are incapable of doing, given that he is with us and helping us to bear the load (Matt 11:30). Walking had very extreme consequences for the man. Not only would he be capable of getting himself home but tomorrow he would either go to work or look for a job. No more lying around whilst others served him. He could get his own food and take himself to the bathroom. Listening to Jesus and obeying him opened up a whole knew existence for the guy.
What is your mat? What is keeping you from fulfilling the role God has for you? What command are you are pretending not to hear? What is it that you cannot do because you don’t feel equipped, either physically or mentally?
I cheated a little with today’s thought. I wrote this quite a few years ago because I felt that this passage had a lot under its surface.
Monday, October 1, 2012
The twinge of knowing
Acts 20:17-38
22 And now, as a captive to the Spirit,* I am on my way to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there, 23 except that the Holy Spirit testifies to me in every city that imprisonment and persecutions are waiting for me.
I have just received an email telling me that the IRM (Institut Royal Météorologique) has just opened its new toy. A new radar system at Jabbeke near Ostend. Now they will be able to tell us more accurately what precipitation is falling and how much of it there is. I hope they will use this information to improve their forecasting of how many jumpers I need to wear and whether I need an umbrella as well as a raincoat.
Paul did not know what was going to happen to him. He just had this feeling that he had to go to Jerusalem and that he would be imprisoned. he knew his life was going to be difficult yet he went anyway.
I had an uneasy feeling of foreboding when we bought our house in Houston. I liked the house very much but before we even gave a solid 'yes' to the purchase I thought we would have problems. We did have neighbour problems which were upsetting at the time but now provide some good tales. At the time of the 'feelings' I doubted that it was my spiritual radar at work. Now I am not so sure.
Keep listening for the little voice, the twinge of knowing.
22 And now, as a captive to the Spirit,* I am on my way to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there, 23 except that the Holy Spirit testifies to me in every city that imprisonment and persecutions are waiting for me.
I have just received an email telling me that the IRM (Institut Royal Météorologique) has just opened its new toy. A new radar system at Jabbeke near Ostend. Now they will be able to tell us more accurately what precipitation is falling and how much of it there is. I hope they will use this information to improve their forecasting of how many jumpers I need to wear and whether I need an umbrella as well as a raincoat.
Paul did not know what was going to happen to him. He just had this feeling that he had to go to Jerusalem and that he would be imprisoned. he knew his life was going to be difficult yet he went anyway.
I had an uneasy feeling of foreboding when we bought our house in Houston. I liked the house very much but before we even gave a solid 'yes' to the purchase I thought we would have problems. We did have neighbour problems which were upsetting at the time but now provide some good tales. At the time of the 'feelings' I doubted that it was my spiritual radar at work. Now I am not so sure.
Keep listening for the little voice, the twinge of knowing.
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