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The Ripple Effect Starts Monday, April 5

2010-04-04T21:56:00.002-04:00

Thanks for joining me this Lent as we walked through Luke. Get daily devotions from Luke's Second Edition, the Book of Acts, starting Monday, April 5.

http://www.ripplingout.blogspot.com/
also posted daily to the Good Shepherd Lutheran Gaithersburg FACEBOOK Page (become a Fan!)

Pastor Dave

CROSSING OUR PATH---- Day 40-- Saturday April 3 2010

2010-04-03T08:48:00.000-04:00

Day 40 Saturday April 3 2010

TODAY’S INTRO

Day 40! The entire way through Luke. Death does not have the final answer.

TODAY’S TEXT- Luke 24

24But on the first day of the week, at early dawn, they came to the tomb, taking the spices that they had prepared. 2They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, 3but when they went in, they did not find the body. 4While they were perplexed about this, suddenly two men in dazzling clothes stood beside them. 5The women were terrified and bowed their faces to the ground, but the men said to them, “Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here, but has risen. 6Remember how he told you, while he was still in Galilee, 7that the Son of Man must be handed over to sinners, and be crucified, and on the third day rise again.” 8Then they remembered his words, 9and returning from the tomb, they told all this to the eleven and to all the rest. 10Now it was Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and the other women with them who told this to the apostles. 11But these words seemed to them an idle tale, and they did not believe them. 12But Peter got up and ran to the tomb; stooping and looking in, he saw the linen cloths by themselves; then he went home, amazed at what had happened.

13Now on that same day two of them were going to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem, 14and talking with each other about all these things that had happened. 15While they were talking and discussing, Jesus himself came near and went with them, 16but their eyes were kept from recognizing him. 17And he said to them, “What are you discussing with each other while you walk along?” They stood still, looking sad. 18Then one of them, whose name was Cleopas, answered him, “Are you the only stranger in Jerusalem who does not know the things that have taken place there in these days?” 19He asked them, “What things?” They replied, “The things about Jesus of Nazareth, who was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people, 20and how our chief priests and leaders handed him over to be condemned to death and crucified him. 21But we had hoped that he was the one to redeem Israel. Yes, and besides all this, it is now the third day since these things took place. 22Moreover, some women of our group astounded us. They were at the tomb early this morning, 23and when they did not find his body there, they came back and told us that they had indeed seen a vision of angels who said that he was alive. 24Some of those who were with us went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said; but they did not see him.” 25Then he said to them, “Oh, how foolish you are, and how slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have declared! 26Was it not necessary that the Messiah should suffer these things and then enter into his glory?” 27Then beginning with Moses and all the prophets, he interpreted to them the things about himself in all the scriptures. 28As they came near the village to which they were going, he walked ahead as if he were going on. 29But they urged him strongly, saying, “Stay with us, because it is almost evening and the day is now nearly over.” So he went in to stay with them. 30When he was at the table with them, he took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to them. 31Then their eyes were opened, and they recognized him; and he vanished from their sight. 32They said to each other, “Were not our hearts burning within us while he was talking to us on the road, while he was opening the scriptures to us?” 33That same hour they got up and returned to Jerusalem; and they found the eleven and their companions gathered together. 34They were saying, “The Lord has risen indeed, and he has appeared to Simon!” 35Then they told what had happened on the road, and how he had been made known to them in the breaking of the bread.

36While they were talking about this, Jesus himself stood among them and said to them, “Peace be with you.” 37They were startled and terrified, and thought that they were seeing a ghost. 38He said to them, “Why are you frightened, and why do doubts arise in your hearts? 39Look at my hands and my feet; see that it is I myself. Touch me and see; for a ghost does not have flesh and bones as you see that I have.” 40And when he had said this, he showed them his hands and his feet. 41While in their joy they were disbelieving and still wondering, he said to them, “Have you anything here to eat?” 42They gave him a piece of broiled fish, 43and he took it and ate in their presence. 44Then he said to them, “These are my words that I spoke to you while I was still with you—that everything written about me in the law of Moses, the prophets, and the psalms must be fulfilled.” 45Then he opened their minds to understand the scriptures, 46and he said to them, “Thus it is written, that the Messiah is to suffer and to rise from the dead on the third day, 47and that repentance and forgiveness of sins is to be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem. 48You are witnesses of these things. 49And see, I am sending upon you what my Father promised; so stay here in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high.”

50Then he led them out as far as Bethany, and, lifting up his hands, he blessed them. 51While he was blessing them, he withdrew from them and was carried up into heaven. 52And they worshiped him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy; 53and they were continually in the temple blessing God.

TODAY’S STATUS UPDATES

Here’s a strange way to begin. Do you remember the movie ELF. It is one of my favorite movies of all time. Elf is the story of a baby who snuck into Santa’s sack one Christmas Eve and got taken back to the North Pole. The elves fell in love with the kid and one of them (played by Bob Newhart) took him in as his own son. The elf grew up to be enourmous. After all, he was human. Buddy (played by Will Ferrell) grew up with the elves but always was “different”. Buddy was given the job in the toy factory (after failing as a toy maker) of testing the quality control of the jack in the box toys. He’d crank be turning the crank on the side of the box and you’d hear the familiar tune (around and round the mulberry bush, the. . . ..and pop goes the weasel). At “pop” the jack in the box was supposed to explode out. So, over and over Buddy tested each one. If it worked, he put a check. If it didn’t it got an X. As only Will Ferrell can do, he somehow made the testing of this seem hilarious.

My point is simple- each time the hope was that things would be predicatable, that “Jack” would appear at the same exact time, every single time.

At Easter, we are reminded that for as much as we would like to have Jesus in a box and that he would come into our lives in a nice, neat, predictable, and orderly way ---he does not! At Easter, we are reminded that Jesus loves to show up and disappear and reappear . He likes to meet us on the road and journey with us and then leave us. Does he do that to keep us on our tows? Does he do that to keep us looking? Does he do that because he’s always one step ahead? Yes. Yes. Yes. Ultimately, we realize Jesus can’t be confined. When we try and confine him, we can’t stop him. When we invite him in, he’ll come and hang out (for a while). But, he is too busy to stay put. There’s a whole world out there to be reached. His resurrection is like a pebble dropped into a still pond. It starts a ripple effect that won’t be finished till it reaches the ends of the earth. May we be part of the Ripple effect of Jesus reaching out in this generation. May we be an active part of that Ripple Effect.

*Thanks for walking with me this Lent through Luke. I hope you will do a few things:

1) Join me for a daily walk through Acts starting on Monday, April 5—www.ripplingout.blogspot.com (note that this blog appears on my facebook page as well as “good shepherd Lutheran Gaithersburg “ facebook page.

2) I hope that you will provide me with some feedback on this experience. Click this link to provide me with feedback. Your comments can be anonymous. https://goodshepherdlc.wufoo.com/forms/feedback-for-jesus-facebook-page-devotion-series/

Until the Bitter End Day 39- Friday April 2 2010

2010-04-01T20:37:00.000-04:00

Day 39 Friday April 2 2010

TODAY’S INTRO

On this Good Friday, many of us will go to worship services and hear the final words of Jesus. The Tenebrae service is one of my favorites- the service of shadows. Read through Luke’s account of the crucifixion below. (You might also read the other accounts in Matthew, Mark, or John to compare)

TODAY’S TEXT- Luke 23: 32 to 56

32Two others also, who were criminals, were led away to be put to death with him. 33When they came to the place that is called The Skull, they crucified Jesus there with the criminals, one on his right and one on his left. 34Then Jesus said, “Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing.” And they cast lots to divide his clothing. 35And the people stood by, watching; but the leaders scoffed at him, saying, “He saved others; let him save himself if he is the Messiah of God, his chosen one!” 36The soldiers also mocked him, coming up and offering him sour wine, 37and saying, “If you are the King of the Jews, save yourself!” 38There was also an inscription over him, “This is the King of the Jews.” 39One of the criminals who were hanged there kept deriding him and saying, “Are you not the Messiah? Save yourself and us!” 40But the other rebuked him, saying, “Do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? 41And we indeed have been condemned justly, for we are getting what we deserve for our deeds, but this man has done nothing wrong.” 42Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” 43He replied, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in Paradise.”

44It was now about noon, and darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon, 45while the sun’s light failed; and the curtain of the temple was torn in two. 46Then Jesus, crying with a loud voice, said, “Father, into your hands I commend my spirit.” Having said this, he breathed his last. 47When the centurion saw what had taken place, he praised God and said, “Certainly this man was innocent.” 48And when all the crowds who had gathered there for this spectacle saw what had taken place, they returned home, beating their breasts. 49But all his acquaintances, including the women who had followed him from Galilee, stood at a distance, watching these things.

50Now there was a good and righteous man named Joseph, who, though a member of the council, 51had not agreed to their plan and action. He came from the Jewish town of Arimathea, and he was waiting expectantly for the kingdom of God. 52This man went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus. 53Then he took it down, wrapped it in a linen cloth, and laid it in a rock-hewn tomb where no one had ever been laid. 54It was the day of Preparation, and the sabbath was beginning. 55The women who had come with him from Galilee followed, and they saw the tomb and how his body was laid. 56Then they returned, and prepared spices and ointments. On the sabbath they rested according to the commandment.

TODAY’S STATUS UPDATES

Hanging in with someone to the “bitter end” is a tough thing. Yet, Luke makes it chrystal clear that there was a group of women who did. They followed him from Galillee. They listened to his teaching. They provided from their resources to further his ministry. When he was taken into custody and then sentenced to death, they marched behind him. They weeped and wailed and were not afraid to be seen as his followers. They stayed there as he was nailed to the cross and stayed there until he died. They stayed there after he died and were there until he was put in the grave.

We so often emphasize the total abandonment Jesus experienced. Luke makes the case that even as Jesus went through agony, devoted followers were still present. They were surely helpless to do much other than be a witness but. .. . . ..isn’t that what we are supposed to do for the dying.

Death is awkward. People don’t know what to say or do or think or . . . .whatever. People apologize for not knowing what to say or do. Step one—be there! It’s the greatest gif t you can offer. To die well takes courage (Jesus certainly demonstrated that) but so does walking with someone who is dying. It takes love and compassion and the willingness to suffer as well (albeit in a different way than the one who physically dies).

I am very thankful for the witness of these women this day. They loved Jesus to the bitter end. I only hope and pray that at the end of my life they say, “he was so stirred up that he loved the Lord till the bitter end”. May that be said for all of us.

Thanks for walking with me this Lent through Luke. I hope you will do a few things:

1) Join me for a daily walk through Acts starting on Monday, April 5—www.ripplingout.blogspot.com (note that this blog appears on my facebook page as well as “good shepherd Lutheran Gaithersburg “ facebook page.

2) I hope that you will provide me with some feedback on this experience. Click this link to provide me with feedback. Your comments can be anonymous.
https://goodshepherdlc.wufoo.com/forms/feedback-for-jesus-facebook-page-devotion-series/

STIRRING THINGS UP--- Day 38 Thursday April 1 2010

2010-03-31T19:58:00.000-04:00

Day 38 Thursday April 1 2010

TODAY’S TEXT- Luke 23: 1-31

23Then the assembly rose as a body and brought Jesus before Pilate. 2They began to accuse him, saying, “We found this man perverting our nation, forbidding us to pay taxes to the emperor, and saying that he himself is the Messiah, a king.” 3Then Pilate asked him, “Are you the king of the Jews?” He answered, “You say so.” 4Then Pilate said to the chief priests and the crowds, “I find no basis for an accusation against this man.” 5But they were insistent and said, “He stirs up the people by teaching throughout all Judea, from Galilee where he began even to this place.” 6When Pilate heard this, he asked whether the man was a Galilean. 7And when he learned that he was under Herod’s jurisdiction, he sent him off to Herod, who was himself in Jerusalem at that time. 8When Herod saw Jesus, he was very glad, for he had been wanting to see him for a long time, because he had heard about him and was hoping to see him perform some sign. 9He questioned him at some length, but Jesus gave him no answer. 10The chief priests and the scribes stood by, vehemently accusing him. 11Even Herod with his soldiers treated him with contempt and mocked him; then he put an elegant robe on him, and sent him back to Pilate. 12That same day Herod and Pilate became friends with each other; before this they had been enemies.

13Pilate then called together the chief priests, the leaders, and the people, 14and said to them, “You brought me this man as one who was perverting the people; and here I have examined him in your presence and have not found this man guilty of any of your charges against him. 15Neither has Herod, for he sent him back to us. Indeed, he has done nothing to deserve death. 16I will therefore have him flogged and release him.” 18Then they all shouted out together, “Away with this fellow! Release Barabbas for us!” 19(This was a man who had been put in prison for an insurrection that had taken place in the city, and for murder.) 20Pilate, wanting to release Jesus, addressed them again; 21but they kept shouting, “Crucify, crucify him!” 22A third time he said to them, “Why, what evil has he done? I have found in him no ground for the sentence of death; I will therefore have him flogged and then release him.” 23But they kept urgently demanding with loud shouts that he should be crucified; and their voices prevailed. 24So Pilate gave his verdict that their demand should be granted. 25He released the man they asked for, the one who had been put in prison for insurrection and murder, and he handed Jesus over as they wished.

26As they led him away, they seized a man, Simon of Cyrene, who was coming from the country, and they laid the cross on him, and made him carry it behind Jesus. 27A great number of the people followed him, and among them were women who were beating their breasts and wailing for him. 28But Jesus turned to them and said, “Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for me, but weep for yourselves and for your children. 29For the days are surely coming when they will say, ‘Blessed are the barren, and the wombs that never bore, and the breasts that never nursed.’ 30Then they will begin to say to the mountains, ‘Fall on us’; and to the hills, ‘Cover us.’ 31For if they do this when the wood is green, what will happen when it is dry?”

TODAY’S STATUS UPDATES

Stirring is important. Stirring is an act that mixes things up; it agitates, it prevents the status quo from remaining in effect. When we cook, stirring up multiple ingredients enables a new and exciting mixture.

So it is in life. The Pharisees were happy with the existing mixture and they didn’t like people to come in and stir up crowds. For that matter, neither did Roman leaders. Stirred up people in Jesus’ day were people who might potentially be dangerous. Leaders who stirred up others needed to be put in place. They as the “straw” that stirs up the drink (if you will), needed to be trashed. That is what happens to Jesus. He is deemed too much of a threat and therefore, he is sent to be “trashed” on the cross. Yet, from the trash heap of the cross and the grave, Jesus will re-emerge and get back to work. The gift of the spirit (as we will see in the book of Acts)- Jesus’ spirit- will stir things up over and over and over again.

We have a lot of work in our world. We have a lot of people who have yet to hear or experience the saving love of Jesus. We have a lot of Christian people who are fairly comfortable with the status quo. I’m 41 now. I’m at the point where I feel a sense of urgency. I don’t want to a safe faith or be part of safe Christianity. I want Jesus to stir up a tsunami in my soul and a tsunami in the people of my church so that the world around us will never be the same. Status quo will not reach the world around us. Stirred up, charged, up , and re-energized people will if we let Jesus do the stirring!

Jesus, stir away. Stir up the Tsunami within us. Even though the world tried to throw you to the trash heap, we know that nothing can stop you.

Thanks for walking with me this Lent through Luke. I hope you will do a few things:

1) Join me for a daily walk through Acts starting on Monday, April 5—www.ripplingout.blogspot.com (note that this blog appears on my facebook page as well as “good shepherd Lutheran Gaithersburg “ facebook page.

2) I hope that you will provide me with some feedback on this experience. Click this link to provide me with feedback. Your comments can be anonymous.
https://goodshepherdlc.wufoo.com/forms/feedback-for-jesus-facebook-page-devotion-series/

The Embrace that Could Have Been--- Day 37 Wednesday March 31 2010

2010-03-30T21:44:00.000-04:00

Day 37 Wednesday March 31 2010

TODAY’S INTRO

Intro—yesterday we read the story of Jesus’ final meal with the disciples. Today, we hear Jesus’ heart wrenching prayers in the garden and his arrest. In many ways it is so tragic.

TODAY’S TEXT- Luke 22:39-71

39He came out and went, as was his custom, to the Mount of Olives; and the disciples followed him. 40When he reached the place, he said to them, “Pray that you may not come into the time of trial.” 41Then he withdrew from them about a stone’s throw, knelt down, and prayed, 42“Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me; yet, not my will but yours be done.” 43Then an angel from heaven appeared to him and gave him strength. 44In his anguish he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat became like great drops of blood falling down on the ground. 45When he got up from prayer, he came to the disciples and found them sleeping because of grief, 46and he said to them, “Why are you sleeping? Get up and pray that you may not come into the time of trial.”

47While he was still speaking, suddenly a crowd came, and the one called Judas, one of the twelve, was leading them. He approached Jesus to kiss him; 48but Jesus said to him, “Judas, is it with a kiss that you are betraying the Son of Man?” 49When those who were around him saw what was coming, they asked, “Lord, should we strike with the sword?” 50Then one of them struck the slave of the high priest and cut off his right ear. 51But Jesus said, “No more of this!” And he touched his ear and healed him. 52Then Jesus said to the chief priests, the officers of the temple police, and the elders who had come for him, “Have you come out with swords and clubs as if I were a bandit? 53When I was with you day after day in the temple, you did not lay hands on me. But this is your hour, and the power of darkness!”

54Then they seized him and led him away, bringing him into the high priest’s house. But Peter was following at a distance. 55When they had kindled a fire in the middle of the courtyard and sat down together, Peter sat among them. 56Then a servant-girl, seeing him in the firelight, stared at him and said, “This man also was with him.” 57But he denied it, saying, “Woman, I do not know him.” 58A little later someone else, on seeing him, said, “You also are one of them.” But Peter said, “Man, I am not!” 59Then about an hour later still another kept insisting, “Surely this man also was with him; for he is a Galilean.” 60But Peter said, “Man, I do not know what you are talking about!” At that moment, while he was still speaking, the cock crowed. 61The Lord turned and looked at Peter. Then Peter remembered the word of the Lord, how he had said to him, “Before the cock crows today, you will deny me three times.” 62And he went out and wept bitterly.

63Now the men who were holding Jesus began to mock him and beat him; 64they also blindfolded him and kept asking him, “Prophesy! Who is it that struck you?” 65They kept heaping many other insults on him. 66When day came, the assembly of the elders of the people, both chief priests and scribes, gathered together, and they brought him to their council. 67They said, “If you are the Messiah, tell us.” He replied, “If I tell you, you will not believe; 68and if I question you, you will not answer. 69But from now on the Son of Man will be seated at the right hand of the power of God.” 70All of them asked, “Are you, then, the Son of God?” He said to them, “You say that I am.” 71Then they said, “What further testimony do we need? We have heard it ourselves from his own lips!”

TODAY’S STATUS UPDATES

He just stopped following at some point! Unless I have totally missed it, this is the final time Judas’ name is mentioned in the Gospel of Luke. There is no mention of tragic death or sorrow or heartache. He simply stopped being a disciple of Jesus and instead turned away. Was it the comment at the last supper that “greatness comes from serving others” not in living for self? Was it Jesus failure to take up the sword? Whatever the case, he was turned off to Jesus. The connection became distorted or altogether lost. The tragedy is that others turned away—Peter, the other disciples--- they all ran away in the heat of the moment. Yet. .. they all returned. They all would be restored. They all would be forgiven. But, Judas remains out of the picture. I would with 100% certainty imagine Jesus would have greeted Judas like the Father did to the prodigal son (back in Luke 15). We remember in that story the younger son took matters into his own hands, sought control, yet failed miserably and let the father down. He treated the Father as if he was already dead, yet the Father runs to meet him. The Father throws a party. The Father yearns to forgive. I suspect that kind of greeting would have been for Judas yet, he just goes on from this point totally away and never returns.

Let us always remember that even if we let Jesus down, he will be ready and willing to bring us back into his fold. As the song goes, “return to the Lord your God, for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. “

TRUE GREATNESS Day 36 Tuesday March 30, 2010

2010-03-29T21:25:00.000-04:00

Day 36 Tuesday March 30 2010

TODAY’S INTRO

It is fitting for us to read this as Passover 2010 is now underway.

TODAY’S TEXT- Luke 22: 1-38

Now the festival of Unleavened Bread, which is called the Passover, was near. 2The chief priests and the scribes were looking for a way to put Jesus to death, for they were afraid of the people. 3Then Satan entered into Judas called Iscariot, who was one of the twelve; 4he went away and conferred with the chief priests and officers of the temple police about how he might betray him to them. 5They were greatly pleased and agreed to give him money. 6So he consented and began to look for an opportunity to betray him to them when no crowd was present.

7Then came the day of Unleavened Bread, on which the Passover lamb had to be sacrificed. 8So Jesus sent Peter and John, saying, “Go and prepare the Passover meal for us that we may eat it.” 9They asked him, “Where do you want us to make preparations for it?” 10“Listen,” he said to them, “when you have entered the city, a man carrying a jar of water will meet you; follow him into the house he enters 11and say to the owner of the house, ‘The teacher asks you, “Where is the guest room, where I may eat the Passover with my disciples?”’ 12He will show you a large room upstairs, already furnished. Make preparations for us there.” 13So they went and found everything as he had told them; and they prepared the Passover meal. 14When the hour came, he took his place at the table, and the apostles with him. 15He said to them, “I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer; 16for I tell you, I will not eat it until it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God.” 17Then he took a cup, and after giving thanks he said, “Take this and divide it among yourselves; 18for I tell you that from now on I will not drink of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes.” 19Then he took a loaf of bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” 20And he did the same with the cup after supper, saying, “This cup that is poured out for you is the new covenant in my blood.

21But see, the one who betrays me is with me, and his hand is on the table. 22For the Son of Man is going as it has been determined, but woe to that one by whom he is betrayed!” 23Then they began to ask one another, which one of them it could be who would do this. 24A dispute also arose among them as to which one of them was to be regarded as the greatest. 25But he said to them, “The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them; and those in authority over them are called benefactors. 26But not so with you; rather the greatest among you must become like the youngest, and the leader like one who serves. 27For who is greater, the one who is at the table or the one who serves? Is it not the one at the table? But I am among you as one who serves. 28“You are those who have stood by me in my trials; 29and I confer on you, just as my Father has conferred on me, a kingdom, 30so that you may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom, and you will sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel. 31“Simon, Simon, listen! Satan has demanded to sift all of you like wheat, 32but I have prayed for you that your own faith may not fail; and you, when once you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.” 33And he said to him, “Lord, I am ready to go with you to prison and to death!” 34Jesus said, “I tell you, Peter, the cock will not crow this day, until you have denied three times that you know me.” 35He said to them, “When I sent you out without a purse, bag, or sandals, did you lack anything?” They said, “No, not a thing.” 36He said to them, “But now, the one who has a purse must take it, and likewise a bag. And the one who has no sword must sell his cloak and buy one. 37For I tell you, this scripture must be fulfilled in me, ‘And he was counted among the lawless’; and indeed what is written about me is being fulfilled.” 38They said, “Lord, look, here are two swords.” He replied, “It is enough.”

TODAY’S STATUS UPDATES

The disciples were participating in the annual Passover meal with Jesus- a meal full of ritual, storytelling, and great meaning. During the course of this lengthy meal, the disciples would have had time to talk with Jesus and each other in addition to the formal rituals, words, and readings. I find it interesting that, according to Luke, the disciples got into a dispute as to which of them was the greatest. Although there is no footwashing story (only in John’s Gospel, chapter 13), Jesus makes it chrystal clear—greatness is found only in those who are willing to serve! Greatness is setting aside our hunger for riches, rewards, and recognition in favor of a hunger to enrich the lives of other people.

As Martin Luther King once said, “everybody can be great because everybody can serve”.

As this is one of Jesus’ final teachings before his death, we would do well to stand up and pay attention. May God’s greatness be seen in your life as you set aside ego in favor of a life of humble service.

NO ELEPHANT CARRYING-- Day 35 Monday, March 29, 2010

2010-03-29T09:52:00.000-04:00

Day 35 Monday March 29 2010

TODAY’S INTRO

Sorry for posting this late. The combination of being exhausted and having workers arrive at our house early kept me from my normal early AM writing.

Yesterday, we celebrated Palm Sunday at church- joining our brothers and sisters all over the world in that celebration. I pointed out the reality that in Luke, there was no mention of Palms being spread on the ground. In Luke, what people put on the ground was the “coat off their back”- something that is far more sacrificial that ripping off a part of a tree! Are we willing to give the coat off our back/to sacrifice to see Jesus’ mission advance in this day and age?

I like the Lukan version of Palm Sunday much better for radical generosity and concern for others goes much further in building the world God intends. Today, we find Jesus in the temple teaching. Like a conference where you are spellbound by the presentations, the crowds listen all day and are eager to return the next day. Read on friends.

TODAY’S TEXT- Luke 21:5- 37

5 When some were speaking about the temple, how it was adorned with beautiful stones and gifts dedicated to God, he said, 6‘As for these things that you see, the days will come when not one stone will be left upon another; all will be thrown down.’

7 They asked him, ‘Teacher, when will this be, and what will be the sign that this is about to take place?’ 8And he said, ‘Beware that you are not led astray; for many will come in my name and say, “I am he!”* and, “The time is near!”* Do not go after them.

9 ‘When you hear of wars and insurrections, do not be terrified; for these things must take place first, but the end will not follow immediately.’ 10Then he said to them, ‘Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom; 11there will be great earthquakes, and in various places famines and plagues; and there will be dreadful portents and great signs from heaven.

12 ‘But before all this occurs, they will arrest you and persecute you; they will hand you over to synagogues and prisons, and you will be brought before kings and governors because of my name. 13This will give you an opportunity to testify. 14So make up your minds not to prepare your defence in advance; 15for I will give you words* and a wisdom that none of your opponents will be able to withstand or contradict. 16You will be betrayed even by parents and brothers, by relatives and friends; and they will put some of you to death. 17You will be hated by all because of my name. 18But not a hair of your head will perish. 19By your endurance you will gain your souls.

20 ‘When you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies, then know that its desolation has come near.* 21Then those in Judea must flee to the mountains, and those inside the city must leave it, and those out in the country must not enter it; 22for these are days of vengeance, as a fulfilment of all that is written. 23Woe to those who are pregnant and to those who are nursing infants in those days! For there will be great distress on the earth and wrath against this people; 24they will fall by the edge of the sword and be taken away as captives among all nations; and Jerusalem will be trampled on by the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled.

25 ‘There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars, and on the earth distress among nations confused by the roaring of the sea and the waves. 26People will faint from fear and foreboding of what is coming upon the world, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. 27Then they will see “the Son of Man coming in a cloud” with power and great glory. 28Now when these things begin to take place, stand up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.’

29 Then he told them a parable: ‘Look at the fig tree and all the trees; 30as soon as they sprout leaves you can see for yourselves and know that summer is already near. 31So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that the kingdom of God is near. 32Truly I tell you, this generation will not pass away until all things have taken place. 33Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.

34 ‘Be on guard so that your hearts are not weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of this life, and that day does not catch you unexpectedly, 35like a trap. For it will come upon all who live on the face of the whole earth. 36Be alert at all times, praying that you may have the strength to escape all these things that will take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.’

37 Every day he was teaching in the temple, and at night he would go out and spend the night on the Mount of Olives, as it was called. 38And all the people would get up early in the morning to listen to him in the temple.

TODAY’S STATUS UPDATES

Have you ever tried to carry and elephant? The average weight of an adult African elephant is 4.6 tons (9,200 pounds). Of course, we have never literally carried an elephant but so many of us carry on “spiritual and emotional elephants”. Worry and stress and the concerns of everyday living have a weight that can be back breaking for so many.

People say things that offend us or they are quick to complain or quick to find fault and it can quickly derail us from living the faith. What Jesus reminds tells us today is that “life is not easy” and you will need strength beyond yourself. Jesus doesn’t promise that the problems of life will go away or the pessimistic and angry people will disappear. He simply promises to provide for us and to carry the weight for us. Endurance in life comes from saying to God- “I can only go so far in being faithful. I can’t take another step without you.”

Hall of Fame Generosity--- Day 34 Saturday March 27 2010

2010-03-26T21:47:00.000-04:00

Day 34 Saturday March 27 2010

TODAY’S INTRO

Yesterday Jesus chastised the religious leaders for not caring, for putting their needs first, and letting the “helpless widows” of the world be trampled on.

TODAY’S TEXT- Luke 21:1-4

He looked up and saw rich people putting their gifts into the treasury; 2he also saw a poor widow put in two small copper coins. 3He said, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all of them; 4for all of them have contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty has put in all she had to live on.”

TODAY’S STATUS UPDATES

Yesterdays text was about widows being “trampled on” by the wealthy religious leaders. Community had been jeopardized because one group put there needs over the rest. The irony is that today, Jesus shows us one of the ways that community forms- through radical and sacrificial generosity. The widow today, who has little, gives so much. It is a gift of gratitude and thanks and offered with heartfelt devotion. Giving, being generous, and sharing without seeking reward is one of the most profound things we can do. Lets get to it! Let’s build community through our actions of gracious generosity.

A GREAT STATUS- "BUILDING COMMUNITY" Day 33 Friday, March 26 2010

2010-03-26T08:06:00.000-04:00

Day 33 Friday March 26 2010

TODAY’S INTRO

Once again- the religious leaders circling around Jesus—trying to trap him. Once again, Jesus ends up challenging them and likely—upsetting them!

TODAY’S TEXT- Luke 20:27-47

27Some Sadducees, those who say there is no resurrection, came to him 28and asked him a question, “Teacher, Moses wrote for us that if a man’s brother dies, leaving a wife but no children, the man shall marry the widow and raise up children for his brother. 29Now there were seven brothers; the first married, and died childless; 30then the second 31and the third married her, and so in the same way all seven died childless. 32Finally the woman also died. 33In the resurrection, therefore, whose wife will the woman be? For the seven had married her.” 34Jesus said to them, “Those who belong to this age marry and are given in marriage; 35but those who are considered worthy of a place in that age and in the resurrection from the dead neither marry nor are given in marriage. 36Indeed they cannot die anymore, because they are like angels and are children of God, being children of the resurrection. 37And the fact that the dead are raised Moses himself showed, in the story about the bush, where he speaks of the Lord as the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. 38Now he is God not of the dead, but of the living; for to him all of them are alive.”

39Then some of the scribes answered, “Teacher, you have spoken well.” 40For they no longer dared to ask him another question. 41Then he said to them, “How can they say that the Messiah is David’s son? 42For David himself says in the book of Psalms, ‘The Lord said to my Lord, “Sit at my right hand, 43until I make your enemies your footstool.”’ 44David thus calls him Lord; so how can he be his son?” 45In the hearing of all the people he said to the disciples, 46“Beware of the scribes, who like to walk around in long robes, and love to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces, and to have the best seats in the synagogues and places of honor at banquets. 47They devour widows’ houses and for the sake of appearance say long prayers. They will receive the greater condemnation.”

TODAY’S STATUS UPDATES

Luke has shown us that Jesus is the champion of the poor and the oppressed. Here again, we have Jesus commenting on the power players of the day; the scribes. They are people with wealth, power, and respect. They wore special clothes and had special privileges. Yet, Jesus points out the simple fact—they have shown no concern for the “widows” of their day (a group that was not self sustaining in Jesus’ day and needed the community to support).

Jesus is saying something we can relate to. He is reminding us that we can’t simply look out for ourselves without building up and caring for the others. If we only look out for self and our own gain and status, we tear apart community. If we say, my best “status” is this- WILLING AND READY TO CARE, we become agents of care for Jesus.

The Author of New Chapters-- Day 32 Thursday March 25 2010

2010-03-25T08:34:00.000-04:00

Day 32 Thursday March 25 2010

TODAY’S INTRO

Tense moments. It seems like the wagons are circling around Jesus. Many are trying to capture him, yet he does not appear to be tense about this. Rather, he tells what I consider a “sticky story”- foreshadowing what will happen in the days to come.

TODAY’S TEXT- Luke 20:1-26

20One day, as he was teaching the people in the temple and telling the good news, the chief priests and the scribes came with the elders 2and said to him, “Tell us, by what authority are you doing these things? Who is it who gave you this authority?” 3He answered them, “I will also ask you a question, and you tell me: 4Did the baptism of John come from heaven, or was it of human origin?” 5They discussed it with one another, saying, “If we say, ‘From heaven,’ he will say, ‘Why did you not believe him?’ 6But if we say, ‘Of human origin,’ all the people will stone us; for they are convinced that John was a prophet.” 7So they answered that they did not know where it came from. 8Then Jesus said to them, “Neither will I tell you by what authority I am doing these things.”

9He began to tell the people this parable: “A man planted a vineyard, and leased it to tenants, and went to another country for a long time. 10When the season came, he sent a slave to the tenants in order that they might give him his share of the produce of the vineyard; but the tenants beat him and sent him away empty-handed. 11Next he sent another slave; that one also they beat and insulted and sent away empty-handed. 12And he sent still a third; this one also they wounded and threw out. 13Then the owner of the vineyard said, ‘What shall I do? I will send my beloved son; perhaps they will respect him.’ 14But when the tenants saw him, they discussed it among themselves and said, ‘This is the heir; let us kill him so that the inheritance may be ours.’ 15So they threw him out of the vineyard and killed him. What then will the owner of the vineyard do to them? 16He will come and destroy those tenants and give the vineyard to others.” When they heard this, they said, “Heaven forbid!” 17But he looked at them and said, “What then does this text mean: ‘The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone’? 18Everyone who falls on that stone will be broken to pieces; and it will crush anyone on whom it falls.” 19When the scribes and chief priests realized that he had told this parable against them, they wanted to lay hands on him at that very hour, but they feared the people.

20So they watched him and sent spies who pretended to be honest, in order to trap him by what he said, so as to hand him over to the jurisdiction and authority of the governor. 21So they asked him, “Teacher, we know that you are right in what you say and teach, and you show deference to no one, but teach the way of God in accordance with truth. 22Is it lawful for us to pay taxes to the emperor, or not?” 23But he perceived their craftiness and said to them, 24“Show me a denarius. Whose head and whose title does it bear?” They said, “The emperor’s.” 25He said to them, “Then give to the emperor the things that are the emperor’s, and to God the things that are God’s.” 26And they were not able in the presence of the people to trap him by what he said; and being amazed by his answer, they became silent.

TODAY’S STATUS UPDATES

I have great respect for authors. They are able to take blank screens or blank paper and bring a story to life. Their words bring us awareness to others or stir imaginations or can challenge people. Great authors have words that matter- words that people want and need to hear.

Such is the case with Jesus. He is the “author of life” who has inspired many along the journey to Jerusalem. He has written new chapters in people’s lives- sinners, tax collectors, the lame, the blind, and people without much hope.. He wrote a new chapter in their lives. New chapters are hard for some people to read or listen to. The Pharisess seemed to have trouble with Jesus’ words, his acceptance of others, and his willingness to tell new stories that were challenging. They remind him that he is out of line. He should sit down and be quiet in their opinion. But. . . .

Jesus is not going to stop. In my mind, he came to write new chapters in our life. If we are stuck, he’s ready to write a new story in our life. If we are in need, he’s ready to tell a story of care. If we are struggling, perhaps his next chapter will about walking right alongside of you. Whatever the next chapters in our lives, Jesus will be the one to write them. He has the authority and no person in power can stop him.

TEARS FOR PEACE Day 31- Wednesday March 24, 2010

2010-03-24T08:03:00.000-04:00

Day 31 Wednesday March 24 2010

TODAY’S INTRO

Outside Jerusalem.

Entering Jerusalem

Starting to make an impact in Jerusalem.

TODAY’S TEXT- Luke 19:11-48

11 As they were listening to this, he went on to tell a parable, because he was near Jerusalem, and because they supposed that the kingdom of God was to appear immediately. 12So he said, ‘A nobleman went to a distant country to get royal power for himself and then return. 13He summoned ten of his slaves, and gave them ten pounds,* and said to them, “Do business with these until I come back.” 14But the citizens of his country hated him and sent a delegation after him, saying, “We do not want this man to rule over us.” 15When he returned, having received royal power, he ordered these slaves, to whom he had given the money, to be summoned so that he might find out what they had gained by trading. 16The first came forward and said, “Lord, your pound has made ten more pounds.” 17He said to him, “Well done, good slave! Because you have been trustworthy in a very small thing, take charge of ten cities.” 18Then the second came, saying, “Lord, your pound has made five pounds.” 19He said to him, “And you, rule over five cities.” 20Then the other came, saying, “Lord, here is your pound. I wrapped it up in a piece of cloth, 21for I was afraid of you, because you are a harsh man; you take what you did not deposit, and reap what you did not sow.” 22He said to him, “I will judge you by your own words, you wicked slave! You knew, did you, that I was a harsh man, taking what I did not deposit and reaping what I did not sow? 23Why then did you not put my money into the bank? Then when I returned, I could have collected it with interest.” 24He said to the bystanders, “Take the pound from him and give it to the one who has ten pounds.” 25(And they said to him, “Lord, he has ten pounds!”) 26“I tell you, to all those who have, more will be given; but from those who have nothing, even what they have will be taken away. 27But as for these enemies of mine who did not want me to be king over them—bring them here and slaughter them in my presence.” ’

28 After he had said this, he went on ahead, going up to Jerusalem.

29 When he had come near Bethphage and Bethany, at the place called the Mount of Olives, he sent two of the disciples, 30saying, ‘Go into the village ahead of you, and as you enter it you will find tied there a colt that has never been ridden. Untie it and bring it here. 31If anyone asks you, “Why are you untying it?” just say this: “The Lord needs it.” ’ 32So those who were sent departed and found it as he had told them. 33As they were untying the colt, its owners asked them, ‘Why are you untying the colt?’ 34They said, ‘The Lord needs it.’ 35Then they brought it to Jesus; and after throwing their cloaks on the colt, they set Jesus on it. 36As he rode along, people kept spreading their cloaks on the road. 37As he was now approaching the path down from the Mount of Olives, the whole multitude of the disciples began to praise God joyfully with a loud voice for all the deeds of power that they had seen, 38saying,

‘Blessed is the king

who comes in the name of the Lord!

Peace in heaven,

and glory in the highest heaven!’

39Some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to him, ‘Teacher, order your disciples to stop.’ 40He answered, ‘I tell you, if these were silent, the stones would shout out.’

41 As he came near and saw the city, he wept over it, 42saying, ‘If you, even you, had only recognized on this day the things that make for peace! But now they are hidden from your eyes. 43Indeed, the days will come upon you, when your enemies will set up ramparts around you and surround you, and hem you in on every side. 44They will crush you to the ground, you and your children within you, and they will not leave within you one stone upon another; because you did not recognize the time of your visitation from God.’*

45 Then he entered the temple and began to drive out those who were selling things there; 46and he said, ‘It is written,

“My house shall be a house of prayer”;

but you have made it a den of robbers.’

47 Every day he was teaching in the temple. The chief priests, the scribes, and the leaders of the people kept looking for a way to kill him; 48but they did not find anything they could do, for all the people were spellbound by what they heard.

TODAY’S STATUS UPDATES

For the life of me, I can’t remember what the pictures are called so I will do my best to describe them. The pictures I am referring to appeared in the mid 1990’s and were these computer generated posters. The posters were a busy mosaic of colors but didn’t appear to be much of anything. However, if you stared and stared and stared and stared (without blinking) for a long time, there was a transition moment—all of sudden a hidden image leaped into view. Without in depth and focused attention, it remained hidden from view.

In some sense, Jesus enters Jerusalem today and stares at the mosaic and is able to see a vision of a peaceful world; a world that lives by his ways but. . . no one else can see it. He weeps.

His weeping is important for he can see possibilities that others can not. His weeping is important for it reminds us that “peace is possible” . One of the tasks of the Christian journey is to not try and change the entire world for that will always overwhelm and disappoint us. The true calling of the Christian is to focus on our local world, in the relationships we have on a daily basis and to say “how can I offer peace and hope to others” where I am.

Blessed are the peacemakers. They give others a glimpse of what Jesus saw in “plain view”.

Jesus, bring the day of peace where there is no more weeping, no more sorrow.

Tranformers Day 30 Tuesday, March 23 2010

2010-03-22T21:50:00.000-04:00

Day 30 Tuesday March 23 2010

TODAY’S INTRO

What was Zaccheus’ net worth in the morning?

What was Zaccheus’ net worth in the evening?

Was the change an accident, a drop in the stock market, or intentional?

TODAY’S TEXT- Luke 19:1-10

19He entered Jericho and was passing through it. 2A man was there named Zacchaeus; he was a chief tax-collector and was rich. 3He was trying to see who Jesus was, but on account of the crowd he could not, because he was short in stature. 4So he ran ahead and climbed a sycomore tree to see him, because he was going to pass that way. 5When Jesus came to the place, he looked up and said to him, ‘Zacchaeus, hurry and come down; for I must stay at your house today.’ 6So he hurried down and was happy to welcome him. 7All who saw it began to grumble and said, ‘He has gone to be the guest of one who is a sinner.’ 8Zacchaeus stood there and said to the Lord, ‘Look, half of my possessions, Lord, I will give to the poor; and if I have defrauded anyone of anything, I will pay back four times as much.’ 9Then Jesus said to him, ‘Today salvation has come to this house, because he too is a son of Abraham. 10For the Son of Man came to seek out and to save the lost.’

TODAY’S STATUS UPDATES

Transformers- they were a popular toy a few years back.. As I recall , they were these action figures that looked like regular people but if you twisted them in certain ways they became these “super heroes”. A few twists and they were radically transformed into something really exciting.

Zaccheus is nothing less than a transformer today. He is in a despised occupation in the morning- a 1st century jerk. By the afternoon, he has encountered Jesus and he is all of a sudden an agent trying to make peace, trying to make a mends, and he has intentionally shared half his net worth to advance Jesus’ mission to serve the poor! In the morning, prior to meeting Jesus he is living for self. In the afternoon, he has been transformed into a follower- overflowing with generosity. Nothing is held back. Generosity prevails. Connecting once more to people is what matters to Zaccheus.

How do you and I need to be transformed? Have we been transformed? Are we agents of generosity yet? Are we like Zaccheus in the morning, at midday, or in the evening? Which would we like to be?

Jesus, transform us this day as you once transformed Zaccheus. Help us to overflow with generosity each day. Amen

ENDING THE ARROGANCE! Day 29 Monday, March 22 2010

2010-03-22T07:52:00.000-04:00

Day 29 Monday March 22 2010

TODAY’S INTRO

Which part of today’s text will stand out for you? There are some sections that challenge, some that comfort, and some that speak of destiny!

TODAY’S TEXT- Luke 18: 9-43

9 He also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous and regarded others with contempt: 10‘Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax-collector. 11The Pharisee, standing by himself, was praying thus, “God, I thank you that I am not like other people: thieves, rogues, adulterers, or even like this tax-collector. 12I fast twice a week; I give a tenth of all my income.” 13But the tax-collector, standing far off, would not even look up to heaven, but was beating his breast and saying, “God, be merciful to me, a sinner!” 14I tell you, this man went down to his home justified rather than the other; for all who exalt themselves will be humbled, but all who humble themselves will be exalted.’

15 People were bringing even infants to him that he might touch them; and when the disciples saw it, they sternly ordered them not to do it. 16But Jesus called for them and said, ‘Let the little children come to me, and do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs. 17Truly I tell you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will never enter it.’

18 A certain ruler asked him, ‘Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?’ 19Jesus said to him, ‘Why do you call me good? No one is good but God alone. 20You know the commandments: “You shall not commit adultery; You shall not murder; You shall not steal; You shall not bear false witness; Honour your father and mother.” ’ 21He replied, ‘I have kept all these since my youth.’ 22When Jesus heard this, he said to him, ‘There is still one thing lacking. Sell all that you own and distribute the money* to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me.’ 23But when he heard this, he became sad; for he was very rich. 24Jesus looked at him and said, ‘How hard it is for those who have wealth to enter the kingdom of God! 25Indeed, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God.’

26 Those who heard it said, ‘Then who can be saved?’ 27He replied, ‘What is impossible for mortals is possible for God.’

28 Then Peter said, ‘Look, we have left our homes and followed you.’ 29And he said to them, ‘Truly I tell you, there is no one who has left house or wife or brothers or parents or children, for the sake of the kingdom of God, 30who will not get back very much more in this age, and in the age to come eternal life.’

31 Then he took the twelve aside and said to them, ‘See, we are going up to Jerusalem, and everything that is written about the Son of Man by the prophets will be accomplished. 32For he will be handed over to the Gentiles; and he will be mocked and insulted and spat upon. 33After they have flogged him, they will kill him, and on the third day he will rise again.’ 34But they understood nothing about all these things; in fact, what he said was hidden from them, and they did not grasp what was said.

35 As he approached Jericho, a blind man was sitting by the roadside begging. 36When he heard a crowd going by, he asked what was happening. 37They told him, ‘Jesus of Nazareth* is passing by.’ 38Then he shouted, ‘Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!’ 39Those who were in front sternly ordered him to be quiet; but he shouted even more loudly, ‘Son of David, have mercy on me!’ 40Jesus stood still and ordered the man to be brought to him; and when he came near, he asked him, 41‘What do you want me to do for you?’ He said, ‘Lord, let me see again.’ 42Jesus said to him, ‘Receive your sight; your faith has saved you.’ 43Immediately he regained his sight and followed him, glorifying God; and all the people, when they saw it, praised God

TODAY’S STATUS UPDATES

“I’m glad I’m not like that person.” -- I guess that is the one that stands out to me today. In our world, it seems that people are quicker to find the flaws in others instead of celebrating the good things.

We live in an ultra-competitive world where we are often taught early to be better than others or to try and be the best. Finding the flaws in others is often a key defense mechanism. We see the problems of another and feel better about ourselves. That reality, of pointing out the flaws in others, exists in high schools, middle schools, facebook conversations, blogs, news, and in face to face conversation.

Jesus, however, points us to a new way. It is one that does not drag down “the other”. It simply starts with self-examination and a humble request for god to help us with our lives. We ask God to humbly bless us so that we might be a blessing for others. Start there and then seek to bless others & not pick out their faults.

Jesus never looked at the people of this world and said, “I am glad I am not like them.” The great story of God sending Jesus into this world was that he would “become one of us” but then truly show us how to live. His life was marked by humilty, servanthood, and a desire to lift up every person he encountered (even those that others wrote off!)

Will you bless others today or will you be quick to see the flaws? Let’s seek to find the goodness in others today. Let’s play our part in bringing out the best in others.

FRIENDS ADDED

Humble

Children

Those who “give all” for the advancement of the Kingdom

Proper use of possessions

NOTES

We are a mere two weeks from Easter. Our devotions through Luke will finish right around Easter.

On Monday, April 5 we will start walking through Luke’s 2nd edition, the Book of Acts. http://www.ripplingout.blogspot.com/

DON'T LOSE HEART--- Day 28 Saturday, March 20 2010

2010-03-20T08:04:00.001-04:00

Day 28 Saturday March 20 2010

TODAY’S INTRO
We are exposed to photography, artwork, paintings throughout our lives. Some works of art inspire us. Others leave us indifferent. The point is simple- we look at some art and say, “I like that”. We are drawn to it for some reason. Other works of art leave us saying, “I don’t like that picture”. I’m not real keen on the picture Jesus paints today but. . .I have learned that beauty is often not seen at first glance.

TODAY’S TEXT- Luke 18
Then Jesus told them a parable about their need to pray always and not to lose heart. 2He said, “In a certain city there was a judge who neither feared God nor had respect for people. 3In that city there was a widow who kept coming to him and saying, ‘Grant me justice against my opponent.’ 4For a while he refused; but later he said to himself, ‘Though I have no fear of God and no respect for anyone, 5yet because this widow keeps bothering me, I will grant her justice, so that she may not wear me out by continually coming.’” 6And the Lord said, “Listen to what the unjust judge says. 7And will not God grant justice to his chosen ones who cry to him day and night? Will he delay long in helping them? 8I tell you, he will quickly grant justice to them. And yet, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?”

TODAY’S STATUS UPDATES
Our text today is brief but one that is worthy of a whole sermon and extensive research.

What I like about it is the Lukan addition at the very beginning which reminds us to pray and not lose heart. The people of God are called to be faithful, to hang in there despite obstacles, and to believe that with God- “all things are possible”. That isn’t a passive naivete but an active asking for God to bring a “new day”, a “brighter day”, a day of hope realized.

The widow is persistent. She is not willing to say this is “God’s will” and sit back and wait. She communicates. She states her need over and over and over again. She reminds me that faith demonstrated is continually turning to the one who has the power to bring about change.

Faith is shown in “returning to our sender” over and over again- in times of joy and, as the widow shows us, in our times of need.

NOTES
We are a mere two weeks from Easter. Our devotions through Luke will finish right around Easter.

On Monday, April 5 we will start walking through Luke’s 2nd edition, the Book of Acts.

Don't Lend Your Strength. . . .Day 27 Friday, March 19 2010

2010-03-18T22:02:00.002-04:00

Day 27 Friday March 19 2010

TODAY’S TEXT- Luke 17
Jesus said to his disciples, “Occasions for stumbling are bound to come, but woe to anyone by whom they come! 2It would be better for you if a millstone were hung around your neck and you were thrown into the sea than for you to cause one of these little ones to stumble. 3Be on your guard! If another disciple sins, you must rebuke the offender, and if there is repentance, you must forgive. 4And if the same person sins against you seven times a day, and turns back to you seven times and says, ‘I repent,’ you must forgive.” 5The apostles said to the Lord, “Increase our faith!” 6The Lord replied, “If you had faith the size of a mustard seed, you could say to this mulberry tree, ‘Be uprooted and planted in the sea,’ and it would obey you. 7“Who among you would say to your slave who has just come in from plowing or tending sheep in the field, ‘Come here at once and take your place at the table’? 8Would you not rather say to him, ‘Prepare supper for me, put on your apron and serve me while I eat and drink; later you may eat and drink’? 9Do you thank the slave for doing what was commanded? 10So you also, when you have done all that you were ordered to do, say, ‘We are worthless slaves; we have done only what we ought to have done!’”
11On the way to Jerusalem Jesus was going through the region between Samaria and Galilee. 12As he entered a village, ten lepers approached him. Keeping their distance, 13they called out, saying, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!” 14When he saw them, he said to them, “Go and show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went, they were made clean. 15Then one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, praising God with a loud voice. 16He prostrated himself at Jesus’ feet and thanked him. And he was a Samaritan. 17Then Jesus asked, “Were not ten made clean? But the other nine, where are they? 18Was none of them found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?” 19Then he said to him, “Get up and go on your way; your faith has made you well.”
20Once Jesus was asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God was coming, and he answered, “The kingdom of God is not coming with things that can be observed; 21nor will they say, ‘Look, here it is!’ or ‘There it is!’ For, in fact, the kingdom of God is among you.” 22Then he said to the disciples, “The days are coming when you will long to see one of the days of the Son of Man, and you will not see it. 23They will say to you, ‘Look there!’ or ‘Look here!’ Do not go, do not set off in pursuit. 24For as the lightning flashes and lights up the sky from one side to the other, so will the Son of Man be in his day. 25But first he must endure much suffering and be rejected by this generation. 26Just as it was in the days of Noah, so too it will be in the days of the Son of Man. 27They were eating and drinking, and marrying and being given in marriage, until the day Noah entered the ark, and the flood came and destroyed all of them. 28Likewise, just as it was in the days of Lot: they were eating and drinking, buying and selling, planting and building, 29but on the day that Lot left Sodom, it rained fire and sulfur from heaven and destroyed all of them 30—it will be like that on the day that the Son of Man is revealed. 31On that day, anyone on the housetop who has belongings in the house must not come down to take them away; and likewise anyone in the field must not turn back. 32Remember Lot’s wife. 33Those who try to make their life secure will lose it, but those who lose their life will keep it. 34I tell you, on that night there will be two in one bed; one will be taken and the other left. 35There will be two women grinding meal together; one will be taken and the other left.” 37Then they asked him, “Where, Lord?” He said to them, “Where the corpse is, there the vultures will gather.”

TODAY’S STATUS UPDATES
The singer, Jewel, wrote a song time with lyrics that have stuck in my head. It went like this- “don’t lend your strength to that which you wish to be from. Give your lives to love and bravery and you will live a life uncommon!”

I hear those words in the text today as Jesus speaks on the issue of forgiving someone who is repeatedly wronging someone- only to beg for forgiveness (and then do it again). We know people like that who wrong us “over and over and over again.” And if we are not careful we can be filled with bitterness (at them) over and over and over again. Jesus reminds us that the only way to break that cycle is not to lend our bitterness to the occasion but rather our forgiveness. Forgiveness can transcend. It can give a fresh start. It can remove bitterness. And—it is not easy. To forgive is to lean on God. To forgive is to say- “God, I need you to help me give this person another chance”. To forgive is to be taken over by God’s spirit working within us for I don’t think any of us can really do it on our own power. It’s pretty easy for me to get bitter, angry, or resentlful. I can do that on my own power. To do the opposite, I need God’s power. I need him to lend me strength. I know the same applies for you.

This day, if you are dealing with bitterness toward someone who has wronged you- hear this, “I hope and pray that God will lend you his strength and courage so that you might be able to forgive.” As the disciples prayer, so may we pray—“Lord, increase our faith!”

**Again, please know of my gratitude for walking with me on this journey through Lent. Know that I have appreciated the kind notes and words of encouragement. I have enjoyed this walk through Luke (which is approaching the ¾ mark). It is a rich book with many great themes/stories/and lessons.
Friends Added
10 Healed

Will You Cross the Chasm? Day 26 Thursday March 18 2010

2010-03-18T09:09:00.002-04:00

Day 26 Thursday March 18 2010

TODAY’S INTRO
Jesus spoke about the issue of possessions over and over and over again- not to make people feel bad, but so that they would get it right! It’s a challenging subject for many people but one that Jesus never shied away from- nor should we. Kind of a complex passage. Usually this would be chopped up in sermons into more than one story and we’d have an abundance of time to focus on the various pieces. Phil Hirsch, our Assistant to the Bishop in my area spoke on the first story in today’s text in a forum last Sunday at Good Shepherd. Read on.

TODAY’S TEXT- Luke 16
Then Jesus said to the disciples, “There was a rich man who had a manager, and charges were brought to him that this man was squandering his property. 2So he summoned him and said to him, ‘What is this that I hear about you? Give me an accounting of your management, because you cannot be my manager any longer.’ 3Then the manager said to himself, ‘What will I do, now that my master is taking the position away from me? I am not strong enough to dig, and I am ashamed to beg. 4I have decided what to do so that, when I am dismissed as manager, people may welcome me into their homes.’ 5So, summoning his master’s debtors one by one, he asked the first, ‘How much do you owe my master?’ 6He answered, ‘A hundred jugs of olive oil.’ He said to him, ‘Take your bill, sit down quickly, and make it fifty.’ 7Then he asked another, ‘And how much do you owe?’ He replied, ‘A hundred containers of wheat.’ He said to him, ‘Take your bill and make it eighty.’ 8And his master commended the dishonest manager because he had acted shrewdly; for the children of this age are more shrewd in dealing with their own generation than are the children of light. 9And I tell you, make friends for yourselves by means of dishonest wealth so that when it is gone, they may welcome you into the eternal homes. 10“Whoever is faithful in a very little is faithful also in much; and whoever is dishonest in a very little is dishonest also in much. 11If then you have not been faithful with the dishonest wealth, who will entrust to you the true riches? 12And if you have not been faithful with what belongs to another, who will give you what is your own? 13No slave can serve two masters; for a slave will either hate the one and love the other, or be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and wealth.” 14The Pharisees, who were lovers of money, heard all this, and they ridiculed him. 15So he said to them, “You are those who justify yourselves in the sight of others; but God knows your hearts; for what is prized by human beings is an abomination in the sight of God. 16“The law and the prophets were in effect until John came; since then the good news of the kingdom of God is proclaimed, and everyone tries to enter it by force. 17But it is easier for heaven and earth to pass away, than for one stroke of a letter in the law to be dropped. 18“Anyone who divorces his wife and marries another commits adultery, and whoever marries a woman divorced from her husband commits adultery.
19“There was a rich man who was dressed in purple and fine linen and who feasted sumptuously every day. 20And at his gate lay a poor man named Lazarus, covered with sores, 21who longed to satisfy his hunger with what fell from the rich man’s table; even the dogs would come and lick his sores. 22The poor man died and was carried away by the angels to be with Abraham. The rich man also died and was buried. 23In Hades, where he was being tormented, he looked up and saw Abraham far away with Lazarus by his side. 24He called out, ‘Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue; for I am in agony in these flames.’ 25But Abraham said, ‘Child, remember that during your lifetime you received your good things, and Lazarus in like manner evil things; but now he is comforted here, and you are in agony. 26Besides all this, between you and us a great chasm has been fixed, so that those who might want to pass from here to you cannot do so, and no one can cross from there to us.’ 27He said, ‘Then, father, I beg you to send him to my father’s house— 28for I have five brothers—that he may warn them, so that they will not also come into this place of torment.’ 29Abraham replied, ‘They have Moses and the prophets; they should listen to them.’ 30He said, ‘No, father Abraham; but if someone goes to them from the dead, they will repent.’ 31He said to him, ‘If they do not listen to Moses and the prophets, neither will they be convinced even if someone rises from the dead.’”

TODAY’S STATUS UPDATES
When Jesus told a parable, he was being extremely clever and provocative. Parables teach us something about God and God’s ways but they also invite us to participate- to identify with one of the characters. Who do we identify with today?

At first glance, I can’t see myself as the man who feasted “sumptuously” every day. I looked up the definition for sumptuous. It means “extremely costly, rich, luxurious, or magnificent”. At first glance, it would be easy for me to say- “that’s not me!” It’s easy to jump quickly and say- “look at that persons clothing, or the car they drive, or the homes in that zip code. It’s easy to think about the vacations that “others’ take. But. . . . .that’s hiding from the reality so let me say it- “In the grand scheme of the globe, I am that man in the story who has an abundance”. I suspect many of you reading this are as well! I may not live in the fanciest or costly home but God has provided for me magnificently throughout my life. I was raised by two loving parents who gave me plenty of attention and lots of nurture. I have had the luxuries of a good education including college and graduate school. I have had a safety net along the way. I have never been in any dramatic financial need. I have access to technology, books. I can go on vacation. If I need to buy new clothes at some point, I can do that.
I will send my kids to college as I was “sent” by my parents. ETC. I know many people like myself who have been blessed abundantly in similar ways. We’re in the same boat.

Long list. . .but the point I have come to is that I stand on the side of one who has been blessed and cared for throughout life. ! The call in this story, for people who identify with that man (as I do), is to see beyond self and to learn (or continue) to be generous. And . . ..not only hear the call, but to “answer that call” over and over and over again.

One of the great joys in sharing is that we truly express our worldview! When we learn to give from the abundance that God provides, we trust: 1) that God will continue to provide; and 2) we express our value that all people deserve to be cared for in tangible ways.

The man in the story stayed on one side of the chasm. He expressed his world view. I want to be the next chapter. I want to be a person who builds a bridge or jumps over the chasm. I want God to help me overflow with generosity to help bless the lives of others- family, friends, the church, and people in need. I want to be challenged by Jesus to do that more and more as I think that leads to the “abundant life” that Jesus spoke about. I hope you do as well. It’s a process, a journey. The more we can be open about topics such as this and encourage each other, think about how the world will benefit. Think about how the man on the side of the chasm would have benefited with some gently nudging from some of his friends. Might that have changed his life?

Tough stuff. We are always told, “it’s better to give than receive”. Do we believe that?

Friends Added
Lazarus' of the world

those who dare to cross the chasm

Opponents/”Annoyed”
Pharisees

Daring Love - Day 25 Wed March 17 2010

2010-03-17T06:33:00.001-04:00

Day 25 Wednesday March 17 2010

TODAY’S INTRO
My favorite chapter in scripture!

TODAY’S TEXT- Luke 15
15Now all the tax collectors and sinners were coming near to listen to him. 2And the Pharisees and the scribes were grumbling and saying, “This fellow welcomes sinners and eats with them.” 3So he told them this parable: 4“Which one of you, having a hundred sheep and losing one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness and go after the one that is lost until he finds it? 5When he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders and rejoices. 6And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and neighbors, saying to them, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep that was lost.’ 7Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance. 8“Or what woman having ten silver coins, if she loses one of them, does not light a lamp, sweep the house, and search carefully until she finds it? 9When she has found it, she calls together her friends and neighbors, saying, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found the coin that I had lost.’ 10Just so, I tell you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”
11Then Jesus said, “There was a man who had two sons. 12The younger of them said to his father, ‘Father, give me the share of the property that will belong to me.’ So he divided his property between them. 13A few days later the younger son gathered all he had and traveled to a distant country, and there he squandered his property in dissolute living. 14When he had spent everything, a severe famine took place throughout that country, and he began to be in need. 15So he went and hired himself out to one of the citizens of that country, who sent him to his fields to feed the pigs. 16He would gladly have filled himself with the pods that the pigs were eating; and no one gave him anything. 17But when he came to himself he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired hands have bread enough and to spare, but here I am dying of hunger! 18I will get up and go to my father, and I will say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you; 19I am no longer worthy to be called your son; treat me like one of your hired hands.”’ 20So he set off and went to his father. But while he was still far off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion; he ran and put his arms around him and kissed him. 21Then the son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you; I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’ 22But the father said to his slaves, ‘Quickly, bring out a robe—the best one—and put it on him; put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. 23And get the fatted calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate; 24for this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found!’ And they began to celebrate. 25“Now his elder son was in the field; and when he came and approached the house, he heard music and dancing. 26He called one of the slaves and asked what was going on. 27He replied, ‘Your brother has come, and your father has killed the fatted calf, because he has got him back safe and sound.’ 28Then he became angry and refused to go in. His father came out and began to plead with him. 29But he answered his father, ‘Listen! For all these years I have been working like a slave for you, and I have never disobeyed your command; yet you have never given me even a young goat so that I might celebrate with my friends. 30But when this son of yours came back, who has devoured your property with prostitutes, you killed the fatted calf for him!’ 31Then the father said to him, ‘Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours. 32But we had to celebrate and rejoice, because this brother of yours was dead and has come to life; he was lost and has been found.’”

TODAY’S STATUS UPDATES
What we see here is one of the clearest pictures of God. It describes God in the 3 stories as the one taking initiative- even obsessing- over the desire to find a “precious object/person”. Luke makes it clear that rest will not occur “until what is lost is found”. What other characteristics do you see?

I once heard a quote (can’t remember where it came from) that said, “the task of childhood is to become an individual. The task of adulthood is to give that individuality away.” In that final story of the Father and 2 Sons, I find the task of a lifetime- can I be daring enough to actually try and be like the Father who “dares to love”? He is radical, forgiving, and willing to be hurt time and time again because he is not afraid to go the extra mile to love. It is so easy to be the resentful older brother. It is so easy to see the negatives in others and in the world. It is easy to be the younger brother and “live for self”. What is hard, what is radical, what is challenging is to try and take the initiative in life to love “the extra mile”.
P.S. If you are looking for a good book to read, Henri Nouwen wrote the book, “The Return of the Prodigal son” in the early 1990’s. I actually had to buy 3 copies of this book as I found myself loaning it out over and over again. It is well worth the read.

Friends Added
Tax collectors and Sinners

Opponents/”Annoyed”
The Pharisees

Causes
Pursuit of those “not at home”

Jesus' Worldview Demonstrated Day 24- Tuesday March 16 2010

2010-03-16T06:46:00.001-04:00

Day 24 Tuesday March 16 2010

TODAY’S INTRO
There is a lot here- as always. Read it all but one part of the story today reminds me of Jesus’ parable of the sower. The sower was a farmer who spread seeds in the soil very liberally. Some seed sunk in. some was choked. Some hit shallow soil and withered. Some seed found good soil and grew and grew and grew. What is profound is the farmer (sower’s) willingness (and faith) to keep on spreading- knowing that some seed will never have an impact. But. . . some will.

TODAY’S TEXT- Luke 14
14On one occasion when Jesus was going to the house of a leader of the Pharisees to eat a meal on the sabbath, they were watching him closely. 2Just then, in front of him, there was a man who had dropsy. 3And Jesus asked the lawyers and Pharisees, “Is it lawful to cure people on the sabbath, or not?” 4But they were silent. So Jesus took him and healed him, and sent him away. 5Then he said to them, “If one of you has a child or an ox that has fallen into a well, will you not immediately pull it out on a sabbath day?” 6And they could not reply to this.
7When he noticed how the guests chose the places of honor, he told them a parable. 8“When you are invited by someone to a wedding banquet, do not sit down at the place of honor, in case someone more distinguished than you has been invited by your host; 9and the host who invited both of you may come and say to you, ‘Give this person your place,’ and then in disgrace you would start to take the lowest place. 10But when you are invited, go and sit down at the lowest place, so that when your host comes, he may say to you, ‘Friend, move up higher’; then you will be honored in the presence of all who sit at the table with you. 11For all who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” 12He said also to the one who had invited him, “When you give a luncheon or a dinner, do not invite your friends or your brothers or your relatives or rich neighbors, in case they may invite you in return, and you would be repaid. 13But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, and the blind. 14And you will be blessed, because they cannot repay you, for you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.”
15One of the dinner guests, on hearing this, said to him, “Blessed is anyone who will eat bread in the kingdom of God!” 16Then Jesus said to him, “Someone gave a great dinner and invited many. 17At the time for the dinner he sent his slave to say to those who had been invited, ‘Come; for everything is ready now.’ 18But they all alike began to make excuses. The first said to him, ‘I have bought a piece of land, and I must go out and see it; please accept my regrets.’ 19Another said, ‘I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I am going to try them out; please accept my regrets.’ 20Another said, ‘I have just been married, and therefore I cannot come.’ 21So the slave returned and reported this to his master. Then the owner of the house became angry and said to his slave, ‘Go out at once into the streets and lanes of the town and bring in the poor, the crippled, the blind, and the lame.’ 22And the slave said, ‘Sir, what you ordered has been done, and there is still room.” 23Then the master said to the slave, ‘Go out into the roads and lanes, and compel people to come in, so that my house may be filled. 24For I tell you, none of those who were invited will taste my dinner.’”
25Now large crowds were traveling with him; and he turned and said to them, 26“Whoever comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and even life itself, cannot be my disciple. 27Whoever does not carry the cross and follow me cannot be my disciple. 28For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not first sit down and estimate the cost, to see whether he has enough to complete it? 29Otherwise, when he has laid a foundation and is not able to finish, all who see it will begin to ridicule him, 30saying, ‘This fellow began to build and was not able to finish.’ 31Or what king, going out to wage war against another king, will not sit down first and consider whether he is able with ten thousand to oppose the one who comes against him with twenty thousand? 32If he cannot, then, while the other is still far away, he sends a delegation and asks for the terms of peace. 33So therefore, none of you can become my disciple if you do not give up all your possessions. 34“Salt is good; but if salt has lost its taste, how can its saltiness be restored? 35It is fit neither for the soil nor for the manure pile; they throw it away. Let anyone with ears to hear listen!”

TODAY’S STATUS UPDATES
There is a sense of urgency to the text today. In Luke, eating with someone is so significant. Eating with another implies acceptance of the other; it says you have something in common; and that you consider the other worthy.
Who we eat with is a microcosm of our world view! Who Jesus eats with and invites to his table is a view of his world! Jesus offers us that view in todays story. He imagines a glorious banquet that has been prepared and it is “ready” to be served. He sends out a helper to issue invitations. He is generous with the invitations but some of those invited are full of excuses. They turn Jesus down, yet they have still been invited. In response, Jesus sends out more workers to be even more generous with inviting others to the feast. Those invited include the poor, the crippled, the blind, the lame, and a lot of people that they meet along the way. The invites go out and many accept and there is still room at the table. Jesus says, keep going out and inviting others.
It’s a worldview that says to us- our faith is not about making excuses, its about sharing it and inviting others in. It’s about inviting and including others who we may not always be comfortable with but who are “worthy” in the eyes of the king. The great mystery of eating with someone is that often our interpersonal barriers are overcome and new understandings emerge.
Jesus’ worldview is often demonstrated at meals and begs us to pay attention. For our hope and prayer is that his worldview may become our worldview. If that happens, our lives will be much more compassionate, caring, and loving. If that happens, we will claim that sense of urgency in our lives and seek to invite others.
Friends Added
Man with dropsy
Those who accept the invitation
Skeptics/Opponents
Those who make excuses
Those who exalt themselves
Those irritated by Jesus’ challenge

Causes
Humility
Inviting others
Helping people understand the proper relationship of possessions- priority of faith
Giving honor to others (not self)- honoring is something you “give to others”, not claim for self
Being salt for the world
Inclusion of the poor, the lame, the less fortunate in the community

Faith is Striving - Day 23 Monday March 14 2010

2010-03-15T08:13:00.001-04:00

Day 23 Monday March 14, 2010

TODAY’S INTRO
Notice how Jesus keeps stirring things on up Sabbath days. I should have counted along the way but this is another example of Jesus willing to break “rules” to demonstrate the priority of human care!

TODAY’S TEXT- Luke 13:10-35
Now he was teaching in one of the synagogues on the sabbath. 11And just then there appeared a woman with a spirit that had crippled her for eighteen years. She was bent over and was quite unable to stand up straight. 12When Jesus saw her, he called her over and said, “Woman, you are set free from your ailment.” 13When he laid his hands on her, immediately she stood up straight and began praising God. 14But the leader of the synagogue, indignant because Jesus had cured on the sabbath, kept saying to the crowd, “There are six days on which work ought to be done; come on those days and be cured, and not on the sabbath day.” 15But the Lord answered him and said, “You hypocrites! Does not each of you on the sabbath untie his ox or his donkey from the manger, and lead it away to give it water? 16And ought not this woman, a daughter of Abraham whom Satan bound for eighteen long years, be set free from this bondage on the sabbath day?” 17When he said this, all his opponents were put to shame; and the entire crowd was rejoicing at all the wonderful things that he was doing.
18He said therefore, “What is the kingdom of God like? And to what should I compare it? 19It is like a mustard seed that someone took and sowed in the garden; it grew and became a tree, and the birds of the air made nests in its branches.” 20And again he said, “To what should I compare the kingdom of God? 21It is like yeast that a woman took and mixed in with three measures of flour until all of it was leavened.” 22Jesus went through one town and village after another, teaching as he made his way to Jerusalem.
23Someone asked him, “Lord, will only a few be saved?” He said to them, 24“Strive to enter through the narrow door; for many, I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able. 25When once the owner of the house has got up and shut the door, and you begin to stand outside and to knock at the door, saying, ‘Lord, open to us,’ then in reply he will say to you, ‘I do not know where you come from.’ 26Then you will begin to say, ‘We ate and drank with you, and you taught in our streets.’ 27But he will say, ‘I do not know where you come from; go away from me, all you evildoers!’ 28There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth when you see Abraham and Isaac and Jacob and all the prophets in the kingdom of God, and you yourselves thrown out. 29Then people will come from east and west, from north and south, and will eat in the kingdom of God. 30Indeed, some are last who will be first, and some are first who will be last.”
31At that very hour some Pharisees came and said to him, “Get away from here, for Herod wants to kill you.” 32He said to them, “Go and tell that fox for me, ‘Listen, I am casting out demons and performing cures today and tomorrow, and on the third day I finish my work. 33Yet today, tomorrow, and the next day I must be on my way, because it is impossible for a prophet to be killed outside of Jerusalem.’ 34Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often have I desired to gather your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing! 35See, your house is left to you. And I tell you, you will not see me until the time comes when you say, ‘Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord.’”

TODAY’S STATUS UPDATES
What does it mean “to strive”? In the original biblical text it has a rich meaning: 1) to enter a contest; contend in gymnastics games; 2) to fight or contend with an adversary; 3) zeal to obtain something.
Striving for something implies working up a sweat. When we strive for something we are often exercising our whole selves- body, soul, and spirit. We are fully engaged. Jesus today is certainly reminding his followers that being a part of the Kingdom is not about sitting still. To follow Jesus and his ways requires us to be on the move and exercicising our faith, much the same way that an Olympic gymnast must practice every day if she/he is to make progress.
To me, striving means we are passionate about becoming more than we are at this moment in time. Furthermore, it means that we are never finished products.
How can we strive to be more today than yesterday? How can you, as the book of Timothy says, “fight the good fight of faith” today where you are? Each will answer in their own way but I know this- it wont’ be by sitting still and not thinking about concrete actions.
We see Jesus throughout Luke “fighting the good fight of faith.” He is willing to stand up against rules when rules hinder helping someone in need as we see in the crippled woman incident.
Jesus, help us to get moving and strive to demonstrate the ways of your kingdom this day and in the days to come. Teach us to work up a sweat, a passion, and enthusiasm for your ways. Your path is sometimes difficult but we are confident that you are in front of us leading the way, beside us to nudge us on, and behind us to pick us up if we falter. Amen

Friends Added
Bent over woman
Skeptics/Opponents
Leader of Synagogue
Herod

Causes
Striving for the Kingdom of God- the ways of God
Breaking rules which hinder the care of a person in need
Healing Ministry
Protecting “his flock” (mother hen image)

The Promise of Year Four--- Day 22 Sat. March 13, 2010

2010-03-13T07:51:00.002-05:00

"The Promise of Year Four"

Day 22 Saturday March 13, 2010

TODAY’S INTRO
A short text today. I hope you have a great Saturday. Lots of rain looking out my window. I suspect brilliant green grass and bright flowers are just a few weeks away!

TODAY’S TEXT- Luke 13:1-9
Galileans whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices. 2He asked them, ‘Do you think that because these Galileans suffered in this way they were worse sinners than all other Galileans? 3No, I tell you; but unless you repent, you will all perish as they did. 4Or those eighteen who were killed when the tower of Siloam fell on them—do you think that they were worse offenders than all the others living in Jerusalem? 5No, I tell you; but unless you repent, you will all perish just as they did.’
The Parable of the Barren Fig Tree
6 Then he told this parable: ‘A man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard; and he came looking for fruit on it and found none. 7So he said to the gardener, “See here! For three years I have come looking for fruit on this fig tree, and still I find none. Cut it down! Why should it be wasting the soil?” 8He replied, “Sir, let it alone for one more year, until I dig round it and put manure on it. 9If it bears fruit next year, well and good; but if not, you can cut it down.” ’

TODAY’S STATUS UPDATES
Do you ever give up on other people? Perhaps their behavior seems hopeless. They seem unable to change. We wish they would but they simply won’t change.
One of the things I take from the text today is that when we are “about to give up on another person” God may be expecting more from us. I look at Jesus’ story and note that nothing is said of the cultivation techniques in years 1 through 3. What is shown is extra effort and nurture and intentionality in trying to bring out the best in the fig tree. The hope and prayer is that year 4 will “pull out all the stops” and get the fig tree producing.

I suspect that many people in our lives who struggle would benefit a tremendous amount if they were surrounded by people who seek to help them grow- physically, spiritually, and emotionally.
Perhaps you and I are like the fig tree that has yet to bloom. Our prayer today is that you will be surrounded with attentive gardeners to help you “bloom and grow” right where you are.
If you are in a gardening role, take that task seriously and really reach out to those who need to grow. Be patient, forgiving, and attentive so that you can help instill hope and progress. Year 4 will be good. People can and do grow. Sometimes they simply need a catalyst who believes that growth can occur. Be that catalyst.

Causes
Is Jesus that catalyst for us—giving us time to bloom and grow?

Day 21 Devotion Fr March 12 2010 Jesus Waynes World and Mr Rogers

2010-03-12T08:11:00.001-05:00

Day 21 Friday March 12, 2010

TODAY’S INTRO
Jesus. Wayne’s World. Mr. Rogers! I bet you didn’t expect to get them in a Lenten Devotion but that is what you get today! Read on.

TODAY’S TEXT- Luke 12:33-59
33Sell your possessions, and give alms. Make purses for yourselves that do not wear out, an unfailing treasure in heaven, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. 34For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Watchful Slaves
35 ‘Be dressed for action and have your lamps lit; 36be like those who are waiting for their master to return from the wedding banquet, so that they may open the door for him as soon as he comes and knocks. 37Blessed are those slaves whom the master finds alert when he comes; truly I tell you, he will fasten his belt and have them sit down to eat, and he will come and serve them. 38If he comes during the middle of the night, or near dawn, and finds them so, blessed are those slaves.
39 ‘But know this: if the owner of the house had known at what hour the thief was coming, he* would not have let his house be broken into. 40You also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an unexpected hour.’
The Faithful or the Unfaithful Slave
41 Peter said, ‘Lord, are you telling this parable for us or for everyone?’ 42And the Lord said, ‘Who then is the faithful and prudent manager whom his master will put in charge of his slaves, to give them their allowance of food at the proper time? 43Blessed is that slave whom his master will find at work when he arrives. 44Truly I tell you, he will put that one in charge of all his possessions. 45But if that slave says to himself, “My master is delayed in coming”, and if he begins to beat the other slaves, men and women, and to eat and drink and get drunk, 46the master of that slave will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an hour that he does not know, and will cut him in pieces,* and put him with the unfaithful. 47That slave who knew what his master wanted, but did not prepare himself or do what was wanted, will receive a severe beating. 48But one who did not know and did what deserved a beating will receive a light beating. From everyone to whom much has been given, much will be required; and from one to whom much has been entrusted, even more will be demanded.
Jesus the Cause of Division
49 ‘I came to bring fire to the earth, and how I wish it were already kindled! 50I have a baptism with which to be baptized, and what stress I am under until it is completed! 51Do you think that I have come to bring peace to the earth? No, I tell you, but rather division! 52From now on, five in one household will be divided, three against two and two against three; 53they will be divided:father against son and son against father,mother against daughter and daughter against mother,mother-in-law against her daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against mother-in-law.’
Interpreting the Time
54 He also said to the crowds, ‘When you see a cloud rising in the west, you immediately say, “It is going to rain”; and so it happens. 55And when you see the south wind blowing, you say, “There will be scorching heat”; and it happens. 56You hypocrites! You know how to interpret the appearance of earth and sky, but why do you not know how to interpret the present time?
Settling with Your Opponent
57 ‘And why do you not judge for yourselves what is right? 58Thus, when you go with your accuser before a magistrate, on the way make an effort to settle the case,* or you may be dragged before the judge, and the judge hand you over to the officer, and the officer throw you in prison. 59I tell you, you will never get out until you have paid the very last penny.’

TODAY’S STATUS UPDATES
Saturday Night Live has had a tremendous run for 30+years. They’ve always been able to find a combination of great writers as well as great comedians. In the early 90’s Dana Carvey and Mike Myers had a running skit called “Wayne’s World” which ended up becoming a hit movie. The two character, Wayne and Garth loved hockey and you would often find them playing street hockey on a fairly busy street. The amusing thing as they played was that they would play for a minute or two and a car would start coming down the street. Wayne would shout out, “game off Garth.” Garth would reply “game off Wayne” and they would both grab the nets and drag them off the road. The car would go by and Wayne would shout out “game on Garth” and, of course, Garth would shout out “Game on wayne”. The nets would go back in place and they would play once more until. . . . .the next car came by. Those phrases, “Game on” and “Game off” were heard often and became a part of the cultural vocabulary.
Still, as I look at today’s text what I hear Jesus saying is “friends, when you follow me it’s always ‘game on!’”. Jesus reminds us that as his people on the journey, we can’t be people of good intentions- who plan to get around to following Jesus’ ways with 100% enthusiasm but put it on hold or we “hold back” full enthusiasm for a later date. Jesus is telling us not to hit the snooze button but to be ready to follow him today-
*to become more generous—staring today!
*to be more ready to listen- starting today!
*to be more acceptions—starting today!
*to be a better friend—starting today!
*to be more dedicated to our family- starting today!
*to be more ________________ - starting today!

Let’s not delay. “Game on”.
Fred Rogers (Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood) was an ordained minister but had the unique call to have a television ministry. Although he never mentioned Jesus on his show, the principles of Jesus were everywhere in the “Neighborhood”. Rogers, on the way to work everyday said the same prayer- “God, let some word of yours be heard in all I say and do today. Amen.”

In a sense, his prayer was about always being ready to serve- in each moment, every day, and at every opportunity. May that be our prayer as well. Game on!

Causes
Preparedness

That theme of Proper use of possessions/generosity- Just keeps coming up. Kind of like the “energizer bunny”. Are you seeing Jesus lift up that theme over and over and over again. . . or is it me? Jesus appears to want us to “get it right’!

Day 20 Thursday March 11, 2010 Consider the Lillies

2010-03-11T07:12:00.002-05:00

Day 20 Thursday March 11, 2010

TODAY’S INTRO
Much of today’s text was the basis for my sermon last Sunday. I’ll look at another aspect of it today.

TODAY’S TEXT- Luke 12:1-32
12Meanwhile, when the crowd gathered in thousands, so that they trampled on one another, he began to speak first to his disciples, ‘Beware of the yeast of the Pharisees, that is, their hypocrisy. 2Nothing is covered up that will not be uncovered, and nothing secret that will not become known. 3Therefore whatever you have said in the dark will be heard in the light, and what you have whispered behind closed doors will be proclaimed from the housetops.
Exhortation to Fearless Confession
4 ‘I tell you, my friends, do not fear those who kill the body, and after that can do nothing more. 5But I will warn you whom to fear: fear him who, after he has killed, has authority* to cast into hell.* Yes, I tell you, fear him! 6Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten in God’s sight. 7But even the hairs of your head are all counted. Do not be afraid; you are of more value than many sparrows.
8 ‘And I tell you, everyone who acknowledges me before others, the Son of Man also will acknowledge before the angels of God; 9but whoever denies me before others will be denied before the angels of God. 10And everyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven; but whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven. 11When they bring you before the synagogues, the rulers, and the authorities, do not worry about how* you are to defend yourselves or what you are to say; 12for the Holy Spirit will teach you at that very hour what you ought to say.’
The Parable of the Rich Fool
13 Someone in the crowd said to him, ‘Teacher, tell my brother to divide the family inheritance with me.’ 14But he said to him, ‘Friend, who set me to be a judge or arbitrator over you?’ 15And he said to them, ‘Take care! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of possessions.’ 16Then he told them a parable: ‘The land of a rich man produced abundantly. 17And he thought to himself, “What should I do, for I have no place to store my crops?” 18Then he said, “I will do this: I will pull down my barns and build larger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods. 19And I will say to my soul, Soul, you have ample goods laid up for many years; relax, eat, drink, be merry.” 20But God said to him, “You fool! This very night your life is being demanded of you. And the things you have prepared, whose will they be?” 21So it is with those who store up treasures for themselves but are not rich towards God.’
Do Not Worry
22 He said to his disciples, ‘Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat, or about your body, what you will wear. 23For life is more than food, and the body more than clothing. 24Consider the ravens: they neither sow nor reap, they have neither storehouse nor barn, and yet God feeds them. Of how much more value are you than the birds! 25And can any of you by worrying add a single hour to your span of life?* 26If then you are not able to do so small a thing as that, why do you worry about the rest? 27Consider the lilies, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin;* yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not clothed like one of these. 28But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which is alive today and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, how much more will he clothe you—you of little faith! 29And do not keep striving for what you are to eat and what you are to drink, and do not keep worrying. 30For it is the nations of the world that strive after all these things, and your Father knows that you need them. 31Instead, strive for his* kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well.
32 ‘Do not be afraid, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.

TODAY’S STATUS UPDATES
Many people find this one of the most comforting images in all of scripture. In a world of unrest where many live in with constant worry and anxiety, today’s passage reminds us that God know and yearns to provide. He yearns to care for us and for all people with the necessities of life. Note that Jesus’ passion is not to provide us with all the latest gadgets and gizmos and fancy things. He yearns to see all cared for in tangible ways as well as emotional and spiritual ways.
For those who are blessed with much, today reminds us of our call to share from the abundance (that God has given to us). As we share, the promise remains for us that God will continue to provide. As we share, God often fills us with a sense of joy that can’t be matched. As we look to share and bless the world around us, we are “striving for the kingdom”.
Sharing is a practice, a discipline. It’s also a profound statement of trust that God will continue to provide.
The gadgets, gizmos, and all the latest stuff are a magnetic force for our attention. Let God’s ways of sharing be an even more powerful force. From my perspective, only one of those forces truly builds up the world around us into “true community”.

Have a great day. Halfway through Luke now!

If you have a chance, send me a note on how things are going for you as you walk through Luke- ie. Lessons you are seeing, your experience, new insights, etc.

Day 19 Wednesday March 10, 2010

2010-03-09T16:49:00.006-05:00

Day 19 Wednesday March 10, 2010

TODAY’S INTRO
Jesus appears a bit worked up today. His words are not soft and gentle but rather are sharp and very challenging. We often focus on the soft and compassionate side of Jesus but lets not forget that he didn’t shrink away from challenging others.

TODAY’S TEXT- Luke 11:29-54
29 When the crowds were increasing, he began to say, ‘This generation is an evil generation; it asks for a sign, but no sign will be given to it except the sign of Jonah. 30For just as Jonah became a sign to the people of Nineveh, so the Son of Man will be to this generation. 31The queen of the South will rise at the judgement with the people of this generation and condemn them, because she came from the ends of the earth to listen to the wisdom of Solomon, and see, something greater than Solomon is here! 32The people of Nineveh will rise up at the judgement with this generation and condemn it, because they repented at the proclamation of Jonah, and see, something greater than Jonah is here!
The Light of the Body
33 ‘No one after lighting a lamp puts it in a cellar,* but on the lampstand so that those who enter may see the light. 34Your eye is the lamp of your body. If your eye is healthy, your whole body is full of light; but if it is not healthy, your body is full of darkness. 35Therefore consider whether the light in you is not darkness. 36If then your whole body is full of light, with no part of it in darkness, it will be as full of light as when a lamp gives you light with its rays.’
Jesus Denounces Pharisees and Lawyers
37 While he was speaking, a Pharisee invited him to dine with him; so he went in and took his place at the table. 38The Pharisee was amazed to see that he did not first wash before dinner. 39Then the Lord said to him, ‘Now you Pharisees clean the outside of the cup and of the dish, but inside you are full of greed and wickedness. 40You fools! Did not the one who made the outside make the inside also? 41So give for alms those things that are within; and see, everything will be clean for you.
42 ‘But woe to you Pharisees! For you tithe mint and rue and herbs of all kinds, and neglect justice and the love of God; it is these you ought to have practised, without neglecting the others. 43Woe to you Pharisees! For you love to have the seat of honour in the synagogues and to be greeted with respect in the market-places. 44Woe to you! For you are like unmarked graves, and people walk over them without realizing it.’
45 One of the lawyers answered him, ‘Teacher, when you say these things, you insult us too.’ 46And he said, ‘Woe also to you lawyers! For you load people with burdens hard to bear, and you yourselves do not lift a finger to ease them. 47Woe to you! For you build the tombs of the prophets whom your ancestors killed. 48So you are witnesses and approve of the deeds of your ancestors; for they killed them, and you build their tombs. 49Therefore also the Wisdom of God said, “I will send them prophets and apostles, some of whom they will kill and persecute”, 50so that this generation may be charged with the blood of all the prophets shed since the foundation of the world, 51from the blood of Abel to the blood of Zechariah, who perished between the altar and the sanctuary. Yes, I tell you, it will be charged against this generation. 52Woe to you lawyers! For you have taken away the key of knowledge; you did not enter yourselves, and you hindered those who were entering.’
53 When he went outside, the scribes and the Pharisees began to be very hostile towards him and to cross-examine him about many things, 54lying in wait for him, to catch him in something he might say.

TODAY’S STATUS UPDATES
Concerned with outward appearances? Focused on how things look to others? Always desiring to be held in high esteem?------These charges could be issued in every generation as a challenge.

Jesus reminds us once more that the heart- the center of our being- is what we need to give to God first and foremost and the exterior will follow.
Jesus yearns to see us be people of integrity where our faith and actions are in complete alignment. The story today seems to refer to leaders who were out of alignment. It speaks to us because our beliefs and behavior can just as easily get out of alignment. Come up with your own examples but how often do we speak about how our faith is incredibly important yet fall so short in living by that faith or conforming our lives to Jesus’ ways.
When our calls fall out of alignment, we quickly need to get them to a mechanic to fix, so the journey ahead can a little more streamlined. So it is in the spiritual life. I think we need to turn to Jesus as often as possible to get aligned and re-aligned. We do that in devotion, in prayer, in Bible Study, in journaling, in worship. The more we turn to God, the more we ask for a tune up, the better off we will be for dramatic service in the world.
How would you describe your spiritual life right now- in alignment or in need of alignment?
Jesus, we ask for you to touch our hearts and our lives. Align us to your mission and purpose. Help steer us in your directions and enable us to turn around when we go astray. Bless us for the journey that lies ahead. Amen

FRIENDS ADDED
Let’s be honest. The crowds journeying with Jesus appear to be still on board but Jesus’ sharp criticisms today offend the religious leaders. He didn’t win any friendships today. In fact, I suspect that even some of the followers were made very uncomfortable by Jesus bold accusations.

Day 18 Tuesday March 9 2010

2010-03-09T07:50:00.001-05:00

Day 18 Tuesday March 9, 2010

TODAY’S INTRO
At first glance, today’s text appears to be a “Cliff Notes” version of what we know as the Lord’s Prayer. Before reading it, recite what the version of the lord’s Prayer that is most familiar to you. (No problem if that is not familiar. I fully believe that we have many in our culture who are excited to learn more about Jesus and are open to exploring his ways! Truth be told- we have much to learn from those who are new to the faith. Read on, friends!)

TODAY’S TEXT- Luke 11:1-27
He was praying in a certain place, and after he had finished, one of his disciples said to him, ‘Lord, teach us to pray, as John taught his disciples.’ 2He said to them, ‘When you pray, say:Father,* hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come.* 3 Give us each day our daily bread.* 4 And forgive us our sins, for we ourselves forgive everyone indebted to us. And do not bring us to the time of trial.’*
Perseverance in Prayer
5 And he said to them, ‘Suppose one of you has a friend, and you go to him at midnight and say to him, “Friend, lend me three loaves of bread; 6for a friend of mine has arrived, and I have nothing to set before him.” 7And he answers from within, “Do not bother me; the door has already been locked, and my children are with me in bed; I cannot get up and give you anything.” 8I tell you, even though he will not get up and give him anything because he is his friend, at least because of his persistence he will get up and give him whatever he needs.
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. 10For everyone who asks receives, and everyone who searches finds, and for everyone who knocks, the door will be opened. 11Is there anyone among you who, if your child asks for* a fish, will give a snake instead of a fish? 12Or if the child asks for an egg, will give a scorpion? 13If 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!’
Jesus and Beelzebul
14 Now he was casting out a demon that was mute; when the demon had gone out, the one who had been mute spoke, and the crowds were amazed. 15But some of them said, ‘He casts out demons by Beelzebul, the ruler of the demons.’ 16Others, to test him, kept demanding from him a sign from heaven. 17But he knew what they were thinking and said to them, ‘Every kingdom divided against itself becomes a desert, and house falls on house. 18If Satan also is divided against himself, how will his kingdom stand? —for you say that I cast out the demons by Beelzebul. 19Now if I cast out the demons by Beelzebul, by whom do your exorcists* cast them out? Therefore they will be your judges. 20But if it is by the finger of God that I cast out the demons, then the kingdom of God has come to you. 21When a strong man, fully armed, guards his castle, his property is safe. 22But when one stronger than he attacks him and overpowers him, he takes away his armour in which he trusted and divides his plunder. 23Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters.
The Return of the Unclean Spirit
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.” 25When it comes, it finds it swept and put in order. 26Then 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.’
True Blessedness
27 While he was saying this, a woman in the crowd raised her voice and said to him, ‘Blessed is the womb that bore you and the breasts that nursed you!’

TODAY’S STATUS UPDATES
What always stands out to me about Luke’s version of the Lord’s prayer is how brief it is. Note how the disciples ask Jesus to mentor them in prayer. His prayer is intimate, focused, and to the point.
“Father” was an intimate title similar to a child saying “Daddy”.
The latter part of the prayer is simply reminding us- pray for your daily needs and the faith to trust that “daddy will provide”
The middle part is about simply praying for God’s movement and his goodness to touch all parts of the earth. (And as we read through Luke, we must remember, loud and clear, that touching the earth is not about arrogance but rather about compassionate service to all we meet. The best days for the people of faith are when they model Christ like humility and servanthood in daily life.

Perhaps the best practice for us today is to simply pray with simplicity and clarity, no flowery and long winded language. Let me add a few prayers to start and let you finish it off.
Jesus, help us to be grateful for all you give to us.
Jesus, bring peace to all the world.
Jesus, help Christians be compassionate servants every day.
Jesus, bring jobs and new opportunities for people in need.
Jesus, help us to share and remember that you are always ready to provide.
Jesus, please watch over the people of Haiti and Chile. Give strength to those who are working so hard to help them recover.
Jesus, stand beside anyone in need so they know they are never alone.
. . . … . .(add yours)
Jesus, you already know our needs but it is good for us to voice them. We hand them to you and ask you to take charge! You’re better at being in charge than we will ever be! Amen

FRIENDS ADDED
Man with demon
Woman in Crowd

*note- more opposition to Jesus helping this man

Day 17 Mon March 8, 2010

2010-03-08T07:40:00.001-05:00

Day 17 Monday March 8, 2010

TODAY’S INTRO
We are quickly approaching the half way point of Luke. We are now in the long extended “Journey’ or “Travel Narrative” of Luke which will feature some of his greatest teachings. (Chapters 9:51- 19)

TODAY’S TEXT- Luke 10
10 After this the Lord appointed seventya others and sent them on ahead of him in pairs to every town and place where he himself intended to go. 2He said to them, "The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore ask the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest. 3Go on your way. See, I am sending you out like lambs into the midst of wolves. 4Carry no purse, no bag, no sandals; and greet no one on the road. 5Whatever house you enter, first say, 'Peace to this house!' 6And if anyone is there who shares in peace, your peace will rest on that person; but if not, it will return to you. 7Remain in the same house, eating and drinking whatever they provide, for the laborer deserves to be paid. Do not move about from house to house. 8Whenever you enter a town and its people welcome you, eat what is set before you; 9cure the sick who are there, and say to them, 'The kingdom of God has come near to you.'b 10But whenever you enter a town and they do not welcome you, go out into its streets and say, 11'Even the dust of your town that clings to our feet, we wipe off in protest against you. Yet know this: the kingdom of God has come near.'c 12I tell you, on that day it will be more tolerable for Sodom than for that town.
Woes to Unrepentant Cities
13 "Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the deeds of power done in you had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago, sitting in sackcloth and ashes. 14But at the judgment it will be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon than for you. 15And you, Capernaum, will you be exalted to heaven? No, you will be brought down to Hades. 16 "Whoever listens to you listens to me, and whoever rejects you rejects me, and whoever rejects me rejects the one who sent me."
The Return of the Seventy
17 The seventyd returned with joy, saying, "Lord, in your name even the demons submit to us!" 18He said to them, "I watched Satan fall from heaven like a flash of lightning. 19See, I have given you authority to tread on snakes and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy; and nothing will hurt you. 20Nevertheless, do not rejoice at this, that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven."
Jesus Rejoices
21 At that same hour Jesuse rejoiced in the Holy Spiritf and said, "I thankg you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and the intelligent and have revealed them to infants; yes, Father, for such was your gracious will.h 22All things have been handed over to me by my Father; and no one knows who the Son is except the Father, or who the Father is except the Son and anyone to whom the Son chooses to reveal him." 23 Then turning to the disciples, Jesusi said to them privately, "Blessed are the eyes that see what you see! 24For I tell you that many prophets and kings desired to see what you see, but did not see it, and to hear what you hear, but did not hear it."
The Parable of the Good Samaritan
25 Just then a lawyer stood up to test Jesus.j "Teacher," he said, "what must I do to inherit eternal life?" 26He said to him, "What is written in the law? What do you read there?" 27He 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 neighbor as yourself." 28And he said to him, "You have given the right answer; do this, and you will live." 29 But wanting to justify himself, he asked Jesus, "And who is my neighbor?" 30Jesus replied, "A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell into the hands of robbers, who stripped him, beat him, and went away, leaving him half dead. 31Now by chance a priest was going down that road; and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. 32So likewise a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. 33But a Samaritan while traveling came near him; and when he saw him, he was moved with pity. 34He went to him and bandaged his wounds, having poured oil and wine on them. Then he put him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and took care of him. 35The next day he took out two denarii,k gave them to the innkeeper, and said, 'Take care of him; and when I come back, I will repay you whatever more you spend.' 36Which of these three, do you think, was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of the robbers?" 37He said, "The one who showed him mercy." Jesus said to him, "Go and do likewise."
Jesus Visits Martha and Mary
38 Now as they went on their way, he entered a certain village, where a woman named Martha welcomed him into her home. 39She had a sister named Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet and listened to what he was saying. 40But Martha was distracted by her many tasks; so she came to him and asked, "Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to do all the work by myself ? Tell her then to help me." 41But the Lord answered her, "Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things; 42there is need of only one thing.l Mary has chosen the better part, which will not be taken away from her."

TODAY’S STATUS UPDATES
In Saturdays text, Jesus had set his face toward Jerusalem. He is plowing forward with a group of followers- teaching them along the way. Just as they “jump on board” he tells them to get out and pair up because he has a mission in mind for them. One of the things I like in what you will read is that the harvest is seen as a precious commodity. It is valued. What that reminds me of is that the people in the world around us are precious and valuable in the eyes of God. We are called to the highest levels of patience and compassion and intentionality as we reach out to others. Reaching out is not an option. Two of the religious walk right by another in need. Did they not regard a man in the depths of despair as “precious”? Thankfully Jesus raises up a hero in the story as anyone who sees a need and says “I can do something to help AND I WILL.”

Switching topics on you, I’d like you to consider gas mileage. We have cars in our world that eat up a lot of gas and need “filling up all the time”. We have hybrids which may get 50+miles per gallon. Getting more mileage is a key value in producing new cars. But, not matter what the reality is the same- cars will need to be filled up as they approach the “E”. You and I, the people of God, are called to reach out and serve the world around us in our daily life. We do that whether we are businesspeople, scientists, teachers, administrators, parents, mechanics, pastors, or any other daily task. The key reminder at the end of today’s text is that we need to make sure we pause and get “filled up” for the service that lies ahead. Disciplines like regular worship and devotions and prayer are regular ways to get filled up, to rest, to renew, and to anticipate the future. Note how the “fueling” up in this text occurs in the midst of a small group. The support of other Christians is essential for us. Busy lives can drain our “spiritual gas tanks” quickly. That regular time to “re-fuel” is so important. I can personally tell you that walking through Luke with you is a great blessing in my life and I thank you for walking along and providing helpful feedback.
May you be charged up this day for the journey that lies ahead. The Lord will surround you with “precious people”. May you and I see them as such.

FRIENDS ADDED
70
Mary
Martha
Those who reach out and see others in this world as “precious”

CAUSES
Reaching out to those who come across the “dashboard of our life” esp. those who have tangible need

Expanding our definition of “neighbor”
Being agents of peace
Strengthening the devotional life of the followers of God—We need to “return to our sender” (recall earlier devotion this Lent on that theme)

Day 16 Saturday March 6, 2010

2010-03-05T20:20:00.001-05:00

Day 16 Saturday March 6, 2010

TODAY’S INTRO
Do you notice how there are at least 15 minutes of previews/coming attractions at any movie these days? There are at least 5-7 movies previewed- all which have similar endings- “Coming Soon” or “Thanksgiving 2010” or “July 4”. The point is the same—the advertisers want to drill it in your head that this is “around the bend” or something you should start to anticipate.! Today, we anticipate the next phase of Jesus’ ministry. It’s coming soon!

TODAY’S TEXT- Luke 9:28-62
28 Now about eight days after these sayings Jesusf took with him Peter and John and James, and went up on the mountain to pray. 29And while he was praying, the appearance of his face changed, and his clothes became dazzling white. 30Suddenly they saw two men, Moses and Elijah, talking to him. 31They appeared in glory and were speaking of his departure, which he was about to accomplish at Jerusalem. 32Now Peter and his companions were weighed down with sleep; but since they had stayed awake,g they saw his glory and the two men who stood with him. 33Just as they were leaving him, Peter said to Jesus, "Master, it is good for us to be here; let us make three dwellings,h one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah"--not knowing what he said. 34While he was saying this, a cloud came and overshadowed them; and they were terrified as they entered the cloud. 35Then from the cloud came a voice that said, "This is my Son, my Chosen;i listen to him!" 36When the voice had spoken, Jesus was found alone. And they kept silent and in those days told no one any of the things they had seen.
Jesus Heals a Boy with a Demon
37 On the next day, when they had come down from the mountain, a great crowd met him. 38Just then a man from the crowd shouted, "Teacher, I beg you to look at my son; he is my only child. 39Suddenly a spirit seizes him, and all at once hej shrieks. It convulses him until he foams at the mouth; it mauls him and will scarcely leave him. 40I begged your disciples to cast it out, but they could not." 41Jesus answered, "You faithless and perverse generation, how much longer must I be with you and bear with you? Bring your son here." 42While he was coming, the demon dashed him to the ground in convulsions. But Jesus rebuked the unclean spirit, healed the boy, and gave him back to his father. 43And all were astounded at the greatness of God.
Jesus Again Foretells His Death
While everyone was amazed at all that he was doing, he said to his disciples, 44"Let these words sink into your ears: The Son of Man is going to be betrayed into human hands." 45But they did not understand this saying; its meaning was concealed from them, so that they could not perceive it. And they were afraid to ask him about this saying.
True Greatness
46 An argument arose among them as to which one of them was the greatest. 47But Jesus, aware of their inner thoughts, took a little child and put it by his side, 48and said to them, "Whoever welcomes this child in my name welcomes me, and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me; for the least among all of you is the greatest."
Another Exorcist
49 John answered, "Master, we saw someone casting out demons in your name, and we tried to stop him, because he does not follow with us." 50But Jesus said to him, "Do not stop him; for whoever is not against you is for you."
A Samaritan Village Refuses to Receive Jesus
51 When the days drew near for him to be taken up, he set his face to go to Jerusalem. 52And he sent messengers ahead of him. On their way they entered a village of the Samaritans to make ready for him; 53but they did not receive him, because his face was set toward Jerusalem. 54When his disciples James and John saw it, they said, "Lord, do you want us to command fire to come down from heaven and consume them?"k 55But he turned and rebuked them. 56Thenl they went on to another village.
Would-Be Followers of Jesus
57 As they were going along the road, someone said to him, "I will follow you wherever you go." 58And Jesus said to him, "Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay his head." 59To another he said, "Follow me." But he said, "Lord, first let me go and bury my father." 60But Jesusm said to him, "Let the dead bury their own dead; but as for you, go and proclaim the kingdom of God." 61Another said, "I will follow you, Lord; but let me first say farewell to those at my home." 62Jesus said to him, "No one who puts a hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God."

TODAY’S STATUS UPDATES

What’s around the corner for Jesus? a dramatic journey to Jerusalem.
What’s around the corner for some of people who encountered Jesus? A choice on whether to follow or not.

What’s around the corner for those who chose to follow Jesus? An exciting adventure, lots of great teaching on the ways of the kingdom. Ups and down and a lot of challenge.

What’s around the corner for us? Time will tell but one thing is certain, God promises to be there and walk with us. He will invite us into his group time and time again. He will send us out time and time again. He will watch over us and teach us how to be examples of Kingdom living.

Closer to Jesus and his ways—coming soon (for you and me!)

FRIENDS ADDED

Boy with demon and his father.
Children

OPPONENTS
Those who make excuses to follow or put their discipleship on hold

CAUSES
Peace—Jesus will not speak for violent ways and aggression. Notice how he calmed down the disciples who encountered opposition in Samaritan Village

Greatness is seen in service

OTHER NOTES
*Jesus’ Journey from 9:51- chapter 19 is being featured in our Sunday and Thursday evening worship services at Good Shepherd during Lent 2010

Day 15 Friday March 5 2010

2010-03-05T07:36:00.001-05:00

Day 15 Friday March 5, 2010

TODAY’S INTRO
Friends, we are over 1/3 of the way through Luke now. After tommorow’s devotion, Jesus will be done with the ministry in Galilee and heading toward Jerusalem. He will head on a long extended “Journey” in which he will teach his followers a lot about God’s intended ways for human interaction on this planet. We’ll get there. For now, Jesus is sending twelve of them out one last time before the journey. He certainly calls them to “trust in his provision”. Can we do the same? Can we see that one of God’s great desires is providing for us?

TODAY’S TEXT- Luke 9:1-27
Then Jesusa called the twelve together and gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases, 2and he sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal. 3He said to them, "Take nothing for your journey, no staff, nor bag, nor bread nor money--not even an extra tunic. 4Whatever house you enter, stay there, and leave from there. 5Wherever they do not welcome you, as you are leaving that town shake the dust off your feet as a testimony against them." 6They departed and went through the villages, bringing the good news and curing diseases everywhere.
Herod's Perplexity
7 Now Herod the rulerb heard about all that had taken place, and he was perplexed, because it was said by some that John had been raised from the dead, 8by some that Elijah had appeared, and by others that one of the ancient prophets had arisen. 9Herod said, "John I beheaded; but who is this about whom I hear such things?" And he tried to see him.
Feeding the Five Thousand
10 On their return the apostles told Jesusc all they had done. He took them with him and withdrew privately to a city called Bethsaida. 11When the crowds found out about it, they followed him; and he welcomed them, and spoke to them about the kingdom of God, and healed those who needed to be cured. 12 The day was drawing to a close, and the twelve came to him and said, "Send the crowd away, so that they may go into the surrounding villages and countryside, to lodge and get provisions; for we are here in a deserted place." 13But he said to them, "You give them something to eat." They said, "We have no more than five loaves and two fish--unless we are to go and buy food for all these people." 14For there were about five thousand men. And he said to his disciples, "Make them sit down in groups of about fifty each." 15They did so and made them all sit down. 16And taking the five loaves and the two fish, he looked up to heaven, and blessed and broke them, and gave them to the disciples to set before the crowd. 17And all ate and were filled. What was left over was gathered up, twelve baskets of broken pieces.
Peter's Declaration about Jesus
18 Once when Jesusd was praying alone, with only the disciples near him, he asked them, "Who do the crowds say that I am?" 19They answered, "John the Baptist; but others, Elijah; and still others, that one of the ancient prophets has arisen." 20He said to them, "But who do you say that I am?" Peter answered, "The Messiahe of God."
Jesus Foretells His Death and Resurrection
21 He sternly ordered and commanded them not to tell anyone, 22saying, "The Son of Man must undergo great suffering, and be rejected by the elders, chief priests, and scribes, and be killed, and on the third day be raised." 23 Then he said to them all, "If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me. 24For those who want to save their life will lose it, and those who lose their life for my sake will save it. 25What does it profit them if they gain the whole world, but lose or forfeit themselves? 26Those who are ashamed of me and of my words, of them the Son of Man will be ashamed when he comes in his glory and the glory of the Father and of the holy angels. 27But truly I tell you, there are some standing here who will not taste death before they see the kingdom of God."

TODAY’S STATUS UPDATES

How often do we say, “there is nothing I can do to help that person”? Maybe some situations are ‘over our head’ and we do not have the resources or the ability to handle it but. . consider today’s text as a text for the Christian community, as a group of people.

We see tangible need affecting a large group- specifically a food need. The twelve followers of Jesus, in a sense, say to Jesus, ‘there’s nothing we can do. Send them away’. But Jesus says, “you give them something”. In a sense, Jesus is saying, “friends, don’t think you don’t have anything to help them. You can do it!”

What Jesus showed in the story today is his desire to provide for those in need and to serve as a catalyst for those called to provide. As today’s text reminds us—“reach out boldly, reach out to the masses, reach out in tangible ways and he will find a way to provide!” Will we dare to believe in his provision or will we simply say, “we can’t help”?

God has a mission in this world and I believe he is ready to use us. Let’s dare to believe and act upon the belief that the Lord will continue to provide!

Jesus, help us always to trust in you as the provider for mission. We are your instruments. Help us to see that we have much to offer. Spark us to offer what we have for the sake of the world around us. Amen

FRIENDS ADDED

Indirect “friends” or “blessed people” through disciples ministry.

CONFUSED
Herod remains baffled by Jesus!

CAUSES
Trusting in the provision of the Lord

OTHER NOTES

Join me as we start a new Devotion Series in April and May called “The Ripple Effect” at http://www.ripplingout.blogspot.com/ (an exploration of Acts)

Day 14Thursday March 4 2010

2010-03-04T07:24:00.002-05:00

Day 14 Thursday March 4, 2010

TODAY’S INTRO
Last weekend, I took a group of 8th grade students to Washington DC for their confirmation retreat. It is a weekend of service which culminates in a walking tour of DC to feed the homeless on the street. In all the years I have done this, we have always had a good experience- our kids have done well and every homeless person we have encountered has been gracious.

This year, the first person we met will leave a lasting impact on me (as well as the kids). We were walking toward McPherson Square in DC and there was a man on a park bench- all huddled up with a suitcase of “dirty stuff” and a cardboard box surrounding his upper torso. He was probably 20 feet from a smaller museum building. From the looks of him, I would have guessed that he’d been homeless for a fairly long time. He was happy to get a meal (which my daughter handed to him). As we walked away, we all saw the 50+rats scurrying about around the edges of the building. A sight to disturb these suburban kid, their pastors and chaperones. The proximity to this man on the bench was so disturbing, so hopeless. When hope is not present, life is so difficult. Today, Jesus encounters 3 situtations where hope appears to have vanished!

TODAY’S TEXT- Luke 8:26-56
26 Then they arrived at the country of the Gerasenes,d which is opposite Galilee. 27As he stepped out on land, a man of the city who had demons met him. For a long time he had worne no clothes, and he did not live in a house but in the tombs. 28When he saw Jesus, he fell down before him and shouted at the top of his voice, "What have you to do with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I beg you, do not torment me"-- 29for Jesusf had commanded the unclean spirit to come out of the man. (For many times it had seized him; he was kept under guard and bound with chains and shackles, but he would break the bonds and be driven by the demon into the wilds.) 30Jesus then asked him, "What is your name?" He said, "Legion"; for many demons had entered him. 31They begged him not to order them to go back into the abyss. 32 Now there on the hillside a large herd of swine was feeding; and the demonsg begged Jesush to let them enter these. So he gave them permission. 33Then the demons came out of the man and entered the swine, and the herd rushed down the steep bank into the lake and was drowned. 34 When the swineherds saw what had happened, they ran off and told it in the city and in the country. 35Then people came out to see what had happened, and when they came to Jesus, they found the man from whom the demons had gone sitting at the feet of Jesus, clothed and in his right mind. And they were afraid. 36Those who had seen it told them how the one who had been possessed by demons had been healed. 37Then all the people of the surrounding country of the Gerasenesi asked Jesusj to leave them; for they were seized with great fear. So he got into the boat and returned. 38The man from whom the demons had gone begged that he might be with him; but Jesusk sent him away, saying, 39"Return to your home, and declare how much God has done for you." So he went away, proclaiming throughout the city how much Jesus had done for him.
A Girl Restored to Life and a Woman Healed
40 Now when Jesus returned, the crowd welcomed him, for they were all waiting for him. 41Just then there came a man named Jairus, a leader of the synagogue. He fell at Jesus' feet and begged him to come to his house, 42for he had an only daughter, about twelve years old, who was dying. As he went, the crowds pressed in on him. 43Now there was a woman who had been suffering from hemorrhages for twelve years; and though she had spent all she had on physicians,l no one could cure her. 44She came up behind him and touched the fringe of his clothes, and immediately her hemorrhage stopped. 45Then Jesus asked, "Who touched me?" When all denied it, Peterm 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." 49 While he was still speaking, someone came from the leader's house to say, "Your daughter is dead; do not trouble the teacher any longer." 50When Jesus heard this, he replied, "Do not fear. Only believe, and she will be saved." 51When he came to the house, he did not allow anyone to enter with him, except Peter, John, and James, and the child's father and mother. 52They were all weeping and wailing for her; but he said, "Do not weep; for she is not dead but sleeping." 53And they laughed at him, knowing that she was dead. 54But he took her by the hand and called out, "Child, get up!" 55Her spirit returned, and she got up at once. Then he directed them to give her something to eat. 56Her parents were astounded; but he ordered them to tell no one what had happened.

TODAY’S STATUS UPDATES

Just as my story at the beginning, I am sure that each of you can think of situations that appear hopeless, especially people who are hopeless. Without hope- the future is bleak, uncertain, and confusing. With hope, there is power. Hope is “believing in spite of the evidence and watching the evidence change” as one activist likes to say.

One of the things I am mindful of today is that Jesus is the one who brings hope. In 3 different situations he “brings hope” to people who have no apparent future. He intervenes in their lives instills hope and new life.

The stories today are dramatic but there is no doubt in my mind that Jesus (and his followers) are called to “instill hope” in the world around them. Today, I am going to leave this pretty open ended and ask you to ponder the unique ways in which you can be a “messenger of hope” for others. What are the simple things you can do to help another? Think of someone specifically who is going through difficulty. Is God sending you to them in some way? Instill hope. It’s a needed resource in this world and in abundant supply from the God who provides.

Jesus, you are hope for the hopeless and rest for the weary. Build us up to be messengers of hope for others. When we feel the weight of the world on our heart and soul, send messengers of your hope to us- to remind us that we are not alone. We pray for those in our world in extremely difficult circumstances especially those affected by natural disasters. Send a flood of hope – tangible, spiritual, and emotional. Amen

FRIENDS ADDED

Gerasene Demoniac
Woman with Hemorages
Little Girl and her parents (Jairus is dad)

OPPONENTS
The owner of the pigs has gotta be a bit fired up
Many in the town want Jeus out of their

CAUSES
Instilling hope to the hopeless

I love how the Gerasene Demoniac wanted to follow Jesus on journey but Jesus said, "stay put and be a witness" where you are. One whom had hope restored is often a powerful witness in their local setting!

OTHER NOTES

Join me as we start a new Devotion Series in April and May called “The Ripple Effect” at http://www.ripplingout.blogspot.com/ (an exploration of Acts)

Day 13 Wednesday March 3, 2010

2010-03-03T07:00:00.001-05:00

Day 13 Wed March 3, 2010

TODAY’S INTRO
There are several great stories here today. The sower asks us “what kind of soil are we at this moment in time?” It also reminds me of the importance of being faithful in sharing the faith and leaving the results/impact to God. The sower consistently goes out and sows- over and over. Writing devotions in some ways is trying to honor the call to “sow”. I also love the story of how Jesus brings “calm in the midst of storms”. How many of you need to hear God’s voice in the midst of the storms of life- whether it’s because of illness, stress, anxiety, uncertainty, or for some other reasons? (You might listen to the song- Praise You in the Storm by Casting Crowns, Link at bottom)
It’s easy to jump to talk about those important aspects of today’s text. It’s important to ponder them but let’s not forget the first 3 verses today, which we might just plow by if not gently nudged. So, read it all but. . …don’t forget the first 3!

TODAY’S TEXT- Luke 8:1-25
8 Soon afterwards he went on through cities and villages, proclaiming and bringing the good news of the kingdom of God. The twelve were with him, 2as well as some women who had been cured of evil spirits and infirmities: Mary, called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out, 3and Joanna, the wife of Herod's steward Chuza, and Susanna, and many others, who provided for thema out of their resources.
4 When a great crowd gathered and people from town after town came to him, he said in a parable: 5"A sower went out to sow his seed; and as he sowed, some fell on the path and was trampled on, and the birds of the air ate it up. 6Some fell on the rock; and as it grew up, it withered for lack of moisture. 7Some fell among thorns, and the thorns grew with it and choked it. 8Some fell into good soil, and when it grew, it produced a hundredfold." As he said this, he called out, "Let anyone with ears to hear listen!"
9 Then his disciples asked him what this parable meant. 10He said, "To you it has been given to know the secretsb of the kingdom of God; but to others I speakc in parables, so that 'looking they may not perceive, and listening they may not understand.'
11 "Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God. 12The ones on the path are those who have heard; then the devil comes and takes away the word from their hearts, so that they may not believe and be saved. 13The ones on the rock are those who, when they hear the word, receive it with joy. But these have no root; they believe only for a while and in a time of testing fall away. 14As for what fell among the thorns, these are the ones who hear; but as they go on their way, they are choked by the cares and riches and pleasures of life, and their fruit does not mature. 15But as for that in the good soil, these are the ones who, when they hear the word, hold it fast in an honest and good heart, and bear fruit with patient endurance.
16 "No one after lighting a lamp hides it under a jar, or puts it under a bed, but puts it on a lampstand, so that those who enter may see the light. 17For nothing is hidden that will not be disclosed, nor is anything secret that will not become known and come to light. 18Then pay attention to how you listen; for to those who have, more will be given; and from those who do not have, even what they seem to have will be taken away."
19 Then his mother and his brothers came to him, but they could not reach him because of the crowd. 20And he was told, "Your mother and your brothers are standing outside, wanting to see you." 21But he said to them, "My mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and do it."
22 One day he got into a boat with his disciples, and he said to them, "Let us go across to the other side of the lake." So they put out, 23and while they were sailing he fell asleep. A windstorm swept down on the lake, and the boat was filling with water, and they were in danger. 24They went to him and woke him up, shouting, "Master, Master, we are perishing!" And he woke up and rebuked the wind and the raging waves; they ceased, and there was a calm. 25He 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?"

TODAY’S STATUS UPDATES
Luke 8:1-3 does not appear in the Mark, Matthew, or John. Although women are noted at the resurrection appearances (including these 3), Luke makes it chrystal clear that “women were part of his disciples” early on. They appear to accompany him from this moment all the way to Jerusalem. Some of these women could have been some of the 70 sent out in pairs to minister in the towns (in chapter 10) They will hear his great teaching on the way to Jerusalem (stories like the Good Samaritan, Lazarus and Dives, the Parables of the Lost Sheep, Coins, and Son), and they will experience the events we call “Holy Week”. Of all the followers, these 3 appear to be the ones who will “hang in the longest”. They hang out at the cross when others have left (or not even showed up) and they show up at the tomb early on a Sunday morning to be surprised beyond belief that the stone guarding Jesus’ tomb had been rolled away. But. ..I’m getting ahead of myself.

In a male dominated culture (as the first century was), when females had little rights, Jesus breaks the boundaries and says that women will be part of his leadership team. Why didn’t the other Gospels make that clear? Who knows? What we can give thanks for today is that we have Luke’s witness! I think of my life and how many women have played a key role in my faith journey or the women in my life who inspire my faith today.

Take some time today to give thanks for the female disciples who followed Jesus- for their faithfulness (note how some of them were exceedingly generous with their resources to support the “mission”) and for walking by faith. Imagine them on the journey as you read the rest of Luke. Don’t just focus on the 12 closest disciples who get all the press! Remember, there were others, including plenty of female followers.

And today, please give thanks for female followers of Jesus who have or continue to support you on your journey of faith. Who are those women who inspire you to be more like Jesus or have helped you grow closer to God?

Prayer- We thank you Jesus for those women who chose to follow you and for their support of your ministry. We thank you for their leadership, their provisions, and for their willingness to follow you all the way. Help us in our day to follow their example and follow you through “thick and thin”. Indeed those first disciples were the receptive “good soil” . Help us to be the good soil today, tomorrow, and in all the days to come!

FRIENDS ADDED
Mary Magdalene
Joanna
Susanna
Many other women
“Anyone who does the will of God”- says nothing about status, wealth, etc
*does not say anyone who “believes in the will of God”
*it says- “does” the will of God which means that faith is called to be mobilized, acted upon. It is not to sit still. We will see this theme in Luke 10 ithe the parable of the Good Samaritan

CAUSES
Jesus reminds us of the importance of ongoing sharing of the faith. Having outstretched hands and reaching out in society with God’s goodness is our job. The results are up to God. We can’t control receptivity of others. We can only reach out and share but. . . .as Jesus reminds us. .. . some will indeed be receptive. Christians will face rejection but our job is to remain faithful to reaching out.

Ministry of females—Jesus way ahead of his time

OTHER NOTES
Note the anxiety Jesus’ ministry is causing Jesus’ mother and family members!

One would expect that if the women accompany Jesus all the way to the cross and “empty tomb”, they will be a key part of the witness in the book of Acts, the post Resurrection era. Join me as we explore Acts in April and May at http://www.ripplingout.blogspot.com/

Song- Praise You in this Storm (comes to mind with verses 22-25) -- For the "Strorms" in our Life

Day 12 Tuesday March 2 2010

2010-03-02T06:43:00.002-05:00

Day 12 Tue March 2, 2010

TODAY’S INTRO
Thanks for continuing the journey with me through Luke. Take a look at our sign on the right before reading the text today.

TODAY’S TEXT- Luke 7:24-50
24 When John's messengers had gone, Jesusf began to speak to the crowds about John:g "What did you go out into the wilderness to look at? A reed shaken by the wind? 25What then did you go out to see? Someoneh dressed in soft robes? Look, those who put on fine clothing and live in luxury are in royal palaces. 26What then did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. 27This is the one about whom it is written, 'See, I am sending my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way before you.'28I tell you, among those born of women no one is greater than John; yet the least in the kingdom of God is greater than he." 29(And all the people who heard this, including the tax collectors, acknowledged the justice of God,i because they had been baptized with John's baptism. 30But by refusing to be baptized by him, the Pharisees and the lawyers rejected God's purpose for themselves.) 31 "To what then will I compare the people of this generation, and what are they like? 32They are like children sitting in the marketplace and calling to one another, 'We played the flute for you, and you did not dance; we wailed, and you did not weep.'33For John the Baptist has come eating no bread and drinking no wine, and you say, 'He has a demon'; 34the Son of Man has come eating and drinking, and you say, 'Look, a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!' 35Nevertheless, wisdom is vindicated by all her children."
A Sinful Woman Forgiven
36 One of the Pharisees asked Jesusj to eat with him, and he went into the Pharisee's house and took his place at the table. 37And a woman in the city, who was a sinner, having learned that he was eating in the Pharisee's house, brought an alabaster jar of ointment. 38She stood behind him at his feet, weeping, and began to bathe his feet with her tears and to dry them with her hair. Then she continued kissing his feet and anointing them with the ointment. 39Now when the Pharisee who had invited him saw it, he said to himself, "If this man were a prophet, he would have known who and what kind of woman this is who is touching him--that she is a sinner." 40Jesus spoke up and said to him, "Simon, I have something to say to you." "Teacher," he replied, "speak." 41"A certain creditor had two debtors; one owed five hundred denarii,k and the other fifty. 42When they could not pay, he canceled the debts for both of them. Now which of them will love him more?" 43Simon answered, "I suppose the one for whom he canceled the greater debt." And Jesusl said to him, "You have judged rightly." 44Then turning toward the woman, he said to Simon, "Do you see this woman? I entered your house; you gave me no water for my feet, but she has bathed my feet with her tears and dried them with her hair. 45You gave me no kiss, but from the time I came in she has not stopped kissing my feet. 46You did not anoint my head with oil, but she has anointed my feet with ointment. 47Therefore, I tell you, her sins, which were many, have been forgiven; hence she has shown great love. But the one to whom little is forgiven, loves little." 48Then he said to her, "Your sins are forgiven." 49But those who were at the table with him began to say among themselves, "Who is this who even forgives sins?" 50And he said to the woman, "Your faith has saved you; go in peace."

TODAY’S STATUS UPDATES
Let’s think about the sign at the top today which reads, “CANCELLED”

When I think of things getting cancelled it is usually bad news. Flights getting cancelled usually causes passengers stress. A cancelled TV show means that it did not have a successful run or it no longer had mass appeal. Those on limited resources know the fear of having one of their utilities cancelled such as heat or electric or gas or phone.

Cancelled things can sting. They can leave a mark. The cancellations we read about today, however, do not leave a mark. They are good news.
Jesus has not a bit of interest in seeing us buckle under the weight of sin. He has no joy in seeing us be held back by regret, anxiety, past failures, and actions we wish had never happened. He has no interest in us being continually labeled as “sinners”. So Jesus makes it clear, “I am hear to cancel out your flaws, debts, anxieties, problems--- so that you can be freed to be who I intended.

What do you need canceled out?
What do you need Jesus to take and wipe clean?

Jesus, we are thankful this day that you cancel out our sins. You remind us that you always seek to get us back on track. Fill us with the love of the woman in our text today. Teach us to be grateful for the fresh start and abundant life you have in store for us. Help us embrace that fresh start and head toward the new day. Amen

FRIENDS
Sinful Woman
John the Baptist—Jesus expresses extreme appreciation for John
Crowds

CAUSES
Canceling the personal debts/flaws in others
Hanging out with those others declare unworthy, sinful, sinners, outcasts, tax collectors
Challenging those who seek to hinder the extension of forgiveness
Mercy--

YOUTUBE.COM

A great contemporary song that comes to mind with today's text is "Mighty to Save" - Michael W. Smith or Chris Tomlin have great renditions. Check it out

Day 11 Mon March 1 2010

2010-03-01T07:46:00.001-05:00

Day 11 Mon March 1, 2010

TODAY’S INTRO
March 1. Spring is around the corner. We are now one quarter of the way through Luke. On Saturday, we read about Jesus’ Sermon on the plain- profound yet difficult teaching. Today, Jesus heads back into Capernaum- which served as his home base during his ministry.

TODAY’S TEXT- Luke 7:1-23
7 After Jesusa had finished all his sayings in the hearing of the people, he entered Capernaum. 2A centurion there had a slave whom he valued highly, and who was ill and close to death. 3When he heard about Jesus, he sent some Jewish elders to him, asking him to come and heal his slave. 4When they came to Jesus, they appealed to him earnestly, saying, "He is worthy of having you do this for him, 5for he loves our people, and it is he who built our synagogue for us." 6And Jesus went with them, but when he was not far from the house, the centurion sent friends to say to him, "Lord, do not trouble yourself, for I am not worthy to have you come under my roof; 7therefore I did not presume to come to you. But only speak the word, and let my servant be healed. 8For I also am a man set under authority, with soldiers under me; and I say to one, 'Go,' and he goes, and to another, 'Come,' and he comes, and to my slave, 'Do this,' and the slave does it." 9When Jesus heard this he was amazed at him, and turning to the crowd that followed him, he said, "I tell you, not even in Israel have I found such faith." 10When those who had been sent returned to the house, they found the slave in good health.
Jesus Raises the Widow's Son at Nain
11 Soon afterwardsb he went to a town called Nain, and his disciples and a large crowd went with him. 12As 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. 13When the Lord saw her, he had compassion for her and said to her, "Do not weep." 14Then he came forward and touched the bier, and the bearers stood still. And he said, "Young man, I say to you, rise!" 15The dead man sat up and began to speak, and Jesusc gave him to his mother. 16Fear seized all of them; and they glorified God, saying, "A great prophet has risen among us!" and "God has looked favorably on his people!" 17This word about him spread throughout Judea and all the surrounding country.
Messengers from John the Baptist
18 The disciples of John reported all these things to him. So John summoned two of his disciples 19and sent them to the Lord to ask, "Are you the one who is to come, or are we to wait for another?" 20When the men had come to him, they said, "John the Baptist has sent us to you to ask, 'Are you the one who is to come, or are we to wait for another?' " 21Jesusd had just then cured many people of diseases, plagues, and evil spirits, and had given sight to many who were blind. 22And he answered them, "Go and tell John what you have seen and heard: the blind receive their sight, the lame walk, the leperse are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, the poor have good news brought to them. 23And blessed is anyone who takes no offense at me."

TODAY’S STATUS UPDATES
One of the things we see in today’s story is a person outside the traditional religious institutions painted as a model of the faith. The Centurion is sympathetic to Jesus and his ways, supportive of his work, but not an “insider”. What I remember is that Jesus pays little attention to the distinctions of “insider” v. “outsider”. Jesus pays attention to questions like- “who needs my care?” and “who’s sympathetic to my cause?”.

The Centurion is someone who never physically appears in the story yet he reaches out to Jesus. He conveys his appreciation for Jesus’ ministry, his teaching, and his authority. He yearns to see if he might provide help for his servant, who is very ill.

In some ways, the centurion is a catalyst in helping bring God’s goodness to another. He helps set things in motion. He reaches out. He is an active force yet he can only help so much. He needs Jesus to be involved. Faith often works that way. Faith is not a “sit still and do nothing” life. Faith is about doing what we can and then, at the same time, putting it in the hands of Jesus. As we see time and time again, when we get things into Jesus’ hands, our burdens are a bit lighter, we have his support, and we realize we are not alone.

FRIENDS ADDED
Centurion
Centurion’s Servant (one would hope)
Widow and Widows Son
Various onlookers

CAUSES
Openness to the Gentiles---
Concern for the other
Walking with the sick

Day 10 Saturday Feb 27 2010

2010-02-26T12:45:00.004-05:00

*Posting this early as I am heading on the 8th grade retreat in DC this weekend and won't be able to post it tommorow. Here it is. Note- 1/4 of the way through Luke after this one! Thanks for walking with me!

Day 10 Saturday February 27, 2010

TODAY’S INTRO
Today is referred to as the Sermon on Plain. Matthew has it on the mountain. Luke has it on the Plain. As you will see, Jesus is a teacher of wisdom and has much to say about how we should live in daily life. Some of his teaching may cause us to cringe as it is very difficult. It can only be done (or even attempted) with God holding our hand.

TODAY’S TEXT- Luke 6:17-49
17 He came down with them and stood on a level place, with a great crowd of his disciples and a great multitude of people from all Judea, Jerusalem, and the coast of Tyre and Sidon. 18They had come to hear him and to be healed of their diseases; and those who were troubled with unclean spirits were cured. 19And all in the crowd were trying to touch him, for power came out from him and healed all of them.
Blessings and Woes
20 Then he looked up at his disciples and said: "Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God. 21 "Blessed are you who are hungry now, for you will be filled. "Blessed are you who weep now, for you will laugh. 22 "Blessed are you when people hate you, and when they exclude you, revile you, and defame youd on account of the Son of Man. 23Rejoice in that day and leap for joy, for surely your reward is great in heaven; for that is what their ancestors did to the prophets. 24 "But woe to you who are rich, for you have received your consolation. 25 "Woe to you who are full now, for you will be hungry. "Woe to you who are laughing now, for you will mourn and weep. 26 "Woe to you when all speak well of you, for that is what their ancestors did to the false prophets.
Love for Enemies
27 "But I say to you that listen, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, 28bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you. 29If anyone strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also; and from anyone who takes away your coat do not withhold even your shirt. 30Give to everyone who begs from you; and if anyone takes away your goods, do not ask for them again. 31Do to others as you would have them do to you. 32 "If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. 33If you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. 34If you lend to those from whom you hope to receive, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, to receive as much again. 35But love your enemies, do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return.e Your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High; for he is kind to the ungrateful and the wicked. 36Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.
Judging Others
37 "Do not judge, and you will not be judged; do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven; 38give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap; for the measure you give will be the measure you get back." 39 He also told them a parable: "Can a blind person guide a blind person? Will not both fall into a pit? 40A disciple is not above the teacher, but everyone who is fully qualified will be like the teacher. 41Why do you see the speck in your neighbor'sf eye, but do not notice the log in your own eye? 42Or how can you say to your neighbor,g 'Friend,h let me take out the speck in your eye,' when you yourself do not see the log in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your neighbor'si eye.
A Tree and Its Fruit
43 "No good tree bears bad fruit, nor again does a bad tree bear good fruit; 44for each tree is known by its own fruit. Figs are not gathered from thorns, nor are grapes picked from a bramble bush. 45The good person out of the good treasure of the heart produces good, and the evil person out of evil treasure produces evil; for it is out of the abundance of the heart that the mouth speaks.
The Two Foundations
46 "Why do you call me 'Lord, Lord,' and do not do what I tell you? 47I will show you what someone is like who comes to me, hears my words, and acts on them. 48That one is like a man building a house, who dug deeply and laid the foundation on rock; when a flood arose, the river burst against that house but could not shake it, because it had been well built.j 49But the one who hears and does not act is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation. When the river burst against it, immediately it fell, and great was the ruin of that house."

TODAY’S STATUS UPDATES
So much here today. I will be brief today. I probably should have chopped this into about 7 parts to give proper attention to it. I hope that you will really take the time to ponder many of the sayings here.

What really hits me today is the simple story in which we are invited to imagine someone with a tree trunk in their eye. How ridiculous that would look. We all know that when you get something in your eye, it not only hinders sight in that eye but also hinders the other as well. Jesus’ paints that image to remind us that our world is often very quick to judge, to find fault in others without paying attention to self. In some ways, judging others is a defense mechanism that keeps us from really assessing how we might need to be changed. The simple parable reminds us that we need to always be open to how we can improve, be more gracious, loving, accepting, etc. We need to get our act together for the sake of making a difference.

As the old saying goes, you point the finger at another, there is 3 pointing right back at you.

Today, lets ask Jesus to simply help make us the people God intends us to be. Lets also ask that as we “point”, we are pointing out the blessings and gifts that others offer (instead of pointing out the faults). Easier said than done but. . .when you can name the challenge, you can head out to actually do it!

FRIENDS ADDED
“Enemies” - the challenge is to never give up on anyone and who knows

CAUSES
Erring on the side of mercy
Loving the enemy
Acting on the faith
Not judging others
Paying attention to soul/self- looking in the mirror

Day 9 Friday Feb 26 2010

2010-02-26T07:18:00.002-05:00

Day 9 Friday February 26, 2010

TODAY’S INTRO

Sabbath was a day dedicated to God that featured no work. Sabbath was an Old Testament priority. As 21st century people, we yearn for days off to “do what we want”. We yearn for vacations. We look forward to those times off as we should. The biblical model calls for the Sabbath as a part of regular discipline to remind us of our identity, our connection to God the provider, and to renew ourselves. It’s not about running oneself ragged. It’s about spiritual renewal. But, like any good thing if one gets too rigid in requirements, one can lose sight of a good thing.

TODAY’S TEXT- Luke 6: 1-16
The Question about the Sabbath
6 One sabbatha while Jesusb was going through the grainfields, his disciples plucked some heads of grain, rubbed them in their hands, and ate them. 2But some of the Pharisees said, "Why are you doing what is not lawfulc on the sabbath?" 3Jesus answered, "Have you not read what David did when he and his companions were hungry? 4He entered the house of God and took and ate the bread of the Presence, which it is not lawful for any but the priests to eat, and gave some to his companions?" 5Then he said to them, "The Son of Man is lord of the sabbath."
The Man with a Withered Hand
6 On another sabbath he entered the synagogue and taught, and there was a man there whose right hand was withered. 7The scribes and the Pharisees watched him to see whether he would cure on the sabbath, so that they might find an accusation against him. 8Even though he knew what they were thinking, he said to the man who had the withered hand, "Come and stand here." He got up and stood there. 9Then Jesus said to them, "I ask you, is it lawful to do good or to do harm on the sabbath, to save life or to destroy it?" 10After looking around at all of them, he said to him, "Stretch out your hand." He did so, and his hand was restored. 11But they were filled with fury and discussed with one another what they might do to Jesus.
Jesus Chooses the Twelve Apostles
12 Now during those days he went out to the mountain to pray; and he spent the night in prayer to God. 13And when day came, he called his disciples and chose twelve of them, whom he also named apostles: 14Simon, whom he named Peter, and his brother Andrew, and James, and John, and Philip, and Bartholomew, 15and Matthew, and Thomas, and James son of Alphaeus, and Simon, who was called the Zealot, 16and Judas son of James, and Judas Iscariot, who became a traitor.

TODAY’S STATUS UPDATES
As a baseball player, a shortstop in my college days, one of the things you worked hard at was fielding. You practiced and practiced and practiced. Groundballs. Pop ups. Flies over your head. Double play throws. Back hands. Slow grounders. Relays. You get the point. You did that so that when game time came that you were flawless. You did not want to make an error. You did not want the big “E” to show up on the scoreboard to hurt your team. They happened from time to time, however.

One of the things I see in this passage is Jesus sending a strong message to the Pharisees- namely, that he’s going to create some intentional errs! He makes it clear that he intends to err on the side of blessing others, even if it makes some uncomfortable or if it violates a rule. Caring for another human being is Jesus’ priority and the witness he offers.

As people of faith, do we err on the side of blessing and caring or do we hold up red flags when radical care is extended? Err on the side of blessing. It’s the side of the balance that Jesus lives on.

We see that in play with the listing of the 12. Who’s there? Who’s part of the inner core? Matthew (aka Levi)- the dreaded tax collector. He’s only there because of the outreached hand of Jesus- another big “E”

Jesus, we thank you that you that you have reached out to us and you err on the side of blessing us. We may not always live up to your standards and hopes but you err on the side of caring for us, believing in us, and loving us. Help us to remember the importance of taking time for you- for pausing to rest and renew. . . . but help us to be ready to bolt into daily life to extend your radical blessings. Amen

FRIENDS ADDED
Man with withered hand
The inner core of 12(already friends

OPPONENTS
Pharisees

CAUSES
Mentoring a smaller group in an intentional way. 12
Healing
Always error on the side of caring
Including the outcasts

Reminder re Sunday February 28

2010-02-25T13:32:00.001-05:00

Reminder-- Sundays will be a day to come and worship.

At Good Shepherd, our Lenten sermon series is called, "The Journey" - a look at the travel narrative of Luke 9:51- chapter 19. We will dig into the unique stories that are found there.
Also, Dr. Richard Carlson of Gettysburg Seminary will lead a class on the Passion in the Gospel of Luke tommorow at 10am.

Join us at 830, 10, or 1115 for worship or. . . .if you are participating in Jesus' Facebook Page from another area-- go and worship locally. Blessings for a great sunday!

Pastor Dave

Day 8 Thursday Feb 25 2010

2010-02-25T07:22:00.002-05:00

Day 8 Thursday February 25, 2010

TODAY’S INTRO
More healings in today’s text. More to come. I will be talking a bit about Jesus’ ministry of healing and wholeness when we get to Luke 7. Authorities starting to watch Jesus. Lowly fisherman called to serve. Despised tax collectors join the fellowship including one brought into the inner core. Lots of people leaving their comfort zones!

TODAY’S TEXT- Luke 5:1-39
Jesus Calls the First Disciples
5 Once while Jesusa was standing beside the lake of Gennesaret, and the crowd was pressing in on him to hear the word of God, 2he saw two boats there at the shore of the lake; the fishermen had gone out of them and were washing their nets. 3He got into one of the boats, the one belonging to Simon, and asked him to put out a little way from the shore. Then he sat down and taught the crowds from the boat. 4When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, "Put out into the deep water and let down your nets for a catch." 5Simon answered, "Master, we have worked all night long but have caught nothing. Yet if you say so, I will let down the nets." 6When they had done this, they caught so many fish that their nets were beginning to break. 7So they signaled their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both boats, so that they began to sink. 8But when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus' knees, saying, "Go away from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man!" 9For he and all who were with him were amazed at the catch of fish that they had taken; 10and so also were James and John, sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. Then Jesus said to Simon, "Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching people." 11When they had brought their boats to shore, they left everything and followed him.
Jesus Cleanses a Leper
12 Once, when he was in one of the cities, there was a man covered with leprosy.b When he saw Jesus, he bowed with his face to the ground and begged him, "Lord, if you choose, you can make me clean." 13Then Jesusc stretched out his hand, touched him, and said, "I do choose. Be made clean." Immediately the leprosyd left him. 14And he ordered him to tell no one. "Go," he said, "and show yourself to the priest, and, as Moses commanded, make an offering for your cleansing, for a testimony to them." 15But now more than ever the word about Jesuse spread abroad; many crowds would gather to hear him and to be cured of their diseases. 16But he would withdraw to deserted places and pray.
Jesus Heals a Paralytic
17 One day, while he was teaching, Pharisees and teachers of the law were sitting near by (they had come from every village of Galilee and Judea and from Jerusalem); and the power of the Lord was with him to heal.f 18Just then some men came, carrying a paralyzed man on a bed. They were trying to bring him in and lay him before Jesus;g 19but finding no way to bring him in because of the crowd, they went up on the roof and let him down with his bed through the tiles into the middle of the crowdh in front of Jesus. 20When he saw their faith, he said, "Friend,i your sins are forgiven you." 21Then the scribes and the Pharisees began to question, "Who is this who is speaking blasphemies? Who can forgive sins but God alone?" 22When Jesus perceived their questionings, he answered them, "Why do you raise such questions in your hearts? 23Which is easier, to say, 'Your sins are forgiven you,' or to say, 'Stand up and walk'? 24But so that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins"--he said to the one who was paralyzed--"I say to you, stand up and take your bed and go to your home." 25Immediately he stood up before them, took what he had been lying on, and went to his home, glorifying God. 26Amazement seized all of them, and they glorified God and were filled with awe, saying, "We have seen strange things today."
Jesus Calls Levi
27 After this he went out and saw a tax collector named Levi, sitting at the tax booth; and he said to him, "Follow me." 28And he got up, left everything, and followed him. 29 Then Levi gave a great banquet for him in his house; and there was a large crowd of tax collectors and others sitting at the tablej with them. 30The Pharisees and their scribes were complaining to his disciples, saying, "Why do you eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?" 31Jesus answered, "Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick; 32I have come to call not the righteous but sinners to repentance."
The Question about Fasting
33 Then they said to him, "John's disciples, like the disciples of the Pharisees, frequently fast and pray, but your disciples eat and drink." 34Jesus said to them, "You cannot make wedding guests fast while the bridegroom is with them, can you? 35The days will come when the bridegroom will be taken away from them, and then they will fast in those days." 36He also told them a parable: "No one tears a piece from a new garment and sews it on an old garment; otherwise the new will be torn, and the piece from the new will not match the old. 37And no one puts new wine into old wineskins; otherwise the new wine will burst the skins and will be spilled, and the skins will be destroyed. 38But new wine must be put into fresh wineskins. 39And no one after drinking old wine desires new wine, but says, 'The old is good.' "k

TODAY’S STATUS UPDATES
Yesterday, Jesus left the comfort zone of his hometown. (Not exactly “comfort” if you consider that some tried to throw him off a cliff but he left “the familiar” to go to Capernaum)

Today, one of the things we start to see is how Jesus’ presence and his calling invites others to leave their comfort zones. To four lowly fisherman, he says “follow me” and they do. To a despised character, Levi the tax collector, Jesus issues that same call. He also follows.

To leave a comfort zone on your own accord, there needs to be a compelling vision or strong belief that “hope is greater on the other side of the fence”. Those who believed Jesus, who had the courage to step outside their normal boundaries were not going to be abandoned by Jesus. As they stepped into new territory, Jesus not only had roles for them to play but his presence to show the way.

Where in our lives are we stuck in a comfort zone and afraid to simonmake a change? Where do we need to ask God to take us out of the comfort zone and show us a vision of new possibility? Can we trust that he calls you and I to “follow him” today into a “brand new day?”

Thanks be to god for those in the lesson today who had the courage to leave their comfort zones to follow Jesus!

Jesus, you bid us to follow and leave any comfort zone that keeps us from fully following you or keeps us from fully reaching out to our family, friends, or neighbors. Hold on to us as we head into joyous adventures with you. Open new doors for us to bring your healing presence to others. Amen

FRIENDS ADDED
More crowds- assume some were old and some were new friends
Simon
James
John
Man with leprosy
Paralytic and his friends
Levi
Unnamed tax collectors and friends

SKEPTICS ADDED
Pharisees and teachers of the law (some of them)- just not happy with what they see Jesus doing

CAUSES
Reaching out to sinners
Reaching out to those that others deem “unworthy”
Having fun along the way---**what I love to see is how others accused Jesus of being a glutton and a drunkard. Another way of looking at it is that he had “too much fun”. I love that image of the laughing Jesus photo. Just google-“laughing Jesus” for a sample. Following Jesus should involve fun as it brings us into healthier connection in daily relationships.

OTHER NOTES
Chip and Dan Heath, authors of the new book, Switch* (and also the book Made to Stick), speak about how in order to make change we must compel both the Rider and the elephant “in us”, in order to help people or groups make change. In some sense, using the Heath’s language, Jesus helped move the inner rider and elephant in those who followed.

I offer that as it is a very relevant and current business book dealing with how people change. Good read. But. . . if you do read it, think of Jesus’ call to follow! See http://heathbrothers.com/switch/

ACTS DAILY DEVOTIONS starts April 5th-- see "The Ripple Effect" at www.ripplingout.blogspot.com by Pastor Dave

Day 7 Wednesday Feb 24 2010

2010-02-24T07:03:00.001-05:00

Day 7 Wed February 24, 2010

TODAY’S INTRO
This picture on the right. We will not experience that with God!

Yesterday, Jesus was in his hometown but pretty much overstayed his welcome. His proclamation of Jubilee and probably “overstepping his authority” (in the eyes of the hometown crowd) pretty much forced a quick exit. In those days it was rare to leave home. Unlike our day when people may graduate school and find jobs across the country or even world, first century children did not go running off to start preaching tours (or take jobs) elsewhere. Today, Jesus leaves any safety net he may have had and heads for a new town, Capernaum (a small fishing village)

TODAY’S TEXT- Luke 4:31-44
. 31 He went down to Capernaum, a city in Galilee, and was teaching them on the sabbath. 32They were astounded at his teaching, because he spoke with authority. 33In the synagogue there was a man who had the spirit of an unclean demon, and he cried out with a loud voice, 34"Let us alone! What have you to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are, the Holy One of God." 35But Jesus rebuked him, saying, "Be silent, and come out of him!" When the demon had thrown him down before them, he came out of him without having done him any harm. 36They were all amazed and kept saying to one another, "What kind of utterance is this? For with authority and power he commands the unclean spirits, and out they come!" 37And a report about him began to reach every place in the region.
Healings at Simon's House
38 After leaving the synagogue he entered Simon's house. Now Simon's mother-in-law was suffering from a high fever, and they asked him about her. 39Then he stood over her and rebuked the fever, and it left her. Immediately she got up and began to serve them. 40 As the sun was setting, all those who had any who were sick with various kinds of diseases brought them to him; and he laid his hands on each of them and cured them. 41Demons also came out of many, shouting, "You are the Son of God!" But he rebuked them and would not allow them to speak, because they knew that he was the Messiah.e
Jesus Preaches in the Synagogues
42 At daybreak he departed and went into a deserted place. And the crowds were looking for him; and when they reached him, they wanted to prevent him from leaving them. 43But he said to them, "I must proclaim the good news of the kingdom of God to the other cities also; for I was sent for this purpose." 44So he continued proclaiming the message in the synagogues of Judea.f

TODAY’S STATUS UPDATE
Last Sunday, I lifted up (in worship) the fact that the New Testament definition of church has nothing to do with a physical structure. The greek word ek-klesia means “sent out”. Church by definition means “sent”. We are people sent out into the world to represent Jesus and his ways. Simple concept. Not always very easy to do in the busy, frontlines of daily living.

Jesus himself was “sent”. Sent by God on a mission to save, to heal, to bring peace, and new understanding. God is the one who sends! God is the “sender”

One of the things we see today and also will see many more times in Luke is Jesus praying. He “returns to the one who sent” him over and over and over again. (see 3:21, 6:12, 5:16, 9:18, 9:28,29; 11:1; 22:32, 22:41)

I must admit, I had an Elvis Presley song running through my head as I read this- “Return to Sender” (I was a small kid when Elvis died but his music is played enough that it sticks). Unfortunately, Elvis was singing about a quarrel with his girl. He’d sent a postcard apology to his girl after a lovers spat and she wrote on the card, “return to sender. Address unknown. No such number. No such zone”.

Some people have difficulty praying. They attempt to pray and they feel that their prayers come back unanswered, as if God himself was writing on them “return to sender. Address unknown”.

What we must know however is that is not the case at all! When we return to our sender, when we pause to give thanks or pause to ask for help, he yearns to run and embrace us. We might jump forward and ponder the lost son in Luke 15, who flees from his Father, yet he returns. And even before he gets all the way home, the Father runs to meet him. May that be our experience with prayer—that as we start to return, as we start to pause—God, the sender comes to meet us!

Prayer- Lord God, our sender, help us to return to you on a daily basis. In the busyness of our lives, help us to pause and listen to you. we know that you will meet us on the road, at the juncture of our daily existence. Greet us and heal us and lift us up to be your faithful people. amen

FRIENDS ADDED
New friends in Capernaum—lots
Crowds
Those healed

CAUSES
Ministry of Healing and Wholeness – will be prominent theme in Luke
Prayer- Returning to “Sender”

Other notes
For the Elvis fans—here’s his song

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z54-QHEZN6ETHER NOTES

Day 6 Tuesday Feb 23 2010

2010-02-22T19:22:00.002-05:00

Day 6 Tue February 23, 2010

*Can you name this man on the right?

TODAY’S INTRO
Nothing is going to derail Jesus from his longer term mission. That is what I see at play in the wilderness story. The second part of today’s text is the launch of Jesus’ public ministry. He starts in his hometown where they aren’t necessarily thrilled with him. Read on.

TODAY’S TEXT- Luke 4:1-30
4 Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the wilderness, 2where for forty days he was tempted by the devil. He ate nothing at all during those days, and when they were over, he was famished. 3The devil said to him, "If you are the Son of God, command this stone to become a loaf of bread." 4Jesus answered him, "It is written, 'One does not live by bread alone.' " 5 Then the devila led him up and showed him in an instant all the kingdoms of the world. 6And the devilb said to him, "To you I will give their glory and all this authority; for it has been given over to me, and I give it to anyone I please. 7If you, then, will worship me, it will all be yours." 8Jesus answered him, "It is written, 'Worship the Lord your God, and serve only him.' " 9 Then the devilc took him to Jerusalem, and placed him on the pinnacle of the temple, saying to him, "If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down from here, 10for it is written, 'He will command his angels concerning you, to protect you,'11and 'On their hands they will bear you up, so that you will not dash your foot against a stone.' "12Jesus answered him, "It is said, 'Do not put the Lord your God to the test.' " 13When the devil had finished every test, he departed from him until an opportune time.
The Beginning of the Galilean Ministry
14 Then Jesus, filled with the power of the Spirit, returned to Galilee, and a report about him spread through all the surrounding country. 15He began to teach in their synagogues and was praised by everyone.
The Rejection of Jesus at Nazareth
16 When he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up, he went to the synagogue on the sabbath day, as was his custom. He stood up to read, 17and the scroll of the prophet Isaiah was given to him. He unrolled the scroll and found the place where it was written: 18 "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, 19 to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor."20And he rolled up the scroll, gave it back to the attendant, and sat down. The eyes of all in the synagogue were fixed on him. 21Then he began to say to them, "Today this scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing." 22All spoke well of him and were amazed at the gracious words that came from his mouth. They said, "Is not this Joseph's son?" 23He said to them, "Doubtless you will quote to me this proverb, 'Doctor, cure yourself !' And you will say, 'Do here also in your hometown the things that we have heard you did at Capernaum.' " 24And he said, "Truly I tell you, no prophet is accepted in the prophet's hometown. 25But the truth is, there were many widows in Israel in the time of Elijah, when the heaven was shut up three years and six months, and there was a severe famine over all the land; 26yet Elijah was sent to none of them except to a widow at Zarephath in Sidon. 27There were also many lepersd in Israel in the time of the prophet Elisha, and none of them was cleansed except Naaman the Syrian." 28When they heard this, all in the synagogue were filled with rage. 29They got up, drove him out of the town, and led him to the brow of the hill on which their town was built, so that they might hurl him off the cliff. 30But he passed through the midst of them and went on his way.

TODAY’S STATUS UPDATES

Six days in. Jesus is now a full grown adult; ready to begin his ministry. We have two episodes today. One a private 40 day venture that we “overhear”. The other is the first “public words” from his mouth that appear in this Gospel. First words are often very memorable. “Momma” or “dada” is what we might think of. In our media saturated day, they say that many kids first words are sometimes a “brand” they recognize.
In some sense Jesus first words are about “branding” his mission. When he says, he is there to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor, he is announcing “Jubilee”- a key old Testament concept that called for debt forgiveness, freedom for captives, restoration, healing, and a leveling off to put all people back on their feet, living in true community! You can read about the Old Testament Vision for the Jubilee year in Leviticus 25:8-12. What kind of world would we live in if we could ever pull this vision off? What would it take? (Consider those bonus questions for today)
What I can tell you is people like Bono (lead singer of U2) has grabbed hold of the vision of Jubilee and often encourages leaders of nations to debt forgiveness based on this idea. (google “2006 national prayer breakfast” sometime and read the text or listen to the audio). Bono can sometimes make you a bit uncomfortable as he challenges nations and leaders but when you really listen to him you know that he has a love and passion for caring for the poor of this world. (Truth be told- Bono is someone I have great admiration for!) His efforts to care for people in horrendous conditions and calling others to do the same is an important witness.
What we will see over and over and over again in Luke’s Gospel is Jesus “announcing Jubilee” in word and deed to outcasts, sinners, the despised, the establishment, and to anyone he meets. Jesus, “the real deal” will not just speak about jubilee, he will also show it by his actions. Jesus’ words matched his deeds- in perfect alignment throughout.
One of the things we also can meditate on is how we can “proclaim Jubilee” in the course of our daily lives. Who around us is living with tremendous burdens? Who around us is struggling and seems to have no way to make progress? Are there ways we can step in and help carry the tremendous burdens of others? That also is the spirit of Jubilee.

FRIENDS ADDED
Some people in hometown (but some may have quickly “unfriended him” after the synagogue speech.)

Holy Spirit- the Spirit is a central part of Luke’s theology. Just note that so far Jesus is shown as always having a “full tank” of the spirit.

(Let’s give Bono Credit)

CAUSES
Priority of Poor (whom Jubilee will benefit)

Proclamation of Jubilee to those in great need

Prayer

Jesus, be with us this day and help us to proclaim jubilee in our interactions. Bring the day when all the people of this earth are cared for. Use us to help start the momentum of jubilee- teaching us to share from your abundance. Amen

OTHER NOTES
As time is short, I will not be able to dig into the time of solitude that Jesus spent as he focused on the mission ahead. (first part of today’s text). For me, solitude and quiet reflection are absolute musts in my life. Without them, I find that I can easily lose focus. Perhaps the next time through Luke, I’d spend more time on this period of preparation!

For Good Shepherd 1115 Attenders- We often sing a song in worship called “The Days of Elijah” by Robin Mark. Youtube video has lyrics. Just note that it is a song in which we boldly sing out about the importance of proclaiming jubilee! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h4wl0VFgpjY

Day 5 Monday Feb 22 2010

2010-02-21T20:11:00.002-05:00

Day 5 Mon February 22, 2010
I hope you had a good Sunday and a great beginning to the week. As I said in my sermon yesterday, we are all sent out to advance Jesus’ ways. We head out with our unique gifts and abilities. We head out into different directions and interact with different people this week, but our mission is the same—advance Jesus’ ways by the way we live our life. Our witness is just as important as this radical character we read about in today’s text. So, lets read on. . . .. ..

TODAYS TEXT—Luke 3:1-38
3In the fifteenth year of the reign of Emperor Tiberius, when Pontius Pilate was governor of Judea, and Herod was ruler* of Galilee, and his brother Philip ruler* of the region of Ituraea and Trachonitis, and Lysanias ruler* of Abilene, 2during the high-priesthood of Annas and Caiaphas, the word of God came to John son of Zechariah in the wilderness. 3He went into all the region around the Jordan, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins, 4as it is written in the book of the words of the prophet Isaiah,‘The voice of one crying out in the wilderness:“Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. 5Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be made low,and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough ways made smooth; 6and all flesh shall see the salvation of God.” ’
7 John said to the crowds that came out to be baptized by him, ‘You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? 8Bear fruits worthy of repentance. Do not begin to say to yourselves, “We have Abraham as our ancestor”; for I tell you, God is able from these stones to raise up children to Abraham. 9Even now the axe is lying at the root of the trees; every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.’
10 And the crowds asked him, ‘What then should we do?’ 11In reply he said to them, ‘Whoever has two coats must share with anyone who has none; and whoever has food must do likewise.’ 12Even tax-collectors came to be baptized, and they asked him, ‘Teacher, what should we do?’ 13He said to them, ‘Collect no more than the amount prescribed for you.’ 14Soldiers also asked him, ‘And we, what should we do?’ He said to them, ‘Do not extort money from anyone by threats or false accusation, and be satisfied with your wages.’
15 As the people were filled with expectation, and all were questioning in their hearts concerning John, whether he might be the Messiah,* 16John answered all of them by saying, ‘I baptize you with water; but one who is more powerful than I is coming; I am not worthy to untie the thong of his sandals. He will baptize you with* the Holy Spirit and fire. 17His winnowing-fork is in his hand, to clear his threshing-floor and to gather the wheat into his granary; but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire.’
18 So, with many other exhortations, he proclaimed the good news to the people. 19But Herod the ruler,* who had been rebuked by him because of Herodias, his brother’s wife, and because of all the evil things that Herod had done, 20added to them all by shutting up John in prison.
The Baptism of Jesus
21 Now when all the people were baptized, and when Jesus also had been baptized and was praying, the heaven was opened, 22and the Holy Spirit descended upon him in bodily form like a dove. And a voice came from heaven, ‘You are my Son, the Beloved;* with you I am well pleased.’*
The Ancestors of Jesus
23 Jesus was about thirty years old when he began his work. He was the son (as was thought) of Joseph son of Heli, 24son of Matthat, son of Levi, son of Melchi, son of Jannai, son of Joseph, 25son of Mattathias, son of Amos, son of Nahum, son of Esli, son of Naggai, 26son of Maath, son of Mattathias, son of Semein, son of Josech, son of Joda, 27son of Joanan, son of Rhesa, son of Zerubbabel, son of Shealtiel,* son of Neri, 28son of Melchi, son of Addi, son of Cosam, son of Elmadam, son of Er, 29son of Joshua, son of Eliezer, son of Jorim, son of Matthat, son of Levi, 30son of Simeon, son of Judah, son of Joseph, son of Jonam, son of Eliakim, 31son of Melea, son of Menna, son of Mattatha, son of Nathan, son of David, 32son of Jesse, son of Obed, son of Boaz, son of Sala,* son of Nahshon, 33son of Amminadab, son of Admin, son of Arni,* son of Hezron, son of Perez, son of Judah, 34son of Jacob, son of Isaac, son of Abraham, son of Terah, son of Nahor, 35son of Serug, son of Reu, son of Peleg, son of Eber, son of Shelah, 36son of Cainan, son of Arphaxad, son of Shem, son of Noah, son of Lamech, 37son of Methuselah, son of Enoch, son of Jared, son of Mahalaleel, son of Cainan, 38son of Enos, son of Seth, son of Adam, son of God.

TODAY’S STATUS UPDATES
John- I’m not sure I would have liked him. I have to be honest about that. John appears to have had one of those fiery, “in your face” types of personalities. He was fired up about the message he wanted to get across and he wasn’t afraid to offend people along the way. After all, calling people “a brood of vipers” isn’t actually a statement of generosity, hospitality, or warmth. It’s language to get people’s attention! Well, John would have grabbed my attention but. . . I think he would have made my blood boil.

I think I would hear John and be angered by his finger pointing and fiery words but then. .. . . . . . I think (or at least) his message would have started to sink in. As I get older, as I raise my children, and as I serve in ministry, I realize that John had it right. John simply said to look at our lives and what we have but make sure you look outward at the needs of others. John reminds us that if we see someone in need and we can help with that need, then we should act. Seeing need and using what we have to ensure that our neighbor is cared for (even as we already are cared for)

John has us prepare for Jesus by focusing on how we can be a community that cares for each other.

What kind of world would we have if we actually modeled John’s wisdom? It would be a world of radical generosity, compassion, and care. That’s what Jesus brings and models in the chapters to come. Can we model that in 2010?

JESUS’ “FRIENDS” ADDED TODAY
*Those without “coats” & those without “food”—Luke will show us time and time again Jesus’ concern for the poor and need. Faithful discipleship for Luke will be shown in how we care for the poor and how we include them in our “community and daily concern”

*Those who share their food and coats---Luke reminds us that Jesus’ friends are those who see the needs around them and are moved to action. They understand that true community is in ensuring all are cared for. Note also that Luke is the author of Acts, which includes many summary statements about how the community cared for each other. (see Acts 2:42-47)

*those who practice honesty and integrity in daily business/work. We should really lift up how spiritual it is to simply practice those daily disciplines of honesty and integrity. Doing what you say. Treating others with respect. Not cheating others. In the words of Mastercard- “Priceless”. Don’t ever forget how important these practices are!

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS (APPS) or Questions
As a Lenten discipline, perhaps go through your closet and see what can be shared with others. At our church , our good friend Dave Davis, has helped organize a men’s clothing drive. Men of Good Shepherd- look through those closets and see if you can share.

What other ways can you share when you have more than enough?

Is it hard to share? Why or why not?
Is it hard to see the needs of neighbors in your community?

How can we, as people of faith, model what John spoke about? Feel free to share any insights with me at pastordave@goserve.net

Prayer- Jesus, bless us as we begin this first full week of Lent. Walk with us on the journey through Luke. Help us to open our eyes to needs around us Nudge us to share from the abundance you have provided so that we can care for our neighbor and grow as a community. amen

Sunday, February 21 Note

2010-02-20T18:14:00.002-05:00

Reminder-- Sundays will be a day to come and worship.

At Good Shepherd, our Lenten sermon series is called, "The Journey" - a look at the travel narrative of Luke 9:51- chapter 19. We will dig into the unique stories that are found there.

Also, Dr. Richard Carlson of Gettysburg Seminary will lead a class on the birth narratives in the Gospel of Luke tommorow at 10am.

Join us at 830, 10, or 1115 for worship or. . . .if you are participating in Jesus' Facebook Page from another area-- go and worship locally. Blessings for a great sunday!

Pastor Dave

Day 4 Saturday Feb 20 2010

2010-02-19T20:39:00.002-05:00

Day 4- Saturday, February 20, 2010

Hope you are doing well. Thanks for the opportunity to share. I hope in some way that these reflections spark you in some way this Lent. I also hope you will provide me with feedback along the way or make comments on the various postings. And of course, if I (or the people of Good Shepherd) can pray for you in any way, just send me a note-- pastordave@goserve.net.
Writing a devotional reflection is much different than writing a scholarly paper or writing a sermon. As I hope you will see, it is simply expressing what hits you as you read through a text and as you try to find some everyday application. The great beauty of devotions is that we could get the whole way through Luke and then start over . . .and the devotional reflections would be totally different the 2nd, the 3rd, the 4th time through. In many ways, that is how God speaks to us- at various times in our lives the message will strike a different chord. . . .(I hope that makes sense. It does for me :) Now, to today's text. . .

Today's Text-Luke 2:21-52
Jesus Is Named
21 After eight days had passed, it was time to circumcise the child; and he was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before he was conceived in the womb.
Jesus Is Presented in the Temple
22 When the time came for their purification according to the law of Moses, they brought him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord 23(as it is written in the law of the Lord, "Every firstborn male shall be designated as holy to the Lord"), 24and they offered a sacrifice according to what is stated in the law of the Lord, "a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons."25 Now there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon;d this man was righteous and devout, looking forward to the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit rested on him. 26It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord's Messiah.e 27Guided by the Spirit, Simeonf came into the temple; and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him what was customary under the law, 28Simeong took him in his arms and praised God, saying,29 "Master, now you are dismissing your servanth in peace,according to your word;30 for my eyes have seen your salvation,31 which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples,32 a light for revelation to the Gentilesand for glory to your people Israel."33 And the child's father and mother were amazed at what was being said about him. 34Then Simeoni blessed them and said to his mother Mary, "This child is destined for the falling and the rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be opposed 35so that the inner thoughts of many will be revealed--and a sword will pierce your own soul too."36 There was also a prophet, Annaj the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, having lived with her husband seven years after her marriage, 37then as a widow to the age of eighty-four. She never left the temple but worshiped there with fasting and prayer night and day. 38At that moment she came, and began to praise God and to speak about the childk to all who were looking for the redemption of Jerusalem.
The Return to Nazareth
39 When they had finished everything required by the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth. 40The child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom; and the favor of God was upon him.
The Boy Jesus in the Temple
41 Now every year his parents went to Jerusalem for the festival of the Passover. 42And when he was twelve years old, they went up as usual for the festival. 43When the festival was ended and they started to return, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem, but his parents did not know it. 44Assuming that he was in the group of travelers, they went a day's journey. Then they started to look for him among their relatives and friends. 45When they did not find him, they returned to Jerusalem to search for him. 46After three days they found him in the temple, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions. 47And all who heard him were amazed at his understanding and his answers. 48When his parentsl saw him they were astonished; and his mother said to him, "Child, why have you treated us like this? Look, your father and I have been searching for you in great anxiety." 49He said to them, "Why were you searching for me? Did you not know that I must be in my Father's house?"m 50But they did not understand what he said to them. 51Then he went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was obedient to them. His mother treasured all these things in her heart.52 And Jesus increased in wisdom and in years,n and in divine and human favor.

TODAY'S STATUS UPDATES
Obviously I write from the Christian perspective. One of the interesting things I see today is the parallel that some of us, who grew up in the church experienced. At a very young age our parents brought us to be baptized in the public setting of a church worship setting. . .. We became a Christian through no choice of our own. Rather, someone else made the decision and helped to ensure that we were instructed in the Christian faith. I was blessed with parents who set a postive example and lived their faith on a daily basis. At some point in our teenage years, we had the opportunity to "confirm" our faith. For me, this was in 8th grade. It was that moment in time when the baton was passed and I proclaimed, "I am a Christian and will live my life trying to follow Jesus." One of the things I remember is that when the baton is passed to us we are not experts nor finished products nor fully mature in the faith. A mature Christian in my mind is one who says what Michelangelo said, "I am still learning".
This is the only story in scripture with Jesus as an adolescent. You have him worrying his parents a bit. He's going to cause them more anxiety when he truly takes up his ministry as an adult! We'll get to that later. What we see here is Jesus as an avid learner and one who engages in the grand Jewish tradition of lively debate. A rabbi who taught at our church once said," Jewish culture loves to debate, challenge, and ask lively questions." There is a sense here that Jesus wasn't afraid of the give and take of debate and discussion about God. He wasnt' afraid to challenge authority. He wasnt' afraid to listen as well nor was he afraid to make a point. An avid "learner"; an "avid listener"; and "an avid teacher" are three gifts we see on display here. We will see them on display throughout the Gospel of Luke, but especially in the travel narrative (from 9:51 into chapter 19)
Jesus put himself in a position to learn more about his faith tradition.
Are you putting yourself in an ongoing position to learn? Are you and I ready to learn more and to ask questions?
As some say, learning isn't about having all the right answers. . . .it's about asking the right questions!
Prayer- I am thankful this day for the witness of Jesus, a passionate learner. Help us all to be lifelong learners- ready to listen, to ask questions, and to be challenged. Fill us with your wisdom this day and in all the days to come. We are still learning. . . .Amen

FRIENDS ADDED
Simeon
Anna
Unnamed Relatives and Friends
Jewish Teachers- here presented as a group. Watch out. In the facebook era, they likely would "unfriend" Jesus. or. . . . .They'll keep him on their "friend list" to keep an eye on him! It's still early in the Gospel. Let's call the Friends for now!

"CAUSES" OR "FAN OF"
The Jewish heritage- note the obedience of Mary and Joseph and the text's comments on participating in the annual Jewish Festivals, the presentation of Jesus (as was the custom).
Lifelong learning (in the faith)

REMINDER-- SUNDAYS ARE DAYS TO WORSHIP WITH OTHERS AND TO "CATCH UP"

Day 3 Friday February 19, 2010

2010-02-18T20:15:00.002-05:00

Day 3- Fri February 19, 2010

Welcome to day three of Lent. One chapter under our belt. Twenty three to go! Today’s text is probably the most familiar verses in all of scripture except for perhaps Psalm 23. You get the point. The Christmas Gospel. Take a good look at Luke 2. Perhaps read it twice to see what pops out at you as “new”. I’ll provide a few comments after the reading and then, I have a few youtube videos as “extra’s”.

TODAYS LESSON-Luke 2: 1-20
2 In those days a decree went out from Emperor Augustus that all the world should be registered. 2This was the first registration and was taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria. 3All went to their own towns to be registered. 4Joseph also went from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to the city of David called Bethlehem, because he was descended from the house and family of David. 5He went to be registered with Mary, to whom he was engaged and who was expecting a child. 6While they were there, the time came for her to deliver her child. 7And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in bands of cloth, and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.
The Shepherds and the Angels
8 In that region there were shepherds living in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid; for see--I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: 11to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah,a the Lord. 12This will be a sign for you: you will find a child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger." 13And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host,b praising God and saying, 14 "Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favors!"c 15 When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let us go now to Bethlehem and see this thing that has taken place, which the Lord has made known to us." 16So they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the child lying in the manger. 17When they saw this, they made known what had been told them about this child; 18and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds told them. 19But Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart. 20The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them.

Today’s Status Updates
Well, Jesus is finally on the scene. He’s arrived in the form of an infant child- a precious sight. Although he does absolutely nothing in the text today, what stands out is the reaction to the child. There is no doubt that what he brings is a tremendous amount of hope and a tremendous amount of joy. People respond to his presence as they will throughout his life. For he was “the real deal”.

People respond and react postively to Christians who “walk their faith on a daily basis”. Christians can easily get a bad rap for being too judgmental, too critical, too pessimistic, too. . .(you name it). This I can tell you, people will always respond to the “real deal”- to those who humbly do the best they can to model Jesus’ ways- who model lives of generosity, servanthood, and seek to bless others at every opportunity. The people in our lives will respond to our Christian witness when we admit that we make mistakes, that we seek to do better, and we put as a huge priority the willingness to help others without seeking reward.

That baby we see in the manger today is “the real deal” who we seek to follow to the best of our ability. Jesus, “the real deal” always put others first. Let’s pray that you and I can be “the real deal” in a world that really is “pre-Christian”. Many to reach but it will take love and understanding and patience.

Prayer- Jesus, we are so glad you came into this world. You are the “real deal”. You demonstrate the way to live and bid us to “follow the path”. Help us to be the real deal in our generation. Amen.

FRIENDS ADDED TODAY
Unnamed shepherds
The heavenly host—lifelong friends
Sorry- no animals noted

EXTRA’s Just for Fun!
YouTube - Linus Christmas Monologue (Charles Schultz and Peanuts characters—I guess we could call them Friends of Jesus as well!)—brings back your childhood a bit but emphasizes the true meaning of Christmas

YouTube - The Christmas Story in Art, Scripture and Music

YouTube - The Christmas Story - Luke 2:1-20 (from the Nativity Movie)

Day 2 Thursday Feb 18 2010

2010-02-18T01:13:00.005-05:00

Day 2- Luke 1:39-80 February 18, 2010

Remember, you are each an instrument of God! I hope day 1 was a good start. Please forgive me along the way for grammatical blunders or incomplete phrases. My hope is simply to do the best I can and offer a bit from the heart this Lent as we journey together.

Today, let's read the rest of chapter 1. (Verses 39-80)
39 In those days Mary set out and went with haste to a Judean town in the hill country, 40where she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. 41When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the child leaped in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit 42and exclaimed with a loud cry, "Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. 43And why has this happened to me, that the mother of my Lord comes to me? 44For as soon as I heard the sound of your greeting, the child in my womb leaped for joy. 45And blessed is she who believed that there would bee a fulfillment of what was spoken to her by the Lord."
Mary's Song of Praise
46 And Maryf said, "My soul magnifies the Lord, 47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, 48 for he has looked with favor on the lowliness of his servant. Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed; 49 for the Mighty One has done great things for me, and holy is his name. 50 His mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation. 51 He has shown strength with his arm; he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts. 52 He has brought down the powerful from their thrones, and lifted up the lowly; 53 he has filled the hungry with good things, and sent the rich away empty. 54 He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy, 55 according to the promise he made to our ancestors, to Abraham and to his descendants forever." 56 And Mary remained with her about three months and then returned to her home.
The Birth of John the Baptist
57 Now the time came for Elizabeth to give birth, and she bore a son. 58Her neighbors and relatives heard that the Lord had shown his great mercy to her, and they rejoiced with her. 59 On the eighth day they came to circumcise the child, and they were going to name him Zechariah after his father. 60But his mother said, "No; he is to be called John." 61They said to her, "None of your relatives has this name." 62Then they began motioning to his father to find out what name he wanted to give him. 63He asked for a writing tablet and wrote, "His name is John." And all of them were amazed. 64Immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue freed, and he began to speak, praising God. 65Fear came over all their neighbors, and all these things were talked about throughout the entire hill country of Judea. 66All who heard them pondered them and said, "What then will this child become?" For, indeed, the hand of the Lord was with him.
Zechariah's Prophecy
67 Then his father Zechariah was filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke this prophecy: 68 "Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, for he has looked favorably on his people and redeemed them. 69 He has raised up a mighty saviorg for us in the house of his servant David, 70 as he spoke through the mouth of his holy prophets from of old, 71 that we would be saved from our enemies and from the hand of all who hate us. 72 Thus he has shown the mercy promised to our ancestors, and has remembered his holy covenant, 73 the oath that he swore to our ancestor Abraham, to grant us 74that we, being rescued from the hands of our enemies, might serve him without fear, 75in holiness and righteousness before him all our days. 76 And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Most High; for you will go before the Lord to prepare his ways, 77 to give knowledge of salvation to his people by the forgiveness of their sins. 78 By the tender mercy of our God, the dawn from on high will break uponh us, 79 to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace." 80 The child grew and became strong in spirit, and he was in the wilderness until the day he appeared publicly to Israel.

TODAY’S STATUS UPDATES
Pregnant women swapping stories. Is there ever a common bond that is more powerful or more dramatic? Just guessing. Women- please confirm that!

The image that comes to mind (as I read about Mary's visit to Elizabeth and then Zechariah's reaction at John's birth) is of a champagne bottle. Picture a champagne bottle with the twisted wire removed and the cork still present. With the wire "clamp" removed it is only a matter of time until the pressure inside that bottle erupts and sends that cork flying and the fizzy champagne soaring and spilling all over the place.

Joy and gratitude are like that-- they simply can not be kept inside. Mary, Elizabeth, and Zechariah- all of them, their joy and gratitude can't be contained. It begged to come out and be expressed for others to hear. Mary and Zechariah both burst into songs of goodness about what God has done in their life. They are so excited and so charged up that they want others to know.
How are we doing in expressing our gratitude? How are we doing in expressing that joy for what God has done? Is the twisted wire mesh casing holding on to our heart, keeping the joy from flowing out? Or. . . are we ready to do something intentional to “untie that twisted wire” over our hearts?

As Lent is a time of great intentionality, perhaps you and I can get out a piece of paper and literally start to write down all the things we are thankful for. Write them down. Write, write, and keep on writing. Or spend some time in silent prayer reflecting on those ways God has helped you. Intentionally going through that discipline often leads to new insights, new awareness, and a great appreciation for the goodness of God.

Prayer- Jesus, as we finish chapter 1 of Luke today, I pray for all those undertaking this journey with me. May you bless us with fresh insights and new understandings. We really want to be people whose lives overflow with joy and gratitude, yet we also know that sometimes that is hard to let out. Help us to count our blessings and celebrate your goodness. Amen

Jesus' Friends (Let's view Friends as those "on his side")
Gabriel (Angel)-- let's give him credit for yesterday!
Mary- yes mother's can be friends
Zechariah- joy and gratitude spills out
Elizabeth- shares in joy

Day 1 Ash Wednesday Feb 17 2010

2010-02-17T06:38:00.000-05:00

Day 1- Ash Wednesday, 2/17/2010
In my Christmas Eve Sermon last year, I gave everyone a little homework assignment. I suggested that everyone take a crack at reading the Gospel of Luke and viewing it as “Jesus’ Facebook Page”. It’s a great starting point to listening to his saving story for you can see “interesting pictures”, “get status updates on what matters”, see “who he has befriended”, “what he’s up to at the moment”, “applications” and much more. . .. .

To give homework, however, without following through or without providing tools is not fair. Thus, this Lent I figured to offer this blog which will walk us through Luke between now and Easter, 4/4. 28 chapters in 40 days which means reading the Gospel in manageable chunks. Sundays will not have a devotion posted. Go to worship that day and use it as a make up day if you missed any days that week.

Finally, you might just keep a small piece of paper with you and jot down notes on what you’ve read. I often just jot down a key phrase that stood out or a question I have or anything I observe. Don’t worry about commenting on everything. I won’t. Reading and writing for devotional purposes means to appreciate what “pops out” on a particular day (at least in my mind). Enough for now. Read these 38 verses today and I’ll make a few comments.

SCRIPTURE Read Luke 1: 1-38 (see below)
Dedication to Theophilus
1 Since many have undertaken to set down an orderly account of the events that have been fulfilled among us, 2just as they were handed on to us by those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and servants of the word, 3I too decided, after investigating everything carefully from the very first,a to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus, 4so that you may know the truth concerning the things about which you have been instructed.
The Birth of John the Baptist Foretold
5 In the days of King Herod of Judea, there was a priest named Zechariah, who belonged to the priestly order of Abijah. His wife was a descendant of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth. 6Both of them were righteous before God, living blamelessly according to all the commandments and regulations of the Lord. 7But they had no children, because Elizabeth was barren, and both were getting on in years. 8 Once when he was serving as priest before God and his section was on duty, 9he was chosen by lot, according to the custom of the priesthood, to enter the sanctuary of the Lord and offer incense. 10Now at the time of the incense offering, the whole assembly of the people was praying outside. 11Then there appeared to him an angel of the Lord, standing at the right side of the altar of incense. 12When Zechariah saw him, he was terrified; and fear overwhelmed him. 13But the angel said to him, "Do not be afraid, Zechariah, for your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you will name him John. 14You will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth, 15for he will be great in the sight of the Lord. He must never drink wine or strong drink; even before his birth he will be filled with the Holy Spirit. 16He will turn many of the people of Israel to the Lord their God. 17With the spirit and power of Elijah he will go before him, to turn the hearts of parents to their children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the righteous, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord." 18Zechariah said to the angel, "How will I know that this is so? For I am an old man, and my wife is getting on in years." 19The angel replied, "I am Gabriel. I stand in the presence of God, and I have been sent to speak to you and to bring you this good news. 20But now, because you did not believe my words, which will be fulfilled in their time, you will become mute, unable to speak, until the day these things occur." 21 Meanwhile the people were waiting for Zechariah, and wondered at his delay in the sanctuary. 22When he did come out, he could not speak to them, and they realized that he had seen a vision in the sanctuary. He kept motioning to them and remained unable to speak. 23When his time of service was ended, he went to his home. 24 After those days his wife Elizabeth conceived, and for five months she remained in seclusion. She said, 25"This is what the Lord has done for me when he looked favorably on me and took away the disgrace I have endured among my people."
The Birth of Jesus Foretold
26 In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a town in Galilee called Nazareth, 27to a virgin engaged to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin's name was Mary. 28And he came to her and said, "Greetings, favored one! The Lord is with you."b 29But she was much perplexed by his words and pondered what sort of greeting this might be. 30The angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. 31And now, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you will name him Jesus. 32He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give to him the throne of his ancestor David. 33He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end." 34Mary said to the angel, "How can this be, since I am a virgin?"c 35The angel said to her, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be bornd will be holy; he will be called Son of God. 36And now, your relative Elizabeth in her old age has also conceived a son; and this is the sixth month for her who was said to be barren. 37For nothing will be impossible with God." 38Then Mary said, "Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word." Then the angel departed from her.

TODAY’S STATUS UPDATES- “JESUS NOT ON SCENE QUITE YET!”
Angel visitations. Miraculous pregnancies described. Doubts about whether things can happen. Words of trust uttered as one believes “nothing will be impossible with God”.
A lot can be commented upon. What strikes me most about Mary’s story is something very basic. She simply indicates a willingness to be used as an “instrument of God.”

We can all picture various instruments. Imagine your favorite- perhaps a guitar, cello, organ, a harmonica, a violin, etc. Not one of those instruments can play on its own. It needs someone to act upon it to play it, to enable its beauty to be displayed. The Gospel of Luke has lots of stories about Jesus lifting up and touching people in profound ways so that they can become his instruments in daily life.

What might seem impossible for us at times is the belief that this world can change. Perhaps you are one of those who sees so much negative all around. Well, change can begin today with you. It’s the little things along the way where we let God’s compassion shine out a little brighter- let that overshadow things.

Do you see yourself as an instrument of God at this point in your life?

Prayer
Jesus, bless us all on this journey through Luke. As we dig into your story, help us to see what is on your heart and mind. Speak to us in some way. Help us to see ways to apply your goodness and lessons in the course of our daily lives. Help us to be your instruments in some way in the days to come. Amen

Jesus' Facebook Page to start on Ash Wed

2010-02-04T14:25:00.001-05:00

At Christmas Eve Worship last year, I challenged those in attendance to read the Gospel of Luke in the coming year and also, to view it as "Jesus' Facebook Page". As I walk through Luke each day, I will lift up things such as:

Status Updates
Friend Requests
Interesting Portraits
suggestions
Networks
Causes
and much more!

Those who journey with me each day (Wed 2/17- sunday, April 4) will read through the entire Gospel of Luke!

Please join me and please invite others!

Pastor Dave Sonnenberg