The Ultimate One

Scripture – John 3:31-36: “The one who comes from above is above all; the one who is from the earth belongs to the earth, and speaks as one from the earth. The one who comes from heaven is above all. He testifies to what he has seen and heard, but no one accepts his testimony. The person who has accepted it has certified that God is truthful. For the one whom God has sent speaks the words of God, for God gives the Spirit without limit. The Father loves the Son and has placed everything in his hands. Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God’s wrath remains on him or her.”

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Two things stand out to me here. One – Christ really is above all. While I think of Him in such a personal way, I do well to remember he is the Lord of all creation. There is nothing beyond His control. Two – He “gives the Spirit without limit.” When He calls us to a task, He supplies all we need to do it. I’ll put limits on myself and think, ‘This is all I can do.’ When the fact is, I’ve simple stopped trusting the Ultimate One who is empowering me to accomplish way more than I can imagine. In these verses, John was pointing his disciples toward Jesus, and he was telling them to get ready for a wild and crazy new experience of life and ministry. When we follow Jesus, we don’t know where we’ll end up. At the same time, that’s part of the fun.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will look for the limitations I face today. Are they limiting my response to Christ’s call? How can I move past that? I will remember He will never call me to do something I cannot accomplish. He will always give me what or who I need – be it energy, time, money, other people, etc. I will follow His lead.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, let's have fun today. Please give me a larger vision today and a deeper faith. You are the Ultimate One. Lead me today and give me courage to follow.

No Competition

Scripture – John 3:27-30: To this John replied, “A man can receive only what is given him from heaven. You yourselves can testify that I said, ‘I am not the Christ but am sent ahead of him.’ The bride belongs to the bridegroom. The friend who attends the bridegroom waits and listens for him, and is full of joy when he hears the bridegroom’s voice. That joy is mine, and it is now complete. He must become greater; I must become less.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) John knew his place in God’s plan. His role was to prepare the way for Jesus – the Messiah. In the previous verse, some people complained to John that Jesus was baptizing in a different place and He was becoming more popular. They saw a competition. John understood, in God’s plan, there is no competition. As the public ministry of Jesus began, John found joy in that – and he found the completion or fulfillment of his ministry. That led him to that great observation, “He must become greater; I must become less.” I am not in competition with other pastors, nor is Bethel in competition with other churches. We are all called to Kingdom work. Christ is the One who must become greater.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will look for ways to lift up His name. I will stop being concerned with promoting BBC. We are called to be Christ’s witnesses (Acts 1:8). As long as we remain faithful to that call, we will be a healthy and “successful” congregation.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) I have, as you know, Lord, a strong competitive nature in me. Remind me throughout this week especially that I am not in competition – in ministry or in my faithfulness to you or even in all of life. Help me live simply. And in my living, may Christ somehow be seen.

Surprise Appearances

Scripture – John 3:22-26: After this, Jesus and his disciples went out into the Judean countryside, where he spent some time with them, and baptized. Now John also was baptizing at Aenon near Salim, because there was plenty of water, and people were constantly coming to be baptized. (This was before John was put in prison.) An argument developed between some of John’s disciples and a certain Jew over the matter of ceremonial washing. They came to John and said to him, “Rabbi, that man who was with you on the other side of the Jordan—the one you testified about—well, he is baptizing, and everyone is going to him.”

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Jesus was baptizing. What a memory to have. When it happened, it certainly had meaning for the people being baptized. At the same time, Jesus was only a man. But later, after the resurrection, there must have been some people who could look back and realize who had baptized them. What a great experience to have! We never know what will come of encounters with people. What seems to be a chance meeting today may turn out to be a life-changing event in retrospect. It’s so important to be open to Christ’s surprising appearances in life. Sometimes I won’t recognize them until later. But always, I do well to keep open.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will be ready today for Jesus to break in somehow. I will pay attention in worship, youth group and all the time in between. I expect something good to happen.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, thank you for your on-going presence in my life – and for the surprise appearances you make. Keep me open today – ready for whatever you have planned.

A Light Problem

Scripture – John 3:19-21: This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that their deeds will be exposed. But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what they have done has been done through God.”

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) To me, this describes perfectly why people give Christians a hard time. As we live faithfully, simply living as we think Christ would have us live, we reflect His light around us. We’re not judging anyone. At the same time, our living illuminates the sin other people might have. And they don’t want to see that. The fullness we have in Christ sometimes highlights the emptiness people may have in their own lives. The peace with which we live may be a stark contrast to the turmoil and anxiety in their lives. Darkness covers what’s wrong. If I can’t see it, I can easily ignore it. Light always overcomes darkness.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will live faithfully today. And if my behavior leads to discomfort for other people and pressure from them for me to act differently, I will not be dissuaded.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, please give me a humble heart so I don’t try to make others uncomfortable. Help me simply live as you want this day. Let me be a faithful bearer of your light. Remind me that your light will bring the judgment. May it not come from my attitude and heart.

Building a Bridge

Scripture – John 3:16-18: “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) For many people, including me, these verses lie at the very heart of the good news we have in Christ. “Whoever” includes everyone – every person on earth right now – from world leaders to the people at my gas station to the person on the street who asks for money. No one is beyond the love of God. I wish we could drive home the point that “God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world…but to save the world through him.” I think a lot of people miss that. They live with a sense that God really is out to “get” them somehow – that they have no chance with Him. They must get that impression from us (the church). For we are the witnesses they see. How can we communicate this good news? How can we help others know Christ and experience all the good stuff we have found in Him?

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will consciously provide a positive witness to the work of Christ today. I will look for and act on opportunities to communicate God’s love for people.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, so many people don’t know what they’re missing in you. They reject the church – often for good reasons. Yet in doing that, they close themselves off from you. Help us be better witnesses. Help us build bridges rather than walls. Use me today as part of that mission. Forgive me for the negative impressions I’ve created.

Or Simple Story

Scripture – John 3:9-15: “How can this be?” Nicodemus asked. “You are Israel’s teacher,” said Jesus, “and do you not understand these things? I tell you the truth, we speak of what we know, and we testify to what we have seen, but still you people do not accept our testimony. I have spoken to you of earthly things and you do not believe; how then will you believe if I speak of heavenly things? No one has ever gone into heaven except the one who came from heaven—the Son of Man. Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the desert, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Nicodemus seems to be more of an academic kind of person. Images and metaphors don’t seem to connect with him as much as straight-forward words. So here Jesus gives the essence of our witness: “we speak of what we know, and we testify to what we have seen.” We may not be experts in theology or the Bible or Baptist beliefs. At the same time, I am a unique expert in my experience with Christ. That I can talk about with authority and confidence. I choose language carefully and try to be as clear as I can. Yet some people still don’t get it. And at some point, that’s not my responsibility. My job is to be a witness – to “speak of what we know.”

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) Once again, I will clarify my story. I will get my testimony down to five simple sentences. I will write those down.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Thank you, Lord, for coming into my life. In many ways, your impact on me is far beyond my descriptive ability. Yet this I know: Because of your cross and resurrection, I have eternal life – as do all who believe in you. Please give me words to share that story.

A New Birth

Scripture – John 3:5-8: Jesus answered, “I tell you the truth, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless that person is born of water and the Spirit. Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit. You should not be surprised at my saying, ‘You must be born again.’ The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit.”

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) This is one of the most famous (or is it “infamous?”) phrases in the Bible – “You must be born again.” Sometimes it’s used in a derogatory way to speak of Christians. I’ve actually heard people say, “I’m not a ‘born-again’ Christian.” On the other extreme, I’ve heard people proudly refer to themselves as “born again” Christians, as though there were other kinds which were not quite as good as them. The fact is “If anyone is in Christ, he or she is a new creation.” (2 Corinthians 5:17) We have a new life - one so different it is no stretch to say we’ve been born anew. As Jesus describes it, it’s a Spiritual birth. One of the things we have in Him is the Spirit’s presence and guidance in our lives. And the simple fact is the Spirit remains a mystery to us. Like the wind, we cannot see it. We can only see its affects and perhaps feel its movement.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will let myself “feel” the Spirit today. I will trust Christ’s leading in that. I will let the wind of God blow me in whatever direction He chooses.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, I have many things planned for today. I have more to do than I can get done on my own. Please move me along at your pace in your direction. Thank you for the new life you’ve given me. Help me live in a way that brings you honor.

Staying Open to God's Activity

Scripture – John 3:1-4: Now there was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a member of the Jewish ruling council. He came to Jesus at night and said, “Rabbi, we know you are a teacher who has come from God. For no one could perform the miraculous signs you are doing if God were not with him.” In reply Jesus declared, “I tell you the truth, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again.” “How can a man be born when he is old?” Nicodemus asked. “Surely he cannot enter a second time into his mother’s womb to be born!”

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Nicodemus must have been a pretty neat guy. He was a member of “the Jewish ruling council.” That means he was respected and mature, and perhaps a bit of a politician, as well. At the same time, he kept himself open to God’s word and activity. So when he saw what Jesus was doing, he knew something was up. God was doing something new in the world. And he went to Jesus to see what it was. Often I hear about some things another church is doing that raise questions for me. Instead of talking to them, I grumble and talk to other people about them. There’s something to learn from Nicodemus. Stay open. Be in dialogue. Listen for God’s voice.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will keep my spiritual ears open today. I will talk with people rather than about them.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, you do new things all the time. Give me a discerning spirit to recognize you at work in the world. Forgive me for judging other ministries without even talking to them. Please show me your way for me and the church this day.

This Is Our Faith

Scripture – John 2:23-25: Now while he was in Jerusalem at the Passover Feast, many people saw the miraculous signs he was doing and believed in his name. But Jesus would not entrust himself to them, for he knew all people. He did not need human testimony about people, for he knew what was in a person.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Here we are again – Jesus knows what is in each person. (That includes me.) There’s an old chorus that says, “The One who knows me best loves me most.” He knows how deep belief in Him goes. He knows when we move from belief to faith. I might believe, for example, a chair will hold me. I show faith when I sit in it. In fact, I have faith in many chairs. At the same time, I don’t think about sitting in them or question whether or not they’ll hold me. I certainly am not afraid to sit in them. A couple days, ago, as we brought my sister’s body to its final resting place on this earth, I realized, this is our faith. Jesus really will carry us through eternity. She didn’t give that any more thought than sitting in a chair. She knew He knew her – and that was enough. And it is for me, as well.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will live without fear today. I will sit or stand or walk or wait wherever Jesus leads me.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, you are the ultimate promise keeper. You are the ultimate lover. You know me perfectly. And you love me and call me. Help me be more like you this day. Thank you, again, for eternal life.

The Larger Picture

Scripture – John 2:18-22: Then the Jews demanded of him, “What miraculous sign can you show us to prove your authority to do all this?” Jesus answered them, “Destroy this temple, and I will raise it again in three days.” The Jews replied, “It has taken forty-six years to build this temple, and you are going to raise it in three days?” But the temple he had spoken of was his body. After he was raised from the dead, his disciples recalled what he had said. Then they believed the Scripture and the words that Jesus had spoken.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Sometimes I wonder how the disciples could be so slow to understand who Jesus was. I mean, look at all they saw and heard. At the same time, they were seeing a man – a person who looks and sounds like any other person. It’s easy for me to look back, knowing the whole story, and see Christ at work in the world. Yet it would have been quite different to be there with Him. It would be very hard to call a person “God.” Jesus made the comment here about His death and resurrection. It wasn’t until later (“then they believed”) that it all began making sense.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I’m not sure how I will be different. There will be many things I experience today that may not make sense until sometime later. I will simply live as a disciple, doing what’s right, and trust all things will fit together in Him.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, help me today to recognize your continuing presence in the world and in my life. Through you I have the best of both worlds – I can face the unknown today with confidence because I already know the end of the ultimate story. Give me patience and peace to live for you today.

A Day for Personal Faith

Scripture – John 2:12-17: After this he went down to Capernaum with his mother and brothers and his disciples. There they stayed for a few days. When it was almost time for the Jewish Passover, Jesus went up to Jerusalem. In the temple courts he found men selling cattle, sheep and doves, and others sitting at tables exchanging money. So he made a whip out of cords, and drove all from the temple area, both sheep and cattle; he scattered the coins of the money changers and overturned their tables. To those who sold doves he said, “Get these out of here! How dare you turn my Father’s house into a market!” His disciples remembered that it is written: “Zeal for your house will consume me.”

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) I wonder what they talked about in Capernauam. After the wedding, Jesus and His brothers and His disciples spent a few days together. Certainly they would have talked about the wine incident. Perhaps Jesus talked more about Himself and His calling. What questions were raised? What commitments were made? The essence of discipleship is found in the personal relationship I have with Christ and in the questions I ask and the commitments I make in private with Him.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) Today is my sister’s funeral. I am leaning on the hope and promise of eternal life she is experiencing right now. Today my personal faith sustains me in my sadness. Today I have no questions for Christ, only thanks.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Thank you, Lord, for peace and hope and comfort. Thank you for knowing me personally and for knowing the members of my family. Hold us all this day.

Background People

Scripture – John 2:8-11: Then he told them, “Now draw some out and take it to the master of the banquet.” They did so, and the master of the banquet tasted the water that had been turned into wine. He did not realize where it had come from, though the servants who had drawn the water knew. Then he called the bridegroom aside and said, “Everyone brings out the choice wine first and then the cheaper wine after the guests have had too much to drink; but you have saved the best till now.” This, the first of his miraculous signs, Jesus performed at Cana in Galilee. He thus revealed his glory, and his disciples put their faith in him.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) The servants are the first ones to recognize this miracle. They have been in the background. They have obeyed Jesus’ very simple instructions. As a result, they get the first glimpse of His glory. It puts me in mind of the shepherds on Christmas Eve. God really does care for the quiet background people – the people I see (but usually don’t “see”) every day. Right now, for example, I’m sitting in a hotel lobby. Many service people are moving quietly in the background, keeping things running. Christ sees and loves each one of them.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will pay attention to the “background” people today. I will look them in the eye and see them as unique individuals with stories of their own.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Help me do that, Lord. Remind me you came into the world as a “background” person. Everyone has a story and a life. All are created and loved by you. Keep my eyes and my heart open today. To see people as you do.

Simple Obedience

Scripture – John 2:1-7: On the third day a wedding took place at Cana in Galilee. Jesus’ mother was there, and Jesus and his disciples had also been invited to the wedding. When the wine was gone, Jesus’ mother said to him, “They have no more wine.” “Dear woman, why do you involve me?” Jesus replied. “My time has not yet come.” His mother said to the servants, “Do whatever he tells you.” Nearby stood six stone water jars, the kind used by the Jews for ceremonial washing, each holding from twenty to thirty gallons. Jesus said to the servants, “Fill the jars with water”; so they filled them to the brim.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Often I find it fun and sometimes insightful to let my imagination loose when reading Bible stories. Here, for example, what did Mary know about Jesus? Before He was born we know Gabriel gave her some idea of who He was to be. Yet, as she watched Him grow up and move into adulthood, what did she see? How did they get along? What’s the tone of Jesus’ response to His mother’s comment about the wine? We can read that as a rude comment or we can hear a smile in His voice. However it sounded, Mary seemed to know He could do something in the face of this relatively minor problem. So the servants were told to do “whatever he tells you.” And they did. That’s still our role today.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will pay attention to what Jesus is telling me to do. Sometimes I don’t see how everything fits together, so I hesitate to do what I’m asked to do. Like the servants, I don’t see how filling jars with water does anything to fix the problem. Yet they did it. So, I will follow directions as I receive them today.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, help me today to hear your directions. Even if I don’t see the whole picture, remind me that my commitment is to let you be in charge – whether I understand or not.

Honest to God!

Scripture – John 1:47-51: When Jesus saw Nathanael approaching, he said of him, “Here is a true Israelite, in whom there is nothing false.” “How do you know me?” Nathanael asked. Jesus answered, “I saw you while you were still under the fig tree before Philip called you.” Then Nathanael declared, “Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the King of Israel.” Jesus said, “You believe because I told you I saw you under the fig tree. You shall see greater things than that.” He then added, “I tell you the truth, you shall see heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man.”

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Jesus knew Nathanael. He knows me. Sometimes I still catch myself trying to hide things from Him. It may be a thought or an attitude that begins to creep up during my quiet, prayer time. It doesn’t seem right. So I quickly push it back as though God might have missed it. Jesus knows who we are. He sees us better and more fully than we see ourselves. And he loves us, accepts us and calls us to follow Him.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will be honest with God today. There are feelings and attitudes I cannot control. I don’t have to act on them. At the same time, it hurts me to deny them. So I will be honest today with God about who I am. I will accept His acceptance of me.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, your grace is amazing. Thank you for loving me and calling me. You know better than I who I am. So help me be honest with you, and live in a way that justifies your trust and faith in me.

Keeping Open

Scripture – John 1:43-46: The next day Jesus decided to leave for Galilee. Finding Philip, he said to him, “Follow me.” Philip, like Andrew and Peter, was from the town of Bethsaida. Philip found Nathanael and told him, “We have found the one Moses wrote about in the Law, and about whom the prophets also wrote—Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.” “Nazareth! Can anything good come from there?” Nathanael asked. “Come and see,” said Philip.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Wow! I have sat in Nathanael’s seat many times. I will judge people or programs or ideas based on nothing more than where they come from or who I think they are. Something comes in the mail, and the return address tells me what to expect when I open it – if I open it. Sometimes people will come to me with an idea and I am ready to discount it before they say another word. Philip’s simple response still stands as sound advice today – “Come and see.” That’s something I need to practice.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will open myself to people and possibilities that come to me. I will let them speak for themselves. I will let myself look and see with an open mind.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, please help me today. I cannot do this without you. Please free me from the pre-judging I do so naturally I don’t even notice it. Help me recognize when that’s happening, and give me your vision to set it aside. There are lots of good things waiting for me today. Keep me open to receive them – no matter where they come from.

A Simple Thing

Scripture – John 1:40-42: Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, was one of the two who heard what John had said and who had followed Jesus. The first thing Andrew did was to find his brother Simon and tell him, “We have found the Messiah” (that is, the Christ). And he brought him to Jesus. Jesus looked at him and said, “You are Simon son of John. You will be called Cephas” (which, when translated, is Peter).

Observation – Andrew did a really simple thing. He told his brother what he had found. I visited another church yesterday for Sunday morning worship. The pastor there is in the midst of sermon series called “Just Walk Across the Room.” The purpose is to give some practical tips on how to naturally talk about Christ with people we already know. One of his points was that God already has a great story, and we need to tell it well. A second point was that each of us who have accepted Christ have a great story as well, and we need to tell it well. Andrew found Simon and shared his experience of Christ. They both already knew God’s great story. Andrew simply said we have found the next step in that story. And he brought Simon to Jesus.

Application – I will recall God’s great story – His story intended for all people. I will also give thought to my powerful story. What difference has He made in my life? What words might I use to share that?

Prayer – Lord, thank you for the people who brought me to you. There were several over the years – beginning with my parents. Finally, I accepted your offer of salvation myself. Thank you for keeping that offer on the table for me. How might I speak to my brothers about this?

What Do You Want?

Scripture – John 1:35-39: The next day John was there again with two of his disciples. 6When he saw Jesus passing by, he said, “Look, the Lamb of God!” When the two disciples heard him say this, they followed Jesus. Turning around, Jesus saw them following and asked, “What do you want?” They said, “Rabbi” (which means Teacher), “where are you staying?” “Come,” he replied, “and you will see.” So they went and saw where he was staying, and spent that day with him. It was about the tenth hour.

Observation – John taught his disciples well. When he identified Jesus to them – “Look, the Lamb of God!” – they followed Him. Then Jesus asked a great question of them, “What do you want?” He continues to be that open-ended today. The same question comes to us day after day. I find the more I respond to it, the deeper I’m taken into my own being. What do I want? After I drop through all the surface stuff, what do I want from Jesus Christ? Some days I can answer more clearly than others. Sometimes I don’t really have the words. Some days I’m aware my answer is very self-centered. Some days I want what He wants. Always, though, His response seems consistent – “Come, and you will see.”

Application – I will take this question to heart and come up with two things I really want from Jesus. Then I will tell Him.

Prayer – Lord, give me the courage to answer your question authentically. Sometimes I’m afraid to answer honestly because I know you’ll give me what I want. Teach me seek good answers. Forgive me for avoiding your will.

Knowing Who Jesus Is

Scripture – John 1:29-34: The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! This is the one I meant when I said, ‘A man who comes after me has surpassed me because he was before me.’ I myself did not know him, but the reason I came baptizing with water was that he might be revealed to Israel.” Then John gave this testimony: “I saw the Spirit come down from heaven as a dove and remain on him. I would not have known him, except that the one who sent me to baptize with water told me, ‘The man on whom you see the Spirit come down and remain is he who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.’ I have seen and I testify that this is the Son of God.”

Observation – I wonder if John knew Jesus as they were growing up. Luke tells us they were born only a few months apart, and that their mothers were related. Did they have a chance to play together and talk with one another? What happened as they moved through their teens into young adulthood? Did John talk about his call from God to live such an odd lifestyle and to baptize? Did Jesus share much about Himself and His plan? John didn’t know Jesus was the Christ until he baptized Him. But when the Spirit came down, he was ready and he recognized who Jesus really was. Now his mission changed a bit from preparing people to pointing them directly and specifically to Jesus.

Application – I will be ready today to point someone to Jesus – to testify with assurance, He is the Son of God.

Prayer – Lord, please help me keep my eyes and ears open to your word today. Give me words and actions that reflect you and your light. And as my sister moves toward the end of her time on this earth this day, thank you for the gift of eternal life. In your time, please carry her gently home.

Where is Christ Today?

Scripture – John 1:24-28: Now some Pharisees who had been sent questioned him, “Why then do you baptize if you are not the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the Prophet?” “I baptize with water,” John replied, “but among you stands one you do not know. He is the one who comes after me, the thongs of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie.” This all happened at Bethany on the other side of the Jordan, where John was baptizing.

Observation – Where is Christ today? Back in the beginning of his gospel, John wrote, “the world did not recognize him.” (1:10) Now John the baptizer points out the same thing. And he’s talking to the religious leaders – “among you stands one you do not know.” Does Christ travel in the world incognito? Or is He simply unknown to so many people? Every day I see people I’ve never seen before – even in a small town like Southgate. Where is Christ today? Is He in the church? Is He in the crowd? Do we overlook Him in our midst? Do we need to introduce Him to people who don’t know Him? I suspect the answer to all those questions is “yes.”

Application – I will keep my eyes open for Christ today. I know He can pop up at any time. I’ll keep myself ready to speak about Him and/or to Him when the time is right.

Prayer – Lord, please help me see you today. Help me recognize the moments to speak of you. Give me the words to introduce you to someone who doesn’t recognize you – even when you’re standing next to them. Thank you for standing next to me. I’m sorry for the times I overlook you and take you for granted.

Who are you?

Scripture – John 1:19-23: Now this was John’s testimony when the Jews of Jerusalem sent priests and Levites to ask him who he was. He did not fail to confess, but confessed freely, “I am not the Christ.” They asked him, “Then who are you? Are you Elijah?” He said, “I am not.” “Are you the Prophet?” He answered, “No.” Finally they said, “Who are you? Give us an answer to take back to those who sent us. What do you say about yourself?” John replied in the words of Isaiah the prophet, “I am the voice of one calling in the desert, ‘Make straight the way for the Lord.’ “

Observation – “Who are you?” It’s far easier to tell people who I am not. “I am not the Christ” I am not Billy Graham. I am not Martin Luther King, Jr. I am not the leader of a mega-church. I am not a television personality. I am not… That kind of response is really a way of putting myself down. The leaders asked John, “Who are you?” He answered not with a name, but with a prophetic image and mission. How would I answer that today? What Biblical image would describe my mission – the unique ministry Christ has for me?

Application – I will live with my uniqueness today. I will not try to be someone else. I will be the person God has called me to be – the person I am becoming.

Prayer – Lord, thank you for your trust in me. Forgive me when I try to discount my role in your work. Give me clarity in my mission and call. Give me courage and boldness to be the unique, authentic person you are forming even now.

Priceless Gifts

Scripture – John 1:15-18: John testifies concerning him. He cries out, saying, “This was he of whom I said, ‘He who comes after me has surpassed me because he was before me.’” From the fullness of his grace we have all received one blessing after another. For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. No one has ever seen God, but God the One and Only, who is at the Father’s side, has made him known.

Observation – God has blessed me beyond measure. Often, when I think about that, I just look at the material things around us. There’s no question we have an abundance of those. And I am thankful. At the same time, the greater things have no earthly value, but they are far more valuable – the peace of God, “the fullness of his grace,” the assurance of eternal life. These are the blessing that matter. On my good days I have that firmly in mind.

Application – I will focus on the priceless gifts God has given. Already this day, I find myself tempted to think about material things and concerns. I will not let them dominate my thinking, nor dictate my decisions.

Prayer – Lord, thank you for your blessings in my life – the love we share in our family, the strength you bring to our hearts, the hope that enables us to get up in the morning. Please keep my mind focused on things above this day. Turn this into a “good” day.

A Christmas Story

Scripture – John 1:10-14: He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him. He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him. Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God—children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God. The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.

Observation – This is John’s version of the Christmas story. The Word of God – the essence and reality of God – became a human being. That is a breath-taking statement of faith. No other religion comes close to this. God is reaching out to us in Christ. As we receive Him, we become no less than children of God. In December, as we sing the carols and act out the Bethlehem story, this is what we proclaim.

Application – I will celebrate Christmas today. While I won’t put up decorations, I may sing a carol or two. I will celebrate the fact that God has come into my life. I will give Him praise and thanks for doing that. As we’ve been saying at church, “Jesus is the Reason” – not just for a season, but for all of life.

Prayer – Lord, thank you for coming to us. Help me help people recognize you. They don’t know what they’re missing. By your grace, I do know. Thanks, again.

Being a Good Reflector

Scripture – John 1:6-9: There came a man who was sent from God; his name was John. He came as a witness to testify concerning that light, so that through him all people might believe. He himself was not the light; he came only as a witness to the light. The true light that gives light to every person was coming into the world.

Observation – John knew who he was. And he knew who he was not. For whatever reasons, he attracted fairly large crowds. He had a number of disciples. Yet he always knew he was only a witness to the “true light” that was coming into the world. Like a reflector on a bicycle, he produced no light of his own. Sometimes I act as though I am the most important or that the church is the main thing. Yet the simple truth is, Christ is the One! If I’m not pointing toward Him in what I do, I’m standing in the way of His light rather than reflecting it.

Application – I will be careful in what I do today as a witness. I will remember I’m a reflector of the light of Christ, not a producer.

Prayer – Lord, sometimes I forget and try to make the light myself. I try to make “my little light shine.” That’s a bit like trying to make myself grow taller. It’s a process I can only let happen. You are the true light – the life-giving and life-changing light. Thank you for coming into my life. Help me be a good reflector of you today.

The Cosmic Context

Scripture – John 1:1-5: In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life was the light of all people. The light shines in the darkness, but the darkness has not understood it.

Observation – John takes us back to the very beginning of what we call “time.” It’s similar to the prologue in the first “Lord of the Rings” movie. He sets the very real, human experience of Jesus Christ in its cosmic context. Jesus has always been. He and God are one. He participated in the creation of all we know. In Him our lives have their beginning. In Him light comes into the world. And while the darkness has not understood the light and doesn’t know what to make of it, the darkness does not have the power to extinguish the light. Darkness always gives way to light. In that, we have the foundation of hope. Like the so-called “children’s” song, the essence of our witness is that we let the light of Christ shine in us.

Application – I will let my mind stretch today as I try to envision the grandeur of Christ. Sometimes I get so caught up in His humanity, I forget His divinity. Yet that’s the point of His coming – God did become a human being. I will let His light shine in me, trusting it will bring more light into the world.

Prayer – Lord, who you are and what you’ve done are breathtaking. Thank you for shining your light in my darkness – for helping me see life so much more clearly. Help me today to simply let your light shine in me. As I live in you, be present to the people around me. Bring your light into more of the darkness through me this day.

Asking for Help

Scripture – 1 Peter 5:12-14: With the help of Silas, whom I regard as a faithful brother, I have written to you briefly, encouraging you and testifying that this is the true grace of God. Stand fast in it. She who is in Babylon, chosen together with you, sends you her greetings, and so does my son Mark. Greet one another with a kiss of love. Peace to all of you who are in Christ.

Observation – With these thoughts Peter ends his letter. He’s written it “with the help of Silas.” What kind of help did Silas provide? The conventional thought is that Peter dictated while Silas wrote. Yet how much more could Silas have helped? With suggested wording of various passages? With the arrangement of ideas? By suggesting different illustrations? We'll never know any of that. What we can know is that Peter, the acknowledged leader of the early church, asked for help. I still tend to work alone. Part of that is pride – pure and simple. I want to do something myself. I’m involved in a couple projects like that right now. Yet part of being the church is relying on one another. It’s not what “I” do, but what “we” do for Christ and His mission. Working together, we can do a better and more effective job than I can do working alone.

Application – I will reach out and ask for help in one of those projects – beginning today.

Prayer – Lord, thank you for your grace. Thank you for bringing me into the Bethel community. Show me again how to ask for help and how to let people help me. Thank you again for your peace and your promise.

Trusting God's Promise

Scripture – 1 Peter 5:8-11: Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers and sisters throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings. And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen.

Observation – The Devil is a constant threat with which we live. As in the image here, he is always prowling around, looking for a sign of weakness, ready to pounce. In the face of that we’re called to be self-controlled and alert – to resist him and stand firm in the faith. I’ve seen a pattern in my life. Things are going well. Then a time of testing and temptation comes. As I get older and more mature, the temptations are often on a more subtle level. I’ve learned to be ever more alert. The time of testing can last from a few minutes up to several months. But then always…always…God keeps His promise. “The God of all grace…will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.” I have learned to stand firm in the faith. I’ve learned to trust God’s promise. And on my good days, I face adversity with peace and calmness.

Application – I will not be frazzled today. I have several things on my agenda. At the same time, I am open to whatever else comes my way. I will stay alert. And with God’s help, I will stand firm in the faith.

Prayer – Lord, I don’t expect any problems today. At the same time, interruptions are part of life. Keep me on track. Protect me by your grace. Restore me when I slip. Help me be a bit of peace in the world today.

Being Humble

Scripture – 1 Peter 5:5-7: Young people, in the same way be submissive to those who are older. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

Observation – Humility is the most difficult virtue for me to practice. I have a natural, inner arrogance that keeps rising within me. I see it most clearly when I’m convinced that I have the “right” answer to something, and everyone who disagrees is wrong. That’s a prime area where Holy Spirit has been working on me, and still is. It helps greatly to humble myself “under God’s mighty hand.” To remember, all I am, all I have, all I am able to do, comes through the grace and power of Christ in me. Without Him I could do nothing of any value. One of the important things I’ve learned is that, if I wait until all my motives are pure, I won’t do much of anything. So sometimes I consciously act humble. Like putting on a jacket, I clothe myself with humility. And sometimes, by God’s grace, I don’t give it a thought. And in all of that, Holy Spirit keeps doing His shaping work.

Application – I will intentionally humble myself under God’s mighty hand today. I will keep in mind who I am and who He is. I will trust Him. I will be open to the ideas and input of other people.

Prayer – Lord, thank you again for your patience with me. Please continue to work on my heart. Help me serve you as you want today. Thank you for using even me.

Spiritual Grownups

Scripture – 1 Peter 5:1-4: To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder, a witness of Christ’s sufferings and one who also will share in the glory to be revealed: Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, serving as overseers—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.

Observation – This passage is like a snapshot of spiritual maturity. We serve “not because you must, but because you are willing.” A lot of Christian service begins with doing things because I must. I tell myself, ‘this is what I should do.” And I act out of duty, mixed with love and commitment to Christ. Yet actions have a way of changing attitudes. If I stop resisting God’s will and let myself simply follow, eventually I begin serving because I want to serve. I become willing. Eventually I overcome greed – that attitude that keeps me looking for a personal payoff of some kind. I overcome the arrogance that keeps me “lording it” over other people rather than being a good example. As I keep myself open to Christ’s transforming work in me, He faithfully and patiently keeps shaping me into the person He’s always wanted me to be.

Application – I will watch my attitude today. I will serve willingly, providing a good example. I will live as a spiritual grownup this day.

Prayer – Lord, thank you for your transforming power in my heart. You are growing me into a mature follower. I’m certainly not all the way there yet. At the same time, I’m farther along than I was six months ago. Please keep working in me. And help me stay open to you.

Works That Will Last

Scripture – 1 Peter 4:17-19: For it is time for judgment to begin with the family of God; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God? And, “If it is hard for the righteous to be saved, what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?” So then, those who suffer according to God’s will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.

Observation – What does judgment look like for the family of God? Salvation is assured. We have eternal life in the bank because Christ has secured that for us. So how will we be judged? I think our works will come under scrutiny. As we have lived faithfully, have we done things that matter for eternity? Some of what we call “ministry” is little more than busy-work. We do a lot of things, but how much of it is just to benefit the church as it is and to keep the church as it is? Those efforts don’t have much eternal value, I fear. We are called to mission – to be witnesses to the power and presence of Christ – to be bearers of light in this ever-darkening world.

Application – I will monitor what I do this week and what the church does. How many of my and the church’s efforts are geared toward maintaining the church, and how many look outward to serve the people around us?

Prayer – Lord, you have called us to mission – to continue your ministry in the world as a community of Christian love. Please open us to new ways to do that. Thank you for the assurance of eternal life. Show us now how to be your children, living in ways that would make you proud.

What Does Faithful Living Cost?

Scripture – 1 Peter 4:12-16: Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler. However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name.

Observation – The people who received this letter from Peter knew suffering. Their professed faith in Christ brought immediate consequences, many of which were severe. They faced, in some places, painful, physical persecution. In that, they were called to rejoice. What are the implications for us today? I’ve been in the church all my life, and a professing Christian for 42 years. And I cannot recall a time when I have suffered for being a Christian. I have endured some insults along the way, but even those have been few and far between. What does it mean for the North American church (Bethel in particular) to live so comfortably within the culture around us? What trials do we face? What refining experiences shape the life and faith of the congregation today?

Application – I will stay faithful today. Even as I thank God we do not face persecution, I will pay attention to choices I make today that are influenced by my faith, and what, if anything, those choices cost.

Prayer – Thank you, Lord, for keeping us safe from physical persecution. Give me strength and courage in my inner being to live faithfully for you today. I give you praise and thanks for allowing me to bear your name.