Known By God

Scripture – John 10:22-30: Then came the Feast of Dedication at Jerusalem. It was winter, and Jesus was in the temple area walking in Solomon’s Colonnade. The Jews gathered around him, saying, “How long will you keep us in suspense? If you are the Christ, tell us plainly.” Jesus answered, “I did tell you, but you do not believe. The miracles I do in my Father’s name speak for me, but you do not believe because you are not my sheep. My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand. I and the Father are one.”

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Here we go again. The Jews gather around Jesus and try to get Him to say something they can use against Him. And, as always, He chooses His words carefully. (Although the last sentence seems very clear.) He points out His connection is not with the religious leaders. He came to help the ordinary people connect with God. So He returns to the shepherd image. His sheep listen to His voice. I’ve learned to pick His voice out of all the others around me. He knows His sheep. Christ offers a personal relationship with God, unlike any other religion. And His sheep follow Him. Of all the choices, He is the One I follow. My commitment is to let Him be the directing, guiding force in my life. As imperfect as I am in following His lead, there’s no other way that makes any sense to me.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) As a local church shepherd, I will remember I am also one of His sheep.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Thank you so much, Lord, for your presence in my personal life. I would have nothing – I would be nothing without you. Help me grow even more in my trust in you. Please keep speaking. By your grace, I’ll keep listening and following.

An Invitation – If you’re interested in a face to face discussion about what we’ve been discovering in the Mini-Journal, join us today at Bethel Baptist (Trenton & Venness in Southgate), 9:45 – 10:30am.

Going Deeper

Scripture – John 10:17-21: The reason my Father loves me is that I lay down my life—only to take it up again. No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down and authority to take it up again. This command I received from my Father.” At these words the Jews were again divided. Many of them said, “He is demon-possessed and raving mad. Why listen to him?” But others said, “These are not the sayings of a man possessed by a demon. Can a demon open the eyes of the blind?”

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) There is a powerful spiritual truth here. Jesus chose to die on the cross so we can have eternal life. He did not have to do that. Speaking of His life He says, “I lay it down of my own accord.” Going to the cross was a voluntary action. It’s so easy for me to overlook the power of what He did. Personally, I’ve grown up with the story of the cross and resurrection. In some ways, I take them for granted. Of course, this is what Jesus did for me and for all people. And I am thankful. The essence of being His disciple today, however, is that I follow Him in that – that I willingly take on an unpleasant task on His behalf. What is my cross? Will I take it up or avoid it?

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will let my commitment to Christ disrupt my life. I will look for at least one thing He’s calling me to do – one thing I’d rather avoid. I will embrace it and do it on His behalf.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, you held nothing back for me. Because you gave up your life, I have life today and hope today. Forgive me, please, for focusing so much on my own comfort zones. Teach me to follow you wherever you lead.

An Invitation – If you’re interested in a face to face discussion about what we’ve been discovering in the Mini-Journal, join us at Bethel Baptist (Trenton & Venness in Southgate) this Sunday morning, 9:45 – 10:30am.

A Better Shepherd

Scripture – John 10:11-16: “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. The hired hand is not the shepherd who owns the sheep. So when he sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and runs away. Then the wolf attacks the flock and scatters it. The man runs away because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep. “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me—just as the Father knows me and I know the Father—and I lay down my life for the sheep. I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also. They too will listen to my voice, and there shall be one flock and one shepherd.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) This is a powerful image. Jesus is “the good shepherd.” (I know there’s a movie out by that name right now. I’m pretty sure it’s not quite the same as this image.) The “hired hand” does not feel any ownership of the sheep in his care. So when danger or trouble comes, he leaves – looking out for himself. The good shepherd stays – even to the point of giving up His life for the sheep. Being a pastor (which means “shepherd”) I have to wonder where I am on the spectrum between “hired hand” and “good shepherd.” How much do I still live for myself instead of others?

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will intentionally look beyond myself today. I have several things on my agenda – jobs I want to get done. I will let people take precedence over those things.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Thank you, Lord, for giving your life for me. Forgive me for looking within so much. Teach me to see through your eyes and heart today. If not entirely “good,” please make me a better shepherd this day.

An Invitation – If you’re interested in a face to face discussion about what we’ve been discovering in the Mini-Journal, join us at Bethel Baptist (Trenton & Venness in Southgate) this Sunday morning, 9:45 – 10:30am.

A Full Life

Scripture – John 10:7-10: Therefore Jesus said again, “I tell you the truth, I am the gate for the sheep. All who ever came before me were thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not listen to them. I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved. He will come in and go out, and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) In Christ I have a fullness of life I find nowhere else. There are so many other voices around me promising life. The ads on TV continually show me an image of what a “full” life is. They also promise to help me get there if I buy what they’re selling. Other religions and philosophies make the same kind of offer. Jesus is the only one who can deliver on that promise of life in all its fullness. And it’s not for sale. It’s a gift to be received. Anyone can enter through the gate and find life.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will be aware of the other voices around me today. I’ll pay attention to what they’re promising. I’ll recognize them as the “thieves and robbers” they are. I will keep my hope and trust in Jesus Christ.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, I give you great thanks for your faithfulness to me. Thank you for life. Thank you for the assurance of eternal life. Thank you for leading me into life that is real.

A Familiar Voice

Scripture – John 10:1-6: “I tell you the truth, the man who does not enter the sheep pen by the gate, but climbs in by some other way, is a thief and a robber. The man who enters by the gate is the shepherd of his sheep. The watchman opens the gate for him, and the sheep listen to his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. When he has brought out all his own, he goes on ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice. But they will never follow a stranger; in fact, they will run away from him because they do not recognize a stranger’s voice.” Jesus used this figure of speech, but they did not understand what he was telling them.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) How do I recognize Jesus’ voice? I am committed to following Him – to letting Him be the guiding, over-riding influence in my life. Yet with so many noises and voices around me, how do I pick out His? A big part of it for me is personal experience. I have learned, for example, to recognize my wife’s voice. I can tell a lot about how she’s feeling just from the sound of her voice. We’ve been together long enough that it’s just become natural. Sometimes there’s so much going on around us that I need to focus and really tune in to hear what she’s saying. And so it is with Christ. I can move along knowing that He’s speaking without really hearing what He’s saying. Just knowing His voice is not the same as following His direction.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will listen carefully today – not just for the sound of His voice, but for the directions He has for me.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, thank you for being so present in my life – for being such a familiar presence. Forgive me for the times I take you for granted and don’t really pay attention. Open my ears and my heart today to follow you.

From Darkness to Light

Scripture – John 9:39-41: Jesus said, “For judgment I have come into this world, so that the blind will see and those who see will become blind.” Some Pharisees who were with him heard him say this and asked, “What? Are we blind too?” Jesus said, “If you were blind, you would not be guilty of sin; but now that you claim you can see, your guilt remains.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) The man who was born blind had an interesting journey in coming to Christ. First of all, he was healed. That was a gift that came to him by the grace of God. There’s no indication that would ever be lost, no matter what he did. Then, people begin asking him about the experience. As he keeps going over it, his understanding of who Jesus is evolves from being a man to being a prophet to being one sent from God to being the Lord he worshipped. In today’s reading Jesus points out He has come into the world to disrupt “normal” life – to effect a reversal of how we see. As the prophet Isaiah described it, “Every valley shall be lifted up, and every mountain and hill be made low; the uneven ground shall become level, and the rough places a plain.” (Is. 40:4) And as Jesus says here, our whole understanding of blindness and vision will be re-defined. As I continue the path of discovery with Him, I learn more and more about Christ. I discover new areas in my life where vision is granted – areas in which I thought I was seeing pretty clearly.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will open my eyes wider today. I will look for the wider vision Christ has for me in my life and for Bethel in her mission.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, please keep opening my eyes. Keep growing within me. Keep transforming my vision and use me any way you would like. Thank you for your faith in me.

Being Found

Merry Christmas! – Not much writing today. I’ll have more tomorrow. For this story is one of my favorites in the whole Bible.

Scripture – John 9:35-38: Jesus heard that they had thrown him out, and when he found him, he said, “Do you believe in the Son of Man?” “Who is he, sir?” the man asked. “Tell me so that I may believe in him.” Jesus said, “You have now seen him; in fact, he is the one speaking with you.” Then the man said, “Lord, I believe,” and he worshiped him.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Jesus found the man. He had been thrown out – rejected – by the established “church” of his day. And Jesus found him. He does not lose track of people. He has never lost track of me, no matter how far I’ve drifted.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will remember that today. I will remember Jesus found me, and He’s allowed me to discover who He is.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Thank you, Lord. Thank you very much!!

Stating the Obvious

Scripture – John 9:30-34: The man answered, “Now that is remarkable! You don’t know where he comes from, yet he opened my eyes. We know that God does not listen to sinners. He listens to the godly man who does his will. Nobody has ever heard of opening the eyes of a man born blind. If this man were not from God, he could do nothing.” To this they replied, “You were steeped in sin at birth; how dare you lecture us!” And they threw him out.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Finally, this man speaks up and points out an obvious fact. This was a basic lesson every kid would know – God listens to “the godly person who does his will.” So, of course, Jesus comes from God. The first churches I served as pastor were in two small towns in Illinois. (The population of each was less than 300.) I knew theology, theories of ministry and all kinds of other “head“ stuff. Those simple country folks taught me how to use my heart. They demonstrated a simple, uncomplicated faith. Just believe in Jesus and trust who He is. I was a young Pharisee-in-training. They rescued me from that, and led me back to a personal relationship with Christ. For that, I will be ever thankful.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) On this day before Christmas, I will thank God for the gift of His Son. I will thank Him for coming into my life in a personal way. I will thank Him throughout the day for reaching out to me.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, there are so many people longing for a Savior this day. They just don’t have the language to say that. Most don’t even know it’s you they want. Still, please hear this prayer, and the silent prayers of their hearts, and touch their lives with your love and grace. Use me any way you can in that. Help us all experience the good news of great joy coming out of Bethlehem.

No Arguement Here

Scripture – John 9:24-29: A second time they summoned the man who had been blind. “Give glory to God,” they said. “We know this man is a sinner.” He replied, “Whether he is a sinner or not, I don’t know. One thing I do know. I was blind but now I see!” Then they asked him, “What did he do to you? How did he open your eyes?” He answered, “I have told you already and you did not listen. Why do you want to hear it again? Do you want to become his disciples, too?” Then they hurled insults at him and said, “You are this fellow’s disciple! We are disciples of Moses! We know that God spoke to Moses, but as for this fellow, we don’t even know where he comes from.”

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) These leaders are not going to be dissuaded by any facts. They seem to accept, finally, that a healing took place, but they’re sure it was not from God because that would give credibility to Jesus. As to the man, he’s not intimidated. And how could he be? He knows he was blind. And he knows, because of Jesus, he can see. Christian faith is not something to be argued or defended. It’s to be shared. No one comes into the Kingdom by logic. We come by faith – by saying, “Okay, Lord, I’m going to step off in Your direction and see if you’re there.” I’ve done that. He’s always been there. There’s no argument against that.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will continue to live in faith today. I will avoid arguments about religion. I will simply say what I know from personal experience.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, you are light and life for me. Thank you. Remind me that it’s taken a long time to discover that for myself. Give me patience as I let other people move at their own pace. For we’re all moving closer to you.

Speaking for Myself

Scripture – John 9:18-23: The Jews still did not believe that he had been blind and had received his sight until they sent for the man’s parents. “Is this your son?” they asked. “Is this the one you say was born blind? How is it that now he can see?” “We know he is our son,” the parents answered, “and we know he was born blind. But how he can see now, or who opened his eyes, we don’t know. Ask him. He is of age; he will speak for himself.” His parents said this because they were afraid of the Jews, for already the Jews had decided that anyone who acknowledged that Jesus was the Christ would be put out of the synagogue. That was why his parents said, “He is of age; ask him.”

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) These particular Jewish leaders were exceptionally stubborn people. They went way out of their way to somehow disprove what was right before their eyes. The man was blind and now he could see! His parents were obviously intimidated by these leaders. At the same time, they were right in what they said, “He is of age; he will speak for himself.” This is all about that witnessing business. They testified to what they knew – he was their son and he was born blind. They didn’t know any more than that. No one else can tell my story. And if I don’t tell it, it will go unheard. There’s little power in talking about someone else. There’s great power in speaking personally.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will stick to my story today. As I prepare for Sunday’s sermons, I will keep my experience with Christ close and present.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, you have lifted me from a darkness I could never escape on my own. You have opened doors that lead to a fullness of life I never imagined. You have performed miracles in my life no less amazing than what you did for this man. And so I thank you and praise you. Teach me how and when to share what you have done for me

A Changed Life

Scripture – John 9:13-17: They brought to the Pharisees the man who had been blind. Now the day on which Jesus had made the mud and opened the man’s eyes was a Sabbath. Therefore the Pharisees also asked him how he had received his sight. “He put mud on my eyes,” the man replied, “and I washed, and now I see.” Some of the Pharisees said, “This man is not from God, for he does not keep the Sabbath.” But others asked, “How can a sinner do such miraculous signs?” So they were divided. Finally they turned again to the blind man, “What have you to say about him? It was your eyes he opened.” The man replied, “He is a prophet.”

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) There is no arguing with a changed life. This man could see! No matter how it happened or what interpretation was put to it, that indisputable fact remained. Again, the man could only describe what happened – what Jesus did, his response and the result. A song I learned many years ago begins with this question, “Who are you to disagree with me when I tell you He made my life complete?” The simple fact remains, the more I open myself to the life-changing work of Christ in me, the fuller and more complete my life becomes. While there’s a lot I don’t know, I do know that.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will keep my mind and heart open to Him today. I will trust Jesus to give me all I need this day.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, that sounds like such a simple thing to do. And really, it is! At the same time, I still live with a resistance to your transforming power. Give me courage to stay open. I don’t know what you’re making of me. I guess I really don’t need to know. You’ve always been nothing but good for me. Thank you. Help me trust you today.

An Authentic Witness

Scripture – John 9:8-12: His neighbors and those who had formerly seen him begging asked, “Isn’t this the same man who used to sit and beg?” Some claimed that he was. Others said, “No, he only looks like him.” But he himself insisted, “I am the man.” “How then were your eyes opened?” they demanded. He replied, “The man they call Jesus made some mud and put it on my eyes. He told me to go to Siloam and wash. So I went and washed, and then I could see.” “Where is this man?” they asked him. “I don’t know,” he said.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) This is a picture of an authentic witness for Christ. The man could see! (We can only imagine what that was like since he’d been blind from birth.) People had a hard time believing this miracle had happened. Yet there he was – living proof that a dramatic change had taken place. “How did this happen?” they asked. He told his story about “the man they call Jesus.” When they asked where He was, the man said simply, “I don’t know.” That’s what it means to be an authentic witness: I tell what I know and I’m not afraid to say if I don’t know something. We all have our stories. We can all tell about our experience with Jesus. Just because I don’t know everything, I can still say something with authority.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will stay ready to tell my story. As I converse with people today, in whatever settings I find myself, I will respond honestly to questions as they are asked.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, please give me good ears today to hear what people are asking. Give me words to respond. Help me be your witness this day.

A Simple Response

Scripture – John 9:1-7: As Jesus went along, he saw a man blind from birth. His disciples asked him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” “Neither this man nor his parents sinned,” said Jesus, “but this happened so that the work of God might be displayed in his life. As long as it is day, we must do the work of him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work. While I am in the world, I am the light of the world.” Having said this, he spit on the ground, made some mud with the saliva, and put it on the man’s eyes. “Go,” he told him, “wash in the Pool of Siloam” (this word means Sent). So the man went and washed, and came home seeing.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Who am I to question God’s plans? This man’s blindness was there “so that the work of God might be displayed in his life.” And so, his life is about to be radically changed. As with most of His miracles, here Jesus calls for an act of faith on the part of the man being healed. “Go,” Jesus told him. “So the man went….and came home seeing.” Once again, Jesus gives a simple command that calls for a simple response. A lot of times I over think things. He asks me to do something no more difficult than what this man was told. I’ll take a long time analyzing and wondering what He’s really asking. This man didn’t hesitate And he came back seeing.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will be open to and listen for Jesus’ simple instructions today. I will think less and follow more.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, often your directions for me are pretty straightforward. Please keep speaking clearly. Move me to respond with actions rather than questions.

Staying Calm

Scripture – John 8:54-59: Jesus replied, “If I glorify myself, my glory means nothing. My Father, whom you claim as your God, is the one who glorifies me. Though you do not know him, I know him. If I said I did not, I would be a liar like you, but I do know him and keep his word. Your father Abraham rejoiced at the thought of seeing my day; he saw it and was glad.” “You are not yet fifty years old,” the Jews said to him, “and you have seen Abraham!” “I tell you the truth,” Jesus answered, “before Abraham was born, I am!” At this, they picked up stones to stone him, but Jesus hid himself, slipping away from the temple grounds.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) And so ends another light-hearted conversation with the Jewish leaders. I wish I had to the nerve to talk so bluntly with people sometimes. It takes great discipline to speak the truth clearly, without anger or sarcasm. I picture Jesus here being very calm and straightforward in what He says. Sometimes when people are trying to pick a fight, the best recourse is to not take the bait. They became so angry they started acting without thinking. But by the time they found their stones, Jesus was gone.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will stay calm in my conversations with people. I will speak the truth. I will avoid sarcasm as a way of inflicting intentional hurt.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, please give me your grace and peace this day. Help me hear what people are saying and respond as you would.

Who Am I?

Scripture – John 8:48-53: The Jews answered him, “Aren’t we right in saying that you are a Samaritan and demon-possessed?” “I am not possessed by a demon,” said Jesus, “but I honor my Father and you dishonor me. I am not seeking glory for myself; but there is one who seeks it, and he is the judge. I tell you the truth, if anyone keeps my word, he will never see death.” At this the Jews exclaimed, “Now we know that you are demon-possessed! Abraham died and so did the prophets, yet you say that if anyone keeps your word, he will never taste death. Are you greater than our father Abraham? He died, and so did the prophets. Who do you think you are?”

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) That question comes right back at me. Who do I think I am? Jesus knew who He was. The religious leaders did not want to believe Him. They did not want to give up control of their lives and faith to Him. That’s the same dynamic with which I live day after day. If I think I am someone who can maintain control of my life, I am lost. If I give myself over to the control of Christ- trusting His words and promises – I live in hope.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will live today in an awareness of God’s grace. I will be free from fear. I will remember who I am.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) You are the one who gives me life and hope, Lord Jesus. In you I find my identity. Please empower me to follow you with boldness and trust today.

An Invitation – If you’re interested in a face to face discussion about what we’ve been discovering in the Mini-Journal, join us at Tim Hortons (Dix and Northline in Southgate) today, 9:45 – 10:30am.

Hearing Hard Truth

Scripture – John 8:43-47: Why is my language not clear to you? Because you are unable to hear what I say. You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desire. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies. Yet because I tell the truth, you do not believe me! Can any of you prove me guilty of sin? If I am telling the truth, why don’t you believe me? He who belongs to God hears what God says. The reason you do not hear is that you do not belong to God.”

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Well, there’s no question now as to what Jesus thinks of these Jewish leaders. What’s intriguing to me is why they are unable to hear His words. Jesus tells the truth. While the truth will set us free, it’s sometimes hard to hear. We’d rather believe the lie. I avoid going to the doctor because I feel fine. I convince myself there’s no need for a regular checkup. The reason is simple: I’m afraid he’ll find something wrong. He might speak truth I don’t want to hear. It’s easy in the church to avoid hard truth, as well. We’d rather not be disturbed by the troubling realities in our culture – especially at Christmas. Maybe we need to re-visit Scrooge’s story.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will open myself to the truth around me – the joys and the concerns. I will schedule an appointment with my doctor in January.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, help me see the needs of people around me. As a church, keep opening the doors to serve our community. Give me patience and peace this day. Guide me in your truth.

An Invitation – If you’re interested in a face to face discussion about what we’ve been discovering in the Mini-Journal, join us at Tim Hortons (Dix and Northline in Southgate) this Sunday morning, 9:45 – 10:30am.

A Big "If"

Scripture – John 8:39-42: “Abraham is our father,” they answered. “If you were Abraham’s children,” said Jesus, “then you would do the things Abraham did. As it is, you are determined to kill me, a man who has told you the truth that I heard from God. Abraham did not do such things. You are doing the things your own father does.” “We are not illegitimate children,” they protested. “The only Father we have is God himself.” Jesus said to them, “If God were your Father, you would love me, for I came from God and now am here. I have not come on my own; but he sent me.”

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Wow! Jesus is still talking to “the Jews who had believed him.” (Imagine what He’d say to the ones who didn’t.) Rather than offering gentle encouragement in the face of their new openness, He uses a sledge hammer to drive home His point. As they talk about fatherhood, the Jews seem to imply that Jesus’ birth was tainted. (Was that a story that was going around?) They claimed God was their Father. Jesus’ response is striking: “If God were your Father, you would love me…” If I am a child of God, there will be some noticeable differences in my heart and life. How am I different from those who don’t know God as Father? Outside of church, in the everyday world, as people see me and hear me, would they be surprised to learn I’m a Christian?

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will continue to watch how I live – including words I choose and the tone of voice I use.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, I want to reflect your love and grace to the world around me. I want to be your positive witness today. Please lift me out of myself and open my eyes to the people I meet – in and out of the church. Help me be your disciple this day. Thank you for your forgiveness.

An Invitation – If you’re interested in a face to face discussion about what we’ve been discovering in the Mini-Journal, join us at Tim Hortons (Dix and Northline in Southgate) this Sunday morning, 9:45 – 10:30am.

Beyond Belief

Scripture – John 8:31-38: To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” They answered him, “We are Abraham’s descendants and have never been slaves of anyone. How can you say that we shall be set free?” Jesus replied, “I tell you the truth, everyone who sins is a slave to sin. Now a slave has no permanent place in the family, but a son belongs to it forever. So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. I know you are Abraham’s descendants. Yet you are ready to kill me, because you have no room for my word. I am telling you what I have seen in the Father’s presence, and you do what you have heard from your father.”

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) So, some of the Jews (Pharisees?) believed Him. That’s not the same as believing in Him. At the same time, they’re showing an openness to His word we’ve not seen before. The next step, then, toward true discipleship is to “hold to my teaching.” That means I am called to live as His disciple – putting His teaching into practice. That’s how I keep discovering for myself more and more of His truth. I often think I’m too busy to do that. However, the result is freedom on many levels. A specific one for me is freedom from a written list of rules. Instead, I simply look to live as a follower of Christ. It’s a little of that “WWJD” business. Or as I once heard a speaker expand on that, a better question is: What would Jesus have us do?

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will keep my identity in and with Christ on the front burner today. As I go through the day and encounter various people, I will act as a disciple should act.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Please help me do that today, Lord. You know how quickly I can forget. Remind me often of who I am in you.

Overheard

Scripture – John 8:25-30: “Who are you?” they asked. “Just what I have been claiming all along,” Jesus replied. “I have much to say in judgment of you. But he who sent me is reliable, and what I have heard from him I tell the world.” They did not understand that he was telling them about his Father. So Jesus said, “When you have lifted up the Son of Man, then you will know that I am the one I claim to be and that I do nothing on my own but speak just what the Father has taught me. The one who sent me is with me; he has not left me alone, for I always do what pleases him.” Even as he spoke, many put their faith in him.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Jesus’ main concern seems always to be with the ordinary people who are missing God’s message for them. The Pharisees (representing the organized religion of the day) have become a blocker of God’s word. So, of course, Jesus is in conflict with them. There are a lot of people today who are put off by the church. Some have good reason for feeling that way. Others just have an unsubstantiated image of what they think the church is. For whatever reason, we have to deal with that as we discover new ways to bring Christ to the people. Even as Jesus continued this dialogue with the Pharisees, people overheard and put their faith in Him. What kind of conversation would He have with Bethel today? What would people overhear?

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will speak inclusively to people today. I will be aware of presenting a positive image of Christian faith and living.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, please help me do that today. Remind me I am your witness in all that I do. Thank for that opportunity.

A Healthy Confrontation

Scripture – John 8:19-24: Then they asked him, “Where is your father?” “You do not know me or my Father,” Jesus replied. “If you knew me, you would know my Father also.” He spoke these words while teaching in the temple area near the place where the offerings were put. Yet no one seized him, because his time had not yet come. Once more Jesus said to them, “I am going away, and you will look for me, and you will die in your sin. Where I go, you cannot come.” This made the Jews ask, “Will he kill himself? Is that why he says, ‘Where I go, you cannot come’?” But he continued, “You are from below; I am from above. You are of this world; I am not of this world. I told you that you would die in your sins; if you do not believe that I am the one I claim to be, you will indeed die in your sins.”

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Jesus continues to have these confrontations with the Pharisees in front of the crowd. Is that part of His plan? Yesterday’s reading showed Him first making a statement to the people. He was then challenged by the Pharisees. Today, we see that dialogue continuing. How would I react if someone showed up telling me the essentials of what I’ve been teaching and preaching my whole life are wrong? That’s what’s been happening in all these confrontations. His words are harsh and direct. What would He say to me? What is He saying?

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will listen carefully today. I will be aware of what I say – what I put out as “truth.”

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, as a “church person,” please help me stay open to your living word. As a present day Pharisee, help me stand alongside Nicodemus – ready to change direction as you lead. Thank you for keeping a living relationship and dialogue open with me. Thank you for your trust in me.

The Too Bright Light

Scripture – John 8:12-18: When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” The Pharisees challenged him, “Here you are, appearing as your own witness; your testimony is not valid.” Jesus answered, “Even if I testify on my own behalf, my testimony is valid, for I know where I came from and where I am going. But you have no idea where I come from or where I am going. You judge by human standards; I pass judgment on no one. But if I do judge, my decisions are right, because I am not alone. I stand with the Father, who sent me. In your own Law it is written that the testimony of two men is valid. I am one who testifies for myself; my other witness is the Father, who sent me.”

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) There are advantages to darkness. In the dark there’s a lot I cannot see. And so there’s a lot I can ignore. Sometimes a little light is all I really want – like a nightlight giving off just enough glow that I won’t walk into big things in the room. But the light Jesus brings is very bright. It reaches into corners of my life I don’t want to visit. It reveals things I’d rather not see. So I’ve built up my own inner system of filters and shades to block His light and keep it out of different areas of my heart. Part of my spiritual journey (and my spiritual struggle) involves dismantling that system bit by bit.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will remove one of the filters I have in place and let the light of Jesus into a new area. This is pretty personal, so I won’t say any more about it. It’s something I will do this week.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, show me my next move here. Help me overcome my resistance to your healing light. Thank you for your patience with me.

Confronting Sinful Behavior

[The earliest and most reliable manuscripts and other ancient witnesses do not have John 7:53-8:11.]

Scripture – John 8:7-11: When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, “If any one of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her.” Again he stooped down and wrote on the ground. At this, those who heard began to go away one at a time, the older ones first, until only Jesus was left, with the woman still standing there. Jesus straightened up and asked her, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?” “No one, sir,” she said. “Then neither do I condemn you,” Jesus declared. “Go now and leave your life of sin.”

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture) Again, this is one of the most familiar images in the Bible. Many people – in and out of the faith – know the basic story about not throwing stones. Perhaps it’s so popular precisely because it lifts up an attitude our culture values highly – no one has the right to judge another person’s actions as long as they don’t seem to hurt anyone else. At the same time, the overwhelming Biblical testimony is that we have that responsibility. So, how do we confront sinful behavior in a world that resists believing in the existence of sin? (I apologize for the rambling nature of my comments these past two days. The fact is I don’t believe these verses are part of the original gospel of John. So it’s hard to do much with them.)

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read) I will be aware of my own behavior and attitudes today. What do I excuse or overlook in myself that I want to point out to others? And does that mean I should not point them out?

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer) Lord, thank you again for your grace in my life. Please give me a discerning and loving spirit today.

An Invitation – If you’re interested in a face to face discussion about what we’ve been discovering in the Mini-Journal, join us at Tim Hortons (Dix and Northline in Southgate) today, 9:45 – 10:30am.

Time Alone

[The earliest and most reliable manuscripts and other ancient witnesses do not have John 7:53-8:11.]

Scripture – John 7:53-8:6: Then each went to his own home. But Jesus went to the Mount of Olives. At dawn he appeared again in the temple courts, where all the people gathered around him, and he sat down to teach them. The teachers of the law and the Pharisees brought in a woman caught in adultery. They made her stand before the group and said to Jesus, “Teacher, this woman was caught in the act of adultery. In the Law Moses commanded us to stone such women. Now what do you say?” They were using this question as a trap, in order to have a basis for accusing him. But Jesus bent down and started to write on the ground with his finger.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture) Over the years, I’ve seen this story as questionable. The translators’ note at the top of the page tells why. So even though this is one of most familiar New Testament stories, I’ve never preached on it nor taught from it. Given my pre-disposition, I can say there’s nothing here that goes against the pictures of Jesus we’ve seen so far in John. I notice here, for example, Jesus spent another night alone. From time to time, He makes sure to get away from everyone. I presume it’s time to pray, clarify His focus and perhaps settle His mind. We don’t really know. We just know He sometimes gets away.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read) That’s something I need, as well. I will spend some time alone today to pray and settle some things in my mind and heart.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer) Lord, thank you for your peace and presence. Please focus my mind on the mission you have for me today.

An Invitation – If you’re interested in a face to face discussion about what we’ve been discovering in the Mini-Journal, join us at Tim Hortons (Dix and Northline in Southgate) this Sunday morning, 9:45 – 10:30am.

Keeping Open

Scripture – John 7:45-52: Finally the temple guards went back to the chief priests and Pharisees, who asked them, “Why didn’t you bring him in?” “No one ever spoke the way this man does,” the guards declared. “You mean he has deceived you also?” the Pharisees retorted. “Has any of the rulers or of the Pharisees believed in him? No! But this mob that knows nothing of the law—there is a curse on them.” Nicodemus, who had gone to Jesus earlier and who was one of their own number, asked, “Does our law condemn anyone without first hearing him to find out what he is doing?” They replied, “Are you from Galilee, too? Look into it, and you will find that a prophet does not come out of Galilee.”

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture) Look at the different people in this passage and their response to Jesus. The Pharisees have already determined He’s wrong, He must be stopped, and they’re open to no other possibility. A notable exception is Nicodemus, who suggests a different approach. However, he is quickly dismissed. The crowd – referred to here as a mob – is beginning to believe in Him. At least they are open to what He’s saying, and are considering the implications of His message. Then there are these poor temple guards. They, too, were ordinary people, working as security officers at the temple. They were sent to arrest Jesus. But something in His words and/or demeanor stopped them. Most people, it seems, are not predisposed to reject Jesus automatically. They may not like the church. And that’s what we have to address. How can we help people hear the words of Jesus? How can we move around their perceptions of the church to do that?

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read) I will not assume people don’t want to know Christ. I will not try to get them to church. I will look for ways to bring Christ to where they are.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer) Again, Lord, I don’t know how to do this. I only know people are longing for you. Teach me and empower me to be a good witness for you today.

An Invitation – If you’re interested in a face to face discussion about what we’ve been discovering in the Mini-Journal, join us at Tim Hortons (Dix and Northline in Southgate) this Sunday morning, 9:45 – 10:30am.

Discovering Who Jesus Is

Scripture – John 7:37-44: On the last and greatest day of the Feast, Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, “If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him.” By this he meant the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were later to receive. Up to that time the Spirit had not been given, since Jesus had not yet been glorified. On hearing his words, some of the people said, “Surely this man is the Prophet.” Others said, “He is the Christ.” Still others asked, “How can the Christ come from Galilee? Does not the Scripture say that the Christ will come from David’s family and from Bethlehem, the town where David lived?” Thus the people were divided because of Jesus. Some wanted to seize him, but no one laid a hand on him.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture) This is the way Jesus is known – people discover Him for themselves. This is our goal in the so-called “outreach” of the church. I can let people know who He is in my experience. I can point them to signs of His presence and power. I can lift up His words and claims about Himself. The question in all of this is, how do we invite people to consider who Jesus Christ is for them? It’s not really something we can tell them. How do we invite them in a way that’s truly grace-full?

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read) I will focus on this throughout this season of Advent. In my preaching and conversation I will invite people to consider Jesus Christ.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer) Lord, you know I’m not sure how to go about doing any of this. You have been nothing but good for me. Teach me how to share that experience. Please keep revealing yourself to me and through me.

Another Hard Truth

Scripture – John 7:33-36: Jesus said, “I am with you for only a short time, and then I go to the one who sent me. You will look for me, but you will not find me; and where I am, you cannot come.” The Jews said to one another, “Where does this man intend to go that we cannot find him? Will he go where our people live scattered among the Greeks, and teach the Greeks? What did he mean when he said, ‘You will look for me, but you will not find me,’ and ‘Where I am, you cannot come’?”

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture) Jesus was only on this earth a few years. We know the story of Good Friday and Easter. We know exactly what Jesus is talking about here. I notice His word to these Jewish leaders: “Where I am, you cannot come.” Jesus is back with God in the heavenly realms. Those who do not believe in Him are not able to get where He is. That is an unpopular truth to tell these days. People want to believe they can believe anything they want, and it won’t make any difference. It does! Wherever these Jewish leaders are today, they are not with Christ.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read) By the grace of God, I will be honest with people about spiritual matters. I will let them know how they can be assured of eternal life.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer) Lord, by your grace I am saved through my faith in you. Thank you for that. Please teach me how to communicate your good news to people longing to hear good news in life.

Breaking Down Barriers

Scripture – John 7:28-32: Then Jesus, still teaching in the temple courts, cried out, “Yes, you know me, and you know where I am from. I am not here on my own, but he who sent me is true. You do not know him, but I know him because I am from him and he sent me.” At this they tried to seize him, but no one laid a hand on him, because his time had not yet come. Still, many in the crowd put their faith in him. They said, “When the Christ comes, will he do more miraculous signs than this man?” The Pharisees heard the crowd whispering such things about him. Then the chief priests and the Pharisees sent temple guards to arrest him.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture) In the midst of all the dynamics of this scene, Jesus is still teaching. It seems His main goal here is to reach the people. So He cries out in response to their question, and He claims very clearly His place as God’s Son. The Jewish leaders tried to seize Him. They could tell where this was leading, but they were too late. “Many in the crowd put their faith in him.” And so a more specific plan to arrest Jesus was put in motion. People today are longing for spiritual truth. They’re longing for something solid in which they can believe. In Christ, we have some one who is more solid than a rock. He will draw people to Himself – sometimes in spite of the church. I cannot get away from the idea that the role of the Pharisees is what we have inherited today in the church. How are we handling that?

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read) I will look for ways we, as the church, keep non-believers at a distance. Most of the time that’s unintentional, but not always. What bridges can we build? What keeps us from building them?

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer) Lord, please show me (and us) the difference between Biblical truth and traditions of the church. Help us break down the artificial barriers that exist and lift up your truth to the world around us.

Asking Our Own Questions

Scripture – John 7:21-27: Jesus said to them, “I did one miracle, and you are all astonished. Yet, because Moses gave you circumcision (though actually it did not come from Moses, but from the patriarchs), you circumcise a child on the Sabbath. Now if a child can be circumcised on the Sabbath so that the law of Moses may not be broken, why are you angry with me for healing the whole man on the Sabbath? Stop judging by mere appearances, and make a right judgment.” At that point some of the people of Jerusalem began to ask, “Isn’t this the man they are trying to kill? Here he is, speaking publicly, and they are not saying a word to him. Have the authorities really concluded that he is the Christ? But we know where this man is from; when the Christ comes, no one will know where he is from.”

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture) What an interesting scene this is! Jesus’ confrontation with the Jewish leaders continues in front of the crowd. He ignores the question the people raised (in yesterday’s reading), and continues talking to the leaders. Then, John shares some of the thoughts from the crowd – “some of the people of Jerusalem.” It dawns on them that this is the man the Jewish leaders want to kill. Yet the leaders’ silence seems to imply they must believe Jesus to be the Christ – the coming Savior of Israel promised by God generations before. At the same time, the people begin dealing with their own questions. That’s part of the process of discovering who Jesus is. We bring up our own questions about Him, if not to Him. We talk out our questions with one another as we look for answers. In all of that, we begin to discover for ourselves who He is. I wonder what tomorrow’s reading will bring.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read) I will be attentive to questions I hear people asking. I won’t necessarily have answers for them. I will help them discover what they want to know.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer) Lord, thank you for your living Word. Thank you for revealing yourself to me and to the world. Enable me to help others discover more about you.

Reflecting Christ

Scripture – John 7:15-20: The Jews were amazed and asked, “How did this man get such learning without having studied?” Jesus answered, “My teaching is not my own. It comes from him who sent me. If anyone chooses to do God’s will, he will find out whether my teaching comes from God or whether I speak on my own. He who speaks on his own does so to gain honor for himself, but he who works for the honor of the one who sent him is a man of truth; there is nothing false about him. Has not Moses given you the law? Yet not one of you keeps the law. Why are you trying to kill me?” “You are demon-possessed,” the crowd answered. “Who is trying to kill you?”

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture) This is another of those confrontations Jesus had with the Jewish leaders in front of a crowd of “ordinary” people. Again, He is quite pointed in what He says to the Jews. The implication seems to be they have been looking to gain honor for themselves. Their focus on the law was bringing attention back to them rather than to God, the giver of the law. For the past few months I have been consistently drawn back to Jesus’ words in Acts 1:8, “You will be my witnesses.” The attention must go to Him – not to me or the church. I wonder what kind of conversation would Jesus have with us today.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read) I’ll be careful as I move through this day and this week to intentionally direct people’s attention to Christ. If it starts with the church, or even with me, like a mirror reflecting light, I will adjust so people looking into the mirror will see Him.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer) Lord, please forgive me for the times I seek attention for me. I do that more than I care to admit. Save me from the power of personal pride. Be honored through my life and our corporate life today.

An Invitation – If you’re interested in a face to face discussion about what we’ve been discovering in the Mini-Journal, join us at Tim Hortons (Dix and Northline in Southgate) today, 9:45 – 10:30am.

Keeping An Open Ear

Scripture – John 7:11-15: Now at the Feast the Jews were watching for him and asking, “Where is that man?” Among the crowds there was widespread whispering about him. Some said, “He is a good man.” Others replied, “No, he deceives the people.” But no one would say anything publicly about him for fear of the Jews. Not until halfway through the Feast did Jesus go up to the temple courts and begin to teach. The Jews were amazed and asked, “How did this man get such learning without having studied?”

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture) So, Jesus sneaks into Jerusalem. I can imagine Him in disguise, mingling with the crowds, perhaps asking what people think about this fellow called Jesus. The people were whispering among themselves – expressing different opinions. The one thing all seem to agree on is that Jesus was just a man – whether He was a good man or a con man. At some point, Jesus decided to make Himself known. Perhaps He had heard enough from the people. Maybe He realized they still didn’t get it about who He was. For whatever reason, He suddenly appeared in the temple courts – a very public place – and began to teach. The depth of His teaching even caught the attention of the Jews. What’s going to happen next?

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read) I will keep an ear out for what people are saying about Jesus and the church today. I will listen, as well, for God’s direction as to how I should respond.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer) Help me hear clearly, Lord. Most of my time is spent with church people. That’s where you’ve called me to serve. So, help me hear what they’re saying about you. At the same time, as I encounter people outside the church, help me hear them, as well.

An Invitation – If you’re interested in a face to face discussion about what we’ve been discovering in the Mini-Journal, join us at Tim Hortons (Dix and Northline in Southgate) this Sunday morning, 9:45 – 10:30am.

Jesus in Disguise

Scripture – John 7:6-10: Therefore Jesus told them, “The right time for me has not yet come; for you any time is right. The world cannot hate you, but it hates me because I testify that what it does is evil. You go to the Feast. I am not yet going up to this Feast, because for me the right time has not yet come.” Having said this, he stayed in Galilee. However, after his brothers had left for the Feast, he went also, not publicly, but in secret.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture) Reading some of these stories in John just a few verses at a time is like following an on-going comic strip in the newspaper. What’s Jesus up to now? There is a “right time” for Him when, presumably, He’ll reveal Himself fully. That time, however, has not yet come. So He sends His brothers off to Jerusalem. Then, later, He goes in secret. I wonder what that looked like. Did He wear a disguise? Maybe dark glasses and a hoodie? Who knows? But could I bump into Him today and not recognize Him? Is He still moving around some of the time in secret? I guess we’ll find out more tomorrow.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read) In the meantime, I’ll be careful how I treat people today – especially the strangers I meet. Who knows where Jesus might be moving today?

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer) Lord, please help me remember to treat everyone with respect and dignity – not because they may be you, but because they deserve that as people made by you. Keep my eyes open to really see the people around me as I move through this day.

An Invitation – If you’re interested in a face to face discussion about what we’ve been discovering in the Mini-Journal, join us at Tim Hortons (Dix and Northline in Southgate) this Sunday morning, 9:45 – 10:30am.