Willing to Engage

Scripture – John 18:37-40: “You are a king, then!” said Pilate. Jesus answered, “You are right in saying I am a king. In fact, for this reason I was born, and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me.” “What is truth?” Pilate asked. With this he went out again to the Jews and said, “I find no basis for a charge against him. But it is your custom for me to release to you one prisoner at the time of the Passover. Do you want me to release ‘the king of the Jews’?” They shouted back, “No, not him! Give us Barabbas!” Now Barabbas had taken part in a rebellion.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Pilate had an opportunity to enter the kingdom of heaven – ushered in by the King Himself. But he chose not to follow that path. Instead, he slipped back into his detached role as Roman governor – looking to maintain peace with the Jews in the easiest way he could. So he let them decide what to do with Jesus. As long as it didn’t hurt Rome, whatever satisfied them was fine with him. How many people live with such a detachment from who Christ is? It’s far easier to ignore Him than to engage in what could be a life-changing conversation. Still I wonder, was Pilate’s question about truth asked of Jesus or of himself? Sometimes the politics of the day cloud what should be simple answers.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will listen for truth today. I will speak truth today. I will work to uncover truth when necessary today.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, that’s a lot easier to write then it is to do. Please give me clear understanding today. Give me a loving and humble heart, along with courage to speak honestly. Thanks.

A Unique Opportunity

Scripture – John 18:33-36: Pilate then went back inside the palace, summoned Jesus and asked him, “Are you the king of the Jews?” “Is that your own idea,” Jesus asked, “or did others talk to you about me?” “Am I a Jew?” Pilate replied. “It was your people and your chief priests who handed you over to me. What is it you have done?” Jesus said, “My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, my servants would fight to prevent my arrest by the Jews. But now my kingdom is from another place.”

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Pilate had an absolutely unique opportunity. He was a non-believer – totally disconnected from the Jewish religion. Yet he had a one on one conversation with Jesus, the Christ – the Son of God. His real question seems to be, “Who are you?” He did not understand this man nor could he comprehend why He had put Himself in such a position. For clearly Jesus was demonstrating a peace and calmness that should not have been there. He wasn’t afraid of Pilate. He was readily embracing this path toward the cross. Pilate had a unique opportunity. I wonder what he made of it.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) One of my goals is to help people engage in such a direct, personal conversation with Christ. To help them ask their questions and discover the answers Jesus has for them. I’m not sure how to do that. But I will keep working at it. For everyone’s relationship with Christ is unique. I’ll be careful not to push mine on them.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, show me what to do today. Please give me an opportunity to lead someone closer to you – perhaps even to meet you and accept you as Lord and Savior into their life. Thank you for the unique relationship we have. Continue to grow in me that I might be more like you.

Avoiding Incongruity

Scripture – John 18:28-32: Then the Jews led Jesus from Caiaphas to the palace of the Roman governor. By now it was early morning, and to avoid ceremonial uncleanness the Jews did not enter the palace; they wanted to be able to eat the Passover. So Pilate came out to them and asked, “What charges are you bringing against this man?” “If he were not a criminal,” they replied, “we would not have handed him over to you.” Pilate said, “Take him yourselves and judge him by your own law.” “But we have no right to execute anyone,” the Jews objected. This happened so that the words Jesus had spoken indicating the kind of death he was going to die would be fulfilled.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) This scene really summarizes the conflict between Jesus and the established religious authorities. In the midst of their plan to have Jesus killed, the leaders were careful to avoid “ceremonial uncleanness.” Their vision had dropped from serving and worshipping God to serving and worshipping the written rules and traditions. There was a huge incongruity between their actions and God’s intentions. Jesus came to re-connect people with God. His message was that God loved them as they were. People could know God and have a personal relationship with God through Jesus Christ.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) That’s still true today. We have to be careful in the church that we don’t become a religious establishment that values traditions and rules over people. I will be very careful about that this week. I will look for ways that happens and I will make whatever adjustments we need to make.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord Jesus, help me build bridges to you this week. Show me the ways I let “church stuff” serve as a stumbling block for people. Show me how you would have me fix those barriers and open them up.

My Place By the Fire

Scripture – John 18:25-27: As Simon Peter stood warming himself, he was asked, “You are not one of his disciples, are you?” He denied it, saying, “I am not.” One of the high priest’s servants, a relative of the man whose ear Peter had cut off, challenged him, “Didn’t I see you with him in the olive grove?” Again Peter denied it, and at that moment a rooster began to crow.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) As Peter was warming himself, he denied being a disciple of Christ. Had he said “yes,” what would have happened? Of course, I can never know that. I do imagine, however, he would have at least lost his place by the fire. I live in the midst of great affluence and am used to many comforts and frills in life. How do these affect my witness for Christ? If I claim my discipleship and take it more seriously, what impact might it have on the comforts of my life? How important is my place by the fire?

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I’ve never felt challenged to give up much stuff for Christ – not really. Even as I try to live a relatively simple life, I still have more comforts around me than most people in the world. I don’t really have an answer today. I’ll live with the questions and with a clearer awareness of how much I have and how that impacts my discipleship this week.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, thank you for the many material things you’ve blessed me with in life. Forgive me for letting them get in the way of my seeing and hearing you. Set me free from their power and hold on me. Give me the strength and courage to give up my place by the fire for you.

Living Free

Scripture – John 18:12-18: Then the detachment of soldiers with its commander and the Jewish officials arrested Jesus. They bound him and brought him first to Annas, who was the father-in-law of Caiaphas, the high priest that year. Caiaphas was the one who had advised the Jews that it would be good if one man died for the people. Simon Peter and another disciple were following Jesus. Because this disciple was known to the high priest, he went with Jesus into the high priest’s courtyard, but Peter had to wait outside at the door. The other disciple, who was known to the high priest, came back, spoke to the girl on duty there and brought Peter in. “You are not one of his disciples, are you?” the girl at the door asked Peter. He replied, “I am not.” It was cold, and the servants and officials stood around a fire they had made to keep warm. Peter also was standing with them, warming himself.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) When they finally arrested Jesus, they bound him. I wonder why they did that. He had already demonstrated He was not going to run away. In fact, it was more like Jesus was ready to lead them. Maybe it was custom or habit that led them to tie Him up. A few days ago, I was at a retreat with several other Michigan pastors. The center we stayed in had comfortable rooms – much like motel rooms. And like a motel, the doors all had locks, and we each had a key. I decided from the beginning I would not lock my door. There was no one there I would distrust. And it was a lot easier getting in and out of my room. Sometimes I bind myself up out of habit or tradition when, in truth, it’s not necessary at all.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will live in freedom today. I’ll pay attention to the points at which I want to lock myself up. Where it’s not “necessary” (whatever that means) I’ll keep the door unlocked.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Help me, Lord, to live free today. To move at your pace as you direct. Please keep your peace in me. Lift me beyond those things that would tie me down.

Power Filled Peace

Scripture – John 18:6-11: When Jesus said, “I am he,” they drew back and fell to the ground. Again he asked them, “Who is it you want?” And they said, “Jesus of Nazareth.” “I told you that I am he,” Jesus answered. “If you are looking for me, then let these men go.” This happened so that the words he had spoken would be fulfilled: “I have not lost one of those you gave me.” Then Simon Peter, who had a sword, drew it and struck the high priest’s servant, cutting off his right ear. (The servant’s name was Malchus.) Jesus commanded Peter, “Put your sword away! Shall I not drink the cup the Father has given me?”

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) What a contrast here in the attitudes of the people. The group coming to arrest Jesus had torches, lanterns and weapons. They were probably pretty nervous – not knowing what to expect. They had come anticipating trouble and they found no trouble at all. Jesus stepped out to meet them. He readily admitted “I am he.” This disarmed them totally. Instead of resistance, they found surrender. Instead of having to chase someone down, their prisoner offered Himself to them freely. All at once it was clear: Jesus had the peace and the power. Even after they “drew back and fell to the ground,” He waited for them to get up. Of all the people in the garden that night, He alone knew clearly what He was doing.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) Peace allows me to see and think with clarity. Jesus shows that here. When I discern what He wants me to do I also can move in peace. I recently heard it said that peace leads to clarity. I find at times it’s clarity which leads to peace. I will live peace-fully today.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Thank you, Lord, for your clear call in my life. Thank you for the peace that call brings. Help me move today at your pace. Grant me peace in whatever I encounter.

Who Will I Be?

Scripture – John 18:1-5: When he had finished praying, Jesus left with his disciples and crossed the Kidron Valley. On the other side there was an olive grove, and he and his disciples went into it. Now Judas, who betrayed him, knew the place, because Jesus had often met there with his disciples. So Judas came to the grove, guiding a detachment of soldiers and some officials from the chief priests and Pharisees. They were carrying torches, lanterns and weapons. Jesus, knowing all that was going to happen to him, went out and asked them, “Who is it you want?” “Jesus of Nazareth,” they replied. “I am he,” Jesus said. (And Judas the traitor was standing there with them.)

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Nobody would think of naming their child Judas. That name is so clearly identified with the one who betrayed Jesus, just the mention of it brings up a negative image. What a way to be remembered! The decisions I make today will impact who I am tomorrow. And decisions made over a lifetime will determine how I’m remembered when my life here is over. So how will I live today? What kind of person do I want to be when this day is over?

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) This is Ash Wednesday – the beginning of the season of Lent. It’s a time for self-examination, confession and cleansing. I will identify an area in my life that keeps me from being Christ-like. I will turn that over to God and invite Him to work in me over these next few weeks, so when Easter comes, I will be free from this one thing that has held me back.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, thank you for your transforming power in my life. Please set me free. At least, begin doing that today. Thank you for not giving up on me. Thank you for the hope in which I always live. Thank you for the promise of ever-new life.

Complete Unity

Scripture – John 17:22-26: I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one: I in them and you in me. May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me. “Father, I want those you have given me to be with me where I am, and to see my glory, the glory you have given me because you loved me before the creation of the world. “Righteous Father, though the world does not know you, I know you, and they know that you have sent me. I have made you known to them, and will continue to make you known in order that the love you have for me may be in them and that I myself may be in them.”

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Part of Jesus’ prayer is that we may experience “complete unity.” He describes that as Him being in us and God being in Him. His purpose is that we may be one. When I let my vision drop to my own ideas and my point of view – to the exclusion of others – I foster disunity. It’s only as we all keep looking to Christ and trusting His leadership that we find the oneness He intends. While He will lead different people (and churches) into different aspects of mission, we are all moving within His plan. And we certainly will not be working against one another. The unity we demonstrate in Christ is part of the witness we have for the world that Christ is the one sent by God.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) As I look for the specific ways Christ would have me serve Him today, I will honor and respect the call others are experiencing. I will remember the unity we have in Him. He is in charge.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, I’m sorry for the times I focus on my perspective as the only right way to do ministry. You call us all individually, even in our corporate life together, to different areas of mission. Show me how to live today in a way that demonstrates the oneness we all have in you.

Name Above All Names

Scripture – John 17:11-14: I will remain in the world no longer, but they are still in the world, and I am coming to you. Holy Father, protect them by the power of your name—the name you gave me—so that they may be one as we are one. While I was with them, I protected them and kept them safe by that name you gave me. None has been lost except the one doomed to destruction so that Scripture would be fulfilled. “I am coming to you now, but I say these things while I am still in the world, so that they may have the full measure of my joy within them. I have given them your word and the world has hated them, for they are not of the world any more than I am of the world.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) God gave Him the name “Jesus,” and the title “Christ.” We’ve pretty much made it into one name – Jesus Christ. In that combination I find power. It’s hard to explain. But it’s not a power I wield with any control. It’s the name that empowers me to do and say some things I could not without it. This isn’t making much sense, I know. I only know Jesus Christ has changed my life. He has lifted me to a new life. He continues to give me power and protection. He’s given me a point of view that’s different from that of the world around me. In Him I have new life I could find nowhere else.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will keep living and learning in the power and presence of His name. I will keep the eyes of my heart lifted toward Him today.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Thank you, Lord, for the new life I live today. Thank you for understanding when words fall short. Please walk with me and use me today as you want.

An Invitation – If you’re interested in a face to face discussion about what we’ve been discovering in the Mini-Journal, a small group will be meeting this morning, 9:45 – 10:30am, at the Southgate Fun and Fitness Center (on Northline near I-75). Look for them around one of the tables in the Café area.

Seeing God

Scripture – John 17:6-10: “I have revealed you to those whom you gave me out of the world. They were yours; you gave them to me and they have obeyed your word. Now they know that everything you have given me comes from you. For I gave them the words you gave me and they accepted them. They knew with certainty that I came from you, and they believed that you sent me. I pray for them. I am not praying for the world, but for those you have given me, for they are yours. All I have is yours, and all you have is mine. And glory has come to me through them.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Jesus Christ is God’s clearest self-revelation to us. I can see the majesty of God in the world around me. I can feel the nudging of His Spirit as He directs me in life. As good as all that is, I still need a bit more. In Jesus Christ I can picture God in my mind’s eye. When I read the gospel stories about Jesus I have a concrete image of how God lives and acts. I have a model I can imitate. I have a friend to whom I can turn. That’s another of the gifts Christ has given.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) As I live today, I will continue my journey toward Christ-likeness. For I know with certainty that Jesus came from God. In Him I see God in the flesh.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, thank you so much for giving me a way to picture you. Thank you for taking on the limits of human form so my limited mind can have a little better chance of comprehending who you are. Please keep working in me that I may be more like you.

An Invitation – If you’re interested in a face to face discussion about what we’ve been discovering in the Mini-Journal, a small group will be meeting tomorrow morning, 9:45 – 10:30am, at the Southgate Fun and Fitness Center (on Northline near I-75). Look for them around one of the tables in the Café area.

Go Time!

Scripture – John 17:1-5: After Jesus said this, he looked toward heaven and prayed: “Father, the time has come. Glorify your Son, that your Son may glorify you. For you granted him authority over all people that he might give eternal life to all those you have given him. Now this is eternal life: that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent. I have brought you glory on earth by completing the work you gave me to do. And now, Father, glorify me in your presence with the glory I had with you before the world began.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) It’s interesting that Jesus is talking here about having completed His mission on earth. Obviously, there’s still more to come in the story as John writes. Yet Jesus has made His decision to move ahead. He has embraced His death. He will not be dissuaded. It’s like He’s passed the point of no return in His own heart. There come times like that for me – when I commit to take on a task or accept a responsibility. There’s a point at which I say “Yes” or “No.” Once that decision is made, I begin moving ahead – even if I anticipate unpleasant consequences. On my good days, I don’t even worry about it.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) The great power of Christ’s cross is that it was a voluntary choice on His part. He did not have to do that. I face many choices far less demanding or frightening. I will be decisive. I will pray and listen for God’s direction. I will recognize my personal point of no return. Then I will step out and move ahead.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, there are many choices I face in life. Please give me clear direction in them – in the big ones and the small ones. Thank you for the choice you made to complete your work. Because of that, I will thank you forever.

An Invitation – If you’re interested in a face to face discussion about what we’ve been discovering in the Mini-Journal, a small group will be meeting this Sunday morning, 9:45 – 10:30am, at the Southgate Fun and Fitness Center (on Northline near I-75). Look for them around one of the tables in the Café area.

A Simple Reminder

Scripture – John 16:29-33: Then Jesus’ disciples said, “Now you are speaking clearly and without figures of speech. Now we can see that you know all things and that you do not even need to have anyone ask you questions. This makes us believe that you came from God.” “You believe at last!” Jesus answered. “But a time is coming, and has come, when you will be scattered, each to his own home. You will leave me all alone. Yet I am not alone, for my Father is with me. “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Jesus lifts up two clear points. “In this world you will have trouble.” There’s no way around that. There are troubles that come because our faith puts us at odds with our culture. And there are troubles that we encounter as part of life – accidents, health concerns, relationships, problems at work, etc. Along with this truth, we have the assurance that Jesus has “overcome the world.” There is nothing in life that is beyond His control. He is never overwhelmed by too much stuff happening at once. So when I feel my life spinning out of control, I can lean on Him who is always in control. In Him I find a peace the world can never deliver.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will live in His peace today. When I feel myself starting to lose it, I will remember Jesus Christ and I will trust Him to handle what I cannot.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, that sounds so simple. Help me keep it that way. Thank you for your peace. May I live free today in the assurance that you are in charge.

Just Ask

Scripture – John 16:19-24: Jesus saw that they wanted to ask him about this, so he said to them, “Are you asking one another what I meant when I said, ‘In a little while you will see me no more, and then after a little while you will see me’? I tell you the truth, you will weep and mourn while the world rejoices. You will grieve, but your grief will turn to joy. A woman giving birth to a child has pain because her time has come; but when her baby is born she forgets the anguish because of her joy that a child is born into the world. So with you: Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy. In that day you will no longer ask me anything. I tell you the truth, my Father will give you whatever you ask in my name. Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) What an interesting scene. Jesus could tell they wanted to ask Him what He meant. But they were asking each other. How often do we have the right questions, but we ask the wrong people? How often do I wonder what a particular Bible passage means, and I spend time talking only with other people? Without question, such discussions are helpful. At the same time, if I don’t include prayer and openness to the Spirit’s leading, I’m ignoring the primary source. Jesus repeats here again that God “will give you whatever you ask in my name.” What keeps me from asking?

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) Christ is ready and willing to give me anything I ask for. That is very hard for me to believe. He is a resource I’m afraid to use. I will take Him at His word. This is a growing edge for me. I will make a couple more specific requests today.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, you have done great things in me and through me. You have given me many things for which I’ve asked. There are other things you’ve not yet done. Forgive my smallness of faith. Hear my prayers. Help me make good requests today.

Moving Deeper

Scripture – John 16:12-18: “I have much more to say to you, more than you can now bear. But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come. He will bring glory to me by taking from what is mine and making it known to you. All that belongs to the Father is mine. That is why I said the Spirit will take from what is mine and make it known to you. “In a little while you will see me no more, and then after a little while you will see me.” Some of his disciples said to one another, “What does he mean by saying, ‘In a little while you will see me no more, and then after a little while you will see me,’ and ‘Because I am going to the Father’?” They kept asking, “What does he mean by ‘a little while’? We don’t understand what he is saying.”

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) How strange these words must have sounded to the disciples. We, of course, know the rest of the story. We know what “a little while” refers to. But some of the disciples did not. Truth is a central part of Christian faith and spiritual growth. The light of Christ reveals, sometimes, more truth than I can bear. The more I open myself to Him, the more I see of myself. This “Spirit of truth” sometimes leads me to uncomfortable discoveries within myself. There are still areas of my heart I’m afraid to explore. And so I continue to block out His light. There are doors I keep closed to the Spirit of truth. It’s far easier and, it seems, less painful to ignore what’s behind them.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will look deeper into my heart of hearts. I will note the doors I keep closed. As we approach the season of Lent, I will choose one door to unlock and open. I will let the Spirit guide me into whatever truth is there. I will open myself to Christ’s transforming power in that new place.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) These are bold words, Lord. They’re easy to write today. They’re also easy to forget. Give me courage to keep looking into myself even as I keep looking outward to serve you in this world.

Eternal Victory

Scripture – John 16:6-11: Because I have said these things, you are filled with grief. But I tell you the truth: It is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Counselor will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you. When he comes, he will convict the world of guilt in regard to sin and righteousness and judgment: in regard to sin, because men do not believe in me; in regard to righteousness, because I am going to the Father, where you can see me no longer; and in regard to judgment, because the prince of this world now stands condemned.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) There’s a lot of meaning in this passage – far more than I can begin to process in this limited space. The very last line is one that stands out to me. “The prince of this world” (who I take to be Satan) is now condemned. It’s something that has already happened. A condemned building is one deemed uninhabitable and ready to be torn down. So it is with Satan. Christ has already triumphed over him. As He continues moving toward the cross He demonstrates the prince of this world has no power over Him. And as I choose Christ, that prince has no power over me, either.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I still get scared at times. I still fall into the traps this prince sets around me from time to time. I still get caught in my sinful nature and act in ways outside God’s will. But….because of Christ, I have assurance of eternal life regardless. And while I sometimes let the prince of this world influence me, he holds no ultimate power over me. I will live with that assurance and confidence today.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) By your love and grace, Lord, I have ultimate hope. I’m sorry for the times I give into the prince. Remind me often that you are the one I trust. Lift the vision of my heart toward you. Thank you for assurance of the eternal triumph you have already gained.

An Invitation – If you’re interested in a face to face discussion about what we’ve been discovering in the Mini-Journal, a small group will be meeting this morning, 9:45 – 10:30am, at the Southgate Fun and Fitness Center (on Northline near I-75). Look for them around one of the tables in the Café area.

Staying On Track

Scripture – John 16:1-5: “All this I have told you so that you will not go astray. They will put you out of the synagogue; in fact, a time is coming when anyone who kills you will think he is offering a service to God. They will do such things because they have not known the Father or me. I have told you this, so that when the time comes you will remember that I warned you. I did not tell you this at first because I was with you. “Now I am going to him who sent me, yet none of you asks me, ‘Where are you going?’

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Jesus calls us to live from an entirely different perspective than people who do not know Him. The values of His kingdom are nearly the total opposite of the values of our surrounding culture. Living from that perspective will sometimes put me into conflict with the culture. Sometimes it brings me into conflict with the church. With all the voices around me, how do stay tuned into Christ so I don’t go astray?

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) It’s easier than I realize to get confused these days. The best reliable resource for direction I have is the Bible. That’s where God reveals Himself most consistently. I can’t be relying on my own conscience, my own sense of right and wrong or my own personal feelings. Those subjective experiences will sometimes illuminate truths I find in the Bible. I will be careful not to let them take precedence over them. I will keep reading and reflecting on God’s written word. I will shape my values around what I continue to discover there.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, please keep me on your path today. If that leads me into conflict, give me your peace and patience. In all things, help me reflect your Spirit, your truth and your grace. Keep teaching me to hear you clearly and to follow you completely. That is my life goal.

An Invitation – If you’re interested in a face to face discussion about what we’ve been discovering in the Mini-Journal, a small group will be meeting tomorrow, 9:45 – 10:30am, at the Southgate Fun and Fitness Center (on Northline near I-75). Look for them around one of the tables in the Café area.

Building Bridges

Scripture – John 15:22-27: If I had not come and spoken to them, they would not be guilty of sin. Now, however, they have no excuse for their sin. He who hates me hates my Father as well. If I had not done among them what no one else did, they would not be guilty of sin. But now they have seen these miracles, and yet they have hated both me and my Father. But this is to fulfill what is written in their Law: ‘They hated me without reason.’ “When the Counselor comes, whom I will send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth who goes out from the Father, he will testify about me. And you also must testify, for you have been with me from the beginning.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) First of all, my daughter’s surgery went very well yesterday. She should recover with a much healthier knee. Thank you for your prayers.

Now on to today’s reading: “Hate” is a powerful word. It’s really far worse that those other infamous four-letter words we all know. I don’t know anyone who would admit they hate Jesus. Yet I do know many people who stand apart from Him and even feel some resentment toward Him. Only it’s not “without reason.” They have their own reasons. One thing I can do is invite them to talk about those reasons and listen to them without arguing or getting defensive. I can share my own experience of Christ, but I cannot force it on someone else. Through listening, I can earn the right to speak.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) As I have opportunity to share my personal faith, I will first listen to other people. I will accept their stories for what they are. I’ll trust Christ to do His work through mine.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, please give me a loving and open heart today as I encounter different people. Help me build bridges and overcome barriers between them and you.

An Invitation – If you’re interested in a face to face discussion about what we’ve been discovering in the Mini-Journal, a small group will be meeting this Sunday morning, 9:45 – 10:30am, at the Southgate Fun and Fitness Center (on Northline near I-75). Look for them around one of the tables in the Café area.

Out of This World

Scripture – John 15:18-21:“If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you. Remember the words I spoke to you: ‘No servant is greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also. If they obeyed my teaching, they will obey yours also. They will treat you this way because of my name, for they do not know the One who sent me.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) As I’m writing this, my daughter is scheduled to have surgery on one of her knees in a couple hours. So I find it hard to concentrate on this today. I’m just aware Jesus lifts up an on-going tension in my life – living in the world without belonging to it. There are things in this world that try to hold on to me and keep me captive. As much as I’m tempted to hang on to some of them, He continues set me free.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will keep my vision lifted up toward Christ – especially throughout this morning.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Thank you, Lord, for your peace and strength. Please keep your hand on us all today. Bring healing and wholeness and a new freedom from the perspective of this world.

What Are Friends For?

Scripture – John 15:14-17: You are my friends if you do what I command. I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you. You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit—fruit that will last. Then the Father will give you whatever you ask in my name. This is my command: Love each other.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Jesus calls us friends. That is one of the unique aspects of Christian faith. In Christ, I have a personal relationship with God. He’s not some nebulous figure far off somewhere. He is my friend. While I serve Him, it’s not always in blind faith. He reveals much of His business to me. In fact, in Christ God is revealing Himself totally. In Christ, He’s offering me all His resources and power. I still don’t comprehend all that. Nor do I fully avail myself of that. That’s one way of viewing the meaning of spiritual growth. I keep discovering the implications of Christ’s friendship in my life.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) Sometimes I tend to be a loner. That’s part of my personal nature. I have to remind myself there are other people – friends – who are glad to help me out. I will call on some of them today. I will ask for help when I need it. I will also be a friend – giving what I can to someone else.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, please walk with me today in such a way that I can feel your friendship. There are some personal things I keep trying to handle myself. Teach me how to utilize the friendship you’ve given me. Give me wisdom and courage this day.

How to Love

Scripture – John 15:9-13: “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. If you obey my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have obeyed my Father’s commands and remain in his love. I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) This raises two very difficult questions for me. First, how has Jesus loved me? And second, how do I show that kind of love to other believers? If I avoid really dealing with the first question, the second one becomes moot. This will take me into some personal work I’m not going to publish here. At the same time, there are some general answers that come to mind that fit for us all. His love is intentional. His love is demonstrable. God chose to send His Son. Jesus laid down His life for us. He didn’t just sit around thinking about it – He acted. His love is unending. There’s nothing I can do to make God stop loving me. I can accept it or not. But the fact remains; His love for me is grounded in who He is, not in who I am.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will explore this more as the day moves on. I will be more specific about how Christ has loved me. I will love other believers based on what I learn.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Thank you, Lord, for loving me as I am. Thank you for giving your life for me. Teach me to love as you have loved. I cannot do that on my own. Help me let you live through me this day.

Being Myself

Scripture – John 15:5-8: 5“I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. If anyone does not remain in me, he is like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned. If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given you. This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) What does it mean to “bear much fruit?” It seems to me that’s a question unique to every person. A grape vine produces grapes. An apple tree produces apples. That’s what God intends for them to do. God created me intentionally. He brought me into this world with a clear purpose in mind. He knows the fruit He intends for me to bear. At the risk of being simplistic, my purpose in life is to be the person God created (and is re-creating) me to be. An apple tree doesn’t push and strain to make apples. They just come naturally. And so with me – as I keep myself open to God’s re-creating power within, my personal “fruit” will take care of itself. I don’t have to make it happen. I just let it happen.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will let myself be who God wants me to be today. I won’t worry about being fruitful. I’ll trust that to Christ.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, thank you for the gift of life today. Help me live with my eyes on you. In you I can face all things and I can do all things. May I bear the fruit you have in mind for me.

Keeping in Touch

Scripture – John 15:1-4:“I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. Remain in me, and I will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) There’s a natural inclination in me to do things my way. I have this inner arrogance that pops up from time to time telling me I have the answer – the right way of doing things. I have often been reminded that’s not true. Usually it just takes someone else pointing out a flaw in my plan. Sometimes, though, the whole thing falls apart and I end up really messing something up. Those are very humbling experiences. Jesus reminds me here I can’t do anything of value on my own. Along with that comes the reminder I don’t ever have to. I’m never alone if I remain connected with Him. And more often than not, I have other people around to share in the planning and the implementing.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will not act alone today. As the day unfolds and decisions come up, I will rely on Christ and the people around me. Together, we will come up with plans for continued mission. I will trust the collective power of discernment we share in the church.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, thank you for your abiding presence. I’m sorry for the way I run off ahead of you sometimes. Keep me in touch with you and the people you have placed around me. In all things, help me serve you today as I discern your direction.

An Invitation – If you’re interested in a face to face discussion about what we’ve been discovering in the Mini-Journal, a small group will be meeting today, 9:45 – 10:30am, at the Southgate Fun and Fitness Center (on Northline near I-75). Look for them around one of the tables in the Café area.

No Strings

Scripture – John 14:27-31: Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. “You heard me say, ‘I am going away and I am coming back to you.’ If you loved me, you would be glad that I am going to the Father, for the Father is greater than I. I have told you now before it happens, so that when it does happen you will believe. I will not speak with you much longer, for the prince of this world is coming. He has no hold on me, but the world must learn that I love the Father and that I do exactly what my Father has commanded me. “Come now; let us leave.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Once again, these verses are so full of powerful truths. I find it hard to focus on just one. Jesus does not give “as the world gives.” The whole concept of “gift” is being lost in our culture. Often so-called “gifts” come with strings. If I open a bank account I can get a gift. If I give a gift, do I expect something in return? If I receive a gift, am I obligated to the giver? Well, no I’m not. A gift is free – that’s part of the definition. It comes with no strings – no expectations. Here, Jesus gives us His peace. All I need to do is receive it. Perhaps I’ll say “thank you,” but even that’s not required to receive and keep the gift.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will practice giving as Jesus gives today – freely, with no expectation of a return. I will, likewise, practice receiving gifts that come my way. That might be a more difficult spiritual discipline to follow.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, I begin by thanking you for this new life today. The opportunities that are before me are gifts from you. The promise of your presence and power is a gift I can count on. Thank you, as well, for your peace. In these days I’d be afraid to get out of bed without it.

An Invitation – If you’re interested in a face to face discussion about what we’ve been discovering in the Mini-Journal, a small group will be meeting tomorrow morning, 9:45 – 10:30am, at the Southgate Fun and Fitness Center (on Northline near I-75). Look for them around one of the tables in the Café area.

Simple Reminders

Scripture – John 14:22-26: Then Judas (not Judas Iscariot) said, “But, Lord, why do you intend to show yourself to us and not to the world?” Jesus replied, “If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching. My Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him. He who does not love me will not obey my teaching. These words you hear are not my own; they belong to the Father who sent me. “All this I have spoken while still with you. But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Judas asks a question that’s limited by his world view. Jesus responds from the eternal time frame of God. He could not be available to all people if He remained in His physical body. But through the Holy Spirit, His divine presence and power can touch any person at any time. And so the Holy Spirit continues to teach me new things about Christ – His nature and His call. At the same time, the Spirit also reminds me of things I already know. He often brings me back to simple truth and basic belief.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) Sometimes I get myself confused about ministry and theology. In my thinking I’ll start drawing circles within circles and lines upon lines. At those times, when I ask for help, the Spirit comes and wipes the whole board clean, and brings me back to something as simple as “Love one another,” or “You will be my witnesses.” I will stay tuned in today to what He has for me. I will not over-think my faith.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Thank you, Lord, for saving me and loving me. Thank you for the gift of eternal life. You’ve made it so easy – I only need to believe in you. Forgive me for trying to make it more complicated – especially for other people.

An Invitation – If you’re interested in a face to face discussion about what we’ve been discovering in the Mini-Journal, a small group will be meeting this Sunday morning, 9:45 – 10:30am, at the Southgate Fun and Fitness Center (on Northline near I-75). Look for them around one of the tables in the Café area.

Going Wireless

Scripture – John 14:15-21: “If you love me, you will obey what I command. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever—the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you. I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. Before long, the world will not see me anymore, but you will see me. Because I live, you also will live. On that day you will realize that I am in my Father, and you are in me, and I am in you. Whoever has my commands and obeys them, he is the one who loves me. He who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love him and show myself to him.”

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) “The Spirit of truth” lives with us and in us. The Holy Spirit is indescribable. I think of it in many ways. The Spirit is my most direct experience of the presence of God. In our Youth Class last Sunday we thought about the ways we each “hear” God’s voice and call in our lives. While I don’t hear a voice, I will feel a nudge or even a definite shove in a particular direction. Often I think of the Spirit as an underground communication network among believers. (I guess that’s the very first wireless network.) Through the Spirit God speaks to the church and connects us in ways we can’t otherwise explain. He empowers us. He protects us. He guides us. We are not left on our own. It’s all part of His gift.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will pay closer attention today to the Spirit’s presence and work in my life. I will look for connections and listen for direction. I will remember to rely on Him for power.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Thank you, Lord, for your living presence in my life. Your Holy Spirit has carried me in so many ways. Guide me this day. Help me stay tuned into your presence. Thank for the gift of time you’ve given me today. Teach me to use it wisely.