The blind man

I have often wondered about the incredible miracles of Jesus. In the first century there was very little in the way of medical care. There were no welfare systems to meet the physical needs of the people. There were many unfettered diseases that caused people to suffer a life of poverty and debilitation. They would be consigned to begging in the streets for any compassionate soul to take pity on them and throw them a few scraps or a couple of coins. The misery of this life would have been altogether stark.

One such story we read about in the Bible is in the book of Mark. It tells of a blind man named Bartimaeus. Jesus was leaving Jericho with his disciples and a large crowd was following behind him. Miracles being performed will certainly gather a crowd. Bartimaeus was sitting on the side of the road when he heard a commotion as the crowd was passing by. Curious as to what all the fuss was about, he asked others who were standing nearby. They told him it was Jesus of Nazareth. Clearly, by the text, it’s obvious he’s heard of him as word had spread throughout the region due to all the miracles he’d been performing among the crowds. Conceivably, this was Bartimaeus’ first big hope he ever experienced for the chance of a better life. In sheer desperation he cries out “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” The crowd told him to be quiet! They probably wanted to get a good look at this new prophet that was passing through their town without this insignificant beggar making a nuisance of himself. But Bartimaeus wasn’t about to be deterred. Perhaps he even felt the power of Jesus’ presence as he was passing by because he shouted out all the more, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” A blind man in need of sight is unhindered by the sight of an ordinary looking man—unhindered by the prejudice of the cultural expectations of a powerful looking representative of change. But Jesus isn’t impressed with the outward appearances either but rather the heart of a person. He knows this blind man believes he is his only hope. He genuinely needs and wants a Savior. And Jesus meets his need. He tells the crowd to call him to come forward. He probably can’t see him because he is sitting on the ground and the crowd has obscured his view. So Bartimaeus quickly jumps up and comes to Jesus and Jesus asks him, “what do you want me to do for you?” And the blind man said, “Rabbi, let me recover my sight” and Jesus said to him, “Go your way, your faith has made you well”.

This is the thing about faith—it comes with the recognition of need. Sometimes it can be physical, as in Bartimaeus’ life, but most often it is a soul-deep need. There seems to be a lot of that type these days. I recently read an article about a 200 year old Scottish practice called Hurkle-Durkle which has apparently been trending on TikTok. Another word for it is bed-rot, which sounds awful, and people consider it “self-care”. I guess this is where our pampered culture has finally ended up. No one wants to get out of bed and deal with life anymore. I think we can call it depression—plain and simple. Of course, when the Scotts coined the phrase it meant just to linger a bit in the morning to start your day peacefully. However, the 21st century has taken it to a whole new level. The stats show that people under 30 are the most miserable of all. How sad is that? It used to be the most exciting time of life. This was usually when life stretched out wide with endless possibilities. The future was something to look forward to with anticipation. So what has happened? Why do so many people feel like giving up?

It seems to me to be more of a soul-rot issue than anything else. The world has lost its way, hope has become like dust in the wind. God has been discharged from his duties. There is nothing to ground us in this contemporary perspective where everyone decides their own truth no matter how incredulous it sounds. The end result is utter chaos. There is a spiritual blindness that has rendered us disabled beggars. People grope for any crumb they can get to relieve the darkness that keeps closing in on them. Each new trend becomes a lifeline of hope that will pull us back to the light. But it is all snake oil, a fruitless effort that rebounds into a deeper abyss.

There is only one cure for this kind of blindness. It is Jesus, Son of David! He didn’t come to this world to do miracles, although out of his deep compassion he did many. No, rather he came to put an end to the spiritual death and blindness—the curse our Garden parents brought with their sin. What kind of love is this? What kind of God would send his own Son to die and rise again for a world that dismisses him? The kind that gives you a reason to get out of bed each day and give thanks. Bed-rot is for the dead. When Jesus calls you out and touches your soul the scales fall to the wayside and the vision of a new life bursts forth with meaning and purpose. It isn’t an endless fairytale of an easy and stress-free life, no, no— times can be just as hard as ever but the beggar becomes the heir apparent. The table is set with your name on the place card. There are no crumbs needed here. Instead, there is a rich diet of satisfying truth that fills the hungry soul and brings a miraculous healing. A place that transforms the soul-rot to soul-rest. And with this healing comes the stablility that God really is still in charge and that whatever darkness may try to push in, He is the light that will never be extinguished.

So, like the blind man, do you have a need? Lean in and listen…is he calling you to come forth?

“Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28

“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, for he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim that the captives will be released, that the blind will see; that the oppressed will be set free.” Luke 4:18

“Then Jesus told him, I entered this world to render judgement—to give sight to the blind and to show those who think they see, that they are blind.” John 9:19

Atmospheric oppression

These past several years the atmospheric oppressions of this world have weighed heavy around us. While the sun may be shining brightly, there has been a kind of noxious cloud that has encircled the earth. It has slowly and strategically begun to poison the hearts and minds of the once “normal” people who live here. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not naive, there’s always been a little “crazy” here and there. But something has radically changed. It’s as though this poison has somehow eaten away at the amygdala, that part of our brains that control the emotions. Anger seems to have become the dominant expression, overtaking all rationale. And people feel absolutely entitled to express that anger whenever and however they choose. But what is underneath all this anger? The anger is just a symptom of a great deal of fear and anxiety that creates a sense of powerlessness. Everything feels out of control. No one seems to be able to make things right again. There is no reliable and trustworthy power that we can depend on as we did before. These are the underpinnings of this rumbling atmosphere that is shaking the earth and reshaping minds. Covid shifted the axis and the planet has been off-kilter since. Everyone feels it.

Our culture is rampant with sinful, crippling, fear and anxiety. This gender storm we are witnessing is causing enormous fear to well up in young kids, forcing them into confusion and anxiety over what they see their body to be, versus what they are being told may be who they really are. They are being inundated with an inability to trust in anything they see with their eyes. Everything is subject to question. There is no hard truth about anything anymore in our society. Deception hangs in the air like an unseen poison-elixir breathed in until distraught. Race is being peddled as the cure for all of societies ailments. Either one should repent for the color of their skin that makes them evil oppressors or one should fight for the color of their skin because they are oppressed. Either way, anxiety and fear drive the force of this narrative. Greed and power run amok globally. National leaders are intoxicated by this wonder drug of globalism while ignoring the reality of the sinful heart of man right before their eyes. They speak lofty words of unity—restoring the planet—their new god, feeding the poor, erasing differences of thought and religions for the betterment of society— while keeping a blind-eye to the corporate greed and totalitarian methods that are anything but equitable. The only result of this mental pollution is the noxious fumes of fear and anxiety. And if that wasn’t enough, there are the wars and rumors of wars. Left too long in this state of mind and the soul will be crushed unto death.

But, praise be to God, we have an antidote. There actually is someone trustworthy, reliable and in power that will make things right again. The soul can be detoxified by the word of God. The mind can find rest there. It’s a safe place to take a deep breath, be still and know that He is God. In his timing, all things will be resolved. This is the true cure for all of societies ills. The renewing of the mind restores the soul and can cleanse us from all forms of mental pollution. There is actually a design for mankind and all of creation. A divine blueprint, working linearly, toward a glorious outcome.

I can’t prove any of this to you. I know this by faith. I experience this by my relationship with the living God of the universe. I came to know him through reading the book he wrote to us all, to reveal not only himself but his design and plans for this world. I’m not trying to convince you but rather to give you hope. The only way you can test this is to dip your own toes into the waters. His Book flows with living waters, healing waters, that can quiet the deepest of angst and lift the oppression…

“And you will know the truth and the truth will set you free.” John 8:32

“So, if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” John 8:36

“The world’s sin is that it refuses to believe in me.” John 16:9

“When the Spirit comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own but will tell you what he has heard. He will tell you about the future. John 16:13

“I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.” John 16:33

Watchman or wanderer

If you are a reader of the Bible, you will know that it speaks very often throughout both the Old and New Testaments, about the coming of a new heavens and earth. The promised restoration of all the glory that was once a beautiful creation—filled with harmony and goodness. A wonderland of love, joy and peace. It was what we always think of, when we think of heaven. Only, it included this magnificent earth. Can you imagine, for just a moment, what that must have been like? I know it’s a stretch for us to imagine a world without tension.. We don’t see much in the way of harmony. Although, we can still see so much of its beauty. I’m thankful for that. We don’t see a lot of love, joy or peace on a grand scale but, individually, it’s there among some.

The book of Isaiah, one of the Old Testament prophets, speaks very pointedly about this restoration. First, he warns about the judgement God will bring for the reckless selfishness that continues since the Garden’s demise. That was a kind of self-slaughter that changed everything. The holy became profane, unfaithful, sinful—even deadly. The Garden gate had to be closed. But, the thing is, he loves his creation. He loves the people that he designed to portray his very heart, his image made in human flesh. Yet, rebellion, to a holy God, just cannot be ignored. They ruptured the good. The harmony. The love. The peace and the joy. There had to be consequences. Like a Father with his child, discipline was necessary for the sake of their good and his creation.

This Father’s love is incomprehensible. The prophet speaks of a Suffering Servant. One who will make a way for this future restoration—for the gate to reopen. The sinless One, God himself, come in the flesh, the Messiah—Jesus. The only one who can solve this dilemma. It’s not possible for humanity to restore all of this. The damage has been too great—the slaughter too mortal.

So, what now? The debt has been paid. The gate has been opened, once again, and God is listening to those who seek him. He has the welcome mat out and he is calling you to enter in. Do you hear him? Do you want to be a part of his restoration? Does this kind of love stir your heart with curiosity, with longing—with need?

The prophet speaks of how God puts watchmen standing in the towers, watching and praying, for the fulfillment of the coming restoration. They are reminding everyone of the Almighty One (Yahweh) and his plan for mankind. The countless stories of his past care, the undeserved forgiveness and grace given to all. The watchmen are heralding the second coming of Christ when all the evil will finally be destroyed and the restoration begins.

If you are a watchmen, are you in the tower? Are you waiting with great anticipation, telling of the need for reconciliation and the glories to come? Or are you a wanderer seeking answers to your questions? Can you hear the watchmen? Are you listening as they call out their invitations? The gate won’t stay open forever. When the time is fulfilled, it will close permanently. Only those who answer will enter in.

I know there is so much mystery in all of this and some may find it hard to believe. But Isaiah prophesied about this Servant some 700 years before he actually came. Jesus’ life and death fulfilled this prophecy. And his return will one day come, ushering in both judgement and the new heavens and earth. If it’s not true, you would have nothing to lose by examining the claims. But, if it is?

“He was despised and rejected— a man of sorrows, acquainted with deepest grief. We turned our backs on him and looked the other way. He was despised, and we did not care. Yet it was our weaknesses he carried; it was our sorrows that weighed him down. And we thought his troubles were a punishment from God, a punishment for his own sins! But he was pierced for our rebellion, crushed for our sins. He was beaten so we could be whole. He was whipped so we could be healed. All of us, like sheep, have strayed away. We have left God’s paths to follow our own. Yet the Lord laid on him the sins of us all….But it was the Lord’s good plan to crush him and cause him grief. Yet when his life is made an offering for sin, he will have many descendants. He will enjoy a long life, and the Lord’s good plan will prosper in his hands. When he sees all that is accomplished by his anguish, he will be satisfied. And because of his experience, my righteous servant will make it possible for many to be counted righteous, for he will bear all their sins. I will give him the honors of a victorious soldier, because he exposed himself to death. He was counted among the rebels. He bore the sins of many and interceded for rebels.”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭53‬:‭3-6;10‬-‭12‬ ‭NLT‬‬

“Look! I am creating new heavens and a new earth, and no one will even think about the old ones anymore…I will rejoice…and delight in my people. And the sound of weeping and crying will be heard in it no more.”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭65‬:‭17, 19‬ ‭NLT‬‬

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Ant hills

Have you ever noticed the way ants never seems to go away? You could probably make the case that they have more lives than cats. It seems no matter how many treatments you apply they just pop up somewhere else and it starts all over again. It’s a very frustrating nuisance for most homeowners, especially if you live in the south. There are endless species and some of them have a nasty bite with an itch and sting that can linger on.

I was sitting on my porch this morning watching the sky go from a soft grey to blue as the sun made its way toward the horizon. I love looking at the sky at all different times of the day. I just find it so mesmerizing. It is constantly changing in both color and design. I frequently use this time to talk to God. Seeing the beauty of his creation just makes me so aware of him. I’ve always felt this way since childhood.

But, I can’t help being somewhat distracted by the ground below my feet. The nuisance of these little creatures keep drawing my attention away. How can something so minuscule become such a big fuss. Why won’t they just die off already?

Isn’t this somewhat similar to how we feel when a rather itsy-bitsy, or as we call it today a micro-aggression, has been cast in our direction? We perceive what we think is a snub or perhaps a less-than-friendly response from someone. Or maybe you ordered something online and were excited to see the Amazon truck pull up only to be totally disappointed in the product and now you have to go through all the trouble of returning it. You know where I’m going with this…it’s our response to things, the irritants of life that we let spread out in all directions affecting our moods, resulting in a kind of swarm of emotions. You know, kick that ant hill and those pesky little creatures scurry off looking to burrow in another dark space.

I think we all have lots of these bratty “ants” burrowed down deep inside of us. These sinful attitudes that we justify and tolerate so readily. It can be so easy to have our thoughts drawn away from all the God-given gifts in our lives only to focus on the things we are dissatisfied with. Our eyes dart away from the heavens the minute someone or something kicks our “ant hill” and disturbs our cozy little nest. Our thoughts can run away aimlessly brooding over the most insignificant things rendering us ungrateful and joyless. And either we can feel the sting of the bite or we are causing someone else to.

So, what do we do to to mitigate our ant problem? Well, the first thing is that we have to see it as a problem. We have to be aware of our responses and evaluate the legitimacy of them in conjunction with the cause. Could we be overreacting? Maybe we need to adjust our expectations. Maybe our ant hill has just grown way to large because we haven’t been keeping up with the treatment process. God’s Word is a powerful treatment in effectively breaking down that nasty nest. It has a way of bringing some humility to the arrogance of our tireless self-absorption. When our hearts are doused in his truth those ants will slowly begin to die off. One pesky little annoyance after another. We won’t likely kill them all but hopefully, if we are persistent in our treatment regimen, we can spend more time looking at the sky, talking to God. After all, how much more enjoyable would that be than obsessing over the pests below our feet?

“For the Word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God. Everything is naked and exposed before his eyes, and he is the one to whom we are accountable…so let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will find grace to help us when we need it most.” Hebrews 4:12-13; 15-16

“…let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith.” Hebrews 12:1-2

The reply

Years ago I wrote a piece called The Risk of Remedy about a girl I love that eventually grew into an addict from all the trauma she had endured in life. The blows of abuse, regardless of what form it takes, can turn a sweet child into an empty shell over time. This was a pattern that continued throughout the course of her life. And, while I always hoped for a miracle through the consistent prayers of my heart, I never saw much change. But, I truly am a believer in miracles. Prayers are a powerful gift we are given to lay our concerns and grievances before a mighty God whom is very present in every moment of life. He hasn’t just set things in motion and walked away, leaving us to figure it all out. He is there and he is listening.

You may not have someone like this girl in your life but what is it that has you weighed down with discouragement? What burdens have you prayed about with angst and longing that are yet to see the light of day? I know we all have them. We may not articulate it but deep down we all know that this world just isn’t right. We are all impacted to some degree or another and we may find various ways to cope but the discomfort of that burr is still in the boot or flip-flop, depending on where you live.

I am here to tell you not to give up! The Scriptures say, “But you must not forget this one thing, dear friends: A day is like a thousand years to the Lord and a thousand years is like a day.” (2 Peter 3:8) God doesn’t operate with time constraints. What may feel like an eternity to us is but seconds to the Lord. His perfect understanding of how things work and his absolute knowledge of everyone’s hearts brings fruition to our prayers at the infallible moment of his choice. If we trust in the truth that, ultimately, God is good, then we cannot lose hope thinking that our whispers, cries, SOS’s, have gone unnoticed. They aren’t floating around in the unseen heavens waiting for that random glance from the universe to act by chance. Our prayers are precious to the God of heaven’s armies. “You keep track of all my sorrows. You have collected all my tears in your bottle. You have recorded each one in your book.” (Ps.56:8)

That girl I told you about…she took the risk. She found the remedy. She has been set free from her prison into the glorious light of the love of God. She is free of drugs and although anxiety hasn’t completely disappeared, she now has a place to bring it. The bent ear of a loving Father leans in to listen to the struggles with a tenderness that wraps around her like a warm blanket of safety and comfort. Life isn’t easy but she knows her Savior is walking beside her and will never leave her. She is standing tall, the protective barbed-wire fence is all gone now and that beautiful smile has returned. He heard all my prayers over those many years and when the time was right, he set her free…

If you are interested in reading her story you can scroll down to The Risk of Remedy. If your reading from a phone you may need to go to the menu button, then blog, then scroll to the title.

God is not deaf or silent.

The river

Walk with me. Walk with me down to the river where the cool water will wash away the grime. Let the baked on sweat from the fires of this life just roll off and refresh your soul. There is just something so restorative about the cleansing of water.

Summertime is a great reminder of our need for a daily cleansing. The heat can be so oppressive and draining. Our skin feels slick and grubby as it tries to cool us down through the perspiration process. But, if we don’t replenish that water source through drinking, we can find ourselves in some deep trouble. We need that internal river to keep us alive. There is a daily cleansing that occurs to rid us of the build-up of toxins that would pollute our bodies.

Think of all the pleasures that you’ve experienced with water; swimming, snorkeling, skiing, boating, surfing, standing under a waterfall…the images are endless. Just the simple taste of cold water after working in the yard is a tremendous pleasure. I was watching my 3 year old granddaughter jumping off an anchored, floating-raft in a lake as she was squealing with absolute delight at the pleasure and freedom of the water.

So too, our souls need this daily cleansing. The soot of these life-fires can build up and clog our thinking. Before we know it, anxiety is closing in and anger and fear starts rising up. Our hearts and minds are slick with grime and those simple, joyous pleasures are a fading memory. Fortunately, there is an eternal river that flows from the heart of God. It is free-flowing and available to all who want to dip in and be washed clean. Jump in and splash around. Allow your mind to be renewed by the Word of God. It truly is freeing, cleansing. Those fires will be extinguished. Those anxieties put in their place. This river is a place of delight and meant to be so. Walk with Him. Walk with Him into His river and be restored.

“There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy habitation of the Most High.”

Psalm‬ ‭46‬:‭4‬ ‭ESV‬‬

“Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, bright as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb”

‭‭Revelation‬ ‭22‬:‭1‬ ‭ESV‬‬

“Jesus answered her, "If you knew the gift of God, and who it is that is saying to you, 'Give me a drink,' you would have asked him, and he would have given you living water."”

‭‭John‬ ‭4‬:‭10‬ ‭ESV‬‬

“Jesus said to her, "Everyone who drinks of this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again. The water that I will give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life."”

‭‭John‬ ‭4‬:‭13‬-‭14‬ ‭ESV‬‬

The fence

I was reading through a devotional by John Stott this morning about the ongoing conflict between good and evil which began in the Garden of Eden and will ultimately culminate at the return of Christ. Anyone who takes the time to reflect on the history of this world can clearly see the evidence of this battle. The hostility of evil against the victories of good have played out over and over before our eyes and continue to do so. The documented stories of atrocities and the valor of those that fight against them. What causes some to choose evil over good or good over evil?

In that very garden God told the snake, Satan, who was representative of the very evil rebellion against the sovereignty of God, that there would be animosity between the human race and the powers of evil. Yet, we see so many of the human race embody this evil. What did God mean? In Genesis 3:15 we read, “And I will cause hostility between you and the woman, and between her offspring and your offspring. He will strike your head and you will strike his heal.” Here is the first reference to the way in which the Lord is going to undo the damage that sin and rebellion has inflicted on God’s creation. This was the prophecy of the Messiah that would come in the future. The bruised heal was the crucifixion of Christ and his resurrection brings with it the promise of restoration. On the other hand, the crushed head is the final judgement of God which will bring with it an eternal end to all evil.

God’s word draws a very sharp line between good and evil, holiness and sin. It’s not in a legalistic, do’s and don’t’s way but rather for us to see a beauty and perfection in the design and love he poured out in creating this world for us all to enjoy. But, for us to enjoy it as he intended, we must first get to know him. He is the essence of love and beauty and his creation, including us, is evidence of his magnificent mind. He invites us into his thoughts for mankind through the inspired Scriptures. He has made a way for us to choose good over evil. He has made a way for us to have a spiritual resurrection here and now. A new life indwelled by the Holy Spirit. It won’t be a sin-free life here and now but a life prone toward his beautifully ordered design for us rather than the self-autonomy we inherited in the garden. Clearly, this self-autonomy hasn’t been working out so well.

I guess the question arises, “How long are we going to flirt with sin?” Do we think we can somehow straddle the fence and we’ll be safe? If we drop down on one side or the other, then we have made a decision. That thought can actually cripple many. But, the truth is, staying on the fence actually is a decision. As John Stott states, “We must never come to terms with evil…it is only through the destruction of evil that true peace is attained.” Staying on the fence is a compromise. It is coming to terms with evil by not taking a stand against it. A little compromise here and there and before long evil is not really all that evil. The edges get rounded out and the harshness is smoothed over.

The culmination of all things will come when Christ returns. That fence will collapse and if we are still there straddling, we will fall on the side where our hearts have been leaning. That sharp line will no longer be crossable. The conflict will be completely and forever over. God will crush the head of the evil one and all who have come to terms with his ways. He has been a crafty enemy described in Scripture this way, “Even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light” (2 Corinthians 11:14). “Satan, who is the god of this world, has blinded the minds of those who don’t believe. They are unable to see the glorious light of the Good News. They don’t understand this message about the glory of Christ, who is the exact likeness of God.” (2 Cor. 4:3-4). This glorious Savior chose to willingly go to the cross so we could have a choice. He is the Good News.

“But, when the Son of Man comes in his glory, all the angels with him, then he will sit upon his glorious throne. All the nations will be gathered in his presence, and he will separate the people as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. He will place the sheep at his right hand and the goats at his left. Then the King will say to those on his right, “Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the Kingdom prepared for you from the creation of the world.” (Matthew 25:31-34)

Do you want to enter in? Then its time to get off that fence…come, see and experience his splendor.

Possibilities

As time goes by I realize more and more just what a creature of habit and comfort I am. I have my routines. There are those favorite spots to sit in my home where the sunlight is at a certain angle and the furniture envelopes my body in just that comforting, familiar way. The color palette suits my temperament and sets me at ease. I like all my “stuff’. The freshness of the new things and the memories of the old are all pleasing to me.

Over the years we have traveled a lot and lived in numerous places. There was always that tandem emotion of excitement coupled with adjustment. The thrill of discovering a new place would fire up, then get tamped down by that period of adjustment to the strangeness of the new. But, I always had my “stuff’ to ensure a certain level of comfort and familiarity. It’s funny how attached we can become to our comforts. In many ways its a good thing to have a place of refuge. Most of us need that space where we feel safe and at peace. But, sometimes our circumstances, whether by choice or destiny, land us in a place without our props of comfort.

I guess the question is, how do we respond to this change? How does the discomfort of the unfamiliar affect our moods, our level of contentment, our ability to be comfortable? This is where I find myself at the moment, by choice, away for a few months, housesitting for strangers, without my stuff. I’m not comfortable. I’m in the adjustment phase of transition without the familiarity of my stuff. All the colors, scents, lighting and textures have changed and I’m trying to get settled…

I want to anticipate the possibilities that can come from this temporary change of lifestyle. Sometimes its a really good thing to get out of our comfort zone and stretch ourselves in those areas where we have become a bit too inflexible. I’m not high-maintenance but I’m not exactly roll-with-the-flow either. But, life is full of change for us all, both the expected and the unexpected. We can all look back and see the inconstancy of things in our lives. It doesn’t matter if you’re 20 or 80, you’ve got a history of change.

The one constancy in my life has been the presence of God. In all the travels and relocations, he has been my biggest comfort. That is the benefit of the adjustment phase of transition. It serves as a great reminder that circumstances and surroundings are all temporary, external things but the God of the universe permeates my internal being and brings a very different kind of comfort. It’s the kind of comfort that says its okay to lean in and see what new treasures he has for me. What can I learn about him, about myself, about others? The possibilities are endless…

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭3‬:‭5‬-‭6‬ ‭ESV‬‬

Mindset

I don’t know about you, but I can periodically find myself in a cranky mindset. So many things can irritate me. The problem is that I don’t often recognize it right away. I become very critical on multiple levels. And the longer it goes on, the shorter my patience levels. This is where I have found myself in the last several months. I have been highly irritated by so many people and, ironically, it’s because I think they are critical people. So, as I have been ruminating about their flaws and ramping up my heart rate, I realized how unpleasant I have likely been to be around.

Of course, we are wise to be critical thinkers when assessing the opinions and advice of others whether it’s a personal relationship or scrolling through social media sites. And recognizing the good from the bad is an important part of that. Some people are just negative, self-righteous, judgmental or simply angry. It’s probably good to avoid these types of people if you don’t want to get sucked into the fray. However, it’s impossible to avoid this completely if you’re going to be living in this world, unless you are a total recluse unplugged from twenty-first century reality.

Well, I had an epiphany last Sunday while sitting in church. It should be second nature to me by this time, but how easily we forget the long-standing truths we have learned. As I was sitting there, more in body than in mind, my Lord reminded me that I have had my eyes in the wrong place. I can’t tell you how many times I have had to learn this lesson. It is so easy to fixate on people and my perception of their gigantic flaws. I can stand back from the maddening crowd as if I’m not one of the flawed.

My heart was convicted of my lack of reverence for the only One who is flawless. “Christ is the visible image of the invisible God. He existed before anything was created and is supreme over all creation, for through him God created everything in the heavenly realms and on earth. He made the things we can see and the things we can’t see—such as thrones, kingdoms, rulers, and authorities in the unseen world. Everything was created through him and for him. He existed before anything else, and he holds all creation together…for God in all his fullness was pleased to live in Christ.” (Colossians 1:15-17,19). Wow! Why would I choose to look at anyone else and expect such comparable standards. He is the only One whom I should be looking at. Myself, and every other human being will be disappointing in some way. “For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standards.” (Romans 3:23) And yet, we are not without hope. The whole reason the invisible God embodied the visible Jesus was so that we may actually know him. “For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him.” (John 3:16-17).

He is the key to a more contented mindset. And while he can’t fully be known, he has revealed himself, his character, his nature, his love, his promises, his plans for this world, in the Scriptures. When our sins are forgiven through our faith in Jesus we are promised eternal life. We spiritually benefit from that in the here and now but we remain flawed (sinful) until we leave these bodies behind. It’s called the “already, not yet” in theological terms. His indwelling Spirit gradually changes us in this life to reflect more of his nature and less of ours. “But, whenever someone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. For the Lord is the Spirit, and wherever the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. So all of us who have had that veil removed can see and reflect the glory of the Lord. And the lord—who is the Spirit—makes us more and more like him as we are changed into his glorious image.” (2 Corinthians 3:16-18)

But, we will never fully be changed while here. This is why allowing ourselves to be impacted emotionally by others irritating flaws will hinder not only our peace but our purpose in this life. We are all in a state of flux. “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever.” (Hebrews 13:8) So, once again, I will be intentional to have my mind set on the right Person and by his grace, stay there a bit longer this time…

Perspectives, rumors and divisions

Perspectives can be tricky when the aim is to discern truth. Some other synonyms for this are angle, slant, viewpoint…you get the idea. One’s perspective is always subjective. We all bring our personal experiences, backgrounds and views into any given situation when we observe what we consider an injustice. Someone has been wronged and from our perspective we form an opinion about who is at fault. The angle from where we are standing seems crystal clear to us and we choose our side. We very rarely consider that the other angles may have some legitimacy, some bits of truth that put some responsibility on both sides. This is especially true when it’s a “he said, she said” situation without any hard forensic evidence—just witness testimony.

This is when it begins to get dangerous. At first, its the quiet whispers between a few, “Did you know…?”, “What do you think about…?, “Can you believe…?” But like a hunk of chum thrown into the sea it creates a feeding frenzy of rumors that assassinate the very characters of those involved. While we are all flawed and prone to mistakes, we seem to find it easy to judge other’s missteps and poor decisions with a great deal of vigor. Divisions begin to occur as alliances are formed or demolished, Friendships get damaged and hearts get broken.

How great would it be if we could be humble enough to recognize that our perspectives may not be as definitive as we think. Perhaps, if we took the unassuming role of putting ourselves in the other’s shoes, we might see that from their angle things look quite different. If unity could be our hope and aim, we may be able to avoid the bloody waters. It’s always better to be peacemakers than troublemakers. But, this takes humility and an honesty with ourselves. It requires love and forgiveness toward others. If you’re a follower of Jesus, well, he has gone way beyond that for you. So, let’s keep in mind that our perspectives need some careful evaluation before we allow them to determine truth.

“Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom. But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. Such “wisdom” does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice. But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.”

‭‭James‬ ‭3‬:‭13‬-‭18‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Scattered seeds

Last spring I noticed, in my shrub beds, that I suddenly had these little plants that were popping up. I never planted them there so I was really curious what they were and how they got there. In a short time flowers began blooming on them. I was so excited because I really love flowers and I had done absolutely nothing to get these little beauties. They just appeared as if by design. Needless to say, I began to water them and feed them, cultivating new growth and soon they were propagating, filling in the whole bed with glorious, colorful life.

Obviously, the seeds from someone else’s plants were scattered by the winds and landed in my beds. I cared for them, nurtured them and most likely their seeds have been scattered, once again, to beautify another person’s life. It’s simple, yet mysterious at the same time.

This is how the Word of God works. The simplicity of its truth, whether heard in a few words or many, lands upon the heart of someone open to receive this little seed. It may have dropped there back in the dark of Autumn but like a little pinhole of light, it penetrates the soul. Eventually, someone comes along and waters it and perhaps another begins to feed it with a little more of this glorious light from the Word and a new life begins to sprout up.

Some will scatter, some will water and some will feed. All three are necessary for cultivation and propagation but not everyone will do all three. So, if there are little pinholes of light bringing God’s Word into the dark places, be thankful rather than critical of the one who scatters. They may do it imperfectly but that doesn’t mean it will be ineffective. If it lands on a ready heart —it will get watered, fed and, in time, bloom into someone beautiful. After all, it is all God’s work. We just get the privilege of participating in this simply beautiful mystery.

“There was a man named Nicodemus, a Jewish religious leader who was a Pharisee. After dark one evening, he came to speak with Jesus. “Rabbi,” he said, “we all know that God has sent you to teach us. Your miraculous signs are evidence that God is with you.” Jesus replied, “I tell you the truth, unless you are born again, you cannot see the Kingdom of God.” “What do you mean?” exclaimed Nicodemus. “How can an old man go back into his mother’s womb and be born again?” Jesus replied, “I assure you, no one can enter the Kingdom of God without being born of water and the Spirit. Humans can reproduce only human life, but the Holy Spirit gives birth to spiritual life. So don’t be surprised when I say, ‘You must be born again.’ The wind blows wherever it wants. Just as you can hear the wind but can’t tell where it comes from or where it is going, so you can’t explain how people are born of the Spirit.””

‭‭John‬ ‭3‬:‭1‬-‭8‬ ‭NLT‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/116/jhn.3.1-7.NLT

The walls

Does it seem like the walls are closing in with all the daily announcements of new strange and threatening occurrences? The looming recession and the escalating grocery bills; the new climate-change virus, Valley Fever expected to spread across the nation in need of yet another vaccine; the Chinese balloons mysteriously floating over North and South America unimpeded; food shortages, supply-chain disruptions, migration explosion, it just goes on….the first word that comes to mind is CHAOS. It’s no wonder so many are escaping into a world of drugs and alcohol. It seems like a place to find some peace, to not have to think about reality for a bit. But, while it may offer some escape, it offers no answers. It requires continual use, eventually just adding more chaos to your life.

In the ‘60’s American psychologist Timothy Leary recommended that everyone should “turn-on, tune-in and drop-out” by way of psychedelic drugs. In the 70’s psychologist Arthur Janov promoted the Primal Scream therapy as a way to relieve all the mental stress and trauma of life. There are a plethora of therapies out there purporting to resolve all our anxieties and, yet, our mental illnesses seem to be multiplying at an enormous rate. What are we to do with all of this anxiety? How do we walk through this valley of dark, looming shadows pressing in on us? Is there a way to prevail that won’t leave us crippled and paralyzed?

Yes, and it’s the ancient source from the beginning of time.The revealed Word of God. The revelation of the meaning of life, the purpose of life and the source of life. Yet, it’s the last place anyone wants to seek answers today. We are not gods, try as we may to elevate ourselves to that position. We cannot recreate a perfect world through legislations and mandates dictating order out of chaos. It has never worked. There will always be rebellion against an autocratic society. It won’t solve the mental illness it will just create new forms of it. History has demonstrated that. The philosopher George Santayana said, “those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it”.

But, true peace and comfort can be experienced when we ponder the sovereignty of God. When we put all this chaos under his feet, those shallow breaths can go a bit deeper. We can come to understand that he is actively working out his purposes. As the Scriptures have revealed, he is ultimately bringing about that perfect world, as only he can do. We can look up above these walls of shadows and see the light is still there. He is never leaving. This is his world. He created it and he has promised to restore it. From Genesis to Revelation he has revealed his glorious plan of redemption and restoration. Why not take a look? You have nothing to lose but everything to gain if your heart and mind are open to listen. Here are a few of his words:

“God sits above the circle of the earth. The people below seem like grasshoppers to him! He spreads out the heavens like a curtain and makes his tent from them. He judges the great people of the world and brings them all to nothing. They hardly get started, barely taking root, when he blows on them and they wither. The wind carries them off like chaff. “To whom will you compare me? Who is my equal?” asks the Holy One. Look up into the heavens. Who created all the stars? He brings them out like an army, one after another, calling each by its name. Because of his great power and incomparable strength, not a single one is missing.”

Isaiah‬ ‭40‬:‭22‬-‭26‬ ‭NLT‬‬

“Why are the nations so angry? Why do they waste their time with futile plans? The kings of the earth prepare for battle; the rulers plot together against the Lord and against his anointed one. “Let us break their chains,” they cry, “and free ourselves from slavery to God.” But the one who rules in heaven laughs. The Lord scoffs at them.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭2‬:‭1‬-‭5‬ ‭NLT‬‬

“Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the old heaven and the old earth had disappeared. And the sea was also gone. And I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven like a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. I heard a loud shout from the throne, saying, “Look, God’s home is now among his people! He will live with them, and they will be his people. God himself will be with them. He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever.” And the one sitting on the throne said, “Look, I am making everything new!” And then he said to me, “Write this down, for what I tell you is trustworthy and true.” And he also said, “It is finished! I am the Alpha and the Omega—the Beginning and the End. To all who are thirsty I will give freely from the springs of the water of life. All who are victorious will inherit all these blessings, and I will be their God, and they will be my children.”

‭‭Revelation‬ ‭21‬:‭1‬-‭7‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Gift-giving

Have you ever thought about where the idea of gift-giving originated? I’m sure there are a variety of explanations on the internet. But, recently I heard a sermon by Pastor Bruce Boria that gave the most beautiful illustration that really resonated with me. It started with our Heavenly Father, who gave his most treasured possession, Jesus, so he could restore humanity, whom he loved, from its fallen state. Jesus, in turn, gave his life, entering into humanity as a humble servant, leaving behind his kingly status and glory, for the sake of the world, Mary gave her future with a question mark about her morality forever hung over her head in her small village, and the knowledge that her son’s life would be cut short and cause her grief. Joseph gave his reputation concerning his righteousness being questioned regarding the pregnancy of Mary prior to their marriage. Only the Lord, he and Mary and a few others knew the real truth of the virgin birth conceived by the Holy Spirit. The shepherds gave their time, leaving the flocks compelled by the glorious revelations from the appearance of the angels to go and worship the newborn King, the Messiah. The Magi gave their money. They travelled a great distance with their entourage to lavish the newborn King they read about in the ancient scrolls concerning the Star of David, which appeared in the sky.

These gifts cannot be measured or evaluated by our current standards. There is no price-tag that can be met here. But, it does call to mind a moment for evaluating our own gifts. Not the ones we wrap up with bows and bless others with but rather the ones we have been endowed with from our Heavenly Father. Each of us have been given certain spiritual gifts for the blessing of others in this world. The examples above are gifts they were given even though its clear that they were called to be sacrificial in the use of them. This is often a difficult thing for us living in a self-directed culture as ours.

So, by all means let’s bring our beautifully wrapped gifts to our family and friends as we celebrate this season. Let’s enjoy the giving and receiving and all the pleasure it brings. But, let us also be mindful that we are called to be gifts ourselves, gifts in our worship to the Lord and the blessing of his ever-expanding kingdom.

“I urge you brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true worship.” Romans 12:1

“Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction and faithful in prayer.” Romans 12:11-12

Thanksgiving is for everyday

Now that the busyness of the Thanksgiving celebrations have come to an end and the short break before the Christmas excitement starts I find myself reflecting on all the really good people I have in my life. There truly is so much to be thankful for. It’s easy to get our focus caught up on the negatives in our present world and miss all the positives in our everyday. If you think about it, there are so many daily blessings that we take for granted. There’s a lot of kindness out there. On a recent roadtrip we encountered a number of people along the way that just displayed a joy of heart. They were everyday people in everyday jobs, cashiers, hotel clerks, fellow travelers, people who choose to be kind rather than grumpy. Yes, life is challenging in many ways but how much less stressful can we make it for someone else? It doesn’t take much to be kind and friendly. It doesn’t cost us anything but what a difference it may make in the life of someone who is struggling just to see a friendly smile and feel a bit noticed. It can be like a warm blanket on a freezing cold day or a cool glass of water in the heat of summer. Do you think about the impact you could have in someone’s life just by being kind?

We visited family we hadn’t seen in many years this holiday and I was just overwhelmed by the kindness and generosity of them all. My heart was filled with thanksgiving to them and to God who has put me in their lives. He has been so gracious to me all my life. There have been so many good people that he has brought in and out of my life over the years. In all the different cities and countries we’ve lived in and visited, he has provided good souls I will never forget. And then there are the deep friendships both old and new that have sustained my heart with laughter, comfort, refreshment and grace beyond words.

I pray that I can be that person who puts a smile on someone else’s face even if it’s just for a moment in time. The way I see it, we can choose to be thankful or we can choose to be grumpy regardless of our circumstances. It seems like a no-brainer if you really think about it. Why would you want to be grumpy and miserable rather than thankful and kind. This life will always have its ups and downs— that’s just the nature of things. But, if we take the time to reflect a bit we can always find something to be thankful for and pass it forward to others. A smile is a gift to those who need it. Let’s be that gift.

“I thank my God in all my remembrance of you,” ‭‭Philippians‬ ‭1‬:‭3‬ ‭ESV‬‬

“For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.' Then the righteous will answer him, saying, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? And when did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? And when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?' And the King will answer them, 'Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.'” Matthew‬ ‭25‬:‭35‬-‭40‬ ‭ESV‬‬

Well-watered

Do you feel like a well-watered oak tree planted along the riverbank growing strong and tall with its leaves abundant and supple? Or, are you more like a dried out pine trying to survive in the desert sun desperately stretching your shallow roots to no avail? Life can feel like that sometimes, can’t it? Things are either going well, or they’re not. Why does it seem so hard to have a steady middle ground no matter the emotional weather forecast? Our circumstances are often in a constant state of flux and feeling well-watered is a challenge for most of us.

I was reading Psalm 1:3 this morning and the description really caught my attention. “They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season. Their leaves never wither and they prosper in all they do.” They bear fruit in each season. The metaphor of seasons is so aptly placed. Winter, Spring, Summer or Fall, all have their particular marks of a life cycle. How well can we relate to the ease of Summer, the quietness of Fall, the harshness of Winter and the joy of Spring? While these seasons all have their distinct pleasures they have a way of affecting our moods.

When life’s circumstances hit us like a harsh winter storm we can easily fall prey to the beating winds that tear off all our leaves and leave us feeling bare and empty. We can pull back and retreat into hibernation. Deep inside we can long for the days of Spring when the new shoots will start to pop out all fresh and green with life abundant. Probably many of us would prefer a steady stream of Summer and the easy, breezy days it conjures up. Well, this verse tells us that we can!

The previous verse tells us how we can “bear fruit in every season”. In other words, how we can thrive through the harsh storms with all our emotional leaves intact and lush, Verse 2 says “But they delight in the law of the Lord, meditating on it day and night”. To read God’s Word and to meditate means to listen to him, to hear what he is telling us about navigating life. If we begin to see things from his perspective— a heavenly view— it can be life-changing.

But this is not a “one-time” thing. It takes daily intention. We can’t just do a 30,000 foot aerial view and then drop back down and expect it to stay Summer. It’s a daily practice. A discipline. It is in fact a choice to be made. Do you want to be that strong oak whose leaves never wither no matter the circumstance? I don’t think most of us would prefer to end up like the dried up pine blown away like chaff, hollow and brittle to the touch. Rather, most of us prefer to be people of substance—flourishing even in our hard times. Our circumstances don’t have to control us. We can pray through our circumstances and trust in the promises of a God who sees all, knows all and is concerned about every aspect of our lives. Ask him to speak his truth into your life and feel your roots reach down deep into the well of his love. Feed your soul in the rich soil of wisdom and stand firm no matter what the seasons may bring. You are meant to flourish and flourish you will…

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding” Proverbs 9:10

The healing

I was reading in the gospel of Matthew this morning and thinking about all the physical healings that Jesus performed during his earthly ministry. These were some really amazing and miraculous healings that occurred. The blind received sight, the crippled were able to walk, the lepers were made clean, the mentally-ill and demon possessed were restored to normal. It got me thinking about how we often pray for healing both for ourselves and for others when health problems arise. We want good health and well-being. We can often expect that this prayer should be answered as we pray it. And we should pray it—and sometimes these prayers are answered with healing—but healing wasn’t the purpose of Jesus’ ministry. Well, at least not physical healing. He healed many to validate his claim that he is the Son of God. These miracles demonstrated his authority over sin and the broken and fallen state of the world. Illnesses, both physical and mental are the result of this fallen state. These miracles drew attention to the love and compassion he has for humanity. But the true and necessary healing is that of the heart. The heart is where the real work is done. The heart is where a life changes.

I have seen these life-changes happen countless times over the years. My own life being one of them. I was young, aimless, feeling like a misfit on the inside while acting self-confident on the outside. There was a certain brokenness that I didn’t quite know how to fix. Most people want so much to feel like they belong somewhere. Deep down there is that need to feel like you aren’t on the outside looking in. Everyone needs to feel loved to have a healthy life. Knowing that your life matters is very healing for the soul. But, relationships come and go. Stages of life are constantly shifting the foundation on which we stand. While belonging to a certain community or circle of friends is a wonderful part of life, it isn’t enough to sustain that deeper core of you, that inner self that you can’t quite communicate to another in such a way that they really fully understand you. They may relate on a certain level that makes you feel understood but they aren’t inside you. They haven’t experienced the impact of those things in life that have played a role in shaping who you are. So, humanely speaking, you alone know you. Does that make you feel lonely?

Well, this is where the healing of the heart comes in. This is what Jesus was all about. We were created to belong to him. But sin has broken that connection to his heart. So, we have wandered from one camp to another looking for that place called “home”. That place where we finally feel at ease. That place where we can kick our shoes off, put our feet up and know that we are known, really known.

Many people don’t see themselves as sinners. They think it is an antiquated idea with no relevance to anything today. But deep down, everyone really does know that something just isn’t right within. We can feel it— our discontentment, our fears, our anger, our distrust, our resentments, our insecurities, they are all so obvious. We make excuses and try to justify them but they are there embedded in our hearts.

So what is the answer? Forgiveness. That is why Jesus came. “Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners” 1 Timothy 1;15; “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. John 3:16-17.

It’s so simple that its hard for people to believe all they need to do is ask for forgiveness. Forgiveness brings with it the indwelling Holy Spirit and he knows you in your deepest core. He has seen and felt all that you have lived. There are no secrets from him. But, he is the comforter. He soothes that inner angst. He welcomes you into the community of God— the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. The only community that truly understands who you are—so go there—go “home”—you will never want to leave.

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy as you trust in him so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13

The shattering

Can you remember what shattered you? Do you know what I mean? That moment in childhood when you intuitively knew that this wasn’t Eden anymore? What broken shard pierced the canopy of your innocent understanding of life with its first thundercloud? The moment when your heart felt its first devaluating cut of your significance? Maybe it was a rejection of a jealous sibling who resented your presence, or the first day of school when someone called you stupid or ugly. Worse yet, perhaps it was at the hands of a trusted yet abusive adult or parent. Somewhere, at some point, we all discover, like our Garden parents, that we are naked with shame. That we just don’t quite measure up. Then, deep inside our personalities begin to take shape with this sense of unworthiness nagging at us and leaving us with a need that we can’t quite explain.

You know you’ve felt it from time to time. We’ve all been affected by the Fall of long ago. Most of us push it down deep and then pour cement over it as though it were Fukushima. And, as we have seen, that hasn’t worked so well for them either. The neurotoxins start seeping up to the surface and the poison fills our minds. We can’t manage this sense of unworthiness through containment or denial, busyness or mindless distractions, try as we may. These are just bandaids that eventually peel back and fall off —leaving the wound exposed. We need our innocence restored. But, how do you put the genie back in the bottle? There is no “undo” icon for the soul. Or is there? Can the shattered be raised whole? Can the broken be restored?

The ground shook hard with the power of heaven as the outstretched arms of the Cross weighed heavy with shame. All the thunderclouds descended —piercing with rejection, anger, abuse and taunts —straining against the flesh of innocence. A Life for THE life. The humiliated became accepted, the abandoned became welcomed, the unworthy became loved and the shattering was undone. Lift up your head! Do you see how much you are loved?

‭‭”For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life. God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world but to save the world through him.” John 3:16-17 NLT

El-roi

As I flip through the pages, year after year, chapter after chapter of my life, this name for God El-Roi (the God who sees me) becomes more obvious and demonstrable. All the little moments that at the time appear inconsequential— in retrospect have enormous impact. The cumulative workings of the hand of God over the course of a life determines an intended purpose for which that life was created. Some of the choices we make may waylay those purposes from time to time but could it be possible to hinder the purposes of God ultimately? Given the fact that we are equipped with free-will, could we possibly not fulfill the purpose for which we were created?

Scripture informs us that God is sovereign over everything that exists. There is nothing outside of his purview. Within this sovereignty of all creation he works his providence of divine guidance through various circumstances. So, while we may get off the beaten track we cannot wander indefinitely, if we are truly his. He will bring about the circumstances in each individual life to fulfill that purpose for which it was created.

My life’s pages display the wandering footprints going sideways and even backwards at times. Sometimes there were even years of walking in circles purposely avoiding El-Roi’s eyes to my own hurt. This gift of free-will comes with great responsibility. Our choices have consequences. Yet, this is one of the most beautiful qualities of our Father, he doesn’t program us to respond, he gives us the freedom to choose. He is not threatened by our freedom. He desires that we choose the path he has laid out for us because it is designed for a life well-lived and meaningful for his kingdom. But choose, we may.

I am many chapters along now and I find I have less and less the desire to go off the pathway he has chosen for me. I can see more clearly now the benefits of living under the eye of El-Roi. He knows me in and out. He sees my desires, my fears, my insecurities, my frailties and his eyes tell me its all okay. He has a plan, he has a purpose for my very existence. And he will walk with me through all these moments— nothing is insignificant under my Father’s eyes. His hand will guide me until my last breath and even then I will look into his eyes up close and personal as it was always meant to be.

“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.”

‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭2:10‬ ‭ESV‬‬

The risk of remedy

I know someone, someone whom I have loved for many years, someone who was made beautiful inside and out, that overtime began to just disappear into utter brokenness. This little girl, with curls and a nose that crinkled up when she laughed, started out like all of us when our innocence is precious and our hearts are simple with trust. We embrace the world with open arms and jump with curiosity at every extended hand. But sometimes, that trusted hand can be a kin to grabbing a red hot poker and it burns deep scars into the soft flesh that takes a lifetime of careful attention to the healing remedies.

I watched this young sharp-minded, quickwitted, full-of-so-many-possibilities-girl, escape into voluntary anonymity. This took on different forms at different times but always, she was on the lam. At first, it was just from men. She started dressing like a boy with the hope of avoiding any more burns. I suppose it seems like the logical thing to do when you think that the creature that is you will only bring you pain. It’s easy for a little girl to get lost in all the hurt and confusion, left to figure it out all alone.

It wasn’t long before she gravitated toward a deeper escape, one that would begin to let her escape from herself. Looking back, this was when she started the slow evaporation of her soul. Believing she was breaking free she walked straight into captivity. She built a prison around herself but sadly never even noticed the barbed wire, though it sliced her relentlessly. So numb had she become, so covered in gnarled scar tissue she couldn’t sense the danger.

Addiction is a devil incarnate. What makes it so successful is the very deceptive nature it embodies. It’s clothed in the dazzling jewels that lure the hurting like a fish to a shiny hook waiting to snag at the first nibble. It sends out decoys on reconnaissance to entice and seduce the broken wandering souls with promises of freedom. No one ever intends to get addicted. It’s relief that we all seek in this fractured world.

There are remedies, but as I said, they require careful attention for the healing of the soul. It requires divine intervention from the hand of God, a new-birth of heart and mind to begin afresh. There are no “overnight” fixes. It is hard work to break up the gnarled scars bit by damage bit. One has to be willing to submit to the healing pain that comes with renewing. And God so desires to renew our souls. But there will be a cutting away of the damage as the new and supple life begins to flourish. But oh, the renewing of a broken soul when they begin to see themselves as they were always meant to be, is so strikingly beautiful!

That little girl has been a woman now for some time. She is still locked in her prison with walls so thick with barbed wire that barely a shot of light gets inside. She knows about the remedy but she’s been numb so long she fears the pain of feeling, so afraid to take the risk. The curls are long gone along with the beautiful smile although the sharp tongued-wit has remained intact; recognition of a soul I know and love.

“Lord, help!, They cried in their trouble and he saved them from their distress. He led them from the darkness and the deepest gloom; he snapped their chains. Let them give praise to the Lord for the things he has done for them. For he broke down their prison gates of bronze; he cut apart their bars of iron.” Psalm 107:13-16 NLT

Back to the garden

I would assume that most of us are quite familiar with the term the “terrible two’s”. You know, that very specific age of childhood where these beautiful angelic creatures suddenly seem demon-possessed? We often joke about it but when confronted with the behavior we are astounded at the innate rebellion in their little hearts. Where does this come from? How do little two-year olds know how to say NO! It’s not as though we teach them this behavior. They seem to be hard-wired this way. We can often speak of children as pure and innocent and, in terms of worldly knowledge, this is probably true. But their spirits know exactly how to rebel against their parents with a test of the wills. Pure innocence, in terms of their nature, is just a myth. That was lost long ago in the Garden—in the beginning of time.

One of the blessings of being re-born by the Spirit of God is the freedom to choose not to rebel—sin. As adults we often make it much more complicated than it actually is. We say, “we can’t help ourselves, its just how we are wired.” But, the simple truth is that, with this rebirth, we no longer have to be driven by that sinful wiring. We can actually say “NO” not in rebellion but to rebellion. We have a choice.

We just celebrated the death and resurrection of Jesus at Easter. The whole purpose of his birth, death and resurrection was for the restoration of this lost innocence. The Garden was a place of exquisite beauty, peace and joy. Everything that was needed for life was available for the pleasure of our first parents. They walked in the Garden in the presence of God. Life was good. Why ruin such a good thing? There was only one directive from God that came with limitations. “The Lord God placed man in the Garden of Eden to tend and watch over it. But the Lord warned him, “You may freely eat the fruit of every tree in the Garden—except the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. If you eat its fruit, you are sure to die.” (Genesis 2:16-17) The Lord was speaking not only of a physical death but of a spiritual one as well. As you may have heard— they didn’t listen. They made a choice to disobey the very One who met all their needs. The One who breathed life into them. Why? What happened? The shrewdest creature in the Garden caused Eve to question whether God was holding out on her. Why did he want to keep her from this specific knowledge? Why couldn’t she know everything? If she could know everything, would she then be just like God? How great would that be? “The woman was convinced…so she took some of the fruit and ate it. Then she gave some to her husband…and he ate it. At that moment their eyes were opened and they suddenly felt ashamed.” (Genesis 3:6-7) Shame was the result of spiritual death. It happened instantly. They went from enjoying the presence of God to wanting to hide from him. This was a drastic heart change.

The Shattering of the human race…

…the ground is cursed because of you. All your life you’ll struggle and scratch a living from it…by the sweat of your brow will you have food to eat until you return to the ground from which you were made. For you were made from dust and to dust you will return.” (Genesis 3:17-19) So, The Lord God said “Look, they have become like us knowing both good and evil. What if they reach out and take fruit from the Tree of Life, and eat it? Then they will live forever!” So the Lord banished them from the Garden of Eden and he sent Adam to cultivate the ground from which he had been made.” (Genesis 3:22-23)

We have been trying to get back to the Garden ever since. One philosophy after another seeking to replant the Garden. Our latest and revisited— being a utopian hope of socialism and equity etc.—but time and again it fails. Each generation intuitively knows something isn’t right with us. Each one longing for a better way. A better life.

Jesus said, “I am the Way, the Truth and the Life. No one can come to the Father except through me.” (John 14:6) He is the bridge back to the Garden, back to the life in the presence of God. At present, it is a spiritual Garden. One in which he is cultivating one heart at a time. When the Lord banished them from the Garden he did so out of love and mercy. He didn’t want them to live in a state of eternal spiritual death. He knew his Son would be the Way to breath new life back into mankind. And so he is…

Do you feel it? That unsettled need to make things right? I’m not talking about the world but your heart. God will deal with the world in his timing. You see, it’s one new birth at a time in this Garden. It’s not a lifestyle. It’s a heart change. It’s a renewed relationship with the One who made you. It’s time to get reacquainted. It’s time to release that grown-up version of the terrible-two’s and say yes. Yes, to the God who gave his Son for you. Yes, to the freedom from the power of rebellion. Why? Because you are loved! The Garden awaits you…