When it comes to apostolic temperament, I’m more of a Peter than a Paul and I’m so glad that John saw fit to wrap up his account with 3 quick stories about my man:
• The Second Massive Catch Of Fish,
• The “Do You Love Me?” Story, and
• The “What About Him?” Story.
None of these appear in any of the other Gospels.
The Second Massive Catch Of Fish, vv.1-14: The First Massive Catch Of Fish occurs in Luke 5.1-11 when Peter first heard the call to follow Jesus. In both cases, the focus is on Peter and his reaction when he recognizes Jesus. What is fascinating is how Peter the Disciple has grown in the 3 years he’s walked with Jesus.
At the First Massive Catch in Luke 5, Jesus was a stranger to Peter. Yet, as he hauled in that ripping net of fish, he was filled with a sudden terror in Jesus’ presence. He didn’t know Jesus yet, but for some reason, in His presence, he felt an an excruciating conscious of his own sinfulness. His only thought: put as much distance as possible between himself and the Lord. He cries out, “Go away from me Lord! I’m a sinful man!” Jesus halted his flight, saying “Don’t be afraid. Peter. I will make something of you that you are not. From now on you will catch men.”
At the Second Massive Catch, the one in this chapter, there was no terror. On the contrary, there was eager recognition and haste to get as close as possible to Jesus. The boat was 100 yards from shore, but Peter threw himself into the water and swam to shore, leaving John and the others to wrestle the net into the boat. (apparently he had learned to swim since that time he tried to walk on the water.)
“Do You Love Me?” vv.15-17: The first time Peter had met Jesus, he was overwhelmed by his own sinfulness. This time, sin is still an issue. It had to weigh heavy on Peter’s mind that he’d not yet had an opportunity to make right that matter of his denial the night of Jesus’ trial. In spite of the bitter taste of failure, Peter had learned something: the right response in failure is not to flee, but to face it. He had become willing to let the Lord confront it, and confront it he did. Hurt? Oh my, how it hurt! But Peter was willing to let Jesus probe his weakness because he had learned that failure need never be terminal for a disciple. He no longer needed to flee.
“What About Him?” vv.18-23: In the final scene, Jesus gives Peter a glimpse of what the future holds for him and it sounds scary. “Well, how ‘bout John?” he asks. Jesus answers, “That’s classified information.” I think the point of this story is simply that even though they’ve both had 3 years with Jesus , and they’ve both been turned into fishers-of men, as promised, this is not the graduation ceremony. This is only the jumping-off point. They will be disciple-makers, their days of being disciples themselves are not over. Come what may, their discipleship will never be complete until they either go to be with him, or he comes back to be with them.
Duane
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
January 20 / John 20
Saturday we attended the memorial service for Miguel, a young Dominican/Haitian pastor, taken ill suddenly with meningitis and dead 3 days later. We mourned the loss of a dear friend, a spiritual leader of a growing church who showed so much potential for the Kingdom. We mourned the shattered dreams of his beautiful bride of 10 months and for his large extended family in shock and anguish over the loss of the "baby of the family." For three hours we listened as one after another shared how Miguel, in his humble, godly way, had impacted their lives and how hard it was to imagine life without him.
As I read John 20, I imagine Jesus' followers reeling from the shock of his death! Confusion rocked their souls. How could He be dead if He was really who He had claimed to be: the Son of God? Their whole world had been built around him for the last 3 years, and now it had all come crashing down. They had given up everything to follow Him: their jobs, homes, families. They had pinned all their hopes on Him, the One who they believed was the Messiah, coming to save his people from their sin and their slavery to Rome. They had made big plans, they had invested themselves, they had dared to dream. They couldn't imagine life without him.
The disciples not only mourned the loss of their Lord, their friend, their teacher,and their future but they also experienced great fear. In vs. 19 we see them huddled behind locked doors, expecting the Jews to come after them at any minute, now that their master had been successfully eliminated. To add insult to injury, they believed that Jesus' body had been stolen away as well, despite hearing what "unstable, grief-striken Mary" had witnessed in the garden.
Here they were at their lowest point, dreading the worst, no hope, no future, totally disillusioned. The very last thing they could have imagined or dared to hope for was for Jesus to suddenly appear in their midst, but He did! Surprised by joy! "Jesus came and stood among them and said, 'Peace be with you!' After he said this, He showed them His hands and side. The disciples were overjoyed when they saw the Lord." vs. 19,20
Because Jesus rose from the dead and He is alive, He came and stood among us at Miguel's memorial service last Saturday! Right there in the midst of our loss and our "How could this have happened?" we heard His voice: "Peace be with you!" thru song, and scripture and testimony. And if any of us doubted His love in the midst of the great pain He had allowed, He showed us His hands and side, proof of his His great love and sacrifice made to rescue us.
Yes, we grieve, yet with hope. "We believe that Jesus died and rose again and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep with him....And so we will be with the Lord forever.....Therefore encourage each other with these words." 1 Thes 4:15,17b,18 So inspite of our tears we rejoiced in His presence in our midst and rejoiced for our brother who is alive, enjoying the Savior he loves and serves. We encouraged each other in the hope that we have not said a permanent "adios" to Miguel but only a temporary "hasta luego", knowing that one day we will be reunited and together enjoy our Lord forever.
May you be overjoyed as you hear His voice, experience His presence, see the scars of His love for you today.
Priscilla
As I read John 20, I imagine Jesus' followers reeling from the shock of his death! Confusion rocked their souls. How could He be dead if He was really who He had claimed to be: the Son of God? Their whole world had been built around him for the last 3 years, and now it had all come crashing down. They had given up everything to follow Him: their jobs, homes, families. They had pinned all their hopes on Him, the One who they believed was the Messiah, coming to save his people from their sin and their slavery to Rome. They had made big plans, they had invested themselves, they had dared to dream. They couldn't imagine life without him.
The disciples not only mourned the loss of their Lord, their friend, their teacher,and their future but they also experienced great fear. In vs. 19 we see them huddled behind locked doors, expecting the Jews to come after them at any minute, now that their master had been successfully eliminated. To add insult to injury, they believed that Jesus' body had been stolen away as well, despite hearing what "unstable, grief-striken Mary" had witnessed in the garden.
Here they were at their lowest point, dreading the worst, no hope, no future, totally disillusioned. The very last thing they could have imagined or dared to hope for was for Jesus to suddenly appear in their midst, but He did! Surprised by joy! "Jesus came and stood among them and said, 'Peace be with you!' After he said this, He showed them His hands and side. The disciples were overjoyed when they saw the Lord." vs. 19,20
Because Jesus rose from the dead and He is alive, He came and stood among us at Miguel's memorial service last Saturday! Right there in the midst of our loss and our "How could this have happened?" we heard His voice: "Peace be with you!" thru song, and scripture and testimony. And if any of us doubted His love in the midst of the great pain He had allowed, He showed us His hands and side, proof of his His great love and sacrifice made to rescue us.
Yes, we grieve, yet with hope. "We believe that Jesus died and rose again and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep with him....And so we will be with the Lord forever.....Therefore encourage each other with these words." 1 Thes 4:15,17b,18 So inspite of our tears we rejoiced in His presence in our midst and rejoiced for our brother who is alive, enjoying the Savior he loves and serves. We encouraged each other in the hope that we have not said a permanent "adios" to Miguel but only a temporary "hasta luego", knowing that one day we will be reunited and together enjoy our Lord forever.
May you be overjoyed as you hear His voice, experience His presence, see the scars of His love for you today.
Priscilla
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
January 19 / John 19
In John 18, we saw the only Righteous One ever to be a part of our human race being betrayed by one disciple, bound as though he were dangerous, dragged from one authority to another, falsely accused, denied by another disciple, toyed with by a silly Roman governor who could pronounce the death sentence, and finally, a crowd calling for his execution instead of that of a murderous brigand.
Now John 19 is happening. An ashamed, repentant Peter watches. Later, he sums it up: 1 Peter 3:17-18 (The Message): It's better to suffer for doing good, if that's what God wants, than to be punished for doing bad. That's what Christ did definitively: suffered because of others' sins, the Righteous One for the unrighteous ones. He went through it all—was put to death and then made alive—to bring us to God.
In John 19, we see unjust, unrighteous people do cruel, unrighteous things to Jesus, making him suffer atrociously and die in official disgrace.
In the midst of this awful storm of injustice and suffering, some people stand faithful to the Righteous One. Who are they and how do they show their faithfulness? Could I have done that? Am I facing some situation where it is hard to stand up for Jesus?
Besides terrible physical suffering, what other kinds of suffering was Jesus undergoing?
Did he curse or threaten anyone? Try to “get even” with his tormentors?
I can never be the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world. But I can be a witness to him as I, enabled by the Holy Spirit, deal with suffering or unjust treatment the same way he did. Peter says so:
1 Peter 2:21-25 (The Message): This is the kind of life you've been invited into, the kind of life Christ lived. He suffered everything that came his way so you would know that it could be done, and also know how to do it, step-by-step. He never did one thing wrong, not once said anything amiss. They called him every name in the book and he said nothing back. He suffered in silence, content to let God set things right. He used his servant body to carry our sins to the Cross so we could be rid of sin, free to live the right way. His wounds became your healing. You were lost sheep with no idea who you were or where you were going. Now you're named and kept for good by the Shepherd of your souls.
Lowell
Now John 19 is happening. An ashamed, repentant Peter watches. Later, he sums it up: 1 Peter 3:17-18 (The Message): It's better to suffer for doing good, if that's what God wants, than to be punished for doing bad. That's what Christ did definitively: suffered because of others' sins, the Righteous One for the unrighteous ones. He went through it all—was put to death and then made alive—to bring us to God.
In John 19, we see unjust, unrighteous people do cruel, unrighteous things to Jesus, making him suffer atrociously and die in official disgrace.
In the midst of this awful storm of injustice and suffering, some people stand faithful to the Righteous One. Who are they and how do they show their faithfulness? Could I have done that? Am I facing some situation where it is hard to stand up for Jesus?
Besides terrible physical suffering, what other kinds of suffering was Jesus undergoing?
Did he curse or threaten anyone? Try to “get even” with his tormentors?
I can never be the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world. But I can be a witness to him as I, enabled by the Holy Spirit, deal with suffering or unjust treatment the same way he did. Peter says so:
1 Peter 2:21-25 (The Message): This is the kind of life you've been invited into, the kind of life Christ lived. He suffered everything that came his way so you would know that it could be done, and also know how to do it, step-by-step. He never did one thing wrong, not once said anything amiss. They called him every name in the book and he said nothing back. He suffered in silence, content to let God set things right. He used his servant body to carry our sins to the Cross so we could be rid of sin, free to live the right way. His wounds became your healing. You were lost sheep with no idea who you were or where you were going. Now you're named and kept for good by the Shepherd of your souls.
Lowell
Monday, January 17, 2011
January 18 / John 18
Malchus and Barrabas... here are two names in Scripture we don't hear often. We know very little about Barrabas and nothing at all about Malchus, besides his position as high priest servant (and the fact that from here on after he only had one ear!). About Barabbas we know some; he was in prison for having taken part in an uprising. We also know what side of the Passion story they were on...the bad guys! One was part of the posse sent to arrest Christ and the other was a hardened criminal. Rarely do we hear Bible stories were they are the heroes!
Peter is a different story. He became the rock the Church was built on, one of Christ's closest friends, a leader amongst the disciples. He walked on water, he had a brother who was a disciple, he saw his mother-in-law healed (no word on whether he considers that a good thing or a bad thing). We know a lot about Peter. Maybe the most popular story about Peter is his denial of Christ. John 18 details this denial and his crazy attempt to "rescue" Christ with a sword.
And here's what's funny to me... in John 18 it is the traditional bad guys (Malchus and Barabbas) who are innocent bystanders and the spiritual guy (Peter) who is the big sinner! Malchus does nothing his bosses did not instruct him to do and gets his ear chopped off! Barabbas is sitting in prison and suddenly is released. Meanwhile, Peter, the teacher's pet, cuts off an ear, then denies Christ three times...all in 40 verses.
If I were Peter, this chapter would be really embarrassing. This chapter is full of Peter's failure.
Growing up, when I got in trouble, I dreaded my Father's return because I knew I was "gonna get it." I would be dreading seeing Christ face to face, if I were Peter, after the embarrassing events in this chapter. But, when Peter gets news Christ is resurrected, he RUNS to the empty grave.
And that is the difference. It does not matter how bad our latest chapter is, we can always still run to the grave. I wonder what would have happened to Malchus and Barabbas if they had known they could run to the grave, despite their awful last chapters? Maybe Malchus, with his one good ear and an amazing story of how he went to capture Christ but got captured with His love instead, would have become an important evangelist. Maybe Barabbas, with his story of gaining his freedom at Christ's expense, would have become a church leader. Because, a mere fisherman with a bad temper and questionable loyalty, became the rock the Church was built on after a bad chapter...when he ran to the empty grave.
Mike
Peter is a different story. He became the rock the Church was built on, one of Christ's closest friends, a leader amongst the disciples. He walked on water, he had a brother who was a disciple, he saw his mother-in-law healed (no word on whether he considers that a good thing or a bad thing). We know a lot about Peter. Maybe the most popular story about Peter is his denial of Christ. John 18 details this denial and his crazy attempt to "rescue" Christ with a sword.
And here's what's funny to me... in John 18 it is the traditional bad guys (Malchus and Barabbas) who are innocent bystanders and the spiritual guy (Peter) who is the big sinner! Malchus does nothing his bosses did not instruct him to do and gets his ear chopped off! Barabbas is sitting in prison and suddenly is released. Meanwhile, Peter, the teacher's pet, cuts off an ear, then denies Christ three times...all in 40 verses.
If I were Peter, this chapter would be really embarrassing. This chapter is full of Peter's failure.
Growing up, when I got in trouble, I dreaded my Father's return because I knew I was "gonna get it." I would be dreading seeing Christ face to face, if I were Peter, after the embarrassing events in this chapter. But, when Peter gets news Christ is resurrected, he RUNS to the empty grave.
And that is the difference. It does not matter how bad our latest chapter is, we can always still run to the grave. I wonder what would have happened to Malchus and Barabbas if they had known they could run to the grave, despite their awful last chapters? Maybe Malchus, with his one good ear and an amazing story of how he went to capture Christ but got captured with His love instead, would have become an important evangelist. Maybe Barabbas, with his story of gaining his freedom at Christ's expense, would have become a church leader. Because, a mere fisherman with a bad temper and questionable loyalty, became the rock the Church was built on after a bad chapter...when he ran to the empty grave.
Mike
Sunday, January 16, 2011
January 17 / John 17
Many times I have preached about a certain aspect in this the most 'worldly' prayer in the Bible. In the version I am using (the best one there is) the word 'world' is mentioned 19 times in it's various meanings, which range from the created world, to mankind, the present time, to the satanic inspired world system. We as disciples are in but not from the world, we are sent into and hated by the world and graciously protected from the evil one. Keep looking there are many more aspects of one's relationship to the world!
But most recently there is another phrase that impressed itself on my mind as I read this chapter. Repeated about 16 times are phrases by Christ like this: 'You have given me...' 11 times, 'I have given them...' 4 times.
Besides the many other themes that are mentioned in this passage one could call this the Great Gift Chapter as the Father has given Christ his Authority, his Work, his Word(s), all things, his Glory and foremost it is the Father who makes the most striking gift, the men (and I am convinced that there are also women among them) who are given to Christ, mentioned five times in this chapter. Christ in turn has given the disciples Eternal Life, the Word, his Glory.
We do consider ourselves followers, disciples, servants and workers in the great venture of the Kingdom and rightfully so, but foremost we are a gift, that God chose and presented to His Son, a precious treasure, a 'peculiar people', His own 'special treasure', 'a people for His own possession' as Ex.19:5 and 1Pet.2:9 put it. That's what we are--a precious gift from God to Christ in spite of all our 'peculiarities,' a gift that He will guard and protect and perfect, whatever the cost. He has proven on Calvary that no cost is too high to do just that.
Grace and Peace to you all, Johannes
But most recently there is another phrase that impressed itself on my mind as I read this chapter. Repeated about 16 times are phrases by Christ like this: 'You have given me...' 11 times, 'I have given them...' 4 times.
Besides the many other themes that are mentioned in this passage one could call this the Great Gift Chapter as the Father has given Christ his Authority, his Work, his Word(s), all things, his Glory and foremost it is the Father who makes the most striking gift, the men (and I am convinced that there are also women among them) who are given to Christ, mentioned five times in this chapter. Christ in turn has given the disciples Eternal Life, the Word, his Glory.
We do consider ourselves followers, disciples, servants and workers in the great venture of the Kingdom and rightfully so, but foremost we are a gift, that God chose and presented to His Son, a precious treasure, a 'peculiar people', His own 'special treasure', 'a people for His own possession' as Ex.19:5 and 1Pet.2:9 put it. That's what we are--a precious gift from God to Christ in spite of all our 'peculiarities,' a gift that He will guard and protect and perfect, whatever the cost. He has proven on Calvary that no cost is too high to do just that.
Grace and Peace to you all, Johannes
Saturday, January 15, 2011
January 16 / John 16
Following chapters 13-15, Jesus continues in this chapter to speak His final words to His disciples. There is a movie called “My Life” in which Michael Keaton is a father who has a terminal disease and starts videotaping his wisdom about life for his kids to hear when they grow up after he dies. In that same spirit, Jesus seems to speak with an urgency and depth of feeling because He knows what is coming and they don’t. He doesn’t want them to go astray, He doesn’t want them to be overcome by grief, He wants their joy to be complete, and as if in summary, He reminds them that it is possible for them to have peace. (v. 33) Verse 12 seems so raw: “I have much more to say to you, more than you can now bear.” This statement is also remarkable because His deep desire for them to understand is balanced by His compassion and understanding of both their capacity and weakness. I love that He deals with me the same way; it’s difficult to imitate.
I’m struck in this chapter by His desire to alleviate their grief by repeatedly explaining what is going to happen so they won’t be confused, and by His quickness to encourage them with future joy. Reading and re-reading the Gospels sometimes seems to sterilize Jesus’ emotions and interactions with others, but His genuine concern for them is so apparent here. He is really focused on what they will be feeling and it’s easy to forget that He is the one who is about to suffer until His brief comment in v. 32, “You will leave me all alone. Yet I am not alone….” This unselfish love is the basis for true discipleship, as we all know. Since the disciples seemed to understand so little of what He said, I’m guessing that they enjoyed His love much more than the information He passed on. How frustratingly un-Western.
Verse 13 calls for some meditating- “But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all truth.” It’s the extent of ALL truth that is hard to grasp. What did Jesus have in mind when He said this to the disciples? In what future situations did He know they would need guidance? He knew the Spirit would guide them into a more comprehensive idea of who He was/is, a more complete picture of who they were (betrayals and all), what to do in certain situations, how to begin and function as a church, how to keep going when shocking, tragic things happen (James is killed and Peter is next). It is for these same things that He still gives guidance. The question is whether we are listening.
Jeanne
I’m struck in this chapter by His desire to alleviate their grief by repeatedly explaining what is going to happen so they won’t be confused, and by His quickness to encourage them with future joy. Reading and re-reading the Gospels sometimes seems to sterilize Jesus’ emotions and interactions with others, but His genuine concern for them is so apparent here. He is really focused on what they will be feeling and it’s easy to forget that He is the one who is about to suffer until His brief comment in v. 32, “You will leave me all alone. Yet I am not alone….” This unselfish love is the basis for true discipleship, as we all know. Since the disciples seemed to understand so little of what He said, I’m guessing that they enjoyed His love much more than the information He passed on. How frustratingly un-Western.
Verse 13 calls for some meditating- “But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all truth.” It’s the extent of ALL truth that is hard to grasp. What did Jesus have in mind when He said this to the disciples? In what future situations did He know they would need guidance? He knew the Spirit would guide them into a more comprehensive idea of who He was/is, a more complete picture of who they were (betrayals and all), what to do in certain situations, how to begin and function as a church, how to keep going when shocking, tragic things happen (James is killed and Peter is next). It is for these same things that He still gives guidance. The question is whether we are listening.
Jeanne
Friday, January 14, 2011
January 15 / John 15
Here is humanity’s great divide. Do we live and breathe and find our entire meaning united in Jesus or do we reject him and chose instead to fight through life on our own, alone. Do we abide in Him or do we despise His very name? Is our sustenance for life found in Jesus or do we chose to ignore and battle Him and those who are His? Do we seek to live for Jesus and glorify our heavenly Father or do we live for self, for me? Life and eternity are based on decisions; some chose Jesus, some reject Him. It has always been this way, and always will. But look at the riches that are ours, given to all of us who have given ourselves to Jesus.
To those who love Jesus and obey Him we are promised His love, the love or our creator. We are promised joy. Not just any joy, but a joy that comes from God and is full. Jesus shows us His tenderness and love. He chose us to be His very own and He gave Himself for our redemption. He served us and He calls us His friends. And He calls us to love as He has loved us.
We love Jesus and obey Him. In a real way we have opted out of the self-centred world system. We are different because of what Jesus is doing in our lives and we stand out the way a beautiful flower stands out in a field of weeds. Jesus tells us to not think it strange that those of the world may despise us and all that we stand for, because we stand for Jesus. Have you suffered for your faith? Have you lost friends because of your stand for Jesus? Have you faced persecution? Many of my brothers and sisters in Cuba know the truth of these verses in a way that I probably will never understand. Christians in Sudan and other lands know what it is to suffer for the Name. Jesus promises us joy but tells us that there is a price to be paid for that joy. There is a cost.
This chapter ends with a most wonderful promise. The Comforter is with us, the Spirit indwells us and we never, ever live alone. We have chosen to declare the name of our Lord. We have chosen to be missionaries, or have we? No, it is our Lord who chose us, who gave us the privilege of living a life that many others would dearly love to live. We are on the front lines but we are not alone because we are grafted into the vine which sustains us. We declare His glory because we understand that without Him we are nothing. What a glorious chapter.
Gary
To those who love Jesus and obey Him we are promised His love, the love or our creator. We are promised joy. Not just any joy, but a joy that comes from God and is full. Jesus shows us His tenderness and love. He chose us to be His very own and He gave Himself for our redemption. He served us and He calls us His friends. And He calls us to love as He has loved us.
We love Jesus and obey Him. In a real way we have opted out of the self-centred world system. We are different because of what Jesus is doing in our lives and we stand out the way a beautiful flower stands out in a field of weeds. Jesus tells us to not think it strange that those of the world may despise us and all that we stand for, because we stand for Jesus. Have you suffered for your faith? Have you lost friends because of your stand for Jesus? Have you faced persecution? Many of my brothers and sisters in Cuba know the truth of these verses in a way that I probably will never understand. Christians in Sudan and other lands know what it is to suffer for the Name. Jesus promises us joy but tells us that there is a price to be paid for that joy. There is a cost.
This chapter ends with a most wonderful promise. The Comforter is with us, the Spirit indwells us and we never, ever live alone. We have chosen to declare the name of our Lord. We have chosen to be missionaries, or have we? No, it is our Lord who chose us, who gave us the privilege of living a life that many others would dearly love to live. We are on the front lines but we are not alone because we are grafted into the vine which sustains us. We declare His glory because we understand that without Him we are nothing. What a glorious chapter.
Gary
Thursday, January 13, 2011
January 14 / John 14
Finding Home
As missionaries we’ve known those repeated airport moments when we have experienced the pain of separation from those we love…parents, siblings, children and friends. In parting moments, reassuring words of when we will see each other again, where we will be, or how we will stay in touch seek to manage the loss of separation. We are created to belong, so separation can be difficult.
What strikes me from this chapter is the effort Jesus goes to in addressing the personal fears the disciples were facing. The disciples had just witnessed the rejection and threat of the Jewish leaders toward Jesus. But now, on this special evening of farewells, Jesus spoke of betrayal from within the group and His leaving them. Imagine how upsetting this would have been. We know the story well, but this was startling, troubling, and world-shattering news to hear. How their world would change! Where? How? Why? The chapter is filled with the troubling questions of Peter, Philip, Thomas, and Judas as they seek to make sense of this news. Jesus seeks to help their fears of being separated and living life without Him, as they had grown used to him as their friend, mentor, leader, and God. He reassures them by addressing their troubled hearts.
First He talked of His plans for their future together in heaven. Jesus was returning home. He knew the dwelling places of His father’s home and assured them He would be preparing a place for them. As if it would not be enough to be with Jesus, He gives them images of a home they can eternally share together. This affirms the significance of a place to call home where we belong and share life. They would have a future together and He would return to take them there. What hope and comfort this news must have brought them. Yet they still seemed to be unsure about how they would get to Him. Jesus reassures Thomas that they will be able to reach him. Knowing him was all that was needed to mapping the way to him.
The next reassurance Jesus gives is truly enlightening news. Our familiarity with the Holy Spirit keeps us from sensing the wonder of His unique role. Jesus promised to send in His place His Spirit to be with them. In a sense, He would come to them or still be with them through the Spirit. He would not just abandon them and leave them as orphans. Jesus mentions that though the Spirit had already been with them, He would now dwell in them. Imagine that: Jesus’ presence through the Spirit of God in them. He mentioned His role as Counselor, and One who helps us understand what God is saying to us.
To top it off, Jesus goes on to describe a truly incredible reality. Not only does He plan to set up home in heaven, and have the Spirit set up home in us, He describes the amazing reality that both Jesus and the Father make their home with us. As an adolescent, I remember reading that small Nav booklet My heart, Christ’s home and being warmed and intrigued. How could a transcendent God be so immanent and present with me? How could He want to reside in me or with me? God has moved in with us. He has set up residency in my heart. In other words, we are never alone, never completely separated. And since finding a sense of home in the ever changing reality of living across cultures is not always possible, it is good to know there is a sense of home with God right in my own heart.
Assurance of His presence in a permanent home within brings peace. It calms our troubled hearts. Yet how often do we feel troubled, alone, “homeless”, orphaned, or on our own? What personal fears are you experiencing today, lurking in the background of your mind? Who are you missing? What difference does it make to remember that you have a resident counselor, friend, truth guide, helper, and savior right in the family room of your heart? Go find Him. Sit down with Him. Talk with Him. Enjoy His presence. Share your troubles. Find peace. Find home. He has not left us as orphans.
Jim
As missionaries we’ve known those repeated airport moments when we have experienced the pain of separation from those we love…parents, siblings, children and friends. In parting moments, reassuring words of when we will see each other again, where we will be, or how we will stay in touch seek to manage the loss of separation. We are created to belong, so separation can be difficult.
What strikes me from this chapter is the effort Jesus goes to in addressing the personal fears the disciples were facing. The disciples had just witnessed the rejection and threat of the Jewish leaders toward Jesus. But now, on this special evening of farewells, Jesus spoke of betrayal from within the group and His leaving them. Imagine how upsetting this would have been. We know the story well, but this was startling, troubling, and world-shattering news to hear. How their world would change! Where? How? Why? The chapter is filled with the troubling questions of Peter, Philip, Thomas, and Judas as they seek to make sense of this news. Jesus seeks to help their fears of being separated and living life without Him, as they had grown used to him as their friend, mentor, leader, and God. He reassures them by addressing their troubled hearts.
First He talked of His plans for their future together in heaven. Jesus was returning home. He knew the dwelling places of His father’s home and assured them He would be preparing a place for them. As if it would not be enough to be with Jesus, He gives them images of a home they can eternally share together. This affirms the significance of a place to call home where we belong and share life. They would have a future together and He would return to take them there. What hope and comfort this news must have brought them. Yet they still seemed to be unsure about how they would get to Him. Jesus reassures Thomas that they will be able to reach him. Knowing him was all that was needed to mapping the way to him.
The next reassurance Jesus gives is truly enlightening news. Our familiarity with the Holy Spirit keeps us from sensing the wonder of His unique role. Jesus promised to send in His place His Spirit to be with them. In a sense, He would come to them or still be with them through the Spirit. He would not just abandon them and leave them as orphans. Jesus mentions that though the Spirit had already been with them, He would now dwell in them. Imagine that: Jesus’ presence through the Spirit of God in them. He mentioned His role as Counselor, and One who helps us understand what God is saying to us.
To top it off, Jesus goes on to describe a truly incredible reality. Not only does He plan to set up home in heaven, and have the Spirit set up home in us, He describes the amazing reality that both Jesus and the Father make their home with us. As an adolescent, I remember reading that small Nav booklet My heart, Christ’s home and being warmed and intrigued. How could a transcendent God be so immanent and present with me? How could He want to reside in me or with me? God has moved in with us. He has set up residency in my heart. In other words, we are never alone, never completely separated. And since finding a sense of home in the ever changing reality of living across cultures is not always possible, it is good to know there is a sense of home with God right in my own heart.
Assurance of His presence in a permanent home within brings peace. It calms our troubled hearts. Yet how often do we feel troubled, alone, “homeless”, orphaned, or on our own? What personal fears are you experiencing today, lurking in the background of your mind? Who are you missing? What difference does it make to remember that you have a resident counselor, friend, truth guide, helper, and savior right in the family room of your heart? Go find Him. Sit down with Him. Talk with Him. Enjoy His presence. Share your troubles. Find peace. Find home. He has not left us as orphans.
Jim
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
January 13 / John 13
As I ponder the thirteenth chapter of the Gospel of John, I have mixed emotions. It is as if I am eves dropping in on a very intimate time in the life of Jesus and His twelve chosen men. It is of the same importance, as ‘hearing the last words’ of a departing loved one. Last words are always lasting words; at least they are for me, very personal and very private yet we are privy to hear them. Jesus is preparing Himself and His Disciples for His imminent death.
I find it impossible to imagine the silenced emotions felt by different ones in that upstairs room. Jesus, Son of Man, knowing He will soon be mercilessly suffering for an unrighteous sinner such as I. Peter rebuking God for making Himself an example for me to follow. Judas being aware that he had betrayed his best Friend of the past three years or so. (For what - about a month’s wages.) And then the rest of the disciples trying to read the faces of one another to decipher what in the world was happening.
Jesus’ head is prepared, vss. 1-3. He knew His death was imminent, vs.1. He knew who would betray Him, vs.2; and He knew He had finished the work He had come to do up to this point. Only one more event was left, His sacrifice for us.
Jesus’ hands were prepared, vss. 4-11. With basin and towel in hand, He had one last act of servant-hood to perform to help His disciples understand their role as His example of service.
Jesus’ heart was prepared, vss. 12-20. Having washed their feet, even the feet of His betrayer, He relaxed with the twelve hand picked Apostle/missionary servants and charged them to become foot-washers – servants - as He had just demonstrated, see vs. 15.
Now, What steps do I need to take to be counted worthy of being a missionary of the Gospel of Christ Jesus? How can I prepare my head, hands and heart to become a worthy servant? Maybe I should start right where the disciples started, by being willing to wash feet.
Just had a thought. I can use my head to think of the most unlikely people I could serve, perhaps in some unlikely way. I can use my hands to make a list of those people and ask God for a heart of love for them. I can follow that by asking God to give me an opportunity to demonstrate His love for them, even in the most menial of tasks. I can call it, ‘random acts of foot washing’. No need of ‘thanks’ now; I’ll pick up any rewards later. Hearing Him say, “well done” will be plenty rewarding for me.
Don
I find it impossible to imagine the silenced emotions felt by different ones in that upstairs room. Jesus, Son of Man, knowing He will soon be mercilessly suffering for an unrighteous sinner such as I. Peter rebuking God for making Himself an example for me to follow. Judas being aware that he had betrayed his best Friend of the past three years or so. (For what - about a month’s wages.) And then the rest of the disciples trying to read the faces of one another to decipher what in the world was happening.
Jesus’ head is prepared, vss. 1-3. He knew His death was imminent, vs.1. He knew who would betray Him, vs.2; and He knew He had finished the work He had come to do up to this point. Only one more event was left, His sacrifice for us.
Jesus’ hands were prepared, vss. 4-11. With basin and towel in hand, He had one last act of servant-hood to perform to help His disciples understand their role as His example of service.
Jesus’ heart was prepared, vss. 12-20. Having washed their feet, even the feet of His betrayer, He relaxed with the twelve hand picked Apostle/missionary servants and charged them to become foot-washers – servants - as He had just demonstrated, see vs. 15.
Now, What steps do I need to take to be counted worthy of being a missionary of the Gospel of Christ Jesus? How can I prepare my head, hands and heart to become a worthy servant? Maybe I should start right where the disciples started, by being willing to wash feet.
Just had a thought. I can use my head to think of the most unlikely people I could serve, perhaps in some unlikely way. I can use my hands to make a list of those people and ask God for a heart of love for them. I can follow that by asking God to give me an opportunity to demonstrate His love for them, even in the most menial of tasks. I can call it, ‘random acts of foot washing’. No need of ‘thanks’ now; I’ll pick up any rewards later. Hearing Him say, “well done” will be plenty rewarding for me.
Don
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
January 12 / John 12
Death and Dying are contrasted with Life and Development. The key characters on stage in chapter 12 demonstrate this contrast. Lazarus, Mary, Jesus, the Crowd, the Disciples, the Greeks, the Pharisees, the chief rulers are on one side or the other. Lazarus had been dead is now alive, Jesus alive is soon to die. Mary gives her love and Jesus develops her life. The unbroken bottle had no fragrance, yet lots of fragrance comes after the bottle is broken. The people see Lazarus as a living spectacle, the chief priests see him as a statistic, a dead man. Some Jews believe and celebrate, the Pharisees continue dumbfounded and unbelieving, with lethal intent.
The choices are always these two opposites. To lose or to win (or gain). To “lose my life” is to die to self and personal ambitions, that which is about me, number 1. The emphasis by human nature is on winning, preserving what I can. Keep the bottle whole, keep the fragrance inside, protect the image and destroy everything that would get in the way. Or be broken and let the fragrance out. To lose my life, (to die), is to “find life”, to win, to tie into God’s purposes and glory, to view the big picture of everything that is eternal and to invest in that. Life and Light spring out from death and darkness.
There were those chief priests/Pharisees who refused to die to ambition, position, prestige, and success. Some believed privately. It’s easier to believe privately, to die privately. Nothing lost if things don’t work out. Ambitions, positions, prestige, successes are kept intact. No death necessary. No risk at stake. But no sweet fragrance released either.
The disciples were slow to get it. I’m one of those slow ones too. But I’m starting to get it. After this year I am beginning to understand what it means to die to “success” in replanting the Palmiste church. I was so sure this would happen-- for God’s Glory, of course. To experience the cold shoulder from those who were once warm and vibrant members of the family was hard on my reputation. To walk the streets of Rambert Village without the honor of position as a man of the cloth and be given the silent treatment seemed unfair. To Walk in the Light and pray a lot for answers with little visible results was frustrating. To experience the oppressive powers of darkness in an all out spiritual battle on every front (and winning) yet with no church growth was humiliating. But I’m starting to understand. The kernel has fallen into the ground, the outer shell is cracking. Fragrant Life will spring out of death and brokenness.
LaVern
The choices are always these two opposites. To lose or to win (or gain). To “lose my life” is to die to self and personal ambitions, that which is about me, number 1. The emphasis by human nature is on winning, preserving what I can. Keep the bottle whole, keep the fragrance inside, protect the image and destroy everything that would get in the way. Or be broken and let the fragrance out. To lose my life, (to die), is to “find life”, to win, to tie into God’s purposes and glory, to view the big picture of everything that is eternal and to invest in that. Life and Light spring out from death and darkness.
There were those chief priests/Pharisees who refused to die to ambition, position, prestige, and success. Some believed privately. It’s easier to believe privately, to die privately. Nothing lost if things don’t work out. Ambitions, positions, prestige, successes are kept intact. No death necessary. No risk at stake. But no sweet fragrance released either.
The disciples were slow to get it. I’m one of those slow ones too. But I’m starting to get it. After this year I am beginning to understand what it means to die to “success” in replanting the Palmiste church. I was so sure this would happen-- for God’s Glory, of course. To experience the cold shoulder from those who were once warm and vibrant members of the family was hard on my reputation. To walk the streets of Rambert Village without the honor of position as a man of the cloth and be given the silent treatment seemed unfair. To Walk in the Light and pray a lot for answers with little visible results was frustrating. To experience the oppressive powers of darkness in an all out spiritual battle on every front (and winning) yet with no church growth was humiliating. But I’m starting to understand. The kernel has fallen into the ground, the outer shell is cracking. Fragrant Life will spring out of death and brokenness.
LaVern
Monday, January 10, 2011
January 11 / John 11
Let Faith Arise
What an amazing chapter!! It's so reassuring!! Jesus reassures us of His great love for us and also that He understands our hurts. When we weep, He weeps!! We are not alone in this journey. We may have our "if onlys" like Mary (v. 32), and Martha (v. 21), but He assures us of His presence.
When we go through difficult times, it's all so much easier if we are able to step back and get perspective, - see the whole picture. The sooner we can come to the place where we can say, "This is okay Lord, i don't understand, but I accept this trial and desire your name to be glorified, (v.4). It's almost magical - I remember walking and talking with the Lord on my way to the hospital when our daughter, Brittany, was very ill (prior to her MS diagnosis). I remember saying through my tears out loud, "God, if this is your will, okay Lord, I accept this. I just want your name to be glorified!!".
I can't explain how it happened, but I felt a huge load fall off my shoulders, I was able to smile through my tears. He truly gave me the grace and strength to face the upcoming news that Brittany was diagnosed with MS.
This vivid lesson that I learned came in very handy with the subsequent trials that were still to come. He really can bring something "good" out of the apparent ugly situation, but ONLY if we let go and let God do His thing!! As someone said, "If He can be trusted for your eternal home, He can be trusted with your difficulty today!!" We must never gauge His love for us by our difficulties!!
As Chris Tomlin best put it:
"Be still, there is a healer. His love is deeper than the sea. His mercy is unfailing. His arms, a fortress for the weak. LET FAITH ARISE, LET FAITH ARISE. I lift my hands to believe again. You are my refuge, You are my strength. As I pour out my heart, these things I remember. You are faithful, God, forever."
LET FAITH ARISE. He can be trusted. Lazarus was brought to life, Mary and Martha's faith was strengthened and many Jews put their faith in Him (v.45), God was glorified!!
"Let faith arise, He is faithful!!!"
Sharon Mitchell
What an amazing chapter!! It's so reassuring!! Jesus reassures us of His great love for us and also that He understands our hurts. When we weep, He weeps!! We are not alone in this journey. We may have our "if onlys" like Mary (v. 32), and Martha (v. 21), but He assures us of His presence.
When we go through difficult times, it's all so much easier if we are able to step back and get perspective, - see the whole picture. The sooner we can come to the place where we can say, "This is okay Lord, i don't understand, but I accept this trial and desire your name to be glorified, (v.4). It's almost magical - I remember walking and talking with the Lord on my way to the hospital when our daughter, Brittany, was very ill (prior to her MS diagnosis). I remember saying through my tears out loud, "God, if this is your will, okay Lord, I accept this. I just want your name to be glorified!!".
I can't explain how it happened, but I felt a huge load fall off my shoulders, I was able to smile through my tears. He truly gave me the grace and strength to face the upcoming news that Brittany was diagnosed with MS.
This vivid lesson that I learned came in very handy with the subsequent trials that were still to come. He really can bring something "good" out of the apparent ugly situation, but ONLY if we let go and let God do His thing!! As someone said, "If He can be trusted for your eternal home, He can be trusted with your difficulty today!!" We must never gauge His love for us by our difficulties!!
As Chris Tomlin best put it:
"Be still, there is a healer. His love is deeper than the sea. His mercy is unfailing. His arms, a fortress for the weak. LET FAITH ARISE, LET FAITH ARISE. I lift my hands to believe again. You are my refuge, You are my strength. As I pour out my heart, these things I remember. You are faithful, God, forever."
LET FAITH ARISE. He can be trusted. Lazarus was brought to life, Mary and Martha's faith was strengthened and many Jews put their faith in Him (v.45), God was glorified!!
"Let faith arise, He is faithful!!!"
Sharon Mitchell
Sunday, January 9, 2011
January 10 / John 10
After healing the man born blind, John 10 continues Jesus' confrontation with the Jews who refused to believe. Jesus' words are some of the most wonderful truths for us. It is interesting to observe that they come out of great conflict where the Jews were frantically trying to kill Him.
This is truth. You can take it to the bank. You can stake you life on it. Jesus is the “I am.” He is the Good Shepherd. He laid down His life for the sheep. He took it up again! If we believe, then we are his sheep. We are brought into the “one flock.” It only depends on trusting what He did. We now belong to Him.
We are known by Him. Sometimes it is a challenge for me to come out of my false humility, lift my head and believe that I am Jesus’ sheep. I hear His voice. I belong to Him. I follow Him. He cares about me and you - so much so that He gave His life.
We have security. The eternal life that we have been given is forever ours. It just doesn’t depend on us. We are held by two strong hands - Jesus’ and the Father’s.
May this truth, this knowledge and this security have an ever increasing result of my life being given back to Him. In these days of change and challenges, may we completely trust in this great King who became this “Son of man” for us.
Mickey
Mickey
Saturday, January 8, 2011
January 9 / Chapter 9
My first real study of John was in college. Our professor taught the book by using three questions
for each chapter:
Who is Christ?
What is faith?
What is life?
Since that class, I have studied John in several Bible studies. John 9 begins with saying to us,
"the sixth sign" is the healing of the man born blind. What are the "signs"?
1-changing the water into wine
2-healing the nobleman's son
3-the paraplegic man healed on a sabbath
4-feeding of the 5,000
5-calming of the storm that evening
6-blind man healed
7-Lazarus raised from the dead
I am reading John this time in CONVERSATIONS: The Message Bible With Its Translator. Eugene Peterson has given me fresh eyes to see what is there. He writes:
----------
"This sign reveals Jesus as the incarnation of the Genesis Word, "Let there be light." It was the first day of light for the man born blind, but there was no Genesis consensus in the Jerusalem community that "it was good."
Like the third sign at the pool of Bethesda, this sign took place on the Sabbath. The cities religious experts didn't see this as a sign of anything other than one more case of Sabbath breaking that had to be dealt with. They did this by kicking the so-recently-blind man out of the synagogue.
The sign, as a sign, was also lost on the man's parents, whose concern was their standing with the religious establishment blinded them to God at work right before them. Jerusalem was full of blind men and women that day who "loved darkness rather than light." But the man blind from birth saw. He not only saw the city around him for the first time, but he also saw the sign to which everyone else was blind. He saw God was present and at work in his life, and he believed."
----------
May it be true for me that I will see that God is present and at work in my life AND in the lives of those we serve alongside. – Alleene Kracht
for each chapter:
Who is Christ?
What is faith?
What is life?
Since that class, I have studied John in several Bible studies. John 9 begins with saying to us,
"the sixth sign" is the healing of the man born blind. What are the "signs"?
1-changing the water into wine
2-healing the nobleman's son
3-the paraplegic man healed on a sabbath
4-feeding of the 5,000
5-calming of the storm that evening
6-blind man healed
7-Lazarus raised from the dead
I am reading John this time in CONVERSATIONS: The Message Bible With Its Translator. Eugene Peterson has given me fresh eyes to see what is there. He writes:
----------
"This sign reveals Jesus as the incarnation of the Genesis Word, "Let there be light." It was the first day of light for the man born blind, but there was no Genesis consensus in the Jerusalem community that "it was good."
Like the third sign at the pool of Bethesda, this sign took place on the Sabbath. The cities religious experts didn't see this as a sign of anything other than one more case of Sabbath breaking that had to be dealt with. They did this by kicking the so-recently-blind man out of the synagogue.
The sign, as a sign, was also lost on the man's parents, whose concern was their standing with the religious establishment blinded them to God at work right before them. Jerusalem was full of blind men and women that day who "loved darkness rather than light." But the man blind from birth saw. He not only saw the city around him for the first time, but he also saw the sign to which everyone else was blind. He saw God was present and at work in his life, and he believed."
----------
May it be true for me that I will see that God is present and at work in my life AND in the lives of those we serve alongside. – Alleene Kracht
Friday, January 7, 2011
January 8 / Chapter 8
A week ago we began reading the Gospel of John and right away read that Jesus was the light of all mankind. That was what John wrote about the Saviour. Now, in John chapter 8, Jesus tells us that He is the Light of the world. He is that light which shines brightly and purely, showing all the darkness, all the sin that has spread throughout the world. His bright light illuminates us and shows us our own sin, and like the people in this chapter we don’t like to think about our own sinfulness. It is human nature to want to hold on to the thought that there is some goodness within us, something which makes us worthy of God’s favour, of forgiveness and heaven.
The religious people were quick to condemn the woman caught in adultery. Like them, we too are quick to condemn others, quick to point out their sin and failings, yet so slow to see our own faults, failures and sin. It is so easy to gloss over our own sin and cry out against the sin we see in others and in society. We are human, sinful, and this passage surely points that out. In the glare of the one true Light our own sin is revealed. But praise God He has sent the liberator, the Son who sets us free, the only way to God, the great “I AM.” Jesus, the light of life.
Gary
The religious people were quick to condemn the woman caught in adultery. Like them, we too are quick to condemn others, quick to point out their sin and failings, yet so slow to see our own faults, failures and sin. It is so easy to gloss over our own sin and cry out against the sin we see in others and in society. We are human, sinful, and this passage surely points that out. In the glare of the one true Light our own sin is revealed. But praise God He has sent the liberator, the Son who sets us free, the only way to God, the great “I AM.” Jesus, the light of life.
Gary
Thursday, January 6, 2011
January 7 / Chapter 7
A Bubbling Fountain for Thirsty Souls
37 Now on the last day, the great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, “If anyone is thirsty, let him come to Me and drink. 38 “He who believes in Me, as the Scripture said, ‘From his innermost being will flow rivers of living water.’ ” 39 But this He spoke of the Spirit, whom those who believed in Him were to receive... – John 7:37-39
Today, I come to John 7 a very thirsty man.
As 2010 has passed, Carol and I find ourselves, in the words of Psalm 63, in a ‘dry and weary land.’ This past year swept over us as a perfect storm of arid care-giving demands:
Then came the Oasis in the wasteland. As we began to pray the Gospel to ourselves this morning, the tears began to flow. Tears of grief, turn to tears of repentance and finally tears of joy. The Holy hush of the Spirit’s presence has come upon us. Jesus, once again, is allowed to take center stage. The bubbling fountain of God’s presence more than quenches our thirst.
He is the Oasis, both with and within us, for each faltering step we take through whatever desert through which we currently find ourselves journeying. He is the source of shade, shelter, food and water. His presence in us brings rest, refreshment and joy; a refreshing foretaste of the Beauty that lies at journey’s end.
The glory of the wilderness is thus: Without the parched lips and raging thirst, we would never seek the Oasis.
Myles
37 Now on the last day, the great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, “If anyone is thirsty, let him come to Me and drink. 38 “He who believes in Me, as the Scripture said, ‘From his innermost being will flow rivers of living water.’ ” 39 But this He spoke of the Spirit, whom those who believed in Him were to receive... – John 7:37-39
Today, I come to John 7 a very thirsty man.
As 2010 has passed, Carol and I find ourselves, in the words of Psalm 63, in a ‘dry and weary land.’ This past year swept over us as a perfect storm of arid care-giving demands:
- For 8 months, Tim, our wonderful son-in-law has been struggling deeply with a crippling neurological–and as yet undiagnosed–disease that has stripped him of his job, his dignity and his ability to walk pain free or without a walker.
- For 14 months, my 91-year old live-in Mom has been recovering slowly from a serious hip break. Now confined to a wheel chair, we are grieving with her the loss of memory, freedom and dignity.
- For 120 months, Mattie Jeanne, our delightful 10-year granddaughter, has been weathering a series of congenital malfunctions, corrective surgeries and therapies. 2010 brought several new and serious diagnoses; one of which is a rare heart issue that could be life threatening.
Then came the Oasis in the wasteland. As we began to pray the Gospel to ourselves this morning, the tears began to flow. Tears of grief, turn to tears of repentance and finally tears of joy. The Holy hush of the Spirit’s presence has come upon us. Jesus, once again, is allowed to take center stage. The bubbling fountain of God’s presence more than quenches our thirst.
He is the Oasis, both with and within us, for each faltering step we take through whatever desert through which we currently find ourselves journeying. He is the source of shade, shelter, food and water. His presence in us brings rest, refreshment and joy; a refreshing foretaste of the Beauty that lies at journey’s end.
The glory of the wilderness is thus: Without the parched lips and raging thirst, we would never seek the Oasis.
Myles
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
January 6 / Chapter 6
Stop the presses! At the height of his popularity, Jesus performs a most astounding miracle. On a warm hillside near Bethsaida, nearly 20,000 people are fed from five barley loaves and two fish. The news spreads like wildfire. But, it was all about the 12, and never the crowd.
A bit of context: The feeding of the 5000 men occurred a year before His arrest, trials and execution. The establishment has begun to challenge Him resulting in a thumbs down' verdict. His miracles powers are attributed to Satan (Mt.12:24). Jesus begins to turn from the crowds to prepare His disciples for carrying on His ministry. Rejected a second time in His hometown of Nazareth, He hears that His cousin, John, had been beheaded by the besotted lecher, Herod. The shadowy road to the cross is taking shape.
John 6 occurs during a year of intense training of the 12. Looking at the words of Jesus, we see a disciple-maker's perspective. Note the progression of events:
1. Jesus surfaces a huge ministry need by asking a question to test them:
"Where are we to buy bread, so that these may eat?" They are
overwhelmed but Andrew surfaces a boy who's willing to share what he
has.
2. Jesus invites them step out in faith: "Have the people sit down." What an
audacious step. He has invited an overflow crowd to lunch and there is
little in the cupboard.
3. Jesus does the impossible through them and nearly 20,000 picnickers are
filled.
- How long do you think it took the 12 to distribute maybe 100,000 small loves
to such a crowd? Hey, wouldn't everyone need at least as much lunch as
the little boy?
- What were they learning each and every time they came back to Him to
refill their baskets?
4. Jesus provides for their needs too: "Gather up the leftover fragments so
that nothing will be lost." It is not by accident that there are 12 baskets
of leftovers. They too needed His miracle.
5. Jesus reinforces His sufficiency in the face of their fears: Drop-dead tired
after the events of the day; they must row for miles through a storm.
Seeing Jesus walking on water, they are terrified. He comforts them by
pointing to Himself, "It is I; do not be afraid."
6. Jesus always keeps the back door open. After rebuking the fickle crowd for
their self-centered motivations; and throwing a cannibalistic sounding'
stumbling block in the way of the Jewish establishment, many of His
disciples stop following Him. Turning to the 12, He asks, "You do
not want to go away also, do you?" To this powerful question, Peter
responds, "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have words of eternal life."
At least 11 of the 12 were beginning to get it!
Myles
A bit of context: The feeding of the 5000 men occurred a year before His arrest, trials and execution. The establishment has begun to challenge Him resulting in a thumbs down' verdict. His miracles powers are attributed to Satan (Mt.12:24). Jesus begins to turn from the crowds to prepare His disciples for carrying on His ministry. Rejected a second time in His hometown of Nazareth, He hears that His cousin, John, had been beheaded by the besotted lecher, Herod. The shadowy road to the cross is taking shape.
John 6 occurs during a year of intense training of the 12. Looking at the words of Jesus, we see a disciple-maker's perspective. Note the progression of events:
1. Jesus surfaces a huge ministry need by asking a question to test them:
"Where are we to buy bread, so that these may eat?" They are
overwhelmed but Andrew surfaces a boy who's willing to share what he
has.
2. Jesus invites them step out in faith: "Have the people sit down." What an
audacious step. He has invited an overflow crowd to lunch and there is
little in the cupboard.
3. Jesus does the impossible through them and nearly 20,000 picnickers are
filled.
- How long do you think it took the 12 to distribute maybe 100,000 small loves
to such a crowd? Hey, wouldn't everyone need at least as much lunch as
the little boy?
- What were they learning each and every time they came back to Him to
refill their baskets?
4. Jesus provides for their needs too: "Gather up the leftover fragments so
that nothing will be lost." It is not by accident that there are 12 baskets
of leftovers. They too needed His miracle.
5. Jesus reinforces His sufficiency in the face of their fears: Drop-dead tired
after the events of the day; they must row for miles through a storm.
Seeing Jesus walking on water, they are terrified. He comforts them by
pointing to Himself, "It is I; do not be afraid."
6. Jesus always keeps the back door open. After rebuking the fickle crowd for
their self-centered motivations; and throwing a cannibalistic sounding'
stumbling block in the way of the Jewish establishment, many of His
disciples stop following Him. Turning to the 12, He asks, "You do
not want to go away also, do you?" To this powerful question, Peter
responds, "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have words of eternal life."
At least 11 of the 12 were beginning to get it!
Myles
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
January 5 / Chapter 5
Many years ago one of our professors at Columbia Bible College gave us a very simple way to organize our thoughts in the study of the Gospel of John:
1. Who is Jesus in this chapter?
2. What is genuine faith in this chapter?
3. What is life in this chapter?
4. What difference does this really make in my life right now? This professor always fought against unapplied orthodoxy- truth in your head but very little of it in your heart or behavior.
John 5 has two contrasting types of people:
1. People like the paralytic man who had been laying by a miraculous pond of water, but could never get to it quick enough to get healed. It's like always coming up with the wrong answer at test time. Talk about frustration and hopelessness! Then Jesus asks him what seems like the most obvious question, but it is a very pointed one. "Do you really want to get well?" Or have you just completely given up? The paralytic goes right to the point: I, in and of myself, can't get there in time. I need help! I need someone who is totally healthy to get me there!" Jesus says to him, "I'm your man. Forget the pool. Get up and walk." And instantly the guy gets up, rolls up his sleeping mat and starts walking (total faith in a man who was willing to help him)...and walked right into the clique of religious big-shots. Oops!
2. This is the other the type of person: "Hey, you can't do that! You're breaking the rules! We don't allow things like that to happen around here!" The rest of the chapter then points out what is really going on in this group of professional, religious know-it-alls:
a. They refuse to honor the Son of God and thus refuse to honor the Father who sent Him. They are committed to honoring themselves. They will decide on what miracles take place here, or don't. 5:23 How much do I seek to get honor, validation, and be the center of attention myself? Who's really getting the glory in my marriage? In my ministry?
b. They will not listen to Jesus and thus remain spiritually dull and dead. 5:25 How much do I really listen attentively to Jesus and hear His incredible affrmation, "You are My beloved son (or daughter) in whom I delight." This is what makes the heart spring to life. You can really walk through anything with that song in your heart. Otherwise you have to do everything on your own initiative.
c. They did not have the Word of God deep in their hearts. 5:38 It was only in their heads. They were rational pragmatists. It is so easy to fall into this trap, especially after a seminary education.
d. But look at this! They searched the Scriptures because they thought they could find a formula that would make their lives work----> on their own terms. That way they wouldn't feel their utter, helpless dependence on Christ like the guy right near the pool. These religious experts were "bibliolitors." Me? Been there. Done that. So often I think I know (and I can even quote you a verse to prove it) and the reality is that I really don't. But it is so hard to admit I don't .
e. They refused to come to Jesus, the Fountain of Life. 5:40, Jeremiah 2:13 They were stubborn. How many times a day or in different circumstances am I just like this? Resistant to the Holy Spirit, stubborn with God, with my wife (just ask her about last week), with a brother who is trying to tell me something about how I am failing to love God or others.
f. Here's the core of the unbelief problem- 5:42. They did not have God's love at the core of their being. This is the core of every decision to be selfish, proud, arrogant, stubborn, fearful, people pleasing, independent, etc. Here's where I most deeply need to be changed. There are always places in my heart yet untouched by the Gospel and the love of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
Brothers and sisters, we really need to "guard our hearts, our deep desires, our feelings, our thoughts and our decisions because they affect everything we do." Proverbs 4:23. If we aren't diligent here, we automatically default into being just like those religious professionals.
Lord, I don't want to end up like that! If you need to put me flat on my back, unable to move for a few years, I choose that rather than become a proud, stubborn Pharisee."
Paul
1. Who is Jesus in this chapter?
2. What is genuine faith in this chapter?
3. What is life in this chapter?
4. What difference does this really make in my life right now? This professor always fought against unapplied orthodoxy- truth in your head but very little of it in your heart or behavior.
John 5 has two contrasting types of people:
1. People like the paralytic man who had been laying by a miraculous pond of water, but could never get to it quick enough to get healed. It's like always coming up with the wrong answer at test time. Talk about frustration and hopelessness! Then Jesus asks him what seems like the most obvious question, but it is a very pointed one. "Do you really want to get well?" Or have you just completely given up? The paralytic goes right to the point: I, in and of myself, can't get there in time. I need help! I need someone who is totally healthy to get me there!" Jesus says to him, "I'm your man. Forget the pool. Get up and walk." And instantly the guy gets up, rolls up his sleeping mat and starts walking (total faith in a man who was willing to help him)...and walked right into the clique of religious big-shots. Oops!
2. This is the other the type of person: "Hey, you can't do that! You're breaking the rules! We don't allow things like that to happen around here!" The rest of the chapter then points out what is really going on in this group of professional, religious know-it-alls:
a. They refuse to honor the Son of God and thus refuse to honor the Father who sent Him. They are committed to honoring themselves. They will decide on what miracles take place here, or don't. 5:23 How much do I seek to get honor, validation, and be the center of attention myself? Who's really getting the glory in my marriage? In my ministry?
b. They will not listen to Jesus and thus remain spiritually dull and dead. 5:25 How much do I really listen attentively to Jesus and hear His incredible affrmation, "You are My beloved son (or daughter) in whom I delight." This is what makes the heart spring to life. You can really walk through anything with that song in your heart. Otherwise you have to do everything on your own initiative.
c. They did not have the Word of God deep in their hearts. 5:38 It was only in their heads. They were rational pragmatists. It is so easy to fall into this trap, especially after a seminary education.
d. But look at this! They searched the Scriptures because they thought they could find a formula that would make their lives work----> on their own terms. That way they wouldn't feel their utter, helpless dependence on Christ like the guy right near the pool. These religious experts were "bibliolitors." Me? Been there. Done that. So often I think I know (and I can even quote you a verse to prove it) and the reality is that I really don't. But it is so hard to admit I don't .
e. They refused to come to Jesus, the Fountain of Life. 5:40, Jeremiah 2:13 They were stubborn. How many times a day or in different circumstances am I just like this? Resistant to the Holy Spirit, stubborn with God, with my wife (just ask her about last week), with a brother who is trying to tell me something about how I am failing to love God or others.
f. Here's the core of the unbelief problem- 5:42. They did not have God's love at the core of their being. This is the core of every decision to be selfish, proud, arrogant, stubborn, fearful, people pleasing, independent, etc. Here's where I most deeply need to be changed. There are always places in my heart yet untouched by the Gospel and the love of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
Brothers and sisters, we really need to "guard our hearts, our deep desires, our feelings, our thoughts and our decisions because they affect everything we do." Proverbs 4:23. If we aren't diligent here, we automatically default into being just like those religious professionals.
Lord, I don't want to end up like that! If you need to put me flat on my back, unable to move for a few years, I choose that rather than become a proud, stubborn Pharisee."
Paul
Monday, January 3, 2011
January 4 / Chapter 4
I love how Jesus freely moves among the high and low, sharing the good news - no ‘sales talk' but in tune with their real world finding common ground i.e. natural/spiritual birth (ch. 3), physical/living water, planting/reaping, rewards & wages. Amazing how Jesus boldly but lovingly went face to face with peoples creatively adapting to each person, giving ‘space, time and grace' as needed... and yet without compromising His message.
I find it powerful how Jesus moves in to stretch the disciples spiritual vision - time is now, each disciple plays a part, v.37,38, harvest time is coming, the rewards overflow with joy, eternal fruit, v.36, new believers, v.39,41.
So how do I respond? Will I follow Jesus? Who am I praying for this week! It's like Jesus is whispering to Edith and me, ‘Be available, move into peoples' lives, be intentional with neighbors, Star buck friends, cancer patients, whoever!' Go for it! See you soon!
Dean
I find it powerful how Jesus moves in to stretch the disciples spiritual vision - time is now, each disciple plays a part, v.37,38, harvest time is coming, the rewards overflow with joy, eternal fruit, v.36, new believers, v.39,41.
So how do I respond? Will I follow Jesus? Who am I praying for this week! It's like Jesus is whispering to Edith and me, ‘Be available, move into peoples' lives, be intentional with neighbors, Star buck friends, cancer patients, whoever!' Go for it! See you soon!
Dean
January 3 / Chapter 3
This infamous chapter with the core Gospel verse of John 3:16 has many insights. One of the ideas that came to me is the fact that all people who come to Christ and believe go through a process similar to child birth. Jesus used the birthing process as similar to the conversion process. I believe that we as evangelists who are sharing Christ with others, must do so with an understanding that each person who hears will go through this process. Our role when sharing the Good news is to hear what the Spirit is doing in the listener. Too often we want to have a new birth rather than having a full birth. Taking the baby before it is ready, can cause many dangerous effects for the baby. Having someone say "the prayer" before they are ready to receive new life in Christ is equally dangerous.
Over my years of ministry, I have seen and on occasion pushed, manipulated people to "accept Christ". Only to see them fall away. It is like having a still born. What is the spirit doing in that person? Are they ready to believe? Or is it more about me wanting them to be saved?
In Guadeloupe during my early ministry, a renowned French evangelist came to the island. A three day campaign had 120 or so who made a profession of Christ. About 6 months later, I asked the elders of the church how many of them were in the church. They said, less than 20. That experience forged in my mind a critical issue that we must be careful how we call for people to make a decision.
Later on in this passage, we are told that the Spirit is like the wind. We do not know where it comes from or where it goes. The salvation experience is entirely of God's doing. When you read John 16:8, you will see as I did following the experience I mentioned above, that I can convict no one of their sin. It is all of the Spirit. My role as the messenger is to prepare my words and thoughts in the best way possible for that person to understand. Once I have share the Gospel, it is the sole role of the spirit to convict of sin and judgement.
As we seek to disciple believers, examine yourself to determine if you are in any way playing the role of the Holy Spirit in the process of conversion. I know I had to make some major shifts in how I viewed the conversion process. It changed forever my approach.
Steve
Over my years of ministry, I have seen and on occasion pushed, manipulated people to "accept Christ". Only to see them fall away. It is like having a still born. What is the spirit doing in that person? Are they ready to believe? Or is it more about me wanting them to be saved?
In Guadeloupe during my early ministry, a renowned French evangelist came to the island. A three day campaign had 120 or so who made a profession of Christ. About 6 months later, I asked the elders of the church how many of them were in the church. They said, less than 20. That experience forged in my mind a critical issue that we must be careful how we call for people to make a decision.
Later on in this passage, we are told that the Spirit is like the wind. We do not know where it comes from or where it goes. The salvation experience is entirely of God's doing. When you read John 16:8, you will see as I did following the experience I mentioned above, that I can convict no one of their sin. It is all of the Spirit. My role as the messenger is to prepare my words and thoughts in the best way possible for that person to understand. Once I have share the Gospel, it is the sole role of the spirit to convict of sin and judgement.
As we seek to disciple believers, examine yourself to determine if you are in any way playing the role of the Holy Spirit in the process of conversion. I know I had to make some major shifts in how I viewed the conversion process. It changed forever my approach.
Steve
Sunday, January 2, 2011
January 2/ Chapter 2
We are quickly drawn into the wedding scene of John 2. The tension for the bridegroom that the wine has been consumed bring's Mary before Jesus to ask for His intervention. I was again struck that Jesus did not jump into action. The text only says that it was not His hour. As so often happens when living with Jesus, things don't happen on our time table. He has the best one. Mary's confidence in Him is shown by her comment to the servants to respond to anything He asks.
Even in my aging process, I am not as rambunctious as in the past and not as quick to jump into action, but still I am usually way ahead of Jesus' timing of things. I have seen in too often in the past. Can we trust Him for the right timing?
Wow! Wine that was the very best. It had only aged maybe a half hour or so. The power of Jesus to transform water that would fall on the grape vines, be transformed into grapes, be picked, processed and aged for the peak flavor but at the command of Jesus it happens in minutes. That process takes years to happen and in the blink of an eye, it is the best. To believe that Jesus who indwells us by His Spirit can make transformations happen in us to that magnitude is frightening. Am I willing to let Him fill me? All the way to the top? So that the best of the best can flow out of me into those I live around, work with and the lost who have never tasted life like this.
The disciples believed. They were in the back of the house where the pots were being filled with water. They saw the whole thing. They tasted the wine that came from those large jars and were they amazed at it's taste. Who was this person they were walking with? They believed He was the Messiah.
Most of us have had that first taste of Jesus at conversion that was beyond anything we had ever had in life. But now after many years of walking with transformer of water and people, do I still remain overwhelmed by this Jesus who has power beyond anything we can imagine, or am I not seeing the signs, the transformations, the statements of life as anything out of the ordinary.
In reading these first 2 chapters of John, I long to be touched again and again this month by this Jesus who is the King of kings.
Steve
Even in my aging process, I am not as rambunctious as in the past and not as quick to jump into action, but still I am usually way ahead of Jesus' timing of things. I have seen in too often in the past. Can we trust Him for the right timing?
Wow! Wine that was the very best. It had only aged maybe a half hour or so. The power of Jesus to transform water that would fall on the grape vines, be transformed into grapes, be picked, processed and aged for the peak flavor but at the command of Jesus it happens in minutes. That process takes years to happen and in the blink of an eye, it is the best. To believe that Jesus who indwells us by His Spirit can make transformations happen in us to that magnitude is frightening. Am I willing to let Him fill me? All the way to the top? So that the best of the best can flow out of me into those I live around, work with and the lost who have never tasted life like this.
The disciples believed. They were in the back of the house where the pots were being filled with water. They saw the whole thing. They tasted the wine that came from those large jars and were they amazed at it's taste. Who was this person they were walking with? They believed He was the Messiah.
Most of us have had that first taste of Jesus at conversion that was beyond anything we had ever had in life. But now after many years of walking with transformer of water and people, do I still remain overwhelmed by this Jesus who has power beyond anything we can imagine, or am I not seeing the signs, the transformations, the statements of life as anything out of the ordinary.
In reading these first 2 chapters of John, I long to be touched again and again this month by this Jesus who is the King of kings.
Steve
Saturday, January 1, 2011
January 1/Chapter 1
Who is Jesus really? I found 16 names for Jesus in John 1, plus 26 descriptive statements about Him. What can I add to that? He is God, the Creator and Sovereign over the entire universe and everything else. He always was and always will be. He is.
At the same time, He is one of us, and He is like us. He dwelt among people like you and me and was the son of Joseph from Nazareth, a cousin and brother. He was a man who put his sandal-clad feet down on dusty paths. He called his friend “Rock.” He looked people in the eye. He ate figs with them. They touched Him. They heard His voice. They knew Him.
He was also a light shining from outside our tangible reality shedding truth on every mind and heart. He is a bridge across the chasm between divinity and humanity. He is the Messiah, God become human. He is God right here with us. And He is the sacrificial lamb who paid our blood-guilt with His own divine death. He is our Savior.
So how do I respond? That seems to be one of the main themes of John 1. A lot is also about who He is. The passage says the world didn’t know Him when He came, even though He made it. Many people didn’t recognize Him. His own people, the Jewish nation, rejected Him.
Though it mentions the rejectors, the chapter focuses on a few individuals who received Him: John the Baptist, Andrew, Peter, Philip, Nathanael. Some were, at first, skeptical. They received Him after persuasion. John’s testimony was convincing. John saw revelation fulfilled when a dove came from heaven and landed on Jesus. Something extraordinary happened at the fig tree that convinced Nathanael. They followed after fulfilled revelation and divine persuasion.
I wonder what I would do if Jesus came walking up to me in His human body. Would I know it was Him? How would I recognize Him? What would I do?
Jesus calls them simply to follow Him. And they did.
They didn’t know where He was going, or where it would eventually take them. We don’t know what thoughts ran through their minds. But we know this essential thing: they followed Him. They became disciples of Jesus.
As we start off these weeks of reflection in the Gospel of John that will lead us to our Americas Area Conference January 24-30, that is a great question for us all to start with. Will I follow Jesus? Will I be His disciple?
We’ve all said yes before. As we prepare our hearts for five days learning from the Upper Room Discourse about developing reproducing disciple makers, I invite you to join me in saying yes to Jesus every day. Yes, Jesus, I will follow you. I will be your disciple today.
Makes me wonder what it means to see the heavens opened and angels ascending and descending. I really would like to see that.
Karry
At the same time, He is one of us, and He is like us. He dwelt among people like you and me and was the son of Joseph from Nazareth, a cousin and brother. He was a man who put his sandal-clad feet down on dusty paths. He called his friend “Rock.” He looked people in the eye. He ate figs with them. They touched Him. They heard His voice. They knew Him.
He was also a light shining from outside our tangible reality shedding truth on every mind and heart. He is a bridge across the chasm between divinity and humanity. He is the Messiah, God become human. He is God right here with us. And He is the sacrificial lamb who paid our blood-guilt with His own divine death. He is our Savior.
So how do I respond? That seems to be one of the main themes of John 1. A lot is also about who He is. The passage says the world didn’t know Him when He came, even though He made it. Many people didn’t recognize Him. His own people, the Jewish nation, rejected Him.
Though it mentions the rejectors, the chapter focuses on a few individuals who received Him: John the Baptist, Andrew, Peter, Philip, Nathanael. Some were, at first, skeptical. They received Him after persuasion. John’s testimony was convincing. John saw revelation fulfilled when a dove came from heaven and landed on Jesus. Something extraordinary happened at the fig tree that convinced Nathanael. They followed after fulfilled revelation and divine persuasion.
I wonder what I would do if Jesus came walking up to me in His human body. Would I know it was Him? How would I recognize Him? What would I do?
Jesus calls them simply to follow Him. And they did.
They didn’t know where He was going, or where it would eventually take them. We don’t know what thoughts ran through their minds. But we know this essential thing: they followed Him. They became disciples of Jesus.
As we start off these weeks of reflection in the Gospel of John that will lead us to our Americas Area Conference January 24-30, that is a great question for us all to start with. Will I follow Jesus? Will I be His disciple?
We’ve all said yes before. As we prepare our hearts for five days learning from the Upper Room Discourse about developing reproducing disciple makers, I invite you to join me in saying yes to Jesus every day. Yes, Jesus, I will follow you. I will be your disciple today.
Makes me wonder what it means to see the heavens opened and angels ascending and descending. I really would like to see that.
Karry
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