Worship: Not a Spectator Sport 9/27/2018

"Come, let us worship and bow down,
Let us kneel before the Lord our Maker.7 For He is our God,
And we are the people of His pasture and the sheep of His hand.
Today, if you would hear His voice, 
Do not harden your hearts," Psalm 95:6-8

Last week, I ran into two different people, both former members of congregations that now "worship at home."  Perhaps you know of someone or several someones who fit this description.  Now, rather than going to the assembly on the Lord's day, they listen to the local Christian radio station, or watch one or more of the televangelists on cable, or do nothing at all.  Of course our brothers and sisters say they still love God, still believe in Him and pray regularly but just do not currently "go to church."

There are a variety of reasons why people pursue this avenue.  Some disagree with the way things are done at their local congregation.  Some have suffered hurt associated with someone who attends.  Some have looked into the mirror of their lives and found themselves unfit, lacking the ability to forgive themselves despite believing that they have been forgiven by God.  And some just flat out do not think it is necessary.  There are many other reasons that people give for such a tragic departure.

Beloved, I will be the first to tell you that the work of the church is not primarily done inside the church building but outside.  I would likewise say that worship is not confined to the church building in that we should all be in a constant state of worshiping our God.  But I will say that the assembly is a necessary component of our relationship with God and with each other.  Let me share with you just a few scriptures that bear this out.

• Acts 2:40-47-From its inception, the church (more accurately phrased "the assembly") has been about the people of God being and doing together
• Ephesians 4:11-16-We together form one body, made so by divine will for a divine and beneficial purpose
• John 10:14-16-Being identified as flock whose shepherd is Jesus, our togetherness is implicit
• 1 Corinthians 12:12-27-Each of us has a role in the body/assembly that we are gifted to fulfill and on which others depend
• Hebrews 10:24-26-The assembly is as much about others as it is about us and we should not forsake it

This is by no means an exhaustive list.  The word of God consistently speaks of believers as a people, a body, a flock and a church that is designed to be together in word, thought, deed and most certainly in worship.  While some televangelist have their uses, if a person is watching one, they are watching not just the preacher but those who are members of that congregation who have gathered together to worship.  Worship is not about spectating, but participating.  

May this be an encouragement to you and may you share it with those who you know that have forsaken the assembly.

Building God's family,

Lee

Follow Me 9/6/2018

"The things you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you." Philippians 4:9

In today's social media driven world, one of the things by which people are known and sometimes evaluated is by how many followers they have. Whether it is the number of friends on Facebook or followers on Twitter, it says something about your fame and popularity (or lack thereof). For this reason, we are constantly invited to "friend," "like," or "follow" individuals, companies and institutions. The question, however, is why?

When you follow your favorite athlete, singer or actor, what is the benefit? You may be among the first to know about their next event. You may be a part of the "in crowd" that learns what happens to them before the news media blasts it all over the world. Mostly what you will get are their opinions (qualified or not) about other people and their circumstances. It is virtually an every day occurrence that someone is forced to apologize for something they said about someone else our of anger, retribution, jealousy or influence of substances via social media because so many are following them.

Beloved, the apostle Paul made an audacious yet qualified "follow" request 2000 years before it was the mainstream thing to do. He was able to do this for three very important reasons. First, he was personally commissioned by the Lord to do it (Acts 9:15). Second, the example he offered was one designed to benefit the follower (Galatians 2:20). And finally, the destination of the follow-ship he requested was not himself, but Jesus (1 Corinthians 11:1).

Let us be mindful of who we follow, why we follow them and most importantly, where we are allowing ourselves to be led. Jesus once famously said, "If the blind lead the blind, both will fall into a pit" Matthew 15:14b.

Building God's family,

Lee

Are You As Happy As You Think You Are? 8/31/201/

"Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30

More and more it seems that society equivocates on religion or rejects it altogether. Of course there are many reasons for this but among them have to be the perception that a relationship with God is too restrictive and too burdensome. There are so many bright, shiny, comfortable and sensually pleasurable things out there which seem to be prohibited by the Christian faith that many people are more interested in fulfilling their desires than securing their eternity.

A closer look reveals that the pursuit of pleasure and the rejection of godly structure and discipline come with their own cages which are often difficult and costly to maintain. For example, considering making our interpersonal relationships our number one priority, there is no one who does not know the effort this can take and the heartbreak that it can involve. It is only Jesus who has truthfully said, "I will never leave you nor forsake you," Hebrews 13:5. When we make working our priority for the sole purpose of gaining more and more and then conspicuously consuming it, we find that it is never enough and become trapped in a cycle of trying to protect what we've accumulated while attempting to gain even more. Jesus asked the question, "For what will it profit a man to gain the whole world and lose or forfeits himself [his soul]," Luke 9:25. Lastly, what of the things that look, feel and taste good to us? Does not the pursuit and enjoyment of some of these things cost us dearly in health, relationships, finances, time and even inner peace? It is written, "What is the source of quarrels and conflicts among you? Is not the source your pleasures that wage war in your members?" James 4:1.

Beloved, a relationship with the Lord and membership in his body is not the trap that some would make it out to be. It is submitted to you that living outside of him is the true trap. All of the things outside of him that are dangled in front of us are merely bait designed to trap us and keep us imprisoned. Jesus offers freedom: freedom from worry, stress, strife, consequences of our sin and everlasting destruction. Are there observances that we must maintain, obey and respect? Absolutely, just as there are with everything from traffic laws, to work policies and procedures to family rules. None, however, are more beneficial than Jesus' offer of rest from the burdens and weariness generated by the choices we make and an easier yoke with a lighter burden. Let all who have ears hear and let all that hear understand.

Building God's family,

Lee

For Such a Time as This 8/9/2018

"Then Mordecai told them to reply to Esther, 'Do not imagine that you in the king’s palace can escape any more than all the Jews.  For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise for the Jews from another place and you and your father’s house will perish. And who knows whether you have not attained royalty for such a time as this?'” Esther 4:13-14

There are times when we wonder why we are in a particular situation or place.  To be sure, we work hard to attain certain positions or circumstances but it is not unusual to occasionally look around and wonder if there is something more regarding the reason for being there.  This can be especially true if we happen to have our spiritual glasses on that day.

Esther was a young Jewish orphaned woman who, through a chain of evidently God led events, became queen to the king of a vast empire.  Unfortunately, one of the king's trusted noblemen developed an intense dislike for a Jewish man named Mordacai in particular and the Jewish people in general.  This dislike was so intense that he plotted to kill each and every one of them.  Upon hearing this, Mordecai urged his adopted daughter (Esther was actually his uncle's daughter) to get involved and make an appeal to the king.  Due to a law that promised death to anyone who sought the king that was not summoned or to which he did not extend his golden scepter as permission to approach, Esther was reluctant to say the least.

Beloved, there may be times when we find ourselves in uncomfortable situations were we may even be in some type of jeopardy.  We should always be on the lookout for how we can make a positive difference.  We must examine whether there is a way we can use the position or stature we have been granted by God to do the work of God.  Though there may be benefits to us that result from the positions we hold or the situations we have attained, which was surely the case for Esther, it is more than possible that it is a platform for the Almighty and that we have been placed there for His glory.

Esther did indeed respond and as a result, all the Jews were spared and the enemy was destroyed.  We can find ourselves enjoying our situations for many years, but let us always be ready to act on God's behalf when the opportunity presents itself.  Understand that we are all placed "for such a time as this."

Building God's family,

Lee

Is Anything Too Hard for the Lord? 7/26/2018

"Is any thing too hard for the Lord?" Gen 18:14

The Lord had just appeared to Abraham on His way to Sodom and Gomorrah. As He enjoyed Abraham's hospitality, He informed him that despite his age of nearly 100 years that He would indeed give him a son by his nearly 90 year old wife. Sarah overhead this exchange and was clearly amused. The Lord inquired about Sarah's laughter.

Many of us fail to understand the might and power of our God. Sarah thought she was far beyond her child bearing years. Her amusement quickly gave way to another emotion when God called her on it. The point here is that the greatness of God is certainly seen in creation, but the significance is seen in our daily lives. God made a promise to (a) man and fully intended to keep it. The expression of His power is most seen when ordinary things happen under the most extraordinary circumstances. It was common for a woman to have a baby, but at nearly a century old? It was common to have wine at a wedding but made from water? It was common for storms to rise up, but to be able to walk on them?

Beloved, we often despair in our various situations and circumstances despite our status as children of the Almighty. When told that God will deliver us, we may even, like Sarah, laugh and simply point out the impossibility of our situation. It may very well be that the response, whether spoken or not, will be the same that Sarah received: "Is anything too hard for the Lord?"

Building God's family,

Lee

Handling the Little Things 7/12/2018

"He said, " Naked I came from my mother's womb, And naked I shall return there. The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away. Blessed be the name of the Lord." Through all this Job did not sin nor did he blame God." Job 1:21-22

Most everyone is familiar with the story of Job. We seek or are referred to his story during times of duress and great tribulation. We are fascinated by the depth and breadth of his calamities. We are also fascinated by the grace and humility with which he faced them. He always kept God at the forefront. These thousands of years later, we still draw strength from his life.

This is presented not to give us inspiration to endure our lowest lows, but to cast in relief our smaller trials. Let us consider the things that send us off the deep end. We are subject to road rage in traffic. We often argue with the ones we love over trivialities. We are ready to feud if someone slights us socially. If the boss has a less than complementary word for us, it turns into a bad day for everyone with whom we come into contact. If our child has a disappointing showing on the field of play, we forget how proud we are to have them as flesh of our flesh.

Beloved, we spend an inordinate amount of our time majoring in minor. Let us not allow the smaller things to be blown out of proportion. To be sure, the significant accidents, diagnoses, employment situations, losses, etc., will come to us personally or to someone with whom we are close. Proportional reactions in those case would be able to be understood by anyone. Remember, however, the grace with which Job handled the worst incidents imaginable. Consider then, how would he have handled the smaller things.

Building God's family,

Lee

Doing all Spiritual Things Through His Strengthening 7/2/2018

"I can do all things through Him that strengthens me." Phi 4:13

This scripture has been used as source of strength for many despite the fact that is often taken out of context. What comes immediately to mind is its use by athletes going into competition, most notably boxers. Sometimes, both boxers or contestants are wearing the same scripture. While reliance on God is admirable, what does it say to the wearer and the audience if there is a loss? Can one NOT do all things with the strength of the Lord?

Beloved, it is important that we understand what the author was trying to convey to his original audience when we read, study and use scripture. In this case, Paul was in prison. He was relaying via messenger to the church at Philippi that he was well. He admitted that his situation was a bit tough at the moment but also talked about the times things were fantastic. His point was that he had learned how to be content in both the best and worst circumstances. He gives Jesus the credit for giving him this ability.

With the proper understanding of this famous passage, we too can use it for strength in situations when we are on the mountain top as well as when we are in the valley. We, like Paul, have been divinely equipped, not to win the next ball game, but the next spiritual battle, the next seemingly hopeless situation, the next despair and the next prosperous situation (which for some is handled worse than tough times).

Building God's family,

Lee

Sleeping in Worship 6/8/2018

"And there was a young man named Eutychus sitting on the window sill, sinking into a deep sleep; and as Paul kept on talking, he was overcome by sleep and fell down from the third floor and was picked up dead." Acts 20:9

Beloved, this started out as a light hearted tale of the dangers of falling asleep in church. At some point, we have all done it or been dangerously close to doing it. My mind raced with all of the things I've seen from the pulpit when people fall asleep, such as snoring and startling oneself awake, heads bouncing from nodding, mouths hanging open, etc.

It then occurred to me that there are larger issues. Are we sleepwalking through our spiritual lives? Are the things that God is trying to show us being missed because we are dosing? As it was with the disciples in the garden, are we leaving the Lord hanging?

It is interesting to note that the young man in the window who was evidently a Christian and was there to hear a word from the Lord not only fell asleep but fell to his death. What a great tragedy to think that we can lose consciousness of the word while literally listening to the word and fall away to our ultimate death. I guess it is not so funny after all. Let us remain focused and diligent in our Christian lives. Let us not come this far by faith and come up short.

Of course I can almost hear someone responding, "Well if the long winded preacher wasn't preaching all night the poor child would have never fallen asleep!" I guess that's sort of funny.

No it isn't.

Building God's family,

Lee

The Message to the Messenger 5/25/2018

“'Son of man, I have appointed you a watchman to the house of Israel; whenever you hear a word from My mouth, warn them from Me. When I say to the wicked, ‘You will surely die,’ and you do not warn him or speak out to warn the wicked from his wicked way that he may live, that wicked man shall die in his iniquity, but his blood I will require at your hand.'" Ezekiel 3:17-18

Every now and then I run across a Bible passage that makes my blood run cold. Ezekiel 3:17-21 is just such an example. The prophet Ezekiel was being sent by God to the rebellious people of Israel to deliver a warning from Him. One of the reasons he was being sent was so that the people would know that a prophet, and by extension, God Himself was among them. In turn, the message he was sent to deliver was designed to warn the people to turn from their wicked ways and return to the previously established covenant relationship lest they die.

The message God gave Ezekiel to deliver was a critical one, however, before he was given a word to speak, God impressed upon him the importance of carrying out the assigned task. In short, He told his prophet that if anyone perished (due to their own iniquity) without him having delivered the assigned message, he would bear responsibility.

Beloved, the reason this passage caused a chill to run down my spine is due to the realization that we have been given the same charge and bear that same responsibility. Those of us who call upon the name of Jesus are the messengers of God. We are sent to all nations to bear witness to the love of the Lord and to deliver His message (Matthew 28:19-20). We are to fill our mouths with His word and warn the stubborn, obstinate and unrighteous about the dangers associated with pursuing their current course. We are charged with nothing less than attempting to literally save the lives of the lost. Our failure to speak up and speak out condemns to death the people we refuse to warn just as if we failed to take the keys from an inebriated person attempting to get behind the wheel of a car. It is not our fault that the person is drunk, but we would bear responsibility for refusing to intercede if that person tragically died or worse, caused the death of someone else. Chilling indeed.

Let us not view our Christian lives simply as "going to Church," attending bible studies, participating in pot luck dinners and fellowshipping with those of like faith. Let us instead act as fire marshals engaged in literal fire prevention and fire fighters engaged in literal rescue of those in danger of being lost in the fire.

Building God's family,

Lee

A Promise is a Promise 5/22/2018

"In the same way God, desiring even more to show to the heirs of the promise the unchangeableness of His purpose, interposed with an oath, so that by two unchangeable things in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have taken refuge would have strong encouragement to take hold of the hope set before us." Heb 6:17-18

  Throughout history there have been attempts to gain assurances regarding the reliability of a person's word.  We are familiar with handshakes, blood oaths and even "pinkie swears" which are popular with pre-teens today.  Biblically, it was customary to swear by someone or something greater than oneself though Christ encouraged saying simply "yes" or "no" rather than making oaths at all ( Matt 5:33-37).  But we all know what it is like to have someone make assurances and promises but fail to deliver.


Beloved we can rejoice today because we serve a God that is not subject to the fickleness and failings of men and women.  It is good to know that it is beyond His capability to lie and that therefore, He will do what He says He will do.  God has an amazing track record.  Within the context of the Hebrews passage, the Bible indicates that he made promises to Abraham but "since there was no one greater for him to swear by, he swore by himself" Heb 6:13.  Remember that he promised to make an old man and his barren wife the parents of descendants as numerous as the stars.  Even we are products of that promise.

Let us then be grateful that God is true.  Let us be encouraged by the things he has promised.  Let us look forward with hope and faith to the day that the promises he has made regarding our living ever with him will come to pass.

Building God's family,

Lee

Persistence Pays 5/4/2018

"Then He said to them, " Suppose one of you has a friend, and goes to him at midnight and says to him, 'Friend, lend me three loaves; for a friend of mine has come to me from a journey, and I have nothing to set before him'; and from inside he answers and says, 'Do not bother me; the door has already been shut and my children and I are in bed; I cannot get up and give you anything.' "I tell you, even though he will not get up and give him anything because he is his friend, yet because of his persistence he will get up and give him as much as he needs." Luke 11:5-8

Far too often, we treat God as a clerk at a local store while thinking of ourselves as customers. We expect to be able to put in our order with Him and have it filled in a manner that exceeds our expectation and for it to be done right away. Should He, in our minds, fail to deliver, we become either angry and indignant or defeated and hopeless. Many of us will try to fix whatever the problem is or obtain whatever the need is ourselves and will step outside of God's will for our lives if we feel it necessary. "Oh we of little faith."

None of us can begin to know the entire will of God. None of us can see things from His perspective. None of us has access to His intent be it past, present or future. We do, however, have access to His assurances and promises. He has promised to provide for all of our needs (rather than the wants on which we so often base the health of our relationship and even His existence). He has promised to hear our pleas. He has promised a way of escape for any temptation that threatens to overtake us. And He has promised everlasting life to those that are His.

Beloved, if your situation is not covered by one of these or the many other promises and assurances given by the Lord, which is doubtful, be persistent in your supplications. Beseech the Lord in all you do, day and night. Draw closer to Him and He will draw closer to you. In short, as our scripture of the day clearly indicates, bug Him! For after this He has said, "Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. "For everyone who asks, receives; and he who seeks, finds; and to him who knocks, it will be opened," Luke 11:9-10.

Building God's family,

Lee

Will Alignment 4/20/2018

"He said, 'Thus says the Lord, 'Make this valley full of trenches.' "For thus says the Lord, 'You shall not see wind nor shall you see rain; yet that valley shall be filled with water, so that you shall drink, both you and your cattle and your beasts." 2 Kings 3:16-17

The kings of Judah and Edom had allied themselves with aggrieved king of Israel, Jehoram, in an effort to do battle with the offending king of Moab. It should be noted that Jehoram was a wicked king but the king of Judah was righteous. Having set their battle plan to go through an area of wilderness, they found themselves without water for their men and animals. Wisely, they sought the prophet Elijah to advocate for them with God. It should also be noted that Elijah would have had nothing to do with Jehoram had it not been for the presence of Judah's king.

God's instruction, in short, was to prepare themselves for a miraculous blessing. They would have all the water they needed if they followed His instructions. They would not be inundated by rain which might have actually hindered their efforts, yet the Lord promised that they would have water.

Beloved, we do not always know how God will accomplish those things for which we have prayed, but we should always be prepared for an affirmative answer when the request aligns with His will. In this case the Moabites had offended God and wronged His people. It may be in your life that God take action in order to accomplish His will. Perhaps you WILL receive that promotion in order to be able to carry His word to more people and contribute more financially to His kingdom. Perhaps you WILL recover your health in an effort to be more convinced of His grace and mercy and will in turn be an encouragement to others. Perhaps He WILL send a spouse to you in order to allow you to defeat temptation and thereby be preserved. But as the kings did, you must prepare to receive such blessings.

God truly delivered on His promise to the kings. Water was delivered to the people of God via a flash flood from a distant storm. Not only did they have water to drink, but the blood like appearance of the waters' reflection of the rising sun caused the enemy to believe the kings had fought among themselves. Thinking this they went out to meet the prepared army and were themselves consumed.

Our God is a mighty God who blesses His children in accordance with His will. Does yours align with His? Despite the fact that there may be Jehorams in your life, be sure that you are the Judah that finds favor. God always comes through.

Building God's family,

Lee

Keep Your Feet (Don't Stumble) 4/5/2018

"But Peter said to Him, 'Even though all may fall away because of You, I will never fall away.' Jesus said to him, 'Truly I say to you that this very night, before a rooster crows, you will deny Me three times.'” Matthew 26:33-34

Imagine what it must have been like for Jesus to be experiencing his last night before being hung on a cruel cross and dying. Spending time with his inner circle, he had just partaken of what we know as the Last Supper and informed them that one of them would betray him. Subsequent to this, however, he told them that they would all fall away (or stumble). He quoted Zachariah 13:7 which states, "Strike the shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered." We all know that it was Judas that betrayed the Lord but what of those who stumbled? What does it even mean to stumble? And why was Peter pointed out in particular?

The simple truth is that most of us avoid trouble at all costs. Jesus was considered to be and treated as a criminal and the apostles were his closest associates. On that same night, while in the company of some of them, he was arrested, beaten and taken to trial. That is most certainly trouble. As it was predicted, the apostles, with the exception of John, all scattered. Peter in particular followed Jesus to the trials at some distance but did in fact deny him three times when people recognized that he had been one who walked with Jesus. It is also known that the apostles did not busy themselves carrying out the training and mission they had received but instead hid, returning to their prior vocation as fishermen. This is stumbling.

Beloved, we must ask ourselves if we ever stumble in our faith and purpose. Though Jesus is no longer physically being dragged through the streets and falsely accused, his cause is still under indictment by some. When atheists attempt to legislate the Lord out of our lives, do we make our voices heard? When we are attacked for our stance on God ordained relationships do we hide and cower? When Satan tempts us personally do we give in or tell him to go away? The potential to stumble most surely continues to exist among the followers of the Lord. Even the most ardent, such as Peter, can find themselves out of position. We therefore must guard against the impulse to flee the one who left heaven to seek and save us. Let us not stumble but let us keep our feet.

Building God's family,

Lee

Which Ones? 3/30/2018

"And someone came  to Him and said, 'Teacher, what good thing shall I do that I may obtain eternal life?'  And He said to him, 'Why are you asking Me about what is good?  There is only One who is good; but if you wish to enter into life, keep the commandments.'  The he said to Him, 'Which ones?'"  Matthew 19:16-17

You may recognize this passage as part of the famous exchange between Jesus and one who is referred to as the "rich young ruler."  You are no doubt familiar with the fact that when given the ultimate answer to his question, that he needed to give up his earthly belongings and follow Christ, he declined and went away sad.  This is most surely a cautionary tale for a variety of reasons.  If we are more attached to earthly belongings, positions, social status, reputation and even relationships than we are to our Savior and the glories of heaven, we are a most sad and lost people indeed.

What caught my attention within this passage, however, was his second question.  The Lord clearly tells him that he needs to obey the commandments, but he asks, "Which ones?"  When you think about it, it is an astounding question.  The young ruler obviously understood that eternal life was possible and he desired it.  It is also evident that he understood that Jesus was, at minimum, a source of information about it.  Why is it then, when given the answer, he responds in a way that seems to indicate, in his mind, that there was the opportunity to choose which of God's commands to follow in an effort to achieve his objective?  Why would he not understand that they all must be followed?

Beloved, this is a problematic mindset that persists to this day.  Most anyone who believes that God and heaven exist desires to make it their home.  Unfortunately, most are not willing to do what is required to achieve it.  Let me be careful to say that eternal life cannot be earned because it is a gift (Ephesians 2:8-9); however, certain qualifications must be met to receive the gift.  One must enter into a committed relationship with the Lord which should inspire obedience and good works.  Many of us willingly obey the commands that suit us and just as willingly reject those that do not.  It is as if we are not willing to submit ourselves to the whole counsel of God, but instead, treat His requirements as multiple choice or optional.  Further, there are religious teachings and organizations built around this very concept.  They embrace and celebrate sinful words, thoughts and deeds as if there is no condemnation for them at all.  In effect, then, there are those conforming the word of God to their own preferences instead of the other way around.

Jesus went on to point out six of the ten commandments, all of which had to do with how others are to be treated.  The young ruler remarked that he had followed the six commands supplied for the entirety of his life.  When Jesus put that to the test by telling him to sacrifice his earthly good for the benefit of his neighbors in need and to follow him, thus storing his treasure in heaven, he proved that he was not keeping the commands at all.  More importantly and tragically, he valued adherence to his own earthly priorities over the simple and specific path to the heaven he said he desired.

It is my prayer that none of us are asking the Lord "which ones" of his commands must we obey.  Let us not "be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect," Romans 12:2.

Building Gods family,

Lee

Looking Forward to Home 3/23/2018

"I know a man in Christ who fourteen years ago-whether in the body I do not know, or out of the body I do not know, God knows-such a man was caught up to the third heaven.  And I know such a man-whether in the body or apart from the body I do not know, God knows-was caught up into paradise and heard inexpressible words, which a man is not permitted to speak." 2 Corinthians 12:2-4

Very recently, I was blessed with the opportunity to travel to Tanzania.  Many of you know that I pursue photography and this, being a photo safari to Africa, was the ultimate bucket list trip for me.  I cannot begin to tell you what it was like to be on the Serengeti and see wildebeests as far as the eye could see.  The excitement of seeing cheetahs on the hunt, hyenas capturing a wildebeest and a pride of lions cuddling and playing together were things that I had only seen on TV and dreamed of seeing in person.  While camping on the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater, we were able to see zebras being born, baboon mothers carrying their tiny children underneath them as they walked on all fours, and hippos doing the ultimate yawn within a cool pool of weight and temperature relieving water.

While these things were truly amazing and beautiful to see, the weightier aspect of the trip was about something altogether different.  It was about connecting with the continent and the people.  As a black American, even the thought process of being able to visit the land from which one comes is a tantalizing prospect that relatively few ever get to do.  We have always known that we originated from there and we have known how we got to these shores from those.  We are aware that family ties and bonds have been broken and we have no sense of specifically who we are.  Though my personal DNA testing revealed that my roots trace back primarily to Benin/Togo, there is also Cameroon/Congo, Senegal, Ivory Coast/Ghana and Nigeria.  Despite Tanzania being east of all of these places, the connection was in no way diminished.  I instantly felt commonality with everyone there, not just because they look like me, but whether business person, tribal elder or bushman, like them, I come from there and we have a shared ancestry.  The feeling was absolutely indescribable.  I was home.

"Serengeti Sermon"

As I sought God out in prayer, I asked Him what it was I was supposed to learn from this experience and take back to those I love, associate with and serve.  The answer was twofold.  First, there are times throughout the bible that our gracious and benevolent Father has granted his servants rest, revelation and reward.  I believe that all I experienced was a gift from God just for me.  In his own way, he told me to take it all in and enjoy.  I did.  Secondly, however, I could not escape the parallel of the Christian making heaven his and her home.

Beloved, as is the case for many who have found their way to American shores, we Christians are from somewhere else.  We originated with God, himself,  who formed our inward parts, wove us in our mother's womb and caused us to be fearfully and wonderfully made (Proverbs 139:13-14).  We know that we are to be in the world and not of the world (John 17:14) and as Paul described us, we are ambassadors (2 Corinthians 5:20).  As ambassadors, we represent Christ and the things of home while in a foreign land.  We know that through God's grace, we will one day have the opportunity to ascend to our heavenly home and live with him forever.

Paul was fortunate enough to receive a glimpse of heaven while doing the work he was charged to do on earth.  I likewise received the opportunity to experience a metaphor of what it must have been like to see "home."  While I know the differences between my trip to Africa and my eventual relocation to heaven are incalculable, I thank God for the inkling and for his immeasurable gift.  Be encouraged.

Building God's family,

Lee
(Mchungaji)

P.S.  Located within the Great Rift Valley between the Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park is a place called the Oldupai Gorge.  Here was found the oldest evidence of human existence.  In short, it is generally accepted that all of humanity evolved in and came from Africa.  This fact extends the heavenly metaphor beyond onue people but is inclusive of all, just as John saw in his revelation: "After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands," Revelation 7:9. Thanks go to my newly found brothers in Christ, David McKay and Steve Scurich for your companionship on this journey of enlightenment.  May God to continue to bless and enrich us all.

Setting Proper Expectations. 3/8/18

"And blessed is he, whosoever shall find no occasion of stumbling in me." Luke 7:23

John the Baptist sent his disciples to ask Jesus if he was the one to come or if they should wait for another.  There is a great deal of speculation as to why John requested this information.  After all, he was present at the baptism of Jesus, saw the Holy Spirit come upon him and heard the very voice of God identify him as his son.  Some think that John was lamenting his stay in prison which occurred because of his righteous stand in the face of King Herod's sinful behavior.  Others say that John recognized Christ as the son of God but was not sure if he was the prophesied Messiah.  This was thought because it was expected that when the Messiah came, Israel would be restored to her former glory and the occupying Roman Empire would be sent packing.

Jesus' reply to John's followers was to tell them to report back the things they had seen concerning his work, namely, the changes he was making in people's lives through the power of healing and ministry.

Beloved, we must be thoughtful about the expectations we have of Jesus.  Many expected a royal born King only to find a poor born baby in a manger.  It was expected that he would be a great military leader, but he lead the fight against unrighteousness.  Many expected him to heal a nation, but he brought salvation to the world.  There are those that depart the Lord because personal expectations are not met.  It is against this background that the Lord pronounces blessings upon those who have faith, see the bigger picture and remain steadfast.  The encouragement to John is encouragement for us. Let us always remember that though God may not do things we would do, or do them our way or accomplish them on our timetable, He knows what He is doing and we should trust him.

Building God's family,

Lee

Committed to Prayer 3/2/2018

"Now when Daniel knew that the document was signed, he entered his house (now in his roof chamber he had windows open toward Jerusalem); and he continued kneeling on his knees three times a day, praying and giving thanks before his God, as he had been doing previously." Dan 6:10-11

An integral part of living the Christian life is prayer to God in the name of Jesus.  We teach our children from the earliest of ages the famous "Now I lay me down to sleep" prayer and we are always careful to pray over our food.  Likewise, we dutifully and reverently bow our heads and close our eyes when prayer is rendered during worship or other corporate occasions such as weddings and funerals.  Is that, however, the extent of our prayer life?

Daniel had an intimate relationship with God. This was expressed in many ways, not the least of which was through prayer.  Those who were jealous of Daniel's title, position and favor with the king coerced the king into signing irrevocable legislation that would cast anyone who prayed to any other entity than himself into the lion's den.  Despite knowing this, Daniel would not be deterred from his regular and vigorous commitment to prayer.

Beloved, it is critical that we understand the purpose of prayer.  We serve a God who is tender hearted toward us, passionately in love with us and desires an intimate relationship with us.  Though he knows all things and is a discerner of our hearts, he has given us this avenue to Him that allows for direct communication.  Imagine that!  We can communicate directly with the Creator of the universe and He hears!  The bible is replete with examples, instructions, postures and occasions, all related to prayer.  It is clearly a critical aspect of our relationship with our Father.

Finally, Jesus taught that we must move beyond these perfunctory prayers that can sometimes be automatic responses to the occasion.  Prayer must involve sincerity, quality and commitment:
"But you, when you pray, go into your inner room, close your door and pray to your Father who is in secret, and your Father who sees what is done in secret will reward you," Matt 6:6.

Building God's family,

Lee

The Cookie Ministry 2/22/2018

"For just as we have many members in one body and all the members do not have the same function, so we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another.  Since we have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, each of is to exercise them accordingly: if prophecy, according to the proportion of his faith; if service, in his serving; or he who teaches, in his teaching; or he who exhorts, in his exhortation; he who gives, with liberality;  he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness." Romans 12:4-8

I would hazard to guess that in most congregations, there is at least on sister who is known for her cooking in general and her baking specifically.  Growing up, I remember seeing these ladies always bringing baked goods to potlucks, home visits, and yes, a set aside for the preacher.  Lo and behold, once I became the minister of a congregation, one of these angels popped up and always seems to show up at just the right time with baked goods.  In my case, her name is Melanie and my favorite of hers is carrot cake cup cakes.

So that this does not appear as self serving as it might, let me also share with you that she blesses others as well.  We have some great cooks in the congregation but everyone looks for whatever Melanie has prepared.  Further, it is not unusual for her to bake dozens of cookies, wrap them with love in cellophane and hand them out just before service or class at random.  So many of us look forward to these times.  More, Melanie and her husband, Reiders, spend a significant amount of their time visiting those who are confined to their homes, hospital beds or convalescent facilities.  They notify the leadership and other members of statuses and updates and encourage us all to be an encouragement to others.  I can assure you that they are an encouragement and a comfort to all whom they visit.

Beloved, these thought lead me to sharing with you that we all have at least two things as it relates to our Christianity.  Each of us has been blessed with a gift from the Holy Spirit and each of us has been given a responsibility to use it in service to and support of the body (of believers).  Galatians 6:10 famously says, "So then, while we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith."  It is up to each of us to discover our gift and to put it to work.  If you are not sure of what your gift is, first pray and ask God and then take an inventory of your life.  Are there things at which you seem to excel?  Are there things that you find yourself doing frequently and doing well?  Are you known for having certain abilities?  It is likely your gift can be found this way.  Now ask yourself if you are using it for the Lord.

We recently had to share with our congregation that one of our daughters has been diagnosed with Leukemia (for which we solicit your prayers).  I am grateful to God that so many responded with their well wishes, prayers and offers to assist in any way they could.  Among them was Melanie, who quietly and lovingly showed up at our home with two dozen of some of the best tasting, melt-in-your-mouth chocolate chip cookies this preacher has ever had.  Considering both her gift and her readiness to use it, I thought to myself, "That is quite a cookie ministry she has there."

Building God's family,

Lee

Allowing Withdrawal 2/15/2018

"As a result of this many of his disciples withdrew and were not walking with him anymore."  John 6:66

We are all familiar with the fact that Jesus miraculously fed over 5000 attendees of one of his speaking events, with a few small fishes and loaves, so abundantly that there were twelve baskets of leftovers.  After this, Jesus went off to pray by himself while his apostles crossed the Sea of Galilee in a boat.  Jesus famously joined them by walking out to them on the water (a whole other post).  The next day, finding that the Lord and his apostles were no longer there, the crowd got in boats and pursued them until they found them.

At this point, Jesus began to say to the gathered multitude, things that were very difficult to digest.  For instance, he informed them that he was the bread of life come down from heaven, that he was sent by God and that he, in fact was the very son of God.  As it might be imagined, this did not sit well with the Jewish people who had very strict ideas about God and the Messiah. To them, Jesus did not fit their expectations and therefore could not have been who he claimed.  He further pressed his point, thus exasperating them even more, by saying that the bread was his flesh and that, "...unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in yourselves.  he who eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life,  and I will raise him up on the last day.  For my flesh is true food and my blood is true drink." John 6:53-55  Of course those statement sent the people into quite the uproar and many left, refusing to follow him any longer.

Have you ever wondered why people you may have known as some of Christ's most devoted and ardent followers, would suddenly leave him?  We have all known folks in our various congregations who suddenly stopped coming.  In so doing, personal relationships that you may have enjoyed end up being severed as well.  Often times, the reasons why are a mystery.  We can see from this passage, however, that this is by no means new.  There were many who ceased following Jesus whom they saw, knew and benefitted from, in person!

Of course, every situation is different, but consider the following: though speaking the truth, Jesus chose to put things in such hard to hear terms quite intentionally.  You see, when the crowd caught up with him, he said, "Truly, truly, I say to you, you seek me, not because you saw signs but because you ate of the loaves and were filled," John 6:26.  This was a scathing indictment!  Here he was, the son of God, come to earth to be a sacrifice for the sins of mankind and all they were thinking about were their stomachs!

Beloved, sometimes we just have to let people go.  God gave each and every individual free will to choose what they will do, where they will go and whom they will follow.  There are many times people will choose the Lord, or even us for that matter, for the purposes of expediency.  They will be where they are and do what they do because it suits them in that moment.  The reality, however, is that a relationship with God is not a momentary thing.  Christianity is not a seasonal pursuit.  True faith is not a casual endeavor.  Those who do not give themselves wholly to them and for the right reasons, quickly make other choices when things become challenging or their felt needs are no longer met.

It is not here suggested that we do not make appeals.  After all, it was Jesus who also said that we should leave the 99 to go after the missing 1.  That said, Jesus simply revealed the difference between the wheat and the chaff, the true believers and the dubious, and allowed them to pursue endeavors that were evidently more important to them.  Let us consider these things.

Building God's family,

Lee

Bottom of the Barrel Prayers 2/8/2018

"Pray without ceasing." 1 Thessalonians 5:17

One of my favorite stories in the bible can be found in Judges 10.  Essentially, the people of God had a habit of adopting the traits, behaviors, beliefs and religious practices of their pagan neighbors.  This is characterized by the following: "And the children of Israel did evil again [emphasis mine] in the sight of the Lord, and served Baalim, and Ashtaroth, and the gods of Syria, and the gods of Zidon, and the gods of Moab...thus they forsook the Lord and did not serve Him," Judges 10:6.  The result of such faithlessness was that they were turned over to the crushing and brutal hands of their enemies.  Whenever this happened, they cried out to God for salvation and relief, promising to quit their wicked ways and to never be idolaters again, if only He would help them.

On this particular occasion, God had a rather unexpected answer for them.  He said, "You have forsaken me and served other gods; therefore I will no longer deliver you.  Go and cry out to the gods which you have chosen; let them deliver you in the time of your distress," Judges 10:13-14.

I'm reminded of this story because it is not unusual for me to receive calls from friends, acquaintances and church members, soliciting prayer.  In a recent particular case, however, the call came from someone dear to me.  I know this person to be a believer but also know them to be inactive in the faith and in their relationship with God.  They are experiencing a season of need, uncertainty, discomfort and distress.  Inevitably, a pleading to God for relief has begun and yours truly has been engaged.

Beloved, it is always a mistake to treat God as if he is an alarm, an axe or a fire hose behind glass to be broken in case of an emergency.  Our relationship with God is designed to be as that of a Father and his children.  In this relationship, we are to be constantly engaged, in constant communication and in constant proximity, in spirit if not physically.  When the trips, falls, bruises, other accidents or even disobediences of life occur, it is in our best interest for us to have well worn paths of access to Him from whom we seek our help.  How much more readily available is that assistance when we are close than if we are distant and disconnected?

None of this is to say that God will not rescue even the dilettante among us.  "The sons of Israel said to the Lord, 'We have sinned, do to us whatever seems good to You; only please deliver us this day.'  So they put away the foreign gods from among them and served the Lord; and He could bear the misery of Israel no longer [emphasis mine]", Judges 10:15-16.  The encouragement herein is to not have a prayer life that consists of last minute, emergency or bottom of the barrel prayers but one that is indicative of a close, warm personal relationship with the Father.  Then, you will have gained the experience to know that whatever His answer may be, it will be for the ultimate good.

Building God's family,

Lee

A Waste of Talent 2/1/2018

"And the one who had also received one talent came up and said, 'Master, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you did not sow and gathering where you scattered no seed.  And I was afraid, and went away and hid your talent in the ground.  See, you have what is yours.'"  Matthew 25:24-25

In the parable of the talents, Jesus imparts the story of a man who entrusts his servants with varying sums of money, ostensibly to grow, while he goes away on a journey.  When the man returns, two of his servants doubled that which they had been entrusted.  The kind master complimented and rewarded them both with promotions and greater resources to manage.  One of them, however, buried the funds in the ground so as not to risk losing them.  Upon returning to his master exactly that which was entrusted to him, he was not happy.

The larger context of this story is that we Christians must be prepared for the Lord's return.  More specifically, here, that we are not to neglect the use of the skills, abilities and gifts he has provided in the pursuit of producing desired outcomes.  In other words, Jesus, through the Holy Spirit, has made an investment in us and he expects a return on that investment.

Beloved, we are too often like the scared servant who essentially does nothing with what he has been given.  Make no mistake, all children of God are the recipient of spiritual gifts (1 Corinthians 12:4-11).  These gifts are to be used for the common good, which is to say that they are not so much for ourselves as they are for others.  When we fail to use our ability to teach, comfort, provide financial resources, do manual labor, provide expertise in our field of work or study or any other skill with which are blessed, we are in effect, burying the "talent."  In no uncertain terms, this is failure.

As much as when a farmer plants his or her crops with the expectation of a yield, Jesus expects for us to produce fruit.  Failure to do so can result in the withdrawing of that which sustains us and our removal in favor of another that will produce (Luke 13:6-9).  Be it far from us that we should ever waste the talent that has been given us.  We have been saved by the blood, invested by our Savior and commanded by our Master.  Let us use what has been given in his service for the benefit of others.  After all, every Christian is the result of the work done by a faithful servant.

Building God's family,

Lee

Your Little 1/28/2018

“There is a lad here who has five barley loaves and two fish, but what are these for so many people?”  John 6:9

There is a very famous passage of Scripture in which Jesus feeds more than 5000 people.  To be sure, much has been written and preached about this event, and rightly so.  There are lessons about Jesus' love, compassion and deity.  There are lessons about his apostles' lack of understanding and faith.  There are even lessons about a crowd who largely missed the significance and point of the whole exercise.  Little is said, however, about a young boy and his lunch.

Consider the fact that though virtually nothing is known about him, it can be surmised that he was relatively poor due to the contents of his meal but that he was prepared because he had it.  Though we do not know what his day or life consisted of, he showed up with food among thousands who either had none at all or an amount insufficient for their needs.

Consider also that he was wiling to share.  We know nothing about how the actual exchange took place, but it can be said with a high degree of confidence that Jesus would not take a child's lunch from him by force.  We can therefore surmise that the young man was willing to not just share, but to give all he had.

Finally, it was with this boy's lunch that Jesus indeed and in fact, fed the multitude.  Further, not only where the people filled but there was an abundance that was leftover. 

Beloved, as believers, we have confidence that the Lord can do all things.  We believe that miracles are available and do happen through the power of God.  We also believe that God is fully capable of performing these things with zero assistance from us.  That said, Jesus chose to work in partnership with the youngster.  He took what the boy was willing to share and miraculously multiplied it for the benefit of many.  It is important that we not miss this very important lesson because too often, we feel as if our little is not enough.  We often feel impotent in the face of so many needs and so much pain in the world.  At times we feel this so strongly that we fail to offer the resources, knowledge, skills and abilities we do have, shrug our shoulders and walk away.  Suppose a little boy with his lunch box refused to open it.

Let us be mindful that Jesus never asked us to save the universe.  What he asks of us is that we love others as he has loved us, that we treat others the way we would like to be treated, that with humility, we esteem others more than ourselves and that we lead lives that produce fruit.  Our circle of acquaintances and those with whom we come into contact is limited, but the power of Christ is not.  Let us bring our little and let Jesus do great things with it.

Building God's family,

Lee

Quality 1/19/2018

"Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father."  Colossians 3:17

Whether it is an extra measure of attentiveness when we are being served, an extra measure of thoroughness when we are having work performed or complete information given when we make inquiries, we all appreciate a job well done.  Likewise, it speaks well of us when we put our very best into all we do.

What prompts people to put there best foot forward and do all they can to accomplish the very most possible at any given opportunity?  To be sure, it depends on the person, the circumstance, the motivation, the importance and the ramifications.  Have you met, however, a person that can be counted upon to do their best at all times, regardless of the variables?  There is such an individual in our congregation by the name of Hien Nguyen.  He is a carpenter by trade, however, his experience in the construction industry has given him the ability to build or repair most anything in and around the home.  Many of the members have had work done by him and, due to the quality of his demeanor and his work, he stays very busy.

Beloved, as Christians, we must strive for quality in all that we think, say and do.  Contextually, we are advised to clothe ourselves with Godly qualities, bear with and forgive one another, love others, pursue peace, allow the message of Christ to fill us and pass it along to others.  It is added in 1 Peter 4:11, "If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God.  If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised."  Finally, "Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord rather than for men," Colossians 3:23.

Let us consider what the quality of our thoughts, words, service and work would be like if we were performing them specifically for the Lord.  Though others may be the direct recipients, we are serving the Lord and bringing attention to our Heavenly Father.  Strive to be the best husband, wife, son, daughter, employee and Christian that you can be.  And do your very best in everything, for we are called upon by our Lord to be people of quality who serve a God of quality.

Building God's family,

Lee

The Great Lover of our Souls 1/11/2018

"The Lord is compassionate and gracious,
    slow to anger, abounding in love.
He will not always accuse,
    nor will he harbor his anger forever;
he does not treat us as our sins deserve
    or repay us according to our iniquities.
For as high as the heavens are above the earth,
    so great is his love for those who fear him;
as far as the east is from the west,
    so far has he removed our transgressions from us." Psalms 103:8-12

It is interesting the impression we have of who and how God is.  Whether he is terrible and vengeful, always watching to catch us in the wrong, or loving and kind, willing to help in a time of need, often has to do with where we are in our lives at that moment.  Are we licking the wounds of consequence from our own actions or have we been doing pretty good in our walk for awhile now?

Beloved, make no mistake, our God is a God of love.  It was with his own loving hands that he created us out of the dust of the earth and blew his breath into us.  It was out of love that we were given mastery over creation, being equipped with everything needed for life.  Even when we fell, it was out of love that he advised that he would pick us up and return us to himself through yet another act of love, the sacrifice of his only begotten.

Just as there were consequences for our progenitors in the Garden for their sin, we should not expect anything less.  Along with being a God of love, he is also a God of righteousness and justice and these things must be observed as well.  They are, however, not inconsistent with one another.  When consequences come, we should not take it as a lack of God's love for us.  In fact, Proverbs 3:12 tells us that the Lord chastens those whom he loves just as a father chastens his son.  In other words, if you are being corrected, it is because of love.  The Lord has no desire to see you violate the commands set in place to protect and preserve you.  He, therefore, takes measures to get our attention.  Further, our chastisement should lead us to godly sorrow which should lead to repentance and repentance to salvation (2 Corinthians 7:10).

If we received due punishment for all of our sins, most miserable we would be.  Let us this and all days pursue lives that are pleasing and acceptable to the great lover of our souls.

Building God's family,

Lee