Showing posts with label Priorities. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Priorities. Show all posts
Saturday, January 14, 2017
Disputable Matters 1/14/2017
"I know and am convinced in the Lord Jesus that nothing is unclean in itself; but to him who thinks anything to be unclean, to him it is unclean. For if because of food your brother is hurt, you are no longer walking according to love." Romans 14:14-15
The church at Rome was one that had a very interesting history and make-up. Initially it consisted almost solely of Jewish Christians, however, this changed when the Jews were kicked out of Rome leaving Gentile believers as the members of the church. Eventually, the Jewish Christians were allowed to return. This presented a number of problems in that there were disputes among the two groups regarding a number of things, not the least of which was what type of food could legally be eaten. The Gentiles who had never really had any prohibition on types of food they could eat thought that it was ok to eat anything, included meat sacrificed to idols. The Jews had problems with certain types of food because of the prohibition against eating anything unclean or that had been sacrificed to idols. For this reason, those chose the vegetarian lifestyle at that time and place.
It is not unusual for me to get emails from people who find me on our congregation's website that want to engage in debates about what should and should not be done in worship or a worship facility. Most of these things have nothing to do with the essentials of the Christian faith. Some want to debate about whether we should support ministries that are also supported by other denominations such as the local food pantry. Some say that weddings and funerals should not be performed in the sanctuary and that it should be reserved solely for worship service. Still others feel that we should not have a kitchen facility anywhere in the building.
Beloved, these are what are called disputable matters. There is nowhere in scripture that addresses these issues specifically. Scriptures can certainly be pointed out that tell us that we should be kind to all men as we have the opportunity (food pantry), that Jesus performed his first miracle at wedding (though it does not say that it was in a church building) and that the first services were held in homes (which undoubtedly had a kitchen equivalent). This is all magnified when we would dispute with one another within the congregation over personal differences like tattoos, piercings, suits and whether women should wear pants, hats or makeup.
The point of the love of Christ is to bring people together, not to divide over non-essentials. Tragically, there are thousands of denominations today because everyone wants to have it their own way and wants to be separate from those who do not agree with them. Let us endeavor not to let our liberty cause us to judge others who may have a different opinion, method or means of expression their love and worship. Paul said, "But you, why do you judge your brother? Or you again, why do you regard your brother with contempt? For we will all stand before the judgment seat of God" Romans 14:10-11.
Pursuing discipleship,
Lee
Monday, July 21, 2014
Jesus' Priorities For Us 7/21/2014
"Getting into a boat, Jesus crossed over the sea and came to His own city. And they brought to Him a paralytic lying on a bed. Seeing their faith, Jesus said to the paralytic, 'Take courage, son; your sins are forgiven.' And some of the scribes said to themselves, 'This fellow blasphemes.' And Jesus knowing their thoughts said, 'Why are you thinking evil in your hearts? Which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Get up, and walk’? But so that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins'—then He said to the paralytic, 'Get up, pick up your bed and go home.' And he got up and went home." Matthew 9:1-7
Beloved, recently the Lord laid a message on my heart about the priority of the our souls over our bodies, our eternity over our present circumstances. And while all messages that the Lord provides are meaningful to me, I never know how and where they will impact others. Now and then, someone will approach me and let me know that I was preaching to them that day. We smile, hug and thank God together. Yesterday, in perhaps the most profound way that I've ever experienced, one of my brothers in Christ who happens to be a member of our congregation let me know how impactful the word of God was in his life that day. He has given me permission to share with you what he put on his Facebook page.
Steve wrote: Sometimes it seems God knows what is on our hearts and who needs scripture and places it on Lee's heart to preach.
"When you take a look at that piece of scripture [Matthew 9:1-7], it seems Jesus assessed the situation, and took action. And what I found interesting about it church, when I began to study it was that Jesus didn't do what many of us might have done. We may or may not have agreed with the order of events as Jesus performed them. I don't know about you church, but I'm just so glad to be in the hands of the Lord who helps with priorities...I'd like to talk about what Jesus knows. There's a difference between what we think, and what He knows. And then based upon what He knows, what he does." -Lee Lewis
I prayed so hard, so many days and nights for the restoration of my mom's health. Eventually, my prayers turned to "My prayer is for her to be restored, but God, your will be done. If it is your will to take her home, make it so." I fought with the feelings of why my Christian mom, who was a devout servant, could suffer for this long. What was all this for? What Gods goal? "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Romans 8:28 Who could this be good for?
"We sometimes stand against him...these scribes, these pharisees they represent those of us, the parts of us, that doubt and criticize. Have you ever criticized Jesus? Have you ever been in a spot and wondered why he allowed certain things to happen? Why he didn't come directly to your aide on your schedule at your time in the way you proscribed? You ever experience a little bit of doubt in your faith and your spirit?" -Lee Lewis
Yes, Lord. I have. Not a doubt in your power or existence, but a wonder of why. A wonder of direction. A wonder of the need for the suffering.
Well folks, three days after we layed my mom to rest, dad went to church for the first time in years. My prayers turn from the health of my mom, to a more fervent prayer for the spiritual health of my father. May God continue to work in my life, in ways I'll never understand until we meet in heaven.
"Jesus knows it's not about our physical healing on this side of eternity. It's about being made whole for the other side of eternity." -Lee Lewis
God knew his work with mom was done. Now he can continue to work in my life, and my fathers.
[Hear the sermon at this link] http://www.simplechristianity.com/sermons/lee_lewis/2014/Sunday_Morning_-_2014-07-20_-_Lee_Lewis_-_Forgiving_One.mp3
One,
Lee
Beloved, recently the Lord laid a message on my heart about the priority of the our souls over our bodies, our eternity over our present circumstances. And while all messages that the Lord provides are meaningful to me, I never know how and where they will impact others. Now and then, someone will approach me and let me know that I was preaching to them that day. We smile, hug and thank God together. Yesterday, in perhaps the most profound way that I've ever experienced, one of my brothers in Christ who happens to be a member of our congregation let me know how impactful the word of God was in his life that day. He has given me permission to share with you what he put on his Facebook page.
***
Steve wrote: Sometimes it seems God knows what is on our hearts and who needs scripture and places it on Lee's heart to preach.
"When you take a look at that piece of scripture [Matthew 9:1-7], it seems Jesus assessed the situation, and took action. And what I found interesting about it church, when I began to study it was that Jesus didn't do what many of us might have done. We may or may not have agreed with the order of events as Jesus performed them. I don't know about you church, but I'm just so glad to be in the hands of the Lord who helps with priorities...I'd like to talk about what Jesus knows. There's a difference between what we think, and what He knows. And then based upon what He knows, what he does." -Lee Lewis
I prayed so hard, so many days and nights for the restoration of my mom's health. Eventually, my prayers turned to "My prayer is for her to be restored, but God, your will be done. If it is your will to take her home, make it so." I fought with the feelings of why my Christian mom, who was a devout servant, could suffer for this long. What was all this for? What Gods goal? "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Romans 8:28 Who could this be good for?
"We sometimes stand against him...these scribes, these pharisees they represent those of us, the parts of us, that doubt and criticize. Have you ever criticized Jesus? Have you ever been in a spot and wondered why he allowed certain things to happen? Why he didn't come directly to your aide on your schedule at your time in the way you proscribed? You ever experience a little bit of doubt in your faith and your spirit?" -Lee Lewis
Yes, Lord. I have. Not a doubt in your power or existence, but a wonder of why. A wonder of direction. A wonder of the need for the suffering.
Well folks, three days after we layed my mom to rest, dad went to church for the first time in years. My prayers turn from the health of my mom, to a more fervent prayer for the spiritual health of my father. May God continue to work in my life, in ways I'll never understand until we meet in heaven.
"Jesus knows it's not about our physical healing on this side of eternity. It's about being made whole for the other side of eternity." -Lee Lewis
God knew his work with mom was done. Now he can continue to work in my life, and my fathers.
[Hear the sermon at this link] http://www.simplechristianity.com/sermons/lee_lewis/2014/Sunday_Morning_-_2014-07-20_-_Lee_Lewis_-_Forgiving_One.mp3
***
One,
Lee
Thursday, April 18, 2013
Put God First 4/18/2013
"Do not love the world nor the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him." 1 John 2:15
During a bible class last evening, a dear sister said, "The god that most people love and serve is themselves." I was struck by the profundity of the statement. As we pursue the pleasures of life at the expense of nearly all else, particularly our relationship with the Father, we practice the most insidious form of idolatry. We literally worship ourselves by prioritizing, serving and gratifying ourselves. How do we accomplish this? It is done by preferring the things of the world.
Beloved, it is not to say that we should not enjoy the life, beauty, comfort and joys that God has so graciously given. The earth and all that can be found in it was created for us to inhabit and enjoy. We err, however, when we place the created above the Creator and when we get attached to the present rather than eternity. Paul said, "Being then the children of God, we ought not to think that the Divine Nature is like gold or silver or stone, an image formed by the art and thought of man," Acts 17:29. Though he was specifically speaking about materials created by God being fashioned into gods and worshiped, the thought is easily extended to a prohibition against subjecting oneself to stuff and by extension, self.
What are the pitfalls of loving the world? "For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes and the boastful pride of life, is not from the Father, but is from the world. The world is passing away, and also its lusts; but the one who does the will of God lives forever," 1 John 2:16-17. The encouragement today is to pursue that which is above and beyond. Our Father sits on high and looks low and has promised an eternity with Himself to those who deny themselves and follow Him.
Committed,
Lee
During a bible class last evening, a dear sister said, "The god that most people love and serve is themselves." I was struck by the profundity of the statement. As we pursue the pleasures of life at the expense of nearly all else, particularly our relationship with the Father, we practice the most insidious form of idolatry. We literally worship ourselves by prioritizing, serving and gratifying ourselves. How do we accomplish this? It is done by preferring the things of the world.
Beloved, it is not to say that we should not enjoy the life, beauty, comfort and joys that God has so graciously given. The earth and all that can be found in it was created for us to inhabit and enjoy. We err, however, when we place the created above the Creator and when we get attached to the present rather than eternity. Paul said, "Being then the children of God, we ought not to think that the Divine Nature is like gold or silver or stone, an image formed by the art and thought of man," Acts 17:29. Though he was specifically speaking about materials created by God being fashioned into gods and worshiped, the thought is easily extended to a prohibition against subjecting oneself to stuff and by extension, self.
What are the pitfalls of loving the world? "For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes and the boastful pride of life, is not from the Father, but is from the world. The world is passing away, and also its lusts; but the one who does the will of God lives forever," 1 John 2:16-17. The encouragement today is to pursue that which is above and beyond. Our Father sits on high and looks low and has promised an eternity with Himself to those who deny themselves and follow Him.
Committed,
Lee
Monday, June 4, 2012
What is Your Priority? 6/4/2012
"For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world, and forfeit his soul? For what will a man give in exchange for his soul?" Mark 8:36-37
There was never a time that Christ interacted with men and women that he did not leave them with words of wisdom with eternal implications. In this instance he speaks on prioritizing the spiritual over against the secular, the promised over against the present and the heavenly over against the earthly. As we look around, it is easy to see the value that humanity places on money, material, financial success and accumulation and fame. Forbes magazine routinely publishes lists of the richest individuals and organizations in the world. These are by far more popular than some of their other offerings. It is against both the background of men's minds 2000 years ago and perhaps even more so today that Jesus asks this rhetorical question.
Beloved you will recall the story of the rich young ruler. He was willing to pass on the heaven he requested in order to maintain his earthly possessions. Clearly his possessions, as much as they may have been, could not have come close to owning everything in the world that exists. No one can. Jesus asks, even if one could own all that there is, it all disintegrates into insignificance when weighed against one's eternity. James famously says, "What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes" James 4:14b. What good does it to have every indulgence imaginable for the relative blink of an eye, only to suffer hell for a time longer than one can imagine? The purusuit of such things most certainly relagates God to secondary status if recognized at all.
The Lord is telling us to prioritize. He is not critical of possessions or wealth, however, he is critical of placing them above all that God offers to the faithful. None should desire or own anything that will keep him or her on this planet when Christ calls us home.
Rejoicing in the Lord,
Lee
There was never a time that Christ interacted with men and women that he did not leave them with words of wisdom with eternal implications. In this instance he speaks on prioritizing the spiritual over against the secular, the promised over against the present and the heavenly over against the earthly. As we look around, it is easy to see the value that humanity places on money, material, financial success and accumulation and fame. Forbes magazine routinely publishes lists of the richest individuals and organizations in the world. These are by far more popular than some of their other offerings. It is against both the background of men's minds 2000 years ago and perhaps even more so today that Jesus asks this rhetorical question.
Beloved you will recall the story of the rich young ruler. He was willing to pass on the heaven he requested in order to maintain his earthly possessions. Clearly his possessions, as much as they may have been, could not have come close to owning everything in the world that exists. No one can. Jesus asks, even if one could own all that there is, it all disintegrates into insignificance when weighed against one's eternity. James famously says, "What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes" James 4:14b. What good does it to have every indulgence imaginable for the relative blink of an eye, only to suffer hell for a time longer than one can imagine? The purusuit of such things most certainly relagates God to secondary status if recognized at all.
The Lord is telling us to prioritize. He is not critical of possessions or wealth, however, he is critical of placing them above all that God offers to the faithful. None should desire or own anything that will keep him or her on this planet when Christ calls us home.
Rejoicing in the Lord,
Lee
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
Carpe Diem-4/3/2012
"This is the day which the Lord has made; Let us rejoice and be glad in it." Ps 118:24
Read by itself, one can hardly get the sense of the exuberance that fills Ps 118:24. Even a casual reading of the context reveals that the writer is celebrating the goodness of God. He revels in the loving kindness of the Lord. He gives thanks for the rescue the Lord has performed during times of distress. He trumpets God's protective nature and endorses Him over all others in whom we might otherwise place our trust. He even thanks God for his discipline because he knows (and anticipates) that salvation is found in Him.
Beloved, what is our outlook on the days of our lives? Are we consumed with its problems or are we thankful for its opportunities? Do we lament our lot in life, or do we praise God for that which we have? Do we focus on the earthly or cast our eyes heavenward?
We of all people, the privilege children of the Almighty have every reason to wake up each morning with a shout of triumph, not that we have accomplished anything, but that He has accomplished everything. Each day we are given a new opportunity to praise Him and enjoy his many bountiful blessings. Each day we anticipate the promised inheritance. Each day we are closer to seeing the Savior's face. Yes, this is THE day the Lord has made. Let us always remember to praise Him and to rejoice!
Rejoicing in the Lord,
Lee
Read by itself, one can hardly get the sense of the exuberance that fills Ps 118:24. Even a casual reading of the context reveals that the writer is celebrating the goodness of God. He revels in the loving kindness of the Lord. He gives thanks for the rescue the Lord has performed during times of distress. He trumpets God's protective nature and endorses Him over all others in whom we might otherwise place our trust. He even thanks God for his discipline because he knows (and anticipates) that salvation is found in Him.
Beloved, what is our outlook on the days of our lives? Are we consumed with its problems or are we thankful for its opportunities? Do we lament our lot in life, or do we praise God for that which we have? Do we focus on the earthly or cast our eyes heavenward?
We of all people, the privilege children of the Almighty have every reason to wake up each morning with a shout of triumph, not that we have accomplished anything, but that He has accomplished everything. Each day we are given a new opportunity to praise Him and enjoy his many bountiful blessings. Each day we anticipate the promised inheritance. Each day we are closer to seeing the Savior's face. Yes, this is THE day the Lord has made. Let us always remember to praise Him and to rejoice!
Rejoicing in the Lord,
Lee
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Almost Slipped-11/30/2011 (rp)
"Surely God is good to Israel, To those who are pure in heart! But as for me, my feet came close to stumbling, My steps had almost slipped. For I was envious of the arrogant As I saw the prosperity of the wicked." Ps 73:1-3
To this day, many are concerned with "keeping up with the Joneses." We look at their lives, the possessions they own, the jobs they have and the things they are able to do. We also take note that often, they are not members of the body of Christ. Whether the "Joneses" are luminaries like the Gates' and Oprah, or the guy with the biggest house and the nicest neighborhood, we some how feel that it is all so unfair.
Beloved, we must be careful about thoughts like this. To the Christian, life should not be about the material. Jesus said, that we are not to concern ourselves with earthly possessions, but to store up our treasures in heaven.
Though the wicked may seem to prosper for a time, it is not worth losing our inheritance to do what they did to get what they got. There is a consequence for unrighteousness, be it prosperous or not. The Psalmist further relates, "When I pondered to understand this, it was troublesome in my mind until I came into the sanctuary of God; Then I perceived their end. Surely You set them in slippery places; You cast them down to destruction. How they are destroyed in a moment! They are utterly swept away by sudden terrors!" Ps 73:16-19
Let us maintain our footing in the Lord.
Loving Like Jesus,
Lee
To this day, many are concerned with "keeping up with the Joneses." We look at their lives, the possessions they own, the jobs they have and the things they are able to do. We also take note that often, they are not members of the body of Christ. Whether the "Joneses" are luminaries like the Gates' and Oprah, or the guy with the biggest house and the nicest neighborhood, we some how feel that it is all so unfair.
Beloved, we must be careful about thoughts like this. To the Christian, life should not be about the material. Jesus said, that we are not to concern ourselves with earthly possessions, but to store up our treasures in heaven.
Though the wicked may seem to prosper for a time, it is not worth losing our inheritance to do what they did to get what they got. There is a consequence for unrighteousness, be it prosperous or not. The Psalmist further relates, "When I pondered to understand this, it was troublesome in my mind until I came into the sanctuary of God; Then I perceived their end. Surely You set them in slippery places; You cast them down to destruction. How they are destroyed in a moment! They are utterly swept away by sudden terrors!" Ps 73:16-19
Let us maintain our footing in the Lord.
Loving Like Jesus,
Lee
Thursday, October 20, 2011
The Invitation-10/20/2011 (rp)
"Go out quickly into the streets and lanes of the city, and bring in hither the poor and maimed and blind and lame." Luke 14:21
This passage of scripture immediately follows an effort by a certain man to entertain guest at a fabulous feast. In this analogy of heaven, each of the invited guest had an excuse as to why they could not make it. One had just bought land he needed to survey, another bought oxen that had to be tried and still another had just married a wife.
Beloved, the cares of this world will cost many their heavenly reward. God has invited us to the biggest banquet imaginable. Can you imagine not being willing to go because of materialism? You will recall the rich young ruler that walked away from the heaven he sought because of the earthly possessions he was unwilling to leave behind.
Those who do not live a life of opulence have no such hindrances. The certain man commanded that the less fortunate be sought to attend the banquet, ensuring that it would not go to waste. I observed on a mission trip last year that it was not the well to do that were coming to the Lord, but those who have no one else on whom to depend. The maimed, halt, hungry and blind lined up for hours to get medical and dental attention. They also received the word of God. It is amazing how many of them believe.
As for those who would make excuses, "For I say unto you that none of those men that were bidden shall taste of my supper." Luke 14:24
Loving Like Jesus
Lee
This passage of scripture immediately follows an effort by a certain man to entertain guest at a fabulous feast. In this analogy of heaven, each of the invited guest had an excuse as to why they could not make it. One had just bought land he needed to survey, another bought oxen that had to be tried and still another had just married a wife.
Beloved, the cares of this world will cost many their heavenly reward. God has invited us to the biggest banquet imaginable. Can you imagine not being willing to go because of materialism? You will recall the rich young ruler that walked away from the heaven he sought because of the earthly possessions he was unwilling to leave behind.
Those who do not live a life of opulence have no such hindrances. The certain man commanded that the less fortunate be sought to attend the banquet, ensuring that it would not go to waste. I observed on a mission trip last year that it was not the well to do that were coming to the Lord, but those who have no one else on whom to depend. The maimed, halt, hungry and blind lined up for hours to get medical and dental attention. They also received the word of God. It is amazing how many of them believe.
As for those who would make excuses, "For I say unto you that none of those men that were bidden shall taste of my supper." Luke 14:24
Loving Like Jesus
Lee
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
If the Lord Wills-9/7/2011
"Come now, you who say, " Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, and spend a year there and engage in business and make a profit." Yet you do not know what your life will be like tomorrow. You are just a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away. Instead, you ought to say, " If the Lord wills, we will live and also do this or that." James 4:13-15
In this day and age, we busy ourselves with all kinds of pursuits. They are many and varied in their content and scope. These activities often involve setting goals, creating action steps and measuring impact or results. This is what every job teaches us to do. That training filters into our family life and becomes who we are.
I submit to you that there is a missing component in all of our grand planning. Too often, we fail to consult God. Surely he has equipped us with ability, however, the greater gift is His ability. The scriptures are replete with examples of times and events where God's direction was sought in prayer and times when it was not.
To be clear, prayer does not guarantee the success of our plans. The point is that He may have other plans for us or the situation. We are but a small component of the His grand plan and we do not often see or understand our place in it. This is where faith comes in. We must rely upon our Father to know what is best and to do what is best.
When you plan pray. When you pray always pray that your righteous desires will fit within the will of the Almighty.
[Memory verse of the week: Revelation 3:20-21]
Loving Like Jesus,
In this day and age, we busy ourselves with all kinds of pursuits. They are many and varied in their content and scope. These activities often involve setting goals, creating action steps and measuring impact or results. This is what every job teaches us to do. That training filters into our family life and becomes who we are.
I submit to you that there is a missing component in all of our grand planning. Too often, we fail to consult God. Surely he has equipped us with ability, however, the greater gift is His ability. The scriptures are replete with examples of times and events where God's direction was sought in prayer and times when it was not.
To be clear, prayer does not guarantee the success of our plans. The point is that He may have other plans for us or the situation. We are but a small component of the His grand plan and we do not often see or understand our place in it. This is where faith comes in. We must rely upon our Father to know what is best and to do what is best.
When you plan pray. When you pray always pray that your righteous desires will fit within the will of the Almighty.
[Memory verse of the week: Revelation 3:20-21]
Loving Like Jesus,
Lee
Thursday, August 18, 2011
Pursuing God-8/18/2011
"Draw near to God and He will draw near to you." James 4:8
There is none among us who do not desire things. The things we desire are many and varied as are the ways we go about obtaining them. If we want better health, we curtail or drop unhealthy habits and see medical professionals regularly to guide us along the way. If we want better looking bodies, we push back from the table and pursue the gym. If we want greater knowledge, we pursue the books and other educational outlets.
The desire of every Christian is to gain heaven. The only way to accomplish this is to pursue a closer relationship with God. Much as desiring to drop a few pounds is useless without making the necessary sacrifices to accomplish it, desiring heaven and a closer walk with the Lord is an exercise in futility if we are not willing to expend effort. Let it quickly and firmly be said that heaven cannot be earned or deserved by works, but is the free gift of God through His grace and your faith, Eph 2:8-9. Like any relationship (and the obtaining of its benefits), it must be cultivated.
Beloved, our great Father has set the table for us. We have been invited to begin, develop and enjoy a rewarding and eternal relationship with Him. In that we were made beings with choice and free will, we must choose Him. Though He has given us every reason and ability to make that positive choice, He does not make it for us. Even the angels who He created far different from us have choice as evidenced by some chosing Satan. Many of God's beloved children have also made that same tragic choice.
You are invited to choose God. And while our intuition tells us that this is a one time message for non-believers, we are challenged to continually choose God in everything we do. Jesus advises us to take up our cross DAILY and follow him. It is only through this relentless pursuit that we will develop a close, warm, personal relationship with God. It is only when we exceed the rudiments of "going to church" that we begin to understand who God is, who we are in Him and the many benefits of a relationship with Him. If we would turn and seek after Him, we will find that He is ready, willing and desirous to welcome us and has Himself come far more than halfway. Like the father of the prodigal son, He is seeking us. When He sees us on our journey toward home, He will run out to meet us, closing the distance.
Loving Like Jesus,
Lee
There is none among us who do not desire things. The things we desire are many and varied as are the ways we go about obtaining them. If we want better health, we curtail or drop unhealthy habits and see medical professionals regularly to guide us along the way. If we want better looking bodies, we push back from the table and pursue the gym. If we want greater knowledge, we pursue the books and other educational outlets.
The desire of every Christian is to gain heaven. The only way to accomplish this is to pursue a closer relationship with God. Much as desiring to drop a few pounds is useless without making the necessary sacrifices to accomplish it, desiring heaven and a closer walk with the Lord is an exercise in futility if we are not willing to expend effort. Let it quickly and firmly be said that heaven cannot be earned or deserved by works, but is the free gift of God through His grace and your faith, Eph 2:8-9. Like any relationship (and the obtaining of its benefits), it must be cultivated.
Beloved, our great Father has set the table for us. We have been invited to begin, develop and enjoy a rewarding and eternal relationship with Him. In that we were made beings with choice and free will, we must choose Him. Though He has given us every reason and ability to make that positive choice, He does not make it for us. Even the angels who He created far different from us have choice as evidenced by some chosing Satan. Many of God's beloved children have also made that same tragic choice.
You are invited to choose God. And while our intuition tells us that this is a one time message for non-believers, we are challenged to continually choose God in everything we do. Jesus advises us to take up our cross DAILY and follow him. It is only through this relentless pursuit that we will develop a close, warm, personal relationship with God. It is only when we exceed the rudiments of "going to church" that we begin to understand who God is, who we are in Him and the many benefits of a relationship with Him. If we would turn and seek after Him, we will find that He is ready, willing and desirous to welcome us and has Himself come far more than halfway. Like the father of the prodigal son, He is seeking us. When He sees us on our journey toward home, He will run out to meet us, closing the distance.
Loving Like Jesus,
Lee
Monday, August 15, 2011
Focus on the Heavenly-9/15/2011
"Therefore if you have been raised up with Christ, keep seeking the things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth." Col 3:1-2
It is given to us to live on this planet. God created it for us and formed us on it. He gave us all things pertaining to life and we at one time were in want for nothing. Almost immediately, however, we began to be dissatisfied with what we were given. All the provision we were given began to pale in regard to the one thing that was prohibited. This was not only the introduction of sin, but of a particular kind of sin: greed.
Beloved what is greed but a desire to have exceedingly more than is needed? The accumulation of wealth is not in and of itself a sin, but the prioritization of it over all things, including God is certainly today's form of idolatry. Abraham was an example of a wealthy man who gave a 10th of his spoils to Melchizedek (the high priest of God), as well as allowing his nephew Lot the choice of land when it became time for them to separate. The opposite of this is the famous story of the rich young ruler, who rather than giving up his possessions in an effort to gain heaven, he kept them and left heaven behind.
The message here is not whether we are wealthy or not (which I assure you is relative considered on a global scale) but how we prioritize life. God has been generous in seeing to all of our needs and many of our wants. Let us not become distracted by them and make those blessings the object of our affection. Let us instead remember that opulence beyond measure awaits us in His heavenly presence. Rather than accumulating on earth, believers must focus on storing up riches in heaven where no loss can occur. The comparison between the earthly and the heavenly defies description.
Loving Like Jesus,
Lee
It is given to us to live on this planet. God created it for us and formed us on it. He gave us all things pertaining to life and we at one time were in want for nothing. Almost immediately, however, we began to be dissatisfied with what we were given. All the provision we were given began to pale in regard to the one thing that was prohibited. This was not only the introduction of sin, but of a particular kind of sin: greed.
Beloved what is greed but a desire to have exceedingly more than is needed? The accumulation of wealth is not in and of itself a sin, but the prioritization of it over all things, including God is certainly today's form of idolatry. Abraham was an example of a wealthy man who gave a 10th of his spoils to Melchizedek (the high priest of God), as well as allowing his nephew Lot the choice of land when it became time for them to separate. The opposite of this is the famous story of the rich young ruler, who rather than giving up his possessions in an effort to gain heaven, he kept them and left heaven behind.
The message here is not whether we are wealthy or not (which I assure you is relative considered on a global scale) but how we prioritize life. God has been generous in seeing to all of our needs and many of our wants. Let us not become distracted by them and make those blessings the object of our affection. Let us instead remember that opulence beyond measure awaits us in His heavenly presence. Rather than accumulating on earth, believers must focus on storing up riches in heaven where no loss can occur. The comparison between the earthly and the heavenly defies description.
Loving Like Jesus,
Lee
Thursday, June 23, 2011
The Futility of Accumulation-6/23/2011
"A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favor rather than silver and gold." Prov 22:1
This bit of wisdom is counter to the conspicuous consumption norms we see in society today. We judge and are judged by the type of cars we drive, the watches we wear and the addresses we maintain. But to what end?
Beloved, the Christian's main priority is to be in possession of the grace and mercy of God. Should we feel the need to be judged by man, let it be that we are blameless, children of the Almighty, disciples of Christ and lovers of all mankind. If there is anything we boast, let it be the love of the Lord.
It has been said that one never sees a U-Haul following a hearse. Likewise, it is not the things that we accumulate in this life that will follow us into eternity, but our manner of living that will determine our eternity.
Loving Like Jesus,
Lee
This bit of wisdom is counter to the conspicuous consumption norms we see in society today. We judge and are judged by the type of cars we drive, the watches we wear and the addresses we maintain. But to what end?
Beloved, the Christian's main priority is to be in possession of the grace and mercy of God. Should we feel the need to be judged by man, let it be that we are blameless, children of the Almighty, disciples of Christ and lovers of all mankind. If there is anything we boast, let it be the love of the Lord.
It has been said that one never sees a U-Haul following a hearse. Likewise, it is not the things that we accumulate in this life that will follow us into eternity, but our manner of living that will determine our eternity.
Loving Like Jesus,
Lee
Monday, June 20, 2011
Jesus is First-6/21/2011
"For I came to SET A MAN AGAINST HIS FATHER, AND A DAUGHTER AGAINST HER MOTHER, AND A DAUGHTER-IN-LAW AGAINST HER MOTHER-IN-LAW;and A MAN'S ENEMIES WILL BE THE MEMBERS OF HIS HOUSEHOLD. " He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me; and he who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me." Matt 10:35-37
Beloved, this both a complex and challenging passage of scripture. How could our loving savior say such a thing? Are we not to love one another, especially our families? Are we not instructed to honor our mothers and fathers and grieve not our children and children to obey parents?
Jesus is using a device that takes things to the extreme in order to make a point. This was also done when he spoke of plucking out one's offending eye and cutting off one's right hand rather than enter hell whole and with full sight, Matt 18:8-9. The message here is twofold.
First, being a child of God is an all or nothing proposition. Either you pursue a life of righteousness or you do not. Either you resist and even fight evil or you do not. You are on one side of the line between darkness and light or the other. One need only think back to the American Civil War to know that brother fought against brother over divided loyalties and mutually exclusive ideals. Think then, of your own family. How many of your relatives are non Christians? Is there ever hostility surrounding your spiritually based differences with them?
The drawing of battle lines between us is not here suggested, for we battle not against flesh and blood but against spiritual wickedness in high places. As Christians, our responsibility is to win those who remain in darkness. That said, however, all who are not of God are ultimately the enemies of God.
Secondly, as important as it is to lead righteous lives and therefore be examples to our non Christian family members, we ultimately must prioritize God. Parents, in-laws, siblings and cousins have no ability to save our souls. This is the sole domain of our Lord and savior Jesus Christ. Since he is our creator and redeemer, the one who died on the cross that we might live, all other relationships and priorities should pale into insignificance compared to our relationship with him. We are to love him with all our heart, soul and might.
Love your family. Love them hard and be the presence of Christ to them. But always put first the One from whom all blessings flow.
Loving Like Jesus,
Lee
Beloved, this both a complex and challenging passage of scripture. How could our loving savior say such a thing? Are we not to love one another, especially our families? Are we not instructed to honor our mothers and fathers and grieve not our children and children to obey parents?
Jesus is using a device that takes things to the extreme in order to make a point. This was also done when he spoke of plucking out one's offending eye and cutting off one's right hand rather than enter hell whole and with full sight, Matt 18:8-9. The message here is twofold.
First, being a child of God is an all or nothing proposition. Either you pursue a life of righteousness or you do not. Either you resist and even fight evil or you do not. You are on one side of the line between darkness and light or the other. One need only think back to the American Civil War to know that brother fought against brother over divided loyalties and mutually exclusive ideals. Think then, of your own family. How many of your relatives are non Christians? Is there ever hostility surrounding your spiritually based differences with them?
The drawing of battle lines between us is not here suggested, for we battle not against flesh and blood but against spiritual wickedness in high places. As Christians, our responsibility is to win those who remain in darkness. That said, however, all who are not of God are ultimately the enemies of God.
Secondly, as important as it is to lead righteous lives and therefore be examples to our non Christian family members, we ultimately must prioritize God. Parents, in-laws, siblings and cousins have no ability to save our souls. This is the sole domain of our Lord and savior Jesus Christ. Since he is our creator and redeemer, the one who died on the cross that we might live, all other relationships and priorities should pale into insignificance compared to our relationship with him. We are to love him with all our heart, soul and might.
Love your family. Love them hard and be the presence of Christ to them. But always put first the One from whom all blessings flow.
Loving Like Jesus,
Lee
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Prioritizing Life-DD 5/18/2011
"If your hand or your foot causes you to stumble, cut it off and throw it from you; it is better for you to enter life crippled or lame, than to have two hands or two feet and be cast into the eternal fire." Matt 18:8
There are many things that Jesus said that were illustrative rather than literal. Just as we may today say, "I'm so hungry I could eat a horse" to indicate the size of our appetite, figures of speech, metaphors and hyperbole was used 2000 years ago to the same end.
Beloved, the Lord in now way endorses the maiming of our bodies, but simply points out the importance of salvation. Nothing should keep us from accepting the eternal life he offers, particularly when you consider the alternative. Contextually, we should cease actions (symbolized by the hand and foot) that place us into a sinful situations. We should discard them lest they cost us heaven.
Jesus advises us to just do the right thing. More importantly, we are to prioritize pleasing God above all other pursuits.
Loving Like Jesus,
Lee
There are many things that Jesus said that were illustrative rather than literal. Just as we may today say, "I'm so hungry I could eat a horse" to indicate the size of our appetite, figures of speech, metaphors and hyperbole was used 2000 years ago to the same end.
Beloved, the Lord in now way endorses the maiming of our bodies, but simply points out the importance of salvation. Nothing should keep us from accepting the eternal life he offers, particularly when you consider the alternative. Contextually, we should cease actions (symbolized by the hand and foot) that place us into a sinful situations. We should discard them lest they cost us heaven.
Jesus advises us to just do the right thing. More importantly, we are to prioritize pleasing God above all other pursuits.
Loving Like Jesus,
Lee
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