"Today's Devotion" For August 31, 2005
Read: I Thessalonians 4:1-12; Romans 12:9-21
LIVING AT PEACE WITH EVERYONE
"If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone." (Rom.12:18)
There is a classic poem titled, "Desiderata." It's a poem that speaks to living a life of calm and control, at peace with one's fellow human beings, and effectively coping with the vagaries of life. It's a point of reference for many recovering alcoholics who often memorize "Desiderata" as a ready reminder to keep them "on the wagon." It's a particularly insightful, directive piece of literature pointing the reader to the steps necessary to live a tranquil and peaceable life in relationship to others.
If people have a choice, most of them would avoid conflict. When conflicts arise people, for the most part, are uncomfortable. Conflicts can be seen in interpersonal relationships, business relationships, political relationships, money relationships, foreign and domestic relationships, and any other situations where people are set at odds with each other. It's not too big of a stretch to state that if everyone had a choice, including you and me, the world would be a place without conflict, where peace and harmony is the rule rather than the exception. Yet, as reality creeps back into picture we have to admit that we are living in a less than peaceful world. With wars between nations, civil wars, the war on terrorism, genocidal practices, political and moral battles, arguments between neighbors we've got soldiers and Marines fighting and dying, lawsuits are clogging our courts, and bickering and fighting going on within marriages and families. Naming these challenges by no means exhausts the list. Lest we forget the greatest conflict, there's the ages old battle between God's Will and ours, between the Spirit of God and our sinful condition. In the end, the lack of peace in the lives of people can only truly be understood as we pay attention to the spiritual dimensions of life and living.
Many "religious" people over the centuries have understood this need for peaceful coexistence with others, even if they didn't know God, Himself. Yet, rather than coexist with others, many religions worked to separate themselves from others. Examples of such thinking and living are found in Eastern mysticism, particularly as found in Buddhism. Christians built monasteries, convents, and religious orders whose participants all sought to find lasting peace with God through separation from the world. The Quakers, Shakers, and Amish people all believe that they must separate themselves from the world in order live at peace with God and others. Their hope was to establish a calm and peace in their lives which could bring them closer to their concept of God. Sadly, often because many Christians have separated themselves from the world, their message of peace has been lost.
St. Paul urges us to live quiet lives, at peace with our neighbors. He doesn't advocate separating ourselves from others because we are ambassadors and disciples of Jesus Christ. We can only be such if we live with people, not apart from them. With all the disagreeable people running around our communities, this is a tall order, or so it seems. In reality, by faith in Christ, we are at peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. In Him, God has made us His own and has given us the commission to tell the world of His love, grace, mercy, and forgiveness in Jesus. We are called to be instruments of God's grace in this world. He has made us His own and given us a commission to tell all the world of His love and redemption for everyone in Jesus Christ. In Jesus we have the great honor to be instruments of God's peace in a troubled world. When we are at peace in Him, we can live lives that are peaceable and quiet. Our lives in that way become examples to others so that they might see Jesus in us. And no matter the troubles we see in this world, no one and nothing can take God's peace in Christ from us.
Prayer: Father, my world is often so frantic I don't have the time to think before I react. Peacefulness is frequently not high on my list of daily blessings, when I even feel I can take the time to count my blessings. Yet, when I concentrate on the peace You have given me in Christ, my life is more calm, I am more collected, and my actions toward others are more considerate. Help me to focus on Your peace with me so that I can live at peace with others in this world. In Jesus' name. Amen.
*********************************
-Pastor Boeck
Copyright @2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Wednesday, August 31, 2005
Monday, August 29, 2005
Our Rock - Our Certainty - Our Confidence
"Today's Devotion" For August 30, 2005
Read: Matthew 7:24-27; II Samuel 22:1-7, 17-20, 31-35, 47-51
OUR ROCK - OUR CERTAINTY - OUR CONFIDENCE
"Therefore everyone who hears these words of Mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who builds his house on a rock."(Mt. 7:24)
If you've looked at the newspapers lately, listened to news broadcasts, or read the news feeds on the internet you may have come to the same conclusion that I have - there's an awful lot of uncertainty running around in that world out there. In Milwaukee the homicide rate has increased dramatically over last year. In Iraq the newest "grand experiment," establishing a democracy, is meeting with stiff opposition from terrorists, religious leaders, ethnic groups, and many Americans. The proposed constitution is in trouble before it even goes before the people in a referendum. Over in Afghanistan, what was once a seemingly placated countryside is starting to explode with more intense terrorist activity and more people are dying. The economy is growing, we're told, yet the Chairman of the Federal Reserve Bank, Mr. Greenspan, has been cautioning investors that the risks they're taking are out of line with the eventual market correction that's coming. He even noted that the housing market, currently running away on itself, is due for a harsh, stiff correction sometime soon.
Can there be any doubt that this world is full of uncertainty? We Americans even have a cautionary saying that, "The only things you can be certain of are death and taxes." Whether it's the war on terrorism, increasing energy costs, the murder rate, the economy, or any other thing we human beings put our hands to, the reality is that, from a human perspective, there's absolutely nothing that's certain and absolutely reliable. I'm reminded of John Steinbeck's book, "Of Mice and Men" where he quotes from Robert Burns' poem, "The Mouse": "The best laid plans of mice and men gang aft agley" ("go oft awry"). Like George and Lennie, Steinbeck's two main characters, it often seems as if all our hopes are dashed by the vagaries of the world - no one can count on anything for certain.
David's marvelous prayer in II Samuel 22 came at a time of great insecurity and uncertainty for him, as well as for the people of Israel. They had faced the onslaught of the Philistines, time and time again going up against overwhelming numbers. Yet, with the help of God, David and his men defeated them and saved Israel. Having been anointed by the Prophet Samuel to be King Saul's successor, David had to flee from Saul's attempts to kill him while at the same time fighting the Philistines. If ever a human being had a reason to feel insecure and uncertain about his future, David was that person. But his hymn of praise, as recorded in II Samuel 22, shows just the opposite. He praises God as his rock, his fortress, and his deliverer (v.2). He confidently sees God as his sure and certain refuge Who shields him from his enemies and saves him from all that would do him harm.
Fast forward to our Gospel reading where Jesus puts forth His Word of hope for His disciples. In the face of the vagaries and insecurities of life, Jesus assures us that His Word provides a solid foundation and a certainty of life with Him. He assures us that nothing can take us away from Him and none of life's storms can drag us from His loving arms. Our lives find their solid foundation in Jesus and His Word. By the power of the Word and Spirit we have been brought to faith in Christ who is our Rock, our Certainty, and our Confidence. The world no longer has the power to hold us captive to its uncertainties and vagaries. Rather than following the world's lead, we follow Jesus' lead for we are called in the Word to follow Him as obedient disciples - servants serving Him and others in Jesus' name. In that obedience we experience the absolute certainty of our salvation in Christ. By faith we know His forgiveness which breaks Sin's bondage. By faith we are assured that Death no longer has any power over us. By faith we're confident that Satan, the "old evil foe," has been defeated and can no longer tear us away from our Father's loving arms.
In a world laced with uncertainty, insecurity, and the continuing onslaught of evil men seeking to destroy God's work and His people, we have Christ as the "solid rock" on which we build our lives. He is our Rock - our Certainty - our Confidence. In Him we have all the purpose for life we need and a message of hope and peace for everyone we meet.
Prayer: Father, life is one of the most incredible gifts You have given me and all people. To be able to draw breath every day and see the magnificence of Your creation is just too marvelous for words. Yet, because of the power of Sin, Death, and Satan in the world, it's also certain that life is uncertain without Your presence every day. There are so many uncertainties and pitfalls in life. All too often I find myself putting my trust in things that have no solid foundation, so that I end up falling flat on my face. Your promise to me is that just as You were David's Rock, so also in Christ are You my rock, my "rock solid" foundation and my certain hope Who gives me the confidence of faith so that I might live in service to You and others in Jesus' name. With thanksgiving, Father, I therefore step forward boldly in faith, knowing that nothing can tear me away from Your love. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.
***************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright @2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Read: Matthew 7:24-27; II Samuel 22:1-7, 17-20, 31-35, 47-51
OUR ROCK - OUR CERTAINTY - OUR CONFIDENCE
"Therefore everyone who hears these words of Mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who builds his house on a rock."(Mt. 7:24)
If you've looked at the newspapers lately, listened to news broadcasts, or read the news feeds on the internet you may have come to the same conclusion that I have - there's an awful lot of uncertainty running around in that world out there. In Milwaukee the homicide rate has increased dramatically over last year. In Iraq the newest "grand experiment," establishing a democracy, is meeting with stiff opposition from terrorists, religious leaders, ethnic groups, and many Americans. The proposed constitution is in trouble before it even goes before the people in a referendum. Over in Afghanistan, what was once a seemingly placated countryside is starting to explode with more intense terrorist activity and more people are dying. The economy is growing, we're told, yet the Chairman of the Federal Reserve Bank, Mr. Greenspan, has been cautioning investors that the risks they're taking are out of line with the eventual market correction that's coming. He even noted that the housing market, currently running away on itself, is due for a harsh, stiff correction sometime soon.
Can there be any doubt that this world is full of uncertainty? We Americans even have a cautionary saying that, "The only things you can be certain of are death and taxes." Whether it's the war on terrorism, increasing energy costs, the murder rate, the economy, or any other thing we human beings put our hands to, the reality is that, from a human perspective, there's absolutely nothing that's certain and absolutely reliable. I'm reminded of John Steinbeck's book, "Of Mice and Men" where he quotes from Robert Burns' poem, "The Mouse": "The best laid plans of mice and men gang aft agley" ("go oft awry"). Like George and Lennie, Steinbeck's two main characters, it often seems as if all our hopes are dashed by the vagaries of the world - no one can count on anything for certain.
David's marvelous prayer in II Samuel 22 came at a time of great insecurity and uncertainty for him, as well as for the people of Israel. They had faced the onslaught of the Philistines, time and time again going up against overwhelming numbers. Yet, with the help of God, David and his men defeated them and saved Israel. Having been anointed by the Prophet Samuel to be King Saul's successor, David had to flee from Saul's attempts to kill him while at the same time fighting the Philistines. If ever a human being had a reason to feel insecure and uncertain about his future, David was that person. But his hymn of praise, as recorded in II Samuel 22, shows just the opposite. He praises God as his rock, his fortress, and his deliverer (v.2). He confidently sees God as his sure and certain refuge Who shields him from his enemies and saves him from all that would do him harm.
Fast forward to our Gospel reading where Jesus puts forth His Word of hope for His disciples. In the face of the vagaries and insecurities of life, Jesus assures us that His Word provides a solid foundation and a certainty of life with Him. He assures us that nothing can take us away from Him and none of life's storms can drag us from His loving arms. Our lives find their solid foundation in Jesus and His Word. By the power of the Word and Spirit we have been brought to faith in Christ who is our Rock, our Certainty, and our Confidence. The world no longer has the power to hold us captive to its uncertainties and vagaries. Rather than following the world's lead, we follow Jesus' lead for we are called in the Word to follow Him as obedient disciples - servants serving Him and others in Jesus' name. In that obedience we experience the absolute certainty of our salvation in Christ. By faith we know His forgiveness which breaks Sin's bondage. By faith we are assured that Death no longer has any power over us. By faith we're confident that Satan, the "old evil foe," has been defeated and can no longer tear us away from our Father's loving arms.
In a world laced with uncertainty, insecurity, and the continuing onslaught of evil men seeking to destroy God's work and His people, we have Christ as the "solid rock" on which we build our lives. He is our Rock - our Certainty - our Confidence. In Him we have all the purpose for life we need and a message of hope and peace for everyone we meet.
Prayer: Father, life is one of the most incredible gifts You have given me and all people. To be able to draw breath every day and see the magnificence of Your creation is just too marvelous for words. Yet, because of the power of Sin, Death, and Satan in the world, it's also certain that life is uncertain without Your presence every day. There are so many uncertainties and pitfalls in life. All too often I find myself putting my trust in things that have no solid foundation, so that I end up falling flat on my face. Your promise to me is that just as You were David's Rock, so also in Christ are You my rock, my "rock solid" foundation and my certain hope Who gives me the confidence of faith so that I might live in service to You and others in Jesus' name. With thanksgiving, Father, I therefore step forward boldly in faith, knowing that nothing can tear me away from Your love. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.
***************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright @2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Blessed To See And Hear Jesus
"Today's Devotion" For August 29, 2005
Read: Matthew 13:1-17; John 10:1-20
BLESSED TO SEE AND HEAR JESUS
"But blessed are your eyes because they see, and your ears because they hear."
(Mt. 13:16)
The practice of open and honest debate on all issues is critical to the continued strength and vitality of the world's only democratic republic, the United States of America. It is a right fostered and encouraged by the First Amendment to the Constitution which guarantees the right of every citizen to engage in free speech. It's one of the most critical hallmarks of our system of government, because it holds that people of differing political, religious, business, or other beliefs, aims, or goals can challenge the "status quo" or the current "wisdom." With such freedom comes the right to work to establish new programs, change people's minds, persuade people to new beliefs, or demonstrate against the government. The current "anti-war" movement is a good example of this "freedom of speech." Fueled by the frustration of a mother over the death of her son in Iraq, demonstrations against the war have occurred openly near the President's Crawford, Texas ranch and in Washington, D. C. It's an activity guaranteed by law. It's a good thing.
However, with all such good things in human existence, "freedom of speech" has its drawbacks. Such openness, guaranteed by law, has a downside - our culture has, in the past 50 years or so specifically, gradually become a culture that doesn't affirm any absolutes and that questions everything. We've become a culture of contradictions for, at the same time as we encourage debate, as individuals we also don't want debate. Each of us, after all, believes that the only correct position to have on any particular issue is the one each of us might have at the moment. Our preconceived notions brook no challenges. And even though we claim to be progressive as a culture and a nation, closed-mindedness is ramped in our society. "Liberals" claim to be open to different ideas than theirs, but shout down anyone that challenges their position. "Conservatives" claim to seek the truth, while at the same time refusing to hear other options or opinions. Among us, as a nation (not to speak of the world), there exists an "arrogance of thought" that holds that "everyone else, but me, is wrong."
Closed-mindedness and arrogant assumptions are not just inimical to our culture. Jesus also ran into such things during His ministry on earth. There were a whole lot of closed- minded people with their own arrogant assumptions about how God would save His people. Matthew shows us how Jesus was rejected by the very people to whom God had promised a Messiah (chapters 11-13). God's intention was that the Messiah would be His people's deliverance from Sin, Death, and Satan - spiritual foes and deadly for eternity. His people on the other hand, guided by their religious and political leaders' points of view, were looking instead for a political savior who would restore the throne of King David and Israel's power among the nations of the world. As a result of such misunderstanding and misconceptions, Jesus uses parables to reveal what the Kingdom of Heaven truly is, and what it truly means for God's people. Our Lord's promise is that those who truly receive the Kingdom on God's terms will understand the meaning of the parables because the "mysteries of the kingdom" are known to them by faith. At the same time, our Lord's promise is also as strong for those who reject Him. They will not understand the parables because they don't believe in Him. At the same time they will know in their hearts that the parables are, because of their lack of faith, a spoken indictment and judgment against them.
Redeemed by Jesus Christ and knowing Him by faith, we trust His Word to be true. As His redeemed children we delight in the knowledge of Christ and His kingdom. It's our greatest treasure. As Jesus' notes, by faith in Him our "eyes have seen, and (our) ears have heard" the truth of the Gospel and we truly know and believe that only Jesus holds the power over and has defeated Sin, Death, and Satan. It's true that we may face opposition from the world around us when we share what we believe as Christians. Yet our faith, lived out in our lives, declared by our words, shown in our service to God and others in Jesus' name, is still the best testimony to the real truth of God's promises in Christ. We should be neither discouraged by this, nor concerned about it, for the arrogance of sin and unbelief will continue to be a fixture in the world. Rather, we take heart that in Christ Jesus God has revealed His kingdom to us and assures us in our Baptisms that we are His and are equipped to bear fruit in Jesus' name. We have been truly blessed to see and hear Jesus in His Word, and live as His forgiven and loving witnesses to the world.
Prayer: Father, I know that it's impossible for me to convince anyone to believe in Jesus or to believe what's really true about Your Creation. Only Your Word and Spirit can do that, for knowing Jesus and believing Your Word is only possible by faith in Jesus, and no human being is capable of that faith on his own. You have blessed me with the faith and knowledge of Jesus as my Lord and Savior, so that I might know Your forgiveness and have the hope of heaven. Thank You for having revealed Your truth to me through Your Word and Spirit. With joy I receive this great gift because by Your grace You have opened my eyes to see and my ears to hear and have made Me Your very own redeemed and forgiven child. Help me to continually share what I have seen and heard by Your Spirit's power as I touch the lives of others for You. In Jesus' precious name I pray. Amen.
*******************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright @2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Read: Matthew 13:1-17; John 10:1-20
BLESSED TO SEE AND HEAR JESUS
"But blessed are your eyes because they see, and your ears because they hear."
(Mt. 13:16)
The practice of open and honest debate on all issues is critical to the continued strength and vitality of the world's only democratic republic, the United States of America. It is a right fostered and encouraged by the First Amendment to the Constitution which guarantees the right of every citizen to engage in free speech. It's one of the most critical hallmarks of our system of government, because it holds that people of differing political, religious, business, or other beliefs, aims, or goals can challenge the "status quo" or the current "wisdom." With such freedom comes the right to work to establish new programs, change people's minds, persuade people to new beliefs, or demonstrate against the government. The current "anti-war" movement is a good example of this "freedom of speech." Fueled by the frustration of a mother over the death of her son in Iraq, demonstrations against the war have occurred openly near the President's Crawford, Texas ranch and in Washington, D. C. It's an activity guaranteed by law. It's a good thing.
However, with all such good things in human existence, "freedom of speech" has its drawbacks. Such openness, guaranteed by law, has a downside - our culture has, in the past 50 years or so specifically, gradually become a culture that doesn't affirm any absolutes and that questions everything. We've become a culture of contradictions for, at the same time as we encourage debate, as individuals we also don't want debate. Each of us, after all, believes that the only correct position to have on any particular issue is the one each of us might have at the moment. Our preconceived notions brook no challenges. And even though we claim to be progressive as a culture and a nation, closed-mindedness is ramped in our society. "Liberals" claim to be open to different ideas than theirs, but shout down anyone that challenges their position. "Conservatives" claim to seek the truth, while at the same time refusing to hear other options or opinions. Among us, as a nation (not to speak of the world), there exists an "arrogance of thought" that holds that "everyone else, but me, is wrong."
Closed-mindedness and arrogant assumptions are not just inimical to our culture. Jesus also ran into such things during His ministry on earth. There were a whole lot of closed- minded people with their own arrogant assumptions about how God would save His people. Matthew shows us how Jesus was rejected by the very people to whom God had promised a Messiah (chapters 11-13). God's intention was that the Messiah would be His people's deliverance from Sin, Death, and Satan - spiritual foes and deadly for eternity. His people on the other hand, guided by their religious and political leaders' points of view, were looking instead for a political savior who would restore the throne of King David and Israel's power among the nations of the world. As a result of such misunderstanding and misconceptions, Jesus uses parables to reveal what the Kingdom of Heaven truly is, and what it truly means for God's people. Our Lord's promise is that those who truly receive the Kingdom on God's terms will understand the meaning of the parables because the "mysteries of the kingdom" are known to them by faith. At the same time, our Lord's promise is also as strong for those who reject Him. They will not understand the parables because they don't believe in Him. At the same time they will know in their hearts that the parables are, because of their lack of faith, a spoken indictment and judgment against them.
Redeemed by Jesus Christ and knowing Him by faith, we trust His Word to be true. As His redeemed children we delight in the knowledge of Christ and His kingdom. It's our greatest treasure. As Jesus' notes, by faith in Him our "eyes have seen, and (our) ears have heard" the truth of the Gospel and we truly know and believe that only Jesus holds the power over and has defeated Sin, Death, and Satan. It's true that we may face opposition from the world around us when we share what we believe as Christians. Yet our faith, lived out in our lives, declared by our words, shown in our service to God and others in Jesus' name, is still the best testimony to the real truth of God's promises in Christ. We should be neither discouraged by this, nor concerned about it, for the arrogance of sin and unbelief will continue to be a fixture in the world. Rather, we take heart that in Christ Jesus God has revealed His kingdom to us and assures us in our Baptisms that we are His and are equipped to bear fruit in Jesus' name. We have been truly blessed to see and hear Jesus in His Word, and live as His forgiven and loving witnesses to the world.
Prayer: Father, I know that it's impossible for me to convince anyone to believe in Jesus or to believe what's really true about Your Creation. Only Your Word and Spirit can do that, for knowing Jesus and believing Your Word is only possible by faith in Jesus, and no human being is capable of that faith on his own. You have blessed me with the faith and knowledge of Jesus as my Lord and Savior, so that I might know Your forgiveness and have the hope of heaven. Thank You for having revealed Your truth to me through Your Word and Spirit. With joy I receive this great gift because by Your grace You have opened my eyes to see and my ears to hear and have made Me Your very own redeemed and forgiven child. Help me to continually share what I have seen and heard by Your Spirit's power as I touch the lives of others for You. In Jesus' precious name I pray. Amen.
*******************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright @2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Saturday, August 27, 2005
We Are Instruments Of His Healing Touch
"Today's Devotion" For August 27, 2005
Read: Matthew 14:34-36; Jeremiah 33:6-9
WE ARE INSTRUMENTS OF HIS HEALING TOUCH
"People...begged Him to let the sick just touch the edge of His cloak, and all who touched Him were healed." (Mt. 14:36)
When a little baby is hungry, hurting, or ill, the touch of his mother can bring calm and fill his need. When a small child hurts herself, she runs to her mother for comfort and healing. Psychologists tell us that the touch of another human being is especially significant in its healing powers when someone is hurting or distraught, especially a loved one. There is a sizeable body of research which supports a greater life expectancy for people who are married and share hugs and affection on a regular basis with their spouses (A word of caution: If you're single don't fret. The affection part of the research is hugely critical. Just being married for the sake of being married could be a disaster:>). While most people would say that skilled surgeons and physicians have a healing touch, it should be noted that it's not just their physical touch that has an impact on healing. One of the most critical skills of these medical professionals is their bedside manner which can have a great effect on a patient's emotional and mental well-being, greatly affecting that person's recovery from illness, disease, or surgery.
It would be fair to say, from a great body of empirical research, anecdotal evidence, and God's Word that the touch of someone's "hand" has great significance for the health and welfare of every human being. The "touch" of another can have a powerful, healing effect both physically and emotionally. At the same time, a "touch" can also have a deleterious effect, causing pain and anguish, despair and depression. In a sinful world, a "touch" - by a hand, a look, the inflection and tone of a voice, body language - has great power to uplift or to destroy. In the face of such reality, what can we learn from Jesus about the value of a "healing touch?"
In a sinful world, such touches precious. As we read about those who were healed just by touching the edge of Jesus' cloak, a powerful picture of God's love and compassion for sinners takes shape. Jesus' reputation had preceded Him. People recognized Him and sent word to the surrounding area, announcing His presence. Filled with hope and anticipation, people came from miles around, bringing their sick family and friends for Him to heal. So powerful was their faith in His power to heal - His healing touch - that all they asked was to have the opportunity to just touch the edge of His cloak. Matthew tells us that when they did - when people touched Jesus' cloak - they were healed. It didn't matter who they were, what they had done, what their diseases or infirmities were, or whether they were rich or poor; all who touched Jesus' cloak were healed.
Further reading in Matthew and elsewhere in the Gospels will make it abundantly clear that it's quite probable that most who touched Jesus' cloak didn't yet understand His mission of salvation. Most quite probably didn't believe that He was the He was their Savior from Sin. At the same time, there's good evidence that they did believe that God had sent Him, as witnessed by the fact that they believed even touching His cloak could heal. What a marvelous picture of Jesus' power and compassion for humanity! He is the Lord of lords and the King of kings. All things belong to Him, for, as John points out (Jn. 1:1, 2), "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through Him all things were made; without Him nothing was made that has been made." Jesus truly rules over all things and all conditions, compassionately and lovingly giving of Himself to heal, mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
Jesus' healing touch is for everyone. In order to heal the world from Sin, preserve it from Death, and keep it out of the clutches of Satan, He took the sins of the whole world upon Himself and died the death that all humanity deserves to die for its disobedience to God. Jesus' came to save everyone. His love is for all people. His authority over the entire universe is for the everlasting benefit of all. There is nothing He cannot do and will not do to save sinners. We, who are the recipients of His love, grace, mercy, and forgiveness by faith, marked for God in our Baptisms, are called to be Jesus' "healing touch" to the world around us. Through us, as we share the Word and His love, He touches the hearts, minds, and lives of people still today. We are His "instruments of healing" as we share His touch with everyone, especially those who are in desperate need of touching "the edge of His cloak." As we step forward in faith each day, serving the Lord and others in His name, it is good for us to be watching for the opportunities He gives us to be "instruments of healing," sharing His healing touch in our own lives with others. We, too, need to take every opportunity, as we grow in the Word, to just "touch the edge of His cloak" and receive the healing He brings through the blood He shed for all on the Cross. God bless you with a life filled with Jesus' healing touch.
Prayer: Father, I don't always show affection to others in a way that shares Jesus' healing touch with them. So often I get put off by how people look, how they dress, how they behave, how they speak, and a host of other things that allow me to put up barriers which keep me from being compassionate and loving toward them. Forgive me, Father, for such unloving response to Jesus' healing touch in my life. Because of Him I can stand before Your throne of Grace a forgiven and redeemed child, the stain of my sins washed away by His blood and righteousness. Father, I pray that as my Lord Jesus healed all who came to just "touch the edge of His cloak," and as He has brought that same healing into my life through Holy Baptism, the Lord's Supper, and the Word, give me the courage, compassion, and, especially, the love to reach out to all who are in need of Jesus' healing touch" as an "instrument of healing" in His name. Hear my prayer gracious Father, for Jesus' sake. Amen.
**************************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright @2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Read: Matthew 14:34-36; Jeremiah 33:6-9
WE ARE INSTRUMENTS OF HIS HEALING TOUCH
"People...begged Him to let the sick just touch the edge of His cloak, and all who touched Him were healed." (Mt. 14:36)
When a little baby is hungry, hurting, or ill, the touch of his mother can bring calm and fill his need. When a small child hurts herself, she runs to her mother for comfort and healing. Psychologists tell us that the touch of another human being is especially significant in its healing powers when someone is hurting or distraught, especially a loved one. There is a sizeable body of research which supports a greater life expectancy for people who are married and share hugs and affection on a regular basis with their spouses (A word of caution: If you're single don't fret. The affection part of the research is hugely critical. Just being married for the sake of being married could be a disaster:>). While most people would say that skilled surgeons and physicians have a healing touch, it should be noted that it's not just their physical touch that has an impact on healing. One of the most critical skills of these medical professionals is their bedside manner which can have a great effect on a patient's emotional and mental well-being, greatly affecting that person's recovery from illness, disease, or surgery.
It would be fair to say, from a great body of empirical research, anecdotal evidence, and God's Word that the touch of someone's "hand" has great significance for the health and welfare of every human being. The "touch" of another can have a powerful, healing effect both physically and emotionally. At the same time, a "touch" can also have a deleterious effect, causing pain and anguish, despair and depression. In a sinful world, a "touch" - by a hand, a look, the inflection and tone of a voice, body language - has great power to uplift or to destroy. In the face of such reality, what can we learn from Jesus about the value of a "healing touch?"
In a sinful world, such touches precious. As we read about those who were healed just by touching the edge of Jesus' cloak, a powerful picture of God's love and compassion for sinners takes shape. Jesus' reputation had preceded Him. People recognized Him and sent word to the surrounding area, announcing His presence. Filled with hope and anticipation, people came from miles around, bringing their sick family and friends for Him to heal. So powerful was their faith in His power to heal - His healing touch - that all they asked was to have the opportunity to just touch the edge of His cloak. Matthew tells us that when they did - when people touched Jesus' cloak - they were healed. It didn't matter who they were, what they had done, what their diseases or infirmities were, or whether they were rich or poor; all who touched Jesus' cloak were healed.
Further reading in Matthew and elsewhere in the Gospels will make it abundantly clear that it's quite probable that most who touched Jesus' cloak didn't yet understand His mission of salvation. Most quite probably didn't believe that He was the He was their Savior from Sin. At the same time, there's good evidence that they did believe that God had sent Him, as witnessed by the fact that they believed even touching His cloak could heal. What a marvelous picture of Jesus' power and compassion for humanity! He is the Lord of lords and the King of kings. All things belong to Him, for, as John points out (Jn. 1:1, 2), "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through Him all things were made; without Him nothing was made that has been made." Jesus truly rules over all things and all conditions, compassionately and lovingly giving of Himself to heal, mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
Jesus' healing touch is for everyone. In order to heal the world from Sin, preserve it from Death, and keep it out of the clutches of Satan, He took the sins of the whole world upon Himself and died the death that all humanity deserves to die for its disobedience to God. Jesus' came to save everyone. His love is for all people. His authority over the entire universe is for the everlasting benefit of all. There is nothing He cannot do and will not do to save sinners. We, who are the recipients of His love, grace, mercy, and forgiveness by faith, marked for God in our Baptisms, are called to be Jesus' "healing touch" to the world around us. Through us, as we share the Word and His love, He touches the hearts, minds, and lives of people still today. We are His "instruments of healing" as we share His touch with everyone, especially those who are in desperate need of touching "the edge of His cloak." As we step forward in faith each day, serving the Lord and others in His name, it is good for us to be watching for the opportunities He gives us to be "instruments of healing," sharing His healing touch in our own lives with others. We, too, need to take every opportunity, as we grow in the Word, to just "touch the edge of His cloak" and receive the healing He brings through the blood He shed for all on the Cross. God bless you with a life filled with Jesus' healing touch.
Prayer: Father, I don't always show affection to others in a way that shares Jesus' healing touch with them. So often I get put off by how people look, how they dress, how they behave, how they speak, and a host of other things that allow me to put up barriers which keep me from being compassionate and loving toward them. Forgive me, Father, for such unloving response to Jesus' healing touch in my life. Because of Him I can stand before Your throne of Grace a forgiven and redeemed child, the stain of my sins washed away by His blood and righteousness. Father, I pray that as my Lord Jesus healed all who came to just "touch the edge of His cloak," and as He has brought that same healing into my life through Holy Baptism, the Lord's Supper, and the Word, give me the courage, compassion, and, especially, the love to reach out to all who are in need of Jesus' healing touch" as an "instrument of healing" in His name. Hear my prayer gracious Father, for Jesus' sake. Amen.
**************************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright @2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Friday, August 26, 2005
Problems - Or Challenges And Opportunities For Faith?
"Today's Devotion" For August 26, 2005
Read: Philippians 4:3-9; Psalm 147
PROBLEMS - OR CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR FAITH?
"An anxious heart weighs a man down, but a kind word cheers him up." (Proverbs 12:25)
When I picked up this morning's newspaper I was once again faced with the reality of life in the world and in the United States. It seems as if no one is ever happy. Everyone seems to have a complaint, a grudge, an argument, or a frustration that is being exacerbated by the President, County Executives, special interest groups, gays and lesbians, stay-at-home moms, judges, prosecutors, attorneys, schools, school districts, teachers, preachers, religious leaders, and on...and on...and on...Whewwwww!!! I don't know about you, but everywhere I look, whether it's about the War on Terrorism, academic achievement and school performance, racial, sexual, or other prejudices, taxes and services provided by government - whether health care for the poor or frozen tax levies, appointments to the supreme court, political and diplomatic issues of all kinds - foreign and domestic, or whatever is the cause 'du jour' of the day, week, month, year, or decade, all I seem to hear is what's wrong, how bad things are, and how many problems we face.
Now, certainly, none of us should be surprised with such an outlook on life. No doubt, as I have often argued myself, there are good reasons for being concerned with the myriad issues previously noted. Certainly they are issues of concern and how they're resolved will impact an enormous amount of people, both in the immediate future and in the long term. Yet, our tendency as human beings is to see every issue as a problem and to castigate whomever is being held responsible for the problem today. Tomorrow the object of scorn and disdain might be someone else, often depending on who has the floor - "liberals," “moderates” or "conservatives." It seems that whenever someone disagrees or stands at the opposite end of an issue or situation there's a problem. When someone's at the other end of the issue or situation there's no problem, only opportunities and challenges. In the end, rather than a healthy, honest debate on the pros and cons of each circumstance, issue, or situation, it's all too common for accusations and innuendo, aimed at hurting or castigating those with whom we disagree, to be the order of the day.
St. Paul understood all too well the challenges of living as the redeemed children of God in Jesus Christ in the face of such accusations. Christians were being accused of all kinds of sedition and anti-Roman behavior. Under such circumstances, it would be extremely difficult for anyone, of any time and place, to be optimistic. As Paul's words of encouragement imply, there's no doubt the Philippian church, along with its counterparts around the Roman world, had to deal with anxiety, frustration, and fear in the face of the disdain and hatred they often experienced from the societies in which they lived. For them, as for us, it was just too easy to "go negative" and see persecution, disdain, and hatred as challenges to test their faith rather than as challenges and opportunities to show others the grace, mercy, and love of God in Jesus Christ.
We are called by the grace, mercy, and love of God in Jesus Christ to be "the salt of the earth," "a city set on a hill," and "lights to the world" (Mt. 5:13-16). By the power of the Word and Spirit, we daily are reminded that we belong to Him and that in Baptism He has put His mark upon us and made us His very own, beloved children. We live in the positive power of the forgiveness of sins because Jesus gave His life on the Cross to redeem us from them and remove their stain from us. As we face the world and all the "issues" of the day, we are empowered to "be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving" (Phil. 4:6) to offer our requests to God. God's promise is to hear us and answer us according to what's in our best interests. More than that, He promises His peace, so that we might be anxious for nothing but be able to face everything circumstance with hope and courage.
Here's a final question: How powerful would our witness to the world be if we, the beloved and redeemed children of God in Jesus Christ, spoke and lived in such a way that we would see every "problem" - personal, political, economic, educational, global, etc. - as challenges and opportunities, rather than problems? In Christ we have the ability offer positive solutions, not criticism, and hope in the face of despair. As we live, so goes our witness. Be at peace and "Do not be anxious about anything..." because God only gives us challenges and opportunities to strengthen our faith and trust in Him and to serve our neighbors by loving them as He has loved us.
Prayer: Father, I can relate to the believers in Philippi. I, too, am often overwhelmed by the "problems" I see and hear in the news of day. It seems as if there's no end to the influence of Sin in the world and the devastation it brings to relationships at all levels, personal, professional, political, and global. In the face of the "problems" that Sin brings into the world, there is a constant "gnashing of teeth" and finger-pointing that leads people and nations to blame one another rather than seeking solutions. Help me to see every "problem" as a challenge that I can meet by faith in Jesus and an opportunity to share Your love, grace, and mercy with others, so they can see Your hand at work and come to know Your love in Christ, just as I have. Father, hear my prayer for the sake of Christ, my Savior and Lord, in Whose most holy name I pray. Amen.
****************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright @2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Read: Philippians 4:3-9; Psalm 147
PROBLEMS - OR CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR FAITH?
"An anxious heart weighs a man down, but a kind word cheers him up." (Proverbs 12:25)
When I picked up this morning's newspaper I was once again faced with the reality of life in the world and in the United States. It seems as if no one is ever happy. Everyone seems to have a complaint, a grudge, an argument, or a frustration that is being exacerbated by the President, County Executives, special interest groups, gays and lesbians, stay-at-home moms, judges, prosecutors, attorneys, schools, school districts, teachers, preachers, religious leaders, and on...and on...and on...Whewwwww!!! I don't know about you, but everywhere I look, whether it's about the War on Terrorism, academic achievement and school performance, racial, sexual, or other prejudices, taxes and services provided by government - whether health care for the poor or frozen tax levies, appointments to the supreme court, political and diplomatic issues of all kinds - foreign and domestic, or whatever is the cause 'du jour' of the day, week, month, year, or decade, all I seem to hear is what's wrong, how bad things are, and how many problems we face.
Now, certainly, none of us should be surprised with such an outlook on life. No doubt, as I have often argued myself, there are good reasons for being concerned with the myriad issues previously noted. Certainly they are issues of concern and how they're resolved will impact an enormous amount of people, both in the immediate future and in the long term. Yet, our tendency as human beings is to see every issue as a problem and to castigate whomever is being held responsible for the problem today. Tomorrow the object of scorn and disdain might be someone else, often depending on who has the floor - "liberals," “moderates” or "conservatives." It seems that whenever someone disagrees or stands at the opposite end of an issue or situation there's a problem. When someone's at the other end of the issue or situation there's no problem, only opportunities and challenges. In the end, rather than a healthy, honest debate on the pros and cons of each circumstance, issue, or situation, it's all too common for accusations and innuendo, aimed at hurting or castigating those with whom we disagree, to be the order of the day.
St. Paul understood all too well the challenges of living as the redeemed children of God in Jesus Christ in the face of such accusations. Christians were being accused of all kinds of sedition and anti-Roman behavior. Under such circumstances, it would be extremely difficult for anyone, of any time and place, to be optimistic. As Paul's words of encouragement imply, there's no doubt the Philippian church, along with its counterparts around the Roman world, had to deal with anxiety, frustration, and fear in the face of the disdain and hatred they often experienced from the societies in which they lived. For them, as for us, it was just too easy to "go negative" and see persecution, disdain, and hatred as challenges to test their faith rather than as challenges and opportunities to show others the grace, mercy, and love of God in Jesus Christ.
We are called by the grace, mercy, and love of God in Jesus Christ to be "the salt of the earth," "a city set on a hill," and "lights to the world" (Mt. 5:13-16). By the power of the Word and Spirit, we daily are reminded that we belong to Him and that in Baptism He has put His mark upon us and made us His very own, beloved children. We live in the positive power of the forgiveness of sins because Jesus gave His life on the Cross to redeem us from them and remove their stain from us. As we face the world and all the "issues" of the day, we are empowered to "be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving" (Phil. 4:6) to offer our requests to God. God's promise is to hear us and answer us according to what's in our best interests. More than that, He promises His peace, so that we might be anxious for nothing but be able to face everything circumstance with hope and courage.
Here's a final question: How powerful would our witness to the world be if we, the beloved and redeemed children of God in Jesus Christ, spoke and lived in such a way that we would see every "problem" - personal, political, economic, educational, global, etc. - as challenges and opportunities, rather than problems? In Christ we have the ability offer positive solutions, not criticism, and hope in the face of despair. As we live, so goes our witness. Be at peace and "Do not be anxious about anything..." because God only gives us challenges and opportunities to strengthen our faith and trust in Him and to serve our neighbors by loving them as He has loved us.
Prayer: Father, I can relate to the believers in Philippi. I, too, am often overwhelmed by the "problems" I see and hear in the news of day. It seems as if there's no end to the influence of Sin in the world and the devastation it brings to relationships at all levels, personal, professional, political, and global. In the face of the "problems" that Sin brings into the world, there is a constant "gnashing of teeth" and finger-pointing that leads people and nations to blame one another rather than seeking solutions. Help me to see every "problem" as a challenge that I can meet by faith in Jesus and an opportunity to share Your love, grace, and mercy with others, so they can see Your hand at work and come to know Your love in Christ, just as I have. Father, hear my prayer for the sake of Christ, my Savior and Lord, in Whose most holy name I pray. Amen.
****************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright @2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Thursday, August 25, 2005
Serving The Needy And Seedy In Jesus' Name
"Today's Devotion" For August 25, 2005
Read: Matthew 25:31-46: James 2:1-13
SERVING THE NEEDY AND SEEDY IN JESUS' NAME
"The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of Mine, you did for Me.'" (Mt. 25:40)
Have you ever seen a homeless person shivering in the cold without adequate clothing? Have you ever seen families looking in dumpsters behind restaurants for food for their next meal? Have you ever noticed that many poor people read and write poorly, if at all? How often do you think such people are able to exercise their franchise and vote so they, too, might have a say in how they are governed? If anyone cares to take a close look at the circumstances of the poor among us, particularly those living in our central cities, one thing will become quite evident. Those living in such circumstances not only feel disenfranchised, but often are. Of course, by some political standards, such thinking is "liberal." At the same time it’s reality whether we like it or not (those who know me know I’m far from being a liberal). For the most part, however, it always seems as if nothing of substance is ever done to transform and change the lives of those who live in such settings. All too often those things which are done to “serve” those in need are spotty and inconsistent at best. Even more so, rather than providing opportunities to grow, excel, and realize their full potential as the marvelous creation of God they are, the poor and downtrodden are often just pitied and given handouts that continue to keep them dependent on others. Love isn’t something many people want to “waste” on those who can’t return the favor.
For the most part, people don't want to be bothered by those different from them. If they're needy, seedy, poor, and downtrodden people tend to look the other way. While it's true that there are many who offer to serve in such settings and give generously and graciously of their time, talents, and treasures to help alleviate suffering, there are equally, and perhaps more so, those whose only contribution is a reluctant, tax-deductible gift in order to salve their consciences. The truth be told, we human beings are drawn more to those who are wealthy, sophisticated, powerful, and have prestige, than those who are in need and living on the edges of society. It seems that people are more willing to share their "love" with the "beautiful people" than they are with the "ugly people." Yet, God seeks to shower His love in Christ upon even those whom our world would deem "the needy and seedy."
Both Jesus and James speak to this situation in our Scripture readings for today. Jesus is talking about the end times and the Day of Judgment. He's very clear that those who will receive the final gift of heaven will be those who have loved others and served them in their need. Jesus makes it clear that such behavior is an act of faith - a direct result of one's loving and forgiven relationship with the Father through Christ our Lord. In much the same way, James chastises the people of God for playing favorites with the rich, leaving the poor to fend for themselves. James reminds all of us that we are unworthy children, called and redeemed by God's grace in Christ. We are called to live as "those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom" (Js. 2:12). That God loves the downtrodden, the ugly, the seedy, the poor, and the needy, is made abundantly clear by both Jesus and James. God's love for those in need, and who know their need for Him, is made clear by James when he asks, "Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and o inherit the kingdom He promised those who love Him" (Js. 2:5)?
We are blessed by God, not because of what we have done, but out of His great love for us. Jesus' suffering, death, and resurrection are the foundation stones of our relationship with God. As Jesus paints the picture of the Judgment Day He specifically points out that God's grace chose us before we ever carried out acts of love and kindness in His name. As Jesus has served us, our calling in Him is to serve those in need, knowing that through such service God's blessings and peace are manifested among us in abundant measure. Made righteous before God by our Lord's sacrifice on the Cross, we stand before our Lord, motivated by His love to serve others in His name, especially touching the lives of the poor among us so they can face their circumstances with the joy and peace Jesus brings.
Prayer: Father, in Your grace and love You have blessed all Your children with the confidence that, in Christ, they have eternal life. Help me to be faithful to this truth and continue to love others in Your name. Help me to avoid the trap of loving those who are "lovable" and ignoring those who are "unlovable." Allow me to serve You as I touch the lives of others, particularly those who are the most needy, so that I may fully live the life of faith and forgiveness You have so graciously given me in Jesus. Let my life and witness be truly pleasing to You and so effective that many may be led to receive Your eternal blessing as well. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.
****************************************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright @2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Read: Matthew 25:31-46: James 2:1-13
SERVING THE NEEDY AND SEEDY IN JESUS' NAME
"The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of Mine, you did for Me.'" (Mt. 25:40)
Have you ever seen a homeless person shivering in the cold without adequate clothing? Have you ever seen families looking in dumpsters behind restaurants for food for their next meal? Have you ever noticed that many poor people read and write poorly, if at all? How often do you think such people are able to exercise their franchise and vote so they, too, might have a say in how they are governed? If anyone cares to take a close look at the circumstances of the poor among us, particularly those living in our central cities, one thing will become quite evident. Those living in such circumstances not only feel disenfranchised, but often are. Of course, by some political standards, such thinking is "liberal." At the same time it’s reality whether we like it or not (those who know me know I’m far from being a liberal). For the most part, however, it always seems as if nothing of substance is ever done to transform and change the lives of those who live in such settings. All too often those things which are done to “serve” those in need are spotty and inconsistent at best. Even more so, rather than providing opportunities to grow, excel, and realize their full potential as the marvelous creation of God they are, the poor and downtrodden are often just pitied and given handouts that continue to keep them dependent on others. Love isn’t something many people want to “waste” on those who can’t return the favor.
For the most part, people don't want to be bothered by those different from them. If they're needy, seedy, poor, and downtrodden people tend to look the other way. While it's true that there are many who offer to serve in such settings and give generously and graciously of their time, talents, and treasures to help alleviate suffering, there are equally, and perhaps more so, those whose only contribution is a reluctant, tax-deductible gift in order to salve their consciences. The truth be told, we human beings are drawn more to those who are wealthy, sophisticated, powerful, and have prestige, than those who are in need and living on the edges of society. It seems that people are more willing to share their "love" with the "beautiful people" than they are with the "ugly people." Yet, God seeks to shower His love in Christ upon even those whom our world would deem "the needy and seedy."
Both Jesus and James speak to this situation in our Scripture readings for today. Jesus is talking about the end times and the Day of Judgment. He's very clear that those who will receive the final gift of heaven will be those who have loved others and served them in their need. Jesus makes it clear that such behavior is an act of faith - a direct result of one's loving and forgiven relationship with the Father through Christ our Lord. In much the same way, James chastises the people of God for playing favorites with the rich, leaving the poor to fend for themselves. James reminds all of us that we are unworthy children, called and redeemed by God's grace in Christ. We are called to live as "those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom" (Js. 2:12). That God loves the downtrodden, the ugly, the seedy, the poor, and the needy, is made abundantly clear by both Jesus and James. God's love for those in need, and who know their need for Him, is made clear by James when he asks, "Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and o inherit the kingdom He promised those who love Him" (Js. 2:5)?
We are blessed by God, not because of what we have done, but out of His great love for us. Jesus' suffering, death, and resurrection are the foundation stones of our relationship with God. As Jesus paints the picture of the Judgment Day He specifically points out that God's grace chose us before we ever carried out acts of love and kindness in His name. As Jesus has served us, our calling in Him is to serve those in need, knowing that through such service God's blessings and peace are manifested among us in abundant measure. Made righteous before God by our Lord's sacrifice on the Cross, we stand before our Lord, motivated by His love to serve others in His name, especially touching the lives of the poor among us so they can face their circumstances with the joy and peace Jesus brings.
Prayer: Father, in Your grace and love You have blessed all Your children with the confidence that, in Christ, they have eternal life. Help me to be faithful to this truth and continue to love others in Your name. Help me to avoid the trap of loving those who are "lovable" and ignoring those who are "unlovable." Allow me to serve You as I touch the lives of others, particularly those who are the most needy, so that I may fully live the life of faith and forgiveness You have so graciously given me in Jesus. Let my life and witness be truly pleasing to You and so effective that many may be led to receive Your eternal blessing as well. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.
****************************************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright @2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Wednesday, August 24, 2005
A Message Of Hope In The Face Of Death
"Today's Devotion" For August 24, 2005
Read: I Corinthians 15; Job 19:25-27
A MESSAGE OF HOPE IN THE FACE OF DEATH
"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In His great mercy He has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade--kept in heaven for you..." (I Pet.1:3-4)
Yesterday we turned our thoughts to the violence that is gripping cities around America. It's an incredibly challenging issue for every citizen, but more especially for God's people, who are called to bring the light of Christ's love into a world mired in the darkness of Sin and the despair it brings. Not to be ignored is the continuing news of deaths by violence occurring on a daily basis in war torn areas of the world fueled by terrorists in most cases who are, by all standards of the rules of warfare (yes, warfare has rules - it's an oxymoron; a discussion for another time), criminals themselves. The lives lost to terrorism include our own citizens in uniform, as well as civilians at home in their own communities, hoping to have peace, security, safety, and freedom take place for themselves and their children.
With all the violence and death that confront people everyday, it can be very difficult for hope and peace to be a part of daily living. A mother wails as she holds the body of her dead child, just seven years old, felled by a stray bullet from a drug deal gone sour. A police officer sits behind a desk, second-guessing himself after trying to stop an angry, violent teenager, and ends up killing the lad while he tried to disarm the officer. A family grieves as their newly graduated high school senior is laid to rest, just weeks before becoming the first person in the family to have the opportunity to attend college, the victim of a drive-by shooting as the result of an argument. In other parts of the world, roadside bombs, mortars, suicide bombers, kidnappers, and beheaders take thousands of lives.
By the grace of God, however, there is hope and peace in the face of these obvious examples of the power of Sin, Death, and Satan in the world. There are Christian brothers and sisters who are going home to heaven with hope in their hearts and a song on their lips. Despite the violent nature of their deaths, they die with a confident faith and trust that Jesus Christ is their Lord and Savior Who has freed them from the power of Sin, Death, and Satan. Their faith and hope stands in sharp contrast to those who die in despair and hopelessness, alone and afraid with no hope for eternity because they don't know Jesus' as their Savior and Lord. Their end is eternity without Christ, forever lost to the presence of God. It's a dreadful end; a more horrible eternity. As God's people in Christ each of us is called to share our own hope and peace in Jesus with others so they don't end up in eternal despair.
By faith in Jesus, we have confidence that death can no longer separate us from God. We know, with an incredible certainty, that Christ's suffering, death, and resurrection make it possible for us to be at peace with the Father, live in His forgiveness, and live a life secure in Him, regardless of the violence and suffering that touches our world each and every day. God's Spirit daily reminds us of the wonders of the resurrection, as we note in today's words of St. Paul and Job's confession. God's Word gives us the courage to forget our fears, face suffering, become "other-centered," and concentrate on sharing God's love and peace in Jesus with others. Christ's resurrection is the assurance that God's promises are true and certain. As the hope of the world, even the most heinous crimes one man can perpetrate upon another cannot separate us from His love. What a powerful hope Jesus is for all who face death and violence! What joy and peace God gives as He reminds the world that, while "the sting of death is sin" (I Cor. 15:56) and "the wages of sin is death" (Rom. 6:23), Christ has been victorious over both Sin and Death so that in Him there is hope and life. This is the hope we, as God's children in Christ, live in each day. What do you say? Let's share it with others, too!
Prayer: Heavenly Father, as the world faces the violence that Sin brings into the lives of people everywhere, help me, and all Your children, to take comfort in the peace and hope You give in Christ Jesus. More than this, Father, I pray that You would send Your Spirit upon me and all Your people in abundant measure that we might fearlessly and constantly share the Good News that You have saved the world from the power of Sin, Death, and Satan in Christ Jesus. Let my words and actions daily be a witness to Your love and grace, Your mercy and peace, and the hope You give to the world in Him. In the face of the continuing violence that brother inflicts on brother all over the world, help me to be an instrument of Your peace and a messenger of hope at all times. Bring peace and hope to all who are hurting and in despair. In Jesus' precious name I pray. Amen.
****************************************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright @2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Read: I Corinthians 15; Job 19:25-27
A MESSAGE OF HOPE IN THE FACE OF DEATH
"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In His great mercy He has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade--kept in heaven for you..." (I Pet.1:3-4)
Yesterday we turned our thoughts to the violence that is gripping cities around America. It's an incredibly challenging issue for every citizen, but more especially for God's people, who are called to bring the light of Christ's love into a world mired in the darkness of Sin and the despair it brings. Not to be ignored is the continuing news of deaths by violence occurring on a daily basis in war torn areas of the world fueled by terrorists in most cases who are, by all standards of the rules of warfare (yes, warfare has rules - it's an oxymoron; a discussion for another time), criminals themselves. The lives lost to terrorism include our own citizens in uniform, as well as civilians at home in their own communities, hoping to have peace, security, safety, and freedom take place for themselves and their children.
With all the violence and death that confront people everyday, it can be very difficult for hope and peace to be a part of daily living. A mother wails as she holds the body of her dead child, just seven years old, felled by a stray bullet from a drug deal gone sour. A police officer sits behind a desk, second-guessing himself after trying to stop an angry, violent teenager, and ends up killing the lad while he tried to disarm the officer. A family grieves as their newly graduated high school senior is laid to rest, just weeks before becoming the first person in the family to have the opportunity to attend college, the victim of a drive-by shooting as the result of an argument. In other parts of the world, roadside bombs, mortars, suicide bombers, kidnappers, and beheaders take thousands of lives.
By the grace of God, however, there is hope and peace in the face of these obvious examples of the power of Sin, Death, and Satan in the world. There are Christian brothers and sisters who are going home to heaven with hope in their hearts and a song on their lips. Despite the violent nature of their deaths, they die with a confident faith and trust that Jesus Christ is their Lord and Savior Who has freed them from the power of Sin, Death, and Satan. Their faith and hope stands in sharp contrast to those who die in despair and hopelessness, alone and afraid with no hope for eternity because they don't know Jesus' as their Savior and Lord. Their end is eternity without Christ, forever lost to the presence of God. It's a dreadful end; a more horrible eternity. As God's people in Christ each of us is called to share our own hope and peace in Jesus with others so they don't end up in eternal despair.
By faith in Jesus, we have confidence that death can no longer separate us from God. We know, with an incredible certainty, that Christ's suffering, death, and resurrection make it possible for us to be at peace with the Father, live in His forgiveness, and live a life secure in Him, regardless of the violence and suffering that touches our world each and every day. God's Spirit daily reminds us of the wonders of the resurrection, as we note in today's words of St. Paul and Job's confession. God's Word gives us the courage to forget our fears, face suffering, become "other-centered," and concentrate on sharing God's love and peace in Jesus with others. Christ's resurrection is the assurance that God's promises are true and certain. As the hope of the world, even the most heinous crimes one man can perpetrate upon another cannot separate us from His love. What a powerful hope Jesus is for all who face death and violence! What joy and peace God gives as He reminds the world that, while "the sting of death is sin" (I Cor. 15:56) and "the wages of sin is death" (Rom. 6:23), Christ has been victorious over both Sin and Death so that in Him there is hope and life. This is the hope we, as God's children in Christ, live in each day. What do you say? Let's share it with others, too!
Prayer: Heavenly Father, as the world faces the violence that Sin brings into the lives of people everywhere, help me, and all Your children, to take comfort in the peace and hope You give in Christ Jesus. More than this, Father, I pray that You would send Your Spirit upon me and all Your people in abundant measure that we might fearlessly and constantly share the Good News that You have saved the world from the power of Sin, Death, and Satan in Christ Jesus. Let my words and actions daily be a witness to Your love and grace, Your mercy and peace, and the hope You give to the world in Him. In the face of the continuing violence that brother inflicts on brother all over the world, help me to be an instrument of Your peace and a messenger of hope at all times. Bring peace and hope to all who are hurting and in despair. In Jesus' precious name I pray. Amen.
****************************************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright @2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Tuesday, August 23, 2005
God - A Very Present Help In Trouble
"Today's Devotion" For August 23, 2005
Read: Psalm 46; Psalm 62
GOD - A VERY PRESENT HELP IN TROUBLE
"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble...Be still and know that I am God..." (Ps. 46:1, 10a)
Perhaps you've noticed that, if you really want a barometer of what's troubling people, or at least where a community's concerns lie, reading the editorial page of the local newspaper is a great place to start. It's a good way to measure a new community's leadership and culture. While people might rail about the "liberal" or "conservative" bent of the local "rag" it's not likely that it will stay in business, even if it's the only show in town, if no one is reading it. A newspaper's circulation is critical for its existence, especially today when there are so many alternative forms of information - many of which are deemed more reliable and objective than most local dailies.
That's why an editorial in the local newspaper caught my eye again this morning. It addresses a growing concern in Milwaukee, as well as a host of cities around the nation. The murder rate is climbing. While that crime statistic dropped sharply last year in many places around the nation, this year it's on a steep return. Numbers such as 57%, 48%, and 28% are cited as rates of increase in the homicides in cities around the country. Those who study these numbers and try to understand why the trend is occurring, cite an increasing level of rage, particularly among young people in central city areas - areas most likely to have residence living in poverty. It's not hard to extrapolate that the young people dying because of arguments which end in gunfire have replaced hope with rage. When hope is dying, then it's not too difficult to replace it with rage - which tends to blame others for one's own troubles. Yet the murders, rage, anger, and hopelessness aren't confined to those in poverty. They affect all layers of society and touch the lives of everyone.
It's not possible to discuss and dissect all the potential issues and circumstances that might be leading to these increases in homicides in this devotion. What we can be sure of is that such numbers reflect the continuing power of Sin in the lives of people, leading them to despair, hopelessness, sadness, pain, sorrow, and, ultimately, rage. Such circumstances, however, are a wake up call to the people of God that the love of God in Jesus Christ, His grace, mercy, forgiveness, and peace all need to be shared as vigorously and often as possible with people everywhere. The people being murdered are our neighbors. They are people Christ died to save from Sin, Death, and Satan. They are people in need of God's forgiving love in Jesus and hope, not just for heaven, but for life, as Jesus said, "I have come that they may have life and that they may have it more abundantly" (Jn. 10:10). People need to know that God's love in Christ always brings hope and peace with it. People need to know that God has not forsaken them, nor is He far from them.
In such times and under such situations, it's easy to forget Who's in charge. Our heavenly Father reminds us in His Word that we are His and that He watches over us. In today's readings, the Psalmists write about God power and majesty and His mercy and grace. Their message is clear and powerful in the face of all the troubles of this world and the rising incidences of violence fueled by rage and despair. As God's people, it's essential that we not despair but count our blessings; that we put aside worry and put ourselves in God's hands. Of equal importance is God's call to us, in Christ Jesus, to share the message of hope and peace in Jesus with those who are now living in despair that is giving way to the rage of hopelessness.
Some time ago I ran across the following "Memo From God." The author is anonymous so I can't give specific credit. Yet, I can't help but believe the Holy Spirit had a hand in writing these words which seem so appropriate for today. I'm certain we could add some additional ideas which would speak to the very real issues of violence, hatred, rage, hopelessness, and despair that are facing us in our cities today. Please be advised the following has been edited:
"I am God. Today I will be handling all of your problems. Please remember that I don't need your help. If life happens to deliver a situation to you that you can't handle, don't attempt to solve it yourself. Kindly put it in the SFGTD (something for God to do) box. All situations will be resolved, in a way and time that's best for you, so be patient. Once the matter is placed into the box, don't hold onto it by worrying about it. Instead, focus on all the blessings your life currently contains."
"If you find yourself stuck in traffic, relax and remember how many others don't have any means to get where they need to go. If you find yourself walking because your car has broken down, think of the paraplegic who would love the opportunity to take that walk."
"If you're having a bad day at work, think about the man who has been out of work for years. When you wish your weekends were longer, think of the mother alone, working twelve hour days, seven days a week, to feed her children."
"When you see a new gray hair in the mirror, remember the cancer patient undergoing chemotherapy who wishes he or she could just have their hair back. And, should you find yourself struggling to put a meaning to your life, be thankful that you still have the opportunity to do so."
"Should you feel empty because a relationship has gone bad, think of the person who has never known what it's like to love and to be loved in return. If you find yourself the victim of the bitterness, ignorance, smallness, or insecurities of others, rejoice that in Christ you are whole, forgiven, and loved, and that no one can take that away from you."
Prayer: Father, as I read about the rage that is sweeping the nation, and the subsequent evidence in the growing rate of violent crimes, particularly homicides, I thank You that You have made me Your very own child in Jesus Christ. As Your redeemed child in Jesus, help me to rejoice in Your blessings everyday and find ways to share them with others, raising my voice in praise and honor of Your blessed and holy name. Should the rage and violence so rampant in the world and in the nation personally touch my life, or the lives of those I love, help me to understand, be willing to forgive and put everything into Your hands. Help me to be an active advocate for Your peace and love in Christ to those who are despairing and feeling alone and hopeless. While I would prefer to sit on the sidelines and watch from my own arena of comfort, give me the courage instead to find ways to reach out to help stem the violence and pain with the message of Your love and forgiveness in Christ. Help me to count my blessings each day, and then share them with others, so that You may be glorified and they might come to know Your love and forgiveness in Jesus Christ. Father, bless those in need of Your peace and strength this day who are in despair over the death of loved ones because of violence, and lead them to see Jesus Who alone is their hope. I pray all this in Jesus' most holy and precious name. Amen.
************************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright @2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Read: Psalm 46; Psalm 62
GOD - A VERY PRESENT HELP IN TROUBLE
"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble...Be still and know that I am God..." (Ps. 46:1, 10a)
Perhaps you've noticed that, if you really want a barometer of what's troubling people, or at least where a community's concerns lie, reading the editorial page of the local newspaper is a great place to start. It's a good way to measure a new community's leadership and culture. While people might rail about the "liberal" or "conservative" bent of the local "rag" it's not likely that it will stay in business, even if it's the only show in town, if no one is reading it. A newspaper's circulation is critical for its existence, especially today when there are so many alternative forms of information - many of which are deemed more reliable and objective than most local dailies.
That's why an editorial in the local newspaper caught my eye again this morning. It addresses a growing concern in Milwaukee, as well as a host of cities around the nation. The murder rate is climbing. While that crime statistic dropped sharply last year in many places around the nation, this year it's on a steep return. Numbers such as 57%, 48%, and 28% are cited as rates of increase in the homicides in cities around the country. Those who study these numbers and try to understand why the trend is occurring, cite an increasing level of rage, particularly among young people in central city areas - areas most likely to have residence living in poverty. It's not hard to extrapolate that the young people dying because of arguments which end in gunfire have replaced hope with rage. When hope is dying, then it's not too difficult to replace it with rage - which tends to blame others for one's own troubles. Yet the murders, rage, anger, and hopelessness aren't confined to those in poverty. They affect all layers of society and touch the lives of everyone.
It's not possible to discuss and dissect all the potential issues and circumstances that might be leading to these increases in homicides in this devotion. What we can be sure of is that such numbers reflect the continuing power of Sin in the lives of people, leading them to despair, hopelessness, sadness, pain, sorrow, and, ultimately, rage. Such circumstances, however, are a wake up call to the people of God that the love of God in Jesus Christ, His grace, mercy, forgiveness, and peace all need to be shared as vigorously and often as possible with people everywhere. The people being murdered are our neighbors. They are people Christ died to save from Sin, Death, and Satan. They are people in need of God's forgiving love in Jesus and hope, not just for heaven, but for life, as Jesus said, "I have come that they may have life and that they may have it more abundantly" (Jn. 10:10). People need to know that God's love in Christ always brings hope and peace with it. People need to know that God has not forsaken them, nor is He far from them.
In such times and under such situations, it's easy to forget Who's in charge. Our heavenly Father reminds us in His Word that we are His and that He watches over us. In today's readings, the Psalmists write about God power and majesty and His mercy and grace. Their message is clear and powerful in the face of all the troubles of this world and the rising incidences of violence fueled by rage and despair. As God's people, it's essential that we not despair but count our blessings; that we put aside worry and put ourselves in God's hands. Of equal importance is God's call to us, in Christ Jesus, to share the message of hope and peace in Jesus with those who are now living in despair that is giving way to the rage of hopelessness.
Some time ago I ran across the following "Memo From God." The author is anonymous so I can't give specific credit. Yet, I can't help but believe the Holy Spirit had a hand in writing these words which seem so appropriate for today. I'm certain we could add some additional ideas which would speak to the very real issues of violence, hatred, rage, hopelessness, and despair that are facing us in our cities today. Please be advised the following has been edited:
"I am God. Today I will be handling all of your problems. Please remember that I don't need your help. If life happens to deliver a situation to you that you can't handle, don't attempt to solve it yourself. Kindly put it in the SFGTD (something for God to do) box. All situations will be resolved, in a way and time that's best for you, so be patient. Once the matter is placed into the box, don't hold onto it by worrying about it. Instead, focus on all the blessings your life currently contains."
"If you find yourself stuck in traffic, relax and remember how many others don't have any means to get where they need to go. If you find yourself walking because your car has broken down, think of the paraplegic who would love the opportunity to take that walk."
"If you're having a bad day at work, think about the man who has been out of work for years. When you wish your weekends were longer, think of the mother alone, working twelve hour days, seven days a week, to feed her children."
"When you see a new gray hair in the mirror, remember the cancer patient undergoing chemotherapy who wishes he or she could just have their hair back. And, should you find yourself struggling to put a meaning to your life, be thankful that you still have the opportunity to do so."
"Should you feel empty because a relationship has gone bad, think of the person who has never known what it's like to love and to be loved in return. If you find yourself the victim of the bitterness, ignorance, smallness, or insecurities of others, rejoice that in Christ you are whole, forgiven, and loved, and that no one can take that away from you."
Prayer: Father, as I read about the rage that is sweeping the nation, and the subsequent evidence in the growing rate of violent crimes, particularly homicides, I thank You that You have made me Your very own child in Jesus Christ. As Your redeemed child in Jesus, help me to rejoice in Your blessings everyday and find ways to share them with others, raising my voice in praise and honor of Your blessed and holy name. Should the rage and violence so rampant in the world and in the nation personally touch my life, or the lives of those I love, help me to understand, be willing to forgive and put everything into Your hands. Help me to be an active advocate for Your peace and love in Christ to those who are despairing and feeling alone and hopeless. While I would prefer to sit on the sidelines and watch from my own arena of comfort, give me the courage instead to find ways to reach out to help stem the violence and pain with the message of Your love and forgiveness in Christ. Help me to count my blessings each day, and then share them with others, so that You may be glorified and they might come to know Your love and forgiveness in Jesus Christ. Father, bless those in need of Your peace and strength this day who are in despair over the death of loved ones because of violence, and lead them to see Jesus Who alone is their hope. I pray all this in Jesus' most holy and precious name. Amen.
************************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright @2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Monday, August 22, 2005
Is It "We Believe" or "I Believe?"
"Today's Devotion" For August 22, 2005
Read: Romans 12:3-13; I Corinthians 12-13
IS IT "WE BELIEVE" OR "I BELIEVE?"
"For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life." (Jn. 3:16)
In yesterday morning's sermon the pastor noted that the original Latin words of the various ecumenical creeds of the Christian church read, "We believe...," not "I believe..." which is the more popular and contemporary usage when reciting them. Someone raised the question in Bible class yesterday morning as to why the change had been made. I said I wasn't completely certain, but, as the questioner himself noted, it's true that the word change has some correlation to the idea that no one else can believe in Jesus for me. At the same time, in a world that is increasingly "me" oriented, there is significance to the "we believe..." that shouldn't be ignored.
The Scripture readings for today may seem to be a little disparate. Yet, I believe, they speak to the very issue raised by the question noted above. At the very heart of the issue is the truth that Christ died for all, for the whole world. John 3:16 is, perhaps, the most well known statement of that fact. He died to save the world that God loves from the power of Sin, Death, and Satan, and restore Creation and every human being to a full and right relationship with the Creator. The result of that sacrifice is the forgiveness of sins and the hope of everlasting life for all who believe in Jesus as Savior and Lord.
Some years ago, I remember learning an evangelism technique which took John 3:16 and reworded it in this way: "For God so loved (Mary, Bill, Jane, Bob, etc.), that if (insert person's name) believes in Jesus as (his/her) Lord and Savior, (insert person's name) will have eternal life." It's catchy; it's contemporary; it's also incomplete and inaccurate, even while true. Each of us is part of the "world" for which Christ died. We live in the world, not on an individual planet. What we do, how we live, how we speak, and all that transpires in our lives doesn't just affect us individually, but it affects others as well. Throughout the Scriptures God doesn't speak in individual terms, but in corporate terms. His commandments were given to His people as a whole, while also applying to each of us individually. I can't answer for your sins, only mine. I can't repent of your sins, only you can do that. I can't receive forgiveness of sins for you, only for me. Yet, I am my brother's keeper, regardless of Cain's response to God about his brother, Abel (Gen. 4:9b). As our two readings for today from Paul's epistles point out, each of us is a member of the Body of Christ, living collectively in God's grace, while bringing our individual gifts to the table for the benefit of all.
Answering the question, "Is it "We believe" or "I believe?" isn't as difficult as it might seem. In reality it's both at the same time. Each of us has been born into the Body of Christ by faith in Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior from Sin. Individually we have been baptized into Christ through the washing of the water and the Word and the power of the Holy Spirit. Each of us has received God's grace, mercy, love, and forgiveness in Christ so that our lives might be lived to the full. Yet none of us has been redeemed and restored to God alone. Not one of us is alone in Christ. As God reminded Elijah, when he thought he was the only believer left, that He had reserved to Himself "seven thousand in Israel - all whose knees have not bowed down to Baal..." (I Kings 19:18). God's continuing promise to us isn't just that we're saved by faith in Christ, but that this faith has made us, together, members of His Body, the Church. This same salvation is also for the whole world, whom God invites to be part of that same Body.
One thing stands out in each of the Scriptures noted for today. The words of John 3:16 and the words of Paul's epistles speak of one thing that binds all of God's people together into one whole, while still individuals - love. The word in the Greek is "agape" which has the meaning of being totally "selfless,” "other-centered," and "sacrificial." It's love that can only come from God, that can only be understood through the sacrifice of Jesus, and that can only be a part of our lives because the Holy Spirit, through the Word, leads us to believe. There can be no "sacrificial love," no "selfless love," no "other-centered love" if we stand alone, individually, by ourselves. By God's grace and mercy we have been blessed to confess both "We believe..." and "I believe..." in God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. His love, His "agape," is at the center of that confession; it's the foundation on which the confession stands. So, regardless of our individual gifts, talents, and abilities, God's "agape" has its greatest impact when it's experienced and received by all in the Body of Christ, and then, together, shared with the world so that all people might be saved.
Prayer: Father, it's so easy for me to become "self-centered" in my life and my faith. It's easy to fall into the trap of the world which focuses more attention on "me, myself, and I" than it does on other people. Service is a word often used to pat oneself on the back, rather than being an act of selfless, sacrificial love for those who are served. You have given me many talents, gifts, and abilities by which I might serve You and others in Jesus' name. Help me to remember that all these things are useless unless I put them together with all the gifts You've given to the Body of Christ. Father, as Your greatest gift of all, Your love - "agape" - is given to each member of Christ's Body, the Church, guide me to share that same love with others as part of that Body. Remind me that when I confess, "I believe..." that it's fullest expression is found in "We believe..." as I'm in the company of the saints on earth and the saints in heaven, from which I draw strength and the courage to share Jesus with others. In Jesus' precious name I pray. Amen.
****************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright @2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Read: Romans 12:3-13; I Corinthians 12-13
IS IT "WE BELIEVE" OR "I BELIEVE?"
"For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life." (Jn. 3:16)
In yesterday morning's sermon the pastor noted that the original Latin words of the various ecumenical creeds of the Christian church read, "We believe...," not "I believe..." which is the more popular and contemporary usage when reciting them. Someone raised the question in Bible class yesterday morning as to why the change had been made. I said I wasn't completely certain, but, as the questioner himself noted, it's true that the word change has some correlation to the idea that no one else can believe in Jesus for me. At the same time, in a world that is increasingly "me" oriented, there is significance to the "we believe..." that shouldn't be ignored.
The Scripture readings for today may seem to be a little disparate. Yet, I believe, they speak to the very issue raised by the question noted above. At the very heart of the issue is the truth that Christ died for all, for the whole world. John 3:16 is, perhaps, the most well known statement of that fact. He died to save the world that God loves from the power of Sin, Death, and Satan, and restore Creation and every human being to a full and right relationship with the Creator. The result of that sacrifice is the forgiveness of sins and the hope of everlasting life for all who believe in Jesus as Savior and Lord.
Some years ago, I remember learning an evangelism technique which took John 3:16 and reworded it in this way: "For God so loved (Mary, Bill, Jane, Bob, etc.), that if (insert person's name) believes in Jesus as (his/her) Lord and Savior, (insert person's name) will have eternal life." It's catchy; it's contemporary; it's also incomplete and inaccurate, even while true. Each of us is part of the "world" for which Christ died. We live in the world, not on an individual planet. What we do, how we live, how we speak, and all that transpires in our lives doesn't just affect us individually, but it affects others as well. Throughout the Scriptures God doesn't speak in individual terms, but in corporate terms. His commandments were given to His people as a whole, while also applying to each of us individually. I can't answer for your sins, only mine. I can't repent of your sins, only you can do that. I can't receive forgiveness of sins for you, only for me. Yet, I am my brother's keeper, regardless of Cain's response to God about his brother, Abel (Gen. 4:9b). As our two readings for today from Paul's epistles point out, each of us is a member of the Body of Christ, living collectively in God's grace, while bringing our individual gifts to the table for the benefit of all.
Answering the question, "Is it "We believe" or "I believe?" isn't as difficult as it might seem. In reality it's both at the same time. Each of us has been born into the Body of Christ by faith in Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior from Sin. Individually we have been baptized into Christ through the washing of the water and the Word and the power of the Holy Spirit. Each of us has received God's grace, mercy, love, and forgiveness in Christ so that our lives might be lived to the full. Yet none of us has been redeemed and restored to God alone. Not one of us is alone in Christ. As God reminded Elijah, when he thought he was the only believer left, that He had reserved to Himself "seven thousand in Israel - all whose knees have not bowed down to Baal..." (I Kings 19:18). God's continuing promise to us isn't just that we're saved by faith in Christ, but that this faith has made us, together, members of His Body, the Church. This same salvation is also for the whole world, whom God invites to be part of that same Body.
One thing stands out in each of the Scriptures noted for today. The words of John 3:16 and the words of Paul's epistles speak of one thing that binds all of God's people together into one whole, while still individuals - love. The word in the Greek is "agape" which has the meaning of being totally "selfless,” "other-centered," and "sacrificial." It's love that can only come from God, that can only be understood through the sacrifice of Jesus, and that can only be a part of our lives because the Holy Spirit, through the Word, leads us to believe. There can be no "sacrificial love," no "selfless love," no "other-centered love" if we stand alone, individually, by ourselves. By God's grace and mercy we have been blessed to confess both "We believe..." and "I believe..." in God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. His love, His "agape," is at the center of that confession; it's the foundation on which the confession stands. So, regardless of our individual gifts, talents, and abilities, God's "agape" has its greatest impact when it's experienced and received by all in the Body of Christ, and then, together, shared with the world so that all people might be saved.
Prayer: Father, it's so easy for me to become "self-centered" in my life and my faith. It's easy to fall into the trap of the world which focuses more attention on "me, myself, and I" than it does on other people. Service is a word often used to pat oneself on the back, rather than being an act of selfless, sacrificial love for those who are served. You have given me many talents, gifts, and abilities by which I might serve You and others in Jesus' name. Help me to remember that all these things are useless unless I put them together with all the gifts You've given to the Body of Christ. Father, as Your greatest gift of all, Your love - "agape" - is given to each member of Christ's Body, the Church, guide me to share that same love with others as part of that Body. Remind me that when I confess, "I believe..." that it's fullest expression is found in "We believe..." as I'm in the company of the saints on earth and the saints in heaven, from which I draw strength and the courage to share Jesus with others. In Jesus' precious name I pray. Amen.
****************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright @2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Saturday, August 20, 2005
Lord, Deliver Us From Evil!
"Today's Devotion" For August 20, 2005
Read: Matthew 8:28-34; Psalm 3
LORD, DELIVER US FROM EVIL!
"From the Lord comes deliverance. May Your blessing be upon Your people." (Ps. 3:8)
Back in my younger days, Linda Blair became famous because of a movie called "The Exorcist." It was the movie that seems to have started the ball rolling for modern film makers to explore and investigate themes in the area of the occult that they had never before touched upon. Much of the reason for that wasn't that film makers, at least, didn't want to broach the subject - the "horror" genre in movies is quite old and extensive - but until "The Exorcist" some of the more dramatic special effects mechanisms were not technologically available. From that point on, demons and demon possession were further explored and commercialized by the movie industry in movies like "Carrie", "The Shining", "Damien", and others, many based on literary works. Unfortunately, such films and literature appeal to many of humanity's prurient interests, and fail to truly recognize the reality of and the true nature of the demonic and satanic.
If you have any doubt about that assertion, consider, if you will, that there is now a television show called "Ghost Hunters." It's a real life, real time, excursion into the paranormal, the logical next step up from the "horror" genre. Such a program is a logical progression from "The Lord of the Rings" which touched on the spiritual and paranormal, as well as the "fantasy - paranormal - spiritual" genre of literature such as the Harry Potter series. For the most part, it seems as if the vast majority of people in the developed countries see such exploration of the genres as being simply harmless and entertaining. To a certain extent this may explain why so many people fail to see that there is evil in the world and that such evil seeks to destroy and can't be controlled by mere human activity.
As we look at Jesus dealing with the reality of demon possession according to Matthew's Gospel account today, the accuracy of the previous statement becomes obvious. Jesus was faced with the very real circumstance of human beings being violently controlled in body and spirit by the followers of God's sworn enemy, Satan. These demons give strong evidence that they knew who Jesus was and what He was about to do. They whined about their end at Jesus' hand coming too soon - that it wasn't yet time. Begging for a modicum of mercy and salvation from the Lord of Life, they unwittingly glorify Him and acknowledge Him for Who He is. Knowing they are going to be driven out of the two men they possessed, their request is to be sent into a herd of pigs. Jesus grants their request, which seemed a victory to the demons at the time. Yet their sense of victory is short-lived, as the herd runs over a cliff and into the lake to drown.
The people of that region who owned the pigs were Gentiles. They didn't understand what had happened, only that they had lost the pigs from which they drew their livelihood. They really could have cared less about the freeing of the two men from demon possession. All they could think about was having Jesus leave them alone. It's quite possible they didn't even truly understand what had happened. Perhaps, for them, being possessed by demons was to be expected and ignored as long as it didn't affect them. It's obvious that they truly didn't appreciate the power and compassion of Jesus in their midst.
Playing around with the occult, evil, and the paranormal may seem like nothing, but reality tells us differently. In the undeveloped nations of the world people seem to be much more in touch with the demonic and spirit world than in the developed nations. Missionaries with whom I've had the opportunity to visit have shared stories about demon possession and occultic activity in places like India, Africa, the Caribbean, South America, and Asia. I've also spoken to domestic missionaries who have shared experiences of the occult and demon possession within our own shores. It seems, however, that domestically we're too "sophisticated" in our beliefs to pay any credence to the real evil that walks the earth everyday. While people might enjoy being "scared" by the movie and literary genres that "play" around with the paranormal and the occult, for the most part no one takes them seriously. In the same way, just as the Gentiles in Matthew's account for today, people don't Jesus seriously either.
As the people of God, redeemed by Jesus Christ, we don't want to fall into the same trap. We want to take evil and the demonic world seriously. We recognize that Jesus has overcome Satan and his legions, and that he has no power over us any longer because we belong to our Father in heaven. Our Lord Jesus Christ has won the ultimate victory over Sin and Satan, and while there are still skirmishes with evil, it can no longer keep us from our Father. Even though the people of the world are oblivious to the reality of Sin and Satan, we know and confess that our Lord Jesus Christ, by the power of His Word and Spirit, gives us the power to overcome them. We have the sure evidence of our Lord's power to drive out demons. Living in that confident assurance and faith we seek to share His compassion to those in need of His mercy, grace, and love everyday. We proclaim with confidence that His forgiveness is powerful and total. Facing a world inundated with evil seeking to destroy God's creation, Jesus gives us strength and hope and with confidence we pray, "Lord, deliver us from evil!"
Prayer: Father, the world is filled with evil. It's not what You intended when You created the universe. You could have immediately destroyed Adam and Eve when they sinned. You could have long ago destroyed the world and all humanity. Yet, in Your patience, grace, mercy, and love You have been compassionate, providing salvation from Sin and Satan, and all the evil they bring, through Jesus Christ, my Savior and Lord. In the same way as Jesus drove the demons out of the two men in Galilee that they possessed, so also am I confident that by faith in His power, compassion, and love I'm able to overcome evil each day as it seeks to enter my life. Father, I pray that by the power of Your Word and Spirit, I may never see the occult, the paranormal, or anything that plays around with the demonic and evil as being safe or immaterial to life with You. Help me to keep such things in their proper perspective, knowing that Christ has overcome them and that in Him I have hope and peace. In Jesus' precious name I pray. Amen.
**************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright @2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Read: Matthew 8:28-34; Psalm 3
LORD, DELIVER US FROM EVIL!
"From the Lord comes deliverance. May Your blessing be upon Your people." (Ps. 3:8)
Back in my younger days, Linda Blair became famous because of a movie called "The Exorcist." It was the movie that seems to have started the ball rolling for modern film makers to explore and investigate themes in the area of the occult that they had never before touched upon. Much of the reason for that wasn't that film makers, at least, didn't want to broach the subject - the "horror" genre in movies is quite old and extensive - but until "The Exorcist" some of the more dramatic special effects mechanisms were not technologically available. From that point on, demons and demon possession were further explored and commercialized by the movie industry in movies like "Carrie", "The Shining", "Damien", and others, many based on literary works. Unfortunately, such films and literature appeal to many of humanity's prurient interests, and fail to truly recognize the reality of and the true nature of the demonic and satanic.
If you have any doubt about that assertion, consider, if you will, that there is now a television show called "Ghost Hunters." It's a real life, real time, excursion into the paranormal, the logical next step up from the "horror" genre. Such a program is a logical progression from "The Lord of the Rings" which touched on the spiritual and paranormal, as well as the "fantasy - paranormal - spiritual" genre of literature such as the Harry Potter series. For the most part, it seems as if the vast majority of people in the developed countries see such exploration of the genres as being simply harmless and entertaining. To a certain extent this may explain why so many people fail to see that there is evil in the world and that such evil seeks to destroy and can't be controlled by mere human activity.
As we look at Jesus dealing with the reality of demon possession according to Matthew's Gospel account today, the accuracy of the previous statement becomes obvious. Jesus was faced with the very real circumstance of human beings being violently controlled in body and spirit by the followers of God's sworn enemy, Satan. These demons give strong evidence that they knew who Jesus was and what He was about to do. They whined about their end at Jesus' hand coming too soon - that it wasn't yet time. Begging for a modicum of mercy and salvation from the Lord of Life, they unwittingly glorify Him and acknowledge Him for Who He is. Knowing they are going to be driven out of the two men they possessed, their request is to be sent into a herd of pigs. Jesus grants their request, which seemed a victory to the demons at the time. Yet their sense of victory is short-lived, as the herd runs over a cliff and into the lake to drown.
The people of that region who owned the pigs were Gentiles. They didn't understand what had happened, only that they had lost the pigs from which they drew their livelihood. They really could have cared less about the freeing of the two men from demon possession. All they could think about was having Jesus leave them alone. It's quite possible they didn't even truly understand what had happened. Perhaps, for them, being possessed by demons was to be expected and ignored as long as it didn't affect them. It's obvious that they truly didn't appreciate the power and compassion of Jesus in their midst.
Playing around with the occult, evil, and the paranormal may seem like nothing, but reality tells us differently. In the undeveloped nations of the world people seem to be much more in touch with the demonic and spirit world than in the developed nations. Missionaries with whom I've had the opportunity to visit have shared stories about demon possession and occultic activity in places like India, Africa, the Caribbean, South America, and Asia. I've also spoken to domestic missionaries who have shared experiences of the occult and demon possession within our own shores. It seems, however, that domestically we're too "sophisticated" in our beliefs to pay any credence to the real evil that walks the earth everyday. While people might enjoy being "scared" by the movie and literary genres that "play" around with the paranormal and the occult, for the most part no one takes them seriously. In the same way, just as the Gentiles in Matthew's account for today, people don't Jesus seriously either.
As the people of God, redeemed by Jesus Christ, we don't want to fall into the same trap. We want to take evil and the demonic world seriously. We recognize that Jesus has overcome Satan and his legions, and that he has no power over us any longer because we belong to our Father in heaven. Our Lord Jesus Christ has won the ultimate victory over Sin and Satan, and while there are still skirmishes with evil, it can no longer keep us from our Father. Even though the people of the world are oblivious to the reality of Sin and Satan, we know and confess that our Lord Jesus Christ, by the power of His Word and Spirit, gives us the power to overcome them. We have the sure evidence of our Lord's power to drive out demons. Living in that confident assurance and faith we seek to share His compassion to those in need of His mercy, grace, and love everyday. We proclaim with confidence that His forgiveness is powerful and total. Facing a world inundated with evil seeking to destroy God's creation, Jesus gives us strength and hope and with confidence we pray, "Lord, deliver us from evil!"
Prayer: Father, the world is filled with evil. It's not what You intended when You created the universe. You could have immediately destroyed Adam and Eve when they sinned. You could have long ago destroyed the world and all humanity. Yet, in Your patience, grace, mercy, and love You have been compassionate, providing salvation from Sin and Satan, and all the evil they bring, through Jesus Christ, my Savior and Lord. In the same way as Jesus drove the demons out of the two men in Galilee that they possessed, so also am I confident that by faith in His power, compassion, and love I'm able to overcome evil each day as it seeks to enter my life. Father, I pray that by the power of Your Word and Spirit, I may never see the occult, the paranormal, or anything that plays around with the demonic and evil as being safe or immaterial to life with You. Help me to keep such things in their proper perspective, knowing that Christ has overcome them and that in Him I have hope and peace. In Jesus' precious name I pray. Amen.
**************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright @2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Friday, August 19, 2005
Whatever Possessed You?
"Today's Devotion" For August 19, 2005
Read: Genesis 4:1-16; Psalm 51
WHATEVER POSSESSED YOU?
"For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Rom. 6:23)
"Whatever possessed you to do that?" came the plaintive cry of the mother confronting her 10-year old son who had just hit his 5-year old sister with a baseball bat. "Whatever possessed you?" was the anguished cry of the father who visited his son in jail because he was just arrested for armed robbery and murder. "Whatever possessed you?" is a phrase not uncommon, especially among family members, who are faced with the terrible consequences of wrongdoing and crime by those whom they love. It's also a question that we is raised within the Christian community when brothers and sisters in Christ are found to be committing crimes or otherwise behaving in way inconsistent with a relationship with God.
In the past couple of days the local news has seen two previous victims of crimes in the city, committing crimes themselves. One of them, a young mother whose 7-year old daughter went missing and was never found about five years ago, was arrested for possession of drugs with intent to deliver. The other, a man allegedly brutally beaten by off-duty police officers at a party last fall, turned himself in after his mother reported to the police that he had beaten her. Past news accounts concerning these victims, turned perpetrators, have indicated that they belonged to Christian churches. One of the local newspaper columnists noted in this morning's paper that these were two individuals who, because of their previous experiences, will never be anonymous again. I'm waiting for their legal defense to be mounted - perhaps they've been so traumatized as the victims of crimes that they just "can't help themselves" - that their behavior is predictable and caused by their own victimization.
On the national level, from Kansas, we're told that yesterday the "BTK" - "blind, torture, kill" - killer was sentenced to prison terms, run consecutively, of 135-years. It's the most the judge was allowed to mete out based on the law. Here is a man who had a family for whom, by all accounts, he had been a good provider and loved them, a man who was a respected Boy Scout leader, and the President of a local Lutheran church which he faithfully attended. Yet, over a period of seven years he brutally murdered ten women for the perverse, sexual pleasure he got from each act of violence, as well as remembering each act over the years as he viewed photographs he had taken of his crimes. He asked for forgiveness, saying that he hoped, someday, God would accept him.
"There, but for the grace of God, go I." I can't think of a more appropriate way to respond to the aforementioned situations. Within every one of us is the same capacity to do evil and eschew what's right and pleasing to God. We're horrified and wag our fingers at people such as those mentioned above, yet, just like Cain who slew his brother Abel because God had favored the willing sacrifice of Abel over Cain's reluctant sacrifice, we're all capable of committing acts of violence and horror against others, or thumbing our noses at the law. It's the power of Sin in our lives. It's a direct result of the separation that exists, by nature, between God and man because of the power of Sin to control us and keep us away from His love. When we, as God's children in Christ, ask the question of the day, "Whatever possessed you?", we do so with the full realization that the answer is, "Sin."
It was the power of Sin which led Cain to slay his brother out of jealousy. It was Sin that drove David to his knees with his plaintive cry, "Have mercy on me, O God..." (Ps. 51:1). It was Sin that sent Jesus to the Cross to become the ultimate sacrifice for the sins of the world, so that all might be saved. By God's grace, we are called to repentance of our sins and faith in Christ, in Whom is forgiveness, hope, and life. David's plaintive cry to God over his sin also includes his confession of faith: "Have mercy on me, O God, according to Your unfailing love; according to Your great compassion blot out my transgressions." God's response to Cain's cry concerning the harshness of his punishment was to show mercy and place a mark on Cain so that all who saw it would know they were not to take his life in retaliation. St. Paul's wise counsel to the Romans, inspired by the Spirit, was a reminder that "the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord."
In the end, for the three persons in the news because of their crimes, and for all of us who "daily sin much and are in need of repentance," God's promise is His forgiveness in Christ to all who repent. No matter the severity of the sin, by human standards, His forgiveness is sure and certain. Just as the thief on the cross at Golgotha, our Lord's forgiveness is for all who repent and believe the Gospel. By God's grace it's possible to have people ask, "Whatever possessed you?" in the context of how we live so that we can answer with joy and peace, "the love of God in Christ Jesus my Lord!"
Prayer: Father, it's easy for me to point fingers at others, especially those who are of the household of faith, when sin rears its ugly head among your people. At times I forget that "there, but for the grace of God, go I" when I see the news accounts of crime, especially when it concerns those who claim to be Your children. Yet, I know that I, too, could be standing in their place, in their shoes, because the nature of my disobedience to You because of my sin, would put my sins in the public eye. Help me to be compassionate and forgiving toward others in the same way as You are compassionate and forgiving toward me. Strengthen my faith so that I might live in a way that pleases You, loves my neighbor, and shares Jesus with others. By the power of Your Word and Spirit, guide me in my living so that if anyone were to ask me, "Whatever possessed you?" I might respond with joy and confidence, "the love of God in Christ Jesus my Lord!", in Whose precious and most holy name I pray. Amen.
*************************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright @2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Read: Genesis 4:1-16; Psalm 51
WHATEVER POSSESSED YOU?
"For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Rom. 6:23)
"Whatever possessed you to do that?" came the plaintive cry of the mother confronting her 10-year old son who had just hit his 5-year old sister with a baseball bat. "Whatever possessed you?" was the anguished cry of the father who visited his son in jail because he was just arrested for armed robbery and murder. "Whatever possessed you?" is a phrase not uncommon, especially among family members, who are faced with the terrible consequences of wrongdoing and crime by those whom they love. It's also a question that we is raised within the Christian community when brothers and sisters in Christ are found to be committing crimes or otherwise behaving in way inconsistent with a relationship with God.
In the past couple of days the local news has seen two previous victims of crimes in the city, committing crimes themselves. One of them, a young mother whose 7-year old daughter went missing and was never found about five years ago, was arrested for possession of drugs with intent to deliver. The other, a man allegedly brutally beaten by off-duty police officers at a party last fall, turned himself in after his mother reported to the police that he had beaten her. Past news accounts concerning these victims, turned perpetrators, have indicated that they belonged to Christian churches. One of the local newspaper columnists noted in this morning's paper that these were two individuals who, because of their previous experiences, will never be anonymous again. I'm waiting for their legal defense to be mounted - perhaps they've been so traumatized as the victims of crimes that they just "can't help themselves" - that their behavior is predictable and caused by their own victimization.
On the national level, from Kansas, we're told that yesterday the "BTK" - "blind, torture, kill" - killer was sentenced to prison terms, run consecutively, of 135-years. It's the most the judge was allowed to mete out based on the law. Here is a man who had a family for whom, by all accounts, he had been a good provider and loved them, a man who was a respected Boy Scout leader, and the President of a local Lutheran church which he faithfully attended. Yet, over a period of seven years he brutally murdered ten women for the perverse, sexual pleasure he got from each act of violence, as well as remembering each act over the years as he viewed photographs he had taken of his crimes. He asked for forgiveness, saying that he hoped, someday, God would accept him.
"There, but for the grace of God, go I." I can't think of a more appropriate way to respond to the aforementioned situations. Within every one of us is the same capacity to do evil and eschew what's right and pleasing to God. We're horrified and wag our fingers at people such as those mentioned above, yet, just like Cain who slew his brother Abel because God had favored the willing sacrifice of Abel over Cain's reluctant sacrifice, we're all capable of committing acts of violence and horror against others, or thumbing our noses at the law. It's the power of Sin in our lives. It's a direct result of the separation that exists, by nature, between God and man because of the power of Sin to control us and keep us away from His love. When we, as God's children in Christ, ask the question of the day, "Whatever possessed you?", we do so with the full realization that the answer is, "Sin."
It was the power of Sin which led Cain to slay his brother out of jealousy. It was Sin that drove David to his knees with his plaintive cry, "Have mercy on me, O God..." (Ps. 51:1). It was Sin that sent Jesus to the Cross to become the ultimate sacrifice for the sins of the world, so that all might be saved. By God's grace, we are called to repentance of our sins and faith in Christ, in Whom is forgiveness, hope, and life. David's plaintive cry to God over his sin also includes his confession of faith: "Have mercy on me, O God, according to Your unfailing love; according to Your great compassion blot out my transgressions." God's response to Cain's cry concerning the harshness of his punishment was to show mercy and place a mark on Cain so that all who saw it would know they were not to take his life in retaliation. St. Paul's wise counsel to the Romans, inspired by the Spirit, was a reminder that "the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord."
In the end, for the three persons in the news because of their crimes, and for all of us who "daily sin much and are in need of repentance," God's promise is His forgiveness in Christ to all who repent. No matter the severity of the sin, by human standards, His forgiveness is sure and certain. Just as the thief on the cross at Golgotha, our Lord's forgiveness is for all who repent and believe the Gospel. By God's grace it's possible to have people ask, "Whatever possessed you?" in the context of how we live so that we can answer with joy and peace, "the love of God in Christ Jesus my Lord!"
Prayer: Father, it's easy for me to point fingers at others, especially those who are of the household of faith, when sin rears its ugly head among your people. At times I forget that "there, but for the grace of God, go I" when I see the news accounts of crime, especially when it concerns those who claim to be Your children. Yet, I know that I, too, could be standing in their place, in their shoes, because the nature of my disobedience to You because of my sin, would put my sins in the public eye. Help me to be compassionate and forgiving toward others in the same way as You are compassionate and forgiving toward me. Strengthen my faith so that I might live in a way that pleases You, loves my neighbor, and shares Jesus with others. By the power of Your Word and Spirit, guide me in my living so that if anyone were to ask me, "Whatever possessed you?" I might respond with joy and confidence, "the love of God in Christ Jesus my Lord!", in Whose precious and most holy name I pray. Amen.
*************************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright @2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Thursday, August 18, 2005
Conflict Between The Secular And Sacred
"Today's Devotion" For August 18, 2005
Read: Matthew 16:21-23; Psalm 40
CONFLICT BETWEEN THE SECULAR AND SACRED
"I desire to do Your Will, O my God; Your law is within my heart."(Ps.40:8)
Have you ever experienced confusion in your life? Have you ever been at odds with yourself, much less others, about how you should think, feel, speak, or behave? Most of us would answer in the affirmative to these questions. It seems that being human puts us in a quandary. Human existence is often a living conundrum of conflicting emotions and choices. Human beings, by their very nature, are torn between the material and the spiritual, the secular and the sacred. As God's creation, we are both spiritual and physical creatures. As such we find ourselves torn between thinking in human terms or God's terms. By nature, because of the ravages of Sin on Man's relationship with God, conflict between the secular and sacred, thinking Man's thoughts or God's thoughts, is a daily occurrence and deeply troubling. Thus, when Jesus told His disciples that He would have to suffer for the sins of the world, die a criminal's death by crucifixion, and then rise again the conflict between the secular and the sacred became quite chilling. Peter's infamous response, "...this shall not happen to You!" shows the intensity of the dilemma, the conflict between the secular and the sacred. Jesus' revelation flew in the face of every popular notion about the Christ and what kind of Savior of the people He was to be.
Lest we get too "cocky" with our "Monday Morning Quarterback" position in history, it's important to realize that Peter doesn't stand alone in his confusion. The conflict between the secular and sacred is alive and well in our own lives as well. In Peter's day, the people were looking for a Christ, the Messiah, who would overthrow the evil Romans, sit on David's throne, and restore Israel to prominence in the world community. The lessons of history, both secular and sacred don't seem to have changed such thinking, even among Christians today. Without getting into the arguments concerning the place of the State of Israel is the "grand scheme of the cosmos" too many Christians are promoting successful living as having money, prestige, and the ability to "name it and claim it" because they are "Christians." It's almost as if Christians are, in many cases, looking for confirmation of Jesus' promises of forgiveness and heaven by how much they receive on earth. The War on Terrorism and the fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan are seen by so many as a battle that will destroy the enemies of Christians, rather than a battle against those who seek to do evil.
Jesus' own life and ministry belie these ideas. Jesus' own words and ministry clearly proclaim salvation to be a spiritual event - the final destruction of the power of Sin, Death, and Satan to keep humanity from the loving arms of the Father. It's the Father's Will to bring people into a forgiven and righteous relationship with Him through the suffering, death, and resurrection of Jesus. It's the Father's Will that we live in His grace, mercy, love, and forgiveness, filled with the hope of heaven by faith in Christ. It's the Father's Will that, as His dearly beloved children, we live each day with the conviction that we are here on earth to share His love in Christ with others, knowing that we are but strangers and pilgrims awaiting His call for us to come home to heaven. The conflict between the secular and sacred touches us each day. Ultimately, we take our cues from Jesus, Whose suffering, death, and resurrection fly in the face of human thinking, but, as God's foolishness, is wiser than Man's wisdom (cf. I Cor. 1). The Suffering Christ is both inevitable and necessary - it's at the very foundation of the conflict between the secular and sacred.
Prayer: Father, the world is a conflicting place for Your people. On one hand the allure of the world seems so inviting; on the other hand it's a scary place. Too often, however, being a spiritual person, having a relationship with You, is not only unpopular, but is seen as foolish, especially when it's on Your terms. Father, give me the strength of faith and the courage to face the conflicts between the secular and sacred I face each day, so that I might be a faithful witness to the sacrifice of Jesus on the Cross for all humanity. By the power of Your Word and Spirit give me a confident trust in Your forgiveness and love so that I might live it faithfully and proclaim it to the world. Help me to keep my eyes on Jesus and remember that my reward is in heaven so that I might never be led away from You. I pray this, gracious Father, for the sake and in the name of my Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.
********************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright @2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Read: Matthew 16:21-23; Psalm 40
CONFLICT BETWEEN THE SECULAR AND SACRED
"I desire to do Your Will, O my God; Your law is within my heart."(Ps.40:8)
Have you ever experienced confusion in your life? Have you ever been at odds with yourself, much less others, about how you should think, feel, speak, or behave? Most of us would answer in the affirmative to these questions. It seems that being human puts us in a quandary. Human existence is often a living conundrum of conflicting emotions and choices. Human beings, by their very nature, are torn between the material and the spiritual, the secular and the sacred. As God's creation, we are both spiritual and physical creatures. As such we find ourselves torn between thinking in human terms or God's terms. By nature, because of the ravages of Sin on Man's relationship with God, conflict between the secular and sacred, thinking Man's thoughts or God's thoughts, is a daily occurrence and deeply troubling. Thus, when Jesus told His disciples that He would have to suffer for the sins of the world, die a criminal's death by crucifixion, and then rise again the conflict between the secular and the sacred became quite chilling. Peter's infamous response, "...this shall not happen to You!" shows the intensity of the dilemma, the conflict between the secular and the sacred. Jesus' revelation flew in the face of every popular notion about the Christ and what kind of Savior of the people He was to be.
Lest we get too "cocky" with our "Monday Morning Quarterback" position in history, it's important to realize that Peter doesn't stand alone in his confusion. The conflict between the secular and sacred is alive and well in our own lives as well. In Peter's day, the people were looking for a Christ, the Messiah, who would overthrow the evil Romans, sit on David's throne, and restore Israel to prominence in the world community. The lessons of history, both secular and sacred don't seem to have changed such thinking, even among Christians today. Without getting into the arguments concerning the place of the State of Israel is the "grand scheme of the cosmos" too many Christians are promoting successful living as having money, prestige, and the ability to "name it and claim it" because they are "Christians." It's almost as if Christians are, in many cases, looking for confirmation of Jesus' promises of forgiveness and heaven by how much they receive on earth. The War on Terrorism and the fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan are seen by so many as a battle that will destroy the enemies of Christians, rather than a battle against those who seek to do evil.
Jesus' own life and ministry belie these ideas. Jesus' own words and ministry clearly proclaim salvation to be a spiritual event - the final destruction of the power of Sin, Death, and Satan to keep humanity from the loving arms of the Father. It's the Father's Will to bring people into a forgiven and righteous relationship with Him through the suffering, death, and resurrection of Jesus. It's the Father's Will that we live in His grace, mercy, love, and forgiveness, filled with the hope of heaven by faith in Christ. It's the Father's Will that, as His dearly beloved children, we live each day with the conviction that we are here on earth to share His love in Christ with others, knowing that we are but strangers and pilgrims awaiting His call for us to come home to heaven. The conflict between the secular and sacred touches us each day. Ultimately, we take our cues from Jesus, Whose suffering, death, and resurrection fly in the face of human thinking, but, as God's foolishness, is wiser than Man's wisdom (cf. I Cor. 1). The Suffering Christ is both inevitable and necessary - it's at the very foundation of the conflict between the secular and sacred.
Prayer: Father, the world is a conflicting place for Your people. On one hand the allure of the world seems so inviting; on the other hand it's a scary place. Too often, however, being a spiritual person, having a relationship with You, is not only unpopular, but is seen as foolish, especially when it's on Your terms. Father, give me the strength of faith and the courage to face the conflicts between the secular and sacred I face each day, so that I might be a faithful witness to the sacrifice of Jesus on the Cross for all humanity. By the power of Your Word and Spirit give me a confident trust in Your forgiveness and love so that I might live it faithfully and proclaim it to the world. Help me to keep my eyes on Jesus and remember that my reward is in heaven so that I might never be led away from You. I pray this, gracious Father, for the sake and in the name of my Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.
********************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright @2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Wednesday, August 17, 2005
Who's Responsible Anyhow?
"Today's Devotion" For August 17, 2005
Read: Matthew 5:13-16; Psalm 33
WHO'S RESPONSIBLE ANYHOW?
"Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, the people He chose for His inheritance." (Ps. 33:12)
I'm on a "responsibility kick." It seems wherever I look these days someone's blaming someone else for their troubles, the nation's troubles, and the world's troubles. In the local newspaper's editorial perspectives section this morning the prevailing theme had more to do with who’s at fault than finding reasonable solutions to issues facing the nation. Particularly "enlightening" was a column by a national, syndicated columnist for the St. Petersburg Times (I'm not mentioning her name - I don't want to give her more play) which, at least in the local paper, was titled, "Who's really hurting America?" The article is in response to a new book by conservative author and journalist, Bernard Goldberg, titled, "100 People Who Are Screwing Up America (and Al Franken is No. 37)" (I know. I know. I’m giving his name – bear with me, he’s the author of a titled work for crying out loud). In his book, Goldberg has a laundry list of "recognized liberal" celebrities and other people who he claims are responsible for the declining "state of the union." The columnist, in response, names her own list - hers being a list of "recognized conservatives" - whom she claims are "screwing up America." And so the battle continues.
What troubles me about each of these writers' perspectives is their insistence on playing the "blame game." Is America in trouble? Depending on your perspective, Yes! If you're a convicted "conservative" you'd probably say, "Yes! And it's the fault of the liberals." If you're a convicted "liberal" you'd probably say, "Yes! and it's the fault of the conservatives." Perhaps, however, the Christian's answer to such a question might, more accurately be, "Yes! And it's my responsibility."
If America, or any nation for that matter, has a problem, it's that God is not at the center of its existence. I'm not advocating a "state sponsored religion" or a "theocracy." God hasn't chosen that form of government for us. He has, however, informed us that every government is ordained by Him for the purpose of good order and the care of the citizenry (cf. Rom. 13). As His redeemed children in Christ, He calls upon us to be obedient to the "higher powers" and to make a positive difference in the life of the nation. As Jesus notes in His Sermon on the Mount (cf. Mt. 5:13-16), we are called, as His disciples, to be the "seasoning," the "focal point," and the bringers of His "light" to our neighbors, our cities, our states, the nation, and the world. We are called to share the love of God in Jesus Christ with everyone, to live it in our lives, and to work to make a difference in all areas of our nation and world.
The Psalmist's words, "Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord" (Ps. 33:12), cuts right to the heart of the issue before us. If our nation, or any nation, is "screwed up" the real question is "Why?" not "Who?" Sin is the one constant that continues to destroy relationships, beginning with humanity's relationship with God, moving on to our relationships with others, and, finally, to our stewardship, or lack thereof, of the resources of the earth God has created and given to humanity for the good of all. When God takes a "back seat" to how a nation thinks, how it deals with others, and how it addresses its problems, challenges, and the sin in its midst, then it will be "screwed up." Of that there can be no doubt.
So, what do we do about it? I know this is beginning to sound like an "editorial," or maybe even a "sermon," but bear with me. We, God's beloved, redeemed, restored, and forgiven children in Jesus Christ, have been called out of the darkness of Sin and unbelief to a singular purpose - to make a difference in the world as ambassadors for Christ and witnesses to God's love, grace, mercy, and forgiveness for all mankind. While Paul writes in I Thessalonians 4:11 (which we read yesterday) that we should "make it y(our) ambition to lead a quiet life, to mind y(our) own business..." he doesn't mean that we shouldn't speak up for what's right, oppose that which is evil, or fail to share God's Word and His truth with those around us. He calls us to live our lives in a way that people look at us with respect and seek to know why we live and act the way we do - respecting others, even when we don't agree with them, and loving them as we love ourselves.
As God's people in Jesus Christ we have a powerful call from God to be the "salt of the earth," the seasoning that makes the world "savory" to Him so that His wrath toward Sin is stayed and His patience continues so that more might return to His loving arms. Jesus tells us, as His disciples, that we are "the light of the world" through whom the Spirit shines the light of God's grace and mercy to a fallen humanity. Our Lord calls His disciples, you and me, "a city set on a hill" which can't be hidden and which stands as a "landmark" to God's call to repentance and faith. According to our Lord Jesus Christ, the answer to the question at the head of today's devotion, "Who's responsible anyhow?" is "I am" - each of us personally and all of us collectively as disciples of Jesus Christ. Thank God that we have such a noble purpose and wonderful calling from Him who loves us and gave Himself for us.
Prayer: Father, newspaper columnists and pundits across the nation are constantly looking for someone to blame for the "state of the nation." Yet, in Your Word, You clearly reveal that no nation can be blessed if You are not the Lord of its existence. You have called me and all your people to repentance and faith in Jesus Christ. Through His perfect obedience and His suffering, death, and resurrection You have redeemed, restored, and forgiven me and the whole world. Yet, because of the power of Sin, there are too many that don't yet know Your forgiveness and love in Christ. The state of the nation and the world is clear evidence of that reality. If anyone can really be said to be "hurting America," it would be me when I fail to live for You and share Jesus. Father, strengthen my faith and my service to You that I may live each day with boldness of purpose, sharing Christ in my words and deeds, and, by my example, make a difference in the lives of all whom I touch. In Jesus' precious name I pray. Amen.
******************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright @2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Read: Matthew 5:13-16; Psalm 33
WHO'S RESPONSIBLE ANYHOW?
"Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, the people He chose for His inheritance." (Ps. 33:12)
I'm on a "responsibility kick." It seems wherever I look these days someone's blaming someone else for their troubles, the nation's troubles, and the world's troubles. In the local newspaper's editorial perspectives section this morning the prevailing theme had more to do with who’s at fault than finding reasonable solutions to issues facing the nation. Particularly "enlightening" was a column by a national, syndicated columnist for the St. Petersburg Times (I'm not mentioning her name - I don't want to give her more play) which, at least in the local paper, was titled, "Who's really hurting America?" The article is in response to a new book by conservative author and journalist, Bernard Goldberg, titled, "100 People Who Are Screwing Up America (and Al Franken is No. 37)" (I know. I know. I’m giving his name – bear with me, he’s the author of a titled work for crying out loud). In his book, Goldberg has a laundry list of "recognized liberal" celebrities and other people who he claims are responsible for the declining "state of the union." The columnist, in response, names her own list - hers being a list of "recognized conservatives" - whom she claims are "screwing up America." And so the battle continues.
What troubles me about each of these writers' perspectives is their insistence on playing the "blame game." Is America in trouble? Depending on your perspective, Yes! If you're a convicted "conservative" you'd probably say, "Yes! And it's the fault of the liberals." If you're a convicted "liberal" you'd probably say, "Yes! and it's the fault of the conservatives." Perhaps, however, the Christian's answer to such a question might, more accurately be, "Yes! And it's my responsibility."
If America, or any nation for that matter, has a problem, it's that God is not at the center of its existence. I'm not advocating a "state sponsored religion" or a "theocracy." God hasn't chosen that form of government for us. He has, however, informed us that every government is ordained by Him for the purpose of good order and the care of the citizenry (cf. Rom. 13). As His redeemed children in Christ, He calls upon us to be obedient to the "higher powers" and to make a positive difference in the life of the nation. As Jesus notes in His Sermon on the Mount (cf. Mt. 5:13-16), we are called, as His disciples, to be the "seasoning," the "focal point," and the bringers of His "light" to our neighbors, our cities, our states, the nation, and the world. We are called to share the love of God in Jesus Christ with everyone, to live it in our lives, and to work to make a difference in all areas of our nation and world.
The Psalmist's words, "Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord" (Ps. 33:12), cuts right to the heart of the issue before us. If our nation, or any nation, is "screwed up" the real question is "Why?" not "Who?" Sin is the one constant that continues to destroy relationships, beginning with humanity's relationship with God, moving on to our relationships with others, and, finally, to our stewardship, or lack thereof, of the resources of the earth God has created and given to humanity for the good of all. When God takes a "back seat" to how a nation thinks, how it deals with others, and how it addresses its problems, challenges, and the sin in its midst, then it will be "screwed up." Of that there can be no doubt.
So, what do we do about it? I know this is beginning to sound like an "editorial," or maybe even a "sermon," but bear with me. We, God's beloved, redeemed, restored, and forgiven children in Jesus Christ, have been called out of the darkness of Sin and unbelief to a singular purpose - to make a difference in the world as ambassadors for Christ and witnesses to God's love, grace, mercy, and forgiveness for all mankind. While Paul writes in I Thessalonians 4:11 (which we read yesterday) that we should "make it y(our) ambition to lead a quiet life, to mind y(our) own business..." he doesn't mean that we shouldn't speak up for what's right, oppose that which is evil, or fail to share God's Word and His truth with those around us. He calls us to live our lives in a way that people look at us with respect and seek to know why we live and act the way we do - respecting others, even when we don't agree with them, and loving them as we love ourselves.
As God's people in Jesus Christ we have a powerful call from God to be the "salt of the earth," the seasoning that makes the world "savory" to Him so that His wrath toward Sin is stayed and His patience continues so that more might return to His loving arms. Jesus tells us, as His disciples, that we are "the light of the world" through whom the Spirit shines the light of God's grace and mercy to a fallen humanity. Our Lord calls His disciples, you and me, "a city set on a hill" which can't be hidden and which stands as a "landmark" to God's call to repentance and faith. According to our Lord Jesus Christ, the answer to the question at the head of today's devotion, "Who's responsible anyhow?" is "I am" - each of us personally and all of us collectively as disciples of Jesus Christ. Thank God that we have such a noble purpose and wonderful calling from Him who loves us and gave Himself for us.
Prayer: Father, newspaper columnists and pundits across the nation are constantly looking for someone to blame for the "state of the nation." Yet, in Your Word, You clearly reveal that no nation can be blessed if You are not the Lord of its existence. You have called me and all your people to repentance and faith in Jesus Christ. Through His perfect obedience and His suffering, death, and resurrection You have redeemed, restored, and forgiven me and the whole world. Yet, because of the power of Sin, there are too many that don't yet know Your forgiveness and love in Christ. The state of the nation and the world is clear evidence of that reality. If anyone can really be said to be "hurting America," it would be me when I fail to live for You and share Jesus. Father, strengthen my faith and my service to You that I may live each day with boldness of purpose, sharing Christ in my words and deeds, and, by my example, make a difference in the lives of all whom I touch. In Jesus' precious name I pray. Amen.
******************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright @2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Tuesday, August 16, 2005
Living As Examples Of Responsible Living
"Today's Devotion" For August 16, 2003
Read: I Thessalonians 4:1-12; Psalm 1
LIVING AS EXAMPLES OF RESPONSIBLE LIVING
"So then, dear friends, since you are looking forward to this, make every effort to be found spotless, blameless and at peace with Him."(II Pet.3:14)
Over the years there seems to be constant refrain coming from certain quarters that our laws are too harsh, our punishment of criminals is too severe, and even terrorists should be treated as if they're merely recalcitrant children. At the same time there have been those who have been somewhat "voices crying in the wilderness" that such thinking is not only dangerous for society, but can lead to greater acts of irresponsibility and aberrant behavior. At the very heart of the debate is the question as to whether people should be held accountable for their actions, or, if there's something "in the water" that causes them to act in such selfish and irresponsible ways, without regard for the welfare of others?
So this morning, while listening to a radio talk show, it didn't come as much of a surprise when I heard that the National Mental Health Association (I hope I got this right - it's some nation mental health group) is proposing to classify all types of "abnormal" behavior, such as the "compulsion to straighten the throw rug so people don't trip over it" or "my wife and I don't have good relations in bed because she doesn't get excited as much as I do anymore." The discussion focused on two things this will accomplish if allowed to go through: 1) Insurance companies will be forced to cover any medication or counseling for such issues because they would be classified as "mental health" problems; and, 2) No one would be personally responsible for their behavior anymore because they could classify it as a "mental illness." WOW!!! Whatever happened to the concept of Sin and the acts of childish disobedience to God which leads us to selfishly love ourselves before Him and others? It seems as if the mental health industry is looking for a way to excuse aberrant behavior as "mental illness" instead of what it is in most cases - sinful disobedience to God.
St. Paul makes it clear to the Thessalonians that they were called by God to live lives very different from the world in which they were living. As Scripture points out, by the power of the Word and Spirit our hearts and minds are changed so that we know what God's Will is, what is right and good in His eyes, and we are called to responsible living as His children (cf. Mt. 25:21ff and Rom. 12:1, 2). St. Paul reminds us in Romans 8 that "we were therefore buried with Him (Christ) through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life" (v.4). Peter's call (II Pet. 3:14 - above) is that as God's redeemed children we are examples of God-pleasing behavior to the world around us as we "seek to be found spotless, blameless, and at peace with Him."
With the pressure of the world around us to find mitigation for sinful behavior, it's not easy to live as examples of responsible living – God’s way. It's too easy to get sucked into being like everyone else and finding excuses for our behavior, and that of others, rather than calling a sin, a sin. At the same time, it's very easy for us to go along with the world's common approach to "forgiveness," where forgiveness means there are no longer any consequences for one's behavior. Yet, as God's redeemed and forgiven children in Jesus Christ, how we live and how we take responsibility for our actions and behavior is a witness and testimony of God's love for the world. It does no good for us to make excuses for our behavior or shirk our responsibilities for our behavior. As the people of God, living as examples of responsible living – God’s way - means knowing His forgiveness but also knowing our behavior has consequences, with the ultimate consequence having been Jesus' death on the Cross for the sins of all mankind. He paid the ultimate price – “My God, My God, why have You forsaken me?” - so that we might be saved from the ultimate consequence of Sin - eternity without God. It's that sacrifice that motivates our behavior and encourages our responsible living as a witness and testimony to the world. There are eternal consequences for sinful behavior, even if the world finds a way to excuse every sinful action as a "mental defect." Only Jesus can lead us past such foolishness to full accountability before the Father and His full forgiveness in Christ.
Prayer: Father, I know that on my own and of myself I cannot be "spotless, blameless and at peace" with You. Only You can accomplish that in me and for me in Jesus, my Lord and Savior. By Your Word and Spirit, help me to grow more firmly in my faith and service to You. Let me be an example of "responsible living" for You. Help me to show others what it means to take responsibility for my actions, and live in Your forgiveness and love. Help me to share Your love with others so that they, too, may come to know Jesus as their Savior and Lord, and stand before You "spotless, blameless, and at peace." Hear me, Father, for Jesus' sake. Amen.
*************************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright @2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Read: I Thessalonians 4:1-12; Psalm 1
LIVING AS EXAMPLES OF RESPONSIBLE LIVING
"So then, dear friends, since you are looking forward to this, make every effort to be found spotless, blameless and at peace with Him."(II Pet.3:14)
Over the years there seems to be constant refrain coming from certain quarters that our laws are too harsh, our punishment of criminals is too severe, and even terrorists should be treated as if they're merely recalcitrant children. At the same time there have been those who have been somewhat "voices crying in the wilderness" that such thinking is not only dangerous for society, but can lead to greater acts of irresponsibility and aberrant behavior. At the very heart of the debate is the question as to whether people should be held accountable for their actions, or, if there's something "in the water" that causes them to act in such selfish and irresponsible ways, without regard for the welfare of others?
So this morning, while listening to a radio talk show, it didn't come as much of a surprise when I heard that the National Mental Health Association (I hope I got this right - it's some nation mental health group) is proposing to classify all types of "abnormal" behavior, such as the "compulsion to straighten the throw rug so people don't trip over it" or "my wife and I don't have good relations in bed because she doesn't get excited as much as I do anymore." The discussion focused on two things this will accomplish if allowed to go through: 1) Insurance companies will be forced to cover any medication or counseling for such issues because they would be classified as "mental health" problems; and, 2) No one would be personally responsible for their behavior anymore because they could classify it as a "mental illness." WOW!!! Whatever happened to the concept of Sin and the acts of childish disobedience to God which leads us to selfishly love ourselves before Him and others? It seems as if the mental health industry is looking for a way to excuse aberrant behavior as "mental illness" instead of what it is in most cases - sinful disobedience to God.
St. Paul makes it clear to the Thessalonians that they were called by God to live lives very different from the world in which they were living. As Scripture points out, by the power of the Word and Spirit our hearts and minds are changed so that we know what God's Will is, what is right and good in His eyes, and we are called to responsible living as His children (cf. Mt. 25:21ff and Rom. 12:1, 2). St. Paul reminds us in Romans 8 that "we were therefore buried with Him (Christ) through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life" (v.4). Peter's call (II Pet. 3:14 - above) is that as God's redeemed children we are examples of God-pleasing behavior to the world around us as we "seek to be found spotless, blameless, and at peace with Him."
With the pressure of the world around us to find mitigation for sinful behavior, it's not easy to live as examples of responsible living – God’s way. It's too easy to get sucked into being like everyone else and finding excuses for our behavior, and that of others, rather than calling a sin, a sin. At the same time, it's very easy for us to go along with the world's common approach to "forgiveness," where forgiveness means there are no longer any consequences for one's behavior. Yet, as God's redeemed and forgiven children in Jesus Christ, how we live and how we take responsibility for our actions and behavior is a witness and testimony of God's love for the world. It does no good for us to make excuses for our behavior or shirk our responsibilities for our behavior. As the people of God, living as examples of responsible living – God’s way - means knowing His forgiveness but also knowing our behavior has consequences, with the ultimate consequence having been Jesus' death on the Cross for the sins of all mankind. He paid the ultimate price – “My God, My God, why have You forsaken me?” - so that we might be saved from the ultimate consequence of Sin - eternity without God. It's that sacrifice that motivates our behavior and encourages our responsible living as a witness and testimony to the world. There are eternal consequences for sinful behavior, even if the world finds a way to excuse every sinful action as a "mental defect." Only Jesus can lead us past such foolishness to full accountability before the Father and His full forgiveness in Christ.
Prayer: Father, I know that on my own and of myself I cannot be "spotless, blameless and at peace" with You. Only You can accomplish that in me and for me in Jesus, my Lord and Savior. By Your Word and Spirit, help me to grow more firmly in my faith and service to You. Let me be an example of "responsible living" for You. Help me to show others what it means to take responsibility for my actions, and live in Your forgiveness and love. Help me to share Your love with others so that they, too, may come to know Jesus as their Savior and Lord, and stand before You "spotless, blameless, and at peace." Hear me, Father, for Jesus' sake. Amen.
*************************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright @2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Monday, August 15, 2005
Stamped By God For Heaven
"Today's Devotion" For August 15, 2005
Read: Matthew 5:1-16; Romans 6:1-14
STAMPED BY GOD FOR HEAVEN
"...let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven." (Mt. 5:16)
During the summer months especially, my wife and I attend a whole lot of AAU basketball tournaments with our two youngest daughters. All of these tournaments span two or three days, mostly on weekends. Most of them require a spectator's entrance fee at the door. After paying the fee, your hand is stamped (usually) with a design and the color ink of the day. If you're wise and frugal, and a tournament length pass is available, you buy it. Then you're generally given a pass which is marked off with a different color each day you attend. In either case, you are identified as a paying customer by a mark on your hand or a mark on a piece of paper. Variations of these identifications occur depending on location, including during the school year for school related athletic competitions.
Okay, so what's so interesting about "hand stamping" or tournament passes? Big deal! In a sense you're right in asking that question. At the same time, what's of great importance about these methods of identification is that identification is an important and necessary occurrence in our daily lives. With the advent of the Homeland Security Department at the as a Cabinet level agency of the Federal Government, as a nation we've become more security conscience as a nation. The events of "9-11" and subsequent terrorist actions around the world have led to strict guidelines and requirements for effective and secure identification for everyone, particularly if you wish to board an aircraft. There are even lists of "suspected" people based on their names, what kind of physical profile they might have, and, I'm told by a reliable source, even the frequency and destinations of travel.
As Christians, we, too, have received a mark of identification that's vital to our security and identity. It declares us to be a child of God, redeemed by Jesus Christ, forgiven of all our sins, and holding fast to the hope and promise of eternal life in God's presence in heaven. It's a mark that reminds us that we belong to our Father in heaven and that nothing can take us away from His love. It's a mark that was placed on many of us very early in life, when our parents took us before the throne of God's grace and presented us for Holy Baptism. As the water and the Word were applied to us, as the pastor, nurse, doctor, or some other Christian brother or sister baptized us, under normal or emergency circumstances, the sign of the cross (+) was made on our hearts and foreheads as a reminder that we are redeemed by Christ, our crucified and risen Savior and Lord.
It's a mark that lives with us every day of our lives. It's a mark that gives us the daily assurance that, through faith in Jesus, our sins are forgiven and we are held in the very palm of our Father's hand. It's a mark that directs our actions, molds our thinking, encourages our living, gives us courage, and sends us forth as living witnesses to God's love, grace, mercy, and forgiveness for all the world in Jesus.
To be sure, we can live as if we are embarrassed by the mark of our Baptism. We can try to hide it. Rather than living as God's children we can live as children of the world. We can turn to doing every evil God forbids and allow Sin to take over our lives. We can live lives that are no different from anyone else's, as if we don't know Jesus, and reap the "benefits" of that type of life now, and the "consequences" of that type of life later. When we don't let Christ shine through our lives we effectively put a shroud over God's mark on us.
Yet the mark we've received in Baptism is indelible. It can't be erased, lost, stolen, or mutilated. It won't fade away and it won't wash off. While it's true that In all of creation only you and I, as individuals, can put it aside, forget about it, ignore it, or disclaim it, it's also true that even then, that mark will still cling to us as a reminder to us and the world, that God has claimed us as His very own children and has called each of us by name to live with Him forever. Yet, as we carry the mark of Baptism with us throughout our lives, it's a sure assurance that our Father in heaven will continue to work through His Word and Spirit to keep us in faith and to bring us back to Him should we stray. Because of the mark of Baptism, we are called and strengthened to "let y(our) light shine before men that they may see your good deeds and glorify y(our) Father in heaven" (Mt. 5:16). Baptism is the mark of our inheritance in heaven.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, don't let me ever be ashamed to be Your child in Holy Baptism. Thank You for putting Your mark on me for all to see. Help me to let that mark be seen every day of my life under any and all circumstances, so that You may be praised forever, and others might come to the fullness and wonder of Your love, grace, mercy, and forgiveness in Jesus. In His precious name I pray. Amen.
*********************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright @2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Read: Matthew 5:1-16; Romans 6:1-14
STAMPED BY GOD FOR HEAVEN
"...let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven." (Mt. 5:16)
During the summer months especially, my wife and I attend a whole lot of AAU basketball tournaments with our two youngest daughters. All of these tournaments span two or three days, mostly on weekends. Most of them require a spectator's entrance fee at the door. After paying the fee, your hand is stamped (usually) with a design and the color ink of the day. If you're wise and frugal, and a tournament length pass is available, you buy it. Then you're generally given a pass which is marked off with a different color each day you attend. In either case, you are identified as a paying customer by a mark on your hand or a mark on a piece of paper. Variations of these identifications occur depending on location, including during the school year for school related athletic competitions.
Okay, so what's so interesting about "hand stamping" or tournament passes? Big deal! In a sense you're right in asking that question. At the same time, what's of great importance about these methods of identification is that identification is an important and necessary occurrence in our daily lives. With the advent of the Homeland Security Department at the as a Cabinet level agency of the Federal Government, as a nation we've become more security conscience as a nation. The events of "9-11" and subsequent terrorist actions around the world have led to strict guidelines and requirements for effective and secure identification for everyone, particularly if you wish to board an aircraft. There are even lists of "suspected" people based on their names, what kind of physical profile they might have, and, I'm told by a reliable source, even the frequency and destinations of travel.
As Christians, we, too, have received a mark of identification that's vital to our security and identity. It declares us to be a child of God, redeemed by Jesus Christ, forgiven of all our sins, and holding fast to the hope and promise of eternal life in God's presence in heaven. It's a mark that reminds us that we belong to our Father in heaven and that nothing can take us away from His love. It's a mark that was placed on many of us very early in life, when our parents took us before the throne of God's grace and presented us for Holy Baptism. As the water and the Word were applied to us, as the pastor, nurse, doctor, or some other Christian brother or sister baptized us, under normal or emergency circumstances, the sign of the cross (+) was made on our hearts and foreheads as a reminder that we are redeemed by Christ, our crucified and risen Savior and Lord.
It's a mark that lives with us every day of our lives. It's a mark that gives us the daily assurance that, through faith in Jesus, our sins are forgiven and we are held in the very palm of our Father's hand. It's a mark that directs our actions, molds our thinking, encourages our living, gives us courage, and sends us forth as living witnesses to God's love, grace, mercy, and forgiveness for all the world in Jesus.
To be sure, we can live as if we are embarrassed by the mark of our Baptism. We can try to hide it. Rather than living as God's children we can live as children of the world. We can turn to doing every evil God forbids and allow Sin to take over our lives. We can live lives that are no different from anyone else's, as if we don't know Jesus, and reap the "benefits" of that type of life now, and the "consequences" of that type of life later. When we don't let Christ shine through our lives we effectively put a shroud over God's mark on us.
Yet the mark we've received in Baptism is indelible. It can't be erased, lost, stolen, or mutilated. It won't fade away and it won't wash off. While it's true that In all of creation only you and I, as individuals, can put it aside, forget about it, ignore it, or disclaim it, it's also true that even then, that mark will still cling to us as a reminder to us and the world, that God has claimed us as His very own children and has called each of us by name to live with Him forever. Yet, as we carry the mark of Baptism with us throughout our lives, it's a sure assurance that our Father in heaven will continue to work through His Word and Spirit to keep us in faith and to bring us back to Him should we stray. Because of the mark of Baptism, we are called and strengthened to "let y(our) light shine before men that they may see your good deeds and glorify y(our) Father in heaven" (Mt. 5:16). Baptism is the mark of our inheritance in heaven.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, don't let me ever be ashamed to be Your child in Holy Baptism. Thank You for putting Your mark on me for all to see. Help me to let that mark be seen every day of my life under any and all circumstances, so that You may be praised forever, and others might come to the fullness and wonder of Your love, grace, mercy, and forgiveness in Jesus. In His precious name I pray. Amen.
*********************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright @2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Saturday, August 13, 2005
The Whole Point Of Faithful Prayer
''Today's Devotion" For August 13, 2005
Read: Matthew 21:18-22; Acts 5:1-11
THE WHOLE POINT OF FAITHFUL PRAYER
"'If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer.'" (Mt. 21:22)
Have you ever noticed how people want to believe certain things, so they'll ignore the facts or twist them to fit their beliefs and get the answers they seek? In recent weeks an advertisement in the media has been decrying the supposed support for violence against abortion clinics by current Supreme Court nominee, Judge John Roberts. It was a blatant misrepresentation of an argument the judge made as assistant solicitor general before the Supreme Court some years ago. In truth, as has been noted even by those who oppose his confirmation, is that he never supported any such thing, and the organization which sponsored the ad has now pulled it. It has, however, not offered any apology for its defamation of the Judge Robert's character and principles, much less its misrepresentation of his position. Ignoring the facts to accomplish a purpose isn't uncommon in our society. People are quite adept at skirting the truth to accomplish their own purposes.
One of the more insidious forms of this occurs in the place where the spiritual and the material come together. For many people, there is a "name it and claim it" mentality that takes what Jesus promises concerning the prayers of His faithful people, and focuses them on material wealth and personal accomplishment as an end in themselves. So often I hear people saying that God wants His people to be wealthy in material things - when the reality is that God want true wealth for His children, which is a loving and fulfilled, forgiven relationship with Him. Anything else is an extra blessing. The context of the word, "believe" in Matthew 21, verse 22, has nothing to do with just "any old thing," but rather having faith that God will provide for our every need, especially the forgiveness of all our sins, the basics necessities of life, and our future hope of heaven and life with Him forever.
That's the real story, the real essence of Matthew's account of the "Withering Fig Tree." It's not Jesus telling us that God will give us everything we want or desire just because we believe. The truth is that the prayers of God's faithful people, prayers of faith are not prayers seeking wealth, power, or material gain, but prayers for the benefit and blessing of others and our own needs - "give us this day our daily bread."
Putting ourselves in the place of the fig tree, we are reminded by Jesus that God expects and commands us to produce the fruits of faith so that others might be blessed through us. He calls us to bear fruit the fruit of faith, which loves others in Jesus' name and serves others in humility and sacrificial living. Thus, while for some it may seem cruel and petulant that Jesus placed a curse on the fig tree, it's a tremendous object lesson for God's faithful people. In the end, Jesus teaches us two very important things: 1) We are called to bear the fruit of faith in service to others, and failure to do so invites God's wrath because it reflects a denial of Him; 2) As God's people in Christ, we can be certain that our prayers, motivated by faith and seeking God's Will be done, can even "move mountains" if necessary for the benefit of others and the sharing of God's love.
In Christ, by the power of His Word and Spirit, God grants us such faith in Him that, when necessary for the sharing of the Gospel and the benefit of others, we can "move mountains" and overcome any obstacle that Sin and Satan might place in the way of true service to God and the needs of our neighbors. In such a faith, we are bold to come before the throne of God's grace and share our most intimate desires and needs, believing that He will give us what we desire according to His Will and our good. By faith we know He will answer our prayers and that in His mercy He gives us every opportunity to repent and bring forth much "fruit." Today is a good day to rejoice in that mercy and grace and live as fruitful people of God.
Prayer: Father, thank You for Your great mercy and grace. You put Your wrath toward Sin on Jesus on the Cross. He bore my sins and the sins of all upon Himself so that no one has to suffer the fate of the fig tree. Help me to trust and believe in Your love and mercy each day, and let Jesus be the example I follow and proclaim with joy and peace. In His precious name I pray. Amen.
*************************************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright @2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Read: Matthew 21:18-22; Acts 5:1-11
THE WHOLE POINT OF FAITHFUL PRAYER
"'If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer.'" (Mt. 21:22)
Have you ever noticed how people want to believe certain things, so they'll ignore the facts or twist them to fit their beliefs and get the answers they seek? In recent weeks an advertisement in the media has been decrying the supposed support for violence against abortion clinics by current Supreme Court nominee, Judge John Roberts. It was a blatant misrepresentation of an argument the judge made as assistant solicitor general before the Supreme Court some years ago. In truth, as has been noted even by those who oppose his confirmation, is that he never supported any such thing, and the organization which sponsored the ad has now pulled it. It has, however, not offered any apology for its defamation of the Judge Robert's character and principles, much less its misrepresentation of his position. Ignoring the facts to accomplish a purpose isn't uncommon in our society. People are quite adept at skirting the truth to accomplish their own purposes.
One of the more insidious forms of this occurs in the place where the spiritual and the material come together. For many people, there is a "name it and claim it" mentality that takes what Jesus promises concerning the prayers of His faithful people, and focuses them on material wealth and personal accomplishment as an end in themselves. So often I hear people saying that God wants His people to be wealthy in material things - when the reality is that God want true wealth for His children, which is a loving and fulfilled, forgiven relationship with Him. Anything else is an extra blessing. The context of the word, "believe" in Matthew 21, verse 22, has nothing to do with just "any old thing," but rather having faith that God will provide for our every need, especially the forgiveness of all our sins, the basics necessities of life, and our future hope of heaven and life with Him forever.
That's the real story, the real essence of Matthew's account of the "Withering Fig Tree." It's not Jesus telling us that God will give us everything we want or desire just because we believe. The truth is that the prayers of God's faithful people, prayers of faith are not prayers seeking wealth, power, or material gain, but prayers for the benefit and blessing of others and our own needs - "give us this day our daily bread."
Putting ourselves in the place of the fig tree, we are reminded by Jesus that God expects and commands us to produce the fruits of faith so that others might be blessed through us. He calls us to bear fruit the fruit of faith, which loves others in Jesus' name and serves others in humility and sacrificial living. Thus, while for some it may seem cruel and petulant that Jesus placed a curse on the fig tree, it's a tremendous object lesson for God's faithful people. In the end, Jesus teaches us two very important things: 1) We are called to bear the fruit of faith in service to others, and failure to do so invites God's wrath because it reflects a denial of Him; 2) As God's people in Christ, we can be certain that our prayers, motivated by faith and seeking God's Will be done, can even "move mountains" if necessary for the benefit of others and the sharing of God's love.
In Christ, by the power of His Word and Spirit, God grants us such faith in Him that, when necessary for the sharing of the Gospel and the benefit of others, we can "move mountains" and overcome any obstacle that Sin and Satan might place in the way of true service to God and the needs of our neighbors. In such a faith, we are bold to come before the throne of God's grace and share our most intimate desires and needs, believing that He will give us what we desire according to His Will and our good. By faith we know He will answer our prayers and that in His mercy He gives us every opportunity to repent and bring forth much "fruit." Today is a good day to rejoice in that mercy and grace and live as fruitful people of God.
Prayer: Father, thank You for Your great mercy and grace. You put Your wrath toward Sin on Jesus on the Cross. He bore my sins and the sins of all upon Himself so that no one has to suffer the fate of the fig tree. Help me to trust and believe in Your love and mercy each day, and let Jesus be the example I follow and proclaim with joy and peace. In His precious name I pray. Amen.
*************************************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright @2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Friday, August 12, 2005
Speaking The Truth In Love
"Today's Devotion" For August 12, 2005
Read: Ephesians 4:17-5:2; Psalm 119:25-32
SPEAKING THE TRUTH IN LOVE
"Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into Him who is the Head, that is, Christ." (Eph. 4:15)
Bill's and Jane's marriage was in trouble. Bill had been a faithful and true husband and father, but after years of feeling berated and abused by his unhappy and angry wife, he had recently met another woman to whom he was attracted and he felt he needed help sorting out his feelings and dealing with his marriage. So he went to a counselor who asked him why he hadn't shared his feelings with his wife long before. Bill replied that Jane was so unhappy and so angry at everything that he didn't want to make the situation worse. Instead he just spent more time away from home, at his business, which had led to meeting this other woman.
His counselor urged him to tell Jane the truth, including his attraction to the other woman and his fear of Jane becoming angry, noting also that when she got angry she got mean, and that wasn't at all attractive to him. Bill's counselor bluntly told him that leaving his wife and two children for another woman would be both cowardly and lacking in integrity. So Bill went to Jane and told her the truth, including the situation with the other woman - whom he noted to Jane was treating him with kindness and care - and his fears about Jane’s anger and attending meanness.
To say that Jane was shocked would be an understatement. She had felt she was the only one feeling unloved in the situation. She did get angry and mean, reacting just as Bill had said she would, but he persisted in telling her that her reaction was just what he had been trying to avoid for years, and that if she wanted the truth she needed to be open to it, not run away and hide behind her anger. Because of Bill's loving persistence, Jane finally listened and they were able to finally talk honestly and openly for the first time in years. By Jane's account, she was actually relieved to hear the truth and she agreed to counseling. Interestingly enough, when they got into counseling, Bill discovered that Jane had also been afraid to be honest with him, being as afraid of his withdrawal as he was of her anger.
What Bill and Jane went through in their relationship isn't so different from what we all go through, no matter what relationships may be involved. We're afraid of the initial reaction and response of others, especially those whom we love and care about. Yet, as is often the case, the persistent, loving, and truthful sharing of concerns breaks through the initial reaction and opens the door for renewal, growth, and stronger relationships. What we have to overcome is the power of Sin to seek to destroy relationships, and the work of the devil and our own sinful flesh to look to our own interests before those of others. As St. Paul noted in his letter to the Ephesians, if we're going to speak the truth - the truth of the Gospel that is - in love, then we need to "put aside falsehood and speak truthfully" to one another in all things.
"Speaking the truth in love" doesn't just mean declaring the Good News of God's love for the world in Jesus Christ. It also means living it fully in our lives. It means bringing a heart for people into every relationship we have and speaking openly and honestly about our feelings and our concerns. It means confronting the ravages of sin head on so that sin doesn't define our relationships, but the Gospel of Christ and His forgiveness and love. It means sharing the truth about the behavior of others, especially those whom we love and who are of the "household of faith," so that they can learn and grow from knowing the truth. Certainly, even brothers and sisters in Christ will react "badly" to things they don't want to hear. None of us likes to hear about our shortcomings or our sins. At the same time, because of their relationships with Jesus and with us, "speaking the truth in love" will bring them growth and increased opportunities to live fully for Jesus. It's a ministry we all have to one another. It's hard, but it's well worth it.
Prayer: Father, You were the first to "speak the truth in love" to me and to all the world, confronting all humanity with the reality of a broken relationship with You. Your Word clearly shows me my sin as I hear Your commandments and realize that I can't possibly obey them perfectly and thus fall short of Your glory. By myself I'm a lost and condemned creature, incapable of coming to You or even knowing You. Yet, because of Your great love for me and all people, You spoke "the truth in love" through the Prophets, the Apostles, and the Evangelists, and ultimately through Christ Jesus, so that I would be brought face to face with my sin and, brought to my knees before You, seek Your forgiveness, according to Your love, so that I might be saved, renewed, and restored to You. Help me to share that same love and concern for others, especially those whom I love and care about deeply. Give me the courage and strength to "speak the truth in love" to others without fear of their response, and give me a humble heart to hear the truth spoken in love to me so that I may repent and grow as well. Hear me gracious Father, for the sake of Jesus. Amen.
*******************************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright @2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Read: Ephesians 4:17-5:2; Psalm 119:25-32
SPEAKING THE TRUTH IN LOVE
"Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into Him who is the Head, that is, Christ." (Eph. 4:15)
Bill's and Jane's marriage was in trouble. Bill had been a faithful and true husband and father, but after years of feeling berated and abused by his unhappy and angry wife, he had recently met another woman to whom he was attracted and he felt he needed help sorting out his feelings and dealing with his marriage. So he went to a counselor who asked him why he hadn't shared his feelings with his wife long before. Bill replied that Jane was so unhappy and so angry at everything that he didn't want to make the situation worse. Instead he just spent more time away from home, at his business, which had led to meeting this other woman.
His counselor urged him to tell Jane the truth, including his attraction to the other woman and his fear of Jane becoming angry, noting also that when she got angry she got mean, and that wasn't at all attractive to him. Bill's counselor bluntly told him that leaving his wife and two children for another woman would be both cowardly and lacking in integrity. So Bill went to Jane and told her the truth, including the situation with the other woman - whom he noted to Jane was treating him with kindness and care - and his fears about Jane’s anger and attending meanness.
To say that Jane was shocked would be an understatement. She had felt she was the only one feeling unloved in the situation. She did get angry and mean, reacting just as Bill had said she would, but he persisted in telling her that her reaction was just what he had been trying to avoid for years, and that if she wanted the truth she needed to be open to it, not run away and hide behind her anger. Because of Bill's loving persistence, Jane finally listened and they were able to finally talk honestly and openly for the first time in years. By Jane's account, she was actually relieved to hear the truth and she agreed to counseling. Interestingly enough, when they got into counseling, Bill discovered that Jane had also been afraid to be honest with him, being as afraid of his withdrawal as he was of her anger.
What Bill and Jane went through in their relationship isn't so different from what we all go through, no matter what relationships may be involved. We're afraid of the initial reaction and response of others, especially those whom we love and care about. Yet, as is often the case, the persistent, loving, and truthful sharing of concerns breaks through the initial reaction and opens the door for renewal, growth, and stronger relationships. What we have to overcome is the power of Sin to seek to destroy relationships, and the work of the devil and our own sinful flesh to look to our own interests before those of others. As St. Paul noted in his letter to the Ephesians, if we're going to speak the truth - the truth of the Gospel that is - in love, then we need to "put aside falsehood and speak truthfully" to one another in all things.
"Speaking the truth in love" doesn't just mean declaring the Good News of God's love for the world in Jesus Christ. It also means living it fully in our lives. It means bringing a heart for people into every relationship we have and speaking openly and honestly about our feelings and our concerns. It means confronting the ravages of sin head on so that sin doesn't define our relationships, but the Gospel of Christ and His forgiveness and love. It means sharing the truth about the behavior of others, especially those whom we love and who are of the "household of faith," so that they can learn and grow from knowing the truth. Certainly, even brothers and sisters in Christ will react "badly" to things they don't want to hear. None of us likes to hear about our shortcomings or our sins. At the same time, because of their relationships with Jesus and with us, "speaking the truth in love" will bring them growth and increased opportunities to live fully for Jesus. It's a ministry we all have to one another. It's hard, but it's well worth it.
Prayer: Father, You were the first to "speak the truth in love" to me and to all the world, confronting all humanity with the reality of a broken relationship with You. Your Word clearly shows me my sin as I hear Your commandments and realize that I can't possibly obey them perfectly and thus fall short of Your glory. By myself I'm a lost and condemned creature, incapable of coming to You or even knowing You. Yet, because of Your great love for me and all people, You spoke "the truth in love" through the Prophets, the Apostles, and the Evangelists, and ultimately through Christ Jesus, so that I would be brought face to face with my sin and, brought to my knees before You, seek Your forgiveness, according to Your love, so that I might be saved, renewed, and restored to You. Help me to share that same love and concern for others, especially those whom I love and care about deeply. Give me the courage and strength to "speak the truth in love" to others without fear of their response, and give me a humble heart to hear the truth spoken in love to me so that I may repent and grow as well. Hear me gracious Father, for the sake of Jesus. Amen.
*******************************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright @2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
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