"Today's Devotion" For November 30, 2005
Read: Isaiah 40:27-31; Psalm 85
JESUS' COMING BRINGS HOPE
"...but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." (Is. 40:31)
We've entered another Advent season according to the Church calendar. It's a time of preparation to celebrate once more Jesus' birth as well as a time to reflect on Jesus' promise to return to take His people home. Of course, if we look at what takes place in a typical day of such preparation in our Christian homes, we'd have to wonder if God's people truly understand what this celebration is all about.
Our modern Christmas celebration is beginning to look much like the pagan celebrations out of which our December 25 "birthday party for Jesus" evolved. In its purest form, our celebration of Christmas - the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ - is a "toned down" version of a variety of pagan celebrations and customs going back almost 4,000 years. Looking back over those millennia, we observe the customs of the ancient Mesopotamians, Persians, Babylonians, Greeks, and Romans in worship of their gods around the turn of the New Year and the winter solstice. Gift giving, amnesty (exchanging of the positions of masters with their slaves - Romans), lights on trees, and other decorations and customs have been handed down to our present day in some form or another.
The early church knew the challenge of facing a hostile, pagan world. That world had recently put the Lord of life on the Cross and crucified an innocent Man for the sins of the whole world. While it was God's Will and purpose that Jesus' die for our sins, the crucifixion also clearly brought out humanity's enmity against God. Facing such a world, God's people nevertheless stepped forward in faith to share the Good News of salvation in Jesus Christ to a lost and dying world. People were brought to faith in Christ, yet they also brought their cultures with them. The early church faced the challenge of the Roman celebration, during the winter solstice, of their god, Saturn. "Jo Saturnalia," as it was called, was a festive event, filled with excesses to be sure, but one in which gifts were given, decorations hung, and slaves and owners even exchanged places (an "amnesty" of sorts).
Faced with this challenge to the Christian faith, the early Church decided to "Christianize" the customs of "Jo Saturnalia," toning them down to fit a celebration of the birth of the Son of God. Historical evidence points to 98 A.D. as the date from which the Church began to celebrate Jesus' birthday. The Bishop of Rome, in 137 A.D., declared that the birthday of Jesus should be celebrated as a solemn feast. In 350 A.D., the then Bishop of Rome, Julius I, declared December 25 as the observance of Christmas (Note: the exact day of Jesus' birth has never been determined).
Today's celebration of Christmas in the world around us, and, sadly, even among God's people, often looks more like the Roman celebration of "Jo Saturnalia" than celebration of the birth of the Son of God and Savior of the world. Many of the customs of Christmas have their origins in pagan cultural celebrations of their gods and the superstitious observance of the winter solstice. They are customs that stretch back over 4,000 years and come to our day from the ancient Mesopotamians, Persians, Babylonian, Greeks, and Romans. The gift giving, tree lighting, decorating, and feasting that mark our modern day "winter solstice" observance, paying tribute to the modern day cultural gods of "retail sales," "corporate bottom lines," "keeping up with the Joneses," and a host of others too numerous to list. In that mix there's no room for celebrating the birth of a nondescript child, in a nondescript town, in a far away time, and a faraway place called Palestine - specifically a nation called Israel. There's no room, it seems, for the Son of God and His sacrificial gift of salvation from Sin, Death, and Satan for the whole world.
Yet, in the midst of these challenging days and times, we, as God's redeemed children in Jesus Christ need not fear or grow weary. We don't have to succumb to the world's excesses at Christmas (or any other time of the year for that matter). We have the power and strength through faith in Jesus to overcome and stand tall as true worshippers of God. Isaiah reminds us that "those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." As we approach another celebration of the "solemn feast" of Jesus' birth called "Christ Mass," we draw hope and comfort from God's promise to us that we are not forsaken or alone. He holds us in the very palm of His hand and we need not become weary. With His strength holding us up, we have the same challenge the early Church did - to take a "pagan" celebration - and turn its focus to God.
Prayer: Father, I'm saddened when I realize that my world has become so very much like the ancient world when it comes to knowing and worshiping You. I grow weary of fighting the trends of society and culture and find myself, all too often, succumbing to the prevailing ways of the world. Forgive me for forgetting that, as Your child in Jesus Christ, You have given me a mission of sharing Your Good News with the whole world, starting in my own little corner. By the power of Your Word and Spirit help me to keep "Christ Mass" as a truly "solemn feast" and a time of worship and praise for Your love for me and all humanity given in Jesus. As I approach the coming of Christmas, pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may not be given to excess in my gift-giving or pressured into allowing that giving to be the purpose for Christmas. Even though the world around me forgets that Jesus came to take away the Sin of the world, give me the strength to remember and the courage to declare Him to everyone. As my hope is in You and Your love for me in Jesus Christ, help me to share that same hope with others so they, too, might be received into Your kingdom. In Jesus' precious name I pray. Amen.
[Note: For an excellent, brief article on some of the history of Christmas, I recommend the following website: http://www.holidays.net/christmas/story.htm. This link should be live - it is if you see it in color - so click on it and enjoy the article:]
********************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright ©2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Wednesday, November 30, 2005
Tuesday, November 29, 2005
This Is He Whom Christmas Is About
"Today's Devotion" For November 29, 2005
Read: Matthew 1:1-17; Luke 3:23-38
THIS IS HE WHOM CHRISTMAS IS ABOUT
"I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End, the First and the Last...I am the Root and the Offspring of David, the Bright and Morning Star." (Rev. 22:13, 16b)
This past Friday was "Black Friday," a rather "colorful" name for the first major shopping day of the "Christmas Season." It gets its name from the belief that it's the day on which most retailers finally become profitable. Some have claimed it to be the biggest shopping day of the year. In reality it's about the fifth most profitable day of the year for retailers. It can lay claim, however, to being the busiest shopping day of the year as people swarm to the stores to take advantage of "Christmas Specials."
You may have noticed, however, that Christmas shopping and decorating has been taking place for a lot longer than this past Friday. For the first time in my memory, "all Christmas music radio stations" were already pumping out seasonal tunes well before we sat down for our Thanksgiving turkey dinners. It's a common refrain, I know, but does our society really know what Christmas is all about anymore? How about you and me? Do we really think about Who Christmas is about, or are we just caught up in the hustle and bustle of the shopping, parties, carols, and the generally festive atmosphere? In some ways, at least for me, Christmas has been losing its luster for a long time, as the meaning and purpose of the celebration is moved further and further into the back of people's hearts and minds. In a certain sense, "Black Friday" might also signify the loss of the meaning of Christmas - God's gift of love and forgiveness in Christ - for so many.
Our Scripture readings for today are among the most "boring" Scriptures we could ever read - at least on the surface. Matthew and Luke both give an account of what happened on the first Christmas. Matthew leads into it with a genealogical history of the One they called Jesus - Savior - Emmanuel – “God With Us.” Luke leads into his genealogy with an accounting of the events leading up to the first Christmas as well as the events that transpired on that first Christmas. Yet, regardless of the location of these genealogies in their narratives, the point of the genealogies is the same. Christmas is about God fulfilling His plan of salvation for the world through the incarnation of His Son, Jesus the Christ. The Word became flesh, John tells us in his Gospel. His origin is from of old, each of these genealogies reveals. He is the true reason for Christmas - the only reason for the season.
By the power of God's Word and Spirit, Matthew and Luke bless us with a sure and certain identification of the One whom we worship and adore. They provide us with the evidence of history that the Babe born in Bethlehem of a virgin is the Messiah promised by God to Adam and Eve on the day they broke away from Him in their disobedience. By God's grace, Matthew and Luke take the time to trace Jesus' lineage to remind us He is both God and Man - that only He could be the true Savior of the world, for only He could suffer and die for the sins of all humanity.
Entering the "home stretch" of the Christmas season, we hear the resurrected and ascended Christ identifying Himself for us in Revelation. He reminds us that He is truly the One promised by God to bring hope and peace into our lives. He reminds us that it is He who restores us to our heavenly Father as our only Savior. He points us to Himself and assures us that in Him there is life and peace, forgiveness and hope, salvation and eternal life. Our true anticipation of the Christmas celebration is the anticipation of receiving the Christ-Child into our hearts once again, reminding us that God became Man and lived among us (Jn. 1:124), for He truly became one of us to save us.
It's most certain that no gift we put under the tree or gift we unwrap on Christmas can possible save us or anyone from Sin, Death, and Satan. Without Jesus, Christmas is just another day - another "HOLY" day - which has been absorbed into the everyday fabric of culture and has no real meaning. Take a few moments to read the Scriptures listed for today and be reminded Who Jesus really is and that it is He whom Christmas is all about.
Prayer: Father, as this world again approaches another Christmas, I pray that You would open people's hearts and minds to truly see and understand the "reason for the season." You have taken great pains through the Evangelists Matthew and Luke to clearly and succinctly remind me and everyone who Jesus really is and why He became flesh and dwelled among us. Help me to never lose sight of who Jesus is and what Christmas is all about. Strengthen my faith that I might withstand the temptation to become cynical about celebrating the birth of my Savior and Lord. Help me to keep all the hustle and bustle of the run-up to Christmas in its proper perspective so that I might be a living witness to Your great act of love, grace, and mercy to the whole world. In Jesus' precious name I pray. Amen.
****************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright ©2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Read: Matthew 1:1-17; Luke 3:23-38
THIS IS HE WHOM CHRISTMAS IS ABOUT
"I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End, the First and the Last...I am the Root and the Offspring of David, the Bright and Morning Star." (Rev. 22:13, 16b)
This past Friday was "Black Friday," a rather "colorful" name for the first major shopping day of the "Christmas Season." It gets its name from the belief that it's the day on which most retailers finally become profitable. Some have claimed it to be the biggest shopping day of the year. In reality it's about the fifth most profitable day of the year for retailers. It can lay claim, however, to being the busiest shopping day of the year as people swarm to the stores to take advantage of "Christmas Specials."
You may have noticed, however, that Christmas shopping and decorating has been taking place for a lot longer than this past Friday. For the first time in my memory, "all Christmas music radio stations" were already pumping out seasonal tunes well before we sat down for our Thanksgiving turkey dinners. It's a common refrain, I know, but does our society really know what Christmas is all about anymore? How about you and me? Do we really think about Who Christmas is about, or are we just caught up in the hustle and bustle of the shopping, parties, carols, and the generally festive atmosphere? In some ways, at least for me, Christmas has been losing its luster for a long time, as the meaning and purpose of the celebration is moved further and further into the back of people's hearts and minds. In a certain sense, "Black Friday" might also signify the loss of the meaning of Christmas - God's gift of love and forgiveness in Christ - for so many.
Our Scripture readings for today are among the most "boring" Scriptures we could ever read - at least on the surface. Matthew and Luke both give an account of what happened on the first Christmas. Matthew leads into it with a genealogical history of the One they called Jesus - Savior - Emmanuel – “God With Us.” Luke leads into his genealogy with an accounting of the events leading up to the first Christmas as well as the events that transpired on that first Christmas. Yet, regardless of the location of these genealogies in their narratives, the point of the genealogies is the same. Christmas is about God fulfilling His plan of salvation for the world through the incarnation of His Son, Jesus the Christ. The Word became flesh, John tells us in his Gospel. His origin is from of old, each of these genealogies reveals. He is the true reason for Christmas - the only reason for the season.
By the power of God's Word and Spirit, Matthew and Luke bless us with a sure and certain identification of the One whom we worship and adore. They provide us with the evidence of history that the Babe born in Bethlehem of a virgin is the Messiah promised by God to Adam and Eve on the day they broke away from Him in their disobedience. By God's grace, Matthew and Luke take the time to trace Jesus' lineage to remind us He is both God and Man - that only He could be the true Savior of the world, for only He could suffer and die for the sins of all humanity.
Entering the "home stretch" of the Christmas season, we hear the resurrected and ascended Christ identifying Himself for us in Revelation. He reminds us that He is truly the One promised by God to bring hope and peace into our lives. He reminds us that it is He who restores us to our heavenly Father as our only Savior. He points us to Himself and assures us that in Him there is life and peace, forgiveness and hope, salvation and eternal life. Our true anticipation of the Christmas celebration is the anticipation of receiving the Christ-Child into our hearts once again, reminding us that God became Man and lived among us (Jn. 1:124), for He truly became one of us to save us.
It's most certain that no gift we put under the tree or gift we unwrap on Christmas can possible save us or anyone from Sin, Death, and Satan. Without Jesus, Christmas is just another day - another "HOLY" day - which has been absorbed into the everyday fabric of culture and has no real meaning. Take a few moments to read the Scriptures listed for today and be reminded Who Jesus really is and that it is He whom Christmas is all about.
Prayer: Father, as this world again approaches another Christmas, I pray that You would open people's hearts and minds to truly see and understand the "reason for the season." You have taken great pains through the Evangelists Matthew and Luke to clearly and succinctly remind me and everyone who Jesus really is and why He became flesh and dwelled among us. Help me to never lose sight of who Jesus is and what Christmas is all about. Strengthen my faith that I might withstand the temptation to become cynical about celebrating the birth of my Savior and Lord. Help me to keep all the hustle and bustle of the run-up to Christmas in its proper perspective so that I might be a living witness to Your great act of love, grace, and mercy to the whole world. In Jesus' precious name I pray. Amen.
****************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright ©2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Monday, November 28, 2005
God Always Leads Us To Rejoice
"Today's Devotion" For November 28, 2005
Read: Isaiah 61:1-3, 10-11; Psalm 62
GOD ALWAYS LEADS US TO REJOICE
"Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!" (Phil. 4:4)
Yesterday afternoon was a bit of a "bummer." The Green Bay Packers, the "hometown" team for us folks in Wisconsin, lost another close contest. Their record is an abysmal 2 wins, 9 losses. They have no hope of a winning season any longer. While I get frustrated with the poor play with which they are more often than not beating themselves, the frustration the players themselves feel is obvious. They try to put a "brave face" on their season, but, in reality, the season just plain "stinks." The head coach is doing his level best to keep the team motivated, but it's a struggle under such circumstances. Noticeably, the television commentators for the game all agreed that the Packer players didn't look as if they were giving up - they were playing hard and working for a win.
It's really hard for us to find the good in such a situation. For many fans who are emotionally tied into the "hometown" team, a losing season can affect their own mental and emotional outlook. Even though it's just a football game, a great many fans find themselves "living and dying" with the Pack. Yet, even though so many fans are so affected by their team's predicament, the fans don't play the game. It doesn't affect their paychecks and livelihood, nor does it affect their future employment. So it's got to be a tremendous challenge for the coaching staff to get the team ready to play each week and keep them motivated to success. Such a task requires the attitude of one football coach who was once asked, "How do you keep you and your team motivated when the losses are mounting up?" The coach, a very unassuming individual, shrugged his shoulders, cocked his head, and answered, "Well, let me put it this way. I'm the kind of person who, if I fell in a mud puddle, I'd get up and check my pockets for fish."
We all face "losses" in our lives every day. There are some years in which things just seem to go from bad to worse, with no end in sight and no hope of a turnaround. Looking for the good in the midst of the struggles is awfully difficult. Certainly it can be said that when things are really tough it seems that looking for fish in a mud puddle is as good an option as any. It's hard to find anything redeeming in the midst of continuous despair and "bad" times. Even though we want to see the blessings of God in the midst of trial and tribulation - in the midst of a "losing season" - Sin so often blinds us to those blessings and all we see are troubles all around us.
The prophet Isaiah was facing the challenge of declaring God's will and salvation to the people of Israel who were despairing of God's love and presence in their lives. We note that Isaiah powerfully and confidently declares not only his mission from God, but a message of the Good News of God's gift of salvation and the freedom from the power of Sin, Death, and Satan for His children. In the same way, St. Paul writes to the church at Philippi that they should also, in all things, no matter how terrible things may seem to be, "rejoice in the Lord always." Ultimately, it's God who lifts us up to Himself and carries us in His arms through every trial and tribulation which might come our way and would seek to lead us to despair of His love an presence with us.
As God lifts us up to Himself every day of our lives by the power of His Word and Spirit working in and through our Baptisms, He points us to Jesus. He reminds us that things appeared bleak and lost when Jesus was tried, beaten, and scoured even though He was sinless and undeserving of such a punishment. The bleakness of our condition seems even more pronounced when we see Jesus not only falsely accused by also nailed to the cross to suffer and die. Yet God's Good News to us is that through such ignominious treatment and, finally, a horrible death, Christ won our freedom from Sin, Death, and Satan. His sacrifice brings the Father's forgiveness to bear in our lives so that we can "fall in the mud puddle and look for fish in our pockets." We can live optimistic lives of faith, filled with God's peace, joy, and forgiveness. We can be certain that no matter what our circumstances might be, or how many "losses" we may be experiencing, our heavenly Father is always with us to "lift us up" to Himself and lead us to rejoice and give thanks in everything.
Prayer: Father, I ask You to forgive me for all those times I am overcome by the cares and trials of the world and forget how much You love me and bless me each day. Help me to live with my head held high, give me strength to overcome every situation that would seek to lead me to despair of Your love, and send Your Spirit upon me each day to remind me that I am Your very own, redeemed child, baptized into Christ Jesus my Savior and Lord. Father, remind me daily that You are the One who lifts me up above the fray so that I might rejoice daily in Your presence in my life, Your gift of salvation for me in Jesus, and the opportunities You give me to share Your love, grace, mercy, and forgiveness in Christ with all whom I meet. Hear my prayer, gracious Father, for the sake of Jesus Christ in Whose precious name I pray. Amen.
***************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright ©2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Read: Isaiah 61:1-3, 10-11; Psalm 62
GOD ALWAYS LEADS US TO REJOICE
"Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!" (Phil. 4:4)
Yesterday afternoon was a bit of a "bummer." The Green Bay Packers, the "hometown" team for us folks in Wisconsin, lost another close contest. Their record is an abysmal 2 wins, 9 losses. They have no hope of a winning season any longer. While I get frustrated with the poor play with which they are more often than not beating themselves, the frustration the players themselves feel is obvious. They try to put a "brave face" on their season, but, in reality, the season just plain "stinks." The head coach is doing his level best to keep the team motivated, but it's a struggle under such circumstances. Noticeably, the television commentators for the game all agreed that the Packer players didn't look as if they were giving up - they were playing hard and working for a win.
It's really hard for us to find the good in such a situation. For many fans who are emotionally tied into the "hometown" team, a losing season can affect their own mental and emotional outlook. Even though it's just a football game, a great many fans find themselves "living and dying" with the Pack. Yet, even though so many fans are so affected by their team's predicament, the fans don't play the game. It doesn't affect their paychecks and livelihood, nor does it affect their future employment. So it's got to be a tremendous challenge for the coaching staff to get the team ready to play each week and keep them motivated to success. Such a task requires the attitude of one football coach who was once asked, "How do you keep you and your team motivated when the losses are mounting up?" The coach, a very unassuming individual, shrugged his shoulders, cocked his head, and answered, "Well, let me put it this way. I'm the kind of person who, if I fell in a mud puddle, I'd get up and check my pockets for fish."
We all face "losses" in our lives every day. There are some years in which things just seem to go from bad to worse, with no end in sight and no hope of a turnaround. Looking for the good in the midst of the struggles is awfully difficult. Certainly it can be said that when things are really tough it seems that looking for fish in a mud puddle is as good an option as any. It's hard to find anything redeeming in the midst of continuous despair and "bad" times. Even though we want to see the blessings of God in the midst of trial and tribulation - in the midst of a "losing season" - Sin so often blinds us to those blessings and all we see are troubles all around us.
The prophet Isaiah was facing the challenge of declaring God's will and salvation to the people of Israel who were despairing of God's love and presence in their lives. We note that Isaiah powerfully and confidently declares not only his mission from God, but a message of the Good News of God's gift of salvation and the freedom from the power of Sin, Death, and Satan for His children. In the same way, St. Paul writes to the church at Philippi that they should also, in all things, no matter how terrible things may seem to be, "rejoice in the Lord always." Ultimately, it's God who lifts us up to Himself and carries us in His arms through every trial and tribulation which might come our way and would seek to lead us to despair of His love an presence with us.
As God lifts us up to Himself every day of our lives by the power of His Word and Spirit working in and through our Baptisms, He points us to Jesus. He reminds us that things appeared bleak and lost when Jesus was tried, beaten, and scoured even though He was sinless and undeserving of such a punishment. The bleakness of our condition seems even more pronounced when we see Jesus not only falsely accused by also nailed to the cross to suffer and die. Yet God's Good News to us is that through such ignominious treatment and, finally, a horrible death, Christ won our freedom from Sin, Death, and Satan. His sacrifice brings the Father's forgiveness to bear in our lives so that we can "fall in the mud puddle and look for fish in our pockets." We can live optimistic lives of faith, filled with God's peace, joy, and forgiveness. We can be certain that no matter what our circumstances might be, or how many "losses" we may be experiencing, our heavenly Father is always with us to "lift us up" to Himself and lead us to rejoice and give thanks in everything.
Prayer: Father, I ask You to forgive me for all those times I am overcome by the cares and trials of the world and forget how much You love me and bless me each day. Help me to live with my head held high, give me strength to overcome every situation that would seek to lead me to despair of Your love, and send Your Spirit upon me each day to remind me that I am Your very own, redeemed child, baptized into Christ Jesus my Savior and Lord. Father, remind me daily that You are the One who lifts me up above the fray so that I might rejoice daily in Your presence in my life, Your gift of salvation for me in Jesus, and the opportunities You give me to share Your love, grace, mercy, and forgiveness in Christ with all whom I meet. Hear my prayer, gracious Father, for the sake of Jesus Christ in Whose precious name I pray. Amen.
***************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright ©2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Saturday, November 26, 2005
Hope And Freedom In The Spirit
"Today's Devotion" For November 26, 2005
Read: II Corinthians 3:7-18; Psalm 118:1-18
HOPE AND FREEDOM IN THE SPIRIT
"Therefore, since we have such a hope, we are very bold...and where the Spirit of the Lord is there is freedom." (II Cor. 3:13, 17b)
Most of us are familiar with the game show, "Let's Make A Deal." One of the more popular aspects of that show is choosing a "door" behind which there are potentially valuable prizes. Of course, there's always the chance that there will only be what could be described as a "booby prize," a prize that's quite useless and valueless. Nevertheless, people seem to relish the challenge and mystery of the doors and eagerly "make a deal" to get the door of their "dreams." An earlier version of "Let's Make A Deal" is described in an old Persian tale. The tale recounts how a Persian Army general would offer condemned prisoners a choice - the firing squad they had been sentenced to or what was behind a door. No one except the general knew what lay behind the door, yet most of the condemned chose the firing squad. It seems they had lost all hope and, fearing that behind the door lay torture and prolonged agony, they chose what they knew instead of what they didn't know.
This tale would just another tale brought to us over history if it weren't for an early English writer who was visiting Persia a couple of hundred years ago. When this writer heard the tale he was curious. Seeking out the general he asked him what was behind the door. The general responded, "Freedom, and I've met very few brave enough to choose it." When people lose all hope, they lose any chance at being free. When people are willing to face death rather than hope for something better, they resign themselves to missing out on all the potential life can bring. To let fear and death overpower our lives is to ignore the freedom that is offered to all humanity through Jesus Christ.
Hope and freedom go hand in hand. Hope overcomes despair, of which there is much in our world. Hope opens our eyes to the possibility of being free to be everything we can be, to make our own plans, pursue our own dreams, and to seek our own "fortunes." Yet, because of the power of Sin in the world, people are more apt to despair than hope; more apt to be enslaved to the "inevitability" of death, than to live in the freedom that comes from God's love in Jesus Christ. Like the condemned prisoners of our tale, too many people are afraid to take the risk to be free in Jesus - to be at odds with the world but in harmony with God. It requires the courage of faith to face death, knowing that dying in Christ is but the beginning of eternity with Him. Hope does not disappoint, according to the Scriptures, but it brings peace and joy into our lives.
When we live in the hope and freedom that comes from God's Spirit through faith in Jesus, we're not overcome by the power of Sin and Death in the world. We lose our fear of what anyone might do to us, because nothing can separate us from God's love. We have been made God's own people in Christ. He has washed us clean from our sins so that death no longer has any power over us. Jesus Himself has taken on the agony of Sin and eternal Death for us so that we might have hope and freedom by His blood. As we face Satan's "firing squad" as "condemned prisoners" of Sin, and we are offered "what's behind the door," rest assured that Jesus and His forgiveness, love, grace, and mercy is behind that door to lead us to freedom from Sin, Death, and the power of the devil. Take courage dear Christian, have hope and be at peace. Jesus has won our freedom and by the power of His Spirit we have hope.
Prayer: Father, thank You for being so patient with me and for giving me hope in Christ. Help me to never lose the freedom Your Spirit brings into my heart and life. Guide me to live in the hope and freedom the Spirit gives me by faith in Jesus so that I might be a living example of Your grace, mercy, love, and forgiveness in Christ. Give me the courage to always take a "chance" on every door of opportunity You present to me, because each "door" is an opportunity to live out the hope and freedom You give me in the Spirit so that I might be a faithful witness of Your love and forgiveness to all the world. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.
***************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright ©2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Read: II Corinthians 3:7-18; Psalm 118:1-18
HOPE AND FREEDOM IN THE SPIRIT
"Therefore, since we have such a hope, we are very bold...and where the Spirit of the Lord is there is freedom." (II Cor. 3:13, 17b)
Most of us are familiar with the game show, "Let's Make A Deal." One of the more popular aspects of that show is choosing a "door" behind which there are potentially valuable prizes. Of course, there's always the chance that there will only be what could be described as a "booby prize," a prize that's quite useless and valueless. Nevertheless, people seem to relish the challenge and mystery of the doors and eagerly "make a deal" to get the door of their "dreams." An earlier version of "Let's Make A Deal" is described in an old Persian tale. The tale recounts how a Persian Army general would offer condemned prisoners a choice - the firing squad they had been sentenced to or what was behind a door. No one except the general knew what lay behind the door, yet most of the condemned chose the firing squad. It seems they had lost all hope and, fearing that behind the door lay torture and prolonged agony, they chose what they knew instead of what they didn't know.
This tale would just another tale brought to us over history if it weren't for an early English writer who was visiting Persia a couple of hundred years ago. When this writer heard the tale he was curious. Seeking out the general he asked him what was behind the door. The general responded, "Freedom, and I've met very few brave enough to choose it." When people lose all hope, they lose any chance at being free. When people are willing to face death rather than hope for something better, they resign themselves to missing out on all the potential life can bring. To let fear and death overpower our lives is to ignore the freedom that is offered to all humanity through Jesus Christ.
Hope and freedom go hand in hand. Hope overcomes despair, of which there is much in our world. Hope opens our eyes to the possibility of being free to be everything we can be, to make our own plans, pursue our own dreams, and to seek our own "fortunes." Yet, because of the power of Sin in the world, people are more apt to despair than hope; more apt to be enslaved to the "inevitability" of death, than to live in the freedom that comes from God's love in Jesus Christ. Like the condemned prisoners of our tale, too many people are afraid to take the risk to be free in Jesus - to be at odds with the world but in harmony with God. It requires the courage of faith to face death, knowing that dying in Christ is but the beginning of eternity with Him. Hope does not disappoint, according to the Scriptures, but it brings peace and joy into our lives.
When we live in the hope and freedom that comes from God's Spirit through faith in Jesus, we're not overcome by the power of Sin and Death in the world. We lose our fear of what anyone might do to us, because nothing can separate us from God's love. We have been made God's own people in Christ. He has washed us clean from our sins so that death no longer has any power over us. Jesus Himself has taken on the agony of Sin and eternal Death for us so that we might have hope and freedom by His blood. As we face Satan's "firing squad" as "condemned prisoners" of Sin, and we are offered "what's behind the door," rest assured that Jesus and His forgiveness, love, grace, and mercy is behind that door to lead us to freedom from Sin, Death, and the power of the devil. Take courage dear Christian, have hope and be at peace. Jesus has won our freedom and by the power of His Spirit we have hope.
Prayer: Father, thank You for being so patient with me and for giving me hope in Christ. Help me to never lose the freedom Your Spirit brings into my heart and life. Guide me to live in the hope and freedom the Spirit gives me by faith in Jesus so that I might be a living example of Your grace, mercy, love, and forgiveness in Christ. Give me the courage to always take a "chance" on every door of opportunity You present to me, because each "door" is an opportunity to live out the hope and freedom You give me in the Spirit so that I might be a faithful witness of Your love and forgiveness to all the world. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.
***************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright ©2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Friday, November 25, 2005
Carrying The Fragrance Of Christ
"Today's Devotion" For November 25, 2005
Read: II Corinthians 2:14-3:3; Psalm 144
CARRYING THE FRAGRANCE OF CHRIST
"But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of Him." (II Cor. 2:14)
When I walked into my parents' house yesterday afternoon I was met with two things - a cacophony of sounds from most of the eventual 30+ people that would attend Thanksgiving Dinner and the aroma of a traditional Thanksgiving feast of turkey, dressing, cranberries, rolls, corn, mixed vegetables, sweet potatoes, and a host of desserts (just to name a few). Most of the credit for the incredible smells goes to the oldest of my three sisters, Sherry, who normally would have had the gathering at her house but they're having dust problems from "tuck pointing." It was a marvelous day with four generations of family present along with guests of one of my niece’s and her fiancé (one of them a retired Green Bay Packer).
What sticks with me the most this morning as I write this devotion is the marvelous aroma of the food. I smelled the aroma of the food on my clothes as I drove home last night. I smelled that aroma as I undressed for bed. Even now as I write this in my chilly basement "office" I still smell the turkey, the gravy, and the stuffing. The aroma of the coffee still fills my nostrils. More than the sounds that permeated every nook and cranny of my parents' home, the aroma of our Thanksgiving Day dinner still lingers for me and with it the memories of family, friends, and gratitude to God for a unique, diverse, and wonderful family (even those who weren't able to get home this year - and with gratitude that our son, Matthew, was able to be home one last time before heading to Iraq again early next year). How about for you? Does the aroma of that meal still linger for you?
St. Paul reminds us today, on this day after Thanksgiving, that our lives are also an aroma that lingers and affects the lives of others. Our lives can either be fragrant with the sweet smell of God's love, grace, mercy, and forgiveness in Jesus, or they can be a stench in the nostrils of God and others as we live in ways contrary to God's Will and purpose for us. We are also reminded by St. Paul reminds that our lives in Christ are "a fragrance of life" for those who "are being saved," but the "smell of death" for those who are perishing and refuse God's love and forgiveness in Christ.
As God's people who live according to God's Will and purpose for our lives we are going to be "carrying the fragrance of Christ" wherever we go and in whatever we do. Living in Christ's love and forgiveness which He won for us on the cross, God uses us to spread "everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of Him." Fed by His Word and Spirit we are filled up so that we might be prepared at all times "to give an account of the hope that is in us." Fed by His Word and Spirit we come before our heavenly Father in prayer, sharing with Him our inmost thoughts, desires, distresses, and needs, confident that He hears us and will answer according to His Will and purpose. Fed by His Word and Spirit we rejoice each and every day that we are His and, in Christ, have eternal life. Through all this spiritual food God fills us not only for the task of sharing Jesus with others and living for Him in whatever we do and say, but He also fills us with the "fragrance of the knowledge of Him" that touches the lives of others so they, too, might be fed and filled by Christ. You and I do carry quite an "aroma" in Jesus. It's one that needs to linger always.
Prayer: Father, I thank You for all Your blessings to me, but most especially for filling me with Your love in Christ so that I might "carry the fragrance of Christ" wherever I go and in whatever I do. Help me to always be a "sweet smell" in Your nostrils as I live in the forgiveness and love You give me in Jesus. Help me to always be a "sweet smell" for those who hear Your Word and believe Your promises that I might be a living example of life in Christ. Father, I pray that I may never fail to share the "sweet fragrance" of Christ with others, even among those who think I "stink" because I believe in Him as my Lord and Savior from Sin. Father, I also pray that You would bring out that same "sweet fragrance" of Christ in all my brothers and sisters in the Body of Christ around the world that all of us might be fearless and tireless witnesses to Your love, grace, mercy, and forgiveness in Jesus for all people, everywhere. In Jesus' precious name I pray. Amen.
*************************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright ©2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Read: II Corinthians 2:14-3:3; Psalm 144
CARRYING THE FRAGRANCE OF CHRIST
"But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of Him." (II Cor. 2:14)
When I walked into my parents' house yesterday afternoon I was met with two things - a cacophony of sounds from most of the eventual 30+ people that would attend Thanksgiving Dinner and the aroma of a traditional Thanksgiving feast of turkey, dressing, cranberries, rolls, corn, mixed vegetables, sweet potatoes, and a host of desserts (just to name a few). Most of the credit for the incredible smells goes to the oldest of my three sisters, Sherry, who normally would have had the gathering at her house but they're having dust problems from "tuck pointing." It was a marvelous day with four generations of family present along with guests of one of my niece’s and her fiancé (one of them a retired Green Bay Packer).
What sticks with me the most this morning as I write this devotion is the marvelous aroma of the food. I smelled the aroma of the food on my clothes as I drove home last night. I smelled that aroma as I undressed for bed. Even now as I write this in my chilly basement "office" I still smell the turkey, the gravy, and the stuffing. The aroma of the coffee still fills my nostrils. More than the sounds that permeated every nook and cranny of my parents' home, the aroma of our Thanksgiving Day dinner still lingers for me and with it the memories of family, friends, and gratitude to God for a unique, diverse, and wonderful family (even those who weren't able to get home this year - and with gratitude that our son, Matthew, was able to be home one last time before heading to Iraq again early next year). How about for you? Does the aroma of that meal still linger for you?
St. Paul reminds us today, on this day after Thanksgiving, that our lives are also an aroma that lingers and affects the lives of others. Our lives can either be fragrant with the sweet smell of God's love, grace, mercy, and forgiveness in Jesus, or they can be a stench in the nostrils of God and others as we live in ways contrary to God's Will and purpose for us. We are also reminded by St. Paul reminds that our lives in Christ are "a fragrance of life" for those who "are being saved," but the "smell of death" for those who are perishing and refuse God's love and forgiveness in Christ.
As God's people who live according to God's Will and purpose for our lives we are going to be "carrying the fragrance of Christ" wherever we go and in whatever we do. Living in Christ's love and forgiveness which He won for us on the cross, God uses us to spread "everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of Him." Fed by His Word and Spirit we are filled up so that we might be prepared at all times "to give an account of the hope that is in us." Fed by His Word and Spirit we come before our heavenly Father in prayer, sharing with Him our inmost thoughts, desires, distresses, and needs, confident that He hears us and will answer according to His Will and purpose. Fed by His Word and Spirit we rejoice each and every day that we are His and, in Christ, have eternal life. Through all this spiritual food God fills us not only for the task of sharing Jesus with others and living for Him in whatever we do and say, but He also fills us with the "fragrance of the knowledge of Him" that touches the lives of others so they, too, might be fed and filled by Christ. You and I do carry quite an "aroma" in Jesus. It's one that needs to linger always.
Prayer: Father, I thank You for all Your blessings to me, but most especially for filling me with Your love in Christ so that I might "carry the fragrance of Christ" wherever I go and in whatever I do. Help me to always be a "sweet smell" in Your nostrils as I live in the forgiveness and love You give me in Jesus. Help me to always be a "sweet smell" for those who hear Your Word and believe Your promises that I might be a living example of life in Christ. Father, I pray that I may never fail to share the "sweet fragrance" of Christ with others, even among those who think I "stink" because I believe in Him as my Lord and Savior from Sin. Father, I also pray that You would bring out that same "sweet fragrance" of Christ in all my brothers and sisters in the Body of Christ around the world that all of us might be fearless and tireless witnesses to Your love, grace, mercy, and forgiveness in Jesus for all people, everywhere. In Jesus' precious name I pray. Amen.
*************************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright ©2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Thursday, November 24, 2005
A Thanksgiving Prayer
“Today’s Devotion” For Thanksgiving Day, November 24, 2005
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
May God bless your time together with family and friends this day as our nation celebrates God blessings upon us. I pray that your day will also include a time to worship, either in the congregation of believers or with family and friends gathered in prayer and praise of God’s goodness.
Please pray with me today, as well:
Gracious and good Father, Creator of all things, Provider of every good and perfect gift, and the One who loves us so much that He sent His One and Only Son, Jesus Christ to redeem me from the power of Sin, Death, and the devil, I give You humble and hearty thanks this day for every blessing of body and soul You have given me in my life. Even when things are the hardest, You are there. When all hope seems to go out the window, You are there. Your loving hand is always present in Your Word and in my Baptism to guide me in Your paths and lift me up into Your loving and protecting arms.
Father, I’m grateful for my home and family, my friends and community, and all the blessings of freedom and plenty that You’ve showered upon me and the nation. I’m especially grateful that You have raised up faithful people to share Your Word, administer the Sacraments, and encourage me in my growth in faith. I’m especially grateful that You have raised up brave and courageous souls to protect this land and to fight for the peace and freedom of people all over the world. Keep them safe from all harm and danger as they face terrorists and other evildoers so that others might know peace, freedom, justice, and, especially, religious freedom.
I thank You, Father, for all those whom You have sent to share the Good News of Jesus to a lost and dying world. Continue to bless those in our armed forces who touch the lives of people halfway around the world with the Good News of Jesus in their words and deeds. Strengthen their faith and keep them strong in You that they may never falter in their service or fail in their duties.
Thank You, Father, for those who lead filled with Your wisdom and love. Help them to be continuously seeking to serve others in Your name, to hear and grow in Your Word, and to stand up for truth and justice no matter the personal cost. Be with the President, Vice President, the Cabinet, the Congress, the Supreme Court, the Governors of our various states, and all others who seek to lead me and my neighbors, that they may seek Your wisdom and Your Will so that justice and freedom might continue to be at the center of our lives together.
Bless those who are hurting in any way, dearest Father. Be with those who minister to their needs, that they might do so with joy, peace, commitment, and love. Strengthen those who serve such needs by the power of Your Word and Spirit that they might continue to be a blessing.
Father, I have so many blessings and gifts from You for which to be thankful. I can’t name them all, for I truly don’t even realize all of them. Give me a grateful heart that I may live always in Your love, receive Your gifts with a gracious heart, filled with Your joy and peace in Jesus. Above all, I thank You for the gift of faith in Jesus Who suffered and died for my sins, and rose again that I might have eternal life with You in heaven. In Him my sins are forgiven and I stand before Your throne of grace righteous and holy, covered in His blood and righteousness. In gratitude and faith, Father, lead me to greater service to You and others so that my “light” might shine before the world and others might glorify You in all things. Thank You once again, dear Father, for everything You have done for me. In Jesus’ precious name I pray. Amen.
**************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright ©2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
May God bless your time together with family and friends this day as our nation celebrates God blessings upon us. I pray that your day will also include a time to worship, either in the congregation of believers or with family and friends gathered in prayer and praise of God’s goodness.
Please pray with me today, as well:
Gracious and good Father, Creator of all things, Provider of every good and perfect gift, and the One who loves us so much that He sent His One and Only Son, Jesus Christ to redeem me from the power of Sin, Death, and the devil, I give You humble and hearty thanks this day for every blessing of body and soul You have given me in my life. Even when things are the hardest, You are there. When all hope seems to go out the window, You are there. Your loving hand is always present in Your Word and in my Baptism to guide me in Your paths and lift me up into Your loving and protecting arms.
Father, I’m grateful for my home and family, my friends and community, and all the blessings of freedom and plenty that You’ve showered upon me and the nation. I’m especially grateful that You have raised up faithful people to share Your Word, administer the Sacraments, and encourage me in my growth in faith. I’m especially grateful that You have raised up brave and courageous souls to protect this land and to fight for the peace and freedom of people all over the world. Keep them safe from all harm and danger as they face terrorists and other evildoers so that others might know peace, freedom, justice, and, especially, religious freedom.
I thank You, Father, for all those whom You have sent to share the Good News of Jesus to a lost and dying world. Continue to bless those in our armed forces who touch the lives of people halfway around the world with the Good News of Jesus in their words and deeds. Strengthen their faith and keep them strong in You that they may never falter in their service or fail in their duties.
Thank You, Father, for those who lead filled with Your wisdom and love. Help them to be continuously seeking to serve others in Your name, to hear and grow in Your Word, and to stand up for truth and justice no matter the personal cost. Be with the President, Vice President, the Cabinet, the Congress, the Supreme Court, the Governors of our various states, and all others who seek to lead me and my neighbors, that they may seek Your wisdom and Your Will so that justice and freedom might continue to be at the center of our lives together.
Bless those who are hurting in any way, dearest Father. Be with those who minister to their needs, that they might do so with joy, peace, commitment, and love. Strengthen those who serve such needs by the power of Your Word and Spirit that they might continue to be a blessing.
Father, I have so many blessings and gifts from You for which to be thankful. I can’t name them all, for I truly don’t even realize all of them. Give me a grateful heart that I may live always in Your love, receive Your gifts with a gracious heart, filled with Your joy and peace in Jesus. Above all, I thank You for the gift of faith in Jesus Who suffered and died for my sins, and rose again that I might have eternal life with You in heaven. In Him my sins are forgiven and I stand before Your throne of grace righteous and holy, covered in His blood and righteousness. In gratitude and faith, Father, lead me to greater service to You and others so that my “light” might shine before the world and others might glorify You in all things. Thank You once again, dear Father, for everything You have done for me. In Jesus’ precious name I pray. Amen.
**************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright ©2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Wednesday, November 23, 2005
Holding Fast To Our Hope In Jesus
"Today's Devotion" For November 23, 2005
Read: Hebrews 10:19-35; Psalm 1
HOLDING FAST TO OUR HOPE IN JESUS
"Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promises is faithful. and let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works." (Heb. 10:23-24).
Tomorrow is Thanksgiving Day in the United States. It's a national holiday, declared so by an act of Congress and proclaimed by the President each year. For most Americans, it's a day of feasting and family time. A number of us will attend worship services where we will take the time to give special thanks to God for all His gifts and blessings to us as families, individuals, and a nation. While we're doing these things, there are about 150,000+ of our fellow citizens who are in harm's way in Iraq and Afghanistan, many of them taking the opportunity to celebrate Thanksgiving where they are - grateful for the gifts and blessings of God that still abound to them in a foreign and hostile environment.
Having spent a number of Thanksgivings away from my home and family while serving in the military, I can assure you that each of those men and women serving in "harm's way" are more than grateful for every blessing they have. Life is more precious and valuable than it has ever been. The sound of their loved ones' voices, a photograph, a recording, a phone call, a video conference call, an email, a letter, a package - these are all received with deep gratitude and thanksgiving to God. They are gifts from God which keep those men and women in uniform grounded in their faith, their service, and their commitment to the cause of freedom for those they serve.
I can't help but wonder sometimes how really grateful we are for those very freedoms that our military is fighting to establish for the people of Iraq and Afghanistan. As a high school announcer for a wide variety of varsity sports it's one of my responsibilities, particularly in the absence of a band, to lead the fans in our National Anthem. It's been my observation for a number of years now that people appear to have lost a sense of pride and thankfulness for what it means to be a citizen of this nation. I observe people standing for the anthem, but not singing; I observe people talking to each other during the anthem; I've observed that it's a very rare thing for people to put their hands over their hearts while singing the anthem - this is especially true for the young people, but I've seen it in their parents as well. At the same time, I've also observed that those who do take this "ceremony" seriously, often nudge their neighbors to follow their examples (such as removing their caps and, at least, standing quietly in respect). In displaying a higher standard, one group of individuals influences another to a higher standard for themselves.
We live in a nation that has been a beacon of hope to the "huddled masses" for well over 200 years. It has been a place where refugees and immigrants have come, often falling on their knees to kiss the soil and give thanks to God for their new opportunities for hope and freedom. The people of God, redeemed in Jesus Christ, truly understand what new opportunities for hope and freedom are, as we have been brought out of the slavery of Sin into the marvelous light of God's grace, mercy, and peace. We have God's own promise that He will never leave us or forsake us, and, as the writer to the Hebrews notes, we are fully assured of these things because God is faithful.
Living in the promises of God, touched daily by His grace, mercy, love, and forgiveness in Jesus Christ by faith, we have the privilege to "stir up love and good works" through our examples of faithful, godly living. We have the privilege of not only "holding fast to our hope in Jesus," but in living that hope for all to see, and sharing that hope so that others, too, might have hope as well. We have much to be thankful for as God's people in Jesus Christ. We have much to be thankful for as citizens of the United States of America. We have so many opportunities to "stir up love and good works," not only in our families, churches, communities, states, and the nation, but also around the world, wherever we go with the message of hope, love, peace, forgiveness and freedom upon which - regardless of the inane prattling of the "intellectuals" who dispute the Christian foundation of the nation - this nation was founded and still stands. "Holding fast to our hope in Jesus" we are blessed to be a blessing to others and examples of God's peace and love to all the world in Christ. It's a great blessing and one for which we give endless thanksgiving and praise to Him who is faithful.
Prayer: Father, I thank You for all Your blessings to me, especially the hope You have given me by faith in Jesus. Help me to live in that hope, filled with Your peace and forgiveness every day, so that I might be one who "stir(s) up love and good works" in all those whose lives I touch and who touch mine. I pray also that You would so fill Your children, my fellow citizens of this nation and of heaven, who are serving in far places and in 'Harm's Way," that their actions in the cause of freedom, justice, and peace might be carried out "holding fast to our hope in Jesus." Let their service be examples of faith to all those whose lives they touch so they, too, might come to know Your love in Christ, and be thankful for the same hope that Jesus has brought into our hearts. In Jesus' precious and most holy name I give You all honor, thanks, and praise. Amen.
*********************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright ©2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Read: Hebrews 10:19-35; Psalm 1
HOLDING FAST TO OUR HOPE IN JESUS
"Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promises is faithful. and let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works." (Heb. 10:23-24).
Tomorrow is Thanksgiving Day in the United States. It's a national holiday, declared so by an act of Congress and proclaimed by the President each year. For most Americans, it's a day of feasting and family time. A number of us will attend worship services where we will take the time to give special thanks to God for all His gifts and blessings to us as families, individuals, and a nation. While we're doing these things, there are about 150,000+ of our fellow citizens who are in harm's way in Iraq and Afghanistan, many of them taking the opportunity to celebrate Thanksgiving where they are - grateful for the gifts and blessings of God that still abound to them in a foreign and hostile environment.
Having spent a number of Thanksgivings away from my home and family while serving in the military, I can assure you that each of those men and women serving in "harm's way" are more than grateful for every blessing they have. Life is more precious and valuable than it has ever been. The sound of their loved ones' voices, a photograph, a recording, a phone call, a video conference call, an email, a letter, a package - these are all received with deep gratitude and thanksgiving to God. They are gifts from God which keep those men and women in uniform grounded in their faith, their service, and their commitment to the cause of freedom for those they serve.
I can't help but wonder sometimes how really grateful we are for those very freedoms that our military is fighting to establish for the people of Iraq and Afghanistan. As a high school announcer for a wide variety of varsity sports it's one of my responsibilities, particularly in the absence of a band, to lead the fans in our National Anthem. It's been my observation for a number of years now that people appear to have lost a sense of pride and thankfulness for what it means to be a citizen of this nation. I observe people standing for the anthem, but not singing; I observe people talking to each other during the anthem; I've observed that it's a very rare thing for people to put their hands over their hearts while singing the anthem - this is especially true for the young people, but I've seen it in their parents as well. At the same time, I've also observed that those who do take this "ceremony" seriously, often nudge their neighbors to follow their examples (such as removing their caps and, at least, standing quietly in respect). In displaying a higher standard, one group of individuals influences another to a higher standard for themselves.
We live in a nation that has been a beacon of hope to the "huddled masses" for well over 200 years. It has been a place where refugees and immigrants have come, often falling on their knees to kiss the soil and give thanks to God for their new opportunities for hope and freedom. The people of God, redeemed in Jesus Christ, truly understand what new opportunities for hope and freedom are, as we have been brought out of the slavery of Sin into the marvelous light of God's grace, mercy, and peace. We have God's own promise that He will never leave us or forsake us, and, as the writer to the Hebrews notes, we are fully assured of these things because God is faithful.
Living in the promises of God, touched daily by His grace, mercy, love, and forgiveness in Jesus Christ by faith, we have the privilege to "stir up love and good works" through our examples of faithful, godly living. We have the privilege of not only "holding fast to our hope in Jesus," but in living that hope for all to see, and sharing that hope so that others, too, might have hope as well. We have much to be thankful for as God's people in Jesus Christ. We have much to be thankful for as citizens of the United States of America. We have so many opportunities to "stir up love and good works," not only in our families, churches, communities, states, and the nation, but also around the world, wherever we go with the message of hope, love, peace, forgiveness and freedom upon which - regardless of the inane prattling of the "intellectuals" who dispute the Christian foundation of the nation - this nation was founded and still stands. "Holding fast to our hope in Jesus" we are blessed to be a blessing to others and examples of God's peace and love to all the world in Christ. It's a great blessing and one for which we give endless thanksgiving and praise to Him who is faithful.
Prayer: Father, I thank You for all Your blessings to me, especially the hope You have given me by faith in Jesus. Help me to live in that hope, filled with Your peace and forgiveness every day, so that I might be one who "stir(s) up love and good works" in all those whose lives I touch and who touch mine. I pray also that You would so fill Your children, my fellow citizens of this nation and of heaven, who are serving in far places and in 'Harm's Way," that their actions in the cause of freedom, justice, and peace might be carried out "holding fast to our hope in Jesus." Let their service be examples of faith to all those whose lives they touch so they, too, might come to know Your love in Christ, and be thankful for the same hope that Jesus has brought into our hearts. In Jesus' precious and most holy name I give You all honor, thanks, and praise. Amen.
*********************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright ©2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Tuesday, November 22, 2005
Out Of Suffering Comes Hope
"Today's Devotion" For November 22, 2005
Read: Romans 5:1-5; Psalm 42
OUT OF SUFFERING COMES HOPE
"And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope." (Rom. 5:3-4)
I don't know about you, but when it comes to suffering I'm a "wimp." I flat out don't like things being tough, going wrong, hurting physically, emotionally, psychologically, mentally, or spiritually. Perhaps you have some of the same feelings. What bothers me the most when such suffering comes my way is the loss of control I feel. Then, when I look beyond myself and see the suffering of others, I feel even more helpless, because I'm even less likely to be able to control what happens to them.
Yet suffering and difficulties are the stuff which put the "stiff" in our spines and strengthen us for the journey ahead. We have the word of a number of witnesses whose firsthand experiences lend a great deal of credibility to the idea that suffering and difficulties are essential for our growth, especially in our relationship with God. St. Paul knew a great deal about suffering, including facing persecution and his ultimate martyrdom in Rome. He could say from personal experience that we can "glory in tribulations." Dr. Martin Luther once said that "Affliction is the best book in my library." His work during the Reformation put him in constant danger and made a lot of enemies who often sought to kill him. C. H. Spurgeon, the great British preacher, once noted that "The greatest earthly blessing that God can give to any of us is our health, with the exception of sickness." Of course, as we contemplate these words of wisdom from these servants of God we might have some question about their sanity.
But don't question for too long. They knew what they were talking about. They understood suffering and what could be accomplished because of it. They knew, as do we, that Christians aren't promised a life that's free from suffering, persecution, illness, disease, hatred, anger, or pain (to name just a few of life's troubles). These things are a real and abiding result of life in a sinful world - a world that chooses to do its own thing rather than obeying God's Will. What Scripture continually reminds us, as do the lives of God's servants, is that God takes suffering - tribulation - and turns it to the good of His people. He uses suffering to humble us, to correct us, to strengthen our faith, and to produce patience and character in us. Above all, through suffering - through tribulation - God leads us by His Spirit, through faith in Jesus, to that which defeats all hardship and suffering - hope in Christ.
There's an old saying that applies here that's worth remembering. It goes like this: "When you're flat on your back, the only way you can look is up." When things are going wrong in our lives and we don't feel like we can take any more, by faith we are led to "look up" the source of our deliverance - our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He is our source of hope in the midst of despair, oppression, suffering, and all the ravages of Sin in the world. Strangely enough, welcoming suffering into our lives is a good thing, because it reminds us to "look up" to God for help, not down to wealth, health, and independent thinking. Jesus Christ is our sure and only source for true hope, which He won for us on the Cross when He poured out His life's blood to cleanse us from our sins. Forgiven, we stand before God's throne of grace because of Christ and rejoice that we belong to God. He has called us by name; we are His. God's love abounds in our lives and brings hope out of suffering so that we might have life to the full.
Prayer: Father, forgive me when I fail to pay attention to Your work in my life. Too often I let the troubles and tribulations of life lead me away from Your love and purpose for my life. I allow myself to get overwhelmed by the tribulations of living in a sinful world as one of Your redeemed children. It's easy for me to wallow in self-pity, rather than rejoicing that in the midst of every trial and trouble, You are there to lift me up and carry me in Your loving and protecting arms. Fill me, gracious Father, with the hope that comes when I turn my suffering over to You and receive Your forgiveness and love in Jesus. Let my life be a true reflection of the hope I have in Christ so that I might be an effective witness to Your gift of hope in the face of suffering. In Jesus' precious name I pray. Amen.
************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright ©2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Read: Romans 5:1-5; Psalm 42
OUT OF SUFFERING COMES HOPE
"And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope." (Rom. 5:3-4)
I don't know about you, but when it comes to suffering I'm a "wimp." I flat out don't like things being tough, going wrong, hurting physically, emotionally, psychologically, mentally, or spiritually. Perhaps you have some of the same feelings. What bothers me the most when such suffering comes my way is the loss of control I feel. Then, when I look beyond myself and see the suffering of others, I feel even more helpless, because I'm even less likely to be able to control what happens to them.
Yet suffering and difficulties are the stuff which put the "stiff" in our spines and strengthen us for the journey ahead. We have the word of a number of witnesses whose firsthand experiences lend a great deal of credibility to the idea that suffering and difficulties are essential for our growth, especially in our relationship with God. St. Paul knew a great deal about suffering, including facing persecution and his ultimate martyrdom in Rome. He could say from personal experience that we can "glory in tribulations." Dr. Martin Luther once said that "Affliction is the best book in my library." His work during the Reformation put him in constant danger and made a lot of enemies who often sought to kill him. C. H. Spurgeon, the great British preacher, once noted that "The greatest earthly blessing that God can give to any of us is our health, with the exception of sickness." Of course, as we contemplate these words of wisdom from these servants of God we might have some question about their sanity.
But don't question for too long. They knew what they were talking about. They understood suffering and what could be accomplished because of it. They knew, as do we, that Christians aren't promised a life that's free from suffering, persecution, illness, disease, hatred, anger, or pain (to name just a few of life's troubles). These things are a real and abiding result of life in a sinful world - a world that chooses to do its own thing rather than obeying God's Will. What Scripture continually reminds us, as do the lives of God's servants, is that God takes suffering - tribulation - and turns it to the good of His people. He uses suffering to humble us, to correct us, to strengthen our faith, and to produce patience and character in us. Above all, through suffering - through tribulation - God leads us by His Spirit, through faith in Jesus, to that which defeats all hardship and suffering - hope in Christ.
There's an old saying that applies here that's worth remembering. It goes like this: "When you're flat on your back, the only way you can look is up." When things are going wrong in our lives and we don't feel like we can take any more, by faith we are led to "look up" the source of our deliverance - our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He is our source of hope in the midst of despair, oppression, suffering, and all the ravages of Sin in the world. Strangely enough, welcoming suffering into our lives is a good thing, because it reminds us to "look up" to God for help, not down to wealth, health, and independent thinking. Jesus Christ is our sure and only source for true hope, which He won for us on the Cross when He poured out His life's blood to cleanse us from our sins. Forgiven, we stand before God's throne of grace because of Christ and rejoice that we belong to God. He has called us by name; we are His. God's love abounds in our lives and brings hope out of suffering so that we might have life to the full.
Prayer: Father, forgive me when I fail to pay attention to Your work in my life. Too often I let the troubles and tribulations of life lead me away from Your love and purpose for my life. I allow myself to get overwhelmed by the tribulations of living in a sinful world as one of Your redeemed children. It's easy for me to wallow in self-pity, rather than rejoicing that in the midst of every trial and trouble, You are there to lift me up and carry me in Your loving and protecting arms. Fill me, gracious Father, with the hope that comes when I turn my suffering over to You and receive Your forgiveness and love in Jesus. Let my life be a true reflection of the hope I have in Christ so that I might be an effective witness to Your gift of hope in the face of suffering. In Jesus' precious name I pray. Amen.
************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright ©2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Monday, November 21, 2005
Of Evil, Judgment, And Salvation
"Today's Devotion" For November 21, 2005
Read: Habbakuk 3:1-19; Revelation 20:11-21:8
OF EVIL, JUDGMENT, AND SALVATION
"Then He who sat on the throne said, 'Behold, I make all things new.' And He said to me, 'Write, for these words are faithful and true.'" (Rev. 21:5)
In a world full of turmoil and uncertainty, where nations contend with nations, and wars dot the globe human beings need some hope and comfort. It often appears as if the innocent suffer and the oppressors have the advantage. There's a sense among many that the world is an unfair place. It's an old story. Such is the picture that we see throughout history. If we look back at the days of the prophet Habbakuk, we hear the prophet lament and agonize over the evil he saw affecting people, particularly God's people. His lament takes the form of the age-old question, "Why does God allow evil to flourish and evil people to succeed?" He saw that the "ruling classes" in Judah were oppressing the weak in Jewish society, and he couldn't understand how God could them to get away with such behavior. Habbakus saw much the same kind of evil affecting people as we see today. Bribes were offered, the wicked abused the righteous, the court system was corrupted, and there was a distinct impression that success was disconnected from a relationship with God.
God's answer to Habbakuk not only surprised him but left him anguished. God declared that He intended to use evil to punish Judah's evil. It was God's intention to use the power of Babylon, perhaps the most decadent and evil empire ever known to human history, to punish His people in Judah who had become arrogant and haughty in their behavior, ignoring the will of God and treating the innocent with contempt and injustice. While anguished by this news, Habbakuk also acknowledges the justice of God's actions, noting that Judah deserved the punishment it had coming. Scripture tells us that God did so as the people of Judah were carried off into exile in Babylon. At the same time God also promised Habbakuk that evil Babylon will itself be destroyed and that God's people will, in the end, possess the earth.
As Habbakuk examines this Word from God in answer to his questions and laments, he receives understanding. He uses phrases such as "the righteous shall live by his faith" (2:4), "the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord, as the waters cover the sea" (2:14), and "in wrath remember mercy" (3:2) to remind himself and God's people that God is just and righteous, merciful and gracious, and filled with compassion, love, and forgiveness for all who turn to Him in repentance and faith. In the face of the most trying of circumstance, Habbakuk shows us that God is always involved in what's happening - He's still in charge and nothing happens without His knowing it.
That's what we are reminded of also through John's vision in Revelation. In the last three chapters of Revelation the final judgment is examined. John sees the power of Satan in the last days seeking to deceive as many people as possible into following him into the fiery realm of Hell for eternity. At the same time John notes that God is sitting on His throne and judging the people with righteousness and truth. Despite the turmoil that evil brings into the world, God is still in control. God Himself encourages us as He tells John "Behold, I make all things new." In the face of the very worst that can happen, God's promise and assurance is that He is in control and He's making everything new as He leads us into eternal life through faith in Jesus. He leaves us with the confidence of His words to John that all John has seen and heard is "trustworthy and true." As the old saying goes, "You can take that to the bank."
As we face the challenges and vagaries of life in this world; as we look at the various faces of evil and wonder at its seeming success; as we experience injustice and unfair treatment by others; as we face ridicule for our faith and trust in God and have every Word and promise of God challenged we are encouraged to know, as Habbakuk was, that God is in charge and nothing happens without His knowledge. We are encouraged in our lives of faith to know that God's promise is that He will preserve us for Himself, even in the face of the most dastardly evil of Satan himself. The picture of God sitting on His throne, unruffled and undeterred by the turmoil that surrounds us in life, is a powerful statement of hope and invites our trust and faith in Him. He who judges evil, He who judges the world, He who judges sin, is also He who saves us from the just destruction we deserve for our disobedience and sin. He assures us that he is "making all things new," and we receive His daily reminder of that promise as, in the power of our baptisms, we are daily renewed and refreshed by His Word and Spirit - recreated through His forgiveness of our sins and faith in Jesus. As the redeemed children of God, we are blessed by faith to not just speak about the evil in the world, but to be certain that God will judge it, and that He will save us for Himself through Christ our Lord.
Prayer: Father, I thank You for the great gift of faith in Jesus You have given me. In that faith I am led to daily repentance for all of my sins and am strengthened to live a life humble righteousness as one of Your redeemed children. As I face the challenges of evil in the world around me, keep me from succumbing to the temptation to disobedience that evil offers. Help me to live in the confidence that, regardless of the perceived power of evil in the world, You are still in total control of Your creation and are the true Judge and Savior of the world. Father, help me to see Your hand creating everything new as You promise in the vision of Revelation You gave to John, help me to trust that You are in control and do what You promise, and keep me faithful to You in Jesus so that I might continue to tirelessly share Your love and forgiveness with others so they, too, might be saved. In Jesus' precious name I pray. Amen.
***************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright ©2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Read: Habbakuk 3:1-19; Revelation 20:11-21:8
OF EVIL, JUDGMENT, AND SALVATION
"Then He who sat on the throne said, 'Behold, I make all things new.' And He said to me, 'Write, for these words are faithful and true.'" (Rev. 21:5)
In a world full of turmoil and uncertainty, where nations contend with nations, and wars dot the globe human beings need some hope and comfort. It often appears as if the innocent suffer and the oppressors have the advantage. There's a sense among many that the world is an unfair place. It's an old story. Such is the picture that we see throughout history. If we look back at the days of the prophet Habbakuk, we hear the prophet lament and agonize over the evil he saw affecting people, particularly God's people. His lament takes the form of the age-old question, "Why does God allow evil to flourish and evil people to succeed?" He saw that the "ruling classes" in Judah were oppressing the weak in Jewish society, and he couldn't understand how God could them to get away with such behavior. Habbakus saw much the same kind of evil affecting people as we see today. Bribes were offered, the wicked abused the righteous, the court system was corrupted, and there was a distinct impression that success was disconnected from a relationship with God.
God's answer to Habbakuk not only surprised him but left him anguished. God declared that He intended to use evil to punish Judah's evil. It was God's intention to use the power of Babylon, perhaps the most decadent and evil empire ever known to human history, to punish His people in Judah who had become arrogant and haughty in their behavior, ignoring the will of God and treating the innocent with contempt and injustice. While anguished by this news, Habbakuk also acknowledges the justice of God's actions, noting that Judah deserved the punishment it had coming. Scripture tells us that God did so as the people of Judah were carried off into exile in Babylon. At the same time God also promised Habbakuk that evil Babylon will itself be destroyed and that God's people will, in the end, possess the earth.
As Habbakuk examines this Word from God in answer to his questions and laments, he receives understanding. He uses phrases such as "the righteous shall live by his faith" (2:4), "the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord, as the waters cover the sea" (2:14), and "in wrath remember mercy" (3:2) to remind himself and God's people that God is just and righteous, merciful and gracious, and filled with compassion, love, and forgiveness for all who turn to Him in repentance and faith. In the face of the most trying of circumstance, Habbakuk shows us that God is always involved in what's happening - He's still in charge and nothing happens without His knowing it.
That's what we are reminded of also through John's vision in Revelation. In the last three chapters of Revelation the final judgment is examined. John sees the power of Satan in the last days seeking to deceive as many people as possible into following him into the fiery realm of Hell for eternity. At the same time John notes that God is sitting on His throne and judging the people with righteousness and truth. Despite the turmoil that evil brings into the world, God is still in control. God Himself encourages us as He tells John "Behold, I make all things new." In the face of the very worst that can happen, God's promise and assurance is that He is in control and He's making everything new as He leads us into eternal life through faith in Jesus. He leaves us with the confidence of His words to John that all John has seen and heard is "trustworthy and true." As the old saying goes, "You can take that to the bank."
As we face the challenges and vagaries of life in this world; as we look at the various faces of evil and wonder at its seeming success; as we experience injustice and unfair treatment by others; as we face ridicule for our faith and trust in God and have every Word and promise of God challenged we are encouraged to know, as Habbakuk was, that God is in charge and nothing happens without His knowledge. We are encouraged in our lives of faith to know that God's promise is that He will preserve us for Himself, even in the face of the most dastardly evil of Satan himself. The picture of God sitting on His throne, unruffled and undeterred by the turmoil that surrounds us in life, is a powerful statement of hope and invites our trust and faith in Him. He who judges evil, He who judges the world, He who judges sin, is also He who saves us from the just destruction we deserve for our disobedience and sin. He assures us that he is "making all things new," and we receive His daily reminder of that promise as, in the power of our baptisms, we are daily renewed and refreshed by His Word and Spirit - recreated through His forgiveness of our sins and faith in Jesus. As the redeemed children of God, we are blessed by faith to not just speak about the evil in the world, but to be certain that God will judge it, and that He will save us for Himself through Christ our Lord.
Prayer: Father, I thank You for the great gift of faith in Jesus You have given me. In that faith I am led to daily repentance for all of my sins and am strengthened to live a life humble righteousness as one of Your redeemed children. As I face the challenges of evil in the world around me, keep me from succumbing to the temptation to disobedience that evil offers. Help me to live in the confidence that, regardless of the perceived power of evil in the world, You are still in total control of Your creation and are the true Judge and Savior of the world. Father, help me to see Your hand creating everything new as You promise in the vision of Revelation You gave to John, help me to trust that You are in control and do what You promise, and keep me faithful to You in Jesus so that I might continue to tirelessly share Your love and forgiveness with others so they, too, might be saved. In Jesus' precious name I pray. Amen.
***************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright ©2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Saturday, November 19, 2005
Are You Ready For The End Of All Things?
"Today's Devotion" For November 19, 2005
Read: I Peter 4:7-11
Romans 13:8-14
ARE YOU READY FOR THE END OF ALL THINGS?
"The end of all things is near." (I Peter 4:7a)
Recently the controversy surrounding the teaching of "intelligent design" in addition to evolution in the nation's public school has been a hot topic. An entire school board in another state (Ohio, I believe) was voted out of office because they had determined that intellectual honesty required the teaching of "intelligent design" alongside evolution in the city's schools. The education community was aghast. Politicians were aghast. Many (not all) science "experts" were aghast. The argument against such a plan for including "intelligent design" into the classrooms of the school district was that it was a violation of the "doctrine" of the separation of church and state (which, we might hasten to add, doesn't exist anywhere in the Constitution except in the dulled imaginations of those who refuse to believe God). Some called it "bad science." Yet, the complexity of the universe, the complexity of nature, and the complexity of human beings makes such a claim disingenuous. What's more, "intelligent design" is more of a science fiction concept (unknown alien life forms formed the earth and its inhabitants) than it is a religious concept. Creation, after all, holds that we know who created the heavens and the earth - God.
All this discussion about beginnings, however, is almost ridiculous. The universe exists, however it came to be (bear with me here - I'm not challenging God's creation). People exist, animals exist, sea life exists, plants exist and the natural order of things exists. There's no argument that "creation" exists. While people have this burning desire to "find out where we came from," it seems more timely to wonder about where we're going from here on out. Certainly it's important to know how the world and the universe came to be - what you believe about "the beginning" is crucial to how you view the present and future. To believe that God is the Creator who made all things is to believe that all of Creation is in the palm of His hand and it's His decision as to when "the end of all things" will be.
It's to this very question that Peter speaks in our reading for today. Certainly, thinking about the end of the world is hardly the stuff of daily living. To modern ears it sounds more like fodder for science fiction books and movies. Depending on our age, our thoughts about mortality may range from "I've got all the time in the world," to perusing the obituaries in the newspaper on a daily basis as we watch each generation disappear from the face of the earth. No matter how people view their beginnings, the reality that each person's life will end and that, just as our lives end, it also is reasonable to understand that the life of the universe and the world will also end. The end of our lives and the end of the world are inescapable realities. The scientific laws of entropy and thermodynamics lead us to understand that all things end - God tells us how and why they end.
Scripture gives us a clear picture that all things will come to an end at God's direction and in His time. Jesus Himself speaks about the last days of the earth and the Day of Judgment, as do St. Peter and St. Paul. The Scriptures speak of the imminence of the end of all things. The Scriptures also remind us that everyone needs to be ready for that day to come, because as Jesus, Peter, and Paul all note - "the end of all things is near." The Spirit's message to us is clear and urgent - examine your lives and live in the light of the coming of the end.
It's so very easy for us to lose sight of the reality of the end of all things because the world is blinded by Sin to God's declaration that there will be a Day of Judgment. Our own sinful nature and tendency to do things the world's way rather than God's keep us from truly appreciating the imminence of the end. Yet the questions remain, "When are we going to come to the end of our lives?" "When will the end of all things come to pass?" These are questions to which only God knows the answers. What's essential for us isn't to know the "times or the seasons" that God has ordained, but that we live as if each moment is our last on earth. It means living in God's love and forgiveness through faith in Jesus Christ and readily sharing that faith and trust with others, so they too might be with Jesus in heaven. To live with the immanence of the end as the people of God is to live a life in Christ, motivated by faith, which serves God by loving other people in Jesus' name.
When will it be your last day? When will my life come to an end? None of us knows. Yet we give praise and thanks to God that He reminds us in His Word that living each day in Him is essential; that living our lives to the full means living each day as if it were both the last day and the first day of the rest of our lives. In so doing we stay focused on Jesus, and live lives that reflect His grace, mercy, love and forgiveness as we touch the lives of others. In this way we are both blessed and a blessing.
Prayer: Father, it's very hard for me to stay focused on You with all the temptations and daily activities of life pulling me away. Certainly, the imminence of the "end of all things" doesn't really register most of the time in my words and actions. Too often I'm guilty of putting myself ahead of You and my service to others. Too often I act as if I have forever to obey You and repent of my sins, so that I'm not always ready for my end to come. Such behavior on my part serves only to cut me off from Your love and forgiveness and keeps me from being an effective witness to others so they might also believe and be with You forever. Father, forgive me for such disregard of Your Word and Will and, by the power and presence of Your Spirit working in me through my Baptism, help me to live today and each day as if You were coming immediately. I pray all this in the precious and most holy name of Jesus, my Savior and Lord. Amen.
*************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright ©2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Read: I Peter 4:7-11
Romans 13:8-14
ARE YOU READY FOR THE END OF ALL THINGS?
"The end of all things is near." (I Peter 4:7a)
Recently the controversy surrounding the teaching of "intelligent design" in addition to evolution in the nation's public school has been a hot topic. An entire school board in another state (Ohio, I believe) was voted out of office because they had determined that intellectual honesty required the teaching of "intelligent design" alongside evolution in the city's schools. The education community was aghast. Politicians were aghast. Many (not all) science "experts" were aghast. The argument against such a plan for including "intelligent design" into the classrooms of the school district was that it was a violation of the "doctrine" of the separation of church and state (which, we might hasten to add, doesn't exist anywhere in the Constitution except in the dulled imaginations of those who refuse to believe God). Some called it "bad science." Yet, the complexity of the universe, the complexity of nature, and the complexity of human beings makes such a claim disingenuous. What's more, "intelligent design" is more of a science fiction concept (unknown alien life forms formed the earth and its inhabitants) than it is a religious concept. Creation, after all, holds that we know who created the heavens and the earth - God.
All this discussion about beginnings, however, is almost ridiculous. The universe exists, however it came to be (bear with me here - I'm not challenging God's creation). People exist, animals exist, sea life exists, plants exist and the natural order of things exists. There's no argument that "creation" exists. While people have this burning desire to "find out where we came from," it seems more timely to wonder about where we're going from here on out. Certainly it's important to know how the world and the universe came to be - what you believe about "the beginning" is crucial to how you view the present and future. To believe that God is the Creator who made all things is to believe that all of Creation is in the palm of His hand and it's His decision as to when "the end of all things" will be.
It's to this very question that Peter speaks in our reading for today. Certainly, thinking about the end of the world is hardly the stuff of daily living. To modern ears it sounds more like fodder for science fiction books and movies. Depending on our age, our thoughts about mortality may range from "I've got all the time in the world," to perusing the obituaries in the newspaper on a daily basis as we watch each generation disappear from the face of the earth. No matter how people view their beginnings, the reality that each person's life will end and that, just as our lives end, it also is reasonable to understand that the life of the universe and the world will also end. The end of our lives and the end of the world are inescapable realities. The scientific laws of entropy and thermodynamics lead us to understand that all things end - God tells us how and why they end.
Scripture gives us a clear picture that all things will come to an end at God's direction and in His time. Jesus Himself speaks about the last days of the earth and the Day of Judgment, as do St. Peter and St. Paul. The Scriptures speak of the imminence of the end of all things. The Scriptures also remind us that everyone needs to be ready for that day to come, because as Jesus, Peter, and Paul all note - "the end of all things is near." The Spirit's message to us is clear and urgent - examine your lives and live in the light of the coming of the end.
It's so very easy for us to lose sight of the reality of the end of all things because the world is blinded by Sin to God's declaration that there will be a Day of Judgment. Our own sinful nature and tendency to do things the world's way rather than God's keep us from truly appreciating the imminence of the end. Yet the questions remain, "When are we going to come to the end of our lives?" "When will the end of all things come to pass?" These are questions to which only God knows the answers. What's essential for us isn't to know the "times or the seasons" that God has ordained, but that we live as if each moment is our last on earth. It means living in God's love and forgiveness through faith in Jesus Christ and readily sharing that faith and trust with others, so they too might be with Jesus in heaven. To live with the immanence of the end as the people of God is to live a life in Christ, motivated by faith, which serves God by loving other people in Jesus' name.
When will it be your last day? When will my life come to an end? None of us knows. Yet we give praise and thanks to God that He reminds us in His Word that living each day in Him is essential; that living our lives to the full means living each day as if it were both the last day and the first day of the rest of our lives. In so doing we stay focused on Jesus, and live lives that reflect His grace, mercy, love and forgiveness as we touch the lives of others. In this way we are both blessed and a blessing.
Prayer: Father, it's very hard for me to stay focused on You with all the temptations and daily activities of life pulling me away. Certainly, the imminence of the "end of all things" doesn't really register most of the time in my words and actions. Too often I'm guilty of putting myself ahead of You and my service to others. Too often I act as if I have forever to obey You and repent of my sins, so that I'm not always ready for my end to come. Such behavior on my part serves only to cut me off from Your love and forgiveness and keeps me from being an effective witness to others so they might also believe and be with You forever. Father, forgive me for such disregard of Your Word and Will and, by the power and presence of Your Spirit working in me through my Baptism, help me to live today and each day as if You were coming immediately. I pray all this in the precious and most holy name of Jesus, my Savior and Lord. Amen.
*************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright ©2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Friday, November 18, 2005
An Urgent Call From God
"Today's Devotion" For November 18, 2005
Read: Matthew 3:1-12; Isaiah 40:1-11, 28-31
AN URGENT CALL FROM GOD
"Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near." (Mt. 3:2)
We live in a day and age where urgency is the status quo. Television, radio, newspapers, and other media bring us advertisements that attempt to instill an urgency for a product or service that will get us to "Buy Now!" Statistically, the highest paid, most successful sales people are those who are "one-call closers" - they get the sale on the first try because they have a knack for tweaking a prospect's emotions with such a sense of urgency that they "Buy Now!" At the same time, many people who have purchased under such a "push" by a salesperson have experienced "buyer's remorse," believing they made a poor decision that they felt "pushed into." While they may not have made a poor decision - the product may in fact be as worthwhile and valuable as it was claimed to be - they nevertheless feel they've purchased something they don't really need, at least not right away.
In six days we'll again be celebrating Thanksgiving in the United States. That means that right around the corner is Christmas. Already we see the urgency of retailers in the shopping malls seeking to capitalize on the season with record sales. Already we are seeing Christmas decorations (our next door neighbor had her's up this past Sunday), hearing Christmas music, and experiencing Christmas advertising all over. Sadly all this urgency is badly misplaced. What our world really needs to be urgent about comes to us in John the Baptist's message to the people of Israel when he proclaimed, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near" (Mt. 3:2).
John the Baptist's task was to prepare Israel for the coming of their Messiah, the Christ. He shared a message of repentance - a turning around of their lives and hearts - and turning to God in obedience and trust. John's message rings with urgency - God's plan is ready now; our salvation is on its way; we need to be getting our houses in order now; God's promised redemption will soon be here. While many who heard John's message listened and responded, not everyone was "taken in" by his "sales pitch." Too many, especially the leaders of Israel, refused to heed his call and warning. Visually, John's message suffered because he looked and behaved like a "kook" dressed in camel's hair and eating berries and wild honey. John was pointing to Jesus as the Savior, the Messiah, the Christ, but too many were unable to hear the message and its urgency. It can be reasonably said that John was not a "one-call closer" and there weren't a lot of people who experienced "buyer's remorse" from "buying his message."
You may not be "gung-ho" on Christmas just yet. At our house we like to get through Thanksgiving first before we pay attention to the hubbub and chaos that has become the hallmark of the Christmas season in the United States. Yet, sometime in the next week or so, that "Christmas urgency" will most likely be setting in. The frenetic activities surrounding the season will grab most of us and find many of us frantically searching for the right gift for those "special" and "not-so-special" (office gift exchanges for instance) someones. Plans will be made to visit friends and relatives, or preparations will be made to entertain, hold parties, and have children return home from school or with grandchildren in tow.
In the midst of all this inevitable activity ("inevitable" that is, because we've allowed it to be so), we need to hear John the Baptist's call and heed it. We need to put urgency into listening and responding to God's call to repentance. It's an urgency that is essential for us on a daily basis, not just in the "run up" to Christmas. It's an urgency that often goes missing during the humdrum of daily living. Yet God's call to us in the Gospel is a call to daily repentance and absolution. It's a call to godly living, in word and deed, as we walk with Jesus and touch the lives of others with His love, grace, mercy, and forgiveness in myriad ways everyday. God's call is immediate and urgent. He calls us to repentance and faith now - today - not next week, next month, or next year. By the power of the Holy Spirit in our Baptisms, through the washing of the water and the Word, God has made us His very own, redeemed children in Jesus Christ. As we approach this new Christmas season, may we do so with a sense of urgency focused on Jesus and His love for us. By God's grace may we receive the strength to let all other "urgencies" go by and only focus on Jesus.
Prayer: Father, I can honestly say that I don't always have a sense of urgency about my relationship with You. Too often I let the allure of the world get in the way of Your love and blessings to me. Too often I allow the world to sell me "a bill of goods." Forgive me for not staying focused on Your Word. Forgive me for too often forgetting Your blessings to me. Help me, Father, to pay closer attention to Your Word and Will, and have a continued sense of urgency about sharing Your love and forgiveness in Jesus with others. Guide me to live more fully and urgently as Your redeemed child and an heir of eternal life with Christ, in whose name I pray. Amen.
********************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright ©2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Read: Matthew 3:1-12; Isaiah 40:1-11, 28-31
AN URGENT CALL FROM GOD
"Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near." (Mt. 3:2)
We live in a day and age where urgency is the status quo. Television, radio, newspapers, and other media bring us advertisements that attempt to instill an urgency for a product or service that will get us to "Buy Now!" Statistically, the highest paid, most successful sales people are those who are "one-call closers" - they get the sale on the first try because they have a knack for tweaking a prospect's emotions with such a sense of urgency that they "Buy Now!" At the same time, many people who have purchased under such a "push" by a salesperson have experienced "buyer's remorse," believing they made a poor decision that they felt "pushed into." While they may not have made a poor decision - the product may in fact be as worthwhile and valuable as it was claimed to be - they nevertheless feel they've purchased something they don't really need, at least not right away.
In six days we'll again be celebrating Thanksgiving in the United States. That means that right around the corner is Christmas. Already we see the urgency of retailers in the shopping malls seeking to capitalize on the season with record sales. Already we are seeing Christmas decorations (our next door neighbor had her's up this past Sunday), hearing Christmas music, and experiencing Christmas advertising all over. Sadly all this urgency is badly misplaced. What our world really needs to be urgent about comes to us in John the Baptist's message to the people of Israel when he proclaimed, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near" (Mt. 3:2).
John the Baptist's task was to prepare Israel for the coming of their Messiah, the Christ. He shared a message of repentance - a turning around of their lives and hearts - and turning to God in obedience and trust. John's message rings with urgency - God's plan is ready now; our salvation is on its way; we need to be getting our houses in order now; God's promised redemption will soon be here. While many who heard John's message listened and responded, not everyone was "taken in" by his "sales pitch." Too many, especially the leaders of Israel, refused to heed his call and warning. Visually, John's message suffered because he looked and behaved like a "kook" dressed in camel's hair and eating berries and wild honey. John was pointing to Jesus as the Savior, the Messiah, the Christ, but too many were unable to hear the message and its urgency. It can be reasonably said that John was not a "one-call closer" and there weren't a lot of people who experienced "buyer's remorse" from "buying his message."
You may not be "gung-ho" on Christmas just yet. At our house we like to get through Thanksgiving first before we pay attention to the hubbub and chaos that has become the hallmark of the Christmas season in the United States. Yet, sometime in the next week or so, that "Christmas urgency" will most likely be setting in. The frenetic activities surrounding the season will grab most of us and find many of us frantically searching for the right gift for those "special" and "not-so-special" (office gift exchanges for instance) someones. Plans will be made to visit friends and relatives, or preparations will be made to entertain, hold parties, and have children return home from school or with grandchildren in tow.
In the midst of all this inevitable activity ("inevitable" that is, because we've allowed it to be so), we need to hear John the Baptist's call and heed it. We need to put urgency into listening and responding to God's call to repentance. It's an urgency that is essential for us on a daily basis, not just in the "run up" to Christmas. It's an urgency that often goes missing during the humdrum of daily living. Yet God's call to us in the Gospel is a call to daily repentance and absolution. It's a call to godly living, in word and deed, as we walk with Jesus and touch the lives of others with His love, grace, mercy, and forgiveness in myriad ways everyday. God's call is immediate and urgent. He calls us to repentance and faith now - today - not next week, next month, or next year. By the power of the Holy Spirit in our Baptisms, through the washing of the water and the Word, God has made us His very own, redeemed children in Jesus Christ. As we approach this new Christmas season, may we do so with a sense of urgency focused on Jesus and His love for us. By God's grace may we receive the strength to let all other "urgencies" go by and only focus on Jesus.
Prayer: Father, I can honestly say that I don't always have a sense of urgency about my relationship with You. Too often I let the allure of the world get in the way of Your love and blessings to me. Too often I allow the world to sell me "a bill of goods." Forgive me for not staying focused on Your Word. Forgive me for too often forgetting Your blessings to me. Help me, Father, to pay closer attention to Your Word and Will, and have a continued sense of urgency about sharing Your love and forgiveness in Jesus with others. Guide me to live more fully and urgently as Your redeemed child and an heir of eternal life with Christ, in whose name I pray. Amen.
********************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright ©2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Thursday, November 17, 2005
Living In And Sharing True Wealth
"Today's Devotion" For November 17, 2005
Read: Matthew 19:16-22; James 2:1-13
LIVING IN AND SHARING TRUE WEALTH
"If you want to be perfect, go sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow Me." (Mt. 19:21)
One of the most pernicious "theological axioms" of our world is "if you just believe strongly enough" you can achieve anything, including going to "heaven." Human nature has a strong sense of self-determination. When things go well for people we have a saying that "they must be living right." The ultimate end of such thinking is the strong belief, held all over the world, that "right living" will get a person into "heaven," whatever form that might take and whatever that word means to each person. It's a concept that continues to gain legs because the moral relativism that permeates society and often provides context for a great deal of current theological thought (as it seeks "relevance" in the world), refuses to acknowledge that evil truly exists and works on people to the very depth of their souls.
When the rich young man approached Jesus, according to Matthew's account, he was only acting on what is our normal, human understanding of reward. He was functioning with a "theological axiom" quite like what we noted above. While he was pretty certain he had all the angles covered in his quest for eternal life - his idea of "heaven" - he wanted to cover all his bases so he could be certain he'd done all he could do to gain God's favor. What's so sad about this account is that he was missing the obvious answer - he didn't really need to be told by Jesus if he had been paying attention. One of the things Jesus points out to him is the obvious which was, even then, a significant point in Jewish theological thought - perfect obedience to the commandments of God were necessary for eternal life. Jesus particularly points the rich young man to those commandments that concern themselves with loving our neighbors as we love ourselves.
What follows is a classic human response when we're trapped by our thinking and behavior - the rich young man defends himself. He responds with the same defensive response all of us are quite familiar with in our own lives. Trying to justify himself in the face of the reality of the very essence of the commandments - loving our neighbors as ourselves - he boldly stated that he had, in fact, obeyed all the commandments mentioned. As is the case whenever we respond defensively to questions that challenge our behavior and thinking it becomes obvious that the young man had missed the point. Upping the ante, Jesus presents a challenge to the young man's self-indulgent actions and thinking. He doesn't let him off the hook. Instead, Jesus give him a new perspective on what loving our neighbors as ourselves really means. He suggests the young man sell all his worldly goods, give the money to the poor, and then follow Jesus. Here we see one of life's greatest challenges unfolding before our very eyes. It doesn't matter if we're rich or poor, famous or infamous, influential or nondescript; free and totally giving of ourselves, including our possessions, never happens short of God's grace working in our hearts and lives. Sin's hold on us leads us to protect and hoard what we "own," no matter what that "possession" might be.
Although Sin seeks to lead us to selfishness and self-centeredness in our living and thinking, we thank God that in Jesus we have been freed from Sin's power and are able to live for Him and others. We live in a culture that tempts us to measure our success by how much money we make, what our net worth is, how big our house is, how fancy our car is, or what position we might hold in industry, commerce, politics, the church, or society. Only by the power of the Cross of Christ - His sacrifice for us so that we might be freed from the power of Sin to hold on to us - are we able to live for God and for others. Only through by faith in Jesus' sacrifice for us are we able to put the needs of others before our own. In Christ we learn what true and lasting wealth really is - trusting in the Lord with all our hearts. In Christ we learn that true and lasting wealth also means living out our faith and trust in Jesus by loving others as we love ourselves.
To be truly "wealthy" in Christ is to share the wealth of the Gospel with others and to give of ourselves without fear of loss, greed, or concern about whether we'll have enough for ourselves. By faith in Jesus we know, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that true wealth is being redeemed, restored, and forgiven by God's grace in Christ. It's the only "real wealth" we'll ever need.
Prayer: Father, You give me so much each day that I too often take Your blessings for granted. I expect more and more of them and also, too often, see them as a result of my hard work and the just reward for my "success" in life. I forget so often that all I have is a gift from You to be used wisely and faithfully in service to You and others. I get caught up in the world's striving for power, wealth, prestige, and success and forget that none of these things has any meaning or purpose outside of a relationship with You. Like the rich young man it's really very easy for me to be tempted to look at my success as a result of "obedience" to Your Will. Forgive me, Father, for such thinking and living and help me, by the power of Your Word and Spirit to seek Your Will at all times, be grateful for Your many blessings, and use Your blessings to me for the benefit of others. Let my every motivation to service be that of love - love for You above all else and love for my neighbor as I love myself. Guide me to faithfully share Your love for me and for the world with others each day as a true follower of Jesus and a witness to Your grace, love, mercy, and forgiveness for all the world. In Jesus' precious name I pray. Amen.
**********************************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright ©2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Read: Matthew 19:16-22; James 2:1-13
LIVING IN AND SHARING TRUE WEALTH
"If you want to be perfect, go sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow Me." (Mt. 19:21)
One of the most pernicious "theological axioms" of our world is "if you just believe strongly enough" you can achieve anything, including going to "heaven." Human nature has a strong sense of self-determination. When things go well for people we have a saying that "they must be living right." The ultimate end of such thinking is the strong belief, held all over the world, that "right living" will get a person into "heaven," whatever form that might take and whatever that word means to each person. It's a concept that continues to gain legs because the moral relativism that permeates society and often provides context for a great deal of current theological thought (as it seeks "relevance" in the world), refuses to acknowledge that evil truly exists and works on people to the very depth of their souls.
When the rich young man approached Jesus, according to Matthew's account, he was only acting on what is our normal, human understanding of reward. He was functioning with a "theological axiom" quite like what we noted above. While he was pretty certain he had all the angles covered in his quest for eternal life - his idea of "heaven" - he wanted to cover all his bases so he could be certain he'd done all he could do to gain God's favor. What's so sad about this account is that he was missing the obvious answer - he didn't really need to be told by Jesus if he had been paying attention. One of the things Jesus points out to him is the obvious which was, even then, a significant point in Jewish theological thought - perfect obedience to the commandments of God were necessary for eternal life. Jesus particularly points the rich young man to those commandments that concern themselves with loving our neighbors as we love ourselves.
What follows is a classic human response when we're trapped by our thinking and behavior - the rich young man defends himself. He responds with the same defensive response all of us are quite familiar with in our own lives. Trying to justify himself in the face of the reality of the very essence of the commandments - loving our neighbors as ourselves - he boldly stated that he had, in fact, obeyed all the commandments mentioned. As is the case whenever we respond defensively to questions that challenge our behavior and thinking it becomes obvious that the young man had missed the point. Upping the ante, Jesus presents a challenge to the young man's self-indulgent actions and thinking. He doesn't let him off the hook. Instead, Jesus give him a new perspective on what loving our neighbors as ourselves really means. He suggests the young man sell all his worldly goods, give the money to the poor, and then follow Jesus. Here we see one of life's greatest challenges unfolding before our very eyes. It doesn't matter if we're rich or poor, famous or infamous, influential or nondescript; free and totally giving of ourselves, including our possessions, never happens short of God's grace working in our hearts and lives. Sin's hold on us leads us to protect and hoard what we "own," no matter what that "possession" might be.
Although Sin seeks to lead us to selfishness and self-centeredness in our living and thinking, we thank God that in Jesus we have been freed from Sin's power and are able to live for Him and others. We live in a culture that tempts us to measure our success by how much money we make, what our net worth is, how big our house is, how fancy our car is, or what position we might hold in industry, commerce, politics, the church, or society. Only by the power of the Cross of Christ - His sacrifice for us so that we might be freed from the power of Sin to hold on to us - are we able to live for God and for others. Only through by faith in Jesus' sacrifice for us are we able to put the needs of others before our own. In Christ we learn what true and lasting wealth really is - trusting in the Lord with all our hearts. In Christ we learn that true and lasting wealth also means living out our faith and trust in Jesus by loving others as we love ourselves.
To be truly "wealthy" in Christ is to share the wealth of the Gospel with others and to give of ourselves without fear of loss, greed, or concern about whether we'll have enough for ourselves. By faith in Jesus we know, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that true wealth is being redeemed, restored, and forgiven by God's grace in Christ. It's the only "real wealth" we'll ever need.
Prayer: Father, You give me so much each day that I too often take Your blessings for granted. I expect more and more of them and also, too often, see them as a result of my hard work and the just reward for my "success" in life. I forget so often that all I have is a gift from You to be used wisely and faithfully in service to You and others. I get caught up in the world's striving for power, wealth, prestige, and success and forget that none of these things has any meaning or purpose outside of a relationship with You. Like the rich young man it's really very easy for me to be tempted to look at my success as a result of "obedience" to Your Will. Forgive me, Father, for such thinking and living and help me, by the power of Your Word and Spirit to seek Your Will at all times, be grateful for Your many blessings, and use Your blessings to me for the benefit of others. Let my every motivation to service be that of love - love for You above all else and love for my neighbor as I love myself. Guide me to faithfully share Your love for me and for the world with others each day as a true follower of Jesus and a witness to Your grace, love, mercy, and forgiveness for all the world. In Jesus' precious name I pray. Amen.
**********************************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright ©2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Wednesday, November 16, 2005
Are You Ready?
"Today's Devotion" For November 16, 2005
Read: Genesis 6:9-7:24; Matthew 24:36-44
ARE YOU READY?
"No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father." (Mt. 24:36)
There seems to be a rapdily growing conclusion that there's going to be a world pandemic of the "bird flu" in the not too distant future. Many health experts are predicting that such a pandemic isn't a question of "if" but "when." We're told that with the regularity of air travel between nations in Europe where the avian flu has struck flocks of chickens and the United States its only a matter of time before the flu reaches our shores. We're also told that it's not just travel between Europe and the United States that's a potential hazard in this regard, but also travel between China, where people have actually contracted the disease from chickens and died, and the United States. Yesterday's local newspaper had a big article on our county's local preparedness plan. There was also an article noting the impact such a pandemic would have on the economy, with some $900 billion dollars in damage to the world economy and a the potential to cause a depression in the United States alone. One of the major points made was that it took the events in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina to get the authorities thinking about such issues, because the hurricane was a terrible reminder that human beings can't control nature.
While we might read and listen to such prognostication of "gloom and doom" critically and cautiously, it's not wise to ignore the reality of the potential destruction that a pandemic can bring to human beings and cultures. So far we human beings haven't found a way to control nature. Nature itself, God's created order, has been disrupted by our sinfulness since the Garden of Eden and the Flood. St. Paul reminds us in Romans that "all creation groans" as it awaits the final judgment and salvation of God' people. Death and destruction because of Sin is an inevitable reality of life. It doesn't matter how we face death, in what form it comes, or from where it comes - we still have to face it. It's not going to go away.
Ignoring the reality and inevitability of death and destruction because of things over which we have no control isn't just dangerous from a human standpoint. It's also spiritual suicide. To ignore death is to ignore the inevitability of God's judgment because of Man's sin and unbelief. To ignore the dangers posed by the ravages of Sin in the world - to the environment, economics, cultures, human institutions - is to ignore God's promise that the end of Sin is death and the Judgment. Only God knows when that day and hour will be - no human being can predict it. Only God knows when it will be the right time for Jesus' Second Coming as promised by Jesus Himself - Who didn't even know the day and hour appointed by the Father.
Is it possible that the warnings issued about a possible pandemic and all the problems it could cause are God's way of getting our attention? All too often we ignore the signs of God's working in the world and His wrath over Sin. God's own warning to us through the Apostle Paul is that the time is short - the end of all things is at hand. How often isn't that warning ignored as people focus on their own sense of what's important as they live their lives in the world? Scripture is replete with examples of God's warnings and how people ignored them - from Adam and Eve, to the people of Noah's time, to the Children of Israel. We Christians are also all too susceptible to ignoring God's warnings as well. It's time for us to wake up and pay attention today, not tomorrow. Perhaps it's time for us to be reminded of that old tried and true saying, "Don't put off until tomorrow what you can do today." Are you ready?
There's an old fable about three apprentice devils who were being sent to earth to test their "deviltry." They were being personally interviewed by Satan himself before they left. He wanted to make certain they each had a sound strategy for trapping humanity. The first devil said, "My strategy will be to tell them there is no God." "Everyone knows there is a God," Satan said, rejecting this strategy. Satan rejected this strategy saying, "Everyone knows there is a God." The second apprentice said, "I'm going to convince people there is no Hell." Again Satan rejected this strategy, saying, "Everyone knows there is a Hell." Getting to the third apprentice, Satan asked if he had a workable strategy. Yes, said the third apprentice devil. "I'm going to convince people that there's no hurry to believe." At last Satan smiled. "You will win many," he told this third apprentice.
God's Word and Spirit forewarn us and forearm us as to the power of Sin and the destruction it causes in our lives and our world. We see the evidence all around us - in society, in nature, in other human beings, in death. Yet we need not fear any of these things, nor should the inevitability of death be a deterrent to our living our lives in Christ fully and completely. Nothing can separate us from God's love. Not even death, because we are in Christ. Our sins are forgiven. Our hope is certain. Even though we don't know when our time will come or when the world will end, we are assured by Jesus that He "will never leave us or forsake us." He promises us that He is with us always to the very end of the world (Mt. 28:20). Holding to His promise then we face the warning signs of gloom and doom with peace, hope, and joy in our hearts, knowing that we belong to God and He holds us in the palm of His hand. We are His and we will be ready to meet Him in His time by faith in Jesus, our Savior and Lord. Are you ready?
Prayer: Father, it's true that I frequently take my spiritual life for granted. When I should be aware of the warnings about Your return, I too often ignore them, expecting that “tomorrow” will be time enough. Too often the everyday things of life take precedence over my relationship with You and my spiritual growth. Help me to be prepared every moment for Jesus' return, keeping aware of the warnings that point me to Your forgiveness and love in Him. Through the power of Your Spirit, working in the Word and Sacraments, keep me focused on Jesus and my relationship with You, my heavenly Father, as the first thing of importance in my life, so that I will be with You in heaven forever. Here me gracious Father for the sake of Jesus my Savior and Lord. Amen.
***************************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright ©2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Read: Genesis 6:9-7:24; Matthew 24:36-44
ARE YOU READY?
"No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father." (Mt. 24:36)
There seems to be a rapdily growing conclusion that there's going to be a world pandemic of the "bird flu" in the not too distant future. Many health experts are predicting that such a pandemic isn't a question of "if" but "when." We're told that with the regularity of air travel between nations in Europe where the avian flu has struck flocks of chickens and the United States its only a matter of time before the flu reaches our shores. We're also told that it's not just travel between Europe and the United States that's a potential hazard in this regard, but also travel between China, where people have actually contracted the disease from chickens and died, and the United States. Yesterday's local newspaper had a big article on our county's local preparedness plan. There was also an article noting the impact such a pandemic would have on the economy, with some $900 billion dollars in damage to the world economy and a the potential to cause a depression in the United States alone. One of the major points made was that it took the events in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina to get the authorities thinking about such issues, because the hurricane was a terrible reminder that human beings can't control nature.
While we might read and listen to such prognostication of "gloom and doom" critically and cautiously, it's not wise to ignore the reality of the potential destruction that a pandemic can bring to human beings and cultures. So far we human beings haven't found a way to control nature. Nature itself, God's created order, has been disrupted by our sinfulness since the Garden of Eden and the Flood. St. Paul reminds us in Romans that "all creation groans" as it awaits the final judgment and salvation of God' people. Death and destruction because of Sin is an inevitable reality of life. It doesn't matter how we face death, in what form it comes, or from where it comes - we still have to face it. It's not going to go away.
Ignoring the reality and inevitability of death and destruction because of things over which we have no control isn't just dangerous from a human standpoint. It's also spiritual suicide. To ignore death is to ignore the inevitability of God's judgment because of Man's sin and unbelief. To ignore the dangers posed by the ravages of Sin in the world - to the environment, economics, cultures, human institutions - is to ignore God's promise that the end of Sin is death and the Judgment. Only God knows when that day and hour will be - no human being can predict it. Only God knows when it will be the right time for Jesus' Second Coming as promised by Jesus Himself - Who didn't even know the day and hour appointed by the Father.
Is it possible that the warnings issued about a possible pandemic and all the problems it could cause are God's way of getting our attention? All too often we ignore the signs of God's working in the world and His wrath over Sin. God's own warning to us through the Apostle Paul is that the time is short - the end of all things is at hand. How often isn't that warning ignored as people focus on their own sense of what's important as they live their lives in the world? Scripture is replete with examples of God's warnings and how people ignored them - from Adam and Eve, to the people of Noah's time, to the Children of Israel. We Christians are also all too susceptible to ignoring God's warnings as well. It's time for us to wake up and pay attention today, not tomorrow. Perhaps it's time for us to be reminded of that old tried and true saying, "Don't put off until tomorrow what you can do today." Are you ready?
There's an old fable about three apprentice devils who were being sent to earth to test their "deviltry." They were being personally interviewed by Satan himself before they left. He wanted to make certain they each had a sound strategy for trapping humanity. The first devil said, "My strategy will be to tell them there is no God." "Everyone knows there is a God," Satan said, rejecting this strategy. Satan rejected this strategy saying, "Everyone knows there is a God." The second apprentice said, "I'm going to convince people there is no Hell." Again Satan rejected this strategy, saying, "Everyone knows there is a Hell." Getting to the third apprentice, Satan asked if he had a workable strategy. Yes, said the third apprentice devil. "I'm going to convince people that there's no hurry to believe." At last Satan smiled. "You will win many," he told this third apprentice.
God's Word and Spirit forewarn us and forearm us as to the power of Sin and the destruction it causes in our lives and our world. We see the evidence all around us - in society, in nature, in other human beings, in death. Yet we need not fear any of these things, nor should the inevitability of death be a deterrent to our living our lives in Christ fully and completely. Nothing can separate us from God's love. Not even death, because we are in Christ. Our sins are forgiven. Our hope is certain. Even though we don't know when our time will come or when the world will end, we are assured by Jesus that He "will never leave us or forsake us." He promises us that He is with us always to the very end of the world (Mt. 28:20). Holding to His promise then we face the warning signs of gloom and doom with peace, hope, and joy in our hearts, knowing that we belong to God and He holds us in the palm of His hand. We are His and we will be ready to meet Him in His time by faith in Jesus, our Savior and Lord. Are you ready?
Prayer: Father, it's true that I frequently take my spiritual life for granted. When I should be aware of the warnings about Your return, I too often ignore them, expecting that “tomorrow” will be time enough. Too often the everyday things of life take precedence over my relationship with You and my spiritual growth. Help me to be prepared every moment for Jesus' return, keeping aware of the warnings that point me to Your forgiveness and love in Him. Through the power of Your Spirit, working in the Word and Sacraments, keep me focused on Jesus and my relationship with You, my heavenly Father, as the first thing of importance in my life, so that I will be with You in heaven forever. Here me gracious Father for the sake of Jesus my Savior and Lord. Amen.
***************************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright ©2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Tuesday, November 15, 2005
We Are Changed By Faith In Jesus
"Today's Devotion" For November 15, 2005
Read: Matthew 9:18-34; Psalm 30
WE ARE CHANGED BY FAITH IN JESUS
"According to your faith will it be done to you." (Mt. 9:32)
If you are a fan of professional football and pay any attention to the NFL at all, you're aware that one very talented player has been sidelined by his team. It's been the lead story, almost to the point of total nausea. The coverage got so repetitious that on the Fox pregame show Sunday, James Brown promised, "No more T.O. stories." The sad thing about this story is that a player with such talent and the uncanny ability to blow a game wide open with his playmaking is such a pariah. He can't keep his mouth shut. He spends more time talking about how great he is and how inadequate his teammates, coaches, and other players are. He signed a new contract last year and wanted to renegotiate it this year. His antics and mouth not only made him unwelcome on his team, but by all accounts, there's no other team that really wants to put up with his constant disruptive presence in the locker room, on the field, and in public. There's no doubt, as you read the news reports and hear the television commentaries and interviews that most teams, coaches, and players are pretty certain that this individual can't help himself - it's his nature to act the way he does and it's unacceptable to most in the sport.
While the behavior of this individual is seen as obnoxious and self-centered to the extreme, the reality of life in this world is that such behavior is not far from reality for the rest of us human beings either. Our nature as sinners, who are naturally more concerned about themselves than others, invariably shows itself. One character in an old movie once explained away his penchant for committing bank robberies and murder with, "I can't help myself. It's just a part of who I am." How aptly those words apply to each of our lives as well. When Sin takes control of us and leads us to do those things which are contrary to God's Will and centered in ourselves, to the exclusion of others, it's true that we can't seem to "help ourselves." God makes it abundantly clear that we're unable to overcome the power of Sin in our lives on our own. We definitely need His help.
That's where His great love for us comes to bear. In sharp contrast to our sinful condition is our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. His life stands in sharp contrast to our own. Just as we can't help ourselves because our sin separates us from God, so also Jesus couldn't help Himself either - it was His nature to sacrifice Himself to take away our sins because of His great love for us. While our nature as sinners leads us to hurt others, serve ourselves, and disobey God, our Savior's nature was to be all God intended for us to be from Creation. In His time on this earth He went about healing demon possessed people, the sick, the maimed, and the deaf and dumb. He even raised the dead. His power and strength, His compassion and concern, His love, grace and mercy are all are a part of His nature. He can't be any other way. He is thus able to be our Savior and Lord, restoring us to God through His precious blood shed on Calvary's cross.
It's our sinful, human nature to be at odds with God and one another. It's our sinful, human nature to be self-absorbed, self-centered, and selfish. Yet, by God's grace, Jesus changes that in our lives. His words to the blind men, "According to your faith will it be done to you," are also His words to us. . No matter who we are, we are healed, not just of our physical maladies, but, more especially, of our spiritual maladies. Just as the blind men went away rejoicing because Jesus healed their blindness, so also do we rejoice that He removes our spiritual blindness so that we can see Him and receive His forgiveness. As we receive His forgiveness by faith in Him our nature as human beings is changed so that we are empowered to love God and serve others in His name. As the blind men rejoiced because Jesus had saved them, so also do we. We can't help ourselves, because, by the power of God's Word and Spirit, through the washing of Holy Baptism, we have a new nature that seeks the best for others in response to God's love for us. It's our witness to the world.
Prayer: Father, without the sacrifice of Jesus on the Cross, I would be lost to You. My natural, sinful nature would prevent me from knowing You and Your love, grace, and mercy for me. Without the gift of faith in Jesus, through Whom my sins are forgiven, I would be unable to serve You and love others in Your name. As it is Jesus nature to redeem and heal me, so change me by the power of Your Word and Spirit, that I may have a new nature which reflects itself in a life of obedience and service in Your name. Let my life be a living example of what it means to be in Christ, to trust in Him, and be forgiven. Help me to be a true witness of Your grace, mercy, love, and forgiveness to others so they, too, might be changed by faith in Jesus. In the precious name of Jesus I pray. Amen.
****************************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright ©2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Read: Matthew 9:18-34; Psalm 30
WE ARE CHANGED BY FAITH IN JESUS
"According to your faith will it be done to you." (Mt. 9:32)
If you are a fan of professional football and pay any attention to the NFL at all, you're aware that one very talented player has been sidelined by his team. It's been the lead story, almost to the point of total nausea. The coverage got so repetitious that on the Fox pregame show Sunday, James Brown promised, "No more T.O. stories." The sad thing about this story is that a player with such talent and the uncanny ability to blow a game wide open with his playmaking is such a pariah. He can't keep his mouth shut. He spends more time talking about how great he is and how inadequate his teammates, coaches, and other players are. He signed a new contract last year and wanted to renegotiate it this year. His antics and mouth not only made him unwelcome on his team, but by all accounts, there's no other team that really wants to put up with his constant disruptive presence in the locker room, on the field, and in public. There's no doubt, as you read the news reports and hear the television commentaries and interviews that most teams, coaches, and players are pretty certain that this individual can't help himself - it's his nature to act the way he does and it's unacceptable to most in the sport.
While the behavior of this individual is seen as obnoxious and self-centered to the extreme, the reality of life in this world is that such behavior is not far from reality for the rest of us human beings either. Our nature as sinners, who are naturally more concerned about themselves than others, invariably shows itself. One character in an old movie once explained away his penchant for committing bank robberies and murder with, "I can't help myself. It's just a part of who I am." How aptly those words apply to each of our lives as well. When Sin takes control of us and leads us to do those things which are contrary to God's Will and centered in ourselves, to the exclusion of others, it's true that we can't seem to "help ourselves." God makes it abundantly clear that we're unable to overcome the power of Sin in our lives on our own. We definitely need His help.
That's where His great love for us comes to bear. In sharp contrast to our sinful condition is our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. His life stands in sharp contrast to our own. Just as we can't help ourselves because our sin separates us from God, so also Jesus couldn't help Himself either - it was His nature to sacrifice Himself to take away our sins because of His great love for us. While our nature as sinners leads us to hurt others, serve ourselves, and disobey God, our Savior's nature was to be all God intended for us to be from Creation. In His time on this earth He went about healing demon possessed people, the sick, the maimed, and the deaf and dumb. He even raised the dead. His power and strength, His compassion and concern, His love, grace and mercy are all are a part of His nature. He can't be any other way. He is thus able to be our Savior and Lord, restoring us to God through His precious blood shed on Calvary's cross.
It's our sinful, human nature to be at odds with God and one another. It's our sinful, human nature to be self-absorbed, self-centered, and selfish. Yet, by God's grace, Jesus changes that in our lives. His words to the blind men, "According to your faith will it be done to you," are also His words to us. . No matter who we are, we are healed, not just of our physical maladies, but, more especially, of our spiritual maladies. Just as the blind men went away rejoicing because Jesus healed their blindness, so also do we rejoice that He removes our spiritual blindness so that we can see Him and receive His forgiveness. As we receive His forgiveness by faith in Him our nature as human beings is changed so that we are empowered to love God and serve others in His name. As the blind men rejoiced because Jesus had saved them, so also do we. We can't help ourselves, because, by the power of God's Word and Spirit, through the washing of Holy Baptism, we have a new nature that seeks the best for others in response to God's love for us. It's our witness to the world.
Prayer: Father, without the sacrifice of Jesus on the Cross, I would be lost to You. My natural, sinful nature would prevent me from knowing You and Your love, grace, and mercy for me. Without the gift of faith in Jesus, through Whom my sins are forgiven, I would be unable to serve You and love others in Your name. As it is Jesus nature to redeem and heal me, so change me by the power of Your Word and Spirit, that I may have a new nature which reflects itself in a life of obedience and service in Your name. Let my life be a living example of what it means to be in Christ, to trust in Him, and be forgiven. Help me to be a true witness of Your grace, mercy, love, and forgiveness to others so they, too, might be changed by faith in Jesus. In the precious name of Jesus I pray. Amen.
****************************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright ©2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Monday, November 14, 2005
Take Heart - God Is In Control!
"Today's Devotion" For November 14,, 2005
Read: Revelation 4:1-11; 20:1-6; Psalm 46
TAKE HEART - GOD IS IN CONTROL!
"The He who sat on the throne said, "Behold, I make all things new...It is Done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End." (Rev. 21:5a, 6a)
We have entered the time of the Christian Church Year when we contemplate the "last things." Our times of worship in most "liturgical" churches are focused on the end of time, the Judgment Day, Christ as King, and our own end of life on earth. In the face of life in a troubled and increasingly dangerous world, such contemplation and focus on such things of God's revelation of Himself to us is essential for our spiritual safety and well-being. There seems to be so little cause for hope in the world, that is, if you are to believe the prognosticators of gloom and doom. No doubt, from a purely human perspective, if things don't get "straightened out soon," life on earth is going to become untenable.
How's your "world" holding out? What problems are you facing in your life? Having problems in your marriage? Your relationships with others? Money problems getting you down? Is the "unfairness" of the world touching your life in any way? Do you get the recognition you so "rightly" deserve? Are your afraid of terrorists? How about the potential for a world pandemic of avian flu? What about the war? Is the morality of the nation going to the "dogs?" Do you worry about paying for your medications? Your bills? Your rent? Are you worried about your safety on the street? In your home?
These concerns, worries, and dangers affect people everyday. They touch our lives constantly. The question is: Do I let them get me down, or do I put them in their proper perspective in the whole scheme of God's creation and His presence with me in this world? One of the most incredible and heartening pictures in Scripture comes in the Book of Revelation where John writes that in his vision, as he was being shown heaven, he saw the One "Who sat upon the throne" in the midst of heaven (Rev. 21:5). It's a picture John records no less than three times (Rev. 4:2-3; 20:11; 21:5) - which number, as used in Scripture, is a perfect number of completion and fulfillment. It's a picture that says one very critical thing to God's people - God is in control. We have nothing to fear.
What's the worst thing that can happen to any of us as God's redeemed children in Jesus Christ? I've often asked this question in Bible studies and counseling sessions. Without exception, people have given answers that relate to their own sense of self-preservation, safety, and security. "The worst thing anyone could ever do to me would be to take my life" stands as the most frequent response. Yet, as I've often pointed out, how can this be bad for you? If you were to lose your life, no matter how that happens, won't you be with Jesus? So how can losing your life be the worst things anyone can do to you?
As we begin another day, another week, and the first day of the rest of our lives, we take heart because we know, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that God is in control. As St. Paul writes in Romans 8, nothing "shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord" (v.39). As we consider the end of time and the return of our Lord Jesus on the Judgment Day, we do so with hope and faith in His love, grace, mercy, and forgiveness. We look to the Last Day holding fast to God's promise that He is the Beginning and End of all things - the Creator Who has created all things. We are , as St. Paul writes, His workmanship (Eph. 2:10) recreated in Christ Jesus. In Him we are redeemed from Sin, Death, and the power of the devil. In Holy Baptism we have been raised with Christ so that we might live with God forever. God is in control, we have nothing to fear. No matter what happens in our lives, to us and around us, God is in control, we having nothing to fear. So take heart, dear brother - dear sister in Christ - God is in control, we have nothing to fear.
Prayer: Father, the reality of my life is that I forget all too often that You are in control. You are the Creator who has made me and all creatures. You have given me my body and soul, my physical body, and daily provide for my every need. I am never alone, for You are always present with me. Yet, despite believing this, I am still afraid for my safety, security, and well-being. You sent Jesus to bear my sins on His own head and be my Savior so that I might be forgiven of all my sins and be brought back into a loving, living relationship with You. You have restored me to Yourself by the power of Your Word and Spirit, who proceeds from Your presence to keep me in Christ Jesus unto eternal life.
Yet, in spite of all Your grace and work in my behalf, I'm still so often afraid, forgetting that You are in control. Father, continue to restore me to Yourself each day. Help me to remember the power of my Baptism through which You have made me Your own dear child. By the power of Your Word and Spirit help me to live in Your forgiveness and share that forgiveness boldly with others so they, took, might know Your love and presence in their lives. Let my life be filled with Your peace, that I may, in any and all circumstances take heart, fully knowing that You are in control of all things. Hear my prayer, gracious Father, for the sake of Jesus my Savior and Lord. Amen.
******************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright ©2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Read: Revelation 4:1-11; 20:1-6; Psalm 46
TAKE HEART - GOD IS IN CONTROL!
"The He who sat on the throne said, "Behold, I make all things new...It is Done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End." (Rev. 21:5a, 6a)
We have entered the time of the Christian Church Year when we contemplate the "last things." Our times of worship in most "liturgical" churches are focused on the end of time, the Judgment Day, Christ as King, and our own end of life on earth. In the face of life in a troubled and increasingly dangerous world, such contemplation and focus on such things of God's revelation of Himself to us is essential for our spiritual safety and well-being. There seems to be so little cause for hope in the world, that is, if you are to believe the prognosticators of gloom and doom. No doubt, from a purely human perspective, if things don't get "straightened out soon," life on earth is going to become untenable.
How's your "world" holding out? What problems are you facing in your life? Having problems in your marriage? Your relationships with others? Money problems getting you down? Is the "unfairness" of the world touching your life in any way? Do you get the recognition you so "rightly" deserve? Are your afraid of terrorists? How about the potential for a world pandemic of avian flu? What about the war? Is the morality of the nation going to the "dogs?" Do you worry about paying for your medications? Your bills? Your rent? Are you worried about your safety on the street? In your home?
These concerns, worries, and dangers affect people everyday. They touch our lives constantly. The question is: Do I let them get me down, or do I put them in their proper perspective in the whole scheme of God's creation and His presence with me in this world? One of the most incredible and heartening pictures in Scripture comes in the Book of Revelation where John writes that in his vision, as he was being shown heaven, he saw the One "Who sat upon the throne" in the midst of heaven (Rev. 21:5). It's a picture John records no less than three times (Rev. 4:2-3; 20:11; 21:5) - which number, as used in Scripture, is a perfect number of completion and fulfillment. It's a picture that says one very critical thing to God's people - God is in control. We have nothing to fear.
What's the worst thing that can happen to any of us as God's redeemed children in Jesus Christ? I've often asked this question in Bible studies and counseling sessions. Without exception, people have given answers that relate to their own sense of self-preservation, safety, and security. "The worst thing anyone could ever do to me would be to take my life" stands as the most frequent response. Yet, as I've often pointed out, how can this be bad for you? If you were to lose your life, no matter how that happens, won't you be with Jesus? So how can losing your life be the worst things anyone can do to you?
As we begin another day, another week, and the first day of the rest of our lives, we take heart because we know, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that God is in control. As St. Paul writes in Romans 8, nothing "shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord" (v.39). As we consider the end of time and the return of our Lord Jesus on the Judgment Day, we do so with hope and faith in His love, grace, mercy, and forgiveness. We look to the Last Day holding fast to God's promise that He is the Beginning and End of all things - the Creator Who has created all things. We are , as St. Paul writes, His workmanship (Eph. 2:10) recreated in Christ Jesus. In Him we are redeemed from Sin, Death, and the power of the devil. In Holy Baptism we have been raised with Christ so that we might live with God forever. God is in control, we have nothing to fear. No matter what happens in our lives, to us and around us, God is in control, we having nothing to fear. So take heart, dear brother - dear sister in Christ - God is in control, we have nothing to fear.
Prayer: Father, the reality of my life is that I forget all too often that You are in control. You are the Creator who has made me and all creatures. You have given me my body and soul, my physical body, and daily provide for my every need. I am never alone, for You are always present with me. Yet, despite believing this, I am still afraid for my safety, security, and well-being. You sent Jesus to bear my sins on His own head and be my Savior so that I might be forgiven of all my sins and be brought back into a loving, living relationship with You. You have restored me to Yourself by the power of Your Word and Spirit, who proceeds from Your presence to keep me in Christ Jesus unto eternal life.
Yet, in spite of all Your grace and work in my behalf, I'm still so often afraid, forgetting that You are in control. Father, continue to restore me to Yourself each day. Help me to remember the power of my Baptism through which You have made me Your own dear child. By the power of Your Word and Spirit help me to live in Your forgiveness and share that forgiveness boldly with others so they, took, might know Your love and presence in their lives. Let my life be filled with Your peace, that I may, in any and all circumstances take heart, fully knowing that You are in control of all things. Hear my prayer, gracious Father, for the sake of Jesus my Savior and Lord. Amen.
******************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright ©2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Saturday, November 12, 2005
On Seeking Moral Relevance
"Today's Devotion" For November 12, 2005
Read: Matthew 7:1-6; I Corinthians 2:13-16; 5:1-12
ON SEEKING MORAL RELEVANCE
"The spiritual man makes judgments about all things, but he himself is not subject to any man's judgment." (I Cor. 2:15)
One of the major challenges the Christian Church faces these days is what it means to be "relevant" in today's world. For many Christians, concerned that being Christian has a negative connotation in the world, finding a way to be "relevant" has become an obsession. Many Christian scholars and theologians are decrying the loss of the Church's relevance in the world, expressing a gloom and doom philosophical theology that holds that unless the Church becomes "relevant" the world will continue to ignore it. It's a fascinating study to look at the many ways that the Church is to become more "relevant" in the world. Increasingly the issue of relevancy is focused on finding ways for the Church to appear less "strident" about morality, ethics, and the way of salvation in Christ, and become more welcoming and open to a variety of moral values, changes in what constitutes ethical behavior, and an acceptance of many ways to be found pleasing to God.
Moral relativism has become a guiding beacon in our day. We've been bombarded with a host of philosophies and theologies concerning what constitutes a sin, whether or not it's appropriate at any time to judge another, and how much and what kind of "punishment" for crimes committed against society should be meted out. Such thinking has even entered into the realm of the family so that parents are either afraid to discipline their children or feel that "children just have to find out for themselves." Moral relativism has encouraged a permissiveness of behavior and lifestyles which fly in the face of God's Will. As such society has begun to redefine what constitutes a marriage (many no longer consider it to only apply to a man and woman), what constitutes "cruel and unusual punishment" (especially for those who have committed murder or other vicious crimes), and whether or not it's an unborn child or a "fetus" that's in a mother's womb. That sad part about all of these changes is that even God's people are succumbing to such thinking and living, taking the apparent "authority" of mortal men over Him who has "all authority in heaven and on earth" (Mt. 28:18). Sin is all too often having its way with God's people and the church on earth.
The end result of this search for "relevance" on the part of the Christian church is an increasingly powerful moral relativism in both the church and the world. While there are a host of "morally relevant" positions many in the church have taken to try to fit in with the world, it appears that the most critical of those positions is the concept that "all religions lead to God." This is moral relativism at its worst. Such thinking denies the things of God and the truth of God's Word. It leads people to decide, much as we read about in the Book of Judges, that they can do whatever they want - whatever seems "right" to them - without any eternal consequences for such behavior. Such moral relativism on the part of God's people effectively anesthetizes the people of the world to the claims of the Gospel so that they never come to believe the true way to heaven through faith in Jesus Christ.
In the Christian church we're often guilty ourselves of misinterpreting God's Word to fit our own "sensibilities." Too often God's people have misinterpreted Jesus' words about judging in Matthew 7 so that no one holds anyone else accountable for their actions. Discipline in the face of sin and unbelief within the body of Christ is too often ignored and pushed aside, as it was in Corinth (I Corinthians 5), and people are lost to the power of Sin and the devil's wiles.
This reality comes to bear in the following observation by Professor Robert Simon, a professor philosophy at Hamilton College. He relates that in 30 years of teaching he's never met a student who denied that the Holocaust happened but more and more he finds students who can't bring themselves to say that killing millions of people is morally wrong. He says that from 10 to 20 percent of his students are reluctant to make moral judgments, many of them saying, "Of course I dislike the Nazis, but who is to say they are morally wrong." This same reluctance has also been echoed by Professor Christina Hoff Sommers, author and professor of philosophy at Clark University. Many of the students she finds, come to college with a "moral relativism that offers no grounds to think" about cheating, stealing and other moral issues. Sadly such thinking is all too much a part of life in the United States for everyone these days, not just college students, not to speak of the rest of the world.
The Christian church isn't relevant because it presents a happy, accomodating face to the world. It's relevant because it proclaims the absolute truth that Christ Jesus died for the sins of the whole world. The church is relevant because it faithfully proclaims that Christ suffered, died, and rose again to pay the price for the sins of the whole world. The church is relevant when it proclaims faith in Christ as the only way to heaven. The church is relevant when it faithfully declares God's Will for our lives and His forgiveness of all our sins. What is morally relevant isn't that which makes us feel good, or which confirms sinful depravity, but that which shows us our sin and our need for a Savior, and then shows us that Savior. For God's people then, the issue isn't "on seeking moral relevance," but on living a life of faith in Jesus which is the only thing relevant to life and salvation.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, help me to live my life according to Your Word. Help me to live a redeemed life that makes a difference in this world. Don't let me succumb to the moral relativism all around me, but rather let me live a moral, decent, God-pleasing life that will set an example for others. Lead me and all Your church to speak the truth in love, fearlessly committed to the Father's Will, and certain that only in You is there the forgiveness of sins and salvation for eternal life. Hear my prayer, precious Savior, for Your name's sake. Amen.
************************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright ©2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Read: Matthew 7:1-6; I Corinthians 2:13-16; 5:1-12
ON SEEKING MORAL RELEVANCE
"The spiritual man makes judgments about all things, but he himself is not subject to any man's judgment." (I Cor. 2:15)
One of the major challenges the Christian Church faces these days is what it means to be "relevant" in today's world. For many Christians, concerned that being Christian has a negative connotation in the world, finding a way to be "relevant" has become an obsession. Many Christian scholars and theologians are decrying the loss of the Church's relevance in the world, expressing a gloom and doom philosophical theology that holds that unless the Church becomes "relevant" the world will continue to ignore it. It's a fascinating study to look at the many ways that the Church is to become more "relevant" in the world. Increasingly the issue of relevancy is focused on finding ways for the Church to appear less "strident" about morality, ethics, and the way of salvation in Christ, and become more welcoming and open to a variety of moral values, changes in what constitutes ethical behavior, and an acceptance of many ways to be found pleasing to God.
Moral relativism has become a guiding beacon in our day. We've been bombarded with a host of philosophies and theologies concerning what constitutes a sin, whether or not it's appropriate at any time to judge another, and how much and what kind of "punishment" for crimes committed against society should be meted out. Such thinking has even entered into the realm of the family so that parents are either afraid to discipline their children or feel that "children just have to find out for themselves." Moral relativism has encouraged a permissiveness of behavior and lifestyles which fly in the face of God's Will. As such society has begun to redefine what constitutes a marriage (many no longer consider it to only apply to a man and woman), what constitutes "cruel and unusual punishment" (especially for those who have committed murder or other vicious crimes), and whether or not it's an unborn child or a "fetus" that's in a mother's womb. That sad part about all of these changes is that even God's people are succumbing to such thinking and living, taking the apparent "authority" of mortal men over Him who has "all authority in heaven and on earth" (Mt. 28:18). Sin is all too often having its way with God's people and the church on earth.
The end result of this search for "relevance" on the part of the Christian church is an increasingly powerful moral relativism in both the church and the world. While there are a host of "morally relevant" positions many in the church have taken to try to fit in with the world, it appears that the most critical of those positions is the concept that "all religions lead to God." This is moral relativism at its worst. Such thinking denies the things of God and the truth of God's Word. It leads people to decide, much as we read about in the Book of Judges, that they can do whatever they want - whatever seems "right" to them - without any eternal consequences for such behavior. Such moral relativism on the part of God's people effectively anesthetizes the people of the world to the claims of the Gospel so that they never come to believe the true way to heaven through faith in Jesus Christ.
In the Christian church we're often guilty ourselves of misinterpreting God's Word to fit our own "sensibilities." Too often God's people have misinterpreted Jesus' words about judging in Matthew 7 so that no one holds anyone else accountable for their actions. Discipline in the face of sin and unbelief within the body of Christ is too often ignored and pushed aside, as it was in Corinth (I Corinthians 5), and people are lost to the power of Sin and the devil's wiles.
This reality comes to bear in the following observation by Professor Robert Simon, a professor philosophy at Hamilton College. He relates that in 30 years of teaching he's never met a student who denied that the Holocaust happened but more and more he finds students who can't bring themselves to say that killing millions of people is morally wrong. He says that from 10 to 20 percent of his students are reluctant to make moral judgments, many of them saying, "Of course I dislike the Nazis, but who is to say they are morally wrong." This same reluctance has also been echoed by Professor Christina Hoff Sommers, author and professor of philosophy at Clark University. Many of the students she finds, come to college with a "moral relativism that offers no grounds to think" about cheating, stealing and other moral issues. Sadly such thinking is all too much a part of life in the United States for everyone these days, not just college students, not to speak of the rest of the world.
The Christian church isn't relevant because it presents a happy, accomodating face to the world. It's relevant because it proclaims the absolute truth that Christ Jesus died for the sins of the whole world. The church is relevant because it faithfully proclaims that Christ suffered, died, and rose again to pay the price for the sins of the whole world. The church is relevant when it proclaims faith in Christ as the only way to heaven. The church is relevant when it faithfully declares God's Will for our lives and His forgiveness of all our sins. What is morally relevant isn't that which makes us feel good, or which confirms sinful depravity, but that which shows us our sin and our need for a Savior, and then shows us that Savior. For God's people then, the issue isn't "on seeking moral relevance," but on living a life of faith in Jesus which is the only thing relevant to life and salvation.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, help me to live my life according to Your Word. Help me to live a redeemed life that makes a difference in this world. Don't let me succumb to the moral relativism all around me, but rather let me live a moral, decent, God-pleasing life that will set an example for others. Lead me and all Your church to speak the truth in love, fearlessly committed to the Father's Will, and certain that only in You is there the forgiveness of sins and salvation for eternal life. Hear my prayer, precious Savior, for Your name's sake. Amen.
************************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright ©2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Friday, November 11, 2005
A Day To Honor Veterans
"Today's Devotion" For November 11, 2005
Read: II Timothy 2:1-13; Psalm 20
A DAY TO HONOR VETERANS
"Endure hardship with us like a good soldier of Christ Jesus." (II Timothy 2:3)
On the eleventh month, on the eleventh day, at the eleventh hour, in the year 1918, the Armistice ending the bloody fighting of World War I between the Allies and Germany went into effect. While the war was not yet officially over - that point would come on June 28, 1919 with the signing of the Treaty of Versailles - the fighting ended on that eleventh day of November, at the eleventh hour (11am). That date and time became an official day of remembrance in the United States by Act of Congress in 1926 known then as Armistice Day. Twelve years later, in 1938, it became a national holiday. Subsequently in 1954, Congress changed the name to Veteran's Day to honor all U. S. Veterans. Today, at 11am Eastern Time, at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a Presidential wreath will be laid at the Tomb accompanied by a joint services color guard which will "Present Arms" during the play of "Taps," all under the watchful eye of The Old Guard - an Army honor guard from the 3rd U. S. Infantry which keeps a round the clock watch at the tomb.
We human beings have a need to remember. Significant events of the past serve to ground us in the realities of the present. Remembering such events reminds us where we've been and how we've gotten to where we are. Remembering those who have fought, and sometimes died, to bring peace and freedom back to the light of day in the face of tyranny and oppression is important to keep us grounded in the reality of Sin and evil in the world. We remember the faith of those men and women who trusted the cause of freedom and justice in the world enough to risk their lives for a noble cause. We remember the courage and sacrifice of those who left the relative safety of home and hearth in order to share that same faith in peace and freedom for people around the world and to preserve the same for this nation.
Just as we remember the veterans of our military services who have served the cause of peace and freedom, often with their lives, we also want to remember, as the redeemed children of God in Jesus Christ, those veterans of the Cross who have been "good soldier(s) of Christ Jesus." We are "surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses" (Heb. 12:1) who have gone before us in the name of Jesus, sharing the Gospel of the Kingdom in their service to others. We remember dedicated "soldiers of Christ Jesus," "Veterans of the Cross," who have served the nation, their communities, their churches, and their families in the most difficult times by living and sharing the love of Christ.
We remember those faithful "Veterans of the Cross" who spend long hours of service during elections and campaigns. We remember those faithful "Veterans of the Cross," such as pastors, teachers, and missionaries who work tirelessly and diligently to bring the message of salvation into the lives of people and encourage them to grow into the people God has created them to be. We remember those faithful teen "Veterans of the Cross" who assist elderly neighbors and others in need by mowing lawns and fixing things in their homes. We remember those faithful "Veterans of the Cross" who, as obedient and faithful adult children, care for their ailing and dying parents. Each of them are true "soldiers of Christ Jesus" engaging in labor that is challenging in the face of a sinful world and yet is filled with God's hope and peace.
We are called in the Gospel to be those faithful "soldiers of Christ Jesus" - those who are remembered as "Veterans of the Cross." We are called by Him who made the ultimate sacrifice for every human being of all times and places as He gave Himself up for the sins of the whole world. Jesus Christ Himself was the ultimate "Soldier and Veteran of the Cross" fulfilling the Father's plan for our salvation from Sin, Death, and Satan. It is by faith in Him that we carry on His work and share with others the same forgiveness, love, grace, and mercy we have received. While we haven't earned or deserved any of God's blessings to us, especially the gift of faith in Jesus, we nevertheless are moved by that same faith to work for the salvation of others. Our lives become lives of service and sacrifice for the Gospel. Jesus fulfilled the mission the Father gave Him to accomplish the salvation of the world. In the same way we also carry out the mission our Father has given us to share that message and hope of salvation in Christ with the world. Veterans' Day is not just a good day to remember our military veterans' service to the nation in the cause of peace and freedom, but it's also a good day to remember the "Veterans of the Cross" who have and continue to serve in the blessed name of Jesus.
Prayer: Father, I thank You for all of my countrymen and women who have willingly given their lives in service - even to death - for the peace and freedom of the United States of America. I thank You that You have used this nation to share those same blessing with people around the world. Father, forgive me for too often taking these precious gifts and the service of the nation's veterans for granted. Even as one who has served, I often take for granted those who are even now serving and too often forget the service of those who came before me.
At the same time Father, I also thank You for all those "Veterans of the Cross," those faithful men and women of Christ throughout history, and even to this day, who have dedicated themselves to serving You and others in Jesus' name. Help me to be counted among them before Your throne of grace. Guide me in my life of faith to be willing and ready at all times to sacrifice my comfort for the sake of bringing the promise of salvation in Christ into the lives of those who don't yet know Your love and forgiveness. Let my life be a living example of faith, forgiveness, and hope as I serve the needs of others with Your love. In Jesus' precious name I pray. Amen.
*************************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright ©2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Read: II Timothy 2:1-13; Psalm 20
A DAY TO HONOR VETERANS
"Endure hardship with us like a good soldier of Christ Jesus." (II Timothy 2:3)
On the eleventh month, on the eleventh day, at the eleventh hour, in the year 1918, the Armistice ending the bloody fighting of World War I between the Allies and Germany went into effect. While the war was not yet officially over - that point would come on June 28, 1919 with the signing of the Treaty of Versailles - the fighting ended on that eleventh day of November, at the eleventh hour (11am). That date and time became an official day of remembrance in the United States by Act of Congress in 1926 known then as Armistice Day. Twelve years later, in 1938, it became a national holiday. Subsequently in 1954, Congress changed the name to Veteran's Day to honor all U. S. Veterans. Today, at 11am Eastern Time, at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a Presidential wreath will be laid at the Tomb accompanied by a joint services color guard which will "Present Arms" during the play of "Taps," all under the watchful eye of The Old Guard - an Army honor guard from the 3rd U. S. Infantry which keeps a round the clock watch at the tomb.
We human beings have a need to remember. Significant events of the past serve to ground us in the realities of the present. Remembering such events reminds us where we've been and how we've gotten to where we are. Remembering those who have fought, and sometimes died, to bring peace and freedom back to the light of day in the face of tyranny and oppression is important to keep us grounded in the reality of Sin and evil in the world. We remember the faith of those men and women who trusted the cause of freedom and justice in the world enough to risk their lives for a noble cause. We remember the courage and sacrifice of those who left the relative safety of home and hearth in order to share that same faith in peace and freedom for people around the world and to preserve the same for this nation.
Just as we remember the veterans of our military services who have served the cause of peace and freedom, often with their lives, we also want to remember, as the redeemed children of God in Jesus Christ, those veterans of the Cross who have been "good soldier(s) of Christ Jesus." We are "surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses" (Heb. 12:1) who have gone before us in the name of Jesus, sharing the Gospel of the Kingdom in their service to others. We remember dedicated "soldiers of Christ Jesus," "Veterans of the Cross," who have served the nation, their communities, their churches, and their families in the most difficult times by living and sharing the love of Christ.
We remember those faithful "Veterans of the Cross" who spend long hours of service during elections and campaigns. We remember those faithful "Veterans of the Cross," such as pastors, teachers, and missionaries who work tirelessly and diligently to bring the message of salvation into the lives of people and encourage them to grow into the people God has created them to be. We remember those faithful teen "Veterans of the Cross" who assist elderly neighbors and others in need by mowing lawns and fixing things in their homes. We remember those faithful "Veterans of the Cross" who, as obedient and faithful adult children, care for their ailing and dying parents. Each of them are true "soldiers of Christ Jesus" engaging in labor that is challenging in the face of a sinful world and yet is filled with God's hope and peace.
We are called in the Gospel to be those faithful "soldiers of Christ Jesus" - those who are remembered as "Veterans of the Cross." We are called by Him who made the ultimate sacrifice for every human being of all times and places as He gave Himself up for the sins of the whole world. Jesus Christ Himself was the ultimate "Soldier and Veteran of the Cross" fulfilling the Father's plan for our salvation from Sin, Death, and Satan. It is by faith in Him that we carry on His work and share with others the same forgiveness, love, grace, and mercy we have received. While we haven't earned or deserved any of God's blessings to us, especially the gift of faith in Jesus, we nevertheless are moved by that same faith to work for the salvation of others. Our lives become lives of service and sacrifice for the Gospel. Jesus fulfilled the mission the Father gave Him to accomplish the salvation of the world. In the same way we also carry out the mission our Father has given us to share that message and hope of salvation in Christ with the world. Veterans' Day is not just a good day to remember our military veterans' service to the nation in the cause of peace and freedom, but it's also a good day to remember the "Veterans of the Cross" who have and continue to serve in the blessed name of Jesus.
Prayer: Father, I thank You for all of my countrymen and women who have willingly given their lives in service - even to death - for the peace and freedom of the United States of America. I thank You that You have used this nation to share those same blessing with people around the world. Father, forgive me for too often taking these precious gifts and the service of the nation's veterans for granted. Even as one who has served, I often take for granted those who are even now serving and too often forget the service of those who came before me.
At the same time Father, I also thank You for all those "Veterans of the Cross," those faithful men and women of Christ throughout history, and even to this day, who have dedicated themselves to serving You and others in Jesus' name. Help me to be counted among them before Your throne of grace. Guide me in my life of faith to be willing and ready at all times to sacrifice my comfort for the sake of bringing the promise of salvation in Christ into the lives of those who don't yet know Your love and forgiveness. Let my life be a living example of faith, forgiveness, and hope as I serve the needs of others with Your love. In Jesus' precious name I pray. Amen.
*************************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright ©2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Thursday, November 10, 2005
"Semper Fi!" Always Faithful!
"Today's Devotion" For November 10, 2005
Read: Deuteronomy 6:1-5, 13-19; Matthew 6:19-24
SEMPER FI! ALWAYS FAITHFUL!
"Be sure to fear the Lord and serve Him faithfully with all your heart; consider what great things He has done for you."(I Sam.12:24)
Happy Birthday! Do you realize that today is a very special day in the United States? In fact it's a day filled with memories of services rendered, lives lost, faithfulness to duty, and patriotism. It's a day on which the phrase "Semper Fi!" (short for the Latin “simper fidelis”) is remembered not only by a nation, but more especially by a particularly special and unique corps of citizen-warriors, who have protected the nation, fought tyranny, and been at the forefront of opening the doors of freedom around the world and preserving the peace for over 200 years. This motto, "Semper Fi! Always Faithful," is at the heart and core of that service. So today we offer a Happy Birthday to the United States Marine Corps, and, incidentally, also to our son, Matthew, and Dr. Martin Luther who also share the same birthdate.
"Semper Fi!" This phrase, as noted above, is Latin for "Always Faithful." It's heart and soul is the belief that the cause of freedom and love and service to the nation are critical to the peace and tranquility of people everywhere. It's a statement of devotion to duty, obedience to orders, and a willingness to lay down one's "life for his friends." While it's a phrase that is most frequently associated with the Marine Corps, it's a phrase that aptly describes a faithful servant of the Lord, responding to Christ's love and faithfulness to him or her.
"Semper Fi!" isn't easy to be. The United States Marine Corps will tell you that they've had their share of Marines who have dishonored that commitment to duty and service. They will also point out that in so many cases, because of their training and support for one another - "Semper Fi!" also means being faithful to each other - they've overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles and the most horrible battlefield situations to gain victory. As this day is also the birthday of Dr. Martin Luther, we also remember his how he was "Semper Fi!" in relationship to God's Word and the truth of the Gospel of Jesus Christ despite the threats of excommunication and death by his enemies - who were, in many cases, also the enemies of Christ.
Samuel was called to be "Semper Fi!" in his relationship with God. When Samuel addressed the people of Israel at Saul's coronation as Israel's first king, he called on them to be "Semper Fi!" to God, who was faithful to them. When Moses reminded Israel of God's faithfulness in the giving of the Ten Commandments, he also called them to be obedient and "Semper Fi!" to Him. Jesus' words in Matthew from His Sermon on the Mount are a reminder to God's redeemed people to live their lives in obedient service to God and others, "Semper Fi!" because of God's love and faithfulness to them.
"Semper Fi!" It's a motto for the United States Marine Corps - but it's more than that to them; it's a way of life and service. But "Semper Fi!" has been the core of the Christian life long before the Marine Corps was ever a thought. "Semper Fi!" is the natural response of God's people to the grace, mercy, love, and forgiveness that God gives to the world in Jesus Christ. By faith in Jesus and filled with His love and faithfulness to us, we seek to live our lives in loving and faithful obedience to Him. For us, as God's redeemed children in Christ, "Semper Fi!" means giving our whole heart and life to serving Him and faithfully sharing the forgiveness of sins and the promise of eternal life in Christ with the whole world. "Semper Fi!" for you and me means living each day in faithful service to others in Jesus' name, touching each person we meet with His love. For us, as for the Marines, "Semper Fi!" isn't just a motto, it's the way we live in Jesus and for Him every day. So "Semper Fi!" Christian. "Always Faithful!"
("Semper Fi" to all you Marines out there - especially you, Matthew! Happy Birthday and thanks for all your faithful service to the nation and to God in the cause of freedom and peace in a troubled world. God bless!)
Prayer: Father, I thank You for Your faithfulness to Your promises to me. You sent Jesus to take the burden of my sins upon His head. By His suffering, death, and resurrection I have the hope and promise of peace with You and eternity with Christ. You forgiveness is new to me each morning and never fails me. Help me to be "Sermper Fi!" in all my life of faith so that I might be an effective witness to Your love, grace, mercy, and forgiveness to everyone I meet. Father, as this is a special day for a long line of faithful citizen-warriors of this nation - the United States Marine Corps - I pray that You would keep them "Semper Fi!" in their service to You, the nation, and the world in the cause of peace and freedom. May their lives reflect the love and strength they receive from You gracious hand. Keep them safe from every harm and danger as they put themselves in "harm's way" in service to others. I especially pray, gracious Father, that You would keep those in combat zones in Iraq and Afghanistan safe and bring them back home to their families and a grateful nation. Hear my prayer, gracious Father, for the sake of Jesus. Amen.
*********************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright ©2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Read: Deuteronomy 6:1-5, 13-19; Matthew 6:19-24
SEMPER FI! ALWAYS FAITHFUL!
"Be sure to fear the Lord and serve Him faithfully with all your heart; consider what great things He has done for you."(I Sam.12:24)
Happy Birthday! Do you realize that today is a very special day in the United States? In fact it's a day filled with memories of services rendered, lives lost, faithfulness to duty, and patriotism. It's a day on which the phrase "Semper Fi!" (short for the Latin “simper fidelis”) is remembered not only by a nation, but more especially by a particularly special and unique corps of citizen-warriors, who have protected the nation, fought tyranny, and been at the forefront of opening the doors of freedom around the world and preserving the peace for over 200 years. This motto, "Semper Fi! Always Faithful," is at the heart and core of that service. So today we offer a Happy Birthday to the United States Marine Corps, and, incidentally, also to our son, Matthew, and Dr. Martin Luther who also share the same birthdate.
"Semper Fi!" This phrase, as noted above, is Latin for "Always Faithful." It's heart and soul is the belief that the cause of freedom and love and service to the nation are critical to the peace and tranquility of people everywhere. It's a statement of devotion to duty, obedience to orders, and a willingness to lay down one's "life for his friends." While it's a phrase that is most frequently associated with the Marine Corps, it's a phrase that aptly describes a faithful servant of the Lord, responding to Christ's love and faithfulness to him or her.
"Semper Fi!" isn't easy to be. The United States Marine Corps will tell you that they've had their share of Marines who have dishonored that commitment to duty and service. They will also point out that in so many cases, because of their training and support for one another - "Semper Fi!" also means being faithful to each other - they've overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles and the most horrible battlefield situations to gain victory. As this day is also the birthday of Dr. Martin Luther, we also remember his how he was "Semper Fi!" in relationship to God's Word and the truth of the Gospel of Jesus Christ despite the threats of excommunication and death by his enemies - who were, in many cases, also the enemies of Christ.
Samuel was called to be "Semper Fi!" in his relationship with God. When Samuel addressed the people of Israel at Saul's coronation as Israel's first king, he called on them to be "Semper Fi!" to God, who was faithful to them. When Moses reminded Israel of God's faithfulness in the giving of the Ten Commandments, he also called them to be obedient and "Semper Fi!" to Him. Jesus' words in Matthew from His Sermon on the Mount are a reminder to God's redeemed people to live their lives in obedient service to God and others, "Semper Fi!" because of God's love and faithfulness to them.
"Semper Fi!" It's a motto for the United States Marine Corps - but it's more than that to them; it's a way of life and service. But "Semper Fi!" has been the core of the Christian life long before the Marine Corps was ever a thought. "Semper Fi!" is the natural response of God's people to the grace, mercy, love, and forgiveness that God gives to the world in Jesus Christ. By faith in Jesus and filled with His love and faithfulness to us, we seek to live our lives in loving and faithful obedience to Him. For us, as God's redeemed children in Christ, "Semper Fi!" means giving our whole heart and life to serving Him and faithfully sharing the forgiveness of sins and the promise of eternal life in Christ with the whole world. "Semper Fi!" for you and me means living each day in faithful service to others in Jesus' name, touching each person we meet with His love. For us, as for the Marines, "Semper Fi!" isn't just a motto, it's the way we live in Jesus and for Him every day. So "Semper Fi!" Christian. "Always Faithful!"
("Semper Fi" to all you Marines out there - especially you, Matthew! Happy Birthday and thanks for all your faithful service to the nation and to God in the cause of freedom and peace in a troubled world. God bless!)
Prayer: Father, I thank You for Your faithfulness to Your promises to me. You sent Jesus to take the burden of my sins upon His head. By His suffering, death, and resurrection I have the hope and promise of peace with You and eternity with Christ. You forgiveness is new to me each morning and never fails me. Help me to be "Sermper Fi!" in all my life of faith so that I might be an effective witness to Your love, grace, mercy, and forgiveness to everyone I meet. Father, as this is a special day for a long line of faithful citizen-warriors of this nation - the United States Marine Corps - I pray that You would keep them "Semper Fi!" in their service to You, the nation, and the world in the cause of peace and freedom. May their lives reflect the love and strength they receive from You gracious hand. Keep them safe from every harm and danger as they put themselves in "harm's way" in service to others. I especially pray, gracious Father, that You would keep those in combat zones in Iraq and Afghanistan safe and bring them back home to their families and a grateful nation. Hear my prayer, gracious Father, for the sake of Jesus. Amen.
*********************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright ©2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
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