"Today's Devotion" For October 5, 2006
Read: Matthew 16:21-23; Psalm 40
JESUS CLEARS UP OUR SPIRITUAL CONFUSION
"I desire to do Your Will, O my God; Your law is within my heart." (Ps.40:8)
There's a certain confusion that often arises for Christians when it comes to how we deal with the world as redeemed and forgiven children of God in Jesus Christ. On the one hand, as Peter so eloquently did earlier in Matthew 16, we stand firm and tall in our confession that Jesus is "the Christ, the Son of the living God" (Matthew 16:16), and seek ways to bring healing to broken hearts, feed the poor, house the homeless, and seek peace on the earth. And, not unlike Peter, when God's Will doesn't quite fit our view of how things should be and our personal feelings get in the way of faithful and obedient living, we rise up in opposition to God's purposes and seek our own. Thus, while me might confess Jesus as our Savior and Lord, in the next breath we take His name in vain, are impatient and unloving toward our neighbors, and try to find ways to get even with those who hate us because we believe in Jesus.
Peter's powerful confession of faith, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God" (Matthew 16:16) is one which all of God's people seek to live by themselves. Yet, just like Peter, when God's plan doesn't match our conception of things, such as Jesus telling the disciples that He had to go the way of the Cross and suffer and die for the sins of the world, we stand in the way and seek to turn God's purpose into one more in keeping with our human, sinful sensibilities. Such confusion is frequent in our lives as we move between the secular and the sacred, between thinking a man's thoughts and thinking God's thoughts.
We can better understand Peter's dilemma if we understand that the common belief concerning the Christ's work and mission was that He was to literally restore David's throne and be a ruler of unparalleled power on the earth. Jesus' words of suffering and death, crucifixion and resurrection, flew in the face of that long held belief and popular conception. While on the one hand Peter could confess Jesus as the Savior of the world (the Christ, the Son of the living God), in the next breath, as Jesus' words shattered his long held picture of the Christ, Peter could become an instrument of Satan seeking to prevent salvation from going according to God's plan - a plan of eternal, spiritual dimensions, not one focused on earthly power.
And so it is among us today as well. In the Christian world there are still those who would seek to have Jesus be an earthly ruler. They are people who cling to the things of this world and want to have some of the "gravy" they feel they've so often been denied because they're Christians. These same people feel that, with Jesus on the "throne of power" and ruling the world, they might get even with those who have indicated hatred for Christians and have abused them. So intense is this desire to "get even," that God's Will is warped by their desire for revenge.
Recently, among Pennsylvania's Amish citizens, a local man attacked a school, took a number of Amish girls, six to thirteen years of age hostage, with the apparent intention of sexually abusing them. In the end, they were spared the sexual abuse but were murdered by him before he took his own life. The response of the news media to the response of the Amish was one of wonder and surprise, because, true to their beliefs, the Amish have sought to forgive, embrace the man's family, and seek God's help in healing their hearts and their community. In sharp contrast to the ways of the world, and the contradictory tone of those who would place Jesus on an earthly throne, these brothers and sisters in Christ seek to be Christlike in forgiving and await their reunion in heaven with their departed loved ones.
God's plan of salvation in Jesus' Christ is purely a spiritual event. His salvation lives in us while we still walk this earth, filling us with His forgiveness so that we might also be forgiving. The righteousness of Christ, put upon us in Holy Baptism, strengthens us to live for Jesus and share His love, grace, and mercy with the world around us. By the power of God's Word and Spirit working in us through Holy Baptism, we are able to say and act according to the words of the Psalmist, "I desire to do Your Will, O my God; Your law is within my heart " (Psalm 40:8). In Jesus our spiritual confusion is met and overcome. We are empowered to live for Him, filled with His love and forgiveness to share with the world. Our lives become that very confession of faith that Peter declared so long ago - and God's Spirit, in Holy Baptism, sets us free from the Sin which would deny that confession.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, You went to the Cross, suffering, dying and rising again from the dead so that I might have life eternal in You. You have forgiven me of all my sins. Yet, so often I lose sight of who You have made me to be, and I get caught up in the things of this world. It's a spiritual contradiction I don't wish to have, but it's there. By the power of Your Word and Spirit, I pray that You would strengthen me in my faith and trust in You so that I may avoid such spiritual confusion and remain a faithful, consistent witness of Your love, grace, mercy, and forgiveness to a lost and fallen world. Help me to overcome evil with good, as You fill me with hope and peace. Remind me every day, by the power of Your Word and Spirit, that as a redeemed and Baptized child of God I can overcome the world and be an effect witness for You to others. Lord Jesus, clear up the spiritual confusion in my life so that I may be a beacon of confident faith to others. In Your precious name I pray. Amen.
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--Pastor Boeck
Copyright @2006 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Thursday, October 05, 2006
Wednesday, October 04, 2006
Knowing The Real Essence Of Life
"Today's Devotion" For October 4, 2006
Read: Matthew 16:13-16; Acts 17:17-34
KNOWING THE REAL ESSENCE OF LIFE
"For in Him we live and move and have our being" (Acts 17:28)
What's the grounding for your life? Now that's a pretty odd question, isn't it? Perhaps we might also ask the question: What is the meaning and purpose of your life? On what do you base, not only your existence, but also your very essence? No doubt these are questions that we've all asked ourselves in one form or another sometime in our lives. These are the types of questions we human beings ask ourselves as we seek to know ourselves better and understand the sum and substance of our lives.
Interestingly enough, Jesus broached that very subject with His disciples as He began His journey to Jerusalem and His eventual crucifixion for the sins of the world. His query, "Who do people say the Son of Man is?" (Matthew 16:13) was intended to focus His disciples' thoughts on what they knew and believed about Him and what it meant to have a relationship with Him. Peter gave a magnificent statement of faith - "You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God" (Matthew 16:16) - yet his and the disciples' subsequent actions made it clear that they didn't really understand what that powerful confession of faith really meant for their lives and their eternity.
Certainly, Jesus had His share of challenges from the scribes, Pharisees, and Sadducees. They didn't seem to care about His mission and purpose. Instead, they believed they had all the spiritual answers necessary for their relationship with God. Jesus was just a nuisance - a really "weird" guy who refused to be overwhelmed by their "authority." St. Paul also experienced much the same thing as he spoke to the scholars/philosophers on Mars' Hill - the Areopagus - and challenged them to know the reality of the resurrection because Jesus had been, in fact, raised by the Father so that all who believe might have new life in Him. Jesus posed His question to Peter in order to lift his sight, and the sight of the rest of the apostles, to what the essence of life in Christ is all about. Paul's words to the philosophers had the same purpose - to both introduce them to God and show them that the real essence of life - its meaning and purpose - is found only in Christ Jesus.
How do you see Jesus? How do you respond to Jesus' question about who He is? Are you open to listening to the truth of God's Word without finding it to be nonsense or ridiculous? As we live in the world around us, it's quite difficult to stand on faith in Jesus. It's quite difficult, as we're faced with the uncertainty of life and the spiritual skepticism of the world around us, to not be tempted to push Jesus aside and stand with the world. Yet, our very essence, the very foundation of our lives is found in a living relationship of faith in Jesus Christ. In Him we "live and move and have our being" for He is the very essence of life itself for all who believe. It's a message we want to share with others, so they, too, can know God's forgiveness, His grace, mercy, and love, and have the sure and confident hope of heaven.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, Peter's great confession of faith is followed, throughout the history of Your Church, by the same conviction and confession among Your people. Great men and women of faith have walked this earth, holding the greatest treasure of their lives to be their faith in You. It is only in You that my life has any substance or meaning, for the very essence of life is found only in You and Your gift of salvation from Sin. All too often, even though I know and believe this to be true, I'm tempted to focus on me, on the world, and on all the things which we distract me from You and seek my life's meaning and purpose elsewhere. Forgive me, Lord, and lead me to always focus on You. Let my life be a life of substance because it rests on You. Let my life be the same strong confession that Peter's words are so that others might know You through me. Hear me, O Lord Jesus. Amen.
*******************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright @2006 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Read: Matthew 16:13-16; Acts 17:17-34
KNOWING THE REAL ESSENCE OF LIFE
"For in Him we live and move and have our being" (Acts 17:28)
What's the grounding for your life? Now that's a pretty odd question, isn't it? Perhaps we might also ask the question: What is the meaning and purpose of your life? On what do you base, not only your existence, but also your very essence? No doubt these are questions that we've all asked ourselves in one form or another sometime in our lives. These are the types of questions we human beings ask ourselves as we seek to know ourselves better and understand the sum and substance of our lives.
Interestingly enough, Jesus broached that very subject with His disciples as He began His journey to Jerusalem and His eventual crucifixion for the sins of the world. His query, "Who do people say the Son of Man is?" (Matthew 16:13) was intended to focus His disciples' thoughts on what they knew and believed about Him and what it meant to have a relationship with Him. Peter gave a magnificent statement of faith - "You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God" (Matthew 16:16) - yet his and the disciples' subsequent actions made it clear that they didn't really understand what that powerful confession of faith really meant for their lives and their eternity.
Certainly, Jesus had His share of challenges from the scribes, Pharisees, and Sadducees. They didn't seem to care about His mission and purpose. Instead, they believed they had all the spiritual answers necessary for their relationship with God. Jesus was just a nuisance - a really "weird" guy who refused to be overwhelmed by their "authority." St. Paul also experienced much the same thing as he spoke to the scholars/philosophers on Mars' Hill - the Areopagus - and challenged them to know the reality of the resurrection because Jesus had been, in fact, raised by the Father so that all who believe might have new life in Him. Jesus posed His question to Peter in order to lift his sight, and the sight of the rest of the apostles, to what the essence of life in Christ is all about. Paul's words to the philosophers had the same purpose - to both introduce them to God and show them that the real essence of life - its meaning and purpose - is found only in Christ Jesus.
How do you see Jesus? How do you respond to Jesus' question about who He is? Are you open to listening to the truth of God's Word without finding it to be nonsense or ridiculous? As we live in the world around us, it's quite difficult to stand on faith in Jesus. It's quite difficult, as we're faced with the uncertainty of life and the spiritual skepticism of the world around us, to not be tempted to push Jesus aside and stand with the world. Yet, our very essence, the very foundation of our lives is found in a living relationship of faith in Jesus Christ. In Him we "live and move and have our being" for He is the very essence of life itself for all who believe. It's a message we want to share with others, so they, too, can know God's forgiveness, His grace, mercy, and love, and have the sure and confident hope of heaven.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, Peter's great confession of faith is followed, throughout the history of Your Church, by the same conviction and confession among Your people. Great men and women of faith have walked this earth, holding the greatest treasure of their lives to be their faith in You. It is only in You that my life has any substance or meaning, for the very essence of life is found only in You and Your gift of salvation from Sin. All too often, even though I know and believe this to be true, I'm tempted to focus on me, on the world, and on all the things which we distract me from You and seek my life's meaning and purpose elsewhere. Forgive me, Lord, and lead me to always focus on You. Let my life be a life of substance because it rests on You. Let my life be the same strong confession that Peter's words are so that others might know You through me. Hear me, O Lord Jesus. Amen.
*******************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright @2006 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Tuesday, October 03, 2006
Overcoming Delusions of Grandeur
"Today's Devotion" For October 2, 2006
Read: Matthew 18:1-5; Philippians 2:1-11
OVERCOMING DELUSIONS OF GRANDEUR
"'Therefore whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.'" (Matthew 18:5)
There is, perhaps, nothing that more completely ties the "great" rulers of history together than their "delusions of grandeur." Myriad names of such rulers are a part of the fabric of world history. Men like Alexander the Great, Julius Caesar, Napoleon, and Adolph Hitler, to name but a few, wanted to rule the world. A close look at history tells us that there's no doubt that each of the aforementioned rulers achieved some level of greatness or infamy. Yet, that same history tells us that none of them really ever ruled the world. Each of them achieved some level of greatness or infamy, but it can never be said that they ruled the world. They each wished to be great, fully in control of their destinies as the saw them, eager to go down in the annals of history, revered and honored by subsequent generations.
There's a theory of leadership that is called "Trait Leadership Theory." This theory is often simplistically defined as "leaders are born; not made." Yet, when studied carefully, Trait Leadership Theory holds that certain characteristics and traits in individuals have a tendency, when correlated with other factors such as circumstances, upbringing, and opportunities, to move such persons into positions of leadership and further advancement in positions of leadership. According to this theory of leadership, there is, perhaps, no greater correlative factor than the intense desire to achieve, succeed, and accomplish one's goals and reach a vision. In many ways, this drive can be summed up in the phrase, "delusions of grandeur," because all too frequently, such persons lose sight of the primary purpose of leadership - at least in God's eyes - which is to serve God and others.
While there are many ways to measure greatness by the world's standards, how do God's people measure greatness? Throughout history, many leaders have arisen and fallen, many trying to emulate such rulers and leaders as were mentioned earlier, but are now only footnotes in the history books. At the same time there have been many great leaders that no one has ever heard about - people who humbly walked before God, putting the needs of others before themselves, and loving and caring for those in need. As Jesus notes to His disciples in Matthew 18:5, greatness is measured in God's eyes by the holy humbleness worked in one's heart by His Word and Spirit. It's a childlike humility that doesn't seek personal gain or recognition, but seeks to trust only in God's love in Christ Jesus and share it with others. Leadership and greatness aren't concepts restricted to the rich and famous (or infamous), but to all who humbly walk before the Lord and seek their reward in heaven, not on earth from people.
According to Jesus (Matthew 18:1-5), His disciples also had their own "Delusions of grandeur." Interestingly, they weren't caught up in the issue of who would be seen as greatest in the history of the world, but in the kingdom of heaven. They had set their sights much higher than "mere mortal men," far outstripping those listed above. And this thought process, ever a product of our sinful condition, is a clear reflection that they neither understood Christ's mission, nor were clear that His kingdom was not of this world and He wasn't looking for "someone to be in charge." This thought process and striving for "power" completely flew in the face of Jesus' mission. It also stood at odds with the picture of the Suffering Servant of Isaiah 53 and the humble Savior of Paul's Letter to the Philippians (2:5-11).
So, how about you and me? Are we filled with "delusions of grandeur?" Do we aspire to greatness? Depending on our perspective on life and position in a company, community, or other organization, each of us could be said to have our own sense of what greatness means. And, while we might not like to admit it, all of us are filled with our own "delusions of grandeur," every time we fail to put ourselves in God's hands and seek His will and purpose for our lives. Jesus is challenging you and me in the same way He challenged His disciples. The whole idea of greatness in the kingdom of heaven isn't one of power and position, but humility and service to God and others. Regardless of human accolades, awards, promotions, or other expressions of human accomplishment, the kingdom of heaven is about childlike faith in Jesus Christ, trusting God above all things, which leads us to selfless service to others - just as Jesus served. By the power of God's Word and Spirit, through faith in Jesus, we follow Jesus' footsteps, learn from His example, and overcoming delusions of grandeur in our lives, we seek to live a life of humble service to others in Jesus' name. Sharing His love, grace, mercy, and forgiveness throughout our lives is our greatest accomplishment, for in so doing we bring the message of salvation in His blood and righteousness to a lost and dying world. In God's eyes, that's true greatness.
Prayer: Father, my Lord Jesus Christ came down to earth and, humbling Himself, took on human flesh and my condition, subjecting Himself to all the same temptations and problems of Sin which I face in my life every day. He perfectly obeyed Your will and purpose for Him - and me - fully taking my place under Your Law and Your righteous. He received in His body the full and just punishment for Sin that I deserve, bearing my sins and the sins of the world on the Cross so that I might stand forgiven before You and walk humbly with You until You call me home to heaven. Father, by the power of Your Word and Spirit, help to put aside all my sinful "delusions of grandeur." Lead me to recognize such delusions of grandeur as the result of Sin in my life and give me the strength to overcome them and be a humble witness of Your love, grace, mercy, and forgiveness in Christ Jesus for the world. Let my demeanor and actions be those of a faithful and humble servant of You, my gracious heavenly Father, so that others might come to know Your love in Jesus; in whose precious name I pray. Amen.
*************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright @2006 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Read: Matthew 18:1-5; Philippians 2:1-11
OVERCOMING DELUSIONS OF GRANDEUR
"'Therefore whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.'" (Matthew 18:5)
There is, perhaps, nothing that more completely ties the "great" rulers of history together than their "delusions of grandeur." Myriad names of such rulers are a part of the fabric of world history. Men like Alexander the Great, Julius Caesar, Napoleon, and Adolph Hitler, to name but a few, wanted to rule the world. A close look at history tells us that there's no doubt that each of the aforementioned rulers achieved some level of greatness or infamy. Yet, that same history tells us that none of them really ever ruled the world. Each of them achieved some level of greatness or infamy, but it can never be said that they ruled the world. They each wished to be great, fully in control of their destinies as the saw them, eager to go down in the annals of history, revered and honored by subsequent generations.
There's a theory of leadership that is called "Trait Leadership Theory." This theory is often simplistically defined as "leaders are born; not made." Yet, when studied carefully, Trait Leadership Theory holds that certain characteristics and traits in individuals have a tendency, when correlated with other factors such as circumstances, upbringing, and opportunities, to move such persons into positions of leadership and further advancement in positions of leadership. According to this theory of leadership, there is, perhaps, no greater correlative factor than the intense desire to achieve, succeed, and accomplish one's goals and reach a vision. In many ways, this drive can be summed up in the phrase, "delusions of grandeur," because all too frequently, such persons lose sight of the primary purpose of leadership - at least in God's eyes - which is to serve God and others.
While there are many ways to measure greatness by the world's standards, how do God's people measure greatness? Throughout history, many leaders have arisen and fallen, many trying to emulate such rulers and leaders as were mentioned earlier, but are now only footnotes in the history books. At the same time there have been many great leaders that no one has ever heard about - people who humbly walked before God, putting the needs of others before themselves, and loving and caring for those in need. As Jesus notes to His disciples in Matthew 18:5, greatness is measured in God's eyes by the holy humbleness worked in one's heart by His Word and Spirit. It's a childlike humility that doesn't seek personal gain or recognition, but seeks to trust only in God's love in Christ Jesus and share it with others. Leadership and greatness aren't concepts restricted to the rich and famous (or infamous), but to all who humbly walk before the Lord and seek their reward in heaven, not on earth from people.
According to Jesus (Matthew 18:1-5), His disciples also had their own "Delusions of grandeur." Interestingly, they weren't caught up in the issue of who would be seen as greatest in the history of the world, but in the kingdom of heaven. They had set their sights much higher than "mere mortal men," far outstripping those listed above. And this thought process, ever a product of our sinful condition, is a clear reflection that they neither understood Christ's mission, nor were clear that His kingdom was not of this world and He wasn't looking for "someone to be in charge." This thought process and striving for "power" completely flew in the face of Jesus' mission. It also stood at odds with the picture of the Suffering Servant of Isaiah 53 and the humble Savior of Paul's Letter to the Philippians (2:5-11).
So, how about you and me? Are we filled with "delusions of grandeur?" Do we aspire to greatness? Depending on our perspective on life and position in a company, community, or other organization, each of us could be said to have our own sense of what greatness means. And, while we might not like to admit it, all of us are filled with our own "delusions of grandeur," every time we fail to put ourselves in God's hands and seek His will and purpose for our lives. Jesus is challenging you and me in the same way He challenged His disciples. The whole idea of greatness in the kingdom of heaven isn't one of power and position, but humility and service to God and others. Regardless of human accolades, awards, promotions, or other expressions of human accomplishment, the kingdom of heaven is about childlike faith in Jesus Christ, trusting God above all things, which leads us to selfless service to others - just as Jesus served. By the power of God's Word and Spirit, through faith in Jesus, we follow Jesus' footsteps, learn from His example, and overcoming delusions of grandeur in our lives, we seek to live a life of humble service to others in Jesus' name. Sharing His love, grace, mercy, and forgiveness throughout our lives is our greatest accomplishment, for in so doing we bring the message of salvation in His blood and righteousness to a lost and dying world. In God's eyes, that's true greatness.
Prayer: Father, my Lord Jesus Christ came down to earth and, humbling Himself, took on human flesh and my condition, subjecting Himself to all the same temptations and problems of Sin which I face in my life every day. He perfectly obeyed Your will and purpose for Him - and me - fully taking my place under Your Law and Your righteous. He received in His body the full and just punishment for Sin that I deserve, bearing my sins and the sins of the world on the Cross so that I might stand forgiven before You and walk humbly with You until You call me home to heaven. Father, by the power of Your Word and Spirit, help to put aside all my sinful "delusions of grandeur." Lead me to recognize such delusions of grandeur as the result of Sin in my life and give me the strength to overcome them and be a humble witness of Your love, grace, mercy, and forgiveness in Christ Jesus for the world. Let my demeanor and actions be those of a faithful and humble servant of You, my gracious heavenly Father, so that others might come to know Your love in Jesus; in whose precious name I pray. Amen.
*************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright @2006 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Monday, October 02, 2006
United, We Stand; Divided, We Fall
"Today's Devotion" For October 2, 2006
Read: Luke 11:14-26; Psalm 25
UNITED, WE STAND; DIVIDED, WE FALL
"I urge then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone--for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness."(I Timothy 2:1-2a)
I don't remember who the artists were who recorded the song - I'm not even sure I remember the name of the song - but one line stands out for me that gets me thinking about the current state of affairs in our nation. The line I'm thinking of goes like this (I'm pretty sure it's the chorus or refrain): "For united we stand, divided we fall, and if our backs should ever be against the wall, we'll be together; together you and I (sic)." If my memory serves me, I'm pretty certain the rest of lyrics were focused upon a relationship between a man and a woman, but it may also have been about good friends standing together. At the same time Jesus' counsel has implications for a family, a community, a state, a nation, and even the church. When we're fighting among ourselves, and not willing to give each other a fair hearing, nor have the willingness to forgive, then it's easy for others to divide us and the consequences, as Jesus Himself noted are such that "Every kingdom divided against itself will be ruined, and every city or household divided against itself will not stand" (Matthew 12:25)
Every where we look in our communities, states, and the nation there is polarization, anger, frustration, hatred, and ill will flying in all directions. Even in our churches the spirit of unity and commitment to living together in understanding, compassion, and forgiveness is suffering. Rather than having heartfelt discussions of differing opinions, viewpoints, and positions, disagreeing with vigor, debating our differences, and finding ways to work and live together, our national conversations, and even our personal intercourse, is wholly vitriolic, accusatory, personal, and damning. It seems as if we've reached such a new low as a society that rather than discussing our differences with rationality, we're attacking the persons with whom we disagree, rather than the positions they hold or actions they take. This has become increasingly noticeable with the name calling and personal excoriation of character that is going on at all levels of society - particularly in the national conversation where our former habits were to "rally 'round the flag" (even when we disagreed on policy, politics, and actions) in time of war or national emergency.
Criticism and skepticism can be useful tools of dissent and keeping things honest. When they are a product of hatred and contempt they are no longer useful. The polarization that is occurring in the United States these days is affecting every level of society and culture. Rather than "freedom of religion" being a reality, mockery of Christianity as well as other religious beliefs is rampant. Rather than our politicians - you know the ones about whom I'm speaking; the ones who are elected by the people and who carry out the work of governing which belongs to the people- caring about the body politic, they seem more concerned about keeping their jobs and attacking other politicians persons, rather than their ideas and policies. Attacking another person rather than disagreeing with their ideas and actions seems to be becoming the order of the day. Even in our churches it seems that people are more willing to tear down rather than build up; criticize rather than find solutions. Of course it doesn't help the process any when those who hold responsible positions of leadership fail to listen and take into account the concerns of others. Having the attitude that "I'm right and you're not" doesn't serve to unite - only divide. In the end, it doesn't matter whether it's a nation, a community, a business, a church, or a family, such behavior only serves to tear apart, not build up. And when people spend their time tearing down, especially from within and making disagreements personal, there's an absolute certainty that the "nation, the city, and the house" will fall with a thud and a bang, and so rapidly no one will ever see it coming.
Jesus understood that reality so very well. Throughout His ministry on earth, He wasn't faced with detractors who vigorously debated His teachings. Instead they attacked Him and hated Him. He experienced such derision that He was actually accused of driving out demons by the power of Beelzebub, the prince of the demons. The irrationality of such an accusation, Jesus' pointed out, was that, if such were the case, the devil himself was defeating his own purposes. In many ways, as we look at our national, state, local, church, and personal dealings with one another, that's exactly the behavior we see. The power of Sin - to focus on "me" ("I") - is taking root and leading us to destroy ourselves from within. Might doesn't make right, nor does vitriol and tearing another person down make for a better argument or idea.
The implications of this situation in our society are profound for our living as God's people in Christ and witnesses to His love, grace, mercy, and forgiveness in Him. As the redeemed children of God in Christ Jesus, we have been called to be His ambassadors; we've been called out of the world, into the body of Christ, in order for us to give a living testimony by our words and deeds to God's compassion and love for the world. As Christian citizens our "vocation" our "calling" is to provide the "seasoning" so desperately needed by our society and our politics. While it's reasonable for people to disagree it's not reasonable for them to do so in a way that tears down, promotes hatred, and fails to find common ground to unite and nourish. Our prayers, as Paul wrote to Timothy, are needed for those who criticize and tear down, for those who serve and seek to build up, and for those in authority, especially the President, so that we might "live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness." Such a "house," a nation built upon the foundation of faith in Christ, cannot help but to be united to destroy those who would spread terror, provide justice, opportunity, and care for its citizens, and seek to make the world a better place for people to live, including allowing other religious beliefs to exist and be protected by law. There is great spiritual truth to those lyrics: "United we stand; divided we fall," and, by God's grace we won't forget that.
Prayer: Father, I'm really disturbed by the personal, vitriolic, name-calling attacks being made by those who have been elected to lead in the nation, the state, my community, and my church. Rather than disagreeing with one another in a meaningful and helpful way, it seems as if this society has taken on a demeanor of hatred and derision that divides and polarizes. People don't discuss things anymore, Father. Instead they seem intent on tearing others down with whom they disagree. People in positions of leadership seem intent on ignoring what others are saying and show a grave unwillingness to admit to wrong decisions, faulty premises, and that they may have taken a wrong direction.
I find myself guilty on the same counts. Too often I criticize the person rather than their behavior or position. Too often I'm more concerned with being right than communicating my position and beliefs in a firm but loving manner that doesn't seek to tear another down. Forgive me, Father, for such behavior on my part, including my willingness to wish for the failure of others, rather than for what's best for them and others. Help me to be an instrument of Your peace that my actions and words as I fulfill my vocation as a Christian citizen, neighbor, and friend may serve to help unite rather than divide. Grant me the power and presence of Your Holy Spirit that I may seek the best for the lives of others in the community, the church, the nation, and the world, and encourage the same in others. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.
*******************************************
--Pastor Boeck
Copyright @2006 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
Read: Luke 11:14-26; Psalm 25
UNITED, WE STAND; DIVIDED, WE FALL
"I urge then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone--for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness."(I Timothy 2:1-2a)
I don't remember who the artists were who recorded the song - I'm not even sure I remember the name of the song - but one line stands out for me that gets me thinking about the current state of affairs in our nation. The line I'm thinking of goes like this (I'm pretty sure it's the chorus or refrain): "For united we stand, divided we fall, and if our backs should ever be against the wall, we'll be together; together you and I (sic)." If my memory serves me, I'm pretty certain the rest of lyrics were focused upon a relationship between a man and a woman, but it may also have been about good friends standing together. At the same time Jesus' counsel has implications for a family, a community, a state, a nation, and even the church. When we're fighting among ourselves, and not willing to give each other a fair hearing, nor have the willingness to forgive, then it's easy for others to divide us and the consequences, as Jesus Himself noted are such that "Every kingdom divided against itself will be ruined, and every city or household divided against itself will not stand" (Matthew 12:25)
Every where we look in our communities, states, and the nation there is polarization, anger, frustration, hatred, and ill will flying in all directions. Even in our churches the spirit of unity and commitment to living together in understanding, compassion, and forgiveness is suffering. Rather than having heartfelt discussions of differing opinions, viewpoints, and positions, disagreeing with vigor, debating our differences, and finding ways to work and live together, our national conversations, and even our personal intercourse, is wholly vitriolic, accusatory, personal, and damning. It seems as if we've reached such a new low as a society that rather than discussing our differences with rationality, we're attacking the persons with whom we disagree, rather than the positions they hold or actions they take. This has become increasingly noticeable with the name calling and personal excoriation of character that is going on at all levels of society - particularly in the national conversation where our former habits were to "rally 'round the flag" (even when we disagreed on policy, politics, and actions) in time of war or national emergency.
Criticism and skepticism can be useful tools of dissent and keeping things honest. When they are a product of hatred and contempt they are no longer useful. The polarization that is occurring in the United States these days is affecting every level of society and culture. Rather than "freedom of religion" being a reality, mockery of Christianity as well as other religious beliefs is rampant. Rather than our politicians - you know the ones about whom I'm speaking; the ones who are elected by the people and who carry out the work of governing which belongs to the people- caring about the body politic, they seem more concerned about keeping their jobs and attacking other politicians persons, rather than their ideas and policies. Attacking another person rather than disagreeing with their ideas and actions seems to be becoming the order of the day. Even in our churches it seems that people are more willing to tear down rather than build up; criticize rather than find solutions. Of course it doesn't help the process any when those who hold responsible positions of leadership fail to listen and take into account the concerns of others. Having the attitude that "I'm right and you're not" doesn't serve to unite - only divide. In the end, it doesn't matter whether it's a nation, a community, a business, a church, or a family, such behavior only serves to tear apart, not build up. And when people spend their time tearing down, especially from within and making disagreements personal, there's an absolute certainty that the "nation, the city, and the house" will fall with a thud and a bang, and so rapidly no one will ever see it coming.
Jesus understood that reality so very well. Throughout His ministry on earth, He wasn't faced with detractors who vigorously debated His teachings. Instead they attacked Him and hated Him. He experienced such derision that He was actually accused of driving out demons by the power of Beelzebub, the prince of the demons. The irrationality of such an accusation, Jesus' pointed out, was that, if such were the case, the devil himself was defeating his own purposes. In many ways, as we look at our national, state, local, church, and personal dealings with one another, that's exactly the behavior we see. The power of Sin - to focus on "me" ("I") - is taking root and leading us to destroy ourselves from within. Might doesn't make right, nor does vitriol and tearing another person down make for a better argument or idea.
The implications of this situation in our society are profound for our living as God's people in Christ and witnesses to His love, grace, mercy, and forgiveness in Him. As the redeemed children of God in Christ Jesus, we have been called to be His ambassadors; we've been called out of the world, into the body of Christ, in order for us to give a living testimony by our words and deeds to God's compassion and love for the world. As Christian citizens our "vocation" our "calling" is to provide the "seasoning" so desperately needed by our society and our politics. While it's reasonable for people to disagree it's not reasonable for them to do so in a way that tears down, promotes hatred, and fails to find common ground to unite and nourish. Our prayers, as Paul wrote to Timothy, are needed for those who criticize and tear down, for those who serve and seek to build up, and for those in authority, especially the President, so that we might "live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness." Such a "house," a nation built upon the foundation of faith in Christ, cannot help but to be united to destroy those who would spread terror, provide justice, opportunity, and care for its citizens, and seek to make the world a better place for people to live, including allowing other religious beliefs to exist and be protected by law. There is great spiritual truth to those lyrics: "United we stand; divided we fall," and, by God's grace we won't forget that.
Prayer: Father, I'm really disturbed by the personal, vitriolic, name-calling attacks being made by those who have been elected to lead in the nation, the state, my community, and my church. Rather than disagreeing with one another in a meaningful and helpful way, it seems as if this society has taken on a demeanor of hatred and derision that divides and polarizes. People don't discuss things anymore, Father. Instead they seem intent on tearing others down with whom they disagree. People in positions of leadership seem intent on ignoring what others are saying and show a grave unwillingness to admit to wrong decisions, faulty premises, and that they may have taken a wrong direction.
I find myself guilty on the same counts. Too often I criticize the person rather than their behavior or position. Too often I'm more concerned with being right than communicating my position and beliefs in a firm but loving manner that doesn't seek to tear another down. Forgive me, Father, for such behavior on my part, including my willingness to wish for the failure of others, rather than for what's best for them and others. Help me to be an instrument of Your peace that my actions and words as I fulfill my vocation as a Christian citizen, neighbor, and friend may serve to help unite rather than divide. Grant me the power and presence of Your Holy Spirit that I may seek the best for the lives of others in the community, the church, the nation, and the world, and encourage the same in others. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.
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--Pastor Boeck
Copyright @2006 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
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