Yesterday was a pretty good day. We worked out late last night, around 8pm, because that was when Stephanie’s session with the new trainer, Aaron, was. Good workout, though.

I’m feeling a little groggy this morning, and can’t think of much to say, so I’m going to head right on into the devotional. There was one weird thing…when my alarm went off (it’s setup morning for The Exchange), I was telling someone (in my dream) about Mystery Science Theater 3000. I think the person I was telling was an old seminary friend, that I haven’t seen in years. We were waiting for some other movie to start. Very strange.

If I love you more, am I to be loved less? 2 Corinthians 12:15

Springing from the second half of yesterday’s passage, Chambers points out that “natural love expects some return.” Isn’t that the truth. How often do we become tired in serving because no one seems to notice? We aren’t getting anything in return. Well, you know what? When that happens, we are serving the wrong person/people! When we serve men, we get disappointed. Paul is essentially saying he doesn’t care if they love him back or not. He is will to completely spend himself, gladly, for the sake of these people coming to God. “The real test of the saint is not preaching the gospel, but washing disciples’ feet, that is, doing the things that do not count in the actual estimate of men but count everything in the estimate of God.” Read that again. “The real test of the saint is not preaching the gospel, but washing disciples’ feet, that is, doing the things that do not count in the actual estimate of men but count everything in the estimate of God.” We should not desire quite so strongly to be “up front,” where people can see us and recognize us and applaud us all the time. We should desire to become “broken bread and poured-out wine in the hands of Jesus Christ for other lives”

Mark 5:21-43; Numbers 12-14

After Jesus delivered the demon-possessed man, he was approached by a man named Jairus, who had a “Daughter Dying” (21-24). Jairus begs Jesus to come with him to his home. On the way, we see “Diseased Delivered” (25-34), as they are interrupted by a woman who sneaks up and touches Jesus’s robe. He feels the power healing her, turns around and forces her to publicly confess her faith. He sends her away with peace and assurance. Finally, we see “Death Defeated” (34-43), even though the daughter is pronounced dead when they first arrive. Jesus brings his three closest into the room with him, casts out all who scoff at him, and raised the child up. His instructions to the parents? Give her some food.

Chapters 12-14 of Numbers is another dark portion of the tale of Israel, as they fail to occupy the land which God is giving them. Time will not permit me to include Chrispin’s descriptions, this morning. However, I want to include a verse from Numbers 14 that I think is key, perhaps not only in this story, but in our own lives. If the LORD delights in us, he will bring us into this land and give it to us, a land that flows with milk and honey. (14:8) I don’t want to be guilty of taking out of context, so I won’t read any more into it than is really there. However, in our own lives, we sometimes lack the faith to do what the Lord is directing us to do. If we keep this simple truth in mind, it will give us greater faith. If the Lord delights in us (and he does) he will bring us into our own “land” and give it to us. That does NOT mean he will give us that house or that care that we have “claimed in his name!” But what it does mean is that he will help us in accomplishing whatever it is we are supposed to accomplish. He is God Almighty, the Lord!

Israel failed to go in. They panicked. They were afraid. Their faith failed. And, as a result, they would wander in the wilderness for 40 years. Plus, ten of the twelve spies who went in were stricken with a plague and died on the spot. Joshua and Caleb (who spoke the words quoted above) were the only ones spared.

I pray for the faith to believe that you will bring me into my own “land,” Lord. Let my faith not waver when I see the odds against me.

I pray for this day. May our setup be smooth this morning. Give us a day of rest and relaxation, and enjoyment for our spirits. Let us be refreshed today for the week ahead.

Your grace is sufficient.

Grace and peace, friends.

Last night, Christi didn’t feel well, so we didn’t go to lifehouse group. However, Stephanie and I decided to go ahead and work out. So we went to 24 Hour Fitness and did our usual thing. That was day 36 for me, since January 15. I’m posting a picture of the display on the exercise bike every day, when I get finished, just for accountability. As of this morning, I have lost 50 pounds since I started Spark People two years ago. 24.2 since January 15.

I’m not sure what the weekend holds. No real plans, other than doing setup for The Exchange tomorrow morning, and attending Worship Celebration Sunday. We shall see…perhaps we will even do something *gasp* outside!

I will most gladly spend and be spent for your souls. 2 Corinthians 12:15

One of the biggest tests in “Christian work” is what guides us. “We have no right…to be guided by our affinities…” What drives me? Is it my own desires? Or am I identifying with Jesus’s interests in other people? Paul spent himself for one purpose, that he might win people to Christ. He drew people to Jesus, not to himself.

We over-emphasize holiness, sometimes. “When a man says he must develop a holy life alone with God, he is of no more use to his fellow men; he puts himself on a pedestal, away from the common run of men.” There’s a phrase next that is stirring. Speaking of Paul, Chambers says, “…wherever he went, Jesus Christ helped Himself to his life.” Can that be said of me? Is my life an open cupboard for Jesus Christ, that he may help himself to me whenever he wants? “If we are abandoned to Jesus, we have no ends of our own to serve.” There’s that word again, “abandoned.” What am I devoted to? Am I devoted to Christ, or am I devoted to that which pleases me, even spiritually speaking?

For you were straying like sheep, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls. 1 Peter 2:25

Peter alludes to Isaiah 53:6 in this verse. All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned–every one–to his own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all. Sheep, if left untended, will wander aimlessly, even getting separated from the flock. Isaiah compares sinners to sheep that have gone astray, as does Peter. We are unable to “walk the straight and narrow way but are always wandering off into sin.” We need a shepherd to guide us. This verse in 1 Peter tells us that Jesus is that Shepherd. He gives Jesus another title though, that of “Overseer.” The Greek word used there is episkopos, which is “like the general of an army.” (Sounds a lot like “Episcopal” doesn’t it?) Yet, when the apostles use this word, they don’t speak as much in military terms as they do in an “image of great tenderness that shows us how Jesus keeps us secure out of His great love for us.”

The problems and issues of our lives are never too insignificant for Jesus to care about. He is our Shepherd and Overseer. We should never be afraid to bring our concerns to him, ready to follow his guidance in our lives.

Mark 5:1-20; Numbers 9-11

Mark 5 begins with a story of “Demons Displaced” (1-20). Jesus delivers a man who had been possessed by uncontrollable demons, to the point that no one could even get near him. At the request of the demons (who called themselves “Legion, for we are many”), Jesus sent them into a herd of pigs, which, in turn, went headlong over a cliff. The people of the area, more concerned with their livestock than the fate of this man, asked Jesus to please leave. Or maybe they were just freaked out by the whole incident. The man wants to stay with Jesus, but Jesus told him to go home and tell people what had been done for him. He was obedient, and the people where he lived marveled at his story.

At the beginning of Numbers 9, we see “Passover Principles and Practice” (1-14), as the Passover is reinstated. The rest of the chapter deals with “Covering Cloud and Commandment” (15-23). The cloud that covers the tabernacle will be the signal for when they move and when they stay put. They are to follow the cloud, which represents the Lord.

In chapter 10, “Silver Trumpets” are made (1-10). These are to be blown by Aaron and the priests as signals. If both are blown, the people are to gather at the door of the tabernacle. When only one is blown, the leaders come to Moses. They would also be used to sound the advance from the camp or to warn if enemies were approaching. Next, we see “Sinai’s Travels” (11-13). Finally, after being at Sinai for about a year, they are getting read to leave for Canaan! In verses 14-28, we see “Standards Taken,” as each of the tribes heads out, with their standard, in the designated order. Moses persuades his Midianite brother-in-law to come with them, and will be “Sharing Things” with him along the way (29-32). Moses makes “Supplication Throughout” the journey, praying as they start, and praying whenever the stop (33-36).

Chapter 11 begins with “Fire” (1-3), as people begin to complain around the outskirts of the camp. Fire breaks out and kills some of them. Moses prays and the fire stops. The people complain about the “Food” (4-9), as they are getting bored with manna. They want what they had in Egypt. I’m resisting the temptation to post Keith Green’s song again. The people exhibit “Fickleness” (10) as they weep and moan in their tents. Moses displays “Frustration” to God, even asking God to kill him and have done with it (11-15). Even the best leaders can experience depression. God, however, does not kill Moses, but increases his “Fellowship” (16-17) by bringing 70 elders in and sharing Moses’s spirit with them. God then tells Moses that he will send “Flesh” in the form of meat for the cravings of the people to be satisfied (18-20). In fact, he will send so much that they will be sick of it. Moses displays “Faithlessness” as he doubts God’s ability to provide enough meat for that many people (21-22). The Lord, on the other hand, shows his “Faithfulness” (23) as he asks Moses if his arm has been shortened. “Just you wait and see,” God says. The “Fulfilment” of God is shown, as God provides the Spirit to the 70 elders and then sends quail into the camp (24-32). But God’s “Fury” is then displayed when, before they can even swallow the meat, the people are struck with a plague that kills many (33-34). The place is called “Kibroth Hattavah,” which means “Graves of Craving.” Finally, the Israelites move “Forward” (35).

Also, my Lord, I sometimes am guilty of thinking that my problems aren’t important enough to bother you with. I pray that your Spirit would help me get over that. It’s difficult to remember how much you care about us, both individually, and as your Church. It’s hard to fathom that you can hear every prayer of every saint in the whole world! And, with that, I must remember to bring my cares to you, daily, minute by minute. It’s no wonder that Paul told us to “pray without ceasing!” Something is happening in my life at almost every minute of the day, that has potential to stress me out. But I need to cast all of those cares on you, because you care for me! Praises be to you, my Lord Jesus!

I pray for this day, Lord. May Christi and I have a good day at work. Thank you that Stephanie has gotten all her homework done, and is ready for Monday’s meeting with the teacher. I pray that we will stay faithful in our workouts and eating habits. May we have a good, restful weekend. I also give you thanks that Christi has received a bonus today.

I continue to pray for Bart, that he might get released from the hospital, and that you would provide strength and healing to his body.

Your grace is sufficient.

Grace and peace, friends.

I am remiss in acknowledging an award received last week. Olive Twist granted me another Versatile Blogger award last Friday.

Thank you very much, Olive. Please check out her blog. There is some very fine and inspirational writing therein. I will eventually get around to passing this along, as suggested by the award rules. I have a couple more that I’m overdue on, as well. But today, I wanted to acknowledge the award and thank the award-giver.

The workouts are still going well, and there is no sign of slowing down any time soon. As of this morning, I am just a fraction of a pound away from a total loss of 50 pounds since I first signed up with Spark People, just over two years ago. I’m pleased with that, although I did not reach my two year goal with Spark People. That’s okay, because I’m on the way to that goal now, and I’m not stopping until I get there. I weighed in yesterday morning for our “Biggest Loser” challenge, and lost 4 more pounds last week. That’s a total of 6.6% for the contest, so far. We are at the halfway point now. Rankings for this week will come out tomorrow afternoon. I heard that the leader is on vacation. Heh. That could be a good thing for the rest of us.

Please continue praying for our light/tech master, Bart. He is still in the hospital, and they still don’t really know what’s wrong. He does seem to be doing better, though, and is, understandably, a bit tired of being poked and prodded.

…even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many. Matthew 20:28

In this reading about service, Oswald Chambers points out that sometimes, we have this idea that one who is called to the ministry is a “different kind of being from other men.” And I have known pastors, in my time, that obviously felt that they were superior because of their calling. They expected to be treated with great respect. However, Chambers says, “According to Jesus Christ, he is called to be the ‘doormat’ of other men; their spiritual leader, but never their superior.” Paul the apostle was familiar with this concept. He said that he knew how to be abased for the sake of Christ. “Abased” is a word that we don’t use much anymore. It means “to be lowered in rank, esteem, or prestige.” Oh, no! We don’t want that! Our current society is all about “ME!” How I can advance myself; how I can make people like me; how I can make people respect me. And how many times have I heard people say, “Well, Jesus doesn’t want us to be a DOORMAT!!” Really? What is the basic motivation for our service? It should be love for Jesus Christ. “If we are devoted to the cause of humanity, we shall soon be crushed and broken-hearted, for we shall often meet with more ingratitude from men than we would from a dog; but if our motive is love to God, no ingratitude can hinder us from serving our fellow men.” The leader of our setup crew for The Exchange and I had this conversation a couple weeks ago. We get joy out of doing that particular service, not because we do it for men; I don’t do it for the leader, I don’t do it for the church, I don’t do it for the pastor. I serve for Christ. Any other motivation leads to “burnout.”

The secret of our determination must be the realization of how Jesus has loved us and treated us, after the way we treated him before he found us. “When we realize that Jesus Christ has served us to the end of our meanness, our selfishness, and sin, nothing that we meet with from others can exhaust our determination to serve men for His sake.”

“The LORD your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among you, from your brothers–it is to him you shall listen– Deuteronomy 18:15

One of the titles that the Bible gives Jesus is that of Prophet. Just like the prophets of old, Jesus did, in fact, foretell future events. But he also “forthtold” the will of God, as Moses did for Israel. Not all “prophets” foretell the future. That is only one of the definitions of a prophet. Moses, the passage quoted above, confirmed his own part in the office of prophet.

“Every time we read Scripture and are convicted of sin, we are experiencing the prophetic ministry of Christ. Whenever we receive comfort from the Bible, we who trust in Jesus are benefitting from His prophetic office. As we are comforted, rebuked, and instructed from the pulpit, Christ is speaking to us as a prophet. Let us not neglect His prophetic work but instead submit to His Word whenever we hear it.”

Mark 4:21-41; Numbers 6-8

In the continuation of Mark 4, first we see another parable, a “Parable of Shining” (21-23). As his disciples, we are not to keep our “lamp” under a cover, but we are to shine brightly for him. Next, we see “Productivity of Sower” (24-25). The blessing we receive is determined by our own efforts and attitude that we have toward Jesus. Then, there are two “Parables of Seeds” (26-32). Chrispin explains the first one as saying that growth is definite, but gradual. I also see in this parable the fact that it is God who provides the growth, because, as seen in verse 27, “the seed sprouts and grows; he knows not how.” The second parable demonstrates the awesome power of the kingdom, starting small and growing very large and massive. In verses 33-34, Mark speaks of other “Parables of Savior,” stating that Jesus told many other parables, but always explained them to his disciples in private. Finally, we see the “Power of Storm” (35-41), as Jesus calms a storm at sea. Even his disciples are astounded at his ability to control nature.

Numbers 6 dictates laws for the vow of the Nazarite. First is the “Avoidance of Alcohol” (1-4). The only thing I can say about the Nazarite vow for sure, is that it is a vow of extreme separation to the Lord for a period of time. The first rule was that this person could have no alcoholic beverage at all. Actually, apparently, he could not even have grape juice. No fruit of the vine at all. The next thing dealt with “Hair and Holiness” (5-8). He could not shave his head during the time of the vow. Neither was he to be near a dead body. However, if he did experience “Defilement by Death” (9-12), there were sacrifices to be made to make up for it. After his days of “Separation and Sacrifice” (13-21), he was to shave his head and burn the hair, under a peace offering sacrifice. The last thing in the chapter is a “Pronouncement of Peace” by Aaron (22-27). These are the words Aaron was to say to the people. We still hear these words today, spoken in some churches. The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace.

Numbers 7 is a lengthy chapter that is basically taken up with the offerings brought to the tabernacle by each of the twelve tribes of Israel. Numbers 8 deals with more regulations concerning the Levites, their cleansing and their separation. Due to shortness of time this morning, I am going to forego the alliterative descriptions that Gerard Chrispin assigned to these two chapters. I hope you’ll forgive me.

May I not forget, Jesus, that you are a prophet as well as my savior. “Prophet, priest, and king.” You are all three and more. May my life reflect that as I go through the normal, commonplace activities of my day.

Lord, I pray for this day. I pray that Christi and I will have a good day at work, and that Stephanie will have a good meeting with the teacher today. Things are progressing well, and we seem to be on course for graduation this year. We are so very grateful for this, Father! After some tumultuous times in the past few months, this is like a breath of fresh air!

I pray for healing for Bart, Lord. We ask that his condition will abate, and that he will be allowed to come home from the hospital. Give his body the strength it needs to recover from whatever is wrong.

Grace and peace, friends.

It’s 56 degrees, this morning, and is supposed to get to 76. Feels like Spring. Oh, great. There’s a “pollen alert” today. I guess I’ll just go ahead and start sneezing now.

We had another good workout yesterday. I’ve made a second playlist (I’m planning to work on several more, so as to not be too repetitive). This one has the following songs on it: 1. She’s Working Here–Daniel Amos; 2. Revolution–The Beatles; 3. Instruction Thru Film–Daniel Amos; 4. I Love You #19–Daniel Amos; 5. Intervention–Arcade Fire; 6. Can’t Take It With You–Alan Parsons Project; 7. 23–Blonde Redhead; 8. Vitamin R–Chevelle; 9. Bakersfield–Daniel Amos; 10. Mr. Tambourine Man–The Byrds; 11. You’re All I’ve Got Tonight–The Cars. It’s 44.4 minutes long (actually two minutes longer than my cardio workout), and last night, averaged 59 rpm. However, all of the bikes don’t seem to be calibrated quite the same. Still, my goal is to stay around 60, so 59 is okay. I burned 440 calories. Also…yes, as a matter of fact, I do love Daniel Amos…my favorite group of all time. Ever. Terry Scott Taylor is my music hero.

Oh, and I almost forgot. This is the morning I go to weigh in for the “Biggest Loser” challenge at work. It looks like I should lose three pounds for this week.

Be still, and know that I am God. Psalm 46:10

Oswald Chambers writes about spiritual tenacity today. “Tenacity,” of course, is the quality or state of being tenacious. Don’t you just love definitions like that? Now I have to look up another word. “Tenacious” means “not easily pulled apart.” I like that. It also means “tending to adhere or cling especially to another substance,” and “persistent in maintaining, adhering to, or seeking something valued or desired.” Wow. I had no idea. I knew the general idea behind the word “tenacious,” but had never looked up the exact meaning. Chambers defines it like this: “Tenacity is the supreme effort of a man refusing to believe that his hero is going to be conquered.” Who is our “hero?” (In this case, NOT Terry Scott Taylor!) Our hero is Jesus Christ. Would it be safe to say that our biggest fear in life could be that the things that Jesus stands for–”love and justice and forgiveness and kindness among men”–might not win out in the end? We are called to tenacity. Not just hanging on; tenacity is more than just hanging on. We hang on because we are afraid to fall. Tenacity is more than that. When we are being tenacious, we “work deliberately on the certainty that God is not going to be worsted.”

So even if our hopes are being disappointed right now, we must keep on keeping on. “Keep on truckin’,” as we said back in the seventies. Be tenacious.

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God…And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. John 1:1, 14

As we continue looking at names and titles for Jesus, we find one of the most interesting ones in the first chapter of John. That title is “Logos.” This Greek title is translated “Word.” Interestingly, that word is found in many English words. For example, “biology” (“a word about living things”); “theology (a word about God).” We typically say that “logy” is the study of something. But literally, it means “a word about…” However, to an ancient Greek philosopher, “logos” meant more than just “word.”

Philosophers are always looking for the ultimate answers to the ultimate questions, searching for the ultimate truth. “They began to use the word logos to describe the ultimate reality they were all pursuing.” “Consequently, the ancient Greeks thought of the logos as an impersonal force, as bare rationality that cannot love or interact with the world.”

John transformed this word when he used it to open his gospel. “His logos is personal and can be received or rejected by human beings (vv. 11-12).” That was scandalous enough, but then he went and claimed that this logos became human!

“The logos is God Himself, more specifically, the Son of God, the second person of the Trinity, who shares fully in the one divine essence.”

Mark 4:1-20; Numbers 3-5

The passage in Mark 4 is Mark’s version of the “Parable of Soils” (1-20). Jesus tells the parable, then explains it to the disciples, expressing mild frustration at their lack of ability to understand it. And he said to them, “Do you not understand this parable? How then will you understand all the parables?” (v. 13) It is important to note that lasting fruit is only produced from the good soil, and that the results will vary. Everyone is not the same.

Numbers 3 is a chapter of “Records” (1) of the Levites. God shows the “Requirement” (2-4) of holiness for the sons of Aaron. The “Responsibilities” of the Levites are given (5-10). God has taken the specific “Right” to have the Levites as his own (11-13). They are substituted for the firstborn of Israel, sanctified at the first Passover in Egypt. 14-39 gives the “Representatives” of the tribe of Levi. Then we see the “Redemption” of 22,273 firstborn (40-51), as the Levites are substituted for them.

Numbers 4 gives the responsibilities of the different clans of Levi. The Kohathites were to take great “Care in Carrying” the holy things and tabernacle furnishings (1-20). The Gershonites had the task of “Carrying the Curtains” (21-28) of the tabernacle. The Merarites had the task of “Carrying the Construction” (29-33), the crossbars and frames of the tabernacle. 34-49 sees a census taken, “Counting the Consecrated.”

In Numbers 5, we see the “Separation” of the unclean from the rest of the camp (1-4). Then we see “Reparation” made (5-10) for people who had been sinned against by others. 11-31 contains a rather strange test for adultery, if the husband of a wife became suspicious. For some reason, Chrispin chose to call this section “Preparation.” I’m not quite sure I get that.

Lord, I pray for a more intimate knowledge of the Logos! May I know Jesus Christ more and more as I get older. I am not satisfied to simply know who he is. I am not satisfied to simply be “saved.” I believe that life in Christ is much more than this. I want to live as he lived. I want to love as he loved. Especially that. I’m tired of the way I feel about people sometimes. I’m tired of getting angry at people for stupid stuff. Let me see people as you seem them. I want to love my brothers and sisters as Christ has loved them…being willing to lay down my life for them, seeing them as more important than myself, as Paul tells us in his writings.

I pray that I will continue to be good soil for you, Father, and that, over the course of the rest of my life, I will produce some kind of fruit for you.

I pray for this day, asking for a good work day for me and Christi. I pray for Stephanie to have a good day and a good meeting with her teacher today. I also pray for our niece, Jennifer, as she has started some new courses in her school. Help her make good grades and get through the week.

I continue to pray for Bart, as I have not heard an update on his condition.

I pray for my parents, Lord. I’m thankful that my father is doing a little better. I pray that you keep them in your love and care and protect them in this part of their life. Thank you for the direction and care that they have given me over the years. May you continue to bless them richly.

Grace and peace, friends!

(Extra points to anyone who gets the title.)

It’s currently 37 and clear, outside, this morning, with a projected high of 69. No rain in the forecast…should be a beautiful day.

But Jesus said, “Leave her alone. Why do you trouble her? She has done a beautiful thing to me. Mark 14:6

“If human love does not carry a man beyond himself, it is not love.” I could stop right there, couldn’t I? I mean…that could be the totality of today’s devotion, all wrapped up in one sentence. If I am sensible and discreet, always calculating…that’s not really love. “It may be affection, it may be warmth of feeling, but it has not the true nature of love in it.” Have I ever been so carried away by love for God that I do something, not just out of the sense of duty, or because there is something in it for me?

Here is a bold statement. “Abandon to God is of more value than personal holiness.” I can hear the gasps of shock from here. What??? “Personal holiness focuses the eye on our own whiteness; we are greatly concerned about the way we walk and talk and look, fearful lest we offend Him. Perfect love casts out all that when once we are abandoned to God.” I am of no use to God…I must accept that fact. However, I can be of value to him. What’s the difference? I can’t consciously do things just because I think they will be useful to God. Well, I guess I can, but they won’t be. They will simply be “feathers” in my cap. But if I am abandoned to him…truly abandoned, he can work through me all the time. In that way, I can be of value to him.

“I saw in the night visions, and behold, with the clouds of heaven there came one like a son of man, and he came to the Ancient of Days and was presented before him. And to him was given dominion and glory and a kingdom, that all peoples, nations, and languages should serve him; Daniel 7:13-14a

Tabletalk is going to spend the next few days examining some of the titles that Scripture uses for Jesus. This study begins with one that Jesus frequently used for himself in the gospels. This title was “Son of Man.” Some believe that he used this title to emphasize his humanity. Some say that it means he saw himself as a prophet, like Ezekiel, who was also called “son of man.”

The passage quoted above is “the primary background for our Lord’s use of the title ‘Son of Man.’” Jesus’s quoting of this text from Daniel “shows us that He is worthy to receive an everlasting dominion from God Almighty.” In the first part of Daniel 7, several kings, represented by beasts, are cast down from their dominion, and it is all given to “one like a son of man.”

“This ‘son of man’ comes from heaven, is worthy of everlasting majesty and dignity, and has a kingdom that knows no ethnic boundaries.” When he called himself “Son of Man,” he was telling people that his origin was not Bethlehem, “but that He is from all eternity.”

Mark 3; Numbers 1-2

Mark 3 begins with a teaching on the “Sabbath” (1-6) as Jesus quizzes the religious leaders before healing a man with a withered hand. He simply asks them if it is lawful to do good on the Sabbath, or should harm be done? Which should he do on the Sabbath, save life or kill? When they did not answer him, he healed the man. After speaking to crowds, Jesus heals many people, and they begin to publicly claim that he is the “Son” of God (7-12). He then appoints the twelve (some of whom had already been chosen) to eventually be “Sent” out to preach his message (13-19). In 20-30, there is “Serious” accusation leveled against him by religious leaders, who accuse him of being in league with Satan. Jesus, at this time, shows that they are in violation of a sin for which there is no forgiveness, blasphemy against the Holy Spirit. I think I may have just noticed that this sin is defined in this passage, so there is no need for the ongoing question about what this means. Mark simply says, “…for they were saying, ‘He has an unclean spirit.’” (v 30) In 31-34, Jesus teaches that his closest family is “Spiritual,” not biological.

Numbers is the fourth book of the Pentateuch. It was written by Moses, probably between 1445 and 1405BC, during the wilderness wanderings. It has the name “Numbers” because, well, that’s what it does. It records and numbers the children of Israel, and their organization by tribes. It also relates their wandering in the desert after failing to enter the Promised Land because of their lack of faith. They are characterized by sinfulness, failures, murmurings, jealousy, and unbelief. What a lovely list. Yet God’s presence remains with them.

As Numbers 1 begins, they are in the “Desert” (1), and it is the second month of the second year since they left Egypt. “Details” are taken (2-19) of all males over twenty years, that are able to fight. In 20-46, the numbers of “Descendants” of the sons of Israel, who are able to fight in war, are given by tribe. The Levites, however, are “Different” and are excluded from this numbering (47-53). At this time, Israel is successful in “Doing” all that God commands (54).

Numbers 2 begins by giving details of the placement of “The Tabernacle” in the camp (1-2), whenever they stop. 3-34 shows how “The Tribes” are to arrange themselves around the tabernacle when the stop to camp.

I praise you, Lord Jesus, Son of Man! I acknowledge your worthiness, your kingship, your lordship. You are King of kings and Lord of lords! You are from all eternity in origin! I will praise you with every breath that proceeds from my mouth for all eternity. I look forward with great anticipation to the day when I will be united with you for eternity. I pray that I will be able to serve you with abandon, as I grow closer to you and the Father in this life.

I pray for this day, Father. I have not heard any update on Bart. I continue to pray for his health and healing, Lord. I pray for Christi’s day at work, and mine as well. May we both have a good, productive day at work today. I pray that Stephanie’s day will go well, also, with her meeting with the teacher. I pray that she got a good amount of homework done last night. I also pray for her first meeting with a new trainer Friday night. I pray that you will help him to understand how to work with her for the best results.

I pray for continued success in our workout and health program. Let us continue to be faithful, without wavering, in this journey.

Grace and peace, friends.

It’s 51 degrees and cloudy, outside. We have a wind advisory going on today, and the high should be around 65.

In a little while, we are going to go to Mineral Wells to visit my parents for the afternoon.

On the workout front, we are, of course, continuing to hit the gym almost every day. It looks like Stephanie’s next personal training session will be Friday night. Christi and I are sticking with the exercise bike and some resistance training every night. I’m consistently burning (according to the display on the screen) between 400 and 450 calories per session on the bike. I’m .4 pound away from reaching my goal of losing ten pounds in February. With nine days left in the month, that’s pretty good. However, this past week has been a bit of a challenge. I haven’t even lost an entire pound since last Wednesday, which is a little discouraging. Hopefully, I can drop a little more before Wednesday’s weigh in for our “Biggest Loser” challenge.

We would like to request prayer for one of our lighting and tech people at The Exchange. His name is Bart, and he is suffering from a very high fever, and, as of last report, the doctors had no clue what was happening. He has been in the hospital twice in the last week. Also, on the prayer list, we are not going to get the building that we thought we were going to get. Something fell through last week in the dealings for it. So, we are continuing to look for our own place, so we can get out of the middle school we are in. And, to make yesterday even more of a downer, our worship leader is leaving to work for an organization that works to raise funds for missionaries. So, yesterday was not an overly exciting day for our church. Sure, you can always spin things like this and make positive statements about God working in people’s lives, and that he is in control of all things, so we really weren’t supposed to get that building. And those things are all true. Nevertheless, it is still discouraging when things like that happen. We must endure the trials and keep praising and worshiping him.

Rise, let us go from here. John 14:31

“Dreaming about a thing in order to do it properly is right; but dreaming about it when we should be doing it is wrong.” Thus begins the last of a series of readings on “The Initiative against…” This one is “The Initiative against Dreaming.” And it is fitting to notice that the Scriptural answer to all of these conditions (depression, despair, drudgery, and dreaming) is “Arise!” In other words, the initiative for all of these things is, “get off your butt!” After saying everything he said to his disciples in John 14, Jesus did not tell them to go off and meditate for a while. He said, “Rise, let us go from here.” “When we are getting into contact with God in order to find out what He wants, dreaming is right; but when we are inclined to spend our time in dreaming over what we have been told to do, it is a bad thing and God’s blessing is never on it.”

If we continue dreaming after God has told us what to do, we show that we do not trust him! This hits home for me, because I have in mind something that I believe
God wants me to do, but I have not started. I’m still thinking about it, “dreaming” about it, if you will. And, of course, it has not happened. I must stop the dreaming, “rise and go from this place!” “Leave Him to be the source of all your dreams and joys and delights, and go out and obey what He has said.”

Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him. John 3:36

Today’s reading deals with the question of salvation as raised in the Heidelberg Catechism, question 20. “Are all men then, as they perished in Adam, saved by Christ?” Does the blood of Christ save all men? The answer is, “No; only those who are ingrafted into him, and, receive all his benefits, by a true faith.” The benefits of Jesus’s atonement are “limited to a particular people.” Only those who believe in him receive eternal life. Belief implies obedience, and, even though obedience, as work, does not save us, if there is no obedience, it is evidence that there is no saving faith. Faith is the gift of God, though, and even the act of placing that faith in Christ is an act of obedience. As much as some want to believe it, Scripture, which teaches the universal fallenness of man, does not teach universal salvation. “Redemption is limited to those who are in Christ–those who rest on Him alone for salvation and prove this faith by putting His words into practice.”

Mark 2; Leviticus 26-27

Jesus faces opposition from various fronts in Mark 2. First, there is “Opposition–Scribes and Faith” (1-12), as Jesus heals the paralytic that is dropped through the roof of a house. The reason for the opposition was that, before he healed the man, he pronounced his sins forgiven. Then there is “Opposition–Sinners and Forgiveness” (13-17), as Jesus calls Levi as a disciple and has a meal at his house, along with other “sinners.” Jesus is criticized for breaking bread with “sinners.” Next comes “Opposition–Suspicion and Fasting” (18-22), as people notice that the disciples of John the Baptist are fasting, while those of Jesus do not. Jesus answers them by stating that their time of fasting will come when he is no longer with them. Finally, there is “Opposition–Sabbath and Food” (23-27), as Jesus’s disciples are criticized for picking some grain to eat on the Sabbath. Jesus proclaims that the Sabbath is to be a blessing for men, and he is the Lord of the Sabbath.

In Leviticus 26, “Peace, Prosperity and Power” (1-13) are promised if the people keep the Sabbath and all the God has commanded them. However, “Punishment, Poverty and Perishing” (14-39) are promised if they disobey and refuse to repent. There are some pretty horrible punishments promised in these verses, even to the extent of cannibalism. Verses 40-45 describe “Penitence, Pardon and Promise,” as God tells them how then can repent and return to him after a season of disobedience. Verse 46 simply summarizes “Principles, Priorities and Practices.”

Chapter 27 begins with “Promised People” (1-8) as God tells how people can be redeemed from vows that have been made. The same principles apply to “Promised Property” (9-25). There are “Particular Prohibitions” regarding things that cannot be bought back from vows (26-29). Verses 30-33 describe a “Pertinent Principle” of the tithe. Verse 34 carries a “Pointed Priority” as a summarization of what has gone before in the book of Leviticus.

I thank you for the gift of faith that has translated into obedience in my life. At least obedience part of the time. I pray for more obedience in my life. I pray for more tenacity in this Christian life, as I walk on a daily basis. May I take the words that you have given me and live by them, Lord.

I pray for this day, Lord, that we might have a safe trip today, and a good visit with my parents. May the remainder of our day be restful, except for the workout portion, may that be productive and helpful.

I pray for Bart, Lord. I pray for healing for his body. I pray for wisdom for the doctors, that they may be able to discern what is wrong. I also pray for our church to remain faithful and hopeful, in the light of the current circumstances that tempt us to lose hope and get discouraged. Let us not do so, but let us continue to faithfully worship and serve you as we have been doing. I pray for the leadership, that they may not lose heart, but continue serving in the most excellent ways that they have. I pray for Greg, our worship leader who is leaving, that you would bless him and his wife in their new journey, to which they feel you calling them.

Your grace is sufficient.

Grace and peace, friends.

Christi and Steph are getting ready to head up to The Exchange for the rehearsal. Christi is running the Mac this morning. I’ll be joining them for the 1030 service today.

We finally got word that Stephanie’s trainer, Andy, won’t be training any more. We’re not sure if he is still going to be there or not, but someone else has stepped in to take his place. Stephanie says she will be okay, but will miss Andy. She’s still doing great, though.

Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD has risen upon you. Isaiah 60:1

Chambers simply takes the first two words of this verse today. “Arise, shine.” The title of today’s reading continues in the theme of the last couple of days. “The Initiative Against Drudgery.” The first sentence is rather bold. “We have to take the first step as though there were no God.” What? Before you burn him at the stake for heresy, keep reading. “It is no use to wait for God to help us, He will not; but immediately we arise we find He is there.” This sounds a little bit like “God helps those who help themselves.” But that’s not quite what he is saying. Sometimes, when reading Chambers, one cannot simply read one or two sentences and stop. Remember…the main idea over the last two days has been “do the next thing.” When God inspires us, we have to act. He will not do it for us. “We must do the thing and not lie like a log. If we will arise and shine, drudgery becomes divinely transfigured.”

What, exactly, is “drudgery?” I’m sure we all have our own definition. Webster defines it as “dull, irksome, and fatiguing work: uninspiring or menial labor.” So…it’s what you do every day, day in, day out. For most of us, it’s our daily job, especially if we do the same thing every day. Chambers says it is “work that is very far removed from anything to do with the ideal.” He also says that it is a good judge of our character, how we respond to drudgery. Look at John 13. Jesus washed his disciples’ feet! Talk about drudgery! “It requires the inspiration of God to go through drudgery with the light of God upon it.” When this happens, that act of drudgery is transfigured by God. That commonplace thing becomes divine.

Mark 1:23-45; Leviticus 25

As we continue reading Mark 1, we see “Master and Miracles” (21-34). First, Jesus shows his mastery by astounding all who listen to him teach. Then he does miracles, healing a man with an unclean spirit, healing Peter’s mother-in-law, then healing many others. He then goes out for “Prayer and Preaching” (35-39), searching for a place to pray alone. When his disciples find him and tell him that everyone is looking for him, they move on to the next town, where he preaches and heals more. In verses 40-45, Jesus shows compassion on one who is “Outcast and Outside,” a leper. He heals the leper, who then goes and tells everyone what Jesus did for him. This creates a popularity that made it so that Jesus can no longer openly enter the city! Even in the deserted places, the crowds flock to him.

Leviticus 25 begins with a “Special Sabbath” (1-7), a Sabbath year. Every seven years, the land was to get rest. No plowing or planting. Anything that happened to grow, however, would be food for the people. Then “Jubilee Joy” is described (8-22). This is a most interesting regulation that the Lord put on Israel. Every fiftieth year, beginning on the Day of Atonement, all property reverted back to its original owners, all slaves became free, and all debts were released. Kind of a “reset” for the nation and the land. God promised that if these Sabbath years and Jubilees are kept, there would be enough harvest in the preceding years to last until the planting of the year after the Sabbath year had matured. There are “Property Provisions” (23-34) which essentially state that the land belongs to God and no one is to “own” it permanently. Prices, though, must be based on the approaching year of Jubilee. There is “Compassionate Care” (35-38) as poor people are to be helped, and not at a profit! If loans are given, there must not be “usury” or interest. No one is to profit from the poverty of other people! Finally, we see “Slavery Softened” (39-55), as it is forbidden to compel a fellow Israelite into slavery. If one his hired to serve another, he must be released at the year of Jubilee.

Michael Card has a song called “Jubilee,” that I thought of while reading this passage.

This is a live recording, and there are some introductions before the song.

Lord, Jesus told us that if we lift him up, he will draw all men to himself. The popularity of Jesus at the beginning of his ministry is stunning. But if we would live his life through ourselves on this earth, I truly believe that people would flock to us, as well. Not that I can go around healing sick people. But if my life were so different that it created curiosity, Christ would be lifted up, and he would draw people, not to me! But to himself! What a treasure we carry in these jars of clay, Father!

Lord, the comparison of Jesus to the Jubilee that Michael Card made is, I believe, an appropriate comparison. In Jesus, our debts are forgiven. We were slaves to sin, and we were set free. He paid the price for our redemption, and we will inherit a part of your kingdom! I give you praise for Jesus, the Jubilee!

I pray for this day. I pray for the rehearsal that is about to take place for the worship band. I pray that all of the technology will work. I lift up the first Worship Celebration, and pray that all who are there will truly worship you. Then I pray for the one I will be attending, the same way. Let us worship you with abandon this morning, worrying about nothing, thinking not what anyone else will think of us. May your Spirit flow freely through us. I also lift up Joel as he preaches this morning. Open our ears to what you have to say to us through your Holy Spirit.

May the rest of our day be filled with joy and rest.

Grace and peace, friends.

We have a long weekend this weekend. I’m taking a day off Monday, because Christi and Stephanie are off for Prez day. Stephanie won’t have a “homebound” meeting Monday, because school is out for the holiday.

Got in another good workout last night, and my newly formed playlist was just about perfect. I need to come up with a few more, though, so as to not get bored with it. I certainly have enough music in my iTunes to be able to make several workout playlists, I would think.

Rise, let us be going; see, my betrayer is at hand. Matthew 26:46

The disciples had fallen asleep when Jesus was depending on them to pray. This produced despair in their hearts. “The sense of the irreparable is apt to make us despair, and we say–’It is all up now, it is no use trying any more.’” We must not think that we are alone in this. It is a normal human experience. I’ve missed a great opportunity, so I could easily sink into despair. Again, Jesus comes to us, just like yesterday, and says “You can’t change that. Get up and do the next thing.” Here is one of the best statements I’ve ever read from Chambers. “Let the past sleep, but let it sleep on the bosom of Christ, and go out into the irresistible future with Him.”

The disciples had done an unforgivable thing. But Jesus comes with “a spiritual initiative against their despair,” and tells them to get up and do the next thing. What is the next thing? “To trust Him absolutely and to pray on the ground of His Redemption.”

The weekend article is called “The Untimely Church,” and is written by Dr. Harry L. Reeder.

“It has become abundantly clear that the contemporary church is fully convinced that the effective church (and the effective Christian) is ‘timely’ (that is, in step with the times).” This is true, to some degree, because Scripture says in Acts 13:36 that “David…served the purpose of God in his own generation.” David’s life and ministry was certainly “timely,” as ours should be, as well. However, our service and ministries, both on a church level and a personal level, should also be “untimely.” In a rather contradictory statement, Dr. Reeder submits that we are both “behind the times,” and “ahead of the times.”

I believe, along with Reeder, that we should address the needs and challenges of the day in the day’s language, using the day’s technology. However, we must also be untimely, “because the answer to the issues of the day was given yesterday — at Calvary.”

We are also untimely in that, while this gospel truth was delivered to us in the past, we have also “not yet received the fullness of our redemption.” This gospel, delivered to us in the past, points us to the future. “We, today, anticipate a future day of glorious gospel fulfillment when Christ returns and brings an end to time, ushering us into eternity, where our joy will be complete.” So, in order to be effective in our generation, we must be both “timely” and “untimely.”

“Until that glorious day of His return, we will suffer, succeed, falter, run, fail, triumph, confess, repent, obey, trust, and, at times, be untrustworthy. In a word, we will live as sinners, saved by grace yet “growing in grace” until Christ returns to consummate His grace.” While at first, those words seem discouraging (look at the negative terms in that statement), I find them to be just the opposite…very encouraging. Yes, I will display all of those characteristics at some point in my life. But there will be a day…

Yes, there will be a day. And we, as the Church, must neither dismiss the past nor live in it. “We must learn from the past yet avoid becoming a museum of the past.” Notice, though…this is important. “We are called to live in the present, not to accommodate the present by seeking to be ‘trendy.’”

“The timeliness of living in the present thoughtfully must be joined with the untimeliness of living in the present boldly by declaring the glorious truths of the past because our Savior is ‘the same yesterday, today and forever’ (Heb. 13:8).” Live in the present, learn the truths of the past, hope for the future.

Mark 1:1-22; Leviticus 23-24

The book of Mark was probably written between 50 and 70AD. It is the shortest of the four gospel accounts, and probably covers around seven years of time. Mark was not one of the twelve apostles, but was a very close associate of Peter. The Gospel of Mark is mostly written for Gentiles, and specifically Romans. He presents Jesus Christ as a servant. Chapter 1 begins with “Beginning and Baptism” (1-11). Mark jumps right in…there is no genealogy. He begins with the baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist. Following that, there is “Temptation and Team” (12-20). Mark spends only two verses on the temptations of Christ, but then tells us quickly about the calling of the first two sets of disciples, Simon, Andres, James, and John. In both cases, he notes that they followed Jesus “immediately.” In fact, it is worth noting that Mark uses that word a lot. He also begins a lot of sentences with “and.”

At the beginning of Leviticus 23, there is “Speech Commanded” (1-2) as the Lord commands Moses to speak to Israel about the feasts that they are to observe. Then, we have “Sabbath Consecrated” (3), as they are reminded again of the holiness of the Sabbath day and the commands to do no work on that day. In 4-44, there is a list of “Special Convocations” that they are to observe. First, there is the “Reminder” of the Passover and Feast of Unleavened Bread (4-8). Then there is the “Recognition” of the goodness of God in the Firstfruits (9-14). Pentecost, also known as the Feast of Weeks or Feast of Harvest, sees “Rejoicing” at God’s blessings (15-21). There are instructions for “Reaping” in such a way that produce is generously left behind for others (22). They are to “Refrain” from ordinary work during the Feast of Trumpets (23-25), making food offerings to the Lord. The “Reconciliation” of man to God is shown in the Day of Atonement, as well as a foreshadowing of Christ’s atoning sacrifice (26-32). The Feast of Tabernacles will cause the people to “Remember” how God brought them out of Egypt (33-43). In verse 44, we see Moses “Relaying” all of these instructions to the people.

In Leviticus 24, the lamps are kept “Burning” continually (1-4), using pure pressed olive oil. These lamps must be attended by Aaron. In verses 5-9, the requirements of the “Bread” of the tabernacle are given. We see “Blasphemy” being punished (10-23), as one blasphemes the holy name of the Lord and is stoned by the people. Also, the concept of “an eye for an eye” is reinforced.

I pray, Father, that I will not live in the past, but celebrate the truths of the past; the gospel of Christ which has been revealed to us in the past. Let us not seek so much to be “relevant,” to the point that we completely lose our relevance by ignoring the past. It’s a fine line. Let me live the truths of the past, while maintaining relevance for the present, and living out my hope for the future in Jesus Christ.

Lord, I thank you that setup went well this morning. We seem to be working very well together as a team. It is an enjoyable process, and I thank you for the opportunity to serve you in this way. I thank you for Jeremy, who leads our team. His devotion to you is inspiring.

I pray for the rest of this day. I pray for a good workout this afternoon, and a relaxing evening afterward. I pray for tomorrow’s worship celebration, that we may worship you acceptably, giving our all to you, worshiping you with heart, soul, mind, and strength.

I lift up a prayer for Andy, Stephanie’s trainer, as we have sadly learned today that he will no longer be working at 24 Hour Fitness. I pray for him and whatever problems he is going through. May you bless his life. I pray for Ashley, Stephanie’s new trainer, that she will understand the challenges that are present in working with Stephanie. I pray that they will get along fabulously, and have great success.

Your grace is sufficient.

Grace and peace friends.

It’s 46 degrees outside, this morning, and could rain all day, on and off. That’s okay…I’m sure we still need rain from the great drought of ’11. I still see signs in areas proclaiming mandatory watering restrictions.

We had a great lifehouse meeting last night. We discussed last Sunday’s message, which was on Matthew 6:24-34, ending up with the question, “What does it look like to ‘seek first the kingdom?’” We had some very interesting discussion.

Tonight, we’ll go workout again. I’m anxious to try a new playlist I put together for the cardio. Wait. I shouldn’t be “anxious” should I? Oh, no. I’m “excited” to try my new playlist tonight. That’s better.

And he lay down and slept under a broom tree. And behold, an angel touched him and said to him, “Arise and eat.” 1 Kings 19:5

Elijah is depressed. He has gone to sleep under a “broom tree” (whatever that is).
An angel comes to him and gives him what? Great instructions on his next mighty act of valor? No. The angel “told Elijah to do the most ordinary thing…to get up and eat.” Let’s face it. If we were never depressed, we would not be alive. Chambers makes a very interesting statement here. “A human being is capable of depression, otherwise there would be no capacity for exaltation.” I must consult my psychology major daughter to see if this is really true, but it sounds good. But there are things in life that cause depression. Not “clinical depression,” necessarily, but things happen that “bring us down.”

When this happens, we should not expect the Spirit to bring us great visions. We should expect gentle reminders of the “commonplace things of God’s creation.” Because when we get depressed, we forget about those things. But, as in the case of Elijah, the Spirit will inspire us to do the most simple things, like “arise and eat.” “The inspiration which comes to us in this way is an initiative against depression; we have to do the next thing and do it in the inspiration of God.” As soon as we obey, we move into a higher place.

Therefore let no one pass judgment on you in questions of food and drink, or with regard to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath. These are a shadow of the things to come, but the substance belongs to Christ. Colossians 2:16-17

The Old Testament sacrifices were a shadow of what was to come, which was the complete and perfect sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Just like shadows cast by streetlights show us the approximate shape and size of nearby objects, the bulls, goats, and lambs of the OT showed us an image of Christ. We have a great advantage over the saints of the Old Covenant, as we can look back with the understanding of the Spirit and see these things more clearly.

Matthew 28; Leviticus 21-22

In one of the most exciting chapters in Scripture, Matthew 28, we begin with the “Stone Removed” (1-4). Mary and Mary are going back to visit the tomb. There is a great earthquake, and the huge stone is rolled away from the opening of the tomb. Some believe that Matthew’s account says the women saw the stone roll away, but the other gospels make it clear that this happened before they arrived. The event causes the guards to faint dead away. “Saviour Risen” (5-7). There is an angel at the entrance of the tomb that tells the women to not be afraid. Jesus is not here. He is risen. Possibly the three most powerful words in all of Scripture. They are told to go back and relay this message to the disciples. As they go, there is a “Sudden Reunion” (8-10), as Jesus meets them on the way. He repeats the message of the angel, adding the instruction for the disciples to meet him in Galilee. In the meantime, we see the “Soldiers’ Rumour” (11-15), because the guards who were on duty go back and consult with their leaders, and make up a story that they fell asleep and his disciples came and stole him. Of course…if they were asleep, how did they know who stole him? Hmmmm?? As promised, Jesus meets the disciples in Galilee, and there is a “Special Revelation” (16-17). We don’t know exactly how many people were present, but we are told that many worshiped him, but some doubted. Finally, Jesus gives a “Specific Reason” (18-20), commissioning the disciples to go and make more disciples.

I thought I would add this today.

Rejoice!! He is risen!!

In Leviticus 21, there are more regulations for priests. They must not experience “Defilement for Dead” (1-4). Outside of close relatives, the priests must never touch a dead body. They are, however, to experience “Sanctification for Sovereign” (5-9), this being reflected even in the way they wear their beards. God is Sovereign, and the priests must be sanctified for him. There must be “Consecration for Conduct” (10-15), as the priest must anoint himself and his garments and reflect holiness in his conduct. There is a list of “Defects for Disqualifications” (16-23). And finally, there is an “Explanation for Everyone” (24), so that all can understand these rules.

In Leviticus 22, Aaron and his sons must show “Reverence” (1-2) in their conduct toward God and the sacred things. There will be “Retribution” to anyone who approaches the holy things while unclean (3). There must be “Refusal” (4-8 ) by anyone who is unclean; refusal to touch or handle the holy offerings. There is a “Requirement” (9) to keep God’s ordinances. There is a “Restriction” (10-13), that only the priest’s immediate families can participate in eating the offerings. If someone eats the holy offerings unintentionally, he must make “Restitution” (14-16). There will be “Rejection” of any offering that is not perfect and spotless. (17-25). This is a reminder of the perfect sacrifice of Jesus. There are more “Regulations” about the sacrifices (26-30). Finally, there are “Reminders” about the holiness of God and the necessity of keeping his commands. (31-32)

I seriously wonder how hard it was to come up with all of these alliterative captions for the Scripture portions…

Lord, I thank you for the three great words, “He is risen!” Were it not for those three words, we would have no hope. There would be nothing to hope for beyond the existence that we have on this earth. But the fact that Jesus rose from the grave and defeated death gives us the hope of the eternal life that he gives us. As I type those words, they seem outrageous; foolish; preposterous. But I believe them, nevertheless, because your Spirit has entered my heart and made me believe them. I will gladly be a fool for you, my God!

I pray for this day, Father. I pray for a smooth day at work for Christi and me. I pray for a good day for Stephanie, and that she will get some of her homework done today.

I lift up a special prayer for her trainer at 24 Hour, Andy. He seems to be going through some kind of personal problems and is unable to be there right now. We pray for resolution and that he will be able to return to the gym. Stephanie really likes him and is very concerned for his well-being.

We pray for a good and restful weekend, and may our worship celebration this Sunday be awesome!

Grace and peace, friends.

I weighed in yesterday for our “Biggest Loser” challenge. I lost another four pounds in the past week, making my total 20 pounds for the contest. That’s a 5.5% weight loss. The rankings will come out tomorrow. Depending on what others do, I could jump up a few spots in the rankings. I can’t catch the leader, though, unless he had a really bad week and went to Golden Corral every night. Hah!

I spent a while, this morning, making a playlist for my workouts. I needed something right at 40 minutes long, that was mostly 60 (or 120) bpm. That’s the rate I’m trying to pedal at, with an intensity that will get my heart rate between 130-140. That’s my new strategy. I was going for calorie burn total, but decided to focus more on the heart rate consistency. We’ll see how the new playlist works for me tomorrow night. Tonight is lifehouse night for church, so we won’t be working out. We got in 29 days of of the last 31, though.

… for anything that becomes visible is light. Therefore it says, “Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.” Ephesians 5:13

Chambers is focusing on the one phrase, “arise from the dead.” He speaks of the inspiration of initiative in today’s reading. WE all have visions and dreams when we are younger. I know I did. But at some point, we realize that we have no power to make those dreams become reality. So we settle into a life of believing them to be dead. “When the inspiration of God does come, it comes with such miraculous power that we are able to arise from the dead and do the impossible thing.” His perspective at this point is interesting. He says that God does not lift us up. We have to get up. I agree and disagree all at the same time. For example, Chambers uses the illustration of Christ and the man with the withered hand. Jesus told the man, “Stretch forth your hand.” The man had to move. But Chambers states that the man took the initiative. No. He did not. Jesus took the initiative by telling the man what to do. The man obeyed, however. The man put forth the effort. So, like I said…I agree and disagree both. When God places inspiration on my life, it is my responsibility to get off my duff and act on it. So, in that way, this statement of Chambers’s is true: “God does not give us overcoming life; He gives us life as we overcome.” And later, “If we will do the overcoming, we shall find we are inspired of God because He gives life immediately.” While it is true that God makes us overcomers, it is still us that must do that overcoming.

“Behold, the days are coming, declares the LORD, when I will raise up for David a righteous Branch, and he shall reign as king and deal wisely, and shall execute justice and righteousness in the land. In his days Judah will be saved, and Israel will dwell securely. And this is the name by which he will be called: ‘The LORD is our righteousness.’ Jeremiah 23:5-6

As we continue looking at Heidelberg Catechism question 19, today we focus on the portion of the answer that speaks of the gospel being preached by Old Testament prophets. The passage quoted today is one of many that predict the coming of the Messiah. The first mention of the gospel is found, as seen yesterday, in Genesis 3:15. This seed that would crush the head of our enemy is, today, proclaimed to be a king who will “execute justice and righteousness.” This king will defeat his enemies “without compromising His righteousness.”

Matthew 27:51-66; Leviticus 19-20

Matthew is so impressed by the next event in the sequence that he begins the paragraph with “Behold!” (51-56) First, the curtain separating the Holy of Holies was ripped, but ripped from top to bottom! That indicates a supernatural ripping. Have you ever tried to rip a curtain from the top? I daresay it’s next to impossible. There followed an earthquake, which split rocks and opened graves. The bodies of many saints rose from those graves and were seen around the city. I’ve never heard a sermon preached on those two verses. These events were so compelling that the Roman soldiers who were guarding Jesus proclaimed, “Truly this was the Son of God!” (v 54) Following this was the “Burial” of Jesus (57-61). Joseph of Arimathea came and asked Pilate for permission to take the body and bury it. Pilate allowed this. Joseph placed Jesus in his own tomb and rolled a stone in front of the opening. Both Marys sit opposite the tomb while this is happening. They saw where the tomb was. Immediately afterward, the religious leaders went to Pilate and asked to have a Roman guard placed at the tomb, because of Jesus’s claims that he would rise from the grave in three days. The tomb is further “Blocked” (62-66), as the guards seal the tomb and set the guard.

Leviticus 19 begins with “Motivation” for holiness (1-2). The people are to be holy because their God is holy. In verses 3-36, we have a group of “Miscellaneous” laws. These laws deal with a variety of subjects. Verse 37 declares that the observations of these laws is “Mandatory.”

Leviticus 21 lays down a group of laws which will bring “Death Penalty” for the people, if violated (1-21). The Lord states that his people are to be a “Different People” (22-24), rather than following in the wicked steps of the surrounding nations. They are to have “Distinctive Practices” (25-27), being clean and avoiding the abominations of the other nations.

As I live out my daily life, Lord, I pray that your light will shine in me. Let me be a dispenser of your grace to people around me. There are so many things I need to work on in my interaction with others. I pray that your Spirit will remind me, daily, that I am to esteem others as more important than myself and treat them likewise.

I pray for this day. Let it be a smooth day for Christi and me. I pray for another good meeting for Stephanie and her teacher. I pray that Stephanie will get her grades up and get caught up on the amount of work needed to be done in order to finish and graduate.

I pray for our lifehouse meeting tonight, that we might grow in your Spirit as we grow together.

Grace and peace, friends.