Pastor’s Devotions #120

Posted on 2021-03-16 in BLOG, Pastor's Notes, pastors pen | Tags: , , , ,

“Salt”

“Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.” Colossians 4:6
 

In the morning, after brushing my teeth, feeding Tigger and starting the coffee, I then go to my pantry. I reach for the container of “mixed nuts” from Costco, grab a handful, and munch them down to kickstart my digestion. I always buy the “unsalted” nuts because it’s been drummed into me that too much salt is not good for you. Not too long ago, I was given a similar container of nuts from a friend who knows my love of nuts – I know, I’m kind of a nutty guy! The morning that I grabbed a handful from the new container, I couldn’t believe how delicious they tasted. My mouth exploded with flavor. As I looked at the container, then I discovered the difference. These mixed nuts were the “salted” variety.

In St. Paul’s letter to the Colossians, he calls his fellow believers to, “Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.” Salt, in the right dose, brings out wonderful flavors in our food. It is interesting that Paul would use this word picture related to our words and conversations.

Words have great power. Words have power to hurt. And words have power to heal. James 3:9 states, “With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse humankind, who have been made in God’s likeness.” Regularly, we hear, read and listen to words that have been spoken as a soothing balm yet also spoken as a toxic poison.

Paul says that the things he wants to do, he’s not able to do, and the things he doesn’t want to do, that’s what he ends up doing. As human beings, we all are sitting in the same boat. We all want to speak gracious, loving words but many times something happens between desire and delivery.

What if we started each morning with God’s gracious Word to us? What if we grabbed a handful of God’s promises, seasoned with the right amount of salt, to kickstart our direction. God’s Word is a lamp unto our feet, a light for our path, and a much-needed explosion of flavor for our soul.

Consider this gracious Word of God to you: “IN LOVE, he predestined us to be adopted as his sons and daughters through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will – to the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves. IN HIM we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace that he lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding. And HE MADE KNOWN TO YOU the mystery of his will according to his good pleasure, which he purposed in Christ Jesus, to be put into effect when the times will have reached their fulfillment – to bring all things in heaven and on earth together under one head, Jesus Christ.” (Ephesians 1:5-10)

May God’s seasoned Word, flavor your conversations with others.

God Bless You All!
Pastor Mark


Pastor Mark’s Devotions #114

Posted on 2021-01-19 in BLOG, Pastor's Notes, pastors pen | Tags: , , , , , ,

“Inauguration”

“The scroll of the prophet Isaiah was handed to Jesus. Unrolling it, he found the place where it was written…”
(Luke 4:17)

Tomorrow, our nation formally announces Joe Biden as the 46th President of the United States. Arguably, not since the inauguration of our 16th President, Abraham Lincoln, has this transition of power, and our country been in a more contentious condition. Tomorrow’s inauguration will be the ceremony that will formally begin Biden’s Presidency. During this official observance, President Biden is prepared to declare his intentions for the next ten days, next 100 days, and, in general, the next four years.

His speech will include working for greater unity and efforts to heal a divided nation. The White House has released a memo stating that his agenda will include facing four overlapping and compounding crises. He will highlight the pandemic, the economy, the environment, and racial equity.

On the eve of this inauguration, as followers of Jesus Christ, it is timely to consider Jesus’ inauguration. For the past two weeks, during Sunday sermons, I have spoken about the “transfer of power” that Jesus experienced. Jesus initiated this with his parents, Mary and Joseph, at the Temple in Jerusalem. A transfer of power also took place with John the Baptist (earthly power), and from God the Father along with the Holy Spirit (divine power). This transfer formally took place, in what can be considered his “inauguration” at the Jordan River. Jesus’ baptism was the formal ceremony that set forth his public ministry, and officially declared that the Kingdom of God was at hand.

Jesus did not give a speech at this inauguration. The Spirit anointed him. The Father blessed him. Jesus’ agenda and his direction in ministry for the next 3 years, would come at a later date. And it would come with quite contentious reactions. Be it noted that Jesus entered his reign at a most contentious time in general. The conflict between Romans and Jews was palpable. Let alone hateful feelings toward Samaritans, foreigners, outsiders, outcasts, and “sinners”.

But shortly after Jesus receives the baton and blessing during his baptism, it is followed by his triumph over Satan in the wilderness. Finally, the time has come, for Jesus to officially walk upon the public stage. Luke’s Gospel tells us that Jesus returned to Galilee and went to Nazareth, where he had been brought up. On the Sabbath day, we are told, he entered the synagogue, which was his custom. His coming out party was about to be personally and publicly declared. Among friends and neighbors, Jesus highlighted his agenda through the prophet Isaiah. Can you picture the setting? All are gathered at the synagogue. Jesus stands up. He walks to center stage. He is handed the scroll from the prophet Isaiah. He stands before the table and podium. He is in position at the center of the room as religious teachers do. All eyes are glued upon him. He unrolls the sacred scroll. There are no numbers marking the scroll with chapter and verse. But he knows the Word. His finger finds the place. He knows what’s at stake. He knows the plan and his purpose. He is to redeem a divided people. He is to unite God and man. It will not come without a contentious fight. From the prophetic words of Isaiah, inspired 700 years before this moment, Jesus declares his agenda:

    The Spirit or the LORD is upon me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of our LORD’s favor.” (Isaiah 61:1-2)

Through Isaiah, Jesus clearly lays out his five-point agenda. His plan is to reach the poor, the prisoner, the blind, the oppressed – both physically and spiritually – and finally, proclaim God’s grace for all! Jesus then goes silent. He does not speak another word. Quiet takes over the room. Jesus quietly rolls up the scroll and returns it to the attendant. Jesus returns to his seat. All eyes are fastened upon him. Thoughts are racing. Questions hang in the air. Finally, Jesus rips through and shreds the silence and declares, “Today, this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing!” Luke records the reaction from the crowd, “All spoke well of him and were amazed at the gracious words that came from his lips.” They asked, “Isn’t this Joseph’s son?” (Luke 4:22)

But how quickly the emotional tides can turn. Gracious words quickly turn to furious reactions. Emotions runs high. People do not want to be confronted with the truth. Jesus continues his comments to the crowd. He states, “Surely, you will quote this proverb to me: ‘Physician heal yourself! Do here in your hometown what we have heard that you did in Capernaum.” Jesus knows the hearts of his people. He knows the hearts of humanity. He knows that his hometown will want to witness magic tricks just like others, yet their hearts are far from God and far from wanting to know the truth.

Jesus continues, “I tell you the truth, no prophet is accepted in his hometown. I assure you that there were many widows in Israel in Elijah’s time, when the sky was shut for three and a half years and there was a severe famine throughout the land. Yet Elijah was not sent to any of them, but to a widow in Zaraphath, in the region of Sidon. And there were many in Israel with leprosy in the time of Elisha the prophet, yet not one of them was cleansed – only Naaman the Syrian.”

Hearing these confrontational words from their home boy, the hometown crowd now turns into a mob. They are enraged and incensed. They demand, “Who is this common carpenter’s son that has the gall to condemn us with his words?” The mob drives him out of the synagogue and out of his own hometown. It would not be the last time. They took him to the brow of the hill, in order to throw him down off the cliff. What was it that sparked such rage? What did he say?

Jesus called the crowd, his friends and neighbors, to examine their hearts. He wanted them to consider their inner motives. But they would have none of it. They returned his call regarding truth with defensiveness, resistance, and violence. Their hearts led them to the desire to kill the messenger.

Then Luke records, “But Jesus walked right through the crowd and went on his way.” (Luke 4:30)

Jesus did not flinch when the mob raged. Jesus was focused upon his obedience to his Father and the purpose for his arrival. Jesus would face many other crowds throughout his 3 years of ministry. Some would embrace him and some would blaspheme him and one would even betray him. But he knew his purpose. He knew his Father’s plan, and he would walk in accordance to the will of his Father.

I don’t know whether you will celebrate tomorrow’s inauguration or you will have great concern regarding the ceremony for our 46th President. I would expect that, either way, you had the opposite emotions, and felt differently four years ago. And four years from now, where do you think your feelings will find you?  

As Christians, let our eyes be fastened upon the person and agenda of our Lord and Savior. He is still standing at the table and at the podium, announcing the same five-point agenda. As he has fulfilled his redemptive purpose, now he calls you and I forward to declare the same. Some will embrace us, others will be enraged. Jesus has already warned us of this. He challenges us to look within and examine our own hearts, examine our motives. And he has called us to carry out his agenda – those needing to hear His Good News. He has come for those who are poor, and in prison, and have lost their reason for living and are suffering from oppression. We are here to announce, as St. Paul states, “Christ has come to set us all free.” (Galatians 5:1)   

For now, may we continue to put our trust in God’s Inspired Word. Titus 3:1 tells us, “Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and to show true humility toward all people.”

Let us pray for those who are stepping into governmental authority tomorrow: President Biden, Vice President Harris, their Cabinet, Congress and other government leaders. May we be a people who mightily pick up the baton of prayer. May we engage this worthy weapon of God, and call upon the Holy Spirit to work revival across our divided nation.

The way of revival? Remember: Love Wins! Love ALWAYS Wins!

And with God’s help, may we walk through angry crowds, as our Savior did, because our ultimate allegiance is to Jesus Christ, and our obedience is to Him alone!

God Bless You All! 
Pastor Mark


Pastor Mark’s Devotions #103

Posted on 2020-09-29 in BLOG, Devotions, Pastor's Notes, pastors pen | Tags: , , , , , , ,

“Flyby”

“When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” Luke 21:28

This past Thursday, Asteroid 2020 SW flew by planet earth at a distance of approximately 17, 556 miles. According to the Virtual Telescope Project, when an asteroid does a flyby from a distance less than 20,000 miles, it is considered an “extreme close encounter”. This asteroid was first discovered on September 18th by the Mt. Lemmon Observatory in Arizona, but it has been doing regular planet earth flybys since 1975. The size of this asteroid is estimated to be about 14 to 32 feet in diameter. According to NASA, potentially hazardous “NEO’s” (Near Earth Objects) are defined as space objects that come within 0.05 astronomical units (4.6 million miles) and are more than 460 feet in diameter. It is estimated that there are more than 18,000 NEO’s doing systematic flybys. Considering a wake-up call is given for any object 4 million miles away – and we just had a flyby 0.00381652 of that distance – it gives me pause to ponder and reflect. What do you think? It is better to be oblivious of the event or to be made aware?

As I continued reading about this NEO, I found out that there happened to be another asteroid that flew by our planet in August. It was the size of a pick-up truck and it flew by 0.00043478 of that red flagged distance from earth. For you earthlings, that translates to 2,000 miles. Yes, we had a Dodge Ram 4×4 asteroid that flew by our planet, separated by roughly the distance between Seattle to Detroit, Michigan. In space terms, it missed us by less than the hair on my chinny, chin, chin. The most interesting thing about this news, is that the F-150 Crew Cab 4×4 long bed rock was not picked up until it actually passed by us. Huh? Yes, NASA happened to look in their rearview mirror and saw a rock moving faster than a speeding bullet away from us. I guess they missed that one! It makes me wonder a bit about how many other rocks we might be missing. Granted, they are searching a pretty massive starry sky. And honestly, I’m not going to lose any sleep over it, but it makes for a good wire on which to hang a devotion.

Consider this; what if an 18-wheel Kenworth triple trailer truck with additional sleeping quarters came in on a collision course with earth? That could be a bit troubling. Give or take a few mega tons of explosive power, a Tyrannosaurus Rex could probably tell us something about that – but with his pea sized brain, he probably could not have appreciated the magnitude of the moment or the breadth of its consequences. Now, let’s just keep this conversation under our breath and down to a whisper, as we are still grinding out the miles of this malevolent year, 2020. 

But a month ago, each of us rose from our beds, made coffee, checked our emails, stopped at the gas station – keeping distance – and made our way down some familiar road – with masks on – all the while, unbeknownst to us, a missile from outer space, missed us by an astronomical unit barely the thickness of a string of hair, and everyone – literally everyone, on earth was absolutely clueless!

2,000 YEARS ago (a unit of TIME that is barely measurable in astronomical terms- perhaps comparable to the blink of an eye) Jesus was intent on making his followers aware of another collision. He was basically the only one on the planet in the know. He said that something was on its way that would strike our planet, and cause such a cataclysmic event, it will re-order everything as we know it. The timing is uncertain, but its inevitability is without question. He wanted everyone clued in. The news probably sounded like Greek to all who heard the message, but interestingly enough, its meaning can be found rooted in Greek language. The Greek word is, “palingenesis”. No, this does not refer to Sarah Palin reading the first book of the Bible. But the word, “genesis” does point the way. The word points to a new “beginning”. The word means “regeneration”, “renewal”, “restoration” and “renovation”. This categorical reorienting of space and time will explode upon the scene for all to see, and no one will miss. This event will not be a benign flyby, nor a near miss, marked by deep breaths and ringing of hands. All people will be made aware, all nations will be pulled together, and all hearts will be called forward. Jesus will return in power and glory. Not all will be ready but all will see him clearly.

Listen to Jesus as he describes this cataclysmic moment recorded in Luke chapter 21:

               “There will be signs in the sun, moon and stars. On the earth, nations will be in anguish and perplexity at the roaring and tossing of the sea. Men will faint from terror, apprehensive of what is coming on the world, for the heavenly bodies will be shaken. At that time, they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. When these things take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” (Luke21:25-28)

Rather than worry, Jesus has revealed this coming event in order that all people would be ready! How does one get ready for a cataclysmic event that will change space and time? As a jailer cried out to Paul and Silas, in a Philippian prison during a seismic event that left ground shaking and hearts quaking  – he cried out, “What must I do to be saved?” Paul responded, “Believe in the Lord, Jesus Christ, and you will be saved – you and your household.” (Acts 16:31)

Paul pointed to the Rock that would save the world, not destroy it. He pointed to the One, outside our universe who entered our broken world, in order that our reality would experience a “re – genesis”. He pointed to the One who will make all things new – heart and soul – time and space – You and Me!

This is too Good of News to let flyby. Lift up your heads. Your redemption is drawing near!

Yours in Christ,

Pastor Mark


Pastor Mark’s Devotions, July 23

Posted on 2020-07-23 in BLOG, Devotions, Pastor's Notes, pastors pen | Tags: , , , , ,

“Hope”

“We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.” Hebrews 6:19

 

There is a nautical term used in the sailing world today that is called “kedging.” A kedge anchor is used when a ship is grounded or found in turbulent seas. Sailors will row the kedge anchor as far as they can from the ship in the general direction they wish to move to. They drop the kedge anchor into the sea. Once the anchor finds purchase on the bottom, the sailors on board begin to operate the winch and pull their way towards the anchor. This is known as kedging.

We don’t normally think of moving towards an anchor. The anchor often represents the past. It holds us back. Sometimes, however, the anchor is our future. We move towards it. In especially turbulent times, we need to pull ourselves into the future with the anchor of past revelation. The past then becomes the only means into the future.

The author of Hebrews declares in Hebrews 6:18-19, “We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.” And what is this hope that is kedging our way into the future? It is Jesus, who has entered into the inner sanctuary, behind the curtain, on our behalf, to become our high priest and provide the sacrifice that gives life to our souls.

Many people, Christian or not, attempt to anchor themselves to what seems like stable ground. People will link themselves to career, finances, friendships, health or home. But when turbulent times come, the hold breaks free and they are thrown by the tossing waves. It is easy to see so many being tossed in the midst of these turbulent times. Perhaps you might be getting thrown around and feeling a bit hopeless. If so, take a close look at your anchor line. To what have you anchored yourself? Storms can be life threatening, but they can also be opportunities to recognize what needs to be abandoned and what needs to be held.

 Anchor yourself to Jesus. He is our hope, firm and secure, for today and into our future.

YOU CAN STOP HERE AND GO ABOUT YOUR DAY.  BUT IF YOU ARE HUNGRY FOR MORE, READ ON…

This week, I’ve been reading C. S. Lewis’ Mere Christianity. Chapter 10 is entitled, “Hope.”  If, today, you feel in danger of losing your way and fear drifting out into open water, perhaps C. S. Lewis can anchor you to the hope we have in Jesus Christ and pull you in toward safer shores and your certain future.

C.S. Lewis writes;

“Hope is one of the Theological virtues. This means that a continual looking forward to the eternal world is not (as some modern people think) a form of escapism or wishful thinking, but one of the things a Christian is meant to do. It does not mean that we are to leave the present world as it is. If you read history you will find the Christians who did most for the present world were just those who thought most of the next. The Apostles themselves, who set on foot the conversion of the Roman Empire, the great men who built up the Middle Ages, the English Evangelicals who abolished the Slave Trade, all left their mark on Earth, precisely because their minds were occupied with Heaven. It is since Christians have largely ceased to think of the other world that they have become so ineffective in this. Aim at Heaven and you will get earth ‘thrown in’; aim at earth and you will get neither. It seems a strange rule, but something like it can be seen at work in other matters. Health is a great blessing, but the moment you make health one of your main, direct objects you start becoming a crank and imagining there is something wrong with you. You are only likely to get health provided you want other things more – food, games, work, fun, open air. In the same way, we shall never save civilization as long as civilization is our main object. We must learn to want something else even more.

Most of us find it very difficult to want ‘Heaven’ at all – except in so far as ‘Heaven’ means meeting again our friends who have died. One reason for this difficulty is that we have not been trained: our whole education tends to fix our minds on this world. Another reason is that when the real want for Heaven is present in us, we do not recognize it. Most people, if they had really learned to look into their own hearts, would know that they do want, and want acutely, something that cannot be had in this world. There are all sorts of things in this world that offer to give it to you, but they never quite keep their promise. The longings which arise in us when we first fall in love, or first think of some foreign country, or first take up some subject that excites us, are longings which no marriage, no travel, no learning, can really satisfy. I am not now speaking of what would be ordinarily called unsuccessful marriages, or holidays, or learned careers. I am speaking of the best possible ones. There was something we grasped at, in that first moment of longing, which just fades away in the reality. I think everyone knows what I mean. The wife/husband may be a good spouse, and the hotels and scenery may have been excellent, and chemistry may be a very interesting job: but something has evaded us. Now there are two wrong ways of dealing with this fact, and one right one.

  1. The Fool’s Way – He/she puts the blame on the things themselves. He/she goes on all their life thinking that if only they tried another woman/man, or went for a more expensive holiday, or whatever it is, then, this time, he/she really would catch the mysterious something we are all after. Most of the bored, disconnected, rich people in the world are of this type. They spend their whole lives trotting from woman to woman, man to man, from continent to continent, from hobby to hobby, always thinking that the latest is ‘the Real Thing’ at last, and always disappointed.

 

  1. The Way of the Disillusioned ‘Sensible Man’ – He soon decides that the whole thing is moonshine. “Of course”, he says, “one feels like that when one’s young. But by the time you get to my age you’ve given up chasing the rainbow’s end.” And so he settles down and learns not to expect too much and represses the part of himself which used, as he would say, “To cry for the moon”. This is, of course, a much better way than the first, and makes a man much happier, and less of a nuisance to society. It tends to make him a prig (he is apt to be rather superior towards what he calls ‘adolescents’), but, on the whole, he runs along fairly comfortably. It would be the best line we could take if man did not live forever. But supposing infinite happiness really is there, waiting for us? Supposing one really can reach the rainbow’s end? In that case it would be a pity to find out too late (a moment after death) that by our supposed ‘common sense’ we had stifled in ourselves the faculty of enjoying it.

 

  1. The Christian Way – The Christian says, “Creatures are not born with desires unless satisfaction for those desires exists. A baby feels hunger; well, there is such a thing as food. A duckling wants to swim; well, there is such a thing as water. Men/women feel sexual desire; well, there is such a thing as sex. If I can find myself a desire which no experience in this world can satisfy, the most probable explanation is that I was made for another world.  If none of my earthly pleasures satisfy it, that does not prove that the universe is fraud. Probably earthly pleasures were never meant to satisfy it, but only to arouse it, to suggest the real If that is so, I must take care, on the one hand, never to despise, or be unthankful for, these earthly blessings, and on the other, never to mistake them for the something else of which they are only a kind of copy, or echo, or mirage. I must keep alive in myself the desire for my true country, which I shall not find till after death; I must never let it get snowed under or turned aside; I must make it the main object of life to press on to that other country and to help others to do the same.”

There is no need to be worried by facetious people who try to make the Christian hope of ‘Heaven’ ridiculous by saying they do not want ‘to spend eternity playing harps’. The answer to such people is that if they cannot understand books written for grown-ups, they should not talk about them. All the scriptural imagery (harps, crowns, gold, etc.) is, of course, a merely symbolic attempt to express the inexpressible. Musical instruments are mentioned because for many people (not all) music is the thing known in the present life which most strongly suggest ecstasy and infinity. Crowns are mentioned to suggest the fact that those who are united with God in eternity share His splendor and power and joy. Gold is mentioned to suggest the timelessness of Heaven (gold does not rust) and the preciousness of it. People who take these symbols literally might as well think that when Christ told us to be like doves, He meant that we were to lay eggs.

Jesus promised, “I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.” (John 14:2-3) Jesus is our hope and our anchor for us both now and forever. Let someone else lay the eggs!

God Bless You All!    Pastor Mark


Pastor Mark’s Devotions, June 11

Posted on 2020-06-11 in BLOG, Devotions, Pastor's Notes, pastors pen | Tags: , , , , , , ,

“Attractive Conversations”

“Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone.” Colossians 4:6

 

People are asking big questions these days. With talk of paradigm shifts and pivot points, people are wondering what pandemics and protests might mean on the larger scale. Conversations continue to stir about second waves and security breaches which add to the rising levels of anxiety.

Paul says in Colossians 4:5-6, “Live wisely among those who are not believers, and make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversations be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone.”

Paul says, “Live wisely.” Another translation states, “Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders.” The word, “wise,” can also be translated, “to have skill.” Paul states this in the context of asking for prayer that a door may be opened to those who do not know the message of Christ. So, Paul is exhorting the church to have skills as it deals with outsiders in sharing the Gospel. How are we to be wise (skilled)? Perhaps picking up on the words from James (in an earlier devotion), that we are to be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry. (James 1:19) If emotions run high, and we, as Christians, are able to demonstrate a strong “EQ” (emotional quotient) – we will show ourselves to have skills. A high “EQ” gives a person the skills to not overact but remain in control and calmly discuss potentially highly charged topics. When we can display emotional control, it gives greater opportunity for the message of Christ to be heard and received.

Paul also says that our conversation should be gracious and attractive to others. So, what does attractive conversation look like? Perhaps it is easier to point to what it is not. Attractive conversation is not blaming, defensive, demeaning or intimidating. Rather, attractive conversation will take on qualities such as; respect, honoring, valuing, honesty and transparency. Perhaps the greatest model for attractive conversation was Jesus. People of all make and models were drawn to listen to him. They were drawn into conversation with him. They asked questions, some had honest challenges and wanted further clarity to his teaching. Jesus honored each question, he listened, and then he also gave honest, respectful, and at times, direct answers.

How is it possible to give a right response to everyone? Paul begins the previous paragraph with the words, “Devote yourselves to prayer with an alert mind and a thankful heart.” (Colossians 4:2) As always, Paul points back to the Lord. Strength, wisdom, compassion, understanding, and revelation are all qualities that depend upon God. As we humbly seek, pray and turn to God, He is able to use every opportunity TO TEACH US. Then as we grow in understanding, we can calmly and respectfully with humble confidence share the message of Christ.

Here are two of the biggest questions people tend to ask;

  1. Why am I here?
  2. What is the purpose of my life?

The direct answer to that question is;

  1. You have been created to be in relationship with God.
  2. The purpose of your life is to live for His glory.

These two brief answers can perhaps be the beginning of a deeply gracious and attractive conversation involving Jesus Christ and the Gospel.

May the Holy Spirit continue to guide us into greater skill as He gives us opportunity to share the Gospel.

In Christ,

Pastor Mark

 

 
   
   
   
   

 


Pastor Mark’s Devotions, June 9

Posted on 2020-06-09 in BLOG, Devotions, Pastor's Notes, pastors pen | Tags: , , , ,

“Treasure”

“The Kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field.”  Matthew 13:44

Are you a buried treasure enthusiast? As a young boy, I had dreams of finding buried treasure. Like Indiana Jones, in the jungles of the Amazon, I dreamed of finding a treasure that had been hidden ages ago. I do not think that I am alone. Over the years, there have been people who have traveled the world in search for treasure. They have searched mountains, oceans, tombs, and ancient cities for riches. But there have also been stories of people digging up gold coins right in their backyard. Others have found treasure using metals detector on nearby sandy beaches. And some have even found treasure buried among trinkets at a local thrift store. The idea of finding hidden treasure certainly can get one’s blood pumping.   

For the past decade, thousands of treasure seekers have been pumped to travel into the Rocky Mountains in search of a special-announced treasure. This past weekend, it was reported that the treasure had finally been found. After ten years, the buried treasure trove had finally been unearthed. The name of the man who found the treasure is being kept secret, for now. The bronze chest was believed to have contained not only gold but rubies, emeralds and diamonds as well, estimated to be worth over $1 million dollars.

Ten years ago, Forrest Fenn, an 89-year-old art and antiquities collector, created the treasure hunt. The genesis for the hunt was generated from news that he only had a short time to live. So, he created an adventure for anyone who truly wanted to seek after an honest buried treasure. He hid the treasure in the Rocky Mountains and he left clues leading to the location in a 24-line poem, published in Fenn’s 2010 autobiography, “The Thrill of the Chase.”

It is estimated that over 350,000 people, from all over the world, have hunted for this treasure. Some people quit their jobs, and some even died on the trail, in their quest for riches.

It is amazing what one will do in search for treasure. Back in the goldrush days of the 1840’s, people sold homes, left families, and rolled the dice in hopes that they would get their hands on some of that buried treasure.

In Matthew chapter 13, Jesus talks about buried treasure. He tells a parable about the Kingdom of heaven being like that of buried treasure. He says, “The Kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy, went and sold all that he had and bought that field.”

The genesis of God’s treasure hunt began in a Garden. In the beginning, the treasure was obvious, available and enjoyed by Adam and Eve as they walked, communed and fellowshipped with God. Suddenly, with the onslaught of sin, that treasure seemed to go into hiding. Humanity was no longer, openly seeking after God. They were distracted by other earthly things. Riches of other kinds caught their attention. Since then, the world has been on a chase, wanting riches but digging in the wrong places.     

Jesus entered the chase and tried to highlight the trail. Sometimes his teaching seemed to conceal the path. But if people tracked with him, they would come to know the Way. He also led people to consider the idea of rolling the dice – to go all in. But in this treasure search, there would be no gambling on this roll. For all the risk was upon the one who created the search. God guaranteed a payout, eternal riches, for anyone who would roll the dice on his Son, Jesus Christ. And when the treasures of Christ would be unearthed, the treasure seeker would exhale a cry of celebration and would be willing to go all in, and sell off all other earthly riches because of the joy in the find.

St. Paul describes this joyful discovery as he says, “But whatever was to my profit, I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things.” (Philippians 3:7-8)

It is pretty amazing that over 350,000 people would canvas and scale mountains in search of financial treasure. Yet, the eternal treasures found in God lay buried right under our feet. Actually, the treasure is found right at the feet of Jesus.  We can find this treasure whatever our location, position or posture in life because Jesus has humbled himself as a servant. He makes himself available to us, whoever we are, wherever we are. When a treasure seeker comes to Him with an open, honest heart, true riches are given. And when that joy is received, all else pales in comparison.

While some of us might still hold out a slim hope to hit those lottery numbers, or dream of digging up those dusty gold coins beneath our basement, let us encourage one another to continue to desire and discover the eternal riches that God desperately wants to unearth in us. These are riches that neither moth nor rust nor anything else in all of creation will be able to destroy.

Someone unearthed the true treasure of God’s grace and described it this way:

God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense.

This conversation also has brought to mind the beautiful hymn: “Jesus Priceless Treasure”.

1 Jesus, priceless treasure,
source of purest pleasure,
friend most sure and true:
long my heart was burning,
fainting much and yearning,
thirsting, Lord, for you.
Yours I am, O spotless Lamb,
so will I let nothing hide you,
seek no joy beside you!

2 Let your arms enfold me:
those who try to wound me
cannot reach me here.
Though the earth be shaking,
every heart be quaking,
Jesus calms my fear.
Fires may flash and thunder crash;
yea, though sin and hell assail me,
Jesus will not fail me.

3 Hence, all worldly treasure!
Jesus is my pleasure,
Jesus is my choice.
Hence, all empty glory!
What to me your story
told with tempting voice?
Pain or loss or shame or cross
shall not from my Savior move me,
since he chose to love me.

4 Banish thoughts of sadness,
for the Lord of gladness,
Jesus, enters in;
though the clouds may gather,
those who love the Savior
still have peace within.
Though I bear much sorrow here,
still in you lies purest pleasure,
Jesus, priceless treasure!  

God Bless You All,

Pastor Mark


Pastor Mark’s Devotions, June 4

Posted on 2020-06-04 in BLOG, Devotions, Pastor's Notes, pastors pen | Tags: , , , , , , ,

“A Crisis of Faith”

“If we are faithless, he will remain faithful, for he cannot disown himself.” 2 Timothy 2:13

Last week, Jon Steingard, lead singer for the Christian band, Hawk Nelson, confessed on an Instagram post, that he no longer believed in God. Jon said, “After growing up in a Christian home, being a pastor’s kid, playing and singing in a Christian band, and having the word, ‘Christian’ in front of most of the things in my life – I am now finding that I no longer believe in God.” He cites questions about God, the Bible, and his upbringing and said that he can no longer lead songs like, “Drops in the Ocean” in good conscience.

While his confession is troubling, it is important to hear his bandmates response. In their own statement, they declare, “We are called to love one another unconditionally, as God loves us.” And they also said, “Our mission is to inspire and encourage all people with the truth that God is for them and not against them – now this is for one of our own.” What a wonderful expression of love and brotherhood for a friend who is struggling, searching, still seeking to know truth.

As Christians, looking in from the outside, we can easily cast judgments, be angry or share disappoint in Jon’s words. But if we pause and listen closely, there can be a lot we can learn. The reality is that many believers are one crisis away from seemingly throwing in the spiritual towel. If one more unexplainable tragedy occurs, or just one more problem shows up to tip the scale, many feel ready to be done with their belief in God.

So, what is to be done in the midst of a crisis of faith? I would suggest it is very similar to what we are being called to do in the midst of this pandemic and in the face of these peaceful protests. We are called to come along side those who are struggling. We are to remind them that they are not alone. We are to listen and remain open to understand their story. And we are to understand that deeper understanding can emerge in the midst of a crisis.  

Listening more closely to Jon’s words, he makes some significant statements. He expresses the desire to finally be open, honest, vulnerable and transparent. These are important qualities to work through a crisis. Up until now, he has kept his doubts, fears, and questions, hidden in his heart. Nothing good comes from hiding. Adam and Eve hid from God in the Garden and nothing good came from it. Jon’s honest confession opens the door to address his crisis of faith and the possibility of discovering a deeper experience with God.

Jon also states, “I want to be transparent with you all – and also open to having my heart changed in the future. He goes on to say, “I am not looking for a debate at all – just a chance to share my story in the hopes some good can come from it. I love you all.”

Wow, Jon makes some amazing comments. Along with transparency, he says that he wants his heart to be open to change. He is saying that he really wants to believe that there is a God, but he just can’t see it right now. He also says that he isn’t looking for someone to fix him or have a question and answer quiz session. His simple hope is that by being honest, something good can happen.

Jon is confessing a lot of different things in his post. One thing is for certain, he is wrestling with spiritual things. Wrestling is a good thing. Wrestling in the wilderness is the place where Jacob, in the Old Testament met God. In that wrestling, Jacob had an experience with God. His name and heart were changed and he became a different person.   

Jon then makes the most revealing statement. He says, “I’m actually open to the idea that God is there.” But he says, “I suspect if he is there, he is very different than what I was taught.”

With those words, Jon just gave a window into the hearts of many people. Most people actually believe that there is a God. But what they have been taught from the Bible has little relevance for their life.  

Hopefully, his bandmates and/or his close Christian friends will allow him to share his story. Hopefully, they will ask questions about the kind of Christianity he was taught. He has already confessed that he is open to God but he needs someone to help guide him in knowing and/or rediscovering the truth about the faith. Someone needs to clarify that everything about Christianity centers itself in a relationship with Jesus Christ.

Over the years, I have heard many stories about people growing up in Christian homes that have missed on the centerpiece of our faith – namely, Jesus Christ. Sure, we teach about Jesus being born in Bethlehem, doing some miracles and that he died on a cross. But many people have not been led into a living relationship with Jesus Christ. Christianity can easily become a list of do’s and don’ts and evaluating faith based upon church attendance and activities. If this happens, Christianity simply becomes another legalistic religion, centered upon human good works, that will eventually kill the spirit. It could be that this is where Jon finds himself.  

Most people who have left the church and/or Christianity is because they were taught information about God but not led into a relationship with God. We can gain much wisdom about God, but still be vulnerable to a crisis because we still might not know him. Jesus said, “I am the Good Shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me.” John 10:14. This “knowing” of which Jesus speaks, is about a personal experience with the living God.

In the book of Ephesians, Paul prays that God would give, both wisdom and revelation to the believers in Ephesus. He says, “I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better.” (Ephesians 1:17)

Wisdom is not enough. Revelation leaves a mark on the heart in which the Holy Spirit opens up an encounter with the living God. Fully knowing God through wisdom and revelation provides the sturdy foundation from which a life of faith is built. But even in that, be aware that crisis’ of faith can still occur and that is why we need brothers and sisters in the faith to walk with us, and talk with us, and pray for us in our times of need.  

Consider King Solomon. He was the wisest of all the kings of Israel. God gave Solomon all the wisdom the world had to offer. Solomon mesmerized crowds and even the Queen of Sheba with his insights. He spelled out some of his comprehensive wisdom in the book of Proverbs. God chose him to build His Temple in Jerusalem. God gave him peace among the nations. Yet Solomon had a crisis of faith. Solomon lost perspective. In Ecclesiastes Solomon wrote, “God has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men.” (3:1) Yet somewhere along the line, his wisdom  about God did not sustain him. He began the book of Ecclesiastes with the confession, “Meaningless! Meaningless!” says the Teacher, “Utter meaningless! Everything is meaningless.” He came to this conclusion that all was vanity after spending his life in pursuit of knowledge, pleasure, splendor and work. Yet in all of it, he lost his pursuit of God and all his efforts left him empty.

Solomon had been given plenty of wisdom. What he needed was revelation. What he needed was relationship. Solomon needed close companions to help guide him back to faith in Yahweh, the living God.

The good news is that Jon Steingard has a band of brothers who are standing with him, praying for him and who are wanting to point him to the truth of Jesus.

As people come to us in the midst of a crisis, may we be a church that is able to guide people to the centerpiece of our faith – that vital relationship with Jesus Christ.

If one of our family members has a crisis of faith, let us not fear. Rather, let us see it as a red flag of opportunity. Doubts that were once hidden are now being exposed. That which is troubling is now able to be healed. That which is questioned has the opportunity to be answered. And that which is unknown – can become an invitation to know the living God on a deeply personal, life transforming level.

May God prepare each of us, in our own crises of faith, to take us deeper with Him.

God Bless You!

Pastor Mark


Pastor Mark’s Devotions, May 28

Posted on 2020-05-28 in BLOG, Devotions, Pastor's Notes, pastors pen | Tags: , , , ,

“Ride On”

“Sing to God, sing praises to his name, extol him who rides on the clouds –                                                   his name is the LORD, Yahweh – and rejoice before him.” Psalm 68:4

This morning I went on a ride with James and Jon. Two other disciples of Jesus rode along as well.       

No, I was not dreaming, my gluteus maximus is clearly telling me that this ride was real. James reached out to me earlier in the week and invited me on a motorcycle ride. Three others heard about the call. No, it was not Peter, Andrew, and Bartholomew. Rather, they were, brother Bruce, Dave and Jon. So, we 5 disciples met on Thursday at 8 a.m., and rode off from the church.

As we rode away, Jon took the lead. He knew the way. We were going to ride the backroads to Bellingham. We had been on these roads before but not since last summer. It was a beautiful morning. This was my first ride of the season. We rode up Chuckanut Drive (State Route 11) and it was as if we owned the road. Not another car was seen on that entire stretch of pavement. The quiet twists and turns under the canopy of trees was awesome. A cool breeze accompanied us the entire way. We had been this way before, so it was fun to relive the familiar view. We stopped at Starbucks in Fairhaven for coffee. After the break, we talked about the route for our return trip. If I had led, I would have simply returned the way we came. But as we left the parking lot, James took the lead. He took a left at the light.

We went under the freeway and suddenly, for me, we were riding in unfamiliar territory. I had not been on this road before. At the top of the hill, we rode past Lake Padden. The road opened up and twisted around a hill and down into open country. James led us along the south end of Lake Sammish, through Alger, passed Avalon and brought us back into Sedro Wooley. I’ve lived in this area for over 12 years, but this was the first time down this small stretch of road. As we entered back into familiar territory, brother Dave rode up alongside me and declared, “THAT WAS FUN!!” To which I couldn’t have agreed more.

The familiar roads are enjoyable. But today, I was reminded how enjoyable the unfamiliar road can be a well. The key is appreciating the ride for the sake of the ride – and sharing that ride with the people you care about.

Back in the day, Jesus went on a ride with his 12 disciples. He rode into Jerusalem for the sake of the ride. And yes, he cared about his disciples. The crowds were singing and shouting, “Blessed is the One who comes in the name of the Lord.” This was a familiar road. Jesus had entered Jerusalem many times before. He knew the pavement. He also had entered towns and villages to excited and exuberant crowds. But after a rest stop on Thursday in an upper room; after food and fellowship, and drink, and much more, Jesus was about to ride down an unfamiliar road. For the moment, Judas would take the lead. He would leave the parking lot and take a left at the light. For Judas, this left would lead him to destruction. For Jesus, it was an unfamiliar road that would lead him to the cross yet lead us to salvation. He had been destined, forever, to ride down this road. For a few days, this road would test Jesus to his limits. But through this most difficult pain and ride of suffering, the road would open up for others who would come behind him. These followers would experience the ride of their lifetime! Jesus’ disciples would continue to ride down unfamiliar roads. Some stretches filled with enormous joy. Other stretches fill with great challenges and suffering. But they all knew the meaning behind the ride. They also knew that they did not ride alone. They rode with the love of their Savior, and the power of the Holy Spirit. They rode together. They also were willing to share that road with whoever wanted to ride along.

Soon, we will be allowed to get back on the roads. We all will not be riding motorcycles, but we will be returning to familiar experiences and memories. We will ride these roads, taking deep breaths and appreciating more fully what we all once had. We will realize that we have taken much too much for granted, and recognize that our days can be fleeting. But, let us not just ride down the familiar roads. If Jesus leads, He will inevitably take us down unfamiliar paths as well. He will take us places that we have not been before. He will lead us through twists and turns so that we can more fully appreciate the ride. He will show us beauty that we have never experienced before. And yes, at times, he will reveal some sacrifices that will have to be made, and that are necessary to travel that road.

Once you experience the glory of the open road, it continues to call you back. And that beckoning will include both the familiar and unfamiliar.

I look forward to continuing our ride together – perhaps it is a road less traveled!

Hey, James and Jon – thanks for taking the lead on our bikes! I’ll follow you guys any day.

God Bless You All,

Pastor Mark

P.S. – As this devotion was forming in my head during our ride. This familiar hymn continued to ring in my ears. I want to share it with you today.

Ride on! Ride on in Majesty!

  1. Ride on, ride on in majesty! Hark! All the tribes hosanna cry.

O Savior meek, pursue your road. With palms and scattered garments strowed.

  1. Ride on, ride on in majesty! In lowly pomp ride on to die;

O Christ, your triumphs now begin. O’er captive death and conquered sin.

  1. Ride on, ride on in majesty! The winged squadrons of the sky.

Look down with sad and wond’ring eyes, to see th’approaching sacrifice.

  1. Ride on, ride on in majesty! Your last and fiercest strife is night;

The Father on his sapphire throne, expects his own anointed Son.

  1. Ride on, ride on in majesty! In lowly pomp ride on to die;

bow your meek head to mortal pain, then take, O God, your pow’r and reign.


Pastor Mark’s Devotions, May 26

Posted on 2020-05-26 in BLOG, Devotions, Pastor's Notes, pastors pen | Tags: , , , , , , ,

“Loaves and Fish”

Jesus replied, “They do not need to go away. You give them something to eat.” Matthew 14:16

 

Midway through the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus is going to test the disciples understanding of God’s Kingdom. In chapter 14, Jesus withdraws, by boat, to a private place after hearing about John the Baptist’s beheading at the hand of King Herod. Crowds of people follow him on foot. When he lands on shore, the people are waiting for him. He has compassion for them and heals their sick. As evening approaches, the disciples approach Jesus with a concern. They say to him, “This is a remote place, and it’s already getting late. Send the crowds away, so they can go to the villages and buy themselves some food.” (Matthew 14:15)

Jesus responds, “They do not need to go away. You give them something to eat.” The disciples answer him, “We have here only five loaves of bread and two fish.” (Matthew 14:16)

At this halfway point, as there are 28 chapters in Matthew’s Gospel, you could almost call this, the story’s, “Halftime.” Jesus is looking for rest. Up to this point, he has been preaching, teaching and healing the sick. He has called his 12 disciples and has been carrying on his mission non-stop. In this moment, Jesus wants a break. But the crowds don’t back down. Instead, they track him down. Then when evening comes, and the disciples come with their concern, Jesus moves in to see about their understanding of the Kingdom. Keep in mind, that at this point, Jesus has already sent his disciples out on an internship. In chapter 10, Matthew records Jesus giving the disciples authority over evil spirits and their ability to heal every disease and sickness. He sent them out without any money or supplies. Jesus said, “As you go, preach this message: ‘the kingdom of heaven is near.’ Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those who have leprosy, rive out demons. Freely you have received, freely give.” The disciples have already experienced God’s supply in the midst of scarcity. Then, in chapter 13, Jesus continues to teach about the Kingdom of God. He speaks to them in parables and compares the kingdom to a Sower and seed. He goes on and uses the examples of weeds, mustard seed, yeast, and a net, to further teach kingdom principles.

Now with a throng of thousands surrounding them and with virtually no food whatsoever, Jesus challenges the interns to provide food for the crowd. They still have much to learn. Instead of turning to Jesus, trusting him to provide, they despair over their tiny supply of bread and fish. This test exposes that the Kingdom has not yet penetrated the hearts of his students. They will need the second half of the mission to grow more fully into the knowledge of God’s power. But truthfully, the full experience of God’s power will not be fully realized until the event of Pentecost and the pouring out of the Holy Spirit. It is then that the disciples will walk in boldness and confidence, knowing God’s Kingdom power and provision.

Last night I watched a video clip on YouTube entitled, “The Story Behind, ‘The Chosen’.” Dallas Jenkins is the director and producer for this Gospel series.  As the story goes, Dallas Jenkins was an up and coming Hollywood producer. He had been noticed by a number of powerful people in the film industry who wanted to support him. He thought this was his great moment. They produced a film entitled, “The Resurrection of Gavin Stone.” This film was going to launch his career to new heights. The film did not do well at the box office. In fact, Jenkins recalled that the film crashed and burned so mightily that he believed his future in Hollywood was over. He returned home to lick his wounds. While he and his wife prayed and sought God for greater understanding in this disaster, they both were drawn to Matthew’s account of Jesus feeding the 5,000. They didn’t really understand the deeper significance of the story, but they knew God was wanting to reveal something to them.

Jenkins recalled that the very same night, while he was at his desk at 3:00 am (I might add, the fourth watch of the night), he received a text message. It was from a person he called, “an acquaintance.” He had not spoken to this person in quite some time and would not really even call him a friend. Jenkins said that this text arrived completely out of the blue and read,

“Remember, it’s not YOUR job to feed the 5,000. Your job is to bring your bread and fish.”

 Jenkins was dumbfounded and replied,

“What led you to say that?”

The return text said,

“Wasn’t me – I felt led to tell you that right now.”

Jenkins testified that in this most dark moment of his life, God met him at 3 am. He said that this moment would mark his life and he would never be the same. He says that he approaches everyday with great peace, knowing that it is not his job to feed the 5,000. His job is simply to provide what loaves and fish he has. If he does that, he trusts God to do the rest.

From this new enlightened kingdom principle, Jenkins entered into “The Chosen” series with complete trust. He and his crew would bring what they have, and God would do the miracle. Since that time, they have witnessed God’s miraculous provision over and over again. They have faced many untold challenges, yet God has continued to provide, often at the eleventh hour. They are currently preparing for season 2, with the hope of filming 8 seasons. Over 33 million people around the world have visited the site and more are viewing it every day. They are the number one publicly funded series in film history.

We are sure to face many tests and challenges on our own journey of faith, especially in the midst of this pandemic. But may we hold on to this kingdom principle of Christ. May we also be encouraged from this living testimony from Dallas Jenkins. Let us offer whatever loaves and fish we have, and let us trust Jesus to provide the rest.

Let the third quarter begin!

God Bless You All,

Pastor Mark


Pastor Mark’s Devotions, May 25

Posted on 2020-05-25 in BLOG, Devotions, Pastor's Notes, pastors pen | Tags: , , , , , ,

“A New Birth of Freedom”

“For freedom Christ has set us free” Galatians 5:1

 

Today, Frank Devita turned 95 years old. He is a veteran of World War II. There are not too many Frank Devita’s left. Of the 16 million men and women who wore a uniform during the war, there are only a few hundred thousand left alive.

Six years ago, Frank Devita returned to the beaches of Normandy. He was an eighteen-year old kid from Brooklyn, New York, as he aided the assault upon Omaha Beach on D Day, June 6, 1944. He served in the Coast Guard and was part of a landing craft crew. They returned to their ship 12 times in order to retrieve soldiers and continue the assault upon the Atlantic Wall. With fortified German defenses, and machine gun bullets constantly blazing by both ears, Devita described being dumbfounded how he ever survived that day. NBC News Anchor, Tom Brokaw, was with Devita on Omaha beach that day six years ago. Brokaw asked Devita what lesson should be taken away from that historic moment of D Day? Devita humbly replied, “Love your freedom!” He continued, “We all fought for your freedom!”

After hearing Devita speak of freedom, on this Memorial Day, I was moved, once again, to read Abraham Lincoln’s iconic Gettysburg Address. How is it that one can immediately be moved by a simple description of the passage of time? But something is triggered and stirred whenever I hear or read the words, “Four score and seven years ago.” It is not that these numbers, in and of themselves are sacred. But it is the depth of content that is moving. And it is this depth and content that moved a country in a desperate time to a higher ideal. This content continues to move people today. These 272 words of Lincoln have resonated in the hearts of individuals and raised the attention of every generation since, as if it is holy text. This faith-filled president humbly and succinctly called the current generation and future generations to consider what is hallowed. Four months after the battle of Gettysburg, Lincoln stood on the ground upon which 10,000 soldiers gave their lives along with 30,000 more casualties. He quickly confirmed that the ground they were standing upon, had already been consecrated by the blood shed and lives lost in battle.

Then President Lincoln, with precision, called the crowd and the nation to conceive of something beyond the soldier’s sacred sacrifice. He called them to consider a calling beyond themselves. He challenged them to not let these lives be lost in vain. He set forth a vision, called out from an ancient truth. He declared, “…that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain – that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom…”

Lincoln’s call to a new birth of freedom, harkened back to a higher, richer, deeper call cried out ninety-three score and 15 years ago. Jesus called out for a new birth of freedom to be advanced in the heart of each individual soul. And these new souls birthed in this new found freedom would build a kingdom unlike any known before. Unlocked and unleashed in these new hearts would be a force of love that would be undeniable. A nation of believers would be lifted up to live a life greater than themselves. This new birth of freedom would be defined by self-sacrifice and obedience to the call. Jesus, living this charge, would model this new birth of freedom by example. And in only a few words, he would crystalize the content of this new birth. Jesus declared, “Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.” (John 15:13)

St. Paul echoed these words of freedom and this new birth in his book to the Galatians. He stated simply, “For freedom, Christ has set us free.” (Galatians 5:1). But these seven words have left a score of interpretations that have left the call incomplete. Often, these few words of Paul calling for freedom, have left people returning to the old, familiar ways of self-service. Self-sacrifice and surrender to a higher ideal becomes lost in the hot pursuit of simple self-satisfaction and the right to do so. Paul tried to point his people to live a life beyond self, into a new birth of faith lived out in love–a life and love found and established in the person and service of Jesus Christ.

Let freedom ring. Today, we hear many voices speak of freedom. On this Memorial Day, may the words of Frank Devita, President Abraham Lincoln and our Savior Jesus Christ continue to speak. May we love the freedom that has been given to us. May we give thanks for all the men and women who have fought valiantly and sacrificially for this freedom. May we pray for a new birth of freedom in our country. May hearts and minds be lifted to a higher ideal and greater cause in unity. And may we extol praise to the One who laid down his life and sacrificed himself for the cause of our eternal salvation.

Let freedom ring. Let freedom reign. Let our freedom ring in a new birth.

God Bless You and God Bless America!

Pastor Mark


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