The Inescapable God
God Reveals
1 Chronicles 29:14-19 (The Message)
14-19 "But me—who am I, and who are these my people, that we should presume to be giving something to you? Everything comes from you; all we're doing is giving back what we've been given from your generous hand. As far as you're concerned, we're homeless, shiftless wanderers like our ancestors, our lives mere shadows, hardly anything to us. God, our God, all these materials—these piles of stuff for building a house of worship for you, honoring your Holy Name—it all came from you! It was all yours in the first place! I know, dear God, that you care nothing for the surface—you want us, our true selves—and so I have given from the heart, honestly and happily. And now see all these people doing the same, giving freely, willingly—what a joy! O God, God of our fathers Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, keep this generous spirit alive forever in these people always, keep their hearts set firmly in you. And give my son Solomon an uncluttered and focused heart so that he can obey what you command, live by your directions and counsel, and carry through with building The Temple for which I have provided."
For Reflection
Even though it all belongs to God we attach value to things we falsely assume to be our property. The giving of things to God is a sign of our commitment to Him. It is the recognition that what we think we possess is His Not a substitute for the giving of one's self, but a ritual that acknowledges our dependence upon Him. Giving is the act of surrendering one's self to God.
Pray that you will give as God has given to you. Pray that you surrender yourself to the living God.
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
It All Belongs to God
The Inescapable God
God Reveals
Genesis 1:26-31 (The Message)
26-28 God spoke: "Let us make human beings in our image, make them
reflecting our nature
So they can be responsible for the fish in the sea,
the birds in the air, the cattle,
And, yes, Earth itself,
and every animal that moves on the face of Earth."
God created human beings;
he created them godlike,
Reflecting God's nature.
He created them male and female.
God blessed them:
"Prosper! Reproduce! Fill Earth! Take charge!
Be responsible for fish in the sea and birds in the air,
for every living thing that moves on the face of Earth."
29-30 Then God said, "I've given you
every sort of seed-bearing plant on Earth
And every kind of fruit-bearing tree,
given them to you for food.
To all animals and all birds,
everything that moves and breathes,
I give whatever grows out of the ground for food."
And there it was.
31 God looked over everything he had made;
it was so good, so very good!
It was evening, it was morning—
Day Six.
For Reflection
Human kind reflects the image of God, The Father, The Son, and the Holy Spirit. We are not Gods, but, God-like. Spend some time today thinking about how human kind reflects God. To what extent are you merciful, gracious, slow to anger, faithful, and abounding in steadfast love? God is in you. Listen and you will hear Him speak.
Pray that you recognize the likeness of God that resides within you. Pray that you will be worthy of the creation He as made for you and in you. Pray to seek and find the godliness in others.
God Reveals
Genesis 1:26-31 (The Message)
26-28 God spoke: "Let us make human beings in our image, make them
reflecting our nature
So they can be responsible for the fish in the sea,
the birds in the air, the cattle,
And, yes, Earth itself,
and every animal that moves on the face of Earth."
God created human beings;
he created them godlike,
Reflecting God's nature.
He created them male and female.
God blessed them:
"Prosper! Reproduce! Fill Earth! Take charge!
Be responsible for fish in the sea and birds in the air,
for every living thing that moves on the face of Earth."
29-30 Then God said, "I've given you
every sort of seed-bearing plant on Earth
And every kind of fruit-bearing tree,
given them to you for food.
To all animals and all birds,
everything that moves and breathes,
I give whatever grows out of the ground for food."
And there it was.
31 God looked over everything he had made;
it was so good, so very good!
It was evening, it was morning—
Day Six.
For Reflection
Human kind reflects the image of God, The Father, The Son, and the Holy Spirit. We are not Gods, but, God-like. Spend some time today thinking about how human kind reflects God. To what extent are you merciful, gracious, slow to anger, faithful, and abounding in steadfast love? God is in you. Listen and you will hear Him speak.
Pray that you recognize the likeness of God that resides within you. Pray that you will be worthy of the creation He as made for you and in you. Pray to seek and find the godliness in others.
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Creator of all the Earth
The Inescapable God
God Reveals
Isaiah 45:9-13 (The Message)
8-10"Open up, heavens, and rain.
Clouds, pour out buckets of my goodness!
Loosen up, earth, and bloom salvation;
sprout right living.
I, God, generate all this.
But doom to you who fight your Maker—
you're a pot at odds with the potter!
Does clay talk back to the potter:
'What are you doing? What clumsy fingers!'
Would a sperm say to a father,
'Who gave you permission to use me to make a baby?'
Or a fetus to a mother,
'Why have you cooped me up in this belly?'"
11-13Thus God, The Holy of Israel, Israel's Maker, says:
"Do you question who or what I'm making?
Are you telling me what I can or cannot do?
I made earth,
and I created man and woman to live on it.
I handcrafted the skies
and direct all the constellations in their turnings.
And now I've got Cyrus on the move.
I've rolled out the red carpet before him.
He will build my city.
He will bring home my exiles.
I didn't hire him to do this. I told him.
I, God-of-the-Angel-Armies."
For Reflection
God is the creator of all. Who are we to question The Creator! Here, through the prophet, Isaiah, God tells it like it is. It is not a threat, but rather a statement of fact. Being at odds with the Potter will surely result in doom. Not because of God's action, but because one's choice carries consequence. It is not a threat, but rather, a recommendation.
How has your concept of God limited him to human traits? How has God surprised you by doing the unexpected?
Pray that you are open to see the works of God. Pray that you hear His plan for you.
God Reveals
Isaiah 45:9-13 (The Message)
8-10"Open up, heavens, and rain.
Clouds, pour out buckets of my goodness!
Loosen up, earth, and bloom salvation;
sprout right living.
I, God, generate all this.
But doom to you who fight your Maker—
you're a pot at odds with the potter!
Does clay talk back to the potter:
'What are you doing? What clumsy fingers!'
Would a sperm say to a father,
'Who gave you permission to use me to make a baby?'
Or a fetus to a mother,
'Why have you cooped me up in this belly?'"
11-13Thus God, The Holy of Israel, Israel's Maker, says:
"Do you question who or what I'm making?
Are you telling me what I can or cannot do?
I made earth,
and I created man and woman to live on it.
I handcrafted the skies
and direct all the constellations in their turnings.
And now I've got Cyrus on the move.
I've rolled out the red carpet before him.
He will build my city.
He will bring home my exiles.
I didn't hire him to do this. I told him.
I, God-of-the-Angel-Armies."
For Reflection
God is the creator of all. Who are we to question The Creator! Here, through the prophet, Isaiah, God tells it like it is. It is not a threat, but rather a statement of fact. Being at odds with the Potter will surely result in doom. Not because of God's action, but because one's choice carries consequence. It is not a threat, but rather, a recommendation.
How has your concept of God limited him to human traits? How has God surprised you by doing the unexpected?
Pray that you are open to see the works of God. Pray that you hear His plan for you.
Monday, September 27, 2010
A Faithful Creator
The Inescapable God
God Reveals
1 Peter 4:12-19 (The Message)
17-19It's judgment time for God's own family. We're first in line. If it starts with us, think what it's going to be like for those who refuse God's Message!
If good people barely make it,
What's in store for the bad?
So if you find life difficult because you're doing what God said, take it in stride. Trust him. He knows what he's doing, and he'll keep on doing it.
For Reflection
NPR's All Things Considered, carried an interview with Ingrid Betancourt who in 2002 while campaigning for the presidency of Colombia, was captured by FARC, the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Columbia. She was brought deep into the jungle, chained to a tree with eight other hostages, tortured, underfed and forced to march through the rain forest for six years.
At one point the interviewer, commenting on the loneliness and boredom, revealed that she had a couple of books, Harry Potter, and a dictionary. Ms. Betancourt added. "and a Bible." She read the bible from the first page to the last. She said that it changed her relationship to God because she had to answer questions honestly, "...like do I believe that he [Jesus] was resurrected? ...is that possible? She concluded that, "It [the story of God and the Christ event] could not not be true." You can hear the whole interview at: http://www.npr.org/player/v2/mediaPlayer.html?action=1&t=1&islist=false&id=130108179&m=130126389
Many, including perhaps in some instances Paul, had revelations during times of dire stress and captivity. Viktor Frankl wrote, in 1946, Man's Search for Meaning after imprisonment in a German concentration camp. During that horrendous time Frankl came to realize that God shows us that the salvation of human kind is through love and in love.
Life can be difficult. Have faith that God is on the job and that hope will carry you to glory. This week try to find God in the midst of troubling times.
Pray for those who suffer in the service of God. Praise God for His stead fast faithfulness to those who believe in Him. Wait on the Lord.
God Reveals
1 Peter 4:12-19 (The Message)
Glory Just Around the Corner
12-13Friends, when life gets really difficult, don't jump to the conclusion that God isn't on the job. Instead, be glad that you are in the very thick of what Christ experienced. This is a spiritual refining process, with glory just around the corner. 14-16If you're abused because of Christ, count yourself fortunate. It's the Spirit of God and his glory in you that brought you to the notice of others. If they're on you because you broke the law or disturbed the peace, that's a different matter. But if it's because you're a Christian, don't give it a second thought. Be proud of the distinguished status reflected in that name!17-19It's judgment time for God's own family. We're first in line. If it starts with us, think what it's going to be like for those who refuse God's Message!
If good people barely make it,
What's in store for the bad?
So if you find life difficult because you're doing what God said, take it in stride. Trust him. He knows what he's doing, and he'll keep on doing it.
For Reflection
NPR's All Things Considered, carried an interview with Ingrid Betancourt who in 2002 while campaigning for the presidency of Colombia, was captured by FARC, the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Columbia. She was brought deep into the jungle, chained to a tree with eight other hostages, tortured, underfed and forced to march through the rain forest for six years.
At one point the interviewer, commenting on the loneliness and boredom, revealed that she had a couple of books, Harry Potter, and a dictionary. Ms. Betancourt added. "and a Bible." She read the bible from the first page to the last. She said that it changed her relationship to God because she had to answer questions honestly, "...like do I believe that he [Jesus] was resurrected? ...is that possible? She concluded that, "It [the story of God and the Christ event] could not not be true." You can hear the whole interview at: http://www.npr.org/player/v2/mediaPlayer.html?action=1&t=1&islist=false&id=130108179&m=130126389
Many, including perhaps in some instances Paul, had revelations during times of dire stress and captivity. Viktor Frankl wrote, in 1946, Man's Search for Meaning after imprisonment in a German concentration camp. During that horrendous time Frankl came to realize that God shows us that the salvation of human kind is through love and in love.
Life can be difficult. Have faith that God is on the job and that hope will carry you to glory. This week try to find God in the midst of troubling times.
Pray for those who suffer in the service of God. Praise God for His stead fast faithfulness to those who believe in Him. Wait on the Lord.
Friday, September 24, 2010
God Promises an Awesome Thing
The Inescapable God
God Reveals
Exodus 34:1-10 (The Message)
1-3 God spoke to Moses: "Cut out two tablets of stone just like the originals and engrave on them the words that were on the original tablets you smashed. Be ready in the morning to climb Mount Sinai and get set to meet me on top of the mountain. Not a soul is to go with you; the whole mountain must be clear of people, even animals—not even sheep or oxen can be grazing in front of the mountain." 4-7 So Moses cut two tablets of stone just like the originals. He got up early in the morning and climbed Mount Sinai as God had commanded him, carrying the two tablets of stone. God descended in the cloud and took up his position there beside him and called out the name, God. God passed in front of him and called out, "God, God, a God of mercy and grace, endlessly patient—so much love, so deeply true—loyal in love for a thousand generations, forgiving iniquity, rebellion, and sin. Still, he doesn't ignore sin. He holds sons and grandsons responsible for a father's sins to the third and even fourth generation."
8-9 At once, Moses fell to the ground and worshiped, saying, "Please, O Master, if you see anything good in me, please Master, travel with us, hard-headed as these people are. Forgive our iniquity and sin. Own us, possess us."
10-12 And God said, "As of right now, I'm making a covenant with you: In full sight of your people I will work wonders that have never been created in all the Earth, in any nation. Then all the people with whom you're living will see how tremendous God's work is, the work I'll do for you. Take careful note of all I command you today. I'm clearing your way by driving out Amorites, Canaanites, Hittites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites. Stay vigilant. Don't let down your guard lest you make covenant with the people who live in the land that you are entering and they trip you up.
For Reflection
Merciful and gracious is our God. Slow to anger is our God. Steadfast and faithful is our God. To what extent does your every day life reflect our God?
Pray the prayer Moses prayed.
God Reveals
Exodus 34:1-10 (The Message)
1-3 God spoke to Moses: "Cut out two tablets of stone just like the originals and engrave on them the words that were on the original tablets you smashed. Be ready in the morning to climb Mount Sinai and get set to meet me on top of the mountain. Not a soul is to go with you; the whole mountain must be clear of people, even animals—not even sheep or oxen can be grazing in front of the mountain." 4-7 So Moses cut two tablets of stone just like the originals. He got up early in the morning and climbed Mount Sinai as God had commanded him, carrying the two tablets of stone. God descended in the cloud and took up his position there beside him and called out the name, God. God passed in front of him and called out, "God, God, a God of mercy and grace, endlessly patient—so much love, so deeply true—loyal in love for a thousand generations, forgiving iniquity, rebellion, and sin. Still, he doesn't ignore sin. He holds sons and grandsons responsible for a father's sins to the third and even fourth generation."
8-9 At once, Moses fell to the ground and worshiped, saying, "Please, O Master, if you see anything good in me, please Master, travel with us, hard-headed as these people are. Forgive our iniquity and sin. Own us, possess us."
10-12 And God said, "As of right now, I'm making a covenant with you: In full sight of your people I will work wonders that have never been created in all the Earth, in any nation. Then all the people with whom you're living will see how tremendous God's work is, the work I'll do for you. Take careful note of all I command you today. I'm clearing your way by driving out Amorites, Canaanites, Hittites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites. Stay vigilant. Don't let down your guard lest you make covenant with the people who live in the land that you are entering and they trip you up.
For Reflection
Merciful and gracious is our God. Slow to anger is our God. Steadfast and faithful is our God. To what extent does your every day life reflect our God?
Pray the prayer Moses prayed.
Thursday, September 23, 2010
God's Justice
The Inescapable God
God Reveals
Psalm 103:6-10 (The Message)
6-18 God makes everything come out right;
he puts victims back on their feet.
He showed Moses how he went about his work,
opened up his plans to all Israel.
God is sheer mercy and grace;
not easily angered, he's rich in love.
He dosen't't endlessly nag and scold,
nor hold grudges forever.
He dosen't't treat us as our sins deserve,
nor pay us back in full for our wrongs.
As high as heaven is over the earth,
so strong is his love to those who fear him.
And as far as sunrise is from sunset,
he has separated us from our sins.
As parents feel for their children,
God feels for those who fear him.
He knows us inside and out,
keeps in mind that we're made of mud.
Men and women don't live very long;
like wildflowers they spring up and blossom,
But a storm snuffs them out just as quickly,
leaving nothing to show they were here.
God's love, though, is ever and always,
eternally present to all who fear him,
Making everything right for them and their children
as they follow his Covenant ways
and remember to do whatever he said.
For Reflection
Yesterday I sat in a car with three too many kids. The constant drone of banter nearly drove this old quiet loving man nuts. Every game was an argue game. Each understood the meaning of fairness because each short argument evolved to that issue.
God's concept of fairness is not necessarily human kind's concept honed over the many years of child hood and adolescence. He doesn't treat us as we deserve (Thank you Very Much!). He may even use those whom we question. To what extent do you show similar justice?
Pray that you have the wisdom to allow to God the judgment of just deserts. Give thanks for the mercy He has shown you. Pray that you exemplify the just God that serves you and that you serve.
God Reveals
Psalm 103:6-10 (The Message)
6-18 God makes everything come out right;
he puts victims back on their feet.
He showed Moses how he went about his work,
opened up his plans to all Israel.
God is sheer mercy and grace;
not easily angered, he's rich in love.
He dosen't't endlessly nag and scold,
nor hold grudges forever.
He dosen't't treat us as our sins deserve,
nor pay us back in full for our wrongs.
As high as heaven is over the earth,
so strong is his love to those who fear him.
And as far as sunrise is from sunset,
he has separated us from our sins.
As parents feel for their children,
God feels for those who fear him.
He knows us inside and out,
keeps in mind that we're made of mud.
Men and women don't live very long;
like wildflowers they spring up and blossom,
But a storm snuffs them out just as quickly,
leaving nothing to show they were here.
God's love, though, is ever and always,
eternally present to all who fear him,
Making everything right for them and their children
as they follow his Covenant ways
and remember to do whatever he said.
For Reflection
Yesterday I sat in a car with three too many kids. The constant drone of banter nearly drove this old quiet loving man nuts. Every game was an argue game. Each understood the meaning of fairness because each short argument evolved to that issue.
God's concept of fairness is not necessarily human kind's concept honed over the many years of child hood and adolescence. He doesn't treat us as we deserve (Thank you Very Much!). He may even use those whom we question. To what extent do you show similar justice?
Pray that you have the wisdom to allow to God the judgment of just deserts. Give thanks for the mercy He has shown you. Pray that you exemplify the just God that serves you and that you serve.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
God's Forgiveness
The Inescapable God
God Reveals
Psalm 103:1-5 (The Message)
O my soul, bless God,
don't forget a single blessing!
3-5 He forgives your sins—every one.
He heals your diseases—every one.
He redeems you from hell—saves your life!
He crowns you with love and mercy—a paradise crown.
He wraps you in goodness—beauty eternal.
He renews your youth—you're always young in his presence.
For Reflection
Sounds like an insurance salesperson's list of benefits! The difference is these blessings are guaranteed. They are given freely, but they are not free. Blessings such as these come at a cost. One must give one's self to God. Sacrifice self for eternal life. Not earned. Not deserved. Rather, by the grace of God, given to anyone who repents and follows The Way.
Pray for those who walk in darkness. Pray for those who do not know the blessings of a loving God. Pray that you may become a conduit of grace.
God Reveals
Psalm 103:1-5 (The Message)
David Psalm
1-2 O my soul, bless God. From head to toe, I'll bless his holy name!O my soul, bless God,
don't forget a single blessing!
3-5 He forgives your sins—every one.
He heals your diseases—every one.
He redeems you from hell—saves your life!
He crowns you with love and mercy—a paradise crown.
He wraps you in goodness—beauty eternal.
He renews your youth—you're always young in his presence.
For Reflection
Sounds like an insurance salesperson's list of benefits! The difference is these blessings are guaranteed. They are given freely, but they are not free. Blessings such as these come at a cost. One must give one's self to God. Sacrifice self for eternal life. Not earned. Not deserved. Rather, by the grace of God, given to anyone who repents and follows The Way.
Pray for those who walk in darkness. Pray for those who do not know the blessings of a loving God. Pray that you may become a conduit of grace.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
God's Faithfulness
The Inescapable God
God Reveals
Lamentations 3:22-26 (The Message)
22-24God's loyal love couldn't have run out,
his merciful love couldn't have dried up.
They're created new every morning.
How great your faithfulness!
I'm sticking with God (I say it over and over).
He's all I've got left.
25-27God proves to be good to the man who passionately waits,
to the woman who diligently seeks.
It's a good thing to quietly hope,
quietly hope for help from God.
It's a good thing when you're young
to stick it out through the hard times.
For Reflection
I love the morning hours, I get up before the sun. I lounge in the quiet creeping sunrise. Each morning is different. Each sunrise unique. Each day a rebirth -- a renewed spirit. God reveals Himself to those who wait and seek. Spend time this week lounging in God's faithfulness. Seek and wait quietly, hopefully for the promise of God's help.
Pray for those who cannot see the hope in the brilliance of God's sunrise. Pray for the help none other can give but God. God answers. Just listen.
God Reveals
Lamentations 3:22-26 (The Message)
22-24God's loyal love couldn't have run out,
his merciful love couldn't have dried up.
They're created new every morning.
How great your faithfulness!
I'm sticking with God (I say it over and over).
He's all I've got left.
25-27God proves to be good to the man who passionately waits,
to the woman who diligently seeks.
It's a good thing to quietly hope,
quietly hope for help from God.
It's a good thing when you're young
to stick it out through the hard times.
For Reflection
I love the morning hours, I get up before the sun. I lounge in the quiet creeping sunrise. Each morning is different. Each sunrise unique. Each day a rebirth -- a renewed spirit. God reveals Himself to those who wait and seek. Spend time this week lounging in God's faithfulness. Seek and wait quietly, hopefully for the promise of God's help.
Pray for those who cannot see the hope in the brilliance of God's sunrise. Pray for the help none other can give but God. God answers. Just listen.
Monday, September 20, 2010
God's Mercy
The Inescapable God
God Reveals
Psalm 57:1-5 (The Message)
I'm hiding out under your wings
until the hurricane blows over.
I call out to High God,
the God who holds me together.
He sends orders from heaven and saves me,
he humiliates those who kick me around.
God delivers generous love,
he makes good on his word.
4 I find myself in a pride of lions
who are wild for a taste of human flesh;
Their teeth are lances and arrows,
their tongues are sharp daggers.
5 Soar high in the skies, O God!
Cover the whole earth with your glory!
For Reflection
What kind of god is revealed in these passages? To what extent do you trust in the way David did?
Pray prayers of thanksgiving. Pray for your faith to grow stronger. Pray to hope in the mercy of God.
God Reveals
Psalm 57:1-5 (The Message)
A David Psalm, When He Hid in a Cave from Saul
1-3 Be good to me, God—and now! I've run to you for dear life.I'm hiding out under your wings
until the hurricane blows over.
I call out to High God,
the God who holds me together.
He sends orders from heaven and saves me,
he humiliates those who kick me around.
God delivers generous love,
he makes good on his word.
4 I find myself in a pride of lions
who are wild for a taste of human flesh;
Their teeth are lances and arrows,
their tongues are sharp daggers.
5 Soar high in the skies, O God!
Cover the whole earth with your glory!
For Reflection
What kind of god is revealed in these passages? To what extent do you trust in the way David did?
Pray prayers of thanksgiving. Pray for your faith to grow stronger. Pray to hope in the mercy of God.
Friday, September 17, 2010
God Vs. Gods
The Inescapable God
God Reveals
Exodus 32:1-10 (The Message)
The people responded with enthusiasm: "These are your gods, O Israel, who brought you up from Egypt!"
5 Aaron, taking in the situation, built an altar before the calf.
Aaron then announced, "Tomorrow is a feast day to God!"
6 Early the next morning, the people got up and offered Whole-Burnt-Offerings and brought Peace-Offerings. The people sat down to eat and drink and then began to party. It turned into a wild party!
7-8 God spoke to Moses, "Go! Get down there! Your people whom you brought up from the land of Egypt have fallen to pieces. In no time at all they've turned away from the way I commanded them: They made a molten calf and worshiped it. They've sacrificed to it and said, 'These are the gods, O Israel, that brought you up from the land of Egypt!'"
For Reflection
No doubt Moses was a strong leader, but where did the people put their trust? It seems that the people assigned their salvation to Moses rather than to God. Aaron filled the void left by Moses's absence and gave the people some thing to substitute for Moses. Seems as though the people had already made an idol of Moses so it was easy for them to build their own god.
Where do you commit time? To what extent does that commitment of time indicate your devotion to it? How much time do you devote to your role in the Kingdom?
Pray to God that we are not tempted into idolatry. Pray for the wisdom to realize the subtle seduction of the need to make god concrete. Be silent and listen for God's gentle guidance.
God Reveals
Exodus 32:1-10 (The Message)
Make Gods for Us"
1 When the people realized that Moses was taking forever in coming down off the mountain, they rallied around Aaron and said, "Do something. Make gods for us who will lead us. That Moses, the man who got us out of Egypt—who knows what's happened to him?" 2-4 So Aaron told them, "Take off the gold rings from the ears of your wives and sons and daughters and bring them to me." They all did it; they removed the gold rings from their ears and brought them to Aaron. He took the gold from their hands and cast it in the form of a calf, shaping it with an engraving tool.The people responded with enthusiasm: "These are your gods, O Israel, who brought you up from Egypt!"
5 Aaron, taking in the situation, built an altar before the calf.
Aaron then announced, "Tomorrow is a feast day to God!"
6 Early the next morning, the people got up and offered Whole-Burnt-Offerings and brought Peace-Offerings. The people sat down to eat and drink and then began to party. It turned into a wild party!
7-8 God spoke to Moses, "Go! Get down there! Your people whom you brought up from the land of Egypt have fallen to pieces. In no time at all they've turned away from the way I commanded them: They made a molten calf and worshiped it. They've sacrificed to it and said, 'These are the gods, O Israel, that brought you up from the land of Egypt!'"
For Reflection
No doubt Moses was a strong leader, but where did the people put their trust? It seems that the people assigned their salvation to Moses rather than to God. Aaron filled the void left by Moses's absence and gave the people some thing to substitute for Moses. Seems as though the people had already made an idol of Moses so it was easy for them to build their own god.
Where do you commit time? To what extent does that commitment of time indicate your devotion to it? How much time do you devote to your role in the Kingdom?
Pray to God that we are not tempted into idolatry. Pray for the wisdom to realize the subtle seduction of the need to make god concrete. Be silent and listen for God's gentle guidance.
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Keep Yourself from Idols
The Inescapable God
God Reveals
1 John 5:13-21 (The Message)
18-21We know that none of the God-begotten makes a practice of sin—fatal sin. The God-begotten are also the God-protected. The Evil One can't lay a hand on them. We know that we are held firm by God; it's only the people of the world who continue in the grip of the Evil One. And we know that the Son of God came so we could recognize and understand the truth of God—what a gift!—and we are living in the Truth itself, in God's Son, Jesus Christ. This Jesus is both True God and Real Life. Dear children, be on guard against all clever facsimiles.
For Reflection
What gives you the illusion of immortality? Or do you think at all about immortality? As we experience growing older and older and older, we realize that living longer is not always the most desirable existence. Not that we want to leave this life sooner than later, but to know that there is a place prepared for us to live in eternity is comforting but not the only rational for becoming a believer and abiding in God.
This promise of eternal life frees us to live the God centered life He intends for us. How are you living in the truth this week?
Praise God for the gift of His truth. Give thanks for the reality of God living in you. Thank God for his grace. Pray that you will not be distracted by the things of this world.
God Reveals
1 John 5:13-21 (The Message)
The Reality, Not the Illusion
13-15My purpose in writing is simply this: that you who believe in God's Son will know beyond the shadow of a doubt that you have eternal life, the reality and not the illusion. And how bold and free we then become in his presence, freely asking according to his will, sure that he's listening. And if we're confident that he's listening, we know that what we've asked for is as good as ours. 16-17For instance, if we see a Christian believer sinning (clearly I'm not talking about those who make a practice of sin in a way that is "fatal," leading to eternal death), we ask for God's help and he gladly gives it, gives life to the sinner whose sin is not fatal. There is such a thing as a fatal sin, and I'm not urging you to pray about that. Everything we do wrong is sin, but not all sin is fatal.18-21We know that none of the God-begotten makes a practice of sin—fatal sin. The God-begotten are also the God-protected. The Evil One can't lay a hand on them. We know that we are held firm by God; it's only the people of the world who continue in the grip of the Evil One. And we know that the Son of God came so we could recognize and understand the truth of God—what a gift!—and we are living in the Truth itself, in God's Son, Jesus Christ. This Jesus is both True God and Real Life. Dear children, be on guard against all clever facsimiles.
For Reflection
What gives you the illusion of immortality? Or do you think at all about immortality? As we experience growing older and older and older, we realize that living longer is not always the most desirable existence. Not that we want to leave this life sooner than later, but to know that there is a place prepared for us to live in eternity is comforting but not the only rational for becoming a believer and abiding in God.
This promise of eternal life frees us to live the God centered life He intends for us. How are you living in the truth this week?
Praise God for the gift of His truth. Give thanks for the reality of God living in you. Thank God for his grace. Pray that you will not be distracted by the things of this world.
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Idols -- The Work of Human Hands
The Inescapable God
God Reveals
Psalm 135:13-18 (The Message)
13-18 God, your name is eternal,
God, you'll never be out-of-date.
God stands up for his people,
God holds the hands of his people.
The gods of the godless nations are mere trinkets,
made for quick sale in the markets:
Chiseled mouths that can't talk,
painted eyes that can't see,
Carved ears that can't hear—
dead wood! cold metal!
Those who make and trust them
become like them.
For Reflection
When you total your dream car or your house has burned to the ground, you will understand the temporary nature of things. When the ideal marriage fails, or when the job you have worked for all of you life is prematurely ended, you will understand the temporary nature of things. When the end of the money arrives far before the end of the month, you will understand the temporary nature of things.
When things are gone God is there. Trust in God. Trusting in things will pervert your priorities and by your own choice you may become a temporal, throw-away person.
Pray a prayer of confession. Admit to those things which blind you to the truth of God in you. Ask God to hold your hand and give you strength to trust in the promise of His Kingdom.
God Reveals
Psalm 135:13-18 (The Message)
13-18 God, your name is eternal,
God, you'll never be out-of-date.
God stands up for his people,
God holds the hands of his people.
The gods of the godless nations are mere trinkets,
made for quick sale in the markets:
Chiseled mouths that can't talk,
painted eyes that can't see,
Carved ears that can't hear—
dead wood! cold metal!
Those who make and trust them
become like them.
For Reflection
When you total your dream car or your house has burned to the ground, you will understand the temporary nature of things. When the ideal marriage fails, or when the job you have worked for all of you life is prematurely ended, you will understand the temporary nature of things. When the end of the money arrives far before the end of the month, you will understand the temporary nature of things.
When things are gone God is there. Trust in God. Trusting in things will pervert your priorities and by your own choice you may become a temporal, throw-away person.
Pray a prayer of confession. Admit to those things which blind you to the truth of God in you. Ask God to hold your hand and give you strength to trust in the promise of His Kingdom.
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Flee from Idol Worship
The Inescapable God
God Reveals
1 Corinthians 10:14-21 (The Message)
14So, my very dear friends, when you see people reducing God to something they can use or control, get out of their company as fast as you can.
15-18I assume I'm addressing believers now who are mature. Draw your own conclusions: When we drink the cup of blessing, aren't we taking into ourselves the blood, the very life, of Christ? And isn't it the same with the loaf of bread we break and eat? Don't we take into ourselves the body, the very life, of Christ? Because there is one loaf, our many-ness becomes one-ness—Christ doesn't become fragmented in us. Rather, we become unified in him. We don't reduce Christ to what we are; he raises us to what he is. That's basically what happened even in old Israel—those who ate the sacrifices offered on God's altar entered into God's action at the altar.
19-22Do you see the difference? Sacrifices offered to idols are offered to nothing, for what's the idol but a nothing? Or worse than nothing, a minus, a demon! I don't want you to become part of something that reduces you to less than yourself. And you can't have it both ways, banqueting with the Master one day and slumming with demons the next. Besides, the Master won't put up with it. He wants us—all or nothing. Do you think you can get off with anything less?
For Reflection
What idols have you created? We make lots of sacrifices for things that we want. New clothes, our jobs, super involvement in our children's activity, a house bigger than we need can become idols. Take a good look at what you sacrifice for. How do those things reflect Christ in you?
Pray that you sacrifice for your God. Pray that the sacrifices you make daily help you to grow in grace and fulfill you purpose to serve God.
God Reveals
1 Corinthians 10:14-21 (The Message)
14So, my very dear friends, when you see people reducing God to something they can use or control, get out of their company as fast as you can.
15-18I assume I'm addressing believers now who are mature. Draw your own conclusions: When we drink the cup of blessing, aren't we taking into ourselves the blood, the very life, of Christ? And isn't it the same with the loaf of bread we break and eat? Don't we take into ourselves the body, the very life, of Christ? Because there is one loaf, our many-ness becomes one-ness—Christ doesn't become fragmented in us. Rather, we become unified in him. We don't reduce Christ to what we are; he raises us to what he is. That's basically what happened even in old Israel—those who ate the sacrifices offered on God's altar entered into God's action at the altar.
19-22Do you see the difference? Sacrifices offered to idols are offered to nothing, for what's the idol but a nothing? Or worse than nothing, a minus, a demon! I don't want you to become part of something that reduces you to less than yourself. And you can't have it both ways, banqueting with the Master one day and slumming with demons the next. Besides, the Master won't put up with it. He wants us—all or nothing. Do you think you can get off with anything less?
For Reflection
What idols have you created? We make lots of sacrifices for things that we want. New clothes, our jobs, super involvement in our children's activity, a house bigger than we need can become idols. Take a good look at what you sacrifice for. How do those things reflect Christ in you?
Pray that you sacrifice for your God. Pray that the sacrifices you make daily help you to grow in grace and fulfill you purpose to serve God.
Monday, September 13, 2010
Warnings Against Idolatry
The Inescapable God
God Reveals
1 Corinthians 10:1-11 (The Message)
1-5Remember our history, friends, and be warned. All our ancestors were led by the providential Cloud and taken miraculously through the Sea. They went through the waters, in a baptism like ours, as Moses led them from enslaving death to salvation life. They all ate and drank identical food and drink, meals provided daily by God. They drank from the Rock, God's fountain for them that stayed with them wherever they were. And the Rock was Christ. But just experiencing God's wonder and grace didn't seem to mean much—most of them were defeated by temptation during the hard times in the desert, and God was not pleased. 6-10The same thing could happen to us. We must be on guard so that we never get caught up in wanting our own way as they did. And we must not turn our religion into a circus as they did—"First the people partied, then they threw a dance." We must not be sexually promiscuous—they paid for that, remember, with 23,000 deaths in one day! We must never try to get Christ to serve us instead of us serving him; they tried it, and God launched an epidemic of poisonous snakes. We must be careful not to stir up discontent; discontent destroyed them.
11-12These are all warning markers—danger!—in our history books, written down so that we don't repeat their mistakes. Our positions in the story are parallel—they at the beginning, we at the end—and we are just as capable of messing it up as they were. Don't be so naive and self-confident. You're not exempt. You could fall flat on your face as easily as anyone else. Forget about self-confidence; it's useless. Cultivate God-confidence.
For Reflection
Lots of folks read fire and brimstone, hell and damnation threats into passages such as this. OK, so maybe a good concept of hell is not such a bad thing. It keeps some of us in line. But as I read passages like this I am reminded that promises are costly. Promises have to be fulfilled. God and Jesus made lots of costly promises. Threats are cheap! One can always say, "Well you tried so I guess I can let it go this time.
There is another way of looking at these admonitions. The consequences of violations such as in these passages naturally flow from the act of violation. Falling victim to temptation results in separation from God. Setting up an idol is an attempt to define and thus limit the power of God. The temptation to avoid the mystery of God and define Him on human terms is naive, useless and God is not pleased with our reluctance to trust in Him. We fall because it is natural to fall when we fail, not because God is necessarily punishing. Maybe!
Pray that you will be confident in God's grace. Pray that you walk forward unafraid of that which you do not understand. Rejoice in God's wonder and everlasting love.
God Reveals
1 Corinthians 10:1-11 (The Message)
1-5Remember our history, friends, and be warned. All our ancestors were led by the providential Cloud and taken miraculously through the Sea. They went through the waters, in a baptism like ours, as Moses led them from enslaving death to salvation life. They all ate and drank identical food and drink, meals provided daily by God. They drank from the Rock, God's fountain for them that stayed with them wherever they were. And the Rock was Christ. But just experiencing God's wonder and grace didn't seem to mean much—most of them were defeated by temptation during the hard times in the desert, and God was not pleased. 6-10The same thing could happen to us. We must be on guard so that we never get caught up in wanting our own way as they did. And we must not turn our religion into a circus as they did—"First the people partied, then they threw a dance." We must not be sexually promiscuous—they paid for that, remember, with 23,000 deaths in one day! We must never try to get Christ to serve us instead of us serving him; they tried it, and God launched an epidemic of poisonous snakes. We must be careful not to stir up discontent; discontent destroyed them.
11-12These are all warning markers—danger!—in our history books, written down so that we don't repeat their mistakes. Our positions in the story are parallel—they at the beginning, we at the end—and we are just as capable of messing it up as they were. Don't be so naive and self-confident. You're not exempt. You could fall flat on your face as easily as anyone else. Forget about self-confidence; it's useless. Cultivate God-confidence.
For Reflection
Lots of folks read fire and brimstone, hell and damnation threats into passages such as this. OK, so maybe a good concept of hell is not such a bad thing. It keeps some of us in line. But as I read passages like this I am reminded that promises are costly. Promises have to be fulfilled. God and Jesus made lots of costly promises. Threats are cheap! One can always say, "Well you tried so I guess I can let it go this time.
There is another way of looking at these admonitions. The consequences of violations such as in these passages naturally flow from the act of violation. Falling victim to temptation results in separation from God. Setting up an idol is an attempt to define and thus limit the power of God. The temptation to avoid the mystery of God and define Him on human terms is naive, useless and God is not pleased with our reluctance to trust in Him. We fall because it is natural to fall when we fail, not because God is necessarily punishing. Maybe!
Pray that you will be confident in God's grace. Pray that you walk forward unafraid of that which you do not understand. Rejoice in God's wonder and everlasting love.
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Righteousness that Comes fom Faith
The Inescapable God
God Reveals
Romans 10:5-13 (The Message)
4-10The earlier revelation was intended simply to get us ready for the Messiah, who then puts everything right for those who trust him to do it. Moses wrote that anyone who insists on using the law code to live right before God soon discovers it's not so easy—every detail of life regulated by fine print! But trusting God to shape the right living in us is a different story— no precarious climb up to heaven to recruit the Messiah, no dangerous descent into hell to rescue the Messiah. So what exactly was Moses saying?
The word that saves is right here,
as near as the tongue in your mouth,
as close as the heart in your chest.
It's the word of faith that welcomes God to go to work and set things right for us. This is the core of our preaching. Say the welcoming word to God—"Jesus is my Master"—embracing, body and soul, God's work of doing in us what he did in raising Jesus from the dead. That's it. You're not "doing" anything; you're simply calling out to God, trusting him to do it for you. That's salvation. With your whole being you embrace God setting things right, and then you say it, right out loud: "God has set everything right between him and me!"
11-13Scripture reassures us, "No one who trusts God like this—heart and soul—will ever regret it." It's exactly the same no matter what a person's religious background may be: the same God for all of us, acting the same incredibly generous way to everyone who calls out for help. "Everyone who calls, 'Help, God!' gets help."
For Reflection
Who do you trust? Why? What have you seen? What have you heard? What is the trusted person's reputation among others?
Ultimately your trust in others is a matter of faith. So too, trust in God is a matter of faith. What have you seen that supports your trust in God? What have you heard?
Pray to live a life of trust in God. Offer prayers of thanksgiving for the offer of salvation that is yours just for the asking. Pray that your words become a flesh offering to God.
God Reveals
Romans 10:5-13 (The Message)
4-10The earlier revelation was intended simply to get us ready for the Messiah, who then puts everything right for those who trust him to do it. Moses wrote that anyone who insists on using the law code to live right before God soon discovers it's not so easy—every detail of life regulated by fine print! But trusting God to shape the right living in us is a different story— no precarious climb up to heaven to recruit the Messiah, no dangerous descent into hell to rescue the Messiah. So what exactly was Moses saying?
The word that saves is right here,
as near as the tongue in your mouth,
as close as the heart in your chest.
It's the word of faith that welcomes God to go to work and set things right for us. This is the core of our preaching. Say the welcoming word to God—"Jesus is my Master"—embracing, body and soul, God's work of doing in us what he did in raising Jesus from the dead. That's it. You're not "doing" anything; you're simply calling out to God, trusting him to do it for you. That's salvation. With your whole being you embrace God setting things right, and then you say it, right out loud: "God has set everything right between him and me!"
11-13Scripture reassures us, "No one who trusts God like this—heart and soul—will ever regret it." It's exactly the same no matter what a person's religious background may be: the same God for all of us, acting the same incredibly generous way to everyone who calls out for help. "Everyone who calls, 'Help, God!' gets help."
For Reflection
Who do you trust? Why? What have you seen? What have you heard? What is the trusted person's reputation among others?
Ultimately your trust in others is a matter of faith. So too, trust in God is a matter of faith. What have you seen that supports your trust in God? What have you heard?
Pray to live a life of trust in God. Offer prayers of thanksgiving for the offer of salvation that is yours just for the asking. Pray that your words become a flesh offering to God.
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
The Law with Grace and Truth
The Inescapable God
God Reveals
John 1:14-18 (The Message)
14The Word became flesh and blood,
and moved into the neighborhood.
We saw the glory with our own eyes,
the one-of-a-kind glory,
like Father, like Son,
Generous inside and out,
true from start to finish.
15John pointed him out and called, "This is the One! The One I told you was coming after me but in fact was ahead of me. He has always been ahead of me, has always had the first word."
16-18We all live off his generous bounty,
gift after gift after gift.
We got the basics from Moses,
and then this exuberant giving and receiving,
This endless knowing and understanding—
all this came through Jesus, the Messiah.
No one has ever seen God,
not so much as a glimpse.
This one-of-a-kind God-Expression,
who exists at the very heart of the Father,
has made him plain as day.
For Reflection
I have always been enamored with the term "The Word." Bibically, the term has infinite meaning. The term is the first overture from God to return to His fold. God as a word is unknowable. God in the flesh defines the word. God, John writes, is a plain as day. Through the grace and truth exemplified in Jesus Christ, the Law is made an instrument of justice and reconciliation -- humankind reconciled to god and to one another. What has your study of Jesus (however informal) revealed to you about the nature of God? How has that revelation guided your life?
Pray that you will grow in the knowledge of God each day. Pray that you will practice the word of God so that others cannot escape seeing God in you?
God Reveals
John 1:14-18 (The Message)
14The Word became flesh and blood,
and moved into the neighborhood.
We saw the glory with our own eyes,
the one-of-a-kind glory,
like Father, like Son,
Generous inside and out,
true from start to finish.
15John pointed him out and called, "This is the One! The One I told you was coming after me but in fact was ahead of me. He has always been ahead of me, has always had the first word."
16-18We all live off his generous bounty,
gift after gift after gift.
We got the basics from Moses,
and then this exuberant giving and receiving,
This endless knowing and understanding—
all this came through Jesus, the Messiah.
No one has ever seen God,
not so much as a glimpse.
This one-of-a-kind God-Expression,
who exists at the very heart of the Father,
has made him plain as day.
For Reflection
I have always been enamored with the term "The Word." Bibically, the term has infinite meaning. The term is the first overture from God to return to His fold. God as a word is unknowable. God in the flesh defines the word. God, John writes, is a plain as day. Through the grace and truth exemplified in Jesus Christ, the Law is made an instrument of justice and reconciliation -- humankind reconciled to god and to one another. What has your study of Jesus (however informal) revealed to you about the nature of God? How has that revelation guided your life?
Pray that you will grow in the knowledge of God each day. Pray that you will practice the word of God so that others cannot escape seeing God in you?
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
The Tablet of Your Heart
The Inescapable God
God Reveals
Proverbs 7:1-5 (The Message)
1-5 Dear friend, do what I tell you; treasure my careful instructions.
Do what I say and you'll live well.
My teaching is as precious as your eyesight—guard it!
Write it out on the back of your hands;
etch it on the chambers of your heart.
Talk to Wisdom as to a sister.
Treat Insight as your companion.
They'll be with you to fend off the Temptress—
that smooth-talking, honey-tongued Seductress.
For Reflection
Think about something that is precious, something that you treasure. Where is it right now? How do you protect it? What you have learned about your God is precious. How do you protect your special knowledge of God? How do you guard against the temptations of life that would lead you astray?
Pray That your relationship with your God is "etched on the chambers of your heart." Pray for the wisdom to judge the path of righteousness and the courage to follow it.
God Reveals
Proverbs 7:1-5 (The Message)
1-5 Dear friend, do what I tell you; treasure my careful instructions.
Do what I say and you'll live well.
My teaching is as precious as your eyesight—guard it!
Write it out on the back of your hands;
etch it on the chambers of your heart.
Talk to Wisdom as to a sister.
Treat Insight as your companion.
They'll be with you to fend off the Temptress—
that smooth-talking, honey-tongued Seductress.
For Reflection
Think about something that is precious, something that you treasure. Where is it right now? How do you protect it? What you have learned about your God is precious. How do you protect your special knowledge of God? How do you guard against the temptations of life that would lead you astray?
Pray That your relationship with your God is "etched on the chambers of your heart." Pray for the wisdom to judge the path of righteousness and the courage to follow it.
Monday, September 6, 2010
Your Law is My Delight
The Inescapable God
God Reveals
Psalm 119:73-77 (The Message)
73-80 With your very own hands you formed me;
now breathe your wisdom over me so I can understand you.
When they see me waiting, expecting your Word,
those who fear you will take heart and be glad.
I can see now, God, that your decisions are right;
your testing has taught me what's true and right.
Oh, love me—and right now!—hold me tight!
just the way you promised.
Now comfort me so I can live, really live;
your revelation is the tune I dance to.
Let the fast-talking tricksters be exposed as frauds;
they tried to sell me a bill of goods,
but I kept my mind fixed on your counsel.
Let those who fear you turn to me
for evidence of your wise guidance.
And let me live whole and holy, soul and body,
so I can always walk with my head held high.
For Reflection
I am a child of God. Who are you? God formed me. God gives me wisdom. God tests me. God comforts me. God lives in me. How about you?
Pray for Holy guidance, wisdom and the patience to wait for God's word. Pray that you remain fixed on God's counsel.
God Reveals
Psalm 119:73-77 (The Message)
73-80 With your very own hands you formed me;
now breathe your wisdom over me so I can understand you.
When they see me waiting, expecting your Word,
those who fear you will take heart and be glad.
I can see now, God, that your decisions are right;
your testing has taught me what's true and right.
Oh, love me—and right now!—hold me tight!
just the way you promised.
Now comfort me so I can live, really live;
your revelation is the tune I dance to.
Let the fast-talking tricksters be exposed as frauds;
they tried to sell me a bill of goods,
but I kept my mind fixed on your counsel.
Let those who fear you turn to me
for evidence of your wise guidance.
And let me live whole and holy, soul and body,
so I can always walk with my head held high.
For Reflection
I am a child of God. Who are you? God formed me. God gives me wisdom. God tests me. God comforts me. God lives in me. How about you?
Pray for Holy guidance, wisdom and the patience to wait for God's word. Pray that you remain fixed on God's counsel.
Friday, September 3, 2010
God's Revelation to Moses
The Inescapable God
God Reveals
Exodus 3:1-6 (The Message)
1-2 Moses was shepherding the flock of Jethro, his father-in-law, the priest of Midian. He led the flock to the west end of the wilderness and came to the mountain of God, Horeb. The angel of God appeared to him in flames of fire blazing out of the middle of a bush. He looked. The bush was blazing away but it didn't burn up. 3 Moses said, "What's going on here? I can't believe this! Amazing! Why doesn't the bush burn up?"
4 God saw that he had stopped to look. God called to him from out of the bush, "Moses! Moses!"
He said, "Yes? I'm right here!"
5 God said, "Don't come any closer. Remove your sandals from your feet. You're standing on holy ground."
6 Then he said, "I am the God of your father: The God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, the God of Jacob."
Moses hid his face, afraid to look at God.
Exodus 3:13-15
13 Then Moses said to God, "Suppose I go to the People of Israel and I tell them, 'The God of your fathers sent me to you'; and they ask me, 'What is his name?' What do I tell them?"
14 God said to Moses, "I-AM-WHO-I-AM. Tell the People of Israel, 'I-AM sent me to you.'"
15 God continued with Moses: "This is what you're to say to the Israelites: 'God, the God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob sent me to you.' This has always been my name, and this is how I always will be known.
For Reflection
What does Moses' encounter with God reveal about God's identity? What if God calls your name, how will you react?
Pray for all those whom God has called to lead his people out of misery. Pray that you will heed God's call.
God Reveals
Exodus 3:1-6 (The Message)
1-2 Moses was shepherding the flock of Jethro, his father-in-law, the priest of Midian. He led the flock to the west end of the wilderness and came to the mountain of God, Horeb. The angel of God appeared to him in flames of fire blazing out of the middle of a bush. He looked. The bush was blazing away but it didn't burn up. 3 Moses said, "What's going on here? I can't believe this! Amazing! Why doesn't the bush burn up?"
4 God saw that he had stopped to look. God called to him from out of the bush, "Moses! Moses!"
He said, "Yes? I'm right here!"
5 God said, "Don't come any closer. Remove your sandals from your feet. You're standing on holy ground."
6 Then he said, "I am the God of your father: The God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, the God of Jacob."
Moses hid his face, afraid to look at God.
Exodus 3:13-15
13 Then Moses said to God, "Suppose I go to the People of Israel and I tell them, 'The God of your fathers sent me to you'; and they ask me, 'What is his name?' What do I tell them?"
14 God said to Moses, "I-AM-WHO-I-AM. Tell the People of Israel, 'I-AM sent me to you.'"
15 God continued with Moses: "This is what you're to say to the Israelites: 'God, the God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob sent me to you.' This has always been my name, and this is how I always will be known.
For Reflection
What does Moses' encounter with God reveal about God's identity? What if God calls your name, how will you react?
Pray for all those whom God has called to lead his people out of misery. Pray that you will heed God's call.
Thursday, September 2, 2010
God Will Relieve Out Misery
The Inescapable God
God Reveals
Exodus 3:16-22 (The Message)
16-17 "Now be on your way. Gather the leaders of Israel. Tell them, 'God, the God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, appeared to me, saying, "I've looked into what's being done to you in Egypt, and I've determined to get you out of the affliction of Egypt and take you to the land of the Canaanite, the Hittite, the Amorite, the Perizzite, the Hivite, and the Jebusite, a land brimming over with milk and honey."'
18 "Believe me, they will listen to you. Then you and the leaders of Israel will go to the king of Egypt and say to him: 'God, the God of the Hebrews, has met with us. Let us take a three-day journey into the wilderness where we will worship God—our God.'
19-22 "I know that the king of Egypt won't let you go unless forced to, so I'll intervene and hit Egypt where it hurts—oh, my miracles will send them reeling!—after which they'll be glad to send you off. I'll see to it that this people get a hearty send-off by the Egyptians—when you leave, you won't leave empty-handed! Each woman will ask her neighbor and any guests in her house for objects of silver and gold, for jewelry and extra clothes; you'll put them on your sons and daughters. Oh, you'll clean the Egyptians out!"
For Reflection
OK. Here is a chance to think metaphorically. What is revealed in this story that has meaning for you today? What is your Egyptian experience? What have you suffered?
Pray for the end of persecution in all of its contemporary forms. Pray for those who lead others out of the darkness of their lives into the light revealed in Christ.
God Reveals
Exodus 3:16-22 (The Message)
16-17 "Now be on your way. Gather the leaders of Israel. Tell them, 'God, the God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, appeared to me, saying, "I've looked into what's being done to you in Egypt, and I've determined to get you out of the affliction of Egypt and take you to the land of the Canaanite, the Hittite, the Amorite, the Perizzite, the Hivite, and the Jebusite, a land brimming over with milk and honey."'
18 "Believe me, they will listen to you. Then you and the leaders of Israel will go to the king of Egypt and say to him: 'God, the God of the Hebrews, has met with us. Let us take a three-day journey into the wilderness where we will worship God—our God.'
19-22 "I know that the king of Egypt won't let you go unless forced to, so I'll intervene and hit Egypt where it hurts—oh, my miracles will send them reeling!—after which they'll be glad to send you off. I'll see to it that this people get a hearty send-off by the Egyptians—when you leave, you won't leave empty-handed! Each woman will ask her neighbor and any guests in her house for objects of silver and gold, for jewelry and extra clothes; you'll put them on your sons and daughters. Oh, you'll clean the Egyptians out!"
For Reflection
OK. Here is a chance to think metaphorically. What is revealed in this story that has meaning for you today? What is your Egyptian experience? What have you suffered?
Pray for the end of persecution in all of its contemporary forms. Pray for those who lead others out of the darkness of their lives into the light revealed in Christ.
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
God Knows Our Suffering
God Reveals
Exodus 3:7-12 (The Message)
7-8 God said, "I've taken a good, long look at the affliction of my people in Egypt. I've heard their cries for deliverance from their slave masters; I know all about their pain. And now I have come down to help them, pry them loose from the grip of Egypt, get them out of that country and bring them to a good land with wide-open spaces, a land lush with milk and honey, the land of the Canaanite, the Hittite, the Amorite, the Perizzite, the Hivite, and the Jebusite.
9-10 "The Israelite cry for help has come to me, and I've seen for myself how cruelly they're being treated by the Egyptians. It's time for you to go back: I'm sending you to Pharaoh to bring my people, the People of Israel, out of Egypt."
11 Moses answered God, "But why me? What makes you think that I could ever go to Pharaoh and lead the children of Israel out of Egypt?"
12 "I'll be with you," God said. "And this will be the proof that I am the one who sent you: When you have brought my people out of Egypt, you will worship God right here at this very mountain."
For Reflection
Time and time again no matter how often the people of Israel separate themselves from Him, God pulls them back into his grace and protection. At times selecting the most unlikely candidate as his agent for the salvation of His people, God delivers. What is revealed in the story of Moses that has meaning in your life? Think of those who have brought messages that revealed God's intention for you.
Praise God for the revelations of his will in your life. Thank Him for the messengers that have brought you to grow in the life God intends for you.
Exodus 3:7-12 (The Message)
7-8 God said, "I've taken a good, long look at the affliction of my people in Egypt. I've heard their cries for deliverance from their slave masters; I know all about their pain. And now I have come down to help them, pry them loose from the grip of Egypt, get them out of that country and bring them to a good land with wide-open spaces, a land lush with milk and honey, the land of the Canaanite, the Hittite, the Amorite, the Perizzite, the Hivite, and the Jebusite.
9-10 "The Israelite cry for help has come to me, and I've seen for myself how cruelly they're being treated by the Egyptians. It's time for you to go back: I'm sending you to Pharaoh to bring my people, the People of Israel, out of Egypt."
11 Moses answered God, "But why me? What makes you think that I could ever go to Pharaoh and lead the children of Israel out of Egypt?"
12 "I'll be with you," God said. "And this will be the proof that I am the one who sent you: When you have brought my people out of Egypt, you will worship God right here at this very mountain."
For Reflection
Time and time again no matter how often the people of Israel separate themselves from Him, God pulls them back into his grace and protection. At times selecting the most unlikely candidate as his agent for the salvation of His people, God delivers. What is revealed in the story of Moses that has meaning in your life? Think of those who have brought messages that revealed God's intention for you.
Praise God for the revelations of his will in your life. Thank Him for the messengers that have brought you to grow in the life God intends for you.
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