Time is a funny thing. I think it was Kermit the Frog who said, "Times fun when your having flies." Time can be wasted or saved. Time can be lost or found. Time can be managed (wisely or poorly). Time waits for no man, but heals all wounds. You can be on it or behind it. Time passes so slowly when your young or waiting for something or especially when you are young and waiting for something. I have heard it said, "The older you get, the faster time flies."
In a given day, if a person lives through from start to finish, we all get the same amount of it. We all get the same 24 hours, but we don't all use it the same way. Some people make the most of their time, while others kill time.
As followers of Christ, we are called to redeem the time. But what does that mean? It means we have to make the most our of every moment. We live, love, learn, and serve as if each moment might be our last. We must live out our time here with the full knowledge that at any moment we will be called to give an account of how we used our time.
The clock it ticking. Time is slipping away from us all. We can remember moments in our life, but we can't turn back time. God has given us this present moment live and move and breath in his glorious grace, but will we make the most of it?
Friday, August 31, 2012
Thursday, August 30, 2012
Decisions, Decisions
How do you go about making decisions? Do you put the choices in a hat, shake it up, and pull one out? Or are you one of those decisive people who make lightning quick decisions? Maybe you like to pray about it awhile. But in the end, how do you know you made the right choice? Sometimes, I wish we still had the Urim and Thummim (Exodus 28:30).
Some choices are easier because they are morally neutral. Does it really matter if you get the steak or the chicken, the fish or the pork? Not unless you are drifting into gluttony by ordering all of them. Is there a moral difference between yellow and green? These decisions can be made with little or no fear because there is no moral nature to them.
Other decisions are easier to make because the Bible gives us clear, moral guidance. Somethings, like murder, are wrong and when presented with the temptation, we must refrain. Other things, like showing mercy, are always right, and should be practiced.
But other decisions are harder because there is not a clear moral directive. In situations like these, it pays to be familiar with the Bible's teaching on various subjects. We know showing mercy is always right, but what exactly should mercy look like. If we aren't careful, our acts of mercy might enable someone to slip into a habitual sin pattern like laziness or drunkenness. Sometimes mercy takes the form of tough love. The Word of God is our ultimate guide providing us with teachings and principles that should inform our decisions. A well informed conscience is a relatively reliable guide.
But how do you know if a decision was the right one? Some say "peace of mind." Some say "the greater good." There are many ways to measure, but not all of them are right. In truth, there isn't always a clear cut answer. You just have to trust that God will measure the intentions, and graciously work all things for his glory and your good.
Some choices are easier because they are morally neutral. Does it really matter if you get the steak or the chicken, the fish or the pork? Not unless you are drifting into gluttony by ordering all of them. Is there a moral difference between yellow and green? These decisions can be made with little or no fear because there is no moral nature to them.
Other decisions are easier to make because the Bible gives us clear, moral guidance. Somethings, like murder, are wrong and when presented with the temptation, we must refrain. Other things, like showing mercy, are always right, and should be practiced.
But other decisions are harder because there is not a clear moral directive. In situations like these, it pays to be familiar with the Bible's teaching on various subjects. We know showing mercy is always right, but what exactly should mercy look like. If we aren't careful, our acts of mercy might enable someone to slip into a habitual sin pattern like laziness or drunkenness. Sometimes mercy takes the form of tough love. The Word of God is our ultimate guide providing us with teachings and principles that should inform our decisions. A well informed conscience is a relatively reliable guide.
But how do you know if a decision was the right one? Some say "peace of mind." Some say "the greater good." There are many ways to measure, but not all of them are right. In truth, there isn't always a clear cut answer. You just have to trust that God will measure the intentions, and graciously work all things for his glory and your good.
Wednesday, August 29, 2012
The Names of God: Jesus
"She will give birth to a son, and you are to name Him Jesus, because He will save His people from their sins" (Matthew 1:21, HCSB).
The name, Jesus, is the a good place to start when discussing the names of God the Son. Jesus means that Yahweh saves or Yahweh is salvation. It stresses his connection to the God of the covenant and his role as the fulfillment of that covenant. The angel's explanation gives us a better understanding of what God intended by the name Jesus.
The context compels us to see Jesus as Savior, thus linking Jesus and Yahweh. The angel states "He will save" not "Yahweh will save through him." The divinely appointed name highlights Jesus' unique role as Savior. Yahweh, the Lord, alone is Savior. Yet, under the command of heaven, the angel announced that this child, Jesus, would save.
The angel's statement also highlights Jesus' divinity by listing the object of salvation. Joseph is told that Jesus would save his people. Even if we assume the angel meant that Jesus would save those who were of the same ethnicity (race), the overall context suggests Jesus' relationship to this people is more than just biological. The angel appears to be telling Joseph that Yahweh has come down to save his people. Matthew reminds his readers of this through his Old Testament quotations. Especially, when he says they shall call Mary's child Immanuel, which means God with us.
The angel also tells us what kind of Savior Jesus will be. Jesus saves his people from their sins. Sin has separated men from God, and they need forgiveness. Their lawlessness makes them the objects of God's wrath. In order to be reconciled to God, mankind needs someone who can deliver them. Only Jesus can save a lost and dying world.
So when we call on Jesus' name, we are proclaiming him as God and Savior. We are reminding ourselves of his role as our Savior. We are naming ourselves his people. Such a thought may not comfort some, but I'm glad I have a Savior who has rescued me from my sin.
The name, Jesus, is the a good place to start when discussing the names of God the Son. Jesus means that Yahweh saves or Yahweh is salvation. It stresses his connection to the God of the covenant and his role as the fulfillment of that covenant. The angel's explanation gives us a better understanding of what God intended by the name Jesus.
The context compels us to see Jesus as Savior, thus linking Jesus and Yahweh. The angel states "He will save" not "Yahweh will save through him." The divinely appointed name highlights Jesus' unique role as Savior. Yahweh, the Lord, alone is Savior. Yet, under the command of heaven, the angel announced that this child, Jesus, would save.
The angel's statement also highlights Jesus' divinity by listing the object of salvation. Joseph is told that Jesus would save his people. Even if we assume the angel meant that Jesus would save those who were of the same ethnicity (race), the overall context suggests Jesus' relationship to this people is more than just biological. The angel appears to be telling Joseph that Yahweh has come down to save his people. Matthew reminds his readers of this through his Old Testament quotations. Especially, when he says they shall call Mary's child Immanuel, which means God with us.
The angel also tells us what kind of Savior Jesus will be. Jesus saves his people from their sins. Sin has separated men from God, and they need forgiveness. Their lawlessness makes them the objects of God's wrath. In order to be reconciled to God, mankind needs someone who can deliver them. Only Jesus can save a lost and dying world.
So when we call on Jesus' name, we are proclaiming him as God and Savior. We are reminding ourselves of his role as our Savior. We are naming ourselves his people. Such a thought may not comfort some, but I'm glad I have a Savior who has rescued me from my sin.
Tuesday, August 28, 2012
The Burning Word's 4th Anniversary
This blog started with a simple confession: I have always wanted to be a writer. I began the blog after reading the advice of a published author who suggested that individuals who wish to write need to write daily. The idea of blog seemed like a win-win situation. I could have an outlet for my ideas, and mature as a writer at the same time. It's been harder than I thought it would be.
Writing can be an extremely personal discipline, unless you are writing weather forecasts or recipes. However, when you're writing about your personal experiences or opinions you open yourself up to criticism. Sometimes, the greater fear is that one will display his heart for the world to see, but go unnoticed.
It's hard to believe that four years have passed since I made that confession. The passion to write is still alive and well. My biggest problem is failure to plan. I working on correcting that problem. I am grateful for your patience and your visits. I will work to reward your diligence in the coming year. All I ask is that you pray for me. God bless.
Writing can be an extremely personal discipline, unless you are writing weather forecasts or recipes. However, when you're writing about your personal experiences or opinions you open yourself up to criticism. Sometimes, the greater fear is that one will display his heart for the world to see, but go unnoticed.
It's hard to believe that four years have passed since I made that confession. The passion to write is still alive and well. My biggest problem is failure to plan. I working on correcting that problem. I am grateful for your patience and your visits. I will work to reward your diligence in the coming year. All I ask is that you pray for me. God bless.
Sunday, August 5, 2012
Sermon Recap 8-5-12
Morning: The sermon, "The Banquet," focused on Matthew 22:1-14. In this passage, Jesus teaches us about the kingdom. He offers some important reminders.
1. Jesus reminds that the invitation has been sent. God has been calling sinners to repentance since the fall. He has continually promised to send a Rescuer. The cross is our invitation to turn to God.
2. Jesus reminds us not to reject to the invitation. Those who reject the invitation to salvation will come under the judgement under God.
3. Jesus reminds us that we can't come on our own terms. We must be robed in Jesus' righteousness.
Evening: No evening service.
1. Jesus reminds that the invitation has been sent. God has been calling sinners to repentance since the fall. He has continually promised to send a Rescuer. The cross is our invitation to turn to God.
2. Jesus reminds us not to reject to the invitation. Those who reject the invitation to salvation will come under the judgement under God.
3. Jesus reminds us that we can't come on our own terms. We must be robed in Jesus' righteousness.
Evening: No evening service.
Wednesday, August 1, 2012
In the midst of a terrible story, we see a beautiful scene. Genesis 16 tells the story of Abram's marriage to the slave, Hagar. This impetuous decision was the cause of strife within Abram's household, and heartache for Hagar. This young, pregnant woman finds herself cast out of Abram's house. Yet, in midst of her struggle the Lord meets her. He comes to her, and calls her to return to Sarai, and serve her. She returns and honors the Lord's command.
In her exile, she learns that God is watching her. As the story unfolds, Hagar appears to be little more than property. She is given and discarded without regard to her consent. Yet, when she finds herself out on her own, the Lord (through the angel of the Lord) appears to her. She appears astounded. The event is a defining moment in her life, and she marks it by calling the Lord, El Roi. She says, "You are the God Who Sees Me." Seeing the God who Sees must have given Hagar the strength to release her anger at Sarai and to serve her. Hagar would spend the next 13 years honoring the Lord's command.
Hagar's encounter with the God Who Sees taught her that God wants to see us make it through difficulties, not work around them. Hagar was still a servant. She was called to return to an unfair mistress. She would never have the love or kindness Abram showed Sarai.
God wasn't just watching. No, he was actively seeking Hagar. He found her by the well. He had a message for her. A message that would encourage her. She had a role to play in the purposes of God, and God would not forget her. He wouldn't let her be thrown aside so easily.
The Lord is still the God Who Sees. He sees you. He knows your situation. He'll help see you through it. He's actively seeking you. If you trust him, you'll see the God Who Sees you.
In her exile, she learns that God is watching her. As the story unfolds, Hagar appears to be little more than property. She is given and discarded without regard to her consent. Yet, when she finds herself out on her own, the Lord (through the angel of the Lord) appears to her. She appears astounded. The event is a defining moment in her life, and she marks it by calling the Lord, El Roi. She says, "You are the God Who Sees Me." Seeing the God who Sees must have given Hagar the strength to release her anger at Sarai and to serve her. Hagar would spend the next 13 years honoring the Lord's command.
Hagar's encounter with the God Who Sees taught her that God wants to see us make it through difficulties, not work around them. Hagar was still a servant. She was called to return to an unfair mistress. She would never have the love or kindness Abram showed Sarai.
God wasn't just watching. No, he was actively seeking Hagar. He found her by the well. He had a message for her. A message that would encourage her. She had a role to play in the purposes of God, and God would not forget her. He wouldn't let her be thrown aside so easily.
The Lord is still the God Who Sees. He sees you. He knows your situation. He'll help see you through it. He's actively seeking you. If you trust him, you'll see the God Who Sees you.
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