Life This Side of Heaven

This week finds us conveniently sandwiched between Juneteenth, celebrated on June 19, and Independence Day on the Fourth of July. On these dates we celebrate freedom from slavery and tyranny. And here in Romans, Paul alludes to both as he describes what it means for you and me to live this baptismal life.

Musicians have recorded a lot of heartbreak songs over the years. In fact it’s a staple. Jeremiah’s words in this text sound almost like one of those shattered hearts songs. This life isn't all sunshine, roses and rainbows. And like him, we too may our own laments that we want to bring to God.

When a congregation awaits its new pastor it's an anxious time, filled with nervous anticipation, for both the pastor and the congregation. I wonder what he’ll be like? Of course, not all of that speculation is useful. Sometimes, the adversary likes to set our desires off in the wrong direction. Compare our expectations today with some famous figures from Scripture.

Would you rescue someone if you saw them drowning? I think that most of us would want to do everything we could to help some poor, innocent person in distress. However, how would you feel if that person, now safely in the boat assaulted you? Sound ridiculous?

In Exodus, the Israelites listened to Moses as he explained the Law which God gave them on Mt. Sinai. And then, as we hear, “The people all responded together, ‘We will do everything the LORD has said.’” Like the kid in class raising his hand, they all chimed in to let Moses know, “We’ve got this!” It must not have been long after this that they wished they hadn’t said these words. But, in God's grace, there is a welcome question for which we can raise our hands in confidence.

Matthew tells us how the Pharisees turned up their noses when they saw Jesus dining with tax collectors and sinners. Whenever I hear this passage from the Gospels, I can’t help but picture the sneering Pharisees as wearing those Groucho Marx masks you can buy at the store – you know, the thick framed glasses with attached eyebrows, plastic nose, and bushy mustache? It’s not hard to find ourselves slipping on that goofy mask, from time-to-time when we turn up our nose at others. But who are we kidding?

It’s fascinating to hear that so many of the inventions, that you and I take for granted in our lives each day, were at one time considered to be impossible, ridiculous and doomed to failure. In some cases, even those behind them weren't fully convinced it would all work out. So it’s amazing to hear that when it came to the promise which God had made to Abraham, he didn’t just wish it was possible. He was "fully persuaded" of the outcome. In light of our Savior's resurrection, and God's promises to us, you and I can also be completely confident that He has power to do what He has promised.

When it comes to taxes, it’s not surprising that our fallen culture likes to blur the distinction between compensation and a benefit – between a wage and a gift. So it shouldn’t come as any surprise to learn that the when it comes to our relationship with God, the Adversary also likes to blur the distinction between a wage and a gift. In fact, he’s been using this same, sleazy scheme for generations. Here's why Paul has issued this timely and important bulletin, right here in Romans, to distinguish the two.

At the end of Matthew's Gospel we hear the word "Go!" Jesus has just given the signal, the “green light” for the church to get moving! In love for our Savior, and all that He has done for us in securing our salvation by His death for us on the cross and His glorious resurrection, who isn’t chomping at the bit to do just that? But, hang on a moment, go .. and do what?

You and I can’t help but marvel at how God has revealed Himself to us in His Word. He is Father, Son and Holy Spirit – three distinct persons in one divine being. How do you and I even begin to wrap our heads around that? While acknowledging the details we step back with the disciples and notice how the picture becomes crystal clear.

Here in Genesis Moses recorded, by inspiration of God, how you and I, and everything, came into being. And in summary says, “This is the account of the heavens and the earth when they were created.” Today, many Christians have mistakenly wondered if this announcement is really necessary. But it really is! And here’s why.

Did you know that every Thursday, at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Standard Time, an organization called the U.S. Drought Monitor releases a map showing where drought conditions are found, and how severe they are, across the U.S. and its territories? However, another important announcement comes out every week - in fact each Sunday. The Holy Spirit points us to refreshing good news.

It's not unusual to hear, that when the emergency lines are flooded during a storm, "not everyone who called for help could be reached.” The fact that not everyone can be saved is a sad reality of such situations. But here’s what makes what Peter announced at Pentecost so extraordinary. Everyone who calls on the Lord, without exception, will be rescued from condemnation and the everlasting destruction from sin and be brought safely to eternal life. Everyone.

What God did at Pentecost is remarkable. Underlining the fact that the the Good News of our salvation in Christ is for all people, the Spirit enabled the apostles to preach in the languages of everyone who was present. As much as we marvel at what the Holy Spirit did on this day, we might overlook the ever greater miracle He continues to do this day in our midst.

It's the kind of thing you hear about in movies. Someone searches to find you and let you know that you have received a remarkable inheritance that changes everything. Paul has such an announcement he wants to share with you .. and it comes from God.

Jesus’ ascension assures us, not only of the ongoing and powerful presence of our Savior, but also, that He continues to be active in His ever-growing kingdom and Church. What Luke has recorded is not simply two volumes of a sweeping historical novel, with a compelling narrative of what took place in the past. It points us also to Jesus’ work in our midst today.

Today’s forecast will include “a mix of sun and clouds.” Okay, so which is it? Will it be overcast with rain possible or filled with beautiful, sunshine? How should we plan our day? There's always a certain level of foreboding and uncertainty when you see clouds in the sky. However, with our Savior's ascension, now even a cloudy day bring us to look up in great joy and be reminded of truly comforting and remarkable promise.

Have you ever wondered why the world, your friends or even your family, may not see what you see? In love, we desperately want our friends and loved ones to see our Savior and all that He has done for them. However, like looking through a broken viewer at a scenic outlook, it's not surprising to hear them say, "I can't see anything." Here's where the work of the Holy Spirit comes in. Apart from the Spirit, the world has no spiritual sight or knowledge. Good News! Jesus not only tells us about the Holy Spirt, but He also points us to the means through which He works to create faith. In the Gospel, He reveals what our Savior has done for us.

Have you ever thought of the church as an ocean going vessel? It may surprise you to know that for the centuries the Savior’s church as been portrayed in art and architecture as a ship. However, is this a cruise ship or a rescue ship?

When Paul saw all the idols in Athens, you might think that He would have thrown up his hands and thought, “The people are saturated with false worship and philosophies. How can I ever get them to recognize their need for God?” You and I might share this despair, when we look around at a world which has sunk so far into depravity and yet, at the same time, thinks it has everything figured out. What can you do in a culture in which folks think, “I don’t need God.” But Paul didn't despair. In fact, take a look at the remarkable approach he took.

Before His crucifixion and resurrection, Jesus assured the disciples with this wonderful news: “In my Father’s house are many rooms.” Furthermore, He told them, “I am going there to prepare a place for you.” This news brought great comfort, not only to the disciples, but to believers of every generation to follow. However, in our covetousness, it’s easy to lose sight the nature of this comfort and how wonderful it is.

Is it possible to exchange church for ... a chicken dinner? The early church sought to meet the need of the Greek-speaking widows who were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. So they gathered in faith to come up with a solution. We get a great opportunity to see the congregation of believers in loving action and how it responded in service. However, if you notice, they were careful not to give up the ministry of God's Word in order to do it.

As we continue to bask in the glorious Good News of Easter, our Savior’s resurrection, and the salvation that we have in Him, Peter invites us to join him in giving thank to God. He opens his first letter saying, “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy He has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.” Now he goes on to direct our attention to what’s essential to the healthy growth of this new life.

“You’re gonna have to go through me.” There’s a familiar phrase from the movies. A defender places themself between the attacker and their intended target and announces, “If you plan to hurt him, you’re going to have to go through me first!” This image probably isn’t the one that comes to mind when Jesus says, “I Am the Gate,”or “I Am the Door.” But it’s just one part of the comfort that is ours in this reassuring announcement from our Savior.

One day, our scars – the reminders of our foolishness, our failures and frailty – will be gone. But these scars our Savior showed the disciples are a 'badge of honor.' They’re the welcome reminder of our Savior’s triumph over sin and death.

In describing the early days of the Christian Church, Paul tells us, “the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.” It’s hard not to be wistful hearing these words as we’re told that each year fewer and fewer people attend church or claim to be Christian. Attempts to reverse this trend over the decades have ranged from careful programs to gimmicks. So, it’s interesting to back up a few verses and see what was taking place when Luke recorded this growth. While it may not sound trendy, it's still effective.

“God, help me. Please show Yourself to me.” Has this prayer every crossed your lips when you’ve found yourself in danger, guilt or despair? It may surprise you to hear how our risen Savior answers this prayer and where He directs our attention. Episode artwork by Jan van't Hoff courtesy of FreeBibleImages.com. Used by permission.

Have you ever found yourself puzzled by the promises of Scripture and how they tie into the events of Good Friday and Easter? If you have, you're note alone. The two disciples on the way to Emmaus, on Easter, found themselves in a similar situation. They knew God’s Word, they’d heard it and read it, but it didn’t seem to come together and make sense. However, with patience and love, Jesus showed them from Scripture how His death on the cross was necessary. Our crucified and risen Savior is the key to understanding all of the Scriptures.

For the two disciples, on their way to Emmaus, Jesus' death on the cross didn't fit with their misplaced expectations of what He came to accomplish. It appeared that everything they had hoped for was lost. What they were expecting had gone up in smoke. Not surprisingly, the misplaced expectations that many have for Jesus today experience a similar end. And it often leads to confusion, disillusionment and loss of faith. But look at how Jesus carefully, and lovingly, reminds us of what the Gospel of our salvation is all about. It's even better! Episode artwork by Jan van't Hoff courtesy of FreeBibleImages.com. Used by permission.

John must have been amazed to witness so many of our Savior’s miracles. And in the Gospel, he gives us a "snapshot," so to speak, of a number of them. But John recognized that these events were not simply random fireworks to dazzle and amaze. Each of them had a purpose. In this verse, the apostle tells us why they’ve been recorded, by inspiration of the Holy Spirit, and with such great care.

Have you ever watched those famous scenes from the airport? You know, the ones where folks gather at the Arrivals gate, eager to greet their family and friends. Happy faces spot one another. Hands wave to get their attention. And then shouts of glee can be heard, and hugs and kisses follow. It’s a joyful scene. So, why is it that we may imagine a different picture when it comes to our eternal life and arrival in heaven?

Our Savior's resurrection assures us of that day when you, me and all believers in Christ will rise when He comes again in glory. It’s hard to imagine what that day will be like, but some things are abundantly clear. Will we be able to hug one another and all our loved ones who have departed in the faith? I'm looking forward to it!

Next month, the Canadian Tulip festival gets underway in the nation’s capital, Ottawa. But there’s a fascinating story that goes along with those blooms. All those bulbs are planted each year in mid to late October. There they rest, hidden in the ground, until the following Spring. You and I aren’t much different than those dusty tulip bulbs - not much to look at. Right now, it’s hard to see the splendor to come. Paul describes it this way: “For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God.” But here’s where he digs in, and gets to the nitty gritty of what Easter – and this new life that’s now ours in Baptism, is all about.

Today, funerals are often referred to as "A Celebration of Life," but they may be simply a look back at a life that's now over. What follows then is a limp encouragement to remember all those times so that we can "keep them alive in our hearts." However, that misses the best part. It overlooks an incredible promise from God and what it means that you and I have a risen Savior. Through faith, you and I, and our loved ones who have died in faith, have real life with Him right now. Easter is a celebration of the life which Jesus has won for us on the cross and the resurrection to come – and this life and celebration is ongoing!

"With fear and great joy." Isn’t that an interesting phrase to describe the reaction of the women who ran from the empty tomb on Easter morning to tell the disciples? And yet the Holy Spirit, who inspired Matthew's record of these events, ensured that he included these very words for you and me to hear as we celebrate our Savior's resurrection. It’s no accident. They point to something that’s too good to miss. Episode Artwork courtesy of FreeBibleImages.com Used with permission.

Strong words. So why did Paul, by inspiration of the Holy Spirit, describe the Gospel this way? Why is it so important to describe the message of salvation with the stark and strong words, “Christ crucified”?

When describing what our Savior has done for you and me, Paul uses an interesting phrase here in Philippians. And it’s one that really brings into focus the events of Holy Week leading up to Good Friday and Easter – and what Jesus has accomplished for you and me.

Is Palm Sunday an overhyped parade? If Psalm Sunday is celebrated, while ignoring what’s to follow on Good Friday, it can become little more than a spiritual version of a 'tailgate party,' a pep rally to get us revved up for Easter. But it's more than that. Palm Sunday is joyous reminder of why our loving Savior came and it brings into clear focus what the joyous celebration of Easter is all about.

Tomorrow is April Fool’s Day. And while it's a fun occasion to see if folks can fool others into believing something absurd, few would like to admit that they’re the one’s who have been fooled. We’d like to think that we’re smarter than that. At least, that’s what the Greeks of Paul’s day thought. And, like them, many today write off the message of the cross and resurrection of the body as foolishness. But hold that thought. Hear what the apostle assures us has come about by Jesus' crucifixion, and resurrection, and why you can trust it with confidence.

Earlier in the Gospel, John records how Jesus visited the home of Mary and Martha. If you notice, he never recorded what had for lunch that afternoon. And on this day, as she and Jesus stood outside the tomb of her brother Lazarus, Martha may not have remembered what was cooking on the stove then either. But she did remember something that proved to be much more valuable – the precious words that Jesus shared with her that day. Is there anything holding you back from worship with your family this Easter?

In Ezekiel, the prophet describes for us a vision of dry bones that God connected before him – but these weren’t dinosaur bones being readied for a museum exhibit. These were human bones and this was more than a display that you might see in a museum. What Ezekiel saw before him was a remarkable promise – for him and for you and me.

Soon after landline phones started to disappear a new dilemma was discovered. And maybe you’ve experienced it. Have you lost your phone in your own home? You had it just a moment ago, but now you can’t find it. Whenever this happens to me it comes to the point where I finally have to bring this embarrassing request to my wife. And perhaps it's a request that you've made to someone close to you as well.

In recent years, folks have been paying more attention to their wake-up routines. Suggestions are given to such beneficial activities such as throwing open the curtains to let the sun shine in. As a means of reducing stress, and putting the days events in order, encouragement is given to set aside some time for mindfulness and meditation. But did you know that having a morning routine such as this has actually been around for some time? In fact, Paul points to one here in Ephesians.

For crying out loud! Chances are good that when someone’s annoyed, you may have heard them use this phrase. The season of Lent reminds us that there's a time for crying out loud, but for a number of different reasons.

Back in 1983, PBS launched a show with the goal of encouraging children to read. It was called “Reading Rainbow,” and it was hosted by television and movie star, LeVar Burton. Each episode focused on a topic from the featured children’s book for that day. And having piqued the curiosity of his young audience, he would wrap it all up with what became a signature phrase of the show, “But, don’t take my word for it.” John tells us of a woman, who having met Jesus, went home to tell everyone back in town of their Savior. And you can almost imagine her finishing with this famous phrase.

Photo filters provide a quick and easy way to enhance your images on social media to give you that unrealistic and glossy look of a movie star. The hope is to hide the sun damage to our skin, wrinkles brought on by age, dark circles under eyes from lack of sleep, scars, freckles, acne, blemishes and more. However, the thing about a filter such as this is that it doesn’t actually undo the blemishes. It simply pretends that they’re not there. Lent reminds us that we have a Savior who has something much better in mind. And it reminds to us of how God now sees you and me through faith.

It's been observed in recent years that the level of anger in our culture seems to have increased. Perhaps you’ve noticed it, too. So, the climate of discontent, that Moses describes here among God’s people in Exodus, doesn’t sound that much different from what you and I are experiencing today. But it's not always easy to distinguish anger from fear. Fear and worry tend to trigger anger. So, what was it that was making the people afraid? Moses puts his finger on it when he goes on to quote the question they were asking, “Is the LORD among us or not?” Have you ever felt tempted to ask that question as well?

“Quick, bring boiling water!” If you’ve ever watched an old western movie, or a television show from the sixties, you’ll recognize that classic line. It’s usually shouted whenever a woman goes into labor and a child is about to be born. Someone yells, “Quick, get some boiling water!” But have you ever wondered why? Nicodemus must have scratched his head, too, and wondered when Jesus told Him, “I tell you the truth, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again," and then mentioned water.

With a unique Greek word, Paul lets you know that whenever your conscience howls, and the adversary would have you think you’re exposed to judgement, your sins have been covered – by God Himself.

It's tempting to look at what’s recorded for us in the Old Testament as simply a collection of cautionary tales from the past, and a wagging finger, warning us what not to do. Or maybe even a sepia-toned collection of photos with little bearing on our life today. But it’s so much more than that. This account, recorded by Moses in Genesis, is as much about you and me as it is about Abraham. And it’s way too good to forget.