Life This Side of Heaven

Think of how often faith is presented as one chest-thumping victory over the next. The believer is portrayed as a superhero who is confident, neither stumbles nor falls, and is never troubled in conscience. However, as much as you and I may aspire to this image it’s a little like the boy who runs about the house with a towel around his neck and imagines that he’s a superhero. The reality is that you and I don't wear a cape. God has given us something much better.

Despite these dark days of concern that have come upon us, there have also been rays of light which remind us of what’s important. In fact, it's times like these that can help us to recognize the value of those things that please the Lord.

It’s Theme Thursday! And today we’re looking at “Famous Sayings That Aren’t In The Bible.” There’s a phrase that’s popular among today’s Christians that you won’t find in the Bible: “Give Your Heart To Jesus.” It sounds spiritual enough but it puts the spotlight in the wrong place. The focus of the Gospel is not that you and I have given our heart to Jesus. The Good News is that Jesus has given His life for us.

If you notice, when Jesus healed the blind man he heard our Savior's words. He didn't see Jesus until later. That’s a lot like you and me. You and I haven’t seen Jesus but we have heard His words in Scripture. He has opened our eyes to see, not only the darkness of our sin, but also our salvation. And the day will come when we will also see Him face-to-face.

In Psalm 122, David said, "I rejoiced with those who said to me, 'Let us go to the house of the LORD.'" The truth us, until recently, going to church may have been one of those things that we allowed ourselves to take for granted. These words from David remind us how precious an opportunity it is to worship together and prepare us for the time when we will be blessed to do it once again.

Jesus and the disciples came upon a man who was blind from birth. Like many at that time, the disciples assumed that if something bad like this happened to a person, they must have had it coming. Now you may be thinking, who among us would ever say, “Sick people are ill because they’re bigger sinners than everyone else”? But, surprisingly, we often have no problem falling into the trap of believing the opposite is true. So Jesus took this golden opportunity to correct this common misunderstanding.

Does God need to be forgiven? God is often accused of being cold, uncaring – and even cruel. On a larger scale folks often wonder why God would permit so much of the suffering that we see around us. We see the devastating effects of sickness as well as storms and disasters. When you and I are engulfed in grief it’s easy not to notice how quickly the devil shows up on our doorstep. He's often successful at misleading us into believing that God Himself is the enemy, and source of our pain and grief. But you and I have a Savior who is with us and for us.

On this day in Samaria a lone woman made her way to the well to get water. John tells us that it was the sixth hour, high noon, when the sun would be blazing overhead. Who would come to the well at this hour? Someone who was hoping not to run into anyone else – or at least anyone she knew. But here's Jesus, who made it a point to be there at that very moment, and who knew her thirst for sin. He came to bring her the eternal refreshment of forgiveness. He also brings this very same soothing mercy to you and me this day in His Word.

It’s Theme Thursday! And today we’re looking at “Famous Sayings That Aren’t In The Bible.” Here’s a phrase that may be more popular in some circles than others: “When praises go up, blessings come down.” It’s said to be based on Psalm 67. However, if you look at this psalm you won't find this premise. Instead of a barter for blessings or a trade for treats, it's actually a wonderful mission prayer.

Rejoice in our sufferings? Who does that? Well, the apostle Paul to be specific. In fact, the word which is translated as “rejoice,” Romans 5:2, actually means “boast.” And you don’t boast about something unless it’s a good thing. So what does the apostle mean?

There’s also a tendency to attach all sorts of legends to saints and Patrick is no exception. Probably the most famous legends that surrounds St. Patrick is the story of how he drove all the snakes out of Ireland. But, to be fair, in real life Patrick would have worked tirelessly to drive out the the one snake that is a constant menace throughout the world. It's something he would have done it with the Word of God – something you do every time you have the opportunity to share the Gospel with your loved ones.

"Truth or Consequences." What an unusual name for a desert town in New Mexico! However, this name might have been a good name for the spot in the desert where the Israelites grumbled against God ... if things had turned out differently. Instead, it's a comforting reminder of God's power and presence in our lives.

“Here’s a present for everyone!” Do you remember those gifts when you were a kid? Let’s be honest, it was tempting to hear that phrase, “Here’s a present for everyone,” and immediately tune out because you it didn't sound like something that specifically included you. And maybe that’s how it sounded when you first heard these words spoken to Abram in Genesis. But take another look. Now notice how these words comes into wonderful focus as we hear again the promise given John 3:16, and the gift that God gave for you, for me and for "the world."

Nicodemus came to Jesus to learn more about the kingdom of God. Our Savior said, “I tell you the truth, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again.” In other words, unlike so many activities, entrance into the kingdom of God is not a Do-It-Yourself project. And that's a good thing!

It's Theme Thursday and we're looking at "Famous Sayings That Aren’t In The Bible." One familiar phrase that you may hear occasionally is, "When God Closes A Door, He Opens a Window." The phrase implies that if an opportunity to fulfill one of your goals ceases to exist, another opportunity will soon be made available. In the end, the hope is that God will always enable us to achieve our hopes and dreams. But, does the Bible actually make this promise?

In this verse from John’s Gospel, Jesus assures and says, “God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world.” Jesus didn't come to slap a condemned sign on us. That sign went up a long time ago. What makes God’s sending His Son into the world so amazing is He did this, as Jesus goes on to say, “to save the world through Him.” Jesus came to take the condemned sign off of you and me and put it on Himself.

The familiar words of our Savior in John 3:16 are often understood as meaning, “Wow, God really, really loves the world. He loves it SOOO much.” But this little word, "so," actually connects it to His words that follow. It's the kind of little word that leaves us on the edge of our seat, wanting to hear more, and discovering the second half of the verse which tells us the amazing answer to the question, "How so?

Why would they want to look at a snake up on a pole? The rebellious Israelites must have really scratched their heads when Moses told them that this was God’s remedy for their deadly snake bites. Now, here's an even better question: "What does this bronze snake on a pole have in common with our Savior that Jesus would compare Himself to it?"

One moment you feel like you've made 'progress.' The next day, you feel like you've slid right back to where you started. If you feel like your life is an endless game of "Snakes and Ladders," step back this season and hear the Good News of what Lent is all about.

Our Savior had no problem spotting the serpent at work. The last thing that the devil wanted to see was Jesus accomplish our salvation on Mt. Calvary. See if you can spot how often he tried to entice Jesus from giving His life for us on the cross. But first, see if you can spot the wonderful promise of our Savior's victory that God made here in Genesis.

It's Theme Thursday and we're looking at "Famous Sayings That Aren’t In The Bible." One familiar phrase that you may hear occasionally is, "The Lion Shall Lay Down With The Lamb." It’s not entirely false. It’s simply a misquote from the image that God gives us, in Isaiah, of paradise restored. It does, however, provide us with an opportunity to take a closer look at this tremendous promise.

Patient Zero. There’s a medical term which has become more familiar in recent weeks. It refers to the first person be be infected by a viral or bacterial disease in an outbreak. When it comes to sin and its effect, that's how Paul describes Adam. But God's cure is even more vigorous than the disease.

In order to crush our enemy, the very first thing that Jesus did after His baptism was to face him head on. This was God’s plan. Matthew tell us, “Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the desert to be tempted by the devil.” It was God’s will that Jesus would be tested, just as you and I are tested, but succeed where you and I have failed.

When our first parents disobeyed God, God could simply have parted the clouds and thundered His anger from heaven. But that’s not what He did. What took place next was remarkable.

Happy Leap Day. Since this is a Leap Year we get 366 days instead of the usual 365. Instead of February having its usual 28 days, we’ve got that odd little “extra day” on our calendar this year – February 29. How are you going to use your "extra day"? We could take our cue from King David in the Old Testament.

Peter was amazed by what He witnessed at the Transfiguration of our Savior. And this, in turn, brought him to want to remind us of the amazing treasure we hold in our hands and which we might otherwise take for granted.

It's Theme Thursday and we're looking at "Famous Sayings That Aren’t In The Bible. There’s one particular phrase that you may hear at the tragic death of a child. It’s a well-intended sentiment but it actually does more to rob a grieving parent of comfort than it does to provide it.

Ash Wednesday is a day when you may see folks with what looks like dirt smudged onto their forehead in the shape of a cross. It marks the beginning of the 40-day penitential Season of Lent, a season of preparation that leads up to the celebration of Easter. But, why begin with ashes?

Matthew tells us, "After six days Jesus took with Him Peter, James and John the brother of James, and led them up a high mountain by themselves. There He was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and His clothes became as white as the light. Just then there appeared before them Moses and Elijah, talking with Jesus." Moses and Elijah? Why did this cameo appearance take place, and of all of the famous people of the Old Testament, why was it these two important historical figures?

When Jesus told the disciples about the cross, Peter didn't want to hear it. Peter wanted Jesus to listen to him. “'Never, Lord!' he said. 'This shall never happen to you!'” At the Transfiguration, the Father spoke from the bright cloud and said, "This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased. Listen to him!" There is no salvation, or the eternal glory that comes with it, apart from the cross.

At the time Jesus preached the Sermon on the Mount, folks in the crowd were often led to believe that having a relationship with God was a matter of following the rules and external righteousness. But that doesn’t go beyond the surface. Jesus came to change our heart!

For many of the folks in Jesus’ time, they were convinced that they had found loopholes in God’s Laws. And our sinful nature still goes looking for them today. But Jesus has come to give us something better.

It's Theme Thursday and we're looking at Famous Sayings That Aren’t In The Bible. Here's one: "It's not my place to judge another person." Wait a second, Jesus says, “Do not judge, or you too will be judged.” However, when this verse is used, judgment is often confused with admonishment.

“Well, I’m basically a good person. I’m not perfect, but at least I’ve never murdered anyone.” Have you ever heard someone say that when they describe how they’ve kept the Ten Commandments? Have you ever said it yourself? Are you sure?

Some folks just seem to have a green thumb when it comes to planting a garden. And some seem to have a knack for sharing the Gospel. But Paul reminds us that it is "God who makes things grow."

Choose life? Who wouldn't? As amazing as it sounds, our fallen sinful nature chooses death. In love, God has chosen to rescue us from this hopelessness and give us life in His Son.

It’s tempting to think that with a little effort we can tidy things up and put ourselves right with God. Of course, it would also be a mistake to think that God isn’t as serious about the Law anymore and is okay with sweeping our sins under the rug. Neither is true.

Did you know that according to a recent survey, “Americans get more excited about Valentine’s Day than Christmas"? Sound hard to believe? Wait until you hear what many say that they would like receive as a gift on this day!

It's Theme Thursday and we're looking at Famous Sayings That Aren’t In The Bible. Here's one: "All Things Work Together For Good." It sounds so similar to what the apostle tells us in Romans that it’s not surprising that folks assume its the same phrase – but it’s not.

For those of you who are married, how perfectly do you know your spouse? Older married couples often comment on how they continue to discover new things about each other all the time. If that's true, then, for the person to whom we are closest in this life, then how could you and I possibly know the thoughts of God?

Have you ever shared the Gospel and been dismissed as simple or naive? Don't be discouraged. Paul assures us that this what we should expect. And knowing this is fact is actually a very useful insight when it comes to sharing the Good News.

How bright is your flashlight? Probably not all that bright. You may feel that's also true of your witness your family, friends and acquaintances. Take heart, it may be brighter than you imagine.

"When did everyone get so angry?" Could this be a result of what the Psalmist describes as 'walking in the counsel of the wicked, standing in the way of sinners, or sitting in the seat of mockers'?

In Micah we hear, "And what does the LORD require of you?" Then we hear the answer: "To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God." You and I don't have that kind of power. Here's why it's a blessing to have our Savior.

It's Theme Thursday and we're looking at Famous Sayings That Aren’t In The Bible. Here's one: "God won't give you more than you can handle." Have you ever felt overwhelmed by your circumstances and the world around you? It may, indeed, be more than you can handle. Knowing this can be very useful.

The courtroom is creation itself. The witnesses ... are the hills and the mountains. Here's a trial like no other. And the outcome is stunning!

I haven’t got any trophies and you’ll never see my face on a box of Wheaties. I am … common. Nevertheless, I’ve got something to boast about!

Have you ever watched a cat chase a light shining on the floor? Simply by moving a flashlight beam along the carpet, you can watch your cat chase it relentlessly. Did you know that the devil likes to play a game just like this one with you and me?

When you confess your sins, do you ever feel like you're reliving the same set of events over and over again?

In Paul’s day, just as in ours, there were at least two distinct groups who look at what Jesus has accomplished for us on the cross and concluded, “It doesn’t make sense.” How is it possible that Jesus suffering and death could possibly bring us forgiveness of sins and eternal life? But the apostle is unflinching it his declaration, “We preach Christ crucified” as revealing both the wisdom and the power of God for all who are being saved.