SISTER STUDY . . . Going Through the Bible in One Year
The Old Ballgame
One Year Bible (May 7)
I Samuel 1: 1-2:21
“The Old Ballgame"
“Take me out to the ball game. Take me out with the crowd; Buy me some peanuts and Cracker Jack, I don’t care if I never get back. Let me root, root, root for the home team, if they don’t win, it’s a shame. For it’s one, two, three strikes, you’re out, At the old ball game. (Norworth, Tilzer, 1908)
“Three strikes, you’re out at the old ball game”, but what about in the game of life?
Today, we are focusing on two amazing women who faced the “Three Strike Rule”.
We have been looking at the story of Naomi who lost 1) Her husband, 2) Her son, Mahlon, and 3) Her son, Kilion. She was “struck- down” but she was never “struck -out”!
We see a similar “Three Strike Rule” in today’s story through the life of Hannah. She is married to Elkanah, who had two wives (lucky her!) His other wife was “Cruella” Peninnah. (Nickname added.)
Each time they would go to the temple to offer their sacrifices “Cruella” would intentionally taunt Hannah and reduce her to tears. (This is Strike One.) Her well-meaning husband, Elkanah would say to her, “Why aren’t you eating/ Why be downhearted just because you have no children? You have me--isn’t that better than having ten sons?” (I Samuel 1: Definitely Strike Two!!
Is it just me or does it sound like this guy got relationship counseling from “The Bachelor”, (aka Samson: “If you hadn’t plowed with my heifer, you wouldn’t have solved the riddle.”) Could someone please help these guys??
Here comes the big finale… wait for it. Next Hannah goes to the temple and is sobbing, praying, and pleading with God to give her a son. She promises that if He does, she will give him back to the Lord to serve him all his days. The high priest there accuses her of being DRUNK!
It’s a ‘Strike Three’ kind of day!!! This temple is certainly of the “Frozen Chosen” variety. There has been no passionate praying going on there for quite some time as the priest didn’t even recognize her heartfelt pleading…
Doesn’t your heart just break for these women? Mine certainly does!
Have you ever asked why God would allow these women to be “struck down repeatedly”?
What did they do wrong?
I am so thankful for today’s powerful message because we are going to need to grasp this and hold onto this message when times get tough…
Did these women suffer greatly! Indeed!! Perhaps, we can better understand the answer hidden within their suffering if we look at the outcome in the framework of the grander scheme.
“Bitter Mara” becomes “Nana Naomi” when she holds in her arms her grandson, (son of Ruth and Boaz). This child will be in the lineage of Jesus! Little baby, Obed, will grow up to have a son named Jesse, who will have a son named David. As in King David, through whose lineage the long-awaited Messiah will be born.
Do you remember what homeland Naomi’s husband came from? Bethlehem, of the land of Judah. This story is certainly the “long train home”. It is overflowing with the providence of God and the “Kinsman Redeemer” who made a way when there was no way!
Then, there is “Heartbroken Hannah” who becomes “Hosanna Hannah”. She was the first ‘charismatic’ in the temple! The priest was certainly accusing her of being “filled with the spirit”.
Do you know that Samuel, her dedicated son, would become the most well-known prophet in the Bible? He would become the last of the judges in Israel and would anoint its first two kings—Saul and David.
David… The connecting thread!
Three Strikes. Two Women. One Messiah.
Their brokenness was part of the beginning of the Kingdom of God that would save all mankind!
Perhaps, now you may be ready to hear the message hidden in this story… It is NOT about us. It is about HIM!
For about fourteen years we wished to have children. It was a long painful journey at times. Then we received TWO blessings in ONE year. We have almost lost one of our blessings TWICE now… The time of living in hospitals has totaled months and about “totaled” us!
I have asked “Why”, and those answers are not apparent. I doubt they ever will be… However, He is with us, and always provides a way out through this Son, Jesus Christ.
I have learned to cry, rejoice, and pray like our two women in this story. Here is Hannah’s prayer “My heart rejoices in the Lord! The Lord has made me strong. Now I have an answer for my enemies; I rejoice because you rescued me. No one is holy like the Lord! There is no one beside you there is no Rock like our God.” (I Samuel 2:1)
When it comes to baseball, we all seem to understand that it is a “team sport”. When it comes to the Kingdom of God, there is only one team as well. He is the captain, the coach, and the pinch hitter! He knows the game plan that we can not begin to fathom. It is NOT about us!
Yes, Naomi and Hannah suffered, and through their suffering, God brought about redemption for the entire world.
We may be “struck-down”, but we will never “Strike-out” when the Kinsman Redeemer is up to bat…at the Old Ballgame.
Alive & Well
John 4:43-54 (May 6)
After two days in the village with the Samaritans, Jesus went into Galilee. He was surprised when they welcomed him because he had said that a prophet is not usually honored in his hometown.
Why is that, do you think? Is it because those in our hometowns knew us when we were just another person on the street, so they see us in a different light than strangers do? Something to ponder...
Anyways, Jesus is roaming the streets of his old stomping grounds when he met up with a government official who had an extremely sick son. The man begged Jesus to come to Capernaum to heal his son, who was about to die.
At this point, Jesus had only performed one miracle... remember all that water that miraculously turned into enough wine to keep the party going? Even that miracle he had been reluctant to do.
Yet here is a man begging him for another one. Why did this man think that just because Jesus turned water into wine, he could heal a dying boy? Those really are two different things.
This man reminds me of myself in some ways, and maybe you can relate as well. My husband is good at a lot of things. He is handy with tools, he is artistic, he excels with his culinary talents. Because he is so good at so much, I have high expectations. Whenever anything is broken or goes wrong, I operate under the assumption that he will fix the problem.
I go off my own expectations, forgetting that he has limitations. I am often like that man we read about today.... asking him to "fix it".
Jesus seemed a little frustrated, saying "Will you never believe in me unless you see miraculous signs and wonders?"
Would this man have even approached Jesus if he didn't need something from him? How many times are we valued, not for who we are, but for what we can do for someone?
But Jesus, being all goodness and grace, assured the man that his son would make it. "Go back home. Your son will live!"
Ah...the goodness of our Lord is so amazing! His gifts are so awesome and his love so great. He overlooks our self-focused hearts, our greedy wishes, and our desperation. He works through our doubts and fears, and brings us out the other side just like he did that boy...Alive & Well.
Who Says You Can’t Go Home?
One Year Bible (May 6)
Ruth 2:1-4:22
‘Who Says You Can’t Go Home?”
“It doesn’t matter where you are, It doesn’t matter where you go, If it’s a million miles away or just ten miles up the road. Take it in, take it with you when you go. Who says you can’t go home?” (“Who Says You Can’t Go Home” by Bon Jovi. A must listen!)
I love, love, love this song! It is the kind of song you hear in Branson, Mo and it reminds me of all the reasons why I love my roots!
My hometown is Springfield, Illinois. This is where my life was formed, memories made, and roots grew deep. Everyplace elsewhere I have lived is kind of like “coming late to the party”, if you know what I mean. People ask me, “Where did you get your accent?” (Hmmmmm)
Oh the joy to still live in a place where your roots remain, your friends have been with you all your life, and you just belong. You are not the “newcomer” or the “outsider”. Today’s story is about a woman struggling with this and more… Much More!
Much Loss, Much Fear. Much Bitterness. Much Uncertainty. Much Brokeness. She just wanted to go home…
“It was Late Spring, at the beginning of the barley harvest”. (Ruth 1: 22) To us, this would be around the month of March as their barley harvest always followed immediately after the Passover.
To Naomi, it felt more like “Winter” however. As she thought of the Passover that year she had to struggle with “Why would the death angel take her husband and now her only two sons?” Yes, it felt like the darkest, harshest winter that she had ever known, but the new life of spring is on its way…
Naomi’s name has been changed to “Mara” meaning, “For the Lord has made my life Bitter”.
Here is what she says to her daughter-in-laws, ”Things are far more bitter for me than for you because the Lord himself has raised his fist against me.” (1:13) One Daughter-In-Law went back to her homeland, and one proceeded bravely onward to a land and people that she knew little about…
There is just something about going home, isn’t there? Notice, how the town is a buzz remembering Naomi by name. What a joy for others to remember and call you with affection by name, but Naomi is not making it easy on them.
“Is it really Naomi?”, One woman asked. (1: 19) Look at Naomi’s sad response, “I went away full, but the Lord has brought me home empty. Why call me Naomi when the Lord has caused me to suffer and the Almighty has sent such tragedy upon me?” (1: 21)
Poor Naomi has gone home to “SURVIVE” but God is calling her home to “THRIVE”. There is a big difference! She just doesn’t know it… YET!
At this exact time of the year in April 2019, I got to “go back to my roots”. I grew up in the Land of Lincoln, and for almost a week I got to walk down all of the familiar paths that brought my heart incredible joy! The red brick streets that I used to ride my bike down, my home church, the college where I first started my journey into adulthood, my high school, the church camp on the lake where I used to lifeguard each summer, and my childhood home. I even had a “Maidrite”, my favorite sandwich during my high school days. (Does anyone even know what that is? Just askin’.) I was able to put my arms around the necks of people who have truly made me who I am, and hug the necks of my parents’ best friends for life and beyond! Pure JOY!
Now, my father was already in heaven at this time, but I could see him and feel his presence during that entire trip. As I turned into my home church where he had been the senior minister during my growing up days, the last car I passed as I turned in the driveway was a White Lincoln (exactly like my father’s beloved car). The song that came on my Sirius radio was “Blessed Assurance”, his all-time favorite hymn.
My father WAS far away, but he IS NEVER far away!
“Who says you can’t go home?
There’s only one place they call me one of their own…
I been all around the world and as a matter of fact
There’s only one place left I want to go
Who says you can’t go home?
It’s alright, It’s alright, It’s alright, It’s alright.”
Naomi doesn’t know it just yet, but it is going to be alright again,
and it can be for you and me too, sweet sisters. There is a Kinsman Redeemer waiting for you and for me! Our father may SEEM far away, but HE is NEVER far away!!
“Softly and tenderly Jesus is calling…
Come home, come home. (Softly and Tenderly--Traditional Hymn)
Who Says You Can’t Go Home?
An Unlikely Conversation
John 4:4-42 (May 5)
The other day I went out exploring the countryside with my husband. One of our adventures if the day was hiking to a place called Jacob's Well. We followed the path through the woods until we came upon a lively little fresh water spring. Along the side of it was some rock and a space for sitting. It was lovely and I can't wait to take my kids there.
I imagine Jesus sitting there, trying to get a little rest and a little peace and quiet. The fact that he had sent the others on to look for food makes me think that maybe he needed a break from their jabbering as well.
So he sits down. He rests. He takes a moment to himself. We all know how refreshing a peaceful moment to ourselves can be. I like to think of him there, sitting in peaceful silence.
Then, along comes a Samaritan woman. She is sneaking off to get her water in the heat of the day, long after everyone else has come and gone.
Why is she doing this? Most likely, it is because of her sense of shame and unworthiness. Her life has not been easy. 5 times she has married. 5 times her husbands have divorced her. This is very uncommon in her little village, and I'm sure her late, sun scorching trips for water are to minimize the stares and behind-the-hand gossip.
Have you ever been in the position of embarrassment and shame? Ever felt unworthy to be amongst the crowd? Ever felt all eyes in you, and heard the whispers?
It is not a pleasant place to be in. But that is where she finds herself in life.
As she approaches the well, the most unlikely conversation starts up. It is very unexpected because Jews don't ordinarily stoop so low as to talk with a Samaritan. But Jesus is no ordinary Jew.
He strikes up this unlikely conversation with her, asking her for a drink. She questions why HE would ask HER for anything. Seems she knows her place in life.
Jesus then goes on to describe the Living Water to her. At first, she is a bit confused. (Wouldn't you be?) He talks to her about her life with many husbands and the fact that she is living with a man she isn't even married to. (Perhaps her self esteem has sunk so low by now that she doesn't even consider herself worthy of marriage.)
She speaks to him of the coming Messiah and all she has heard about him. When she finally figures out that HE is the Messiah, she drops her water jars and runs to tell the people of her village.
Do you notice, in her moment of excitement and discovery, she forgets about how she feels about herself and how others feel about her? In that moment she is so overcome with the news that the Messiah is here, she puts herself right in the path of those who have most likely caused her much sadness and shame.
Her total abandon in that moment brought many to Jesus, and they believed.
Yes, it was her...that woman of reputable character, who brought a village to the feet of Jesus.
A few weeks ago, I went with a friend to minister to women in prison. This was an unlikely place for me to be, and I was a little timid about it.
But through the course of our worship, and the message we gave, I saw the pure joy and excitement on their faces.
They were no longer sitting in the shame and disgrace of what had gotten them there. They left those thoughts behind to worship in the presence of the Lord.
Those women, in that moment...as unlikely as it was...brought my heart to Jesus in a powerful way.
God used them. He used the Samaritan woman. He uses you. He uses me. Anyone who is willing, he will use for his kingdom...no matter how unlikely they may be.
Daughter-In-Love
Judges 19:1-20:48
“The Daughter-In-Love”
There is a 1954 musical called “Seven Brides for Seven Brothers”. This is a story of the eldest of seven brothers living on the frontier in the Oregon Territory who returns with a bride. She is shocked to learn that her new home includes six untamed, unkempt, and uncouth brothers-in-law. This musical is her effort to turn these lumberjacks into gentlemen to find wives of their own.
As today’s culture looks back on this movie some find it problematic that this jestingly advocates “kidnapping women as a means of finding romance”.
Today’s passage came long before this musical but it has this theme running all the way through it. The tribe of Benjamin is in danger of extinction because of their sin and their lack of brides for their sons. They can not break a vow and marry the wrong people, and so the Israelites begin to scheme a plan to save them. It too is problematic and they need a lot more than "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers". In this Israelite musical, there is dancing, kidnapping, and their theme song is definitely NOT “Wonderful, Wonderful Day” like in the movie! It is far from that!
This passage now takes us to the most famous “Daughter-In-Law'' in all of the Bible. Her name is Ruth. Does that ring a bell? I have heard this story over and over since I was a child, but I must admit that I have never “got it” mentally or emotionally until NOW.
Perhaps you remember her famous Mother-In-Law. Her name was Naomi. She asked her name to be changed to “Mara” meaning “Bitter”. That is what I remember of this story as a girl, Oh yeah, the old woman who was bitter and blamed God for her troubles. I had a pretty shallow view of her and this story as I look back on it now.
Also, the main passage from this story is used in weddings A LOT! I have heard it over and over through the years. I have also been told, “That really isn’t a wedding verse; it was about a ‘Mother-In-Law’ and a ‘Daughter-In-Law’. I have changed my mind about that too, and I will tell you why…
There was a time of great famine in the land. Naomi’s husband, the man from Bethlehem in Judah, (Does this location sound at all familiar?) took her and their two sons away from their homeland so that they could survive. He died after they moved to the foreign, pagan land of Moab, leaving his wife with two sons to raise. They both married Moabite women. About ten years later both sons died!
She was now left all alone in a strange land with pagan gods and NO FAMILY. She had no husband, no sons, and no relatives in this strange land. All she had was two daughter-in-laws who were from a pagan faith.
She was God-fearing (and as all Jewish people did), she attributed the circumstances dealt to them as being from God’s hand. He was sovereign and she could not begin to understand why God would take her husband and two sons and only leave her with two pagans who were not related to her in heart or homeland. I can relate to her broken-hearted ‘why’s’; can you?
She changed her name because everything about her changed! She was broken and bitter!
About three years ago at Thanksgiving time, we spent the last week of my mother’s life around her bedside. She was surrounded by family and caregivers around the clock. I was on break from school and was there for the week without my husband and kids as we live a few hours away. Each and every day as I sat there with her while she was on Hospice and in a coma, I was accompanied by my brother and his wife, “The Daughter-In-Law”.
My sister-in-law was there and has been for years, through all the ‘ups and downs and all arounds’. She has been there when sometimes the daughters could not be there. She was there to talk with my mom often, and to take her to doctor’s appointments. She was even there when they came to take my mom away after her passing.
Now, mind you that ‘Mother-In-Law’s’ just seem to have a way of always mentioning their son’s names as well as their daughters’ names first, but somehow the daughter-in-law always seems to get remembered: “after the fact”. Secondly, my mother’s daughter-in-law has the same faith as my mother. She worships the very same God and serves Him! I still stand in awe and thanks for my mother’s daughter-in-law, who I consider my sister.
I hope that like me, you can just take a minute to glimpse this story through ‘fresh eyes’ today.
Naomi had no income, home, food, family, or future. She lived in a land of pagans. She also had lost her hope and joy in living. She did not know why God had allowed this suffering to come her way? She had lost all three of her loved ones and there was no one else… or was there?
“But Ruth replied, ‘Don’t ask me to leave you and turn back. Wherever you go, I will go; wherever you live. I will live. Your people will be my people, and your God will be my God. Wherever you die, I will die, and there I will be buried. May the Lord punish me severely if I allow anything but death to separate us!’ When Naomi saw that Ruth was determined to go with her, she said nothing more.” (Ruth 1:16-18)
What a perfect verse for a wedding! Even in death and with the loss of her own husband she had made a vow that she would keep. She chose to love her husband in his death by loving his God, His people, and His mother. What a beautiful FOREVER vow!
Brokenness and bitterness are about to turn into Blessings because of…“The Daughter-In-LOVE.
No Comparison
John 3:22-4:3 (May 4)
Mankind has been in competition with each other since sin entered the world. Cain and Abel are an example of this, as are many others we find in scripture.
The desire for success, for riches, for fame and notoriety...all of this has pushed us to strive to win.
Lack of self-confidence and feelings of unworthiness have caused us to compare ourselves to others. Social media has elevated this to even higher levels.
That is why it is so refreshing to read today's NT scripture. Here we find John the Baptist continuing his work, baptizing the people who came to him.
At the same time, Jesus, who is now in the Judean countryside, is also doing some baptizing of his own. A certain Jew noticed this and started a discussion with John's disciples. They took this discussion to John, saying "Rabbi, the man you met on the other side of the Jordan River, the one you identified as the Messiah, is also baptizing people. And everybody is going to him instead of coming to us."
Doesn't that sound like someone worried and complaining that someone else is getting their 'Business"? These disciples seem to have a competitive spirit. They appear to see the success of Jesus as a threat to John's success.
We often find that, even in ministry. While the spotlight, all that we do, should be pointing to Jesus, and should be done for His glory, so many times our "self" gets in the way and it becomes more about what WE are doing, what WE are achieving, and how WE are viewed. Jesus gets put on the back burner because we get too focused on ourselves.
But John demonstrated his right heart when he replied, "No one can receive anything unless God gives it from heaven. You yourselves know how plainly I told you, 'I am not the Messiah. I am only here to prepare the way for him.' It is the bridegroom who marries the bride, and the bridegroom's friend is simply glad to stand with him and hear his vows. Therefore, I am filled with joy at his success. He must become greater and greater, and I must become less and less."
Wouldn't it be so great if society could think the way John thought? If we could all have a heart to esteem our brothers and sisters in Christ, rejoice in their blessings, and encourage them in their efforts to be all God has called them to be?
What if we stopped comparing and competing, and just celebrated ourselves and each other with joy?
What if everything we did, we did to make Jesus greater and greater, and ourselves less and less?
There is NO COMPARISON to a life filled with love, encouragement, acceptance, and humility.
Can you think of a time when you have felt a competitive spirit on been stuck in comparing yourself to someone else? We would love to hear your thoughts.
Long Haulers
One Year Bible (May 4)
Judges 19:1-20:48
“Long Haulers”
One of the stories that fill medical news these days is of “Long Haulers”. For whatever reason, many people experience significant severe symptoms that can last for months to years as a result of their infection with this severe virus overload. It is a post-acute syndrome that can be severely debilitating. Most of us have gone out of our way to avoid this with every fiber of our being.
What if I told you that sin is even more deadly and long-lasting? Would we avoid embracing that?
The story of Micah (Not prophet Micah) offered us an example of how NOT to worship God, The results of his “traveling idols” not only affected Jonathan, son of Gershom, the son of Moses, and his sons who were priests from the tribe of Dan until the time of the captivity of the land, but they continued to use the idol Micah had made, “All the time the house of God was in Shiloh.” (Judges 18: 30-31) The effects of immorality, and “Everyone doing what they thought was right in their own eyes” led to much bloodshed and evil.
Today’s OT passage is rated R. So, I am not going to include the “Nitty Gritty” details. However, I will tell you what is said about the rape, torture, and ramifications in this story…
Everyone who saw it said, “Such a horrible crime has not been committed in all the time since Israel left Egypt. Think about it! What are we going to do? Who’s going to speak up?” (Judges 19:30)
This evil was so great that it brought all the Israelites to their knees in the presence of the Lord with weeping and fasting. (20: 22-23)
A nation without its eyes on God becomes a nation that has no heart… and oh what evil follows this steep decline. Not only was Micah an example of how not to worship God but it illustrates the consequences of practicing religion according to what we think is best rather than according to God’s teaching. God’s Word not only guides us; it protects us.
Without that protection, evil motives, and every unimaginable evil follows. Today’s story is just that… PURE EVIL!
“Temptation comes from our own desires, which entice us and drag us away. These desires give birth to sinful actions. And when sin is allowed to grow, it gives birth to death.” James 1: 14-15.
Can we relate to this wake-up call of a story today?
We not only suffer from a “virus overload”, we are suffering as a nation “Whose eyes are no longer on the Lord”; instead we as a nation are doing what is “right in our own eyes”.
Soon the nation of Israel will be broken and cry, fast, and repent because their sin has passed down from generation to generation and it has become so unspeakably evil that no one can fathom!
The body of the woman who was defiled repeatedly until she died has been divided up into twelve parts and sent to the twelve tribes as a severe warning. Eleven out of twelve tribes will repent; one will not bow its knee.
The story of Micah reminds us that we do not come to God on OUR terms. We come to God on HIS terms!
How is the nightly news setting with you these days? Are you witnessing unspeakable atrocities?
Long Haulers, Beware!
“If my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land.” -- 2 Chronicles 7:14.
Facing Judgement
John 3:1-21 (May 3)
Today we meet Nicodemus. "Nick" is considered a wise Jewish religious leader and a Pharisee. (Basically, he should be pretty smart.)
When given the opportunity to speak to Jesus, Nick had something to say. (I'm pretty sure we will all have something to say when we meet Jesus...after we get accustomed to the awe of being in his presence.)
When Jesus starts explaining to Nick that he can only get to Heaven by being born again, poor Nick is bewildered! How on earth is that supposed to happen? That, of course, seemed physically impossible to this wise old guy who had been around a while and seen a lot of things happen. But he's never seen THAT happen!
So, Jesus (I can almost see him shaking his head in puzzlement) goes on to explain the process of being born again in the spirit. (I bet ole Nick was staring at him with his mouth hanging open upon this new information.)
Nick is just so confused! Have you ever been confused when someone is trying to explain something to you? ( For me, I get that "Nicodemus" look on my face when anyone starts trying to explain trigonometry or physics to me. WHEW!)
And Jesus may have had a slightly baffled look as well, considering he thought Nick, being a respected Jewish teacher, would understand these things.
I can imagine how frustrating it must have been for Jesus, when these "wise" people didn't understand all he was trying to tell them.
How could mankind possibly grasp the fact that God loved them SO MUCH he sent Jesus down to take in an earthly body and be crucified for the sins of each and every one of us? (Even now, in my own wisdom, I am somewhat amazed by this.)
Then Jesus talks to Nick about judgement. So now Nick has to wrap his brain around the fact that if he BELIEVES in Him, he can bypass judgement. But if he chooses not to believe, he has already been judged.
I can see poor Nick...his mind swirling with T.M.I., finally coming to understand that in order to get to Heaven, he has to believe in God, be baptized in the Holy Spirit, and live a right life, avoiding the darkness of evil, while being a light to the world.
Wow! That's a pretty tall order (bigger than IHOP's tallest stack)! But the end result of that is such a more pleasant outcome than the judgement that comes from unbelief.
How about us? Are there days when walking in the Spirit seems like a tall order? Days when the darkness can be tempting?
Are the days when you're "light" seems to be out of batteries and you can't even find the path in front of you?
Fear not, my friends! Jesus walks through our shadows with us. He brings us to the light time and time again. He is there to move us towards our heavenly home, where we will be surrounded with those who were once bewildered, but now see the blessing of believing. Because believing is a whole lot better than the judgement that comes when we don't.
Their Own Eyes
One Year Bible (May 3)
Judges 17:1-18:31
“Their Own Eyes"
“I believe you love who you love
Ain’t nothing you should ever be ashamed of
I believe this world ain’t half as bad as it looks
I believe most people are good
I believe them streets of gold
Are worth the work
But I’d still wanna go
Even if they were paved in dirt”
Can you name these lyrics from a popular country song? Catchy song! Very Catchy!
The theology in it is “very catchy’ as well. In fact, it was rampant in our story way back in Judges 17: 1-18:31 and it is alive and still “not well” today!
Love whoever you love, nothing to be ashamed of…even if they belong to someone else?
Can our work earn us the way to those streets of gold? Just askin’ for a friend… Oh, you’ve heard that line before?
If you read the OT passage today and you were just thoroughly confused and lost in the woods raise your hand? Glad that I was not all alone! I just couldn’t wrap my head around it, but I will give it a try. Here Goes Nothin’...
So, there is a man named Micah (not to be confused with Micah the prophet) who was cursed by his mama for stealing 1,100 pieces of silver from her. He then admitted that he had the money. So, being a good mama, she decided to teach him a lesson. She dedicated the coins to the Lord and then turned around and in honor of her son had an image carved and an idol made in the son’s honor.
Is anyone just shaking their head with me right now? I may be giving myself whiplash, seriously!
Oh, but hang on because this story gets even crazier. Micah (not prophet Micah) meets a young priest who is a Levite and decides that he will hire his own personal priest to live with him because, “I know the Lord will bless me now…. Because I have a Levite serving as my priest.” (17: 12) Alrighty then, problem solved! (I guess he really was worried about his mama putting another curse on him).
So, some good ol’ boys from Dan (no not Dan, guys from Dan) ask Micah’s personal priest if their journey and conquests will be successful. This novice priest tells them what they want to hear, “Go in peace, for the Lord is watching over your journey.” (18:5-6)
Before you know it, we have the first “traveling evangelist”. This dude got a better gig and he is now on tour with “The Dan Band”. They don’t just take the priest; they have their entire revival set up--complete with all of Micah’s gods! (Wonder what mommy dearest is going to say about her son now?)
The “Traveling Dan Band” has now set up the carved image and appointed “Jonathan son of Gershom, son of MOSES, as their priest.” (18: 30-31) Oh my! I have more than just a few questions to throw out here…
Who gives glory to God and then builds an idol to celebrate the “wrongdoer”?
What good is a priest who is “bought and paid for” and who just tells you what you want to hear and goes with the highest bidder?
When have false beliefs ever led to the right actions?
(Just askin’ for that same friend.)
Micah’s priest told these men what they wanted to hear, “Go in peace. Your journey has the Lord’s approval.” (Judges 18:6) Yet the Danites’ journey was a violent one that resulted in the destruction of a peaceful town.
Down was up, and up was down!
Can we begin to make any sense of this story? Let’s go back and check out the beginning of today’s reading… “In those days Israel had no king; all the people did whatever seemed right in their own eyes.” -- Judges 17: 6.
And that, my friends, is the message behind this story… Being RELIGIOUS should never be confused with being RIGHTEOUS! Exchanging the truth for a lie has long-term effects.
They needed to listen more carefully to the actions and words of “Micah, The Priest & The Dan Band”. Not every song that is sung rings true… Not then. Not today!
“All the people did what seemed right in THEIR OWN EYES”...
How is that turning out for our day and time?
I would love to hear your thoughts.
Just askin’ for a friend.
Revealed
John 1:29-51 (May 2)
I love a good mystery movie, don't you? Sometimes the answers seem so obvious, then we discover that we were wrong about it all.
That is where we find ourselves in scripture today. John is baptizing people and proclaiming the good to come, and many are thinking he is the "star of the movie". (That in itself would have been a great motion picture)
But then he saw Jesus coming towards him and proclaimed, "Look! The Lamb is God who takes away the sin of the world!" (Enter Jesus, stage left.)
The face of the mystery is finally REVEALED.
And all the spectators to this great cinematic experience are caught with gaping mouths and "Aha" moments.
John was the "diversion" of the plot line, but the real story was about to be told.
So two disciples who were following John got in step behind this new star of the show. (Don't we tend to follow the stars more than the supporting cast?)
As Jesus walked along, he gathered more men to his entourage…men who were willing to leave everything behind to follow him. (That must have been a REALLY GOOD movie!)
Jesus and his crew came across a man named Nathaniel. He questioned how anything good could come from Nazareth. To him it didn't seem like the appropriate setting for this particular movie.
Jesus speaks to him, calling him " a complete man of integrity."
Nathaniel wants an explanation as to why Jesus has any opinion of him at all, to which Jesus replies, "I could see you under the fig tree before Philip found you."
Okay, so he is not only the star of the show, but it seems he has some super powers as well. (Look for him in upcoming Marvel movies)
Then Jesus speaks out his greatest line in the script thus far, and the disciples are on the edge of their seats:
"I tell you the truth, you will all see heaven open and the angels of God going up and down on the Son of Man, the one who is the stairway between heaven and earth."
Ooooh...this is getting good! Stay tuned for the next episode!
Why, Why, Why Delilah?
One Year Bible (May 2)
Judges 15:1-16:31
“Why, Why, Why, Delilah”
I saw the light on the night that I passed by her window
I saw the flickering shadows of love on her blind
She was my woman
As she deceived me, I watched and went out of my mind
My, my, my, Delilah
Why, why, why, Delilah
I could see, that girl was no good for me
But I was lost like a slave that no man could free
There is just something about this girl’s name. When I hear it, Tom Jones just starts crooning in my head. I promise you that by the end of today’s story we will ALL be asking, “Why indeed?”!
Let’s backtrack for just a bit as I really didn’t give too many details in yesterday’s study. I just wanted to paint the scene and hang some questions out there in the air for us to ponder.
Why, Why, Why? I do have at least three questions for us to look at together…
The first thing that comes to my mind is, “Are you new here?” Now I have a friend that likes to ask this question. Let me share with you what it really means. She talks Southern and the more Southern she gets the more she is “shaking her head” (and that is not a compliment). Well, there is a whole lot of shakin’ going on in this story.
Do you remember when “The Man of God” appeared to Samson’s mom? She was told that Samson was to be dedicated to God as a Nazarite from the moment of his birth until his death.
Then Manoah, Samson’s father, prayed to God, “Please, let the man of God come back to us again and give us more instructions about this son who is to be born.” Manoah gets his wish and this is his big question, “What kind of rules should govern the boy’s life and work?” Really? That's it?
The Angel of the Lord repeats that Samson is to be a Nazarite and his wife is not to eat any grapes, raisins, drink wine, alcohol, or any forbidden fruit while carrying him.” The father offered a grain offering and the Lord did an amazing thing. The flames shot up toward the sky and the angel of the Lord ascended in the fire. Scriptures tell us that “Manoah FINALLY realized it was the angel of the Lord and he said to his wife, “We will surely die for we have seen God!”
His wife had to remind her husband that The Angel of the Lord wouldn’t have come to make these promises just to kill them. How would Samson have been born? (I think she was shaking her head at this point and I am pretty sure the angel had a southern smirk by now.)
My second “why” has to do with Manoah’s son, Samson. He also seems to be a “Little New Here”. Seriously! Did we not just read all about his premiere season on the bachelor? Before we even switch the channel the next episode is playing on rewind… It is indeed the same chorus with a different verse, and trust me it DOES GET WORSE!
Who stays with a woman who repeatedly asks, “How can we tie you up and take away your powers?” This is bad enough, but the girl practiced this on him repeatedly, and Samson still stayed with her! He revealed his calling and secret to her as well, and it cost him his life! His eyes were literally “gouged out”. He was then taken captive and made to be a slave by the people that he was to overthrow.
Both father and son seem to be missing an understanding of Samson’s true calling as a Nazarite. His strength was to be in his purity and complete dedication to his God. He was not to partake of any grape substances, have his hair cut, or come in contact with the dead in any way. Yet, he was easily allured by women. He seemed to be a few “raisins short of a cake” as he went down the very same path that ensnared him the first time around.
The saddest verse in this whole story is this, … “But he didn’t realize the Lord had left him.”
Here is a man with superhuman strength who forgot to keep his eyes on the source of that strength.
What is even more remarkable than Samson’s many weaknesses, is God’s abiding strength through him. It tells us that “The Spirit of the Lord came upon Samson.” God was not deterred from accomplishing his plan through Samson, in spite of Samson. The scriptures tell us, “But before long, his hair began to grow back”. That’s when God’s spirit filled him one last time and he literally “Brought the House Down!”
What does Hebrews 11:32-34 tell us about him? Samson… ”and the prophets, who THROUGH FAITH conquered kingdoms, administered justice, and gained what was promised; who shut the mouths of lions, quenched the fury of the flames, and escaped the edge of the sword; whose weakness turned to strength; and who became powerful in battle and routed foreign armies.”
But, make no mistake, what a tragic ending to a man who was “set apart” to free others while becoming enslaved himself. He lost his vision and it cost him his sight and his life.
Why, Why, Why Delilah?
Wine & a Whip
John 2:1-35 (May 1)
I love weddings! They are such sweet celebrations of love and families joining together. Exactly one year and one day ago, we celebrated my daughter's wedding. I did my very best to make sure the day was as perfect for her as it could be (despite the torrential downpour).
In today's scripture we find ourselves at a wedding. They must have been enjoying the festivities because they soon found themselves out of wine. (Stop the music! We are out of wine!)
But Mary's thoughts on the situation were ... "Have no fear, Jesus is here."
Jesus wasn't quite ready to reveal himself yet, and said so, "Dear woman, that's not our problem. My time has not yet come." (verse 4)
But it seems, like a lot of us mamas, Mary won't take NO for an answer. I have been "guilty" of "persuading" my children to do a lot of things! And just think...Mary KNEW who her son was. Don't you think she wanted to show him off just a wee little bit? ( I have certainly been guilty of that too!)
So, being an obedient son, not just to the Father, but also to his mama, Jesus performed the first of many miracles. (Buckle up, the race has started)
Fast forward a few days. Jesus and his group of merry men end up at the Temple in Jerusalem in preparation for the the Jewish Passover.
Jesus sees all the chaos going on in the Temple... all the vendors selling their animals and the money changers. It was like a huge swap meet going in in the Temple.
This didn't go over well with this Miracle Maker. Actually he got quite angry! Taking a rope, he braided a whip. (I wonder how well he would do a French braid?)
Taking that whip, he drove the debauchery out of that place of worship. "Get these things out of here. Stop turning my Father's house into a marketplace!"
One thing I think worthy of taking notice of is that he didn't IMMEDIATELY act in his anger. He took the time to fashion that whip out of a rope.
TRANSLATION... he took time to get control of his emotions. He gave himself a minute to pray about his response to what was going on.
Friends...do we take time to braid our cord when we are angry? Or do we respond out of our emotion, without taking time to get control of ourselves, pray & ponder?
We would all do well to take a cue from our sweet Savior...take time to braid your cord!
The Bachelor
One Year Bible (May 1)
Judges 13:1-14:20
“The Bachelor”
He was as smooth as honey (at least he smelled like that!) and as strong and hunky as a man could possibly be! His hair had never been cut, and he drank no wine, grape juice, or anything with fermentation. He didn’t even pick up a grape or raisin.
Now, before you think that I am just “messin’ with you”, I want to draw your attention to the fact that he was in the 12th season of the show called “Here Comes the Judge”. This nighttime drama took place in Timnah and the woman who caught his eye was a Philistine girl.
Seriously, he was the twelfth judge who held the power of “The Rose” in his hand and he selected “This Babe” on his own and demanded that the network (aka his mom and dad) get her for him.
Another reason that I see him as the bachelor is based on the drama that happens when you get all the set together for one of those cocktail parties. There was a spirit of competition between the guests and the bachelor was taunting all of them with “riddles”. It was a big catfight!
Speaking of drama, the story proceeds to tell us that at their big wedding feast, this Philistine girl from Timnah was a total drama queen. (There is one in every season!)
Now, before you judge me, (It is the book we are studying, so I get it!) I don’t really watch this show anymore. You really only need to see a few previews to get that this show is the same chorus and tune as the year before. Yes, they add a new verse, and it usually gets worse. So, there’s that!)
Anyway, back to the set, let’s turn those cameras right on the beautiful babe herself.
Sammy, “You don’t love me; you hate me! You have given my people a riddle, but you haven’t told me the answer.” Waaaaaa. (Judges 14:16Ff) “So, she cried whenever she was with him and kept it up for the rest of the celebration”. Can you say, “Happy Honeymoon”?
At last, on the seventh day of the festival, Samson told her the answer and she went and told the rest of the cast. So, the cat was out of the bag! (Actually, it was a LION!) “What is sweeter than honey? What is stronger than a lion?? (14:18)
The other part that really makes me feel that we are watching a scene of “The Bachelor” is the really big ENDING. (Literally!) All bachelors have to be smooth and have lots of charm, right? Check out this guy’s moves.
Samson: “If you hadn’t plowed with my heifer, you wouldn’t have solved the riddle.” (Vs. 18)
Ouch! This night’s broadcast is not going well at all!!!!
And now for the dramatic ending… “But Samson was furious about what had happened, and he went back home to live with his father and mother. So his wife was given in marriage to the man who had been Samson’s best man at the wedding.” (Judges 14: 19b-20) Double OUCH!! Cut to commercial…
Trust me when I say that this story is far from over. This story is literally going to “Bring the House Down”! (Episode 2 Preview)
Good night from the Bachelor (and you might want to skip that show anyway as the Bible has plenty of drama for you to ponder).
Here are a few questions to begin with right now:
Why couldn’t Samson have raisins and grapes, not to mention wine and vinegar?
What is a Nazarite vow and why did he take it?
Did Samson break his Nazarite vows, and if so how?
Who was this woman from Timnah that Samson married?
Your pick...
Until the next Rose Ceremony…
( I really would love to hear your thoughts!)
Paving the Way
John 1:1-28 (April 30)
Today we get introduced to the one who had the privilege to go before Jesus and pave his way as the coming Messiah. Welcome to our story John the Baptist! We are so glad to have you join us!
Can you imagine being chosen to be sent by God to tell the world about the Light that was coming? It was his testimony that was supposed to show everyone that light. He was that "beacon on a hill" that was going to be a reflection of the love of Jesus.
We read this and we may think..."Wow! What an honor for him to be chosen by God to pave the way! What a lucky guy he was!" (Not so lucky really...if you remember "the rest of the story").
Truth is, we are just as special...just as chosen... just as capable as John. When we live our lives to reflect Jesus, our testimony is a light for those around us. God uses us, day after day, to pave the way for new believers in our family, our friends, or total strangers.
John was able to tell people of the love and grace that was coming through Jesus taking on an earthly body. He could foreshadow all the blessings to come.
His ministry paved the way for something far greater and he did so humbly, considered himself "not even worthy to be his slave and untie the straps of his sandal".
He didn't get caught up in being the first. He wasn't consumed with making a name for himself. His complete purpose was to glorify God and proclaim the unfailing love that was coming through Jesus.
Oh, what if we all lived like that? What if we took away the competitive nature of things, the desire to be seen, heard, & recognized? What if we stopped fixating on ourselves and what WE were doing and put our focus on Jesus?
We can all be bringers of the light. We can all use our voices to shout in the wilderness. We all have the unique opportunity to pave the way for the return of Jesus.
How's your testimony?
How's your voice?
Are you ready to pave the way?
Take It Back
“Take It Back!”
As a fourth and fifth grade teacher, I have had a birds eye view of seeing little groups of students who often hang together like a tight-knit little family. One year in particular I rarely had an entire lunch break without hearing the dreaded words, “Mrs. Sempsrott, your boys were fighting… AGAIN!”
One day that will forever stick out in my mind is when I found one of “my boys” who had another of “my boys” in a headlock. He was saying, “Take it back!” The provoker had told him, “Your mom looks like she wears army boots!” The words could not be taken back… (I must confess that I had seen his mom and she did wear military-grade type boots for a job. But Mum’s the word for a wise teacher… SHHH!!)
“Take It Back” is definitely the theme of today’s story. If I was writing a country-western tune I could really go to town with the chorus for this one. “Baby, I didn’t mean it. I wish we could go back. You know that I meant well, Somehow this went to _ _ _ _ … Well, you get the idea! No more crooning is necessary.
Jephthah of Gilead was a great warrior and the main character in today’s passage. He certainly has his ups and downs. The story begins with his half-brothers chasing him off of their land. They weren’t saying that “His mama wore army boots.” They were really saying that “His mama’s boots were made for walkin’!” if you know what I mean. (Today, I am writing in my country voice with a little twang.)
His brothers said, “You will not get any of our father’s inheritance for you are the son of a prostitute.” (Judges 11: 2-3). So, Jephthah fled from his brothers and lived in the land of Tob. Soon he had a band of WORTHLESS REBELS FOLLOWING HIM”. (Leader potential alert!)
Fast forward…The brothers now need him to do something for them, so they are backpedaling. “Come and be our commander! Help us fight the Ammonites!”
Before you know it, Jephthah is the one saying, “Take it all back”. “Aren’t you the ones who hated me and drove me from my father’s house? Why do you come to me now when you’re in trouble?” (Vs. 7) “Because we need you,” they replied. (AKA. We take it back… for now.) They go on to tell him that they will make him their ruler and commander of the army if he will come and deliver them.
“The Lord is our witness”, the elders replied. “We promise to do whatever you say.”
Promises, Promises…Before you know it, Jephthah is making promises of his own. He ought to stop and think about the vow he makes, because he may just want to “take it back”.
He vows to God, “If you give me victory over the Ammonites, I will give to the Lord whatever comes out of my house to meet me when I return in triumph. I will sacrifice it as a burnt offering.” (V. 30-31)
Unfortunately, his daughter Mizpah, came out playing on a tambourine and dancing for joy. She was his one and only child!
“Oh my daughter!” he cried out. “YOU HAVE COMPLETELY DESTROYED ME! YOU’VE BROUGHT DISASTER ON ME! For I have made a vow to the Lord, and I cannot take it back!” (Vs. 34-35)
Perhaps, you can tell from my capitalizing rant that I am not too thrilled with Jephthah. Like his brothers, he seems to have a habit of promises, promises, and then a lack of responsibility for his actions. Notice, that he blames his daughter for his rash words.
The OT teaching was clearly against sacrificing humans to God. They were only to sacrifice animals. Secondly, we do see that the scripture tells us that Jephthah kept his foolish vow. “When she returned home, her father kept the vow he had made, and she died a virgin.” (Judges 11: 39)
Some scholars believe that his daughter was given to the temple to serve as a sacrifice and could never have children or be married. Why? They believe this because she went away to weep for two months. Secondly, there was a statue in Israel that every year the daughters of Israel would go for four days a year to lament her fate. When the vow is “fulfilled” by her father we are told that she “never knew a man” which is a strange thing to comment on if she had been killed. This will remain a mystery…
Today’s story reminds us of something very important… Promises, Promises!
Here is what Proverbs 20: 25 reminds us, “It is a trap to dedicate something rashly and only later to consider one’s vows.”
Ecclesiastes 5: 2 says, “Don’t make rash promises, and don’t be hasty in bringing matters before God. After all, God is in heaven, and you are here on earth, So let your words be few.”
“Take It Back”? No, Mam! That song has already been sung!
Rise Up
Luke 24:13-53 (April 29)
Our story of disbelief continues. This time it is two followers of Jesus who encounter him on their way to the village of Emmaus. They meet him after he has risen up from the tomb.
As they walk and talk with him, they do not even consider him to be Jesus. Even as they invite their new buddy to stay the night with them, they still see him as just a man.
It isn't until he breaks bread at their dinner that their eyes were opened and they recognized him.
They couldn't contain their excitement and headed straight to the Mighty 11 to tell them about their encounter.
Jesus appeared among them, and they were frightened, thinking him to be a ghost.
Once again, they needed to SEE the proof. So he showed them his nail scarred hands and feet. Only then could the joy and wonder fill them!
After having dinner with them and giving them clarity on the scriptures, Jesus walked with them to Bethany and blessed them.
After he blessed them, he rose up again, ascending to his place in heaven, leaving them waiting in anticipation for the Holy Spirit that Jesus promised would come to them.
Today's scripture shows us more doubt and disbelief. It reveals, as did yesterday's scripture, mankind's need for proof, the need to SEE in order to believe.
Followers of Christ rise up beyond that need and walk in the faith of what we know to be truth.
We aren't told exactly how long those men had to wait until the Holy Spirit appeared to them.
The blessing for us is that as soon as we invite him in, the Holy Spirit comes into our heart, transforming us into new creations.
Through this transformation we have the blessed and beautiful opportunity to rise:
To rise above the ugly in the world
To rise above our disbelief
To rise above our negative emotions and "stinking' thinkin"
To rise above the evil that tempts us everyday.
To rise to the challenge of living life in a way that imitates Christ.
This is the gift we receive from the Holy Spirit... so come on ladies, let's all RISE UP!
Big Talkin’
One Year Bible (April 29)
Judges 9:22-10:18
“Big Talkin’”
Perhaps you have heard the saying, “Don’t fight fire with fire!’
Why? Ummm, because it is hot, combustible, and leaves a big burn…
James 3:6 says this, “The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole person, sets the whole course of his life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell, but no man can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.”
Who sets the tongue on fire??? Did you catch it? “Is itself set on fire by hell”. Hmmm, that doesn’t sound pleasant. Does it?
Today’s OT passage found in Judges 8:18-9:21 is an excellent reminder of how we need control of our tongue, even as we face the worst of evils.
During the annual harvest festival at Shechem, the wine was flowing freely and so was the “gabbing” that went with “the flow”. Funny how that works! Everyone began cursing Abimelech. A man named Gaal joined in the banter and said, “If I were in charge here, I would get rid of Abimelech. I would say to him, ‘Get some soldiers, and come out and fight’.”
Now, you would think that God would be happy about this and bless Gaal’s plan to strike down the worst of the worst evil rulers. As it turns out, Gaal’s bragging led to his own demise. Abimelech “Fought that fire with literal fire”! Just for starters, “Abimelech the Audacious” killed over a thousand of Gaal’s fellow men. Next, they spread salt and branches and set fire to the walls of the temple. Gaal and all of his people were easy prey. Destruction followed his tongue.
What is interesting to note is who and what actually took down the “Evil Abimelech”. It was an unnamed woman who dropped a millstone on his head, crushing his skull!!!
Mind-Blowing?? Literally!
What a strange turn of events. Is there any rhyme or reason here? Well, it might be helpful for us to go back to the very beginning of this chapter study for today. Here is how the story begins… “God sent a spirit that stirred up trouble between Abimelech and the leading citizens of Shechem, and they revolted. God was punishing Abimelech for murdering Gideon’s seventy sons, and the citizens of Shechem for supporting him in this treachery of murdering his brothers.” (Judges 9: 23-24)
He didn’t need a bragger to take down even the vilest king. Nor did he invite Gaal to do any such thing!
What does this little story mean to you and me today?
Just as Gaal was “venting in the spirit” (his wine) many Christians “vent in their spirit” (their whine!). Sometimes they call it “sharing in the Spirit”, “discernment”, or “righteousness”.
When something is not to our liking in the “kingdom”, we consider ourselves the authority on what should be done. If something hurts our feelings, someone else is obviously wrong!
As Gaal said, “If I was the leader”...oh the fire and destruction that follows “Big Talkin’”!
Let me just ask you a little question, “Who is at the center or source of dissension and division in the church”? Is it really weak, sinful people, or is there something bigger behind this?
Ephesians 6:12 provides the ‘behind the scenes” picture for us, “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.”
The battle found in Judges 9-10 was the Lord’s battle and He was already “On It”. He really didn’t need “Gaal’s gossip” to get the job done! All his big words accomplished was to start a fire which became a literal fire with much destruction!
So, what if we agree that the enemy is behind all of the evil going on? What are we to do about it if “gabbing like Gaal” really isn’t that helpful?
“But even Michael, one of the mightiest of the angels, did not dare accuse the devil of blasphemy, but simply said, ‘The Lord rebuke you!” Jude 1:9
My friends, the only “Big Talkin’” we should be doing is to the one with infinite wisdom, judgment, and grace.
Long story. Short Summary--The Battle Belongs to the Lord-- Then. Now. Forevermore!
Now, that’s some Big Talkin’ worth talkin’ about!
Seeing is Believing
(April 28) Luke 23:44-24:12
Seeing is Believing
It is human nature to need visual proof of something, especially something rare and unlikely, before we believe it.
This is the exact opposite of FAITH, which is believing in that which is not seen.
In Luke 23:47 we meet a Roman officer. This officer had been aware of Jesus, had heard him, had most likely mocked him on numerous occasions, and he participated in his crucifixion.
It wasn't until he SAW darkness fall across the entire land, SAW the temple curtain tear from top to bottom, and SAW Jesus speak then breathe his last breath...he had to SEE all of this before he could begin to BELIEVE that Jesus was who he said he was.
In 24:5 the women SAW the radiant angels, thereby BELIEVING them when they said Jesus was alive.
In 24:12 we see that it wasn't until Peter SAW that the tomb was empty that he would even consider what the women had told him.
That is the beauty of this gift we call faith. It is the ability to BELIEVE in something without being able to SEE it. You know it is true because you believe the Word of God. You know it is true because the Holy Spirit within you assures you.
Would you have BELIEVED without SEEING if you were there when Jesus walked out of that tomb?
Do you BELIEVE without SEEING when you hear of amazing things he does for people in this age...healing, providing beyond measure, changing people, helping them overcome extreme strongholds?
Do you believe?
Or are you more like that Roman soldier...standing in unbelief until you SEE for yourself?
Take No Trophies
One Year Bible (April 28)
Judges 8:18-9:21.
“Take No Trophies”
“I do have one request--that each of you give me an earring from the plunder you collected from your fallen enemies.” (Judge 8: 24)
Gideon’s request totaled 43 pounds of gold from the earrings which he made into a “sacred ephod” and placed in his hometown.
What is an “Ephod” and why did Gideon want to take the gold from the earrings, make the ephod, and place it in his hometown?
First of all, an ephod was a type of apron or sleeveless garment worn by the Jewish High Priests. It carried symbolic weight and was often covered with memorial stones.
Secondly, did God ask Gideon to do this and how does it turn out?
God often asked the people to make a memorial to HIM. This was not the case with Gideon.
An Ephod was the kind of covering that Aaron and King David wore, and now Gideon had designed it with the purpose of taking it home to his hometown.
How does it turn out for him? Judges 8: 27 tells us, “Gideon made a sacred ephod from the gold and put it in Ophrah, his hometown. But soon all the Israelites prostituted themselves by worshiping it, and “IT BECAME A TRAP” for Gideon”. (Yep, definitely not God’s plan!)
Gideon had seventy sons born to him (of his many wives). He also had a concubine (a mistress, who had a lower status than his wives) in Shechem, who gave birth to a son, named Abimelech. In Judges 9:18 Jotham (Gideon’s youngest son) refers to Abimelech as “The son of a slave woman”.
Thirdly, what does this trap look like? The Israelites forgot their God, their leader (Gideon who died), and they chose to be ruled, once again, by complete wickedness! Abimelech, not only asked to rule over the Israelites but he put to death ALL seventy sons that were his half-brothers. They had the same father, but Abimelech had no heart for his father, his father’s sons, or his father’s God. (Judges 9: 5)
Only the youngest son, Jotham escaped, hid, and later spoke up to the people about their wickedness, lack of honor, and return to slavery.
This entire story is a visual for us about “slavery” vs “freedom”. What a slippery slope and how quickly the ledge becomes a BIG SLIDE!
One moment “Weak” Gideon is following God in spite of all his fears and the next moment after he hears those words, “For the Sword of God and Gideon”, he is taking home a little “Bling” and that always “Bites”!
Many of us can’t quite fathom bowing down to a “golden calf” or some altar made of metal, but we have “trophies” (things that we pride ourselves on). Next comes jealousy and every other evil thing!
Abimelech, obviously, did not celebrate his father’s victory or honor his cherished sons. I would say that the guy had some “daddy issues''. Wouldn’t you?
What is interesting is how we--like the people in this story--do not realize that our “idols” also make us slaves. Perhaps, you have heard the saying, “Keeping up with the Jones”. Who are these people anyway and why are we trying to keep in step with anyone but God?
This same kind of turmoil happens in our families as well. We may not go to the extent that Abimelech did (God forbid!) but the roots of hurt and bitterness cause death in our hearts and words.
What trophies tempt us and can “become a big trap”?
How can we “Take No Trophies”?
I would love to hear your thoughts.
Surprised Simon
Luke 23:13-43 (April 27)
"Crucify him! Crucify him"
It was those words that sealed the fate of Jesus, despite the fact that neither Pilate or Herod found him to be guilty of anything.
But his sentence was settled by the crowd, made up of many who had schemed and plotted against him since the beginning of his teaching. Men who feared his humble authority and mocked his miracles.
So off he went, to be beaten, tortured, and crucified.
Part of this torture was carrying the cross up to the place known as The Skull. That cross was a heavy burden on his beaten body, much like our sins and sorrows are a burden to him now.
Jesus needed help.
Yes, even Christ himself needed someone to help him carry his burden while he lived in the flesh on this earth.
Along comes Simon of Cyrene. This man was pulled from the crowd to help Jesus carry the cross on his journey to crucifixion. Jesus, so weak from the beating and torture he had already endured, fell down numerous times on the road. That cross was a heavy burden and he needed the assistance of Simon to make it to the end of his journey.
Was Simon a willing participant in all of this? Scripture tells us he was seized and made to carry the cross.
As they lead Jesus away, a man named Simon, who was from Cyrene, happen to be coming in from the countryside. The soldier seized him and put the cross on him and made him carry it behind Jesus. (Luke 23:26)
Imagine being put in that position. Would you willingly carry the burdens of Jesus, or would you do so against your will?
The blessing is that Jesus carries our burdens WILLINGLY every day. He went to that cross WILLINGLY. He died for us WILLINGLY.
Simon may have been surprised when he was pulled from the crowd to be a part of this moment in history, and he may have been unsure about being a part of the action of the day. Perhaps he was fearful for his own life.
But I have to believe that his efforts were not in vain. Jesus must have appreciated the help as he struggled up that mountain, beaten and bleeding. Having someone to help him bear the burden of his earthly body had to be a relief.
So when life gets too hard and our burdens get too heavy to carry on solid ground, much less up a mountain, and when you feel like you have taken the beating of your life...remember that Jesus is there, waiting for you to call on him for help. He is ready and waiting, and won't be surprised like Simon was.