SISTER STUDY . . . Going Through the Bible in One Year
The Trial
Acts 4:1-37 (June 6)
Today we find Peter and John being arrested and put on trial for the healing of the lame man and preaching about Jesus.
This reminds me of a recent...very public...trial that was televised for all of our eager eyes to see. There was drama in the courtroom. A battle for truth was fought. Someone had to be telling the truth and someone had to be lying... no matter which side you were on.
Some of what was said in that courtroom was unbelievably unbelievable. I am sure there were moments when the jurors had to refrain from showing shock, surprise, and laughter. After all, we wouldn't want them to give away what they were thinking, right?
Peter and John are arrested and thrown in jail until they can be taken in front of the council of all the rulers, elders and teachers. What a wise bunch that must have been...wink! wink!
More and more were believing their message. (And they weren't even famous movie stars!) We can give the Holy Spirit all the credit for this. That spirit had been present during the trial for which they were accused and was also present in the trial, when Peter addressed the rulers.
A good deed had been done, a kindness to a lame man that literally changed his life. Peter and John are not ashamed of what they have done. They want their accusers to acknowledge and praise the name of Jesus for this miracle.
Peter tells them, "The stone that you builders rejected has now become the cornerstone. There is salvation in no one else! God has given no other name under heaven by which we must be saved."
And while the members of the council are considering this, and actually amazed when they saw how boldly the disciples proclaimed, WE must all remember that for THIS trial, the verdict was already given.
There is NO OTHER name by which man can be saved. No mistrial, no appeal, only JESUS.
The council was afraid to issue any punishment to these two, because the majority of the crowd was for them. They were glorifying God for the miracle they had seen. But they sure did want to silence them so they couldn't spread this talk around any further. In fact, they commanded this of Peter and John.
Of course, Peter and John were having none of that! "Do you think God wants us to obey you rather than him? We cannot stop telling everything we have seen and heard."
With no other option, the council let them go. They went right back to the believers and told them all that was said. Together they all prayed aloud to God for boldness to continue preaching his word, despite the backlash they would face.
After this prayer, they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and preached boldly. They came together, sharing all that they had, so that no one was needy.
How beautiful that must have been...coming together to help one another. Such a more beautiful picture than the lawsuit and counter suit that many watched play out on television over the last several weeks.
Perhaps the problem with that most recent trial, the one that made headlines and caused us all to either choose sides or laugh at the ridiculousness of it all is a simple problem... There was no Holy Spirit at the trial.
The Lyin’ King
One Year Bible (June 6, 2022)
I Kings 1:1-53
The Lyin’ King
“It’s the circle of life. And it moves us all. Through despair and hope. Through faith and love. ‘Til we find our place. On the path unwinding. In the circle. The circle of life."
(Circle of Life, The Lion King)
Today, we begin our study in a new book with a new king. Who will be the next king is the big question?
Trust me when I say that “this circle” is a very big loop from the family of Saul which is connected to the family of David, and the circle is still moving from despair to hope.
David is on his deathbed now, but that is certainly not going to slow down the drama. The scene is like a fullscale Broadway production as David’s son, Adonijah (Son of Haggith, and little brother of Absolam) enters "front-stage"…
Let me describe for you "the set" for this Broadway production…We are talking about another handsome leading man. Does this one have long hair also? Just wondering.
“About that time David’s son Adonijah, whose mother was Haggith, began boasting, “I will make myself king. So he provided himself with chariots and charioteers and recruited FIFTY MEN to run in front of him. Now his father, King David, had never disciplined him at any time, even by asking, ‘Why are you doing that?’ Adonijah had been born next after Absalom, and he was very handsome.” (I Kings 1: 5-6)
Have we seen this play before? Does anyone remember this?
“In the course of time, Absalom provided himself with a chariot and horses and with FIFTY MEN to run ahead of him.” (2 Samuel 15:1)
Okay, Bros. What’s the deal with the FIFTY NIFTY MEN? (Same Writer? Different Riders?)
Oscar Wilde once wrote, “Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery that mediocrity can pay to greatness.”
In any case, both brothers were following the same script and as Oscar Wilde has pointed out, theirs is certainly “Mediocrity” compared to David’s true greatness.
You see, this production is complete with a chariot, fifty men, and a selected entourage, This ploy for the kingdom is STAGED! This “Circle of Life” is continuing the same old circle of big brother, Absolam… And we know how that turned out!
Folks, This is “The Lyin’ King!” (and it feels like a cheap sequel at that.)
Fortunately, “It’s the circle of life And it moves us all”... “Actor Adonijah” is on his way OUT and Solomon is on his way IN. It is going to be a quick turn of events.
Nathan the prophet speaks to David’s wife. Are you ready for this one?
Yes, BATH-SHE BAAA! He warns her of what is going on and asks her to go and speak to David on his deathbed. Nathan arrives later to speak to King David also.
Before you can sing one stanza of “Ingonyama nengw’ enamablal” (Or it's Hebrew equivalent) David has Solomon riding on his donkey and the priest and prophet are to anoint him king over Israel. The ram’s horn is blowing and the people are shouting, “Long live King Solomon”!
The celebration was sooooo joyous that “The earth SHOOK with the sound.”
Here’s the short version, “One donkey trumps a chariot and fifty running charioteers” when God is in the mix!!!!
The circle of life is still moving and here’s what happens next, “Adonijah was afraid of Solomon, so he rushed to the sacred tent and grabbed on to the horns of the altar.” (Vs. 50) Adonijah wants King Solomon to swear that he will not kill him for his role in “The Lyin’ King” production.
Solomon does not kill him or harm him. Here are his few words, “Go on home.” (Vs. 53) This new guy knows how to “cut to the chase”. Brief and to the point!
Listen to what King David has to say about his son, Solomon, being anointed as king.
“Then the king bowed his head in worship as he lay in his bed, and he said, ‘Praise the Lord, the God of Israel, who today has chosen a successor to sit on my throne while I am still alive to see it.” (Vs. 48)
On this amazing day where the earth shook and all of the Kingdom crowned a new king, we may overlook one OVERWHELMING fact that is UNDERWHELMINGLY focused on here…
Out of all of David’s sons, God chose and had anointed the son of BATH-SHE-BAAA!
That, my friends, is amazing grace and a great demonstration of forgiveness to his beloved King David. God took what was completely broken and brought it FULL CIRCLE around!
For us, it is a reminder that our God can bring forth his most powerful MESSAGE out of the biggest MESS in King David’s life.
Out of “The City of David” and the throne of Solomon will come the Messiah, “The Lion of Judah”!
“The Lyin’ King” will not prevail. Not then! Not Now!
“It’s the circle of life And it moves us all. Through despair and hope. Through faith and love”… (Circle of Life)
Passing It On
Acts 3: 1-26 (June 5)
My home is filled with sentimental treasures... things that have been passed on from those who came before me. Things I hope to pass on myself someday.
My heart is also filled with things that have been passed on through the passage of time... memories, stories I have heard over and over again, sweet sayings, certain smells that remind me of a special place or person, little pieces of my personality that come from those who had a part in my upbringing.
I think that is true for most of us. We cherish these things. They matter to us.
I think that we often tend to forget that something far greater has been passed on to us...from the Father himself. We have the power of the Holy Spirit, which allows us to do things we never thought we could... if we trust and believe.
That is where Peter and John find themselves in today's reading. They are heading into the Temple for prayer when they see a lame man being carried in.
This man is a common sight at the Beautiful Gate. He is there to beg from those entering the temple. He can't work...so he relays in the generosity of others.
As the two disciples pass this man, he begs from them as well. And boy, does he get so much more than he expected!
Peter is confident in his power through the Holy Spirit. He believes what Jesus had told him he could do. So he says to this beggar, "I don't have any silver or gold for you. But I'll give you what I have. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazarene, get up and walk!"
There you have it...the power of the Holy Spirit passed on from Jesus to Peter, who is now passing it on to this beggar with no hope.
Peter reaches down and helps the man stand. Amazingly he is healed! And the people who have walked past this man day after day, year after year, are astounded! (Wouldn't you be?)
Peter knows a good opportunity when he sees one and takes this moment to witness to them. He reminds them that this power comes from the same one they chose to reject, crucify, and kill.
He tells them that it is faith in the name of Jesus that has healed this poor man. And he offers them the opportunity for that same faith.
He tells them they are all children of Abraham, who was promised that "through his descendants all the families of the earth will be blessed."
This crowd is reminded that they have the chance to receive that which is being passed on. All they have to do is turn away from their sin and put their faith in Jesus.
The same opportunity exists for this world today. The same opportunity to inherit what is passed on from the moment that promise was made to Abraham.
We are the inheritance. We have the Holy Spirit within us, and the power that comes with that gift.
Will you believe in that power? Will you use it to build up His kingdom?
Will you Pass It On?
Whataburger
One Year Bible (June 5, 2022)
2 Samuel 23:24-24:25
“Whataburger”
Perhaps you have heard the saying, “Out of the frying pan and into the fire”.
Well, that describes exactly what David has on the menu for today at the Courthouse Cafe...
I think that David’s Courthouse Cafe needs a house special like the “Whataburger”. Now, I picked this title for a couple of reasons. First, I know that this is the Courthouse Cafe because God is getting ready to serve up a ‘heaping helping’ of judgment to David’s plate.
Secondly, I think the cafe needs a special like “Whataburger” because I have NEVER been there. Have you? In other words, I know absolutely nothing about this cafe… Nothing!
Since my taste buds know nothing about his experience, I let my fingers do the walking (through Google). Do you have any idea why they chose this name for the “Whataburger” restaurant?
The owners (Dobson and Burton) were looking to open a burger joint and they wanted to “make a better burger that took two hands to hold and tasted so good that when you took a bit you would say, ‘What a Burger’!” I love this so much that I might even have to try it out for myself!
Have you ever tried to wrap your brain around something that you know nothing about? Well, it is like eating a double-double animal style! (Sorry, Whataburger!) It is messy, but so is this story.
That is squarely where I have been sitting as I have been pondering today’s story. I am in “Whataburger Land”. What?????
I know what David has done is a BIG SIN with a big punishment. I get that David was “in the frying pan and is now in the fire”. I see that it is “hot in the kitchen”, but somehow the fact that I did not live in that time (and the Bible doesn’t exactly explain “the menu” ) has left me perplexed…
What is the big deal with the census? (Okay, I just said it. No more hem-hawing around.)
Perhaps, we should just start with three things that we can know about the census.
Even “Jabbing Joab” knows that this is a BIG NO-NO!
“...But why, my Lord the king, would you want to do such a thing?” (2 Samuel 24:3)
Oh, this can’t be good. Joab is the first guy ready to go to battle. Now he has got his foot on the breaks, and his rearview lights are definitely on. Even Joab knows this is NOT a good thing for the king to do!
2. David’s conscience also knows that this isn’t right… but it’s too late!
(But after he had taken the census, David’s conscience began to bother him. And he said to the Lord, ‘I have sinned GREATLY by taking this census, Please forgive my guilt, Lord, for doing such a foolish thing’.” (2 Samuel 23: 10)
Kings took a census to prepare for war, but they were in a time of peace. To take a census at this time was like counting for the sake of ego. So, why is he doing this against advice? See what I mean about “Out of the frying pan and into the fire”?
3. Here comes the “Whataburger”... Are you ready?
“Once again the anger of the Lord burned against Israel, and HE (God) caused David to harm them by taking a census. “Go and count the people of Israel and Judah,” the Lord told him.
WHAT????? I am chewing and chewing on this burger and have no idea what this is about? Let me get this straight. God told him, and he is in trouble?
See why this is the WHATABURGER story?
It sure seems like we are missing something in translation! Hebrew translations can get a tad bit interesting at times. (It has to do with their use of articles and nouns.)
Perhaps we should look at a parallel account to better understand what is going on here.
I Chronicles 21 says, “Satan rose up against Israel and incited David to take a census of Israel.” (Now, we are getting warmer. Very Warm!)
The other translation left us hanging there for a bit. God’s anger has to do with man’s sin, and God can not be associated with sin. When He pulls away, guess who moves right on in?
This is probably the most confusing thing for us to understand about the sovereignty of God. His righteous anger is different than our anger. Holiness and evil can not dwell together. Sovereign God removed his protection from David because of his wrong intentions, and Satan moved right in.
Why? The enemy of God does NOT want the Kingdom to be established. This is not JUST a physical war. We need to take note of this important part. David, himself is the target and has been since the beginning.
Next, let’s look at the context and the meaning of “a census”. The record of this in I Chronicles 21 is right after David comes home after a great victory over the Philistines. The purpose of a census had to do with drafting soldiers and levying taxes. David seemed to be “riding pretty high” and making his own plans without consulting God first. (This was how he got in the frying pan, to begin with!)
So, now back to “The Fire”. Pagan kings did this kind of thing all the time. David, however, was to follow the direction of God, as he was in a covenant with him. Israel was God’s holy, chosen nation, but David stepped out on his own. He was not walking in humility as God’s chosen leader. Even Joab tried to give him “the jab”. David proceeded and he got burnt and “turnt” ( I love this new word!)
This, my friends, is “The Whataburger”! Sometimes you’ve got to search between the two buns and it is more than you can hold in two hands.
To fully understand what has happened, we only need to read David’s response when given three options of punishments to choose from. Here is what David says about the people suffering because of his sin.
“When David saw the angel who was striking down the people, he said to the Lord, ‘I am the one who has sinned and done wrong. These are but sheep. “What have they done? Let your hand fall upon me and my family.” (2 Samuel 24:17)
Did you just catch that? If you think back to the “Frying Pan Episode” with Bathsheba, Nathan the prophet had to spell this out for David. She was described as the “one little ewe lamb”. The rich man had stolen the poor man’s only lamb.
This time David got the lesson right off the bat. “They are but sheep”. Then in the next breath, he says, “ I will not sacrifice to the Lord my God burnt offerings that cost me nothing.” I don’t think David wants to be the rich man stealing from the poor anymore. David has FINALLY learned about sheep, the cost of being a shepherd, and listening to the Good Shepherd.
“David built an altar to the Lord there and sacrificed burnt offerings and fellowship offerings. Then the Lord answered prayer on behalf of the land, and the plague on Israel was stopped.” (2 Samuel 24:25)
Out of the “Frying Pan” and “Into the Fire”... finally sacrificing a burnt offering that truly costs David what God was wanting all along… a contrite, seeking, humble heart.
All of that took two hands to hold… Whataburger!
Make No Mistake
Acts 2:1-47. (June 4)
I love how today's scripture opens! A group of believers are meeting together when flames appear and the Holy Spirit comes upon them.
Can you just imagine? What an amazing group experience that must have been!!!
They all suddenly start speaking in tongues and other languages. This amazed the Jews. "What can this mean?" they asked each other.
Some thought perhaps they were drunk.
This was an open door...a golden opportunity...for Peter to witness to them.
"Make no mistake about this. These people are not drunk, as some of you are assuming. Nine o'clock in the morning is much too early for that. No, what you see was predicted for that."
He goes on to remind them of what the prophet Joel had predicted long ago.
*That God would pour out his spirit upon the people
*That sins and daughters would prophesy ad see visions.
*There would be wonders in the heavens and signs in the earth
*The sun would go dark, the moon would turn red before the Lord arrives
*Everyone who calls on the name of the Lird will be saved
Wow!! Those are some mighty big predictions!! Remember, Joel was a prophet, not a fortune teller or palm reader.
This was some serious stuff!
I love how he opens up..."MAKE NO MISTAKE!"
Make No Mistake! God publicly endorsed Jesus by doing powerful miracles, wonders, and signs through him.
Make No Mistake! God knew exactly what would happen. It was all part of his plan.
Make No Mistake! God has raised Jesus back to life, for death couldn't hold him.
Make No Mistake! King David knew one of his descendants would sit on the throne. That is the Messiah.
Make No Mistake! Jesus has been exalted by God to the highest honor in heaven, at the right hand of God.
Make No Mistake! (Listen up! This applies to you and me) "You must repent of your sins and turn to God, and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins." When we do this... we receive the Holy Spirit.
Make No Mistake! Peter's words were powerful, and about 3,000 were baptized on that day alone.
Make No Mistake! As these believers continued to worship and fellowship together, helping each other and sharing meals together, the Lord continued to add to their numbers.
Make No Mistake! Each of us has the same ability as Peter did that day. We can share with others. We can speak the Holy truth. We can offer hope in Jesus.
Each of us has the power to multiply the Kingdom of God. That means YOU! That means ME! There is power in our testimonies, and we all have the opportunity to lead others to Christ. It is our calling, our honor, and our duty...Make No Mistake!
Dancing in the Streets
One Year Bible (June 4, 2022)
2 Samuel 22:1-23:23
“Dancing in the Streets”
There is a new show called “Songland” that gives the contestants the opportunity to share their written songs. They often take their song and really “bring them to life”. I love to watch the process of how they do this. It is pretty amazing!
The collaboration is what makes the song even more beautiful. Perhaps a few words are added, the melody is tweaked, and the rhythm may be changed up a bit. But the song goes on….
David, we are told, wrote about 50% of the Psalms, and you will find that familiar feeling right here in 2 Samuel 22. He is a musician and worshipper at heart. When he is sad he sings and offers songs of repentance, and when he is glad he dances in an “unkingly fashion” with all his might and without his kingly robes.
Perhaps you may recall the events in 2 Samuel 6:12-23. David was returning with the Ark of the Covenant and he was literally dancing in the streets without his kingly garb on. Michal (daughter of Saul) who was David’s wife, had been watching… Not worshipping. Just watching.
Michal saw David dancing, shouting, and leaping “Before the Lord” and scripture tells us that, “She despised him in her heart”. (22:26)
She confronts him, “How the king of Israel has distinguished himself today, disrobing in the sight of the slave girls of his servants as any vulgar fellow would!” (6:20)
Listen to David’s response, “It was before the Lord, who chose me rather than your father or anyone from his house when he appointed me ruler over the Lord’s people Israel-- I will CELEBRATE BEFORE THE LORD. I will become even more undignified than this, and I will be humiliated in my own eyes. But by these slave girls you spoke of, I will be held in honor.” (22:21-22)
“And Michal daughter of Saul had NO CHILDREN to the day of her death.” (22:23)
Hmmmmmm, Go Figure! (Oh, be careful little wife what you say!)
Today, I want to invite you to be “part of the process”? After reading today’s passage of scripture, please share the verse that has spoken to you the most and tell us why.
The Psalms were songs and prayers. What is your song, prayer, or dance today?
David worshipped wholeheartedly without worrying about human eyes. He cared more about God’s eyes. I believe that God truly wants that from each of us.
I can’t wait to hear your thoughts, prayers, and songs.
Let there be “Dancing in the Streets”!
Humpty Dumpty
One Year Bible (June 3, 2022)
2 Samuel 20:14-21:22
“Humpty Dumpty”
“Humpty Dumpty sat on a wall, Humpty Dumpty had a great fall.
All the king’s horses and all the king’s men couldn’t put Humpty together again.” (Humpty Dumpty, Nursery Rhyme)
Have you ever wondered why this was taught as a nursery rhyme to young children? My thoughts, exactly. It was first introduced in the 1700s throughout England. There are many fables behind it, but not many facts. Of all the messages covered as the background, none seem particularly appropriate for children.
Perhaps, that is my problem with the story today. I am still a child at heart, and what happened in this story is really not what we would want for a rhyme or song.
Somehow through time, the graphics of “Humpty Dumpty” have taken the form of “An Egg-like Character”.
Today’s character whose head “comes flying over the wall” is definitely “NOT A GOOD EGG”, and it’s not childproof either!
There is a famous quote from Rudyard Kipling that goes like this, “The silliest woman can manage a clever man, but it needs a clever woman to manage a fool.” (Pretty good, huh?)
2 Samuel 20:16 calls the woman who brings down “Shifty Sheba” a “Wise Woman”. She is clever and was needed to manage this foolish man. Her wisdom gains the ear of Joab, saves the lives of her entire town, and removes the biggest threat to King David. Joab never even lifts his sword, (and trust me when I say that he is not known as “Jabbing Joab” for nothing!)
Without a single life being lost, This wise woman says, “Count Me In”, but she uses her words for GOOD. She also has a plan to “Count Sheba Out”.
This entire chapter is about wiping out giants and generational sin! The sins of the fathers were handed down to the next generation. They continue to choose their own evil path versus following the king whom God has chosen and ordained.
This passage gives us some insight into how David is handling all of the attacks and drama going on since his return home. “Once again the Philistines were at war with Israel. And when David and his men were in the thick of battle, David became weak and exhausted.” (21: 15)
David is getting older, and growing tired and weak. The emotional strain has taken a toll on him. He has always been “front and center” in battle leading the people to destroy the enemy. But look at what the leaders have come to realize, “Then David’s men declared, ‘You are not going out to battle with us again! Why risk snuffing out the light of Israel’?” (21: 17)
“The Light of Israel”... Can you hear the respect that is shown for God’s anointed servant?
Is David perfect? No, far from it. However, twice the Bible calls David, “A Man After God's Own Heart”. ( I Sam. 13: 14) There was no one to be found who sought after God as David did…
This chapter reminds us that there are “Wise Women” and “Wise Men” out there!
Should the kingdom be ruled by people like “Sheba” who are “calling the shots” with their, “‘I’m Against Campaigns”? Will we sit idly by, listen to, and participate in destructive gossip?
Praise God for this wise woman who stood up to an evil man and preserved the people of her town!
Praise God for these strong men who supported “The Light of Israel”!
When evil comes in your direction, what is your response to the “Sheba’s”?
“Count Me In” to listen, gossip, and then “take my tent” and follow, or “Count Me In” to be the Wise Woman who stands up to evil and brings peace to my entire community?
Remember, that the gossip of a “Shifty Sheba” can take a lot of captives. Divisive words and rebellion can affect entire nations generationally…
Words will stand or they will fall…Wisdom Chooses Well.
May we choose wisely because it’s “Humpty Dumpty Time!"
Third Time is a Charm
John 21: 1-25 (June 2)
Have you ever heard that saying, “Third time is a charm”? I guess it comes from people who have tried things a couple of times, but didn’t get it right until the third try.
This happened to my hubby and I yesterday. We were trying to dismantle a gazebo (trust me, if you could have been there, you would’ve been roaring with laughter!) We were trying to pull two bars apart that obviously DID have the ability to pull apart. We could SEE where they separated, but we couldn’t GET them seperated.
So, we tried again, pulling as hard as we could...NOTHING! Not even a budge. I am sweating, he is getting frustrated, we are a mess!
Then I saw the little button... it was a tiny little button down between two grooves. ( What able minded person would think to look THERE?) I pushed the tiny little button, and you won’t believe what happened! That’s right...it came apart without a problem.
Third time is a charm!!
Scripture picks up today with Jesus appearing to the disciples again by the Sea of Galilee. This is his THIRD time to appear before them. And boy, was it a charm!
They had been fishing all night and caught nothing. Until Jesus calls out to them from the shore ( they don’t yet realize it is him) and tells them to cast their net on the right side of the boat.
Here is where the “charm part” comes in... they did as suggested, and caught so many fish they couldn’t haul the net in!
It was then that Peter recognized it was Jesus. ( Who else could possible make that happen?) He swam to shore to meet up with Jesus while the others rowed in. When the rest got there, they found a breakfast of fish and bread waiting for them.
Jesus served them (of course he did) and then he asked Peter a question.
“Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?” He asked.
“ Yes, Lord,” Peter replied, “you know I love you.”
“Then feed my lambs,” Jesus told him.
Again he asked (2nd time), “Simon, son of John, do you love me?”
Peter answered again the same way.
“Then take care of my sheep,” Jesus told him.
Again, Jesus asked him (3rd time), “Simon, son of John, do you love me?”
Peter is getting his feelings hurt that Jesus keeps asking him an obvious question. “Lord, you know everything. You know that I love you.”
Jesus said, “Then feed my sheep.”
Apparently, the third time was a charm, because Jesus didn’t ask again.
Jesus asks Peter to follow him, and Peter is curious about John.
“What about him, Lord?”
Jesus replied, “If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? As for you, follow me.”
Here is Peter, being asked by Jesus to follow him, and he is more concentrated on what John will be doing.
It’s kind of like when I ask my son to take out the trash. Instead of doing so, he has to ask what his sister will be doing. He wants to make sure if he is being asked to do something, so is she.
Sometimes Jesus asks us to do things, and maybe we wonder why he hasn’t asked someone else. We can think of others who would do the job better ( in our minds, anyway) and have a hard time being obedient.
Sometimes we aren’t successful at first. We have to try and try again. If that happens to you, don’t get discouraged. Keep moving forward in what God is asking of you. You might not get it exactly right first time around, but remain steadfast, because if he calls you to it, he will see you through it.
And remember...third time is a charm.
Count Me In
One Year Bible (June 2, 2022)
2 Samuel 19: 11-20:13
Count Me In”
“Well, you know we all want to change the world. You tell me that it’s evolution Well, you know we all want to change the world… But when you talk about destruction, Don’t you know that you can count me out (in).” (Revolution by The Beatles)
Some people just run towards trouble, and then, they like to drag others away to join them.
Every insurrection begins with these three short words, “COUNT ME IN”!
This story is about just that… The people who drag others into wrong, the consequences that come from following wrong, and the reasons we end up in a bad spot in the first place.
The themes found in today’s reading are Politics. Power. Prestige… and Pride, the connecting thread woven throughout.
Our story today begins with “Shifty Sheba”. Who is this knucklehead anyway?
Well, there is not much information about him at all which leads me to my next question, “Why is all of Israel following this guy?” Hmmm.
So, “Shifty Sheba” is none too happy that King David has just made his triumphal re-entry to his palace after the whole “Absolom Debauchery Debacle”.
The people want to make David the king over all of the tribes and are basically fighting for his attention and arguing over how the announcement should be made when “Shifty Sheba” enters from STAGE LEFT… FAR-LEFT!
Here is what we know about this guy. “Shifty Sheba” is a Benjamite (from Saul’s side of the family.) Ohhhhhhh, GOT IT! It is always about “Who you know”, isn’t it? As in “Have your people call my people” “Shifty Sheba” is calling his people loudly, with a Ram’s horn, in fact.
Listen to his marching orders: “We have no share in David, Nor do we have an inheritance in the son of Jesse; Every man to his tents, O Israel!” This is REBELLION and “Shifty Sheba” is the RINGLEADER.
Here is the “NO” platform he is running on:
No Rights! (To David’s sovereignty)
No Value! (To the King’s Identity)
No Way! (To the King’s plan)
Here is his slogan: “Just Say NO”! Now, he just needs to “Stay on Message”, and he does.
In addition to “The Sheba Situation”, David also has to deal with another “Welcome Home House Warming”, of sorts. Perhaps, you remember AHITHOPHEL, who gave some rather despicable advice to Absolom, David’s son. He was the grandfather of BATH-SHE-BA, and he told Absolom to get even with his father by sleeping with his ten concubines. They set up a public tent and it was ‘Public Payback” time.
David comes home to deal with the fallout of sin from his son, who is now dead. However, the reminder of his sin awaits him… Ten damaged women. They did not cause any of this, but they will live the rest of their lives in seclusion.
We see “Jabbing Joab” who was waiting for his time to be back in power as a leader in David’s military. He is ruthless in power and sword, and is in rebellion against the one he served!
Rebellion is moving ahead of God through Politics, Power, and Prestige. The results of this kind of insurrection are Damage, Disillusionment, and Destruction.
Have you ever noticed that every kingdom has a “Shifty Sheba”?
All throughout the Old and New Testament, and even in the church today, there just seems to be at least one “Shifty Sheba”! Their goal is to “shift the hearts of men”.
“Down with David” is their mantra. Every “Sheba” has the same message, “Down” with their leader’s background, leadership skills, imperfections, and calling. Who cares that God called them here? “Follow me instead! Pack your tents, (Not your Bibles!) and follow me!”
You know what a “Sheba” is AGAINST, but can you tell from their life and words what they are “FOR”?
There is always someone like a “Sheba”. The Bible tells us “Why” by telling us the “Who”.
“There happened to be a “Troublemaker” there named Sheba… “Down with the Dynasty of David!” (20:1) We call them “Antagonists”. They are a hostile adversary.
What was the result of Shifty Sheba’s Rebellion? “So, ALL the men of Israel deserted David and followed Sheba…” (20:2)
“Shifty Sheba” turned the hearts of All of Israel against The King’s Anointed and they sadly said, “Count Me In”.
Evidence
John 20:1-31 (June 1)
Josh Baldwin has a song that plays frequently on Christian radio called Evidence.
I see the evidence of your goodness all over my life, all over my life.
As Jesus was taken to the tomb, I have to think that all who loved him mourned not only for his life that was given, but for all the goodness he had brought to them.
Mary Magdalene seemed to really be missing him and went to the tomb early the morning after his death. Imagine her surprise when she saw that the stone had been rolled away!
She ran off to tell the disciples, and found a couple of them along the way. “They have taken the Lord’s body out of the tomb, and we don’t know where they have put him!”
I guess these two disciples needed to see the evidence for themselves, so they ran off to the tomb. Sure enough, all that remained were the linen cloths his body had been wrapped in.
And finally...they understood what Jesus had meant about rising from the dead. They understood now that the evidence was clear.
Mary is crying outside the tomb when two angels appear to her and ask her why she is crying. “Because they have taken away my Lord,” she replied, “ and I don’t know where they have put him.”
At that moment, Jesus appeared beside her, though she didn’t immediately recognize him. It wasn’t until Jesus spoke her name, “Mary” that she turned to him and cried out “Rabboni!” Once again, nothing until the evidence was made clear.
Jesus gives her a message to give to the disciples. She runs to tell them who she has seen and what he has said.
That evening they are all still in hiding, fearing the Jewish leaders. Suddenly Jesus was standing among them. “Peace be with you,” he said. He showed them the wounds in his hands and side. (Once again,evidence.)They were so happy to see him!
“Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I am sending you.” He spoke and then breathed on them and said, “ Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive anyone’s sins, they are forgiven. If you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven.”
How filled with joy they were, and how excited they were to tell Thomas when he arrived. But of course, he doubted (hence the name Doubting Thomas).he wanted to see the evidence before he would believe their story.
Eight days later, Jesus reappeared and offered Thomas the evidence he needed to believe. When Thomas touched his wounds,he exclaimed, “My Lord and my God!”
Then Jesus told him,”You believe because you have seen. Blessed are those who believe without seeing me.”
What about you? How strong is your faith? Do you believe without seeing, or are you like Thomas, needing the evidence before you can believe?
Faith is such a beautiful thing...that ability to believe what we cannot see. It is the foundation of our relationship with Christ. Faith is that solid rock we stand on when the world seems too crazy to endure.
I think of recent tragedies and I praise God for faith...the faith of innocent children, the faith of their parents, and the faith of all who stand beside them as brothers and sisters in Christ.
The next verse in Josh Baldwin’s song says, “I see your promises and fulfillment all over my life, all over my life.”
The disciples could see the promises Jesus had made to them being fulfilled. Can you?
Sit for a moment and thank Him for all that he has fulfilled in your life, and thank him, in faith, for all he has yet to do.
Our lives are the EVIDENCE of his great love.
Knight or Pawn?
One Year Bible (June 1, 2022)
2 Samuel 18:1-19:10
“Knight or Pawn? (The Chess Game: Part B)
This Game of Chess is life and death… Ahithophel hangs himself and that leaves Absolom to follow “The Plan B Strategy”.
Interesting that Ahithophel’s name means, “Brother of Ruin or Folly”.
Are you wondering just what “folly” got into this guy that he would “ruin” himself? Well, it appears that he didn’t just die from hanging himself; he actually died from swallowing “The Bitter Pill” that he had swallowed quite some time ago.
Who was this Ahithophel, ANYWHO???
He was the GRANDFATHER of BATHSHEBA!!!!!!
Let that sink in, and digest for a bit…He lost his grandson to death because of David’s IDOLATRY of Bathsheba. Did you catch the word I just used there? It was NOT ADULTERY. It was IDOLATRY.
David summoned Bathsheba as he was the King of Israel and she came. David lusted after her while she was obeying the purification rituals required by God. David chose to try and fill his emptiness and pain with her beauty rather than the BEAUTY and comfort of God. That, my friends, is IDOLATRY, and that is why there is such severe fall-out from this action.
Not only this, but Ahithophel lost his son-in-law who David had murdered, and Ahithophel lost his grandbaby who was conceived by David and Bathsheba. Sin leaves a BITTER PILL in the broken heart and Ahithophel has had about ten years to NOT DIGEST this pill.
With that in mind, let's now look back on the wicked advice that Ahithophel gave to Absolom. He advised Absolom to defile David’s women on the rooftop…
Ahithophel wanted to expose what had been done on the rooftop ten years before and shout it to the world. He also was behind the plan to kill King David. This was the bitter pill of revenge that he had swallowed.
What a sad journey of revenge. Ahithophel entered ‘The Game’ as a ‘Bishop’, providing wise counsel to David, but 'The End of His Game' finds him as ‘A Black Pawn’ because of his smoldering bitterness towards David’s sins which had affected all of his family.
There is another player in this strategy to kill the king, and that is Absolom, David’s own son.
In following Plan B, “the Lord has determined to defeat the counsel of Ahithophel, which really was the better plan so that he could bring disaster on Absalom’!” (2 Samuel 17: 14)
Absolom’s fate is sealed. He gets caught by a tree and hangs by his hair which is the very symbol of his youth and strength. He is pierced through with daggers, and all that is left to be done is to tell his father, the king. His hair (His symbol of strength) has become his SNARE. Idols are like that...
The problem is that David loves his estranged son! Listen to his words, “For my sake, please spare young Absalom.” (18: 12)
Over and over David asks everyone who comes his way, “What about young Absalom?”
Can you hear the heartbreak of the father in the use of the word, “young”? This is his boy, his son.
Absolam actually was older than Solomon, and in his mind, he was rightfully next in line for the throne.
He took it upon himself to lift his ‘Black Knight’ and go for “Checkmate”. Game Over... and it was for Absolam..
David wept and mourned so much that Joab had to go and speak with him. All of the people who had stepped in harm’s way to spare David’s life now felt so bad!
Listen to Joab’s words,” You seem to love those who hate you and hate those who love you. You have made it clear today that your commanders and troops mean nothing to you. It seems that if Absalom had lived and all of us had died, you would have been pleased.” (19:5-7)
Can you feel the tremendous guilt and pain of a father in a dysfunctional family who had been faithful to God all of his life, but slipped into a tragic, fatal sin that could never be made right?
The conclusion of this passage ends with the people saying Absalom is now dead, ‘So why not ask David to come back and be our king again?’ (19:10)
The powerful lesson that we can learn today from David is that in all our futile strategies, sins, and schemes, God is still God! He is on the throne and we are not… He gave justice, grace, and mercy. However, the consequences were beyond devastating for the entire kingdom, not to mention David’s family.
In “The Game of Chess” one gains insight and knowledge learned along the way from the lessons that are accumulated to win.
The question for us is, “Will we be on the right side or the wrong side?” Yes, in Chess it is black or white.
There is no doubt David had sinned greatly, and these two men who were so close to David were hurt deeply. David repented and even did so publicly. He was also punished publicly. He was also being disciplined by God. All of these things are the sad truth that comes about as a consequence of IDOLATRY.
Unfortunately, A-HIT-hophel took “The HIT” in his heart and he sought to “HIT” back which caused his “Ruin”.
SNARES ENSNARE and TRAPS ENTRAP!
Today’s lesson provides each of us with a powerful lesson about how to handle “The Plan B” in our lives.
Will we swallow “The Bitter Pill” of unforgiveness, or will we choose to leave judgment and retribution to the Lord?
If Life is like a “Game of Chess” … Will we be a ‘Knight’ or a ‘Pawn’?
Mission Possible
John 19:23-42 (May 31)
I love the action-packed Mission Impossible movies! There is so much adventure, edge-of-your-seat moments, and fabulous stunts. The good guys win...after a long struggle with the bad guys, and the characters are rich with personality. These people are on a mission, one that seems impossible to the logical mind.
Jesus was on a mission as well...one that seemed impossible to so many. And just like the movie, there is a lot of adventure and moments that cause apprehension, and a lot of interesting characters. Even more important, on this mission the good wins over the evil, even though it might not seem like it to those who are troubled by the events.
Jesus has been nailed to the cross. His clothes have been divided amongst the soldiers and they are rolling the dice to see who wins his robe. (And you thought gambling was something from this century?)
His mama is there with her sister and Mary Magdalene. Oh, how her heart must be breaking to see her boy hanging there. I admire the strength it must have taken for her to stay there until the end.
When my oldest was younger, he was a wrestler. He was very good at this sport and his name was widely known as someone to watch out for. I loved to watch him wrestle...most of the time. But whenever he had a match with someone who was really tough, I would get nervous and unable to watch. Many of his matches were spent with me hiding in a bathroom stall, counting off the minutes until the match was over. So...knowing this about myself...I wonder if I would have the courage to stand at the foot of the cross the way Mary did.
There is also a disciple standing with Mary, and Jesus looks down and says, “Dear woman, here is your son.” And he said to the disciple, “Here is your mother.” Even in those last moments Jesus was doing his duty as the oldest son, making sure his mama was cared for.
Jesus is thirsty, so thirsty. He asks for a drink and is given some sour wine on a sponge. It was after this taste that he said, “It is finished.” His head bowed and his spirit left him.
The soldiers took Jesus down quickly, along with the two others who were crucified alongside him. They didn’t want them hanging there for the Passover. (That might make them all look bad!)
Joseph of Arimathea, who had been secretly following Jesus, asked for permission to take Jesus to his own personal tomb. Nicodemus joined him, bringing the oils and spices they would need for burial.
The mission that seemed so impossible and unbelievable to many was done. Jesus had finished what he came to earth to do. The bad guys might have thought they had the final word, but we know they did not. Jesus was more victorious in his death than they ever were in life.
And a mission goes on still today...the mission to bring as many people as possible to know Jesus. This is a mission to build up the kingdom for all eternity. Sometimes it seems overwhelming. Sometimes the world tries to intervene. But the enemy will not win this mission, because it is very much a Mission Possible.
The Chess Game
One Year Bible May 31, 2022
2 Samuel 17:1-29
“THE CHESS GAME”
Did you know research shows that playing “The Game of Chess” actually improves your IQ?
It can certainly take a long time to complete one game. It may look like two people are just sitting there staring at the board, which appears to be quite boring. There is a lot of strategy and tactics involved, which is much like our story today in 2 Samuel 17.
Who are the players in this game? All of the chessmen are either white or black. There are six kinds of pieces: king, queen, rook, bishop, knight, or pawn.
Who will win the game of chess? The player that gets closest to the king (within striking range) will be the winner (by taking out the king.)
This, my friends, is the short summary of a very long game that has been going on through I & II Samuel. All of their schemes and tactics are to “Take down the king”.
Like the game of Chess, there are players on “The Black Team” and “The White Team”. What can be confusing, in real life, is when a player switches teams. You find yourself asking, “Who’s team is he on?”
This player’s name is Ahithophel and he becomes “A Black Pawn”.
Who is this man, Ahithophel? (Another guy with a long name that begins with the letter “A”?)
He held the position of the king’s counselor for King David. (Ahhhh, a Bishop). His advice had inquired of the oracle of God according to 2 Samuel 16:23. He was no ordinary man. He was one of “David’s Mighty Men” who was trusted by David and then his son, Absolom. He also had children who served David with great distinction as his elite warriors.
Then, as Absolom launched his revolt to “takedown” David and “take over” the kingdom, (where his son would become king) Ahitophal switched to “The Black Team”.
What would cause a loyal, mighty man to do this after all this time? Let’s look at the introduction to Ahithophel and his counsel to Absalom for today’s reading.
“Absolom followed Ahithophel’s advice, just as David had done. For every word Ahithophel spoke seemed AS WISE AS THOUGH IT HAD COME DIRECTLY FROM THE MOUTH OF GOD”. (2 Samuel 16:23)
What was Ahithophel’s first advice to Solomon during his revolt to take over the throne?
Ahithophel advised Absolom, “Go and sleep with your father’s concubines then all of Israel will know that you have insulted your father beyond hope of reconciliation and they will throw their support to you.” (2 Samuel 16: 21-23)
But wait because it gets worse, “So, they set up a tent on the palace roof where everyone could see it, and Absolom went in and had sex with his father’s concubines.” (16: 22)
Are we paying attention here? Did you catch the location? Does anything about this sound remotely familiar… Remember the “Rooftop Cinema”? Hold that thought…
Next, there is a plot to “take down the king” and I don’t just mean “take over the kingdom”. They want to kill King David (Absolom’s own father). Ahithophel offers “Plan A” in this scheme. He presents his plan to the king, but low and behold, Absolom goes with “Plan B” offered by Hushai, a confidant of David.
How can this be? Remember, that Absolom thinks his words are as “Good as Gold" or "As Good as God’s”.
Do we remember David’s prayer for deliverance? “O Lord, let Ahithophel give Absalom foolish advice!” (2 Samuel 15: 31)
“Then Absalom and all the men of Israel said, ‘Hushai’s advice is better than Ahithophel’s For the Lord has determined to defeat the counsel of Ahithophel, which really was the better plan so that he could bring disaster on Absalom’!” (2 Samuel 17: 14)
Got it? Plan A defeated by Plan B. Plan A was better, but Plan B was chosen! Is anyone here confused? Exactly, that was the point… to confuse the enemy (Perhaps us also).
David’s Prayer. God’s Plan. God intervenes in HIS OWN WAY.
It is almost Checkmate time… “When Ahithophel realized that his advice had not been followed, he saddled his donkey, went to his hometown, set his affairs in order, and HANGED HIMSELF.” (2 Samuel 17: 23)
Ahitophel started out as a trusted “Bishop” providing strategy but now he ends his life as a “Black Pawn”.
Does anyone know what was behind his bitter plot? We will look at this tomorrow.
But for now, take it from Ahithophel…Life is far more than a Game of Chess!
Denied & Delivered
John 18: 25-19:22 (May 30)
Let’s back up for a minute and go back to yesterday’s scripture. When Peter followed Jesus and his captors into the courtyard of the high priest, a woman asked him, “You’re not one of that man’s disciples, are you?”
DENIAL #1... “No,” he said, “I am not.”
While he was standing by the fire warming himself, they asked him again, “You’re not one of his disciples, are you?”
DENIAL #2... He denied it, saying, “No, I am not.”
A household slave who was a relative of the man whose ear he had cut asked, “Didn’t I see you out there in the olive grove with Jesus?”
DENIAL #3... Again Peter denied it.
And guess what happened next??? That’s right... you got it ...a rooster crowed!
This man, this friend, who was so quick to draw his sword to defend his friend, denied knowing him on three separate occasions immediately following that occurrence.
WHAT? WHAT KIND OF FRIEND IS THAT?
A scared one. A confused one. A hurting and sad one. A person who is just trying to survive because he knows he still has much to do.
We can only imagine what we might do in a similar situation. Peter never dreamed he would deny Jesus once, much less THREE times. But when faced with the possibility of death, he most assuredly did just that.
Yes, Jesus was denied. Jesus is still denied today by so many who don’t believe in the truth of the gospel. The difference being that they don’t even feel the shame that Peter felt once he realized what he had done.
They deny him publicly, and loudly. They ridicule those who believe, and often persecution follows. What does that persecution like? For some it is ridicule and mockery. For some it is ostracism. For others it can be death. Make no mistake, the denial of Jesus is still very much alive in our world.
Not only was he denied. He was also delivered.
His accusers brought him to Pilate, who found him guilty of nothing. Pilate offers to release Jesus, but the crowd requests Barnabas instead.
Jesus was flogged with a whip and a crown of thorns was placed on his head. Once again, Pilate offers to release Jesus. The crowd wanted no release for him.
“ Crucify him! Crucify him!” But pilate refused to do it. “ Take him yourselves and crucify him,” Pilate said. “ I find him not guilty.”
When Pilate finds out he is called the Son of God, he is frightened and takes Jesus back in to question him. He tried to release him again, but the Jewish leaders threatened his position. So Jesus was turned over... DELIVERED... to them to be crucified.
An interesting nugget... Jesus was denied THREE times. Pilate tried to free Jesus THREE times. Is there any significance to that? Probably not. But I just love when I find a little golden nugget in my scriptural reading.
Was Jesus denied? Was he delivered? He sure was. The denial and delivery that took place that day offered me, you, and all who believe, the opportunity to DENY the enemy through the strength that comes from Christ, and to be DELIVERED into heaven to spend eternity with the one who was DENIED & DELIVERED for us.
What can we say, except “THANK YOU!”
Broken Hearts
One Year Bible May 30, 2022
2 Samuel 15:23-16:23
Broken Hearts
Have you ever heard the phrase, “You Can’t Con a Con”?
This story is about “A Conniver who will indeed be Conned”.
This son of David came into Jerusalem as a cunning, wicked rebel, while his father came into Jerusalem as a brave, noble conqueror. (2 Samuel 5: 6-7).
Unfortunately, the father’s sin had opened a very wide doorway for deception, division, and dysfunction to take over his kingdom.
David’s son’s name is Absolom, and he is next in line for David’s throne. The problem is that he has decided not to wait “in line” for his turn.
The bigger problem is that he was the one who sinned and killed his sister’s rapist (their half-brother). Murder changes a person and not for the better. Absolom’s sin has put a giant wall between his father, the king, and himself. This silence has added to his brokenness and he is bitter… Very Bitter!
Absolom’s deceptive plan is to first STEAL the hearts of the people of Israel.
We know that Absolom was very handsome, young, with long thick hair. Did you know that long hair was associated with strength at that time? Looks can be deceiving and Absolom is ready and able to deceive.
Let’s look at the deceptive plan for this “take-over” of his father’s kingdom: (2 Samuel 15:1-6)
Prestige over Presence: Absolam had chariots and horses, and fifty men to run before him. He was there to IMPRESS!
Power over Principle: “Your case is good and right; but there is no deputy of the king to hear you. Oh, that I were made judge in the land… I would give him justice.” Absalom stirred up doubt and dissatisfaction with David’s government and campaigned against his own father without even dropping his father’s name.
Perception Over Reality: “When people tried to bow before him, Absalom wouldn't let them. Instead, he took them by the hand and kissed them.” Absolam was “A friend of the people”. He was as smooth as honey. Next, he will be kissing babies. He wasn’t running for office, however. He was attempting to STEAL the throne appointed by God to his father.
As you read through this passage today and look at all of his schemes and strategies, can you ask yourself what is really behind all of this?
Absolom did not have the heart of his father, nor his Heavenly Father, so he came in willfully and strategized to “Steal the hearts of his father’s people”.
Absolom was so powerful at this that David took his clan and soldiers and had to leave the palace and be on the run, in fear for his life.
We have looked at Absolom’s state of mind, but what was David, his father’s mindset?
While Absolam was BITTER, David was BROKEN. His son’s sins came as a result of his own unfaithfulness and cover-up murder. What could he say to his son about his behavior?
Let’s look first at the words that were given to David, “All Israel has joined Absalom in a conspiracy against you.” (15:13)
David was certainly overwhelmed as he once again escapes for his life. He is trying to take “The Ark of the Covenant” with him. It is interesting that he knows that he does not want to leave the presence and power of God with his conniving son.
Listen to David’s words about the Ark as he instructs Zadok to take it back into the city, “If the Lord sees fit, he will bring me back to see the Ark and the Tabernacle again. But if he is through with me, then let him do what seems best to him.” (15: 26)
David wonders if “God is through with him”. Although he is broken from his sin, he leaves his judgment, punishment, and deliverance in the hands of God.
David is spat on by his own people and called a scoundrel and murderer. He is taunted by those whose hearts have been “stolen” by his own son. However, David refuses to retaliate!
David’s summary of the matter is this, “My own son is trying to kill me. Doesn’t this relative of Saul have even more reason to do so? Leave him alone and let him curse, for the Lord has told him to do it.” (15:11-13)
David knows that ultimately his deliverance must come from God as he has sinned against God even more than man. He does not blame a man for the judgment he is receiving.
Let’s look at the significance of where David goes for deliverance and to pray. This location can not escape our attention in this passage today.
“David walked up the road to the Mount of Olives, weeping as he went. His head was covered and his feet were bare as a sign of mourning.” (15:30)
Here is David’s prayer, “O Lord, let Ahithophel give Absalom foolish advice.” (15:31) David prayed for a “Way Out” when there was no way of escape for him from his enemy, his own son.
A sinful, fallen man who sought God’s deliverance went to the Mount of Olives to pray. His name was David.
A perfect righteous man, who was the Son of God and delivers all of mankind went to the Mount of Olives to pray. His name was Jesus, Son of David.
Let the awe of this moment sink in…
One man went For Deliverance for himself and his people. His name was David.
The other man went To Deliver sinners like David and all of mankind. His name was Jesus.
Out of the “Root or Lineage of David” will come deliverance for all Israel and mankind.
This story is far from over. It is just a reminder of our brokenness like David’s. All have sinned and need a redeemer. Help is on the way! What an amazing word picture can be seen in this story.
Make no mistake about it… Broken Hearts will be Reborn!
And one of the elders said unto me, “Stop weeping; behold, the Lion that is from the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has OVERCOME so as to open the book and its seven seals.” (Rev. 5:5)
No Protection Needed
John 18: 1-24 (May 29)
When I was a junior in high school, my brother was a freshman. Keep in mind, this is my little brother, my only sibling, and I had looked out for him for as long as I can remember.
One day during lunch, I looked across the campus and saw a senior picking on him. I didn’t even think twice. I jumped up, ran over there, and gave that boy a piece of my mind!
Did I mention this was at lunch time? Did I mention that A LOT of kids saw this act of protection from a big sister to a little brother?
Did I also mention that my brother was furious and embarrassed by my actions??!! Yep...my efforts were most definitely unappreciated and he told me to never do that again.
Didn’t he realize he didn’t stand a chance against the bigger kid? Couldn’t he understand that this was not going to end well for him? Did he not understand that I was just trying to help?
This is the same situation Peter finds himself in. (Wow...never compared myself to Peter before!) Jesus finds himself face-to-face with that back-stabbing Judas and his entourage of Roman soldiers and Temple guards. They are there to arrest him and it is not going to end well for Jesus.
Peter draws his sword and cuts off the ear of one of the guards. He is trying to protect Jesus, and he draws that sword on instinct. ( Much like running across the campus without thinking. Glad I didn’t have a sword that day!)
Jesus says to Peter, “Put your sword back into its sheath.” Translation...”I don’t need your protection from this situation.”
Jesus isn’t looking for protection because he knows this prophecy must be fulfilled. He knows what lies ahead of him and is ready to face it. So he is arrested and taken away. Peter and another disciple follow. (We will soon see how his good friend “protected” him in the coming hours.)
Jesus is undergoing questioning from the high priest about what he has been teaching. When Jesus doesn’t back down, a guard slapped him in the face for his lack of respect. Jesus insists that he is only speaking truth and questions the need for violence, “If I said anything wrong, you must prove it. But if I’m speaking truth, why are you beating me?”
So, he was bound and carried away. . It was time for him to endure the suffering that would open the door to grace for all mankind. He did it willingly. He did it with honor. He did it alone... no protection needed.
From a Distance
One Year Bible (May 29)
2 Samuel 14:1-15:22
From a Distance
There is a song by this title that is sung by Bette Midler that I have always loved. It has kind of a haunting, melancholy feel to it that leaves me with a longing for more.
“From a distance, You look like my friend Even though we are at war. From a distance, I just cannot comprehend What all this fighting’s for…”
Can you feel the melancholy distance between David and God as you are reading these passages?
I sure can, but then I have always been an empath, even when I would prefer not to be at times.
It is heavy and thick and just hangs in the air like Bette Midler’s song.
The David who so easily said, “God, what should I do?” “Where should I go?” “What’s for dinner?” is now sullenly silent. He went to the Tabernacle to pray, but he doesn’t seem to be carrying on a conversation with his God or his children.
First, Nathan the prophet is instructed to bring him a “parable of a story” so that he can get his own sin.
Now, Joab sees how much the king is longing to see his son, Absolam. So, he sends a woman to tell him “another little parable”. In other words, the story is about him. He just doesn’t know it yet. See what I mean about there being a distance?
David is the one who is disconnected…
She tells him a story that matches his relationship with his sons, but the names have been changed to protect the innocent. (I mean guilty!)
David says, “Leave it to me. Go home and I’ll see to it that no one touches him”.
Counselors are good at getting other people’s stories, just not their own at times.
She then “flips the story” right on his kingly head.
“Why don’t you do as much for the people of God as you have promised to do for me! You have convicted yourself in making this decision because you have refused to bring home your own banished son.” (2 Samuel 14: 13)
Here’s the dramatic closing. It is a word picture and a powerful one at that…
“All of us must die eventually. Our lives are like water spilled out on the ground which cannot be gathered up again. But God does not just sweep life away; instead, he devises ways to bring us back when we have been separated from him.” (2 Samuel 14:14)
What a powerful message for David and for us today.
Life is short!
Our lives are like water spilled out on the ground.
That water can not be gathered up again.
God does NOT sweep life away.
God devises ways to bring us back to HIM.
Remember that haunting distance between David and God that I was referring to a bit ago?
Who moved?
Isaiah 59:2 tells us, “Your sins have made a separation between you and your God, and your sins have hidden his face from you so that he does not hear.”
Just as sin separates us from one another, it also separates us from God. David’s sin has affected all of his relationships.
Yet, God through his infinite wisdom and grace has created a plan for man to be restored in relationship with Him. That plan cost Him His Son, Jesus Christ.
He will come out of the line of David.
Out of sin will come rescue through a Savior.
Out of brokenness and bitterness will come the greatest blessing ever known to mankind.
The Messiah will change EVERYTHING.
Remember the powerful words of the parable that was sent to David, “But God does not just sweep life away; instead he devises ways to bring us back when we have been separated from him”. (2 Samuel 14:14)
“From a distance, We are instruments. Marching in a common band. Playing songs of hope. Playing songs of peace. They are the songs of every man. God is watching us. God is watching us. God is watching us. From a distance.” (From a Distance, by Bette Midler)
David was an instrument of God, and we are also.
However, this song forgot the last and most important verse… There is no longer a distance between God and man, and He is not “watching us from a distance”.
Out of the line of Jessie, and the City of David, HE CAME NEAR Through Jesus…The Hope of Every Man!
Delivery Man
John 17: 1-26 (May 28)
Those of us who do a lot of online shopping get pretty familiar with our delivery men. We anticipate their arrival because they are bringing us cool stuff. ( I especially look forward to book and Bible study orders)
We often get on a first-name basis with out delivery man. (“Hey Bob, how are the kids.”)
Maybe we leave him treats at Christmas or water on a hot day. He becomes a part of our norm, of our routine.
Jesus has been the “ Delivery Man” for these disciples. He has delivered, time and time again, the most amazing miracles, the most beautiful promises, and the most accurate directions to eternal life.
In today’s reading, Jesus starts by delivering a message to God.
“Father, the hour has come. Glorify your Son so he can give glory back to you. For you have given him authority over everyone. He gives eternal life to each one you have given him.” He goes on to say, “I brought glory to you here on earth by completing the work you gave me to do. Now, Father, bring me into the glory we shared before the world began.”
In a nutshell...” Dad, I have delivered the message you sent me to share, so can I please come back home.”
Jesus has delivered knowledge to the disciples. “Now they know that everything I have is a gift from you, for I have passed on to them the message you gave me. They accepted it and know that I came from you, and they believe you sent me.”
In another nutshell...” I have given you to them, and I am giving them to you.” (Now can I please come home?)
My delivery man will often leave a package on my porch if I am not home. He does this in the hopes I get it, but there are no guarantees that it won’t get stolen before I get it.
Jesus has the absolute certainty that his disciples have received his delivery and it will not be stolen by the enemy.
Jesus then delivers a prayer, not for the world, but for those who love him and those who will love him in the future. It is a prayer for protection, for unity, for holiness, and for the love of the Father.
His greatest part of this prayer was the way it ended: “ Father, I want these whom you have given me to be with me where I am. Then they can see all the glory you gave me because you loved me even before the world began!”
Ahhh... a prayer that these men and all who love the Father will reside in the glory of heaven. This is truly the greatest gift that delivery man could ever deliver... to them, and to US!
CAUGHT OR TAUGHT
One Year Bible (May 28)
2 Samuel 13:1-30
Caught or Taught
“What you do speaks so loudly that I cannot hear what you are saying.--Ralph Waldo Emerson.
Do you see a familiar theme being played out once again in this family?
Nathan’s words will be lived out in today’s passage. As a prophet of God, he spoke truth to David, who admitted, “I have sinned against the Lord.” (12: 13)
Note, that David doesn’t say that he sinned against Bathsheba or Uriah, although he did wrong them, terribly. He said that he had sinned against The Lord.
Nathan replies, “Yes, but the Lord has forgiven you. You won’t die for this sin. Nevertheless, because you have shown utter contempt for the word of the Lord by doing this, your child will die.” (12: 13)
The child conceived in a sinful act is gone to be with God, but God is not just “forgetting” David’s wrongdoing. All of Israel will watch the judgment of David lived out in front of them.
God tells David that HE will cause his own household to rebel against him and that Israel will watch this happening openly before their eyes. (12: 12)
Now David’s son, Absalom, had a beautiful sister named, Tamar. Amnon, her half-brother, fell desperately in love with her. He faked being sick so that she would bring him food. Then he raped her. Not only that but when she begged him to ask the king to marry her and make it right he was filled with hatred towards her. This beautiful virgin was defiled and her brother watched this sin.
Remember the word “adultery”? It really wasn’t that for David. Perhaps it wasn’t legally “Rape” according to their written laws as Bathsheba was not a virgin. However, God knew what David had done, and now this same lust is back again.
It is the “Rooftop Cinema” all over again. Only David is a captive to watch his sin from the painful broken place on his balcony. He is looking down and seeing it through the eyes of shame, regret, and remorse in the lives of his children.
Ahhhh, Bathsheba was someone’s daughter and grandaughter too…The visual is revealing, gutwrenching, and oh too familiar to David.
David’s other son, Absalom, Tamar’s brother, can not forget what he has seen either. He retaliates with the murder of his brother, Amnon, and his heart towards his father will never soften again. This grievous sin will divide and break the whole family. Trust me when I say that even “Dr. Phil” couldn’t have helped.
The story of the ‘one little lamb’ being taken away due to lust is now being lived out right in front of David’s eyes. He has been the murderer, and now he is watching the murder of his son and feeling the pain that he has caused the next generation.
God is sovereign and HE is the judge. Remember, the very beginning of this story and God’s reaction? “But the Lord was displeased with what David had done.” (2 Samuel 11:27)
David is basically losing four children with this one horrible sin. A daughter’s life is ruined. Two sons are broken by sin. The baby is dead, and now his other son is murdered. The remaining, living son is now “dead” to his father”.
The end of today’s story tells us this, “And King David, now reconciled to Amnon’s death, longed to be reunited with his son Absolom.” (2 Samuel 13: 39)
David was forgiven, but there were huge consequences for his sin that affected his entire family!
What is interesting to me is how both the sin of father and son began with “the eyes”.
David looked and saw Bathsheba. He wasn’t out at war as a commander should be. He was home looking off his palace rooftop at another man’s wife. Amnon, was “gazing” upon his own half-sister with lust that would turn to rage and hate.
Instead of seeing others as someone, they were supposed to shepherd and care for, they saw them as an “entitlement”. Something they had to have…
People that we damage through our careless sin may forgive us, but the damage will not be forgotten and can cause lifetime effects.
If only David would has asked, “God, will I betray you?” Perhaps his eyes would have looked in another direction sparing a lifetime of pain and judgment.
David could not “un-see” what He lusted upon, and his children could not “un-see” what they watched in their father’s worst hour! It was imprinted in their hearts and minds.
There is an old children’s chorus that comes to mind. Perhaps you also sang it as a child.
“O be careful little eyes what you see. O be careful little eyes what you see. For the Father up above is looking down in love. So, be careful little eyes what you see.” (Children’s Chorus)
May we be very careful what “little eyes see in me”.
David’s family “Caught” what he “Taught” through his actions, and they were “Caught”!
Scattered
John 16: 1-33 (May 27)
My son will be graduating from high school next week. He is enjoying all the end of year fun that comes with being a senior... senior picnic, trip to Disneyland, yearbook signing, early dismissal, and the rest. He is spending a lot of time with these kids he has been doing life with since his adoption in kindergarten.
I talked to him the other day about his future plans. Those plans require moving to another state, far from these familiar faces. I explained to him that the sadness he was feeling about that is a normal passage of life, where a teenager goes from thinking these friends are everything, to a day when they will have trouble remembering the names and faces of their high school class.
Kids grow up. They move on. They scatter to different places, away from each other.
That is what JESUS is telling the disciples in today’s reading. They won’t always be together. They will scatter and have to rely on themselves and the truth they know about God.
He reminds them again that he will soon be leaving them. (Just like the class of 2022) He tells them that his leaving is a good thing, because until he leaves the Holy Spirit won’t come.
He talks of God’s coming judgement of the world because the world has refused to believe him. But for them, the Spirit of truth will guide them. The Spirit will be the message bearer from Jesus to his disciples.
These men are told again that they will mourn when Jesus is taken from them, but they will rejoice when they see him again! ( Sounds like a fun class reunion)
He likens it to labor pains. Oh, the pain we women endure for the sake of birthing our children! My daughter will be facing that pain this Fall, and she is fully prepared for any and all pain relief she can get.
Even so, she will experience some level of pain. But that pain will be so worth it when that sweet baby boy makes his appearance.
That is how the disciples will feel. And it seems they finally get it! “Now we understand that you know everything and there is no need to question you. From this we believe that you came from God.”
FINALLY! Don’t you just know Jesus was glad to hear this?
He goes on to tell them that they will end up leaving him alone, but he won’t really be alone because he is with the Father. He warns them that they will have many trials and sorrows. And they will handle them on their own, with the help of the Holy Spirit because they will be scattered from each other.
I wish I could shield my boy from the trials and sorrows that are sure to come his way. I can only offer him the wisdom that life has taught me... friends and acquaintances are two different things. Acquaintances come and go, but real friends hold tight to their friendship...even when life causes them to scatter.