When the Wrong Way Seems Right

When the Wrong Way Seems Right

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It is one of the most stupidest things I’ve ever done.  (Yes, I recognize “most stupidest” is improper grammar, but it seems the most appropriate way to phrase it.)

When my youngest son flies to Michigan, he usually flies into Detroit.  It’s a logical flight destination because of the large airport (and therefore cheaper flights).  Also, two of his brothers, a sister-in-law, and his nephews and a niece live locally, offering family time with loved ones.  Landing in Detroit also means there are multiple options for picking him up and taking him back to the airport, as well as several options for bunking overnight upon arrival.

Then when he wants to transfer the two-and-a-half hours north to our place, Detroit family members shuttle him to our meeting place halfway between there and Clare.  They drive north-west, and I drive south-east.  It’s a convenient arrangement.  At least usually.

For me, the route is quite simple.  Going there, I drive Highway 10 East to I-75 South to Birch Run.  Coming back, 1-75 North to 10 West.  Like I said, simple.

Too simple!

The last meetup went as planned.  Greetings and goodbyes were said between transporters, then my youngest son and I headed north to catch the Highway 10 intersection.  And we drove clean past it!  Not an oopsy mile or two, but twenty full miles!

For the sake of my ego, I will attempt to offer a few reasons for the grievous oversight.

First, I hadn’t seen my son in quite a while, so I was enjoying his company.  Secondly, he is studying to be a pastor and loves to talk ministry with me.  We were engaged in a riveting theological discussion as I drove.  Thirdly, as mentioned, the route is super simple, so I didn’t need to be overly concerned about missing exits.  I only had one key turn to make (which I obviously missed!).  And finally, the scenery along both freeways is largely similar – mostly wooded with occasional buildings, fields and exits – so there was nothing to alert me I was on the wrong road.  In fact, it was only when the trees began to appear more stunted that we both recognized something wasn’t right.

The shock, embarrassment, and frustration I felt when I realized my mistake was significant.  All those wasted miles and minutes!  (Though we talked the whole way, so it wasn’t entirely wasted.)

Believing one is on the right physical path while actually being on the wrong one is indeed shocking, embarrassing and frustrating … but only temporarily.  Believing one is on the right spiritual path while actually being on the wrong one will have eternal ramifications, if not discovered in time.

The bottom line is that everyone is on a spiritual path, whether they know it or think about it or not.  Their personal spiritual path may be one of their own devising, or one that was impressed upon them by others. 

In one way of looking at it, there are many, many different spiritual paths.  In a simpler definition, there are only two spiritual paths – the right one and a wrong one.

Perhaps you’ve heard the expression, “Everyone wants to go to heaven, but few want to go now.”  A related phrase might be, “Everyone wants to go to heaven, but few know the only way.”

Jesus made it clear.  He said, “I am the way and the truth and the life.  No one comes to the Father (i.e. goes to heaven) except through me.”  (John 14:6).

The flip side of that truth was shared by Solomon.  “There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end it leads to death.”  (Proverbs 14:12).

The one wrong path can be taken via many avenues.  Concluding that there is no god, or following the wrong god, are obvious ones.  These wrong ways can be followed by openly devoting one’s heart to a false god, or by unknowingly loving something of the world more than the true Lord.  (1 John 2:15).

Another incredibly common wrong way is trusting in one’s own good actions, or some kind of “karma,” to pull oneself into heaven.  (Galatians 2:16).

There is but one true God: the Triune God … Father, Son and Holy Spirit. (Matthew 29:18-20; 2 Samual 7:22; Isaiah 40:25).  And there is but one way to heaven: faith in Jesus, the Son’s, redeeming work on our behalf.  (Ephesians 2:4-5, 8-9; Acts 4:10-12; Romans 5:6-11).

So how do we know we are on the correct path?   How do we remain on the right path; how do we avoid wandering onto the wrong path? 

Here’s the key: we immerse ourselves in God’s words!  All the road signs are there.  The Scriptures are our unerring spiritual GPS.  As the psalmist reminds us, “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” (Psalm 119:105).  The Bible not only provides us with unfailing guidance, but with everlasting confidence and comfort.

Many are the wrong – and ultimately destructive – spiritual paths people wander blissfully down … completely unaware.  It’s one thing to lose an hour because of missing a freeway exit; it’s far more tragic to lose an eternity because of being on the wrong spiritual route.

Gracious God, keep us all on the right path!

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Matthew 7:13-14
“Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.”

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The Special You

The Special You

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Have you ever stared in amazement as you observed someone performing some spectacular feat? Whether on an athletic field or court, on a stage, or in another medium, we’ve all observed with awe the abilities of others. In fact, each of us personally knows some incredibly talented folks — people who possess talents we can’t begin to duplicate. Whether it be knowledge, an acquired ability or an inherent skill, there are many at whom we marvel.

Maybe the one you admire is a coworker who has proven to be exceptional at her work; perhaps a classmate who excels at athletics; possibly an acquaintance with unearthly technological know-how; a family member who is a natural conversationalist; or a church member who sings like an angel. Chances are it’s not just one you admire, but many! The list of talented people is long.  As is the list of talents you clearly don’t have.

And the temptation is always there to feel profoundly inadequate, boringly normal, stunningly average and spectacularly un-special.

All of which is profoundly incorrect!

Actually, the Lord has created you to be completely adequate for whatever special tasks he wants you to do. You happen to be fascinatingly unique; your personality, experiences, interests and abilities all intertwine into a wonderful you. In fact, you are exceedingly special!

At the risk of sounding like a life-coach, let me share a few reasons why you are indeed special.

The first reason you are a very special you is because of the personal talents that you possess. While you may be in awe of the skills that others have, be assured that others are in awe of yours! Those things which come easy to you, that you take for granted, and that others often compliment you about … those are unique gifts God has given you. Perhaps you aren’t even aware of the talents you display, but those close to you certainly see them. Undoubtedly you have other gifts that you haven’t even discovered yet. But rest assured that God has built you with some very special abilities.

Not only does the Lord endow you with unique physical or mental talents, but the Bible tells us that the Holy Spirit blesses every single believer with at least one, and often several, spiritual gifts. The Apostle Paul writes, “Now about the gifts of the Spirit, brothers and sisters, I do not want you to be uninformed. … There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. … He distributes them to each one, just as he determines” (1 Corinthians 12:1, 4, 11).

There is great variety in the spiritual gifts the Holy Spirit brings, but every Christian has been given at least one. (Including you!) Yes, you are indeed special!

There’s a reason you were given your spiritual gift. “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms” (1 Peter 4:10). In 1 Corinthians 12, the Lord provides a striking illustration of this truth. He shows how every believer is a unique part of the body of Christ, (the Church) and thereby serves a unique and vital role for the Body. None of us is the whole body; however each of us is a significant part.  (1 Corinthians 12:27). Without our special contribution (ability!), the body is lacking. With it, the body prospers. This is no small thing!

Then there is that mind-boggling truth that all Christians have Christ living in them. So not only are you connected to the Body of Christ, but Christ is embedded in you. (Galatians 2:20). How incredible! How wonderful! Jesus only lives in his followers, which sets his followers (you and me!) apart from the vast majority of the people in the world. This alone makes you wonderfully special!

But I’ve saved the best for last. You are special because you are dearly loved by the Lord. Yes, it’s true that he loves everyone. While that’s a key point, it’s not the key point in this discussion. 

Rather, I want to impress upon you that the Lord loves you! Yes, you! You personally! As a matter of fact, he loves you dearly. If you happened to be the only sinner on earth, the only existing person on the planet, Jesus still would have given his life to redeem you. God doesn’t do something like that for just anyone; he only does it for special people.

Listen and take to heart these words from Scripture: “For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8:38-39).

And we haven’t even discussed that as a Christian you are also blessed with the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23), the fulfillment of all the wondrous and comforting promises of God (2 Corinthians 1:20), and the fact that the holy, almighty God “rejoices over you with singing” (Zephaniah 3:17).

All of which makes it clear; you are indeed incredibly special. You are unique and wonderful.

David marveled at his (and our) specialness and was moved to praise God because of it. “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well” (Psalm 139:13-14).

Don’t let Satan or anyone try to tell you otherwise; there is no one else on earth like the special you!

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Got Enough Stuff?

Got Enough Stuff?

I was chatting with the copier repair tech in my church office when a loud knocking sounded on the door frame and a tall, elderly stranger stepped into view.  Usually when non-members stop in at church, they either want to sell me something, or they want me to give them something. 

But not this gentleman.  He wanted to give me something.

Turns out he was working through the personal effects of a deceased relative who had been a Lutheran pastor, and there were several containers containing some of his pastoral books. The relative wasn’t comfortable with simply throwing them away and asked if we might be able to make use of them or find good homes for them.   I said, “Sure!” and thanked him for the generous offer. 

It took me a few weeks before I could tackle the containers, but I finally dove into them.  Inside were Bibles, hymnals, worship service planning and reference books, and theological books.  There were also some lovely Christian knick-knacks that now reside on my church office shelves.

Most striking though were the well-used Bibles and hymnals carrying the personal inscriptions of the names of the pastor and his wife on the front covers.  Also found in the containers were documents of some of his pastoral installations and pictorial directories of congregations he had served.

These all were articles that carried either sentimental or practical value for a former pastor.  Yet there came a time when a stranger was going through them.  Furthermore, one of the containers was a cardboard box which had been exposed to water, and most of the books inside had sustained severe water damage.

Consequently, much of what was once valued by an individual had to be discarded.  Though I never knew the man, I still found it rather sad.  If you’ve ever had to process a loved one’s possessions after their passing, you’ve experienced a similar situation and sentiments … only undoubtedly magnified due to your connection with them. 

We have so much stuff!  Every single one of us has … so … much … stuff!

When my wife and I moved a few years ago, we got rid of a LOT of things.  But after all our “purging,” we still had a LOT!  Since we’ve moved into our new home, we’ve accumulated even more.

We all are abundantly blessed by our God – certainly spiritually, but also materially.  Simply living in the United States positions people for prosperity.  Consequently, most have a pile of possessions.

If you doubt this, consider the booming storage business in our country.  The United States has more than 52,000 storage facilities containing over 2.1 million individual self-storage units.  (And more are always being built!)  The estimated rentable storage of all those facilities equals 2.1 billion square feet. 

Why all that space?  Because 1 in 10 households rent storage.  And that doesn’t include the stuff crammed into our closets, attics, spare rooms, garages, sheds, or barns.

Yup, we have a LOT of stuff!

The wild thing about this is that we can’t take any of it with us!  Everyone acknowledges this truth, yet it seems to dissuade few from accumulating more.

The simple truth is that one day after we are gone someone will be wading through our ocean of possessions, having to make difficult decisions about what to do with them … and it won’t matter even one bit to us.

What will matter after the Lord calls us out of this world is NOT how much stuff we have piled up in our lives, but what is (or isn’t!) in our soul.

Jesus specifically addressed this matter with these powerful, thought-provoking and sobering questions: “What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?  Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul?” (Matthew 16:26).

That’s quite a contrast: “The whole world” versus one’s “soul.”  To state it another way, it’s the physical versus the spiritual.  As physical creatures in a physical world, the physical is powerfully attractive.  But Jesus reminds us that the true treasure is the spiritual … faith in our Savior in our souls.

As Jesus stated so clearly to Martha after her brother, Lazarus, had died, “I am the resurrection and the life.  The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die.” (John 11:25-26).

As Christians, we recognize what should be our proper priorities (the Lord, his word, and our souls), yet “life” so easily and often distracts us with things that, in the end, really don’t matter.  In the end, the only thing that will matter is that we transition from life to Life.  That is, from life in this physical world to eternal Life in heaven with our Savior. 

And the only way that happens is if there is life (faith in Jesus!) in our souls.

That spiritual life in our souls is created and nurtured through the living, powerful, and life-changing word of God.  The Gospel is the good stuff. 

No.  More than that.  The gospel is the greatest stuff of all in this world because the Holy Spirit uses it to lead sinners to salvation in the next world.

Which means that, regardless of how much or little physical stuff you own, if you have saving faith in your soul, you have more than enough!

So, if you are inclined, certainly keep, store and treasure your physical stuff.  But never lose sight of your greatest treasure – the only one that really matters when you die and the only possession you can take with you – that is, faith in your Savior in your soul.  Do everything possible to ensure that treasure is always safely stored and actively cared for.

As Jesus himself urges, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal.  But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.  For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Matthew 6:19-21)

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Philippians 3:7-9
But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ.  What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith.

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Eating – Boldly and Eagerly!

Eating – Boldly and Eagerly!

As many years as a person may live, every now and then the Lord still allows us to experience new things!  And this was certainly a first for me.

A few weeks ago on this very blog I shared how the birds around our place, after cleaning out the birdfeeder, wait and watch for me to refill it. That very scenario rose to new heights at my last refilling.

While I was prepping the feeder for a new supply, I had a plastic, gallon-sized ice cream container filled with seed resting on the ground just a few feet away.  To my utter astonishment, a white-breasted nuthatch landed on the rim of the container and proceeded to pluck out a seed. 

And it wasn’t a snatch and dash scenario, as one might expect.  It took its sweet time, picked up a seed in its beak, and was completely content to perch there while I loomed over it.  Only when I stated, “Aren’t you a bold one,” did it decide to take flight.

It’s not unusual for birds to begin to swoop in towards the feeder while I’m there.  But the usual response, once they recognize I’m present, is to make a rapid and extreme adjustment in flight and divert to a nearby tree. 

Not this nuthatch.  It saw readily available food, and it was eager to eat it!  So eager that it boldly settled down on the feed container before I even had the opportunity to transfer it to the feeder, and began helping itself.  Meanwhile, I’m only steps away!

My immediate thought was, “How cool is that!”  It was followed almost immediately with, “If only we were as eager to eat up God’s word as that nuthatch is to eat seeds!”

The Lord uses this very metaphor in his Scriptures, often describing God’s word as a necessary and delicious “food” to devour.  It’s necessary because it feeds the faith in our souls; it’s delicious because it strengthens our relationship with our Lord, filling us with joy and peace.

As Moses informed the Israelites: “… man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord.” (Deuteronomy 8:3).  You’ll undoubtedly remember that Jesus quoted these very words when Satan tempted him to create physical food while Jesus was fasting in the desert.

The words of God are not only necessary for the soul, but delicious and delightful.  (Yes, even when they point out our sin, because they also point out our Savior from sin!)  The psalmist states, “How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth!” (Psalm 119:103).  And the prophet agrees! “When your words came, I ate them; they were my joy and my heart’s delight, for I bear your name, Lord God Almighty.” (Jeremiah 15:16). 

The concept of feeding our souls through Scripture carries over into the New Testament as well.  Including from the Savior himself, who said, “ Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you.” (John 6:27).

Or, in the words of Peter, “Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation, now that you have tasted that the Lord is good.” (1 Peter 2:2-3).

I wonder if we don’t sometimes regard our time in God’s word as “snacking.”  We nibble on it now and then when it appeals to us.

Or perhaps we think of it more as an obligation.  “We have to eat something,” so we try to arrange for a meal now and then on a Sunday morning … if there isn’t something that sounds more “appetizing” that day.

But those are NOT the pictures God gives us in the Bible!

Rather, the word of God shows us that the words of God are life sustaining and strengthening – spiritually speaking.  They are enduring.  They are also “sweet,” therefore they bring joy and delight to our hearts.

So God’s people want to devour God’s words eagerly, often, and boldly (resolutely).  Like a certain nuthatch in my front yard does with safflower seed.

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A Danger Unknown

A Danger Unknown

I had absolutely no idea.

For my entire life I was blissfully ignorant of the truth.  Then one day recently I was reading a devotional written by an outdoor enthusiast who happens to live in Michigan, and he mentioned encountering a rattlesnake in the state.  I immediately began to question his credibility.  But to make sure I was right, and out of an abundance of curiosity, I did some research.

And there ARE rattlesnakes in Michigan! 

The formal name of these venomous reptiles is “eastern massasauga rattlesnake.”  A medium-sized snake, adults can stretch from 18 to 30 inches.  They typically inhabit wetland environments, though they will sometimes move into higher upland areas in the summer.

It’s not surprising perhaps that I was unaware of their presence.  The massasaugas are timid and secretive, and most residents of the state have never seen one.  (Even many of those who spend a great deal of time in nature.)  The snakes prefer to hide by remaining motionless under vegetation or woody debris.  Their coloration serves as highly effective camouflage. 

Furthermore, they aren’t commonly encountered because their numbers have been steadily declining across their range.  (They inhabit parts of all the other Great Lakes states and provinces as well.)  Loss of habitat, fragmentation of the population, persecution, and illegal collection being the primary factors.  Because of their drastically decreasing numbers, massasaugas have some level of official protection in many of the states in its range. Michigan’s Lower Peninsula  seems to hold the greatest number of these rattlers, so the state is integral in its well-being. 

The eastern rattlers feed primarily on small mammals, but they will also eat frogs and other snakes, and occasionally even birds.  In regard to their diet, they are opportunistic.

Though classified as non-aggressive, they will on rare occasions strike humans.  Approximately 16 people are treated per year for massasauga bites.  Even though their venom is highly toxic, human fatalities fortunately are rare due to their shorter fangs.

Their “rattle” is reportedly more of a “buzz.”  It’s been likened to a bumblebee stuck in a spider web.  Sometimes they “buzz” before striking at humans; sometimes they don’t.

Talk about a danger unknown!  I’ve been completely oblivious to the presence of a rattlesnake in my home state!  I wonder how many I’ve walked by in my forays in the woods, or perhaps especially at the marshy wildlife refuge I used to work at while going to college and the seminary.  

I naively believed there were no venomous snakes to threaten my safety.  And while the risk was obviously low, it was still present … and it was definitely unknown.  At least to me!

Turning from the physical to the spiritual, I can’t help but wonder how many people have no idea that there is another “snake” who threatens everyone’s well-being.  Some are completely oblivious to the danger.  But even Christians who are aware tend to downplay the risk.

Consider these fascinating – but also sobering! – words from Revelation regarding the spiritual viper named Satan:

7 Then war broke out in heaven. Michael and his angels fought against the dragon, and the dragon and his angels fought back. 8 But he was not strong enough, and they lost their place in heaven. 9 The great dragon was hurled down—that ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, who leads the whole world astray.  He was hurled to the earth, and his angels with him. 10 Then I heard a loud voice in heaven say … 12  “Woe to the earth and the sea, because the devil has gone down to you!  He is filled with fury, because he knows that his time is short.”  (Revelation 12)

“That ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, who leads the whole world astray” is similar to the eastern massasauga rattler in that he likes to stay hidden.  He loves to wreak havoc from the shadows.  Sometimes he teases people with some buzzing; but often he strikes suddenly and silently to unleash his toxic venom into their hearts and lives.

Satan is also radically different than the non-aggressive massasauga in that the devil is extremely aggressive.  “He is filled with fury, because he knows that his time [before Jesus returns] is short.”  He will stalk believers’ souls relentlessly; he will never, ever give up the attack until souls are removed from his reach through death.

Most alarming, he knows exactly which methods, temptations, and assaults will be the most alluring and effective … AND he perceives the most advantageous times to “strike.”

Is it surprising therefore that Paul would share this concern with the Corinthian believers?  “But I am afraid that just as Eve was deceived by the serpent’s cunning, your minds may somehow be led astray from your sincere and pure devotion to Christ.”  (2 Corinthians 11:3).

The apostle recognized the risk!  But he also recognized where safety was found.

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.  Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.  For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.  Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. (Ephesians 6:10-13).

If you read the verses that follow, Paul describes the spiritual armor we are to wear quite extensively.  But the voice from heaven in Revelation 12 summarizes it magnificently with these words: “The [believers] triumphed over [the ancient serpent who was hurled to earth] by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony.” (Revelation 12:11).

In other words, Satan may lurk and hide and scheme and strike … but the Lord Jesus shed his holy blood so Satan would be defeated and we would be redeemed and victorious.  And that his what he is … and that is what we are!  Thanks be to Jesus!  Furthermore, God’s Word which tells us God’s truths is far more powerful than Satan’s lies.

Nevertheless, do not let Satan the snake be a danger unknown, unnoticed or ignored.  He is a powerful and treacherous enemy.  Recognize him and his diabolical ways … and his ultimate goal of pulling us away from God.

But even more important, recognize your victorious Savior …  and the safety and salvation he provides us.  As the Lord promised Eve, Jesus did indeed “crush the devil’s head” (Gen. 3:15) at his crucifixion.  His resurrection three days later was the ultimate triumph – a triumph for Jesus, and a triumph for us.

The key to our safety is staying close to our Savior.  The more we are immersed in God’s Word, the more Satan will hate us and attack us … but the more alert and aware we will be, and the more shielded we will be!  As the Lord himself states, “You triumph over [the serpent] by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of testimony.” (Revelation 12:11). 

So be watching for the Snake.  But even more importantly, keep your eyes on Jesus, our Victor!

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Wait … and Watch

Wait … and Watch

They are always waiting and watching.  No, not the boogeymen.  The birds!

Twice a week I refill the birdfeeder in front of our house.  In three days, the feeder is essentially empty.  And when it is, a few finches will still land with high hopes … only to have their hopes crushed.  They’ll peck a few times, but with nothing but seed husks to grab, they fly away disconsolately. 

And then they wait, and they watch.

They’ve learned that the feeder isn’t empty for long.  It’s just a matter of time until they can gorge themselves again.  When I approach their feeding station with my ladder and my container, their little birdy hearts flutter with joy.  I’m convinced that the birds … who have been waiting and watching! … begin chirping happily. 

Seriously!  I can hear them making a racket in the nearby trees every time I refill the feeder.  The singing seems much more pronounced than usual.  Whether their chirps flow from joy, or they are a dinner call to other birds, I couldn’t say.  Maybe it’s a bit of both?

By the time I have made the short stroll back into the garage to store the ladder and meandered into the living room, birds are already settled in for their next meal.  Before long the feeder is being swarmed!

Three days down the road, the birds will be waiting and watching again, and we’ll repeat the entire process.  It’s not surprising; they need to eat and they know I’ll provide the food.

It seems to me that, when it comes to our life needs, we should be more like the birds – waiting and watching.  Specifically, waiting confidently on our God’s timing and watching for his bountiful provision.

Instead, in regard to the challenges and uncertainties in our lives, we tend to approach them in just the opposite manner.  We ignite and we ignore.

Rather than waiting patiently for our loving Lord to do his thing, we anxiously ignite our emotions, minds, and bodies.  We take action.  We rush and run and ram forward … because how else are we going to resolve this situation unless WE resolve it?  We charge and chase the solution, because we think we need to find it immediately.  We ignite all of our personal resources like the Orion spacecraft of the Artemis mission, convinced the only way to new heights depends on our firing up, and firing up NOW.

After igniting (and because we’re ignited!), we tend to ignore the great things GOD can bring about in his own time.  Unfortunately, we also often fail to see what God IS bringing about!  And twice the tragedy, our “igniting” may even interfere with God’s solution or the immediacy of God’s solution.

This approach to difficulties and dreams (igniting and ignoring) is directly contrary to God’s prescription for life.  Over and over in the Scriptures our Heavenly Father urges his children to wait and watch.

The psalmist, inspired by the Holy Spirit, states the concept clearly: “I wait for the Lord, my whole being waits, and in his word I put my hope.  I wait for the Lord more than watchmen wait for the morning, more than watchmen wait for the morning.” (Psalm 130:5-6).

In another psalm, David reminds us that waiting and watching finally is a matter of trust – something we sinners struggle with, but we believers want to excel at!  Because the more we trust our Lord (who loves us dearly!), the greater our peace grows, and the less we feel the need to ignite and ignore.

Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture.  Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.  Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this … Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him. (Psalm 37:3-5, 7).

Now don’t misunderstand.  I’m not suggesting that God wants us to simply relax in our recliners and ignore our responsibilities and refuse to address our challenges.  No, the Lord expects us to be active, and even aggressive, in regard to dealing with difficulties.  But he also expects that as we do, our confidence is completely based on him and his actions, and not ourselves and our own!

In other words, we don’t ignite and ignore; we wait on the Lord and we watch for his resolutions.  Because God’s timing and God’s answers are always best.

This is nothing new.  The Lord had his Old Testament people wait and watch for thousands of years for the promised Savior.  “But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption to sonship.” (Galatians 4:4-5). 

And that was certainly worth the wait!

So wait and watch … like the birds in my yard.  In fact, I would point out that Jesus used the illustration of the birds in regard to this concept long before I did!

“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear.  Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes?  Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them.  Are you not much more valuable than they?  Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life? (Matthew 6:25-27).

So don’t worry.  Trust your loving Lord.  And wait and watch for him to bring about great things in his always-perfect timing!

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Jeremiah 29:11
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

Lamentations 3:24-26
I say to myself, “The Lord is my portion; therefore I will wait for him.”  The Lord is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him; it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord.

Psalm 27:13-14
I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.  Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.

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Output Vs. Input

Output Vs. Input

The concept we’re exploring today is not original with me.  I actually heard it on a local Christian radio station, and I thought it was a concept worth sharing.  It’s simply stated and explained, yet it is profound in its simplicity and powerful when understood and implemented.

From little on we are trained to find self-value in what we are able to put out.  It’s a lesson readily learned since it comes so naturally to the human psyche and seems so logical.  The greater the quantity and quality of our output, the more inherent value we feel and find.

The realms of our personal output validators are varied and unique to each individual.  Our personal output indicators may be in the physical, mental, emotional, verbal, relational, occupational, educational, societal or familial worlds.  Yet the cause and effect are the same: when we are able to output effectively, we tend to feel good about ourselves.

Unfortunately, the inevitable is that there will come times when our output is substandard.  Even more so as we age and our ability and energy flags and fades.  And then what happens to our self-esteem?  If it is based on our output (as it is for most!), we’re in trouble!

Many is the time I’ve counseled individuals who were struggling mentally and emotionally because they just couldn’t do what they used to be able to do.  Their self-worth was based on their output … and their output was leaving them devastated.  Eventually, one’s output will leave every output-based person devastated.

Which brings us to the importance of input – both recognizing and pursuing positive input.

Kind and encouraging words from loved ones certainly qualifies as positive input; warm support from people is important and is certainly helpful.  But sometimes that is hard to come by or is not enough.

The most crucial input is the input our God gives us in his Word!

Yes, the condemnation of the law which shows us our sinfulness isn’t pleasant.  It’s important we all take this to heart; we are all sinful and the Lord hates sin.  But don’t stop at the law.  Let it drive you desperately and eagerly to God’s gospel, which tells us about God’s love … and mercy … and grace … and atonement … and forgiveness … and salvation. 

Furthermore, embrace those truths God shares with us about who we now are in the crucified and risen Jesus Christ.  This is the input we desperately need!

Words like these:

“… You were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God” (1 Corinthians 6:11).

Or these:

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” (2 Corinthians 5:17)

Or this long, wonderful, self-esteem-boosting list:

“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.  Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy” (1 Peter 2:9-10).

These are just some of the thousands of messages God gives us in his Scriptures.  Search the Scriptures and you’ll find plenty of incredible input.  God tells us he has loved us with an everlasting love (Jer. 31:3), a love so lavish that he considers us his very children (1 Jn. 3:1) and rejoices over us with singing! (Zeph. 3:17). 

These are truths God wants us to take to heart!  Crucial, positive, self-esteem-lifting input God wants us to embrace. 

The Lord knows this input … given by the One whose output is always perfect and always perfectly blesses … will completely transform our self-perspective. 

As Paul prayed: “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit” (Romans 15:13).

The vast majority of the world looks to one’s output as the basis for value.  But that’s a disappointing path.  Be different.  Be better!  Or rather, learn a better way to evaluate yourself!  “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Romans 12:2). 

Far better for us to find our value in the input God gives.  And he values us immensely!  Of all astounding things, he informs us that we are precious in his sight! (Is. 43:4).

When our self-esteem is based on our output, it will eventually and undoubtedly collapse.  When based on God’s input, however, it will soar!  

Which underscores the importance of being in our Bibles and mining these golden truths!  There’s an abundance of wealth just waiting to be uncovered there and make us spiritually rich.  It’s exactly the input we need to prosper in this output-based world.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts … And be thankful.  Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you [encourage one another] and [praise] … God with gratitude in your hearts.  (Colossians 3:15-16)

How to Interact on This Blog

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Don’t Miss the Commas!

Don’t Miss the Commas!

Whether a person happens to be a grammar geek or not, commas are important.  In fact, sometimes they are more than just important; they are crucial!

Consider these examples:

No comma:  I’m sorry I love you.
With comma:  I’m sorry, I love you.

No comma:  He told me I’m a fool.
With comma:  He told me, I’m a fool.

No comma:  Slow children at play.
With comma:  Slow, children at play.

No comma:  We’re going to learn how to cut and paste kids.
With comma:  We’re going to learn how to cut and paste, kids.

No comma:  Let’s eat Grandma.
With comma:  Let’s eat, Grandma.

No commas:  I find inspiration in cooking my family and my dog.
With commas:  I find inspiration in cooking, my family, and my dog.

No comma:  A woman without her man is nothing.
With punctuation and comma:  A woman: without her, man is nothing.

Commas are significant!  Omit one when writing … or miss one when reading … and an entirely different message can emerge.  At best, confusion can be caused; at worst, offense can be caused or wrong information can be passed along. 

Think about the drastically different theology the next sentences convey:

No comma:  Jesus died for you as sinful as you are.
With comma:  Jesus died for you, as sinful as you are.

No comma:  God truly loves you not a bit – endlessly and forever.
With comma:  God truly loves you, not a bit – endlessly and forever.

We need pauses in our words to share the message we want to share – to get it right.  Lack of appropriate pauses causes issues.

The same is true in our lives.  Sometimes pauses are not only desirable; they are necessary.

Obviously, our bodies can’t be taxed indefinitely.  Sooner or later, we need a physical rest.  It’s why we stop, rest, eat and sleep. 

Mental breaks are also crucial, or focus fades and mistakes are made. 

Ditto for our emotions, which can be distracted, disrupted and even devastated by emotional storms.  Perhaps even more important than physical and mental breaks, our emotions need some “sunny days” now and then – times of calm and peace.

The loving Lord who created us knows how important pauses are in our lives.  Therefore, it shouldn’t be shocking that he set aside the Sabbath Day for Old Testament Israel.  As he told the people through Moses:

Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a sabbath to the Lord your God.  On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your male or female servant, nor your animals, nor any foreigner residing in your towns.  For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy.  (Exodus 20:9-11)

Saturday, the seventh day, was to be a day of rest – physical, mental, and emotional rest – for God’s people.  But here was the key: the Sabbath Day was, first and foremost, a day of spiritual rest. 

God told his people, “There are six days when you may work, but the seventh day is a day of sabbath rest, a day of sacred assembly.  You are not to do any work; wherever you live, it is a sabbath to the Lord” (Leviticus 23:3).

In other words, God told them to take a day to rest their bodies, minds and emotions from the rigors of life … AND to immerse themselves in the ultimate spiritual rest that God brings.  It was a day to worship the Lord and to be in his Scriptures.  God knew that the ultimate pause the people needed in their lives was rest for their souls.

Nothing has changed!  The ultimate pause WE need in OUR lives is rest for OUR souls!  When our souls are at rest in the Lord, then our bodies, minds and emotions also prosper.

The New Testament makes it clear we are no longer obligated to literally observe the Sabbath Day by physically resting on Saturdays.  The Sabbath and the Old Testament ceremonies were “a shadow of the things that were to come; the reality, however, is found in Christ” (Col. 2:16-17).

In other words, in these New Testament times we find rest for our souls in our Savior.  Jesus himself made this clear.

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.  Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” (Matthew 11:28-29).

The writer to the New Testament Jewish believers was inspired by the Holy Spirit to explain it this way:

There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God; for anyone who enters God’s rest also rests from their works, just as God did from his.  Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest … (Hebrews 4:9-11).

And then in the very next verse he shares how we enter that rest!

For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. (Hebrews 4:12).

We are no longer obligated to observe the Sabbath Day literally.  But we are still commanded / urged / begged by the Lord to be in his living and active Word regularly … in worship services, Bible studies, personal devotions, and Christian music.  Because that’s the way the Holy Spirit works in us and brings us spiritual rest.

So definitely pause.  Pause in your days to appreciate your loved ones and your many “little” blessings – to “smell the flowers,” as the expression goes.  Pause from your labors daily and weekly to rest your body, mind and emotions.  Pause in your annual schedules for vacations. 

But the Lord gives us this most crucial advice of all: “Be still, and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10). That is, pause often to focus on the Lord through his Word, and let the Lord bring rest to your soul through Jesus, your Savior. 

Commas in sentences are extremely important.  But “commas” (pauses) in our lives, and especially for our souls, are even more important.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Psalm 46 (selected)
1 God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. 2 Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, 3 though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging. … 7 The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.

10 He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” 11 The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.

How to Interact on This Blog

To Comment – Please share your thoughts!  (Commenting is the fun part!)  To do so, click on the “Comments” tag under the title and start typing.  I, and many others, would love to benefit from your insights!

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A Thoughtful and Thankful Anniversary

A Thoughtful and Thankful Anniversary

It’s been six years now. 

On April 22, 2020, after much prayer and a great deal of work, I hesitantly launched this blog – HeadingToHeaven.com. 

It wasn’t a life-long dream or a long-anticipated venture.  Far from it!  It was actually one of the most unlikeliest of undertakings for me. 

That being said, it was also a somewhat spur-of-the-moment thing.  I leaped into this ocean rather quickly.  However, it was not a rash decision; I felt compelled to do it. 

I recognize that sounds simplistic, super spiritual and/or selfish.  To which I would reply that it was actually complex … but also simply spiritual.  I was convinced the Lord was pushing me.

I was certainly not compelled by ego.  Quite the contrary, beginning a blog was beyond overwhelming to me.  (Technology is definitely not my forte.)  I didn’t know where to start, what to do, or if it would even be beneficial to anyone.  I felt completely inadequate for the task.  As I reflect back on the beginning, it was all rather stressful,

Still, once the concept of beginning a blog arose in my mind, I couldn’t shake the compulsion.  I needed to do this – as strange and unexpected and daunting as it may be.

“Heading to Heaven” was born in the tumultuous times of COVID.  COVID, of course, changed everything.  The world.  Our nation.  Politics.  Society.  Day-to-day life.  Medical approaches.

It certainly altered ministry.  Pastors and congregations were scrambling to serve their people.

I began the blog with the idea that it would be another “no contact” way to share God’s Word with God’s people whom I served who were sheltered and struggling.  I hoped it would provide an avenue for my congregational members to interact with and encourage one another while temporarily separated and isolated.

While that inter-congregational communication never played out quite the way I envisioned, it seemed the Lord had other plans. 

Since then, I have been privileged to share almost 300 devotions on “Heading to Heaven.” Today the posts are read weekly by God’s people across our nation, and even by some on the other side of the oceans.  The blog has been accessed by people literally around the world.  When I timidly began this website, I could never have imagined how God might use it.  (Absolutely all thanks, praise, and glory to Him!!!)

Nor could I have dreamed that the posts would serve as the basis for Bible studies in midweek Lenten services and contemporary services in three different congregations over the years.

But the most humbling and uplifting blessing that has come through the blog are the heartfelt responses that have been shared with me after a particular post touched and encouraged someone.  My singular goal for “Heading to Heaven” has always been that I might somehow encourage someone, somewhere, in some little way. 

To find out that God has done that very thing is beyond incredible.

I want to stress that this anniversary post is NOT about me.  I write this post and share it – very reluctantly.  The last thing I want to do is to draw attention to myself.  However, I definitely DO want to glorify the Lord. 

I am fully aware that any blessings brought through this blog were brought by our good and gracious God … to HIS glory.

It’s not about me at all.  Yet as we reach this milestone, I can’t help but personally reflect on the past six years.  The Lord certainly works in mysterious and wonderful ways.  Always!  He is so faithful.  The older I get, the more I find myself immersed in thankfulness to Him. 

On this sixth anniversary of “Heading to Heaven,” I thank the Lord with all my heart.  He made it happen, he kept it happening, and he continues to keep it happening.  I trust he is indeed using it “in some little way.”

Thanks also to all who subscribe to this blog.  Some of you have been with me on all or nearly all of this entire journey.  If you do formally “follow” (subscribe to) this blog, please know that you are a great encouragement to me.

If you aren’t yet subscribed, I invite you to do so.  I would be honored if you did.  (It’s free!)  Instructions on how to do so are below.

Additional thanks to those who share the posts with their friends.  Doing so definitely extends the blog’s reach.  And when you share, perhaps God is using you to reach someone who needs to read that particular devotion at that particular time, and they are drawn closer to the Lord.

Recognizing that various posts are read by non-subscribers is also uplifting.  I am humbled and grateful that someone would take the time to do so, and I am prayerful that they are “somehow encouraged in some little way.”

Finally, if you have any thoughts you are willing to share in the “comments” section below regarding “Heading to Heaven,” I would be delighted to read them.  Personal responses are always a morale boost.

It’s so hard to believe – it’s been six years now.  My thoughts on this occasion are filled with thankfulness to our God for his blessing on this endeavor, and gratefulness for the opportunity to serve him … and hopefully encourage some of his people somehow, somewhere, in some little way.

Because finally, there is no greater message than that there is a God who loves us and who saved us.

How to Interact on This Blog

To Comment – Please share your thoughts!  (Commenting is the fun part!)  To do so, click on the “Comments” tag under the title and start typing.  I, and many others, would love to benefit from your insights!

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Disconnected ?!?!

Disconnected ?!?!

After the privilege (and pressure) of leading Holy Week and Easter Sunday services for two congregations, I was looking forward to a relatively quiet Monday following Easter.  But then I looked out one of our back windows and noticed the floating portion of our dock was twisted sideways and barely hanging on!  (See the picture above.)

Which precipitated an immediate change of plans.  Especially since the forecast called for high winds later that day.  Either I reconnected the end of our dock or I would undoubtedly be retrieving it from the far end of the lake! 

The dock is rather old, and I had been monitoring the attachments for a while now.  I knew I would need to add a new 2 X 8 board for extra support, as well as new eye bolts.  It was a project for the near future.  But on Easter Monday, the “near future” suddenly became “immediately.”

As the snow fell and the wind began to pick up, I tied the floating portion of the dock to the anchored walkway.  The old and bent eye bolts were removed, a new front panel was installed, and new bolts were screwed into place.  (Amazingly, I only dropped one of my tools into the lake.  Fortunately, the water was shallow enough for it to be retrieved with a garden rake.)  Finally, I reattached the quick links to the eye bolts, and the end of our dock was safely reconnected.

Paddling our kayak to rescue our beached dock somewhere on the lake shore would have certainly been … interesting.  But that wasn’t even the worst outcome that could have occurred.  If the wind was fierce enough and blowing to the east, it could have potentially blown our dock over the spillway of the dam at the end of the lake, and then down the river below.  If that had happened, I may not have been able to retrieve it all!  Even if the dock managed to survive the fall.

Becoming disconnected would have led to drastic and perhaps dire ramifications for our little but dearly loved dock.

Connections are important.  And especially our connection to our Savior!  Becoming disconnected from Him leads to drastic and perhaps dire ramifications to our well-being – both now and forever.

Jesus himself makes this clear. 

“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.  If you do not remain in me, you are like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned.” (John 15:5-6).

We wither when we lose connection to the living Lord – when we become distracted and distant from the source of spiritual life.  Without Jesus, the searing heat of stresses and the drought of difficulties in our lives sap the life from us.  Or, to mix our metaphors, when we become unmoored from the Savior, we float away and careen toward calamity.

It’s no accident that the concept of remaining anchored in … attached to! … the Lord permeates the Scriptures. 

David sang about the unmovable force that is the Lord after he delivered David from Saul’s attempt to kill him.  As we read his words, we can’t help but recognize how desperately David clung to his God during those difficult days.

I love you, Lord, my strength.  The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.  (Psalm 18:1-2).

Jesus referred to the same concept of God and God’s Word being an unshakable foundation to which the wise are attached:

“Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.  The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock.”  (Matthew 7:24-25).

If we are to stand through the fierce storms of this world, (and none of us avoid those storms!), it is crucial that we remain connected to the ultimate foundation of our Savior. 

Choose whichever illustration you prefer … the living Vine, the unmovable Rock, the impregnable Fortress, the ultimate Stronghold … the point is the same: we need to stay connected to Him.  Why?  Because the Lord is our spiritual Sustanence, our Strength, our Deliverer, our Refuge, our Shield and our Salvation!

Unplug any rechargeable do-dad … a phone, a speaker, a tool, etc. … and it will operate for a while.  But while operating, the charge is slowly draining.  Eventually the power is gone.

It’s the same with our souls!

We must be plugged in to the Lord and his Word to be spiritually recharged, and to stay charged. 

“… The gospel … is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes” (Romans 1:16).  The Holy Spirit “powers” us through the “living, active, and penetrating” word of God.  (Hebrews 4:12).

As a pastor, I know this to be true.  I have seen this play out, both negatively and positively, among God’s people. 

Those who neglect reading and hearing God’s Word slowly but surely lose their spiritual power and become more-and-more disconnected from their God.  Their spiritual lights dim, and tragically, sometimes go out altogether.

On the other hand, those who actively read and hear God’s Word become stronger-and-stronger spiritually and more-and-more connected to their God.  They almost glow with spiritual light and life; they thrive in their connection to Jesus, the Vine.

It’s a striking contrast. 

Faith is dynamic; it is always changing.  Either it is growing stronger through our connection with the Lord and his Word, or it is growing weaker through disconnection.

I know which of the two I want happening in me!

Thankfully, our dock is reconnected and anchored.  But much more importantly, may every one of us remain connected and anchored in our loving Lord.

There is no better or safer place to be than close to our Savior … clinging to him as he clings to us, and as he fills us with life, joy and security!

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Hebrews 10:22-25
Let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water.  Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.

 And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.

Acts 2:42  (A description of the early Christian church)
They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.

How to Interact on This Blog

To Comment – Please share your thoughts!  (Commenting is the fun part!)  To do so, click on the “Comments” tag under the title and start typing.  I, and many others, would love to benefit from your insights!

To Subscribe – Go to the “Follow This Blog Via Email” column.  If you don’t immediately see that box, click on the “Comments” tag under the title, and scroll to the very bottom.  You should find it there.  OR simply comment you want to follow and I can add you!