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Author: dbirsch

Covered versus Removed

Covered versus Removed

As I write this, a winter storm rages outside.  The snow is piling up at a rapid pace.  For those of you who reside in other parts of the country, you shrug your shoulders and reply, “So what?  Been there; done that … nearly weekly all winter long!”

But for us in Western Washington, significant snowfall is cause for significant attention.  It rarely happens here.  When blizzards occur, or are expected to occur, they dominate the news.

For some, snow is a four-letter word, and one of the very worst words on the list!  Snow is cause for fear and trepidation among many.  Perhaps even panic, if driving is necessary.  The panic is due in part to the lack of snow removal plows available locally and partially because of the inexperienced winter drivers who live here.  But mostly the unease stems from the many hills in the area, some of which are steep and become treacherous with just a skimming of snow.

For others, lowland snow is a delightful novelty, and something to celebrate and experience.  Those many hills in the region that make driving dangerous also provide makeshift toboggan runs … even if one doesn’t own a taboggan.  Trash can lids make handy-dandy sleds; large boxes broken down will work too.  Anything that provides a little “slide” and a place to sit will do!  And usually one doesn’t need to journey far to find a hill to scoot recklessly down.  Meanwhile an army of snowmen is raised to try to hold off the attack from the warm rain that typically invades a day or two later.

Snow in the Pacific Northwest is a novelty both welcomed and dreaded.  And a bit of both for many folks.

When a healthy amount of snow accumulates, there is an obvious result.  It covers everything outside.  The house, the deck, the grill, the garage, the vehicles, the streets, the trees, the shrubs, the lawn … everything is draped in a beautiful blanket of white.

Which means a great many blemishes are covered over.  Aging shingles on roofs.  Rust and dents on vehicles, as well as cracks in the windshields.  Potholes in the streets.  Dead limbs on trees and weeds in the lawn or flowerbeds.  Garbage in the alleys.  Even dog doodoo in the back yard.  Everything looks lovely under a thick layer of snow.

But looking lovely and being lovely are two completely different things. 

When the snow melts, the blemishes remain.  The flaws reappear; the necessary repairs still need to be done; the garbage and doodoo are re-revealed. 

So what about our spiritual flaws?  What about our ugly sinful blemishes?  We certainly want to cover them up with as lovely a coating as possible in an attempt to look good before God and people.  Something similar to snow would seem to be wonderful! 

Of course, God sees all.  And other people see a lot too, regardless of the efforts we make to throw a pretty cloak overtop.  And coverings like snow are temporary anyway.

Thankfully our God has provided a solution!  It doesn’t sound as lovely as a layer of snow, or seem to be as attractive or appealing, but it is far more effective.  God’s solution to our sin-debt?  Covering us in the blood of Jesus, the holy Son of God and our Savior.

I recognize this is anything but a pretty picture.  However, don’t shrink from the illustration; embrace it!  Because Jesus’ blood not only covers over believers’ transgressions; it removes them completely!  As the Holy Spirit made clear when he had John write, “The blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin” (1 John 1:7).

This is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, both in the Old and New Testament.

In Leviticus 17:11, the Lord states, “For the life of a creature is in the blood, and I have given it to you to make atonement for yourselves on the altar; it is the blood that makes atonement for one’s life.”

Years after Jesus crucifixion and resurrection, Peter writes this: “For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your ancestors, but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect” (1 Peter 1:18-19).

The snowfall is gorgeous; gorgeous as it falls and gorgeous where it lays.  But it only covers.  Even more beautiful is the blood of Jesus which covers and removes our ugly flaws in the eyes of our Lord. 

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The View from Above

The View from Above

Many of you are aware that last November I had my left kidney removed.  It was shrunken and appeared to have a growth on it which was potentially cancer.  (It didn’t and it wasn’t … thanks be to God.)

Consequently, I will see a kidney specialist to monitor my remaining kidney for the rest of my life.  (A nugget of knowledge for you; the official title of a kidney doctor is a nephrologist – something I never knew until I had to visit one.) 

My nephrologist has a nice office on the seventh floor of a medical building behind Allenmore Hospital in Tacoma.  And if someone happens to have an office on the seventh floor, then it is only proper that the office have large windows to provide a splendid view from above.  It allows the somewhat unsettling experience of looking down on high-flying birds!

I arrived at my appointment a bit early this week.  After getting checked in, I was ushered into one of the waiting rooms.  As I gazed through the windowpane there, I had a splendid view of a golf course a quarter mile away.  A number of golfers were scooting around the fairways on carts; others were practicing their drives at the range or their putts on the green.

But what caught my eye was the huge parking lot for the medical complex immediately below me.  It was packed with vehicles.  Just beyond was a Walmart parking lot, also jam-packed with cars.  I did some quick calculations and estimated that I could cast my eyes on about 400 parked cars.  (There were even more I couldn’t see and additional ones driving by on the adjacent street.)  My doctor laughed when I told him the figure.  I doubt he or any of his nurses or patients ever bothered with such an inane exercise.

But it wasn’t pointless.  It struck me that I only knew the make of one of the vehicles below, and the name of its owner with certainty.   (Dark-green Chevy Silverado; David Birsching).  I even knew most (but admittedly not all) of the contents in that particular vehicle. 

That left approximately 399 other cars and trucks about which I was clueless.  I could even watch a few of the drivers strolling through the parking area and could usually discern their gender.  But beyond that I knew nothing about them. 

Yet it occurred to me that the Lord knew the make and model of every single vehicle below.  He could tell you where it was made and the exact date that vehicle rolled off the assembly line, what repairs had been made, which additional ones would be made, and when the oil was last changed.  The random contents inside were also obvious to the Lord, even down to the coins and stale fries between the seats and the paraphernalia tucked underneath.

He knew every owner, and every driver, if different.  God could even list off every single person who had ever ridden in every single one of those vehicles, and every single person who ever would.  He knew the drivers’ birthdays, their exact ages, and precisely when they would be called out of this world.  Same for all the passengers!  The Lord could also recite their social security numbers, detail their job resumes, summarize their health issues, and provide the full names of their entire families.  Curious about their addresses?  He could provide that too!

The contents of the drivers’ pockets, the bills and cards in their wallets, the miscellaneous necessaries and unnecessaries in their purses, and the jewelry on their body were all known by God.  Tattoos too.  The Lord even had the hairs on their heads numbered (Matthew 10:30).

I didn’t consider all of these details at the moment, but only recognized God’s all-seeing and all-knowing view in a general sort of way.  Still, it was striking.  It wasn’t until I write this that I am able to draw these details out and expand on the concept.  I was in awe that day; my awe deepens the more I work through this.  What an incredible God we have!

Of course, I’m only exploring just one tiny facet of God’s wisdom.  He truly sees all and knows all; it’s a knowledge that encompasses far more than 400 vehicles.  For example, the Lord could easily itemize the lines on the parking lot pavement and the cracks in it, the bushes and weeds and the number of bark chips in the flower beds, the number and kinds of the bugs below the surface, and how many birds flew above.

Furthermore, he sees all and knows all in the all of Tacoma, and all of Washington, and the entire United States and all of the world.  All about the people who are and who were and who will be.  Not to mention all their thoughts, concerns and aspirations.  And all of the hairs on all of their heads as well!

It’s beyond bewildering.  It’s mind numbing!

David wrote about the exquisitely profound knowledge of the Lord: “You have searched me, LORD, and you know me.  You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar.  You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways.  Before a word is on my tongue you, LORD, know it completely. … Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain” (Psalm 139:1-4, 6).

Combine the Lord’s omniscience (ability to know all things) with his omnipotence (almighty power), then stir in his boundless love for us, and we recognize we have a God we can absolutely rely upon.  Nothing is too complicated for the Lord to understand or unravel; nothing is too daunting for him to adjust or overcome.  How incredibly comforting this truth is!

God always knows where our car is, and our car keys too, (and anything else one might need to know!), because he’s got the ultimate view from above. 

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The Special You

The Special You

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!

The Lord has actually 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.  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).  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).

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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The One Constant

The One Constant

Most people don’t care for change.  At least, not significant change.  A fair number of folks will even fight against change, perceiving significant change as significantly negative.

And while some adventurous souls actually enjoy mixing things up a bit now and then, everyone has their limits.  Radical change might be defined differently by different people, but everyone has adjustment boundaries they absolutely do not want to cross.

Ironically, despite our penchant for clinging to the familiar … everything is always changing!

In fact, the Second Law of Thermodynamics states that all systems, if left to themselves, move from a state of order to disorder.  This natural decline is called entropy.  (Also known as change!)  In other words, natural change isn’t just a happenstance; it’s a scientific necessity. 

Which is lousy news for all the hangers-on-to-how-it’s-always-been folks!  Because, let’s face it, change is everywhere, and it’s never ending.

Just this week we saw the transition of a new president.  He is the 46th person to hold that distinguished office in our nation.  That’s an ongoing stream of leadership change over our nation’s 245-year history!  But the rulers of this land, and the inhabitants of this land, were in flux long before the United States was formed.

Meanwhile the countries and borders on distant continents have been repeatedly altered as migrations and invasions and political upheavals have changed the face of nations.  And it’s not just boundaries that were changed, but style of government, laws of the land, local customs and language.  Over time even climates were transformed, and everything that climate impacts with them.

As the earth orbits the sun, the view of the night sky shifts and seasons are rotated.  The length of daylight and the average temperature changes.  The flora and fauna adjust.  People adjust too in regard to what they wear and what they do.  The seasonal hobbies and the sports seasons also change. 

Landscapes are altered.  Highways are adjusted.  Buildings are torn down and new ones built.  Companies begin and others end.  Restaurants and stores open while other close.  People change occupations and residences, and sometimes even states or countries.

Of course, COVID has brought an unending cascade of changes. 

Our bodies are in a state of unending transformation from conception to birth and all through life.  And the situations in our lives change too!  Even our relationships are being continually refashioned. 

Most significant of all, we experienced a drastic spiritual change when the Holy Spirit brought us to faith, which in turn drastically altered our spiritual destination as well!

Since our conversion, our faith in our Savior is always varying too!  It is never static but always dynamic.  Either our faith is growing, or it is shrinking.  (The results are directly linked to our exposure to God’s Word.)

There is no tiny fringe of our existence that is not impacted by change. 

Except one.  Our God doesn’t change.  Our God never changes.

God’s attributes (characteristics) haven’t changed.  The Lord is still eternal, almighty, and present everywhere.  He is still all-knowing.  He is still good and faithful.  He is still holy and righteous, but also merciful, gracious, loving and forgiving.

God’s promises haven’t changed either.  The unchanging God is still with us, and always will be.  The fact that God works everything for the good of his people won’t change either.  Nor will Jesus redemption of us, or his resurrection; those are unchanging facts.  Furthermore, God still has a special home prepared for us in heaven.  

God’s Word hasn’t changed, and God’s loving plans for us haven’t changed either.

The fact that our God doesn’t change … and isn’t changing … and won’t change is incredibly comforting at a time of incredible change and in a world overflowing with change.

The Bible reminds us that “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of all he created.  (James 1:17-18)

How extraordinary to have a God who doesn’t change – who is untouched by the Second Law of Thermodynamics (because he created it!).   The way God was … is the way God is … and the way God always will be.

So it turns out there are actually two constants, two changeless truths: change is everywhere … except, that is, in our unchanging God.

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Walking in Son-shine

Walking in Son-shine

I love to walk.  I will walk at any time of day and in any conditions, if responsibilities allow.  (Though I admit to being less fond of strolling through a downpour.)

The other day I had a narrow window between obligations, and the sun was shining.  Blue skies and sunshine in Western Washington at this time of year are exceedingly rare.  There was no hesitation; I went to a nearby park to amble around Wapato Lake a few times. 

Cedars reflected off the still lake surface.  White waves of altostratus undulatus clouds flowed in striking fashion across the blue background of the sky.  Mallards and coots paddled lazily across the lake surface.  An eagle plunged into the water to pluck an unfortunate fish from its leisurely swim, then soared back to the raucous uproar of its eaglets in a nest atop the tallest tree alongside the lake. 

People were smiling and amiable.  Walk-buddies carried on deep discussions.  Children deliberately careened their scooters through standing puddles.  Best of all, none of the many leashed dogs tried to bite me or even bark at rival canines.  It was a thoroughly enjoyable and uplifting experience.

It struck me midway through my hike that one of the main reasons the hike was so delightful, for me and for others, was directly associated with the sunshine beaming down on us.  Walking in the light of sunbeams generally makes for a pleasant disposition!

Now this is no astounding insight.  Most understand the benefits of sunshine.  Studies show that just 10-15 minutes of sun exposure a day can boost one’s health.  Sunshine provides both a mood boost through the release of serotonin, as well as an increase in production of the crucial vitamin D.  In addition, absorbing just a bit of sunshine can actually assist in sleep, as it helps regulate our circadian rhythm (our internal clock).

This is understood innately by folks who reside in our neck of the woods where overcast dominates from October to May.  Many folks west of the Cascade Mountains wrestle with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), or seasonal depression.  For much of 8 months, there is no sunshine in which to bask.  Consequently, when the glowing rays of the sun break through the clouds in western Washington, doors bang open and people flood outside to immerse themselves in sparkling, glorious sunshine!  (Trust me, that is not hyperbole!)

I already recognized all these things before setting out on my stroll.  But I did have this sudden epiphany.  On my saunter in the sunlight, it occurred to me that there are emotional and spiritual parallels to the light of the sun.

If I asked you to visualize the sky based on current events, what does that view look like?  Or if you prefer, visualize it based on the words you are hearing or reading.  I would argue both are closely related.  How does your personal airspace appear?

My guess is that most would describe their skies as gray, overcast, rainy and gloomy.  There seems to be precious little sunshine in our world these days!

To which I reply, “It’s time for you and me to walk in the Light!”

Now I’m not suggesting that we’ve been walking in the darkness.  But most of us have definitely been hanging out in the dreary dusk.  Let the Son-shine in!

The Apostle John begins his gospel with this beaming description of our Savior:  “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.  He was with God in the beginning.  Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made.  In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind.  The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. … The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world” (John 1:1-5, 9).

Just reading through those words is like throwing open the shades to find and feel the sunshine on our faces.  Or rather, Son-shine!  We need more Son-shine in our lives!

How might we break free from the gloom?  Here’s my suggestion: carefully screen what you are seeing on your screens.  There is an abundance of negativity fogging viewpoints.  The news is full of downers.  Social media is rife with conflict.  Attitudes abound in society.  Even families are in conflict.  If that’s what we are looking at and what we are listening to, the low-hanging clouds will continue to hang low around us.

Of course, it’s important that we are at least minimally informed on current events.  But being minimally informed demands minimal time! 

Much better if we are perambulating in the light of God’s Word and the Son-shine of our Savior.  Much more beneficial if we are immersing ourselves in the words that our Lord shares, and the wonders our Savior has done … and is still doing. 

The Holy Spirit addresses this very thing when he inspired the psalmist to write, “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path” (Psalm 119:105).  Because just like the benefits that exposure to the rays of the sun bring, so time with the Son boosts our mood, increases our vitamin D-elight, and enables us to sleep more soundly.

So walk in the Son, and soak up the spiritual benefits!

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A Prayer for Our Nation

A Prayer for Our Nation

I have been very troubled by recent events, and was moved to write a special prayer for our nation and our people.  I prayed this prayer in our worship services.  Afterwards I shared it on our church Facebook page.  It was well received, so I share it here as well.  Feel free to pray it yourself.  May it be a blessing!

Dear Lord, our nation is splintered and our people divided.  Unrest abounds … not just in our streets, but in our government and in the minds of our citizens.  Fingers of blame are being pointed every which way.  Politicians and people alike are turning on one another.  Power plays abound across society.  There are different supposed truths being shared by different media sources.  No one knows whom they can trust or what they can believe. 

Almighty Lord, we come to you at this time because you are our only hope.  You are our only hope personally and our only hope as a nation.  You urge us in your Word not to place our trust in human leaders, but rather in you.  You promise us that you are overseeing all situations, controlling everything, and working all for the good of your people.  So we bring these requests to you in faith:

Where there is deceit, let the truth be revealed.

Where there are sinful, selfish plots, let them be overturned.

Where there is unrest, let peace reside.

Where there is distrust, let true trust replace.

Where there is fear, let calm confidence preside.

Where there is bitterness and caustic words, let the balm of encouragement be applied

Where there is anger, let kindness be born.

Where there is hatred, let love overcome.

Where there is violence, let gentleness prevail.

Where there is unbelief, let faith in you germinate.

Where Satan currently controls, let you, Lord Jesus, reign supreme.

Where priority is given to the empty words of people, let there be instead a longing for your meaningful, powerful, saving words.

You, Lord, are our only hope.  We bring these requests to you and confidently place our trust in you.  Heal our nation.  Heal our people.  Amen.

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Engage! Please Engage!

Engage! Please Engage!

The purpose of this post is not to discuss the physical impacts of COVID.  Those are well documented and can be found in a plethora of places.  Rather, I would like to address something that isn’t getting as much attention, but which undoubtedly affects more people than the actual virus does: the psychological impact of the pandemic.

I know a few who have been physically impacted by the virus itself; I know many who have been psychologically impacted by it.  And I’m not even sure if most of them realize it.  Or at least realize how significantly they have been psychologically impacted.

As I have ministered to the people in our congregation, it has become increasingly obvious that many were approaching life differently the past nine months.  Now obviously life has been drastically different, so of course people are approaching life differently!  But that’s not what I mean.

Rather, I am referring to how people seem to be thinking and interacting.  Or more to the point, not interacting.

As time went on, folks seemed to become more insular.  It became more and more challenging to get people involved in ministry.  And not just to participate, but even to respond to simple requests!  Even responses they could supply quickly and easily from the comfort and convenience of their homes!  Things that in the past would be simply accomplished within the congregation had suddenly become daunting to get done. 

Volunteers have been asking me, “Why can’t I get more people to reply?”  And I have answered, “I have experienced the same thing.  Unfortunately, that’s just how it is right now.”  This dilemma is not unique to our congregation; my brothers in the ministry around the region are experiencing the same challenges in their congregations!  And I am sure that it is not just congregations and ministry which are impacted!

Now I am not naïve.  I recognize the tremendous pressure the pandemic brought to people and homes.  In fact, our homes have become the office, the classroom, the bank, the store, the restaurant, the entertainment facility and even the church for many or most.  Our entire society was overturned and our lives flipped upside down.  People are busy adapting and busy in general, and they are stressed and exhausted from it all.

Still, from my observations, it seems that many or even most have adopted a “bunker mentality.”  They are hunkering down at home and peeking out every now and then to see if things are any better. 

I want to be clear: I am not criticizing anyone for taking this approach!  While this is not normal nor healthy psychologically in typical circumstances, this is actually quite normal for situations such as currently exist.  However, it’s still not healthy.

My goal is simply to call attention to this psychological reaction, make the unaware aware, and suggest some simple steps that might benefit each of us, our families, and our congregations.

Studies show that isolation impacts us.  Being mostly alone affects us psychologically. 

“… People who are quarantined are very likely to develop a wide range of symptoms of psychological stress and disorder, including low mood, insomnia, stress, anxiety, anger, irritability, emotional exhaustion, depression and post-traumatic stress symptoms.  Low mood and irritability specifically stand out as being very common, the study notes.  (“Lockdown Is World’s Biggest Psychological Experiment,” World Economic Forum – weforum.org)

Furthermore, “prolonged lack of social connection alters the brain and makes humans more antisocial. …  ‘There are a lot of people who, when they are socially isolated, find it harder to reach out to people than they normally would,’ says Chris Michel, a psychiatrist in California with over forty years of experience working in the field.  The brain structures that facilitate the creation of social connections shrink during perceived social isolation. These alterations make it even harder to form bonds.”  (“What Isolation Does to the Brain,” Think Global Health – thinkglobalhealth.org). 

And if that isn’t enough, here’s another nasty psychological twist to isolation: “Chronic isolation … [leads] to a persistent fear-response and greater aggression.  … A team at the University of Pisa in Italy discovered that socially isolated subjects show signs of hyper-vigilance and diminished impulse control.  In a pandemic scenario, these changes may result in “intense anger towards people …” (“What Isolation Does to the Brain,” Think Global Health – thinkglobalhealth.org).  Events from this past Summer and this past week certainly seem to support this finding!

The Mayo Clinic shared an excellent article on how COVID is impacting people’s mental health.  After pointing out the effects of social isolation, the staff makes some specific suggestions for maintaining good mental and emotional health. 

It actually begins with caring for one’s body.  The self-care strategies they offer for better body health are getting enough sleep, participating in regular physical activity, eating healthy, avoiding tobacco, alcohol and drugs, limiting screen time, and relaxing and recharging.

As for mental health, they urge keeping a regular routine, limiting exposure to the news media, staying busy, focusing on positive thoughts, falling back on one’s spiritual beliefs for support, and setting proper priorities and reasonable goals … and then celebrating reaching them.

All of which seem exceedingly practical!  But here is the part of the article I found most interesting and important!  The third aspect the Mayo medical staff discussed was to, “build, support and strengthen relationships.”  They supplied specifics here as well:

“Make connections.  If you need to stay at home and distance yourself from others, avoid social isolation.  Find time each day to make virtual connections by email, texts, phone, or FaceTime or similar apps.  If you’re working remotely from home, ask your co-workers how they’re doing and share coping tips.  Enjoy virtual socializing and talking to those in your home.”

“Do something for others.  Find purpose in helping the people around you. For example, email, text or call to check on your friends, family members and neighbors — especially those who are elderly. If you know someone who can’t get out, ask if there’s something needed, such as groceries or a prescription picked up, for instance” (“COVID 19 and Your Mental Health,” Mayo Clinic – mayoclinic.org).

In other words … engage!  Engage in an active and wholesome way.  Turn your attention off yourself and onto other people.  Communicate.  Reach out and brighten someone’s day.  Be involved.  Decide to climb out of your bunker and make a difference. 

The Apostle Paul advocates for these very things!  “We urge you, brothers and sisters, … encourage the disheartened, help the weak, be patient with everyone. … Always strive to do what is good for each other and for everyone else.  Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 5:14-18).

Leaving one’s bunker doesn’t necessarily mean leaving one’s home.  But it does mean leaving behind a bunker mentality!  So, God’s people, I urge you to engage!  Please, engage!

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A Simple Approach to All Situations

A Simple Approach to All Situations

As I watched the news feeds on the Washington DC rioting, and as I thought back on the Summer protests, it occurred to me that I as a Christian and a pastor should address the attitudes and activities we have witnessed.  Recognizing these should be addressed was the easy part.  Determining what to say was much harder!

Of course, God’s Word is chock full of insights and applications to all circumstances, and certainly to these situations as well.  But it seems to me that the last thing people want right now is a long dissertation.  So I decided to keep it simple. 

God always says it best.  So here is a simple approach for all situations, provided by the Lord Himself in his Holy Book:

“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.  Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone.  Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” 

“And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.”

“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace.  And be thankful.”

“Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.  

And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him” (Colossians 3:12-17).

There it is; a simple approach straight from God that will make all situations better. 

I realize that these words were written to Christians, and that Christ is at the center of these attitudes and approaches.  Non-Christians don’t and won’t approach life this way.  Which only underscores how critically important it is that we share the message of Jesus with as many as we possibly can!

My prayer is that all of us as Christians always exemplify this approach, and that more people (many more people!) learn to know Christ, and thereby learn to live Him.  When that happens, the people of our nation, and subsequently our nation, will be the better for it!

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A Mountain of a God!

A Mountain of a God!

In my humble point of view, there is nothing quite as visually impressive as a mountain.  Rising up from the land, jutting high into the sky and dominating the horizon, mountains can take your breath away with their majesty.

And is there anything else in the world that seems as immovable as a mountain?  Is there anything as unchangeable as that monstrous piece of solid stone?  Anything as eternal as that rock-hard, in-your-face, unable-to-be ignored piece of granite?  Anything as invincible as that unbending, unyielding, undeniably solid wall of rock?

In reality the mountains can and do change.  The rock on the mountains is slowly eroding.  Glaciers, ice and snow impact the heights.  Landslides happen.  Volcanic mountains can blow their tops, as we know only too well here in Washington.  Humans can scar and change the mountain face.

Yet, I submit that there is nothing else on earth that seems as reliable as a mountain. There is nothing else in the world that seems as immovable, unchangeable, eternal, or invincible as a mountain

Consequently, the mountains are a magnificent picture of God’s power and protection.  The Lord truly IS immovable, unchangeable, eternal, and invincible … just like a mountain seems to be.

That’s exactly how David describes the Lord.  “Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from him.  Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken.  My salvation and my honor depend on God; he is my mighty rock, my refuge.  Trust in him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge” (Psalm 62:5-8).

Fitting words as we close down a tumultuous year and embark upon another potentially challenging one!

I am confident that every one of us will acknowledge that it is God alone who is “my rock, my fortress, my refuge, my salvation, my rest,” and “my hope.”  We agree with those statements verbally and mentally, and yet all too often that’s not how we live our lives.  We are constantly tempted to look elsewhere for our joy and security.

Whenever we are leaning on the things of this world to support us, we have moved our life’s foundation from the mountain that is God to shifting sand that is most definitely not.

As David states so clearly in Psalm 62, it is God alone who can fill all our needs.  He is our “go-to God” for everything!  And indeed, he carries quite a resume’.  Rock!  Fortress!  Refuge!  Plus, he’s our salvation, rest, and hope as well!  Sounds like exactly what we need (Who we need!) as we roll into another year.

The Bible actually contains about 50 references to God as the Rock.  In other words, it’s a picture that the Lord wants his people to remember and embrace.  Clearly, it’s a picture that is intended to bring God’s people comfort.  And indeed it does!

It’s important to note that many of the Bible’s 50 references to God as the Rock imply that believers are grounded in that Rock.  Half a dozen other times the Bible stresses specifically the importance of being on the Rock.  In other words, not only is there no alternate for the Rock that is the Lord, but there is also no substitute for being on that Rock. 

In fact, it’s crucial that we are not only ON the Rock, but IN the Rock!  A person can build a house on top of the largest rock on earth, but if that house has no connection to the rock, it is destined to collapse.  Rather, a house built on a rock has to be anchored in that rock.  And when it is, there is nothing that can shake it.

So it is with us.  The Lord makes it clear that he is our Rock upon which we find our stability, strength, safety, help and hope.  But the only way we will reap the benefits of the Rock is if our spiritual roots are sunk down deep into him.  And when our foundation is the Lord and his Word then, as David writes, we “will not be shaken.”

As we embark on 2021, after enduring 2020, there certainly is no shortage of uncertainty and instability in our world and our lives.  All the more reason to be centered on the unchangeable, eternal, invincible, immovable Rock that is our God!

Is there anything quite like a mountain?  I don’t think so.  It’s a picture of stability and power.  And that is exactly what our God is.  He is the mighty rock, the mountain that cannot be shaken.  What an excellent place to be anchored at the beginning of a new year, and always!

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God With Us?

God With Us?

How constantly aware were Joseph and Mary that when they were with Jesus, they were in the very presence of God himself?  Not just spiritually, but physically? 

Angels from God informed both Mary and Joseph separately that this baby she would be bearing was no ordinary baby.  Some elements of the two messages were similar.  Both were told that Mary’s conception would be a miraculous one brought about by the Holy Spirit.  Both heard it would be a boy and that he should be named Jesus, which means “The Lord Saves.” 

Mary was given the additional information that, “He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High.  The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever; his kingdom will never end” (Luke 1:32-33).

Immediately after recording the angel’s message to Joseph, Matthew adds the parenthetical statement, “All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: ‘The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel’ (which means ‘God with us’)” (Matthew 1:22-23).

Joseph and Mary were God-fearing Jews, well trained in the Scriptures.  They were very familiar with the prophecies about the Christ, the Messiah.  So, of course, they also knew of the Savior being born of a virgin, and that this baby would be “God With Us.”  It just never occurred to them that Mary would be that woman, or that they would have to raise the “Son of the Most High!” 

Nor did they anticipate becoming husband and wife quite so immediately, (albeit without consummating the marriage until after Jesus was born.)  Just that quickly their entire lives were turned inside out.  It was an incredible privilege; it was also a daunting responsibility!  How does one properly raise the Son of God?

One doesn’t forget the appearance of an angel or the message that angel brings.  Nor does a Jewish believer in their day forget the critical prophecies of the Christ.  But how constantly aware were Joseph and Mary that they were raising “God With Us?”

From our perspective, Baby Jesus is always acknowledged as the Son of God – the Savior of the world.  That truth is in our Christmas hymns.  It’s the centerpiece of Christmas sermons.  It’s addressed in every Christian Christmas card and alluded to in all the Christian Christmas traditions.  Consequently, it’s nearly impossible for us to separate Jesus’ divinity from the human baby he was.

But was Jesus’ God-hood always in Mary and Joseph’s consciousness as they cared for the little boy?

The famous Christmas lullaby, “Away in the Manger,” describes Baby Jesus with these words: “The baby awakes, but little Lord Jesus, no crying he makes.”  Since crying is one of the only ways a baby can communicate discomfort, that’s a pretty significant leap of logic.  Was that really how it was?   Maybe.  But maybe not.  (We know Jesus cried as an adult.)

If Jesus had to share an important need to his parents, and if he did that by crying, did it register with Mary and Joseph as they stumbled to his side in the wee hours of the night that these tears were being shed by God himself?

As they washed the afterbirth off him and cut his umbilical cord, did they view this newborn infant as the eternal God?  As they changed his fouled “diapers” and wiped his bottom clean, were they always aware of his holy identity?  As they looked on the helpless baby and as they lifted his uncoordinated body out of the manger, did they marvel that this was somehow also the almighty God?  As they struggled to understand and address his infant needs, did it astound them that he was also the all-knowing Lord?  As they filled the basic physical demands for this infant boy, did it strike them that they were caring for the One who had created them … and all things?  As he nursed from Mary’s breast, did the stunning incongruity of it all ever strike her? 

When they snuggled with little Jesus, smelling his unique scent, did they realize this was the aroma of heaven?  When they kissed his cute little cheeks, did it register that they were kissing Jahweh himself … the one so sacred the Jews dare not even mention his actual name?  When they tussled his dark locks, did they consider that they were handling holy hair?  When they held his tiny hands, did they recognize him as the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob?  When they hugged him, did they understand that they were embracing the one who referred to himself as “I Am Who I Am?” to Moses at the burning bush? 

Was it always on their minds that Jesus was so much more than just a baby boy?  Did they daily reflect that this little one wrapped in flesh and blood was quite literally “God With Us?”

How does one wrap their mind around these things?  How does one retain their cognizance of such heavenly truths while they handle the many mundane matters an infant demands?

And did they fully understand precisely what Jesus would have to endure to accomplish his mission of saving sinners?  It’s doubtful.  But they certainly understood his purpose in a general way; the angels had made it clear to both of them.

Yet almost certainly those future events didn’t dominate their thoughts.  Mary and Joseph were too preoccupied with caring for the infant.  Undoubtedly they often forgot that he was “God With Us” because Baby Jesus looked like a typical baby; he smelled and sounded like a typical baby; he acted like a typical baby.  Yet he was so much more!

It likely slipped Joseph and Mary’s minds, at least temporarily, that Jesus was “God With Us” because he was “with them” constantly.  We, on the other hand, forget that Jesus is still “God With Us” … because He isn’t always so visible in our lives.  At least not to our physical eyes.  But this doesn’t change the wonderful truth that he is indeed “With Us.”  He is still “God With Us.”

I find it interesting that when Jesus was born into this world, he was referred to as “God With Us.”  Then, just before he physically ascended back out of this world, he emphasized: “And surely I am with you always!”  (Matthew 28:20).

How incredibly comforting to know that Jesus was the “God With Us” at his birth, that he is still “God With Us” today, and that he will always be “God With Us” for all of eternity!

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

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