Browsed by
Author: dbirsch

Solitaire for Two!

Solitaire for Two!

I often have trouble falling asleep at night.  It’s not that I haven’t typically worked hard that day.  It’s because I have a mind that refuses to shut down.  No matter how exhausted my body may be, my mind keeps churning.  It happens to be one of the more frustrating things in my life.

I’ve often wished I had an on/off switch for my thoughts.  Click on the brain first thing in the morning, and click it off when I crawl into bed each night.  But I suppose if one’s mind isn’t already engaged, a person wouldn’t think to activate it when waking up.  (OK, so that could be an issue.)

Fortunately, one of the things I’ve learned that helps my mind begin to disengage after a long day is Solitaire.  I began playing the card game when I was in elementary school.  But back then, I had to shuffle the cards after each game and lay out the seven rows.  In fact, the entire game was done manually.  It took a fair amount of time to play a game, and then as much or more to reset the deck after each “hand.”

But now my computer does it all!  And much faster than even the best card handlers in the casinos could.  There are even sound effects!  (I’ve often wondered about the psychological feel-good benefits of the “ding” of moving an ace up above, the “clack” of making a connection between cards, and certainly the electronic celebration following a win.)

Yes, I know that sleep experts advise avoiding staring at screens before going to bed.  However, Solitaire somehow soothes me.  I don’t pull up the cards every evening, but several nights a week isn’t uncommon.  In fact, Microsoft informs me that I’ve played over 6,600 games through the years, and I’ve won over 1,100 times.  (That’s a 17% winning percentage, by the way.)

The card game Solitaire can be a great approach to numbing the mind late at night.  (At least for me.)  The foundational concept of Solitaire is solving the card puzzle alone.  This works well in the card version.  However, it happens to be a lousy approach to life.

To some degree I think we all have the tendency to try to conquer life’s puzzles alone.  We want to be smart enough, strong enough, adaptable enough, determined enough, or whatever other characteristics one might toss into the mix to “win” the game of life.  We want to finagle the details so all our “cards” line up in four neat descending rows, and we want to accomplish the challenge ourselves.

Realize that I’m not referring to earthly relationships when I write those words.  Some prefer to associate with many people while others prefer fewer connections.  Some folks are happiest alone.  Some are quick to request assistance from other people; others rarely will.  As humans, we are all over the spectrum in regard to our affinity for earthly relationships.  How we tackle life, with how many and with whom, are separate matters.

However, we ALL need God!  We don’t just need him a little or now and then; we need the Lord completely and constantly … every day in all things.  He is our help and our hope, our strength and salvation, our rock, fortress, protector and provider.  Without the Lord, we are doomed, both now and forever.  With the Lord, we are conquerors and overcomers; people blessed beyond measure with significance and salvation.

Jesus summed up this concept beautifully in John 15:4-5:  “Remain in me, as I also remain in you.  No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine.  Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.  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.”

Branches must remain attached to the vine to live and produce fruit.  It’s crucial that we stay connected to Jesus through God’s Word!

Solitaire is best known as a game for one.  Life however is best approached as Solitaire for Two.  Each of us individually … along with God.  That is a sure-fire formula to win at life!

So Easily Done! So Hard to Undo.

So Easily Done! So Hard to Undo.

Benjamin Franklin once wrote, “Any fool can criticize, condemn and complain, and most fools do.” 

If only we weren’t that kind of fool.  But we all slide down that slippery slope of criticism too easily and too often.  And sadly, the people we criticize the most are almost certainly the ones we love the most.

The English Language Learners definition of criticism is excellent.  It states criticism is “the act of expressing disapproval and of noting the problems or faults of a person or thing.” 

It’s been said that, “When we judge or criticize another person, it says nothing about that person; it merely says something about our own need to be critical.”  Sadly, there is a lot of truth to that statement.  We’ve all been criticized, so we all criticize.  It’s a learned behavior that is especially appealing to our sinful natures.

All of us become critical sometimes, but some of us gravitate to it more frequently.  Sadly, those who frequently “express disapproval” will argue that they are simply offering loving and constructive criticism to others.  But most misunderstand the concept.  Instead of “constructive,” their words and tones are typically destructive.

Criticism is destructive to relationships when it is about personality or character rather than behavior, when the words are blame-filled, not focused on improvement, when they imply there is only one “right way” to do something, and when they are belittling.  (Dr. Steven Stosney, “What’s Wrong with Criticism.”)

A bit later in the article, Dr. Stosney writes, “At no time … does an obvious fact occur to critical people: Criticism is an utter failure at getting positive behavior change. Any short-term gain you might get from it builds resentment down the line.”

Let me share a few other nuggets from Dr. Stosney’s article:

“You’re likely to be the last to know whether you’re a critical person. … If someone says you’re critical, you probably are.  But there’s a better way to tell: Think of what you automatically say or think to yourself if you drop something or make a mistake.  Critical people will typically think, Oh you idiot, or curse or sigh in disgust.  If you do that to yourself, you most likely do it to others.”

I’m guessing the words in that last paragraph indict a lot of us. 

It is so very easy to run others down, to dismantle their self-esteem bit-by-bit with “well-intentioned” expressions of disapproval.  Once criticism is leveled, it can’t be taken back, and all that remains is the damage that the criticism produces.  It really does take multiple kind words to try to temper the destruction of unkind ones, and ultimately the kind words never undo the unkind.

Yes, some can use the criticisms of others to motivate themselves to excel.  But the vast majority of people wither under negative comments.  To prosper, most need encouragement.  That is, they need true encouragement … not negative-based “encouragement” to change, but kind, uplifting, invigorating, positive and pure words of encouragement.

Dr. Stosney contrasts criticism with “feedback.”  Criticism focuses on what’s wrong; feedback focuses on how to improve.  Criticism implies the worst; feedback is about behavior.  Criticism devalues; feedback encourages.  Criticism implies blame; feedback looks to the future and how things can be better.  Criticism attempts to control; feedback respects autonomy.  Criticism is coercive while feedback is not.

To further complicate this matter, yet another crucial factor in effectively encouraging others goes beyond just positive words.  Our tone as we talk is critical as well.

Daniel Goleman, the writer of a book on relationships, explains.  “The way leaders use positivity when communicating with employees can make a huge impact on their emotional well-being and their performance.  I was really surprised how big the impact of these interactions can be. … In one experiment, the emotional tone of a leader delivering news to an employee made more impact than the news itself.  When negative feedback was delivered with a warm tone, the employees usually rated the interaction positively.  On the other hand, good news, such as achieving a goal, delivered with a negative tone would leave employees feeling bad.”

Yikes!  We really do need to weigh our words, rein in our emotions, and consider our tone before speaking to others.

Charles Schwab summarized the concept in this way:  “I have yet to find the man, however exalted his station, who did not do better work and put forth greater effort under a spirit of approval than under a spirit of criticism.”

Here’s what an even more respected and reliable source states:

“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up. … And we urge you, brothers and sisters … encourage the disheartened, help the weak, be patient with everyone.  Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always strive to do what is good for each other and for everyone else”  (1 Thessalonians 5:11, 14-15).

Oh, that our gracious God would work in us so that encouragement of others becomes easier and more natural than criticism!  Clearly the Lord wants us to be people who build others up instead of tearing them down.

Just a Small Slice of Heaven?

Just a Small Slice of Heaven?

Of course, nothing in this world can even begin to replicate the world that awaits us.  But that doesn’t keep us from trying to find just a small slice of heaven here on earth.

It seems to me that those heavenly attributes we most desperately seek are rest, relaxation, joy and peace.  The reality is that these blessings are primarily delivered to us by the Holy Spirit in spiritual packages … through God’s Gospel wrapped in different and delightful ways.  And finally, that resource (the Gospel!) is where we all want to be actively abiding.

Otherwise peace, joy, rest and relaxation are difficult qualities to uncover in this hard-driven, stress-packed, muddled-up, uncertain, unsettled, and demanding society.  And especially all of them all at once.   Rarely will they be uncovered in one secular activity.

I have many hobbies I enjoy.  I enjoy them because they bring me a hint of the blessings I will experience fully in heaven.  Hiking and backpacking; hunting and fishing; metal detecting and gold panning; bird and animal watching; gardening and landscaping; cooking and grilling; traveling and exploring; reading and writing; watching a good ballgame or attending a concert … they all bring a measure of satisfaction.  But none of them foster complete rest and relaxation, peace and joy.

Obviously no non-spiritual activity in this life can or will.  But there is one thing that comes close … at least for me.  Camping.

Now I recognize that some of the good readers of this blog will cringe at the thought of residing for days in a tent with no amenities on the edge of a dirt-covered, smoke-filled campsite.  To be largely at the mercy of the whims of weather, wild critters and bugs would definitely NOT be restful and relaxing to many.  Nor would they find it peace-providing and joy-filling.

But it is to me.

Metal detecting?  (Enjoyable!)  Cooking a good meal?  (Satisfying!)  Observing wildlife?  (Delightful!)  Backpacking?  (Thrilling!)  Fishing?  (Potentially relaxing AND exciting!)  Reading a well-crafted book?  (Distracting … in a good way!)  Camping?  (Restful, relaxing, peaceful and joyful!)

I’ve wondered why I enjoy it so much.  Perhaps it’s because of the memories of camping with my parents and siblings when I was young, or with my wife and children when I was older.  The presence of loved ones is huge.  Undoubtedly my joy in camping also revolves around my love of the outdoors.  Being free from responsibilities other than “the very basics of life” (food, drink, and shelter) is another factor.  Camping allows me to unplug for an extended amount of time, along with the rest of my family who are with me.  And then there’s the added bonus of being able to easily participate in so many of my other enjoyable pursuits.  After all, we’re temporarily living in the outdoors!

Ah, there’s nothing like a camping trip to bring sweet rest, easy relaxation, deep-seated peace, and exquisite joy.  Nothing outside of spiritual elements in this world, anyway.  I recognize that it’s not for everyone.  But at least for me, camping is a small slice of heaven.

Imagine then what a large slice of heaven will be!  The complete, perfect and unending slice!  This is how an “elder” in heaven described salvation to John:

“These in white robes … are they who have come out of the great tribulation; they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.  Therefore, “they are before the throne of God and serve him day and night in his temple; and he who sits on the throne will shelter them with his presence.  ‘Never again will they hunger; never again will they thirst.  The sun will not beat down on them,’ nor any scorching heat.  For the Lamb at the center of the throne will be their shepherd; ‘he will lead them to springs of living water.’ ‘And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes’”  (Revelation 7:13-17).

In other words, the ultimate rest, relaxation, peace and joy will be found in heaven!  I can’t wait to “camp” there forever.

How Is Your “Yard” Looking?

How Is Your “Yard” Looking?

In the summertime, my wife and I try to take a daily walk.  Sometimes we drive to a local park for a change of scenery, but usually we simply stroll around our neighborhood.  We vary our paths so the “scenery” varies as well.

Inevitably we spot something interesting.  A decked-out vehicle.  Various projects or intriguing decorations on the homes.  Curious choices for house colors.  Fascinating plants in the yards.  There always seems to be something to see.  For example, just the other day we noticed that the automatic street lights were lit on one block but not the adjacent block.  Not sure why, but it certainly sparked some conversation among us.

As we walk by the many homes, one immediately evident thing is the state of the yards.  The majority of lawns receive a modicum of care; they are mowed somewhat regularly and look fairly presentable.  The yards may or may not have flower beds.  And if there are beds, they may or may not be weeded.  This is the usual.

But there are always some yards that stand out, either because of the great amount of care given to them or because of the complete lack of attention they receive. 

A few of the yards are impeccably groomed.  The lawns are weedless and the grass looks like a golf-course green.  The flower beds are delightfully arranged and immaculate.  Invariably there are some fairly exotic trees, bushes or flowers present.  Clearly someone who lives in those homes loves yard care, (or struggles mightily with perfectionism!).

Then there are other yards that haven’t seen a lick of care in quite some time.  The beds are overrun with weeds, and the grass looks like a prairie, standing tall as a person.  It’s usually impossible to see anything in those yards.  One might hesitate to wander into them for fear of the wild critters that might be encountered, or of getting lost and never finding your way back out again!  Although the other day my wife and I spotted a push mower barely visible in the midst of a jungle of grass.  We speculated that sometime in the distant past either the mower or the owner simply surrendered to the towering turf.  

Of course, there are a multitude of reasons why a yard could be neglected.  Finally, the way a yard looks just isn’t that important.  I know there are some who will disagree with that statement, but that’s the truth of the matter.  There are many matters much more important than the appearance of one’s yard.  

However, it did set my mind to pondering.  It’s very evident how much care a yard receives … or doesn’t.  What if the wellbeing of our souls was as evident as the health of our yards?  What if the amount of care we give to our souls was as obvious as the amount of time spent on our lawns?  How would our soul look?

If our soul was on display, would it be evident that we take good care of it?  Is it well-watered by God’s Word; well-trimmed by God’s Law and well-fertilized by God’s Gospel?  Are the weeds of sin largely removed, or are they sprouting everywhere?  Is the grass mowed and edged, or are worldly blades growing wild and unchecked?  Are the beds clean, or littered with trash and undesirable plants?  Are portions of our souls even dead?

I admit that this concept gives me pause.  I tend to take pretty good care of our yard; our place generally looks fairly-well kept.  But if my soul were visible for all to see, what would it look like?  How would it compare with my yard?

Jesus himself underscores the value of a healthy soul.  “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).  In other words, the state of our soul is far more important than the state of our yard … or anything else on earth, for that matter!

Thankfully, we have a gracious, loving, and forgiving God … which prompts our hearts to join with David in words of praise! 

“Praise the LORD, my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name.  Praise the LORD, my soul, and forget not all his benefits—who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion, who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s” (Psalm 103:1-5).

How is your yard looking?  Finally, it really doesn’t matter!  How is your soul looking?  Now that’s a much more important issue!

God’s Holy Sense of Humor?

God’s Holy Sense of Humor?

Platypus.  The name has to be among the strangest in the animal kingdom.  The animal itself, however, is even stranger than its name.

The platypus sports a bill like a duck, a tail like a beaver, and fur and feet like an otter.  The webbing on its feet is retractable for when it ambles around on land.  The males carry a venomous spur like a scorpion on their rear feet, and the females lay eggs like reptiles or birds.

When fully grown, a platypus is about 15 inches long, not including the 5-inch tail.  An adult weighs about 3 pounds.  They only populate parts of Australia.

Platypuses are graceful swimmers.  They paddle with their front webbed feet and steer with their hind feet and beaverlike tail.  The creatures have dense, dark-brown fur that helps them stay warm underwater.  Folds of skin cover their eyes and ears to prevent water from entering, and their nostrils close with a watertight seal.  They can remain submerged for several minutes.

The skin of their “duckbill” holds thousands of receptors that help the platypus navigate underwater and detect the electric fields generated by all living things.  They sweep along the bottom of rivers, streams, ponds and lakes using electrolocation to find hiding shellfish, insects, larvae or worms which they then carry to the surface to eat.  Electrolocation is a rare trait among animals in general, but especially so among mammals. 

The platypus has baffled scientists from the beginning.  When the first platypus specimen was sent back to England in 1799, zoologist George Shaw’s initial conclusion was that the animal was a hoax.  He actually attempted to pry the bill off the body in his search for the threads that held it in place. 

The platypus is such an aberration that it took taxonomists more than eighty years to classify it.  Though finally designated a mammal, its skeletal construction resembles a reptile, with pectoral girdles and splayed legs.  Laying eggs is certainly reptilian, and is certainly un-mammal-like.  Being an egg-layer lands platypuses in the extremely rare mammal class called monotremes, a characteristic they share only with spiny anteaters.  The additional matter of being venomous is yet another incredibly rare attribute for mammals.  (One can begin to see the challenges to classifying the platypus!)

In 2008, scientists were able to decipher the entire DNA of the duck-billed platypus and discovered that it shares genes with reptiles, birds, and mammals.  Not surprising based on its appearance and characteristics, but extremely upsetting to evolutionists.

Long before the troubling (to evolutionists) DNA information, biologists struggled with the complexities of the platypus.  In 1992, Australian biologist, Michael Archer wrote, “Indeed, evolutionary scientists are baffled about the ancestry of the platypus.”  A former Director of the National Human Genome Research Institute, (Francis S. Collins), admits: “At first glance, the platypus appears as if it was the result of an evolutionary accident.”

Studying the platypus, Australian zoologist Dr. Susan Lee eventually developed a different hypothesis.  She postulates that a tear in the space-time continuum allowed extraterrestrial life to enter Australia, introducing a deluge of freak animals into the “Land Down Under.”  (She’s serious!)  The platypus was the animal that moved her to settle on such an unusual conclusion.  She states that the platypus “makes no sense from a biological standpoint.  It looks like a beaver and a duck had [an offspring].  It’s far too [ugly] to be a product of evolution.”  And if it couldn’t have evolved, then how else could it come to be except by extreme circumstances?

Interestingly, according to what he wrote while visiting Australia, it seems that Charles Darwin actually began to consider his evolutionary hypothesis while examining the corpse of a platypus.  The animal, along with some of the other exotic creatures he encountered in that country, sparked doubt in his mind that one Creator made all of the animal kingdom with its multiple and strange variations.

Of course, most evolutionists discount God altogether.  Charles Darwin, still a Christian when he examined the confounding platypus, clearly underestimated the capacity of the Lord.  Which is truly sad.

Elihu in the book of Job says this:  “God does great things by his power.  Is there any teacher like him?  Who can tell him which way he should go?  Who can say to him, ‘You did wrong’?  Remember that you should praise his work”  (Job 36:22-24 – God’s Word).  That’s wise advice. 

So what does the muddled-up, complex, and unique … but fascinating, wonderful, and delightful platypus show us about the Lord?  First of all, that the Creator is indeed creative!  He has unlimited imagination.  Secondly, he isn’t bound by the preconceptions of humans; God makes his own rules.  Additionally, he is exceedingly wise, and every creature created by the Creator is “good”  (Genesis 1:25).  And finally, that God has a holy sense of humor. 

I doubt that the Lord laughs at the futile and foolish attempts of humans to sound wise; it’s too tragic.  But he could.  I suspect that he at least smiles as biologists try to make sense of the platypus.

When Things Settle Down (WTSD)

When Things Settle Down (WTSD)

I’m not old yet, but I’m older than I used to be.  (Yes, I recognize that we can all make that claim.)  What I’m trying to say is that there’s some wear on the tires.  My body isn’t as spry and sleek as it used to be, but along the many miles I’ve traveled in life my noggin has accumulated a bit of wisdom.  Not a lot, mind you, but a little.

For example, I’ve learned that you absolutely should not leave the large tarp you purchased to cover the camping tents at home because there is no rain in the forecast.  In addition, I strongly advise that you do NOT attempt to slip your fishhook past the tree limb … even if you are an expert caster.  I definitely recommend that you clip your toenails before heading out on a long hike, especially if there are elevation changes.  (You may think this to be strange advice, but the day may come when you realize the profound wisdom in those words!)  And you never say never.  Never ever!  That’s just a small sampling of the hard truths I’ve learned through the years.

I’ve learned something else as well.  I’ve learned there is no such thing as “When things settle down.”  The context for the phrase usually sounds like this: “I’ll work on my marriage issues when things settle down (WTSD).”  Or, “I’ll spend more time with my children WTSD.”  Or, “I’ll get back in shape WTSD.”  Or, “Yes, something is definitely not right; I’ll go to the doctor WTSD.”  Or, “I’ll do something fun and relax WTSD.”

Where this nasty phrase really impacts negatively is when it’s used in a spiritual context.  Such as, “I’ll start reading my Bible WTSD.”  “I’ll get back to church WTSD.”  “I’ll work on my prayer life WTSD.”  “I’ll get more involved in ministry for God and more generous in my giving to God WTSD.”

You get the idea.  Only when we arrive in heaven will things finally (and forever!) settle down.  But here on this world, “when things settle down” is a lousy approach to life.

First of all, if one doesn’t set proper priorities, our sinful natures in conjunction with Satan and influenced by the world, will set them for us.  And we can be certain they won’t be in line with what the Lord encourages.

Secondly, there will never be a time when things settle down in our lives. 

Think about it.  From birth … to toddler … to child … to teen … to adult … to middle-aged … to elderly … to death, we are always changing.  As are the realities of our lives.  From nursing … to eating … to walking … to school … to puberty … to higher education … to moving … to occupations … to marriage … to home-ownership … to children … to health issues … to grandchildren … to retirement.  We all meander different paths and experience varied challenges in our lives, but we all share one common trait: our lives are always unsettled.

Certainly in the midst of this pandemic we are eager to reach a day when things settle down.  With God’s blessing, our lives will eventually regain more normalcy.  But even then, there will still be plenty of unsettled matters.  WTSD is an extinct beast; it died off when sin entered the world.

I spent far too many years and waited way too long for WTSD in my life.  I let improper priorities dominate.  I expected to reach the point “one of these days” when life would finally calm down.  I expected circumstances to stop changing sooner or later.  But, of course, life never really calms down and circumstances are constantly changing.  As a result, I missed wonderful opportunities and forfeited peace and joy because I was dealing with unsettledness.

Obviously I’m not advocating we turn a blind eye to significant issues or abdicate our responsibilities.  There are simply times when we must bear down in life.  But my observation is that these times aren’t as prevalent as we tend to think, and our priorities are frequently skewed.  We are typically slaves to the urgent instead of masters of the important.

“When things settle down” is one of Satan’s most common and most effective lies.  He’s used it to coax plenty of souls to their doom.  And he will utilize all his impressive power to ensure that things stay as unsettled as possible in our lives, because he knows how spiritually distracting this can be for Christians.

Our Savior has a different message. His counsel was this:  “Seek first [God’s] kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things [that have you so unsettled] will be [taken care of for] you as well.  Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself.  Each day has enough trouble of its own” (Matthew 6:33-34). 

Yes, that’s a bit of a paraphrase.  But I believe it still fits the context of Jesus’ advice and promise.  So here’s the key: when we settle our hearts and minds on God and the promises of God above all else, then the unsettled won’t unsettle us quite as much.

On Vacation

On Vacation

Are there any words that lift the spirit quite like the words “on vacation.”  As in, “It will be wonderful when we are on vacation.”  Or, “I have our plans made to go on vacation.”  Or best of all, “Finally, at long last … we’re on vacation!”  

I suppose that’s hyperbole.  I’m sure there are other words more uplifting.  But, I would argue, not many!  And especially perhaps now, after enduring so many restrictions recently and being housebound (for work, school, church, shopping, recreation, and many other things!) for so long, the words “on vacation” sound magnificent!

Perhaps you already have some plans in place for a vacation or two.  Or maybe you are just beginning to consider the options for some getaways.  If so, good for you!

Undoubtedly most of us reach a point where we recognize we need some vacation time.  But did you realize that taking a break can actually keep us from “breaking?”  Studies have shown that vacationing generally reduces stress levels and stress related symptoms, as well as heart disease.  (The positive results in cardio health are actually quite significant!)  Other benefits of time away include a decrease in depression, an increase in productivity, and better rest.  And, of course, there are always the memories.

So by all means, if you are able, make a point to go on vacation.  But not from everything.

“Wait a minute,” you might respond.  “You just showed how beneficial vacation time is!”

Let me explain.  Being on vacation from work and other responsibilities is indeed beneficial.  It is restful for body and mind.  However, being on vacation from God’s Word is not.  In fact, taking a break from the Scriptures actually brings unrest for the soul.

There is this fascinating juxtaposition between body and soul.  Breaking from working at our occupations benefits our bodies; breaking from working through God’s Word negatively impacts our souls.  Undying dedication to time in the Bible benefits our spiritual health; unending dedication to time at our jobs brings physical problems.

Consequently, one should definitely provide the body and mind a prolonged rest now and then.  But it is never a wise decision to take a vacation from God’s Word.  Not when one is on vacation.  Not when buried under responsibilities.  Not when relaxing and not when busy.  Not in good times or bad.  Never!

In fact, just the opposite is true.  The more stressed and busy we may be, the more we need the spiritual rest that the Holy Spirit brings us through God’s truths.

The Apostle Paul wrote these words to his fellow pastor, Timothy, about the importance of remaining steadfast in God’s Word:  “But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of!  … The Holy Scriptures are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.  All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work” (2 Timothy 3:14-17).

Vacation time for the body – definitely good!  Vacation time for the soul – definitely not good!  So by all means vacation, but do so selectively!

What Is Worship?

What Is Worship?

After a hiatus of 3 months, our congregation will finally gather together to worship again inside our church this Sunday.   3 months!  3 LONG MONTHS!  89 days to be exact, but who’s counting?

Yes, the Bible clearly shows us that the church is people and not a building  (Ephesians 5:25-27).  But there is something undeniably special about God’s people gathering together inside a building designated for the worship of God to worship God.

Consequently, it seems appropriate this week that we focus on worship.  So what is worship?  How does one define worship simply and succinctly? 

A stuffy secular dictionary definition describes worship as “formal or ceremonious rendering of honor and homage to God.”   A somewhat stuffy Christian definition states that worship is “an expression of praise from the depths of our hearts toward a God who is understood through His Word.”  A less stuffy definition summarizes worship as “a focus on love – God’s love for us and others, and our love for God and others.”  Yet another describes worship as “God speaking and his people responding.” 

The people who penned those definitions are undoubtedly wiser than me.  But how would I define worship?

As the folks in our congregation know, I recently took a poll of our people asking them to choose the 5 aspects of worship they were most eagerly anticipating after worshiping at home for so long.  I provided a long list of options from which to choose, but 6 choices quickly rose to the top of the list.

And every selection has one common denominator.  It’s not deep or complicated.  In fact, it’s a very simple trait.  The shared aspect of the most frequently selected items could actually be summarized with the word … “sharing.”  In short, worship of our God is a sharing.  Or more accurately, Christian worship is multiple sharings!

In public worship, God shares with us, we share with God, and we share with one another.  And all that sharing is what makes Christian worship so very special.

So what were the 6 aspects of worship that the St. Paul people indicated they were most eagerly anticipating when we returned to formal, united worship?  The choices were God’s Word, the Sacraments, the songs, being together (fellowship), the Sanctuary (worship area), and “the whole experience.”

Probably not overly surprising choices.  And not difficult to see the multilayered sharing aspects in most of the choices. 

God, of course, does the most and best sharing.  He shares truth, love, faith, forgiveness, salvation, perspective, power, direction and motivation with us in his Word and Sacraments.  Best of all, he shares his Holy Spirit – the Spirit silently and secretly sweeping throughout the Sanctuary, flowing into hearts and firing up faith.  This is profound sharing that descends from heaven.

But we the worshipers share with the One we worship as well.  We share our sorrow over our sins, and our grateful praise for God’s forgiveness.  We share our inmost concerns in prayer.   We share our love with he who showed and taught us love, and our devotion and dedication with a devoted and dedicated God.  We share honor and praise in word and song with the God who is the most honorable and praiseworthy.  We share our all with the One who is All.  This is a sharing that ascends to heaven.

And worshipers share with other worshipers as well.  This is a “horizontal” sharing, and it is no less special than descending or ascending sharing.  Being together is a very underrated aspect of worship.  Rejoicing in the same God and the same truths of God with a congregation creates a unique atmosphere and forges a powerful bond.  Speaking, singing, praising, praying, and communing together – being shared with and sharing – uplifts in ways like nothing else on earth. 

Even the Sanctuary is part of the sharing process!  It lends the altar and the cross on the altar, the baptismal font, the stained glass illustrations of Jesus, and so much more as visuals of God’s love and faithfulness.  It offers the pulpit and the screens where God’s Word is shared, the pipe organ and keyboard which accompanies our music and the vaulted ceiling which amplifies our singing.  The church Sanctuary sets the mood and adds so much to the sharing experience.

“The whole experience” of gathered worship is the ultimate in sharing.  God sharing with us and others; we sharing with God and one another.

Luke’s description of the early Christian Church is striking.  In Acts 2:42 he wrote that the early believers … “devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship (translated literally, to “sharing!”), to the breaking of bread and to prayer.  (Yet more sharing!)

It’s not surprising that David wrote, “I rejoiced with those who said to me, ‘Let us go to the house of the LORD’”  (Psalm 122:1).  Nor is it surprising that God’s people would be eagerly anticipating the same thing!

Consider the Birds

Consider the Birds

The birds at our place have it pretty cushy.  We have multiple bird houses hanging from the eaves on the north side of our house.  There are also three different styles of bird feeders – all regularly stocked – in the back yard.  (Four if one counts the hummingbird feeder.)  A birdbath is another provided amenity.  In addition, there is an abundance of trees and bushes for the birds to perch in.  Plus, we don’t own a cat, and we do own a large dog who effectively keeps cats away, but who ignores the birds.

Consequently, we have a fair share of birds flitting about our place.  We regularly notice Turtle Doves (not Mourning Doves, but Turtle Doves!) and various types of Blue Jays pecking up seed on the ground.  Towhees, Northern Flickers and Varied Thrushes are sometimes seen clinging to the feeders.  Grosbeaks make appearances now and then, as do Finches and even occasionally Goldfinches.  Chickadees and Juncos are regulars.  But the most common diners at our seed dinners, by far, are the sparrows.  They are also the boarders at our bird hotels, so it’s natural that they would be the most frequently sighted. 

But then, that’s what I expected when I started catering to the birds.  After all, sparrows are everywhere, right?  As a matter of fact, there are at least 35 types of sparrow species in North America, with 15 of the species living in most areas of the nation.  There are sparrows everywhere.  They are the epitome of commonplace. 

Actually the sparrow population is declining somewhat.  No one is quite sure why, although there are many theories.  Nevertheless, house sparrows are still probably the most abundant bird in the United States, with a population estimated as high as 400 million.  (Which averages out to 1.2 sparrows for every person in the nation.)  Declining or not, that’s a lot of birds! 

Realize that sparrows are found around the world.  I couldn’t find an estimate on what that number might be.  But if 400 million live in the United States, well … yeah, it must be a HUGE number. 

With that in mind, consider Jesus’ words:  “Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies?  Yet not one of them is forgotten by God.  Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered.  Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows”  (Luke 12:6-7).

Not one of the 400 million sparrows in our nation are forgotten by God.  Nor does one fall to the ground unless the Lord allows it (Matthew 10:29).  The same is true for the sparrows around the world, however many billions of birds that might be.  Now that’s absolutely astounding!

Jesus adds an interesting side-note as well.  God even knows the number of hairs on our heads!  (For the average person, that would fall somewhere between 100 – 150 thousand strands!)  Now consider that our nation’s population is projected to be 333,546,000 in the 2020 consensus.  That’s a whole lot of follicles for the Lord to keep track of, just in the United States alone!  But still, God’s got the exact count.

Let’s take this concept even further.  A while back two scientists decided to estimate the total number of birds on the planet.  The number they came up with was 200 to 400 billion individual birds.  Compared to almost 8 billion people on earth, this amounts to about 25 to 50 birds per person.  And not one of those birds is forgotten or falls without God’s direction either. 

Same goes for all the animals.  And all the insects.  And all the fish.  And all the people!

The point of sharing all these mind-boggling numbers is not to convince you that God’s got too much to handle.  Quite the opposite!  Rather the point is to demonstrate how magnificent our God is!  This keeping track of the sparrows … and everything else … is routine stuff for the Lord. 

Jesus makes the same point.  “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?”  (Matthew 6:25-26).

One of my most dearly loved things is the sound of birds chirping in the quiet of the morning.  Whether home or away, a person can be confident that if he or she is outside, or can hear the outside, then they will hear the birds greet the morning with song. 

The sparrows are constantly chirping.  They are always fed and housed by the Lord, and their very existence is sustained by Him.  They have nothing to worry about, so they don’t.  Instead, the sparrows praise the Lord, their Provider, incessantly. 

Consider the birds.  There is much we can learn from them!

Seeing the Light

Seeing the Light

Seeing the light generally sounds like a good thing.  Of course, there’s the proverbial light at the end of a tunnel.  Most are delighted to see the light of day after a dark night.  And finally “seeing the light” after stumbling about in confusion or a lack of understanding is also considered a positive.

But whether seeing the light is actually a good thing or not depends entirely upon the light that one is seeing.  What if the light at the end of the tunnel is an oncoming train?  What if the light breaking through the darkness is the light of a prowler?  What if the light seen in confusion or ignorance happens to be poor advice or faulty “wisdom?”  The source of the light matters.

The light seen also matters to moths.  Moths and many other winged insects happen to be positively phototactic.  (Phototaxis being the scientific term.)  These type of insects are drawn toward light sources.

Phototaxis happens to be a two-way street.  It’s great when the light seen by the insect is the moon or stars as they apparently aid the moth in maintaining its bearing and sustaining safe travel.  But it’s rather unfortunate if the light seen is a campfire, a hot light bulb, or a glaring headlight on a speeding semi.

It could be said that humans are also positively phototactic.  We are drawn to “light.”  But … what is the source of the light we are frantically circling around?

Make no mistake about it, there are an abundance of “lights” in this world that draw people’s attention.  Charismatic leaders.  The brilliance of science.  The practicality of education.  The possibilities in occupation.  The promises in politics.  The benefits of health, wealth and general success.  Personal pleasure.  Public causes.  And so many more. 

While there’s nothing necessary bad about any of these “lights” in and of themselves, they are ultimately empty, and they leave the seekers of such light empty and dark inside.  Unfortunately, these false lights seem to blaze brilliantly, pulling phototactic people alluringly in.  But there is no authentic light to them.

If these are the primary lights a person is drawn to in life, this becomes a double tragedy.  Not only can these brilliantly bright (but ultimately empty) lights inevitably prove spiritually fatal, but they completely discombobulate lives even before the untimely death.  Like a moth flapping frantically around a porch light and bashing itself repeatedly into the blazing bulb.

How does a discombobulated human circling about a worldly porch light approach life?  Well, deep down they recognize the emptiness and darkness in their soul, and this fosters frustration, fear, distrust, anxiety, anger, grief, hopelessness, hostility and despair.  Consequently they flutter in never-ending spirals of live-for-the-moment activities and driven-by-emotion responses.  Their words and actions don’t need to make sense to anyone else, or even necessarily to themselves, since so much seems senseless anyway. 

In short, the light seekers see and are focused intently on a light, but it’s the wrong light.  And sadly, their light is providing nothing but blindness, headaches, loss of direction and a seemingly meaningless existence.

A horrible thing was done by a Minneapolis policeman to an African-American man.  Suddenly the fear, distrust, anxiety, anger, grief, hopelessness, hostility and despair that false lights foster boiled over in many.  Coupled with the frustrations of on-going racism and pandemic restrictions, pandemonium broke out in cities around the United States.

Most of us simply can’t understand how one wrong, horrible as it was, (or even repeated wrongs!), can make multiple other wrongs right in some people’s minds.  We struggle to relate to the rationale of rioters looting stores and lighting cars ablaze.  How does intentionally attempting to injure innocent people ever make sense?  Is screaming vulgarities ever justified?  Will violence and vandalism quell violence?  Will it remove racism?  It seems to make no sense. 

Why does a moth repeatedly beat its head into a light?  Positive phototaxis.  It sees the light and is inexorably drawn to it, even if it’s the wrong light. 

The reason we don’t understand the rationale of rioters is because we see the real, true and ultimate Light.  Thanks be to God, we have been drawn to “the Light of the world.”  This is no small thing!  Jesus stated that, “Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life” (John 8:12).  Translation: in our Savior we have true and abiding light … spiritual light and life … both here on earth and forever in eternity.

In striking contrast to false lights, the Light of the World brings contentment, courage, trust, peace, calm, joy, hope, kindness and confidence.  By the grace of God, we see the Light and our flight through life – and to life – is true.

So as we consider the vandalous and violent mobs in Seattle and other cities, it’s crucial that we not view those involved simply as thugs.  Better that we recognize them as hurting and empty souls chasing after false lights.  They desperately need to see the light … the real Light.

Which underscores the incredible urgency that we, who see the Light and are filled with Light, show and share the Light.  As Jesus himself tells us:  “You are the light of the world.  Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven”  (Matthew 5:14,16).

After all, people, just like moths, are positively phototactic.  So shine, Christian, shine!