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Another Doorway

Another Doorway

June 11th marks my final day as the pastor at the congregation I have been serving for over 30 years.  The day will essentially be a passage through a doorway from one “place” into an entirely different one.  It’s a significant transition … and by no means an easy one.  But it is also a necessary and good one.

This story is dedicated to my family, to the wonderful people at St. Paul’s I’ve had the privilege of serving for over three decades, and to the wonderful people I will be serving at St. John’s and Faith … all of whom are currently transitioning through large doorways.

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Jordan paused and slid his hands in his front pockets.  He’d been focusing on the massive doorway before him for some time now.  Now it was close … too close for comfort.  Yet his pathway led to that door, and he knew he had to walk through it.  But that didn’t necessarily mean he was comfortable with the idea.

He stood at a distance, contemplating the significance of it.  On this side of the door was the life he knew and had grown comfortable with; on the other side waited an entirely different scenario.  New surroundings.  New people.  New situations.  New blessings certainly, but also new challenges. 

How could one not experience a bit of trepidation at so great a transition?  Who doesn’t hesitate when facing such a significant adjustment to their life?  Jordan stood and stared at the yawning portal of change.  An involuntary shudder passed through him.

“Yes, it’s a bit daunting, isn’t it?” said an unexpected voice from the shadows to his side.  Jordan started, and spun toward the sound.  There, seated on a bench beneath the mighty bows of a cedar tree, sat an elderly man. 

His legs were crossed and his hands rested comfortably on the top leg.  He was dressed in casual slacks and a buttoned flannel shirt … the muted colors of his clothes blending into the shadows cast by the tree.  His gray hair hung down to his shoulders; a shaggy beard obscured the lower part of his face.  Still, Jordan could see his warm smile.

“I’m sorry.  You startled me,” Jordan stated.  

“Yes, I generally do,” the old man replied.  “Most don’t notice me.  They are focusing on the large doorway before them.”  He smiled again.  “Just like you.”

“Who are you?” Jordan asked.

“Think of me as just an old man who has traveled through his share of doors over time.  You can call me Vance.  I’m here to help folks like you facing huge doorways like that one in front of you.”

Jordan raised his eyebrows and tilted his head.  “Really?  Did someone place you here or do you do this willingly?”

“Both,” the old man replied enigmatically.  He raised his hands and beckoned Jordan toward him.  “Why don’t you join me for just a little bit?”

Jordan hesitated, but Vance’s smile seemed warm and genuine, so he stepped over and took a seat beside the old man.  The scent of cedar surrounded them.

Vance let Jordan settle and relax.  The old man continued to face forward, looking across the path and humming a quiet tune.  Finally, Jordan spoke.  “How exactly do you help people here?  It seems to me that people simply have to forge forward through these different doorways … as substantial and as unsettling as that may be.”

“You’re right, of course.  Finally, that is what has to happen.”  Vance turned toward Jordan.  His warm smile returned, then he continued.  “I’m simply here to provide some perspective and to reassure.”

“I could see how that might be helpful,” Jordan responded softly.  “And I could probably use both.”

Vance nodded.  He waited a beat and then asked gently, “So tell me what you understand about the doorways of life.”

Jordan collected his thoughts before replying.  “Well, there are many, many doorways, and they are all different sizes.  Most are smaller and somewhat insignificant.  But some are larger.  Even very large, like the one before me now.  They are the life-altering ones.”

“Well said,” the bearded man responded.  His eyes narrowed as he continued.  “Why are the large doors so difficult?”

“Because you are moving from what you know to what you don’t really know.”

“Yes, that’s very true; that’s a significant factor.  We’ll come back to this in a moment.”  The grizzled gentleman lifted his arm and gently squeezed Jordan’s shoulder.  “But there’s another reason though, isn’t there?  A harder reason.  A reason so painful it’s difficult to state.”

The unanticipated words pulled a sudden wave of emotion to the shore of Jordan’s awareness, and he tried to swallow the sob that flowed from his heart.  Tears welled in his eyes and rolled down his cheeks.  Vance’s hand squeezed his shoulder yet again.  Jordan forced himself to say it, his voice breaking.  “It’s the people on this side of the door.  I care about them so much.”

“Yes, I know.”  Vance paused, his own brown eyes glistening.  “And the sad truth is that you won’t physically see some of those dear people on the other side of that door.  But they are in your heart.  They will always be in your heart, and your heart goes with you through that door.  So they go with you too.”

“The good news is that you will see many of those good people again on the other side of that door.  With the Lord’s blessing and just a little bit of effort, it will happen.  Furthermore, there are scores of other wonderful people eager to meet you on the path ahead.”

Vance grinned and even chuckled.  “And here’s the best news of all.  At the end of your pathway of multiple doors lies the last and greatest doorway of all.  It’s the one that leads you into the Lord’s Land … the heavenly home that you live for and long for.  And every Christian you know will arrive there one day, no matter how many doorways back you knew them on your life path.”

Jordan’s tears flowed freely now.  But they sprang from hope and not sadness.  Finally he managed to utter, “Thank you.”

Eventually, Jordan managed to collect himself.  Vance pushed off the bench with his hands and slowly raised himself to his feet.  “Come.  It’s time to pass through this door.  I’ll keep you company until you get there.”

Jordan stood and made his way back to the path.  The old man shuffled along beside him, softly humming a light-hearted song.  Their steps drew them inexorably to the looming gateway.  Jordan stopped and turned to the man.  “Thank you for encouraging me.  You really were very helpful.”  The aged man nodded solemnly. 

Jordan faced the opening, steeled himself, and began to take the first step that would usher him to the other side when he stopped and rotated back to Vance.  “Wait!  You said we’d come back to the part about entering a place that is largely unknown, but we never did.”

The bearded man broke into a grin.  “I was sure you’d bring it back up.”  He wrapped his arm around Jordan and gently turned him around.  There, immediately behind him, stood Jesus … barely visible, but clearly seen.  Jesus’ hands were clasped behind his back and he gazed at Jordan with boundless love.

Jordan gasped, and new tears streamed down.  “He has always been there with you,” Vance informed him.  “More importantly at this point,” the old-timer stated, firmly rotating Jordan so he looked through the opening to the other side, “look ahead of you.”  There stood Jesus yet again, with the same loving expression. “Just as he has been with you, so he always will be with you.” 

“Though you are transitioning to a new place in your life, God goes with you!”  Vance clapped him softly on the back.  “And that’s what makes the journey not only bearable, but blessed.  Go with God, Jordan.  All will be well.”

It was only after he had passed through the opening that Jordan realized with a jolt that he had never told the old man his name.

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Deuteronomy 31:6-8 (selected)  “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified …, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. … Be strong and courageous, for you must go … into the land that the Lord … [gives you] …. The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”

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I Killed Him.  But Not for Long!

I Killed Him.  But Not for Long!

I wouldn’t be surprised if you don’t believe me.  In fact, anyone who does believe me will undoubtedly be regarded as a fool.  Nevertheless, what I’m about to share is absolutely true, and greater the fool who does not believe it … as unbelievable as my words may sound.

My name is Justus.  I’m a Roman centurion assigned to Governor Pilate’s detachment in Judea.  I happened to have the unfortunate fate of overseeing the killing of the Son of God.

I didn’t do it in battle or out of any animosity toward him.  I was just following orders.  (And, it seems, God’s plan.)

When Jesus was first brought to the governor, he was already badly beaten.  Clearly the temple guard had abused him before bringing him to Pilate.  I had a close-up view because it happened to be my day to personally guard Pilate, along with another centurion named Valerius.  (There are always two experienced soldiers flanking the governor, with extra legionnaires lounging out of sight nearby ready to respond should any threat show itself.)

My first impression of Jesus was striking.

I’ve seen many criminals and accused criminals in my day, and they are all the same.  They always protest their innocence.  Either arrogantly or fearfully – but always aggressively!  Jesus. however, didn’t say a word! 

The chief priests and Jewish leaders were vehemently accusing Jesus of subverting the people, and any number of other crimes.  They wanted Jesus dead.  (It’s hard for me to imagine spiritual leaders so set on taking someone’s life; it doesn’t seem godly to me.  Nevertheless, I heard it with my own ears.)

Meanwhile, Jesus calmly and regally stood before the man who could condemn him to death, silent and unflinching.  Which seemed to infuriate his enemies even more and foster the flinging of more charges. 

Governor Pilate was clearly astonished that Jesus would make no defense for himself – even when asked or demanded.  I was astonished too!  Clearly, this was no ordinary man.

When in Jerusalem, Pilate resided in Herod the Great’s palace on the western end of the upper city.  Of course, the governor was in town during the Passover Festival should any unexpected excitement arise. We initially met the crowd bringing Jesus on the pavement outside the palace.  (The people didn’t want to enter the palace and be “defiled” for the festival.) 

After hearing the Jewish leaders’ accusations, Pontius Pilate motioned for Valerius and myself to escort Jesus away from the throng.  Pilate wanted to withdrew from the clamor and speak with Jesus privately, so we climbed the steps into the Praetorium.

While attending the governor, we are trained to focus on the surroundings and protect from potential threats.  And we do that well.  But when in such close proximity to the man, it is impossible not to hear things.  Important things.  Life-changing things.

That momentous morning I overheard a number of remarkable things.

First, the governor’s wife sent an urgent message to him … actually interrupting the proceedings, which is unprecedented.  Her message was stunning.  “Don’t have anything to do with that innocent man, for I have suffered a great deal today in a dream because of him.”  At hearing this, Pilate’s eyes grew wide.  He was momentarily taken aback and hesitated to proceed.

But when he did, I heard another remarkable statement.  The governor asked Jesus if he was a king as the people claimed.  Jesus actually answered this question!  He acknowledged he was indeed a king, but said “My kingdom is not of this world.”  Again, Pilate’s world was rocked.  This was a ridiculous claim, but Jesus was absolutely sincere.  And he was clearly not unhinged.

“You are a king, then!” exclaimed Pilate.

Jesus answered, “The reason I was born and came into the world is to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me.”

To which the frustrated and cynical governor replied, “What is truth?”

Jesus turned his gaze to me and said, “I am the way and the truth and the life.”  Something stirred in me, and I knew in my soul it was true.

As for Pilate, remember that it was commonly believed by the Romans that the gods visited the earth in human form.  The governor wasn’t an overly religious man, but he was superstitious enough to not want to press his luck.  Once Jesus stated that his kingdom wasn’t in this world, the governor was determined to release him.

When he suggested this to the Jews, they demanded crucifixion.  In an attempt to appease their bloodlust, he reluctantly had Jesus flogged.

I was thankful that I was guarding the governor that morning and had to remain by his side.  I wanted no part of hurting Jesus, who was clearly guilty of nothing more than inflaming the jealousy of the Jewish spiritual leaders.  My comrades, however, took particular delight in torturing Jesus even beyond the flaying of his back and legs with the scourge.  Even from a distance, we could hear their boisterous revelry at Jesus’ expense. 

Pilate was clearly shaken.

When they finally brought the bleeding prisoner back to the hall, it was obvious they had been more brutal with him than most.  Jesus was a mess.  He was wearing a crown of thorns and a purple robe … the material thoroughly saturated with the blood from his wounds.  I’m a hardened soldier who has seen a lot, but my heart went out to him. 

Pilate led the blood-covered and stumbling Jesus out to the crowd, hoping now for the opportunity to release him.  But the people refused, screaming, “Crucify him!  Crucify him!”

Pilate replied that he found no basis for such a sentence.  That’s when the chief priests informed the governor that the reason they demanded capital punishment was because Jesus claimed to be the Son of God.

When Pilate heard this, he was even more afraid.  It seemed to align with Jesus’ own words spoken to him a short time before.  Once more he retreated into the hall to question Jesus … asking him where he came from.  When Jesus refused to answer, Pilate said, “Do you refuse to speak to me?  Don’t you realize I have power either to free you or to crucify you?”

Then I heard another one of those mind-blowing statements.  Jesus answered, “You would have no power over me if it were not given to you from above.  Therefore the one who handed me over to you is guilty of a greater sin.”

Upon hearing this, Pilate was doubly determined to free Jesus.  However, the uproar from the nationals increased, and finally the governor had to acquiesce; he couldn’t afford to have a riot break out.  And especially with so many visitors in the city.  With halting voice, he sentenced Jesus to crucifixion.  The mob roared.

Pulling Valerius and myself close, the trembling Pilate ordered us to accompany Jesus to the crucifixion and oversee it.  “You have seen and heard.  Try to show him some compassion.  And may the gods have mercy on me.”

The crucifixion process for Jesus was unremarkable, other than that he didn’t fight or protest and beg as the nails were about to be driven through his body.  He passively endured them.  (Or at least, as passively as the excruciating pain they caused would allow.)  To not make any resistance, either verbally or physically, was definitely unusual. 

The events that occurred shortly thereafter were even more unusual.

After we had nailed him to the cross and raised him up, I heard something I have never heard from any crucified person before or since.  Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.”  He was staring at me as he spoke.  I admit it; this rattled me.  Why did he keep looking at me like that?

Then another unprecedented event occurred.  At noon, the sun quite shining.  It didn’t just dim a bit, but darkened completely!  This lack of light didn’t occur only over Jerusalem, but over the entire land!  It was like midnight under a heavy cloud cover with no moonlight.  It was beyond eerie; it was downright terrifying! 

There was widespread panic in the city.  Many were certain the world was ending.  Wailing arose along with shouted prayers to Jahweh to have mercy and restore the light.  Clearly this was no eclipse; the utter blackness lasted three hours!

Regardless of the unprecedented events, Valerius and I had to hold our posts and continue to be diligent in monitoring our soldiers and the condemned.  Amazingly, even during that dark and unsettling time, the mocking and ridicule of Jesus continued … from his enemies, from some of my soldiers, and even from one of the men crucified with Jesus.  But the other condemned man rebuked him, and then made a remarkable request.  “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.”

Jesus’ reply was stunning.  “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.”

What?  How could Jesus say this?  How could he know the time of their death, and especially their destination afterward?  It could take days to die by crucifixion.  And no one really knew anything about the afterlife.  Yet Jesus seemed certain on both.  Who was this man?

But shortly afterward Jesus shouted out and died. That’s when things became really interesting!

In the darkness, a heavy rumble arose from the earth, and the ground began rolling and shaking.  Increasingly panicked cries rose from all around as people became more convinced that all was ending.  The cross holding Jesus’ mocker tilted askew, and the man cried out in pain as his body pulled against the nails. Jesus’ jeering opponents beneath him were toppled painfully to the ground.  Explosive cracks sounded in the vicinity as rock formations split.

A terrified Valerius grabbed my arm.  Gesturing toward Jesus, he exclaimed, “Surely this was a righteous man.”  To which I replied, “More than that.  Surely he was the Son of God!”

And just that quickly, the sun began to share its joyful rays again.  Shouts of praise rose from the relieved Jews nearby, and they began to assess the damage from the earthquake.

A spear point thrust into Jesus’ chest proved he was dead.  Our soldiers breaking the legs of the other two men brought hasty demises to them as well.  Our job was done.  But I couldn’t easily dismiss the fact that it seemed I had been instrumental in killing the Son of God.  As exhausted as I was from the events of the day, I struggled to sleep that night.

The next morning I was amazed to hear the Jewish leaders requested a Roman seal over Jesus’ tomb.  They were convinced some of Jesus’ followers would steal the body and claim he had risen back to life as he contended he would do during his life. 

I was even more amazed when orders came down from Pontius Pilate to do so.  I would have thought the governor would have been thoroughly fed up with these pushy people by that point.  But apparently he wanted to go the extra distance to appease them … undoubtedly hoping finally and fully.  Peace is a precious thing in volatile Palestine.

So a detachment of Roman guards was dispatched to the tomb.  The first group made the tomb secure by putting a Roman seal on the large stone covering the entrance.  For someone to break it meant death.  Then they assumed the first round of guard duty. 

The way we Romans handle this is through three-hour shifts of four soldiers each.  It’s actually a rather impressive and imposing sight.  Each soldier is responsible for six square feet of space. The fully armed guards don’t leave that space.  Nor are they even allowed to sit down or lean against anything while on duty.  

Normally centurions don’t pull guard duty.  However, to the surprise and delight of my soldiers, I assigned myself to the Sunday morning shift (the fourth watch of the night, often referred to the “cock-crowing vigil.”).  I have always been an early riser, and I was still struggling with all that had transpired in regard to Jesus.  I had been so involved in his final hours that I harbored an affinity to him.  I couldn’t explain it, but I felt drawn to be outside his tomb that morning.

The first hours of the watch were quiet; the Jews still observing their Sabbath day and night of rest.  A flurry of activity was expected at first light as another week in Jerusalem began, especially on the heels of the festival.

I was still contemplating Jesus … what I had heard him say, who he had been, and what I had done to him … when I noticed two brilliantly bright lights in the night sky.  They were moving – arcing down from the heavens and rapidly drawing closer.  The other guards spotted them too, gasping and brandishing their spears in defensive postures.  “What is that?” someone blurted out.

The lights continued to approach; they seemed fixed on our location.  The closer they came, the more blinding was their aura.  Before having to look away, I was able to distinguish two human-like figures dressed in white robes, bright as lightening.  But unlike a lightening flash, their brilliance never disappeared; it only increased in intensity.  They glided on the air in a standing posture, their arms by their sides.

Even with our eyes pressed shut and our arms crossed in front of our faces, we could still sense the area around us brightening … the inky black of early morning being driven away as with the brilliant light of a sunny summer day.  Only this light was purer and whiter than sunshine.  It was painful; piercing through closed eyelids and into our very flesh, seeming to expose all our inner ugliness.

We fell to the ground in abject terror, assuming fetal positions in the dirt with hands over our heads and shaking uncontrollably as the beings swooped over us.  Expecting to be struck dead, I heard stone grating against stone as the large carved door was rolled away from the tomb’s entrance.  Then for the second time in just days, a deep rumbling arose and the ground began pitching violently beneath us.  Another earthquake!

It was too much for us; the terror took us out of awareness. 

When I came to, my eyes happened to be focused on the open entrance to the tomb.  To my astonishment, I saw a living Jesus stepping out into the feeble light of dawn.  He lifted his face and raised his arms toward the sky; a joyous smile appearing.

I raised my head in wonder.  Jesus turned his gaze to me once again.  He stepped over to me, placed his warm hand tenderly on my forehead, (my helmet had rolled off in my collapse), and said, “Do not be afraid.  I am the Living One; I was dead, and now look, I am alive for ever and ever!” 

Tears of joy flowed down my cheeks.  Jesus smiled at me.  “Justice has been done, Justus.  Learn what this means.”  With that, he walked away into the early morning shadows, whistling happily.

As for me, I was determined to learn more about this Jesus.  What I already knew was that he was so much more than just a man.

One final note.  Some of the other guards fearfully reported what had happened to the chief priests.  (They were afraid to tell Pilate; he could execute them for failure to carry out their assigned duty.)  I didn’t go with them.  If I had, I would have told those power-hungry men that their efforts to take Jesus out had failed miserably.  He was alive again. 

Yes, I may have killed him.  But not for long!

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

I did not intend for this story to become quite so long.  However, as I began to reflect on all that Justus might have seen and heard, and which the Holy Spirit could have used to change him, I kept finding more that seemed necessary to include!  Despite the story’s length, I pray that it was an enjoyable and ultimately encouraging read.

I did take some liberties with the storyline regarding Justus, and embellished some of the events Scripture mentions in passing.  However, to the best of my ability, I accurately portrayed the Biblical account of Jesus’ trial, death and resurrection, as well as the Roman way of doing things.

As for the guards at the tomb, there is a difference of opinion on whether they were Roman guards or Jewish temple guards.  I concluded that they were probably Roman ones – not just for the purpose of this story, but for logical reasons.  The biggest ones being that Roman soldiers would probably be the ones to guard a Roman seal, and Jewish guards would probably have little reason to fear Governor Pilate’s retribution for falling asleep on duty.

Happy Easter!

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A Shocking but Enlightening View

A Shocking but Enlightening View

WARNING: Portions of this story will be shocking and unpleasant.  While just a story, I believe it to be an accurate representation of God’s truths and the immensity of God’s love for us, and therefore, I pray, also enlightening.  Finally, (and as always), I pray that these words are spiritually encouraging … as unsettling as some of pictures they portray may be.

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Being a Christian shouldn’t be this difficult!  Yet Benjamin was struggling.  He knew God was real, and he believed Jesus was his Savior.  But “the devil was in the details.”

When was he converted?  Was he fully converted?  How did it happen?  Had he personally done enough to cross over the sacred line of faith?  Was there more he needed to do? 

How could he know with conviction the answers to any of these questions?

Ben was an avid reader of theological books and an eager listener to Bible preachers, teachers and pod-cast speakers.  And the input he was getting supplied different answers.  They all sounded knowledgeable and convincing, yet they drew different conclusions!  Who was right?  Whose “take” should he take to heart?

Being a conscientious guy, Ben struggled to find peace.  He knew the Lord desired … even promised … peace to him.  Yet it was elusive.  Repeatedly he begged, “Lord, give me the peace you promised.  I long for it!   I need it!”

After yet another prelude of agonized prayer, tossing and turning on his bed, Ben’s exhausted body finally fell into a troubled sleep.  In the deepest recesses of the darkness, as his mind settled slowly into the heavy mists of slumber, a gentle, soothing voice called out to him. “Benjamin.  Benjamin.”

Ben’s befuddled brain slowly cleared, and his awareness heightened.  He recognized he was still wrapped in sleep, yet he was fully conscious.  “Benjamin,” the voice called again.  “Dear Benjamin.”

“Who is calling me?”

“It’s me – Jesus.  I am here to give you peace.”

Ben was incredulous.  Overwhelmed.  Was the Lord really speaking to him?

“Yes, Ben, I Am.  And I’m really speaking to you.”  There was a brief pause.  “Do you recognize what I just did there?” Jesus asked with a smile in his voice. 

“I do,” Ben answered merrily.  The Lord had put him at ease so easily.

“Good for you!” Jesus continued.  “Well, Ben, I’m here to bring you the peace you have prayed so earnestly for.”

A flurry of emotions swarmed Ben.  Astonishment.  Awe.  Joy!  A bit of trepidation.  A surge of hope.  But remarkably, no fear.

“I have something to show you, Ben,” Jesus stated.  “It will be one of the most disturbing experiences you will ever endure.  But you must take it in.  All of it … for this is the way to peace.”

Ben hesitated.  “Can I handle it, Lord?”

“I will never give you anything you can’t handle, Ben.  And we will be with you.”

“We?”

“My Father, my Spirit, and me.”

“Of course!  I’m sorry.”  Ben was embarrassed he didn’t make the obvious connection.  “I will trust you, Lord.  Show me what I need to see.”

A slight breeze began to nudge the shadows past him.  They carried an odor on their currents – the unmistakable stench of death.  It began as just a whiff, but rapidly increased in intensity until it became almost unbearable.  At the same time the view became clearer; the murk dissipating and Ben’s focus becoming more fully defined.

He wasn’t prepared for the scene before him.

A rotting carcass lay face down on the grassless soil – the decomposing body leaving a slimy film of liquid leaching into the dirt around it.  The body was unclothed, and seemed to be subtly writhing, appearing almost as a hologram.  But then Ben realized with horror that the movement came from thousands of maggots consuming the flesh.  The stench was overpowering, and Ben gagged and retched. 

Intuitively he knew that the body was his.  “O no!  I’m dead!  I’m dead!”  Ben was nauseated not only from the sight and smell, but from the ramifications.

“Yes, Ben, that was you.  And you were dead in unbelief and sin.”  Jesus paused, then continued.  “But now observe.”

For a moment nothing changed.  Ben found himself riveted to the macabre scene, unable to look away; his horror escalating.  Then movement caught his eye as a figure slowly approached the grisly corpse, walking forward from a position previously behind Ben.  “Watch out!” he shouted, concerned the man would inadvertently stumble over the rotten mess, though it would be nearly impossible for it to go unnoticed. 

But the person continued easing closer to the body, undaunted and unwavering.  He knelt in the liquidy slop near the head.  “No! No! No!” Ben moaned.  He wanted to turn away, but couldn’t. The kneeling man turned toward Ben with a loving smile.  It was Jesus!  Then he turned back toward the reeking carcass and leaned close.  The maggots wriggled frantically away as Jesus’ face drew near. 

Then he kissed the dead Ben’s cheek as the observing Ben gasped.  “I love you, Ben,” Jesus stated softly, as he lifted his hand over the decaying Ben’s head.  A vibrant red drop of blood formed under the wound in that hand, gradually growing larger until it separated and cascaded downward, landing with a splash on the deceased’s forehead. 

Meanwhile, a gleaming white dove circled closer and closer to the body, trailing a fluorescent wake.

Then another voice, rich and full and resonant, announced, “Wake up, sleeper, rise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.  I will put my Spirit in you and you will live.  Then you will know that I the Lord have spoken, and I have done it.”  

Simultaneously, the dove plunged into the corpse, which immediately began to twitch and spasm and glow.  Then the transformation began in earnest.  The white, writhing maggots grew still, turned brown and then shriveled black, finally disintegrating altogether.  The liquid pool around the body was drawn back into the frame and the sallow, sagging flesh firmed up, taking on a healthy tone.

Jesus flipped his extended hand over, his fingers splayed wide.  There was a flash, and a brilliant robe of white enveloped the body – a purple sash encircling its waist.  The ribcage rose and fell as breath filled the lungs.  Previously opaque eyes began to glimmer; eyelids blinked; a grin formed, followed by a gleeful laugh.

Formerly dead Ben lifted his head, pulled his arms and legs underneath him, and pushed himself up to a kneeling position.  Jesus gripped his arm and helped him to his feet.  At that moment, the observing Ben’s viewpoint changed; suddenly he was seeing through the eyes of the newly quickened Ben.  And he was looking at the joyous face of Jesus.

“Do you understand now, Benjamin?  You were spiritually dead; there was nothing … absolutely nothing … you could do to change your condition.  But we brought you to life.  Your spiritual life and your salvation are not dependent upon you, but upon us.  Totally upon us!  It is our gracious gift to you.  So do not get too caught up in the words and views of people; immerse yourself in our words.  The truth is magnificent, yes – but it is also simple.  We have done it, so it is done!  Be at peace, Ben, and live in joy for us.”

The Lord embraced Ben, then held him at arm’s length.  “You now live, Ben.  And you are always loved.”  Jesus released him, smiled once more and then disappeared. 

Ben woke with a start, his eyes rocketing open.  He sat up and reflected on what he had just experienced.   “That was wonderful,” he thought.  “But was it real?”  (It sure seemed real.)

He became aware of something in his right ear.  He reached up and plucked it out.  It was a blackened, dried maggot.  As he stared at it, it dissolved. 

Tears flooded down his cheeks as he poured out his thanks to the Lord who loved him and had given him life.  A glorious peace filled his heart; the gracious Lord had done great things in him … and for him!

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

Ephesians 2:1-10
As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our flesh and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature deserving of wrath.

But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions — it is by grace you have been saved.

And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus.

For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith — and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God — not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

Ezekiel 37:1-14
The hand of the LORD was on me, and he brought me out by the Spirit of the LORD and set me in the middle of a valley; it was full of bones. He led me back and forth among them, and I saw a great many bones on the floor of the valley, bones that were very dry.

He asked me, “Son of man, can these bones live?” I said, “Sovereign LORD, you alone know.”

Then he said to me, “Prophesy to these bones and say to them, ‘Dry bones, hear the word of the LORD! This is what the Sovereign LORD says to these bones: I will make breath enter you, and you will come to life. I will attach tendons to you and make flesh come upon you and cover you with skin; I will put breath in you, and you will come to life. Then you will know that I am the LORD.’ ”

So I prophesied as I was commanded. And as I was prophesying, there was a noise, a rattling sound, and the bones came together, bone to bone. I looked, and tendons and flesh appeared on them and skin covered them, but there was no breath in them.

Then he said to me, “Prophesy to the breath; prophesy, son of man, and say to it, ‘This is what the Sovereign LORD says: Come, breath, from the four winds and breathe into these slain, that they may live.’ ”

So I prophesied as he commanded me, and breath entered them; they came to life and stood up on their feet — a vast army.

Then he said to me: “Son of man, these bones are the people of Israel. They say, ‘Our bones are dried up and our hope is gone; we are cut off.’ Therefore prophesy and say to them: ‘This is what the Sovereign LORD says: My people, I am going to open your graves and bring you up from them; I will bring you back to the land of Israel. Then you, my people, will know that I am the LORD, when I open your graves and bring you up from them.  I will put my Spirit in you and you will live, and I will settle you in your own land. Then you will know that I the LORD have spoken, and I have done it, declares the LORD.’ ”

Ephesians 5:14
This is why it is said: “Wake up, sleeper, rise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.”

Isaiah 26:19
But your dead will live, LORD; their bodies will rise — let those who dwell in the dust wake up and shout for joy — your dew is like the dew of the morning; the earth will give birth to her dead.

John 1:12-13
Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God — children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God.

Romans 1:16
For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes …

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

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A Telling Touch

A Telling Touch

Eli was back with the flock.  He was exhausted, but he wouldn’t be sleeping anytime soon.  Not just because his eyes needed to be on the sheep this morning as usual, but because the extremely unusual night he had experienced.

He wouldn’t have believed it if he hadn’t personally lived it.  Fresh tears welled up in his eyes as he reflected on the events of the previous hours.

Once again at nightfall, despair had been overwhelming him.  In the quiet of the evening when the flock was bedded down, it often hit him hard.  Those were the moments he missed his tender wife and young children.  The shepherds had a rotation of sorts where one of them could occasionally enjoy some family time.  Those were precious, but the reality was that Eli still spent more time with the sheep than his loved ones.  He missed them so much!

And while in the fields, he was exposed to the elements and whatever they might bring.  He was well “weathered” after all these years.  But being able to handle the conditions and enjoying them were two completely different things.  Being drenched by the rain and then spending the night shivering from the chill never became easier or even a little bit enjoyable. 

Then there were the potential predators on the flock, both animal and human.  Shepherding had inherent dangers.  One never knew what the next day would bring.

Couple those challenges with the reality that as a shepherd he wallowed at the very bottom rung of Jewish society like the cursed swine made his situation even harder to endure.  Despite the fact that he was overseeing the sheep and lambs destined for the temple sacrifices, he was still a lowly shepherd –  despised, ridiculed and ignored.  He wasn’t sure which was worse: being pointedly ignored or being openly sneered at by the “higher citizens.”  The tax collectors and dung sweepers had nothing over him; they were all equally ostracized!

Eli was constantly battling discouragement.  It wasn’t the sheep; he loved the sheep and their quirky ways!  Nor was it the other shepherds.  Thankfully, they were devout men who loved to discuss the Scriptures and the promises of God, which certainly made the days more enjoyable.  Rather, it was the ramifications of the occupation. 

Granted, he had it better than the typical shepherds who were banned by Jewish law to the wilderness with their flocks.  All the drawbacks of the job were doubled for them.  Overseeing the temple flock had its perks.  But still, he struggled. 

Last night he had been spiraling downhill mentally and emotionally – sliding inexorably deeper into despair.  He didn’t know how to halt the descent, and he wasn’t even sure he wanted to.  Hope was a dying thing, flitting and fluttering like a moth flying toward the flames.

And then the angels had appeared!  And then they had shared the message that the Messiah was born in Bethlehem!  And then they had told the shepherds where to find him!  “Wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”

Even though the shepherds never abandoned the flock, there was no hesitation.  They had to find the Baby, the Messiah, the Christ – the Promised One the whole nation had been awaiting so very long.

The search began immediately.  Fortunately, Bethlehem was a little town, so it was only a matter of time until they located the Newborn.  And it was just as the angels said it would be!  The Baby was swaddled and settled into a feeding trough for livestock, resting amidst dried slobber and circled by flies.  What an unlikely cradle for the King!

His exhausted mother was covered with a blanket and resting on the straw; her emotionally spent husband alternating between tending to her and the Child.  Both were startled when the shepherds materialized out of the darkness; stunned when they explained why. 

The little Boy looked like just another newborn, but clearly he was so much more.  Cherubim don’t herald the birth of normal babies. 

The shepherds were enthralled by the Babe, joy overflowing from their hearts.  God had indeed kept his promise!  However, they were conscious that we were intruding on a very private moment.  Finally, Eli was compelled to speak.  “We’re sorry that we burst in on you.”

Joseph smiled and replied, “It seems clear you were meant to come.”  The herdsmen all nodded in agreement.  Joseph continued, “We are supposed to share this occasion.”

Mary spoke quietly, “You will always be remembered for your devotion.  You will always be honored.”  Tears poured from the sheep-keepers’ eyes.  They were the kindest words ever spoken to them by strangers.

Eli wondered if it were true.  And if it was true, would it be enough to pull him from the depths of his despair?

It was then that he noticed one of Jesus’ arms had broken free from the bundled clothes … his tiny fingers seemingly reaching for him.  Without considering the propriety of his request, Eli asked if he could touch the Babe.  “Of course,” replied Mary.

Baby Jesus was staring at him with unblinking eyes.  Eli stretched his calloused hand toward the tiny tender one.  The little fingers gripped his forefinger with surprising strength, and a gentle jolt rolled through his body.  Jesus kept eye contact with him and a youthful voice sounded in his mind, clear as could be.  “I love you.  I will save you and all who trust in me.  Have hope.  This life is temporary.  Heaven is forever.”  The fingers squeezed, and then released.

Eli’s eyes grew wide and he gasped.  Joseph and Mary asked together, “What just happened?”  He couldn’t answer for a moment as tears rolled freely down his cheeks.  He swallowed.  Swallowed again.  Finally, he managed a quiet but emotional reply, “He is a very special Boy.”

The shepherds left shortly afterwards; they didn’t want to intrude too long.  But they went through the town announcing the angels’ message excitedly to anyone they met in those early hours.  Didn’t matter to the shepherds that they were considered outcasts; they had news that must be shared.

Eventually they made it back to the flocks.  Of course, the Lord had watched over the sheep while they embarked on their mission.  As they restocked the fire and ate their breakfasts, the men couldn’t stop chattering about the events of the previous hours.  How blessed they were! 

One by one the others drifted off to sleep.  But not Eli.  Eli wouldn’t be sleeping for a while.

Eli had told everyone he possibly could about the angels’ message.  But he kept the Baby’s message to himself.  If no one believed what the glorious angels had proclaimed, they certainly wouldn’t believe what a lowly shepherd said.  But Eli knew what Jesus had told him was true, and he treasured his words.  O, how he treasured his words. 

He had been given hope by a little Baby.  No, by a great Lord … by his very Savior!

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

I do not ever desire to present our Savior in a mystical manner.  I certainly had no intention of doing so with this story.  

Do I believe that something like this actually happened?  No.  Probably not.  Do I believe that something like this could happen?  Yes!  After all, he was the Son of God, and I am extremely uncomfortable with limiting Him in any way.

While we know that Jesus willingly restricted himself in regard to the full use of his divine attributes while on earth, (Philippians 2:7), we don’t understand exactly how Jesus approached this.  We aren’t even able to comprehend the concept when he was an adult.  What did he understand as an infant in the manger?  What might he have chosen to do in special circumstances?  The truth is no one is able to truly know.

The point I am trying to make with this story is simply that it was love that brought our Savior to earth, love that drove him throughout his earthly life and ultimately to the cross, and love that still moves him.  Love for you and me.  Love that positively impacts our day-to-day lives.  Love that provides hope when there would seem to be no cause for it.  Love that has provided forgiveness and an incredible and eternal destiny for us.

How blessed were the shepherds.  How blessed are we!

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

2 Thessalonians 2:16-17
May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word.

Luke 2:1-20
In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) And everyone went to their own town to register.

So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child.

While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.

But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”

Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”

When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.” So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger.

When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.

The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.

Philippians 2:6-11
Christ Jesus … being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death — even death on a cross!

Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

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Keeping Things Under Control

Keeping Things Under Control

“Lord, help me!  Please help me!” Tommy cried out.  “Everything seems crazy and out of control!”

He was sitting on the edge of his bed following another frantic and frenetic day.  Tommy was physically, mentally and emotionally exhausted; weary to the bone from the non-stop turmoil in his life. 

Tears flowed down his cheeks as he bared his soul to the Lord.  His heart was heavy; his mind burdened; his body drained.  He didn’t know how much longer he could continue to chase after orderliness in the disorder of his world.

“Everything is chaos, Lord!  Are you unaware, or are you too busy?”  Tommy wasn’t angry or accusing.  Just confused.  More tears dropped to the floor between his feet.  “I know you are supposed to know and control all things, but I’m really struggling here, Lord.  I’m feeling overwhelmed and all alone.”

A sob racked his body.  He clenched his eyelids closed, pushing more water out, and shook his head in sorrow.  He dropped his head to his hands, his elbows resting on his knees, utterly dejected.

Lost in his thoughts, he gradually became aware of a subtle shift in the room.  He sensed movement and felt a slight breeze.  The air seemed to bristle with subdued energy.  Startled, he lifted his head and opened his eyes.

His bedroom was gone, replaced by a sphere that surrounded him … the rounded walls barely discernable in the darkness.  That was strange enough.

But even stranger were the balls whirling through the air and circling around the interior of the sphere.  There was no uniformity to their paths; each ball’s direction of travel and speed unique.  Collisions were common, causing wild ricochets and changes of course.

Each ball was a different color: some red, some green, some blue, and so on, with many a hue represented. 

Tommy gasped.  “What is this?” he wondered, as he stared wide-eyed at this unexpected display.

There was a tiny flash of light, and the face of Jesus materialized on the wall across from him.  Jesus spoke.  “This, Tommy, is a view of all of the varied aspects of your life.  Each colored ball represents a unique feature.  Some colored balls stand for possessions; others for talents; others for activities; others for responsibilities; others for relationships; and still others for other things altogether.  I’ll spare you the specifics, and simply say … this sphere is your life, and the balls inside it are the details.”

Tommy didn’t know where to look.  He alternated between gawking at the circling balls and Jesus’ face, his mouth hanging open.  Jesus smiled warmly at Tommy’s consternation.

“There are so many, Lord!  So many balls!  So many colors!  So many different directions!  So many collisions!”

“Yes, I know,” Jesus replied.

Tommy exclaimed in exasperation, “I knew it!  I’ve felt it!  Everything in my life is clearly spinning out of control!”

“It does appear that way, doesn’t it?” Jesus stated.  He paused, then continued, “Tommy, I’d like you to take a moment to get these many things under control.”  Startled, Tommy looked at the Lord.  He raised his hands, palms upward, questioningly.  “Go ahead, Tommy,” Jesus instructed.

Tommy hesitantly began attempting to snatch some of the balls swirling around him.  He actually managed to catch a few of the slower ones, but when he set a seized ball down, it would roll away, pick up speed and return to orbit.  Exasperated after just a few moments, he exclaimed, “I can’t!  There are too many!  And they won’t stand still!”

Jesus smiled again.  “You’re absolutely right.  There are too many, and you can’t control them.”

“That’s what I said before, Lord.  Everything in my life is chaos!”

“And as I said before,” Jesus stated, “it does appear that way, doesn’t it?”  The Lord looked intently into Tommy’s eyes.  “But here’s what you need to understand.  What you see in this sphere right now – that’s your view of things.  What you see is chaos.  Now I will show you my view of things.”

There was a ripple that swept across the interior of Tommy’s sphere, a single wave of muted silver.  As it reached the swirling balls, they dove into position, forming a seemingly solid panel of balls to the right of Tommy.  The many colors were all aligned, forming lovely concentric borders around a maroon center panel.  And in that panel, white balls spelled this message from the Lord: “I’ve got ALL THIS under control.”

Tommy was overwhelmed with awe.  Joy, peace, and thankfulness flooded through him, filling his entire being.  Tears flowed anew.  This time, not of sorrow, but of profound gratitude.  “Thank you, Jesus, for showing me this.  Thank you for controlling the chaos in my life.”

“You’re welcome, Tommy.  But I have one more thing to show you yet.”

At Jesus’ words, Tommy felt himself expanding; his eyes slowly lifting beyond the boundaries of his life sphere. As they cleared, he took in an astounding view.  All around him were swirling spheres – unenumerable multi-colored spheres, traveling every which way and bouncing wildly off one another. 

“This, Tommy, is a representation of the cosmos … again, every different colored sphere a different aspect.  Some living; some non-living.  And again, this is your view.”

Jesus paused.  “Now let me show you my view.”

In similar fashion the ripple of silver swept over all the spheres, and they dropped into a gigantic, magnificent pattern.  And there, displayed in the center was another message from God – a humongous one!  “I’ve got ALL THIS under control TOO!”

Another ripple of silver swung over Tommy, the view dissipated and he was back in his room, sitting on his bed.  He felt refreshed; invigorated.  He felt hope.  What an incredible insight he had been given by his Savior.  He bowed his head and prayed fervently, “Thank you, Lord, for keeping everything under control.  I will trust in you.”

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

Proverbs 20:24
A person’s steps are directed by the LORD. How then can anyone understand their own way?

Ecclesiastes 3:11
He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.

Colossians 1:15-17
The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.

Isaiah 45:11-12
“This is what the LORD says— the Holy One of Israel, and its Maker: Concerning things to come, do you question me about my children, or give me orders about the work of my hands? It is I who made the earth and created mankind on it. My own hands stretched out the heavens; I marshaled their starry hosts.

Psalm 46:1-3, 7, 10-11
God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging. … The LORD Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. … He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” The LORD Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.

Isaiah 41:10
So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

Philippians 4:6-7
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

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Advancing into the Unknown

Advancing into the Unknown

Dark, impenetrable fog enveloped Chase like swirling eddies in a muddy river; like thick, black smoke pouring from a roaring fire.  He could see nothing – nothing! – but the shifting and roiling banks of murk all around him.

That was disconcerting enough.  The pounding waves banging the bow of his boat relentlessly was also rather alarming.  But even that wasn’t the most troubling aspect of his situation.  The recognition that he was drifting swiftly and inexorably forward into the hiddenness ahead of him was terrifying!

What dangers awaited him in the unseen waters?  What challenges was he about to face with no advance recognition and no possible preparation?  Sharp and sturdy tree branches to impale him?  Partially submerged roots to puncture his boat?  Protruding boulders to upend him?  Tight twists of the river or fierce rapids to negotiate blindly?  Waterfalls to plunge over?  The potential risks were innumerable!

It hadn’t always been that way.  There had been times when the visibility was clear, destinations were discernable, water conditions were calm with the weather desirable, and Chase could direct his boat fairly efficiently and as he saw fit.

Or at least, so it seemed.  It was interesting how often he intended to arrive at one destination only to land at another!  He thought he was a proficient navigator and boatsman, but his past record indicated otherwise.  It was one of the more bewildering (and troubling!) aspects of his previous journeys.

But on this day at this time, things appeared dire and beyond dangerous.  Chase was completely discombobulated by the all-encompassing fog he was drifting through.  What should he do?  Which way should he go?  Should he actively paddle or actively “brake?”  If only he could see through the murkiness, he could orient himself!

The waves pounding and rocking the boat seemed to be increasing in intensity.  That would seem to indicate an approaching rapids with all its associated risks.  Rough water was disconcerting even when one could see the boulders and the drop offs.  Bouncing through “white-water” blind was madness!

Chase had never felt so helpless.  The cloying clouds left him feeling claustrophobic and vulnerable.  He wanted to beat visibility out of the invisibility, but sweeping his paddle through the air accomplished nothing.  It only accentuated his dilemma.

In desperation, he cried out to God.  “Please, Lord, clear the darkness!  Open my vision!  Show me what I need to see!”

To his amazement, Chase sensed a bright glow forming above him.  He lifted his eyes and watched in astonishment as a ray of brilliant sunshine knifed downward through the gloom, driving through the darkness, drawing ever closer.  It wasn’t the distilled light that one typically experienced in the fog.  Rather, it was clear and bright, and repelled the swirling darkness as the beam stretched toward him.

“The Lord has answered my prayer!” thought Chase.  “I’ll finally be able to see again!”

But his consternation rose as it became clear that the beam wasn’t cutting a path to the unseen before him.  Instead, it was descending to a place behind him.

Lower and lower the beam tore through the fog.  Still it was aimed behind him; it’s trajectory in line with the back of his boat.  Chase wondered what good that would do him, but still he watched in fascination.  He couldn’t take his eyes off the brilliant point of the approaching light.

And then he gasped!  Before reaching the deck of his boat, the beam illuminated something totally unexpected.  Jesus was sitting behind him, manning the rudder!

The Lord smiled.  “Hello, Chase.  And you were concerned?”

Tears rolled down Chase’s cheeks, and he gave a weak grin.  He sighed contentedly.  “No.  Not anymore.”  And for the first time since entering the bewildering fog of uncertainty, he relaxed.  He couldn’t see the waters ahead, but he knew who was steering him from behind.  And that was incredibly comforting.

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

Proverbs 3:5-6
Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.

Psalm 48:14
For this God is our God for ever and ever; he will be our guide even to the end.

Isaiah 42:16
I, [the LORD], will lead the blind by ways they have not known, along unfamiliar paths I will guide them; I will turn the darkness into light before them and make the rough places smooth. These are the things I will do; I will not forsake them.

Exodus 15:11, 13
Who among the gods is like you, LORD? Who is like you — majestic in holiness, awesome in glory, working wonders? … In your unfailing love you will lead the people you have redeemed. In your strength you will guide them to your holy dwelling.

Psalm 139:1-12
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. You hem me in behind and before, and you lay your hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain.

Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast. If I say, “Surely the darkness will hide me and the light become night around me,” even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to you.

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Will God’s People Fight for Him? (A Story with Alternate Endings)

Will God’s People Fight for Him? (A Story with Alternate Endings)

Prelude to Story One and Story Two

The glowing cross dominated the pinnacle of the hill, illuminating the slopes sweeping downwards.  The military tents and soldiers spread across the hillside’s flanks were clearly visible in the light of the cross.  A captain and his lieutenant perched on a ledge above the camp.

Camped in the heights, the unit of soldiers held the high ground, and had the cross above them, but the commander was concerned nonetheless.  The heavy, roiling darkness was distinctly evident in the distance, casting a dismal shadow over the territory below, and on the people moving about in that lower land.  There was power – a great and evil power – spawning that swirling mass; a lurking and ever-present threat.  It was drawing closer.

The lieutenant noticed where the captain’s attention was directed.  “Our Lord is greater than the enemy,” he stated quietly.

“Oh, I know,” replied the captain.  “Much greater.  And the Lord definitely fights for his people.  But he typically chooses to fight through his people.” 

The captain turned to his second.  “And that is the crucial point.  How many of our warriors are ready to battle?”  He paused, then added, “And how many are ready to battle together?”

“I presume all of them,” was the startled reply.

“That’s a dangerous and probably faulty assumption.  Despite our attempts to train them, some might think they can battle better alone.  Others might not be prepared for the realities of conflict.  Still others may not think it is even necessary to fight – that there is no danger.”

“What should we do?”

“Try to warn them.  Try to prepare them.  Try to train them.  Try to mobilize them.”

“That’s what we’ve been doing!”

“Yes, and that’s what we must keep doing.  Either they will respond and engage, or they will not, and this hill will be overrun.”

The lieutenant’s eyes grew wide.   He swallowed and shifted uncomfortably.  “Would the Lord actually let that happen?”

“If these soldiers will not unite and fight for him, he will turn his attention … and his blessing … to others who will.”  A chill ran through the young lieutenant.  The commander put his arm around the other’s shoulder.  “It is a hard truth, but a truth nonetheless.  Why don’t we assess the troops?”

The Battle – Story One, Part Two

The commander and his assistant quietly dropped down the slope and into camp.  The soldiers, men and women, young and old, were gathered around fires, facing the flickering flames and one another. They discussed innocuous matters intently; a number of them were even bickering.  Only a few actually wore their armor; most had carelessly strewn their protective gear around the camp.  Fewer still had their swords strapped to their hips.

The captain shook his head and hissed in frustration.  Taking a deep breath, he barked out, “Attention, everyone!”  The soldiers casually stood up and turned their attention to him.  A few in more removed positions actually rolled their eyes.

The commander slowly shifted his gaze across the troops.  “My first question is, why is no one guarding the perimeter, as commanded?  My second question is, why are most of you without your armor and your weapons?”

Most dropped their eyes, but one arrogant man stared straight into the captain’s face and replied, “The answer to both is the same: because we are on the hill and in the light of the cross.  We are completely safe from attack here.  No special measures are needed.”

The captain stared at him, then said, “Do you not see the cloud of evil approaching for attack?  Have you not noticed that the dark shadows and the people living in them are encroaching on our slopes?  Our portion on this hill has shrunken; our purchase here has become more tenuous.”

“Are you saying the Lord is losing his power?”

“Absolutely not!  I am saying the soldiers’ dedication to the Lord is waning!”

The insolent soldier smirked.  “Some leader you are!  This hill and this cross will always be here and will always be ours!”

The commander shook his head sadly.  “Turn your eyes outward, soldiers.  Look over the shadows!  Do you see the other hills out there?  Some are still lit by the cross; a few bear brilliant shining ones.  But most of the hills that used to be lit are now dark.”  The soldiers shifted their views outward; a few actually seemed shaken by what they saw.  The captain continued, “The cross of Jesus will always shine somewhere, but there is no guarantee it will always shine here!”

A few took their leader’s words to heart and began strapping on their gear, but most clearly dismissed his admonition.  The captain rested his hands on his hips.  “So tell me, what are your concerns – besides dismissing the danger?”

A quiet murmuring arose, as soldiers furtively glanced at one another.  Finally a young woman spoke.  “There is no one my age or like me to fight beside, so I’m not really feeling it.”

Another stated, “A fellow soldier upset me, so I don’t really want to fight alongside him.”

The individuals got bolder, and more comments were given voice.  “I’m clearly too old,” said one. 

“I’m too young for serious warfare,” said another.

“I’m disabled; there is nothing I can do,” offered someone.

“I’d be glad to battle for the cross, but I’m just too busy,” said a shrugging soldier. 

“I’m looking for fun, not conflict,” said another. 

“I don’t think this hill and the lighted cross on it are really that relevant anymore,” stated yet another. 

A voice from the back added, “You’re the captain; you will do what needs to be done to keep the cross lit here.  You don’t really need us.”

Tears of sorrow rolled down the captain’s cheeks.  So many potential soldiers; so few determined to fight for the Lord.  He watched as small groups from the ranks broke away and trudged down the hill, their armor disregarded.  As they approached the shadows, arrows erupted from darkness and viciously cut them down. Suddenly a hideous roar arose from the gloom, and a huge mass swelled up the hill in attack.  The darkness advanced and the boundary of the light on that hill diminished significantly.

The Battle – Story Two, Part Two

The commander and his assistant quietly dropped down the slope and into camp.  The soldiers, men and women, young and old, were all fully armored, with their swords by their sides or in their grasp, being sharpened.  Sentries were stationed at key spots around the camp, watching alertly for danger.  Everyone’s attention was focused outward, at the potential danger in the shadows, but also keenly watching for opportunities to recruit to their numbers.  Their conversations focused on the most effective battle techniques.

The captain shook his head and smiled in satisfaction.  Taking a deep breath, he called out, “Attention, everyone!”  The soldiers briskly stood and turned toward him.

The commander slowly rolled his gaze over the troops.  “My first compliment is that you are guarding the perimeter, as commanded.  My second compliment is that you are fully armored up and properly armed.  Well done!  You are prepared for battle, as you should be.”

Most smiled silently, but one confident man looked with large eyes into the captain’s face and replied, “Just because we are on the hill and in the light of the cross does not mean that we are completely safe from attack here.  Special precautions are always needed.”

The captain looked back at him, and nodded, “You see the cloud of evil approaching for attack.  You have noticed that the dark shadows and the people living in them are trying to encroach on the slopes.  Our portion on this hill can certainly shrink; our purchase here can always become more tenuous.”

“The Lord will never lose his power!”

“Definitely not!  But he is pleased to use warriors who are willing to fight for him!”

The sincere soldier smiled.  “You are a fine leader!  With God’s help, your leadership, and our willingness to fight with you, this hill and this cross will always be here and will always be ours!”

“Thank you for your kind words.  But thank you especially for your readiness and eagerness to fight with me for our Lord.  With his blessing, the cross will always shine brightly from this hill!”

The gathered soldiers were nodding solemnly.  The captain rested his hands on his hips.  “So tell me, what are your concerns in the face of the constant danger?”

A quiet murmuring arose, as soldiers furtively glanced at one another.  Finally, a young woman spoke.  “There is no one my age or like me to fight beside, but I am committed to recruiting some others.”

Another stated, “A fellow soldier upset me, but I am determined to let it go for the greater good.  I will fight for him and with him.”

The individuals got bolder, and more comments were given voice.  “I’m clearly too old to do much,” said one, “but I will stand watch and blow the warning trumpet when needed, and I will fill a gap in the ranks as best I can!”

“I’m too young for serious warfare,” said another, “but I will bring food and encouragement to the fighters.”

“I’m disabled, but I will find something I can do,” offered someone.  “And I can still pray for the other warriors!”

“I’d be glad to battle for the cross, but I’m so very busy,” said a third.  “But I will reset my priorities and adjust my schedule so I can fight with the rest.  And I will give generously of my profits to support this crucial war.”

“I’m looking for fun, not conflict,” said another.  “So I am looking forward to celebrating with everyone when the victory is won!” she announced with a grin.

“I have wondered if this hill and the lighted cross on it are really that relevant anymore,” stated yet another.  “But as I see the approaching shadows, I recognize that it is.  I will fight!”

A voice from the back added, “You’re the captain; you will do what needs to be done to keep the cross lit here.  And we will follow you and battle by your side to make sure it does!”

Tears of joy rolled down the captain’s cheeks.  So many potential soldiers, and everyone determined to fight for the Lord in whatever way they could.  He looked on as the guards continued their diligent watch, and as the warriors in camp readied themselves for conflict.  Lower on the hill, a band of warriors drove suddenly into the darkness, swinging their swords.  Suddenly a joyous roar arose from the hillside, and more warriors swarmed down the slope and joined the attack.  The boundary of the light on that hill broadened significantly.

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

Obviously, this is an oversimplification of complex dynamics and spiritual warfare.  Yet it’s not altogether inaccurate to the realities.  Where God’s people are prepared to fight for the Lord’s Kingdom, there God bestows profound blessings on their battles for Him.  Where excuses reign, there the darkness advances.

Simple as these stories may be, I pray that they provide the opportunity for serious contemplation.  I have always maintained that simple stories can sometimes carry powerful messages.  God grant that these stories are exactly that!

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

1 Peter 5:8-11
Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.

And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen.

Ephesians 6:10-18
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.

Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.

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

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Before They Call

Before They Call

“Before they call I will answer; while they are still speaking I will hear.” (Isaiah 65:24)

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

The sheer brilliance was blinding.  It radiated from the three thrones; the glory of God emanating everywhere and illuminating everything.  No forms or figures could be discerned at its source; just billions of twirling, multi-colored, needle-sized beams exploding outward while pulsating waves of glory rotated rapidly around the thrones’ inhabitants.

Meanwhile ranks and ranks of angels in tidy rows circled the Lord, barely discernable in the brilliance – sheer shadows of white in the brightness.  They were arrayed in ascending rows, as in a massive amphitheater, though there was no structure beneath them. 

At the Lord’s command, an angel would drop through the “floor” and streak away on the Lord’s task.  Shortly thereafter another would fill its spot, the ranks being continually depleted, resupplied and reshuffled.  Their numbers were beyond count, yet each had a unique name – every angel’s name and current location known by the Lord.

Hundreds of thousands of silent and personal commands were issued simultaneously from the throne, evidenced by the hundreds of thousands of angels simultaneously dispatched.  The entire process presented a dazzling display of heavenly choreography.

While the Lord’s messengers carried out a multitude of different tasks, at least some of them were sent in answer to prayers.  They awaited the King’s commands and carried out his will immediately and perfectly.

“Leonine, Candice’s car broke down in a rough part of town and she has asked me for help.  Go!  Protect and provide for her!”  Leonine uttered a “Yes, Lord!” as she sped away at an unimaginable speed.

“Semptor, Brian has a long drive and a tight timeline to arrive at his destination.  He is praying that all goes well.  Ensure that it does.”  “Gladly!” replied Semptor as he rocketed to the freeway.

“Bronho, Jim is praying for the extra funds to pay for his unexpected vehicle repair.  Make it happen.”  “Of course, Lord!” as he dropped from the “arena.”

“Sosooth, Liz is heartbroken and begging for comfort.  Bring her some.”  “On my way!”

Occasionally the dispatches involved more than lone angels.  Then the discourse sounded more like this: “The entire congregation at Amazing Grace Church is praying earnestly for a revival in their ministry.  Satan is working against them furiously.  Level 4, positions 45 to 245, bring the counter-attack, drive back the demons, and smooth the path for my people there!” “To the battle!” they roared as 200 angels swooped in impressive synchronicity from the arena, their blazing swords already drawn.

But not every situation was quite as straightforward as these.  Sometimes God’s instructions were a bit different.

“Savrath, Tammy is pleading for a certain ‘door’ to ‘be opened.’  Keep it securely closed.  It would be disastrous if she went through it.  We will address her need another way – a better way.”  “Certainly, O King!”

“Aaolor, Sheila continues to beg for an answer to her dilemma.  As you know while awaiting my instruction, she has been praying for weeks now.  She hasn’t yet gained the full insight she needs, and circumstances aren’t quite right yet.  But we are much closer now.  Be prepared to bring her long-awaited answer!” “Absolutely, Lord.”

“Brixon, Ben is about to experience an accident.  When it occurs, he will be praying for help.  You will go when he calls.”  “I’ll be ready, Lord.”

“Tomtor, Greg is really struggling.  He knows he needs help and is exhausting every avenue he can find, but still hasn’t turned to me.  He should know better, and he will eventually realize he needs assistance that only I can provide.  Stand by.”  “Of course, Lord.  When will he finally pray?  “Two weeks from now.  Be prepared.”

“Zuzang, as promised Amy has finally prayed about her broken relationship.  You have been waiting a very long time to bring some resolution there.  I am finally able to answer her prayer.” “How long have I been waiting, Lord?” “We have both been waiting, Zuzang.  And the answer is 65 years.  Still, you have waited patiently and faithfully.  Now go!”  “At last!” the angel shouted as she finally left her place.

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

How does the Lord answer believers’ prayers?  Does he sometimes miraculously intervene from heaven independent of the angels?  Undoubtedly!  Are there other times he utilizes the angels?  Again, I say, undoubtedly.  Can we fully understand the process?  Of course not.  The Lord answers our prayers as he sees fit in his timing and in his manner.

Consequently, I recognize that this story is over-simplistic.  For example, I suspect that when the Lord sends angels to bring answers to his people, he gives them much more specific instructions.  But then, perhaps not.  Perhaps the angels don’t need more details; they already understand what the loving Lord wants done.  Or perhaps the Lord guides their ministrations.  But finally it’s not important.  We trust our trustworthy God to care for us.

The primary point of this presentation is this: Our God is always eager to answer our prayers.  He has commanded us to bring our prayers to him and promised he will answer them.  (Sometimes with a “Yes,” sometimes with “No,” and sometimes with “Wait.”)  But God always answers every prayed prayer! 

How unfortunate that God’s people don’t bring their requests to him more regularly (and more quickly!) so that he can faithfully answer them.  Because he will when we do.  In fact, he already has answers waiting for prayers we haven’t even lifted to him yet. 

So pray, God’s people.  Pray!  And rejoice that the Lord responds to every single request in infinite wisdom, boundless power, and unending love.

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

(Psalm 17:6)
I call on you, my God, for you will answer me; turn your ear to me and hear my prayer.

(Psalm 34:15)
The eyes of the LORD are on the righteous, and his ears are attentive to their cry;

(Psalm 62:8)
Trust in him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge.

(Psalm 145:18-19)
The LORD is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth. He fulfills the desires of those who fear him; he hears their cry and saves them.

(Jeremiah 29:11-13)
For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.

(Jeremiah 33:2-3)
“This is what the LORD says, he who made the earth, the LORD who formed it and established it—the LORD is his name: ‘Call to me and I will answer you …’”

(Matthew 7:7-8)
“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.”

(John 16:23-24)
“Very truly I tell you, my Father will give you whatever you ask in my name.  Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.”

(Philippians 4:6-7)
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

(1 Thessalonians 5:17)
Pray continually,

(Hebrews 4:16)
Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.

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I Met the Risen Lord!

I Met the Risen Lord!

My name is Simon, son of John.  However, most of you know me by another name: the Apostle Peter.

And yes, it’s true!  I met the risen Lord Jesus!  Of course, I actually saw him multiple times.  The Gospel writers described many of the accounts, and Paul provided a partial list of Jesus’ appearances in 1 Corinthians 15.  I was blessed to be present at most of those occurrences.

But today I am finally going to share the details of Easter afternoon when Jesus appeared just to me.  Both Luke and Paul mention it, (Lk. 24:34, 1 Cor. 15:5), but never before have the specifics been passed along.  The details weren’t shared because they weren’t necessary to establish that Jesus truly was alive and seen by many.  But primarily they weren’t shared because they were intensely personal to me.

Let me begin by providing some background.

Some have called me impetuous, and I can’t deny it.  I’ve been known to blurt things out without always thinking things through.  Sometimes this leads to good comments on my part; sometimes not so good.

A positive example would be when Jesus asked who we, the disciples, thought he was and I replied, “You are the Messiah, the Son of God” (Matthew 16:16).  Jesus said this was revealed to me by the Heavenly Father.  A negative example was recorded just a few verses later when I tried to tell Jesus that he would never … must never … be killed by his enemies.  Jesus indicated that these words were coming from Satan.  Not one of my better moments.

My comments are scattered throughout the Gospels; more by far than any other disciple.  Some of them I’m proud to claim; others I wish I could take back.  Always though I tended to make things interesting.  Sometimes my words actually led Jesus to share wonderful stories and truths that the Church will always treasure.

My impetuosity also resulted in landing me in some rather interesting predicaments.  Perhaps the most well-known was the time I climbed out of a boat in the middle of the storm-ravaged Galilean Sea and actually walked on top of the waves toward Jesus!  Unfortunately, that also happened to be the time I began to sink just moments later as doubts crept in.  Thankfully, Jesus intervened.

Jesus.  He always said the right thing; always did the right thing; always dealt with me (and with everyone!) in love.  He was so wise.  So strong.  So exceptional.

My love for him was anything but an impetuous emotion.  It was, and is, a deep-seated and abiding devotion.  He was the most remarkable individual I ever met.  But then, he was the Son of God!

Which is why the events leading up to his death troubled me so very much.  Or more specifically, my words and actions.  I bungled everything. 

When the Lord began washing our feet before the Passover Meal, I told him he would never wash my feet.  When he replied, “Unless I wash you, you have no part with me,” I overcompensated and asked him to wash my hands and head as well.  Jesus made it clear that wasn’t necessary. (John 13:8-10).

Later, as Jesus was warning us that we, his own disciples, would abandon him that evening, I informed him I never would.  That’s when Jesus told me I would not only abandon him, but I would disown him three times before the rooster crowed twice.  And I insisted emphatically, “Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you” (Mark 14:29-31).  Yeah, we all know how that unfolded.  All four Gospels recorded my stupendous failure to back up my boast.

It wasn’t long after my rash and foolish words that Jesus asked James, John and myself to watch with him as he poured out his heart to his Heavenly Father in the Garden.  And we failed him – three times!  I failed him three times!

I actually tried to keep my word and fight for Jesus when the mob came to arrest him.  I was fully ready to lay down my life for my Lord, even swinging my sword at an overly aggressive individual and slicing off his ear.  But Jesus scolded me and ordered me to sheath my weapon.  Then he actually healed the wound!  I didn’t understand, and clearly I had disappointed Jesus yet again.

Later that evening in my fear, I denied him … exactly as he predicted I would.  And at that moment Jesus turned and looked at me, (Luke 22:61), and I remembered.  I’ll never forget my Lord’s expression.  It was a look of love, but also of profound sadness.  The shame and self-loathing overwhelmed me, and I ran outside and cried harder than I’ve ever cried in my entire life.

I share all of this to provide insight into my frame of mind at that time.  My grief at the death of Jesus was profound.  My Teacher, my Lord, and my best Friend had been tortured and crucified.  I couldn’t believe it had happened!  And it had happened so suddenly, and it seemed to make no sense!  All of this was a factor in my deep sorrow.  But it was compounded by my personal failures.  How could I have failed my Jesus so significantly?

I couldn’t shake my melancholy the entire weekend.

Then came the day I’ll never forget.  I, the rest of Jesus’ apostles and a number of his closest followers were closeted in a secret place.  We were certain that since Jesus was dead, his enemies would come after us as well. 

Early Sunday morning we were awoken by banging on the door.  As we staggered to our feet, those of us who had swords or weapons armed ourselves … convinced our hiding place had been found and determined not to be taken as meekly as Jesus had seemed to be.

But it wasn’t soldiers at the door; it was a group of excited women!  Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, Joanna, Salome and others we knew well.  They were all speaking at the same time, making their message largely incoherent.  We finally asked Mary Magdalene to speak for them all. 

She told us the most preposterous thing.  (At least, it seemed preposterous at the moment!)  She said they had gone to Jesus’ tomb to anoint his body with burial spices.  On the way, they wondered how they would gain access, since the stone covering the opening to the tomb was large.  But when they arrived, the stone was rolled aside.  They were horrified, and wondered what they might find inside. 

Yet when they arrived at the entrance, they received another shock altogether!  Two angels were there, and they informed the women that Jesus was risen to life.  Then the angels instructed the women to tell us that Jesus was alive, just as he had promised.

To be frank, we did not believe the women; their words seemed like nonsense.  (Luke 24:11).  How could it be true?

But we did not doubt that some nasty human shenanigans might be at play.  Jesus had many powerful enemies who detested his teachings, his miracles, and especially his claims.  Or perhaps the women had gone to the wrong tomb?  John and I set off at a run to investigate.  But the women were right; Jesus body was no longer there!  Only the linens that had been wrapped around his body remained.  However, we certainly didn’t encounter any angels. 

John seemed to believe Jesus was really alive.  (John 20:8).  I, on the other hand, walked away from the empty tomb wondering what in the world had happened.  We reported what we had discovered to the rest of the disciples.  Everyone was perplexed.

We exhausted ourselves discussing the possibilities, and the ramifications of those possibilities.  The emotions in that confined space were raw.  Finally, I had to escape the tension.  I needed to be by myself; needed to reflect – needed to think … even if it meant taking the risk of being recognized.

The brothers understood and sent me off with a prayer and blessing.  I cautiously made my way to a special place.  A sacred place.  The Garden of Gethsemane.  It was here, in this peaceful park at the foot of the Mount of Olives, that Jesus often taught us and often prayed.

How awful that this was the place the traitor, Judas, brought the mob to arrest Jesus.  The wonderful memories of quiet times here with Jesus were trampled under by the sinister events of the Passover evening.  The previous joyful interactions were hacked to sorrowful and painful pieces by evil men; the former happiness forever hijacked by wickedness!

I meandered through the olive trees, memories flooding over me.  Eventually I found myself sitting at the very place where Jesus had poured out his heart to his Heavenly Father.  The place where he begged me to watch with him, and instead I watched the back of my eyelids while I slept.  I had failed Jesus … drastically, repeatedly, inexcusably.  The shame of it overwhelmed me; my freely flowing tears transitioned to racking sobs of grief – my downturned head held in my trembling hands.

Suddenly a body settled next to me and an arm was draped over my shuddering shoulders.  I hadn’t heard anyone approaching, yet here they were.

“Leave me alone!” I groaned.  “Can’t you see I need to be alone?”

“How very like you, Peter, to say the wrong thing,” the voice said.  Then, “No, you don’t need to be alone.  You need to be with me.”  The arm over my shoulder drew me closer.

I gasped.  I recognized that voice! That timbre! That gentleness and love! 

But it couldn’t be!  It was impossible!  I couldn’t bring myself to look at him.  Couldn’t bear the possibility of being wrong.  That’s when he placed his other hand on my knee.  His nail-pierced hand.

It was him!  It was Jesus!  It was truly Jesus, and he was really alive!  I swung my head toward him, still scarcely able to believe it was him.  That’s when he laughed.  The Lord laughed at me!  Not in meanness, but in joyful love. 

I threw my arms around him, the tears still streaming down my face.  But now they were tears of sublime joy.  Jesus warmly hugged me back.  Then he gently pushed me away so he could make eye contact.

“Why didn’t you believe the women, Peter?”

“Because it was impossible!”

Jesus smiled at me, his eyes twinkling.  “Oh really?  Here I am, Peter.  It seems the impossible is possible after all.  Did I not tell you that with God all things are possible?”

What could I say?

“Why didn’t you believe me?  I told you numerous times what would happen … what had to happen.  I explained that I would have to die, but that I would rise again.  You even tried to talk me out of it.  Remember?”  I looked away and nodded.  “Why didn’t you believe me?”

I was silent, but Jesus waited.  Finally, I replied in exasperation, “Because I didn’t want it to happen!  Because I wanted it to be nonsense!”  Did I really just say that to Jesus?  (Have I mentioned that I’m sometimes impetuous?)  I looked back to Jesus in alarm.

But Jesus just smiled again.  “Have I ever spoken nonsense, Peter?”

“No, but clearly I sometimes have an issue with that.”

Jesus chuckled affectionately, then grew serious again.  “I have another question for you, Simon.  Why were you crying?

I didn’t really want to answer this question either, but I had to.  Finally I replied quietly,  “Because I failed you, Lord.  I fell asleep on you.  I abandoned you.  I denied you.  Because my spirit was willing, but my flesh was weak.”  My voice broke with sorrow.  “Because what you warned me about was true, and what I boasted about was not.”

“It was all part of the Father’s plan, Peter.  People learn, not just from the good examples, but also from poor ones.  Sometimes they learn better from the poor ones.  Many of my followers will learn from your good examples … and from your not so good ones.  So take heart.  It was all for a reason.”

“I’d prefer if people didn’t hear about my poor examples.”

“I know.  But they must, and they will.”  Jesus smiled again.

“One more thing.  It’s an important one.  Take it to heart, and pass it along.  A person is not defined by what they have done, but by what I have done for them and in them.”

Then Jesus pulled me into another embrace.  As I leaned into him, he said, “I am alive, Peter.  All I came to accomplish is accomplished.  Tell the world.”

“I will, Lord.  I will!”  More tears.

“I know you will, Peter.  And you will do it well.  But first, be sure to apologize to the women for not believing them.”  How like the Lord – never failing to needle me!

Then he was gone.  But he wasn’t gone.  He would never ever be gone again, for he was alive!

So there they are, the unknown details of Jesus’ appearance to me.  I’m glad I shared them, even though it was yet another situation where I responded in a less than stellar manner. 

But this is not about me.  It’s about Jesus, my Lord and yours.  My Savior and yours.  And it shows his incredible love for me and for you.  As he forgave me, so he forgives you.  As he treated me, so he deals with you. Always!

In conclusion, I will state the obvious: Jesus is alive!  And as I wrote in my first book, so I write  again:

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ!  In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade.  This inheritance is kept in heaven for you! (1 Peter 1:3-4).

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Your Life Plan – A Story

Your Life Plan – A Story

Ethan was struggling mightily.  There was no other way to describe the situation; things seemed bleak at best.  His mind was emotionally distraught; his heart spiritually tumultuous.  His days were spent in a mental fog; his nights in unrest.

Over and over he cried out to the Lord, decrying the circumstances; demanding answers; begging God for help.  He poured over the Scriptures, searching for solutions.  Yet his struggle continued.  He was immersed in one of life’s dark valleys, at a loss on how to ascend to the sunshine of the heights yet pleading for God to lift him there.

Tossing and turning one night in another fitful and largely futile attempt to reach the state of slumber, his sheer exhaustion finally dragged him into a deep sleep.  That’s when the Lord Jesus made his appearance.

It was more than the wild randomness and fluffy illogicity of a dream.  Even in his state of deep slumber, Ethan realized that somehow it was real – all real.  Jesus was real, and everything that transpired with Jesus was real.

They stood over an ornate table, he and Jesus, looking down at what appeared to be a sort of topographical map with the geographic details laid out in contoured formations.  (Kind of like one might see in some national parks, the features and elevations of the park graphically displayed.)  Ethan intuitively recognized already at a glance that this was no normal map.  The landscape elicited the comfort of familiarity and, simultaneously, the discomfort of a different view of the familiar.

Ethan’s mind struggled to grasp what he was seeing.  Then he saw the gold script inset into the top of the topographic table: Your Life Plan.  He gasped as it all became clear.  He was gazing down at a map of his life!

With wide eyes and gaping mouth, he raised his view to Jesus.  The Lord was watching him intently, his hands clasped behind his back, his eyes twinkling and a small smile settled on his bearded face.  “Look closer, Ethan,” Jesus suggested quietly.

So Ethan did.

There below him was blazed a golden line that wiggled its way across the table.  Sometimes the line continued straight and true; but usually it zig-zagged either to the right or to the left of the general direction of the path.

Ethan traced the path back to its beginning.  He noticed the line originated at an X and initially was gray.  He looked up to Jesus questioningly.  “That was when you were conceived” Jesus told him.  Tracing the line further, he noticed another X, this time in gold.  “That was when God’s grace brought you to faith and when I began journeying with you.”  Ethan was stunned.

Then he noticed that the gold line became brighter and more pronounced further along the way.  “As I grew older, smarter and stronger?” he asked.

“No, Ethan.  As you grew stronger in your faith through time in my Word,” Jesus answered.  “Physical strength, mental capacity and earthly accomplishments are unimportant on this map.”  Ethan nodded, the extreme importance of feeding one’s faith starkly revealed.  Jesus continued.  “Sadly, for some their line becomes gold at one point but eventually returns to gray.  For others, their line remains gray their entire lives.”

Jesus moved beside Ethan and wrapped his arm around his shoulder. “But that is not what I brought you here to see.  Look closer still.”

Ethan traced his lifeline with his finger.  The path not only zig-zagged back and forth, but it undulated up and down, climbing up rises and descending back down again – sometimes journeying at length in the heights; sometimes tarrying in the valleys.  “What do you make of the many variations, Ethan?”

Ethan hesitated uncomfortably.  Finally, he whispered in shame, “It seems I’ve often wandered off your path.”

“Yes, well, you do have a sinful nature,” the Lord replied.  “But look even closer at some of those side trips.  Especially some of the longer ones.  What do you see?”

Ethan leaned closer to the golden trail, focusing especially on some of the more extreme horizontal wanderings.  “My gold line was growing dimmer.”  He gasped and drew himself nearer still.  “But there’s golden barricades at the end of those lines!”  He looked back to the Lord.  “Does that mean what I think it does?”

Jesus smiled warmly.  “Yes, Ethan.  Your faith was growing weaker as you wandered your own way, but I blocked you from wandering farther from my path.”  The Lord gestured over the table.  “Now project your path if you had continued down some of those long detours.”

Ethan found some of the longer ones and traced their ultimate destination.  He shuddered.  “They end in destruction!  Spiritual starvation!  Steep cliffs to fall over!  Deep waters to drown in!  Spiritual death!  O, Lord, you preserved me!”

“Yes, Ethan.  Sometimes I pushed you; sometimes I pulled you.  Sometimes I knocked you over.  Sometimes I whispered in your ear through various methods.  Whatever it took to redirect you spiritually.  I love you and want you to be with me forever.”

Jesus eyes shimmered, the tears threatening to escape.  “Sadly, some refuse to listen even to me.  They insist on climbing over my barricades.  It never ends well for them.  But again, that is not my reason for bringing you here.”

The Lord looked intently at Ethan.  “I know you are extremely discouraged right now, so I will give you a special insight.  Put your finger again at the beginning of your life path and trace it slowly.”

Ethan tentatively lowered his index finger to the first X and slid it forward.  The realizations began bombarding him – blessings upon blessings upon blessings all along the path, in both the “good times” and the bad, in the pain and the pleasure.  Some he had recognized at the time; most had been unnoticed and unnoted.  New lessons learned and new insights gained. Experiences that had made him “richer” in a multitude of ways.  And astoundingly, some of the greatest blessings of all had come through the most difficult times in his life!

The magnitude of God’s unending faithfulness and goodness overwhelmed Ethan.  He was speechless.

Once again Jesus pointed to the map.  “Find the last X, Ethan”

He did.  It was easy enough to locate near the end of the line.  “Is this my death, Lord?

“No, Ethan, that is not displayed on this map for you to see.  Look closely at that final X.”

The X was in a deep, dark valley.  And the realization struck Ethan; this was where he was right now in his life!  It was one of the deepest depressions on the entire map.  He couldn’t speak.  Once again he looked back at Jesus.

Again the words came.  “Look closer, Ethan.”

Ethan dropped his eyes to the final X.  He noticed two things: his gold faith-line was brighter here than anywhere else on the map, and he noticed that beyond the X the path began to climb again.

It happened so suddenly he couldn’t have hoped to quell it; Ethan began to sob uncontrollably.  Jesus moved even closer and wrapped both his arms around him, embracing him tightly.  “Yes, Ethan, you are stronger spiritually now than you have ever been.  Which is why I have led you to this place.  You needed to rely on me and my promises more.  This valley has helped you do that.”  Jesus paused, then continued.  “And yes, Ethan, I will lead you back out of it in due time.”

Jesus words came quietly and lovingly.  “I have guided you your entire life, Ethan, and I will guide you home to me one day.  Trust me, Ethan.  Trust me.  I’m handling your life plan.”  And Jesus kissed his forehead.

Ethan’s eyes jolted open.  He was back in his bed.  (Still in his bed?)  His pillow was drenched, but his heart was light.  Loving Jesus was guiding him all the way!  There was no reason to despair.

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

God Is Our Guide

Psalm 23:1-4
1  The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing. 2  He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, 3  he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. 4  Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

Psalm 37:23-25
23  The LORD makes firm the steps of the one who delights in him; 24  though he may stumble, he will not fall, for the LORD upholds him with his hand. 25  I was young and now I am old, yet I have never seen the righteous forsaken …

Psalm 48:14
For this God is our God for ever and ever; he will be our guide even to the end.

Isaiah 30:20-21
20  Although the Lord gives you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction … 21  Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, “This is the way; walk in it.”

God Blesses Us Through Adversity

Psalm 119:71
It was good for me to be afflicted so that I might learn your decrees.

Romans 8:28
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

2 Corinthians 12:9-10
9  But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. 10  That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties.  For when I am weak, then I am strong.

We Don’t Understand Now; One Day We Will

Isaiah 55:8-9
8  “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the LORD.  9  “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.

1 Corinthians 13:12
For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face.  Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.

We Can Trust Our Loving God Who Has Wonderful Plans for Us

Proverbs 3:5-6
5  Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; 6  in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.

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

Romans 8:35, 37-39
35  Who shall separate us from the love of Christ?  Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? … 37  No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38  For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39  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.

How to Interact on This Blog

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

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