Heading to Heaven!

What If …?

December 28, 2024 dbirsch

The start of a new year has always been a logical time for people to reassess their lives, and recommit to beneficial personal goals. According to online articles, almost 40% of people make New Year’s resolutions. The most common ones are health related, followed by finances.

Unfortunately, most commitments fall to the wayside – often quite quickly. Almost 25% don’t even make it a week; the majority of the rest fall off in just a month or two. Less than 10% actually keep their resolutions for the entire year.

Nevertheless, I thought I would toss out some possibilities for spiritual resolutions. Though most people wouldn’t consider these at all important, as Christians we realize spiritual matters are actually the most significant … even if perhaps we don’t always properly prioritize them.

A few disclaimers, suggestions and significant points ahead of the list:

It’s a long list! Some suggestions are more church related; others more people related. All, however, are personal. They relate to each of us as individual believers.
No one can or will be able to fulfill all of these perfectly. Unfortunately, we’re all perfect sinners and therefore imperfect people. (Rom. 3:23).
I certainly don’t have all these down, (not even close!), so I am in no position to claim superiority over anyone.
This is NOT an exercise in guilt! Rather, it’s an opportunity to reflect and consider.
All that being said, please don’t simply disregard the list offhand. Our Lord does want us to grow in our thankful living for him. (Rom. 12:1).
Perhaps a beneficial way to approach this list is for each of us to note the points where we are lacking and might want to improve. Choose a few (maybe even only one!), and strive to make the necessary changes to grow in these areas.
Finally … thanks be to God! Through his grace, we are adopted into his family and made his children. We are dearly loved and abundantly blessed by God himself!. We are fully forgiven, people filled with peace and hope, and heirs of salvation. (Gal. 4:4-7). This affects where we will live forever, and also how we live already now. God’s profound love for us is our motivation to live for God.

So on to the list. What if …

Every Christian read a portion of the Bible every day? (Acts 17:11)
Every parent faithfully taught their children God’s truths from little on? (Deut. 11:18-19)
Every believer was active in their prayer life? (1 Thes. 5:17)
Every church member actively prayed for their church and their fellow members? (Jms. 5:16)
Every member attended one of their church’s worship services every week? (Heb. 10:23-25)
Everyone sang all the hymns and worship songs with all their heart? (Ps. 9:2)
Every talent (musical and otherwise) was utilized to enhance worship?
Everyone regularly attended at least one Bible study offered at their congregation? (2 Pet. 3:18)
Every child regularly attended Sunday School?
Each believer’s spiritual light shone brightly all the time so all could clearly see? (Mt. 5:14-16)
Every person invited at least one person to church per week? (2 Cor. 5:18-20)
Every congregational member brought at least one new person a year into the church family?
Everyone made a point to talk with at least one new/different person a week at church?
Everyone greeted any new faces at worship, Bible study or church activities? (Php. 4:21)
Every adult member was making regular visits of some kind to other members?
Every person begged to have their gifts utilized in the Lord’s work? (1 Pet. 4:10)
Each of us tithed (gave 10%) of our income to the Lord? (Mal. 3:10)
Every member designated a gift to their congregation in their will?
Every member did at least five special activities of ministry (service) a year? (Eph. 6:7)
Every believer eagerly filled Jesus’ “new command” to love one another? (Jn. 13:34)
Each of us “clothed ourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience” as we deal with one another? (Col. 3:12)
We forgive one another as the Lord forgave us? (Col. 3:13)
Everyone made it their goal to encourage others in their walk with God? (1 Thes. 5:10-11)
Everyone perfectly understood and applied Christian freedom? (Gal. 5:13)
Everyone put the best construction on everything others said and did?
Every member was willing to lovingly rebuke a believing brother or sister where necessary? (2 Tim. 2:2)
Everyone was able to rejoice in and listen to a loving rebuke from another?
Everyone was comfortable enough to talk to others and seek godly advice about their life decisions?
We totally trusted the Lord regarding everything? (Prov. 3:5-6)
Each of us gave thanks in all circumstances, as God wills? (1 Thes. 5:18)
Everyone strived to glorify God in every thought and action they did? (1 Cor. 10:31)
We didn’t make excuses; we just did what we know is right?

Are there any items that should be added to this list? Any that especially spoke to you? I’d be delighted to hear your thoughts in the comments section.

Thanks be to God for Jesus our Savior – for the atonement he made for us, the forgiveness he won for us, and the salvation he earned for us! And thanks be to God that we are able to live for Jesus our Savior!

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

2 Corinthians 5:14-15
For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died. And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.

Romans 12:1-2
Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

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The Incomprehensible Transition

December 21, 2024 dbirsch

The golden goal … the certain hope … the lift in life when circumstances seem to keep dragging us down and our spirits are flagging … the profound promise that we hold before our spiritual eyes and the eyes of fellow Christians … is our heavenly home.

The concept entails so very much.

Finally finding ourselves before our loving Lord. Leaving behind our sinfulness, imperfections and frustrations once and for all. Glorified bodies and souls. Perfect happiness forever and ever. Salvation.

These wonders comfort, uplift, and motivate us as broken people in a broken world. The hardships here are all temporary; the blessings of heaven are eternal.

Heaven is almost taken for granted. And it should be! It’s a fundamental biblical truth given to us from God to comfort, uplift and motivate us. To provide hope when circumstances can seem rather hopeless.

But here’s perhaps the thing we lose sight of. Before his birth on earth, Jesus was already there!

And not just as a guest to heaven, but as the Lord of lords and King of kings! The holy, almighty, all-knowing, eternal God … the very Creator of heaven itself … the incomprehensible One worshipped and adored by the angels … the Supreme Deity who answers to no one and rules over everyone and everything … makes heaven his throne room.

God’s essence is heaven’s centerpiece; his “everything” is everything in heaven. His holiness fills its halls and lights its farthest reaches.

And frankly, it would be ludicrous for you and me to expect to enter that place.

But then Christmas happened. The inconceivable God did an inconceivable thing; he exited that glorious place and entered this inglorious place called earth. And he did it for an even more inconceivable reason – to be ridiculed, rejected, tortured and killed as our Substitute.

Who in his right mind would do such a thing?

Only Jesus, the Son of God. And he did it for the rightest of reasons – to make it possible for us to transition one day from here to there. So you and I could be forgiven and finally be right with God. So you and I could enter that incredible place when we leave this impossibly difficult one. So we could be with Him!

The Scriptures describe this truth – this incomprehensible transition – beautifully:

“God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God” (2 Corinthians 5:21). “For the wages of sin is death, [both physical and eternal], but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 6:23).

This transition is doubly incomprehensible.

First, Jesus’ journey to earth and the purpose for it is incomprehensible. It only makes sense in light of God’s boundless and unfathomable love – a love he holds for us.

Secondly, our journey to heaven one day is equally incomprehensible. It also only makes sense in light of God’s boundless love for us, coupled with Jesus’ astounding sacrifice for us.

The God of heaven left heaven to come to earth. And he did it specifically so that all who know him and love him could leave earth and enter heaven.

Incomprehensible transitions indeed!

How awesome is our God! And how incredible is Christmas! It’s where God makes the incomprehensible visible and plain. Just look at the Baby in the manger.

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

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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Bah, Humbug ???

December 14, 2024 dbirsch

We knew it was coming. We just didn’t know when. Nor did we know if it would be good news or bad.

Short story long, I was told I needed a special medical test. When I asked if it was really necessary, I was told it was. (The situation is nothing truly horrible; but it is serious. Severe sleep apnea.)

What I should have asked, apparently, is if my medical insurance would cover it. I assumed the medical staff had checked on this important detail; evidently they hadn’t. Maybe like me, they assumed our insurance would pay for it; they’re normally very reliable about coverage. (Had I been aware that insurance would not, I would have refused the test.)

All of which led to the shocking notification that we owed the hospital thousands of dollars for the prescribed “in-hospital sleep study.” That’s thousands of dollars that aren’t actually within our means to pay at the moment.

Fortunately, there was an avenue to appeal the insurance company decision. So I prayed about it, wrote the best appeal letter I could write, and submitted it to the insurance company. They acknowledged the appeal and informed me they would send their decision via standard mail.

That was several months ago. A few days ago – exactly two weeks from Christmas – the response arrived via the U.S. Postal Service. The return address was our insurance company’s “grievances and appeals division.” I knew immediately what it was. I said another prayer, held my breath, and opened the envelope.

“Denied.”

Of course, they elaborated much more than that, and did so in polite fashion. But the answer was still the same: “denied.”

Bah, humbug! What a lousy way to enter the final few weeks before Christmas!

Of course, literally the day before the decision arrived in our mailbox, I had “splurged” on probably the largest Christmas present for my wife I have ever purchased. (It wasn’t even a thousand dollars, but it was hundreds.) She had endured a challenging year and I wanted to surprise her with a special gift. (Thankfully, she was surprised, and she loved it!)

Nevertheless, we were both aware of the “denied” notification which had just been delivered.

Double bah, humbug!

Perhaps you have your own challenges in these days approaching Christmas? None of us floats through life unencumbered with difficulties. “Bah humbugs” can arrive in a multitude of fashions. Satan loves to bring them, and delights in attempting to undermine our Christian and Christmas joy.

Unfortunately, too often he is successful in his endeavors.

The message the angel brought to Joseph, Jesus’ stepfather, is a message for you and me as well. Joseph realized that Mary, his fiancée, was pregnant. He also knew with complete confidence that he was NOT the father. Consequently, he decided to quietly break off the engagement.

“But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, ‘Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.’” (Matthew 1:20-21)

To which, Matthew adds this commentary: “All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: ^‘The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel,’ (which means “God with us”).” (Matthew 1:22-23)

No matter the seriousness of our other problems, our most serious problem has always been our sin, and the need for atonement for that sin. The Spirit-conceived Baby inside Mary was God-sent – and God himself! – sent to make the atonement that only the holy God could make! As promised by the angel, “He will save his people from their sins.” And Jesus has!

That takes the “bah humbug” out of all our other bah humbugs. Because of Jesus, we are freely and fully forgiven by the Lord.

A Savior from our sins is astounding and exhilarating enough. But Jesus is even more than “just” God come to earth to be our Savior. He is also God here on earth even now; He is Immanuel, “God with us.”

Which means we are not facing our problems and hardships alone. Immanuel himself is with us! Even if he doesn’t solve them for us, (which he often does!), he will help us through them.

All of which replaces our “bah humbugs” with the “good news that will cause great joy for all the people” (Luke 2:10). In fact, it allows us – moves us! – to join wholeheartedly with the angels’ refrain, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests” (Luke 2:10).

Problems? Difficulties? Bah humbug to them! Jesus was born for you and me! Both to save us … and to be with us.

This glorious truth changes everything – our perspective, our attitude, our heart, our life! It makes Christmas wonderful, despite the sometimes less than wonderful frustrations we endure in our lives.

Thank you, Lord, for hope, help, and happiness! Thank you for Christmas.

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Anticipation

December 7, 2024 dbirsch

The Christian Church is now in the Advent season – the 4-week prelude to Christmas. The word “Advent” is derived from Latin and means “coming” … as in Jesus “coming” to this world – initially, on the first Christmas as Savior, but also on the Last Day as Lord over all.

Which makes Advent a season of anticipation. Christians anticipate celebrating Jesus’ birth on earth. They also anticipate celebrating Jesus’ return to earth on the Last Day.

The anticipation for Jesus began in the Garden of Eden after Adam and Eve had disobeyed God and brought the devastation of sin into the world, and into their lives. Astoundingly, instead of sweeping them aside and starting over, the Lord promised to send One who would make things right again (Gen. 3:15).

From that moment on and through the rest of the first couple’s many hundreds of years of life, (Adam lived to be 930!), they must have eagerly anticipated the Lord fulfilling his promise. With every new male born, they must have hoped this was the One. But the Savior didn’t come in their lifetimes.

The anticipation continued with all the believers through the Old Testament. The time passed and the waiting continued … not just for decades, generations or centuries, but for millennia!

A continual refrain of the Old Testament, and especially their worship songs (the psalms), was to “wait” on the Lord who is “faithful.” The beating heart of this encouragement was the ongoing anticipation of God keeping his promise to send the Savior.

The long anticipation was heightened dramatically with Zechariah and Elizabeth … and Joseph and Mary … whose encounters with angels made it clear that the time had finally come! The epiphanies shared with them led to miracle baby boys – John the Baptist born to a childless couple well past childbearing years, and Jesus born to a virgin.

Even amidst the swirling questions and amongst the wonder … how their hearts must have yearned for the boys to be born! What anticipation must have filled them for 10 months! What joy they felt at being the Lord’s servants and at what the Lord was doing! The Holy Spirit actually moved both Mary and Zechariah in their anticipatory joy to speak profound words of prophesy (Mary’s Song and Zechariah’s Song – Lk. 1).

Clearly the unnamed shepherds in Luke 2 were also believers who were among those longing for God’s promised Messiah to arrive. So while the angels staggered them with their unexpected appearance while out in the fields, they were even more stunned by the angels’ message – the Promised One was born that very day!

The shepherds’ lifetimes of anticipation were now compressed into a frantic search to find the Baby lying in a manger. Imagine their excitement! Their eagerness! Their anticipation at personally meeting the One whom God’s people had been waiting for since the Garden Promise thousands of years before.

And imagine their wonder when they finally laid eyes on Baby Jesus.

It was similar with the Magi. The promise had been passed down to them from Daniel, but they surely never expected to actually observe the announcing star in the sky. But they did! And when they did, they simply had to go see the newborn King. Never mind the length and inconvenience of the journey; they set out for Judea. It was an arduous journey. Yet every day closer to their destination, their anticipation of meeting Jesus fueled them on.

What did they feel … think … say … when finally fixing their gaze on the Baby fulfilling centuries old prophesies?

Then there was Simeon and Anna in the temple in Jerusalem. Simeon was “waiting for the consolation of Israel,” (Lk. 2:25), and the Holy Spirit had revealed to Simeon that he would meet the Messiah before he died. How he must have anticipated this incredible privilege!

When Joseph and Mary brought Jesus to the temple to present him, a firstborn son, to the Lord as the Lord had commanded in the Law, the Spirit moved Simeon to the temple courts. There he met the new parents and the Newborn. He swept Jesus into his arms and praised God in the words now known as the “Song of Simeon.” Anticipation answered!

At that moment, Anna, an elderly prophetess who essentially lived at the temple worshiping and praying, arrived and began praising the Lord as well! Her anticipation was also realized. And from that moment on, she began telling all the other anticipating believers that the Lord had finally fulfilled his promise.

So many people; so much anticipation! All fulfilled in a little Baby born in a barn in Bethlehem.

I can’t help but wonder how the Lord himself viewed Jesus’ transition to earth. Of course, the Triune God is not a human, doesn’t think like a human (Is. 55:8), and doesn’t approach time as humans do (2 Pet. 3:8). Consequently, he is utterly incomprehensible to humans, and to attempt to discern his perspective is impossible.

But still, as earth’s history unfolded was there an eagerness burning in the Lord’s heart to finally fulfill his many promises to send the Savior? Did he experience his own holy anticipation to give the first and greatest Christmas Gift; to unveil the Promised One who would at last make the wrong right?

It almost seems that he must have! I offer the incredible words from Hebrews 12:2 as a possible insight into the Lord’s mind and heart. Referring to Jesus, the writer states, “For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.”

If Jesus viewed the horrors of the cross with joy, surely the Lord must have viewed his long-awaited arrival on earth with eagerness as well. Astounding! Wonderful!

Which brings us finally to you and me. We are once again in the season of anticipation. Soon we will celebrate anew the arrival of Immanuel – “God With Us.” May we eagerly anticipate that celebration! It is surely worth anticipating and celebrating!

And in the same way, may we also eagerly anticipate celebrating on the day that Jesus returns and ushers in eternity. “[Jesus] … says, ‘Yes, I am coming soon’” (Rev. 22:20).

To which we echo John’s response, “Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!” (Rev. 22:20).

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

Lamentations 3:22-26
Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. I say to myself, “The Lord is my portion; therefore I will wait for him.”

The Lord is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him; it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord.

Psalm 130:5-8
I wait for the Lord, my whole being waits, and in his word I put my hope. I wait for the Lord more than watchmen wait for the morning, more than watchmen wait for the morning. Israel, put your hope in the Lord, for with the Lord is unfailing love and with him is full redemption.

He himself will redeem Israel from all their sins.

Galatians 4:4-5
But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption to sonship.

Luke 21:25-28
“There will be signs in the sun, moon and stars. On the earth, nations will be in anguish and perplexity at the roaring and tossing of the sea. People will faint from terror, apprehensive of what is coming on the world, for the heavenly bodies will be shaken. At that time they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory.

When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.”

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Everything, Always! A Story of Thanksgiving

November 23, 2024 dbirsch

Evan looked around with pride. He was reclining in his personally decorated lounge inside his lovely two-story house. Everything was wonderful – truly wonderful. And everything had his own “fingerprints” on them; this was what he had accomplished with his own hard work, determination, perseverance, and skillful maneuvering!

(Alright. And a bit of good luck here and there.)

“I’ve done pretty well for myself, haven’t I?” he murmured quietly. “Look at what I have achieved.”

Evan sighed contentedly and picked up the headset for his Virtual Reality (VR) device. It was the newest and most sophisticated model, allowing for the most immersive experience currently possible. This time he was going to explore the wonders of the Andes Mountains.

But instead of soaring in the heights above the South American mountains with the sound of the wind whistling past him, Evan found himself looking down on a ragamuffin man sitting cross-legged on the ground. Though his garment seemed to be made of the highest quality material, it was tattered, torn and stained. The man didn’t look much better; he was filthy, with his hair long, tangled and filled with twigs and grass stems. A light rain fell, gradually soaking the shabby individual.

The VR swept Evan lower and closer to the ragged man. As it did, Evan could clearly see the madness in the man’s eyes. Also noticeable were his long and curling fingernails; clearly they hadn’t been trimmed in some time.

But the most disturbing part of the experience was now revealed. In his bloody hands, the man clutched a partially eaten rat. Blood and entrails dripped from his beard. The sound of rabid chewing, crunching bones and eager slurping filled Evan’s earphones. The uttered noises that accompanied the eating made it clear the poor man was thoroughly enjoying his meal.

Evan recoiled in horror. “What is this?” he exclaimed.

He didn’t expect an answer, and gasped when he received one. “This is a man even more blessed than you who failed to acknowledge the source of his blessings. I had to teach him an important lesson. It’s a lesson that has been passed down for the ages.”

Evan was astounded … and confused. The VR had never verbally responded to him before! He was at a loss on what to say or do. Oddly, the thought of removing the headset never occurred to him; he was captivated by what he was experiencing. Fully immersed, indeed!

Finally, he found his voice. “Who are you?”

“I am the Lord, your God.” Evan’s heart hammered and he struggled to breath. The Lord continued, “You know me and you acknowledge me. But you don’t acknowledge all that I have done for you.”

“But I do!” He paused, then reconsidered. “I mean, I thought I did! You saved me, Lord. You sent your Son, Jesus, to suffer and die and rise back to life so I could be forgiven and go to heaven one day. I know I couldn’t have ever saved myself!”

“This is true, Evan. And it is good that you recognize this. It’s the most important truth. But you don’t understand the immensity of my goodness to you. It’s a lesson I am going to teach you, but in a gentler fashion than I did with Nebuchadnezzar, since you are my child.”

Evan was dumbfounded. Finally he managed to reply, “Teach me, Lord!”

“That I will, Evan.”

Nebuchadnezzar receded from view until he was no longer visible, like Google Earth moving back and repositioning to a new location. The world seemed to spin; the new location was on the other side of the globe from where the VR had initially taken him. The Americas came into view. The VR zoomed down on North America, then to Evan’s region of the country, to his state, city, and finally his home. Evan came to a stop, hovering over his house and yard.

The Lord’s voice returned. “Let’s look around. The items that come directly from me will be checked.”

Evan watched in stunned amazement as golden checkmarks began appearing. First, his house was checked. That was followed by one on the front yard and another on the back. Then others on the trees Evan had planted. Then the storage sheds. Even the recently delivered package resting on their front doorstep was marked.

Then another check popped up on the garage. The garage door opened, and checkmarks materialized on the vehicles inside. In blindingly fast fashion, gold checkmarks blossomed on every single tool, toy, and miscellaneous item stored in the garage – Evan’s eyes ever widening.

“Let’s look inside, shall we?” the Lord suggested. Evan was plunged toward the roof, passing through the shingles and boards seamlessly. The Lord floated him from room to room, every single one bursting with golden checkmarks. There wasn’t a single item in the entire house that wasn’t marked – the brilliance and bounty of the golden checks blinding to Evan’s eyes.

Finally, the flustered man was guided into the living room. Again, every single item bore a golden designation. And again, Evan found himself shielding his eyes. But then the brilliance faded … except for the marks on his wife and his three children, who were gathered around a board game. Those checkmarks grew in intensity, even as the others lessened.

Evan found himself sobbing. What a fool he had been!

But the Lord wasn’t finished with the lesson. “There’s more, my child.”

Once again Evan was being drawn further away. He passed through a light, then the ceiling, then the second floor, then the attic, and finally the roof … seeing the layers of paint, boards, wiring, carpeting, insulation, and shingles on the way out … all similarly checked.

Evan was lifted to an elevation where he had a clear view of the city. He wondered at the purpose, when more markers began emerging. His parents’ home, his wife’s parents’ home, their siblings’ places … followed by checks on houses throughout the city where friends and fellow church members lived.

Golden checkmarks erupted everywhere below him. The sidewalks he and his wife liked to traverse on their walks. The park where his children loved to play. The dear church where they gathered for worship. The stores, restaurants, and gas stations his family frequented. Even the barbershop where he went! Two checks over their bank; Evan assumed one for the institution and the other for their personal finances. There were golden checkmarks everywhere!

Then Evan noticed something striking. His place of employment wasn’t marked! He pointed at it. “Does that mean that at least I can take some credit for my job?”

The Lord actually chuckled. “Nope.” A blazing golden checkmark exploded over the business.

“Nor can you boast about your body, your health, your personality, or your abilities. They all come from me too!” Evan looked down. His body was plastered with gold. He continued to stare down at himself in astonishment, squinting against the golden gleam.

Evan was silent for a moment. He cleared his throat. “Lord, what about the problems in my life? Those are my doing, aren’t they?”

“Yes, your sinfulness … like everyone else’s in this sinful world … bring problems.” A stream of personal difficulties appeared in Evan’s virtual reality view. “But I turn even these into blessings.” Checkmarks became visible on the long list of hardships passing before Evan.

Once again, Evan was crying. “Lord, I’m so sorry! Please forgive me for my foolish pride!”

“Of course, Evan.” The heartsick man could hear the love in the Lord’s voice.

The tears flowed more profusely. Through sobs, Evan managed to choke out, “Now I see that everything wonderful always comes from you!”

Suddenly, the distraught man was back in his recliner in his lounge … his cheeks still wet from his tears. He exhaled deeply and slowly, still rocked from the shock of the past few moments. Another question came to him. He wanted to know. “But what about Nebuchadnezzar?” he called out.

In a fading voice, the Lord replied, “Read Daniel 4.” Evan ripped off his headset and dashed to find his Bible. When he pulled it from his nightstand, he was floored. There on the cover … was a golden checkmark.

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

James 1:17
Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.

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

Every Christian acknowledges that they are blessed by God – certainly verbally, but also mentally. Yet I’m convinced that none of us … even and especially me … realize just how very blessed we are by our gracious and giving God. To say that everything we have comes from God is typical and fine; to truly understand the extensivity of “everything” is quite another.

My prayer is that this story impresses that truth upon all of us. Our God is so good to us!

One important comment: The Bible states Nebuchadnezzar ate grass like cattle. And he surely did! I am always extremely hesitant to go beyond God’s Word. However, I took the liberty to suggest he also added meat to his diet whenever he was able. This would seem a logical assumption, but I acknowledge that the Scriptures do not mention this. Perhaps grass and vegetation was indeed all he ate. Still, I wrote this story the way I did to try to demonstrate how very far the king had fallen.

Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!

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How Life Is Like a Deer Hunt

November 14, 2024 dbirsch

Here in central lower Michigan, deer hunting isn’t just a nonchalant fall hobby; it’s a die-hard year-long passion!

The numerous whitetail deer in this area are pursued by people of both genders and of all ages. From the very elderly to those barely strong enough to carry a gun, hordes of hunters head into the woods to try to harvest some of the hordes of deer. Bucks are preferred, but does are also acceptable. Venison is equally delicious regardless of whether antlers were originally attached or not.

To illustrate how “big” it is in this area, the local schools are closed on opening morning of the gun deer season. (The Michigan opener is always on November 15, no matter what day of the week that may be.) Too many students … and teachers as well! … would be missing that day to hold beneficial classes. Bus drivers and crossing guards too!

It would be inaccurate to state that everyone around here deer hunts. But almost everyone does, did, or is directly connected to some who do.

So in honor of the local folks who don hunters’ orange, I thought I’d share a few thoughts on the similarities between day-to-day life and deer hunting. Hopefully this post is enjoyable and beneficial for both hunters and non.

How Life Is Like a Deer Hunt

Both carry some inherent risk.
Both demand trust in the Lord. The best plans, approach and effort are no guarantee of anything; finally only God brings success. (Proverbs 3:5-6)
Both are wonderful times to pray to and praise God. (Psalm 89:52)
Both begin in the “morning” and both conclude in the “evening” … in God’s good time. (Psalm 139:16)
Every new sunrise and sunset experienced are profound gifts from God. (Lamentations 3:22-23)
The experience can be done alone, but is most enjoyable when shared with loved ones. (Genesis 2:24, Psalm 127:3)
One never knows what the weather will be on a given day! But regardless the “show goes on.” And regardless, there is beauty and blessing present. (Romans 8:28)
Sometimes we’re cold; sometimes too warm. But feeling either means we’re alive. It’s also a reminder to thank God when we are “just-right”–comfortable. (2 Corinthians 9:8)
We all “stink” to some degree. Therefore, awareness of wind direction is always wise. (Romans 3:23)
Being above “ground level” is always best. Typically, the higher the better. Better views are found in the heights … and far less distractions and obstacles. (Romans 12:2)
Sometimes the hunt – and life – is interrupted by turkeys. Sometimes a skunk makes an appearance. I even had a bear show up once and shake things up! One never knows what will invade one’s space. (Romans 12:18)
Maybe most alarming, there’s cougars in the deep woods. I’ve heard of several occasions when hunters became the hunted, and were stalked by lions. That’s more than unsettling, and certainly true of real life too! (1 Peter 5:8)
Goals achieved are usually reached through much hard work, and goals achieved usually foster more hard work. (1 Corinthians 10:31)
Whether “successful” in our endeavors or not, we are always winners with God! (1 John 3:1)
The commotion we hear might indeed be a deer, but it’s probably a squirrel. The desperately sought after moments are usually far less frequent. Thankfully, squirrels are cute and entertaining too. Enjoy whatever God sends your way. (Philippians 4:11-12)
A related point: intense excitement and joy will undoubtedly occur, but humdrum monotony is much more common.
Realize, however, that things can change dramatically in seconds!
Typically, big moments seem to come when least expected, (and therefore when least prepared!) (1 Peter 3:15)
We always strive to take our best shot at our goal. With God’s blessing, it hits its mark. But sometimes we still miss. Misses are lessons learned. (Romans 15:4, 1 Timothy 1:15-16)
Every blessing comes directly from God. (James 1:17)
The Lord is always with us! (Psalm 139:7-8)

I’d love to hear your thoughts on additional comparisons! Please share them in the comments section.

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Ecclesiastes 3
¹ There is a time for everything,
and a season for every activity under the heavens:

²    a time to be born and a time to die,
    a time to plant and a time to uproot,
³    a time to kill and a time to heal,
    a time to tear down and a time to build,
⁴    a time to weep and a time to laugh,
    a time to mourn and a time to dance,
⁵    a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them,
    a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing,
⁶    a time to search and a time to give up,
    a time to keep and a time to throw away,
⁷    a time to tear and a time to mend,
    a time to be silent and a time to speak,
⁸    a time to love and a time to hate,
    a time for war and a time for peace.

… ¹¹[God] 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. ¹²I know that there is nothing better for people than to be happy and to do good while they live. ¹³That each of them may eat and drink, and find satisfaction in all their toil—this is the gift of God. ¹⁴I know that everything God does will endure forever; nothing can be added to it and nothing taken from it. God does it so that people will fear him.

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A Mountain of a God!

November 9, 2024 dbirsch

Is there anything quite as visually impressive as a mountain? Rising up from the land, jutting high into the sky and dominating the horizon, mountains can take your breath away with their majesty.

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

In reality the mountains can and do change. The rock on the mountains is slowly eroding. Glaciers, ice and snow impact the heights. Landslides happen. Volcanic mountains can blow their tops. Humans can scar and change the mountain face.

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

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

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

Fitting words as we wrap up a contentious election and embark upon a different administration. Not to mention, as we anxiously observe world events!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

As world events, (and our lives!), roll on, there certainly is no shortage of uncertainty and instability. All the more reason to be centered on the unchangeable, eternal, invincible, immovable Rock that is our God!

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

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Dead Man Walking

November 2, 2024 dbirsch

No, this isn’t a belated Halloween post. It’s actually about how I was almost killed earlier this week.

It’s not the first time I’ve almost been killed. In fact, the truth of the matter is that I should be dead multiple times over. Usually my near death experiences resulted from taking foolish chances and making foolish decisions when I was much younger and convinced I was invincible.

Sometimes though the unthinkable nearly came about through simple circumstances. Being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Or at least seemingly so from a human point of view.

It’s not hyperbole to state that I should have been killed a number of times; it’s a simple fact. Which is why I refer to myself as a “dead man walking.” I should be dead, but I’m still walking. And the only reason I am is because the Lord intervened every time.

The latest incident happened earlier this week in my father’s woods.

Now there is some risk inherent to that woodlot. Like other stands of trees around the Midwest, the once-abundant ash trees that filled it have been devastated by the emerald ash borer, an invasive beetle from Eastern Asia. Left in the beetles’ wake are the ash tree carcasses and scattered “widow-makers” – fallen trees hung up in the branches of other trees. On a particularly windy day last deer season, I heard an entire tree collapse and crash to the woods floor – which was a bit unnerving, even if fairly distant from me.

Nevertheless, I love those woods and love being in them. I don’t feel threatened there, though I make a point to always be aware of where I am and what is around me … especially on windy days. I deer hunt there, and thoroughly enjoy clearing trails and prepping my blinds in advance of another season.

I was busying myself in those woods this past Monday when I brushed past a 10-foot-tall tree trunk, broken off at the top. (When I say “brushed,” I don’t mean banged or bumped; I mean barely touched.)

Initially I didn’t hear anything, see anything or sense anything; the dead tree after all was now behind me. The next instant the entire trunk toppled down beside me with an explosive THWUMP! It collapsed so close to me that it brushed my arm on the way down!

I jumped in astonishment, wondering what had happened. Then, as the reality dawned on me, I sent up a stunned prayer of thanks to the Lord. I never would have known what hit me.

Afterwards, I inspected the log. It was over a foot in diameter and quite solid. (See the picture above.) It had simply rotted off at ground level. If it would have fallen on me, it would have leveled me to the ground.

Perhaps I wouldn’t have died. But I very well might have. At the least, I know it is very likely that I would have sustained significant injury. (I have thanked God repeatedly that I didn’t have to find out any of those specifics!)

But I walked away unscathed – a dead man walking yet again – because the Lord protected me one more time.

I know of multiple times I should have “bought it.” I also know there are many multiples more of which I am completely oblivious. I’m convinced that when the Lord brings us to heaven and we know all (1 Cor. 13:12), we will be absolutely astounded at how often and even radically God intervened in our lives and kept harm away.

David had it right when he wrote, “But you, Lord, are a shield around me …” (Psalm 3:3).

No harm reaches you or me when the Lord is shielding us! Embrace that concept; it is profound! Profoundly significant and profoundly comforting. And what does reach us is allowed by God for his own all-knowing and loving reasons (Romans 8:28). Also profound!

When God recognizes it is the right time, he will call us home to him in heaven. And perhaps it will be through a tragic incident. But it won’t happen a second sooner or in a different manner than he intends; we are shielded.

Until then, I will continue to be a dead man walking. And so will you.

Consequently, this dead man walking will dance through his life in constant praise of the One who graciously extends my days. I invite you to join me in that joyful dance, for God graciously extends your days too!

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Psalm 138:7
Though I walk in the midst of trouble, you preserve my life. … With your right hand you save me.

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

Deuteronomy 31:8
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.”

Psalm 46:1-3, 7
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.

Psalm 121
I lift up my eyes to the mountains — where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. He will not let your foot slip — he who watches over you will not slumber; indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. The Lord watches over you — the Lord is your shade at your right hand; the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night. The Lord will keep you from all harm — he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.

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Grateful for the King

October 26, 2024 dbirsch

How are you feeling about the upcoming presidential election?

As I write this, we’re a little over a week away from the big day. Undoubtedly you are as weary of seeing and hearing the campaign ads as I am. It gets to the point where one just wants the whole thing to be over already.

But perhaps that’s where the churning of the innards and the tightening of the chest kick in. Who will be the next president of the United States, and what will that mean for our great nation?

We wonder, “What if my person isn’t the one … then what will happen?” And maybe there’s a fair amount of concern even if our choice IS the one standing in the end?

And it’s not only fear over who wins (or doesn’t)! Couple the anxiety over the final result of the election with the concern over the reaction to that result. What might follow on the heels of the formalities? Rioting might not be out of the question.

There’s plenty of opportunity for anxiety. Our country is divided, and drastically so. Not only in regard to parties, politics, policies and social positioning, but on spirituality and basic morality. The sad truth is that most of our nation does not know the true God or care about his word or will.

This, of course, impacts the election. But perhaps the greater concern is how it is impacting our nation on an ongoing basis.

All of which fuels the angst as November 5^th approaches. Who will win? And will that person be a “win” for our country?

None of us knows. None of us can. There are simply too many variables in the equation.

But this is what we as Christians DO know. The true ruler and leader … not only of our country, but of our world … is already in place.

He was never elected; he doesn’t need to be. He holds his position by virtue of his very essence. The “I Am Who I Am” is unequaled in status and authority. His power is unmatched; his wisdom unparalleled. His reign stretches from eternity to eternity, and his position is unassailable. He will never be dethroned though throngs of rebels reject and resist him.

Hallelujah to King Jesus!

From his throne in heaven, surrounded by countless angels, the glory-bedazzled King reminds us, “I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me. … I say, ‘My purpose will stand, and I will do all that I please’” (Isaiah 46:9-10).

Thankfully, his purposes are always, purely and totally driven by his mercy, his love and his compassion. (Psalm 51:1-2). If you doubt this even a little, consider his suffering and death on a bloody cross to save us.

Consequently, our Lord leads perfectly, provides completely, protects abundantly, battles invincibly, guides and directs impeccably, and controls wonderfully. Not just for us, his children, but for our nation and even our world. His loving plans will persist; they (and he!) will not be undone.

What a King!

Frankly, I have some grave concerns about both presidential candidates. I’m not sure I trust either one of them as my country’s leader.

But thankfully, I have a higher Leader, and I DO trust the King! He is in complete control. He always has been, he is now, and he always will be.

Which means I can relax regarding even this highly contested and incredibly significant presidential election. No matter who is elected, my King still reigns above all!

Thanks be to God! Praise be to the uncontested, unequaled, unconquerable King – the Lord Jesus Christ!

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Deuteronomy 10:14&17
To the Lord your God belong the heavens, even the highest heavens, the earth and everything in it. … For the Lord your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great God, mighty and awesome, who shows no partiality and accepts no bribes.

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.

1 Timothy 6:14-16
… until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ, which God will bring about in his own time —God, the blessed and only Ruler, the King of kings and Lord of lords, who alone is immortal and who lives in unapproachable light, whom no one has seen or can see. To him be honor and might forever. Amen.

Revelation 1:4-8
John, To the seven churches in the province of Asia:

Grace and peace to you from him who is, and who was, and who is to come, and from the seven spirits before his throne, and from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood, and has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve his God and Father — to him be glory and power for ever and ever! Amen.

“Look, he is coming with the clouds,” and “every eye will see him, even those who pierced him”; and all peoples on earth “will mourn because of him.” So shall it be! Amen. “I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty.”

Revelation 17:14
They will wage war against the Lamb, but the Lamb will triumph over them because he is Lord of lords and King of kings — and with him will be his called, chosen and faithful followers.

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Moving Up!

October 19, 2024 dbirsch

It’s a conundrum. Why is it that most people are eager to sit in the front rows for a sporting event, a concert, or a movie … but routinely choose to sit toward the back in church services?

Now obviously, for multiple reasons the back pews are best for families with very young children. Other clear candidates might be those needing more ready access to a restroom, or those having to duck out of church a bit early due to work obligations.

But is being able to reach the refreshments or potluck first legitimate? (Perhaps if you are hosting. But otherwise?) Is the opportunity to get out of the church a few moments earlier than others sufficient reason?

It’s been postured that perhaps some sit in back or church out of humility – not wanting to emulate the Pharisee who called attention to himself in the temple, but rather the penitent tax collector who stayed in the shadows. (Lk. 18:9-14). Not sure I buy it. I suspect it’s much more a matter of habit than of humbleness.

Recognizing the reality of the situation, I thought it might be beneficial to provide reasons why moving up toward the front of church should be considered. There are actually multiple reasons. Some are legitimate; others less so. I will provide ten of both.

Less Legitimate Reasons to Move Up in Worship

When the pastor gives the children candy to share with the congregation in the children’s messages, those in front have a better chance to get some!
If there is any question about who is in attendance, those sitting in front can pull up the video stream of the service and there they are!
When sitting closer to the preacher, one can more easily tell if he is lip-syncing his sermon or not.
The smell of the food at the potluck won’t reach you quite as easily. Much less public drooling.
It will be more obvious to everyone in attendance that you do NOT nod off during the sermon.
If the balcony collapses, you will be clear.
When a skunk darts into the Sanctuary, it will be the people in the back who are sprayed.
Little Frankie won’t be able to flick the back of your ears anymore.
The ushers are far less likely to accidentally drop bulletins on your head.
And the most significant less-legitimate reason of all: The closer to the front of church one sits, the higher level of heaven they will reach. (Really! It’s in the Bible somewhere.)

More Legitimate Reasons to Move Up in Worship

The grandparents, parents and relatives who always used to sit in those same back seats in the “old days” don’t care if you still sit there or not. They now have much better “seats” in heaven!
The further forward you sit, the more people there are who are singing directly toward you.
It is much more difficult to get distracted by … well, anything.
And a related point: it is much easier to stay engaged in worship in a general, all-encompassing manner.
More specifically, your senses are more involved further forward. You will hear the pastor and musical accompaniment better. You will see easier, whether that be the Lord’s Supper on the altar, the hymn boards, the children’s sermon illustrations, or any slides that are shared.
You will be able to interact with more people as you leave. If a general dismissal, there will be more opportunity to chat with many; if a formal row-by-row dismissal, then smiles and warm nods to the people still seated as you pass.
Moving closer to the front as soon as your children are able trains them to think “front” instead of “back.”
Moving up leaves more open seats in the back for visitors who tend to arrive last minute, and for those members who happen to arrive late on a Sunday.
Sitting in new seats further forward can enrich the worship experience. New place, new “feel.”
If you move up, more people might actually follow! Imagine a church that fills up from the front to the back!

I would love to hear your thoughts on legitimate (and less legitimate) reasons for sitting in the front of worship services. Please share them in the comments section. I hope for a lot of feedback on this and look forward to reading the input that comes in!