Heading to Heaven!

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!

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

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!

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

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.

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.

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!

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A Picture of God?

October 12, 2024 dbirsch

Is there anything in nature that can even begin to picture the transcendent God? No. Not really, of course. But is there something that might capture a smidgeon of his wonder?

Ultimately, all of creation testifies to God’s power, wisdom, orderliness and creativity. As Paul reminds us, “For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made …” (Romans 1:20).

Soaring mountains. Expansive oceans. Roaring waterfalls. The brilliant display of bountiful stars in a night sky. The rich colors of fall leaves in the sunlight. The varied and wonderful creatures that populate this world. The complexity of our bodies; the miraculous-ness of life itself. All of creation clearly testifies to the Creator.

But is there anything in nature that illustrates Him?

The other night as I stood on our dock and gaped at the northern lights exploding in the sky above me, I wondered if maybe the aurora borealis comes the closest to picturing God.

The official explanation of the lights is that they are charged particles shooting out from the sun that slam into oxygen and nitrogen molecules in the atmosphere, which results in ionizing those molecules and causing them to glow in the night sky. Unofficially (but uniformly), everyone who witnesses the phenomenon agrees that the northern lights are breathtaking.

Kinda like our God!

Now again, there are multiple things in nature that are breathtaking when seen. But is there anything else that appears quite as magical, mystical and mysterious as the aurora borealis? The various shades of pinks, purples and greens dancing so artfully in the sky; the streaks of glorious light streaming and stretching down to earth.

The lights can appear in various colors. Green is the most common, but shades of pink, red, blue and purple are also sometimes observed. Even yellow, on rare occasions. Kinda like our multi-faceted Lord.

However, there are three primary colors – green, pink/red, and blue/purple – which blend into one unique and gorgeous palette. Kinda like the Trinity.

Those ionized molecules bursting into our atmosphere create lovely light streaming in the darkness from heaven to earth below.

Kinda like God, who is light (1 Jn. 1:5) and Jesus, who is the Light in the darkness (Jn. 1:5), the Light of the world and the Light of our life (Jn. 8:12), not to mention the Light of our salvation (Ps. 27:1). Then there is also God’s Word, streaming from God himself, which is a lamp to our feet and a light to our paths (Ps. 119:105).

Earlier, I referred to the lights as magical, mystical and mysterious. (And they feel that way!) I’m hesitant to use mystical and magical to describe the Lord because of the current connotations of those words. Yet, if considered in the proper context, they can apply.

One definition of “mystical” is “transcending human understanding.” (Our God is certainly that!)

In the same way, “magical” is defined as “beautiful or delightful in such a way as to seem removed from everyday life.” In other words – wonderfully unparalleled. (Our God is that too!)

And the Lord is certainly mysterious. (We can’t begin to comprehend him.)

But even though the Lord is transcendent, wonderfully unparalleled, and incomprehensible, he is always deliberate and loving in his actions. Though we may at times not understand the blending colors in our current circumstances, they are always beautiful – even if difficult – because the loving Lord is painting them.

And those sweeping flows of colors … they’re unpredictable and uncontrollable.

That’s God too! Unpredictable and uncontrollable. (Though he does always answer prayer! Yet we don’t ever know quite how he will answer). Yet our unpredictable and uncontrollable God is very predictable in this way: he is always displaying love to his children.

The height of the northern lights can actually reach an astonishing 620 miles. As for the Lord, David addresses him in this way, “Great is your love, reaching to the heavens; your faithfulness reaches to the skies” (Psalm 57:10).

We humans have to lift our eyes to see the lights. And we have to lift them also to see the One who created them. (Is. 40:26). Our God is “in the heights of heaven” (Job 22:12). He is far above us – both technically, physically, mentally and spiritually. His thoughts and his ways are incomprehensibly higher than ours. (Is. 55:8-9).

Furthermore, just as the northern lights are often best viewed through our phone cameras, so the Lord has given us the lens of the Scriptures to bring out the colors and wonders of our God and his grace, to enable us to better understand our un-understandable God, and to move us to faith or to a stronger faith.

The aurora borealis are literally awe-inspiring.

Our Lord? Even more so!

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

Psalm 19:1-4
The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they reveal knowledge. They have no speech, they use no words; no sound is heard from them. Yet their voice goes out into all the earth, their words to the ends of the world.

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A Simple Smile

October 5, 2024 dbirsch

Since 1999, the first Friday in October has been designated as “World Smile Day.” It was promoted by a man named Harvey Ball – the creator of the original yellow smiley face in 1963. Harvey did not push the day to further commercialize his smiley faces, but rather to remind people of the importance of a real and genuine smile.

This world needs more smiles. For that matter, the people in your world need more smiles! In fact, I would be glad to be on the receiving end of a few more smiles myself.

It seems that smiles are becoming a bit rarer these days. Of course, there’s so many troubling “situations” in our society and our world. Not to mention day-to-day distractions, personal stress, anxiety, frustration, and general weariness.

Consequently, we probably don’t feel like smiling as often as we might. But as someone once said, “You haven’t lost your smile at all. It’s right under your nose. You just forgot it was there!”

Putting on a smile is perhaps the most important thing we don in the morning, and the most important thing we wear. Yet, it’s often the accoutrement that doesn’t make our attire for the day. Or at least not as often as it could or should. To which Jim Beggs states, “Before you put on a frown, make absolutely sure there are no smiles available.”

Did you that studies have shown that smiling is actually beneficial to one’s health? Smiles reduce blood pressure and heart rate, ease stress and promote happiness. Some studies seem to suggest that frequent smiles actually foster longer lives; those who smile more often tend to have more positive views, which tends to lead to longer life-spans. Astonishingly, people wearing smiles appear younger and thinner!

Even if you can only muster a partial smile … smile anyway! Even a half-hearted smile brings some of the benefits. And it might just lead to a full-fledged, whole-hearted, all-encompassing one.

All of which provides strong inducement to smile frequently. The personal benefits seem great.

But those on the receiving end of our smiles also benefit! When we smile, they are more likely to smile. When they do, they glean the good bonuses too. But so much more as well.

A simple and sincere smile costs a person nothing to give, but pours a wealth of treasure into another person’s day. The person who provides it is none-the-poorer, while the person who receives that gift is certainly richer.

And think of all the family members around you; those ones we so easily and often take for granted. (You know, those most important people in your world!) That smile you grace them with in the moment will almost certainly contribute to a brighter, better day for them. A smile is the key that fits the lock on everyone’s heart.

To this end, here are some key concepts for us to bear in mind as we work our way through our days – even our difficult days; things that will help us smile more readily.

The first key is that we focus on our blessings and not our hardships. We may have many difficulties, but we have even more blessings from our God. No matter what struggles we are enduring, Jesus is still risen, we are still forgiven, we are still loved by God, we are still saved by God’s grace, and we are still headed to heaven.

Key number two is that we realize we have a gift we can give. A simple loving smile is simply precious to whomever it is aimed at.

The third key is to recognize that maybe, just maybe, our smile and our kindness might be a silent testimony to other Christians who are down and don’t really feel like smiling. They realize we are still rejoicing in our Lord, no matter the circumstances. Smiling is contagious; maybe our smile will spark a smile on their face.

In addition, our smile might possibly be something that moves an unbeliever to find out what makes us tick. Why can we smile when so much of life seems to stink? Perhaps it opens the door to an opportunity to testify about the Savior?

Finally, smiles show love. Jesus said, “Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another” (John 13:34-35).

The Lord underscores this concept in the book of Ephesians: “Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger … Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you” (Ephesians 4:31-22).

Simply showing and sharing a smile is generally a simple thing to do, but it’s not simple to the one who sees it; that smile is significant! So smile, and brighten someone’s day. And probably, in the process, your day too!

If you missed celebrating World Smile Day this year with an extra smile or two, please don’t feel obligated to wait until next October. Display a few extra smiles today. (And every day!)

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Camouflage Christians?

September 28, 2024 dbirsch

I tried to find an answer, but I couldn’t. Apparently, one actually can’t find everything online.

I asked the internet to provide the percentage of animals that rely upon some form of camouflage. No answer was provided. Lots of information on camouflage, but no percentages.

Therefore, I will provide my best guess and speculate that at least 90 percent of creatures in the animal kingdom are endowed by God with some form of “blending in.” And that guess may very well be on the low side.

Whether mammal, bird, reptile, amphibian, fish, or insect … almost every creature has some natural coloration that helps hide it. Both predator and prey have life-and-death reasons to be difficult to detect.

The National Geographic website provides this concise definition:

“Camouflage … is a defense or tactic that organisms use to disguise their appearance, usually to blend in with their surroundings. Organisms use camouflage to mask their location, identity, and movement. This allows prey to avoid predators, and for predators to sneak up on prey.”

Technically, there are four different types of camouflage in the animal kingdom. AnimalSpot.net describes them:

Cryptic coloration: It is the most familiar type of camouflage where the color of the animal’s body blends with the environment they live. E.g., chameleons, whose green bodies make them merge into their green surroundings.
Disruptive coloration: In this form the contrasting patterns on the animal’s body, break their outline creating an illusory effect. This helps them merge with the environment well. E.g., jaguar, lions.
Self-decoration: This process is mostly used by invertebrates who adorn themselves with many things found in their habitats, like algae, leaves, and mosses, to escape their natural enemies. E.g., sea urchins and sloths.
Disguise: Animals disguise themselves in their surroundings by taking the shape, texture, or color of the inanimate objects around them. E.g., a stick insect looks like a twig or stick, making it hard for its enemies to spot them on a forest floor.

Of course, human hunters also utilize camouflage – all four kinds, to some degree – in their quest for game. As do soldiers in the field, where blending into their environment can be critical to the success of their mission … not to mention their personal welfare.

Sometimes it’s important for humans to blend in; sometimes it’s crucial we don’t. When it comes to our lives in this world, God wants us as his followers … (His redeemed! His children!) … to stand out from the rest!

And here’s the challenge: what our Lord specifically states he desires from us is specifically opposite to what our sinful nature desires. We are much more comfortable – we actually feel much “safer” – when we blend in with those around us. That way we aren’t so easily noticed.

But God doesn’t want camouflaged Christians.

Jesus urges us to be “the light of the world” … shining openly and brightly before others so “that they may see [our] good deeds and glorify [our] Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:14-16).

Similarly, the Holy Spirit moves Paul to write, “For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) and find out what pleases the Lord. Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them” (Ephesians 5:8-10).

This is much easier acknowledged than accomplished.

Why do we live for Jesus … openly and obviously … even though this means we will stand out? Even though it will probably bring us some negative attention? Perhaps even outright persecution?

Not just because the Lord tells us to do so. But especially because of what the Lord has done for us!

“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” (Romans 12:1-2).

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

How good and gracious is our God! How much Jesus suffered for us because he was different! How much he accomplished for us through his suffering! He is our motivation to be blatantly open about our allegiance!

No, our goal is not to hide from the world … but to guide the world to their Savior. And blending in doesn’t allow us to be very effective beacons in the darkness. So, with God’s help, we shine brightly for him!

That makes us un-camouflaged Christians!

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

Mark 8
³⁴Then he called the crowd to him along with his disciples and said: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. ³⁵For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me and for the gospel will save it. ³⁶What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? ³⁷Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul? ³⁸If anyone is ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will be ashamed of them when he comes in his Father’s glory with the holy angels.”

John 15
¹⁶You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you. ¹⁷This is my command: Love each other.

¹⁸“If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. ¹⁹If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you. ²⁰Remember what I told you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also.

2 Corinthians 5
¹⁷Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! ¹⁸All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: ¹⁹that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. ²⁰We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God. ²¹God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.

Galatians 1:10
¹⁰Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.

Galatians 2
²⁰I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.

1 Peter 2
¹¹Dear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, to abstain from sinful desires, which wage war against your soul. ¹²Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.

1 Peter 3
¹³Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? ¹⁴But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear their threats; do not be frightened.” ¹⁵But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord.

Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, ¹⁶keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.

¹⁷For it is better, if it is God’s will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil. ¹⁸For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God. He was put to death in the body but made alive in the Spirit.

1 Peter 4
⁴They are surprised that you do not join them in their reckless, wild living, and they heap abuse on you. ⁵But they will have to give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead.

¹²Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. ¹³But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. ¹⁴If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. ¹⁵If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler. ¹⁶However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name.

1 John 2
¹⁵Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. ¹⁶For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. ¹⁷The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.

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Beware the Hook!

September 20, 2024 dbirsch

I am blessed that I can now walk out our back door, stroll onto our dock and be fishing in a matter of 5 minutes. And I take advantage of this blessing as often as I can. (Which isn’t as often as I’d like.)

Fishing is generally regarded as one of those pastimes which can provide wondrous relaxation. But if things are going well, the relaxation will be punctuated frequently by sudden excitement.

All of which makes fishing so enjoyable … at least for the fishers. For the fish, however, it’s literally a matter of life and death. The wrong decision leads to some significant consequences.

Many factors weigh into whether a fishing expedition is successful. Weather conditions, water temperature, time of day, the phase of the moon, and the particular place one is fishing (both the body of water and where one is fishing that water) can impact whether fish are caught or not.

But the most crucial element of all in a typical fishing excursion is the hook. If one wants to catch fish in the traditional manner of fishing, they must use at least one hook. And extra hooks are extra good, if legally allowed!

It goes without saying, however, that just a bare hook will generally catch nothing besides seaweed. Even the dumbest fish knows better than to impale itself on a bare hook. Rather, the fisher-person adorns the hook with something that will (hopefully!) entice a finned fellow to bite.

Those hook adornments can take many different forms. The most common are almost certainly worms of some kind. However, the most effective bait for panfish on our lake seems to be “wax worms” or “waxies,” which are the larvae of wax moths. Powerbait can be extremely effective for trout; smelly baits for catfish. Gadgets made to look like fish or other critters (with treble hooks attached) can be retrieved or trolled to entice a strike from a predatory fish. Finally, there are endless variations to the presentation of the catching apparatus called a “hook.”

Consider the names that refer to these fishing standards: attractants, lures, bait, and hooks. And no wonder! Their very purpose is to attract a fish, lure it to take the bait and get hooked! When that happens, it’s great for the fisherman, but not so great for the fish.

As humans, we are familiar with the concept of predation. Even if we don’t actively hunt or fish, we are aware that we are at the top of the food chain. In the physical world, we are predators … if not actively, then passively. However, it is crucial we recognize that in the spiritual realm we are the prey!

The Apostle Peter paints this illustration for us: “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour” (1 Peter 5:8). That “someone” is you and me!

And just like the fisher does when pursuing fish, so Satan dangles baited hooks before us. He will present the hook in different ways for different people and at different times. (We are all pulled by our own unique temptations, and he will bring out what he knows works best on us.) But be assured that under that enticing attractant or attached to that seductive lure is a sharp and potentially deadly barbed point.

Sometimes the fish don’t even recognize the hooks under the bait until it’s too late. But there are other times that they DO know about the hook, but STILL come after the bait.

Have you ever dipped your worm-covered rig in the water right next to a frequently used fishing dock? If so, then you know that seasoned little fishees will quickly, adeptly and repeatedly strip the crawler off your hook while you watch, and as you futilely attempt to catch them.

That’s how we are too sometimes! We know that Satan is trying to hook us on an attractively arrayed temptation, but we still bite. Often eagerly! Like the little fish, we think we can get away with it. But sometimes those overconfident biters miscalculate and find themselves hooked. The same can happen to us. Bite on a temptation too often, and we could suffer far more than we anticipated. The spiritual ramifications could be profound.

This is what Paul was writing about to the Corinthian Christians: “But I am afraid that just as Eve was deceived by the serpent’s cunning, your minds may somehow be led astray from your sincere and pure devotion to Christ” (2 Corinthians 11:3).

Attractive? Alluring? Absolutely! But beware the hook!

We are so easily persuaded to nibble on “goodies” that aren’t good for us. Thankfully our God is forever faithful. Take to heart this sobering reminder and these encouraging insights from the Bible:

“So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall! No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it” (1 Corinthians 10:12-13).

That’s certainly comforting to know. But even more comforting is the knowledge that the Lord has also provided forgiveness through Jesus for those times when we bit on an alluringly decorated hook!

How good is our God! How blessed are we! All the more reason to swim on past Satan’s temptingly tantalizing hooks.

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Indiscriminately Kind

September 14, 2024 dbirsch

In the past, I’ve referred to him as “Wavy.” I should have called him “Davy.” Or maybe best of all – “Wavy Davy.”

Technically, he told me his name is David. (A fine name, by the way!) I’m not sure if he would approve of using Davy instead. Almost certainly he wouldn’t want to be called “Wavy Davy.”

But that name describes him wonderfully!

I’d see him peddling his 3-wheeled bike toward us on our street, and I’d tell anyone with me, “Get ready to wave. Here comes Wavy.” And sure enough. Without fail, he would wave to us as we passed each other.

I don’t know David’s story. I do know that he rides his bike around our extended neighborhood almost non-stop. I’ve waved back to him at all times of day … and even after dark! Nor is he deterred by the weather. Once when my wife and I were out for a walk and got surprised by a rainstorm, David rode by and stated, “A little rain won’t hurt us, will it?” We were in a hurry to get to cover; he wasn’t. He simply continued merrily on his way.

I can’t even imagine how many miles he’s peddled through the years. Though he must log an incredible amount of distance every day, he doesn’t need much for his travels. There’s a basket mounted behind his seat and between the two back wheels. In it he carries a water bottle, a plastic bag (for snacks, I presume), and sometimes a little tan dog.

It’s difficult to gauge his age. Perhaps he’s in his thirties. What is clear is that David doesn’t look at life like most people. Whether he was born that way or is the victim of an accident somewhere along the way isn’t important. What is important is that David is indiscriminately kind.

He doesn’t care what kind of vehicle you are driving – 4-wheeled pickup, sports car, family van, or Amish buggy – he always waves. Gender, age, skin-color, occupation, or social status doesn’t matter to him either. Davy will wave to all. If the person he happens to be passing isn’t in a vehicle, he’ll be sure to add a spoken “Hi” to his wave.

While it is true that we now live in a smaller town in the rural Midwest, and that people in general are friendly and often waving … even to strangers, David takes it to a higher level. He will not be deterred; he WILL wave to you. Doesn’t matter how he feels or where he is. Doesn’t matter how you look or what you are doing or whether you wish to be greeted. Dave will wave to you.

This past summer when our entire family was at the park at the end of our street, David spotted some children’s shoes by the playground. He made a point to ask us about them; he didn’t want us to forget them if they belonged to the children in our group.

Indiscriminately kind.

If only more people could be that way!

It seems to me that more and more we are seeing less and less kindness in our society. Patience is becoming rarer; rudeness more common. Selfishness tends to predominate; thoughtfulness for others languishes. Aggressiveness is exalted; humility despised. Grudges are nursed; forgiveness refused.

Furthermore, it seems that though “tolerance” is promoted, the promoters themselves are in many ways less tolerant of different points of view. “My way or the highway” is largely embraced. And if one doesn’t see it the same way as another, verbal attacks are sure to occur. (If you doubt this, consider the current political climate! The same, sadly, is true of our nation’s moral climate.)

Imagine how drastically different things would be if everyone was indiscriminately kind! That’s what our Lord urges us to be.

“Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you” (Ephesians 4:31-32).

“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity” (Colossians 3:12-14).

Of course, these words were written to believers, and they remind us of God’s love, kindness, and the forgiveness won for us by Jesus. We’ve been trained by the Lord; He is our example! And he’s the one we honor when we are kind.

But as the numbers of those who don’t know the Lord continue to increase, so will kindness continue to decrease. Fewer recognize ultimate love and true kindness learned only through a relationship with Love personified.

Which means it becomes increasingly important that you and I reflect the love of God in our dealings … not only with fellow Christians, but with everyone. Even to those who are unkind to us. Even to those who hate us. Even to our enemies! (Matthew 5:43-48, Romans 12:14-21).

Our Savior described us this way: “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:14-16).

You and I … we are the only lights that this dark (and growing darker) world will see. The Lord’s light shines in us and through us. We are bearers of God’s glorious and glowing Gospel. So, fellow lights, let us shine brightly!

It begins by being indiscriminately kind.

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

Galatians 5
²²But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, ²³gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. ²⁴Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. ²⁵Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.

1 Corinthians 13
⁴Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. ⁵It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. ⁶Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. ⁷It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. ⁸Love never fails.

Romans 12
⁹Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good.

¹⁰Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. ¹¹Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. ¹²Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. ¹³Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality. ¹⁴Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. ¹⁵Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. ¹⁶Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.

¹⁷Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. ¹⁸If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. ¹⁹Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. ²⁰On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.”²¹Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

Matthew 5
⁴³“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ ⁴⁴But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, ⁴⁵that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. ⁴⁶If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? ⁴⁷And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? ⁴⁸Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.

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Never-Failing Love

September 7, 2024 dbirsch

I knew it was somewhere around here. I just couldn’t remember where.

In my defense, a LOT has happened since our honeymoon. My twelve-month vicar (intern) year, my final year at the Seminary, at least six moves (two across the country – one westward and one eastward!) and six different homes, the birth of six children and one miscarriage, and 34 years of pastoral ministry.

I certainly remembered many of the wonderful things from that relaxing week following our wedding ceremony in my wife’s home church in Benton Harbor, Michigan. I had booked a five-night stay in a cabin on an inland lake in north-central Michigan. I remember being able to look out on the water from our cabin and thinking how very nice that was to be there with my new wife. Additional memories included rowing the boat out on the lake and the two of us catching a few panfish, a campfire on the beach, watching the Detroit Pistons playoff games in a local bar (there was no TV in the cabin), and eating at a nearby Ponderosa Steakhouse several times. (I enjoyed the steak; my new wife delighted in the all-you-can-eat ice cream bar.)

After our stay on the smaller lake, we drove West to Ludington and visited the very large Lake Michigan. There we hiked miles down the sandy beach to the Big Sable Point Lighthouse, visited the Pere Marquette Shrine and the local marina, and walked through the local shops. (I purchased a duck-handled letter opener that has been on my office desk ever since.)

In short, I could recollect many things from that special week, but I couldn’t remember where exactly our honeymoon cabin had been.

Since we now live in central Michigan, I suggested to my wife that we utilize her Labor Day off and revisit Ludington, where we had gone following our cabin stay 36 years ago. During the course of that conversation, I mentioned that the cabin we had honeymooned at was also somewhere in this area; I just couldn’t remember where and I wish I did. This led my wife to retrieve our wedding memory book that she had compiled all those years ago.

Here’s where things got extremely interesting.

It turns out that the cabin we rented was on Crooked Lake in Lake, Michigan (not the Great Lake, but the unincorporated township settled firmly on solid ground). Lake happens to be about 15 miles from where we currently live. (A number of members of one of the congregations I serve actually live in Lake.) And that Ponderosa where we ate several meals? That was in Clare – a mile away from our new home! It also happens to be where we ate one of our first meals upon newly arriving in town a little over a year ago.

My wife and I marveled at how we had come full circle … and completely unbeknownst to us. As we began our marriage in central Michigan – just the two of us, so we enter our later years of marriage in central Michigan – our children on their own and just the two of us again. And now we’re not just visiting a lake, but living on one! Every day I look out on the water and often reflect upon how nice it is to be here with my wife of 36 years.

How faithful and good is our God! He loves us in the beginning; he loves us throughout our lives, and he’ll still be loving us and blessing at the end. And because of his love expressed in Jesus and Jesus’ all-encompassing atonement, there is no “end” to his blessings! Only an eternity to bask in his love in his very presence in heaven.

‘“Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed,’ says the Lord, who has compassion on you” (Isaiah 54:10)

It was an enjoyable Labor Day for my wife and me; a trip down memory lane. We drove through Lake on the way to Ludington. We walked the beach to the lighthouse again. We bought a few new souvenirs. And we reflected on how amazing God’s love is … ever present and always guiding. Sometimes all the way back to where things started.

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

Psalm 136:selected
¹Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good.
His love endures forever.
²Give thanks to the God of gods.
His love endures forever.
³Give thanks to the Lord of lords:
His love endures forever.
⁴to him who alone does great wonders,
His love endures forever.
⁵who by his understanding made the heavens,
His love endures forever.
⁶who spread out the earth upon the waters,
His love endures forever.
⁷who made the great lights—
His love endures forever.
⁸the sun to govern the day,
His love endures forever.
⁹the moon and stars to govern the night;
His love endures forever.

²³He remembered us in our low estate
His love endures forever.
²⁴and freed us from our enemies.
His love endures forever.
²⁵He gives food to every creature.
His love endures forever.
²⁶Give thanks to the God of heaven.
His love endures forever.

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Power Outages Not Possible

August 31, 2024 dbirsch

My wife and I have experienced power outages before, but seldom and they were brief. A few hours at most.

So being without electrical power for 27 hours earlier this week was a new experience for us. The fierce storms that knocked our power out also knocked out the power of almost half of our county, as well as approximately 330,000 customers across the state.

If you happen to have had the misfortune of losing your electrical power for an extended time … whether this week, or at some other point in your life … then you know firsthand the inconveniences that come along with that. We take for granted that we are plugged in and powered up – until suddenly we aren’t.

As far as danger, my wife and I weren’t really in any. It’s August in Michigan, so temps were warm. And we have all the outdoor gear we need to endure even a significantly extended outage, if forced to do so. But that doesn’t mean it was pleasant or even easy.

If you have never been without power, you’ve probably never considered how many of your daily activities rely upon electricity. You don’t realize how often you automatically flip on light switches when entering a room, or how accustomed you are to having instant light at the flip of your fingertips. You don’t recognize the luxury of clicking on your television set, of working and playing on your computer, or of doing so with the comfort that air conditioning or even just fans can provide! Or worse, if in the winter, the warmth the furnace pumps out!

If you have never been without power at night, you’ve never realized how many little lights there are scattered around your house. The modem. The digital clocks on the stove and microwave. The power indicators on various appliances or miscellaneous conveniences. And you’ve never experienced how very dark your house (and your neighborhood) becomes without power. Everything looks different by battery powered, hand-held light.

Thankfully, we have our phones to provide information, communication and distraction. But wait! Eventually they have to be recharged – a difficult task if charge (power) is not available!

And I haven’t even mentioned the key role power plays in regard to food storage.

As the length of the outage continued, it seemed clear it would stretch past the amount of time it was safe to eat food stored in the refrigerator. (The time frame is 4 hours, if you’re curious.) As we approached the safety limit, there was a mad scramble to move what we could to the church refrigerator, which fortunately was still running. (Of course, it just so happened that we had a bounty of wonderful leftovers. We had to discard them all.) Later, I made yet another trip to transfer the food from our smaller freezer in our fridge to church.

A day later, I was making preparations to transition the food from our large freezer in the garage to the church as well. (Food in a full and unopened freezer can last about two days; in a half-full freezer just one.) Thankfully, the power was restored before needing to take that step.

How significant (and typically overlooked) is the blessing of electricity! What a powerful impact losing power makes in our lives!

Which caused me to reflect upon how wonderful it is that God’s power in our lives is never interrupted.

And not only is God’s power never interrupted, it’s never-ending! Boundless! The Lord describes himself to Abraham in this way: “I am God Almighty” (Genesis 17:1). King Jehoshaphat praised God by stating that “power and might are in your hand, and no one can withstand you,” and Daniel rejoiced that “[all] wisdom and [all] power are his” (Daniel 2:19).

The Apostle Paul was inspired to describe that power as “eternal” (Romans 1:20). In other words, there are no power outages in our God.

But God’s almighty and unending power is not just some abstract or esoteric attribute demonstrated only in wide-ranging ways (such as creation) and unapplicable to you and me. It’s a power shown to each of us personally and continually through his loving provision and protection. (Matthew 6:25-34).

It’s also and more importantly a power that impacts us spiritually. Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior, “as to his earthly life was a descendant of David, and through the Spirit of holiness was appointed the Son of God in power by his resurrection from the dead” (Romans 1:3-4). Or to say it another way, Jesus’ authenticity and substitutionary victory over the penalty of our sin were proven when he, in power, rose from the dead.

Furthermore, our powerful God gave us his powerful gospel which has changed our hearts, our lives, and our destiny “because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes” (Romans 1:16).

The electric company can’t and won’t keep us constantly in power. Thankfully, we have a Power Source in whom power outages are not possible.

“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power” (Ephesians 6:10).