Mourning Into Dancing and True Worship

Today’s Reading: Psalm 30, Genesis 27:41‐28:9, 2 Chronicles 4, Luke 20:45‐21:38

Psalm 30 – What is the most down you’ve ever been? If you are a human being, and I am assuming if you are reading this blog you are :), then you have had periods of time that you are discouraged, upset, or downright depressed.

Life includes a series of good days and bad days. When we are stuck in the bad days, we can find ourselves wondering if the good ones will ever come again. Psalm 30 includes timeless truth for those who struggle with depression. Our God is a God who loves to turn mourning into dancing. He is a God that can take the worst days and turn them into the best.

Two verses I want to highlight here.

Verse five says, “For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may remain for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.”

Verse eleven says, “You turned my wailing into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy,”

That is the power of Christ in us. When we struggle, it’s important to ask, “Why?” Is our struggle our doing, God’s doing, or someone or something else’s doing? If it’s our doing, then confess it. God is a God of grace. Our weeping may last for a night, but rejoicing will come in the morning.

If it is God’s doing, remember that God is sovereign and good. His plans for us remain good. They are greater than our plans are for ourselves. Trust.

If the pain is coming from someone or something else, remember that God is greater than any force, person, or situation that can come into our lives. He will take care of us. One day, our mourning will turn into dancing.

Luke 20:45-21:38 – There are three distinct events that are recorded in this section of Scripture. The first is a teaching that Jesus gave regarding the religious leaders of that day. He warned those listening to him to be careful about those that they were holding up as being godly men. Many of these religious leaders were just making a show of their love for God. They worshipped God publicly, but they had hearts that were far from God. They were living their lives for the praise of men, not the honor of God.

As a religious leader (a pastor), I am constantly questioning my motives. Why do I pray the way I do, speak the way I do, act the way I do? Am I doing my “job” for God’s glory or mine? Any time I get in the way, I am ineffective. We need to be a people that live for His renown.

The second event was the offering that a widow gave at the temple. She was poor and gave the modern equivalent of a few cents. There were others who gave much larger gifts. Their gifts were presented in front of men, with great pomp and circumstance. These people, according to Jesus had received their reward in full. The widow’s gift was greater than that of those who made great show of their gifts. She gave out of a heart of love and true sacrifice. The others gave to make a show. We need to examine our motives in giving to Christ.

Finally, Jesus gave his listeners signs of the end of the age in this passage. It’s one of the most famous passages in all of Scripture dedicated to what the world will look like when Christ returns. I remember listening to a pastor recently who said, “The world has never looked more like the world that Jesus said He would return to than the world we live in today.”

As you read this passage, what are some things that stick out to you about the days that Christ will return? Why is it important for us to study biblical prophecy? How can the study of biblical prophecy help us grow in our faith? What are some of the dangers in studying biblical prophecy?

For notes on all of today's passages click here.

Our Greatest Tasks

Today's Reading: Psalm 29, Genesis 27:1‐40, 2 Chronicles 3, Luke 19:47‐20:44

2 Chronicles 3 - What is recorded as such simple words at the beginning of 2 Chronicles 3, "Then Solomon began to build the house of the LORD in Jerusalem. . ." was probably the most exciting moment in the life of Solomon up to that moment in time.

Men love projects. We love to give ourselves over to a great task. There would be no greater task in Solomon's kingdom than the task of building the temple of the LORD. When we have big tasks before us, may we never forget the greatest responsibilities that God has given us.

We will read later of the tragedy of Solomon's family. Had Solomon expended an equal amount of energy in reaching out to his children, his life would have been even better.

For notes on all of today's readings click here.

The Sins of the Father

Today's Reading: Psalm 28, Genesis 26, 2 Chronicles 2, Luke 19:28‐46

Genesis 26 - Genesis 26 is a good chapter to point out that the sins of the father so often visit the next generation. Such was the case with Isaac, who like his father Abraham lied about his relationship with his wife when he went to dwell in a foreign land. Like his father, Isaac feared that the men of the city would kill him so that they could have his beautiful wife. And, like God had done with her mother-in-law, God protected Rebekah.

We who are fathers should remember the story of Abraham and Isaac when we are tempted to sin. Our children learn best by observation, and if they observe sin in us it teaches them sin isn't serious.

For notes on all of today's readings click here.

New Sermon Series Begins on Sunday

Our new sermon series, Ultimate Love begins this Sunday. This series is based on one of the most beloved passages in all of Scripture, 1 Corinthians 13.

Services are held at Woodbury Community Church, 2975 Pioneer Drive, Woodbury, MN at 9:00 and 10:30 AM. For more information you can visit our website at www.wccmn.org, or call our church office at (651) 739-1427.


January 31 - How To Make God Look Really Bad
February 7 - Ten Qualities of True Love
February 14 - How To Make Love Last

Wisdom and Redemption

Today's Reading: Psalm 27, Genesis 25:19-34, 2 Chronicles 1, Luke 18:31-19:27

2 Chronicles 1 - The book of 2 Chronicles opens with the newly crowned king, Solomon, worshipping the LORD, and the LORD doing for Solomon what He has done for no other human being. God gave Solomon the opportunity to ask for whatever he would from God, and God promised that He would grant the request. Solomon did something remarkable. He asked for wisdom!

What would you ask for? I'm not sure that I would have been wise enough to ask for wisdom. Solomon's request pleased God, and God promised Solomon that he would not only be given wisdom but riches like no king before or after had or would experience.

The New Testament book of James tells us that we too can ask for wisdom. In James 1:5we read, "5If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him."

We may not have a "ask for whatever you want and I'll give it to you" guarantee, like Solomon was given. But, we do have a "ask for wisdom and I'll give it" guarantee. Why don't we ask more often? May we be a wise people, because our wisdom comes from God.

Luke 18:31-19:27 - I love how Jesus did ministry. He broke all of the rules of organized religion by hanging out with people who desperately needed redemption. In Luke 19, Jesus encounters a chief tax collector who was curious to see what this Jesus fellow was all about. We know, according to the text that Zacchaeus was vertically challenged. He was also quite the swindler. When Jesus saw Zacchaeus, up in a tree, He told him to come down. He was going to dine in the home of Zacchaeus that very day. Another thing I love about Jesus was that He wasn't afraid to invite himself over to the home of someone else for dinner:O)

When Jesus made the decision to dine with Zacchaeus, He opened himself up to criticism from the religious elite. They couldn't understand how Christ could justify dining with such a well known sinner. Jesus could care less what the religious leaders thought of Him. He was here for people like Zacchaeus. He was here to cleanse people like Zacchaeus for sin. Zacchaeus was so touched by Jesus' presence that He vowed to repay his debts fourfold and to give half of his goods to the poor. Jesus responded by saying that salvation had come to that home today.

From the time He was born, Jesus was about restoring broken people into fellowship with God. I'm so glad for that! Aren't you?

For notes on the rest of today's readings click here.

All Have Sinned

Today's Reading: Psalm 26, Genesis 25:1‐18, 1 Chronicles 29:22b‐30, Luke 18:1‐30

Why is it that we compare ourselves to other people so much, and so little to God? We like to say things like, "I'm not as bad as so-and-so!" or "Thank God I'm not a _______."

Jesus warned people against this in Luke 18. Other people aren't the standard to which Christ is calling us to live. He is. And when we compare ourselves to Him, we all fall short. And, that's the point. We all need a Savior.

Romans 3 tells us that we all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. Comparing ourselves to other people leads to the sort of Pharisaical attitudes that were exhibited by the religious leaders in Jesus' day, and unfortunately by too many of us who call ourselves Christians. Let's let God be the judge, and thank Him for giving any of us grace.

For notes on all of today's readings click here.

To Be A Leper

Today's Reading: Psalm 25, Genesis 24, 1 Chrronicles 29:1‐22a, Luke 17:11‐37

Luke 17:11-37 – We serve a God who is omniscient. He knows everything that will happen. As such, he knew that when he healed the lepers, only one would come back to thank Him. Did that stop Christ from healing? No! He didn’t heal for thanks. He healed because it was the right thing to do. Did you notice who came back to thank Christ? It was the Samaritan leper.

Lepers were the scourge of ancient society. Lepers were relegated to living outside of the town. With no known cure, leprosy was easily spread and it killed. Jesus loved to heal lepers. He healed some by touching them. It would have been the first time in years that they had felt another human being touch them. He could have just healed with his words, like he seemed to do here, but for some, it was His touch. If lepers were society’s scourge, then Samaritan lepers were several steps lower, as far as a righteous Jew was concerned. The Samaritans were enemies of the Jews. These races hated each other. And yet Jesus healed a Samaritan. It would have been a valuable lesson for His followers. Jesus loved Samaritans. Jesus loved lepers. And, Jesus loves you.

Leprosy has largely disappeared from the medical world today, but Christ’s love still reaches out to those who are society’s outcasts. So should our love be!

For notes on all of today's readings click here.

Great Conversations

Today's Reading: Psalm 24, Genesis 23, 1 Chronicles 28, Luke 16:1-17:10

1 Chronicles 28 - There is something beautiful about the charge that a father gives to his son, when it is a charge that glorifies God.

That is the type of charge that David gave to Solomon in 1 Chronicles 28. We have already read in 1 Chronicles that David and Solomon had many conversations, but we have not been made privy to what was said in those conversations.In this chapter we get to read what David said to his son, and it is awesome.

David calls Solomon to worship God with a whole heart and a willing mind. Those are words coming from a man who was called a man after God's own heart. David wanted his son to know the joy of wholehearted servanthood to God. I find the words "willing mind" interesting. He didn't tell Solomon to have an intellectual mind or a discerning mind. He told him to have a willing mind. Our minds need to be willing to let God be God. He then challenges Solomon to seek God, and reminds him that if Solomon seeks God, God will be found. This is a promise repeated in so many places in the Bible. He also warns him not to forsake God, because if he does, Solomon is told that he will be cast off forever.

How awesome would it be if every Dad had that kind of talk with his sons? May we teach the next generation to seek after God's heart!

Luke 16:1-17:10 - Wow! There is so much here. It's tough to know where to start. Let me just say I am struck by the fact that God continually reminds us that He is God and only He is God. We cannot serve both God and money.

As a pastor, I'm struck by how many times I struggle with this. I know that God is the answer to my toughest problems, but somehow think that if I had more money my problems would somehow go away. That could not be further from the truth. I need God, not money, and until I come to grips with that, money will compete for the place that God deserves to be in my life.

Interesting that the religious leaders in Jesus' day were lovers of money. I wonder how far we have come.

Jesus didn't mince words when it came to divorce and remarriage. He is a God who truly does hate divorce. We need to view marriage as precious and not be so quick to throw marriage away when stress comes.

How severe God treats those who cause others to sin! I don't want to be the source of other's sin. No wonder Jesus, in the Lord's prayer, prayed "lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil." May we not be the one leading others into temptation!

I want faith that is larger than a mustard seed! Imagine what could happen with that kind of faith.

I Will Dwell

Today’s Reading: Psalm 23, Genesis 22, 1 Chronicles 27, Luke 15

Psalm 23 – One of my favorite parts of being a pastor the privilege that I am given to enter people’s lives at some of their most tender and precious moments. I love when I get to be in a hospital room with a new mother and her child. I love being there to celebrate moments like high school graduations, weddings, and special anniversaries. And, at times I am in the room when a person says “Good bye,” to this life and walks into the arms of Jesus.

I remember one of those times a few years back. I was called at midnight to join a family who was gathered around the hospital bedside of Geva Lou, the matriarch of the family. Her son, daughter-in-law and grandchildren were gathered at her side, as was her sister and brother-in-law. It was a shocking day for them. Just earlier in the day, this dear woman was getting her hair styled at her favorite salon. Now, she lay dying in a hospital bed. She had been unaware of the fact that her organs had been shutting down for the past couple of weeks. When she experienced abdominal pain and went to the ER, she had no idea that she would be in surgery minutes later, only to be closed back up with the dire realization that nothing could be done. She would die within hours.

I joined the family in those dying moments. They asked if I would read Scripture, so I opened my Bible to Psalm 23. As I read this precious Psalm, Geva Lou’s breathing grew more faint. I came to Psalm 23:6, “Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.”
As I finished reading that verse, Geva Lou’s sister said, “Go. Dwell in the house of the LORD forever. I will see you on the other side. I love you.”

And with that, Geva Lou died. She went from suffering in a bed into the arms of Jesus.

Psalm 23 has been a psalm of comfort to so many generations of people. David truly wrote words that were inspired by God. What is your favorite part of the 23rd Psalm?

Genesis 22 – I have a confession to make. For years I hated Genesis 22. I didn’t like what the passage said about God. I didn’t like to think about the trauma that God’s request caused Abraham. And, I sure didn’t like what it would have done to Isaac. But, I’ve grown. And, today I see Genesis 22 in an entirely different light. It is a beautiful picture not only of God’s love but of the growth of a man and his faith.

If you’ve been taking The Challenge you may have noticed that Abraham’s faith frustrates me sometimes. He is seen as a giant in the faith, and yet he blows it over and over again. He lacks faith in God’s ability to protect him, two different times calling Sarah his sister instead of his wife to save his own skin. He impregnates his wife’s servant when he ceases to trust that God will follow through on his covenant with him. And, there are a host of other situations.

But, in Genesis 22 an entirely different Abraham emerges. This is a man who is convinced that if God can grant him a child at 100 years old, that God can protect that child even if it is from God’s hand that God might be protecting the child.

When God asks Abraham to shed his own son’s blood, it isn’t because God wants Isaac dead, it’s because he wants to see just how far Abraham would obey Him. Abraham has now passed the point where I would ever go. I couldn’t do what God asked Abraham to do. My faith would be so weak. But, Abraham follows God, even so far as to put Isaac on the altar. Then God says, “Stop,” and provides Abraham with a sacrificial lamb.

Abraham had grown in his faith. There was hope for this sinful man. And, there is hope for you and me. But, our hope is in Jesus. While God allowed Abraham’s son to live, He did not spare His own Son, Jesus Christ. Christ came into the world and became our salvation. Through His death, we can be healed. Through His resurrection power we can be forgiven. Our God is THE AWESOME GOD.

For notes on all of today's readings click here.

The Cost of Discipleship

Today's Reading: Psalm 22, Genesis 21:22‐34, 1 Chronicles 26, Luke 14

Year's ago, German theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer wrote a book entitled, The Cost of Discipleship. He was a man who understood what it meant to pay a price for following Jesus. His unwavering commitment to the truth caused him to stand up for Christ against Hitler's regime. He was thrown in prison for faith and eventually put to death.

In his book, Bonhoeffer speculated as to why the church in Europe had become so ineffective. He believed it was because the church had begun to preach cheap grace. Look at this quote from The Cost of Discipleship: ". . .this cheap grace has turned back upon us like a boomerang. The price we are having to pay today in the shape of the collapse of the organized church is only the inevitable consequence of our policy of making grace available at all too low a cost. We gave away the Word and sacraments wholesale; we baptized, confirmed, and absolved a whole nation unasked and without condition. Our humanitarian sentiment made us give that which was holy to the scornful and unbelieving. We poured forth unending streams of grace. But the call to follow Jesus in the narrow way was hardly ever heard."

When He spoke to those around Him in Luke 14, Jesus minced no words when talking about the cost of following Him. As you read today's passages you'll see that sometimes following Christ can be tough, but it is always worth it.

For a look at notes on all of today's readings click here.

The Power and Authority of Christ

Today's Reading: Psalm 21, Genesis 21:1‐21, 1 Chronicles 25, Luke 13:10‐35

Psalm 21 - 11 Though they plan evil against you, though they devise mischief, they will not succeed.

Some of the greatest athletes in the world have the ability to turn a game around when it looks like all of the momentum has turned against them. Even the greatest athlete can't win every game. God isn't an athlete, and He isn't playing a game, but He is in a battle and sometimes it looks like the devil is winning. But, God cannot lose to Satan.

David knew this. In Psalm 21:11 he wrote about the futility in taking sides against the Lord. God always wins in the end.

Isn't it good to know that no matter what type of evil is directed against the Lord, He will ultimately prevail? We can depend upon Him for God wins in the end!

Luke 13:10-35 - Jesus shook up the religious system in the world He entered. He saw past the legalism of the Jewish system and spoke to what the spirit of the law was about.

When a woman who had been disabled by an evil spirit for eighteen years came into the synagogue on the Sabbath, Jesus healed her. The ruler of the synagogue made a stink because Jesus healed on the Sabbath. He basically said, "She could have come six other days this week for healing. We don't heal on the Sabbath."

Jesus responded with power and authority, "You hypocrites! Does not each of you on the Sabbath untie his ox or his donkey from the manger and lead it away to water it? 16 And ought not this woman, a daughter of Abraham whom Satan bound for eighteen years, be loosed from this bond on the Sabbath day?” 17 As he said these things, all his adversaries were put to shame, and all the people rejoiced at all the glorious things that were done by him.

That's my Jesus! I love Him so much.

For notes on the rest of today's readings click here.

Powerful Words

Today's Reading: Psalm 20, Genesis 20, 1 Chronicles 23‐24, Luke 12:49‐13:9

Psalm 20 - 7 Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God

One of the first retreats that I ever went on as a youth pastor was a national youth conference in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. The man who had been hired to lead worship for the week was a quirky guy who loved to turn obscure Bible verses into songs. He then added his own sound effects and noises to the music he created.

Psalm 20:7 was one of the verses that he turned into song. And you know what? I'll never forget the song. I can't tell you how many hundreds of times the words to Psalm 20:7 have been replayed in my mind because of quirky dude's music. And, the words have been such a comfort.

I need to trust in God to provide for my needs. So, do you. The Lord is the source of every blessing in our life. When we are blessed, praise the Lord. When we go through trials, turn to the Lord. He is the ultimate source of strength.

Genesis 20 - Abraham sure was a slow learner. Once again he calls Sarah his sister, leading another king to take her into his household as a wife. God again intervenes and saves both Sarah's dignity and preserves his vow with Abraham. I get mad at Abraham when I read this passage, and I get reminded of how easy it is for any of us to stumble, if we are trusting in ourselves instead of God.

Watch What You Say

Today's Reading: Psalm 19, Genesis 19, 1 Chronicles 21:18‐22:19, Luke 12:13‐48

Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.

When I was a new youth pastor, serving a church outside of Washington D.C., I had the privilege of meeting a man named Cooper. Cooper had been a pastor for a number of years, and was now working in corporate America. On occasion, Cooper would preach a message at our church. I loved when this man spoke. He had a tender heart for God and a real passion for the Word.

One of the things I'll never forget about Cooper was the way that he prayed before each message. He always ended his prayer with David's words from Psalm 19:14: Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.

Would that we would all pray such things before we spoke! It might just change the way that God worked through us.

Be Real

Today's Reading: Psalm 18, Genesis 18:16‐33, 1 Chronicles 21:1‐17, Luke 11:37‐12:12

Jesus has harsh words for the Pharisees in Luke 11:37-12:12. The Pharisees were men who honored God with their mouths, but whose hearts were far from God. Jesus saw right through their hypocrisy. It makes me wonder what Jesus might say to those in the church today. The "Woes" that Jesus pronounced on the Pharisees are hard words to read. I don't want to be a person who says all the right stuff about God but doesn't apply it or live it. How about you? How can we be people who are true disciples? What does a true disciple of Jesus look like?

For notes on all of today's readings click here.

Safe!

Today's Reading: Psalm 17, Genesis 18:1‐15, 1 Chronicles 18‐20, Luke 11:1‐36

Psalm 17 - When I was a boy I got lost in a big department store. I was scared to death. I remember running up and down the aisles, searching for my Dad with a look of sheer terror in my eyes. The store security guard must have noticed my fear, because he sought me out and asked what was going on.

I cried, "I can't find my Dad."

The security guard had heard it hundreds of times before, maybe even from another child already that day.

"What's your name, son?"

"Brian."

"Let's call for your Dad over the store intercom."

Little did I know it, but my Dad was desperately searching for me too. When the speakers in the store announced that there was a little lost boy looking for his Daddy, my Dad greeted me at store security.

He wrapped his arms around me and told me how worried he was. Then he kissed me.

We walked out of that store, arm in arm. Under the shadow of my Dad's strong arm, I felt safe.

David felt that way in the arms of God. In Psalm 17:8 we read, "Keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings,"

What a beautiful verse! What a vivid reminder of the Father's love for us. May you find yourself hidden under the shadow of God's wings!

For notes on the rest of today's readings click here.

The Good Samaritan

Today's Reading: Psalm 16, Genesis 17, 1 Chronicles 17, Luke 10:25‐42

For years when I read the parable of the Good Samaritan, I assumed that Jesus was trying to teach us that we were supposed to be like the Good Samaritan, reaching out to those in need, unlike the fake religious leaders who passed the wounded man by. Then I read some fantastic sermons on this passage.

The idea of the parable of the Good Samaritan is that we are the man who has been left half dead. God is the Good Samaritan. We are helpless to do anything about our sinful state unless Jesus comes to rescue us. Jesus has called us to be like Him. To be a Christian literally means to be a "little Christ."

Jesus asked the lawyer who asked the initial question in Luke 10, "Which of these three, do you think, proved to be a neighbor to the man who fell among the robbers?" The man answered that it was the one who showed mercy. Jesus then told him to go and do likewise.

There are surely some people in your life who need to be rescued by Jesus. Will you go find them and bring them to the Savior?

For notes on the rest of today's readings click here.

God Loves To Work Through Us

Today's Reading: Psalm 15, Genesis 16, 1 Chronicles 16:4‐43,Luke 9:51‐10:24

I love Jesus' model of ministry. He sent out the twelve, equipped to do ministry, in Luke 9. Now, at the beginning of Luke 10, He send out the seventy-two. The mandate is the same. These seventy-two, who had followed Jesus closely, were ready to be used by God in the work of ministry.

Like the twelve, when the seventy-two come back, they are excited about what God did through them. They tell Jesus all about demons being subject to the name of Jesus. Jesus exhorts them to not rejoice in their ability to cast out demons in Jesus name as much as in the fact that their names are written down in heaven.

It is a miracle that God would choose to redeem any of us, let alone use us in His service. May we rejoice when God chooses to use us. May we also rejoice continually over the fact that, if we are believers, God has saved us. That is the ultimate thing to rejoice in.

For notes on all of today's readings click here.

"You Give Them Something To Eat"

Today's Reading: Psalm 14, Genesis 15, 1 Chronicles 15:1-16:3, Luke 9:1-50

What an amazing passage of Scripture! Luke 9:1-50 begins with the sending out of the twelve apostles. They were ready to go. Whether they knew it or not, God intended to work through them to do miraculous things.

Jesus would later say that they would do even "greater things" than He had done while on earth.

They come back from their first ministry trip excited! They have seen God work. And, they also come back worn out. It's not uncommon, when serving the Lord, to feel fatigue. Serving God is spiritual battle. It can be intense. It's people work. People can say mean things, or do mean things. Jesus even told his disciples that might happen.

So, even though they come back excited, they are ready for rest. But, when they come back they encounter a crowd of 5,000 men, and many more women and children, who have come to hear Jesus teach and see the disciples. That's right, news had spread about what God was doing through the disciples.

I write all of this to point out something that Jesus said in Luke 9:13. After telling Jesus to send the crowd away, for evening was coming, the disciples were tired, and they were in a desolate place with no food, Jesus said, "You give them something to eat."

The feeding of the 5,000 is one of the most famous stories in the Bible. Have you ever heard a pastor speak about Jesus' first solution to the problem? He said, "You give them something to eat."

The disciples had just been the instruments of God, casting out demons and curing diseases. Jesus knew, if they would let God do it, that the disciples could feed the crowd. The disciples immediately responded to Jesus by showing Him why they couldn't feed the crowd. Jesus then preformed the miracle.

I wonder how many miracles we miss out on because we don't trust the Lord. He wants to do something great, and we miss it. I'm praying that I won't miss my "You give them something to eat" moment.

For notes on all of today's passages click here.

Haiti Response

We have all been shocked and saddened by the crisis that is taking place in Haiti this week. Please prayerfully consider making a donation to the Samaritan's Purse Help for Haiti Quake Victims fund that has been established to bring lifesaving ministries to the people of Haiti. Samaritan's Purse is already on the ground in Haiti making a difference. Very few of us have the ability to leave our homes to go to Haiti and make a difference, but we can provide a few dollars to help fight the devastation. Funds are needed quickly as the needs are so great. You can visit the Samaritan's Purse website by clicking here.

In the meantime, please take the time to watch this video from Franklin Graham.

The Hard Way

Today's Reading: Psalm 13, Genesis 14, 1 Chronicles 14, Luke 8:22‐56

Years ago, DC Talk recorded a song entitled, The Hard Way. It was a song that dealt with the stubbornness of some of us when it came to what God wanted to teach us. Aren't you glad that God loves even stubborn people?

In Psalm 13:5 David writes, "But I have trusted in your steadfast love; my heart shall rejoice in your salvation."

No matter what we do, no matter what our past, no matter what we will do in the future; God's love for us remains steadfast.

As a pastor, I talk to so many hurting people. Not a week goes by where I am not in conversations with people who feel like their entire world is crashing. The good news is, God knows. He knows right where you are. He knows where you have been. He knows right where you will be. And, His love for you remains steadfast.

Wouldn't it be nice if everyone in our lives loved us with that type of love? Without God, that type of love is impossible. The best friendships, the best marriages, the best parent/child relationships, the best jobs are all impacted by love that doesn't remain steadfast.

If God has called us to be like Him, and if His love is steadfast, then by His power, we too can show this kind of love.

So, let's stop learning the hard way. Let's stop running in every direction but the direction that will lead to fulfillment. Run to God's open arms. Let your hear rejoice in His salvation. And, show that type of love to others.

Do You Have A Blog?

Have you taken The Challenge, and do you have a Blog? If so, we'd love to add you to the WCC Blogroll on the right side of this page. E-mail Brian Schulenburg at bschulenburg@wccmn.org, and we'll get your blog added to the WCC Blogroll.

Wanted: Sowers

Today's Reading: Psalm 12, Genesis 13:2‐18, 1 Chronicles 13, Luke 8:4‐21

Luke 8:4-21 - Jesus loved to teach by telling stories. In Luke 8:4-21 he tells us two parables, the Parable of the Sower and the Parable of the Lamp.

The Parable of the Sower talks about several different types of soil that a sower sows his seed on. He throws some seed along the path, and that seed is trampled underfoot. Some seed falls on the rock and quickly withers away because of a lack of moisture. Some falls among thorns and when it grows it is choked out by the roots. Some of the seed falls on good soil and grows and yields a hundredfold.

Many pastor's have preached messages on this passage and said, "What kind of soil are you?"

But, I wonder if the point is less about the soil and more about the sowing. Maybe the point of the parable is that we would become sowers, recognizing that not every seed we throw will bear fruit, but we need to thrown the seed. Remember, the seed is the Word of God. Let's keep working to get His Word heard, but not just heard, let's live incarnationally and let it be seen!

Forgiven

Today's Reading: Psalm 11, Genesis 12‐13:1, 1 Chronicles 12, Luke 7:36‐8:3

Jesus came into this world for sinners. There are few places in Scripture where this is as apparent as Luke 7:36-8:3. The guest of a Pharisee, Jesus seems almost out of place at his table. Jesus is righteous. The Pharisee is self-righteous. Jesus is concerned with matters of the heart. The Pharisee is concerned with matters of the head. Jesus is concerned for all people. The Pharisee is concerned about the "right people." When a sinful woman comes in to anoint Jesus' body with oil, the Pharisee saw only the sin in the woman. Christ saw her faith. Christ saw her potential. Christ saw her as the woman that He created her to be.

I'm glad that Christ came for sinners like me. And, I'm glad he came with the power to forgive. One more thing He saw that the Pharisee didn't -- He saw her forgiven. He saw her redeemed. And, Jesus forgave her. For the first time, we see Jesus say that He has the power to forgive. This was blasphemy to the Pharisee, and jubilee to the woman. Has He forgiven you? He can. 1 John 1:9 tells us that when we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all iniquity. Praise God!

Strengthened By Another's Faith

Today's Reading: Psalm 10, Genesis 11, 1 Chronicles 11, Luke 7:1‐35

John the Baptist sat in a prison cell. He was there because he had spoken against King Herod's sin. He had seen much in his life. God had allowed him to grow up in a godly home. His parents always doted on him. They called him their "miracle child." And, to be fair, he was! Everything about John's life spelled miracle. His birth was announced by an angel. He was born to a couple well past childbearing years. He was filled by the Holy Spirit from the womb. And, despite his strange diet and appearance, and his less than ideal ministry setting, God used him to impact hundreds, perhaps thousands of people.

Crowds used to come to see John in droves. Now all that saw him were a few prison guards, some disciples who occasionally visited him, and his fellow prisoners. Jail gave him lots of time to think. Was Jesus really who John thought that He was? It had been so clear. At the baptism of Jesus, God the Father and God the Holy Spirit were present. Jesus had been so tender and yet powerful with his words. But that didn't change John's location. "Why?" John must have thought. "Why has God put me here?"

Even spiritual giants can have doubts from time to time. John the Baptist was no exception. In Luke 7:20, two of John's disciples are sent to ask Jesus if He really is the one who is to come (the Messiah). Why did John ask this? Because he needed reassurance.

Jesus gave John reassurance. Just before the disciples of John found Jesus, he had done something spectacular. He had healed a centurion's servant and raised a widow's son from the dead.

Jesus knew John would have doubts. He knew John's friends would come to find Him in that town. And, He healed and raised the dead not just as a blessing to those families impacted by the healing and resurrection, but as a blessing to John as he sat in that prison cell.

Sometimes God encourages us by allowing us to see what He is doing in the lives of others. Has he done that for you? If so, thank Him for it, and rejoice while others rejoice.

Breach of Faith

Today's Reading: Psalm 9, Genesis 9:20-10:32; 1 Chronicles 10; Luke 6:17-49

Saul was Israel's first king. He didn't reach that position because of birth. He became king, because God chose him to be king. And, he began as a fine king.

But, as the years went by, Saul became power hungry and broke his faith in the Lord. He even consulted a medium, seeking guidance. 1 Chronicles 10 is the sad story of Saul's death, and not only Saul's death but the death of his armor bearer and his three sons.

This morning in church we talked about God's judgement. We like to talk about God's grace and love, but His judgement is a topic we tend to ignore. Scripture doesn't sugarcoat the wrath of God. It's seen in many places in the Old Testament and New Testament, including in the chroniclers theological explanation of Saul's death in 1 Chronicles 10:13-14. Reread verses 13-14 now.

"13 So Saul died for his breach of faith. He broke faith with the Lord in that he did not keep the command of the Lord, and also consulted a medium, seeking guidance. 14 He did not seek guidance from the Lord. Therefore the Lord put him to death and turned the kingdom over to David the son of Jesse."

Does God's wrath motivate you to share Him with others? Does it confuse you? Does it surprise you?

A.W. Tozer's words from his classic work, The Knowledge of the Holy might help you as you think about God's wrath. Read these words and record your thoughts in our comment section:

“God’s compassion flows out of His goodness, and goodness without justice is not goodness. God spares us because He is good, but He could not be good if He were not just. . . God’s justice stands forever against the sinner in utter severity. The value and tenuous hope that God is too kind to punish the ungodly has become a deadly opiate for the consciences of millions. It hushes their fears and allows them to practice all pleasant forms of iniquity while death draws every day nearer and the command to repent goes unregarded. As responsible moral beings we dare not to so trifle with our eternal future.”

When Righteousness Invaded

Today's Reading: Psalm 8, Genesis 8:20‐9:19, 1 Chronicles 9, Luke 5:1‐6:16

Luke 5:1-6:16 records the calling of the first disciples. Our precious Lord chose ordinary men to follow Him as His disciples. And, their response to follow often times came because of that they had seen Him do. I find it interesting that Jesus came to save sinners, but Simon Peter, after seeing the miracle of the fish said, "Depart from me, I am a sinful man, O Lord." Jesus didn't want to depart from Peter, He wanted to save him. He came here because we needed Him. He came for sinful men and women.

These chapters really help us understand that it was because of to redeem sinful men that Jesus came to earth. Simon was right to ask Jesus to depart from his presence, because he felt guilty about his life. Jesus redeems Simon, and also offers this redemption to us.

I love after the calling of Matthew, the tax collector, that the Pharisees and Scribes accuse Jesus of hanging out with sinners. Jesus responds beautifully by explaining the the righteous don't need a doctor, the sick do. He came for sinners.

Luke, the doctor, is quick to point out the miraculous healings that took place in this chapter. These healings were needed because of the effects of the fall of man. Sin brought death, and Christ brings life. Embrace His gift of life today!

Who Is Your Refuge?

Today's Reading: Psalm 7, Genesis 8:1-19, 1 Chronicles 8, Luke 4:14-44

What does it mean to take refuge in the Lord? David paints a beautiful picture of the safety that comes from following God in Psalm 7. I love verses one and two.

"O Lord my God, in you do I take refuge; save me from all my pursuers and deliver me, lest like a lion they tear my soul apart, rending it in pieces, with none to deliver."

These verses bring to mind a youtube video that took the Internet by storm a few years back. A group of tourists were on an African safari when they came upon a pitiful scene. A pack of wildebeests were trying to cross a pond at Kruger Animal Park in South Africa when a juvenile wildebeest escaped from the herd. A pride of lions was lurking in the nearby grass, waiting for an opportunity to attack. The video shows the attack and what happened next. Watch it. The ending is incredible. And, it's a beautiful picture of the safety that comes when we take refuge. God is our ultimate refuge, the only One who will never fail us?



How has God been your Refuge?

Only Noah Was Left . . .

Today's Readings are: Psalm 6, Genesis 7, 1 Chronicles 7, Luke 3:23:-4:13

Genesis 7 ends with these words, "Only Noah was left, and those who were with him in the ark. And the waters prevailed on the earth 150 days."

It got me thinking . . .

"Noah, it's time."

"Lord, is that you?"

"Yes, Noah. Go into the ark, you and all your household, for I have seen that you are righteous before me in this generation. . ."

"It's time. It's really time," Noah thought to himself as he hastily rushed the animals onto the ark.

It was so surreal. Animals were coming to him, and this huge vessel that he and his sons had built. The jeers and taunts of godless friends and neighbors had taken their toll over the years. There had been more than one discussion with his wife and sons over just how God expected them to endure under such hostility. They had felt like fools on more than one occasion. But now, even as they saw the miracle of the animals coming, all Noah felt was sadness.

Why had the people turned their backs upon God? Why was it that only Noah and his family could hear the voice of God? The distractions of the world had so drowned out the voice of God in the lives of the people.

Those distractions would soon be gone. The lust of the flesh would soon be replaced with rotting of flesh. God's judgment was sure to come. God always kept His promises. Noah felt sad.

God said that he would send rain, whatever that was, for forty days and forty nights and every living thing that he had made would be blotted out from the face of the earth.

Noah had never seen God so angry. He had walked with God for all 600 years of his life. He had seen such a change in the people during those years. A people who just a couple hundred years back had served and followed God had forgotten about Him.

"Forgotten, Dad? Forgotten, or ignored?" It was the voice of Shem. Shem, one of Noah's triplets had always had a special place in Noah's heart. He asked good questions. He, like Noah, loved the Lord.

"I suppose, ignored would be the better word, son? The evidence of God is all around, isn't it? How can you see the sunrise and forget the Creator? How can you see these magnificent beasts, and ignore the Lord?"

Just an hour before, Shem had been talking with his brothers about the dinosaurs that entered the ark so peacefully. These were indeed fascinating times. Shem wondered about the effects of this impending judgment on the big meat eaters like the dinosaurs. How would they survive? And, if they did, how would the other animals survive. It was so complicated. And so. . . sad. So, sad.

When the last of the animals boarded the ark it happened. Rain came. "So this is what rain is," thought Noah. It was drops of water at first, but within moments it became violent. The best way to describe it is that the fountains of the great deep burst fourth and the windows of heaven were opened.

The screams were awful. There were a few who knocked on the ark begging for mercy. But, God had shut the door. The people had their chance long ago. And the people chose pleasure, temporary pleasure, over God.

There wasn't just weeping on the outside of the ark, there was weeping in the ark too. Weeping for everyone, EVERYONE, else on planet earth. Weeping that God had chosen this family to survive while all else perished. Weeping that life would be so lonely. And, there was hope. Hope that God would do something new. Hope that this line of people would stay faithful to God. Hope that never again would the earth choose to reject God like this.

Only Noah was left, and those who were with him on the ark. And the waters prevailed on the earth 150 days.

A Faithful Remnant

Today's Readings are: Psalm 5, Genesis 6, 1 Chronicles 6, Luke 3:1-22

Genesis 6 is a sad chapter. It teaches us much about the holiness of God. Our wickedness grieves God. It always has and always will. But, there are those in every generation who find favor in the eyes of God. I've heard it said that God has a remnant who are faithful to Him in every generation. It's tragic, that in the days of Noah, that remnant consisted only of His family. It's interesting to note here too that the progression of man's sin was so grave that, according to verse 5, "every intention of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually."

Does it ever feel to you like this world is becoming a place like that? My heart broke this morning as I drove into work, listening to Minneapolis talk radio, and heard nothing but wickedness coming from my radio. The hosts were joking about how uptight Christians were about things that God clearly calls sin. May we, like Noah, be people who find favor in the eyes of the Lord.

I'm preaching through the life of Elijah at WCC right now. One of the marks of Elijah has been his continued obedience to God, no matter what it was that God asked him to do.

Noah was like this. The chapter ends with this verse: "Noah did this; he did all that God commanded him." May we do likewise!

Staying Silent

Today's Readings are: Psalm 4, Genesis 5, 1 Chronicles 5, Luke 2:22-52

I love Psalm 4! It gives us such a proper understanding of how to respond when people speak lies about us.

I have a friend who has had such terrible lies spread about him over the years. I remember asking him once, "Why don't you just set the record straight? Why not go after the people who are spreading lies about you? You could have your attorney threaten to sue them for defamation of character."

He responded, "Brian, it wouldn't be worth it. I'd be playing into their game. God is watching over me. He knows the truth, and He will reveal the truth in time."

This man was a great example of Psalm 4:4 - "Be angry, and do not sin; ponder in your own hearts on your beds, and be silent."

Sometimes it is so tough to be silent. When everything in you wants to scream at the person who has hurt you, remember the words of David. And, if you live by those words maybe like David, and my friend, you'll be able to say Psalm 4:8 with a pure heart, claiming it as your verse:

"In peace I will both lie down and sleep; for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety."

The Prayer of Jabez

Today's Readings are: Psalm 3, Genesis 4, 1 Chronicles 4, Luke 2:1-21

I had forgotten the fact that in the middle of 1 Chronicles 4, and the listing of the genealogies, Jabez appears. I love the two verses that talk about his life. In 1 Chronicles 4:9-10, Jabez shows himself to be more honorable than his brothers. His name wouldn't have given a contemporary of his any indication that he was special, for it means that his mother bore him in pain.

But, his life must have been a delight to his mother. For, his life was a delight to God. Honor delights the Lord.

I want to be a man who lives a life that honors God. Jabez prayed for four very specific things in 1 Chronicles 4:10.

1) He prayed for God to bless him. Sometimes we are afraid to pray about such things. I remember hearing Louie Giglio speak once about prayer, and he encouraged us not to pray for God's blessings, because we have already been blessed. To be fair, Giglio was trashing trite prayers that a lot of people pray. I agree, we can't be careless in our prayer. And, we do need to recognize that God has already blessed us in incredible ways. But, Jabez's prayer would indicate that it is okay to ask God to bless you.

2) Jabez asked God to enlarge his border. This means that Jabez asked God to bless him specifically around the area of wealth and influence.

3) Jabez asked God to put his hand on him. He wanted his life to be marked by the working of God in his life. He wanted it to be clear that God was working in and through him.

4) Jabez asked for God to keep him from harm, so that he might not have pain.

In some ways, Jabez's prayer sounds like a lot of prayers that I have heard people pray over the years. God chose to grant what he asked.

God could have said, "No."

Jabez prayer is not a prescription for how all Christians should pray. It is one example of a prayer that God chose to bless. But, I believe God blessed the prayer because Jabez asked for it with a pure heart. As an honorable man, he wanted to use what he had to advance the cause of Christ. Could I say the same when I pray such a prayer? And would I be content if God's answer was, "No. I'm going to allow you to go through hardship to be an example to others about living for me and living by faith in difficult circumstances."

How do you feel about asking for God to bless you when you pray? How do you respond when God doesn't give you what you asked for? What surprises you about the prayer of Jabez?

When God Is Silent

Today's Readings are: Psalm 2, Genesis 3, 1 Chronicles 3, Luke 1:57-80

Have you ever had a time in your life where God felt absent? Maybe you are going through a season like that right now. Imagine what it must have felt like to be the Children of Israel. You are a proud nation. You have been called the Chosen People. Throughout your history, God has delivered you time and time again from the hand of oppressors, and then, due primarily to your sin and rebellion, God is silent.

Such was the case with the nation of Israel in the 400 year period of silence between the Old and New Testaments.

Public worship continued during those years. The people had been delivered from one group of oppressors, only to now feel the oppression of the Roman government. And, God's voice was sorely missed.

As you read the conclusion of Zechariah's story today in Luke 1, think about how the people must have felt when they saw God speak through Zechariah. They were cleary moved by what they saw. Pay close attention to Luke 1:65-66.

How do you respond when God is silent?

His silence doesn't mean that He loves you any less. Sometimes God's silence is there to draw us closer to Him. He will speak to us through His Word if we will let Him. He will speak to us through other Christians too. And, sometimes He speaks in a still, small voice; gently leading us as we pray. What is God speaking to you about today? Spending time with Him? Follwing Him closer? Taking that step that you should have made long ago? Take the step of faith and follow Him.

For Extra Thought: Today you read Genesis 3 and Luke 1:57-80. Both chapters speak about the coming Messiah. In the Genesis passage, man had just sinned and by the Luke passage the people had been waiting for thousands of years for Messiah. The effects of sin in those thousands of years were tragic. In the 2,000 years since Messiah has come, we have once again become a people who neglect God. The Bible tells us that Messiah is coming again. May His coming be soon, but until that time, may we be a people who fearlessly and courageously live for Him, no matter what the rest of the world does.

Blessings and Curses

Today's readings are: Psalm 1; Genesis 2; 1 Chronicles 2; Luke 1:26-56

Our family was driving across the country yesterday from Colorado Springs, Colorado to Eden Prairie, Minnesota. As we drove, my wife read The Challenge passages for January 1st. At the conclusion of her reading she looked at me, smiled, and said, "One down, 364 to go!"

She didn't say it with a look of stress at how difficult it might be to read through the Bible in a year, but with a face that said, "This is such a blessing! I can't wait to see what God does in us over the course of this year."

So, how are you feeling? Some of you may have taken this challenge as a sort of New Year's resolution, and even though it is only day number two, you are already tempted to give up. Don't give up! If you already missed a day, catch up and keep trying. It's never easy to start a new good habit; especially a spiritual habit that will help you grow in your faith. But, it's worth it!

Near the end of his life, Patrick Henry, that famous statesman who stood up so prominently for freedom in the American Revolution, said, “I have now bequeathed all my property to my family. There is one thing more I wish I could give them and that is faith in Jesus Christ. If they had that and I had not given them a single shilling, they would have been rich; and if they had not that, and I had given them all the world, they would be poor indeed.” Do you feel the same way that Patrick Henry did?

Today's reading begins in Psalm 1. I love the way that God inspired the pslamist as he wrote this psalm. This entire Psalm blows me away with its simplicity and practical truth. How many people have been led astray by the company that they keep? God makes it so clear in this first psalm that our delight, our purpose, and our meaning stem from Him.

To the Jewish person, Torah, the law, (Genesis-Deuteronomy) represented the way, the truth and the life. The law was revered. It was worth giving one's all to. I wonder if we feel the same way.

The results of living a life with God's purposes is shown in verse 3. We bear fruit. We prosper in what we do, because our lives are about bringing glory and honor to Him. Does that prospering always happen this side of heaven? I wish. But, biblical prosperity must be understood in the context of eternity. Our lives on earth are but a blip. But, don't mistake it. That blip matters to God. We must be a people who live for Him on this side of eternity to experience prosperity on the other side of eternity. Bruce Wilkinson's book, A Life God Rewards is a good study on spiritual rewards.

The last reading for today is Luke 1:26-56. I love that our readings are bookended by Psalm 1 and Luke 1:26-56. Mary was a righteous woman. She was a woman who followed God. She grew up in Nazareth, a terrible town if there ever was one. Nazareth was better known for its houses of prostitution than its houses of worship. But, Mary lived a righteous life in that unrighteous city. In verse 50, after seeing God work and after spending time with her cousin Elizabeth, Mary sang a song of worship to God. The song actually encompasses verses 46-55, but verse 50 gives us a clue into Mary's character. She sings that God's mercy is for those who "fear him from generation to generation."

Mary understood what Psalm 1 was all about. She understood what it meant to fear God and honor Him.

The 1 Chronicles passage is a genealogy. If you look closely you'll see the terrible results that happened when some of the men and women in the genealogy chose to not follow in God's paths.

As you read today, ask yourself, "What does my life say about what I truly believe? Would those who know me best say that I live a life that recognizes and honors God, or is it all about me? Is my life yielding eternal blessings or curses?"

Remember to share your thoughts in the comments section of this blog. It's a great way to see what God is teaching us as a congregation.

It's All About God

Today's readings are: Ecclesiastes 3:1-8; Genesis 1; 1 Chronicles 1; Luke 1:1-25

The big day has arrived! Today is the first day of The Challenge 2010. I love that we begin by reading Ecclesiastes 3:1-8, a passage that many of you have thought about during different periods of your life.

There is a time for everything. . .

A New Year is a good time to reflect. It is a time to think about where we have been over the course of the past year. It is a time to think about what lies ahead. And, it is a time to look within. What does that look within reveal about you?

It's this looking within that has caused many of us to say, "2010 is the year that I do it! This is the year that God gets to be priority #1. This is the year that I make a concerted effort to know and understand Him as never before."

Your reading today includes Genesis 1. In the first chapter of the Bible we shown the incredible power of God in creation. It takes only four words in our English Bibles before the Subject of the Bible is introduced . . . God. The Hebrew word is Elohim. The Bible is about God. History is His story. Whether we want to admit it or not, everything is about God.

The opening line of A. W. Tozer's classic book, The Knowledge of the Holy says, "What comes to mind when you think about God is the most important thing about you."

So, what is it going to be? Is 2010 going to be all about you, or all about Him?

What do today's readings teach you about God? What new insights have you gained about God by spending time with Him today?

For more insights on what I learned as I read, you can visit my personal blog by clicking here.