As we finish this week of reflections on Pastor Richie's sermon, I'd like to share a few final thoughts drawn from Luke 13:1-9.
Every tree has leaves, so leaves are not the barometer for measuring the productivity of a fruit tree. As Pastor Benji shared last year, there is a difference between horticulture and agriculture: the fig tree is only useful if it produces edible figs. (There's a wonderful passage in Deuteronomy 20:19-20 that illustrates God's directive to Israel concerning the treatment of fruit-bearing trees- I encourage you to check it out.)
"Kairos" ("opportune time", in Luke 13:1) is a word that every Christian should be conscious of. There is an appointed time, an opportunity, when we are called to act swiftly and decisively, or else the chance will be lost forever. When God places us in environments where we are given His attention and care, it behooves us to recognize the kairos moment and seek to bear fruit for the kingdom of God.
The call to cut down the tree came unexpectedly. In our culture we use the phrase "out of the blue"- implying that it's just another beautiful sunny day, not a cloud in the sky, not a care in the world, and all of a sudden destruction comes. It was the experience of those at the tower of Siloam (Luke 13:4) and those whose end came at the hand of Pilate (Luke 13:1-2). And, if we get comfortable in our lack of productivity, we too will find ourselves suddenly cut off (Luke 13:7-8).
The gift of Christ's intercession: we are grateful for His intervening grace, expressed in the request for "one more year" (Luke 13:8). Though He has the right to judge us immediately, He extends His mercy and gives us ample opportunity to bear fruit.
Blessings and peace to each of you, my friends. Lord willing, we'll be back on Tuesday.
Saturday, May 30, 2009
Friday, May 29, 2009
Busy But Barren.
As we continue our thoughts on this past Sunday's sermon, let's unpack one of the points Pastor Richie made: There is either real fruit or no fruit.
Luke 13:1-9 is one of those passages that makes you pause and think about your own standing in Christ. Its refrain, "Unless you repent you likewise will perish" (see verses 3 and 5), is a serious warning for all of us who claim to be in the center of Christ's will. Like the fig tree in the parable, we learn that it is possible to be in the middle of everything, in the best possible location for productivity, yet still not produce any fruit for the kingdom of God.
On of the challenges we face is that some believers think they can produce, out of their own merits, an artificial "fruit-like" substance that makes it appear as if they are walking in obedience to the mandate of God. They show up in church every Sunday, they are active in choirs or classes, they are deeply expressive and knowledgeable about the word of God, and they might even be quick to volunteer for service activities. But when God checks on them, they are found to be lacking: all leaves, no fruit. They are on the road to being cut down.
Scripture informs us that the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). When the Spirit is present, when He dwells in us, His fruit is manifested. The soul who lives in anger, impatience, recklessness, and selfishness is not demonstrating the fruit of the Spirit.
Pastor Richie said it well: there is no fake fruit, and there is no "almost" fruit. God is the caretaker in the garden of our lives: He knows what He has poured into us, and He knows what we are releasing into the world. My friends, I pray that each of us who claim to know Him will be found living for Him, looking like Him, and loving through Him.
Luke 13:1-9 is one of those passages that makes you pause and think about your own standing in Christ. Its refrain, "Unless you repent you likewise will perish" (see verses 3 and 5), is a serious warning for all of us who claim to be in the center of Christ's will. Like the fig tree in the parable, we learn that it is possible to be in the middle of everything, in the best possible location for productivity, yet still not produce any fruit for the kingdom of God.
On of the challenges we face is that some believers think they can produce, out of their own merits, an artificial "fruit-like" substance that makes it appear as if they are walking in obedience to the mandate of God. They show up in church every Sunday, they are active in choirs or classes, they are deeply expressive and knowledgeable about the word of God, and they might even be quick to volunteer for service activities. But when God checks on them, they are found to be lacking: all leaves, no fruit. They are on the road to being cut down.
Scripture informs us that the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). When the Spirit is present, when He dwells in us, His fruit is manifested. The soul who lives in anger, impatience, recklessness, and selfishness is not demonstrating the fruit of the Spirit.
Pastor Richie said it well: there is no fake fruit, and there is no "almost" fruit. God is the caretaker in the garden of our lives: He knows what He has poured into us, and He knows what we are releasing into the world. My friends, I pray that each of us who claim to know Him will be found living for Him, looking like Him, and loving through Him.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Freed To Feed.
As we continue our reflections on this past Sunday's sermon, let's take some time today to think about the value of bearing fruit (Luke 13:1-9). Pastor Richie shared some key points with us:
Fruit is undeniable evidence. It is a manifestation, a proof, that something has occurred. A change has taken place, and the tree has been transferred from barrenness to life.
Fruit is always a verifier. If you aren't sure what sort of a "tree" you're dealing with, just wait a few months: the fruit it bears will speak and not lie.
Fruit is never "for" the tree. Do farmers plow pureed fruit into the soil to feed their trees? No, the tree's fruit is designed to be given away to those "other than" itself.
Our mission is to show the world that God has transformed us by His Spirit.
Our mission is to be living demonstrations of the truth and power of God.
Our mission is to give ourselves away, sharing the gospel of Jesus with those who are unlike ourselves.
The fig tree without figs is a picture of pure selfishness: taking up space and energy, but offering nothing in return. And God has warned us that there is no place in His kingdom for those who are unproductive.
So, what are you doing? Are you producing fruit, or just pretty leaves?
Fruit is undeniable evidence. It is a manifestation, a proof, that something has occurred. A change has taken place, and the tree has been transferred from barrenness to life.
Fruit is always a verifier. If you aren't sure what sort of a "tree" you're dealing with, just wait a few months: the fruit it bears will speak and not lie.
Fruit is never "for" the tree. Do farmers plow pureed fruit into the soil to feed their trees? No, the tree's fruit is designed to be given away to those "other than" itself.
Our mission is to show the world that God has transformed us by His Spirit.
Our mission is to be living demonstrations of the truth and power of God.
Our mission is to give ourselves away, sharing the gospel of Jesus with those who are unlike ourselves.
The fig tree without figs is a picture of pure selfishness: taking up space and energy, but offering nothing in return. And God has warned us that there is no place in His kingdom for those who are unproductive.
So, what are you doing? Are you producing fruit, or just pretty leaves?
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
"Fig"-ure Of Speech.
"Sir, the man replied, leave it alone for one more year..." (Luke 13:8)
In this past Sunday's sermon Pastor Richie made some insightful comments about the parable of the fig tree in Luke 13. Here are a few thoughts for us to reflect upon today:
Where are you today? Are you bearing fruit that is useful to the kingdom of God? Or are you displaying lush leaves with no fruit to be found anywhere? Or have you been outside of God's will for so long that He has already cut you down, but you don't even realize it?
Lord, help us to obey You, to produce lasting fruit, to benefit Your kingdom.
In this past Sunday's sermon Pastor Richie made some insightful comments about the parable of the fig tree in Luke 13. Here are a few thoughts for us to reflect upon today:
- Why would a fig tree be planted in a vineyard?
- There is a difference between growth and productivity.
- Not uprooted, but cut down.
Where are you today? Are you bearing fruit that is useful to the kingdom of God? Or are you displaying lush leaves with no fruit to be found anywhere? Or have you been outside of God's will for so long that He has already cut you down, but you don't even realize it?
Lord, help us to obey You, to produce lasting fruit, to benefit Your kingdom.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Grace, Period.
This week we'll reflect on this past Sunday's sermon, in which Pastor Richie spoke on Luke 13:1-9.
I think it might be good for us to begin at the end. Pastor Richie did not give his sermon title until the sermon was nearly over, and it was a title that reminded us of the prophetic warnings we have heard from both home and guest preachers: "One More Chance To Live".
There is something to be said for the mercy and grace of God, the One who has chosen to be patient with us and allow us extended periods of time for confession of sin, repentance from works that lead to death, and continued growth and development in our faith journey. God has been more gracious to us than we could ever deserve. I hope we all know that.
But, in this experience of grace, there is the warning of judgement to come. The grace of God is here so that we might heed His word and fall in line with His mandates concerning our life. The grace of God is here in super-sized measure, because the day will soon come when it's too late to change. We've reflected on the significance of Noah's ark in previous blogs, and it bears repeating: when God closes the door, it's all over. And God leaves the door open as long as possible, wooing us to come into His safety before the "rains and floods", the punishment for our sins, comes to pass.
Let's take Pastor Richie's question seriously: How long should God have to wait for you to obey Him?
I think it might be good for us to begin at the end. Pastor Richie did not give his sermon title until the sermon was nearly over, and it was a title that reminded us of the prophetic warnings we have heard from both home and guest preachers: "One More Chance To Live".
There is something to be said for the mercy and grace of God, the One who has chosen to be patient with us and allow us extended periods of time for confession of sin, repentance from works that lead to death, and continued growth and development in our faith journey. God has been more gracious to us than we could ever deserve. I hope we all know that.
But, in this experience of grace, there is the warning of judgement to come. The grace of God is here so that we might heed His word and fall in line with His mandates concerning our life. The grace of God is here in super-sized measure, because the day will soon come when it's too late to change. We've reflected on the significance of Noah's ark in previous blogs, and it bears repeating: when God closes the door, it's all over. And God leaves the door open as long as possible, wooing us to come into His safety before the "rains and floods", the punishment for our sins, comes to pass.
Let's take Pastor Richie's question seriously: How long should God have to wait for you to obey Him?
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Ceding Cornwall, Part Two: Deliverance From Reputation.
Friends, by now you will have noticed that I always refer to pastors and speakers by their first name (or nickname) when I'm blogging. I think there is some relief, some peace, in the presence of informality. Additionally, I really don't want to have one set of blogging rules for pastors who are my friends and a different set of rules for pastors who are visitors.
I blog on a first-name basis because when I give up my family name, I give up the rights and privileges and associations that come with it. I'm just Genise. There is no reason for you to care about who I belong to or what "great" things my family is known for. My hope is that you will love me because of the love of Christ Jesus working in and through you. My hope is that you'll hear me and read my work not because of personal or denominational connections, but because the Lord is gracing us with His presence.
In Philippians 3, as well as in Acts 26, Paul reminds us of his past: I had a great reputation. You all know how I grew up. Ah, but then Christ appeared! And in Christ's appearing to Paul on the road to Damascus, an amazing thing happened: nothing else mattered. Dr. Kirkpatrick used the term "tectonic shift": the power of Jesus appears, transforms us, and liberates us. And we are never the same. We can't go back to what we used to be. The fame, the accolades, the attention... it's all worthless. It can't compare to the joy of abiding in Christ.
Friends, are you abiding in Christ? If you are, then don't worry about people knowing your name. In fact, let's pray that they forget your name, and that only Jesus will shine forth in their hearts. People of great reputation carry the risk of being turned into idols, and as was shared in a sermon some months ago (and, ironically, I have to call a name because I'm quoting Pastor Sam directly), "God has a way of making competing idols fall on their faces" (see First Samuel 5).
Jesus made Himself of no reputation (see Philippians 2:7). What about you?
I blog on a first-name basis because when I give up my family name, I give up the rights and privileges and associations that come with it. I'm just Genise. There is no reason for you to care about who I belong to or what "great" things my family is known for. My hope is that you will love me because of the love of Christ Jesus working in and through you. My hope is that you'll hear me and read my work not because of personal or denominational connections, but because the Lord is gracing us with His presence.
In Philippians 3, as well as in Acts 26, Paul reminds us of his past: I had a great reputation. You all know how I grew up. Ah, but then Christ appeared! And in Christ's appearing to Paul on the road to Damascus, an amazing thing happened: nothing else mattered. Dr. Kirkpatrick used the term "tectonic shift": the power of Jesus appears, transforms us, and liberates us. And we are never the same. We can't go back to what we used to be. The fame, the accolades, the attention... it's all worthless. It can't compare to the joy of abiding in Christ.
Friends, are you abiding in Christ? If you are, then don't worry about people knowing your name. In fact, let's pray that they forget your name, and that only Jesus will shine forth in their hearts. People of great reputation carry the risk of being turned into idols, and as was shared in a sermon some months ago (and, ironically, I have to call a name because I'm quoting Pastor Sam directly), "God has a way of making competing idols fall on their faces" (see First Samuel 5).
Jesus made Himself of no reputation (see Philippians 2:7). What about you?
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
3 Days To Pray: An Urgent Prayer Request For Our State
(This blog post will be up for three days: May 20, 21, and 22. Part Two of "Ceding Cornwall" will post on Saturday.)
Friends, the Lord has really impressed upon me the need for us in the body of Christ to fast and pray against New York Governor David Patterson's intent to allow same-sex couples to marry in New York State.
Governor Patterson has already stated that New York State agencies must recognize same-sex marriages that were performed in other states where such unions are legal. Just last week the New York State Assembly passed a bill legalizing same-sex marriage, and that is the same bill that is currently being addressed by the State Senate. In previous years the New York State Senate has never had enough votes to pass same-sex union bills, but the Governor is being very aggressive in his efforts to pass this bill through the State Senate before they leave for summer break.
Please pray that God will show mercy to our State, and that He will intervene and prevent this bill from becoming law. If you are also able to fast, please fast from at least one of your meals each day over the next three days (Wednesday, Thursday, Friday). If you have the strength, remain in prayer over these remaining six weeks before the close of the 2009 legislative session. As we learned in our Back to Basics classes, God allows us this privilege of participating with Him: our prayers do make a difference in the events of the world. Please pray.
-Genise
Friends, the Lord has really impressed upon me the need for us in the body of Christ to fast and pray against New York Governor David Patterson's intent to allow same-sex couples to marry in New York State.
Governor Patterson has already stated that New York State agencies must recognize same-sex marriages that were performed in other states where such unions are legal. Just last week the New York State Assembly passed a bill legalizing same-sex marriage, and that is the same bill that is currently being addressed by the State Senate. In previous years the New York State Senate has never had enough votes to pass same-sex union bills, but the Governor is being very aggressive in his efforts to pass this bill through the State Senate before they leave for summer break.
Please pray that God will show mercy to our State, and that He will intervene and prevent this bill from becoming law. If you are also able to fast, please fast from at least one of your meals each day over the next three days (Wednesday, Thursday, Friday). If you have the strength, remain in prayer over these remaining six weeks before the close of the 2009 legislative session. As we learned in our Back to Basics classes, God allows us this privilege of participating with Him: our prayers do make a difference in the events of the world. Please pray.
-Genise
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Ceding Cornwall, Part One: Deliverance from School Spirit.
This Sunday's sermon was taken from Philippians 3, and our guest speaker (Dr. Kirkpatrick Coholl, Lenox Road Baptist Church) spent some time looking at the life of Paul: his cultural heritage, his education, his call to ministry, and his understanding that to embrace Christ meant that he must consider his cultural heritage and his educational accomplishments to be worthless.
What irony, to preach such a sermon in the face of a band of men whose affiliation is not Christ, but Cornwall College. I will even go out on a limb and say that if Pastor Sam had not attended that high school, his former classmates probably would not have been in our church this past Sunday.
Please hear me out, and don't send me hate mail- you know I love Pastor Sam and any friend of his is a friend of mine, just as we who are in Christ are all siblings in the kingdom of God. I'm simply making the observation that, in light of Paul's letter to the Philippians, we all have some soul-searching to do concerning the supramundane power known as "school spirit". (That's a task for all of us, even those of us who never attended school, because of the way we act and respond when certain institutions are being discussed.)
I've gotten to the point where I can't stand telling people what school I'm in. I've experienced that when they find out, they treat me differently. It smacks of favoritism, elitism, all those "isms" that create division and stratification. I dread the prospect of ever having to preach in my doctoral robe, and am in fact praying that Tina Scott remains alive and healthy so that, when that day comes, she can make me a nice clergy robe that can't be tracked to any particular educational institution.
What is the prize? Education is not the prize! Cultural heritage is not the prize! Talk to us, Paul: "But whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things" (Philippians 3: 7,8). In the glorious light of God, even the greatest learnings "at the feet of Gamaliel" are nothing (see Acts 5 and Acts 22).
Cornwall, you are nothing in the face of Jesus.
KC, you are worthless in the face of Jesus.
Ivy League, you are a complete loss in the face of Jesus.
At the end of the sermon Dr. Kirkpatrick left us with an amazing thought: Jesus frees us to give up our contacts.
Friends, are you ready to give up your academic connections for the sake of knowing Christ?
What irony, to preach such a sermon in the face of a band of men whose affiliation is not Christ, but Cornwall College. I will even go out on a limb and say that if Pastor Sam had not attended that high school, his former classmates probably would not have been in our church this past Sunday.
Please hear me out, and don't send me hate mail- you know I love Pastor Sam and any friend of his is a friend of mine, just as we who are in Christ are all siblings in the kingdom of God. I'm simply making the observation that, in light of Paul's letter to the Philippians, we all have some soul-searching to do concerning the supramundane power known as "school spirit". (That's a task for all of us, even those of us who never attended school, because of the way we act and respond when certain institutions are being discussed.)
I've gotten to the point where I can't stand telling people what school I'm in. I've experienced that when they find out, they treat me differently. It smacks of favoritism, elitism, all those "isms" that create division and stratification. I dread the prospect of ever having to preach in my doctoral robe, and am in fact praying that Tina Scott remains alive and healthy so that, when that day comes, she can make me a nice clergy robe that can't be tracked to any particular educational institution.
What is the prize? Education is not the prize! Cultural heritage is not the prize! Talk to us, Paul: "But whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things" (Philippians 3: 7,8). In the glorious light of God, even the greatest learnings "at the feet of Gamaliel" are nothing (see Acts 5 and Acts 22).
Cornwall, you are nothing in the face of Jesus.
KC, you are worthless in the face of Jesus.
Ivy League, you are a complete loss in the face of Jesus.
At the end of the sermon Dr. Kirkpatrick left us with an amazing thought: Jesus frees us to give up our contacts.
Friends, are you ready to give up your academic connections for the sake of knowing Christ?
Saturday, May 16, 2009
One. Ordinal. Ordinand.
Today we'll close out our thoughts on Pastor Benji's sermon.
In ecclesiastical language, "ordinal" is a book of instructions for conducting services, or a book of the forms used for the ordination of ministers.
In secular language, "ordinal" refers to order, rank, or position.
Before the fall, Adam and Eve were both number one on the earth.
After the fall, Adam was number one and Eve was number two.
Well, let's fast-forward to 2009 and ask ourselves some questions:
How do I respond to the authorities God has placed over me?
How do I respond to God's authority?
How do I treat God's book of instructions? Am I reading it? Am I living it?
In our fallen state, let us look to Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith (see Hebrews 12:2).
In our fallen state, let us recognize that God is in heaven, and we are on earth: we can trust Him because He is in the highest position (see Ecclesiastes 5:2).
One day, we will reign with Him.
Today, we wait patiently and joyfully.
In ecclesiastical language, "ordinal" is a book of instructions for conducting services, or a book of the forms used for the ordination of ministers.
In secular language, "ordinal" refers to order, rank, or position.
Before the fall, Adam and Eve were both number one on the earth.
After the fall, Adam was number one and Eve was number two.
Well, let's fast-forward to 2009 and ask ourselves some questions:
How do I respond to the authorities God has placed over me?
How do I respond to God's authority?
How do I treat God's book of instructions? Am I reading it? Am I living it?
In our fallen state, let us look to Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith (see Hebrews 12:2).
In our fallen state, let us recognize that God is in heaven, and we are on earth: we can trust Him because He is in the highest position (see Ecclesiastes 5:2).
One day, we will reign with Him.
Today, we wait patiently and joyfully.
Friday, May 15, 2009
New Game. New Rules. New Jerusalem.
Let's continue our reflections on Pastor Benji's sermon.
After the fall, Eve was served three judgements for her role in disobeying God's command:
Physical- she would experience pain in childbirth;
Psychological- she would experience desire and longing for her husband;
Political/Social- she would experience being demoted from her position of shared leadership.
We have a gracious God, and He is able to fully restore all the things that were lost in the fall. We are promised an eternity with Christ, and His word speaks of heaven- the place where there is no pain, the place where we have no other longings because Christ Himself is our sustenance, the place where there is no "battle of the sexes" because we have all become one in Christ (see Revelation 21:3-7).
Oh Lord, how we long for that day! We hear You say, "And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give every man according as his work shall be" (Revelation 22:12).
Yes, we wait in faith. And we work honestly. And we walk in the way that pleases You.
Yes. We will see You soon.
After the fall, Eve was served three judgements for her role in disobeying God's command:
Physical- she would experience pain in childbirth;
Psychological- she would experience desire and longing for her husband;
Political/Social- she would experience being demoted from her position of shared leadership.
We have a gracious God, and He is able to fully restore all the things that were lost in the fall. We are promised an eternity with Christ, and His word speaks of heaven- the place where there is no pain, the place where we have no other longings because Christ Himself is our sustenance, the place where there is no "battle of the sexes" because we have all become one in Christ (see Revelation 21:3-7).
Oh Lord, how we long for that day! We hear You say, "And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give every man according as his work shall be" (Revelation 22:12).
Yes, we wait in faith. And we work honestly. And we walk in the way that pleases You.
Yes. We will see You soon.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Before The Fall...
- the creation of man in the image of God
- shared leadership/rulership
- responsible stewardship
- divine blessing
- abundant resources
- relational harmony
WOW, that could preach all by itself. Let's pause here and think about these amazing gifts God gave, knowing that we would turn from Him... Oh, how we love You God!
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Banished. Burdened. Bereaved. Blessed.
One of the salient, encouraging points from this past Sunday's sermon was that of the amazing grace of God. Pastor Benji shared with us that, in spite of the losses and sufferings Eve experienced, she still credited God for bringing joy to her heart once again: "God has granted me another child in place of Abel, since Cain killed him" (Genesis 4:25).
In the face of having one son murdered and one son an exiled murderer, Eve received the gracious gift of a third son to be in the household. We don't have too many direct quotes from Eve in scripture, but this we do have: her testimony of God's role in the children she bore. The beginning of Genesis 4 has the same testimony as its end. Eve says, "With the help of the LORD I have brought forth a man" (Genesis 4:1).
Eve. Banished from the garden, burdened by the curse of pain in childbirth, bereaved of two sons, yet still able to praise God for one blessing: the life of the third son Seth. We often comment on Eve having been deceived by the serpent, but this past Sunday we were reminded of her more noble characteristic: she gave God the praise that was due to Him.
Friends, in spite your sorrow over what was lost, I hope you'll find a way to praise God for what you've gained.
In the face of having one son murdered and one son an exiled murderer, Eve received the gracious gift of a third son to be in the household. We don't have too many direct quotes from Eve in scripture, but this we do have: her testimony of God's role in the children she bore. The beginning of Genesis 4 has the same testimony as its end. Eve says, "With the help of the LORD I have brought forth a man" (Genesis 4:1).
Eve. Banished from the garden, burdened by the curse of pain in childbirth, bereaved of two sons, yet still able to praise God for one blessing: the life of the third son Seth. We often comment on Eve having been deceived by the serpent, but this past Sunday we were reminded of her more noble characteristic: she gave God the praise that was due to Him.
Friends, in spite your sorrow over what was lost, I hope you'll find a way to praise God for what you've gained.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Closed For Inventory.
Pastor Benji spoke on Genesis 2 this past Sunday, and we'll begin this week's blogs considering some thoughts from the sermon.
It is God's presence that sustains us. God is our provider, healer, and friend.
But God is also our judge. In the early chapters of Genesis we see how He responds to the disobedience (and subsequent excuse)s of Adam, Eve, and their firstborn son Cain.
Sometimes, in the midst of abundant provision, wholeness, and love, we live as if God's not watching. We embrace the thing He has told us not to touch. And, when He calls us to Himself, we run and try to hide from the only One who can save us.
What about you? Are you walking with Him, or hiding from His presence?
It is God's presence that sustains us. God is our provider, healer, and friend.
But God is also our judge. In the early chapters of Genesis we see how He responds to the disobedience (and subsequent excuse)s of Adam, Eve, and their firstborn son Cain.
Sometimes, in the midst of abundant provision, wholeness, and love, we live as if God's not watching. We embrace the thing He has told us not to touch. And, when He calls us to Himself, we run and try to hide from the only One who can save us.
What about you? Are you walking with Him, or hiding from His presence?
Saturday, May 9, 2009
Attitude Adjustment
"We must live the lifestyle of humility, brokenness, yieldedness, and surrender." -Reverend Julius
Friends,
There are people I pray for constantly, people I pray for regularly, and people I pray for occasionally. Today I want to tell you about someone I had never prayed for. I first met him last year and was taken aback by his hard attitude and overt lack of love for pastors. I did not pray for him in 2008, not even once. You know the old saying about first impressions? This individual made a lousy first impression. He reflected negativity, and I refused to be bothered with him.
But, he is my brother in the Lord. The greatest, most loving thing I can do is pray for him. I believe that as I pray, God intervenes. And, whether through counsel or crisis, God will make His voice heard. Three days ago I added this man to my prayer list. Better late than never! I and my brother are in the same boat: we desperately need Christ to transform us from glory to glory. God, help us all.
Special thanks to Reverend Julius for reminding us of the need for humility, brokenness, yieldedness, and surrender- the attitude adjustment that pays off in untold blessings.
I love you! See you on the blog next Tuesday, Lord willing.
Genise
Friends,
There are people I pray for constantly, people I pray for regularly, and people I pray for occasionally. Today I want to tell you about someone I had never prayed for. I first met him last year and was taken aback by his hard attitude and overt lack of love for pastors. I did not pray for him in 2008, not even once. You know the old saying about first impressions? This individual made a lousy first impression. He reflected negativity, and I refused to be bothered with him.
But, he is my brother in the Lord. The greatest, most loving thing I can do is pray for him. I believe that as I pray, God intervenes. And, whether through counsel or crisis, God will make His voice heard. Three days ago I added this man to my prayer list. Better late than never! I and my brother are in the same boat: we desperately need Christ to transform us from glory to glory. God, help us all.
Special thanks to Reverend Julius for reminding us of the need for humility, brokenness, yieldedness, and surrender- the attitude adjustment that pays off in untold blessings.
I love you! See you on the blog next Tuesday, Lord willing.
Genise
Friday, May 8, 2009
It's A Wrap.
(with apologies to the "midnight" crew for the late post...)
Here are the blessings from Reverend Julius's sermon, "The Blessings Of Obedience".
1. Mercy & covenant
2. Spiritual & physical prosperity
3. Protection & provision
4. Passing the test of faith
5. Exaltation & removal of the fear of death
6. Grace
7. Learning to suffer
8. Sanctification
9. Cleansing
10. Peace
11. Friendship with God
And here are corresponding Scripture references: I encourage you to take time today to read and reflect on these passages.
Deuteronomy 4:30-31
Joshua 1:7-8
Psalm 37:4
Matthew 6:33
Genesis 7:5
Genesis 22:1-2
Philippians 2:7-8
Romans 1:5-6
Hebrews 5:8-9
Philippians 4:6-7
God bless you, my friends.
Here are the blessings from Reverend Julius's sermon, "The Blessings Of Obedience".
1. Mercy & covenant
2. Spiritual & physical prosperity
3. Protection & provision
4. Passing the test of faith
5. Exaltation & removal of the fear of death
6. Grace
7. Learning to suffer
8. Sanctification
9. Cleansing
10. Peace
11. Friendship with God
And here are corresponding Scripture references: I encourage you to take time today to read and reflect on these passages.
Deuteronomy 4:30-31
Joshua 1:7-8
Psalm 37:4
Matthew 6:33
Genesis 7:5
Genesis 22:1-2
Philippians 2:7-8
Romans 1:5-6
Hebrews 5:8-9
Philippians 4:6-7
God bless you, my friends.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Praise God, I'm Having A Crisis!
"At best, we are fragile." -Reverend Julius (first service)
Let's meditate on a few more things from this past Sunday's sermon. These were not officially "sermon points", but they bear repeating.
When God is working, a crisis is created. God has a private agenda, which He may or may not choose to reveal to us. Since we sometimes aren't able to see situations through His eyes, we must make the decision to continue following Him by faith.
The self-contained have no need to pray. An understanding of our total dependence upon God should result in spiritual disciplines that serve to draw us ever nearer to Him. Scriptures such as Psalm 1 and Matthew 6 teach us of the acts of humility and obedience: honoring God by giving, fasting, praying, studying, and meditating in accordance with His word.
When God is in charge, He calls the shots. Reverend Julius reminded us of the example of Noah, a man who walked in obedience to God with amazing results: Noah built something that had never been built before. Noah prepared for rains and floods, something that had never been seen before. And Noah did not attempt to counter or modify anything that God said.
What about us? Are we allowing God to call the shots? Are we aware of our dire need to exercise the discipline of prayer? Are we able to step back, take a deep breath, and see the hand of God in the midst of our crisis?
Yes, God, I see You.
Let's meditate on a few more things from this past Sunday's sermon. These were not officially "sermon points", but they bear repeating.
When God is working, a crisis is created. God has a private agenda, which He may or may not choose to reveal to us. Since we sometimes aren't able to see situations through His eyes, we must make the decision to continue following Him by faith.
The self-contained have no need to pray. An understanding of our total dependence upon God should result in spiritual disciplines that serve to draw us ever nearer to Him. Scriptures such as Psalm 1 and Matthew 6 teach us of the acts of humility and obedience: honoring God by giving, fasting, praying, studying, and meditating in accordance with His word.
When God is in charge, He calls the shots. Reverend Julius reminded us of the example of Noah, a man who walked in obedience to God with amazing results: Noah built something that had never been built before. Noah prepared for rains and floods, something that had never been seen before. And Noah did not attempt to counter or modify anything that God said.
What about us? Are we allowing God to call the shots? Are we aware of our dire need to exercise the discipline of prayer? Are we able to step back, take a deep breath, and see the hand of God in the midst of our crisis?
Yes, God, I see You.
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Stand Clear of the Closing Door, Please.
The latest installment of the "Ananias and Sapphira" warning has come to us from our guest speaker this past Sunday. In the first service Reverend Julius told us of a Christian who sought the Lord concerning a matter, and received a clear response from the Lord. But, rather than obeying God, the man sought counsel from a member of the prophetic community in his area. The person he asked gave him the same response as God had.
The man chose to do his own thing anyway. Three months later, he was dead.
It's pretty easy to rationalize this story into insignificance. You can say everybody dies, you can say the timing of his death was coincidental... but I think we should keep in mind that this story is just one of several indicators sent to us by God. Speakers from Barbados, Jamaica, Kansas, California, Washington D.C., along with our beloved pastoral staff here in the Bronx, each under the weight of God's pressing, have in essence said the same thing: Time is running out. Get your act together. Obey God and stop seeking to gratify your sinful nature.
We have grown accustomed to experiencing the mercy of God, and perhaps some of us have interpreted that mercy as license to continue in sin. A quick read of Romans will refute that assumption (see Romans 6:1,2).
We have grown accustomed to experiencing success in the operation of our spiritual gifts, and perhaps we have made the mistake of thinking that the success is an indicator of "good standing" with God. But the Bible reveals cases where men and women spoke God's truth and demonstrated His power, but at the same time their lives were in opposition to His desire for them. Remember Samson?
Friends, a line has been drawn in the sand.
The man chose to do his own thing anyway. Three months later, he was dead.
It's pretty easy to rationalize this story into insignificance. You can say everybody dies, you can say the timing of his death was coincidental... but I think we should keep in mind that this story is just one of several indicators sent to us by God. Speakers from Barbados, Jamaica, Kansas, California, Washington D.C., along with our beloved pastoral staff here in the Bronx, each under the weight of God's pressing, have in essence said the same thing: Time is running out. Get your act together. Obey God and stop seeking to gratify your sinful nature.
We have grown accustomed to experiencing the mercy of God, and perhaps some of us have interpreted that mercy as license to continue in sin. A quick read of Romans will refute that assumption (see Romans 6:1,2).
We have grown accustomed to experiencing success in the operation of our spiritual gifts, and perhaps we have made the mistake of thinking that the success is an indicator of "good standing" with God. But the Bible reveals cases where men and women spoke God's truth and demonstrated His power, but at the same time their lives were in opposition to His desire for them. Remember Samson?
Friends, a line has been drawn in the sand.
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
The "Amen" Corner.
On Sunday our guest speaker, Reverend Julius, spoke on "The Blessings of Obedience". Today we'll reflect on a few points from the beginning of his sermon.
God will not force us... He has given each of us free will, and it is our choice whether we obey Him or not.
God will not forsake us... He does not walk away from His creation. However, if we choose to remain in disobedience to Him, if we walk away from Him, then we have consigned ourselves to the punishment that awaits those who walk contrary to the mandate of God (see Revelation 21:8).
God will not forget us... He is known to keep His covenants. As we heard on Sunday with the example of Noah, God sees our situation and will step in to provide a place of safety, security, and rescue.
What has your response been when God asks you to do something?
God will not force us... He has given each of us free will, and it is our choice whether we obey Him or not.
God will not forsake us... He does not walk away from His creation. However, if we choose to remain in disobedience to Him, if we walk away from Him, then we have consigned ourselves to the punishment that awaits those who walk contrary to the mandate of God (see Revelation 21:8).
God will not forget us... He is known to keep His covenants. As we heard on Sunday with the example of Noah, God sees our situation and will step in to provide a place of safety, security, and rescue.
What has your response been when God asks you to do something?
Saturday, May 2, 2009
The Domine Effect.
Let's end this week with a few more notes from Pastor Sam's sermon, "Preparation For Pentecost... And Beyond".
-We experience the presence and power of God every day. As all creation worships Him, we are made conscious of His activity in the earth. However, there are occasions when He reveals Himself in ways that have an effect on the human community, creating what Pastor Sam termed "a colony of heaven": that is, we experience God's grace in such a way that our lives are transformed, and we also become "change agents" who are able to bring transformative change to others in the community.
-The Pentecost experience of enduement with power by the Holy Spirit gave the disciples of Jesus a boldness to obey God even in the face of death, and also gave them "beyond belief" actions that were clear manifestations of God's power at work in and through them. This experience of Pentecost was not random, but was "tediously prepared" by Jesus who made His disciples the custodians and the conveyors of the Pentecost experience.
-The Holy Spirit has given each of us gifts individually, but there is also the concept of "corporate giftedness", where change is effected by the act of an entire community of believers operating their spiritual gifts in humility and meekness and love.
-The spiritual gifts we have received are not a right; they are a privilege. If we choose to continually say no to God's promptings, He will bypass us and use someone else to get His work done. Remember the warning of Judas, who abandoned his apostleship and embraced arrogance and apostasy.
WOW! God is so amazing! My friends, I hope you have been blessed this week as we've reflected on this past Sunday's sermon. Lord willing, I'll be back with new blogs starting next Tuesday.
Love,
Genise
-We experience the presence and power of God every day. As all creation worships Him, we are made conscious of His activity in the earth. However, there are occasions when He reveals Himself in ways that have an effect on the human community, creating what Pastor Sam termed "a colony of heaven": that is, we experience God's grace in such a way that our lives are transformed, and we also become "change agents" who are able to bring transformative change to others in the community.
-The Pentecost experience of enduement with power by the Holy Spirit gave the disciples of Jesus a boldness to obey God even in the face of death, and also gave them "beyond belief" actions that were clear manifestations of God's power at work in and through them. This experience of Pentecost was not random, but was "tediously prepared" by Jesus who made His disciples the custodians and the conveyors of the Pentecost experience.
-The Holy Spirit has given each of us gifts individually, but there is also the concept of "corporate giftedness", where change is effected by the act of an entire community of believers operating their spiritual gifts in humility and meekness and love.
-The spiritual gifts we have received are not a right; they are a privilege. If we choose to continually say no to God's promptings, He will bypass us and use someone else to get His work done. Remember the warning of Judas, who abandoned his apostleship and embraced arrogance and apostasy.
WOW! God is so amazing! My friends, I hope you have been blessed this week as we've reflected on this past Sunday's sermon. Lord willing, I'll be back with new blogs starting next Tuesday.
Love,
Genise
Friday, May 1, 2009
Judas Rising, Part III: From Apostle To Apostate
"And they prayed, and said, Thou, Lord, which knowest the hearts of all men, shew whether of these two thou hast chosen, that he may take part of this ministry and apostleship, from which Judas by transgression fell, that he might go to his own place" (Acts 1:24-25, italics mine).
"For he (Judas Iscariot) was numbered with us, and had obtained part of this ministry" (Acts 1:17).
Well, in the mouth of two or three witnesses everything is established.
We've already had two blogs concerning Judas: "Judas Rising: Indignation and Insurrection" (February 27, 2009), followed by "Judas Rising, The Sequel: Messiah in One Hand, Mammon in the Other" (April 8, 2009). I thought we were finished with the Judas thing. Guess what? I was so wrong. Judas resurfaced at the end of Pastor Sam's sermon this past Sunday, and there is no doubt that God is warning us!
You can't see me while I'm typing this, but there are occasions when I just have to stop and cover my mouth with my hand because of the shocking implications of revealed Scripture. This Judas Iscariot, this betrayer, is described by Peter. Peter, what's that you say?
Peter said that Judas was an apostle. Peter said that Judas had a ministry.
Judas, you healer, you preacher, you chief financial officer! Judas, you with the curious gift-mix that would have made you the darling of the postmodern church age! Judas, you thief and conspirator! You who operated in the gifts God gave you, then turned around to look for opportunity to betray the one and only Beloved Son!
Friends, let's heed this warning: a man who was a full participant in the work of Christ lost his place in the Kingdom of God because of his own desire for power and position.
God help us all to live for Him only, so that we might avoid falling into error.
"For he (Judas Iscariot) was numbered with us, and had obtained part of this ministry" (Acts 1:17).
Well, in the mouth of two or three witnesses everything is established.
We've already had two blogs concerning Judas: "Judas Rising: Indignation and Insurrection" (February 27, 2009), followed by "Judas Rising, The Sequel: Messiah in One Hand, Mammon in the Other" (April 8, 2009). I thought we were finished with the Judas thing. Guess what? I was so wrong. Judas resurfaced at the end of Pastor Sam's sermon this past Sunday, and there is no doubt that God is warning us!
You can't see me while I'm typing this, but there are occasions when I just have to stop and cover my mouth with my hand because of the shocking implications of revealed Scripture. This Judas Iscariot, this betrayer, is described by Peter. Peter, what's that you say?
Peter said that Judas was an apostle. Peter said that Judas had a ministry.
Judas, you healer, you preacher, you chief financial officer! Judas, you with the curious gift-mix that would have made you the darling of the postmodern church age! Judas, you thief and conspirator! You who operated in the gifts God gave you, then turned around to look for opportunity to betray the one and only Beloved Son!
Friends, let's heed this warning: a man who was a full participant in the work of Christ lost his place in the Kingdom of God because of his own desire for power and position.
God help us all to live for Him only, so that we might avoid falling into error.