Who wants to be...a funeral crasher?

Today: Acts 11-13

Have I told you lately...that I once crashed a funeral?

Okay, it sounds more dramatic than it actually was. I did go to a funeral for a guy I never met. I didn't even know his name before walking in to the funeral. I went to support a friend who was very close to the deceased and involved in the service.

It was an interesting experience to say the least. I laughed. I sobbed (and I'm not even that much of a crier!). And I learned a lot...about a person I never knew. As I attended this man's funeral, I realized that in a way, the comments of his friends, family members and neighbors were part of his legacy--what they said revealed so much about his impact on the world.

It raised questions in my head like...What will people say about me? What will they write about my life? When I'm not involved in someone's life on a day-to-day basis anymore, what will they miss (if anything) about me?

I thought about my funeral crashing experience...and the idea of legacy...when I read today's passage. There are (at least) two people summarized in this section of Scripture. And they're very different.

Here's Herod's obituary of sorts:

Herod had given God no credit

for anything.

Down he went.

Rotten to the core,

a maggoty old man

if there ever was one,

he died.

Eww. That summary of a life is disgusting, repulsive and very tragic all at the same time.

And then there was a summary of Barnabus' character (though Barnabus is still living in this section of the text!):

As soon as he arrived (in Antioch),

he saw that God was behind and in it all.

He threw himself in with them,

got behind them,

urging them to stay with it

the rest of their lives.

He was a good man that way,

enthusiastic and confident

in the Holy Spirit's ways.

What a different summary! I love that Barnabus is described as "enthusiastic and confident in the Holy Spirit's ways." (Forgive my lingo, but although his name wasn't hot, that characteristic definitely is!). :) Seriously, Barnabus sounds like a man who was passionate--about God and about helping people. Plus, he was boldly confident. LOVE!

I would so much rather find one of those guys (and be one of those girls) than a "maggoty old man...rotten to the core."

So let's do it--let's live our legacy. Right. Now.

Tomorrow: Acts 14-15

When a terrorist is transformed

Today: Acts 9-10

What would you do if Osama bin Laden suddenly showed up in your town?

Imagine if he started shouting around your neighborhood, "I had a vision. I saw Jesus and heard His voice. I became blind--literally--but was healed. My life is changed! I'm not the guy I was before--I'm so sorry for the things I've done. I believe in Him now."

Holy cow.

To be honest, I don't think I'd trust him. I would call the FBI. I would be afraid--I mean, the guy has been responsible for the deaths of many innocent people. He hates Christians.

Obviously, this situation isn't real...or is it?

In Acts chapter 8, "Osama" was Saul--a Jewish guy who hated Christians so much that he hunted them down. He sought to kill them. He did kill them. But one day, he met Jesus on the road and was drastically transformed.

Some of the disciples were skeptical and afraid--they experienced the same reaction I would if this happened with Osama today. Some of Saul's former cronies tried to kill him after he believed in Jesus and started preaching around various cities.

After awhile, no one would doubt the validity of the change in Saul--so drastic that his name is changed (to Paul). The guy who murdered Christians becomes the world's most famous preacher--and risks his own life to tell the story of Jesus.

Though it's from another section of today's reading (these chapters include lots of great stories and text!), I thought Peter's words in this passage also applied to Saul...and anyone else...who has been changed by the power of God:

"It's God's own truth, nothing could be plainer:

God plays no favorites!

It makes no difference who you are

or where you're from—

if you want God

and are ready to do as he says,

the door is open.

The Message he sent to the children of Israel—

that through Jesus Christ

everything is being put together again—

well, he's doing it everywhere, among everyone..."

Tomorrow: Acts 11-13

I only have eyes for you...

Today: Acts 7-8

Have you ever seen a couple so crazy in love that they're oblivious to everyone and everything else? (I'll admit it--I'm a little annoyed by these people!) :)

What about a person so in love with something--a car, video game, cooking, music, sports--that nothing else could ever come between them and their passion?

In today's passage, I noticed that Stephen felt that way...about God. As a mob started to yell and riot over his message, the Word says:

But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit,

hardly noticed—

he only had eyes for God,

whom he saw in all his glory

with Jesus standing at his side.

He said, "Oh! I see heaven wide open

and the Son of Man standing at God's side!"

Stephen's passion for God was so strong and so focused. He chose to see Jesus and His glory versus the angry mob. He listened to Heaven instead of yelling, snarly men.

As I read that, I asked myself, "Are you that passionate? That focused?"

Seeing promise in the midst of painful circumstances is not easy. But it is possible. Where are your eyes?

Tomorrow: Acts 9-10

No question. No silence.

Have you ever seen or experienced something that you just have to tell people about?

For me, one of those things is Mutton Bustin'. Mutton Bustin', as seen at my hometown's fair, is a sport where toddlers ride sheep...in rodeo-style glory. It's pretty hilarious, fun to watch and a little bit unbelievable all at the same time. Since it started at our local fair, it's the talk of the town...well, that and the chocolate-covered bacon they're serving (no, I'm not kidding!).

It's pretty amazing what people can't stop talking about, isn't it? Celebrities, the latest and greatest infomercial products (like the Shamwow and the Snuggie), sports, vacations, you name it. But in the list of topics that people just have to talk about, how often is God in the mix?

In our culture, it's actually taboo to talk about politics and religion (well, if it's Christianity, anyway--talking about most other religions seems to be more socially acceptable).

That's in stark contrast to the approach of the apostles in today's reading. They couldn't stop talking about Jesus and the miracles they witnessed...even after they were arrested and basically placed on trial in front of influential religious and political leaders. I love what Peter and John said to those leaders here:

"Whether it's right in God's eyes to listen to you

rather than to God,

you decide.

As for us, there's no question—

we can't keep quiet

about what we've seen and heard."

I LOVE their confidence, conviction and boldness.

I'm not one to necessarily advocate that Christians just start yelling on street corners or in their offices about God. In most cases, I don't think that's appropriate or what these apostles were actually doing. The leaders had told them not to use Jesus' name or talk to anyone about God--and this was simply their response back.

What have you seen and heard? And what's your response to it? Are you content to keep it to yourself? Or are you bursting to tell someone?

To be continued...

Today: Acts 1-3

We just finished reading the book of John, the last Gospel and account of Jesus' life, death and resurrection. But the story isn't over.

One of the Gospel writers, Luke, wrote the next book we're about to study starting today. I love the Introduction to Acts found in the Message version of the Bible. Here's a little part of it:

"The story of Jesus doesn't end with Jesus.

It continues in the lives of those who believe in Him.

The supernatural does not stop with Jesus.

Luke makes it clear that these Christians he wrote about

were no more spectators of Jesus

than Jesus was a spectator of God--

they are in on the action of God,

God acting in them,

God living in them.

Which also means, of course, in us."

(Introduction to Acts, The Message)

In the opening chapters of Acts, some pretty major stuff happens--the disciples see Jesus ascend into Heaven, the Holy Spirit comes and transforms them, thousands of people start to believe in Jesus, and Peter and John are part of a miracle where a crippled man is completely healed.

But what stood out most to me was the story of Peter himself. His story is pretty incredible. At the end of the Gospels, we saw Peter as the guy who denied even knowing Jesus when He was on the cross. Then, Jesus saw Peter after the resurrection and charged him with being a "fisher of men" and "feeding the lambs"--basically, reaching people with Jesus' story and love and guiding them in their faith.

In the first chapters of Acts, I saw a little bit of how that change happened--mainly through the Holy Spirit and the power it gave to Peter. After he receives the Holy Spirit, the same guy who denied Jesus is bold enough to tell His story to thousands of people (with no microphone--he had to use a loud, booming voice!) whose lives were changed because of it. Talk about transformation!

After He received the Holy Spirit, Peter (with John) witnessed a miracle where a crippled guy was healed...and then, Peter proceeded to use the miraculous story to tell even more people about God.

I think that's pretty incredible. I love that Jesus' story didn't end on the cross or even with an empty tomb. It continued with people like Peter...and continues today with people like us.

Tomorrow: Acts 4-6

Gone fishin'

Today: John 19-21

I don't know what it is about fishing, but some people absolutely LOVE it. They find it relaxing. Satisfying. Peaceful.

For others, fishing is work. It can be boring. It can take hours. Sometimes there are no results. Fishing can even be dangerous. (My Dad sometimes watches a show called "Deadliest Catch" that illustrates that point pretty well!)

But even though it may be dull or dangerous, real fishermen (and women) can't imagine NOT fishing.

Fishing is discussed in the Gospels quite a bit. When Jesus first met some of His disciples, they were fishing--some of them earned a living that way and left their jobs to follow Him.

Today I noticed that the last time Jesus saw some of the disciples (after His resurrection), they were fishing again.

Does that seem significant to anyone else?

As a writer, when I see the repetition of a similar situation in a story or movie (think the little girl in red in "Schindler's List" or the color red in "The Sixth Sense"), it usually means something. In this case, I had a few interesting observations about the meaning of this fishing scenes, some of which are explicitly shown in the text.

• When Jesus first meets the disciples fishing, He calls them to follow Him. When He sees them fishing after the resurrection, He's calling them again...to lead.
  
• The first time Jesus calls the disciples, they leave their work and their jobs as fishermen. I have no idea what that meant to their family budgets, but I'm guessing it wasn't easy. In contrast, when Jesus sees the disciples fishing after His resurrection, He performs a miracle and helps them obtain 153 big fish--probably a nice boost to their incomes. I love this because it shows how God takes care of (even the practical) the needs of His people.
  
• When Jesus first met the disciples, He basically asked them to stop fishing. In this second example, He instructs them to start fishing...for men (people).

I think fishing for people may be like fishing for...well, fish.

Sometimes, it's very rewarding--you realize that you played a part in helping someone know God or His love. You make a difference in a life and another person is changed forever.

Other times, it's exhausting. You may listen, love, encourage or serve someone else without ever seeing the results or benefiting yourself.

And I won't beat around the bush...sharing love and God with people can be dangerous. Some have literally died doing it and others have been devastatingly hurt (physically and/or emotionally).

But can you imagine NOT fishing for people? Not loving people? Not a chance.

Tomorrow: Acts 1-3

Names on my parents' fridge...and Jesus' heart

Today: John 16-18

I will finally admit this, at least to the world of Facebook and anyone reading this blog: My parents are cool...for at least a few reasons. Today is their 33rd wedding anniversary (Yay--that's one!). Another reason (and perhaps part of why they've stayed together that long!) is because they believe in the power of prayer.

How do I know this? Well, there are lots of reasons, actually. But one way I know it's true is because of the names on their refrigerator--my parents pray for people they don't actually know.

Yes, they prayed for me and my sisters before we were ever born. They've prayed for my husband (probably about that same length of time!)--one of the most amazing guys on this planet!--who still remains a bit of a mystery to all of us. And I'm sure they've prayed for their grandkids already (yeah, there aren't any of those yet either). None of those names are on the fridge list, though.

The names on their fridge rotate periodically--when they hear about an extended family member who is addicted to drugs, for example. Or when a friend-of-a-friend is in a car accident. Or when someone they met in the church parking lot is struggling with MS. My parents don't actually know a lot of the people listed on their fridge. But these are the names and situations they think about each time they get a cup of water, reach for some blueberries or grab the milk.

Do you know that someone prayed for you before you were born?

Maybe it wasn't your mom, dad or grandma. But guess what? Jesus did...in the passage we read today.

Take a look (the parentheses are mine...hopefully that's kind of obvious) :)

I'm praying not only for them (the disciples)

But also for those who will believe in me (umm...this could include you!)

Because of them and their witness about me.

The goal is for all of them to become one heart and mind—

Just as you, Father, are in me and I in you,

So they might be one heart and mind with us.

Then the world might believe that you, in fact, sent me.

The same glory you gave me, I gave them,

So they'll be as unified and together as we are—

I in them and you in me.

Then they'll be mature in this oneness,

and give the godless world evidence

That you've sent me and loved them

In the same way you've loved me.

There you go...Jesus prayed that you would be "one heart and mind" with Him and with other people who believe in Him, too. Even more amazing? He said that the same glory God gave Him was given to us. Holy cow! He prayed that love and unity would bind us together--and that love and unity would show people that God is real. Your name may not have been on Jesus' fridge, but it was always on His heart...and it's on mine, too...at this very second.

Tomorrow: John 19-21

Chosen family

Today: John 13-15

"One of the amazing things about marriage is that you have the opportunity to choose a member of your family." I don't remember who said this...but I heard it at a wedding last weekend.

I thought about this quote today when I read Jesus' words in chapter 15:

This is my command:

Love one another the way I loved you.

This is the very best way to love.

Put your life on the line for your friends.

You are my friends when you do the things I command you.

I'm no longer calling you servants

because servants don't understand

hat their master is thinking and planning.

No, I've named you friends

because I've let you in on everything

I've heard from the Father.
"You didn't choose me,

remember;

I chose you,

and put you in the world to bear fruit,

fruit that won't spoil.

As fruit bearers,

whatever you ask the Father

in relation to me,

he gives you.
"But remember the root command:

Love one another.

There are so many things I could talk about in this passage. First of all, I love the fact that God chose us (see more of my thoughts on that topic here). That's mind-blowing in itself when you think about it.

Second, the fact that He calls us friends? That He wants to let us in on what He hears from the Father? Whoa. Most people think it would be amazing to be a close friend of a celebrity (take your pick--Oprah, the President, Bono, Michael Jordan--let alone God Himself).

Finally, I think the command for us to "Love one another" must be pretty stinkin' important, no? In this section of Scripture alone, it's repeated twice (and even more often in the full version of today's passage).

But it's tragically sad that I personally know Christians who are at odds or estranged from other Christians...let alone other people who are also in need of their love. Let's get over ourselves, our hurts and our issues--no matter how deep or painful they may seem. Following God's instruction is much more important than those things could ever be. More importantly, God chose us all to be His friends, His family. And love can cover a multitude of sins. I believe that with all my heart.

Tomorrow: John 16-18

The Mummy Returns

Today: John 11-12


Okay, so I haven't seen any of the Mummy movies. But as I read today's passage, I did think about the idea of a mummy returning to life. Although I'm guessing the version in the Bible is quite a bit different than the movie.

But hey--a dead guy wrapped up in fabric hops out of a tomb while still covered in his grave clothes? That sounds pretty creepy to me...but that's not exactly how Jesus and other people in the story felt.

To them, the mummy was a friend and a brother. He was a person--a guy named Lazarus. More importantly, he was a man that they loved deeply. And he got very sick and died. It was very sad--Lazarus' sisters lost their brother. Jesus lost his friend. It was so sad that Jesus actually cried. But then something pretty amazing happened...the mummy returned.

Jesus raised his eyes to heaven and prayed,

"Father, I'm grateful that you have listened to me.

I know you always do listen,

but on account of this crowd standing here

I've spoken so that they might believe

that you sent me."

Then he shouted, "Lazarus, come out!"

And he came out,

a cadaver, wrapped from head to toe,

and with a kerchief over his face.

Jesus told them, "Unwrap him and let him loose."

I can't imagine what it would have felt like to see this scene unravel. Unlike the movies, this wasn't an event where people were scared or terrified--they were amazed and happy.

Jesus' words are also interesting--He thanks the Father for listening to Him. I'm not sure why He used those words in this case, but maybe because it was important for the people watching--or for us--to know that God listens when we talk/pray to Him.

As I read this, I also thought about how this miracle may be a parallel for God's ability to continually bring people to life. We may not all be literal mummies, but so many people are missing the light and love that life through Christ can bring. Perhaps it's time for some more mummies to return...

Tomorrow: John 13-15

Mutton Bustin', Guess how much I love you?, and the Good Shepherd

Today: John 9-10

Mutton Bustin' is a strange phenomenon that I actually enjoy watching...at least once a year. For anyone who hasn't seen it, I'll explain. Mutton Bustin' is an event where little kids, ages 2-6, ride and grasp on to a sheep for dear life. It's kind of like a mini rodeo where they are challenged to stay on for 6 seconds. (Don't worry, moms, the kids are well supervised and loaded down with a helmet and padding.) It's pretty hilarious, actually. :)

I thought about Mutton Bustin' today as I read this passage...really. There's a section where Jesus describes Himself as the Good Shepherd...which makes all of His followers like sheep. Sheep are interesting little creatures. From what I observed at Mutton Bustin', they definitely have personalities all their own--some are lazy and subdued, others leap really high, some will follow the herd, while others tend to wander off on their own. They can be stubborn, bad listeners, dirty and smelly.

But here's the weird thing, a good shepherd LOVES them.

Here are a few of the things Jesus said about being the Good Shepherd:

I am the Good Shepherd.

The Good Shepherd puts the sheep before himself,

sacrifices himself if necessary.

A hired man is not a real shepherd.

The sheep mean nothing to him.

He sees a wolf come and runs for it,

leaving the sheep to be ravaged

and scattered by the wolf.

He's only in it for the money.

The sheep don't matter to him.
I am the Good Shepherd.

I know my own sheep

and my own sheep know me.

In the same way,

the Father knows me

and I know the Father.

I put the sheep before myself,

sacrificing myself if necessary.

I thought it was interesting that Jesus emphasized His sacrificial love for His "sheep" twice. I don't know if there's some kind of theological significance to that. Perhaps some scholars could see it something in line with the idea of redemption--that God created mankind, sin separated us from Him--but He loved us enough to die for our sins and made it possible for us to once again have a direct relationship with Him. In a way, redemption means that we are His twice.

Or perhaps it was just something simpler--a big expression of His love for people--like the way parents read "Guess How Much I Love You?" to their kids over and over again.

I don't know...I just know that whatever the scenario, God loves His sheep/kids like crazy. And that's pretty incredible.

Tomorrow: John 11-12

Miracles in the mundane

Today: John 7-8

Every morning, I wake up. I wash my face, put on moisturizer, brush my teeth and put in contacts.

When I get to work, I check my e-mail, answer urgent messages and then take a walk to Starbucks.

These are a few of the routines in my life. And as boring as they sound, I bet you have a few routines of your own (well, I hope you at least brush your teeth and put on deodorant every day, too!).

But when you think about it, although these routines are mundane, they're also a bit miraculous. I mean, the fact that I breathe in and out every minute while simutaneously blood flows to my brain to think and my muscles to move is pretty amazing when you think about it. That, and the fact that I'm capable of having any sort of conversation pre-Starbucks. :)

Most of the time, I am not aware of miracles in the midst of my mundane moments. I think most people are probably in the same boat. I love what Jesus said to the religious leaders in this passage today:

"You're tied down to the mundane;

I'm in touch with what is beyond your horizons.

You live in terms of what you see and touch.

I'm living on other terms.

I told you that you were missing God in all this.

You're at a dead end.

If you won't believe I am who I say I am,

you're at the dead end of sins.

You're missing God in your lives."

Wow. Jesus himself was a miracle in the midst of the mundane. And I wonder if He works that way today as well...

Tomorrow: John 9-10

The Jesus who defied, rebeled and hated

Today: John 5-6

Have you ever had times when you've read the Bible and thought to yourself, "Holy cow those people were dumb!"?

I had a few of those moments while reading today's chapters. But then I realized that when it comes to God, I can be a bit clueless myself.

One of the biggest problems I saw with the people in these chapters was their own expectations. They expected Jesus to fit their ideal timing, their visions of what the Messiah would "look" like, and meet their needs exactly as they asked.

Hmm...have you ever been in that same boat? I have.

But here's the thing about God--if He's going to defy anything, it's human expectation. If He's going to rebel against anything, it's injustice. And if He's going to absolutely hate anything, it's complacency. Jesus did not conform to the commands of people--and thank God for that!

Here's a few examples if you wanted to take a second look:

• Defying human expectations for "the perfect timing": After Jesus healed a lame man on the Sabbath, He said, ""My Father is working straight through, even on the Sabbath. So am I."
  
  Love this! God doesn't have to wait to start working in our lives...but sometimes, He does delay miracles. He's God--He can do whatever He wants. That's the point of Jesus' message here.
  
• Rebeling against injustice: When Jesus walked around, He forgave peoples' sins. And that really angered religious leaders--particularly because Jesus wasn't afraid to help people who they considered second class (prostitutes, Samaritans, women, tax collectors, children, etc.).
  
  Here's what He said, "The Son gives life to anyone he chooses. Neither he nor the Father shuts anyone out. The Father handed all authority to judge over to the Son so that the Son will be honored equally with the Father. Anyone who dishonors the Son, dishonors the Father, for it was the Father's decision to put the Son in the place of honor..."
  
• Hating complacency and hypocricy: There were plenty of people who liked the status quo of religious rules and regulations during Jesus' time. Maybe it was because they were profiting from it or because it gave them superior social status.
  
  But Jesus called out hypocrites when He said, "You have your heads in your Bibles constantly because you think you'll find eternal life there. But you miss the forest for the trees. These Scriptures are all about me! And here I am, standing right before you, and you aren't willing to receive from me the life you say you want.
  
  "I'm not interested in crowd approval. And do you know why? Because I know you and your crowds. I know that love, especially God's love, is not on your working agenda. I came with the authority of my Father, and you either dismiss me or avoid me.
  
• Not conforming to the demands of people: When people saw Jesus multiply bread and fish, they were amazed...and basically asked him to do it again, saying, "Why don't you give us a clue about who you are, just a hint of what's going on? When we see what's up, we'll commit ourselves. Show us what you can do. Moses fed our ancestors with bread in the desert. It says so in the Scriptures: 'He gave them bread from heaven to eat.'"
  
  But Jesus replied, "The real significance of that Scripture is not that Moses gave you bread from heaven but that my Father is right now offering you bread from heaven, the real bread. The Bread of God came down out of heaven and is giving life to the world."

The last one is perhaps my favorite example in this passage because it show God's heart--not to simply give us what we ask for. It's not because He's mean, but because He offers us so much more than what we ask or imagine. We don't always see His answers or the value of them. Our blindness doesn't mean that God's not there offering to free us from sin, heal our souls, and help us to run...and see...again.

Tomorrow: John 7-8

Famous words...and what follows?

Today: John 3-4

At every baseball stadium, there is at least one guy in the crowd with a posterboard sign that says, "John 3:16." A lot of people have heard John 3:16 before:

This is how much God loved the world:

He gave his Son, his one and only Son.

And this is why:

so that no one need be destroyed;

by believing in him,

anyone can have a whole and lasting life.

It's a great verse. It's often used to exemplify God's love and the simplicity of salvation.

But do you know what comes after John 3:16?

(I can already hear some smart-alecky people saying, "Umm...John 3:17. Duh!). :)

But really...what comes next?

Before today, I hadn't really thought much about that. But here's what follows perhaps the most famous verse in the Bible:

God didn't go to all the trouble

of sending his Son

merely to point an accusing finger,

telling the world how bad it was.

He came to help,

to put the world right again.

I loved reading this today--God's love isn't just empty words. It's not pointed fingers and accusations.

No--it's real help. It's transformation. It turns the world around in the best way possible.

John 3:16 is a great verse and it is important--but let's not forget the spirit behind what f0llows. God so loved the world that He gave, He helped, He transformed it...and He transforms us.

Tomorrow: John 5-6

Words, light and life

Today: John 1-2

I'm a word nerd.

(Forgive me if you've read this statement before, but I don't think I've written it in this forum yet.)

Words make me laugh. Words tell stories. Words provide information. And words create.

Reading John 1-2 today was a great reminder of that last point. John 1 parallels the story of Creation in Genesis (we'll get to that later!) in this beautiful , poetic way that connects the dots of history, the power of words, and the united relationship of God the Father and Jesus--the Word come to life.

Because the Word itself is so amazing here, I'd rather highlight what it actually says than my own comments or interpretation today. Here we go:

The Word was first,
the Word present to God,
God present to the Word.
The Word was God,
in readiness for God from day one.
Everything was created through him;
nothing—not one thing!—
came into being without him.
What came into existence was Life,
and the Life was Light to live by.
The Life-Light blazed out of the darkness;
the darkness couldn't put it out.

...The Word became flesh and blood,
and moved into the neighborhood.
We saw the glory with our own eyes,
the one-of-a-kind glory,
like Father, like Son,
Generous inside and out,
true from start to finish.

Tomorrow: John 3-4

The real guy-God in the cupboards

Today: Luke 23-24

Most gods fit on peoples' shelves or in their shrines. They're statues. They're hollow. They're made of gold, silver, ceramic or cement.

There are other gods that seem highly spiritual. Some people worship...well, spirits, energies, the Earth, ghosts, you name it.

While God is definitely a spirit, I also love that He was also once a real guy-God. As I read the story of Jesus' death and resurrection today for the third time in about a month (yup, we just finished our third Gospel today!), this is what stood out to me:

Jesus appeared to them and said,

"Peace be with you."

They thought they were seeing a ghost

and were scared half to death.

He continued with them,

"Don't be upset,

and don't let all these doubting questions take over.

Look at my hands; look at my feet

—it's really me. Touch me.

Look me over from head to toe.

A ghost doesn't have muscle and bone like this."

If you read the passage with me today, do you remember what happened next?

I never noticed it before, but it actually made me smile and just think how real, how cool Jesus really is. Here's what it says:

He asked, "Do you have any food here?"

They gave him a piece of leftover fish they had cooked.

He took it and ate it right before their eyes.

I think it's actually kind of funny this little scene made it into the Bible. I mean, really? How important is it for us to know that Jesus ate some leftovers after His resurrection?

But as I read this, it struck me as one example of how real...how normal...He is. In the midst of one of the biggest supernatural events in history, He sounds like a typical guy hanging out with His friends saying, "Hey! Do you have anything I could eat?"

The disciples don't even think twice about offering Him leftovers--another fact I find interesting.

I don't know about you, but when most of my friends come to visit, I don't offer them leftovers. I make an extra effort for my guests...except for the friends who are truly like family. If those friends are visiting, I prepare some special meals for them or take them out to dinner. But I'll also show them around my refrigerator, pantry and cupboards and say, "Feel free to take anything you'd like. You know the ropes--this is your home."

When Jesus appeared to the disciples after His resurrection, they witnessed a major miracle. They believed that He was the Messiah and God in flesh...but they also saw Him as their close and trusted friend. He was the friend who didn't expect the fuss (even though He probably deserves it more than anyone!). He was real. He fit with them--and was close enough to know His way around their cupboards.

Tomorrow: John 1-2

When it feels like the end of your world...

Today: Luke 21-22

Throughout time, hundreds of writers have written their theories about the end of the world. There's a famous book series called "Left Behind" (I haven't read it) and there have been countless movies like "Armageddon", too (I've definitely seen that one--Ben Affleck is in it!).

While Jesus was on the planet, people asked Him about the end of the world. While it's definitely interesting, as I read His words in this passage, I thought about how some of them apply in other situations. Because although the planet remains intact, sometimes I feel like it's the end of my world as I knew it (and I bet you probably do, too).

I don't know about you, but the past year has been a year of major ups and downs for me. I have faced things I never expected to face and now find myself in a place I never expected to be. I don't know yet if it's good or bad. I just know that it feels like my world has been turned in every direction possible.

I was talking to someone today about how life in your 20s is bizarre. On one hand, it feels like there's so much ahead of you--so many directions you can go and so many opportunities you can take. But on the flip side, it's daunting. Over the next five years or so, I'll probably make some of the biggest decisions of my entire life. Wow.

That said, as I read today's passage, Jesus' words definitely seemed fitting for situations when it feels like the end of my world. So take a look and see what you think:

...Every detail
of your body and soul—
even the hairs of your head!
—is in my care...

...Sky and earth will wear out;
my words won't wear out.

...Pray constantly

that you will have

the strength and wits

to make it through everything

that's coming and end up on your feet.

Tomorrow: Luke 23-24

When God's on your doorstep

Today: Luke 19-20

What would you do if God showed up on your doorstep?

I'm not gonna lie...I would probably freak out a little.

I might have a reaction like a former roommate did during our senior year at college. We had an open house and one of the cutest guys on campus showed up. Unexpectedly. My former roomie opened the door and simply said (with wide eyes), "Whoa!...Hi."

She then proceeded to the kitchen and pulled another roommate aside, "You're not going to believe it!" she said, "So-and-So is here!!!"

"Did you let him in?" my other, ever-calm roommate asked.

"Oops! I guess I kind of forgot..."

(The poor cute guy was probably left a little dumbfounded on our doorstep...completely clueless about what was happening inside.)

If God showed up on my doorstep, I might have that reaction...or something like those one of those people on Publishers' Clearing House who goes into absolute hysterics, hyperventilating and/or passing out.

Or I might be eerily calm (this is probably the most likely scenario). I'd say something like, "Wow--thanks for stopping by...", while absolutely FREAKING OUT internally, wracking my brain trying to figure out what to say, what to serve, and what to clean.

In today's passage, I thought it was interesting that there were several references to God's personal visits. Did you notice? (I'll be honest, I hadn't really connected them this way before.)

First, Jesus calls out Zacchaeus, a vertically challenged tax collector, and invites himself over to Zacchaeus' house. This completely infuriated most people (not just the religious leaders) because Zacchaeus was considered a crook.

I love how Jesus chose to go to Zach's house. He didn't care that it made people upset or uncomfortable--Zach was lost and Jesus came to connect with people exactly like him.

The other reference to one of God's personal visits is later in the chapter. It's a little different, though. Jesus spots the city of Jerusalem, weeps and says:

"If you had only recognized this day,

and everything that was good for you!

But now it's too late.

In the days ahead your enemies

are going to bring up their heavy artillery

and surround you,

pressing in from every side.

They'll smash you

and your babies on the pavement.

Not one stone will be left intact.

All this because you didn't recognize

and welcome God's personal visit."

Honestly, I had a tough time with this quote (the graphic depiction of smashing babies on the pavement completely grossed me out...and if you can't tell by now, I definitely know how to imagine!). The words sound harsh and graphic, but remember--Jesus is weeping for the city. I don't think this is a curse as much as it is prophetic insight about the effects of not recognizing or welcoming "God's personal visit."

I wonder how often God personally visits you, me and our cities?

I know Jesus (God in flesh) isn't walking around the planet right now as a human being ringing doorbells in your development...but how many times has He been trying to talk to us, teach us, or show us something?

I don't know how to answer that question. But I know from the story of Zachhaeus that sometimes He wants to come and visit with imperfect people (like us) who need Him.

We may feel unworthy or unprepared, but He just might show up anyway. I hope I don't just say, "Whoa--hi!" and leave Him hanging out on the doorstep. I hope that I open my eyes, ears and heart and welcome Him home.

Tomorrow: Luke 21-22

The Christian Club

Today: Luke 17-18

"Exclusive"
"Elite"
"Tight-knit"
"Club"
"Family"

The words I've used above could be used to describe a country club, a fraternity, a gang, a workplace...or a church.

While many of these words have good connotations of closeness, there are others that point to exclusion. And that's where churches or Christians in particular can run into trouble.

It's interesting to me how some churches are defined by their demographics--there are white churches and black churches, rich churches and poor churches, churches for single people and churches for families, churches for young and others for older people.

When you walk in the doors, you immediately know whether or not you fit in--whether or not you can join the club or if you will always remain an outsider.

Some of it can even come down to a look--Is your hair big enough or edgy enough? Are you thin or chubby? Do you have tatoos or the clean-cut look? Do you wear designer clothes or shop at Target? No matter what your answer is to any of the above questions, there is probably a church specifically designed for you.

Forgive me, but I think that's actually really sad. Shouldn't we all--black, white, older, younger, edgy, conservative, rich, poor--be able to come together? We're all people. We all need God--and each other. And most importantly, we need to welcome any person who walks into our church doors just as they are...because that's how God loves and welcomes them. (Note that I'm not saying Christians should love sin...in ourselves or others...but we should completely love people.)

Here's what Jesus said:

"...If you walk around with your nose in the air,

you're going to end up flat on your face,

but if you're content to be simply yourself,

you will become more than yourself."

To be completely honest, I've personally been on both sides of the coin--a snotty Christian clubber myself and at other times, on the left-out side. Neither experience is great--trust me. But I hope that I'll change--that I'll be less concerned about myself and whatever side of the club I land in--and to be more concerned with embracing others. Christianity is more than a club--it's a cause.

Tomorrow: Luke 19-20

Little things that mean a lot

Today: Luke 14-16

Have you ever gone out to a restaurant with somebody--perhaps on a date, with your family or in a group of friends--and been horribly embarrassed by how someone else in your party treated the server?

Likewise, have you ever seen someone in an office treat others (perhaps janitors or administrative assistants) like second-class citizens?

I have.

It's amazing how some people have no problem being rude or obnoxious to people that they consider insignificant...totally oblivious to the important fact that how they treat people reflects upon their character. It's the "little things" that make a big difference.

Sometimes, we can also take the standpoint, "When I'm in charge at the office, I'll do X, Y and Z to make it SO much better..." or "If I only had more money, then I would do..."

In reality, power and money usually magnify the character you have without them. You prove yourself and your integrity during the seasons when you have little.

Jesus said it like this:

If you're honest in small things,

you'll be honest in big things;

If you're a crook in small things,

you'll be a crook in big things.

If you're not honest in small jobs,

who will put you in charge of the store?

No worker can serve two bosses:

He'll either hate the first and love the second

Or adore the first and despise the second.

You can't serve both God and the Bank.

Tomorrow: Luke 17-18

Juggling fire, a date auction and your treasure

Today: Luke 12-13

I am continually amazed at how some people spend their money (Snuggie anyone?), time and talent.

One of my college roommates was exceptionally frugal...with some things. She was so disciplined at saving that she line-dried all of her clothes in our apartment kitchen--socks, towels and all--to save the $0.75 it cost to use a dryer each week. If you've ever line-dried clothes, you know that they can wind up being very scratchy. It takes some serious frugality to live with abrasive towels and socks all year-round (especially in the Northwest where it's cold and damp and it takes FOREVER for them to dry completely!). So imagine my surprise when our university had a fundraiser date auction and my frugal roomie led the charge for our dorm to "buy" time with a cute senior guy...easily chipping in over $20 of her hard-earned cash.

In the talent department, I also know a juggler. He juggles everything you can imagine, including knives and fire. I once asked him, "How did you just decide one day, 'I'd like to start juggling knives'? I mean, weren't you a little nervous you might chop off your friend's ear or something?" The fact that my friend can juggle fire and knives baffles my brain. It must have taken hundreds of hours to develop those skills...and yet every time he uses them, he again puts himself (or his juggling partner) on the line.

People are willing to invest time, money and talent into the things that truly matter to them (whether it's juggling fire or a hot guy).

In today's passage, Jesus observed:

It's obvious, isn't it?

The place where your treasure is,

is the place you will most want to be,

and end up being.

I love His perspective here--it doesn't take rocket science to know what your priorities are. The proof is in how you spend your treasure--your time, money, and talent. We all have 24 hours each day. We all have brains and talents from God. And most of us have some money...or to circle back a sentence, the talent to get some.

What are you doing with what you've got?

Martha, Martha, Martha...

Today: Luke 10-11

Tell me you’ve watched “The Brady Bunch” … at least once. Otherwise, I’ve just made a totally uncool confession for anyone in the blogosphere/Magic Land of Facebook to read.

I’ve only seen re-runs myself, but I always remembered the classic middle sister episode where Jan is SO OVER all of her older sister Marcia’s talent, beauty, and awards…and all the attention that comes with them…when she yells, “Marcia, Marcia, Marcia!” in disgust.

It’s a human tradition to point fingers, get annoyed and critique how someone else has made our lives miserably unfair (whether or not they happen to be our sisters with “groovy” hair)…even going so far as to complain to God.

Have you ever had a moment where you’ve thought something like, “God—you should really do something about that obnoxious co-worker of mine. You know—the girl who brings cooked tuna casserole for lunch in the middle of cubicle land. No one wants to continue inhaling her Chicken of the Sea until 3:00 PM. That’s SO inconsiderate!”?

Or perhaps, “Dear Jesus—please tell me there’s a special place in Hell reserved for people who can’t merge properly on the freeway. Hello?!?”

(Okay, so I’m exaggerating a little for comedic purposes, but you get the picture, right?)

Today, I remembered the Brady Bunch when I read about a woman named Martha who complains about her sister, Mary, to Jesus. Here it is:

As they continued their travel, Jesus entered a village.

A woman by the name of

Martha welcomed him

and made him feel quite at home.

She had a sister, Mary, who sat before the Master,

hanging on every word he said.

But Martha was pulled away

by all she had to do

in the kitchen.

Later, she stepped in,

interrupting them.

"Master, don't you care

that my sister

has abandoned

the kitchen to me?

Tell her to lend me a hand."
The Master said, "Martha, dear Martha,

you're fussing far too much

and getting yourself worked up

over nothing.

One thing only is essential,

and Mary has chosen it—

it's the main course,

and won't be taken from her."

I've read this passage before, but today I noticed perhaps for the first time that Martha was the one who welcomed Jesus and made Him feel at home. I guess I always pictured her...and some readers won't like this language...as a total biznatch. :) But no--Martha had hospitality. Perhaps she was even the one who invited Jesus? (We don't know for sure.)

Martha lost sight of the essential--listening to Jesus, spending time with Jesus--in the busyness of getting herself worked up over "nothing," as Jesus put it. Sound familiar?

I think the main points of Jesus' rebuke were to a) focus her critique on her own issues versus someone else and 2) focus on the big picture of spending time with God versus getting too overwhelmed by a self-made to-do list for serving Him.

I actually feel a bit sorry for Martha. I think we all have Martha moments. The next time I do, I hope Jan Brady's voice saying, "Martha, Martha, Martha..." comes to mind, makes me stop and smile.

Tomorrow: Luke 12-13

The "circle of trust" and the wave whisperer

Today: Luke 8-9

If you've ever seen the movie "Meet the Parents", you're probably familiar with a little concept called the "circle of trust." :)

For most of us, the "circle of trust" in our lives is relatively small.

I can't tell you how many people I've met--including younger twentysomething people like me--who suffer from trust issues. Too many people have been burned--perhaps by friends who betrayed them, companies that discarded them, parents who abandoned them, politicians who lied to them, ex-boyfriends or girlfriends who cheated on them...you name it. These experiences have left our world full of walking wounded. It is very difficult for people who have been hurt to trust--their question is, "Who can you really trust anyway?"

On the flip side, there are some people who actually have a few great friends, co-workers, parents, and family members they trust. However, they recognize that this is rare and hold those friendships--and their respective "circles of trust" tightly. In these cases, it can be difficult for anyone--including God--to get in the circle. Here the question becomes, "Why do I need to trust anyone else?"

To be honest, I've probably found myself in both places at different times in my life. But sooner or later, a storm comes along...something so big I can't handle it by myself or even with the help of great people in my life.

I was reminded of that today by actual events in my life (which I won't go into detail about here) and by reading this passage (God's Word can be so timely sometimes!). Here's the story:

One day he and his disciples got in a boat.

"Let's cross the lake," he said.

And off they went.

It was smooth sailing, and he fell asleep.

A terrific storm came up suddenly on the lake.

Water poured in, and they were about to capsize.

They woke Jesus: "Master, Master, we're going to drown!"

Getting to his feet, he told the wind, "Silence!"

and the waves, "Quiet down!"

They did it.

The lake became smooth as glass.

Then he said to his disciples, "Why can't you trust me?"

Jesus has the power to whisper to waves and calm them. If He can do that, He can change situations in our lives or help us get through them. Whatever happens, the point is that He has proven He's worthy of our trust. He will stick by us. All we have to do is ask Him to lead the "circle of trust" in our lives.

Tomorrow: Luke 10-11

Add-ons, faith and foundations

Today: Luke 6-7

"Thanks for buying a new phone with us today, are you interested in insurance? It's an extra $10 a month."

"Not today."

"How about a new case?"

"No thanks."

"You can upgrade to get unlimited texting for another $5.00 a month. Interested?"

"Sorry."

"Well, you should definitely check out all the new apps. Some are free, but you can add on so many different applications--a new ringtone, Facebook, games, you name it."

If you've bought a new cell phone recently, the conversation above probably sounds familiar. I take that back...if you've bought ANYTHING lately, the conversation probably sounds familiar.

So much of selling is about convincing people to "add on" as much as possible. At restaurants, servers entice you with appetizers, drinks and desserts to go with the dinner you originally came for. If you're building a home, you can virtually upgrade everything (a fact that many people fail to budget for!)--hardwood floors, A/C, Jacuzzi bath tubs, you name it.

But have you ever thought of faith as an "add on"? Or have you ever known someone who has?

Jesus fully anticipated that some people would see following Him as an add-on to their lives. Take a look at what He said:

"...These words I speak to you are

not mere additions to your life,

homeowner improvements to your standard of living.

They are foundation words,

words to build a life on.
"If you work the words into your life,

you are like a smart carpenter

who dug deep

and laid the foundation of his house

on bedrock.

When the river burst its banks

and crashed against the house,

nothing could shake it;

it was built to last.

But if you just use my words in Bible studies

and don't work them into your life,

you are like a dumb carpenter

who built a house but skipped the foundation.

When the swollen river came crashing in,

it collapsed like a house of cards.

It was a total loss."

Whoa--I don't think I'd like Jesus to call me "dumb." But truthfully, I'm sure I've been exactly that at times.

I think there are many people who think of faith as "one more thing" that's part of their busy lives--a "thing" that's important to them in the same way as family, friends, school/work or having fun. In our eyes, the fact that God is important is enough. But God doesn't want to just be "important" to us--He wants to be everything to us, the foundational center of our lives and who we are.

The danger of the "faith is an add-on" approach is that an add-on can be easily discarded. People who view faith as an "add on" can easily skip spending time with God, going to church, volunteering, reading the Bible, hanging out with Christian friends, etc...when things in their lives get difficult. They can view Christianity like a diet--when it "works", they're totally committed to it. But when their prayers aren't answered in the way they want, when people at church aren't nice to them or when they face a challenging circumstance in life, they quit the Christian "diet" immediately.

Add-on Christians may still go to heaven, but will they help or hinder other people from knowing God? Perhaps the bigger tragedy is that add-on Christians don't allow God to have full access to their hearts. He's welcome on the fringes of their lives...but what could He do if He was invited to change, heal and mold the foundation?

Tomorrow: Luke 8-9

P.S. Bonus question for any pastors, teachers and leaders who may read this: Do you "sell" Christianity as an add-on? Food for thought...

The go-to God

Today: Luke 4-5

Have you ever known a go-to guy or a go-to girl?

This is the person EVERYONE trusts to be a real friend who actually comes through on their promises...for example, go-to guys and girls are the people who help you move or put together IKEA furniture. A go-to guy or girl is also someone who is REALLY good getting things done at work, home or a volunteer team. The go-to guy or girl embodies dependability, loyalty and integrity. I love go-to guys and girls (and try to be one as well).

What was interesting to me in today's reading was the fact that Jesus is what I'd label The Go-to God. In these two chapters, I noticed how just much people went to Jesus for many different things--crowds followed just to hear Him, people asked him to cast out demons, heal leprosy, heal a fever, help them fish, heal a paraplegic, and come to parties at their homes. Wow--that's a lot to handle!

But think about it--before Jesus, people had to talk to a priest if they were sick, sinned, struggled with something or if they wanted celebrate God's goodness. When He came to the planet, it opened up a whole new level of going to God directly with anything.

I love that in this passage, people go to Jesus for (what I think are) more minor things--a dinner invitation, fishing or healing a fever. But I also love that they brought major physical and spiritual things to Him as well--leprosy, demons and a guy who was paralyzed. Nothing was too big or too small for Him to handle.

Let me be clear...I DEFINITELY don't think God is like a genie whose ultimate purpose is to serve our commands. He knows what's best for us and has a bigger plan at work that surpasses what our brains can handle. He may not always answer our requests in the way we want...but I believe He always answers and perhaps even more important or interesting than that, He actually listens to every prayer, thought and request we make.

I love in this passage that people saw Jesus as someone they could trust--an accessible God who could get things done for them. I love that He can be like that to us--a go-to God who comes through on promises and can change things in our lives.

Tomorrow: Luke 6-7

Paintings, people and true colors

Today: Luke 2-3

I'm not an art expert. But today I visited the Vancouver Art Gallery and saw famous paintings by the likes of Rembrandt and Vermeer. It was fascinating to see such amazing creative work in person. There's something about the colors, textures and overall mood of a great painting that can never fully translate into print. Seeing the true colors up close revealed the masterful skill of the artists.

People can be like paintings. Sometimes our true colors (good or ugly) can be hidden--but God has a way of bringing them to light.

In today's passage, I think the words of Simeon, an old man who saw Jesus as a young child, stood out to me. He talked about how Jesus would be rejected by people in Israel when he said:

But the rejection will force honesty,

as God reveals who they really are.

The phrasing is interesting here--"rejection will force honesty"? I think Simeon was saying that the people, ideas and things we reject show our "true colors"--they in a sense reveal who we are. By rejecting Jesus, some people--who previously followed Him--would show that they didn't really believe. Sad. :(

But in this passage, another portion touches on the "true colors" topic in a more positive light. John the Baptist taught:

It's your life that must change,

not your skin...

What counts is your life.

Is it green and blossoming?

I think that here, John is teaching the mark of those who love God is not necessarily an external thing. People who follow Christ represent different races and ethnic backgrounds, for example. John taught that our true colors are shown through changed lives--are we growing, maturing and getting healthy and strong in our faith?

If I'm like a painting, I don't want to be a printed copy--flat and dull in my faith. I want to be an original masterpiece with all its texture and true colors shining--even under the revealing honest light of God's perspective.

Tomorrow: Luke 4-5

Inside-out beauty

Today: Luke 1

"You're beautiful," she said, "I saw you worshipping today and you just radiated with this real, genuine, inside-out beauty. God's beauty. It really blessed me."

She was a (non-weird) middle-aged woman who noticed me at church. I wasn't standing at the front of the stage...probably in one of the back rows of a 40-person choir. I wasn't wearing sparkles, bright color or a ballgown. But this woman noticed me for some strange reason.

This scene happened a few years ago and I still remember it. It wasn't the first time I heard that I was beautiful, pretty, hot, or gorgeous. I'm definitely not perfectly beautiful by the world's standards (e.g. I'm not 5'10" or taller, a size 2 with perfect hair, fake boobs and a perpetual tan)...but I'm not chopped liver either.

I think I remember this compliment partially because she said it with no ulterior motive (I didn't know her well and she wasn't a single guy trying to impress me). But I also remember it because of her strange-sounding verbiage--"inside-out beauty."

Reading Luke 1 today reminded me a bit of that moment. Mary encountered a similar situation with the angel Gabriel who told her:

Good morning!

You're beautiful with God's beauty,

Beautiful inside and out!

God be with you.

In no way am I trying to put myself on the same level as Mary. But I think the whole concept of inside-out beauty is interesting...and Mary exemplified it so much better than I ever could.
I can't imagine being in her shoes.

Can you think of what it would have felt like to tell people, "No, I didn't sleep with my fiancee--this baby is God's Son." Can you imagine the reactions people had to that statement? They probably thought she was crazy, lying or a slut (to be blunt). Pregnancy or sex before marriage was pretty non-existent back then. If it happened, it was definitely hush-hush and shameful. Mary probably received lots of dirty looks and snide comments. Some of her friends and family members might have disowned her. She wasn't perfect--she probably had days when she cried (heck, she was a pregnant woman in the desert with no A/C, pizza or DQ Blizzards on demand).

Here's her response:

I'm the Lord's maid, ready to serve.

Let it be with me

just as you say.

Wow. Mary's inside-out beauty was exemplified by her love for God and willingness to serve Him and His purpose. She was unselfish--risking her life and comfort to carry Jesus. But her desire to please God trumped her desire to please people. That's beautiful.

Tomorrow: Luke 2-3

Stunning silence

Today: Mark 15-16

Have you ever witnessed stunning silence?

By this, I mean a quiet kind of beauty--something or someone stunningly amazing because of their silence?

When I think of stunning silence, I picture something in nature...watching snow fall at night through the street lights or staring at majestic Mt. Rainier during a sunset drive home from work.

I'm usually not stunned by the silence of human beings. About the only example of this I can think of right now is watching a baby sleep.

More often, people are praised for their words. When you think about many of the people who are considered great or great leaders, they're usually great speakers--think President Obama, Ronald Reagan, Martin Luther King, Jr. Or think of great actors and singers--people continually in the public eye known for using their mouths exceptionally well.

But did you know Jesus was stunningly silent?

As I read today's passage, I noticed this wording about Him, as He stood before Pilate facing false and downright crazy accusations:

Pilate asked again,

"Aren't you going to answer anything?

That's quite a list of accusations."

Still, he said nothing.

Pilate was impressed, really impressed.

Wow.

I think there's something I can learn from Jesus in this situation. How many times have I opened my mouth, engaged in a debate, or gotten defensive--when I should have just stayed silent?

Don't get me wrong--I don' t think silence is always the right solution (and neither did Jesus for that matter).

But in this case, silence was evidence of strength. Jesus could have chewed Pilate out. He could have won a debate hands-down. He could have called lightening to strike Pilate and his palace. By staying silent, Jesus showed Pilate (and others) His strength--Jesus was intent on His mission. He wouldn't detract from it, though He would have had every right to. Now that's impressive.

Tomorrow: Luke 1

Leadership, example and dealing with difficulty

Today: Mark 14

"Do as I say and not as I do," is a saying I absolutely hate.

Yup, I actually said HATE (and I rarely say or write that!). I hate that it's such a cop-out. It's like saying, "I don't believe in what I'm saying enough to actually do it or be it." It's admitting you're a hypocrite. It's a saying for people who want to lead, but don't have the integrity, discipline or willingness to do what it takes.

Thankfully, Jesus definitely wasn't a leader like that, particularly when dealing with difficulty.

Let me give an example...

At the Last Supper, Jesus told the disciples, "You're all going to feel that your world is falling apart and that it's my fault." How many times have people--before and after the disciples--felt exactly that way when faced with difficult circumstances?

Several paragraphs later, Jesus is in the Garden of Gethsemane suffering. He knows the plan--He's about to die for the sins of humanity. But He also knows the Father--He knows the grace, love and all-powerful nature of God. And He has those characteristics Himself.

But the scene in the garden revealed how He dealt with difficulty--leading by example. He didn't turn up the drama and say that His world was falling apart. He didn't point fingers and say that it was all His Father's fault. He stayed faithful. He stayed focused. And He prayed, "Papa, Father, you can—can't you?—get me out of this. Take this cup away from me. But please, not what I want—what do you want?"

Tomorrow: Mark 15-16

20 Questions with Jesus

Today: Mark 12-13

Why is the sky blue?

Why do peanut butter and chocolate taste SO GOOD together?

Who was the twelfth president?

Where IS Duluth?

When most of us are children, we have a lot of questions about the world--and we're not afraid to ask them. I'm not a parent (yet), but I DO know that one of the favorite pasttimes of toddlers is asking "What's that?" And for teenagers, the question becomes, "Why?"

As we grow up, I don't think the questions go away. They just get harder. We ask ourselves things like, "Why am I here on this planet?", "Why do bad things happen to good people?" and "Does God REALLY exist?" However, most adults don't ask questions like these out loud.

But if Jesus came visit you in person, I bet you'd have some questions (I know I would!).

Today as I read Mark 12-13, I felt a little bit like the people were playing a "20 Questions with Jesus" game. But sometimes, He asked them questions, too. Here are a few personal observations:

• Jesus sometimes answered questions with very clear, straightforward answers. (Example: "Which is most important of all the commandments?")
  
• At other times, Jesus answered questions by first questioning back. (See: "Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar or not?")
  
• Jesus answered some questions people didn't explicitly ask out loud...but were probably curious about. (For example, I think He answered the question, "What is true generosity?" when He talked about the widow who gave all she had. )
  
• Jesus also initiated discussions by asking people questions. (Illustrated when He asks, "How is it that the religion scholars say that the Messiah is David's 'son,' when we all know that David, inspired by the Holy Spirit, said...?)
  
• Sometimes, He answered questions with clues, but not clear-cut answers. (This is exemplified with His answer to, "What sign will we get that things are coming to a head?")

Jesus' approach to answering and asking questions was interesting for me to think about...mainly because I think that God still operates that way today.

Some of His answers to my questions have been pretty clear-cut...the answers are laid out clearly in the Bible so if I know what it says (or who to ask), I can find a very straight answer.

Sometimes, I think God questions us back--kind of like a good parent. For example, if I asked my mom and dad, "What do you think I should do with my life?", they would probably ask me questions like, "What are you interested in? What are your strengths? What are you passionate about doing? Who do you want to help through your work? What do you feel called or drawn to do?"

I know for sure Mom and Dad wouldn't want me to be a stripper (and I think God has boundaries like that, too). However, I think my parents would be pleased whether or not I chose to be a stay-at-home mom (well, as long as I was married first!), writer, project manager, teacher, speaker, researcher, etc. The point is that in some areas of our lives, I believe God gives us choices, but guides us to possible answers by asking us questions or providing some clues along the way.

Finally, I think sometimes God still wants to initiate discussions by asking us questions. This may sound a little strange...but I think every human being has a little bit of wonder in them (and I'm not talking about that cheap, airy white bread!). :) We wonder about the future and about the past. We wonder about good and evil, heaven and hell. We wonder about the meaning of our lives and we wonder about sickness and death. But have you ever asked yourself this important question--where does that "wonder" come from?

Tomorrow: Mark 14

The VIP section of heaven

Today: Mark 10-11

Back-to-school season is interesting, especially since I'm no longer in it. :)

I DO remember that one of the BIGGEST DEALS EVER in elementary school was where the teacher placed my desk. I was a good kid and a good student...which meant that if the teachers were strategic (like many are), I would usually end up sitting next to some loud, obnoxious and smelly boy who thought bodily functions were absolutely hilarious and ate boogers in class. Ugh!!! (Note to self: Find that kid on Facebook...I bet he's totally hot and hilarious now...which would be my luck.)

"Where you sit is important," was a lesson I learned back then.

I also learned that lesson in junior high and high school. I think most schools resemble cheesy teen movies in the fact that each one has the holy grail "Cool Table" in the cafeteria and the "Oh My Gosh I Never Want to Be Seen Here" table as well.

Even now, whenever my friends and family members go out to concerts, sporting events or comedy shows, getting REALLY good seats holds some prestige--like the time when my Dad sat in the owner's box at a Mariners' game. I heard things like, "You. Don't. UnderSTAND! It was unbelievable!!! They had a buffet table and so-and-so was there and I talked with him and...!"

As human beings, many of us learn the importance of getting a good seat. Even the disciples struggled with it. In today's passage, they fought over the VIP section in heaven (well, that's my way to say it anyway). Check it out:

"Arrange it," they said,

"so that we will be awarded the highest places

of honor in your glory—

one of us at your right,

the other at your left."
Jesus said, "You have no idea what you're asking.

Are you capable of drinking the cup I drink,

of being baptized in the baptism I'm about to be plunged into?" ...

"You've observed

how godless rulers

throw their weight around," he said,

"and when people get a little power

how quickly it goes to their heads.

It's not going to be that way with you.

Whoever wants to be great must become a servant.

Whoever wants to be first among you must be your slave.

That is what the Son of Man has done:

He came to serve, not to be served—

and then to give away his life

in exchange for many who are held hostage."

Whoa. If I was one of those disciples, I would have had a, "Why the heck did I even ask that for?" moment.

VIP seating in heaven is a whole lot different than it is here. It's WAY more expensive. But you don't get in heaven's best seats by being rich, cool, powerful, good, poor, beautiful, or funny. You get there by totally surrendering your life in service to others, just as Christ was willing to give His life for people. That's intense. But it's how God rolls in the VIP section.

(Yeah...I can't even begin to talk or write in a cool hip-hop style, so I'm just going to stop. Now.) :)

Tomorrow: Mark 12-13