Day 356 a final note from God: Revelation 19-22

Who knows what the new year will bring?

Are you ready?

There is global warming, rising gas and energy prices, shortages of food and water, disasters on land and sea. There are new diseases and economic uncertainty. Terrorist activity is increasing and banks are failing.

12-21-2012 is the end of the Mayan Calendar.

There are rumors of war, earthquakes, hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, war, famine, poverty, and more. We are surrounded by the signs or so we think.

The conditions in the world have been getting progressively worse for many years.

Have things gotten so bad that the world is going to end?

That has been the story for years, for generations, for centuries.

The one who bears witness to these things says, “Yes, I’m coming soon.” Amen.
Come, Lord Jesus! The grace of the Lord Jesus be with all.

Revelation 22:20-21 CEB

I don't know when soon is . . .

Until then . . . Remember what you have learned in our journey this year:

God loves you!

He sent Jesus to die for you.

How you live your faith matters - now and forever!

Grace to all you in the adventure of faith that lies ahead for us.

Day 355 a note from God: Revelation 12-18

This calls for wisdom. Let the one who understands calculate the beast’s number, for it’s a human being’s number. Its number is six hundred sixty-six.

Revelation 13:18 CEB

We can not address the mark of the beast without acknowledging the Number of the Beast. The number is 666 in most manuscripts of the New Testament, and in modern translations and critical editions of the Greek text. Although Irenaeus (second century) reported several scribal errors of the number, there is still doubt by some theologians about the original writing, as some recently discovered third century early manuscripts of Revelation read 616. This topic is a source of contention for many church groups and theologians. Most scholars contend that the number 666 is a numerical coded entry that refers to the Roman Emperor Nero. 616 was a coded entry for Nero as well but while derived from using his Latin name.

What does the number mean? Futurist contend that the number would be a number that all currency would be based upon (and you thought the metric system was hard?). Exact interpretations vary widely and many now refer to more current technologies:

•Some interpret the mark as a requirement for all commerce to mean that the mark might actually be an object with the function of a credit card (e.g. implanted RFID tags)
•Some propose that the mark of the beast may refer to a social security number or card
•Others suppose the mark to be a microchip or a tattooed barcode on the human body

Some who take a contextual view of the Book of Revelation identify the Mark of the Beast with the stamped image of the emperor's head on every coin of the Roman Empire: the stamp on the hand or in the mind of all, without which no one could buy or sell. New Testament scholar Craig C. Hill, a Methodist, says, "It is far more probable that the mark symbolizes the all-embracing economic power of Rome, who's very coinage bore the emperor's image and conveyed his claims to divinity. It had become increasingly difficult for Christians to function in a world in which public life, including the economic life of the trade guilds, required participation in idolatry."

The ‘mark’ is also seen as an ironic contrast with the Jewish institution of tefillin – bible texts worn bound to the arm and the forehead during daily prayer. Instead of binding their allegiance to God to their arm and head, these places are instead taken up with the people's allegiance to the Beast.

Whatever the number and the beast represent it is important to understand that it is about choice - your choice - who will you choose to follow? Who will have your allegiance?

Day 354 a note from God: Revelation 5-11

They took up a new song, saying,

“You are worthy to take the scroll and open its seals, because you were slain, and by your blood you purchased for God persons from every tribe, language, people, and nation. You made them a kingdom and priests to our God, and they will rule on earth.”

Revelation 5:9-10 CEB

I have to admit I don't understand most of this book of the Bible. That is not to say that I am not fascinated by it.

I am also more than skeptical of anyone who claims to know what it all means - even the author didn't understand all that he saw and wrote!

Here is what I do know . . . this is the final chapter of God's revelation to humankind called the Bible. Like any good book the last chapter sums everything up and ties up the loose ends.

God wins!

All the battles that seemed lost - God wins!

All the evil that seemed to prosper loses - God wins!

Oh and Jesus - for those that had faith without seeing - You will see Him!

Every now and then, when the night is darkest, read the last chapter of the book and remembered how everything turns out - it makes the scary parts not so scary!

Day 353 a note from God: Revelation 1-4

Look, he is coming with the clouds! Every eye will see him, including those who pierced him, and all the tribes of the earth will mourn because of him. This is so. Amen. “I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “the one who is and was and is coming, the Almighty.”

Revelation 1:7-8 CEB

Before Santa and presents and tinsel and cookies, Advent was a time of preparation for new converts and the message concentrated on the return of Christ - not his first coming.

Perhaps it is okay that Christ's coming gets lost in the modern celebration of Christmas. His coming is really only the prologue to the story.

Easter isn't even the climax of the story - although the sacrifice and forgiveness of sin and the whole atonement thing is pretty awesome!

The climax of the story is the return of Christ!

That is still to come - we are still waiting.

Count the days and be ever ready for just as all the other promises were true -

this one will happen as well.

Day 352 a note from God: 1,2,3 John

We announce to you what existed from the beginning, what we have heard, what we have seen with our eyes, what we have seen and our hands handled, about the word of life. The life was revealed, and we have seen, and we testify and announce to you the eternal life that was with the Father and was revealed to us. What we have seen and heard, we also announce it to you so that you can have fellowship with us. Our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ.

1 John 1:1-3 CEB

Does this sound familiar?

As you read this passage, did you recall the story of the shepherds at the birth of Christ?

When the angels returned to heaven, the shepherds said to each other, “Let’s go right now to Bethlehem and see what’s happened. Let’s confirm what the Lord has revealed to us.” They went quickly and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in the manger. When they saw this, they reported what they had been told about this child. Everyone who heard it was amazed at what the shepherds told them.

Luke 2:15-18 CEB

Now that you know the story. Share it. Testify to others about it.

This Good News is too Good to keep yourself.

Day 351 a note from God: 2 Peter and Jude

Remember this day these words from Jude:

Dear friends, I wanted very much to write to you concerning the salvation we share. Instead, I must write to urge you to fight for the faith delivered once and for all to God’s holy people. Godless people have slipped in among you. They turn the grace of our God into unrestrained immorality and deny our only master and Lord, Jesus Christ.

Jude 1:3-4a CEB

On this day of family, presents, Santa, food, ornaments, and celebration - don't allow all of it to crowd out the reason for our salvation.

Merry Christmas!

Day 350 a note from God: 2 Timothy

From Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by God’s will, to promote the promise of life that is in Christ Jesus.
To Timothy, my dear child.
Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord. I’m grateful to God, whom I serve with a good conscience as my ancestors did. I constantly remember you in my prayers day and night. When I remember your tears, I long to see you so that I can be filled with happiness. I’m reminded of your authentic faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice. I’m sure that this faith is also inside you. Because of this, I’m reminding you to revive God’s gift that is in you through the laying on of my hands. God didn’t give us a spirit that is timid but one that is powerful, loving, and self-controlled.

2 Timothy 1:1-7 CEB

It's Christmas Eve and thoughts of family and gatherings run through my head. As I read this passage, I cannot help but think of my grandmothers - Bonnie and Claretta.

They were always my encouragers. My grandmother gave me my first Bible. I now have with me my grandfather's Bible that he used to teach SS.

As we grow older we share with others that which has been shared with us. We are entrusted with it - faith.

Tonite I will share the Christmas story with the people of Hagerstown - just as other ministers before me have been doing since 1897 in this space.

I gain courage and strength from those that told the story before me.

What story will you tell?

What story will be remembered from your life?

Merry Christmas!

Day 349 a note from God: Hebrews 11-13

Faith is the reality of what we hope for, the proof of what we don’t see.

Hebrews 11:1 CEB

We truly are blind to so much in life.

This Christmas take a lesson from the shepherds - take a look for yourself.

Find a church this Christmas Eve (for that matter this Christmas Sunday) and check out the story of grace.

May you discover hope, peace, joy and love.

May you discover the proof your faith needs.

Day 348 a note from God: Hebrews 7-10

Every priest stands every day serving and offering the same sacrifices over and over, sacrifices that can never take away sins. But when this priest offered one sacrifice for sins for all time, he sat down at the right side of God. Since then, he’s waiting until his enemies are made into a footstool for his feet, because he perfected the people who are being made holy with one offering for all time.

The Holy Spirit affirms this when saying,

This is the covenant that I will make with them. After these days, says the Lord, I will place my laws in their hearts and write them on their minds. And I won’t remember their sins and their lawless behavior anymore.

When there is forgiveness for these things, there is no longer an offering for sin.

Hebrews 10:11-18 CEB

This is why Christmas is filled with Good News.

Christmas occurs within the shadow of the cross.

2000 years ago when Christ was born, the cross was still to come. So give them a break for not fully recognizing the greatness of the small child born in Bethlehem.

We have tried for centuries to earn God's favor. We work hard. We make sacrifices.

All in vain. Forgiveness and connection to God comes through the Cross.

And that journey begins in a manger in Bethlehem.

For those that grieve at Christmas . . .

For many the thoughts of a merry Christmas are far away. The songs of the season seem to mock us for “it is NOT the most wonderful time of the year.” At least not for everyone . . .

Not when there is a chair that is empty at the table.
Not without that other voice joining yours in the Christmas Carol singing.
Not when the depression seems too much to bear.

Is it the most wonderful time of the year? No, it is not.

Trying to smile and say “Merry Christmas” seems to become more difficult with each passing day. C.S. Lewis once wrote; “No one ever told me that grief felt so much like fear. I am not afraid, but the sensation is like being afraid. The same fluttering in the stomach, the same restlessness . . .”

It is the most wonderful time of the year, only it is not.

Not after you heard the news.
Not when you still feel alone in a crowd.
Not after your loss.

I wish I had something magical to say to you that would make everything all right. Some magical words that could magically bring understanding to this situation: Something like . . . Open Sesame! Abracadabra! or I have Ice Cream!

The truth is I have often found myself in a position as a pastor when people have come to me looking for solutions to their particular problem and I have often said something like, “Just remember . . . there aren’t any magic words.”

The truth is I have found some magical words in this past week. I have found that there are two words that have an amazing ability to become life changing for someone. I hope that as I share them with you that they will be magical for you as well. These words are not magic in a Harry Potter sense, but these words do have the ability to breathe new life into someone. These words can lift burdens, calm fears, and even inspire hope. Timed right, they can become like a warm fire on a cold December evening.

What are these words? . . . I understand.

Think about it. Right behind food, shelter, and clothing, one of our greatest needs is to be understood. How many times have your children stormed off saying, “You just don’t understand!” When you have been in a conflict with your spouse, or boss, or children, haven’t you found yourself replaying the conversations over and over in your head? Searching for that clever thing to say next time so you might be better understood? When you are unfairly criticized don’t you immediately start ranting about all the things your critic doesn’t understand about you or the situation?

When you feel lonely, depressed, or overcome with grief and somebody tells you, “to snap out of it” don’t you instantly mark that person as one who has no understanding? And having done so doesn’t that make you feel even more isolated realizing that no one understands how you feel?

Think about it. Some of our most frustrating moments in life have come when we needed understanding and just couldn’t find it and without understanding we are left feeling empty.

That is why I believe the words ‘I understand’ have so much power. Say these words to someone who is hurting, confused, or neck deep in trouble and watch the reaction. At the very least you get a sigh of relief. A good chance you get a hug. You might even see tears of relief. All because it is wonderful to know that someone understands.

If I were to stand here today and try to express to each of you who are going through difficult circumstances that I understand, I would be a fool. For neither you nor I have the ability to speak understanding into every situation that life presents . . . Well, anyone that is except Jesus:

From heaven the LORD looks down and sees all mankind; from his dwelling place he watches all who live on earth- he who forms the hearts of all, (and) considers everything they do. Psalm 33:13-15 NIV

That is the understanding that Jesus brought with Him and was evident from the beginning of His ministry:

Everyone who heard Him was amazed at His understanding and His answers.
Luke 2:47 NIV

Jesus was able to connect with people. Jesus not only connected with these people but He dramatically impacted their lives. Part of the reason was that He understood them. A perfect example of this is revealed in John 11:

When Mary arrived where Jesus was and saw him, she fell at his feet and said, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother wouldn’t have died.” When Jesus saw her crying and the Jews who had come with her crying also, he was deeply disturbed and troubled. He asked, “Where have you laid him?” They replied, “Lord, come and see.” Jesus began to cry. John 11:32-35 CEB

When we are honest with ourselves, we can admit that we who grieve have asked God the same type of question that Mary asks, “God, why didn’t you do something?”

I am thankful that Jesus didn’t answer the question. As a matter of fact from our perspective HE ignored it. I am thankful because of what he could of said, but didn’t.

He didn’t explain that this death was part of a plan.

He didn’t explain that she had no right to question God’s plan.

He didn’t demand an apology.

The Son of God who had the power to raise Lazarus from the dead didn’t tell her to snap of it and get on with life.

He didn’t chastise for her not having enough faith in Jesus to trust.

Why didn’t He do this? Because Jesus understood that she was filled with grief.

Mary didn’t need a rebuke, she needed someone to understand and that is what he gave her - understanding.

How do we know that He understood? He wept. In that moment there were no magic words – just understanding.

He shared with her - her grief.

And that is the good news of Christmas. God came to be with us – God came to be one of us. God came so that in this moment, God could say, “I understand.”

We are no different than Mary at the tomb of Lazarus. Oh, our circumstances may be different, but each of us comes to a point where we need someone to understand.

Whatever agony you happen to be going through right now, Jesus is acquainted with it. Don’t be fooled by the fact that He walked this earth a couple of thousand years ago. Satan wants you to believe that Jesus didn’t live during our hectic, complicated times, and therefore He can’t possibly understand what you are going through.

Not True. Pain is pain whether you wear sandals and a tunic or Blue Jeans and a T-shirt. Jesus experienced enough pain and rejection to understand yours. When your life is derailed and no one seems to understand. Remember that right now Jesus understands:

He understands your situation.
He understands your pain.
He understands your grief.

Be reminded this day that there is One who understands. He came to us as a baby born in a manger to live a life – to become our savior.

Be reminded this day that there is One who understands . . .

And your life will be changed.

Your faith refilled.

Your joy returned.

And your hope restored.

Day 347 a note from God: Hebrews 1-6

In the past, God spoke through the prophets to our ancestors in many times and many ways. In these final days, though, he spoke to us through a Son. God made his Son the heir of everything and created the world through him. The Son is the light of God’s glory and the imprint of God’s being. He maintains everything with his powerful message. After he carried out the cleansing of people from their sins, he sat down at the right side of the highest majesty.

Hebrews 1:1-3 CEB

If you have become so familiar with the Christmas story that you find yourself struggling to find meaning in all the familiar passages, then try reading Hebrews Chapter 1 for a different telling of the Christmas story.

Day 346 a note from God: I Peter

Dear friends, since you are immigrants and strangers
in the world,
I urge that you avoid worldly desires that wage war against your lives

I Peter 2:11 CEB










I have a peculiar habit. When I spend time in prolonged conversation with someone with a specific dialect, I pick it up. I still have phrases and words that I use after living in Texas and Minnesota. I can still revert to broken Russian english after spending time there 20 years ago!

How is that I still have very revealing parts of my life that resemble the places I have lived - even if for but a few short weeks! - but I still struggle to live like a citizen of God's Kingdom?

That is the hard part for us in this world - this is not our home.

So as hard as it is - STOP picking up bad habits!

You were meant to live a life far greater than the one you are settling for . . .

Your passport should state that you are only visiting -

be sure to declare all the baggage that you have picked up -

I know someone who will willing carry it for you . . .

Day 345 a note from God: Titus

Titus is a short letter that packs a powerful message that we often over look.

But you should talk in a way that is consistent with sound teaching.
Titus 2:1a CEB

We shouldn't sound crazy when we teach the things of God. That would seem to make sense, but apparently some missed this part . . .

Talk about these things.
Titus 2:15a CEB

These things are faith, hope, love. These things are the things that make living a life worthy of the faith we claim. They are not legalism redone. The Pharisees already showed us that path. Apparently some missed the memo . . .

Avoid stupid controversies
Titus 3:9a CEB

Ooops! We missed this one as well.
How many churches have split over dumb stuff?
How many denominations split and divided over the non-essentials?

We still have time to get it right.

Perhaps as we approach the end of our journey reading the Bible this year, we need to commit to reading it all over again in 2012.

Maybe we missed something else . . .

Day 344 a note from God: I Timothy

While physical training has some value, training in holy living is useful for everything. It has promise for this life now and the life to come.

I Timothy 4:8 CEB

While I wish this was my excuse for mot doing more physical training . . .

What is your excuse?

We spend so much time worrying about our physical fitness for our short time on this earth, while paying so little time to our spiritual fitness which will last forever.

Again, what is your excuse?

Day 343 a note from God: Philippians

I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.

Philippians 1: 3-6 NIV

I think the church would benefit if we issued shirts like the one pictured to every Christian.

They would serve as a reminder for us to be patient with one another, but perhaps it would also help others understand that we are not perfect - yet.

God promises to continue to work on us until we are made complete.

That's good news and bad news.

Good in that we will be made perfect and complete as God intended.

Bad in that we won't see it in this lifetime.

Don't use it as an excuse, work hard. Live your faith.

Be as perfect as an imperfect human can be.

Let others see the Jesus that is in you - however big or small.

Day 342 a note from God: Ephesians

In Christ we have bold and confident access to God through faith in him.

Ephesians 3:12 CEB

I think that perhaps we have lost all concept of what it means to be holy.

We throw the word around a lot with out truly understanding its meaning.

God is Holy. Actually, scripture says of God, He is Holy, Holy, Holy.

That is meant to create an image of total perfection.

God is perfect and as such nothing (absolutely NOTHING) with flaw or imperfection may enter God's presence.

How then is humankind to ever gain audience with God with all of our flaws?

No matter how hard we try we cannot obtain perfection.

Enter Christ.

In Christ we have bold and confident access to God through faith in Him.

By faith we are made able to access God.

By faith we are granted holiness.

Think about that the next time someone deems something holy!

Day 341 a note from God: Philemon and Colossians

See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ.

Colossians 2:8 NIV

Sounds like the notion of the season - Keep Christ in Christmas.

Never be ashamed of why you celebrate Christmas and as to those traditions . . .

Maybe its worth looking into them so that you can remind others . . .

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Day 340 a note from God: Acts 27-28

My message was that they should change their hearts and lives and turn to God, and that they should demonstrate this change in their behavior.

Acts 26:20b CEB

As Christmas approaches, it is easy to get caught up in the season.

In the past Easter was the celebration that was the high point on the Christian Calendar, but Christmas is the holiday that gets must of the attention now within the church.

I often wonder why?

I think it is because God is an infant at this time of the year and as a baby, God doesn't seem so demanding or unapproachable. Come Easter there is the sacrifice thing and the whole repentance stuff as well.

The reality is that the Jesus of Christmas and the Jesus of Easter are one in the same. Jesus doesn't change.

That's why I like the consistent message of Paul, "If you say you have faith then live it!"

This Christmas don't just claim the arrival of God.

Don't just celebrate the promise of Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love.

Live them. Be them.

Be Hope!

Be Peace!

Be Joy!

Be Love!

Day 339 a note from God: Acts 24-26

Several days later Felix came with his wife Drusilla, who was Jewish. He sent for Paul and listened to him as he spoke about faith in Christ Jesus. As Paul talked about righteousness, self-control and the judgment to come, Felix was afraid and said, “That’s enough for now! You may leave. When I find it convenient, I will send for you.”

Acts 24:24-25 CEB

This actually went on for two years.

Two years of hearing Paul tell the story of Christ.

Two years of maybe tomorrow.

How long have you been hearing the story?

How long have you put off making a decision?

Isn't it time tomorrow was today?

Day 338 a note from God: Acts 20-23

When Paul had finished speaking, he knelt down with all of them and prayed. They all wept as they embraced him and kissed him. What grieved them most was his statement that they would never see his face again. Then they accompanied him to the ship.

Acts 20:36-38 CEB

In the day and age of social media and Skype, I don't think we can begin to comprehend this scene.

My wife and I used to grieve whenever we left our son and grandkids in Connecticut. We knew it would be at least another year before we would see them again. But now we see them nearly every week thanks to Skype.

As wonderful as technology is for keeping us in touch with one another. I wonder if we haven't lost the sense of personal connection - the embrace of friendship.

Take time this holiday season to embrace the ones that you love.

They have yet to develop an app for that.

Christmas Family Portrait: The Shepherds

The holy intersects the common in a field when the angels visit the shepherds:

And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us. And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger. And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child. And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.
Luke 2:8-20 KJV

The familiarity of the story of the shepherds can cause us to glamorize the incident or paint a picture of Christmas in a manner that is not consistent with the story. The beauty of the Christmas story is its simplicity that is wrapped around some very intricate theology.

There is only one announcement of Christ’s birth recorded in the Scriptures, only one invitation given by God to anyone to visit Mary and Joseph and the infant Jesus. That one invitation goes to a bunch of - uneducated, smelly, low-class, social and religious outcasts - shepherds.

Let me tell you a bit about shepherds. They were the last people you’d expect God to notice. On the scale of occupational excitement shepherding is no doubt very low on the list. Most of the time, shepherds were “living out in the fields.” This was not a 40-hour a week job. They didn’t come home at night. They were with sheep 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. During the day, they led the sheep to grass and water. They watched while the sheep grazed. The rhythmic baaing of the sheep during the day was only occasionally interrupted by the excitement of a predator – that could be fended off by the effective use of a sling – just ask David. And at night, they actually slept in the sheep pen with the sheep to guard against theft and additional animal attacks.

Being a shepherd was lonely, wearisome, boring and tedious. It did them a lot of contact with sheep (apparently sheep know their shepherd by the sound of their voice). It bears repeating shepherds had lots of contact with sheep - very little contact with people. As a result, shepherds were social outcasts. They were constantly on the move to find good pasture for their flocks and as a result they were commonly looked on with suspicion. They were often accused of being thieves (if something came up missing – it must have been those shepherds). Shepherds were not permitted to give testimony in legal proceedings because their word wasn’t considered trustworthy.

Shepherds were also religious outcasts. According to Jewish religious law, these men were unclean. Their line of work prevented them from participating in the feasts and holy days that made up the Jewish religious calendar. Why? Somebody had to watch the sheep. When everyone else was making the trip to Jerusalem to make sacrifices at the temple, or to participate in one of the annual feasts, they were watching over the sheep. It wasn’t really their fault they just were not able to participate fully in the religious life of any community. As a result, shepherds had the least amount of credibility to speak about religious matters.

Imagine you’re God and you want to announce the most amazing, incredible, joyous news ever; an event which will literally change the course of history – the birth of your only Son, Jesus Christ - the birth of the One who will be the Savior of the whole world - the One for whom the nation of Israel has been waiting and hoping and praying for thousands of years. Finally, He has come! Who do you announce it to? Who do you tell? Who do you invite to come and see?

The point is that it was only the shepherds, the social and religious outcasts that received the announcement and the invitation. Why did God do this? Why did God send announce the birth of Christ to these shepherds, to invite them, and only them, to come and see the child?

I believe that God wanted to show that His love does not discriminate on the basis of class, or wealth, or social standing. God does not respect kings and princes more than hourly laborers, he does not value priests and pastors above the people in the pews. God does not show favoritism; He does not give preferential treatment to one group of people over another. God’s love is available to all on the same basis – faith in Jesus Christ.

In other words, God was demonstrating, by His choice of these humble shepherds to be the first to receive the news of Christ’s birth, that Jesus was not going to be the Savior of only the political and social and religious elite. Jesus was not going to be the Savior only of kings and governors, or popes and priests. Jesus is the Savior of all equally, he doesn’t give preference to any group or any class. Nor does he discriminate on the basis of intelligence, or education, or wealth, or profession, or political power, or social standing, or any of the other qualities that human beings judge by. His love is offered indiscriminately to anyone who will repent and believe, anyone who will trust in Him as Savior.

So, what does all this mean to me? GOOD NEWS!

Perhaps you see yourself as kind of on the outside looking in. I imagine that many nights, as the shepherds sat out in those cold, lonely fields, with nothing but dumb animals to keep them company, they looked over at the village, saw the lights of the homes and heard the faint sound of families, people laughing, and wished they could be a part of that. Maybe you’ve felt that way too. Not one of the “beautiful people,” not especially wealthy or powerful or influential. Not likely to ever see your name in the paper for some great accomplishment – living on the fringes socially.

Maybe when you compare your level of religious observance to others, the comparison isn’t favorable - irregular church attendance, little Bible study, infrequent prayer. You wonder . . . Does God know I exist? Does God have a favorable opinion of me? And you know what? A lot of people, deep down, secretly feel like that. Even people you would think of as “having it all together”. On the surface, everything is going great. But on the inside, you feel like you don’t fit in. You feel like God doesn’t really care, couldn’t care, about someone like you.

If any of that description strikes a chord with you, then I have good news - Great news - the best news possible! God loves you - just like He loved those shepherds. And you are special to Him - just like those shepherds were special - so special that He gave them the incredible privilege of being the first to hear of Christ’s birth, being the first people other than Joseph and Mary to lay eyes on the Son of God, being the first to tell others about Christ.

He didn’t give those privileges to the Roman Caesar or to the Jewish high priest, he gave it to the shepherds. God did this not in spite of who they were, but because of who they were – humble, ordinary people with no high opinions of themselves - simple people who were willing to simply believe what God told them and to simply do what God commanded them.

God is inviting you today, just like he invited the shepherds. Will you believe what He says and do what He asks? Will you acknowledge your need of forgiveness and put your trust in Jesus Christ for salvation? You don’t need to be a genius or a member of the “in” crowd. You just need to believe and obey. Listen to God’s promise:

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” – John 3:16 (NIV)

I pray this Christmas you will make that decision to trust Christ. If you do, take time to tell me about it, so that I can help you with the next step of developing a relationship with Christ.

Day 337 a note from God: Romans 14-16

I’m introducing our sister Phoebe to you, who is a deacon of the church in Cenchreae.

Romans 16:1 CEB

What part about women in ministry did you want to debate?

Day 336 a note from God: Romans 11-13

So, brothers and sisters, because of God’s mercies, I encourage you to present your bodies as a living sacrifice that is holy and pleasing to God. This is your appropriate priestly service. Don’t be conformed to the patterns of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds so that you can figure out what God’s will is—what is good and pleasing and mature.

Romans 12:1-2 CEB

I confess I have always liked transformers. I even watched the cartoon while I was in college. I have enjoyed connecting the past with the present by sharing the movies with my son.

There is perhaps a lot of theology to be discovered in The Transformers and Optimus Prime, but I will not go there today.

Paul writes that we are to be transformed. Transformed daily.

I think the problem with transforming is that most Christians try to live like the transformers - doing everything they can to blend in to society - believing that when the moment comes they can transform into a Christian.

It just doesn't work that way! Christ called us to stand out from the world - not to blend in.

We are to be transformed every moment of every day.

That is how it should be in our lives.

That doesn't make for a great movie, but it does make for a great life serving Christ.

Day 335 a note from God: Romans 8-10

Because if you confess with your mouth “Jesus is Lord” and in your heart you have faith that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. Trusting with the heart leads to righteousness, and confessing with the mouth leads to salvation.

Romans 10:9-10 CEB

There is a lot of doctrine and theology contained in these two verses.

What must we believe to be saved?

Jesus is Lord. This is an admission that Jesus is God. Jesus is divine.

Jesus is raised from the dead. Jesus not only lived, but still lives!

But there is more . . .

To believe (internal/heart) this is not enough . . .

You must also live (external/mouth) it.

What do you believe?

How do you live it?

Shoot me an e-mail and let me know rodney.frieden@inumc.org

Day 334 a note from God: Romans 4-7

I don’t know what I’m doing, because I don’t do what I want to do. Instead, I do the thing that I hate. But if I’m doing the thing that I don’t want to do, I’m agreeing that the Law is right. But now I’m not the one doing it anymore. Instead, it’s sin that lives in me. I know that good doesn’t live in me—that is, in my body. The desire to do good is inside of me, but I can’t do it. I don’t do the good that I want to do, but I do the evil that I don’t want to do. But if I do the very thing that I don’t want to do, then I’m not the one doing it anymore. Instead, it is sin that lives in me that is doing it.

Romans 7:15-20 CEB

I wonder if this is the rant that Paul gave after someone called him a hypocrite?

What's your excuse?

Day 333 a note from God: Acts 20 and Romans 1-3

All have sinned and fall short of God’s glory, but all are treated as righteous freely by his grace because of a ransom that was paid by Christ Jesus.

Romans 3:23-24 CEB

In this day and age any discussion of tolerance is often inclusive of a discussion of grace and the church's intolerance. The problem with the discussion is that it is never framed properly.

Paul frames the discussion of grace in the proper manner when he reminds us that we have all sinned and fallen short. Period end of sentence. We are doomed as sinners to God's judgment and wrath. In the face of God's judgment we are shown grace through the sacrifice of Christ.

God is not tolerant of us. God didn't suddenly become fed up with the totality of our sins. No, we ALL have sinned and failed.

Enter Grace.

In the name of tolerance, we need to be able to draw the line and create standards - isn't that what the 10 commandments represents? God's standards.

While you are claiming God's grace, be mindful of why you need it and at what price this grace comes . . .

Day 332 a note from God: 2 Corinthians 10-13

Finally, brothers and sisters, good-bye. Put things in order, respond to my encouragement, be in harmony with each other, and live in peace—and the God of love and peace will be with you.

2 Corinthians 13:11 CEB

Paul closes his letter to the church at Corinth with advice that is good for any church in any age:

1. Put things in order
2. Respond to encouragement
3. Be in harmony with each other
4. Live in peace

Why do these things?

So the God of love and peace will be with you.

Day 331 A note from God: 2 Corinthians 5-9

A gift is appreciated because of what a person can afford, not because of what that person can’t afford, if it’s apparent that it’s done willingly. It isn’t that we want others to have financial ease and you financial difficulties, but it’s a matter of equality. At the present moment, your surplus can fill their deficit so that in the future their surplus can fill your deficit. In this way there is equality. As it is written, The one who gathered more didn’t have too much, and the one who gathered less didn’t have too little.

2 Corinthians 8:12-15 CEB

Every week the ushers come forward and pass a plate down each aisle as we take up our weekly offerings.

For the casual observer this must be a strange drama to watch. It must look like a collection of the weekly dues for being a member of the church and benefiting from all the programs. I confess that sometimes we (the church) make it sound like that as well.

The offering is about ministry. The offering supports the ministries of the church.

But, it is not an equal pay system. Each gives as they can.

We give out of our abundance - as we can afford. We work together to provide all that resources needed for mission and ministry.

When we are able to shift our way of thinking from "all that we don't have" to "all that we do have", we will be able to be more generous in our giving and . . .

Our giving will become a natural response to the generosity already shared with us by God through Christ.

Read all of the eight chapter to get a better understanding of the offering's purpose in your church.

Christmas Family Portrait: The Innkeeper

And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be taxed. (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child. And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.
Luke 2:1-7 KJV

The very first Christmas involved an 80 mile trip that most likely took a week for Mary and Joseph to get from Nazareth to Bethlehem. Today, we make such a big deal about the trek to Bethlehem. Yet, AAA estimates that over 92 million Americans will travel farther than 50 miles this Christmas. The average round trip distance covered is over one thousand miles. Most of this traveling will be done in an effort to get home for Christmas. This effort to get home for Christmas is not a new phenomenon. Perhaps traveling at Christmas has roots in the story of Mary and Joseph’s travels, but there are other examples in history:

In November of 1783 after eight years of war, General George Washington was impatient to return home to Mount Vernon for it had been his home since he was three years old. Washington had only been home once for a few days during the war and that visit over 2 years earlier. Washington had retaken possession of New York from the British and had plans to say farewell to the troops and resign his commission to Congress before going home to Mount Vernon and Martha for Christmas. The best laid plans become less likely as every town on the way caused him to stop so they could honor the victorious general. With the war over, doesn’t the soon-to-be President Washington have more pressing matters to take care of rather than worry about being home for Christmas?

In another historic instance, Wilbur and Orville Wright finally achieved their historic airplane flight at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina on a mid-December day in 1903. They then sent home a telegram reporting their success. The telegram concluded with the words, “Home Christmas.” This common message – Home Christmas – seems a bit anticlimactic for one of the most revolutionary inventions in human history?

In the scope of history aren’t these events more significant than getting home for Christmas?

And yet we who have traveled to get home for Christmas, we who have spent that first Christmas away from home, we who have been delayed in an airport, stuck in traffic, stranded at a bus station – we understand.

We all want to be home for Christmas. Even as adults who can no longer return to their childhood home (for one reason or another) – we seek ways to escape to home through our memories captured in kept traditions, on-going rituals, and the purchase of retro-toys! Our desire for a connection to home at Christmas comes squarely in the face of the first Christmas which takes place in a ‘hotel’ far away from a place considered home.

Back to our story - this ‘hotel’ with no room wasn’t a ‘hotel’ as we think of hotels. This was probably a shabby sort of place, perhaps even several hundred years old. It was like the other hotels in the area – dirty, uncomfortable, badly kept, and badly managed. Innkeepers were known in this day for their unsavory reputations – most likely because their places were often used for immoral and criminal purposes. This type of hotel is the sort of place that Mary and Joseph came to tired from their travels.

Now, it would have been obvious that Mary was ‘with child’ and that they had been travelling. This is when the news comes, “no room” (Luke 2:7).

Ever been there? stranded? tired? weary?

I still believe this story is still filled with good news for us! I am glad that all of this is part of the Christmas story - the hotel, the innkeeper, travel, no vacancies. They are all important parts of the story that bring us Good News. We need not clean up this part of the story because the story as it is has much to teach us:

Christmas came in the midst of life as usual. When we think of Christmas, we like to think of angels singing, cattle lowing. and a no crying baby. But the reality is that business was usual – including the unsavory, unsightly not talked about side of the hotel business. Later in life Jesus would bring the message of God’s love to the unsavory, the unsightly, and the never talked about people of life. The message of Christmas is for everyone – in every situation.

There is more Good News. Jesus was born away from home. This should serve as a reminder to us about our true home. Perhaps one of the reasons we are so restless in pursuit of the comforts of home is that we have yet to realize that this is not our home – our home rests in the eternal – and we will not be fully at home until we are with Christ in Heaven.

Finally, one last important bit of Good News comes in this Christmas story:

Christmas comes to those who aren’t even looking for it. As a matter of fact, Christmas comes to those who don’t even want it. The innkeeper gets a bad rap in this story. I believe the innkeeper didn’t refuse a room because he was rude. I believe the innkeeper refused because he was filled up. The inn was probably full in part because of the government officials and soldiers in town due to the census (who btw would have been staying for free). The innkeeper would have undoubtedly preferred the paying customers. Besides who would want the bad publicity for refusing a room to a pregnant woman? I don’t know if it was the same innkeeper who refused the room that gave them shelter in the manger – someone did and that is the important message for us today.

At this time of year, we become so busy with activities, so preoccupied with things and stuff that we inadvertently shut out God. We shut out God – not out of open hostility towards God, but we shut out God simply because our lives are so filled up that there is no room.

That is the tragedy of most of our lives – they are filled up.

We shut out Christ because we are preoccupied. (Even now many of us our thinking of all that things we still need to do, or get done, or shop for, or , or , or).
We are filled up beyond our capacity.

And yet here is the Good News of the Christmas story revealed in a filled up hotel.

This Christmas Jesus will still come saying to you, “I love you. May I come in?”

The question is - Will you make room for Christ this season?

Day 330 a note from God: 2 Corinthians 1-4

May the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ be blessed! He is the compassionate Father and God of all comfort. He’s the one who comforts us in all our trouble so that we can comfort other people who are in every kind of trouble. We offer the same comfort that we ourselves received from God. That is because we receive so much comfort through Christ in the same way that we share so many of Christ’s sufferings. So if we have trouble, it is to bring you comfort and salvation. If we are comforted, it is to bring you comfort from the experience of endurance while you go through the same sufferings that we also suffer. Our hope for you is certain, because we know that as you are partners in suffering so also you are partners in comfort.

2 Corinthians 1:3-7 CEB

So that's why everything doesn't always work out the way you think it should.

Got it?

Day 329 a note from God: I Corinthians 15-16

If Christ hasn’t been raised, then our preaching is useless and your faith is useless. We are found to be false witnesses about God, because we testified against God that he raised Christ, when he didn’t raise him if it’s the case that the dead aren’t raised. If the dead aren’t raised, then Christ hasn’t been raised either. If Christ hasn’t been raised, then your faith is worthless; you are still in your sins, and what’s more, those who have died in Christ are gone forever. If we have a hope in Christ only in this life, then we deserve to be pitied more than anyone else.

I Corinthians 15:14-19 CEB

I once was asked by someone, "Do you really believe everything in the Bible?"

This was a bait and switch type of question for what they really wanted to do was debate/argue the validity of scripture.

I turned the tables by asking the same type of pointed question that Paul asked the church in Corinth:

Forgetting everything else for the moment, allow me to ask one foundational question for the whole manner in which you read the Bible will be skewed by how you answer the question:

Did Jesus rise from the dead?

You have to answer that question first and foremost. The rest of the debate hinges on the answer to that one question.

Christmas means nothing without an empty tomb!

Any other debate about scripture is pointless unless the tomb is empty!

So, did Jesus rise from the dead?

Your answer will change your entire world view . . .

Day 328 a note from God: I Corinthians 12-14

If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away. For we know in part and we prophesy in part, but when completeness comes, what is in part disappears. When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put the ways of childhood behind me. For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.

And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.

I Corinthians 13 NIV

This passage of scripture is from Paul’s letter to the church in Corinth. By many it is considered the greatest description of love ever written. It is the most often chosen passage of scripture read at weddings.

I often ask couples that choose this passage, "How then does one love someone in this way?"

I offer this advice:

First, you must always remember that God loves you. He loves you just as you are with all your faults, failings, weaknesses, strengths, good and bad. God loves you. It is this love that will allow you to love yourself just as you are. Before you can love anyone else, you must first love yourself.

Second, in order to love someone with this type of love you must commit yourselves to seeking God’s will in your lives. God will not send you and your spouse in different directions. Trust one another and learn to trust God.

Finally, what you promise on a wedding day, must be renewed and rededicated every day. Each day of your marriage you must decide that you want to love one another and you must decide to remain committed to the vows you make.

Day 327 a note from God: I Corinthians 9-11

Follow my example, just like I follow Christ’s.

I Corinthians 11:1 CEB

Simple questions for the day,

If every one lived their faith like you lived your faith,
what would Christianity look like?

Day 326 a note from God: I Corinthians 5-8

I have the freedom to do anything, but not everything is helpful. I have the freedom to do anything, but I won’t be controlled by anything.

I Corinthians 6:12 CEB

Grace and Mercy are wonderful, but I wonder if we have not gone a bit too far in our thinking as it relates to them.

We love in a country founded on freedom and yet we are not free to run into the proverbial theatre and shout, "Fire!"

In the same manner having freedom in Christ (grace and mercy) does not gives us freedom to do anything we want.

Deep Thought for the day: Have you become controlled by grace and mercy?

Day 325 a note from God: I Corinthians 1-4

What we say is wisdom to people who are mature. It isn’t a wisdom that comes from the present day or from today’s leaders who are being reduced to nothing. We talk about God’s wisdom

I Corinthians 2:6-7a CEB

How many more trusted people in leadership need to fail before we begin to talk about God's wisdom?

It seems God is only at the back half of our conversations.

We use the wisdom of God to perform the autopsy on our failed leaders.

How about we use God's wisdom to perform a biopsy and let God lead from the front.

We can't continue to vilify leaders for their moral failings, while we fail to teach and develop moral fiber in our children.

Christmas Family Portrait: Mary and the Angels

Ever consider that Christmas comes at the intersection of the most holy and the most common? It truly must have been a most confounding and confusing event for the angels in heaven. Christmas is the ultimate story of God’s love, but it is acted out in a field with shepherds, involves a young girl pregnant and not married, takes place during a tax census issued by the government, involved a delivery in a barn, overcrowded cities and businesses, engages in principal characters that come from insignificant places.

I think all of that and more is what makes the Christmas story so compelling – NOTHING is beyond God’s interest.

We are going to spend the next few weeks looking at some of the compelling people that make up our Christmas Family Portrait. Hopefully, we will see them in a new light and this new light will make this Christmas fresh and new in our lives of faith today.

Mary got up and hurried to a city in the Judean highlands. She entered Zechariah’s home and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the child leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. With a loud voice she blurted out, “God has blessed you above all women, and he has blessed the child you carry. Why do I have this honor that the mother of my Lord should come to me? As soon as I heard your greeting, the baby in my womb jumped for joy. Happy is she who believed that the Lord would fulfill the promises he made to her.” Luke 1:39-45 CEB

Most often we laud Mary as the one who accepted everything and was “saintly” in her actions. But, there was the scandal with Joseph, there was the gossip, there was the disbelief – surely there were those that find it convenient that an “angel” visited her in the night (no witnesses). This story is not nearly as pretty as we want to make it out.

What does Mary do? She got up and hurried to Elizabeth.

Why? Mary needs what every human needs in a time of crisis – someone to understand.

There are times in our lives that WE just need someone who understands. Understanding doesn’t always come with words – sometimes understanding comes with a look, a nod, an embrace. And we all need that – Mary needed that.

Mary speaks and the Holy Spirit arrives. This is the first report in the New Testament of the Holy Spirit. Here is what is amazing to me – the Holy Spirit arrives in the most ordinary of moments – Two women greeting one another. Carry this picture forward and the Spirit will again arrive and John will speak (John 1:29) when Jesus and John are again united.

Here is another surprise of Christmas – the ordinary is made extraordinary by the presence of God. But that shouldn’t surprise us. God’s promised arrival didn’t come in the form promised by the pretty post card!

God didn’t come to a place of promise – God chose Bethlehem.
God didn’t come to a place of worship – God chose a manger.
God didn’t send the message to the priests or to royalty – God chose a flock? Of Shepherds.

Truly Christmas comes at the intersection of the holy and the most common. And that is Good News for us. We need not (despite all our efforts) improve our ‘dress up’ all that is common in the Christmas story. No matter how pretty you try to make the picture it still takes place in a common place. Ever considered that the prettiest of nativity sets still has sheep and cows!

The day Mary gave birth – no one recorded the date. Contrast that with today. As soon as you announce you are having a child – everyone wants to know when is the due date? We now go as far to plan birth dates with induced labor and scheduled C-sections.

Not so with Jesus. No one really even took notice. But know this – God was not surprised – this was the plan! This plan wasn’t even a secret. God had revealed the plan through the prophets 100s of years in advance.

So here is one more piece of Good News for us in this Christmas Story:

God has a plan.

In the Tedium of your work, during the time of visiting with a friend, in the midst of the routine, while you are practicing the rituals of the season – God will be present.

SO, be open to the surprises! Be open to the unplanned – the unrehearsed. Be ready to celebrate Christmas. Christmas will come and God will be with us. God will be with us even in those moments that aren’t quite as we would have planned and perhaps that is the best news of all.

Day 324 a note from God: Acts 18-19

They asked him [Paul] to stay longer, but he declined. As he said farewell to them, though, he added, “God willing, I will return.” Then he sailed off from Ephesus.

Acts 18:20-21 CEB

Perhaps Paul was the first Ms. Manners.

Paul teaches us a great lesson of hospitality and being a guest - Don't over stay your welcome and leave them wanting more!

As we enter the Holiday season, keep Paul in mind and don't over stay your welcome.

Visit with friends, drop off presents, but know how to make an exit!

Not sure that was the lesson we were to draw from this passage, but it is a good tip for being a good guest!

Day 323 a note from God: 1 and 2 Thessalonians

We always thank God for all of you when we mention you constantly in our prayers.

I Thessalonians 1:2 CEB

There is not much we can say that we ALWAYS do.

Yet, here is Paul saying that he always give thanks for these people.

It is good to know that others are praying for you.

It is good to know that others give thanks for you.

It is even better to be the one giving thanks.

It isn't too late to give thanks . . .

Day 322 a note from God: Acts 17-18

Paul stood up in the middle of the council on Mars Hill and said, “People of Athens, I see that you are very religious in every way. As I was walking through town and carefully observing your objects of worship, I even found an altar with this inscription: ‘To an unknown God.’ What you worship as unknown, I now proclaim to you.

Acts 17:22-23 CEB

Everyone has faith.

It's just interesting when you discover what 'it' is that you have placed your faith.

What do you put your faith in?

What do you worship as most important in your life?

Day 321 a note from God: Galatians 4-6

If we live by the Spirit, let’s follow the Spirit. Let’s not become arrogant, make each other angry, or be jealous of each other.

Galatians 5:25-26 CEB

It has been said that the church is the only place where we shoot our wounded.

When you read these words in Galatians, you realize how much we have to learn as a community of believers.