January 13, 2021 -- John 20:10 -- Bewildered but guided

Then they went back to their homes.

John 20:10 English Standard Version

Peter and John arrived at the tomb where Jesus had been buried. All that they found were the linens strips that had been used to wrap Jesus. Those linens were covered in burial spices and ointments, now lay collapsed as Jesus’ body had risen up, through them and left them to fall back. Off to the side was the cloth which had been used to cover His face, now folded. John believed. But both men left the empty tomb and went home. It is so prosaic. So honest. So typical of what bewildered and confused people might do.

Notice the disciples did not go out and proclaim Jesus had risen. They did not gather the other followers of Jesus and celebrate the resurrection. They were leaderless. They were confused. They needed the direction of the Living Lord. They went home.

The final acts of Jesus are recorded in the rest of this chapter and in chapter 21. Jesus answers their confusion. Jesus directs His followers. Jesus shows them mercy. It is a critical lesson for us all. There are many times in our Christian faith when we are thrown off balance and directionless. It is the very experience of Jesus’ own followers! The mercy of God is such that in Christ He approached His followers. He sought them out. He directed them.

Believers, in these days it seems the United Stated is tearing itself apart through political upheaval. Parts of Canada are under brutal lockdowns and repressive responses to a virus that is contagious, but minimally lethal. The Canadian government is spending Canada into generations of debt and potential great poverty. It would be easy to despair. Certainly it is confusing.

Today’s strange little verse is helpful. Then, as now, the followers of Jesus are easily thrown off and cannot understand their times. Jesus approaches. He is the clear Word of the Father in heaven, as Isaiah 9 states it, He is the Wonderful Counselor. Jesus reminds the faithful of the fact our God holds the past, the present and the future in His hands. Jesus gifted His followers with His Spirit—so that believers can pray, asking God for help in every storm and crisis. Thereby Jesus shows His people He is the Mighty God, the Great Warrior Who will guard His army (who are bewildered sheep and easily confused). The credit will belong to Jesus solely as it was always obvious His people could not save themselves. He is the Everlasting Father—the One Who proves over and over again to the be reliable mentor, the teacher Who never fails. Jesus is the Prince of Peace—this pandemic will pass. Sooner or later. Then there will be the next crisis in our world, perhaps social unrest. Maybe the stock markets will crash. Maybe the democracy which had for so long been taken for granted will give way to harsher government systems. Over all of this Jesus is the Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and peace there shall be no end.

The disciples went to their homes. But they did not stay there. Jesus approached them. Jesus directed them. He is even today, speaking His wisdom to all Who will hear. He is today directing His flock through the valley of the shadow of death and will not let even one of His little ones get lost or be devoured by wolves without hope of His salvation. Jesus has poured out His Holy Spirit so that believers are not huddled in fear, but huddled together in prayer. Believers are not afraid of what is next, but urgently praying that whatever is next will be used of God to display His glory so that the full measure of elect will be brought into the sheltering embrace of Christ our King.

Today’s prayer is based on Jeremiah 33:11 and Habakkuk 3:17-19

Give thanks to the LORD of Hosts, Sovereign of Angel Armies, Ruler of all time and the Sole Conductor of history; for the LORD is good, the Source of all Good; for His steadfast love endures forever.

Though the fig tree should not blossom, nor fruit be on the vines the produce of the olive fail, though the world be upside-down and it seems there is trouble in every side, yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will take joy in the God of my salvation. God, the LORD, is my strength; he makes my feet like that of the deer’s; He makes me fearless in worship. Blessed are You, Triune God—Father, Son and Holy Spirit—worthy of all praise and worship, now and forever. Amen.

https://youtu.be/R0gu0nOaFsI

January 8, 2021 -- John 19:39-40 -- Growth

Nicodemus also, who earlier had come to Jesus by night, came bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about seventy-five pounds in weight. So they took the body of Jesus and bound it in linen cloths with the spices, as is the burial custom of the Jews.

John 19:39-40 English Standard Version

What a change has taken place in Nicodemus’ life! He is now publicly performing the required rites for the burial of a body. Jesus’ body. In John 3 Nicodemus came to Jesus, secretly, at night, to ask questions. He was afraid of the opinions of men. He was afraid of what the ruling religious leaders would think of him going to seek Jesus out. Then in John 7 Nicodemus defended Jesus before the Sanhedrin. Here in the passage today Nicodemus is openly showing himself a follower of Jesus.

There are many times as a preacher or a mentor, I push people. It is hard to understand why this person or that one is not further along in their walk with God. The Bible gives us the glorious picture of Nicodemus, the journey of a great teacher of Israel who moves from being wise in the eyes of the world, to being humbled in the eyes of the world so that he would be wise in the ways of the Living God. Jesus in His great grace showed the way of the fisher of men. He, having planted the seed of the world in the heart of this disciple, allowed it to take hold. Jesus, filled with the Holy Spirit, was sure of the Spirit’s work to bring the seed of the word to germination.

When the Spirit of God brings new life, the one made alive in Christ will grow at the pace the Father sets. It is a joy to answer questions. It is a gift to pray for the one being mentored. And it is the work of the Living God to give growth and healing and progress at the pace He determines. What a difficult lesson this is for an overly-enthused teacher such as I can be.

God, Faithful, Patient Father, teach us true humility. Thank You for the call You have placed on us in Christ to be fishers of men. Spirit of God, teach us the patient work of praying for those whom we mentor—children or friends, new converts or life-long Christians—endeavoring to grow in the knowledge of and praise to the Triune God. Gracious King of Glory, thank You for the privilege of planting seeds. Mighty God, thank You for the times of blessing when it is our joy to see the growth You bring. Bind us together as Christians, young and old, new in the faith and long established in the blessed way of salvation, so that together we may offer ourselves up to You and in the service of love to one another. Amen.

https://youtu.be/IzXnINe12_E

January 6, 2021 -- John 19:37 -- Pierced

And again another Scripture says, “They will look om him whom they pierced.”

John 19:37 English Standard Version

It might be tempting to shrug off this obscure reference and read on to what you might think of as more interesting or something you might deem to be more relevant. You’d miss much of the drama of this passage and by doing that overlook a strand of promise that goes from Zechariah to this passage and is picked up and woven into Revelation with great colour.

In Zechariah 12:10 it is the LORD, the Mighty One of Heaven and Earth, Who is pierced. Grieved by His people’s transgressions. Yet, as you read on the prophecy indicates that this piercing will open up a fountain of healing for the house of David and for the people of Jerusalem so that they shall be cleansed from their uncleanness (Zechariah 13:1). What riches are to be given. What blessings will be poured out.

In the context of John, Jesus, the radiance of the Father and the exact imprint of His divine Nature is also the true descendant of David. When Jesus’ side was pierced, the prophesy was fulfilled and Jesus is the One Who brings cleansing from the uncleanness of the house of David. Jesus is the One Who makes Jerusalem and her inhabitants holy. All Who look to Him shall grieve over their sins and rejoice at His salvation.

Finally, in Revelation 1:7, when Jesus returns in splendor, all the inhabitants of the earth shall see Jesus, even those who pierced Him. Those who pierced Him and hated Him and all their ilk will be judged unto hell fire and damnation that will never end. And those who looked on Him Who was pierced and know their sins are forgiven will rejoice and bless the LORD, The Alpha and the Omega.

How rich is Your Word, God of Power and Majesty. How terrible are Your judgments and how extravagant are Your mercies. Thank You for the blessings of cleansing, of forgiveness, of life, which flowed to the House of David, to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, to Judea, to Samaria and to the ends of the earth. Help us, Spirit of God, Who are covered by the cleansing of Jesus, to rise up in obedience and faithfulness in honouring Him in our hearts, in our homes, and in our interactions at work, school, and play. Father in heaven, as many saints have been purified by the piercing of Jesus, may Your Name be praised. Father of Glory, may saints contemplate and be filled with wonder that You, knowing the end from the beginning, so clearly declared Your salvation. Amen.

https://youtu.be/HN3QIxFty-0

January 5, 2021 -- John 19:35 -- Testify!

He who saw it has borne witness—his testimony is true, and he knows that he is telling the truth—that you also may believe.

John 19:35 English Standard Version

Have you noticed that many commercials are mini stories? You watch the story, get drawn in and ultimately there is an emotional tug on your heart when you see that product. You laugh at the idea. But I can quote “I’d like to teach the world to sing” (and how many of you thought of a cola commercial, from the 1970’s?!). Or, if I quote “taste the rainbow” how many of you think of a candy commercial with the very surreal story lines?

John, the writer of this Gospel, is telling you, the reader, the story of Jesus. How Jesus fulfils the Old Testament prophecies. How Jesus is the very radiance of God walking among the people—because the full, radiant, glory of God, should it not have been veiled in flesh, would have completely obliterated all who looked on Him. So the most important question of your life is this: How do you respond to the story of Jesus? Do you believe in Him? Or, do you despite all the evidence of Scripture, the testimony of Jesus’ life, death and resurrection, and the witness of His followers through the ages, reject Him to your eternal peril?

John the Gospel writer knows he is telling the truth about Jesus. Jesus is more than a jingo, more than a salesman, He is the Son of God sent to seek and save those who are lost. Those who find Him and realize they have been found by Him, rejoice in Him. Delight in Him and His word.

Our prayer today is Psalm 73:25-28:

Whom have I in heaven but you?
    And there is nothing on earth that I desire besides you.
26 My flesh and my heart may fail,
    but God is the strength[b] of my heart and my portion forever.

27 For behold, those who are far from you shall perish;
    you put an end to everyone who is unfaithful to you.
28 But for me it is good to be near God;
    I have made the Lord God my refuge,
    that I may tell of all your works.

ESV

https://youtu.be/Qx9-0v9m2Sg

January 4, 2021 -- John 19:30 -- Victory

When Jesus had received the sour wine, he said, “It is finished,” and he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.

John 19:30 English Standard Version

Jesus, fully God and fully man, laid down His life. He gave up HIs Spirit into the hands of HIs Father in heaven. No one could take His life from Him. By saying “It is finished” Jesus was declaring the wrath of God had been fully spent on His Person—He suffered in our place and was then prepared to die so that even death itself would have no power over those who believe in Jesus. Do you feel, already at the start of this year, as if you are defeated? As if your old sins aren’t “last year” but right now? Look to the victory of Jesus. It is victory given for the glory of the Father and your blessing.

Why the note that Jesus took sour wine? For me it made clear last verse of the enthronement psalm, Psalm 110. When the LORD of Heaven and Earth sets up His King, this King will judge the nations and shatter chiefs—and it ends “He [this new King] will drink from the brook by the way; therefore he will lift up his head.” The warrior, exhausted from battle, will take a bit of refreshment, enough to wet his lips so that he can shout victory. Jesus shouted victory, ‘it is finished’ and His head was lifted in victory. This is the victory over sin and old habits and addictions. Christ has defeated them! Take heart, drink from the Living Water, which is Jesus Himself—refreshed by His Word and Spirit and shout in praise and thanks to God the Father.

Given Your great victory Jesus, it is possible for believers to live out Psalm 4:

“In peace I will both lie down and sleep;

for You alone make me dwell in safety”.

Blessed be Your Name, Father of all Good.

Blessed be Your Name, Jesus, the Warrior-King.

Blessed be Your Name, Spirit of God Who leads us into all truth. Amen.

https://youtu.be/M49w4uPOEZU

January 2, 2021 -- John 19:23 -- Suffering made holy

When the soldiers had crucified Jesus, they took his garments and divided them into four parts, one part for each soldier; also his tunic.

John 19:23 English Standard Version

When God breaks a man to make him fit for His service, He will remove every stitch, very vestige of the old life. One’s humiliation must be complete so that there is no room for boasting and no chance a man can say, “I have saved myself”.

Christ our Savior was without sin. Yet He endured every humiliation, every pain, every temptation so that He could be the Savior of every man in every circumstance. When you are tempted to say, “This is too hard, Father, I cannot endure it,” look to Jesus. Naked on the cross. Publicly shamed. Nothing left. Yet He, Who at a word could have summoned legions of angels to sweep away the soldiers and take Him safely from the cross, did not refuse to endure. He suffered ultimate humiliations, pains, mocking, scandal at every level so that our every suffering should be redeemed and made useful for healing.

The Great God — from Puritan Prayers in the Valley of Vision

  O Fountain of all good, destroy in me every lofty thought, break pride to pieces and scatter it to the winds, Annihilate each clinging shred of self-righteousness, implant in me true lowliness of spirit, abase me to self-loathing and self-abhorrence, Open in me a fount of penitential tears. Break me, then bind me up; thus will my heart be a prepared dwelling for my God; Then can the Father take up his abode in me, Then can the blessed Jesus come with healing in his touch, Then can the Holy Spirit descend in sanctifying grace; O Holy Trinity, three Persons and one God, inhabit me, a temple consecrated to thy glory. When thou art present, evil cannot abide; In thy fellowship is fullness of joy, Beneath thy smile is peace of conscience, By thy side no fears disturb, no apprehensions banish rest of mind, With thee my heart shall bloom with fragrance; Make me meet, through repentance, for thine indwelling. Nothing exceeds thy power, Nothing is too great for thee to do, Nothing too good for thee to give. Infinite is thy might, boundless thy love, limitless thy grace, glorious thy saving name. Let angels sing for sinners repenting, prodigals restored, backsliders reclaimed, Satan’s captives released, blind eyes opened, broken hearts bound up, the despondent cheered, the self-righteous stripped, the formalist driven from a refuge of lies, the ignorant enlightened, and saints built up in their holy faith.

I ask great things of a great God.

https://youtu.be/mosS-MCqzOs

January 1, 2021 -- John 19:19 -- Who is Jesus?

Pilate also wrote a inscription and put it on the cross. It read, “Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews.”

John 19:19 English Standard Version

Was Pilate serious when he wrote those words and had that inscription nailed to Jesus’ cross? It is possible that Pilate was merely identifying the man on the cross and writing out the charge for which Jesus was being crucified. The Jewish leadership complained wanting Pilate to amend what he’d written so that it read “This man said he was…” It is possible Pilate was writing this in jest. It makes me think of the idiom “Many a true word is spoken in jest”.

That idiom is well over 700 years old. When a difficult truth needs to be stated, the speaker might resort to humor in order to soften the blow or the impact of the words. The speaker might be appearing to use words to mock someone or something while, in fact, honouring the very thing which is apparently being held up to ridicule.

No matter Pilate’s motives, jesting, indifferent, or serious, one thing is certain a direct question is pressed against every reader of the inscription: Who is this Jesus to you? That is the most important question posed to every man, woman and child who ever has lived, lives or will live. Jesus of Nazareth—the expression highlights the fact He was despised and rejected. The King of the Jews—the rightful heir of David’s throne, the fulfilment of ancient prophesies that God the Father would establish an everlasting King, the Prince of Peace. The carols are, for most of you, done for another season. The truth yet remains to be grappled with and explained: “Who is Jesus to you?”

“The Valley of Vision” is a well-known Puritan prayer.

Lord, high and holy, meek and lowly, Thou has brought me to the valley of vision, where I live in the depths but see thee in the heights; hemmed in by mountains of sin I behold thy glory. Let me learn by paradox that the way down is the way up, that to be low is to be high, that the broken heart is the healed heart, that the contrite spirit is the rejoicing spirit, that the repenting soul is the victorious soul, that to have nothing is to possess all, that to bear the cross is to wear the crown, that to give is to receive, that the valley is the place of vision. Lord, in the daytime stars can be seen from deepest wells, and the deeper the wells the brighter thy stars shine; let me find thy light in my darkness, Thy life in my death, thy joy in my sorrow, thy grace in my sin, thy riches in my poverty, thy glory in my valley.

https://youtu.be/X3YHODperFM

December 29, 2020 -- John 19:1,8 -- Gripped by fear or courage?

Then Pilate took Jesus and flogged him…When Pilate heard this statement, he was even more afraid.

John 19:1,8 English Standard Version

Why did Pilate have Jesus whipped? Earlier in John the reader realizes that Pilate is somewhat intrigued by Jesus and he asked Jesus some questions, which seemed not to be driven by his role as governor, but driven by curiosity. But in the reading today it is evident Pilate does not have the courage to stand his ground. Presented with an angry crowd and scheming religious leaders Pilate can’t defend the man who so clearly took hold of his interest.

It’d be easy to batter Pilate and scorn him for being a splintering reed rather than a pillar of strength. How often have I not been in a similar position? The person before me is interested in the things of God but when the call to radical obedience, as Jesus Himself set it out before His disciples, is presented others listening in on the conversation voice their scorn and derision. How confidently will I speak then? Unfortunately, where I should have been strong I look back on my actions, knowing I have been a splintering reed, unable to bear any weight of opposition. There is a meme that has been on the newsfeed of several of my friends, it goes something like this: “When God called you, He factored in your stupidity”. In my case, He has factored in my wavering courage.

After His resurrection Jesus went to His disciples, the very ones who’d betrayed Him and failed Him, and He spoke peace to them. When our failures have been presented to us, by a scripture reading, the Holy Spirit, or a peer in the faith, God in His great mercy is giving us an opportunity to admit our failure and seek His grace so that we will be prepared for the next time when we will be challenged to stand firm in our convictions for Jesus. Think about this--even our failures can cause us to better understand the steadfast strength of God’s love for each of us. Blessed be His Name.

Prayer is a stanza of Jesus, with Your Church Abide, though a different version than is attached to this devotional.

Faithful Father, pardon us for work undone, pardon us for fields unwon, the bless the work be have begun. Lord, our Savior hear us. Amen.

https://youtu.be/XmGqO1Ukb8M

TEXT:Thomas Benson PollockMUSIC:Christopher Miner

1. Jesus, with Thy church abide;
Be her savior, Lord, and Guide,
While on earth her faith is tried:
We beseech Thee, hear us,
We beseech Thee, hear us.

2. Keep her life and doctrine pure;
Grant her patience to endure,
Trusting in Thy promise sure:
We beseech Thee, hear us,
We beseech Thee, hear us.

3. May she one in doctrine be,
One in truth and charity,
Winning all to faith in Thee:
We beseech Thee, hear us,
We beseech Thee, hear us.

4. May she guide the poor and blind,
Seek the lost until she find
And the brokenhearted bind:
We beseech Thee, hear us,
We beseech Thee, hear us.

December 27, 2020 -- John 18:24 -- Jesus in Charge

Annas then sent him bound to Caiaphas, the high priest.

John 18:24 English Standard Version

This short verse is packed with information. ‘Him’ is a reference to Jesus. At the start of this chapter when Jesus was about to be arrested by the cohort of Roman soldiers, He declared “I AM He” (the Jesus of Nazareth you see). At His word then soldiers fell to the ground as though dead. The merest word caused these battle hardened men to become discombobulated. Jesus was fully in charge.

When Annas interviewed Jesus, the evidence of chaos was in the face of the reader. The Jewish people considered Annas the real high priest. Caiaphas was his son-in-law, appointed by the Romans, and serving as high priest. Who is in charge? Jesus is fully in charge.

Jesus allowed Himself to be bound. He willingly endured mocking and suffering so that believers would be set free. Understand this—Jesus is not helpless. He is fully in charge. He is glorious and powerful. Those who repent of their sin—who turn from sin and face Jesus seeking after Him—will find He is gloriously in charge. Sin cannot defeat Him. Those who are bound up to Jesus in faith, hope, and love find in Him their perfect peace which no temptation, no circumstance, no government can destroy. Is Jesus fully in charge of your life?

The prayer is based on latter portions of Isaiah 40:

God our Father—to whom can we compare You? With Isaiah the prophet we confess:

Do you not know? Do you not hear?

Has it not been told you from the beginning?

Have you not understood from the foundations of the earth?

It is He who sits above the circle of the earth

and its inhabitants are like grasshoppers;

Who stretches out the heavens like a curtain,

and spreads them like a tent to dwell in;

Who brings princes to nothing,

and makes the rulers of the earth as emptiness.

You alone are great, O God, bringing out the starry host by their number,

calling them all by name.

You are great! Father, direct Your people by Your Spirit into the love of Jesus and faithful obedience to Your glorious Name. Amen.

https://youtu.be/XG347euXoTM

December 26, 2020 -- John 18:19-23 -- Troubles and Heavenly Peace

19 The high priest then questioned Jesus about his disciples and his teaching. 20 Jesus answered him, “I have spoken openly to the world. I have always taught in synagogues and in the temple, where all Jews come together. I have said nothing in secret. 21 Why do you ask me? Ask those who have heard me what I said to them; they know what I said.” 22 When he had said these things, one of the officers standing by struck Jesus with his hand, saying, “Is that how you answer the high priest?” 23 Jesus answered him, “If what I said is wrong, bear witness about the wrong; but if what I said is right, why do you strike me?”

John 18:19-23 English Standard Version

Why didn’t Jesus strike back? How could Jesus stay so calm? What is the point of all that is going on here in this brief scene? Jesus didn’t strike back because He knew His purpose. Jesus by His self-control and responses made clear the paradigm of heaven: “Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad for your reward is great in heaven” (Matthew 5:11-12).

How could Jesus stay so calm? The promise of the Father is: “You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts you.” (Isaiah 26:6). Jesus knew His Father in heaven was working out His eternal purposes in Jesus’ life. Jesus knew He was filled with the Spirit of God Who would direct His steps, give Him great endurance in suffering and ever remind Him of the Father’s eternal love and the Father’s love for lost and fallen humanity.

The point of what is going on is how deeply and surely the Father loves His wicked and rebellious people. The point of what is gong on is to demonstrate the victory of Jesus. The point of what is going on is to allow believers a glimpse into the workings of the Holy Spirit guarding and protecting those who believe in the Triune God

No doubt Christmas this year was very different than any you have celebrated before. What remains unchanged and unchangeable is the great love of God demonstrated in Jesus Christ. With the eyes of faith, see Jesus, veiled in flesh and yet our king. With the eyes of faith, love Jesus and share His love to others in this world who feel battered by pandemics and financial ruination, and are fearful of all that the future might hold. As Christians, Spirit-filled, we behold Jesus, the Treasure of all Nations, Who holds the future and therefore, with great peace and calm, go and tell it on the Mountain that Jesus Christ is born!

Prayer

Perhaps, this Christmas, family didn’t gather as we had hoped we would. Perhaps expectations were unfulfilled and the disquieted longing of our hearts percolated with even more misgivings and troubles. Into the chaos of this world and human hearts shaken with fears we welcome You, Lord Jesus Christ. Thank You for the majesty of that first Christmas. Thank You for the Word, which the Spirit is using to teach us and open the eyes of faith so that Your saving glory is made known. Comfort the disquieted with Your love. Afflict those who are falsely comforting themselves with things that cannot last. Draw our eyes, Spirit of God, to the work of Jesus, wherein we begin not only to see but start to delight in the new understanding of the deep, broad, high, and wide love of God pouring out on all who believe. Glory to You, O Triune God, in the highest! Amen.

https://youtu.be/Rfed6pJ8TPs

December 22, 2020 -- John 18:10-11 -- Suffering and Sanctification

10 Then Simon Peter, having a sword, drew it and struck the high priest's servant and cut off his right ear. (The servant's name was Malchus.) 11 So Jesus said to Peter, “Put your sword into its sheath; shall I not drink the cup that the Father has given me?”

John 18:10-11 English Standard Version

Peter’s misguided attempt at helping Jesus provoked an important teaching. Peter was inappropriately trying to alleviate Jesus’ suffering. The Father in heaven had willed that the Son should be crushed for the salvation of sinners. Jesus had prayed for the grace and strength to endure this suffering so that the Father’s glory and Jesus’ own glory would be made known (Jesus’ High Priestly Prayer, John 17). All that Jesus would endure was for the salvation of His Own.

When someone near us is suffering it can very well be sanctifying suffering, the suffering that makes one pure. Think of it, during these Covid times, how many of you have lost money, significant sums of money even? Is God teaching you not to treasure things, but that He is your greatest treasure? While confined in prison, Paul wrote many New Testament letters. These are now part of our Bible. Paul’s suffering, the crushing he endured was used for blessing. When a believer grows in confident faith in Jesus, friends and family, perhaps even nominal Christians may storm out of their lives with statements like “You are being too radical”. Perhaps God is purging your circle of friends and family in such a way that those who had inappropriately influenced you against the glory and praise of God are now no longer capable of having such a negative influence.

Today’s prayer is Jonah’s prayer, offered as he was in the belly of the great fish. (Background, Jonah suffered much so that he would be purified as the prophet to Nineveh):

“I called out to the Lord, out of my distress,
and he answered me;
out of the belly of Sheol I cried,
and you heard my voice.
3 For you cast me into the deep,
into the heart of the seas,
and the flood surrounded me;
all your waves and your billows
passed over me.
4 Then I said, ‘I am driven away
from your sight;
yet I shall again look
upon your holy temple.’
5 The waters closed in over me to take my life;
the deep surrounded me;
weeds were wrapped about my head
6 at the roots of the mountains.
I went down to the land
whose bars closed upon me forever;
yet you brought up my life from the pit,
O Lord my God.
7 When my life was fainting away,
I remembered the Lord,
and my prayer came to you,
into your holy temple.

8 Those who pay regard to vain idols
forsake their hope of steadfast love.
9 But I with the voice of thanksgiving
will sacrifice to you;
what I have vowed I will pay.
Salvation belongs to the Lord!

https://youtu.be/XG347euXoTM

December 21, 2020 -- John 18:4-8 -- Falling before Jesus

Then Jesus, knowing all that would happen to him, came forward and said to them, “Whom do you seek?” 5 They answered him, “Jesus of Nazareth.” Jesus said to them, “I am he.” Judas, who betrayed him, was standing with them. 6 When Jesus said to them, “I am he,” they drew back and fell to the ground. 7 So he asked them again, “Whom do you seek?” And they said, “Jesus of Nazareth.” 8 Jesus answered, “I told you that I am he. So, if you seek me, let these men go.”

John 18:4-8 English Standard Version

And behold, the star that they had seen when it rose went before them until it came to rest over the place where the child was. 10 When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. 11 And going into the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh.

Matthew 2:9-11 English Standard Version

In the first text, 480 battle hardened soldiers who had come to arrest Jesus, fell helplessly before Jesus when He declared “I AM He”. Jesus gave these men the briefest glimpse of His glory and they fell before Him as though dead. In the second text, Magi, wise men from the East, traveled, diligently searching for Jesus. When they saw Jesus, they too fell to the ground, but they in vivified, joy-filled worship.

This is the Christmas question: “Who is Jesus”? Will you disregard Him and live as if He had no power until, at the end of your life, like Roman Soldiers you will all fall down before His glory and power? Those who deny Him now, will find at the end of History He is glorious in majesty and He has the power to cast the wicked to hell. Or will you seek Him out right now and give your life in worship, presenting to Him, the best of what you have, the best of what you are, praising God and glorifying Jesus in the strength of the Holy Spirit?

Now is the day of salvation If you do not know Jesus, find a Christian friend whose walk you admire and ask about Jesus! Your life and joy, your blessedness and peace depend on it.

Our prayer, which is an ascription of praise and promise of blessing, comes from Isaiah ~

But now thus says the Lord,
he who created you, O Jacob,
he who formed you, O Israel:
“Fear not, for I have redeemed you;
I have called you by name, you are mine.
2 When you pass through the waters, I will be with you;
and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you;
when you walk through fire you shall not be burned,
and the flame shall not consume you.
3 For I am the Lord your God,
the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.

Isaiah 43:1-3 English Standard Version

https://youtu.be/r_dO91hQhkU

December 20, 2020 -- John 18:3 -- With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation

So Judas, having procured a band of soldiers and some officers from the chief priests and the Pharisees, went there with lanterns and torches and weapons.

John 18:3 English Standard Version

Hmm, do you think Judas’ feet still felt fresh from the fact that just a few hours beforehand Jesus had knelt down and washed his feet? In Chapter 13, Jesus did what only the lowest servant in the household would do, He washed the feet of all His disciples. In that culture, where everyone walked everywhere, the first act of hospitality the host of a home would offer to a newly arrived guest was to direct his servant to wash the feet of the guests. The feet are refreshed. The dust is washed off. It is an act of welcome.

In the Upper Room, Jesus was alone with His disciples. None of the disciples would do this lowly task. So Jesus stood up and took the lowest place of washing the disciples’ feet. Even His betrayer’s feet, Jesus even washed Judas’ feet. Let that sink in for a moment.

Do you understand the washing you have received? Jesus suffered betrayal, humiliation, rejection, an unjust sentence and finally death so that we would be washed—thoroughly cleansed of our sins. Jesus knew Judas would betray Him, but Jesus gave Judas every opportunity to repent. Jesus knew the wickedness lodged in the heart of every apostle, every one of His followers, but He cleansed them.

Know this, Jesus went to the cross fully aware of your worst sins, your deepest needs and greatest brokenness. That is why we, as Christians, celebrate the Incarnation and birth of Jesus. From the start of His life to the end of His life, Jesus make the way open to the Father. Today’s prayer of praise comes from Isaiah:

You will say in that day:
“I will give thanks to you, O Lord,
    for though you were angry with me,
your anger turned away,
    that you might comfort me.

2 “Behold, God is my salvation;
    I will trust, and will not be afraid;
for the Lord God is my strength and my song,
    and he has become my salvation.”

3 With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation. 4 And you will say in that day:

“Give thanks to the Lord,
    call upon his name,
make known his deeds among the peoples,
    proclaim that his name is exalted.

5 “Sing praises to the Lord, for he has done gloriously;
    let this be made known in all the earth.
6 Shout, and sing for joy, O inhabitant of Zion,
    for great in your midst is the Holy One of Israel.”

Isaiah 12 English Standard Version

https://youtu.be/OYdkFctlQYs

May the Lord, Mighty God
Bless and keep you forever
Grant you peace, perfect peace
courage in every endeavor
Lift your eyes and see His face,
and His grace forever
May the Lord, Mighty God
bless and keep you forever

December 18, 2020 -- John 18:1-2 -- Suffering and Joy Juxtaposed

When Jesus had spoken these words, he went out with his disciples across the brook Kidron, where there was a garden, which he and his disciples entered. Now Judas, who betrayed him, also knew the place, for Jesus often met there with his disciples.

John 18:1-2 English Standard Version

Seems a bit jarring, doesn’t it, to juxtapose Jesus’ suffering and betrayal with the festivities of the Christmas season? There are so many lovely nativity scenes on display now. What one easily forgets is that the beginning of Jesus’ life was as filled with suffering as was the end of His life.

Jesus was born in a cave, in an area where animals were kept, because Joseph and Mary’s extended family would not accommodate them. Remember this was the time in Roman history when a census was being taken of the known world. Joseph and Mary went to Bethlehem, because they were descendants of King David’s family.

All the extended cousins and second cousins would be there in Bethlehem. No one gave them room because Mary was pregnant. No doubt every busy-body family member had counted on their fingers when Joseph and Mary had married and calculated how far along Mary was in her pregnancy and realized this baby was conceived before the date of marriage. Scandal attended Jesus’ birth.

The wonder of the Incarnation and the majesty of the life of Jesus Christ is that He willingly left the splendours of heaven and He came as the Lamb of God Who takes away the sin of the world. He knew His life would be suffering and betrayal—yet His life on earth was filled with the vision of His Father in heaven. Jesus lived as the Suffering Servant, yet His life was marked by obedience to His Father which was filled with the joy set before Him. He was able to despise the shame of suffering and betrayal and scorn the cross, knowing He would sit at the Father’s right hand in victory, bringing many sons and daughters to salvation. What a Saviour!

Prayer-Praise reading comes from Isaiah 59:19-60:3

So they shall fear the name of the Lord from the west,
    and his glory from the rising of the sun;
for he will come like a rushing stream,
    which the wind of the Lord drives.

20 “And a Redeemer will come to Zion,
    to those in Jacob who turn from transgression,” declares the Lord.

21 “And as for me, this is my covenant with them,” says the Lord: “My Spirit that is upon you, and my words that I have put in your mouth, shall not depart out of your mouth, or out of the mouth of your offspring, or out of the mouth of your children's offspring,” says the Lord, “from this time forth and forevermore.”

Arise, shine, for your light has come,
and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you.
2 For behold, darkness shall cover the earth,
and thick darkness the peoples;
but the Lord will arise upon you,
and his glory will be seen upon you.
3 And nations shall come to your light,
and kings to the brightness of your rising.

Isaiah 59:19-21; 60:1-3 English Standard Version

https://youtu.be/0FlbFot-aho

1. Sweetest music, softly stealing
Thro' the silence of the night;
To the shepherds, now revealing,
Christ is born, the Source of light.

[Chorus]
Glory unto God the Father,
Who hath sent His only Son,
That He may all nations gather
Round His feet and make them one.

2. Now in David's ancient city
He is born, the angels say;
God the Father, full of pity,
Sends His Son to you today. [Chorus]

3. Shepherds, to the stable hasten,
There your Saviour Christ is born,
Son of Mary, lowly maiden,
On this first glad Christmas morn! [Chorus]

4. He from highest heav'n descending
Comes on earth your woes to heal,
That your ev'ry want attending,
Love of God He may reveal. [Chorus]

source: http://www.lyricsondemand.com/christmascarols/s/sweetestmusicsoftlystealinglyrics.html

December 17, 2020 -- John 17:25-26 -- Mining the Bible for Treasure

O righteous Father, even though the world does not know you,

I know you, and these know that you have sent me.

I made known to them your name, and I will continue to make it known,

that the love with which you have loved me may be in them, and I in them.

John 17:25-26 English Standard Version

How do you know anything about the Father? How do you know the Father loves you and loves believers? Jesus, in this chapter of John, is fervently praying for believers—His followers then, today, and all those who are appointed to eternal life. It is the the Father Who has sent the Son to be His Witness. It is the Father Who has given Jesus so that the world will know God in heaven is righteous. There are no examples in our world today of righteous men or women. Sin has so infected the ground, the heart, and the cosmos that true righteousness is beyond the comprehension of anyone unless the righteousness of the Father in heaven is revealed by the Son, through the Spirit’s witness in the Word.

Jesus, Who is the exact representation of the Father, made the Father known to those first disciples. Jesus, Who is the radiancy of the Father’s glory, continues to make the Father known to believers today. The love of the Father and the love of the Son are poured into the heart of believers by the powerful presence of the Person of the Holy Spirit.

Everyday my inbox with filled with breathless emails, tweets and messages about this conspiracy and that corrupt official’s actions. There are stinking piles of things to read in order to be informed about this or that. Let me reassure you this is just devil-directed-distraction—all of it. Believers are called to look to Jesus Christ.

With the same enthusiasm that would otherwise have been used to research conspiracy theories, read the Bible. Mine the Bible for its rich truth. The Bible, which the Spirit uses to lead you to Jesus, will reveal to your heart and mind the Truth. Knowing Jesus, the Way, the Truth and the Life, will cause you to instantly know counterfeits. Don’t spend all your time researching counterfeits, because the Truth is will farther away from you. Gaze at the Truth. Admire the Beauty of Jesus, the Desire of All Nation. As you dig deep into the Bible Jesus will continually make His Father known to you. This is how believers know the Father. Jesus is the Radiant Witness to the Father’s love and the Spirit will continually speak to your heart and mind so that you declare: “Abba—Father, my Father!”

I will sing of steadfast love and justice; to you, O LORD, I will make music.

I will ponder the way that is blameless. Oh, when will you come to me?

I will walk with integrity of heart within my house;

I will not set before my eyes anything that is worthless.

I hate the work of those who fall away; it shall not cling to me.

Bless the LORD, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name!

Today’s prayer is Psalm 101:1-3; 103:1 English Standard Version.

https://youtu.be/ApE27TPPHlY

December 16, 2020 -- John 17:24 -- United in Love and Christ's glory

Father, I desire that they also, whom you have given me, may be with me where I am, to see my glory that you have given me, because you loved me before the foundation of the world.

John 17:24 English Standard Version

In verse 22 Jesus, in this long prayer to His Father, asks that believers may be united with the Father and with the Son (this by the powerful presence of the Holy Spirit). When believers are united to the Living God they live in the glory of God. Jesus continued in His prayer that believers will fully see Jesus’ own glory in eternity. This is to the great joy and blessing of believers to know their lives have been lived with tremendous purpose unto the honour and praise of God.

Right now, no doubt, people are making huge Christmas lists of things they want. The pandemic has prompted many to want tools and kitchen appliances and gadgets as being locked down in their homes people have plenty of time for projects. Others, knowing the vaccine is here dream of big cruises and trips expecting the vaccines will be a panacea allowing things to return “to normal”. The arrival of the virus has shown us one thing: no one knows what one day will bring. Normal is a fragile state.

Jesus, in His great sacrificial love for His people, prayed for the one gift that could never be taken from believers. To know the love of God by being united with Him and blessed to see His glory now and in ever growing fullness in eternity is to have the greatest gift. Do not chase after temporal things. Do not run after gifts that will be wiped out whenever the next stock market crash happens. Let your heart chase after Jesus Christ and in the pursuit of Him you will find joy unspeakable, full of glory. That is the only treasure you can take from this life into eternity.

Prayer today is Psalm 136:1-5

Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever.

Give thanks to the God of gods, for his steadfast love endures forever.

Give thanks to the LORD of lords, for his steadfast love endures forever;

to him who alone does great wonders, for his steadfast love endures forever;

to him who by understanding made the heavens, for his steadfast love endures forever!

https://youtu.be/eMY3ivdNzwE

December 15, 2020 -- John 17:18-19 -- Go Tell It on the Mountain

As you sent me into the world, so I have sent them into the world. And for their sake I consecrate myself, that they also may be sanctified in truth.

John 17:18-19 English Standard Version

The book of Hebrews makes it clear that Jesus consecrated Himself, He willingly gave Himself as the sacrifice which takes away the sin of the world. Since He was perfect, without sin, He could dedicate Himself as the One Who sanctifies, that is makes holy all who believe in Him.

With that understanding, believers are made holy in Jesus so that believers can proclaim Good News to the world. Christians falter and sin, just as anyone else does, however, Christians are growing to hate their sins and are learning to walk in the joyful wonder of God’s rich salvation. Jesus, the Desire of All Nations, has taken hold of the Christian’s heart so that following Him is become more precious than chasing after sin. The Christmas season give many opportunities to declare who Jesus is, and why as a Christian you believe in Him. Be prepared to explain your undoubted Christian faith to those around you.

Why do you go to church? Why do you wish people a “Merry Christmas”? Think on these things and be prepared to give a one or two phrase answer that invites others to think about God and His radiant Son Jesus. For example, you might explain: “I go to church to express my love to God Who first loved me”. Regarding the second question you could smile and say, “I wish you a Merry Christmas because Christmas gives brings me joy in God Who trough Jesus so clearly showed His love for this broken world.” Maybe use a phrase of a Christmas Carol to explain what you believe so that others are left hungry to know more.

Mighty God, thank You for the angels and shepherds who were the first to declare the glorious birth of Jesus. Spirit of God, as we worship Jesus our Savior and King, help us to go and tell everyone we meet of our great joy and confident hope which is anchored in Jesus. Amen.

https://youtu.be/4mnzvWR73O4

December 12, 2020 -- John 17:11 -- Jesus' love expressed in prayer

Holy Father, keep them in your name, which you have given me,

that they may be one, even as we are one.

John 17:11 English Standard Version

This is the longest recorded prayer offered by Jesus. It is so full and rich. Jesus is nearing His betrayal and crucifixion and He speaks with His Father in the full confidence of His Father’s love, purpose and approval.

The Father is “Holy”. Completely separate from humanity in His perfections and His majesty and honour in keeping His promises. He had determined, before the foundation of the world to save for Himself a people to be brought to Himself through Jesus Christ. His power and holiness would accomplish this. Jesus, in His prayer, honours and blesses the Father and His holiness.

Jesus asked His Father to keep the flock which Jesus had shepherded while He was on earth; entrusting them to the Father as He departed for His suffering. They are about to face the greatest trial of their lives—Jesus’ arrest and execution. Unless the Father, by His love and purposes, had sustained the disciples and followers of Jesus they would have been broken and destroyed.

Jesus, in His humanity, was fully united with His Holy Father through the powerful presence of the Spirit. It is the Spirit Who guarded Jesus in unity with His Father throughout all His earthly ministry. This same Spirit of Holiness would sustain Jesus as He faced the greatest trial any human being in history would ever face. The divinity of Jesus would endure, the humanity of Jesus needed the Spirit’s presence—as does any human being who lives need the Spirit’s glorious presence.

Beloved children of the Father, brought near by Jesus and guarded by the Spirit—be assured that Jesus’ prayer offered so long ago continues to have validity and power. Jesus continues to pray for you, but now at the Father’s right hand. The Holy Father and Jesus have poured out the Spirit of power so that you can endure all things, hope and believe in all trials. Do not lose heart. Pray. Read the Word. Trust Jesus is exactly Who He said He is: the One Who brings you safe by the power of the Spirit into the presence of the Holy Father in heaven.

Today’s prayer is Psalm 130 is one in the series of Psalms called “The Songs of Ascents”. These are the psalms recited as the people of Israel would journey to worship the LORD at Jerusalem. As we await Jesus’ return in glory, we worship Him looking forward to the New Jerusalem.

Out of the depths I cry to you, O Lord!
2     O Lord, hear my voice!
Let your ears be attentive
    to the voice of my pleas for mercy!

3 If you, O Lord, should mark iniquities,
    O Lord, who could stand?
4 But with you there is forgiveness,
    that you may be feared.

5 I wait for the Lord, my soul waits,
    and in his word I hope;
6 my soul waits for the Lord
    more than watchmen for the morning,
    more than watchmen for the morning.

7 O Israel, hope in the Lord!
    For with the Lord there is steadfast love,
    and with him is plentiful redemption.
8 And he will redeem Israel
    from all his iniquities.

Psalm 130 ESV

https://youtu.be/7QCcwgb817s

December 11, 2020 -- John 17:2-3 -- Glimpses of Glory

And this is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent. I glorified you on earth, having accomplished the work that you gave me to do. And now, Father, glorify me in your own presence with the glory that I had with you before the world existed.

John 17:3-4 English Standard Version

Filling in Christmas cards this year I have been writing at the top of many of them: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among the people with whom He is pleased” (Luke 2:14). The moment of Jesus’ arrival on earth gave glory to the Father in heaven—it is what the angels declared. The life and work of Jesus on earth glorified God—Jesus’ work and words, life and rest, every moment He walked the earth He was conscience of living whole-heartedly for His Father in heaven. He perfectly proclaimed the coming Kingdom of God. He displayed the Father’s radiancy in His miracles of healing and feeding. Those who perceived Who Jesus was as He preached and offered the miraculous signs saw the glory of God the Father.

Now, in this section of John, called the High Priestly Prayer, Jesus is praying, asking His Father to give to Him the glory had with the Father before the world existed. Note, when the God of Splendour and Power is even fleetingly revealed, even a small glimpse of this glory is given, hearts melt, kingdoms fall, lives are converted, and sinners are judged.

When the soldiers came to arrest Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane, and Jesus said, “I AM He” the soldiers caught a glimpse of His glory and they fell to the ground stunned in His presence (John 18:6). In fact, Jesus had to take charge of the situation so that they could regroup and arrest Him. When Jesus was being crucified one man crucified on a cross beside Him, glimpsed the saving power and glory of God and said “Remember me when You come into Your kingdom” (Luke 23:42). When Jesus gave up His Spirit and died, the Roman soldier at the foot of the cross declared “Truly this man was the Son of God” (Mark 15:39). Through out history efforts have been made generation after generation to suppress the word of God and defeat the glory of Jesus—these all failed.

Voltaire, the French philosopher and author of the early 1800’s, noted “we are living in the twilight of Christianity”. In a beautiful twist of fate that declares the glory of Jesus Christ, the home where Voltaire once lived, in Ferney, France, is now the location of a branch of the French Bible Society! The glory of Jesus Christ is being declared in the written word preserved and blessed by the Spirit so that all who believe on Jesus know the Father in heaven. One man remarked, what Voltaire saw as twilight was in fact the dawn of Christ’s day. So, with the angels and the shepherds, and saints and wise men throughout the ages we declare with greatest joy: “Glory to God in the highest!”

Prayer today is the praise found in Romans 11:33-36

Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways!

34 “For who has known the mind of the Lord,
    or who has been his counselor?”
35 “Or who has given a gift to him
    that he might be repaid?”

36 For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen. ESV

https://youtu.be/OGfxlGeNVmQ

December 9, 2020 -- John 16:33 -- Peace in a world full of tribulation

I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart, I have overcome the world.

John 16:33 English Standard Version

It seems very odd for Jesus to put the words peace and tribulation right next to each other. No doubt you understand tribulation. There are great sufferings as the world is locked down because of Covid. There is great anguish because the government, in the middle of this pandemic promotes abortion and dead. In fact, so committed to death are our various governments here in Canada that the B.C. government went to court to force a hospice in British Columbia, set up to be safe from Medical Assistance in Death, to provide M.A.I.D. Sadness fills the heart and mind because famine kills around nine million people a year (to put this in perspective, Covid-19 and deaths related to it have, as of today killed an estimated one million five hundred and sixty thousand people). The U.N. reports there are over 2.6 million people living in refugee camps, right now! And war, famine, government instability and guerilla warfare has displaced over 79 million! Yet the greatest tragedy of all, is that our world walks in darkness, which is rebellion against God and against His Son and blasphemes the Holy Spirit by refusing the witnesses of the Spirit to Jesus Who is the world’s true light, Savior and peace.

Jesus has overcome the world. The might of the Roman Government was not enough to overthrow Jesus nor to crush Him and put out the light of His salvation. Religious leaders of the Jewish faith who were supposed to stir up in the Jewish people the anticipation of the arrival of Messiah—Jesus Himself—denied Jesus as they tried to hold onto earthly power. Mocked. Rejected. Betrayed. Homeless. He walked in a world ravaged by hunger. He saw the injustices of tyranny. He saw disease scourge the land. And Jesus saw the greatest tragedy of all: He walked among His own people and His own people received Him not. They were walking in darkness while the Light of Life was right there in front of them. Yet Jesus had great peace.

Jesus lived as a man in great peace because His eyes, His life, and His faith was fixed on our Father in heaven. How does this Jesus give peace? He defeated the power of sin at the cross. He overcame the world’s temptation to sin, the power of evil and the lusts of the flesh by His faithful obedience to His Father in the world. He never sinned—in word, in thought, in deed. Jesus did all the good He was called to do and no good expected of Him by the Father was left undone. Ponder that for a moment. Then, as the spotless Lamb of God, He stood in the place of sinners, receiving our punishment for sin at the cross. He was buried. And death could not hold Him. He rose from the grave and ascended to heaven.

Jesus taught us He has overcome the world. Jesus did in fact overthrow the kingdom of this world and its powers and the effects of sin. Jesus gives to us, by His Spirit, the power to live for our Father in heaven. When despair threatens us, we turn to Jesus. When we might waver seeing the evils of the world and tragedies there, we look to Jesus and find in Him peace that passes all human understanding. Living for Jesus is the gift of peace He gives and the powerful witness that speaks to our world torn by upheaval, tribulation and fear. In Jesus we have peace.

The prayer today is Isaiah 26:1-5. It speaks to the time of peace which is ushered in by Jesus.

In that day this song will be sung in the land of Judah:

“We have a strong city;
    he sets up salvation
    as walls and bulwarks.
2 Open the gates,
    that the righteous nation that keeps faith may enter in.
3 You keep him in perfect peace
    whose mind is stayed on you,
    because he trusts in you.
4 Trust in the Lord forever,
    for the Lord God is an everlasting rock. Isaiah 26:1-5 ESV

https://youtu.be/ZYrL9ea1XUg