Hand to the Plow - January 1, 2012

Luke 9:62 - But Jesus said to him, “ No one, after putting his hand to the plow and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.”

Some people might say that a new year is inconsequential. Many folks make and break resolutions with impunity. Like many, I haven't always considered a new year as significant. However, the longer I walk with the Lord, the more I see the importance for new beginnings. I like to think of a new year as an opportunity to turn over the soil of my heart and to prepare the ground for new seed. Often, this is a new area of my heart where God wants to do an expansive work. In other cases, this is possibly where He has produced a crop but now He wants to plant something different. And, sometimes there are areas that may have once yielded fruit, but have gone fallow due to indifference or disobedience. I have found the best thing to do is not argue with God, thinking I know what's best. Without fail, when He plants what He desires, it always bears forth the fruit He has ordained. That is, as long as I'm obedient and continue to till the land of my heart as He desires.

The use of the plow and fallow ground are simply metaphors for allowing God to use His word to instruct us. While some smaller plows may be pushed by manpower, God's plow can not be pushed by human strength. It is an impossibility to push a plow creating deep furrows in order to sow God's seed. For the sake of this analogy, God provides a mule or a team of oxen---servants to mankind in order to pull the plow through the unbroken earth. The strength of these animals are illustrated by the strength of God and how He empowers his word to accomplish what He sends it forth to accomplish (Isaiah 55:11). However, without man's hand on the plow, God's word will often NOT be sent forth due to lack of faith to lead and guide it. By putting our hand to God's plow and obeying Him, we allow His word to go forth.

Once we put our hand to the plow, Jesus tells us we should never look back. We should understand that while our past has often shaped our present, we cannot allow it to dictate our future. Obedience that cuts a straight furrow through life would be terribly impeded if we were constantly looking back and worried about where he have been rather than where we are going. Paul, a confessed murderer and persecutor of the church tells us in Philippians 3:13 to forget what lies behind and reach forward to what lies ahead. We can do NOTHING about the past, but only make corrections for the future by the experiences acquired in our brief histories. While Jesus' admonition in Luke 17:22-37 refers to His second coming, it is still an important lesson for us to understand in regard to obedience. If we refuse to allow the anxieties of this life to pull us off course, then we will remain stalwart to keep looking ahead. In verse 32, Jesus says, "Remember Lot's wife," a sobering lesson on looking back once we have our put our hands to the proverbial plow (Genesis 19;26).

Time is significant, or God would not have created it. Therefore, it is important to regard new beginnings in time as God-ordained opportunities to start afresh. While man-made resolutions are to the most part useless, we can be assured that God patiently awaits for us to recommit to Him on our spiritual journey. Some of us have taken our hands off the plow and have allowed acres of "heartland" to become fallow. It is time to once again take hold of God's plow, the word of God, and walk steadily and determinably after Him. If we will follow the plow He has given us to guide, He will provide the strength to pull it along. Will we do this perfectly? None of us have, nor will any succeed except One. Jesus Christ will walk along side and coach us the entire length of God's field if we will but allow Him to do so. Before long, the soil of our hearts will be fertile once again to take the seed of God and bear fruit the way He desires. May we all put our hands to God's plow this year, never wavering as the Holy Spirit strengthens us and the Son of God guides our hands. May we all know the blessing of obeying Him in all things this coming year as we put our hands in His hands each and every day.

Heavenly Father, thank you for enabling us to obey You in all things. However, when we fail or take our hands off the plow You have ordained for each of us, may you patiently guide us once again to continue our journey, pressing on toward the goal of the upward call. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Your Barefoot Servant,

Rick


The Bare Soul Archives

Longing for Messiah - December 25, 2011

Matthew 2:10 - When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy.

Christmas was always a special time for me as a child. In my elementary years, I remember planning for the yuletide season weeks and months before the big day. I had some understanding that this was indeed the birth of Christ. However, as most children, I was consumed with the rapturous longing for the expectancy of Christmas Eve and the wonder of the next morning. Years past as did the charm of Christmas. In my teens and up into my 20s, I found the season I once embraced with much affection becoming something I almost dreaded. My cynicism with the commercialism turned me off as it has likewise done with many others. It took finding the Savior to help me find the correct balance---to respect the tradition of this day where we celebrate Christ's birth, along with the made-up, pretend aspect of this joyful season. While I am well aware of the arguments for and against Christians celebrating a supposed pagan holiday in reference to Christ's birth, I suppose I look more at how the Lord sometimes uses the foolish things of this world to shame the wise (I Corinthians 1:27). Therefore, I don't believe anyone does this holiday perfectly, the way God intends. However, as long as both non-believers and believers are drawn to consider Jesus Christ's first advent on this 25th day in December, I see far more good than harm as a result. God has undoubtedly used this season to bring many souls into His kingdom. In this I rejoice! However, to those whom much is given, much is required. For those of us who understand the significance of Christ's first advent, we should invariably be drawn into an expectancy of His return. It is incompatible to divorce the significance of one from the other, both historically and contemporarily.

At this time of year, I invariably think about those three Magi who traveled hundreds of miles from the area of Babylon to celebrate our Savior's birth. These men may have known Yahweh. However, they might just have easily not, especially since they probably studied astronomy and astrology under the pagan Medo-Persian religious order of Zoroaster. All we know is that Daniel prophesied the coming of a Great King, the Messiah, in Daniel 9 and they ascertained his birth to be in their lifetimes. The prophet states:

Seventy weeks have been decreed for your people and your holy city, to finish the transgression, to make an end of sin, to make atonement for iniquity, to bring in everlasting righteousness, to seal up vision and prophecy and to anoint the most holy place. So you are to know and discern that from the issuing of a decree to restore and rebuild Jerusalem until Messiah the Prince there will be seven weeks and sixty-two weeks; it will be built again, with plaza and moat, even in times of distress. - Daniel 9:24-25

The 69 weeks mentioned in these scriptures are symbolic of 69 years times the number of days in a week, seven. From history, we know that Artaxerxes, King of Persia issued a decree on March 14th, 445 BC. The aforementioned 69 years times seven years would equal 476 years plus 24 days (on the Jewish lunar calendar consisting of 29.5 days per month) thereby culminating on the very day Jesus would make His triumphal entry into Jesus as "Messiah the Prince" (April 6, 32 AD). This is important to know in regard to the Magi. With the precision of Daniel's prophecy regarding the advent of the Messiah, the Wise Men knew his approximate time of birth by calculating the age of someone proclaiming Himself as the Messiah. This Person would need to be at least 30 years of age to comply with Jewish laws of manhood. Therefore, the Magi were expectant and overjoyed at the appearing of the star, knowing this was surely the sign of the Prince's appearing. Their journey to ancient Palestine resulted in the familiar story we all know so well in Matthew 2:1-12. We are told how they returned to their own country after visiting the child and his parents, thereby ending their story according to scripture. However, it is easy to imagine how they presumably understood the saga of this Messiah Prince had only begun. Just as they were able to figure out mathematically the time of Christ's first appearing, they knew that a future event yet to be revealed would mean Christ's return. They probably didn't understand all of the implications of His second coming. However, we can certainly believe they knew the final week, or the 70th week in Daniel's prophecy, was to be fulfilled at a later date. Their faith undoubtedly became strong by participating in His first advent, while they looked futuristically to His imminent return.

Ironically, the entire world has the same information today that these Zoroastrian Magi possessed nearly 2000 years ago. Unlike many today, these Wise Men of ancient times were expectantly waiting for the revelation of the Messiah. While many today look forward to what we call Christmas and the celebration of the birth of Christ, I wonder how many who call themselves Christians long for the second appearing of Jesus? When He comes again, He will not come as a babe, but as the KING OF KINGS and LORD OF LORDS. While many can look forward to a holiday celebrating His birth, how many long for Him and the revelation of what His birth means to us all? And, of equal or greater importance, how many of us desire to know the Man grown up from that manger who was once covered in swaddling clothes? Beloved, I suggest it is hypocritical to suggest how one can love Christ's first advent celebrating His birth, but not be expectantly waiting for His second coming. The two are inextricably linked. My mention earlier that more good is done than harm by celebrating Christmas, I should now further qualify. We cannot be content to just celebrate the Savior's birth. If that is all we do, then we have stopped short of God's intent and aborted the Christ child, not allowing Him to grow to full stature in our hearts. He is coming again, and if we are expecting a sweet baby we will be horrifically disappointed. The Christmas Child is meant to grow and become first our Savior and Lord and then our friend. If we refuse to give up the silly notion that Jesus came once only to give us a reason to celebrate the birth of the Savior, then we come woefully short of the mark. If, however, we embrace not only the Christ-child and the expectancy of His future return, then we fulfill His desire for men and women who celebrate His ENTIRE life. He is coming after a holy bride that anticipates His coming, purifying herself as she waits (I John 3:2-3). May we all be "wise men", calculating the impact on our lives by both his first and second advent. Otherwise, we may reveal our foolishness at His great appearing by our falling short of His wonderful intention for our lives.

Heavenly Father, thank You for revealing from Your word the first great advent of Your Son. While no man knows the day nor the hour of His second coming, may we all ready ourselves by loving his first appearing and longing for His most certain return. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Your Barefoot Servant,

Rick



The Bare Soul Archives

Scourging Sin - December 18, 2011

John 2:15 - And He made a scourge of cords, and drove them all out of the temple, with the sheep and the oxen; and He poured out the coins of the money changers and overturned their tables;

Picture a beautiful spring day in Jerusalem in approximately the year 30 A.D. If one would enter the large outer area of the temple, commonly referred to as the Court of the Gentiles, they would undoubtedly see a bustling "marketplace." In probably a smaller area, one would find an assortment of livestock---sheep, lamps, doves---all which were available to purchase for the various sacrifices mandated in the Pentateuch (or the Torah), the first five books of the Old Testament. (For instance, Mary and Joseph probably purchased two young pigeons or turtledoves when their Son Jesus was dedicated in the temple three decades earlier [Luke 2:22]). However, in order to purchase animals from the dealers, money would often need exchanging. Roman currency was no good within the temple walls, but only Hebrew currency such as the shekel or denarius. Animals for sacrifice could not be brought into the temple, but had to be purchased from the dealers. Not only were "temple animals" the only acceptable sacrifices, but as previously mentioned, only Hebrew money was acceptable for treasury tithes or for paying the temple tax. Then, the money collected would need to be turned back into Roman money to support the priests and the temple. Moneychangers would often charge exorbitant rates to exchange Roman to Hebrew currency (and vice versa)---sometimes as much as 300 percent! This covetous monopoly angered many of the Jews, including an itinerant rabbi who would visit the temple on that fateful Passover.

For those of us either raised on a farm or possibly others of us who have frequented county or state fairs, we understand the unintentional consequences of animals habitating in close proximity. The early springtime rains in Jerusalem undoubtedly made a swampy mess as the ill-attended animals awaited slaughter. A common animal bedding material used in ancient Palestine, as well as an absorbent for rain and feces, was the common papyrus rush brought in from the Jordan Valley and from areas in the south. There was probably a layer of papyrus rushes or reeds paving the normally dusty ground to absorb the aforementioned unpleasantries, plus additional surplus for the animals' bedding. When Jesus came into the outer court of the temple that day during the Passover, it was probably an overwhelming sight. Stepping through a sloppy, unsanitary mess where the smells were as bad as the sights, Jesus grieved demonstrably through his subsequent actions. We are told in our lead verse "that He made a scourge of cords, and drove them all out of the temple ... ." Many scholars believe "cords" in this context consisted of a scourge or a "whip" of rushes twisted together, making an instrument that could ultimately herd both man and beast. With a little imagination, we can picture our Lord slogging through the sewage, overturning tables where the money became part of the filth underfoot. While it's not mentioned that Christ hit man or beast, we can only surmise that His zeal was enough to hurry both four- and two-legged creatures on their way. The very rushes that were intended to give comfort to both the animals and those traversing that area became the tool used to eradicate them from God's holy temple. With holy boldness, Jesus declared: “Take these things away; stop making My Father’s house a place of business.” His disciples remembered that it was written, “ZEAL FOR YOUR HOUSE WILL CONSUME ME.” (John 2:16)

How can we apply this story of Jesus' zeal to our lives today? If we think about the temple as a metaphor for our body, soul, and spirit, we can likewise apply the same understanding that Jesus tried to convey about His Father's house. In general, Herod's Temple consisted of an outer court which was for the Gentiles and women. The inner court, or the sanctuary, was the location where Jewish men worshipped. The innermost area was the Holy of Holies where the priest entered once a year on the Day of Atonement to offer the Passover lamb for the sins of the people. If we consider the outer court (or the temple porch) our body, the sanctuary (or the holy place) our soul, and the Holy of Holies our spirit, this will help us understand Jesus' passion to keep His Father's house free of defilement. Through these metaphors, I believe Jesus was showing us how to fervently protect the "temple of the Lord" within all who know Him. Jesus knew if the outer court (the body) was defiled with filth, then it corrupted all of the temple. Jesus understood in order to keep the heart clean, there must be an act of consecration to purify the entire being. This has everything to do with both salvation and sanctification, beloved. Just as Jesus' zeal was an act of love to protect His Father's house, there may be something lacking in our spiritual lives if there is not a similar repulsion to "the sin that would so easily beset us." (Hebrews 12:1) If we do not come to a place of holy anger over sin within, and if we are not scourging sin from our lives in a zealous way, then we may want to question if indeed we are of the Light.

It really comes down to the following question whether or not we are zealous for our Father's house within: Do we loathe the sin within or have we become complacent and comfortable with our transgressions? If Jesus were to come visit us today, would we be embarrassed to show Him around our "outer court?" Have we sold out to the moneychangers and the profiteers, or have we sold out to God? If we have given our bodies to this world, beloved, we have also given our sanctuary and our "Holy of Holies", our very spirit and soul, to the flesh and the devil. There is only one choice if we are to follow God---that is to burn with zeal for the house of God within us. If we are not scourging sin then we are savoring and salivating over our transgressions. It is time to rise up and overturn every table of sin and falseness in our lives and chase the filth from the temple within. If not, we may be surprised someday regarding whose house we were actually caring for. May we all scourge the sin with cords of zeal, consecrating a holy habitation for the Holy One to abide always.

Heavenly Father, may we drive sin from our lives as Your Son drove sin from Your temple. May we experience Your zeal and passion for holiness, denying worldly gain and embracing Your godliness that only You can give. We praise You for Your goodness and love. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Your Barefoot Servant,

Rick


The Bare Soul Archives

Warring with Wisdom - December 11, 2011

Psalm 140:7 - O GOD the Lord, the strength of my salvation, You have covered my head in the day of battle.

Many of us have undoubtedly watched movies about knights of old, where a squire would complete their lord's armor by placing their helmet upon the noble's head. These servants would often go into battle alongside their lord, albeit with lighter armor. They might attempt to pace their master on horseback, running interference for any seeking to ambush their lord unrepentantly. Squires, and sometimes vassals who owed allegiance to their lord knight, would often lay down their own lives to save the life of their master. The bone-crushing blow of a battle-axe, or the splintering effect of a 30 pound sword laid across the skull of the knight's protector would be all that was needed to make the knight vulnerable to death. While his own armor (including his helmet) protected him in close combat, his liability was increased exponentially once his protective squires and foot soldiers were decimated. However, as long as he could resist bone shattering blows from the enemy, he might find himself the victor and able to fight another day.

One would be a fool to go into battle without a helmet. Undoubtedly, this one piece of protection has saved countless lives throughout the history of warfare. This can be said from ancient times up to our modern era. Today, most combat troops know the necessity of protecting their head and do so accordingly with Kevlar helmets. Armies around the world will use the most advanced technology to protect their greatest resource---human lives. As Christians, many of us understand the significance of the helmet of salvation from Ephesians 6:17. Similar to the aforementioned illustration of medieval knights, this was the last piece of armor donned by the believer as Paul relates in this passage. (The only thing to take up after the helmet was the sword, going from defensive protection to an offensive weapon.) Paul's wisdom places a good defense as paramount before we ever think we can wage a successful offense. To believe we can fight the devil with just the word of God, rebuking the enemy in Jesus' name without understanding our position in Christ is naive. While it is of utmost consequence to protect our vitals by the breastplate of righteousness (Ephesians 6:14)---to understand that we are righteous before God by the blood of Jesus---it is of extreme importance that we take up the shield of faith. Resolute belief in who we are in Christ, along with an understanding of our mission, will do much regarding our fight. However, to not recognize the significance of God's helmet of salvation would result in a tragic outcome.

If men have been going to war with helmets for millennia, why would we consider to do anything less in our daily spiritual battles against the enemy of our souls? At this time, it is important to explain exactly what the metaphor of the the helmet of our salvation consists of in order to discover how to obtain it, practically, for our spiritual walk. A wise man once said, "The battle is lost or won in the mind, but the heart takes the spoils." How true is this! Paul tells us in Romans 12:2: And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect. Whatever we continue to feed our minds, our hearts will eventually embrace. Whether it be good, acceptable, and perfect, or bad, rejected, and defiled, we will eventually become what we put into our minds. Paul points out in his first letter to the Corinthians that "... we have the mind of Christ" if indeed we call ourselves followers of Christ (I Corinthians 2:16). We are therefore obligated to "feed" the mind of Christ, which is our Master, with spiritual food rather than the things of this world. Paul prayed for the Ephesians, that God might give them "the spirit of wisdom and revelation." (Ephesians 1:17) Paul knew that if his beloved church at Ephesus would start filling their minds with God's wisdom, then their hearts would soon follow. Peter likewise saw the importance of fortifying the mind of Christ that lives within all who call Jesus Lord. He admonishes his readers with the following: Therefore, prepare your minds for action, keep sober in spirit, fix your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ (I Peter 1:13). How much better to prepare the mind for action then by setting it on things above, not on things of the earth (Colossians 3:2), allowing God's wisdom and the revelation of His will to flood our souls?

We must invoke the mind of Christ if we desire to live victoriously. We must put on Christ, seeking His wisdom daily. Even as the servants of warriors have for centuries been the ones to fit the helmet on the shoulders of their lords, so also the Great Servant desires us to take on His wisdom and understanding through His helmet of salvation which He has purchased with His life. As David states so beautifully in our lead verse "... You have covered my head in the day of battle," so also will Christ cover our minds with His wisdom and understanding as we vanquish His foes from His Father's kingdom. May we understand how we desperately need God's protection in our minds, which inevitably protects our hearts. Only as we protect ourselves through the covering the Lord grants us, will we effectively wield the word of God, claiming the victory over and over again in the Name of Jesus.

Heavenly Father, may we continue to seek You for Your Son's mind and His helmet of salvation. Lord, not only will His wisdom and understanding save us from our foes, but it will also further Your kingdom, bringing great glory to Your Name. Allow us much spoil as we seek to do Your will through the mind of Your Son. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Your Barefoot Servant,

Rick


The Bare Soul Archives

Persistence in Prayer - December 4, 2011

Luke 18:1 - Now He was telling them a parable to show that at all times they ought to pray and not to lose heart,

How do we approach prayer? Is it something we mouth to Jesus out of a sense of obligation, or is it something we believe is vitally important to both God and humanity? More importantly, do we truly believe God will answer our prayers? Or, have we "lost heart" as Jesus warns us regarding our prayer life in our lead verse? Prayer is an enigma to those who don't truly believe God answers prayer. Nonetheless, it has become something of an expected ritual within many of our churches today. Oftentimes, someone will bring a praise of an answered prayer to a prayer meeting and there is an initial shock that the Lord moved in a miraculous way! However, we should understand that the Lord desires to move ALWAYS if we will but stay persistent in our pursuit of an answer to our petitions. The question remains: How far are we willing to go to secure the answer?

The parable of the unrighteous judge and the widow is a curious story. The Lord describes an unrighteous judge who neither fears God nor respects man (Luke 18:2). He next introduces us to a widow who is seeking legal protection from her opponents (Luke 18:3). We are not given any more detail but that she comes to this judge in a continuous manner. Enough so, where he decides to grant her request before she unduly taxes both his time and patience (Luke 18:4-5). Jesus next tells us to learn from the unrighteous judge in the following verses: And the Lord said, “Hear what the unrighteous judge said; now, will not God bring about justice for His elect who cry to Him day and night, and will He delay long over them? (Luke 18:6-7) Unlike other parables, such as the Good Samaritan or The Prodigal Son, this is not a morality tale. In reality, it is probably the antithesis of true redemption in that it is contrived justice on behalf of a self-centered judge. However, Jesus skillfully uses even the unrighteous to make His point. The implication is not to behave in an unrighteous manner, but to understand his lack of love and patience for the widow that hounded him day after day. In so doing, Jesus juxtaposes an unjust arbiter to a loving, gracious Judge in heaven who is ready to answer expeditiously if we will but ask. Actually, Christ says that His Father will bring justice "quickly" for those who would cry out to Him day and night (Luke 18:8), promising not to "delay long over them" as previously stated. So, our time-bound mentalities will naturally want to know, "How many days and nights will I need to labor in prayer for a 'quick' answer?" I believe the answer lies in Jesus' probing question at the end of Luke 18:8: However, when the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on the earth?”

Beloved, faith is the key to unlock the storerooms of answered prayer. The problem is oftentimes we possess so little. From time to time, God will burden my heart for someone or some thing and there is an ease in prayer. It would seem as if I could "pray without ceasing" as faith stirs in my heart. On fewer occasions, I have experienced something I would characterize as the Spirit of Grace and Supplication from Zechariah 12:10. During these times, I would not dare to move from the place of prayer as the sweetness of God is so real and present. There is such a manifestation of God that faith naturally arises in my heart. These are special times where God finds faith on the earth---when we are able to draw close to Him as He draws close to us. It is a remarkable time that allows us direct access to the throne of grace and to His mercy seat as we beseech the Lord to answer our petitions. Unfortunately, in my case at least, these instances are far less frequent than otherwise. So often, it seems as if prayer is a battle against our opponents, much like the widows earthly oppressors. However, in our case and for our example, I believe those we battle are of a spiritual, demonic nature that will push back 24/7 until we either push through or we pass out in exhaustion. We will either persist until we have the victory, or perhaps we will expire from a lack of faith. God often encourages us with those energized, faith-filled, times of prayer when grace and supplication are pouring through us to keep us going to not give up or give in. That is what Paul speaks of when he talks about going from faith to faith, literally allowing these islands of spiritual power to grant us sustenance to continue to persist in prayer. In Romans 1:17 the apostle states: For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, “ BUT THE RIGHTEOUS man SHALL LIVE BY FAITH.”

We should not feel discouraged if we have never experienced great times in prayer. We need not judge ourselves by anyone else, but merely obey what God says and leave the rest to Him. Will he find faith upon the earth regarding persistent prayer? He will if we don't give up. If the answer does not come "quickly", as we understand it, I believe He will encourage our faith along the way. In so doing, He will grant us the power to continue beseeching the Righteous Judge in Glory who will indeed answer us if we persevere. Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God, beloved (Romans 10:17). Continue to pour out your hearts to Him, but also allow Him to speak to your heart His word. I assure you, He will grant you protection from your spiritual foes that would seek to dissuade you from the victory. Only through our persistence, with faith-filled hearts, will we overwhelmingly conquer through Him who loves us (Romans 8:37).

O Righteous Judge, grant us faith-filled hearts that would cry out to You night and day for justice. May You grant us protection from our oppressors as we seek to claim Your kingdom on earth, just as it is in heaven. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Your Barefoot Servant,

Rick


The Bare Soul Archives

The Hope of Thanksgiving - November 27, 2011

The following is the message text and audio recording of a sermon titled "Hope of Thanksgiving" delivered to the homeless at the Kansas City Rescue Mission Chapel on November 24, 2011.

Hope of Thanksgiving - November 24, 2011

Romans 5:5 - and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.

What does Thanksgiving mean to us? Is it that once a year gathering together of friends and family when we refuse to count calories and we enjoy food, family and football? For many of us in America, that is the hope of this annual fourth Thursday in November. For others, it has a deeper meaning. The food and fellowship are still important. However, there is a deeper dynamic that occurs during this day we call Thanksgiving. For those with a faith in God, it becomes a time to ruminate upon our blessings and to give thanks for our bounty. Whatever our station in life, those possessing a relationship with Jesus Christ understand that gratitude of what has been given from the hand of God is not to be taken lightly. We must thank the Lord no matter our lot, even as those struggling Pilgrims did nearly 400 years ago at Plymouth Plantation. While we have so much more than they could ever dream, I sometimes wonder if they had more than we possess? There is a singular quality in these Puritans of old that stands out in stark remiss in many of today's celebrations of Thanksgiving. I submit that that the depth of one's thanksgiving is birthed in the womb of hope -- a hope that comes from above.

If the ordinary man or woman were asked the definition of hope, there would undoubtedly be many answers. However, I speculate that most would equate hope with wishing rather than believing. We might wish for something to happen and we may or may not have the outcome we desire. However, someone who knows the Savior can place their hope in the promises of God. This, beloved, is not wishful thinking. For not one of God's promises has ever failed, nor will one ever. There is always hope if we have put our trust in God. The decision for the Pilgrims to venture forth -- first from England and then from Netherlands to journey to the New World -- was not based on wishful thinking. Those who embarked on that perilous journey on the Mayflower possessed a profound hope and faith that God would not only lead and guide them but establish them in the new land. Their hopes were somewhat dashed as they clung to life that first winter. However, the Lord delivered them and gave them reason to rejoice in the early autumn of 1621 when they enjoyed their first Thanksgiving with their native neighbors. The near hopelessness of losing 45 of their original 102 person company in that first year was somehow less overwhelming as they looked to the future with hope. They had survived only by the grace of God and the faith and hope that their mission would truly be successful due to the aforementioned favor of the Lord.

As God-fearing, Bible believers, they must have taken great solace in the Word of God. I believe the Pilgrims would have often reflected on Paul's first letter to the Corinthians, where he speaks of faith, hope and love (I Corinthians 13:13). Truly, they had left all they had known in the Old World in faith and hope of a new life in America. Their love for their Savior was apparent, as they only desired a place where they were free to worship as they discerned from God's Holy Word. While both their faith and their love were important, I believe hope's placement between faith and love in Paul's first Corinthian letter resonated with their most trying circumstances . Without hope, disappointment will be birthed in the womb of hopelessness. This would certainly be true if the Pilgrims had succumbed to their predicament and likewise for us also if we give up in the face of severe loss. In short order, this will lead to the loss of love and respect for God and finally to shipwrecked faith (I Timothy 1:19). However, if we know the love of God, and allow faith to nurture hope, we are told in the apostle's book to the Romans that disappointment cannot be spawned when hope is present (Romans 5:5). The love that has been shed abroad in our hearts by an indwelling Savior becomes the lifeline that allows faith and hope to anchor our souls (Hebrews 6:19). Out of this place of fluid faith, hope, and love can flow true thanksgiving that is born out of a truly grateful heart.

I suggest that it is impossible to know true gratitude and thanksgiving unless one is grounded in the love of God. What others might experience is a shadow of reality that has its roots in human sentimentality. For the love of God to prosper in our hearts and lives, it must be quickened by faith and be grounded in hope. In this regard, we expect far too much from those who don't know the Savior to understand the significance of Thanksgiving. It has deep, spiritual roots that drink deeply from the wells of everlasting hope. Those who trust in Jesus Christ as their Savior will never be disappointed if they surrender their lives to Him. For those who will but trust Him, Thanksgiving will never again be the same. It moves from a purely sensual experience to a spiritual one that is grounded in hope and love for the One who has promised never to leave us or forsake us (Hebrews 13:5). Like the early Pilgrims, we can have the assurance of hope that does not disappoint with an outcome of love and thanksgiving.

Heavenly Father, thank You for your blessed hope. Thank You that Your love enables Your hope to anchor our souls with an assurance You will always be there for us, no matter what may come. Thank You for the gift of thanksgiving that comes from persevering through the hope of Your promises. For as we give thanks back to You, we receive a bounty that we cannot contain. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Your Barefoot Servant,

Rick


The Bare Soul Archives

Discipleship - November 20, 2011

Matthew 28:19 - Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations ...

What does it mean to be a disciple? We see rather ordinary characters identified as Christ's disciples by the Gospel writers. Throughout these Scriptures, we often get vivid accounts of the disciples acting in very human ways. Those who have read the first four books of the New Testament, even in a casual manner, understand the disciples were prone to constant correction and reproof by the Master. Yet, we recognize a resoluteness as they persevered through three years of seeming vagrancy with this itinerant preacher. During this time, their love was not yet fully consummated for their Lord as it would be after His resurrection. However, they loved Him enough to know they would follow this Man wherever He might lead. Probably not until after Christ rose from the dead and sent the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost did they fully understand what it meant to be His disciples. Up until that time, in some regard, they only knew themselves as disciples by name. No matter how imperfectly they followed Jesus, they nonetheless fulfilled the definition of a disciple as those seeking to adhere to the Lord's teachings and commands.

The transliteration of the word disciple in the Greek is matheteuo. Referring to its context in our lead verse it means to "to follow his precepts and instructions." By following Christ's teachings and instructions during His life upon this earth, the disciples became acutely aware of their inability to emulate their Teacher. However, they persevered until they were endued with power on high to accomplish the impossible. No longer would they seek to be like Christ, but now He lived within them and they could function with the same power of the Godhead which they witnessed before their Lord's departure. From the scriptures, we see Jesus reminding His disciples time after time of their shortcomings while He was with them. The final disappointment to the disciples was the fulfillment of Christ's prophecy where they would all forsake Him. (Matthew 26:31-35) Yet, Jesus knew what was in man and patiently loved His disciples even in their failings. While all forsook Him, He promised He would never forsake His own. (Hebrews 13:5)

Jesus was not a stranger to discipleship. The Gospel of Luke has often been called the "Gospel of Our Praying Lord." Luke mentions Jesus in prayer more than any of the other Gospel writers. Jesus had God's ear and He obviously listened intently as the Father spoke to Him. Isaiah gives us a glimpse into Jesus' prayer life in the prophecy about Christ in the 50th chapter. The prophet states: The Lord GOD has given Me the tongue of disciples, that I may know how to sustain the weary one with a word. He awakens Me morning by morning, He awakens My ear to listen as a disciple. (Isaiah 50:4) We read in Mark's Gospel where Jesus rose early in the morning to retire to a place of prayer. (Mark 1:35) We can easily surmise from Isaiah's prophecy (and from the Gospels) that Jesus was listening, morning by morning, for the words of His Father. Jesus knew discipleship first-hand for He practiced it daily with His Heavenly Lord. Jesus knew His Father's "precepts," for He grew up to the stature of a man who never disobeyed even one command. However, Christ knew the importance of coming before His Father to hear His "instruction" for that particular day. Embodied in that instruction was a fullness of love and expectation concerning how that love would play out during that day of ministry. Of great significance is what the Lord Jesus tells His disciples concerning His Father's expectation of Himself, as His Father's disciple. He communicates two important truths in this regard from the Gospel of John.

First, we read in John 13:35 regarding the importance of the witness of love. Jesus plainly states the following: By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another. Jesus proclaimed that love for one another would be the proof of their discipleship. I can't say this for sure, but I believe He was saying something to the effect as, "You can fake love to God for a season, but not to one another. It will quickly be apparent to all how you treat one another." This leads into Jesus' second admonition regarding discipleship in John the 15th chapter. He tells them the following: My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit, and so prove to be My disciples. (John 15:8) In these two verses, we have the crux of discipleship. First, Jesus reveals that we must love each other, for this is the way the world will see we are are truly His. Second, this manifestation of love can only come by our love for Jesus and the Father and our desire to bear much fruit for God. To love the Lord God with all one's heart, soul, and mind, and our neighbor as ourselves is the true hallmark of discipleship. It shows our ears are awake "to listen as a disciple."

Someone wisely stated "Christianity without discipleship is Christianity without Christ." Jesus Christ Himself gave us the the greatest example of discipleship. If we call ourselves Christians, it is our duty and responsibility to obediently give Him our ears and listen attentively to how we should order our lives. Anything less is going it alone, without the Savior. We must allow ourselves to sit before Him and to patiently wait for His leading in our respective lives. How much of our listening has become dull and lifeless? He promises to once again give us ears to hear, if we will but ask. Are you listening, beloved? He is speaking, even now.

Heavenly Father, give us ears to hear. Disciple us through Your Holy Spirit who lives within. Grant us not only ears to hear, but hearts to obey so we might prove to the world You live within us. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Your Barefoot Servant,

Rick


The Bare Soul Archives

Aroma Therapy - November 13, 2011

II Corinthians 2:14 - But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and manifests through us the sweet aroma of the knowledge of Him in every place.

Years ago, when I was still in my sin, I remember showing up to work after an "all-nighter." Oftentimes, I would think a little Visine and some mouthwash would take care of any "tell-tale" remnants of the previous night's debauchery. My boss confronted me that particular morning, telling me I reeked of alcohol and cigarettes. He made it very clear this was unacceptable, especially the smell of alcohol. Even though I showered before heading in that morning, my pores still exuded what I copiously dumped into my body the night before. (Fortunately, I was near the end of my self at the time and would soon be turning toward Jesus!) While probably not to the same degree as trying to cover up the smell of stale alcohol, I think it's the same way when smokers believe all they need to do is to continue to chew mints to dispel the odor of smoke. It may work somewhat on their breath. However, the tar and nicotine clings to their clothes and hair causing them to continue to smell like an ashtray. I believe when people are unconcerned with spiritual matters, they tend to dismiss things of this nature in a rather cavalier way. However, for those of us who are either controlled by the Spirit of God, or for those of us who are under the conviction of the Spirit, we understand certain odors as distinguishing marks of the spiritually dead or those alive unto God.

Have you ever considered how we might smell, spiritually, to others? As stated in our lead verse, Paul remarked on spiritual smells and the sweet aroma of Christ in his second letter to the Corinthians. The context is interesting for he precedes his declaration of how we might spiritually smell with his quest to find Titus. We read what Paul has to say in the following passage:

Now when I came to Troas for the gospel of Christ and when a door was opened for me in the Lord, I had no rest for my spirit, not finding Titus my brother; but taking my leave of them, I went on to Macedonia. But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and manifests through us the sweet aroma of the knowledge of Him in every place. For we are a fragrance of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing; to the one an aroma from death to death, to the other an aroma from life to life. And who is adequate for these things? - II Corinthians 2:12-16

It isn't clear how or by what means Paul found Titus in Macedonia. This is a rather large area of nearly 10,000 square miles. Undoubtedly, Paul had some inkling of where Titus might be residing. Notwithstanding, the text doesn't give us any definitive conclusion. However, from the context and Paul's implication, it is easy to surmise that the apostle actually "sniffed" his companion out. Was there a particular scent of the fragrance of Christ wafting from Titus which Paul instinctively followed? Or, were there conversions along the way that his friend had effected in his sojourn, similar to spiritual "bread crumbs", if you will, that led him to his beloved Titus? Consider for a moment Christ's declaration that He was indeed the Bread of Life (John 6:48). Are there any smells more delicious than freshly baked bread? Growing up, many of us can remember that sweet savor filling the house, and often the neighborhood if the windows were open. Imagine a sweet smelling Titus with the sweet aroma of Christ, wafting Jesus' fragrance to all in Macedonia! Surely, some would have accepted the free gift of salvation and would themselves become broken bread for others. In this wise, I believe it is very probable that all Paul needed to do was to follow the scent of newly broken bread of these new converts to the apostolic source of Titus. What a delightful way to find his most trusted friend!

Paul also tells us in these verses how the fragrance of Christ (which exudes from His beloved church) will likewise be an offense to others. While we are an "aroma from life to life" for those who would accept the Lord and His salvation, we are similarly an offense to those who would reject Jesus' message of redemption. Those who are dead in their transgressions and sins are whom Paul speaks of when he states, that to some, we are an "aroma from death to death." The god of this world has not only blinded the eyes of the unbelieving (II Corinthians 4:4), but has also distorted unbelievers' sense of smell. Those whom we repulse upon this earth as having a repugnant odor are the walking dead. These shall inherit the second death which lasts for eternity (Revelation 21:8). They have lost their sense of smell regarding what is the true Bread of Life.

Some will gladly accept our message of salvation and be attracted to the fragrance of Christ within us. Some may resist for a season, having become convinced that what they once thought was a putrid smell is in reality the most beautiful aroma they have ever breathed. Jesus is always there to offer hope to the living. However, we must ask ourselves: What kind of aroma are we emitting? Have we surrendered sufficiently to Christ where our brokenness is apparent to all and the fragrance of the Lord permeates our respective lives? Or, do we still smell of the world and make no lasting impression on anyone for Jesus? I believe having no odor either way is probably the worst situation. We could compare it to being "lukewarm", where the Lord promised to spew these out of His mouth for their lack of conviction (Revelation 3:16). Beloved, if we call ourselves Christians, then we should characterize Christ. There should be constant, sweet aromas that waft from our beings that either attract those ordained for eternal life, or repulse those destined for death. May we be those who smell like fresh baked bread, wafting our aroma to the world. There are many who are hungry for reality, and it is our obligation to feed them Life!

Heavenly Father, may the Bread of Life who lives in those who know and trust You, be as a sweet aroma to a world hungry for reality. May we be broken bread, even as our Lord gave Himself for lost humanity. Grant us this request for Your glory. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Your Barefoot Servant,

Rick


The Bare Soul Archives

Loving God's Laws - November 6, 2011

Psalm 119:159 - Consider how I love Your precepts; Revive me, O LORD, according to Your lovingkindness.

In our hectic world, it seems there are not enough hours in the day to get done what is needed. We might find ourselves rushing to and from work or appointments in a frantic rush to keep some kind of workable schedule. It's no wonder speed limits are rarely obeyed anymore. If, for instance, a traffic sign has a speed limit of 35 mph, most know they will not be ticketed unless they are going 10 miles per hour or more over the posted limit. Many find themselves setting their cruise control to eight or nine mph over the limit, knowing they are usually in a "safe zone" by doing so. However, what is most alarming in this regard is seeing folks with Jesus bumper stickers or an Ichthus fish decal on their tailgate compromising the law and driving over the speed limit. While some Christians would say this is benign and "what's the big deal?", it does have significance regarding the life professed by these making such objections.

The psalmist declares in our lead verse his love for God's precepts. A precept is defined as a general rule intended to regulate behavior or thought. Synonyms include rule, instruction, regulation, law, or lesson. Whether we care to admit it, our lives are filled with precepts and laws, some of which we embrace with no difficulty and others we might resist, such as speed limits (or "rolling stops" at stop signs). Laws that are not difficult for most of us to observe are things like overt lying, or killing someone, or possibly stealing -- things that generally hurt others. However, what about those laws that don't seem to hurt anyone? They don't directly affect others and often we might regard them as mere "suggestions" rather than mandates. The examples of traffic laws are good instances of how we might rationalize our importance over the laws of the land. Or, possibly bending the law on our tax returns? As previously stated, many believe these are negligible. Nonetheless, when we disobey ANY law, we are going against God's plan for humankind. Both Paul and Peter tell us to submit to governing authorities in all things, for all authority has been established by God (Romans 13:1; I Timothy 2:1-2; I Peter 2:13).

Let me be clear here. Keeping the laws of the land or God's laws in totality cannot save us. Only through Jesus Christ and through His shed blood can we obtain forgiveness for our sins. Our acceptance of His great gift is what redeems us and this will always be outside the law, because we never could fulfill it as He did to save us. However, laws are still in place because God has ordained them for His good pleasure and our overall good. God will always bear witness with laws since they are ultimately ordained by the Creator. And, if indeed Jesus lives within us through the Holy Spirit, then we will allow Him the opportunity to rejoice in these precepts established by His will. In other words, we don't have to keep the laws of the land, we WANT to keep them because God is bearing witness to them as He lives and moves within us. Our duty as a good citizen now transcends our civic and national responsibilities. If we are truly born again from above, our heavenly citizenship has affected our earthly citizenship by rejoicing in all of God's precepts and laws, no matter how inconsequential we may believe them to be. We no longer wish to try to get away with anything! We only desire to reconcile our actions upon this earth with those which the Lord God has instituted from heaven.

To respect and obey all authority goes beyond simple traffic laws or tax codes. If all authority has been established by God, then who are we to speak against a governmental official put in power over us? In our democratic society in America, we have the right to vote those out of office whom we see as less desirable. However, we do not have the right to speak against them while they are in power. David understood the importance of not putting forth his hand in any manner against King Saul. Even though he knew God had anointed him to be the next king, he knew Saul was established by God as the reigning power over the land and that God would depose him when the time was right. (See I Samuel 24 for one instance of how David spared Saul's life.) As in David's time and also in Paul and Peter's, God has not changed regarding His contempt toward the sin of disdaining those in power and authority. Today, it is our responsibility to vote for those we believe to be best aligned with God's purposes, and then pray for those whom we have elected. It is NEVER our right to speak against these, either in spoken, written, or electronic form (e.g. supposed "political humor").

If we consider it strange that someone as the psalmist, or anyone else for that matter, could love God's laws then it might behoove us to reconsider who is living within. If we don't rejoice in keeping the commandments of the Lord and submitting our lives to His precepts, then we should probably reassess whom we have believed. As previously mentioned, keeping the law will never save us. However, it will confirm Whom we love since all laws inevitably proceed from God. Will we still break the laws of the land from time to time, or speak against a standing president? It is possible, but not necessary. For the grace that He has given us so freely will work within us to confirm His intent if we will but submit to Christ. May we all love the law of God here on earth, preparing ourselves for heavenly citizenship to come.

Heavenly Father, forgive us for our lack of zeal regarding your law and precepts. Grant us the joy of Your salvation by concurring with the Holy Spirit within that Your law is good, honorable, and just. Help us to become lawful citizens on this earth that we would one day be holy citizens of the world to come. In Jesus' Name, Amen!

Your Barefoot Servant,

Rick


The Bare Soul Archives

The Bare Soul - Heavenly Hospitality - October 30, 2011

The following is the message text and audio recording of a sermon titled "Heavenly Hospitality" delivered to the homeless at the Kansas City Rescue Mission Chapel on October 27, 2011.

Heavenly Hospitality - October 27, 2011

Hebrews 13:2 - Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by this some have entertained angels without knowing it.

I read a story recently about a little girl who grew up in the deep south during the 1930s. This family, as most in the depression-era south, had little and eked out an existence rivaling many of those in third-world countries of our present time. One day, this little girl was playing outside her rural home when she heard the clank of steel across the road. It was a chain gang of workers finding a place to rest under a large oak tree across from the family's property. Her mother kindly allowed the men, one by one, to drink as much as they wanted from the water pump outside the house. She remembers her mother busily preparing tuna sandwiches in the kitchen, which was to be her family's supper that night. The little girl recalls carrying lemonade out to the men as her mother went to each man on the chain gang, serving them individually. They were all appreciative, but what one man said resonated with the little girl for decades to come. He said all his life he wondered if he'd ever see an angel, and now he was face to face with one! The mother and daughter went into the house with an empty tray and empty lemonade pitchers. The only explanation her mother gave her for her kindness was out of Hebrews 13:2: Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by this some have entertained angels without knowing it. She concluded her story by saying she doesn't remember what they ended up having for supper that evening, but she would always remember what they didn't have, and that made all the difference in the world.

The Online Dictionary defines hospitality as "the quality or disposition of receiving and treating guests and strangers in a warm, friendly, generous way." In scripture, the transliteration of the Greek word hospitality is philoxenos which means "love to strangers." Our present day word derives from the Latin word hospes, where we get our word "hospital." Those in the Middle Ages used this word to describe places where the infirmed and sick could find rest and solace while they healed. (A common name for a hospital in France during this time was the Hotel-Dieu, which literally mans "the hotel of God.") These "oases of love" later became institutionalized into our present day hospitals. However, the adjective of hospitality never lost its significance to the counterpart of the noun, hospital. One might imply a place of healing, where the other signifies the act of bringing healing to those infirmed in both body and soul. Understanding the meaning of both are important concerning how God desires us to operate in this regard. Our Western culture seems to have lost something with doctors secluding themselves in offices rather than making house calls as was the case several decades ago. Our society has allowed institutions, such as these offices or clinics or hospitals themselves, to take the place of taking medical hospitality to others. In like manner, the church at large seems to have lost this attitude of bringing philoxenes or hospes to others who are hurting, both within the Body of Christ and more importantly, to strangers. While many churches certainly concern themselves with hospice and outreach to those hurting within the body, how many go out of their way to seek out strangers who are hurting? It is one thing to bring flowers to a sanitized hospital or hospice environment as an act of kindness. It is quite another to seek out those on the highways and byways of life and to sit with someone hurting on a crumbling piece of sidewalk, listening to their cry for help (Luke 14:23).

While seeking out the "undesirables of society" is certainly something we can all do as committed believers of Jesus Christ, there are far simpler things which can also mean so much to others. When was the last time we smiled at a total stranger, expecting nothing in return? If we do it on a regular basis then my next question would be whether it was toward one of the "beautiful people." By this I mean, was it someone in which we relate to rather than someone we might berate in judgment regarding their looks or social strata? I understand that women need to be careful in this regard, however there are always safe opportunities if one seeks to find them. Jesus tells us the one who offers a cold drink of water to one of these "little ones" will surely never lose their reward (Matthew 10:42). I believe that a cold drink of water may come in many forms of refreshment to a haggard soul needing encouragement on life's journey. When we are hospitable to people, regardless of their demographics, then we are behaving as our Savior ministered while upon this earth. And who knows? Possibly we have interacted with God's angels in our everyday encounters. The writer of Hebrews would not have mentioned the probability if it were not a possibility. Nonetheless, whether it is angels or mere mortals we deal with on a daily basis, Jesus told us through His New Testament writers to show hospitality to all men (Romans 12:13; I Timothy 5:10; I Peter 4:9). In so doing, we do it as unto the Lord which is Whom we serve in the spirit of hospitality (Matthew 25:40).

The question should be asked: Why are we not hospitable when it is in our power to do so? In many cases it comes down to fear -- the fear we will lose something. Years later, the little girl who witnessed her mother's hospitality to a chain gang of men couldn't remember what they ate that night for dinner. The loss was not important. What was of greatest importance is how much she gained through her apparent loss of a few tuna fish sandwiches. Decades later her acquired insight into what it means to show godly love to strangers becomes apparent to all. When we seek to hang onto something out of fear of losing it, then it is often torn from our grasp by an irresistible force which we can't control. Conversely, when we allow ourselves to become servants of all, showing hospitality and brotherly love to others, we find we gain so much more. As we lay down our lives both for our Savior and others, may we all be living "hospitals", bringing hospitality to those most needful of a touch of God's grace!

O Gracious Father, thank you for the example of Your Son! He truly brought hospice to many as He healed some physically, and far more emotionally and spiritually. May we learn from His example, making many "house calls" as we bring the Gospel to those whom You direct. Allow us to give sacrificially until we realize we gained far more than we could ever lose. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Your Barefoot Servant,

Rick



The Bare Soul Archives

An Expanding Universe - October 23, 2011

Job 9:8 - He alone stretches out the heavens and treads on the waves of the sea.

On October 4, 2011 Saul Perlmutter, Brian Schmidt, and Adam Riess won the Nobel Prize in physics for a relatively new theory claiming the universe is expanding, rather than shrinking, as physicists once believed. For nearly a decade since their initial discovery, the idea of an expanding universe went against the status quo belief of a shrinking cosmos, suggesting gravity pulled everything back together whereby creating a reductive effect. These three men, with Perlmutter working independently from the other two, discovered instead how the universe continues to expand. They came to their conclusions by measuring how light travels from exploding stars. The so-called repulsive force of "dark matter" causes a reaction making the light expand beyond its source, according to these scientists. They conclude this is the dynamic which causes the universe to expand. Of course, scripture has stated their conclusion for millennia. As our lead verse states, Yahweh has been stretching out the heavens through time and eternity. Rather than a static universe (the position most scientists have historically taken), the suggestion from this recent secular discovery is of a dynamic force compelling the universe to enlarge. As already mentioned, they refer to this power as the dark matter of the universe. This unexplainable power tends to shape and enlarge our universe, yet these physicists can only speculate regarding what it is or its origin. Of course, those who know and believe God's word understand how He not only continues to shape our world, but also all the created elements in existence.

Similarly, many pre-Columbus scholars mocked the Bible and its clear statement regarding a circular earth (Job 26:10). In Isaiah 40:22, the phobia of a flat earth is dispelled and the revelation of an expanding universe is stated clearly. Isaiah writes:

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 out like a tent to dwell in.

The misconceptions of many early astronomers and scientists created an unfounded fear in those who might dare to sail beyond the known limits. With this example and the present shift from a static to a dynamic universe, the scientific world must once again do obeisance to God's holy word. However, for many of the academic and scientific world to give credit where it is due would mean an acknowledgement of a Creator that is continually granting life and growth to all His creation. By their admission regarding the dynamicity of the universe, they have inadvertently done what many of them vehemently oppose, which is to suggest there is a power greater than themselves. However, admitting to a changing universe is a far cry from them publicly stating an eternal being is the cause of this universal progression. However, what other explanation might suffice? To suggest an eternal universe is one thing, but to say that this universe is growing is another. This mysterious dark matter must have its source in something inconceivable to modern science. And, if the truth be known, it does.

I will present my own theory, based on scripture, what this force is which continues to enlarge our universe. The psalmist wrote in the eighty-ninth psalm that God's mercy will be built up forever. The New American Standard version makes it clearer to our understanding by stating the following: For I have said, “Lovingkindness will be built up forever; In the heavens You will establish Your faithfulness.” (Psalm 89:2) On the basis of this scripture (including many others stating God is eternal and without limits), I believe the power which is unexplainable to these astral-physicists and scientists is the very nature of God -- LOVE. This dark matter, as they call it, is possibly the temporal manifestation of an eternal power of love expanding the universe. As the Apostle John states, God is love (I John 4:8). Why then should we doubt the eternal God, who is immeasurable in His love for His creation, is not demonstrating this by allowing His lovingkindness to expand the heavens? The psalmist states quite clearly that "... lovingkindness will be built up forever." If we believe the Scriptures, then we must conclude that His love will continue to expand throughout eternity. It is an unstoppable, immeasurable eternal substance that continues to push both time and eternity beyond our mortal understanding. If Jesus is the one in which all things hold together (Colossians 1:17), surely the Triune God is also the One causing all things to grow and expand through His love.

Mortal man with his finite understanding will never comprehend why the universe grows through this suspected repulsion of dark matter. However, for those of us who believe God's word, the knowledge that God does so is enough for those who choose a life of faith. Jeremiah stated: He made the earth by his power; he founded the world by his wisdom and stretched out the heavens by his understanding (Jeremiah 51:15). It may not be ours to know in this lifetime, how or why God does what He does regarding His expansive love. However, there will come a day when more will be revealed. At that moment in our history, when time gives way to eternity, we will know more perfectly and stand in amazement of a God who continues to expand Himself through His love in all of His creation. The greatness of His power will only be eclipsed by the wonder of His love for those who accept Him by faith. May His love continue to expand in all our hearts as we accept Him as the Creator of all.

Heavenly Father, Great Almighty Yahweh, thank you for revealing Yourself through Your great power and expansive love. May we look to the heavens and realize how You created an eternal cosmos to reflect Your greatness. And, beyond this, how Your universe continues to grow through Your lovingkindness for all You've created. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Your Barefoot Servant,

Rick


The Bare Soul Archives

God's Name - October 16, 2011

Psalm 75:1 - We give thanks to You, O God, we give thanks, for Your Name is near; Men declare Your wondrous works.

Years ago, a young lady who attended our church wore a button from time to time out in public which caused quite a stir. I guess you could say it was a campaign button of sorts. In large block letters it read: CONTRARY TO POPULAR BELIEF, GOD'S LAST NAME IS NOT DAMN! She was on a crusade to make people realize how flippant the vast majority of folks are with God's Name. Of all people, she understood the power of the Name. In the mid-1970s, her husband was within days of succumbing to cancer. All of his hair was gone from chemotherapy and radiation treatments and he was emaciated from the long struggle. Simply, he was a mere shell of a man after cancer had its way with him. A group of believers, led by a faith-filled preacher, stood around his bed and prayed for his healing. Miraculously, he was healed instantly. Within days, his strength had returned and his hair began to grow back. That is about the time I met this beautiful couple. We were all new Christians and were energized by this move of God upon this young man's life. (This healing was documented by The 700 Club and confirmed by his doctors in 1977.) Through this ordeal and subsequent healing, I believe the Lord gave his wife a revelation of the Name of Jesus. That blessed, wonderful Name healed her husband of the cancer that almost destroyed him. Her "campaign button" was merely her tongue-in-cheek way of telling others that God's Name means so much more than a glib expression uttered in anger or exclaim.

Today, OMG is touted by many as one of the most used abbreviations in text messaging. Every generation, including this one, seems to find new ways to marginalize God's Name. Using the Lord's Name in a curse word, or to glibly say " Oh My God!" or "Jesus Christ!" is definitely taking the Lord's Name in vain. However, these often just scratch the proverbial surface. There are much more serious instances of breaking the third commandment (Exodus 20:7). The Lord God Almighty gave Moses this instruction on Mount Sinai over 1400 years before the birth of Christ. But, even then, it was in the heart of the Father for His Son to present a similar commandment on a different mount early in His Son's ministry. When Jesus gave the Sermon on the Mount, he taught his disciples to pray in the sixth chapter of Matthew. The Lord began His instruction by first acknowledging the greatness of His Father's eminence by His location in the eternal heavens -- Our Father who is in heaven. Of great importance is His next statement: Hallowed (or holy) be Your Name! (Matthew 6:9). Jesus not only declared His Father's omnipotence by His preeminence, ruling over heaven and earth, but He also instructed humankind to regard the Name as holy. We might read or hear this and the significance might not really sink into our understanding. However, the holiness of the Name implies that it is set apart for everything beholden to the nature of the Most High.

The Name not only characterizes God, but it explains His attributes or His way He interacts with His creation. Even as Yeshua's (Jesus') Name means "Jehovah is Salvation", the Son of God understood the significance of both His Name and that of His Father's. Their Names were inextricably linked through their relationship of the Godhead, thus allowing the Name to have the same power on earth, as it did in heaven. So, if God the Father's nature meant love, salvation, mercy, healing, wisdom, and many more, than the Name would also be synonymous with His nature. That's why Jesus proclaimed the importance in John 16:23 of us asking in His Name, because then the Father would release the answers to our prayers. However, there is one provision. We must "hallow" His Name, regarding the Name as holy and not trivialized by vain requests. A religious mind-set devoid of any true relationship with God may often be guilty of taking the Lord's Name in vain in ways we may not have considered. If we don't regard Him truly as "Father" by faith, then we seek Him through our own works. When we approach God in this manner, we hold to a form of godliness, although we have denied its power (II Timothy 3:5).

Taking the Lord's Name in vain is a travesty. If we call ourselves Christians and we don't cringe when we hear someone damn something by the Beautiful Name, then we should question our faith and whom we've believed. If we don't consider Yahweh or His Son Yeshua's Name as holy, we won't hold it with reverence concerning how we invoke His Name in our supposed relationship with Him. As Psalm 75:1 states, when the Name of God (whether Jehovah, Yahweh, or Yeshua [Jesus]) is near to us, we will declare the goodness of that Name with all its "wondrous works". Our thanksgiving for God revealing His glorious Name to us will fill us with awe and reverence. Never more will we regard the Name to be used in a vain way, whether through flippant text-messaging or through a life that vainly seeks God in such a way denying the very power of the Name which wrought salvation for all. Much like my friend from years ago, we will recoil from those who would objectify the Name as a vanity upon the lips of mankind, where it means nothing but a curse. For those spiritually in tune with the Spirit of the Lord, we will further understand when we or others are living vain lives that purport God but which deny Him and the power of His Name. The rapturous beauty of the revealed Son within our lives will provoke relationship rather than a vain pursuit that leads to emptiness. May we all seek the Lord until He would reveal Himself to each of us, showing us the holy power that transforms us all through the revelation of the Name.

Heavenly Father, Great Jehovah, we humbly bow before Your throne of grace, asking You to reveal Your Name and the power thereof. We ask to understand, by Your great wisdom, all You desire for us to experience in this relationship with You and Your Son. May we never take Your Name in vain, either by word or by deed. Help us to hallow Your Name everyday, in everyway. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Your Barefoot Servant,

Rick


The Bare Soul Archives

Children of the Wind - October 9, 2011

John 3:8 - The wind blows where it wishes and you hear the sound of it, but do not know where it comes from and where it is going; so is everyone who is born of the Spirit.

As a runner, I am possibly more in tune with my surroundings than a lot of people. Since I've never ran with "contraptions" in my ears, blaring out music or some other distraction, I like to believe I appreciate the sights and sounds around me. Whether its children laughing, people chatting, or just the sound of a bicycle passing me on a running path, I enjoy experiencing life in close proximity. Often, I can hear the wind as it blows steadily through large elms and cottonwoods, going where it wills. Runners or bicyclists can usually find their pace quicken when the wind is at our respective backs. It pushes us along, as we may not even consider it blowing us on our way. We're often thinking about other things. However, the wind may change directions on us rather suddenly, or we might be the ones to initiate the adjustment of course. If we are moving sideways to its direction, its usually not too bad. If, however, we find ourselves running directly against the wind, then a struggle often ensues. No longer are we thinking about this or that, but our minds are concentrated on the resistance we've suddenly encountered. Our energy is now directed to what assails us. Moments before we experienced a thoughtlessness of the wind, because it was seemingly helping us on our way. Now, it seems to defy us as we fight our way against its strength.

Many of us have probably heard the line in the old Irish blessing that states, "May the wind always be at your back." Of course, the implication of this figure of speech is to wish for someone to possess few struggles -- that the wind would push them through life, allowing them to accomplish all their goals. While some would say that's an impossible accomplishment, I am of the belief that it could be more of a reality if we listened a bit closer to God's leadings in our lives, obeying what He commands. In the book of John the third chapter, Jesus speaks of the Holy Spirit in the eighth verse, comparing Him to the wind. Clearly, Jesus is speaking of the Spirit in this context, as John uses the Greek word pneuma when referring to the wind in the opening phrase. A synonymous usage of the word is also used at the end of the verse when Jesus states: "so is everyone who is born of the Spirit." Of equal importance is what Jesus states in the middle of this verse. He declares the mystery of the Spirit, by stating He is like the wind and no one knows His next move. Then, Jesus claims something extraordinary. He says those who are born of the Spirit are likened to this same behavior as their spiritual Father! Which leads to a thought provoking question for those of us who claim to be born of God's Spirit: Is our behavior like the Wind of God that created us? Do we move with freedom in the Spirit, allowing Him at our backs, propelling us on our way in the things of God? Or, do we resist the Holy Spirit and continue on in ways we know deep down are contrary to His leadings? In the past, many of us can attest to God leading us by His Spirit as He pushed us onward toward our goal of pleasing the Son and the Father. However, possibly we no longer feel that strength behind our backs, pushing us closer to Yahweh. Instead, we feel a resistance, like we are running against the Wind of God. This direction earlier in our Christian walk was very possibly the right way to go. However, some of us have undoubtedly ignored the direction of God's Wind and have insisted on going an old, familiar way. As children of the Wind, we will not know His peace in our lives until we can once again know He is literally behind us.

The Apostle Paul warned the early church there would be other "winds" that would seek to trick us into following their course. Winds often deceive seasoned sailors who understand a bit less than they sometimes profess. A good example is when those transporting Paul and his companions to Rome supposed they had attained their purpose of a "moderate south wind" suddenly found themselves in a hurricane of epic proportions. For over two weeks, they were buffeted about in the Mediterranean Sea until finally shipwrecked on the island of Malta (see Acts 27:9-44). Paul possessed the wisdom from the Wind Himself to know their journey would end just as it did. However, those who were supposedly "seasoned sailors" did not heed the wisdom of Paul or of the Spirit who led him. Very possibly, when Paul wrote to the Ephesians later from Rome while he awaited trial, he was reflecting on those tempestuous two weeks. He tells them to beware of false teaching that comes in the form of other winds that would seek to deceive. He states in Ephesians 4:14: As a result, we are no longer to be children, tossed here and there by waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, by craftiness in deceitful scheming. Paul admonished the Ephesians to no longer be as children. It was time to grow up and to attune themselves with the doctrine of God, and to be led by the Holy Spirit. The winds of the doctrines of men and devils may push us along for a season, and we may believe we've "attained our purpose." However, they will always turn on us and ultimately cause our faith to shipwreck (I Timothy 1:19).

God is calling us all to grow up in the faith, and yet we will always be His children. As children of our Father, we will always know we are His if we are led by His Wind. Do you sense God at your back today, pushing you toward your goal of the upward call in Christ Jesus? Or, do You feel like you're running against the wind. Possibly worse, do you sense another wind at your back, yet there is not the joy and peace as you once possessed? Is it a dry wind that is sucking the life out of your Christian walk? If there is not a clear sense of the Wind of God in our lives, it is time to stop until we can once again discern which way He is blowing. Then, may we all start down that new direction He provides. In a short time, the joy will once again return, confirming we are children of the Wind, always strengthened by His power that empowers us.

Holy Father, blow upon us through the Wind of Your Spirit. Lead us, guide us as children of the Wind. May we always discern Your leading and joyously comply to wherever Your Spirit takes us. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Your Barefoot Servant,

Rick


The Bare Soul Archives

Divine Rescue - October 2, 2011

Colossians 1:13-14 - For He rescued us from the domain of darkness, and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.

Ever wonder why super-heroes are such a popular genre? While we trudge through our daily "grinds", it is often refreshing to know that we can escape into another reality where mortals take on a sense of immortality. As a child, I remember the old Batman series on prime time television. Both in comic book print and on TV, I was fascinated with the Caped Crusader and how he always managed to set things right in the end. Others, such as Superman, took on an other "worldliness" characteristic of phenomenal power and strength. No matter the character, publishers such as DC Comics and Marvel created larger-than-life characters that transcended human effort when all seemed lost. Regarding mankind's frailty, it would appear the human psyche is wired to understand we desperately need something greater than ourselves to believe in. We know our inherent weaknesses all too well, so we are able to rejoice when a true hero saves the proverbial day. With all reverence I suggest that Jesus Christ is the ultimate Super-hero that will always rescue us, if we will but call upon Him. Though transcendent in all power, He is still intimately involved with each of us in a personal way.

In our lead verse, Paul describes Satan's stronghold over humanity as the "domain of darkness." I can think of no better description to describe Satan's syndicate of evil. Imagine with me, if you will, any number of arch villains or "foils" that have sought to rule society in the aforementioned super-hero genres. Often, we would find a damsel in distress (such as a Lois Lane) being held hostage by powers that sought the overthrow of their righteous nemesis. These wicked gangsters, mad scientists, or all-around evil geniuses often sought to lure their foe into some type of trap. They believed if they could somehow orchestrate the "show down", then they would have the upper hand. Of course, any of us who have ever watched a Superman or Batman movie know this isn't the case. Good always triumphs over evil in the end. As previously mentioned, these sort of outcomes are hard-wired into human beings. We seek redemption, in one way or another. If we can't find it in our religion, we will seek it in other ways.

While I see a lot of movies with my wife, I am particularly selective about what I put before my eyes. I generally want to know there is some type of redemption in the end for the protagonist (or, in some cases the antagonist). It seems less than gratifying when movies or books or any genre of entertainment leave us with an "open ending", not providing closure for anyone, including the audience. Fortunately, those who believe the scriptures and have read to the end of the book of Revelation know we win. This is the greatest redemptive story in the history of the world, and yet many discard it as archaic and unrealistic for our times. They put the Bible in the same genre as comic books or ancient myths which do little to assuage the problems of contemporary living. What they don't understand is that their great inner need for redemption will not be satisfied by any other than the thing they regard as ridiculous. The devils in the domain of darkness have lied to them so they don't understand that they are in need of ransom. If they only knew that Jesus Christ had already paid the price for their release many years ago. The lies that these "evil geniuses" continue to perpetrate over their unknowing slaves continue to be unchallenged. Therefore, the vast majority of the world who are held in these gangsters' grips are unaware of their freedom. If only they would accept this eternal gift from the greatest Super-hero who ever existed, or ever will exist. Then, they would find true freedom from the evil that plagues them everyday.

Many will continue to look up to these super-hero characters we've created out of our need for something bigger than ourselves. I personally believe these are healthy examples to emulate and to look up to, especially for youngsters. However, these are merely to point us to the greatest hero of all time and eternity, who transferred all mankind from the domain of darkness into the kingdom of "His beloved Son." It's time for us all to accept His saving power in our respective lives, and to understand the price has been paid. May we all know that Jesus Christ has rescued us, and will continue to save us as we trust in Him.

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the sacrifice of Jesus. We thank You that You sent Him as the Divine Rescuer to redeem us for Your good pleasure. May we always look to Him and know that we have been transported by His grace into the kingdom of God, always to be with You. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Your Barefoot Servant,

Rick


The Bare Soul Archives

Godly Perception - September 25, 2011

The following is the message text and audio recording of a sermon titled "Godly Perception" delivered to the Teaching God's Infinite Wisdom (TGIW) Men's Bible Study Group in Parkville, MO on September 21, 2011.

Godly Perception - September 21, 2011

Numbers 13:33 - "... and we became like grasshoppers in our own sight, and so we were in their sight.”

As a child, I remember this massive oak tree in the vacant lot where we would often play. Underneath its towering height, we dug a large hole and called it our fort. We stocked it with all the things important to seven and eight year old boys -- comic books, plastic army men, and silver cap pistols. I recall looking up into the large branches thinking it looked at least a mile to the top. None of us dared climb this tree. It was just too intimidating. Many years later, I was visiting this town where I spent my elementary school years and took a drive through the old neighborhood. Where the vacant lot stood, was a house with a tidy yard. There with lush green grass growing under its shade was the old oak. Somehow, when I stopped in front of the house, it looked remarkably smaller than what I remembered. Actually, I couldn't believe how dwarfed it was compared to my memory. It was still large as ever, but not gargantuan like I recollected. Reflecting on this incident, I understand how its often possible to see and yet not see. We can get one idea in our heads and find out later that our perception was way off. Objectivity is often the arbiter between imagination and reality. Only when we can honestly perceive the truth can we objectively understand where we have allowed ourselves to be subjectively influenced.

In many ways, the newly formed nation of Israel operated in a subjective manner regarding their situation in the wilderness of Sinai and Kadesh-barnea. This man Moses had led them out into one of the hottest places on the planet, telling them that God was bringing them into a land "flowing with milk and honey" (Exodus 3:8). However, there was a catch. No longer were they to watch God destroy their enemies as He did at the Red Sea. Now Yahweh wanted them to get actively involved by dispossessing those who lived in their promised land before they could move in! We read in the thirteenth chapter of Numbers that the Lord told Moses to send out spies into the occupied country, to get a lay of the land and the people living there. As many of us know, the spies returned ecstatic about the land but terrified of the people. "Thus they told him, and said, ...

We went in to the land where you sent us; and it certainly does flow with milk and honey, and this is its fruit. Nevertheless, the people who live in the land are strong, and the cities are fortified and very large; and moreover, we saw the descendants of Anak there. Amalek is living in the land of the Negev and the Hittites and the Jebusites and the Amorites are living in the hill country, and the Canaanites are living by the sea and by the side of the Jordan." - Numbers 13:27-29

Caleb's insistence that they could take the land and its inhabitants fell on deaf ears as they declared to Moses and the congregation that they were too small and weak to overcome the pagan nations. In addition, they said that the Nephilim the descendents of Anak, the giant clan, was living there also. What comes out of their mouths next truly revealed their perceived reality. By stating that "... we became like grasshoppers in our own sight, and so we were in their sight," they were stating three important things regarding their understanding of the situation. First of all, their "sight" or their perception of themselves was a selfish, self-centered, fear-driven understanding with no consideration of who they were in the Lord. Second, by seeing themselves as weak and without a Savior, they increased the size of their enemies in their own imaginations. Lastly, they projected their own perception of how they believed about themselves onto their enemies. Whether or not the Anak even saw the Israelite spies or not is moot. They had become convinced that the enemy saw the Israelites exactly as they perceived themselves. For the timid, this had become their reality. The battle was lost even before it began.

As most of us know, God pronounced a judgment of 40 years exile upon the nation of Israel from their desired destination. They would wander aimlessly through the wilderness until the rebellious generation that refused to go in, perished. Their children would be the ones to enter the Promised Land and take possession by defeating these so-called formidable tribes with their unassailable walls. The difference between their parents and the children who took possession was evident. The children grew up, becoming strong and mature in the Lord, with the ability to hear the voice of the Lord and to obey it. They saw themselves as the chosen of God and understood that nothing could keep them from their destiny as long as the Lord was on their side. Similarly, they operated in three ways that were diametric to that of their parents reaction 40 years earlier. First of all, they knew who they were and where they were going in the Lord. Second, they saw themselves as strong in the power of God's might to defeat any enemy that would defy the chosen people of God. And lastly, they projected this perception upon every foe they encountered, eventually dispossessing all the pagan nations, including the Anak clan.

Paul stated poignantly in his first letter to the Corinthians that ... When I was a child, I used to speak like a child, think like a child, reason like a child; when I became a man, I did away with childish things (I Corinthians 13:11). Just as an entire generation of Israelites had to die off before God could take them into the Promised Land, there needs to be a similar death in us before He can take us into that place of complete rest. We have to die to our preconceptions about what we can or can't handle. If we take the time to think about all the times God has rescued us in the past, it's not hard to believe that He will always be there for us in the future. Our thoughts, words, and actions will reveal who we are, proving to God that we either understand who He is, what He has done for us, and what He will do for us or that we don't we don't have a clue. We must be vigilant to allow God to grow us up and to remove any doubt that He can do far more than we've ever thought or imagined. Will there be seemingly unassailable walls and giants in our future? Without a doubt. It's our choice to either die in the wilderness and to stumble about in an aimless manner the rest of our lives, or to die to self and to grow up in our perceptions regarding who we are in God. If we choose the latter, we have only begun to understand the peace and victory in the days ahead.

Heavenly Father, thank You that You give us everything we need to live godly lives in Your Son. Grant us the ability to seize the day, to die to self and our selfish perceptions and to see as You see us. As we do so, may we enter into Your rest through Your victory. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Your Barefoot Servant,

Rick


The Bare Soul Archives