Praise Parties!

"Then celebrate with joy before the LORD your God..." Leviticus 23:40

I can't recall how long ago my twin sister began hosting "Praise Parties", but we've been marking our calendars with these events for several years. As an extended family, we come together to celebrate the Lord. Each attendee arrives prepared to give testimony to the goodness of God in their life. Some read scripture. Others share a God-story. The musical members might raise their praise through song. We sing. We celebrate. We rejoice. We pray. We enjoy a meal together. We eat cake and ice cream and lift high the name of Jesus. We assemble to purposefully remember and honour Him.

Scripture is filled with celebrations. The Lord desires that His children take time to think and thank. We need to pause and ponder the wonder of who God is and express gratitude for all He has done. Festivals were God's idea and His word has quite the schedule of events to commemorate all His activity and to anticipate all He is yet to do. 

Leviticus 23 speaks of the Passover and the Festival of Unleavened Bread, the celebration of the First Harvest, the Festival of Harvest, the Festival of Trumpets, the Day of Atonement and the Festival of Shelters. These each were not just one day set aside, but weeks of intentionally shifting focus to the Lord. God's call to these purposeful parties was more than food and fellowship. They each realigned His children's thoughts drawing their attention back to Him. In doing so, their hearts were encouraged in the remembering and reignited to keep trusting the Lord to provide as they moved into unknown days ahead. 

It's clear that God values celebration and He knows we need it. I believe we must rediscover the richness of God's calendar. We have to be deliberate in assembling to arrest our thoughts from the cares and chaos of life and make breathing space to anchor our hearts in the faithfulness of God, reaffirming our trust and love to Him.

Regardless of current circumstances, there is always reason to praise. Yes, some days the clouds overhead can make things appear bleak. Disappointments, heartache, fear and loss will threaten to steal our joy. Our very emotions can block our vision of who God is and all He is doing. The enemy will attempt to bury God's character and activity deep in our memories. It's vital that with determination we resolve to meditate on His greatness and goodness. 

Why not start today! Even if you're all alone, throw a personal praise party! I'm sure it will involve a little ice cream!

The Edges

"When you harvest the crops of your land, do not harvest the grain along the edges of your fields, and do not pick up what the harvesters drop. It is the same with your grape crop - do not strip every last bunch of grapes from the vines, and do not pick up the grapes that fall to the ground. Leave them for the poor and the foreigners living among you. I am the LORD your God." Leviticus 19:9-10

Entering the parking lot of the grocery store yesterday, sitting just to the side of the driveway was a woman dressed in Arab attire. Her head was hanging down and she held a sign with words written in smaller print, but I did see "help", "children" and "God bless you." It's not uncommon to see the homeless or those in need in certain areas of town, but this was the first time I've ever seen anyone at this location. As I parked the car, I was wondering her story, and thinking how I rarely carry cash anymore. With credit and debit becoming the primary means of payment during Covid, I almost never have money in my wallet.

I loved reading about the built-in provision for the needy that God commanded in Leviticus. By not completely harvesting the fields, God was making a way for the poor to come and gather food. It was the first welfare program in action. And this wasn't the only assistance the impoverished received. In Deuteronomy God commanded that every three years a special offering be collected for the relief of the poor (Deut 14:28-29, 26:12-15).

The directions in God's law not only promoted generosity in the hearts of the farmers, but the poor and the foreigner were given dignity as they actively worked to provide for their own food. They didn't have to face the embarrassment and ridicule of begging. They were compassionately looked after by the command of God.

So, back to the grocery store. Exiting the building and walking back to my car I looked over to where this woman had been just a few minutes earlier. The scene I saw was so tender to my heart. Two young women had parked near where this lady sat. They had invited her to load her meager belongings into their car. Engaged in conversation they were walking with her towards the grocery store, I'm assuming to make some purchases on her behalf. Although this was all so tender to my heart, what primarily captivated my attention was the look on the woman's face. It appeared as it every care she had was lifted. She was smiling and talking. Her head raised. It was the most beautiful scene. I wanted to run over and hug the two young women. This lady had the joy of not only having physical needs met, but the delight of being seen and the companionship of two new friends.

I'm thinking the warmth of care and conversation will last longer than the donation of any amount of cash. Today may we have eyes to see and a heart to respond to the poor and the foreigner living among us. Lord take us to the "edges" that all may encounter You.

No Longer Obvious

"So do not act like the people in Egypt, where you used to live, or like the people of Canaan, where I am taking you. You must not imitate their way of life. You must obey all My regulations and be careful to obey My decrees, for I am the LORD your God. If you obey My decrees and My regulations, you will find life through them. I am the LORD." Leviticus 18:3-5

Sometimes it's really hard to tell who is a Christ-follower and who is not. Lifestyles flow together making it difficult to differentiate between those who call themselves Christians and those who have no claim on Christ at all. One area is in the response to sexuality. 

Just recently I heard of a prominent, Christian woman's author and speaker who has not only made some choices that have deeply saddened my heart, but her attitude expressed in words on social media as she speaks of God's provision in her sin, make it sound like He is condoning and blessing the very thing His Word speaks against. Those who comment on her activity are rejoicing and praising with her. 

The lives of those living by God's Word should look vastly different than those of the world, but sadly there is no longer any obvious lifestyle distinctiveness between "Egyptians", "Canaanites" and Christians. Only a couple of days ago I was speaking with a friend who is burdened for ministerial leaders and those attending Bible studies who are consistently in God's Word, but not being transformed by it. Instead, they are neglecting His commands and not only persisting in sin, but justifying behaviour. Like the woman mentioned previously, they are wrapping sin with ribbons of God's goodness and faithfulness while ignoring His clear authority in scripture.

The key verses above are the introduction to God's instruction in Leviticus 18 on sexual conduct. We are living in an age of confused and rebellious morality. The requirements expressed here are not opinions, hopes, or suggestions, but clear directives regarding human sexuality. 

In her recent book, "Don't Tell Anyone You're Reading This", Dr. Lina Abujamra writes: "What usually starts out as a small and innocent sin can quickly morph into a cascade of more shocking sins than we ever dreamed we would commit. How easily we lose control. Ironically, in every other area of our lives, we tend to be control freaks."

Why do we not pursue purity with a passion? The sin we should detest has become desirous. It's all about personal pleasure with no regard to God. We seek momentary gratification, redefining truth to justify sinful actions. Labelling everything as "grey" we find ways to express disobedience in a positive light.

Friends, we need to step into the Light. "Secrecy is the soil in which shame grows." Confessing and yielding to the Lord brings change. Self-gratification can be exchanged for Christ-magnification through honesty, confession, repentance and the power of the Holy Spirit. Let's honour the Lord with our sexuality. We can find life, abundant life, through obedience to God's Word.

Quotes taken from "Don't Tell Anyone You're Reading This: A Christian Doctor's Thoughts on Sex, Shame, and Other Troublesome Issues" by Lina Abujamra, MD, copyright 2023, Forefront Books.

Agent of Atonement

"...Through this process, the priest will purify the person before the LORD." Leviticus 14:31b

Disinfecting and washing of hands certainly has become more prevalent over the past couple of years. Nothing like a pandemic to heighten the need for sanitizing. It has become such a part of my life now that I automatically head to the bathroom sink the moment I walk in the door. It's just routine.

For anyone reading through the book of Leviticus, the laws regarding those who are ceremonially unclean can make one nauseous. The description of diseases and contaminations that need cleansing are intense. Whether a physical malady or a household mold, the issue needed attention and a priest was the one who determined diagnosis.

Once identified, a prognosis for purification was given. What may read as strange rituals to us today, were the process by which the unclean would become clean. Whether through isolation, bathing, destroying a defiled item by fire or bringing a burnt offering there were ceremonies of cleansing that needed to be followed.

Why did this cleanliness matter? The Israelites are God's chosen people and they were to be set apart from other nations. Since they were called to be holy as He is holy, these laws were a vital part of keeping them in fellowship with God. 

With the coming of Jesus Christ, a new cleansing was initiated. We all stand before the Lord "unclean". The prophet Isaiah writes, "All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags." (Isaiah 64:6a) We all need a washing from the Lord. In Psalm 51:2, 7 David writes, "Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin...Purge me with hyssop and I shall be clean; Wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow."

Cleansing comes from God alone. Our intermediator is not an earthly priest but a High Priest who is more concerned about inner than external purification. It's our heart that needs sanctifying. The agent of atonement is the precious blood of Jesus. It is in this cleansing alone that we are made fully clean. Christ's sacrifice on the cross, and the shedding of His blood, purifies us from all sin. Hebrews 10 tells us that Jesus is the Priest who offered for all time, one sacrifice for sins, and then sat down at the right hand of God.

A forever cleansing is possible when one acknowledges and confesses their sins, understanding Jesus died in their place, putting their faith in God alone for salvation. He was the ultimate sacrifice. Through the shedding of Christ's blood, we can now enter into fellowship with Him. 

As the old hymn lyrics ask, are you washed in the blood of the Lamb? 

Facing Fear

"But when I am afraid, I will put my trust in You. I praise God for what He has promised. I trust in God, so why should I be afraid?...This I know: God is on my side! I praise God for what He has promised; yes, I praise the LORD for what He has promised. I trust in God, so why should I be afraid?" Psalm 55:3-4a, 9b-11a

Growing up in our home my mom often used an expression I never heard elsewhere. She would say that she was talking to herself like a Dutch uncle. Although it made little sense to me, I always understood when she chose to use it. A situation was before her where she needed to consciously and firmly address herself to face something that was causing hesitancy. It was a serious pep talk, spoken with determination.

Reading the words of the Psalmist David, I can almost hear him voicing these verses in a similar fashion. He had been captured by the Philistines and he is alone and afraid. Although having a history of killing a lion, a bear and a giant, he was not invincible, so in his fear he called out to the One who is all powerful and able to overcome.

There are times when we will all face fear. It's an inevitable part of living. My friend Lina Abujamra has said, "What you already know about fear is that you already know about fear." It's so true. It is common to everyone. Fear indicates that something we value is being threatened. What incites fear in me may be different than others, but we all experience situations that make us anxious. It really comes down to how we handle that fear. For some it can be debilitating, becoming all consuming. Like David, we have to learn what to do with our fear.

The Psalmist boldly declares faith in God and trust in His promises in the midst of his fear. He doesn't deny that he is afraid, but he knows who to call for the source of help and begins relying on God in the middle of his fear. Talking to himself like a Dutch uncle, he is preaching truth to himself, repeating with confidence that God is on his side! I love how he even asks himself twice, "Why should I be afraid?" With God there is no need to fear!

What are you facing today that has moved your heart to panic? It's impossible to fight fear on our own; it's a losing battle. Although it can be a protective emotion, guarding us from foolish activity, it can also be a preventive emotion, keeping us from moving forward in trusting the Lord. Our response to fear says more about us than the fact that we fear. Don't let fear be a deterrent, but an avenue for dependence. Quoting my friend Lina again, "Fear that leads you straight to God is worship." Will you choose to worship Him today?

Dart Practice

"...the real danger is wickedness within the city...It is not an enemy who taunts me - I could bear that. It is not my foes who so arrogantly insult me - I could have hidden from them. Instead, it is you - my equal, my companion and close friend. What good fellowship we once enjoyed as we walked together to the house of God." Psalm 55: 10b, 12-14

"Why is it so hard to be a Christian at a Christian school?"

The young man's words have echoed in my thoughts for years. Attending a private Christian high school this teen had anticipated finally being part of a majority with those who loved and followed the Lord. Instead, his expectations were met with physical threats from those he had hoped were pursuing Jesus with a similar passion.

It's so hard when "the real danger is wickedness within". We know as believers that the world hates us, but when those within the family of God respond and behave in ways we had not imagined, the hurt is greater. Pain is compounded when it is delivered to us from those whose faith and belief walk the same path as ours. 

Sadly, this behaviour is not contained within the halls of education. Outside the walls of these institutions, homes are actually tutoring these children in lessons that cause division. Denomination against denomination. Church against church. Preference against precept. Relativity against absolute truth. Grey against black and white as every man does what is right in their own eyes. The lines that divide us are not geographical. We don't have to look far to see the conflict still being caused by a recent epidemic, with the fall-out of friendships, not over biblical doctrine, but over vaccines and masks.

Years ago I attended an event that remains etched in my memory. To my knowledge the attendees at this celebration were all believers, yet what I witnessed broke my heart. As alcohol flowed conversation took a turn and jokes became brash, crude and questionable, I was shocked to see what the majority considered "acceptable". I felt like an outsider among my brothers and sisters in Christ. My heart ached.

Yes, it's sad when it's hard being a Christian among others Christians. When the ridicule comes from family, not foe, the pain cuts deep. Within the body of Christ we can become the target for a little dart practice, remarks hitting the bulls-eye of our hearts and we are viciously wounded. Sitting in a circle with other Christ-followers, sharing passionately and with enthusiasm what the Lord is doing in my life, the blank stares and condescending remarks cut deeper than any physical wound. The pain is not just the callus responses, but the agony that these dear friends don't seem to understand my love for the Lord.

Friends, let's be those who offer healing words. Let our actions speak of love and forgiveness. May Christ within prompt decisions today that restore relationships for His glory.

My friend Bev wrote the song below. May it minister to your heart today.

The Bible Addresses EVERYTHING!

"...Then Moses took some of its blood and applied it to...the big toe of his right foot." Leviticus 8:23

I couldn't believe what I was reading! Blood on the big toe of the right foot! I looked down at the big toe on my right foot and was filled with peace.

Since the New Year I have had issues with my big toe on my right foot. The nail has been the strangest colour. I couldn't recall bumping it or dropping anything on it, yet it was blemished with multiple shades and looking quite unpleasant.

After almost two months of not seeing any improvement, two days ago I decided to do something I try very hard to avoid...ask Dr. Google. The very first response was to warn of melanoma, adding the caution that if not diagnosed and treated within six weeks it would enter the bloodstream and spread to the lymph nodes. WHAT? It had already been about eight weeks!

In a bit of a panic, I called my doctor and discovered he was working at the Walk-In-Clinic until 2pm. Looking at the clock I had twenty-five minutes! Thankfully I don't live far from this office and thought if I hurried, I could make it.

My family doctor is a great guy. He's young, new and took over the practice during Covid when my previous doctor retired. Examining my toe, he was hesitant to declare with certainty that it was broken blood vessels under the nail. One thing about this gentleman, he doesn't take chances. If he isn't assured of the condition, he doesn't delay in writing a referral for a specialist. 

With dermatologists having a wait-list for many months, he said the quickest way to determine whether this was hematoma or melanoma was to head into a Rapid Access Clinic in Toronto. It is open to patients by referrals, without appointment, daily from 8am-11am on a first-come, first-served basis.

Not confident to drive into the Distillery District myself I contacted friends who were not only willing to drive me, but would leave early in the morning to hopefully get me there in time before the clinic reached capacity. To make a long story short, the first day, although arriving by 7:15am I was sadly turned away before 8:30am. I was only three people away from the door. Disappointed to be dismissed, but not completely dismayed, my friends and I were determined we would meet the challenge the next morning and arrive earlier. 

This morning I was up at 4am! I was on a mission! We arrived at the clinic before 6am! There was only one young man ahead of me in line! I was dressed warmly for the hour-long wait outside until the doors would be opened to begin registration. I wouldn't be turned away today!

And I wasn't! I was actually assessed by two dermatologists who both confirmed what my doctor suspected, assuring me I had nothing to worry about. They said it would take a year for the nail to grow out and heal, suggesting that for all the walking I do (most likely the cause of the state of my toenail), I purchase a pair of shoes a half size larger than those I generally wear, to ease the pressure on the nail.

"Blood...big toe...right foot." Thank You Lord for all the ways Your word speaks into every detail of life. There is no way reading that was a coincidence! I knew before heading out today the great Physician had already given His diagnosis and the dermatologists just confirmed what I already knew! 

Essential or Eventual

"Will those who do evil never learn? They...wouldn't think of praying to God." Psalm 53:4

Prayer. It is the way we communicate with God and should be central to every Christ-followers life. But, is it? The Psalmist David says it's the evil who don't consider praying to God. Wondering....so what does this say about me? 

Don't misunderstand. I pray. I love to spend time talking to the Lord. I attend prayer meetings, facilitate a women's mission prayer group and never hesitate to pray with or for someone. My thoughts today are drifting to whether prayer is my first or final response. Am I sometimes like the "evil" who don't think about praying to God? 

A great test is to reflect on how we respond to news, either good or bad. When something thrilling occurs do we raise a jubilant hallelujah of praise? Is thanking the Lord our primary voice when He showers us with blessings? Do we even recognize and acknowledge that this favour has directly been poured out on us by His hand of grace?

What about when the opposite happens and the unforeseen slams onto the scene? Do we immediately fall to our knees in prayer? Who do we call first, the Lord, a family member or friend? Maybe better yet, is it fear or faith that meets us at the onset of struggles?

It's hard not to feel anxiety swell when our world is unexpectedly faced with an uncertain challenge. I hear myself speaking the right words while my stomach turns and my thoughts become a whirlwind. I utter the truth I know I need to have as my anchor while feeling internally shipwrecked. I know what to do but it's difficult to quiet my heart before the Lord in moments of chaos and confusion. Questions spin on fast forward, running my emotions aground on a shore of shifting sand. Dashing in a million different directions of "what if's" I can so easily project a worse-case scenario, drowning out the Spirit's whisper to still my soul.

I don't want to be classified with the evil or my life to be a reflection of those who wouldn't think of praying to God. I don't want prayer to be an afterthought. It must be essential not eventual. I desire it to be my native tongue at every moment and so natural that I don't think about it...I just do it.

Covenant Condiment

"...no yeast or honey may be burned as a special gift presented to the LORD...Season all your grain offerings with salt to remind you of God's eternal covenant. Never forget to add salt to your grain offerings." Leviticus 2:11, 13

For the last seven months we have removed salt from our diet. Following my husband's cardiac arrest, he was placed on a "no to low" sodium restriction until his needed heart surgery can be arranged. With this condiment being found in almost every processed food, meal preparation has become both challenging and bland. Although I have found some tasty alternatives while cooking, I can no longer simply run to the store for a frozen meal or dash to get take-out. If we have dinner guests, I sometimes find myself preparing two meals...seasoned and salt less.

The instructions for grain offerings caught my attention. The Israelites were instructed to burn them without honey but use salt. I had to find out the significance and meaning of these directions.

Honey was a favourite sacrifice to false gods. The LORD did not want any resemblance to pagan practices as a form of worship from His people. Honey is also used as an artificial sweetener. God desires us to come to Him as we are, not with insincere sacrifice. "There is a kind of molasses godliness which I can never stomach." (Spurgeon)

Salt, as well as being a preservative, represents purity and payment. Salt came at an expense. It was costly. A small amount could add incredible flavour. Little details are important to God. I currently could attest to the value of just a pinch of salt in a recipe, and as God repeats this directive three times, we know it's mention is noteworthy.

Salt was also to remind the Israelites of God's covenant with His people. It too was a remaining, refined and rich covenant. It would endure until eternity. This instruction of adding salt to the sacrifice was very purposeful. It represented an everlasting promise from the LORD.

As we consider our worship to the Lord and the sacrifices we bring to Him, are they real? Is there any pretense in our prayers? Do we sugarcoat our lives before God making them appear superficially attractive or acceptable, or do we come in honesty before His throne? Are we walking in obedience to the tiniest request from God? Do our lives reflect purity in a salt less society? How are we sacrificially living so that others "taste and see that the Lord is good"? May we take care to safeguard and preserve lives of surrender and worship so that we will be "a special gift, a pleasing aroma to the LORD." (Leviticus 2:9b)

"Never"

"Peter said to Him, 'Even if everyone else deserts You, I never will.'" Mark 14:29

As I sang the lyrics the truth penetrated my heart. This wasn't just a casual phrase set to a melodious tune, this was a declaration of faithfulness. As the accompaniment swelled and the chorus circled around again, I stood wrestling with the weight of these words. "I give my life to declare You are King". As the instrumentalists played with conviction and the voices around me rose with resounding triumph, I quietly questioned, Lord, I want to, but would I?

Peter was confident in his commitment to followship. He was assured of his allegiance. He felt, in his pride, that he was the exception to every rule. Maybe Matthew, Thomas or James would flee, but not him! Never! 

"Never" is a pretty strong vow. At no time or under any circumstances would he abandon or turn his back on the Lord. Peter thought he was strong and Christ was wrong, yet in spite of his courageous proclamation it doesn't take long for him to deny Jesus, not once, not twice, but three times. Despite his genuine love for Christ, his resolve was fleeting in the face of head-on fear.

I so desperately want a faith that boldly shouts "Never!" I want to sing with confidence these lyrics which bring conviction to my heart. As I listened to others lifting their voices with this vow to the Lord, I felt weak and uncertain, knowing it will only be by God's power and grace that I never deny and be willing to die. I am so far from being invincible and unshakable. I don't want to waver or disappoint the Lord. I know I will fail. 

In these moments God graciously comes as He did with Peter. I deeply cherish two words in Mark 16:7. Mary Magdalene, Mary the brother of James, and Salome are at Christ's tomb following His resurrection. A man clothed in white greets them and after telling them not to be alarmed because Jesus has risen from the dead, the angel says, "Now go and tell his disciples, including Peter, that Jesus is going ahead of you to Galilee". 

"Including Peter". That is the most tenderly, beautiful instruction. It touches my heart deeply. There are times I have known Christ's "including Joy". Moments when I'm sitting on the bleachers alone, wrapped in defeat from my silence or denial of my risen Lord, and He lovingly reaches over, specifically and intentionally finding me.

As the song lyrics drift through my thoughts again a new reality begins to form. This giving of my life, is not just a final death, it's a daily dying. My "never" is being tested in continual choices and opportunities to surrender my will for His. In countless situations my sacrificial living can make Him known. 

Father, I know my desperate need for Your power to help me remain. You never will fail me and I can speak that "never" with assurance.

The Cake Without the Cost

"Make thankfulness your sacrifice to God, and keep the vows you made to the Most High. Then call on Me when you are in trouble, and I will rescue you, and you will give Me glory." Psalm 50:14-15

Conditional promises. Many of the promises found in God's Word are unconditional. The Lord has spoken them and their fulfillment rests completely with Him. Absolutely nothing we do or don't do will impact the outcome or restrict their result. They are as good as done. However, there are other times when God places requirements on us. 

The word "then" is a huge indicator of a conditional promise. "Then" speaks of an order in time. There is something that comes before the next action being described. We see the Psalmist calling on the people to first praise and obey. God rewards a thankful heart and an obedient life.

The verses that follow in Psalm 50 help define this even more. Beginning with a question, "What right have you to declare My statutes, or take My covenant in your mouth, seeing you hate instruction and cast My words behind you?" God continues in His rebuke, "While you did all this, I remained silent, and you thought I didn't care." (Psalm 50:16b-17, 21a)

It's very clear that how we respond to God and His word matters. It has tremendous impact on coming to Him, hearing from Him and being rescued by Him. If we are personalizing promises from His word we also need to be living by His laws. We will not see the outcome God promises without the obedience. We can't enjoy the privilege of the promise aside from implementing His instruction.

We love to search the scriptures for a verse that declares God's goodness to His children in a situation. We copy it out on index cards. We write it in journals. We post it on social media. We memorize it. We declare it as ours. God's word is filled with precious promises, but we need to be cautious. Are we claiming truths, desiring to have our cake and eat it too, without considering the cost? 

While justifying actions and lifestyle decisions that God does not condone, we still desire Him to bless our endeavors and fulfill His Word. We need to stop and ask ourselves, is God being silent because I am not walking in His truth in all things? Is my life pleasing to Him or to me? Do my thoughts, behaviours, activities, conversations, movie choices, friendships etc... reflect Christ's choices? Am I living a surrendered life of thankful sacrifice? Is my goal to please the Lord in everything? Am I spending daily time in His Word and in prayer? Am I confessing sin and abiding in Him? Is my life producing fruit with an ever-increasing harvest or am I more like the fig tree described in Mark 11 with just the appearance of fruitfulness? Am I obediently waiting on Him, listening for His voice and walking in His way?

God is asking us to search our hearts. I don't want anything standing between my believing and God's fulfilling. What about you?

Snatched

"They trust in their wealth and boast of great riches. Yet they cannot redeem themselves from death by paying a ransom to God. Redemption does not come so easily, for no one can ever pay enough to live forever and never see the grave...But as for me, God will redeem my life. He will snatch me from the power of the grave." Psalm 49:6-9, 15

"Death comes unexpectedly!" These are the words that immediately filled my thoughts after reading Psalm 49. If you've seen the movie "Pollyanna", no doubt you can picture the scene in your mind. Reverend Ford is "sermonizing something fierce" and his congregation squirms uncomfortably in their seats. Weekly hell, fire and brimstone messages have parishioners terrified of death, leaving the sanctuary with a bitter taste after hearing the bitter truth.

Yes, death is unavoidable and inescapable. The power of the grave is unquestionable. Every cemetery testifies to the prevailing power of death over mankind. The Psalmist makes it clear that absolutely no amount of wealth can buy everlasting life. Riches will never be enough to redeem a soul.

The good news is that there is a Redeemer! God gave these triumphant words to the prophet Hosea, "I will ransom them from the power of the grave; I will redeem them from death..."(Hosea 13:14). God is greater than the power of the grave! We too can have confidence and say with the Psalmist, "But as for me, God will redeem my life. He will snatch me from the power of the grave."

This glorious assurance only comes by salvation. At Calvary, Jesus paid the ransom price by giving His life in our place. His death and resurrection are our deliverance. There is one way to escape the power of the grave and that's the power of the cross. 

In Jesus we can know forgiveness of sins and be raised from death to life. First, we acknowledge that we are sinners in need of a Saviour. We understand and believe that Jesus died in our place, paying the debt we owed. We trust in His death as the sufficient sacrificial payment for our sins. "If you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved; for with the heart a person believes, resulting in righteousness, and with the mouth he confesses, resulting in salvation...for everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved." Romans 10:9-10, 13

Death, the devil's most powerful weapon has become powerless. Christ has paid the ransom, conquering death. Those who trust in Him have already been snatched from the grave, knowing victory now and the promise of eternal life.

"He Sighed"

"When He (Jesus) heard this, He sighed deeply in His spirit..." Mark 8:12a

"He sighed". Reading those two words twice this morning, (Mark 7:34), my mind was drawn to the sighs of Christ. I don't know that I've ever stopped to consider Jesus sighing.

What is a sigh? It's an interruption in breathing that is expressed in a long, deep, most often audible sound. A sigh can indicate relief, exasperation, disappointment, contentment, defeat, relaxation or other wordless responses of emotion. 

These two little words..."He sighed"...have captured my thoughts today. What caused Christ to sigh? We really aren't given specific reasons in either instance so any sharing here would be speculative, but in our world today, filled with so many things that are hard to understand, the idea of a divine sigh resonates deeply in my heart. 

In Christ's sigh we hear the realness of Christ's humanity. A sigh can be a holy emotion as we live on a sinful earth. We can all experience seconds or seasons where the weariness of the world wears on us. It's a comfort to know that Jesus understands our sighs. In His sigh, Jesus endears Himself to us even more as we've been there. We too feel genuinely, intensely, passionately and profoundly, and when our experiences cause us to sigh, not birthed in personal frustration, but hearts moved by the things that break the heart of God, we are in good company. 

We are not foreigners to sighs. Romans 8 speaks of times we sigh inwardly as we wait eagerly to be released from sin and suffering (vs 23). In 2 Corinthians 5 Paul writes, "While we live in these earthly bodies, we groan and sigh..." 

Our sighs are signs. They are revelations and recognition of our lack and God's sufficiency. In our exhaling, our breathing out, we can then inhale the breath of life. A sigh directs us to our need and areas that need growth. Don't misunderstand though, Christ's sigh was not due to deficiencies, yet imagine the God-man experiencing humanities limitations. *Sigh*

"If nothing else, I am grateful to know that Jesus's prayers include sighs. Sighs borne of longing, love, sorrow, and hope, all mingled together. Because if there's anything the world needs right now, it is Gospel hope. Fierce, creative, tenacious, and daring hope. Precisely the kind of hope Jesus offers. But that hope must be grounded in the truth of who God is and what the kingdom of God actually looks like."

When our experiences and feelings are too deep for words, use the dialect of the Spirit. Jesus did. Take a deep breath. Let it go. God hears and understands.

Quote taken from "Journey With Jesus" by Debie Thomas, copyright August 2021

Pressing

"When she had heard of Jesus, came in the press behind, and touched His garment." Mark 5:27

I'm not a fan of large crowds. I get nervous when surrounded by a lot of people. I remember as a child going with my older sister to a Boxing Day Sale at the mall. My twin sister and I wanted to purchase the Barbie Camper and we arrived at the store before the doors opened. It was like a wild stampede when employees came to let us enter. From that time on I have had no desire to be part of a mob just to save some money. Thankfully Amazon has made that much easier now.

In Mark 5 we read about a woman who had suffered for twelve years with a constant bleeding issue. Desperation pushed her in a direction that others might not consider. Hearing about Jesus she "came in the press behind" with determination, hope and longing. "If I can just touch His robe." She reached out in faith and her efforts were rewarded.

When Christ inquired, "Who touched my robe?" His disciples responded, "Look at this crowd pressing around You. How can You ask, 'Who touched Me?'" (Mark 5:30-31) Jesus was instantly aware of a touch of trust. While others were pressing around Him, this woman pressed in.

Misery moved her. She would do anything to find relief. Nothing casual. All consuming. She strained and extended her arm with the effort of longing to obtain her desire. Does our reaching and seeking to touch Jesus have fingertips outstretched, not giving up until we rest in the certainty of His presence?

Today I'm reaching out. Needing to touch Him. Needing a touch from Him. I'm pressing in. Elbowing through the crowd. Leaning all my wait, worry and wondering and leaving it at the fringe of His garment as I touch His robe. It can often take pressing concerns to push us to press in. Pressing past the enemies echoing words of shame and defeat to God's whispers of forgiveness and victory. Past our doubts to His certain. Past insecurities to His acceptance. Past unknowns to His sure. Past now to His unseen.

Pressing into the throne room.

Pressing into Jesus' presence.

Pressing into His heart.

Pressing deeper.

Pressing further.

Pressing longer.

Pressing.

The Look of the Lord

"Then He (Jesus) turned to His critics and asked, 'Does the law permit good deeds on the Sabbath, or is it a day for doing evil? Is this a day to save life or to destroy it?' But they wouldn't answer Him. He looked around at them angrily and was deeply saddened by their hard hearts." Mark 3:4-5a

When I was a little girl Sundays were a very different day. Careful preparation was always given so that there would be no need to run to the corner store for necessities such as milk or bread. The option of shopping at a mall didn't exist as they were closed. Saturday night my dad always made sure his car was filled with gas. After attending church Sunday morning, the afternoon held restrictions. I couldn't go out and play. My sister and I would spend quiet time in our bedrooms while our parents rested. I never resented the limitations my parents imposed, actually loving that one day of the week was so distinct in such a special way.

With God's command to "keep the Sabbath day, for it is a holy day for you" (Exodus 31:14) echoing in my head, over the years it has been a challenge to move from a legalistic mindset to more liberty. I still desire to have a day that is "set apart" for the Lord. For many Christ-followers, Sundays are often treated more like Saturdays with optional church attendance thrown into the mix. So, what to do, what not to do?

This morning I felt the Lord's look as I read the key verses above. I know I have deeply saddened His heart in the past, judging others by their activity on Sundays. Let me make it clear, I do still strongly believe that nothing should take precedence over gathering together as the family of God and worshipping the Lord on the Sabbath. Too often the day competes with sporting events, beautiful weather, and all manner of other "commitments". Our first and foremost commitment when it comes to Sunday, must be to the Lord. (As an aside, read Eric Liddell's story if in doubt about taking a stand for keeping the Sabbath. God truly does honour those who honour Him in this obedience.)

So, what about the rest of the day? Matthew 12:12 calls us to "do good on the Sabbath." David Guzik writes, "Human need is more important than religious ritual." The Sabbath is a gift. I don't want to demean the first thing God called 'holy' and at the same time I don't want to deny an opportunity to do something that would bless another. 

I think we might all need to re-evaluate our response to this special day. Let's prayerfully ask God to guide, redirecting any activity or thought out of alignment with His desires. Lord, soften my heart to Your will and way. There is never a wrong day to do a good thing. "Any application of the Sabbath law which operates to the detriment of man is out of harmony with God's purpose." (Morgan)

"Then Jesus said to them, 'The Sabbath was made to meet the needs of people, and not people to meet the requirements of the Sabbath. So the Son of Man is Lord, even over the Sabbath!'" (Mark 2:27-28)

Waiting for Clouds to Lift

"Now whenever the cloud lifted from the Tabernacle, the people of Israel would set out on their journey, following it. But if the cloud did not rise, they remained where they were until it lifted." Exodus 40:36-37

Guidance. Direction. We all seek it continually. What to do. Where to go. Is this the path to follow? Which choice is best? When should I make the move?

The Israelites seemed to have it "made in the shade". A cloud remained or rose indicating not only rate of movement, but route. There was no guesswork or uncertainty. The Israelites could move with assurance that they were following in obedience to the Lord. Their cloudy vision gave clarity.

Do you long for such obvious direction? Does your heart desire the assurance of knowing it is impossible to miss God's plan for you? I know I can sometimes feel almost envious of such precision of purpose. Yet, God, in His word, promises to guide us. Isaiah 58:1 begins, "The LORD will guide you always..." Our problem is more the "how". How Lord, how are You going to do it? And when? We listen to sermons, read books, tune in to podcasts but God acts beyond blueprints. Although He is the same yesterday, today and forever, He cannot be predicted. He comes to us in unexpected ways at unexpected times.

If we take a closer look at the verses above, yes God led His people, but they still also had the element of surprise. The Lord never allowed them to make His guidance into a formula. They didn't know when or where the cloud would move, but they trusted its timing and followed its leading.

Chris Tiegreen writes, "God is intensely relational, but principles aren't. In order to follow Him, His people must always watch Him attentively." 

Are you watching God? Is He your focus? The Lord longs for relationship. The way to more deeply know, trust, and love Him is time invested gazing at Him. When unknowns fill our life, our answers are found in Christ. In drawing near, seeking the Lord and spending time with Him, He leads us as our eyes remain fixed on Him.

What to do in the middle of watching and waiting? Rest and rejoice. Calm your heart in the confidence that God will come. Although you may feel surrounded by a cloud of confusion, it will lift and move at the Lord's command and you can celebrate His presence with you today and be thankful.

A God-Glow

"When Moses came down Mount Sinai carrying the two stone tablets inscribed with the terms of the covenant, he wasn't aware that his face had become radiant because he had spoken to the LORD...and the people of Israel would see the radiant glory of his face." Exodus 34:29, 35a

Driving to the dental office I began praying out loud in my car. The interior of my vehicle has heard a lot of words lifted to the Lord. Earlier that morning I had read about Moses' face shining as a result of being in God's presence and I prayed that my face would have a "God glow" that day, beginning with my early morning appointment. Father, because of my time in Your presence, may Your radiance shine through me so others will know that I have been with You.

Although I don't enjoy going to get my teeth checked, I love my hygienist and dentist. Dr. Sandra and I have known each other since childhood, so having a friend doing the needed work that arises does fill my heart with extra calm. My hygienist has changed over the years as different ones have come and gone, but the gal doing the cleaning this day was one of my favourites.

As I entered the treatment room and prepared for the regular routine she said to me, "I was so excited when I saw that you were my first patient today. Whenever you or your sister start my day I know it's going to be great!" I quickly thanked her for her kind words before she filled my mouth with instruments. You are not given a lot of time to chat during an appointment.

After completing the cleaning of my teeth, she remarked, "There, your teeth are shining as brightly as you are shining." What? I couldn't believe that she had spoken the very words I had prayed earlier. I felt everything inside me saying, "Joy, you have to tell her!"

With heart racing I began, "Jen, you may not understand what I'm about to say, but on my drive over here this morning I asked the Lord to let me be a shining testimony for Him. What you just expressed is an answer to that prayer. Thank you." Awkwardly she gave a short reply as the dentist entered the room. God had answered my prayer. His presence was radiant through my countenance. 

I remember another occasion as a pre-teen when a similar response was expressed. My sister and I were spending time with a little girl who had just had her tonsils removed. We were at her house playing and reading stories. Suddenly this little 5-year-old child looked up at us and said, "Even if all the lights went out right now, it wouldn't matter. You both are shining so brightly." I still vividly recall that moment. Christ was shining through our willing, loving care as we ministered to this little girl.

I trust today that you have spent time with the Lord, and like Moses you only become aware as His radiance shines through you and others see Him.

"I Want It"

"Moses responded, 'Then show me Your glorious presence.'" Exodus 33:18

One of my little 2-year-old grandson's first phrases was "I want it." Whether it be a toy, cookie, or item someone else is using, his precious wee voice quietly communicates his wish for something he doesn't possess.

Desires. Wants. Asks. Anything less than praying to see the Lord falls incredibly short. Moses asked that God reveal His glory, or as rendered in the New Living Translation, His glorious presence. It was quite a bold request, but how do we define his entreaty?

I recently completed a Bible study that asked this question: "Have you ever thought about the glory of God? Christians love to talk about the glory of God, but what exactly does it mean?" How would you answer that question?

John Piper describes God's glory as the manifest beauty of His holiness. It's the "going public" of His godliness as He puts His holiness on display. God's glory is His external splendor and majesty. It's the demonstration of His presence, character and attributes. God Himself equates His glory with all His goodness (see Exodus 33:19).

This is what Moses longed to see. Although Moses talked with God as one speaks to a friend (Exodus 33:11), it wasn't enough. He wasn't satisfied. He had an insatiable thirst. In essence he said to God, "I want it." He desperately desired to know the Lord in greater and deeper ways. Whatever he had experienced with God prior wasn't sufficient. He wanted more. He was asking God to bring Him another step nearer.

God rewards a seeking heart. Although Moses couldn't see fully, the Lord let him see in part, and as He passed by, Yahweh revealed, concealed, protected and blessed. (Exodus 33:19-23)

Do you desire to see God Himself? What do you think God would do if you daily asked Him to show you His glory?

"Oh God, I have tasted Thy goodness, and it has both satisfied me and made me thirsty for more. I am painfully conscious of my need for further grace. I am ashamed of my lack of further desire. O God, the Triune God, I want to want Thee. I long to be filled with longing; I thirst to be made more thirsty still. Show me Thy glory I pray Thee, so that I may know Thee indeed. Begin in mercy a new work of love within me. Say to my soul, 'rise up, my love, my fair one, and come away.' Then give me grace to rise up and follow Thee, up from this misty lowland where I have wandered so long. In Jesus' name. Amen." A. W. Tozer

Bible study question taken from "Through the Desert, A Study on God's Faithfulness" by Dr. Lina Abujamra, Copyright Esther Press, 2023

Singing His Song

"But each day the LORD pours His unfailing love upon me, and through each night I sing His songs, praying to God who gives me life." Psalm 43:8

Not sure if it is just an aging thing, but sleeping through the night is rare. Thankfully I'm initially able to fall asleep relatively quickly, but most nights I awaken at some point and it could be hours before I drift back to any slumber.

What do you do when sleep eludes you? To quote lyrics from a song in the holiday Classic "White Christmas", "When I'm worried, and I can't sleep, I count my blessings, instead of sheep, And I fall asleep, counting my blessings." Certainly, recalling God's many gifts of grace to us can reframe our thoughts and help us rest in His goodness even when worry isn't the cause of our sleeplessness.

Here the Psalmist, though overwhelmed by circumstances and sorrow, is encouraging us through his own experience to remember God's steadfast love that is greater than any earthly struggle. His lovingkindness follows us every moment of every day. He lavishes His goodness and we are drenched in undeserved favour. 

Knowing this brings peace to our hearts during restless nights, whether literal evening and early morning hours, or seasons of affliction and distress. Miseries can be forgotten in the mercy of the Lord. Our hearts can remain thankful, singing the Lord's song because of His love and salvation. The praise and prayer being lifted is joy-filled as the Psalmist delights in God who gives him life.

Worship offered from weary souls. Some of the sweetest songs can only be sung in the night. There are beautiful prayers that find their best voice in the dark. 

I can't help but think of a testimony I heard many years ago. Overcome by disappointment and countless prayers not being answered as hoped, this dear friend, awake in the night, began with quivering, quaking voice to sing in the dark: "In moments like these I sing out a song, I sing out a love song to Jesus. In moments like these I lift up my hands, I lift up my hands to the Lord, Singing I love You Lord, Singing I love You Lord, Singing I love You Lord, I love You." I listened with tears running down my face. This is a response of love. This is singing His songs and praising in prayer to the One who gives us life.

"In Moments Like These" written by David Graham

Gore to Glory

"Then slaughter the bull in the LORD's presence at the entrance of the Tabernacle. Put some of its blood on the horns of the altar with your finger, and pour out the rest at the base of the altar." Exodus 29:11-12

Some who read the verses above will become instantly squeamish. Slaughter? Dip our finger in blood? We don't even like the sight of it, so we definitely don't want to touch it. I know I personally hate driving by an accident. While other cars are slowing down and gawking at the scene, my focus is straight ahead as I pray for those who are receiving help from emergency medical services.

We certainly read a lot about blood throughout scripture. The word instantly can stir feelings of repulsion. The entertainment world has done a very good job at escalating this response. We see it as epitomizing everything that is evil and wrong in our world. The enemy enjoys encouraging this idea and even believers can struggle with questions regarding the apparent cruelty of God through all the descriptions of blood in His word.

We see blood as death, but God sees it as life. Even in this moment, blood is flowing through our veins carrying oxygen and nourishment through our body, enabling breath. Blood gives life, and the shedding of the blood of Jesus brings eternal life. Ephesians 1:7 says, "In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace." Redemption through His blood will bring resurrection to new life.

Hebrews 9:22 tells us, "Without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness of sins." A blood sacrifice sanctifies. As the ancient altar was made holy through the shedding of blood, many years later the cross became a place of life through the crucifixion of Christ. Jesus transforms the image of blood from gore to glory.

Christ-followers, covered in the precious blood of Jesus, can enter His presence freely. To the believer it is an enduring precious treasure bringing cleansing, forgiveness, power and fellowship with God. We are forever beautifully stained, covered and washed by the blood of Christ.

With a new perspective, may we see both the necessity and the wonder of the blood of Jesus. Let's proclaim together these lyrics written in 1876 by Robert Lowry: "O precious is the flow that makes me white as snow, no other fount I know. Nothing but the blood of Jesus." 

Thank You for the blood.

Every Day Joys

"Oh, the joys of those who trust the LORD..." Psalm 40:4a

With a birthday in our extended family drawing near, I headed out to try and find a gift. As my husband is now retired, and we were never really a two-income family after our son's arrival close to thirty-two years ago, I try to be cautious with finances. As I entered the shop I prayed for the Lord to direct me to an item that would be meaningful, useful and reasonably priced. Yes, I pray over pretty much every purchase I make. I even pause and ask the Lord to put products on my grocery list on sale each week, and honestly, He really does!

The challenge is, when it comes to buying gifts for others, I'm a giver. I delight in doing things for family and friends. It's in my DNA to give. This giving extends to the Lord as well. I'm not kidding when I say, as a child, mom used to try and explain to me how I didn't have to put every penny I received into the offering plate. I remember as a young teen receiving a cheque for $100. I knew immediately what I wanted to do with it. Christmas was drawing near and I was so excited to be able to give it entirely to the Lord Christmas Sunday as my gift to Him. 

The year I had my "dream job", employed at a Christian bookstore, my husband and I agreed that we would use my income to bless others. Each paycheck was an opportunity to be an instrument of encouragement in someone else's life. It was so much fun! God always showed me a need, and He gave me the delight of meeting that need, often anonymously. What a joy to be used by God in this way.

So, with giving woven deeply into who I am, it's hard to put the brakes on when everything within me wants to lavish a recipient in a way that lets them know how much they are loved. Needing to cut my coat according to the cloth, as I walked down each aisle, I kept asking the Lord to direct me.

I found an item that I thought the recipient would enjoy, but it was priced a little more than I had wanted to pay. I put it in my cart knowing I would just pinch pennies somewhere else in the days to come.

After picking up a couple of other things on my list I started to make my way to the cashier. As I approached the check-out line I glanced to my left. There, hanging amidst random other items, was a zippered-hoodie. It was more of a coat than a sweater. I remember thinking, I wish I could purchase that for this young man. I decided to walk over and just take a look. It was really nice, and it was his size. The price had been removed, but the barcode was still readable. Although its quality screamed that it would be costly, finding a "check price" machine I just had to scan the tag and see for myself. Imagine my shock when the screen read, "Reduced item - $10.00"!!!!

Tears of joy immediately filled my eyes as my nose began to tingle. As I walked to the front of the store to pay, I kept saying right out loud, "Thank You Lord! Thank You Lord!" I had prayed for God to direct my shopping and the joy of trusting Him and seeing Him provide.

Yes, God has every day trusts that bring every day joys. Don't miss opportunities to both see and experience the wonder and riches of the Lord as you trust Him with everything!

Worth The Wait

"But I will not drive them out in a single year, because the land would become desolate and the wild animals would multiply and threaten you. I will drive them out a little at a time until your population has increased enough to take possession of the land." Exodus 23:29-30

This revelation of God's schedule falls in the middle of chapters of instruction from the Lord. Here He reveals the purpose of the process. Reading it makes such perfect sense. If the Israelites had their way of quickly acquiring the land, they would encounter other hardships that they didn't foresee, but God did. In mercy He is slowing down the possession of property and in love He is providing the plan.

The Israelites had the blessing of knowing God's objective for the apparent delay. If we only knew ahead of time the reasons why some journeys seem to take so long. In kindness and compassion God is sparing us from events and situations that our impulsive rush, if not for God's staying hand, would bring further complications. Knowing God can do anything anytime, when His path walks us little by little we can get discouraged. Why isn't He answering? Oh, but He is. God knows that a quick clearing of our "land" is not best for the land or for His children.

God wanted to see an "increase" before the final victory. He wanted His people to grow. Yes, numerical growth, but the wait would, Lord willing, bring character growth also as the Israelites believe His word and put their trust in Him. This personal increase happens little by little too. As Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 3:18, we are being transformed into Christ's image from one degree of glory to the next. It's continual and ever-increasing, but it is most often step by step.

What appears to be the slow work of God is a grace. Maturity in the Christian life comes gradually and skipping stages will bring desolation and threats that we are not yet prepared to handle. There are spiritual benefits that only come through waits. Have faith. Without any hurry, God is preparing to do something better than we can imagine. He will be worth the wait, and so will the eventual outcome.

Come Clean

"But I confess my sins; I am deeply sorry for what I have done." Psalm 38:18

Very early one morning, sitting on a stool at the kitchen peninsula, overcome with the weight of sin, I sat sobbing uncontrollably. 

When was the last time that you experienced the gift of confession? Yes, a gift. Although the agony of sin revealed is crushing, it's also saving. 

I remember it as vividly as if it happened moments ago. I knew beyond a doubt that a friendship I had reluctantly responded to was harming my spiritual health. I was doing things I never dreamed I would do and going places I would have vowed I'd never go. I justified each action as my way of reaching out to her, entering her world so that she could see Christ, yet unfortunately the pull to her lifestyle was stronger than I imagined. Like an undertow that comes swiftly and pulls you beneath the surface, I was in way over my head. Buying into countless lies I began gratifying self. I used every excuse to explain each decision, but I was exhausted from the game of hide-and-seek I was playing.

Early that morning the Holy Spirit brought me face-to-face with the reality of my sin. I had made intentional choices that I knew beyond a doubt were wrong. We aren't talking grey area. It was black! I was not just an innocent follower, but an initiator. The shame of sin was so heavy I could barely breathe. 

Finally the torment of my sin knelt before the holiness of God and in a turbulent wave of explosive emotion I wept until I fell into exhaustion. I knew the Lord was there forgiving, receiving, yet I resisted His arms of love at first. How could He even desire to hold me close? He had given His life for me, and I had acted in ways that denied His presence in my life.

The Lord put the name of two friends on my heart and in the early hour of the day I reached out to both. As my friend Lina Abujamra writes in her book, "Don't Tell Anyone You're Reading This", shame shared can't survive. "Secrecy is the soil in which shame grows." I shared. We wept. They prayed. The washing of His blood swept over me. The gut-wrenching remorse was redeemed by Christ's death on the cross. His instrument of torture became a cross of triumph as He brought victory.

Lina concludes her book: "I'm still here. One of the greatest signs of God's grace in my life is that I'm still here." My heart echoes this realization. God is here too, and that fills me with relief. Today if there are things you need to confess to the Lord, don't wait. Confession and repentance bring healing through the blood of Jesus. 

** For more information regarding Lina's book: https://www.livingwithpower.org/books/

Tests of Trust

"...I will test them in this to see whether or not they will follow My instructions...Then you will know that I am the LORD your God." Exodus 16:4b,12b

The Israelites were hungry. They lacked food. From His storehouse of riches God said He would rain down food from heaven, but the people were commanded to pick up only enough for each day. On the sixth day they were instructed to gather twice as much so that they could rest on the Sabbath. God was testing the Israelites to see if they would follow His directions. Would they trust the Lord for His daily provision?

Trust. It's so easy to say that we trust the Lord when we have that glorious feeling that everything is going our way. Enter a situation that we have absolutely no control over. What then? Is our heart still singing a happy tune and are we walking with the same sense of peace?

Recently I had two friends facing the possibility of bad news. Both were related to health concerns. One for themselves, the other for their husband. There was nothing either could do to change the results. They were at the mercy of lab reports, but they weren't without the mercy of the Lord. Whatever the outcome they could trust the Lord to be with them and carry them through.

As I was praying for them, I picked up a book I had just finished reading. Scanning the pages for sentences I had highlighted or underlined I was asking the Lord to encourage my own heart and guide my prayers with wisdom. Our longing is to remove the test of trust. As Brennan Manning writes in his book, "Ruthless Trust", our tendency is to eliminate every risk that invites us to trust God more. We want to run from the very situations that renew trust and give opportunity to see His sovereign deliverance; a deliverance from what Brennan calls the "warehouse of worry". It's so true! Sadly, our anxiety is no small store in a little plaza. Our nervousness is just one emotion shelved in a huge distribution center that contains related feelings of fear, dread, unease, doubt and panic.

It has been said that we will trust God to the degree that we know we are loved by Him. When we embrace the lavish love of God and believe with all our heart that anything He allows to touch our life is for the purpose of knowing Him as God, drawing us closer and giving Him glory, we can rest in Him through tests that attempt to shake our resolve of trust.

Brennan Manning concludes that trust is being a home-body! I love that! Trust means abiding in Him, dwelling in Him, secure in Him, making our home in Him. Today I long to be a "home-body", trusting God through the circumstances He brings into my life, walking in obedience and knowing Him.

Anticipate to Celebrate!

"Then Miriam the prophet, Aaron's sister, took a tambourine and led all the women as they played their tambourines and danced." Exodus 15:20

Last year a house on a nearby court caught fire during the night. It was incredible how quickly the flames spread. Thankfully the couple living there were awakened by the alarm of their smoke detector and were able to get to safety. In that moment of escape I wonder if they even thought to take anything with them as they rushed quickly from their burning home.

I'll never forget the first time the following idea was presented to me. When God came to the Israelites in the night and said "Get out!", I think it's absolutely incredible that Miriam and the women even thought to pack tambourines! No doubt they were all travelling light. They couldn't take all their belongings. Only the essentials. This was an item of importance. Tambourines were not only an object of trust, but represented the value of praise. The ladies believed that God would indeed bring deliverance, and now on the other side of the Red Sea, they were ready to dance!

How do we live our lives? Do we anticipate to celebrate or do we live in dread of the next piece of bad news dropping into our laps? Do we fear the outcome of every uncertainty or do we prepare to praise, confident in seeing the right hand of the Lord provide? These women had practiced praise in the past and it became the language of their life.

As Miriam and the ladies played their tambourines and danced, Moses and the people sang, "Your right hand, O LORD, is glorious in power. Your right hand, O LORD, smashes the enemy...You raised Your right hand, and the earth swallowed our enemies." (Exodus 15:6,12) That same powerful, right hand is holding and guiding you today. David the Psalmist writes, "I cling to You; Your strong right hand holds me securely." (Psalm 63:8)

I don't know the "enemy" that is threatening your life today, but God's strong right hand is holding you securely, and He sees this as an opportunity to display His glory. As Moses told the Israelites, "Don't be afraid. Just stand still and watch the LORD rescue you today...The LORD Himself will fight for you. Just stay calm." (Exodus 14:13-14)

Join me in praising God! Let your heart fill with expectation of meeting and knowing the Lord in your present situation. Celebrate His presence with you. He might not remove your "Red Sea" but He will walk you through it. Trust Him to do great things with whatever you offer Him in faith. Each painful sacrifice can lead to extravagant celebration!

Soul Talk

"Say unto my soul, I am thy salvation." Psalm 35:3

How do you talk to yourself about yourself? Recently a friend and I were talking about the conversations we have in our heads. I think it's safe to say that the majority of us are probably quite critical of ourselves. We see every fault. Know every failure. Feel every hurt. We allow other people's words and actions to define us, often becoming excessively sensitive to their remarks. We overanalyze every phrase and scrutinize every silence. We make one error and suddenly our entire lives are a mistake. We become our own worst enemy as our self-talk nourishes despair.

There are so many times in life when we need God to speak His truth to our soul. We need the assurance of God's words. We can live in victory, overcome challenges, defeat our enemies and continue on when we are confident that God is our salvation.

In this Imprecatory Psalm, David knew where to go when doubts and fears were surmounting. Surrounded by enemies who were attacking without cause, he knew there was only one voice that could say the words his soul was desperate to hear. Although our friends can offer encouragement, their consoling isn't enough to calm or convince a doubting, heavy heart. Past the surface to the soul, we need deep, unmistakable, divine whispers.

There are times when my soul hungers to know indisputably and personally that I am His and He is mine. I need my inner being to receive echoes of grace and peace that quiet and still the storms of insecurity. I need the "I AM" of my salvation in the present moment to fill me with His truth.

A soul having received this confirmation responds with joy. "And my soul shall be joyful in the Lord. It shall rejoice in His salvation." (Psalm 35:9) The situation may not have changed, but God has spoken blessed assurance to our spirit. Rejoicing is evidence of a soul that has not only heard but listened and believed. Let the Saviour and Shepherd restore your today. (Psalm 23:5)

Known in Unknowns

Then the LORD said..."I've also done it (made Pharaoh and his officials stubborn)... so that you will know that I am the LORD." Exodus 10:1-2

Just prior to going to bed last night I saw the following post on Facebook: 

As I read the comments shared, I smiled at the number of responders who listed examples of things that happened many months previous. They were wonderful remembrances of God's incredible, often miraculous provision. I guess if they had to choose "one specific way", they wanted to highlight the most amazing. I'm not criticizing. I get it. However, daily God is good! Psalm 23:6 tells us that "goodness" follows us every day of our lives. Do we see it? Are we missing it?

There are so many ways that the Lord daily reveals Himself to us so that we may know Him more. One of the ways is through His goodness. But listen closely, His goodness is not defined by our definition of good. If the outcome will cause us to know Him as Lord, then He will allow or ordain any path that brings us to the destination of discovering more of Him.

We don't understand all that God permits or plans, but because His character is always good, so is His conduct. The hardening of Pharaoh's heart is perplexing, but purposeful. He used the crises in the life of Moses and the Israelites to reveal Himself. 

Although we often question and ask why our journey is met with difficulties, the better response is to pray, "Lord, how do You want to show Yourself in this situation? Please teach me to know You. Help me not to miss the unveiling of Your character as I'm facing this unknown." 

God becomes so visible in critical moments. When confusion, shock, and fear accompany a situation far beyond our control we have a decision. We come face-to-face with a thought that needs an answer: Right now. In this second. Is God here? Is He good? Is this His doing for the purpose of me to know Him?

His goodness is just as powerful, and maybe even more so, in the wilderness as it is on the mountain top. Every upheaval is an opportunity for God to come through with power, comfort, wisdom, direction, compassion and many other aspects of His character that will draw us to a deeper understanding of His true nature and bring glory to His name.

Problems and perils are without a doubt the greatest platform for His presence to be evidenced and His attributes seen. Today does your crisis have you at a crossroads? Is the heartache hiding His nearness? His hand is sovereignly resting over your life. The same hand that longs to draw you close and awaken your soul to know Him in ways you most likely would never encounter without this desperate need that has crashed, unwelcomed into your life. This circumstance is an invitation to know the Lord. 

My friend Dr. Lina Abujamra, in her book "Fractured Faith" writes this incredible truth: "God's goodness is meant to be received in the midst of our pain, not proven by the absence of our pain."

In case you are wondering if I left a comment on the blog post mentioned above, this was my response: "I've seen God's goodness in so many ways, but it has been in the unexpected, unwanted circumstances where His goodness has shone clearest...seeing His goodness faithfully revealed through His 'no's' or in His 'waits' and experiencing His peace, hope and strength."

Today may God be known in our unknowns.

Freed to Worship

"Then the LORD said to Moses, 'Go back to Pharaoh and announce to him, This is what the LORD says: Let My people go, so they can worship Me.' " Exodus 8:1

Growing up in Sunday School I remember singing the fun little chorus, "Pharaoh, Pharaoh, Whoa baby let My people go". The emphasis was always placed on the Israelites finding freedom from the oppression they were under in Egypt. But there's a reason God wanted His people to leave. This wasn't just about release, but reverence. The command for liberation was followed by the call for adoration. Freedom wasn't the ultimate purpose, but providing a place where His people could worship Him fully without restraint was the plan.

As Christ-followers we have been set free from our "Egypts" and with that deliverance comes a directive. We are both "freed from" and "freed for". The majority of us are blessed to live in countries where we can worship the Lord wholeheartedly, not hindered in any way. We are to live as worshippers of God.

What is "worship"? John Piper says it has two aspects: an inner essence and an external expression. True worship begins in the heart and values God above all things. It is delighting in Him and being satisfied with Him. These responses reflect His infinite beauty and worth, resulting in expressions of praise.

It was no coincidence that earlier this morning I read a devotional entitled, "Extravagant Worship". It highlighted the account in Luke 7 where a woman poured an expensive bottle of perfume over Jesus' feet. Not stopping there, she bent down and washed His feet with her hair. Those watching such lavish love questioned. To them this was wasteful. To Christ this is worship. 

Our worship may appear foolish to those who haven't received the abundant, unconditional, sacrificial love of Christ. In fact, even among the family of the forgiven there will be a variety of demonstrations in the way we personally and individually glorify God. True worship is unrestrained. It is found in voices raised in praise, hands lifted in devotion, bended knee, wordless wonder, falling tears. We worship in confession, forgiveness, obedience, surrender, thanksgiving and extending cups of cold water in His name.

Authentic worship is centered on who God is and directed to Him alone. It is not confined to a church building but can fill the halls of schools, office buildings, parks, shopping malls and hospital rooms. It is an overflow of God's presence before us, in us, around us, filling us. Our genuine displays of worship declare His glory and direct others to see Him too.

It has been said that wonder is the raw material of worship. "Let the whole world fear the LORD, and let everyone stand in awe of Him." (Psalm 33:8) Today and every day may my heart be filled with wonder that overflows in worship.

From Nothing to Now

"Then Moses went back to the LORD and protested, 'Why have You brought all this trouble on Your own people, Lord? Why did You send me? Ever since I came to Pharaoh as Your spokesman, he has been even more brutal to Your people. And You have done nothing to rescue them!' " Exodus 5:22-23

We've stepped out in faith. We've done what God has asked. The results have been unexpected to say the least and we are confused, hurt, angry and questioning our calling. Why Lord?

I think whenever God calls us to something, we assume this simple equation: God's call + our obedience = ease. It only makes sense that if we say "yes", God will bless. In Moses we see not only a reluctant leader who quite unwillingly relents, but a man, who after the first set-back, wants to step away. 

There's a familiar expression, "when the going gets tough, the tough get going". Do they really? I believe we'd like to say it's true, but far too often when the going gets tough, the "tough" just go. Many lack the commitment to anything. As soon as we meet resistance or recession, we're out of there. The resolve we had when initially called turns to doubts. "Did God really say?" ushers in questions that weaken our obedience.

Sadly, few are trained with any follow-thru. The paper route is discontinued when interest wanes. The music lessons stopped because practice isn't fun. It's too hot on the soccer field. It's too cold in the hockey arena. These childhood patterns become adult lifestyles. (After all, who do you think is allowing the above to happen.)

When God calls us to follow Him, let's face it, it's hard. Most often the ask is far beyond our ability. All our inadequacies rise to the surface providing reasons why we can't possibly affirmatively reply. Once God guides us through that conversation as He did Moses, assuring us of His strength not ours, we then struggle when opposition arises. Maybe you've experienced more than one set-back. There's been such a line-up of rejections that failure is threatening. Are these roadblocks the enemy we need to resist, or is it God's hand at work? Is each detour and disappointment a tool for deepening our trust in the Lord, or has His favour been removed? Is a door closing, or is God opening our hearts to increasing faith? In Moses' situation, God answers with the outcome. In seven "I will" statements (Ex 6:6-8), the plan is very clear. We don't always have the benefit of knowing such a plain path.

If you're in a place like Moses, and you feel like God has "done nothing" after you've risked everything, don't be discouraged. Seasons of struggle are real. Critiques and comments are cutting. Attacks can appear unending. Everyone else is seemingly flourishing while your soul is shriveling. Negative pressure is weighing heavy. Each strategy results in stagnation. Stop! Hold on to this: It is not the end of the story! Listen to the very next verse in scripture. Exodus chapter 6, verse 1, "Then the LORD told Moses, 'Now you will see what I will do..." 

Don't quit! God is not "doing nothing"! He is always at work! Look up and see what He is about to do! Your "now" is on the way!