Malachi

The prophet Malachi has "the last word" so to speak in the Old Testament.  After the recording of his messages from the Lord, there is nothing heard from the Almighty for 400 years.  What would YOU say if you knew that you would not address someone for a considerable length of time?  Listen to what God says to His people.

I have loved you.  A great statement, one that I am sure many would include in their final words before a great silence.  Look, however, at the nation's response.  "What?  Prove it!"  Their unbelieving response is shocking.  How could God demonstrate His love for them any further?  What more could He do?  He outlines for them the ways in which He has shown them favor - and will continue to shower them with blessing.

But the people's response is contrary.  They have in turn rejected God's teaching and perverted His commands.  They have not shown Him honor; and then questioned His integrity for not "understanding them" when they offered polluted sacrifice.  Oh, the audacity!  They offer to God items that no human authority would accept; they assign a worthless value to worship and service to the One Who delivered them from all their trouble; and they allowed the morally bankrupt among them to be their religious leaders.  They have perverted the sacrifices - the picture prophecies of what God would one day do in removing sin permanently.

And still the people question God "What's the big deal?"  They mock the guidelines He established for worship, for marriage, for life and living.  And yet, they wonder why God is upset with them.

So, here is what God promises He will do to these people.  Are you ready for this?  Wait, how would YOU respond?  Lightning bolts in well-positioned places?  Plagues of epic proportions?  Remember, if you are deity, you have unlimited resources at your disposal.

But what God does is incredible.  He promises to send a messenger to prepare the way for His arrival.  One will come to set all things right.  When He arrives (God, not the messenger), all will be judged accurately and completely.  No sins will be hidden and all will receive their just reward.  The result of this is that people will once again be prepared to worship the Lord properly and correctly.  There will no longer be the capacity to short-change God.  The reality of the joy that comes from serving Him will be evidenced plainly.  When that day arrives, the wicked will have every right and expectation to be afraid.  Those in right relationship with God, however, will find that He does fulfill His promises of blessing just as fully as His promises of punishment.  He will bless, in His time; but for those who refuse to listen, a curse is all they can expect.

As this year closes, how are you responding to God?  Are you among those who fear Him, or those who are afraid of Him (that is NOT two ways of saying the same thing).  Would you be afraid at His coming - since He would then judge you; or would you be blessed because of the reverential awe and obedience you have demonstrated in your life prior to His arrival?  Tomorrow, many will be making resolutions and talking of starting new habits.  God wants nothing of that sort.  He doesn't ask you to turn over a new leaf; He asks you to turn over your life to His control.  How will you respond?

Zechariah 13 - 14

In the coming Day of the Lord, those who had falsely spoken on the Lord's behalf in the past will no longer wish to bring attention to themselves and will deny their former activities.  The Shepherd of Deliverance will come and provide rescue for those who answer His call.  At His return, the geography of the nation will be rearranged and a way of escape will be provided for Israel from her enemies.  True worship will be restored and everything that is done will actively demonstrate the glory that only the Lord deserves.

Zechariah 9 - 12

In the midst of the destruction of the surrounding nations, God will remember His promises to His people and send the promised Delivering King who will bring peace to the nation.  God will restore and rescue His people; He keeps His promises!  Although the time will come that it appears God has abandoned HIs people, He will not utterly forsake them.  He has in mind their deliverance, protection and provision.  He will deliver them.  The day will come when the nation will mourn over their treatment of the promised Deliverer.

Zechariah 5 - 8

God continues to call His people back to Himself. He sends out messengers to all corners of the earth to view how mankind will respond to Him. He sets up a leader in Joshua, the high priest, and promises that He will not abandon His temple. The time is also foretold when going to the Temple to worship God will be the highlight of His people, and will be a source of great blessing for the nations. Inhabitants of other nations will beg those who worship at the temple to take them along for times of worship.

Zechariah 1 - 4

The Lord delivers a message of invitation for the nation of Israel to return to Him through the lips of Zechariah the prophet.  He will not abandon His chosen people.  In fact, He will always supply for their well-being, through her priests and religious leaders.

Haggai

The prophet Haggai, a contemporary of Nehemiah, encouraged the nation to rebuild the temple, not just their own houses.  While God's house lay in ruins, the people were decorating their abodes with ornate accoutrements.  After the people refocused their attention on the dwelling place of God, He reaffirmed the promise that He was with them.

Zephaniah

The prophet Zephaniah spoke to the nation of the coming Day of the Lord, the time when God would exact His judgment on the nations.  The coming of that Day would be swift; once the Day arrives there would be no stopping it nor staying of its severity.  Zephanian describes the best course of action on that day to be keeping silence, lest God further punish.

Habakkuk

Habakkuk asks God the question "How long must we endure problems, and You don't seem to hear us or care about us?"  God's reply is to watch the surrounding nations and be amazed at what He will do.  God is about to raise up the Chaldeans to power and it will all be at the Lord's doing.  Habakkuk then questions God about how He can use a wicked nation like the Chaldeans.  God's response is beautiful in its simplicity and far-reaching in its scope.  Simply put, God states that since He is on the Universe's Throne, He may do whatsoever He wishes AND it will be good and bring glory to Him for doing it.  He even receives glory when wicked nations do what He bids them do.  Habakkuk realizes the omnipotence of God and it motivates him to reflect on God's greatness.  His conclusion is that no matter what happens - good times, bad times, poor economic situation, or times of plenty - he will find his joy in the God Who does all things well.

Nahum

Nahum lays out the final word for the city of Nineveh.  Not too long ago, Jonah had declared God's intention to destroy the city because of their sins.  The city repented and God relented from the evil He had intended for them.  However, the city soon found themselves back in the ways which placed them under God's wrath to begin with.  God would not tolerate sin, no matter how much the people tried to show some form of "repentence".  The city and nation of Assyria would find themselves on the receiving end of God's justice and wrath.  Their destruction was certain and would take place without mercy or restraint.  History shows that, just as God stated, the Babylonians overran the Assyrians and the city of Nineveh fell.

Micah 6 - 7

God lays out His plea for the nation to turn from her wickedness and accept His loving discipline and forgiveness.  He asks what more could have been done to demonstrate His love; He pleads for the nation to do what is simply required:  to do justly, to love mercy and to humbly walk with Him.  He will reward those who have hurt her with destruction.  The nation does begin to seek forgiveness for her sins, and Micah wonders at the loving forgiveness God willingly provides.  He is amazed that a God of such great power and might would pardon such transgressions against His holiness.  Micah ends his book with a note of praise for God's compassion.

Micah 4 - 5

Micah continues to tell of the coming restoration of Israel by her God.  The day will come when the nation shall be restored to her glory; but it will occur not through military might or imperial majesty but through the miraculous provision of God.  When the restoration occurs, it will be a great occurence to travel to worship God.  God will restore the bounty that He has taken away.  Above all, a national leader shall arise who will rule perfectly and permanently.  This coming Messiah will deliver in a way no one could anticipate!

Micah 1 - 3

Micah begins to prophesy against the nation of Israel in the days of Hezekiah.  The message he brings is one of judgment.  God is coming to exact revenge on those who fail to live their lives according to His plans and commands.  He will not relent from His designs to drive the sinful element out of the land.  However, if the nation does repent, the punishment will be much less harsh than it is originally designed to be.

Jonah

Many are familiar with the story of Jonah.  Put briefly, Jonah, a prophet of God, is given orders to take a message of repentance to one of Israel's enemies.  Jonah refuses, God brings him (miraculously) to the point of obedience, Jonah preaches, the people respond favorably, God forgives, Jonah gets mad at God's mercy and then gets scolded for his own attitude.

So what is there "new" to say?  What can by highlighted today that hasn't been highlighted a thousand times over in flannelgraph, sermon and celluloid (thanks, BigIdea!)?

Jonah has an easy job - he has no control over the message, the response or the follow-up; yet, he balks.  It doesn't fit HIS liking, so he sets off on a course that leads only to his peril and destruction.  God's message is still delivered, His plan not thwarted at all.  But Jonah... It turns out the prophet has needs for repentance and change as well.

The question is, am I a Jonah?  Where are the tasks that I run away from what God has given me to complete?  Am I trying to fit God's work into my framework and my timetable and my sense of what is right?  OR am I willing to follow God's instructions no matter where they lead, even when they are not what I would naturally choose?

Oh, I know the "right" answer to give.  God, give me the strength to choose the right answer to live!

Obadiah

Obadiah delivers a message of judgment to Edom, Israel's neighbor, and descendants of Esau, Jacob's brother.  Though she considered herself a lofty power in the region, God would bring her down to an inconsequential position.  The punishment is coming because the nation failed to support Israel in her hour of crisis.  Instead of taking the opportunity to gain favor with the nation of Israel, Edom stood idly by while Israel was being plundered.  God would hold Edom accountable for all her actions - and when Israel is restored, Edom will have no part in the glory and blessings she enjoys.

Amos 7 - 9

Amos continues to deliver the messages of punishment to Israel.  Her leaders try to persuade Amos to not prophesy; but Amos' direction is clear:  he has been commissioned by the Lord to speak messages that he receives.  God is not wililng to tolerate the sins of Israel any longer.  He must act to bring her to the point of repentence.  The harshest punishment to come is the famine of words from the Lord.  The day will come when hearing from God will be scarcer than the water and bread they needed for physical existence.  Israel will not avoid her punishment.  God will find them wherever they try to hide and will ensure that they are appropriately disciplined for their actions against Him.  At the end of the time of punishment, however, God will lovingly restore His people to prominence and prosperity.  Even in His wrath, He remembers love and mercy.

Amos 4 - 6

God continues to lay out His charges against the nation of Israel.  God has lovingly tried to bring correction to the nation, yet in spite of His gentle discipline, the nation will not repent or seek to return to the ways of God they have abandoned.  For this reason, Israel is commanded to "prepare to meet your God."  This does not sound like a friendly meeting!  Israel has laid out for her the many ways in which God will bring His people back to Himself.  He is mighty enough to accomplish all that He promises; and loving enough to desire Israel's return.

Amos 1 - 3

The prophet Amos (contemporary with Isaiah) lays out God's charges against the nation of Israel and her neighbors.  They have not only disobeyed God's commands, but have intentionally done what was commanded them to not do; and left undone what was commanded them to do!  God states that sins of this caliber are not random occurrences, but proof that the hearts of the nations are far from Him, and His punishment of them is rightly deserved.

Joel

The prophet Joel laments the destruction of the land because of her treacherous sin against God.  The prescription given to the nation is to lament, repent and restore what has been lost.  God is still willing to forgive and bless.  What comfort for the nation.  What comfort for all those who find themselves at odds with the God of the universe.

Hosea 12 - 14

The Lord lays out his case against Israel through the mouth of Hosea.  For all that Israel has done, she will be held accountable.  Yet, in the midst of all her deceipt, treachery and abandonment of God, He still calls out to restore and heal His wayward people.  The day will come when God will forgive and His people will enjoy HIs favor once again.

Hosea 9 - 11

Israel will be punished for her sins.  God will bring upon her the full penalty for not obeying Him; and the nation will become wanderers among the other nations. They will be leaderless.  Since they have abandoned their true King, He will leave them without an earthly sovereign.  Yet, in the midst of all this destruction and punishment, God still demonstrates His love for His people, sinful though they be.  He will deliver His people from the destruction they face; and will allow them to return to their own places and land.

Hosea 5 - 8

Hosea continues to lay out God's words to the nation.  The nation has dealt very treacherously with God - saying one thing but doing quite another.  As a result, punishment has been earned and will be meted out.  Israel has made her own decisions, ignored God's clear commands, refused to hear God's messages and turned her back on God's singular worthiness of worship.  When God punishes, He will do so rapidly, completely and devastatingly.  Israel will look to others - her former allies and partners in these crimes - for help, but help will not come.  In fact, those that would seem to be the best source of help will turn and devastate Israel even further.  It is a foolish thing to walk away from a loving and just God.

Hosea 1 - 4

Hosea is given a strange command by God:  marry a woman given with an adulterous nature.  Hosea follows this command, and 3 children are born.  Each child is given a name reflective of what God would do to the nation.  God presents a case for the nation's adultery, and lays out the charges against the nation that said it would love and cling to God but did not.  However, God would show mercy to His people and they would return to Him.  Hosea is told to go bring back his wayward wife; and he does.  The Lord also brings out the charges against His wayward people who have left Him for adulterous idolatry.

Daniel 11 - 12

Daniel is given a vision of the end times, events that were future to him and some are still future to us today.  Daniel is told that God has a plan, and that plan includes punishment for the wicked and blessing for those who obey God's words.  Much is made of these closing chapters to support one theory or another in prophetic interpretation.  What must not be missed in all this is the overriding principle that God has a determined plan for this planet and its inhabitants.  His plans will not be distracted or dissuaded; they will come to pass.

Daniel 8 - 10

Daniel is given three great visions of what is described to him as "the times of the end."  God has a plan for His people in the future; and that plan involves blessing them and preserving them although the world around them is in tumult.

Daniel 5 - 7

Nebuchadnezzar's grandson, Belshazzar, throws a feast for his kingdom.  After using the implements from Jerusalem's temple as flatware and stemware for his feast, a hand appears and writes on the banquet house wall, spelling out the doom for the Babylonian kingdom.  That night, Belshazzar is killed and Darius the Mede takes rulership of the kingdom.

With the Medes and Persians in control, Daniel is made one of the leaders in the new government.  His religious practices are not appreciated by his fellow governors; they eventually get legislation passed that made prayer to anyone other than the king a crime punishable by death in the lions' den.  Daniel makes no change in his practice; is thrown to the lions and survives the ordeal.  Darius then makes a decree that prayer is to be offered only to the God that Daniel serves.

Daniel then sees a vision of beasts that corresponds to the kingdoms in Nebuchadnezzar's dreams.  The interpretation and scope of these kingdoms is so vivid that Daniel is greatly disturbed and affected by them.

Daniel 3 - 4

King Nebuchadnezzar was impressed at the image seen in his dream, and the interpretation that the golden head represented his superior kingdom.  To "commemorate" this dream, he had a large likeness of himself made - entirely of gold (to symbolize his long-lived kingdom) - and had everyone in the land bow down and worship it under penalty of death by burning.  Three notable community leaders refused to pay homage to the statue, namely Daniel's friends Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah.  They were thrown into the furnace, yet God preserved them and spoke to the King's heart about who the real authority and power figure was.  Nebuchadnezzar was still a proud man; God had to uniquely humble him by taking away his sanity for a period of time until he would recognize that God Himself was the only source of power.

Kind of makes you wonder:  The flames of the furnace wouldn't stop Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah from obeying God, so why does it take so little to distract me?

Daniel 1 - 2

The book of Daniel begins when King Nebuchadnezzar raids Jerusalem and takes many of the young princes captive to Babylon.  From there, the "best and brightest" of Israel will receive an education from the greatest Babylonian minds and theologians.

Among those taken captive is a young man named Daniel, along with his three friends Hananiah, Azariah and Mishael.  Unfortunately, many of us know them by their Babylonian names (Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego).

Early in the process, Daniel makes it known that his religious practices forbid him from partaking of the king's food.  Giving a respectful explanation for his abstinence, Daniel finds favor with the steward and proves to be wiser at the end of the trial period.

The king is plagued by disturbing dreams and asks his wise men to tell and interpret the dream.  When they are unable, Daniel preserves the life of all the wise men by telling and interpreting the dream.  In it, God foretells Nebuchadnezzar's great kingdom, as well as the kingdoms that will follow it.  Daniel and his three friends are promoted over the provinces of Babylon.

Merry Tossmas!

Ezekiel 47 - 48

Ezekiel is shown the division of the land as it will be when the Lord sets up His kingdom.  The land will go through a major renovation - a river will run along the eastern border to the sea.  This means the Dead Sea will no longer be without an outlet!  The waters of this river will be so plentiful that men will be able to make a living being fishers in this river.  The land will be divided by tribe; and the Holy City of Jerusalem will be rebuilt in splendor.  The city itself will be renamed.  The new name of this place is THE LORD IS THERE - quite a contrast from the beginning of Ezekiel's ministry when he saw the glory of the Lord departing from among His people.

Ezekiel 45 - 46

Area is assigned for the priests, the people and the princes in this new arrangement of land.  The standards for measurement and distribution are given, so that all will no exactly what is expected from one another.  The feasts are reestablished, for the New Yea, Passover, Unleavened Bread and Tabernacles.  The princes were to be examples of integrity in their affairs, and especially in the way they led worship before the people.  Every detail for worship and life was laid out.

Ezekiel 42 - 44

Ezekiel is given more details of this new temple construction.  The outlines for the upper stories and the dimensions of the altar are given.  God gives instructions for the dedication of the altar; and the requirements for those who will worship within its walls and those who will serve in its facilities.  The job description for the priests is given.  They are to teach, to judge, to instruct, to be pure, to demonstrate through every aspect of their life the holiness of God.

Ezekiel 40 - 41

Ezekiel is given a vision of a new temple construction.  The dimensions and layout of this structure is given to him to declare to the nation.  Every detail of the structure and the outlying courtyards and out-buildings was carefully measured and recorded.  God is a God of details; and no detail is overlooked in this blueprint He lays out for Ezekiel.

Ezekiel 37 - 39

Ezekiel is given messages for Israel and her opponents.  While Israel will be restored and enjoy God's blessing, her enemies will suffer defeat and destruction.  The graphic illustrations used to deliver these messages are unique, surprising and serve as reminders that the God Who is able to deliver such signal messages, is also able to fulfill the promises made by them.

Ezekiel 35 - 36

God promises to pour out judgment on Edom and Israel.  However, once again He promises to show mercy and love for the sake of His holy name.  He will demonstrate over and again just how loving He is toward the nation of Israel.  He will cleanse her and purge her of her sins so that she may enjoy pure fellowship with a holy Master.  What a loving God!

Ezekiel 33 - 34

God reminds Ezekiel of his commission as a watchman over the house of Israel.  When he receives a message from God, his task is to communicate the message.  He is not responsible for the responses to the message, only for the faithful delivery.  What a great reminder for the pastors who speak God's word today.  Our is not to manipulate the response, but to faithfully and accurately communicate the message.  God looks at His messengers as shepherds, and the hearers as sheep.  When the shepherds do not care well for the sheep, judgment comes.  Throughout the book of Ezekiel, God demonstrates the severity of His judgment.  The wise shepherd will seriously consider the solemnity of his task and will feed the sheep in his care with diligence and propriety.

Ezekiel 30 - 32

God outlines specifically how Egypt will fall to the power of Babylon.  Specific cities and specific styles of destruction are outlined, so that Egypt will now that God Himself has spoken.  When God speaks, it comes to pass!

Happy Thanksgiving.  Enjoy the day remembering God's goodness and mercy over the past year; and dedicate yourself to remembering it on a dailiy basis.

Ezekiel 27 - 29

The Lord singles out the city of Tyre and the nation of Egypt; and He lays out His reasons for their punishment.  Tyre has vainly boasted in her beauty and opulence.  The pedigree of her citizens was enviable and her allies were top caliber.  Yet, these allies and business partners will stand in awe at the destruction God brings to the city.  A special message of judgment comes to the king of Tyre.  Because of his boastfulness and pride, he would be cast down.  Strangers would come from outside his kingdom and overthrow him.  The source of his wickedness was Satan himself.  God depicts the fall of Satan in this passage - and it is a definite fall from grace and favor to the depths of destruction.  And yet, once again, in the midst of the messages of punishment and judgment, God states that He will show mercy to those whom He chooses to favor - especially the nation of Israel.

Egypt is also singled out for a proclamation from God out of Ezekiel's mouth.  God would bring destruction to Egypt to demonstrate that God alone reigns in the universe and He controls nations and rulers.  Specific mention is made that Babylon will invade and overthrow Egypt, again to demonstrate that God is the Universe's Sovereign.

Ezekiel 24 - 26

God determines to set out the punishment for the nation.  He uses a very graphic illustration of how He will treat the nation; and how the nation will respond.  Ezekiel prophesies of the nation's response in the morning and in the evening his wife dies.  His wife's death is another picture of how the nation will respond to God's judgment.  Just as Ezekiel did not weep outwardly, the nation would not be moved by the seriousness of their transgressions.

God also delivers messages of judgment to the surrounding nations, especially that of Tyre, who tried to take advantage of a weakened Israel.  God, while punishing the nation for their sin, is still jealously protective of her.

Ezekiel 22 - 23

God continues to outline for Ezekiel the charges He has against the nation He loves.  She has acted adulterously toward the One Who chose her, elevated her and loved her.  The punishment she will endure is fitting, yet even in punishment love is demonstrated as God compasssionately demonstrates that sin cannot and will not be tolerated.

Housekeeping Matters

Regular readers of this blog may be interested in the following personal update.  At any rate, yoru thoughts and prayers would greatly be appreciated.

On Thursday night / Friday morning, the facilities of Fairway Park Baptist Church, where I am blessed and privileged to serve as pastor were illegally entered by person or persons unknown.  These burglers made their way maliciously through the buildings, and focused most of their attention on my personal office space.  When they left, they took with them the church copier, my computer, printer, monitor, keyboard, and other peripherals, as well as personal mementos and ministry-related souvenirs.  Among the peripherals that were taken were the backups to most of the files on my computer.  To say that the loss of 8 years worth of ministry notes, sermons, photographs and other church-related documents is devastating would be an understatement.  I am trying to create a list of what is gone, so that I know where to begin in recreating the necessary documents needed for our church.

While the loss came as a surprise, I am learning some great lessons.  First of all, I am learning what it means to trust in the Lord completely, that is, without a safety net.  The sermon notes prepared for this morning's service disappeared a few hours short of being printed on Friday morning.  The recreated outline and message was much better - due in no small part to the fact that God was working on my heart as I leaned more fully on Him for guidance and direction.  Secondly, I am being reminded of the power of community.  The church family is wonderfully demonstrating the power of 'shared burdens and blessings' as they minister to me during this time.  Thirdly, I am growing personally.  My prayer is that my inner attitude would accurately be that which my words and actions seek to display.  I don't want to hypocritically say one thing while thinking another; and God is teaching me that.

So, pray for me and the church, if you would.  We are seeing God grow us individually and corporately through this process; and it's exciting to be a part of it!

Ezekiel 20 - 21

God lays out His condemnations of Israel's sins.  He outlines specifically where they erred, and proves that He is righteous in punishing them.  Afterwards, He instructs Ezekiel to protray graphically for the nation how the punishment will come via the nation of Babylon.

Ezekiel 18 - 19

God promises, through the lips of Ezekiel, that each member of the nation of Israel will be judged on their singular merits.  The sins of the fathers will be visited upon the fathers; the punishment for the transgressions of the children will be theirs to bear.

Ezekiel 16 - 17

God gives Ezekiel two very unique descriptions of the way that He has treated Israel, and the way Israel has responded.  He depicts Israel as an abandoned baby that He chose to love and elevate to royalty.  The newly made princess then turns from her position and becomes adulterous with all the neighboring suitors.  God promises to deal with His adulterous bride as is fitting, He will bring her to the point of shame and humiliation so that she will return.  This is pictures as a vine being picked apart by an eagle.  God will exact punishment on those who refuse to obey Him; and will be vindicated as doing what is right.

Ezekiel 14 - 15

Many people inquired of Ezekiel, hoping to hear a personal message form God.  Those who came were still idolatrous, having set other things in the place of God - yet still hoping He wouldn't notice or be concerned by it.  God's message was clear:  the one who sets up idols in his heart and then comes looking for a message from God will find only God's wrath and punishment.  God will not share His glory with another.  God states that even if the righteous man of Israel (Noah, Daniel, Job) were to intercede on their behalf, God's anger would not be dissuaded.  He would treat them like wood that was useless for anything other than kindling.

Ezekiel 11 - 13

Ezekiel is given instructions to prophecy in direct conflict with the message given by the ruling nobles.  Theirs was a message of hopelessness; Ezekiel's was a message of hope despite hard times.  While he spoke, one of the rulers died, causing Ezekiel to fear for the lives of those remaining in the city.  God, however, reiterated His promise of protection for those whom He had chosen to bless - no matter where they had been scattered.

Ezekiel was then given the task of illustrating the rebellious nature of the people.  He accomplished this by acting out the motions of one going into captivity:  gathering his belongings by day and digging through the wall by night.  When asked why he was performing such tasks, he was to respond that it was a sign of what was to come - and that the nation would know that God is God when the events occurred exactly as predicted.  The time of its occurrence was not far off.  In fact, God would accomplish it so quickly that the proverbial saying "judgment later" would fall out of use.

God then turns His attention to those who claimed to represent Him, but did not.  These false prophets would find themselves on the receiving end of God's wrath and punishment.  The exact opposite of what they declared would come to pass, revealing their failure to speak for Deity.  All this would be done to underscore the fact that God alone is God.

Ezekiel 8 - 10

Ezekiel is given a vision of what is taking place within the spiritual leaders of the nation.  While they are putting forth a holy front, their hearts are worshipping false gods and their actions encourage the very behaviors God has commanded ought not to be done.  An angel was given the task of marking those who were grieved over the sin of the nation.  Others were given the duty of passing throughout the city and slaying all who did not possess the mark of abhorrance over sin.  Ezekiel asks God to spare the lives of those remaining in the city; but God declares that He will repay these sinful people for their deeds.  Ezekiel then sees a vision of a great chariot filled with the presence of God departing the temple.  The structure that for years had been called "the house of the Lord" was now left desolate of that abiding presence.  The building that had housed the physical manifestation of God's glory was now empty spiritually.  I wonder if anyone in addition to Ezekiel noticed?

Ezekiel 5 - 7

Ezekiel continues to bring news from the Lord to the sinful nation of Israel.  Israel will not be spared from God's punishment.  His eye will not look away from them until their punishment is completed.  They will look for deliverance, but God will not provide it until His wrath is satisfied and the people return in repentance and submission to Him.

Ezekiel 3 - 4

Ezekiel is given strict instructions on how to deliver the messages he recieves from the Lord.  When a message is to be given, Ezekiel will have freedom to speak.  When there is no message, Ezekiel will be unable to speak clearly to the nation.  His duties are those of a watchman - to give words of warning for the impending destruction that is coming.

Ezekiel was to construct a replica of the city of Jerusalem and lay seige against it for 390 days while laying on his left side, and for 40 days while laying on his right side.  During this time, Ezekiel would eat bread baked over a fire fueled by cow dung.  All this would be a sign to the nation of God's treatment of the nation, one year for every day Ezekiel lay on his side.

Ezekiel 1 - 2

Ezekiel, the priest, is given a vision of God's granduer.  Overcome by this spectacle, he is told that God will speak to him, and he will pass along the messages to the people.  The message Ezekiel is told to give is one of sorrow, lament, and woe.

Lamentations 3 - 5

Jeremiah relates the turmoil that he has personally experienced while watching the events unfold as God stated they would.  He describes an inner struggle that borders almost on anxiety; but reminds himself of God's goodness and promised mercy.  Even in difficult and chaotic situations, the prophet has hope.

By contrast, Zion (Jerusalem and her inhabitants) has been reduced to ashes.  The princes who walked in regal robes are left with tattered garments with which to adorn them.  Bodies atrophy and hunger is prevalent.  Canibalism begins to be practiced.  The surrounding nations can hardly believe that an enemy has walked right into the heart of Jerusalem; but Jeremiah reminds his audience that God permitted it due to Judah's great sins and allowed the invaders to gain access.

Jeremiah's fifth lament is a prayer for restoration.  He lays out the conditions found in Judah; confesses that the situation has been caused by their sinful behaviors; and reminds God of Who He is - a God who is everlasting and sovereign.  He begs God to restore His people if there is yet any mercy that can be shown to the nation.

Lamentations 1 - 2

Jeremiah the prophet offers up poetic displays of the ruin to which Jerusalem and Judah has been subjected.  The city is like an abandoned woman; one who has been courted and wooed by many men but now left alone, uncared for and detestable.  Her sorrow attracts no sympathy, her tears bring no comfort, her cries for help go unanswered, and her prayers are seemingly unheard.

God has displayed His displeasure with Judah by bringing her to this state of destruction.  His hand of protection has been removed and total devastation has been the result.  His voice had been ignored for so long by the people that now He will keep silent.  Judah will not be consoled.  Instead, other nations will observe God's dealings and ask "How could this be they city which God favored?"  Even this will serve to display God's serious dealings with sin and rebellion.  He had promised to punish the people for their sin, and His word has come to pass.

Jeremiah 51 - 52

Jeremiah continues to predict the utter destruction of Babylon.  One day, the devastation that Babylon brought to Judah will be repaid and Babylon herself will be utterly destroyed.  Concurrent with Babylon's destruction will be the re-establishment and blessing of Judah.  Jeremiah sent a record of these predictions to Babylon, so that the nation would know what God had planned.  The capital of Judah, Jerusalem, was sacked by the Babylonian army.  The king, Zedekiah, was cruelly tortured and the city burned.  The valuable objects were carried off and the people (4,600 of them) taken captive to Babylon.  God was fulfilling His promises to the nation.

Jeremiah 50

Jeremiah continues to prophecy the words the Lord gives him to utter.  Although Judah was punished for her sins through captivity to Babylon, God would still hold Babylon accountable for her sins.  The day would come when Babylon would answer for her wrongdoing and be punished severely for it.  In that day, Judah would once again be spared and allowed to return back to her land and flourish again as the object of God's favor.

Jeremiah 48 - 49

“Cursed is he who does the work of the Lord with slackness, and cursed is he who keeps back his sword from bloodshed." - Jeremiah 48:10

What a condemnation on those who seek peace at all costs.  There does come a time when it is necessary to take up arms for a noble cause.  When that time arrives, the one who steps up to the battle is blessed - according to this passage.  Wisdom is needed to determine when the time is necessary.

But, do not neglect the first part of the verse!  Those who approach God's work with the notion that it is a life of ease and "only one day of work a week" will find themselves cursed by the Almighty!  Representing the King of kings is a task that requires, demands even, the totality of one's efforts and energies.  Dear God, may I always approach Your work with integrity and not slackness!

Jeremiah 46 - 47

Jeremiah speaks words of judgment against the foes of Israel:  Egypt, Babylon and Philistia.  In the midst of these words of coming doom, there are still words of comfort and blessing for Judah.  God will not forget His chosen people.

Jeremiah 43 - 45

The nation of Israel decides that Jeremiah is still operating for "the enemy" and not speaking for God.  They ignore his pleas to stay in the land and surrender to the Babylonians.  Instead, they flee to Egypt.  Jeremiah delivers a prophecy that Nebuchadnezzar will conquer not only Israel, but Egypt as well.  As a sign that Judah's sin was against the Lord, and that He had taken notice, Babylon would conquer both Egypt and Judah in the lifetime of those who heard the prophecy.

Jeremiah 40 - 42

Jeremiah is released from prison by the Babylonians.  They allow him to choose where he would like to dwell, and he chooses to live among his people in the land of Israel.  The governor, Gedaliah, encourages the people to live peacefully under Babylonian rule.  However, insurrection mounts against Gedaliah and he is killed by a man named Ishmael.  Terror fills the streets as Ishmael's strength and forces are feared.  The people turn to Jeremiah for direction from God, and state that whatever God commands, they will do.  After 10 days, God gives the answer to Jeremiah:  those that remain in the land will survive and thrive; those who run off to Egypt, the disaster you flee will meet you there.  Jeremiah begs with the people to stay and not run to Egypt.

Jeremiah 37 - 39

Jeremiah instructs the nation to not put their trust in the Egyptian army who came to fight against Babylon.  Those who did so would find that when the Egyptian army withdrew, that the Babylonians would return with a vengeance and exact a punishing toll on the city.  Jeremiah is accused of colluding with the Babylonians, and is thrown in prison.  He continues to tell his message of the coming Babylonian invasion, but none will listen.  He specifically instructs the king that if he surrenders, his life will be spared and the city preserved.  This king, however, decides to flee.  As a result, the king is humiliated by the invaders.  His family is killed in front of him, and his eyes are then put out - the image of his family's demise the last image he will see.  The city is then burnt and destroyed.  Jeremiah, meanwhile, is released from prison and allowed to remain in his home.

Jeremiah 34 - 36

King Zedekiah is given a promise that he will be taken captive by Babylon, but will die peacefully and be lamented by his constituents.  The king declares that all Hebrew slaves are to be freed; the people obey this command, but later regret the decision and re-enslave their former slaves.  This enrages the Lord and he pronounces great punishment upon them.  The land will be left desolate because of their sin.  The Rechabites, however, obey the commands not only of God but of their ancestors as well.  God pronounces a special blessing upon this household for their obedience.  Jeremiah puts all the words of his prophecies into a scroll that is delivered to king Jehoiakim.  The king, displeased with the content of the prophecies, cuts the scroll apart and burns the pieces.  As punishment for this, God promises that Jehoiakim will die violently, his progeny will not survive, and no one from his line will ever again sit on the throne of the nation.  God's Word is to be taken seriously, and is not available for human revision.

Jeremiah 32 - 33

The king of Babylon attacks Jerusalem, just as Jeremiah had predicted.  While Nebuchadnezzar is beseiging the city, the prophet is shut up in prison for delivering the news of the seige.  God promises King Zedekiah that he will not be successful in his attempts to thwart the attack.  God also directs Jeremiah to buy land, since the land would once again be possessed by the Israelis.  Jeremiah obeys, but prays for wisdom.  God reminds him that He is omnipotent, nothing is difficult for Him.  He then outlines for Jeremiah exactly how the city will be taken and destroyed; nevertheless, He is not abandoning His plans to bless them immensely.  God then outlines for Jeremiah the plans He has for blessing the nation, even with the calamity that currently faces them.  All this will come to pass, God assures Jeremiah, so that His name will be once again revered and praised in the land.  God again and again tells Jeremiah that the nation will return from their captivity.

Jeremiah 30 - 31

Jeremiah continues to call the nation to repent and return to God.  He passes along the promises of a future based on God's provision and goodness.  Those who find their rest and security in Him, will never be disappointed.

Jeremiah 27 - 29

Jeremiah uses another illustration to bring a message to the rebellious nation.  He places himself in a yoke used to harness animals as a message to the Israelites that they should place themselves under the rule of the Babylonians.  One of the other prophets decides that this is NOT the message God wants to send, so he breaks the yoke.  Jeremiah tells this false prophet that instead of the wooden yoke broken, now God has placed the nation in a yoke of iron.  As a result of the false message, the false prophet dies within the year.  However, God continues to promise that there is a future for the nation of Israel.  His plans include a future and a hope for the future.  They can continue to trust in God who will continue to provide for them.

Jeremiah 24 - 26

Jeremiah continues to prophesy to the nation about God's judgment on their sin.  The response of the people?  Let's put the messenger to death!  But God gives Jeremiah the words to say that allow him to have favor with the people, thus sparing his life.

The significance of the ordinary

To the left you see the Wittenberg Schlosskirche Turen, the door to the Wittenberg castle church.  It was on this door that Martin Luther posted his 95 points of debate some 491 years ago.  Many scholars look to that date and event as the start of the Protestant Reformation.

But, I will dare to say, Martin Luther probably did not.

And that brings me to the point of this post, the significance of the ordinary.  All around society - even, maybe especially even, Christian society - are those who are consumed with finding and joining The Next Big Thing (TNBT).  Be it a political party, social cause, religious movement, global initiative, TNBT is eagerly discussed, parsed, disected and its leaders given cult-like status.

For Luther, it was an ordinary day.  He had been progressing in his studies for years; had given many years of faithful service; and was raising some questions he felt needed to be raised according to his understanding of Scripture and its application to life and culture.  Proposing the topics for debate was just another step in the process of this faithful life.

Luther, I will argue, was not trying to lead a movement, overthrow the establishment, initiate a revolution or a reformation.  He was taking steps each day to remain faithful to what illumination God gave him into His holy word.

491 years later, the task still remains.

Today, pastors are faced with a multitude of choices.  They do not have the indulgence system of Tetzel to do battle against; but they do have a society that has become indulgent, tolerant and anesthetized to that which will only bring about her certain destruction.  Now is not the time to create TNBT; it is time to take a stand for what is right.  It is time to do what is ordinary for a follower and disciple of Jesus of Nazareth to do - stand for truth, call those living in darkness to repentence, lift up the empty cross of Christ and proclaim a resurrected, living Savior exists to provide the salvation of souls in desperate need for eternal salvation.  Don't worry about what to call it; someone with far more creativity and insight than we will handle that.  Hold yourself close to the light of God's Word and invite others to warm by its fire and fan the flames so that it burns into their souls as well.

Never underestimate the significance of the ordinary.

Jeremiah 22 - 23

Messages are given to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, particularly the kings and leaders.  They would suffer extreme loss, captivity and go down forgotten by history due to their lack of obedience in following God's commands.  In spite of all this, God would still honor His name by preserving a small remnant of people who did love, follow and obey Him.  This remnant would be gathered from across the world and would be ruled by the Leader God Himself establishes.  This Leader would be named The Lord Our Righteousness, and He would fulfill all the promises made to the nation by God.  The false prophets and priests would be destroyed under the rule of this Righteous Leader

A rare political posting

In less than one week, California will vote on the following proposition: "Only marriage between a man and a woman is valid or recognized in California.” 

As you can imagine, the outcry is great.  In fact, the proposition is being called "Opposition to Gay Marriage."  Let me state clearly my position on this issue.  I am voting YES on Proposition 8, not because I am opposed to gay marriage (though I am).  I am voting YES on Proposition 8 because I am COMMITTED to TRADTIONAL MARRIAGE.

Opponents are crying "discrimination."  Proposition 8 has nothing to do with discrimination.  Oh, I hear the cries already "You are discriminating against the homosexual lifestyle."  Proposition 8 does no such thing.  Let me explain.  Discrimination is "the power of making fine distinctions; discriminating judgment" according to www.dictionary.com (their 3rd definition).  "Wait, you just sank your own boat!  You're judgmental!" comes the cry.  No, and yes.

Judgment is always necessary.  You discriminate every day.  You chose to come to this web site above any other (unless you just clicked "next blog").  You chose the type of computer you are using to read this, the wallpaper on your screen, even the password for your sensitive files.  And you did so to the exclusion of a lot of other choices.  You and I discriminate every single day.  And that is a good thing.

You see, I am the victim of discrimination.  For years, my dreams and hopes, all my plans for life centered around one thing.  And then, discrimination reared its ugly head and denied me my dreams and shattered my hopes.  There is no chance for restitution or reparation; and I will always be the victim of discrimination at the hands of my government.  You see, my hopes dreams and plans centered on flying Apache helicopters.  But I was discriminated against - because of what I am.  I am colorblind; and no military will give me a million-dollar piece of equipment when I cannot tell which troops are the enemy and which are friendly.  Nothing I can do will change my colorblindness.  It is part of who I am genetically; and the source of discrimination - and yet it is a good thing!

Fast forward to the issue on the ballot.  To say that this proposition is discriminating is true.  We must make a distinction between what is acceptable and what is not.  This discrimination is not made judgmentally based on what a person is; but it is made to differentiate between what a person does to qualify for the label "married" in the state of California.

Jeremiah 20 - 21

Jeremiah faces political pressure to change his message.  This pressure comes from the chief of the temple police.  Yet, Jeremiah does not - indeed, he cannot - change his message.  He states, that when he attempts to hold back what God has given him to share, it is physically painful to him.  The message is unchanged; Judah will fall.  Those who are willing to defect to the side of the attackers will live; but none who try to 'tough it out' will survive.

Jeremiah 18 - 19

Jeremiah is given the assignment to go to the potter's house and observe the actions of the potter.  God uses this as an illustration of what He will do to the nation.  He will do as He plans, and nothing will stand in His way.  After Jeremiah gives the message, the people revolt and try to imprison the prophet.  He gives them another illustration, breaking a dish before them symbolizing the way that their destruction will come and the total calamity that will result.

Jeremiah 15 - 17

God is determined to bring judgment to the nation of Judah.  Nothing will dissuade Him from punishing his rebellious people.  However, He promises Jeremiah that those who return to Him will not suffer as greatly as those who refuse to repent.  As a sign of God's displeasure with the nation, He commands Jeremiah to not marry or attend funerals or weddings.  God was going to take away all the reasons for rejoicing; and Jeremiah's absence at these events would speak to that fact.  There would be those who trusted their own conscience's message of peace; but God states that the heart of man is desperately wicked and its thoughts unknowable by humankind.  God repeatedly calls the nation to a restoration of its former ways, a reinstitution of the law He had given them.  But the nation would not listen or obey.

Jeremiah 12 - 14

Nestled in this passage is a chilling indictment of the prophets in the land of Israel concurrent with Jeremiah.  God states that the majority of those claiming to speak on His behalf are lying prophets.  They do not know, do not represent, and do not stand as a representative for God.  What a statement!  Many were being deceived, thinking they were hearing from one called the "man of God" who knew less than the people they claimed to instruct.  Unfortunately, this is not an isolated incident.  Even today, there are many who do not know God or His ways, and yet seek to communicate His words to the detriment of those who hear and the damnation of their very souls.  Anyone who claims to speak on behalf of the Almighty would do well to be sure that when they say "thus saith the Lord" they are accurately representing Deity.  Those who fail to heed this warning do so at their own peril.

Jeremiah 9 - 11

The prophet reminds his hearers that strength, glory, power or wisdom are not qualities in which one can rest.  The only quality in which one can find reason to rejoice is in knowing and understanding God.  Knowing that God is just, holy, supportive of mercy and loving loyalty will give a man a reason to rest and find comfort.  So ... where do you find YOUR comfort?

Jeremiah 6 - 8

Among this prophecy that predicts the coming destruction of the nation, Israel is challenged to return to "the old ways and the former paths" of following God.  Too often today, we as a society are so enamored of the new and that which is different that we hardly notice we have gotten off the old path of following God.  By following after fads and fame, we have forsaken the Father.  God in heaven, keep me on the right path, the old path of following You.

Jeremiah 3 - 5

God reveals to Jeremiah the terrible condition of the nation of Judah.  She has not learned the lessons intended to be learnt from her sister nation, Israel (the northern 10 tribes carried away by Assyria).  As a result of Israel's sin, she was taken captive; yet Judah did not see this as a call to repentence and change.  Instead, she acted much like an adulterous woman, going after as many strange bedfellows as possible.  Jewish law prohibited such a woman from being returned to her husband; but God demonstrates His great love and mercy by wooing His beloved nation back to Himself.  Those who would respond would be restored; while those who continued their lecherous ways would be destroyed.

Jeremiah 1 - 2

Jeremiah is commissioned to take a message of judgment to God's people.  He records for us that he served the Lord during the time leading up to the captivity of Jerusalem by Babylon.  God's commission of Jeremiah reminds me that God has a purpose for each person - a design for life that extends far beyond the borders of one's existence.  Jeremiah is sent ot a peoplet hat have turned their backs on God and His ways.  He is to call them back in repentance so that they will avoid the punishment that must surely follow disobedience.  Israel is unconvinced of her sin, all the while continuing to engage in it.  She has been blinded by her actions and will be held accountable.

Isaiah 65 - 66

God promises that in the last day, at the final judgment, His servants will not suffer want of anything; but that His enemies will know only want and destitution.  In that day, God will recreate the heavens and the earth and this new creation will not know the stain of sin.  Time will be greatly different from what we understand it to be currently.  God will be the focus of everyone's attention; and all will gladly and willingly serve Him the way He deserves and demands to be worshipped.

Isaiah 62 - 64

God again promises the salvation and deliverance of His people.  Those who would be tempted to write them off as desolate and forsaken, will find that they are the ones in whom God delights - and their joy rivals that of newlyweds.  The people of Israel will not be forgotten or forsaken.  In light of this fact, the nation calls out to God and begs for forgiveness and restoration.  They seek to be reunited with the God Who chose them.  They humbly return to the One who loves them and ask for all to be made right.

Isaiah 59 - 61

When man tries to redeem himself from the problems he faces, he encounters only more trouble.  God sees man's vain attempts to perform a self-rescue; and it prompts Him to offer Himself as the Ransom in the person of His Son.  The Son (also called the Servant in Isaiah) will provide rescue, release and relief.  He brings the brightness and clarity that is needed in a dark and wandering society.  He provides a vast contrast from the world around Him; in fact, events take a drastic 180-degree turn from darkness to light, mourning to rejoicing, and sadness to gladness.

Isaiah 56 - 58

The one who follows themself, will always find themselves following a fool!  Those who attempt to make their own rules and live the way they please will find themselves at odds against the God who created them.  For this reason, these people are called to come to the Lord and learn His ways, so that they might be prosperous.

Isaiah 53 - 55

God's Servant is described as One Who will demonstrate God's love at a great cost.  Misunderstood and mistreated, the Servant is greatly rewarded and is seen by God as being highly successful.  God's ways are carried out in the life of this Servant; and we are the beneficiaries, we who are so undesrving.  For this reason, we can sing and rejoice in the peace that the Servant initiates on our behalf.  An invitation is extended to those who will respond to God's offer of peace and abundance.  This is not a life of ease; but a life that is blessed by having God as its Director and Sustainer.  His ways and words are right and righteous.  His plans bring the way of life and rejoicing.

Isaiah 50 - 52

God continues to call for those who will respond to His voice and come repentently to His side.  Those who do will find solace, comfort and protection.  Those who look to their heritage (national, family, etc.) will be disappointed.  But those who turn to God will never be disappointed.  In fact, far from knowing disappointment, they will know true joy and peace while the rest of the world knows nothing but destruction.  In the midst of this, Jerusalem becomes a place of joy and delight.

Isaiah 47 - 49

Judgment is pronounced on Babylon.  Unfortunately, pride will overcome Babylon, so that she does not even perceive the danger she is in until it is too late.  She has taken pride in her dealings conducted seemingly unseen by anyone; but she has not escaped the view of the Holy One of Israel.

Even through this process, Israel will be brought into a greater relationship with her God.  Although they are stubborn and refuse to acknowledge their dependence on God, He performs His mighty works in order to magnify His own great name.  His plan from the beginning has been to redeem the nation of Israel and give no rest to the wicked.

To fulfill this plan, God will send His Servant to do His work and bring Israel back to Him.  Not only will this Servant redeem Israel; but He will bring salvation to the ends of the earth.  This should result (and will result) in global expressions of praise and thanksgiving.  God will not abandon the nation He has set apart to display His glory.

Isaiah 45 - 46

God promises to support and direct a leader named Cyrus who will be His servant, though he does not know God.  This demonstrates that God has power to orchestrate even the lives and names of those not yet born to prove His power to provide what He has promised.  He also promises to be found by those seeking Him - for He alone is God.  There is none other.  Nothing can be compared to Him, for He is unique in His character.

Isaiah 43 - 44

God steps in and reminds Israel that they have no need to fear when He is present.  Over and again, He reminds them "Fear not" and even lists the times when He will be present.  Floods, darkness, fire - none of these present a barrier to God's protective powers.  He simply states "You are Mine."

The nation will not always respond to the call to fear not, and to come into His presence.  They will rebel and suffer the punishment necessitated by their actions.  But yet God still promises forgiveness and restoration.

No matter what I face today, I do not have to fear.  God is always beside me.

Isaiah 41 - 42

Isaiah states to the nation that God is their peace.  In the light of all that goes on in their midst, God is present to deliver and bless.  Would they return to Him?  Would they turn from their wicked ways?  He had promised to strengthen and help them; but would they accept that offer?

Isaiah 39 - 40

Hezekiah, in a foolish rush to display the blessing of God on his life, shows the wealth of the nation to emissaries from Babylon.  Isaiah tells him that due to this arrogant display of wealth, the riches of Israel will be carried away to Babylon.

The nation is then given a message of comfort from God.  He has heard their cries and will answer them with deliverance, protection and provision.

Isaiah 37 - 38

The Hebrews were at the point of frustration due to the Assyrian invasion.  However, God promised them that they would be delivered; and not an arrow would be fired in the battle.  The next morning, over 185,000 of the Assyrian army lay dead; the rest fled home.  The leader was later assassinated in his hometown by his own family.  God prevailed.

King Hezekiah then faced another challenge - this one to his own health and livelihood.  Unless he repented, God would take his life.  Due to his repentence, God prolonged his life for 15 years.

Isaiah 34 - 36

Isaiah gives a description of the day when God's vengeance is poured out upon the nations.  In that day, nations will attempt to flee from His wrath, but will be unsuccessful.  Isaiah then describes the joy that will be found among God's people when the way of blessing has been prepared for them.

Then it all gets put to the test.  Emissaries from Assyria come and threaten the city of Jerusalem, warning the citizens to not listen to Hezekiah's pleas to trust in God.  These messages are delivered, not in the Aramaic language used in the government, but in Hebrew so that all the citizens would know the terror intended by the Assyrian army.

Hezekiah's command is simple:  do not answer these men.

Isaiah 32 - 33

When God judges the nations, He will establish His own reign.  This reign will be characterized by righteousness and justice.  All will be treatly appropriately; all will see that God is the fair Judge of the Universe, as His reign is a time of peace.  He will be upheld as a beautiful ruler with impeccable judgment.  None can compare to Him.

Isaiah 30 - 31

When the nation of Israel comes under judgment, Isaiah warns her inhabitants to NOT look to the oppressors as the ones in whom trust should be placed.  Even these oppressors - who would seemingly be initially victorious - would be defeated by God's great power.  Turning to other nations for help and rescue is futile when it abandons God in the process.

Isaiah 28 - 29

Just because one is an inhabitant of Jerusalem, their safety and blessing is not guaranteed.  God promises that He will judge based on personal criteria, and that place of residence is not one of the qualifying parameters.  Those who despise God's word and teaching will be judged.  Yet those who profess to love God while their hearts want nothing to do with Him will also be chastened, as God desires a pure and sincere worship.  In spite of all the promises of punishment and discipline, God will still bring about good to those who love, fear and serve Him.

Isaiah 26 - 27

A song of praise is predicted for the day when God will give rest to His people from the oppressors on every side.  This song of praise focuses not on the position or blessing the people enjoy; but on the One Who provides it.  This song elevates God and highlights His actions without being boastful or proud or gloating.  What a lesson for me today!

Isaiah 23 - 25

In the midst of the destruction that God will bring to His enemies, He will still remember His people.  The destruction will be complete; God will not tolerate any, nor will He show favoritism based on social standing or status.  All will be treated fairly and justly.  However, He will show kindness to His people and will preserve them in the midst of trouble.

Weekend Lite

Thanks to a friend (HT:  Jen), I now have this list.  How many of these things have YOU done?  My answers are in bold.  Things I haven't done are in italics.

1. Touched an iceberg

2. Slept under the stars

3. Been a part of a hockey fight

4. Changed a baby's diaper

5. Watched a meteor shower

6. Given more than you can afford to charity

7. Swam with wild dolphins

8. Climbed a mountain

9. Held a tarantula

10. Said "I love you" and meant it!!

11. Bungee jumped

12. Visited Paris

13. Watched a lightning storm at sea

14. Stayed up all night long and watched the sun rise 

15. Seen the NorthernLights

16. Gone to a huge sports game 

17. Walked the stairs to the top of the Statue of Liberty

18. Grown and eaten your own vegetables

19. Looked up at the night sky through a telescope

20. Had an uncontrollable giggling fit at the worst possible moment

21. Had a pillow fight

22. Bet on a winning horse

23. Taken a sick day when you're not ill

24. Built a snow fort

25. Held a lamb

26. Gone skinny dipping (never quite brave enough for this one)

27. Taken an ice cold bath

28. Had a meaningful conversation with a beggar

29. Seen a total eclipse

30. Ridden a roller coaster

31. Hit a home run

32. Danced like a fool and not cared who was looking!!

33. Adopted an accent for fun

34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors

35. Felt very happy about your life, even for just a moment

36. Loved your job 90% of the time

37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied

38. Watched wild whales

39. Gone rock climbing(Do rock walls count?)

40. Gone on a midnight walk on the beach

41. Gone sky diving

42. Visited Ireland( I wish!)

43. Ever bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant

44. Visited India

45. Bench-pressed your own weight

46. Milked a cow

47. Alphabetized your personal files

48. Ever worn a superhero costume

49. Sung karaoke

50. Lounged around in bed all day

51. Gone scuba diving

52. Kissed in the rain

53. Played in the mud

54. Gone to a drive-in theater

55. Done something you should regret, but don't

56. Visited the Great Wall of China

57. Started a business

58. Taken a martial arts class

59. Been in a movie

60. Gone without food for 3 days

61. Made cookies from scratch

62. Won first prize in a costume contest

63. Got flowers for no reason (got them FOR someone)

64. Been in a combat zone

65. Spoken more than one language fluently

66. Gotten into a fight while attempting to defend someone - verbal not physical

67. Bounced a check

68. Read - and understood - your credit report

69. Recently bought and played with a favorite childhood toy

70. Found out something significant that your ancestors did (like inventing the dishwasher!)

71. Called or written your Congress person

72. Picked up and moved to another city to just start over

73. Walked the Golden Gate Bridge

74. Helped an animal give birth

75. Been fired or laid off from a job

76. Won money

77. Broken a bone

78. Ridden a motorcycle

79. Driven any land vehicle at a speed of greater than 100 mph

80. Hiked to the bottom of the Grand Canyon

81. Slept through an entire flight: takeoff, flight, and landing

82. Taken a canoe trip that lasted more than 2 days

83. Eaten sushi

84. Had your picture in the newspaper

85. Read The Bible cover to cover

86. Changed someone's mind about something you care deeply about

87. Gotten someone fired for their actions

88. Gone back to school

89. Changed your name

90. Caught a fly in the air with your bare hands

91. Eaten fried green tomatoes

92. Read The Iliad

93. Taught yourself an art from scratch

94. Killed and prepared an animal for eating

95. Apologized to someone years after inflicting the hurt

96. Communicated with someone without sharing a common spoken language

97. Been elected to public office

99. Had to put someone you love into hospice care

100. Sold your own artwork to someone who didn't know you

101. Had a booth at a street fair

102. Dyed your hair

103. Been a DJ

104. Rocked a baby to sleep

105. Ever dropped a cat from a high place to see if it really lands on all fours. 

106. Raked your carpet(HUH?)

107. Brought out the best in people 

108. Brought out the worst in people (I think there may be a few...)

109. Worn a mood ring 

110. Ridden a horse

111. Carved an animal from a piece of wood or bar of soap 

112. Cooked a dish where four people asked for the recipe.

113. Buried a child (not my own)

114. Gone to a Broadway (or equivalent to your country) play

115. Been inside the pyramids

116. Shot a basketball into a basket

117. Danced at a disco 

118. Played in a band

119. Shot a bird

120. Gone to an arboretum

121. Tutored someone

122. Ridden a train

123. Brought an old fad back into style

124. Eaten caviar

125. Let a salesman talk you into something you didn’t need

126. Ridden a giraffe or elephant

127. Published a book

128. Pieced a quilt

129. Lived in an historic place

130. Acted in a play or performed on a stage

131. Asked for a raise

132. Made a hole-in-one

133. Gone deep sea fishing

134. Gone roller skating

135. Run a marathon

136. Learned to surf

137. Invented something

138. Flown first class

139. Spent the night in a 5-star luxury suite

140. Flown in a helicopter

141. Visited Africa

142. Sang a solo

143. Gone spelunking

144. Learned how to take a compliment

145. Written a love-story 

146. Seen Michelangelo’s David

147. Had your portrait painted

148. Written a fan letter

149. Spent the night in something haunted

150. Owned a St. Bernard or Great Dane

151. Ran away

152. Learned to juggle

153. Been a boss

154. Sat on a jury

155. Lied about your weight

156.Gone on a diet

157. Found an arrowhead or a gold nugget

158. Written a poem

159. Carried your lunch in a lunch box

160. Gotten food poisoning

161. Gone on a service, humanitarian or religious mission

162. Hiked the Grand Canyon

163. Sat on a park bench and fed the ducks

164. Gone to the opera

165. Gotten a letter from someone famous

166. Worn knickers

167. Ridden in a limousine 

168. Attended the Olympics

169. Can hula or waltz

170. Read a half dozen Nancy Drew or Hardy Boys books

171. Been stuck in an elevator

172. Had a revelatory dream

173. Thought you might crash in an airplane

174. Had a song dedicated to you on the radio or at a concert

175. Saved someone’s life

176. Eaten raw whale(again, why would anyone!?)

177. Know how to tat, smock or do needlepoint

178. Laughed till your side hurt

179. Straddled the equator

180. Taken a photograph of something other than people that is worth framing

181. Gone to a Shakespeare Festival

182. Sent a message in a bottle

183. Spent the night in a hostel

184. Been a cashier

185. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt

186. Joined a union

187. Donated blood or plasma

188. Built a camp fire

189. Kept a blog( well, duh!)

190. Had hives

191. Worn custom made shoes or boots

192. Made a PowerPoint presentation

193. Taken a Hunter’s Safety Course (of course)

194. Served at a soup kitchen

195. Conquered the Rubik’s cube

196. Know CPR

197. Ridden in or owned a convertible( does a jeep count?)

198. Found a long lost friend( Thank God for Facebook!)

199. Helped solve a crime

OK, your turn!