ANew Devotional

THE GOD OF DREAMS by Terry Benson

2011-12-04T09:20:00.001-08:00

“Don’t be afraid, Zechariah! God hasheard your prayer. Your wife, Elizabeth, will give you a son, and you are toname him John.” Luke 1:13(NLT)

“It’s no use, I’m too old now. Mydreams are dead, my body hurts in places I didn’t know I even had. I’ll justput in my time and try to be a good pastor for the remainder of my years. Lizand I tried, but we’re just too old now.”

I don’t know if Zechariah ever hadthoughts like the above, but I’m sure many of us recently “seniorized”baby-boomers have. Not that we want more kids! But as we age it’s easy to feellike life has passed us by, that what we once hoped for should remain in thescrapbooks of our minds, or that we just need to let go and give in to thenatural order of things. Dreams are best left to the young and the therapist’scouch.

Zechariah and his wife had a dreamonce. Like most Jewish couples they longed for a baby. But their dream died asthey grew older. There were no fertility clinics in the first century to aidchildless couples. So they resigned themselves to living out the rest of their days as good Israelites. Until the day the angel came. Funny how Goddoesn’t see the wrinkles, the dimming eyes, or the barren womb. With God,possibilities always exist, and He loves to use dreams as the blueprints fornew realities.

So the angel came to tell Zechariahthat he wasn’t too old and that God remembered the prayers that Zechariah had longforgotten. He and Elizabeth were expecting! Not just a son to carry on thefamily name, this miracle baby would be a special gift – a child whose namewould define his very existence and purpose. “John”, the angel said his namewould be. It means “God is merciful”.

You don’t have to be an agingbaby-boomer to experience broken dreams and disappointments. Life in this darkworld has a way of crushing the reveries of even the youngest. But God knows what your hopes once were, and Godsees what is now obscured to your vision. So don’t be surprised if one day inthe middle of your devotions an angel visits you and says, “Don’t be afraid,God has heard your prayers….”

SUFFERING REDEEMER by Terry Benson

2011-12-03T06:54:00.001-08:00

“We despisedhim and rejected him; he endured suffering and pain. No one would even look athim— we ignored him as if he were nothing. But heendured the suffering that should have been ours, the pain that we should haveborne. All the while we thought that his suffering was punishment sent by God…. Mydevoted servant, with whom I am pleased, willbear the punishment of many andfor his sake I will forgive them.” Isaiah 53:3-4, 11 (GNT)

A Messiah waspromised who would take the part of servant, of slave – taking all the abuseand punishment and suffering and pain that human beings could heap on him. He,the Righteous Ruler, was Victorious Warrior by virtue of His humility. He overcame evil with good, He overcameviolence with peace, He overcame arrogance with humility.

Humanunderstanding of personal trouble is that it’s the result of our wrongdoing –so if a person is going through difficulties, through suffering and pain,through abuse, we think it must be because God is punishing him. Yet here is apicture of God’s faithful and “devoted” servant bearing the brunt of allpunishment. He did nothing wrong, He was innocent as a newborn, as a lamb. Our troublesare most often the result of our predicament – we are born into a world full ofbrokenness and disease and death. It’s all the result of the firstdisobedience, but it’s not God wreaking vengeance on the poor human transgressor.

And yet, thereis punishment involved and it does belong to us. But this Deliverer would come as theSacrificial Servant, and the Messiah would become the Redeeming Savior – “Iwill forgive them (that’s us and all human beings),” because this “devoted servant” bore the punishment.

The Promised One has been the hope of humanity since thetwilight of Eden and the onset of sin’s midnight rule. Our race looked for Onewho could overcome evil, One who would rule in justice and mercy, One who would save us from eternal death. And He didcome, crushing the head of the Serpent. Now the only power Satan has over usother than temporary suffering and temporary death is the power we give him. Notemptation need overtake us, no deceptive lies or seductive enticements needsweep us into His control because Jesus Christ conquered him. Jesus died notonly because of our sins but with our sins, and He came back to life– breaking the power of the evil one, which was death. And now He lives as ourRighteous Ruler, judging us with mercy and compassion and forgiveness;promising His eternal life as ours.

This Promised One upon whom all the hopes of humanity hungdid come. Born as Jesus of Nazareth, He lived and loved, He suffered and died,He rose and ascended to heaven. And He promised He would return to destroy alldeath, end all suffering, wipe away all tears, and establish His rule of peaceforever. The Promise remains. And we pray, “Come Lord Jesus, Come.”

WATCH FOR THE STAR by Terry Benson

2011-11-29T06:38:00.001-08:00

Itried to threaten my older brother once when I was six years old. Something hedid (or wouldn't let me do) made me mad, so I pulled out the little souvenirpen knife my dad had recently given me and growled, "I'm gonna killyou!". My brother got on his bicycle (I don't think he was scared) androde off down the street. In that moment, I was terrified because I thought Ihad made him run away, and I couldn't bear the thought of losing him. When hereturned 15 or 20 minutes later, I sobbed my remorse and begged him not toleave again. My curse was useless in the face of our familial bond.

Longago a mercenary prophet was hired to curse God's people. He tried to speakagainst them, but only words of blessing would come out of his mouth. What elsewould you expect from someone whose vocation is to be God's spokesperson? Hemade three attempts at cursing them (it wasn't personal, he was just in it forthe money) and every time only good words would flow -- words of hope andfuture greatness. The fourth time Balaam foretold not just the rise of Israel,but the coming of Israel's Messiah. A Star would rise, a King would conquer.When the itinerant ex-slave nation of the once-mighty Pharaoh was to come intotheir own land, the Star would shine over them and defeat their enemies.

God'spromises always trump apparent threats or attempted curses. Facing devastatingcircumstances or dealing with hateful enemies, the promise still rings true,"a Star will come... a Ruler will rise." In your darkness, His lightwill shine. In your fear, His strength will conquer. Because His love alwaysovercomes the curse.

T.Benson

ADVENT: THE ONE by Terry Benson

2011-11-27T08:24:00.001-08:00

“…Oneof hers will strike you on the head, and you will strike him on the heel.” Genesis 3:14 (Message)

Paradise was lost.Guilt and shame were freshly discovered. The culpable couple cowered, fearfulof the fate that awaited them. But before punishment came promise as theCreator declared war on the Perpetrator of deceit – enmity between the childrenof Eve and the minions of the Serpent, epic battles to be fought, the painful horrorwounding even the Promised One. But victory would be His, this Child of Eve –the Son of God.

How does God turnthe Great Disappointment into Glorious Destiny? That is the mystery ofsalvation. God Almighty, Creator and Ruler of all things animate and inanimate –endless Power, infinite Light, Wisdom of the ages – and He chooses to use Loveas His weapon. Love will crush the serpent's head, Love will save the lost race,Love will carry the Son of God through the bowels of hell itself. Love willcome as a Child of the woman, a Warrior of compassion, a Lamb of sacrifice, aVictor over eternal death. No wonder the hopes of humanity hung on the adventof the Promised One for millennia. No wonder the wonder of angels eagerlyanticipated the Event. No wonder that the story is even now told and retold becauseour destinies too are wrapped up in the swaddling clothes of the One God sent tocrush the head of the serpent.

T.B.

MY "LIFE PSALM" by Terry Benson

2011-11-23T05:50:00.001-08:00

“I love the LORD because he hears myvoice and my prayer for mercy. Because he bends down to listen, I will pray aslong as I have breath!” Psalm 116:1,2

1971 was a defining year in my life. I had recently moved to MissionBeach, California, from a quiet country setting where the only distractionswere the distant coyote chorus at night and an occasional jetliner passing highoverhead. Mission Beach was not quiet. I worked at a vegetarian restaurant andChristian outreach center trying to share the gospel (which I had recentlydiscovered) and healthy living with hippies, saffron-robed chanters, youngVietnam vets, and beach people of all types. I had grown up in a prettyprotected environment and hearing the motorcycle gangs race up and down theboulevard at night was quite unsettling.

I remember lying in bed one night staring up into the darkness andreally talking to God – pouring out my heart and longing for some inner peacein the midst of all the chaos. Though not audibly, God spoke to me and gave me sucha deep reassurance that the memory of that feeling lingers to this day. I heardHis voice, and He heard mine.

It was shortly after that “encounter” that a friend shared Psalm 116with me and it was like experiencing the rays of a morning sunrise after a longdark night. The words of David’s song gave a voice to what I had experiencedand it has been my favorite ever since. I have read and prayed and meditatedthis psalm repeatedly in the course of my life because I find such solace, suchauthentication, such hope for the detours of my journey.

Here are some of the reasons I love Psalm 116. It says that my love forGod is the response to His attention to me -- He hears my voice, He is aware ofmy prayer. The fact that it is a prayer for mercy indicates the need for mercy.This is not an "everything's just great" prayer, but a plea for help-- a cry of desperation, "God have mercy on me." We need mercy whenwe have offended God and He has reason to punish us. Psalm 103:10 says Godhasn't treated us how we deserve to be treated -- the implication being that ifHe were to treat us as we deserve we'd be done in. Mercy also indicates I cometo God in my weakness, not my strength. There is a strong sense of dependencehere. I come to God relying on His ability and heart to treat me better, muchbetter, than I deserve.

And it says, "I love Him because..."God initiates the relationship. This prayer is a response to Him payingattention to me-- verse 2 says He "bends down to listen". King JamesVersion says He "inclined His ear". Whatever my need, whatever mysituation of desperation -- even when it is the result of my own sin andfailure -- God is interested in my cry for help. He is listening, He does hearme. So, yes, I will come to Him as long as there is a single breath in my body.

Never stop coming to God. You can't wear Himout, you can't exasperate Him or bother Him. Above everything else He isinterested in what's going on in your heart; He is sympathetic to your trouble;He is waiting to give you hope again. And He will speak to you as He did to methat night in Mission Beach and as He has done so many times since.

ARE YOU A BLESSING TO GOD? by Terry Benson

2011-11-22T10:50:00.001-08:00

“Blessthe Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name.” Psalm 103:1 (KJV)

How easy itis to read words in the Bible as so much “holy talk”, but not really thinkabout the meaning. Take this verse, for instance. We mostly pray, “God bless me,” but have you ever thought of whatit means to bless God? “Bless the Lord, O my soul…” – how can I “bless” God?Isn’t He the source of all good things, of every blessing?

I began tothink about this and as I read further in the Psalm I realized this isparent-child thing (“like a father…” verse 13), or I should say, a child-parentthing. As a dad of three children, I can think of many times when my kidsblessed me. First, when they were born! I was at the event when each of themdrew their first breath, and I can’t think of a more holy moment or a greaterblessing I could receive than to witness the miracle of a new life. I wasblessed to tears of joy each and every time! And as they grew – the slightestsmile, their first words, their first wobbly steps with arms outstretched for daddyto catch them should they fall. Blessings overflowing.

When theygrew into their own personalities and would give me a kiss good-night, or atight hug when I returned from a trip – the warmth of their love blessed mysoul over and over. And when they disobeyed and shed tears of remorse, I wasblessed by their repentant love. My kids have blessed me and continue to be ablessing to me.

So when itsays, “Bless the Lord, O my soul,” I know now exactly what that means. Everytime I say “thank-you” to God or look up to Him for help to keep me fromfalling, or smile when I think of His grace and salvation, or tell someone howamazing and good He is – I am blessing Him because He loves the connection andawareness and gratitude of His kids. And every time I come to Him to repent ofmy sin and I ask forgiveness and I throw myself on His mercy – His heartoverflows with joy because even in my contrition He is blessed.

Bless God?Yes! Today I will bless Him with every part of my being!

LESSONS FROM A SACRIFICIAL SQUIRREL by Terry Benson

2011-11-20T09:52:00.001-08:00

“…whatlooked like flames or tongues of fire appeared and settled on each of them.” Acts 2:3 (NLT)

Yesterdayour church nearly caught on fire – literally! A poor squirrel made the wrongturn on some power lines and he (or she, we’re not quite sure) was quicklyturned into a whole burnt offering as dramatic as the prophet Elijah’sexperience on Mt. Carmel when fire came down from heaven and consumed hisoffering. Those who were present at the event said there were two loud bangs,and then the lights went out. Later we discovered an electrical panel insidethe church was fried and came dangerously close to igniting the entire churchstructure.

Funnything is, yesterday our church family was on fire because the majorityof them spent the day sharing God’s love in tangible ways by giving food to thehungry, sending notes and packages of encouragement to medical mission volunteersin the South Pacific, by visiting and singing for residents of a localAlzheimer’s home, and many other acts of kindness. Old and young embraced thecall of God to minister to others as Christ has ministered to us, and it wasthe most heartening thing to see how the “fire” of God’s love settled on eachone.

Then lastnight, in the glow of candlelight (because we had no electricity), we sharedthe most awesome time of fellowship in an Agape’ Feast and Communion. You couldfeel the joy and the love that came from the day’s experiences in ministry andfrom the opening of our hearts to each other by the influence of the HolySpirit. And as we shared the simple meal, including the bread and the wine (don’tworry, it was unfermented!), it was clear that God was among us.

Theoutpouring of Holy Spirit power to Jesus' followers on the Day of Pentecostwas first and foremost God’s love filling hearts open and ready to receive, andthen overflowing in ministry to the needs around them. That same Holy SpiritPower was present in North Hills Church yesterday in so many ways. It onlytakes one spark to set off an explosion, and it only takes one open, hungryheart for God to manifest His miraculous love to and through a believer.

T.B.

TRUE SUCCESS by Terry Benson

2011-11-19T04:00:00.000-08:00

“They realizedthat they had been with Jesus.” Hebrews 3:8 (NKJV)

What we'veexperienced in ANEW over the past few weeks is just a taste of what God plansto do for us, in us, and through us at North Hills in the coming months andyears. And I pray that more than ever before we would realize that a life withGod is a life worth living, and when that life is shared with other believersand poured out in ministry, an eternal difference will be made in our world.

“Love God,Love Each Other, Serve the World” is just a way of remembering the life God hascalled us to. And learning the “rest-and-serve rhythm” of the Sabbath Way ishow we can implement that life. So at the end of your earthly life, what wouldyou like to be known for? What do you think would be the greatest compliment someonecould give you or your highest measure of success?

For Peter andJohn the answer was so much different after the experience of the Cross thanbefore. Before the cross they were looking for the "shock and awe" ofministry - feeding 10,000 people, casting out demons, chasing the bad churchleaders out of the church, being on the inside track of the Revolution. It wasmostly about what was in it for them. But after the cross the greatest measureof their success was totally centered in Jesus. It was seen during one of theirtrials when they were being threatened by the religious leaders. Here's whatActs 4 says: "When they saw theboldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated anduntrained men, they marveled. And they realized that they had been with Jesus." Acts 4:13 (NKJV)

Isn't that thebest that could ever be said of any of us – when people realize we've been withJesus? Now that would be the evidence that we really have begun to live our livesANEW!

T.B.

Think about it: Living my lifeimmersed in God’s grace, directed by God’s Spirit and partnering in ministrywith Jesus is the highest calling to which I could ever aspire.

FACING THE FUTURE FEARLESSLY by Debbie Wood and Adam Wood

2011-11-18T04:00:00.000-08:00

This is my command—bestrong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever yougo. Joshua 1:9 (NLT)

My son, Adam, is a Marine scheduled fordeployment to Afghanistan in March 2012. Several weeks ago we stumbled into a conversation discussing his courseof action in the event he was taken captive by the Taliban. Adam quickly assured me he would not allowhimself to be captured — the risk of torture was too great. He would “use his last bullet on himself” tokeep that from happening. Alarmed tohear this I reminded Adam that he would have to answer for the blood on hishands, including his own, and pointed out to him that no torture he couldpossibly face was worse than crucifixion. Convicted by my reasoning that “Jesus didn’t save the last bullet forhimself”, Adam assured me that he would not end his own life to avoidcapture. With Adam’s permission I amincluding an excerpt of his account of our conversation posted on his Facebookpage:

“If you haven’t had the chance recently,read the account of Jesus’ anguish in Gethsemane described in Matthew 26:36-46. I love this passage because herewe see Jesus’ humanity on display more so than at any point in the Gospels. He is literally scared to death of what isahead of him. However, rather thaninsisting that the cup be passed from him, Jesus humbly submits to the will ofthe Father. What he subsequently endureswas the pinnacle of induced physical suffering known to man at that time, yetJesus remained steadfast through it all, confident that his suffering and deathheld a greater purpose. What argument doI have then, to excuse myself from capture and possible torture and death, ifthat indeed is what God has planned for me? I know Christians don’t like to admit or even think about this, but Godnever promised us a happy ending on earth. But nothing we can possible suffer here can remotely compare to thesuffering endured by His son on the cross. Indeed I have no argument, and if I did take my own life it is because Ilet fear become my master. What is fearthen, but a lack of trust, a lack of trust in Him who controls everything? Seems absurd I know, but the crazy thing is,we give into that fear every day. Ratherthan trusting in God’s provision, we take matters into our own hands to ensurewe get what we want: sex, money, power,“friends”, favor, easy living, or in this personal case, an easy death. All this considered, I often wonder if Itruly believe what I profess to be the truth, or if anyone does for thatmatter. My friends, I may be headed foran earthly battlefield, but make no mistake, all of us are at war every momentof every day, and our actions on the battlefield have eternalimplications. God is revealing likenever before how truly unprepared I am for the depth of fortitude required inservice of His kingdom. All I can begfor tonight is forgiveness and for God not to give up on me, even when I giveup on myself. Amazing Grace, how sweetthe sound that saved a wretch like me, for even when I am faithless, He remainsfaithful, for He cannot disown Himself

D.W. & A.W.

Think about it: In what area of your life is God calling youto let go of fear and face the future trusting in His power and provision?

A VISION FOR US ALL by Terry Benson

2011-11-17T04:00:00.000-08:00

“If two of you agree here on earth concerning anythingyou ask, my Father in heaven will do it for you. For where two or three gathertogether as my followers,I am there among them.” Matthew 18:19, 20(NLT)

What did Jesus mean when He promised that the Father would do anythingthat we ask when we agree together? Not long ago I came across something PastorTom Schroer shared with the leaders of North Hills at a retreat over 10 yearsago. In it he articulates the dream God put on his heart as the leader. I wasstruck in reading it how much of what Tom shared in this document has happenedor is happening. To me it’s a fulfillment of Jesus’ promise to grant our“agreed-on” requests. See what you think.

“I have a dream of an Adventistcongregation that wants to expand beyond traditional SDA culture and getinvolved with the people in their community. It’s a dream of North Hills Church becoming a place where the hurting,the depressed, the frustrated, and the confused can find love, acceptance,help, hope, forgiveness, guidance, and encouragement. Where growth comes bypeople accepting Christ, not just membership transfers from other SDA churches. A church that takes to heart Jesus’ commandto ‘seek and save the lost.’

“I have a dream of challengingNorth Hills Church to a level of spiritual maturity where everyone is a part ofa small group so dynamic, meaningful, and close, that each person will eagerlyanticipate attending Sabbath Worship.

“I have a dream of seeing everybeliever equipped for significant ministry by helping them to discover thegifts and talents God has given them.

“I have a dream of seeing multipleworship services each weekend where the glory of God is experienced in thepower of Pentecost.

“I have a dream of seeing bothyoung and old working together unselfishly, without barriers, seeking andsaving the lost as a team.

“I have a dream of seeing NorthHills Church fully embrace what Jesus Himself gave us: the Great Commandment to love God and others,and the Great Commission to share the gospel.

“I have a dream of seeing theNorth Hills Church becoming like the church in the book of Acts – a caringgroup of people who are closer to each other than to their naturalfamilies—committed to God and to each other as the first priority in theirlives.”

Written by Pastor Tom Schroer

What a glimpse into God’s leading at North Hills over the past 12 years –and why calling this series, “ANEW” was so appropriate! What God begandoing through Tom’s vision and ministry continues to this day because so manyof us agree together in the name ofJesus that these “dreams” are our requests. Praise God! He is answering ourprayers, and He is making North Hills into a power for good in our world and atestimony to His glory and grace through Jesus Christ.

T.B.

Think aboutit: Will I agree withand keep asking God to fulfill this dream?

THE NEW "FOLLOW-SHIP" by Dennis Wallstrom

2011-11-16T04:00:00.000-08:00

“All power in heavenand on earth is given to me. So go and make followers of all people in theworld.” Matthew 28:18, 19 (NCV)

People come to me for advice. Sometimes as I’m listening to what they’resharing about their lives, they come right out and ask, “Tell me what I need todo.” This is a precarious position,because they are often in considerable pain and seeking relief. I do like helping people feel better. And I’m not unaware that those in our worldwho do this successfully and regularly—advise people in a way that helps them feelbetter—gain a large following. And froma following comes recognition, power,and wealth.

So in the instant of the request, forexample, to “make my son behave,” or “get rid of my stress and depression,” or“help me get my wife back,” a door is opened to power. If they follow my advice—and the key word is“follow”—and they are helped, I have acquired power in their lives. But what kind of power, and what will I dowith it? Thus, therapists are hemmed inclosely by ethics, laws, and regulations that limit the power they acquire andhow they can use it. In the oft-usedphrase, we are to empower others andnot just gain power over others.

The power question arises often in all ourhuman interactions, and is a sensitive and delicate one. But in Jesus’ great directive to us it issettled unmistakably. Power rests inhim—all of it. More than raw flash-bangcapability, it is the authority and rule of his kingdom. Just as we pray it, perhaps unthinkingly,“Yours is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory forever.” If that is truly settled for us, then ourengagement with others is made crystal clear: no one is to follow us, but we invite others to join us in a new type offollow-ship. Put simply, “I am followinghim in the dazzling reality of his kingdom. Come, follow with me.” He alone can say simply, “Follow me.”

Have you seen it in the faces of others,when in their struggles they yield to the power of the kingdom of JesusChrist? This is far beyond the effect ofsome bromide I might offer as a therapist. They begin to walk with us as we walk with him, and they discoverfreedom, purpose, and healing. Andpower—oh yes, power! More than onecould hope to gain in any self-serving enterprise, it is all power. And it is ours,too—together—in him.

D.W.W.

Think about it: What ismost real to me about the kingdom of Jesus Christ? How can I convey this to those who are in mylife?

DON'T TALK ABOUT IT, DO IT! by Margaret Baldwin

2011-11-15T04:00:00.000-08:00

“How happy are those who hear the word of God and obeyit!” Luke11:28 (GNT)

Did you realize that Jesus says you can be moreblessed than his own mother, the Virgin Mary, is/was—the woman who wasimpregnated by the Holy Spirit and gave birth to the Son of God? I learned thatas I studied several translations of the above text in its context.

Jesus was teaching crowds of people when one listening lady became sofilled with emotional intensity that she spontaneously raised her voice andcalled out a blessing on Jesus' mother for having given birthand nurture to Him. Jesus heard her clearly and immediately responded with BUT“Blessed—happy and 'to be envied'--rather are they whohear the Word of God and obey and practice it!”(The Amplified Bible)

When you listen, do you truly hear? To me this means swallow it,consume it, analyze it, rehearse, digest, and attempt to encompass it--look atall sides of it and comprehend its various extended values. God's Word is life(John 6:63). I want enjoyable life, and I want it abundantly, (John 10:10) “tothe full, till it overflows.” (The Amplified Bible) I want to be blessed, happyand envied by others when I am actually acting on what Ibelieve. I want to be constantly living in Him so closely and intimately that Iwill sense His daily direction, His urgent prodding and His thrillingcommendation. I want to sense His pleasure in accompanying me in that obedience,in living that solid, Christ-life daily.

Can you imagine being in such a loving relationship with Jesus that youthrill with His excitement in your spiritual growth? Can you imagine being energized by Hiscommendation of your commitment? Can youimagine experiencing His peace and pleasure in your fellowship? Can you imagine being so wrapped in His love and contentment that others willbe drawn to you? They may notice you aredifferent, and want to know how you got that way. Perhaps they might even envyyour ability to live an open, Jesus-centered, flourishing and joy-filled life.

Let's start practicing the Word! Being a musician and music teacher, tome means DAILY, “twenty-four-seven”—PRACTICE! The result will be the HolySpirit impregnating your heart and mind with Himself. You will be livingChrist's life within the exquisite parameters of your own personality,education, interests, hobbies, talents and chosen life work. You will becomethe most attractive and unique YOU possible. And you may be envied! Just enjoyit!

M.B.

Think about it: What words of Christ do you need to act on today?

OUR PAPA HAS PLANS! by Brian Plummer

2011-11-14T07:00:00.000-08:00

“I know what I'm doing.I have it all planned out—plans to take care of you, not abandon you, plans togive you the future you hope for. When you call on me, when you come and prayto me, I'll listen.” Jeremiah 29:11, 12(Message)

One of the most famous stories inCalifornia history is that of the Donner Party. You know them, right? The 87people who trekked from the East in 1846 to come and pursue fame and fortune inCalifornia? Fame and fortune they found,but not quite the way they had planned: along the way, fights broke out among the group, some died of disease,one man was murdered on the trail, and they ended up stuck in the Sierra Nevadamountains in the worst blizzard ever known in California up to that time. Some in the group resorted to cannibalismbecause of a desperate lack of food. Essentially, these were not very nice people—not the kind of peopleyou’d want to have over for dinner. (OK,sorry for the pun. I know it’s in badtaste.) One of the big reasons theDonner Party ended up in the predicament they did was because they had trusteda man, Lansford Hastings, to guide them from Missouri to California. Hastings had written a guidebook and promisedto lead the group personally, but the “shortcut” in the book was little morethan speculation, and Hastings left Missouri before ever meeting theDonners. In effect, he wasn’t much of aguide, and people died as a result. It’sone of the sadder tales of American history, one that could be subtitled “TheGuide Who Didn’t Lead.”

Thank God we can trust Jesus to be ourGuide! God Himself said in Jeremiah29:11-12 that He has plans for us, plans to take care of us, plans to give ushope and a future; when we call on Him and pray to Him, He promises tolisten—He will never abandon us. Theroad may be hard—no one promised the Donners an easy path, and God doesn’tpromise us one, either—but our Lord tells us that He knows the way. Keep in mind one of Jesus’s most oft-used phrases: “Follow Me.” Jesus never tells His disciples, “Hey, guys—go do A, B, and C, and I’llsit here and eat Cheetos until you get back.” No, he always starts by calling us to follow Him; then he tells us towatch what He does and to emulate him; throughout the Gospels, Jesus leadsthrough example.

Knowing that God has the best in mind forus—even if it isn’t always easy—gives me assurance that the One I’m followingis straight as an arrow and won’t mislead me. We’ve become cynical because of all the Lansford Hastingses we’ve seenin the world, but we have thousands of years of consistent track record withGod: we can trust Him with our futureand know for certain that His guidance will lead us home.

B.P.

Think about it: Am I trusting God with my future? Do I havebackup plans just in case His don’t work out?

ETERNITY STARTS NOW by Brian Plummer

2011-11-13T05:52:00.000-08:00

“Because Jesus wasraised from the dead, we've been given a brand-new life and have everything tolive for, including a future inheaven—and the future startsnow!” 1 Peter 1:3, 4 (Message)

I don’t really understand eternity. I’m a historian: I analyze and seek to understand the past. That’s what makes sense: we can look at the historical record at whatevents transpired, what people thought, how people acted, and so on, and thenwe can come to some sort of conclusion about the truth and how that truthaffects us today. But eternity . . .what do I do with an utter lack of a time frame? How do I wrap my mind around “no beginningand no end”? Where are the markers? the signposts? the things that give a sense of before andafter? How can I tell if I’m makingprogress without a way to look where I’ve been, whether physically ortemporally? Sorry, I just don’t get it.

Maybe that’s the point. Maybe that’s exactly what God tries to getacross to us: as you live in Myworld—loving Me, worshiping Me, serving My people, living in the rhythm of lifewith and for Me—you’ll find that your perspective on life changes. You’re no longer rooted in the here and nowof this world but rather living with a completely different mindset, acompletely different outlook on life and the way the world works. We don’t have to wait to get to heaven tobegin to experience the joy of worshiping God: as we devote ourselves to our King and focus on Him, eternity startsnow. We don’t have to wait to dosomething spectacular to get our names in the history books: we can give a cold drink to someone in needand see the gratitude of Jesus in those eyes, and eternity starts now. We can set aside one day a week to worshiptogether and choose to lay down our daily burdens, telling the rest of theworld that for one day out of seven, the rush of time doesn’t exist—becauseeternity starts now. Our God iseternal, and as Jesus prayed in John 17, He and the Father are one; therefore,if we are one with Jesus, then we, too, live in the same time frame—or lackthereof—that God does. And if we are onewith God, then what matters to God matters to us. What hurts God hurts us. What makes God joyful makes us joyful.

As we live with a constant awareness of ourMaster and learn to live in the rhythm of worship, loving, and serving, we findthat eternal life is not some far-off dream.

No, eternity starts now.

B.P.

Think aboutit: How amI spending my eternity today? What connection am I making between now andhereafter?

SEVEN-DAY SABBATH by Terry Benson

2011-11-12T04:00:00.000-08:00

“It is just as the Holy Spirit says, ‘Ifyou hear God's voice today, don't be stubborn!’” Hebrews 3:7, 8 (CEV)

We have a lot ofclocks in our house – every room has at least one. One in particular annoys me.It’s the projection clock in our bedroom that casts a subtle blue light imageof current time on the ceiling. Diana loves it, but it bugs me. I imagine thatit penetrates through my closed eyelids, haunting me even though my eyes arenot open. I’ve tested it out but, like Diana says, it’s just my imagination! Ihave to admit, though – all these clocks, these “time heralds”, have made memuch more conscious of the “now” of my life.

When Godestablished the Sabbath He had in mind a special day that celebrated creationas well as His relationship with us. But He made us to be with Him all thetime, not just on the 7^th day. Unfortunately, God’s peoplethroughout history have forgotten that fact. They have repeatedly fallen intothe error of seeing “Sabbath” as the day to do “God-stuff”. Too often weapproach it as the time during the week when we perform our religious duties –like go to church, be nice to people, read the Bible, sing hymns, or take anature walk. God gave us six days to do our stuff and one day to do His.Right?

The Israeliteswho were freed from Egyptian slavery made this mistake, and it cost most ofthem the realization of their dream: the Promised Land. They had lots of upsand downs in their journey from Egypt to Canaan – but after the Golden CalfAffair, they seemed able enough to get into the routine of prescribed worship,including Sabbath observance. Problem is, they ignored the Sabbath “clock” – a7^th Day reminder to pay attention to the “now” of everyday. Turningaway from the quiet voice of the Holy Spirit saying, “Today”, they were fixatedon getting to the Promised Land. They were willing to go through the motions ofworship on the 7^th day because that was the rule. But they refusedto hear the “Now” of God’s voice. And so, as Psalm 95 says (quoted here inHebrews 3 & 4), they never entered the Sabbath rest of God. They wereSabbathkeepers who missed out on the joy of God’s true “Sabbath” because theydidn’t pay attention to God’s voice saying: “Today.”

God’s Spirit isstill speaking. “Today,” He says, “I’m inviting you into My peace. Today is theday to experience Sabbath rest by trusting in Me, opening your heart to Me, andfollowing My direction in your life. Don’t wait for the 7^th day.Worship and love and work with Me now, Today.”

So I’ve decidedI don’t want to be a Seventh-day Adventist anymore. Instead, I’m going to be a Seven-dayAdventist Christian. Because “Today” God is speaking to me. And He’s calling meto walk with Him in the “Sabbath” way of life.

T.B.

Think about it: Areyou listening to God today?

THE RHYTHMS OF GRACE by Terry Benson

2011-11-11T04:00:00.000-08:00

“Walk with me and workwith me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't layanything heavy or ill-fitting on you.” Matthew11:29 (Message)

I don’tknow why some Christians are offended by rhythm. “Drums should never be broughtinto a church” I’ve heard them say. When I was a teenager playing in a folktrio around Southern California it was guitars. I plucked a stand-up BassFiddle and my friends strummed guitars, and even that was too much for somechurch folks. Too much rhythm! I suppose what they hated about it is what Ilove about it – it helps you feel themusic. It invites you into patterns woven with melody and harmony—moving,changing, enveloping and connecting. I’mso glad we appreciate rhythm at North Hills – rhythm guitars, rhythmic drumsand percussion. I can’t even imagine our worship without it.

I lovethe rhythm of song and sound. And I love the rhythm of Grace – that’s how theMessage Bible puts it. When Jesus invites us into His Sabbath rest of grace, Healso invites us to learn the complementing pattern to that rest – service. Thetension of service and the release of rest – it’s what makes it “rhythm.” If weonly bask in His mercy and forgiveness and passively enjoy His peace and love,we are in danger of becoming spiritually lethargic, maybe even to the point offeeling “entitled” and “privileged.” Service is the exercise that gets our lifeflowing and our hearts knowing what Jesus means when He says, “I came to serve,not to be served.”

Thispassage in Matthew 11:29 actually describes an ancient method that was used tohelp train oxen pull heavy loads or plow fields. An experienced ox would bepaired with a newbie by a yoke, a kind of brace that joined the two oxen at theneck so that when the one who knew what he was doing would pull, it helped theother one get into the act as well. The yoke was not a burden but somethingthat made the job easier. So Jesus says, “Look, since I’ve been at thisbusiness of ministering to others for a long time, why don’t you join me?You’ll learn how to do it by doing it alongside Me. You’ll get into the swingof it – the rhythm of it – in no time.” And instead of plowing a field, we areworking the fields of the world, sowing God’s seeds of love and mercy so therecan be a great harvest of saved human beings.

Restand serve, serve and rest – that’s what the Sabbath Way is all about. AcceptingJesus’ invitation to come to Him and find peace and life in His salvation, thenpartnering with Him in serving the needs we see in the world around us. Abeautiful rhythm of God’s grace. Now that’s a beat I can really get into!

T.B.

Thinkabout it: Are youready to be mentored by the best Drummer ever?

A MATTER OF PRIORITIES by Kay Kalousek

2011-11-10T04:00:00.000-08:00

“The Sabbath was made for the good of humanbeings; they were not made for the Sabbath.So the Son of Man isLord even of the Sabbath.” Mark 2:27, 28 (GNT)

The white elephant.

It’s a burden--that seemingly valuable giftthat someone gave you that now adds clutter or complexity to your life. You can’t get rid of it because your aunt,grandmother, mother-in-law (fill in the blank) would be hurt and upset if youdid. So the white elephant just sitsthere wasting space, time, or energy and yet you are stuck with it.

The term “white elephant” comes from the storythat the kings of Siam (now Thailand) would makea present of one of these animals to courtiers who had fallen out of favor. Since the animals were considered sacred and the gift had been from theking, the gift couldn’t be disposed of and therefore could ruin the recipientby the cost of its maintenance.

In the time of Jesus, one of the God’sgreat gifts, the Sabbath, had become a white elephant for many people. The burdens and restrictions that had beenplaced on the Sabbath by humans made it a weekly obligation ruling everyone’slife. Instead of being a delight,Sabbath had become a taskmaster enslaving people with endless rules. For many, the Sabbath had become an end untoitself and the real purpose of the Sabbath—ceasing from labor to thankfullyhonor God for His creation—had become lost. Many of the religious leaders had become “Sabbath police” ready topounce on anyone who deviated from their legalistic observance of Sabbath lawand people were slaves to the Sabbath.

So when Jesus did things like healingpeople on the Sabbath, His detractors were always ready to accuse Him. But Jesus always had an answer for them thatpointed out their evil thoughts and their lack of understanding of the meaningand purpose of the Sabbath. This time,however, the religious leaders went after Jesus’ disciples who were pickingheads of grain to eat as they walked through a field. This was considered “harvesting” andtherefore they were accused of breaking the Sabbath law. But Jesus turned this mindset upside-down bypointing out the true nature of the Sabbath. The Sabbath was made for the goodof people; people were not created so that the Sabbath could be honored. God created all things first and designatedthe seventh day as a commemoration of the work that He had done.

Jesus then declared Himself to be theCreator by stating that he was Lord of the Sabbath. These words of Jesus were revolutionary andcounter to the predominant legalistic viewpoint of the Sabbath!

Jesus sets us free in so many waysincluding the Sabbath. He created theSabbath as a benefit and not as a burden. He reminds us that it is a matter ofpriorities: to serve the Creator and not the creation, to enjoy the freedom ofthe Sabbath and not be enslaved by it.. God’s gifts are the best and He nevergives us a white elephant!

K.K.

Think about it: Does the gift of Sabbath direct me to theGiver of Sabbath?

AN OPEN INVITATION by Terry Benson

2011-11-09T04:00:00.000-08:00

“Areyou tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me andyou'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest.” Matthew 11:28(Message)

One ofthe best vacations Diana and I ever took was on the island of Kauai. Somecompassionate church members invited us to use their condominium in Princevillefor a week, and we gladly accepted their offer. The memory of those blazingsunsets over Hanalei Bay still lingers in my mind. So does the day hike alongthe northwestern cliffs that led down to an amazing beach where a mountainstream tumbled into the Pacific and massive waves broke on the shore. Talkabout a delightful vacation! I still get a sense of peaceful bliss when I lookat our pictures and think about it. All because we accepted what was offered tous.

Betterthan palm trees or beaches or bays – better than ukuleles playing or huladancers swaying or the warm Pacific breezes blowing is the vacation offered byJesus in Matthew 11. He calls it a “real rest” – I think of it as true Sabbath. The Sabbath day of ancientIsrael was full of promise. It was to be a weekly vacation from the wearinglabor of trying to eke out an existence in forbidding circumstances. At thetime Jesus spoke these words, though, the Sabbath had become a burden, a weeklyritual full of exacting rules and complexities – not at all what God hadintended.

SoJesus invites His hearers into a new Sabbath rest: companionship and fellowshipwith Him. I love this translation, “Get away with me and you’ll recover yourlife.” Does that sound good to you? It sure is music to my ears! And best ofall, it’s any day of the week and any time of the day. The invitation is stillopen, you know. Jesus is saying to you right now, “Come to me… I’ll show youhow to take a real rest.”

T.B.

Thinkabout it: Can you really afford not to accept His offer? Whatprevents you from saying, “OK, Lord, I’m on my way”?

WHEN THE DAY GETS IN THE WAY by Terry Benson

2011-11-08T04:00:00.000-08:00

“I'll tell you what it really means toworship the LORD. Remove the chains of prisoners who are chained unjustly. Freethose who are abused!” Isaiah 58:6 (CEV)

I grew up in a church where life revolved aroundthe Sabbath day. It began on Friday – cleaning and cooking and polishing shoes.My mom would get all five of us bathed and ready for Sabbath before sundown.Then we would go to church at 7:00 for JMV meeting – Junior Missionary Volunteers.We didn’t dress up, we went in our pajamas. My mom and other moms would come intheir robes with curlers in their hair – Honest!

The meeting was led by the pastor or youth leader,starting with singing songs from Gospel Melodies – that was called “songservice”. Then followed “Opening Prayer”, and “Opening Song” or “SpecialMusic”. A guest speaker would preach or we would watch a movie aboutmissionaries. Finally came the “Closing Song” and “Closing Prayer”. The leaderwould bid everyone farewell and the kids in pj’s and the moms in curlers andthe dads would head out the back door of the church, only to come back and doit all over again the next morning – in Sabbath School and “Divine” Service. Itwas all so neatly arranged and routinely executed. And mostly free of emotion!

So manyof my childhood memories revolve around church and Sabbath. I remember thesongs and the order of service and the times when we had “Communion”. Iremember the adults talking about who was getting divorced or who was wearingjewelry or who the next pastor would be after Elder Hoffman left. I can’treally remember the sermons, or remember that we did a lot of “liberating”. Itwas mostly about prophecy and rules and what not to eat or what not to wear.But there wasn’t much feeding the hungry and sheltering the homeless andbreaking the chains of addictions – there wasn’t much of Isaiah’s “liberation”worship going on at 10^th and Locust on Saturday morning.

Notuntil high school did I get a taste of that kind of worship. It was on aSaturday night at a youth meeting where a group of ex-addicts from “TeenChallenge” came to share how God had saved them from death through the power ofthe gospel and the ministry of caring Christians. A year later a group of usstarted going to CYA prison in Chino on Sunday Night to conduct worshipservices and Bible Studies for the inmates. It was in those and manyexperiences since that I realized how the “day” of worship – the routine andthe ritual – could get in the way of actually worshiping by sharing in theministry of Christ.

Andnow? I am challenged to worship God – not just on the Sabbath day in songs andprayers and sermons, but every day bycarrying His great heart of love to those who need the freedom of His grace.

T.B.

Think about it: Do you allow your “day” of church to get inthe way of a life of worshiping God that partners with Him in ministry?

WHAT IT MEANS TO REST by Terry Benson

2011-11-07T04:00:00.000-08:00

“You have six days each week for yourordinary work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath day of rest dedicated to the Lord your God.” Deuteronomy 5:13, 14 (NLT)

You can learn a lot from dogs. We havethree, so we’re getting pretty smart! Well, maybe we’re just getting moreobservant. Dogs really know how to rest. Shelby, whale of a Basset Hound thatJohn nicknamed, “Shelba-Potamus”, often takes her repose in Diana’s favorite chair.I’ve found her more than once lying on her back, head almost falling off theseat cushions, legs splayed every which-way, snoring like there’s no tomorrow.Maddy the Mutt who showed up uninvited a year ago follows us into our room atbedtime, does a 360-degree spin and plops down in a tight curl where sheremains for the night. Cherry the Dachshund is super neurotic, but even sheknows how to rest. She was lovingly bestowed on us by Brian and Silvia when welost our little Wendy. I’ve been thinking of calling Cherry “Che Gueverry”because she is such a terrorist! But when she’s in the mood, she burrows underthe blanket or lays down next to us on the couch and develops “floppy-leg”syndrome. You can move her legs around freely and she doesn’t care ‘cause she’sin a happy doggie coma!

Now I’m not suggesting we flop around likea bunch of dogs on the Sabbath day, but I do wonder if we really know what itmeans to rest. The word, “Sabbath” means literally “cease”. Just stop. Stop forone day doing all the regular things you have to do all the other days to makeyour life work. Let the stress of surviving melt away; feel the tension ofmanaging your life melt away as God speaks to you in quiet whispers andglorious melodies. Let go and let God – maybe that phrase ought to become ournew Sabbath motto. We can learn what it really means to rest as we learn to letgo and let God take over.

That’s what the Sabbath Day is about –ceasing our six-day-a-week employment even as we relax in the Presence andSecurity of God. The original 7^th Day Sabbath Celebration wasn’tabout getting away from the rat-race because the first couple didn’t get wornout from labor. It was about enjoying creation with the Creator. But after sinruined the Garden, human beings had to work in order to survive, and theSabbath Day became an insurance policy against total burnout. A few peoplethrough history have actually learned to say, “T.G.I.S” (Thank God It’sSabbath!).

I believe God designed the Sabbath day tobe a portal into a “Sabbath Way of life”. It can teach us how to “let go andlet God” every day. It can help us learn how to trust in His care,believe in His providence and accept the underserved “vacation” of Grace.Because God wants us to have a life free from worry, full of joy, andoverflowing with love. Maybe that’s why He gave us dogs – I’m sure that’s thereason He gave us the Sabbath.

T.B.

Think about it: Do youreally rest on the Sabbath day? Are you experiencing real “Sabbath” the rest ofthe week?

WORTH REMEMBERING by Kay Kalousek

2011-11-06T04:33:00.001-08:00

“Remember the Sabbath day...” Exodus20:8 (NIV)

“Howcould she forget me?”

Thequestion kept racing through my mind as I wandered along the pick-up area ofLAX, dragging my heavy suitcase behind. I had been waiting for almost an hour and was starting to feel a littledesperate. This was years ago, before theage of cell phones and I couldn’t get in touch with anyone.

Noone wants to be forgotten and that is why we erect statues, monuments, andmemorials to commemorate people and events that are considered important. So it makes sense that even though eight ofthe Ten Commandments are phrased negatively: “You shall not….”, God chose to phrase the commandment about the Sabbathin a positive way: “Remember the Sabbath day….” God’s instruction in the fourth commandment is for us to take positiveaction by remembering theSabbath day. Then to emphasize the pointeven further, God provides an explanation about why the Sabbath day is to beremembered: “For in six days the Lordmade the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he restedon the seventh day. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and made itholy.” (Exodus 20:11)

Sowhen we remember the Sabbath and keep it holy we honor God for creating theworld and show respect and gratitude for His creation. God doesn’t want us to forget Him or what Hehas done!

However,as Christians, remembering the Sabbath isn’t just remembering God’s creation ofthe universe as a past event. TheSabbath calls us to remember God’s ongoing creation through His Holy Spirit whodaily creates us anew in His image. Thisis the manifestation of God’s creative power in the present.

Finally,as Christians, remembering the Sabbath enables us to remember that the same Godwho created the world in the beginning, will restore and re-create the worldwhen he returns to claim His people. This is the manifestation of God’s creative power in the future.

Sowhen we remember the Sabbath and become conscious of and engaged with thecontinuum of God’s creative power past, present, and future, we become part ofthe story of creation, redemption, and salvation.

Godgave us the Sabbath so we don’t forget Him and what He has done. And that is something worth remembering!

K.K.

Thinkabout it: Do I remember the Lord of Sabbath as much asI remember the Sabbath day?

NOW, PREACH THE GOSPEL by Margaret Baldwin

2011-11-05T04:00:00.000-07:00

“Go into all the world and preach the gospel toall creation.” Mark 16:15 (NIV)

Could this be your daily prayer? “God, come todayand live in me—in my heart and mind and emotions—in such a way that You becomea fountain of life inside me. May that fountain of the water of life—the HolySpirit rain—flood through me, whether I am aware of it or not. Wash me, infuseme and use me as a porous container that is constantly filled to the brim andoverflowing continuously to everything and everybody around me. May every humancontact be flooded with Holy Spirit love and wisdom, so that at any moment ofany day You will be spontaneously poured out through me to fill the empty andhurting places in others. Use my thinking, my speaking, my tone of voice, mybody language, to express Who You are, How You love, and What You freely give.”

“I ask You, Lord, to creatively expand my worldto include more human beings who need You and who can be given hope and energy,peace and freedom with the endowments you've given me—my simple speech,generous love and whatever words are appropriate in Your sight at the momentYou want to use me.

M.B.

Thinkabout it: Thank you for sending me daily into Your world—even my littlesection—to give Your gospel to whomever You will.

FIRST, LIVE THE GOSPEL by Terry Benson

2011-11-04T04:00:00.000-07:00

“Feed the hungry, andhelp those in trouble. Then your light will shine out from the darkness .” Isaiah 58:10 (NLT)

A few days ago I got an email asking forfinancial help. No, it wasn’t from Nigeria! It was from our friends at MAHIInternational, an organization dedicated to helping the people of Micronesiahave better lives through medical assistance and spiritual ministry. MAHI is agospel ministry, even though the founders and workers don’t hold evangelisticmeetings or “officially” give Bible studies or start Christian churches. Theylive out the Gospel by teaching, healing, helping and building lastingrelationships. MAHI is truly a light for God in the South Pacific wherethousands of tiny island communities are bypassed because they hold nofinancial promise.

MAHI founders John and Kat do just whatJesus did when He walked on this planet. Most of His time was spent in healingand socializing. We know about His spiritual teaching because people listenedto Him. And they listened to Him because He first established a rapport byshowing them that He cared about their everyday lives. He cared enough to visitin their tiny homes, share their meager meals, visit them in their occupations,and offer help wherever He could help.

Isaiah had a message for the religiouspeople of his day – your religion is worthless! They loved to go to church andpray and plead and worship. But their religion never seemed to get translatedinto the kind of religion God had in mind – feeding the hungry, helping widowsand orphans, healing the sick, befriending the discouraged, liberating theenslaved. They hadn’t learned – and most Christians still haven’t learned whatIsaiah (and the apostle James) knew – True religion is revealed by how we treatthose in need (James 1:27). When practical ministry is a priority of ourchurches, then God’s light will break out on us, in us, and through us.

Do you care about the Good News ofsalvation? Do you want lost people to know God? First, live the gospel, because they won’t care how much you know untilthey know how much you care.

T.B.

Think about it: I think I’ll write a check to MAHI, nowwhat can I do for someone right here in Southern California?

THE CHURCH THAT GOT IT by Pam Nunn

2011-11-03T04:00:00.000-07:00

“Theysold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need.” Acts 2:45(TNIV)

Fellowship!That’s one of the things that I love most about North Hills Church, and Ibelieve it is at the heart of our church… the fellowship we share with oneanother. The last half dozen verses of the second chapter of Acts describe thefellowship that the early church had. They devoted themselves to fellowship,sharing food, and prayer. I especially love verse 44: “All the believers weretogether and had everything in common.” Doesn’t that sound like North Hills ona beautiful Sabbath morning? When we worship God, together, we have “everythingin common.”

Butthis next verse… selling property and possessions, to give to anyone who hasneed. Does this apply to us… to me? The early church shared everything withtheir brothers and sisters, selflessly denying themselves. And we admire thelove they demonstrated—their love for God, and for each other—by doing that.But… they didn’t have smart phones. They didn’t have $1,000 cameras, and $3,000computers. They didn’t have cars that require four- to six-year loans. Sharing a load of firewood is one thing, but…sell my car? Sell everything I have? That’s scary.

Therehave been times in my life when I have thought, “I could never do this,” or “Icould never do that.” Fear kept me from even considering the possibility. Butthe Bible says “…Perfect love puts fear out of our hearts.” (1 John 4:18, NLV)And when one of my biggest fears became reality a few years ago, and our housecaught on fire, I found that God’s love really did put fear out of my heart.

We suffereda huge loss, but you know what? Nearly everything was replaceable. And Idiscovered that a lot of the “stuff” that was destroyed really didn’t need tobe replaced. I remember fireman after fireman coming up to me with handfuls ofslightly wet, slightly charred photographs (firemen are my heroes, by the way).How important I used to think those photos were. But God saved the ReallyImportant Thing that was in that house… my husband.

Inever would have thought that I could be strong enough to survive such atragedy, and praise Him at the same time. But I found out that I can doeverything… “For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.”(Phil. 4:13, NLT)

Selleverything and give it to the poor? Yeah, that’s scary. But God’s love takesaway the “scary” and Christ gives us the strength to do what God asks.

P.N.

Think about it: Do I have the strength to trulyfollow Jesus, to truly deny myself, and give everything to those in need?

GIFTS THAT KEEP ON GIVING by Terry Benson

2011-11-02T04:00:00.000-07:00

“God has given each of you a gift from his great varietyof spiritual gifts. Use them well to serve one another.” 1 Peter 4:10 (NLT)

There she sat transfixed on thejust-completed costume she had been creating for the Easter play. A momentearlier I heard her give kind of a gasp and a little cry – I came immediately,expecting to find her wounded or the costume damaged. “What’s wrong,” I asked.She could barely speak. “It’s not me, I didn’t do this.” “Do what?”I asked withgrowing concern. “It was God who did this – look, it came out perfect!”

The costume was for Ivan who was playingthe part of the high priest, Caiaphas. Ivan was known for being quiteparticular with his costume (this was not his first Easter production), andwith a large, imposing frame he was used to having his clothes tailored. This was Diana’s first Easter production andshe went to extra lengths to get the costumes right – watching as many “Jesus”movies as possible for ideas, spending hours looking for the right fabrics andaccessories. She had not been able to get Ivan’s measurements, so she “sized”him up by sight and constructed the costume.

The garment was awesome – a near duplicatefrom one of the more “historically accurate” movies we had watched. But wouldit fit Ivan? When she brought it for him to try on, he doubtfully donned thegarment, wondering how this “newbie” to the North Hills Christian Theatre scenecould be so confident as to complete his costume without any consultation ormultiple fittings. When he came out to show her the result – he was amazed. Ittruly was a perfect fit – and a beautiful reproduction. “My personal tailordoesn’t make my clothes to fit as well as this – how did you do it?” Ivaninquired. “It was God; God used my hands and made it come out perfect.”

God gave her a gift – He took the naturaltalent she had, added her years of experience as a seamstress, and put it inthe mold of her newly found passion for serving Christ. Then He handed it toher and said, use this to bless others.

What gifts has God given you? Maybe youhave the talent of public speaking, or fixing things, or listening, or beinghelpful, or cooking. Maybe you have leadership skills or are able to see thingsthat don’t yet exist. Talents and ability and experience alone do not makespiritual gifts. But when God gets hold of the raw material of your life and takesyou into His workshop, He comes up with the most amazing things. He transformsthe abilities that are often used for personal gain or ego into spiritual giftsthat can help, heal, encourage, inform, inspire and bless others. Then He handsthem back to you and says, “use these to bless others so they will know thatit’s not you – it’s Me working through you.”

That kind of gift is priceless, because aslong as you are living (for Him), it will keep on giving.

T.B.

Think about it: How has God shaped me to bless others? Am Iusing those gifts for His glory?

IS THAT YOU, LORD? by Margaret Baldwin

2011-11-01T04:00:00.000-07:00

“I'm tellingthe solemn truth: Whenever you did one of these things to someone overlooked orignored, that was me – you did it to me.” Matthew25:40 (Message)

In '92 webought a bare, one-room cabin in the San Gabriel Mountains as a vacationget-away. It was perched high on the side of a canyon across the stream fromSpruce Grove Campground, a back-pack camp. We walk four miles to get to it, asno roads go any closer.

One summer,while staying there for a week, I noticed a man who was camped below us inSpruce Grove who didn't pack up and leave like most do on Sunday or Monday.When I went to the stream for water I walked over to get acquainted anddiscovered a homeless, mentally handicapped but creative and energetic person,coping independently as best as he could. He kept an old No. 10 size can on thecamp stove, full of water and whatever other food items he could glean fromtrash cans at Chantry Flat. At the time I visited him he had some bones andsome bread boiling in the water and he drank the cooled water for nourishmentand liquid, since the stream water was posted as unsafe.

He told me hewas a “printer,” and showed me some “books” he had printed which had been“written” by “friends.” They were hand-printed with a child's hand-stampprinting set and the pages hole-punched and tied together with string. I askedhow he kept warm at night and he showed me his one rather ragged wool blanket.I took food down each day for him. Then I looked around the cabin and foundsome other things, such as a used sleeping bag, a warm sweater and an armyblanket, a kettle with a lid and a few other items including spoon, knife andfork. When I got these things together on my last day and took them down to hisdilapidated tent, I couldn't find him anywhere. He was probably scrounging formore food four miles back at the picnic area. I left everything in his tent andprayed that God would bless and protect him and went my own way home.

Did I do thatfor Jesus? Or did I do that just to make myself feel generous and “good.” Howdid God write it in His books? I hope with love and compassion.

M.B.

Thinkabout it: Where can I find Jesus in my world? Have Irecognized Him in any of the people I know?

IT'S NOT ABOUT ME by Brian Plummer

2011-10-31T04:00:00.000-07:00

“Yourattitude must be like my own, for I, the Messiah, did not come to be served,but to serve and to give my life.” Matthew 20:28 (LB)

I had a very disturbing dream many yearsago (fifteen? twenty?) that I’ve never forgotten. I was sitting in the kitchen when abizarre-looking creature walked up to me: the creature looked like it was made out of six giant marshmallows—onefor a body, one for a head, and four for legs—and it just sat there staring atme with marshmallow eyes. This creaturedidn’t appear threatening, but it was so different, so strange, that Ireflexively started to attack it; anything that unusual has to be amenace of some sort, doesn’t it? When Iwas done kicking and beating it to a pulp, the creature suddenly transformedinto the most beautiful little dog I had ever seen, and it gave me the saddest,most heart-breaking expression I had ever beheld. I woke up feeling guilty, that I haddeliberately harmed one of God’s creatures, and ever since, I’ve wondered ifthat were a warning to me not to discount something “different” just becauseit’s different.

I never would do such a thing, though,would I? Surely not grand, educated,enlightened me? Au contraire. I have a confession to make: I’m a big, fat, self-centered jerk. A couple of years ago, at a North Hillsfunction that will go unidentified, I was approached by a stranger, a woman wholooked a bit disheveled and maybe a bit out of sorts. The first words that came to my mind? White trash. God forgive me, but that’s what Ithought. I smiled but sort ofhalf-listened to what she had to say, wondering why she couldn’t get her teethfixed or brush her hair or whatever. Later in the evening, this same woman went around to all the NorthHillians to thank them for helping her and her family; she even had herchildren visit each of us individually to thank us. I went home that night ashamed, rememberingthe dream from so many years before: here was one of God’s creations, and I had metaphorically “beaten” herby labeling her and categorizing her as someone who wasn’t like me; that woman,however, proved to be a gracious, thankful person who expressed gratitude andjoy—something that I, on the other hand, failed to convey that night, even ifonly in my thoughts. I felt like thescum that scrum scrapes off its shoe.

Jesus admonished us to have an attitudethat is like His, an attitude that disregards labels, that doesn’t reject basedupon appearance, an attitude that says, You may not be like me, but itdoesn’t matter—I love and care about you anyway, and I’m here to help. May God help each of us get out of ourself-centeredness and truly strive to live a life of service; may we ask Godfor a heart of love that erases labels and compels us to serve others, just asour Lord did for us.

B.P.

Think about it: What are some ways I judge people? Do Iallow those prejudices to interfere with being able to serve others?

CREATED TO SERVE by Dennis Wallstrom

2011-10-30T06:17:00.000-07:00

“He hascreated us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for uslong ago.” Ephesians 2:10 (NLT)

I make use of a spirituality think tank each Friday. It is a therapy group in the state hospital,uniquely titled “Spirituality and Healing.” It has thrived for many years, ranging from 8 to 20 in the group, andfeaturing many different takes on what spirituality is, as you might imagine. Not infrequently patients will end upassigned to the group by a well-meaning treatment team, and when they realizethe subject matter they fire at will and without mercy at church, religion, God, and yes, me. Their thoughts are welcomed, but having fireda volley they have entered the fray, and must then suffer the response of loveand grace from fellow group members who, with some tenderness, often want toenfold them in the very faith that has been their target.

Only the hardiest can resist. Theirmost pointed argument against a spiritual life is typically that it doesn’tmake any difference. “See,” they sayunsparingly, “You’ve ended up here just like I have! You did something against the law, and you’relocked up as a nut case, just like me. You’ve got your religion, and I don’t, and here we both are. So what’s the difference?” Something like that. And the other day I polled responses from thegroup to that challenge, as it has come up in many groups before theirs. I must say, I was surprised by the fervor andlevel of personal disclosure. One mansaid, “I was a thief. I stole fromeverybody, any chance I had. I didn’tcare.” “And now?” I asked him. “What difference has your spiritual rebirth made in you?” He smiled and said, “I’m a giver now. I don’t have much, but I try to give it whenpeople need it.” Others in the groupnodded silently, as if verifying his claims. Another, a woman, said, “Stability. My spirituality helps me be stable.” In a calm and measured voice she alluded to episodes from an erratic,manic life, which has now quieted considerably. And more than one said that the greatest marker of their spiritual lifeis a new capacity to love. They haveless fear, they said, or anger, or pain, and are more able to, well, love. And they seem to be able to show a tenderlove even when the recipient isn’t too friendly.

Yup, nearly all in the group affirmed, spirituality makes a hugedifference. They know. And just let someone in the group fire atpoint-blank range at their faith, with no mercy, and we’ll all see it: the gentle, vulnerable, “I’ve been there”response in love, or some variation on that theme. No excuses. They rarely object to the charge of a broken life that isn’t what itshould have been. They know more thantheir share of regrets. But out of theirbroken lives comes something new, something visibly different. And in theirresponse, for all to see, is the difference.

D.W.W.

Think aboutit: Whatwould I consider the most significant life change brought by my experience withChrist? What do I think others wouldnotice?

THE POWER OF SMALL GROUPS by Terry Benson

2011-10-29T05:00:00.000-07:00

“Wheretwo or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst ofthem.” Matthew 18:20 (KJV)

Several years ago I was leading a small group in South Carolina. Daleand Ernestine had opened up their home for some friends and family to cometogether and study the book of Revelation. It was not the most talkative groupas Ernestine usually just smiled and said nothing and Dale was definitely a manof few words. But I tried to implement the ideas of sharing and fellowship inthe group anyway. I remember we were studying the message to the church ofLaodicea in Revelation 3.

That night, instead of trying to teach sweeping historical/propheticconcepts I just wanted to let the words of Jesus speak to us personally: “Look! I stand at the door and knock. If youhear my voice and open the door, I will come in, and we will share a mealtogether as friends.” Revelation 3:20 (NLT). A 17-year old girl was attendingthe gathering and she seemed to be taking it all in. When I invited everyone to pray,she was the only one besides Dale and myself who prayed. I learned later thatshe gave her life to Christ that night. It wasn’t my teaching skills (they weremarginal) or Dale and Ernestine’s hospitality (sipping lemonade in silence)that influenced this teenager for the kingdom – it was the Presence of God in our group.

Getting together as God's family is His invitation to be with us, evenwhen it's just two or three. That’s what Jesus said. When we get together inHis name – to talk about His grace, seek for His guidance and forgiveness,and share His blessings, He is with us! Think about it, God is actually joiningyou as you meet together in your small group. His presence brings two things: it brings His person – meaning Hischaracter of peace and truth and mercy and grace; and it brings His power– meaning whatever the needs of His children are, He is able to provide. Hereis the true power of a small group: as you go around the circle and share theconcerns and needs of your lives, Christ is right there listening - taking itall in – as if He were sitting in one of the chairs.

But wait, there’s more! Jesus also said this in the previous verse:"If two of you agree here on earth concerning anything you ask, my Fatherin heaven will do it for you." Matt. 18:19 (NLT). What a promise! What aPresence! What a Power is ours whenever we meet together in the Name of Jesus!

T.B.

Thinkabout it: If you knew Jesus would be attending your small group, would you be moreinclined to go?

BE PROTECTED, GET CONNECTED by Marge Melendez

2011-10-28T05:00:00.000-07:00

“Byyourself you’re unprotected. With a friendyou can face the worst. Can you round upa third? A three-stranded rope isn’teasily snapped.” Ecclesiastes 4:12 (Message)

God created us for fellowship; in anhonest, open relationship we find strength, safety and growth. For the same reason all the coals in a fireburn better when they are gathered together than when they are spread apart –fellowships in small groups provides a synergy of strength, love andprotection. We can accomplish moretogether than separately.

We know there is strength in numbers. We find a compassionate Christian friend withwhom we can share our daily trials and tribulations adding a third memberstrengthens the relationships and soon a small group of like minded people arecaring for one another.

Accepting the help of others requireshumble honesty which is difficult for many, however it provides an opportunityof not only being of assistance to someone else, but provides a growthexperience within each member to develop humility with one another. With a Christian friend you can face theworst.

Being part of a Small Group gives themembers a unique experience. The obviousbenefit of companionship is the intimacy of sharing of life’s ups and downsrelieves the problems of isolation and loneliness. The members of our small group offerassistance, comfort and defense as we study God’s word and praise Him together.

M.M.

Thinkabout it: Do myconnections with friends or fellow church members the kinds make me feelsupported? Do others feel supported by me?

UNITED WE STAND by Kay Kalousek

2011-10-27T05:00:00.000-07:00

“The wholecongregation of believers was united as one — one heart, one mind!“ Acts 4:32 (Message)

It’s a song, a slogan, and even acliché. But what does being united meanfor us as a church?

The book of Acts shows the relationshipthat the early Christians had with God and each other. This was a dangerous time for Christians. In fact, the first part of Acts 4 recountshow Peter and John had just been released from jail with a warning to nevertalk about Jesus again.

However, upon their release, Peter and Johnwent straight to the other believers and they were “united and loudly prayed toGod” asking Him to allow them to speak His word and to show His power byhealing and performing miracles in the name of Jesus.

When they finished praying, somethingamazing happened! The meeting placeshook and all of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and continued to speakthe word of God boldly bringing the good news of Jesus to thousands.

This account gives us insight into thesecret of their success: they were filled with the Holy Spirit and “the wholecongregation of believers was united as one.”

What does it mean to be “united asone”? Unity is not the same asuniformity and we, as Christians, still have our own personalities. However, we must be “united as one” on theessential element of our faith--the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Sharing the Gospel with others is reason forour existence as a church!

On non-essential matters of religiousbelief, we can show charity to each other because united people may havedifferences of opinion regarding theological fine points. God will set us straight about these when wereach His kingdom. Our focus must be onthe Gospel.

So God’s challenge for us today is that weunderstand that our personal connection to Jesus Christ through His Holy Spiritresults in unity as a church and that our unity as a church enables us tospread the Gospel with the same strength, power and effectiveness as that ofthe early church!

K.K.

Think about it: What is holding us back from being unitedlike the early Christians?

A NEW COMMUNITY by Terry Benson

2011-10-26T05:00:00.000-07:00

“They devoted themselves to the apostles'teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer… All thebelievers were together and had everything in common.” Acts 2:42, 44 (NIV)

Most ofmy life I’ve wanted to belong to something greater than myself. Something morethan a club or political party, or even church. Something that made the “we”transcend the “me”. . So as a college student it was only natural for me toembrace the “Jesus” movement that was sweeping our campus. This “organic” communityof young believers was a magnet for me because the only kinds of “community” Ihad known were full of rules that focused on behavior and lifestyle. My parentshad recently divorced, so discovering a group as open and full of authenticity,equality and spiritual passion felt like I was getting a new family. The commonground among us in those days was not dress codes or food laws or theology – itwas pretty much faith in the living Christ. When we prayed we felt like kidstalking to our dad – and we got answers! When we sang it was with joyfulabandon and holy awareness. When we shared, it was unscripted, spontaneous andstraight from the heart.

Likethe first Christians, we came from the same religion – we were raised with“Thou shalt’s” and “Thou shalt not’s”. We had the Sabbath, dietaryrestrictions, and a cultural identity as powerful as circumcision was for 1^stcentury Jews. We were SDA’s to the core. But then Jesus happened – to all ofus! In different ways, at different times our lives were turned upside down by Christ.Like those original believers, we found ourselves drawn into true “fellowship”.No one organized it or strategized it – it was a “New Community” experience.Often staying up all night studying the Bible together, we shared whatever wehad – transportation, food, clothes, even the little money among us. This sensethat God was taking care of us prevailed – had Jesus not freed us from ourfears and failings? Had He not forgiven our sins and made us part of His family?What could be better than sharing life with each other and sharing Christ withthose who didn’t know Him?

Now whenI read about the believers in Acts 2, I have an idea what they experienced becauseI also heard God’s call to “koinonea”, as did my “brothers and sisters” – wefelt the connecting power of His Spirit among us.

God continuesto build His family. Even as you read this, His Spirit is inviting people – youand me and anyone who will listen – into a life that is abandoned to Christ. Alife so enamored with Jesus that we can’t stop thinking about Him and studyingHis word together. A life so confident and trusting that we willing share theresources God has given us with each other. A life so connected to one anotherthat even mealtimes become an opportunity to fellowship with our brothers andsisters in God’s family.

Wouldn’t you like to be a part of something greaterthan yourself? The New Community is not just you with God or me with God, but wewith God. We are better together!

T.B.

Thinkabout it: How would you characterize your connections to yourchurch family? Where do you think God is taking you in that regard?

THE BADGE OF A CHRISTIAN by Debbie Wood

2011-10-25T05:00:00.000-07:00

“Your love for oneanother will prove to the world that you are my disciples.” John 13:35 (NLT)

I took stock of the wreckage that was mypersonal life and wondered how I was to move forward in the midst of the chaosand shattered dreams. My marriage hadsuddenly and tragically ended in divorce. My two children, aged 10 and 12, were hurting, bewildered, and confusedas they shuttled back and forth between mom’s house and dad’s apartment. I wasn’t sure how my income alone was goingto keep the mortgage paid, and my nuclear family was 2,500 miles away,unavailable to provide comfort or support to me. I knew my children were looking to me forstrength and reassurance that everything was going to be O.K., but I didn’teven feel like getting out of bed in the morning. I wondered to myself how long I could keepthem from figuring this out.

I had two choices; either throw my hands upin despair, or throw them up in prayer to God. He was the only one who could help me. My prayer at this critical time went something like this: “Dear Lord —look at this mess we are in! I don’t know how I am going to raise twokids to be faithful, loving, courageous followers of you now that my family hasbeen torn apart. I know I can’t do it — but Iknow you can. Love my kids,Lord, please love my kids!” As soon as Ifinished praying I was certain that God had heard my prayer and was pleasedwith it. I knew that I had received whatI asked for. God gave me a deep sense ofpeace that He would always be with my children and move in His mighty way ontheir behalf. With a rush of gratitude Icontinued praying, “Dear Lord, I know you have heard me and answered myprayer. What can I do for you in returnto show you how thankful I am?” Again Ihad an immediate response to my prayer. “Love my kids, Debbie, love my kids!”

God accomplished a profound realignment ofmy heart that day, to beat in rhythm with His. I realized that His heart beatsfor his children just like mine beats for mine. I strive to love His kids, everyone He brings into my focus or my path,just as He has so faithfully loved and guided my kids, who are now 23 and25. I smile to realize how completely insync God and I are here. The best way toshow your allegiance to either one of us is to love our kids.

D.W.

Think about it: Which one of His kids is God bringing to yourfocus and attention to show His love to?

LEARN FROM THE BEST by Dennis Wallstrom

2011-10-24T05:00:00.000-07:00

“So now I am giving you a new commandment:Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other.” John 13:34 (NLT)

“A newcommandment” is given by Jesus on a night of stunning exposés and crushing heartbreak. The disciples can scarcely absorb it. But they will remember it, because he made itunforgettable. His urgent words followhis ground-level tour on his knees of 12 pairs of dusty feet, basin and towelin hand. The stations of the cross, memorializedin the film “The Passion of the Christ” and centuries ofChristian tradition, were preceded by the equally humble 12 stations of thefeet. And then, the shocking referenceto a betrayer in their midst, and the sudden departure of Judas.

“Now,” Jesus said, “The Son of Man has been glorified, and God hasbeen glorified in him.” (John13:31) What is “new” and urged upon allwho follow him, is linked to what is “now.” The “now” in John’s Gospel, or what is referred to repeatedly as “thehour,” is the center of the story of Jesus, and of our story. It is literally the crux (Latin for “cross”)of everything. Though it involvesagonizing humiliation, death, and seemingly is a huge chasm away from all thatone might call “love,” it is the glory of Jesus. John devotes half his Gospel to the intricatedetails leading up to that “now.” Jesuson his knees before us, is now. Jesusbetrayed and abandoned, is now. Jesusdragged along unsparingly for public display and execution, is now. But for John—and for us—Jesus sending theComforter, Jesus preparing a place for us, Jesus with his face like the blazingsun and his voice like many waters, is also now. All of it is collapsed by John into asingular word: glory. It is the radiant, unfiltered display of whoJesus is, and it shines as brightly while he is crouched low on a rough-hewnfloor before our feet or raised up exposed for execution, as when he commandsthe universe as Lord of Lords.

What is new for us is not new to him. It is his eternal glory, “glory as of the Father’s only Son, full ofgrace and truth.”(John 1:14) And we haveseen it, and been touched by it! As Johnalso wrote, “We declare to you what we have seen and heard.”(I John 1:3) And because of the “now” of Jesus, what isnew to us is possible: “We love because he first loved us.”(I John 4:19) So His new commandment is not a fresh weightof demands placed on weary, aching hearts; it is his invitation for us to joinhim in his glory, to occupy our place with him, to radiate from our inmostbeing the “now” of exactly who he is.

D.W.W.

Think aboutit: What do I admire the most about what Jesus showedme about love?

NOT A SUGGESTION by Kay Kalousek

2011-10-23T08:00:00.000-07:00

“The second most important commandmentis…‘Love your neighbor as you love yourself.’” Matthew 22:39 (GNT)

“People bug!”

This is a favorite saying of a good friendand sometimes I can’t say I blame her. Loving others can get really messy, inconvenient, time-consuming,expensive, and frustrating. It can alsobe risky—you put yourself out there for someone and sometimes you get burnedfor all your trouble!

So why does Jesus say that loving yourneighbor is the second most important commandment—right up there with thecommandment to love God completely? Howcan we do this? It’s too hard!

The good news is that we don’t have to dothis on our own because God does it for us and this is how it works: When we make the choice to accept Jesus asour Savior and surrender our lives to God, we receive His gift of the HolySpirit.

The Holy Spirit creates a connectionbetween God and us. Through thisconnection, we begin to learn about God and to become more like Him. The apostle Paul tells us that the Spirit “transforms us into His likeness….” (2 Cor.2:18, GNT).

Since our connection to God changes us intoHis likeness and “God is love” (1 John4:8), we become able to do what would otherwise be impossible for us: loveour neighbor as we love ourselves.

And just so we don’t have to wonder, about“who is my neighbor,” Jesus defined neighbor for us in His parable of the GoodSamaritan. Our neighbor is anyone who needs our kindness, help, andsupport (Luke 25 – 37).

Therefore, through God’s gift of the HolySpirit that connects us to Him and changes us into His image of love, we haveeverything we need to keep God’s commandment.

So yes, sometimes “people bug”, but we lovethem anyway—just as God loves us!

K.K.

Think about it: What do my relationships with others sayabout my connection to God? What can Ido today to love my neighbor?

ENCOURAGE EACH OTHER by Brian Plummer

2011-10-22T04:41:00.000-07:00

“ Let us not give up the habit ofmeeting together, as some are doing. Instead, let us encourage one another allthe more, since you see that the Day of the Lord is coming nearer.” Hebrews 10:25 (GNT)

One of the excitingthings about teaching is seeing the lights go on in students’ eyes as they “getit”; it’s also fun to help students see the different sides of historicaldebate and get them to think beyond simply “dates and facts.” Several years ago, one class dealt with thedropping of the atomic bombs on Japan and its consequences; one of my students(a native-born American) lauded the act enthusiastically, citing the sneakattack on Pearl Harbor as justification for retribution. Another of my students, however, was fromJapan, and as she sat silently, I could see tears streaming down her face. Finally, she couldn’t take any more, and inher imperfect English, she told the class how her people still—more than sixtyyears later—haven’t come to terms with the devastation the atomic bombings hadwrought, how much pain—physical and psychic—it still caused the people ofJapan. My student sat in the back rowand wept. The class was silent afterthat, and I didn’t really know how to respond. As class ended and everyone got up to leave, I watched—with tears in myown eyes—as several of my students voluntarily went to the Japanese student andembraced her, comforted her, and let her know that they wept with her. They were an encouragement even though theywere under no obligation to be.

As Christians, we arecommanded to love one another, but more than that, we’re called to encourageeach other. We’re to bear each other’sburdens (Galatians 6:2); we’re to honor others above ourselves (Romans 12:10);we’re to be kind and forgiving toward each other (Ephesians 4:32). In this fast-paced, complex world, however,what we perhaps need the most is encouragement, something that shows that ourfellow believers are empathetic. One ofmy favorite characters in the New Testament is Barnabas, whose name means “sonof encouragement.” We don’t know muchabout him, but he’s always referred to as bright, upbeat, encouraging—even inthe face of grave danger and hardship. When the believers are ready to pack it in because of persecution,Barnabas is there to hearten them and persuade them not to give up. We, too, need to be reminded that, even whenfaced with economic downturns, the threat of terrorism, and familial strife,God is there, and He’s with us through it all. We need to be like Barnabas to each other, to build each other up in ourdaily walk through life, and to remind ourselves that Jesus is coming, and Hewill wipe away every tear from our eyes.

B.P.

Thinkabout it: Is my hope in Christ’s return real? Do I live like itis?

GOING PUBLIC WITH PRAISE Alternate Reading by Marge Melendez

2011-10-21T13:00:00.000-07:00

“I was gladwhen they said to me, ‘Let us go to the house of the Lord.” Psalm 122:1 (NLT)

“Make a joyful noise unto theLord, all ye lands. Serve the Lord withgladness: come before his presence withsinging. Know ye that the Lord he isGod, it is He that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, andthe sheep of his pasture. Enter into hisgates with thanksgiving and into his courts with praise; be thankful unto him,and bless his name. For the Lord isgood; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.” Psalms 100:1-5 (KJ)

“Theydevoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching to the fellowship, to the breakingof bread and to prayer. Every one wasfilled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done to theapostles. All the believers weretogether and had everything in common…Everyday they continued to meet togetherin the temple courts. They broke breadin their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, Praising God and enjoying the favor of all thepeople. And the Lord added to theirnumbers daily those who were being saved.” Acts 2:42-47 (NIV)

Praising is a core characteristicof the church; an essential element in its DNA.Wherever the church exists, there will be praise. Praise is an act of worshipor acknowledgment by which the virtues or deeds of another are recognized andextolled. (Nelson’s Illustrated Bible Dictionary, Copyright (c)1986, ThomasNelson Publishers) Praise is anexpression of approval or admiration, of gratitude and devotion for blessingsreceived. (The New Unger’s Bible Dictionary. Originally published by MoodyPress of Chicago, Illinois. Copyright (c) 1988.)

The praise of man toward God is the means by which we express our joy to theLord. We are to praise God both forwho He is and for what He does (Ps 150:2). Praising God for who He is, is called adoration; praising Him for what He does is known as thanksgiving. Praise of God may be in song or prayer,individually or collectively, spontaneous or prearranged, originating from theemotions or from the will.

What is the importance of being a person of praise? Praiseis commanded. The word praise occurs209 times in all the Psalms; over half of those occurrences in the last 50psalms. For examples of these passagesrefer to Psalms 150 which “commandsus to praise God”

Praise the LORD. Praise God in his sanctuary;
praise him in his mighty heavens.

Praise him for hisacts of power;
praise him for his surpassinggreatness.

Praise him withthe sounding of the trumpet,
praise him with the harp and lyre,

praise him withtambourine and dancing,
praise him with the strings andflute,

praise him withthe clash of cymbals,
praise him with resounding cymbals.

Let everything that has breath praise the LORD.
Praise the LORD.

The writings of the apostles are filled with prayers and words of praise,worship and thanksgiving. “Speak to oneanother with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in yourheart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, inthe name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Ephesians 5:19-20. Keep this in mind—that we are commanded to praiseGod—even when we don’t feel like praising God; for example in the midst ofadverse circumstances. Praise is the only appropriate response to the wonderand glory of God.

Sometimes our faces do not reflect our love for God as we sit in Churchand one wonders what’s wrong! It’s not that most of us are not well-adjustedand happy; it’s not that we are not excited about God and in love with him; it’sjust that we don’t let it show!

Begin to truly praise and worship and thank God, and your lifewill change. Your heart will open, your load feels lighter, and your countenancebrightens. You will like yourselfbetter; others might even like you better. Praise changes our perspective, changes our attitude. Praise changesyour perspective on things. What seemedinsurmountable appears less overwhelming. What seemed a problem becomes a challenge. What seemed a setback becomes astepping-stone forward. What seemedincurable now has a cure.

It is said of Martin Luther, the great Protestant Reformer, thatwhenever he would face a significant problem, he would say, let’s sing a hymnand spite the Devil. He knew the power of praise. This leads to the final thought on theimportance of praise.

Praise is a significant part of our spiritual arsenal against thewiles of the Devil. I believe Satan cannot stay in a room where people arepraising and worshipping God with abandon.

Some of us are bothered by the fact that others want to worshipdifferently. We think there is a set way for Christians to praise God. Inreality, none of us follow the example of the early believers. Naturally, noone can make you a praise-focused person, but only point out its importance to you.You need to turn to God, focus on his nature and his work, and begin praisinghim ANew.

GOING PUBLIC WITH PRAISE by Terry Benson

2011-10-21T05:42:00.000-07:00

“I was gladwhen they said to me, ‘Let us go to the house of the Lord.’” Psalm122:1 (NLT)

Have you ever heard someone say, “I don’tneed to go to church, I worship God in private – after all, it’s between Himand me, right?” No doubt personal and private worship is an important essentialin our walk with God. I have often worshiped God gazing at a sunset on thebeach or sitting by a waterfall in the mountains. But there is nothing likepraising God with other believers. The passage above says, “I was glad when they said to me, ‘Let us go to the house of the Lord.’”

Jesus promised something special wouldhappen when people get together in His Name. It’s the synergy of God – God’slove in you meets God’s peace in me and connects with God’s healing power insomeone else, and before you know it, God’s presence transcends ourindividuality. When we sing with open and honest hearts it feels like (andsometimes sounds like) all heaven is singing with us. When we pray in oneaccord we sense the unity that only the Spirit can bring—and with that unitycomes the Spirit’s power.

Our worship is personal. But it’s alsopublic – and if you get a taste of praising God together with 10 or 100 or 1000other believers, you too will “be glad” when you get to go to worship in thehouse of the Lord. Because when we show up to praise God together, He shows upto accept those praises and to “rejoice over us with singing”! (Zephaniah 3:17)

T.B.

Think about it: When was the lasttime you went to weekly worship with the primary purpose of giving God praise?

INNER SANCTUM by Kay Kalousek

2011-10-20T05:09:00.000-07:00

“…true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth. The Father islooking for those who will worship him that way.” John 4:23 (NLT)

“Please give me a drink.”

It was a simple, yet surprising requestthat Jesus made to the Samaritan woman. Jews didn’t talk to Samaritans and accepting a drink of water from onewas almost unheard of. However, therequest was certainly a conversation starter and the woman couldn’t help but bedrawn in.

Jesus talked to her about the “livingwater” that he could give to her and how this water wells up inside givingeternal life. The woman could see thatJesus was something special and clearly she wanted this living water. However, she tried to get Jesus to make apronouncement concerning the ongoing controversy between the Jews and theSamaritans about where one could worship God. Jesus was offering living water and she was focused on technicalitiesand rules!

But Jesus saw through all this and insteadof engaging in a pointless theological/socio-political discussion, He gave thewoman what she really needed to know about worship, “true worshipers willworship the Father in spirit and in truth.”

The best part of the story is that Jesushad already offered to the woman, and offers to us now, the “living water” ofhis love and grace. When we accept Hisgift, all the essentials needed to make our worship pleasing to God have beengiven to us by Him!

We don’t need to over-think or add a “yeah,but” to this concept. We just need toaccept that our connection and communication to God is a spiritual mystery--onethat He facilitates.

So that’s how we are to worship God—inspirit and in truth because we have taken the living water of Jesus Christ!

Need a drink?

K.K.

Think about it: Am I “scheduling in” my worship time or am Iliving a life of continuous worship to God?

WORSHIP: A WAY OF LIFE by Marge Melendez

2011-10-19T01:00:00.000-07:00

“…Takeyour everyday, ordinary life - your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, andwalking-around life - and place it before God as an offering…." Romans 12:1 (Message)

To be a Christian is a 24/7 condition. Christianity is not a garment to be put on and taken off. A Christianlifestyle goes beyond the church doors and permeates into every area of ourlives. It is an attitude developed by a commitment to God. It is alifestyle that puts others first and inspires inner peace and fortitude to goabout our day, even as we frequently send up one-liners to God.

This way of life starts in the early hours ofthe morning when we make worship-time for God, surrendering ourselves to Himanew. We recognize that it is our greatest privilege to enjoy God’spresence. During this devotional time, we request God to guide usthroughout the day.

When we learn to begin our day by putting theLord first, we take the Lord’s presence with us all through the day. While blending work and play with prayer, we discover that He is ourTeacher, our Philosopher and Companion, and our gentle, kind, and very BestFriend. We have an increased awareness that God is with uswherever we go. We discover Him anew in the common places of our lives,places that we thought we had to travel alone. We may not realize itbeforehand, but He was close by even when we felt lonely or sad. Our daymay have seemed bleak and dreary without a ray of hope – yet everythingbrightened as we discovered His presence.

Worship anew. Listen to Him through theBible. Talk to Him frequently in prayer. Look for Him in yourcircumstances. Seek Him – for He is with you where ever you go.

M.M.

Think aboutit: Be faithful – and leave the results to God.

EPIPHANY by Brian Plummer

2011-10-18T01:00:00.000-07:00

“Thomassaid to him, ’My Lord and my God!’” John 20:28 (NIV)

Iremember it like it was yesterday, although it happened in 1995. I was taking Dr. Hardy’s Theory of Historycourse, and it was one of those horrible night classes—7:00 to 10:00—thateveryone hates because all of us struggled to stay awake. It wasn’t Dr. Hardy’s fault, however; I lovedthe sound of his voice: he could readthe phone book, and I would still be entranced. One evening, as the professor was discussing some deep theoreticalconcept, I suddenly blanked out, something that had never happened before andhasn’t happened since; I simply blanked out and have no recollection of hearingDr. Hardy or even being present in the dimly-lit classroom. In what was probably only a few seconds, Ihad an overwhelming sense that—don’t lose me here—I could answer virtuallyany question thrown at me. I feltthat I had all the wisdom of the world dumped into my mind all at once, that Iquite literally “knew it all.” It couldbe nothing more than a true epiphany. The sensation lasted only a few seconds, and then I went back to beingbarely able to walk and chew gum at the same time—that “wisdom” was gone. It was an overpowering experience, however,and it left me exhausted, unable to know what to make of it.

Someyears later, I had another epiphany, one that was far greater and far morelasting. Standing in the kitchen onelate-summer morning with the sun filtering through the blinds, it suddenly hitme like a ton of bricks: God isthere. Jesus is real. I had known the facts—the information—mywhole life, but until that moment, it wasn’t anything more life-changing than Themailman will be here at 3:00 today. When that realization dawned on me and became real, I felt theblood drain from my head, and I felt weak, barely able to remain standing. It was an epiphany, and I could do nothingbut stand in awe of the greatest truth that has ever faced humanity. I stood there slack-jawed, stunned, as theweight of that reality undid me and unraveled everything I thought I knew and Ithought mattered. I could do nothingfrom then onward but give myself to the One Who created me and allowed me tocommune with Him.

B.P.

Thinkabout it: Have I ever had an awe-inspiring encounter with God?

THE FIRST AND GREATEST by Debbie Wood

2011-10-17T01:00:00.000-07:00

“Love the LORDyour God with all your heart and all your soul and with all your strength.” Deuteronomy.6:5 (NIV)

Theywere hoping to trap Jesus with their question, cleverly designed to promote thekind of debate that keeps lawyers occupied full-time. “Which of the commandments is the greatest?”the religious leaders asked. With anauthority that transcended any judicial court Jesus immediately replied, “Lovethe Lord your God with all your heart, and all your soul, and all your mind,and all your strength.” Jesus isproclaiming with a clarity that takes my breath away that what is commanded ofus is not that we accomplish some difficult task to prove our loyalty to God,but rather that we enter into a grand and glorious relationship with God. Our relationship with God is to be ourhighest purpose in life, a purpose that summons and inspires us to exercise allour emotions (heart), intelligence (mind), energy (strength) and will(soul).

Jesus’answer presents me with both a great challenge and an even greaterpromise. The great challenge for me isthis — I have never been able to consistently summon all of myfeelings, intelligence, strength, and willpower in the sustainedpursuit of anyone or anything — ever. Istart out with good intentions, but sooner or later, my strength leaves me, myfeelings distract me, my intelligence limits me, and my willpower deserts me. Is God setting me up for failure by directingme to pursue Him so completely, knowing that I will fall woefully short of theloving response that His holiness and goodness deserves? In His infinite wisdom God has led me to seethat this is the exact purpose of the command. It is only when we pursue God with all of ourselves that we come to theend of ourselves and realize the extent of our brokenness and sinfulness,desperately in need of God’s saving grace. And when we come to the end of ourselves we are finally at the beginningof God, ready to receive all of His heart, His mind, His soul, and His strengthin a glorious reward offaith for having pursued Him, no matter how flawed our efforts, with all of ourown heart and soul and mind and strength.

And God’s wonderfulpromise to me (and to everyone else) is this: He will receive us when we pursue Him with a single-minded purpose anddevotion, no matter how broken, scarred, and damaged our lives may be. Thank God that He is a God who sees the truthabout our hearts, and souls, and minds, and strength, and loves us anyway. He calls us to bring all that we are, inlove, to Him; ready to receive all this He is, through love, in return.

D.W.

Thinkabout it: What needs to change in your life in order toenter into the kind of relationship with God that He longs to enter into with you?

IT'S ALL ABOUT GOD by Terry Benson

2011-10-16T01:00:00.000-07:00

“In the beginning, God…” Genesis 1:1 (KJV)

It doesn’t say, “when God began”, it says, “in the beginning, God…” Before there was a beginning there was God. Before you or I had a beginning, there was God. But the opening line of the Holy Bible is more than just a statement of God’s precedence to time. The story of all life begins with this sentence which continues by saying “…God created the heavens and the earth.” Not only is God before time and before us, He created both. It’s by God’s will and imagination and power that we exist.

We humans choose to believe otherwise. Following in the footsteps of our ancestors from Eden, we go down the path of self-determination, self-realization and self-gratification, inventing stories of primal origins that exclude God and His creative initiative. We think it’s all about us, so that’s how we live. And we reap the consequences – misery, purposelessness, and the specter of only oblivion beyond the grave. Such a universal tragedy: the Father who loves, and His children who know Him not.

If only we can get the message through our thick sin-scarred souls—God is the Center and the Source, we are not. Out of His initiative galaxies exist. From His heart and hand, we exist. Truth is, He never stopped taking that initiative with us. His voice still speaks through nature, through still small whispers in our thoughts, through the historical reality of Jesus the Christ. And if we will quiet ourselves long enough to hear, long enough to see, long enough to know, then His initiative of grace may just evoke a response of gratitude or admiration – maybe even worship. Because true worship begins with the acknowledgment that it really is all about God.

T.B.

Think about it: What is the center of my life? What preoccupies my attention, time and resources? How is He speaking to me? How will I respond?

LOVING FREELY by Kay Kalousek

2011-10-15T01:00:00.000-07:00

“Do everything in love.” 1 Corinthians 16:14 (NIV)

It was an exciting day for the Corinthian church—a letter from Paul had finally arrived! I can only imagine the anticipation of the members as Paul’s opening words of greeting were read. I’m sure that they also expected considerable praise from him. He had planted the church a couple of years before and now they were a growing congregation in a prosperous Greek city.

But Paul had some hard words to say to them. Even though the church looked good on the outside, it was being torn apart from the inside because of different factions that had arisen between groups of Jews and Gentiles that were putting their own agenda ahead of the gospel of Christ. Paul cited examples of jealousy, arrogance, sexual sins, improper use of knowledge, and even abuses concerning the Lord’s Supper. There were ongoing quarrels among them and they were not united in their thoughts and opinions. There were factions and false apostles all trying to enforce their own personal rules, beliefs, and customs on others. Paul states in chapter 4, verse 15, “You have countless Christian guardians, but you don’t have many spiritual fathers.” (God’s Word Translation)

The bottom line was that the Corinthian church had all of the ingredients for success except the one that was the most important—love. The problems that the Corinthian church was experiencing arose and persisted because the members were in violation of the principle of love. Without love, they would never be able to find their identity as Christians. So Paul spends an entire chapter (chapter 13) talking about love. He makes the case that without love, all of a person’s accomplishments, beliefs, and even spiritual gifts are meaningless.

In closing his letter, Paul encourages the church by talking about the resurrection and our victory through Jesus Christ. And then, in verse 13, he summarizes the instructions that he has given to them: “Be on your guard, stand firm in the faith, be courageous, be strong” and then he again emphasizes the most important point, “Do everything in love.”

Fast forward to today. Are Paul’s words still true for our age? Yes, they are more relevant than ever! Our unique identity as Christians is based on love.

K.K.

Think about it: Have you asked God to enable you to experience His passionate love for you? Who is God asking you to show sacrificial grace and love to? Are all my thoughts, words, and actions motivated by love? Will today be different than yesterday if I “do everything in love”?

FOLLOWING IN HIS FOOTSTEPS by Debbie Wood

2011-10-14T04:00:00.000-07:00

“If any of you wants to be my follower, you must turn from your selfish ways, take up your cross daily and follow me.” Luke 9:23 (NLT)

I looked up from my desk at Pasadena City College where I am employed as a chemistry instructor and saw Jonathan standing at my office door. I smiled to see this young man’s face, knowing how hard he was working to overcome the poverty and despair of his childhood and achieve his dream of becoming an engineer. He had come seeking my help with a chemistry problem, but our conversation quickly turned to deeper matters of faith in God and the obstacles we face in putting our trust in Him. “I don’t understand it, Mrs. Wood, why do you believe in God so passionately?” I smiled at Jonathan with the pleasure every teacher experiences when their student asks a good question.

I never really knew God, I explained to Jonathan, until I left Him, rejecting my Christian faith in anger over God’s apparent indifference to the world’s endless suffering and heartbreak. This crisis of faith occurred shortly after I graduated from college. I walked away from God, but He never walked away from me. In a startlingly vivid revelation I received while stuck in rush hour traffic on the 91 Freeway, God cut through my pain and confusion and showed me how much He cared. The revelation was in the form of a vision, a single image of His son nailed to a cross, dying a death he did not deserve, to bless the very people who were cursing him, asking forgiveness for them as he died. With a sudden rush of joy I realized that Jesus wasn’t dragged against his will to Calvary, he crawled on his hands and knees to get there and hang on a tree to win stubborn hearts like mine with his nail pierced hands.

But Jesus did more than win my heart — he changed it too. He gave me the faith and courage to take up my own cross and face betrayal and abandonment by others in my own life, with a love that, even when nailed to a cross, cannot be defeated. Then I shared with Jonathan that the reason I so passionately love God and put my faith in Him is because He first so passionately loved me. I will follow Him anywhere, even if it means hanging on my own cross next to His son. For I am convinced that if I die with him, I will live with him. And if I endure, I will reign with him (2 Timothy 2:11-12).

D.W.

Think about it: Have you asked God to enable you to experience His passionate love for you? Who is God asking you to show sacrificial grace and love to?

LOOKING FOR HIS RETURN by Brian Plummer

2011-10-13T04:00:00.000-07:00

“In the future you will see the Son of Man seated in the place of power at God’s right hand and coming on the clouds of heaven.” Matthew 26:64 (NLT)

Nearly every society maintains stories of long-gone heroes who will return someday. Ireland’s mythological Fionn mac Cumhaill and his Fianna warriors are sleeping in a cave somewhere in Ireland and will awaken to defend the island in the hour of her greatest need. Mexico’s Aztec and Mayan deity Quetzalcoatl went away in the distant past and promised to return to restore glory to his people. The Greeks, Romans, Vikings, and Hindus all have stories illustrating the concept of a god or warrior or “great one” who will return at some point in the future. Even the United States has its own “returning god” myth-creator in H. P. Lovecraft. What is it about these stories that draws us so? Is it the sense of expectation? restoration? the longing for a distant golden past that will come again someday? or could it be (as in Lovecraft’s case) ominous fear at the changing of the status quo?

As Christians, we worship a God Who came to Earth and lived among us two millennia ago. We’ve had the stories of Jesus passed down to us in both written and oral form, and we worship Him and connect with Him, albeit in a non-visual way. We know by faith that He’s there (read Hebrews 11), but we’re frustrated that we can’t see Him, can’t touch Him, can’t physically be in His presence. This, I believe, is part of the dissatisfaction we feel with living in this world: we can’t physically be with the One we love. Just like we miss our loved ones who have gone away on an extended trip or soldiers miss their families while deployed overseas, there is an element of bittersweet longing that actually enhances the love we feel. Absence makes the heart grow fonder, does it not? The thought of the eventual reunion actually fills us with joy, and we find ourselves refreshed as we remind ourselves why we love the one we’re waiting for.

What a reunion it will be when we see Jesus face-to-face! Can you picture seeing Him for the first time? Can you imagine your heart leaping in your chest, your knees going weak? Can you picture yourself turning to the person next to you, screaming like a little kid, “Lookit!” Can you envision the joy you will feel when history is finally fulfilled and comes to an end as you look into your Lover’s eyes? Far greater than any myth, we live for this reality—the reality of our Savior’s return.

B.P.

Think about it: Is my hope in Christ’s return real to me? Do I live like it is?

THE NEW FAMILY by Marge Melendez

2011-10-12T05:33:00.000-07:00

“You are members of God’s very own family . . . and you belong in God’s household with every other Christian.” Ephesians 2:19 (LB)

In the year 1944 an unwed mother, 27 years old, working as a photographer for the San Francisco Chronicle and engaged to an Army officer was at a crossroad. During her pregnancy, she received notification via Western Union that her fiancé would not be coming home. She had only a short time to decide about the future of the child she was carrying. She turned to her older sister for advice and together they decided that the best interest of the child would be served if a Christian family were found to adopt the child. The sister had knowledge of just such a Seventh Day Adventist couple who were still childless after eight years of marriage. An attorney was quickly employed to process the appropriate paperwork.

Just eleven days after the birth of this redheaded baby girl, she was taken to her new home and bathed in the love of her new parents. The example set by these godly adoptive parents gave her every benefit of their knowledge and love of God. She was immersed in their extended families and was provided the financial support that confirmed their intention to make her a permanent member of the family.

Elementary schoolmates would often ask the little red-haired girl, “How does it feel to be adopted?” She would always answer: “It’s a wonderful feeling to know that I was chosen.”

This girl’s story reminds us of our Savior’s history. Christ’s royal lineage came through his adoptive father. When we accept Jesus as Savior, we are a part of a new family. We shouldn’t be surprised at the profound significance with which God views our adoption. In a peculiar kind of way, God the Father allowed His Son to be adopted into a family on earth so that we could be adopted into His heavenly family.

In Ephesians 1:4-6 Paul tells us about God’s view of Adoption, “In love he predestined us to be adopted as his children through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will - to the praise of his glorious grace.” Oh the joy of being “chosen”!

M.M.

Think about it: I have a family and Father who calls me His own.

THE REFRESHING IS HERE by Terry Benson

2011-10-11T05:20:00.000-07:00

“Repent, then, and turn to God, that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord.” Acts 3:19 (NIV)

There’s something exhilarating about walking outside and sensing a change in the weather – a sudden cool breeze, the smell of fresh rain on parched earth. Before the refreshing rains come, the wind blows and clouds gather, bringing a kind of excitement mixed with trepidation. It’s been dry for so long, what will this blessed storm mean to us? Will our thirst be sated and our crops nourished? Or will lightning bolts and thunder claps make us cringe with fear?

God’s rain is coming – in fact, it’s just on the horizon. But the cleansing, quenching storm of the Spirit is always preceded by change. It’s called repentance. Turning from the wilderness of sin to the oasis of righteousness. Turning from the dry desert of your own will and your own ways to face the holy rains of God. It’s when you admit to God, “I’m wrong, You’re right – I need You.” No sooner prayed or thought or spoken, than the Spirit of God begins to pour into your thirsty soul His blessed forgiveness, His help and healing – His grace.

The Refreshing of God is here. Are you running away from the Spirit’s storm, afraid of the change it requires? Or have you stopped and turned, ready to be drenched and to drink it in?

T.B.

Think about it: What might there be in my life that is obstructing God’s Spirit from giving me His refreshing presence?

LIVING IN GRACE by Kay Kalousek

2011-10-10T05:11:00.000-07:00

“God loved the world so much that He gave His one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16 (NLT)

“Why would I want to be a Christian? It’s just a bunch of rules that people made up to control others.”

I have heard this or similar statements many times from friends and colleagues. Unfortunately, I can’t say that I blame them because throughout the ages, Christians have fought with each other about what it means to be a follower of Christ. Just look at the number of different denominations, sects, and groups calling themselves Christians—each one believing that they are right and that everyone else is deluded (or damned).

That’s our sad heritage. But as believers, we are not bound or limited by our past. Revival brings a redefinition of our identity and we are free to go back to the foundation of our faith—the grace of God through Jesus Christ.

So what does Jesus say about eternal life?

1. God loved us so much

2. He gave His one and only Son

3. If we believe in Him we will not perish, but have eternal life

This is the gospel--so simple, and yet so utterly profound. We can’t earn it and we don’t deserve it. Our lives are completely based in God’s grace and love. It’s all about Him and what he has done. We don’t need to complicate God’s plan with our definitions, interpretations, and rules.

Our identity is defined by what God has done. Our job is to spread the simple message that God loves us, He gave His Son to die in our place, and all who believe will have eternal life. This is what it means to be a Christian.

What a powerful message we have, what a great God we worship!

K.K

Think about it: Have I been living a Gospel life?

SET YOUR HOPE ANEW by Margaret Baldwin (alternate reading for day 1)

2011-10-09T19:04:00.000-07:00

“Each generation should set its hope anew on God, not forgetting his glorious miracles and obeying his commands.” Psalm 78:7 (NLT)

Today, God, I am this generation. I, MYSELF, ME. The current, up-to-date, lazy, not very thoughtful and often self-centered me. Oh God, if You are really talking to me, help me to listen better than I ever have before. I really do want to hear what you have to say specifically to ME—not to anyone else. So if I listen now, and hear You, it truly will be a current, ongoing miracle! Usually I'm listening to my favorite music, or my friend on the phone or reading my incoming texts or thinking about what's going on in Facebook. Okay, I'm ready to listen.

You tell me to set my hope ANEW on God. But right now my hope is focused on getting through college, or at least getting a good paying job until I can afford to take at least some college classes. Right now I'm hoping my girlfriend, who I really care about, won't expect too much of me and make me feel tied down. And also my buddy is asking me questions—advice-type questions—that I can't even come up with answers for myself, let alone give advise to him for his problems.

What I hope for, from You, is help to creatively solve all my problems, or at least accept where I am right now and live peacefully and energetically with these problems. Help me to recognize them as challenges and embrace their uniqueness, trusting You are guiding me moment by moment. Please keep me alert enough to recognize Your direction when it comes.

Help me to set aside a listening-for-Your-voice-time every day. Let me be comfortable with no distractions—no noise, no sound, no TV, no computer, no earphones, and total solitude. Oh WOW! IS THAT POSSIBLE? Could You, would You help me decide how much time I could program for myself each day just for that—maybe at least five minutes—maybe before I get out of bed each morning. Or when would be best for me?

You created me. You know me better than anyone else. What would I like the best? What would bring me the most creative fun?

Okay, God. This seems pretty silly. I'm not kneeling or closing my eyes, or folding my hands, but I am talking to You and posing some questions. Anyway, because You've told me to hope, I'm hoping for some external or internal blip or flicker or kick from You to help me realize it's You in my life.

This Psalmist says I'm not to forget Your miracles. Yeah, I'm the miracle and I won't forget me! I don't keep my pulse ticking, and I don't tell my stomach to digest that hamburger. But what “glorious miracles” am I not to forget? Those old-fashioned Bible stories are okay for little kids. But I want to know a grown-up, modern, current personal miracle. I promise to write it down when I see one, feel one, have one or remember one. I'll even post it on Facebook, I promise.

You say I'm also to obey your commandments? Yuck, I hate rules! I'm not sure I even remember all of them, but I think there are at least ten. What if I don't want to obey them? Did I just hear You say You will keep them for me? How's that? If I ask you to live Your life in me right now, You will keep your commandments in me with Your power? Wow! I want that! Obey You and still have fun, friends, success. I'm ready to experiment. For the next six weeks of ANEW I choose to let You live in me every day and depend on Your keeping Your commandments in me. Maybe I won't even know what commandments I'm tempted to break or which ones I'm keeping. Just show me Your power during this period so I can recognize it and get the hang of what You're trying to show me and tell me. Thanks.

M.B.

IT LOOKS LIKE RAIN

2011-10-09T04:58:00.000-07:00

“Children of Zion, celebrate! Be glad in your God. He‘s giving you a teacher to train you how to live right—Teaching, like rain out of heaven, showers of words to refresh and nourish your soul, just as he used to do.” Joel 2:23 (Message)

Hot it was that day, and the approaching thunderstorm made it even worse with the humidity and temperature both escalating. I still have the photograph somewhere of my friend Ritchie coming in from the southern Oregon hayfield, hands up in the air, grinning from ear to ear. The late afternoon sunlight made his face glow against the almost-black clouds behind him. He was smiling because he knew what was coming – rain! Cool, refreshing, drenching, drought-busting rain. The accompanying lightning and thunder would be just an entertaining lightshow to emphasize the jubilation over finally having saving rain.

The ancient prophet Joel forecast the coming of a torrential downpour of God’s grace and power. A prophecy of dreams and visions, of signs and wonders, of God revealing Himself to His people once again as He had so often done in the past. (see Joel 2:28-30). We’ve been in a drought too long. We’ve been going through the motions of religious belief while we remain parched for the draughts of spiritual faith that could open up Heaven to our dry and thirsty souls.

But it looks like rain! Joel was right, God has given us showers of His words – the Word – to refresh and nourish our souls. So put a smile on, dance a little jig, raise your hands to the heavens – it’s going to be pouring mercy, showering grace, raining righteousness. Are you ready to get wet?

T.B.

Think about it: When was the last time you felt renewed by God’s grace?

INTRODUCTION

2011-09-13T17:29:00.000-07:00

"Each generation should set its hope anew on God, not forgetting his glorious miracles and obeying his command." Psalm 78:7 (NLT).

I’ll never forget the first night I attended those “Steps To Christ” meetings in Newport Beach – there were 50 or more college students and youth singing guitar-led songs about God and Jesus and loving one another. The topic that night was “God’s Love For Man” and the speaker, recently “saved from drugs by Jesus”, spoke passionately and personally without pretense in words that we could all understand. He seemed to know Jesus well. Revival had come to young adult Adventism in the late 1960’s, and many of us would never be the same again.

Like wildfire, this grass-roots “Jesus Movement” swept across Adventist college campuses. Prayer groups would suddenly assemble at noon or on a hillside in the early morning (no twitter or facebook in those days!). Testimonies were offered freely of lives rescued, bodies healed, and salvation found in Jesus Christ. Compared with today’s standards much of what took place was pretty tame – guitars are no longer forbidden in church auditoriums, and prayer groups or small groups have become a religious science, if not an outright industry. But the freshness, the unpredictability, the raw honesty and passion – all fueled by prayer, confession, spontaneous expressions of joy – were characteristic of what has transpired over and over throughout the history of Christianity. This was what the apostle Peter called, the “times of refreshing.” (see Acts 3:19)

Into the mid-70’s the fires began to dim, partly because of the realities of life and partly because our “end-times” hopes and dreams were not realized. But one thing remained with many of us – the awareness that God is real, that Jesus is alive, and that the Spirit could work in ways beyond human planning, control, or even imagination.

It took me a few years to understand that those early experiences could never be recaptured, as beautiful and transforming as they were. Spiritual vitality requires fresh experience, new miracles, connection with God today, not just yesterday. Look at the verse at the beginning of this introduction – it says, “each generation should set its hope anew on God.” Each generation must discover and rediscover the miraculous grace of Christ, and the great joy of being a devoted disciple.

I’ve been at North Hills for over 13 years now and witnessed the work of God in our church family as well as in my own life. We’ve had great times – times full of spiritual wonder, of laughter, of challenge and conflict, of tragedy and sorrow. Lots of memories and good experiences. But God is not finished with us at North Hills. In fact, I believe He’s just getting started in taking us on the spiritual ride of our lives. I am convinced that this is the time for us to set our hope and our hearts on God anew and experience the greatest “refreshing” yet.

Beginning Saturday, October 8, North Hills Church will embark on a journey we are calling "ANew". This is a six-week spiritual focus of renewal and rediscovery of God's work and purpose in our church. During this time I am asking three things of you -- whether you are a member or a regular attender: First, attend our weekend service every week. Where possible rearrange your schedule so that you don’t miss even one Sabbath. Being all together each week for this season will give God a chance to do amazing things in our church. Second, Read this “Anew” devotional guide, posted every day, and let God speak to you through it. These pages have been written by many of you as well as myself, and they will help deepen and expand the weekend messages. Third, participate in a weekly small group meeting. Through a small group you can experience the fellowship, learning, prayer, sharing and ministry that fueled the spiritual explosion of first century Christianity. Join one of the many small groups, or start your own!

By making a commitment in these three areas you are giving God the opportunity to bring a spiritual “refreshing” into your life like you’ve never known. And you will discover His grace and love anew.