What Does It Mean For Christ To Be Our Teacher?

When we think of Jesus as our teacher, we shouldn't just picture Him as someone who is quietly dropping bits of spiritual wisdom into our minds. He does impart wisdom, but it goes far beyond that.

As our Teacher, Jesus is the one who shapes and molds us completely—sometimes even breaking us down and remaking us in ways that are painful but necessary.

He teaches us the hard realities of temptation, sin, death, and hell, while also revealing the beauty of love, the Spirit, life, atonement, and heaven.

Christ's classroom is more than a space for Bible study or theological lectures; it’s a gym for discipline, a war room for spiritual battles, a hospital for healing, and a kitchen where we clean up the messes we’ve made.

We learn self-control.

We are trained in spiritual warfare.

We are broken apart and rebuilt.

Jesus instructs us to carry our cross and follow Him, and also to help others with theirs. We learn both compassion and tough love. He teaches us how to pray, how to hope, how to confess, and ultimately, how to live and how to die.

Jesus as our Teacher covers all these areas.

What an incredible teacher we have in Him. Never underestimate the joy, the struggle, the hope, and the salvation that come with being His students.

Happy Sunday 🥂😊

The Language of The UNIVERSE

 

The language of the universe is one that is communicated eloquently,

Yet not with the mouth;

It is heard perfectly, by those who understand it, but not with the ears.

The wind has been carrying it for ages, whispering secrets across continents and oceans,

Bridging the gaps between mountains and valleys,

Uniting the world in an invisible, yet palpable bond.

The rain understands it perfectly,

Falling gently or pouring fiercely,

Each drop a message of renewal, a symbol of life’s endless cycle.

In the rhythm of the rain, you can hear the soothing lullaby of the earth,

A melody that sings of growth, cleansing, and rebirth.

Plants are no strangers to it;

They grow towards the light,

Their leaves turning to the sun as if in a silent conversation,

Responding to the warmth and energy that sustain them.

The trees are masters at communicating with it,

Their roots intertwined beneath the soil,

Sharing nutrients and wisdom in a complex network of mutual support,

A testament to the interconnectedness of all living things.

Animals are not left behind in the mastery of this ancient art of eternal enunciation;

From the majestic migration of birds to the nurturing instincts of a mother bear,

They live by this language,

A language of instinct, care, and balance.

They understand their place in the grand design,

Each species playing a role in the delicate dance of existence.

And in the deepest sense, because of this understanding,

The Lamb gladly went to the slaughterhouse to lay down His life.

In this ultimate act of love and sacrifice,

The universe spoke the clearest words ever uttered:

That true love is selfless,

That it transcends the self,

And that it is the most powerful force in existence.

The language of the universe is LOVE—

A force that binds us all,

Seen in the smallest acts of kindness and the greatest sacrifices,

Felt in the silent moments of connection between souls,

And known in the deepest parts of our being,

Where words fail and only the heart can speak.

It is the language that transcends time and space,

Understood by all creatures,

And recognized by all elements.

It is the driving force behind creation,

The reason the stars shine,

And the earth turns.

It is the essence of existence,

The silent song of the cosmos,

The heartbeat of life itself.

In every breath we take,

In every smile we share,

In every act of compassion,

We speak this language,

And the universe responds in kind,

Echoing back the love that sustains and nourishes all that is.

The Language of The UNIVERSE is LOVE

Happy Sunday 🥂😊

                                                                      ...Neo Galgius

A Seed Grows Where a Seed Grows

I’ve seen lovely flowers sprouting from cracks in a trash-strewn, concrete sidewalk, and in fertilized soil, I’ve observed flowers blossom, wither and die.

A seed grows where a seed grows.

Likewise, over the years, I’ve shingled roofs with hardened men and sipped drinks with nobles. I’ve sweated on the field with men of questionable characters and talked theology in the book-strewn studies of revered scholars.

One thing I’ve learned is this: Where the seed of the Word of God will take root has nothing to do with the external appearance of the one who hears it.

A man living in a cardboard box can blaspheme God just as vociferously as a billionaire hedonist in a hilltop mansion. And a former Mexican mafia member can repent and believe in Jesus just as truly as a preacher’s kid can.

A seed grows where a seed grows.

Inside, we’re all pretty much the same. Desperate, confused, self-absorbed, dying people fumbling for hope in a world where down is up and up is down, and vanity, vanity, all is vanity.

But inside some—who they are and who they will be, God knows—I say, inside some a seed drops. The seed of the Gospel. One a mother, one a murderer. One a persecutor like Paul, one a centurion like Cornelius. One me, another you.

There, miracle of miracles, the seed takes root, grows, bears fruit. God makes it happen. God makes them part of his faithful community.

Ah, what a motley, hilarious, beautiful gathering the church is, where individuals with nothing in common but Jesus, sing and pray and confess together because Jesus makes us all common beneficiaries of his work.

A seed grows where a seed grows. Thank you, Jesus, for making that seed grow in the cracks of a sidewalk heart like my own.

A seed grows where a seed grows.

Keep planting that seed regardless!

Happy Sunday 🥂😄

In Defence of A.I. Technology

I think it’s time we have a serious conversation about the complaints surrounding the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI). These concerns are quite understandable, considering the transformative impact AI is having on various sectors.

I remember the dysphoria that surrounded the introduction and use of scientific calculators by secondary school science students back in the day, the silence that ensued later became so deafening, and the widespread disapproval became almost non-existent when dignified examination bodies started distributing the same scientific calculators to students sitting for their exams.

But do you know that it takes a level of intelligence to prompt an AI machine to produce high-quality material? Despite possessing scientific calculators in those days, some people lacked the intellectual know-how to operate and solve simple equations.

I reckon, then, that the ability to direct, instruct, guide, and prompt an AI machine until the desired material is produced is in itself a form of intelligence.

It’s essential to understand that A.I. is not a magic solution but a sophisticated tool that requires human input and creativity. For instance, A.I. can analyse vast amounts of data quickly, but it is the human user who decides the questions to ask and how to interpret the answers. This collaboration between human intelligence and A.I. technology can lead to ground-breaking innovations and efficiencies in various fields, from healthcare to finance to education.

Let us consider the niche of content creation. A.I. can assist writers by generating drafts, suggesting edits, and even composing simple articles. However, the nuance, creativity, and emotional depth that a human writer brings to the table cannot be replicated by a machine. The writer’s unique voice, perspective, and experience are irreplaceable elements that make contents engaging and meaningful.

Instead of opposing and campaigning against the use of A.I. technology, that energy should be channelled into educating users about the ethical and professional ways to harness the limitless potential of this technology for improved productivity. Thus, creating a well-informed user base, which can ensure that A.I. is used responsibly and beneficially.

Moreover, AI has the potential to democratize access to information and resources. By making advanced tools available to a broader audience, A.I. can help level the playing field in many industries. Small businesses can compete with larger corporations, students in remote areas can access quality education, and researchers can expedite their discoveries.

I will conclude with this that;

“the A.I. technology is supposed to be a guide to creating quality materials and not a replacement for your brain”.

Embracing A.I. with the right mind-set and knowledge can lead to a future where human creativity and machine efficiency complement each other, driving progress and innovation, instead of stifling it.

Cock-a-doodle-doo..!

 “While he was still speaking, a rooster crowed.” Lk 22:60 NAS

 

The Bible says: “While he was still speaking, a rooster crowed. The Lord turned and looked at Peter. And Peter remembered the word of the Lord, how He had told him, ‘Before a rooster crows today, you will deny Me three times.’ And he went out and wept bitterly” (vv. 60-62 NAS).

Before God entrusts you with a great assignment, He will permit Satan to test you. Why? To reveal your weaknesses so that God can strengthen you in those areas. God will allow you to fail in a smaller sphere to keep you from messing up in a larger one, hurting not only yourself but others too. 

One of the wonders of the Christian life is that Jesus can take rubble and build something beautiful out of it. Peter promised never to deny Jesus, but by the time the rooster crowed, he had already done it three times.

Repeated failure! Can you relate? You said you wouldn’t lose your temper, but you did. Cock-a-doodle-doo! You said you wouldn’t give in to temptation, but you did. Cock-a-doodle-doo! 

When does a rooster crow? Early in the morning!

Good news!

That means the rooster announces the beginning of a brand new day. After his worst night of failure, the sun came up for Peter. And it will come up for you too. By God’s grace you can start your life over any day you choose to. Today you can repent of your sin and go on to do great things for the Lord. Peter ended up winning multitudes to Christ and leading the church. So no matter how badly you have failed, God will forgive you, restore you, and redirect your steps.

Happy Sunday 🥂😊

The Woman at The Well...

 

“The woman at the well in John 4. Who is she? A harlot who goes through men like water? A victim of cruel men who either die or get bored of her?

The underlying reasons for those questions are important. But what if we are simply coming to the story with 21st century concerns instead of looking for what the context and its symbols are telling us?

What symbols? John 4 comes right after John 3. And what is at the tail end of John 3? John the Baptist talking in symbols: he’s the best man introducing the Great Groom (Christ) who strides forth, coming for his Bride. 

And then what do we have at the start of John 4? That very Groom, walking toward another symbol: a well. A well he just “had” to come to (v.4). Why? What was so important about this particular well? 

This is when our Old Testament alarm bells should start ringing. It was Jacob’s well. He had to go to Jacob’s well. 

Why? Because Jacob is one of Israel’s patriarchs. And who, exactly, meets Israel’s patriarchs when they arrive at a well? A bride.  

Abraham, the father of nations, orchestrates the match between his son and a bride there: Isaac and Rebekah. Isaac’s son, too, meets his wife at a well: Jacob and Rachel. And don’t forget Moses and Zipporah meet at a well, too. 

Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Moses: meeting a bride at a well runs right through all their stories. 

So when we see John 3 bring up the symbol of a Groom and John 4 bring up the symbol of a well, our hand should hood our eyes as we scan the horizon. Who will the bride be? What kind of match is the Heavenly Father, the Father of nations, striking up for his Son at this well (in broad daylight, by the way)? The fair Rachel? The weak Leah? 

No. She’s even more surprising. It is fitting that the camera would pan to the Samaritan woman as the symbol of Christ’s Bride: a biblical symbol that represents the church. For as we know, as a Samaritan, she’s both Jew and Gentile in one. And so is the church.

Here is the Bride that Christ is interested in: the one who went through so many "grooms" that failed her, the one no one wants to talk to, the lowly and unexpected. Not the most impressive, rather the overlooked and misunderstood. Not the self-righteous and smug, rather the dejected and ostracized. This is exactly who comprises the church. She is exactly who the woman at the well represents. She’s us.

-Shared

God Doesn't Seek the Lovable.

     The love of God is not like our love. The love of God does not seek the lovable, the likable, or the one who will love him back. God loved us, as it were, even before he found us, even before he created us, from the very foundation of the world. Indeed, his love created us, formed us in our mother’s womb, recreated us in the womb of the church, and continues to love us even when we are mean, spiteful, and unmerciful.

Men in search of a wife look for an attractive woman who will love them back. Not God. He found an ugly, disease-infested prostitute whose life was littered with impurity, shame, and every manner of wickedness. This woman God joyfully made his bride. He washed her clean of every filth, forgave her past, clothed her in his righteousness, and pronounced her beautiful.

This woman for whom God did this—she is us.

Do not ask why. Simply say Amen. For what else can one say to the love of God except Amen? Yes, yes, it shall be so. The planks in our eyes and the specks in the eyes of our neighbor, he takes these all with him and attaches them to the bloody wood of his cross. They are forgiven, gone. Our failures, infidelities, greed, selfishness—they melt like ice in the heat of our Father's compassion. We are clean. We are pure. We are beloved of God. Nothing and no one means more to him than we do. And nothing and no one can change that.

This is a reminder of our Father's Love, of how small we are and how Massive His Love for us is.

Happy Sunday 🥂

Antimicrobial Resistance: A Growing Threat to Global Health

There's a pandemic that is silently creeping into our world right under our noses and we all seem to be unaware or deliberately negligence of its impact, and innocent people have suffered needlessly or died due to this.

Every time you engage in irrational drug use or encourage such, every inexcusable blunder in drug prescription or dispensation will most likely hurt an innocent fellow sooner or later. The pandemic I speak of is the pandemic of the inefficiency of antibiotics or to put it in a better context, THE PANDEMIC OF RESISTANCE AGAINST ANTIBIOTICS BY MICROBES. This issue seems inconsequential until it's time for you to battle a microbial infection.

Playing your part excellently therefore, can't be a choice; it's mandatory. Excellence and honesty therefore must be at the centre of everything worth doing. The onus is on us then to take responsibility in battling these growing superbugs and one of the steps is to educate ourselves about Anti-Microbial Resistance.

Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a critical and escalating global health threat that occurs when microorganisms evolve mechanisms to resist the effects of antimicrobial drugs. This renders standard treatments ineffective, leading to persistent infections, increased spread of disease, and higher mortality rates. AMR compromises the effectiveness of many life-saving drugs and poses a significant challenge to public health, food security, and development.

AMR arises naturally over time, usually through genetic changes. However, the misuse and overuse of antimicrobials in humans, animals, and agriculture have accelerated the process, creating “superbugs” that are difficult to treat. For instance, diseases like tuberculosis and gonorrhoea are becoming harder to manage due to rising resistance rates.

Factors Contributing to AMR

Several human behaviours and lifestyle choices significantly contribute to the increase in AMR:

1. Overuse and Misuse of Antibiotics: Many individuals use antibiotics for viral infections like colds and flu, where they are ineffective. Additionally, not completing prescribed antibiotic courses allows some bacteria to survive and develop resistance.

2. Agricultural Practices: The widespread use of antibiotics in livestock to promote growth and prevent disease contributes to the development of resistant strains that can be transferred to humans through the food chain.

3. Poor Infection Control: Inadequate hygiene and infection control in healthcare settings and communities can facilitate the spread of resistant microorganisms.

4. Global Travel and Trade: The movement of people, animals, and goods across borders accelerates the spread of resistant bacteria worldwide.

Curtailing the Challenges of AMR

Addressing AMR requires a multifaceted approach involving individuals, healthcare professionals, agricultural sectors, and governments. Here are some key strategies to combat AMR:

1. Public Awareness and Education: Educating the public on the proper use of antibiotics and the dangers of AMR is crucial. Campaigns should focus on reducing the demand for antibiotics for viral infections and promoting adherence to prescribed treatments.

2. Antibiotic Stewardship Programs: Healthcare providers should implement antibiotic stewardship programs to ensure the appropriate use of antibiotics. This includes guidelines for prescribing antibiotics and monitoring their use.

3. Strengthening Infection Prevention and Control: Improving hygiene practices, such as handwashing and sanitation, in healthcare settings and communities can prevent the spread of infections and reduce the need for antibiotics.

4. Regulating Antibiotic Use in Agriculture: Governments should enforce regulations to limit the use of antibiotics in livestock and promote alternatives such as vaccinations and improved animal husbandry practices.

5. Investing in Research and Development: There is a need for continued investment in the development of new antibiotics, diagnostics, vaccines, and alternative treatments to stay ahead of resistant pathogens.

In addition, when you consider the mechanism of resistance developed by these microorganisms e.g.; the use of pumps to flush antibiotics out of their internal milieu, the altering of the components of their cell membrane, etc., you will realise that developing novel ways of delivering these drugs into the internal milieu of these organisms (a delivery system which bypasses their resistance system) will prove to be relatively cheaper and even more effective compared to novel antibiotics developed for this purpose, a process which might take years to develop and might even end up as their predecessor.

This is an area I am enthusiastic about and willing to explore, given the opportunity.

Actionable Steps for Stakeholders

To effectively tackle the challenges posed by AMR, various stakeholders must take coordinated actions:

1. Government and Policy Makers: should enact and enforce regulations on antibiotic use in both human medicine and agriculture. Support research and innovation in the development of new antimicrobial agents and alternative therapies.

2. Healthcare Professionals: are enjoined to adhere to and promote antibiotic stewardship practices. Educate patients on the proper use of antibiotics and the importance of completing prescribed courses.

3. Agricultural Sector: should implement and adhere to guidelines for the responsible use of antibiotics in animals. Invest in better farming practices to reduce the reliance on antibiotics.

4. Public and Patients:  should follow medical advice on antibiotic use, complete prescribed courses, and practice good hygiene to prevent infections. Support policies and initiatives aimed at combating AMR.

Conclusion

Antimicrobial resistance is a complex and pressing global health challenge that requires immediate and sustained action from all sectors of society. By understanding the causes of AMR and taking proactive steps to reduce its spread, we can protect the effectiveness of antibiotics for future generations. It is imperative that individuals, healthcare providers, farmers, policymakers, and researchers work together to combat this growing threat and ensure a healthier future for all.

Chess...The Game of Life; “In a bid not to lose a piece, many have lost the game; to win, you must be ready to lose.” ...Neo Galgius.

In the intricate tapestry of human experience, the game of chess stands as a timeless metaphor, reflecting the strategic decisions, unforeseen challenges, and ultimate triumphs that define our journey through life. As we dig into the intricacies of this metaphor, we uncover profound insights into the nature of choice, destiny, and the interplay between human agency and external forces.

Understanding Chess As A Metaphor

Chess, a game of ancient origins, has captivated minds and hearts for centuries. Its allure lies not just in the arrangement of pieces on a checkered board but in the strategic dance that unfolds with each move. From the opening gambit to the final checkmate, players engage in a battle of wits, foresight, and adaptability. This mirrors the stages of human existence, where we navigate beginnings, challenges, and resolutions. The chessboard itself becomes a microcosm of life’s complexities. The sixty-four squares represent the myriad choices and paths we encounter. The pieces, each with its unique abilities and limitations, symbolize the resources and potentials at our disposal. Terms like openings, middle game, endgame, tactics, and strategy transcend mere chess jargon; they offer insights into the phases we traverse in pursuit of our goals.

Parallels between Chess and Life

Consider the opening phase of a chess game. Players vie for control of the centre, establish pawn structures, and position their pieces strategically. This mirrors our early experiences, where foundational choices set the stage for our future endeavours. Just as in chess, these initial moves carry significance, influencing subsequent decisions and outcomes. As the game progresses into the middle game, complexities emerge. Pieces manoeuvre, threats materialize, and opportunities arise. This mirrors the challenges and opportunities we encounter in life’s journey. Whether navigating career paths, relationships, or personal growth, the middle game demands strategic thinking, adaptability, and the ability to anticipate and respond to changing dynamics. The endgame in chess is a phase of culmination. Players focus on achieving checkmate or securing a favourable position. Similarly, in life, we face critical junctures where decisions carry long-term consequences. Choices made in the endgame—career transitions, commitments, investments—shape our destinies and determine the trajectories of our lives.

Strategic Thinking in Chess and Life

At the heart of chess and life alike is strategic thinking. Chess players excel not merely due to memorized moves but because of their ability to think several steps ahead, anticipate opponents’ responses, and adapt strategies to evolving situations. This strategic mindset is equally vital in navigating life’s complexities. Strategic thinking encompasses:

•Long-term planning while addressing immediate challenges.

•Anticipating risks and rewards associated with decisions.

•Adapting strategies based on changing circumstances and feedback.

•Balancing short-term gains with long-term objectives.

Learning from Chess Masters

The wisdom of chess masters offers invaluable lessons for life. Players like Garry Kasparov, Bobby Fischer, and Judit Polgar not only exhibited exceptional chess prowess but also demonstrated qualities such as perseverance, creativity, resilience, and the ability to learn from failures. Analysing famous chess games unveils patterns of strategic thinking applicable beyond the chessboard. Strategies like sacrificing a piece for positional advantage, controlling key squares, or exploiting opponents’ weaknesses resonate with strategic decision-making in diverse life domains.

The Art of Sacrifice

One of the most profound lessons from chess is the art of sacrifice. In chess, sacrificing a piece strategically can lead to positional advantages or create openings for decisive moves. Similarly, in life, strategic sacrifices—whether in terms of time, comfort, or immediate gratification—can pave the way for greater long-term benefits. Consider the sacrifice of a pawn to gain control of a crucial square or the sacrifice of a piece to divert an opponent’s focus. These sacrifices, while seemingly costly in the short term, contribute to broader strategic objectives and ultimate victory. Likewise, in life, strategic sacrifices may involve investing time and effort in skill development, pursuing challenging opportunities, or making difficult but necessary decisions for long-term growth and fulfilment.

Applying Chess Principles to Life

How can we translate the principles of chess into actionable strategies for life? By developing a strategic vision that encompasses personal and professional goals. Analyse risks and rewards associated with decisions, weighing short-term gains against long-term consequences. Adapt strategies based on evolving circumstances, feedback, and lessons learned. Cultivate qualities such as patience, focus, resilience, and mental agility to navigate challenges and seize opportunities.

The game of chess serves not only as a source of entertainment but also as a profound mirror reflecting the strategic complexities of life. As we navigate our own chessboards of choices, challenges, and opportunities, let us embrace strategic thinking, resilience, and mindful decision-making. The journey of life rewards those who approach it with purpose, foresight, and a willingness to adapt and learn. In the chapters that follow, we will carefully expound on the themes of choice, destiny, and the interplay between human agency and external influences. By exploring these themes through the lens of chess and human existence, the aim is to inspire introspection, growth, and a deeper understanding of the forces that shape our lives.

(This is an excerpt from my forthcoming book; CHOICE OR DESTINY; What determines the trajectory and outcome of a man's life?)

ABEL AND JESUS

How Does Christ’s Blood Speak a Better Word than the Blood of Abel?

Not a single word from Abel is recorded in Scripture. Cain murdered him, and Cain has something to say. But the victim of violence? The recipient of hate? The righteous one? Not a syllable!

Cain has words, Abel none.

But Abel does speak in a different language. He utters crimson eloquence, red rhetoric so profound his speech pierces heaven’s veil to lodge in the ears of God.

How so? The Lord says, “The voice of your brother’s blood is crying to me from the ground” (Gen. 4:10).

You see what’s happening?

1. Blood has a voice.

2. Blood cries out to God.

3. Blood is heard by heaven.

Far, far later, the author of Hebrews wrote about another crimson eloquence, about more red rhetoric. He says that the blood of Jesus “speaks better than the blood of Abel” (12:24).

Whatever Abel’s blood said to God, Christ’s blood said it better.

We hear on many occasions that Abel’s blood cried out, “Avenge me” and “Do justice,” but the Bible does not say that. All it says is, “The voice of your brother’s blood is crying to me from the ground” Gen. 4:10. Crying for what? For justice, for clemency, for mercy, for revenge, for something else? We are not told.

The strongest hint of what Abel’s blood might be crying for is in the Hebrews 12 passage. It says that Christ’s blood speaks “a better word” than the blood of Abel. All through Hebrews, there is a comparison of angels, priests, sacrifices, etc. with the finished work of Christ. For instance, in these passages, the same Greek word is used, translated as “superior” or “better”:

Hebrews 1:4

Having become as much superior to angels as the name he has inherited is more excellent than theirs.

Hebrews 7:19

(for the law made nothing perfect); but on the other hand, a better hope is introduced, through which we draw near to God.

Hebrews 7:22

This makes Jesus the guarantor of a better covenant.

Hebrews 8:6

But as it is, Christ has obtained a ministry that is as much more excellent than the old as the covenant he mediates is better, since it is enacted on better promises.

Hebrews 9:23

Thus it was necessary for the copies of the heavenly things to be purified with these rites, but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these.

Hebrews 11:40

Since God had provided something better for us, that apart from us they should not be made perfect.

Hebrews 12:24

And to Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood that speaks a better word than the blood of Abel.

Therefore, the angels are good but Christ is better; the law was good but in Christ we have a better hope; the old covenant was good but in Jesus we have a better covenant. Using this same logic, what the blood of Able spoke was good but what Christ’s blood speaks is better.

So rather than understanding a CONTRAST between these two bloods, I see an improvement. All of which leads me to hear in the blood of Abel not a cry for vengeance but mercy. Yet Abel’s cry for mercy is but a whisper in comparison with the louder cry for mercy in the blood of Jesus.

The voice of Jesus’s blood, crying out from the ground beneath the cross, piercing the heavens, lodging in the ears of God, speaks one and only one message: “Father, forgive them.”

That eloquent blood pronounces the absolution of the world, you included.

Believe it. It is for you.

Happy Sunday 🥂

The Good News That Almost Killed Old Jacob

When his sons informed him that Joseph, whom he had thought dead for the last 22 years, was not only alive but ruler of Egypt, “his heart became numb” (Gen. 45:26). The Hebrew verb "פוג" suggests that his heart shut down. Robert Alter translates it, “His heart stopped.”

Then, as the brothers spilled forth their astonishing story, “the spirit of their father Jacob revived” (45:27). “Dead” and alive again. A smile erupted on that wrinkled face. And taking a deep breath, he said, “It is enough; Joseph my son is still alive. I will go and see him before I die” (45:28).

All this time, the poor father thought his son was dead. BUT he was alive.

It reminds me of that other, better story about another Son, whom all his followers thought was dead. And, indeed, he was dead, for three days anyway. BUT, Christ is risen.

As we seek to follow Jesus in our lives and vocations, his resurrection becomes the universal “BUT” to every heartbroken fact of our existence.

-When we watch our beloved parent, or friend lowered into the grave, we say, “BUT, Christ is risen.”

-When we see our families or communities torn asunder and wonder if there is any hope for the future, we say, “BUT, Christ is risen.”

-When we stumble and fall, get up only to stumble yet again, limping our way along as mortal, weak, weary disciples, we say, “BUT, Christ is risen.”

And because of that “BUT,” because of that divine and joyful rebuttal, Julian of Norwich put it this way: “All shall be well, and all shall be well, and all manner of things shall be well.” Jesus is alive and well and reigning over us as King of kings and Lord of lords.

It’s no exaggeration to say that that makes all the difference in the world.

Happy Easter 🥂

FOLLOWING JESUS INTO THE MUD AND MUCK.

The story goes that as Teresa of Avila was traveling along, she accidentally slipped off her horse and fell smack-dab into the mud. When she complained to Jesus, he said, “This is how I treat my friends,” to which she retorted, “If this is how you treat your friends, it’s no wonder you have so few of them!” 

While we might chuckle at the legend, we might also grimace at the ring of painful truth it expresses. Being a friend and follower of Jesus means that sometimes we wind up face first in the mud and muck of life. The path of discipleship at times leads to the arena of mockery, hatred, even martyrdom. It also means that we are not spared gashing wounds from grief and grave disappointment.

Following Jesus sometimes means being unfollowed by the "good things" that others enjoy. 

Listen to how Paul described his ministry: “To the present hour we hunger and thirst, we are poorly dressed and buffeted and homeless, and we labor, working with our own hands. When reviled, we bless; when persecuted, we endure; when slandered, we entreat. We have become, and are still, like the scum of the world, the refuse of all things” (1 Cor. 4:11-13).

Being a friend of Jesus, in Paul’s case, meant being treated like trash.

This is a blunt reminder we all need. Jesus did not bid us dance with him in a rose garden but march with him to a bloody cross—a cross he bore, and crosses we bear as he works within us. “The Son of God suffered unto the death, not that men might not suffer, but that their sufferings might be like His” (George MacDonald).

Dear Lord Jesus, our Lord and Friend, do with us what you will. Conform us to yourself. Only do not forsake us. For with you, no matter what may befall us, we are where we need to be. Amen.

Happy Sunday 🥂

THE UNTAMED TONGUE

 

“No human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.” James 3:8 pulls no punches. That muscle in our mouth can kill or heal, spark wars or absolve a world.

From beginning to end, the Bible speaks about the power of speech, for good or for ill. With speech, the Lord God worded the world into being. And with speech, the serpentine foe wooed the world into evil.

To ignore our tongues is to court disaster.

When God commanded, “You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor,” he made explicit what we all know: that human society, relationships, justice, and one’s own soul are destroyed by lies.

Some of the hardest moments in my life were when, knowing a lie would be the easy way out, that it would save me embarrassment, I raged war against my every inclination and spoke the truth. It hurt but it also opened a door to incremental healing. Truth was the Spirit’s gift.

“I am the Truth,” Jesus said. And, in many ways, that said it all. Truth is life. Truth is inner peace. Truth is of God.

God grant that Christ the Truth may rule our hearts and govern our tongues, that he may kindle within us a fervent devotion to honest words, and that when we fail — and fail we will — that he may move our tongues to confession and thanksgiving for his absolution.

For God, who began our world with “Let there be,” heals our world through, “I forgive you.” And when God says that, no truer words could be spoken.

A KNIFE TO A GUN FIGHT.

God often has his servants bring a knife to a gunfight. Or, in the case of Moses, which was a stick or staff (in other contexts, the word can also mean “scepter”).

With a simple piece of wood, Moses fought against the most powerful leader of the most powerful nation on earth. Sounds foolish, doesn’t it? Yes, but when it comes to heaven’s arsenal, our Lord prefers to use foolish weapons to defeat the wise and powerful of the world.

With this staff, Moses and Aaron turned the Nile to blood (Exodus. 7:20) and held it over the sea so the Israelites could pass through (14:16). With this same staff by which he had punished Egypt, he also blessed Israel with drinking water from a rock (17:5-6).

What made this staff so powerful? Was it magical wood? No. God connected his word of promise and power to this simple element of creation. It was a vehicle for his gracious work in this world. The stick’s power came from God’s claim upon it. It was, indeed, “the staff of God” (Exodus. 4:20; 17:9).

As such, this wooden staff is like the jars of Gideon or the waters of baptism. They are all the unpretentious ways our Lord chooses to defend us. Each of them, in their own way, are the word of God made visible. A word of wood. A word of pottery. A word of water. They are not the words we would look for, or even hope for, but they are the words of life itself. 

Simple things which many would scoff at as silly or foolish, these are what our Lord likes to use. The ultimate example of which is “Christ crucified, a stumbling block to Jews and folly to Gentiles, but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God” (1 Cor. 1:23-24).

Hallelujah!

Happy Sunday 🥂

Out of Options: Jacob and GOD.

Unbeknownst to Jacob, God has Jacob right where he wants him: out of options. Food has run out. Time has run out. But the famine has not run out. Jacob has been dragging his feet about sending his sons back to Egypt for more supplies because he knows that this time, his beloved Benjamin *must* go with them.

Jacob is out of options, that is, except for the options of (1) relying, not upon himself, but upon mercy and (2) relying, not upon himself, but upon others. Not only for Jacob but for all of us, that is a highly unsettling place to be.

None of us willingly place ourselves in situations where we are out of options, where we must rely upon divine mercy and our neighbor’s actions on our behalf. We’re too busy playing divinity in our juvenile galaxies of self-determination. So, in ways sometimes small and sometimes big, the Master of providence picks us up by the scruff of our necks and drops us there. Where we are empty, at our wits’ end. And where we are thus precisely in a situation ripe for divine work in our lives.

It's a terrible place to be because we cannot shepherd events or pull the strings to get what we want. But it’s also a blessed place to be. A vacuum is created within us that the Spirit of God begins to fill. Less of me, more of God. Less of control, more of Christ.

We sit in the dirt with Jacob and fix our eyes on the horizon. We place ourselves under the mighty and merciful hand of a compassionate God. We wait. We hope. And we trust that, no matter what happens, we do not really sit there alone. Jesus is right there beside us. For if there’s one truth we know about Christ, beyond any doubt, it’s that hell and all its demons cannot make him budge one inch from those whom he calls his friends.

A New Song; There's Something New Under the Sun!

There is an old song of our fallen and failing world, and the song is;

“There Is Nothing New Under the Sun.”

A flat song, out of tune, and accompanied by wheezing trumpets and tattered drums. When you look at your life in shambles because of the strings of foolish decisions you made, this song plays in the background. When you are utterly bankrupt inside, with nothing there, and you wonder why you even exist, this old song plays. False notes. Gasping melodies. This is the song sung in the amphitheater of this world, a broken record of broken people leading broken lives. We all know it by heart.

God knows that we know that old song all too well, so he, with mercy higher than the mountains, with love deeper than the ocean depths, gave us a new song. In Hebrew, שִׁיר חָדָשׁ, shir chadash. “Oh sing to the LORD a new song; sing to the LORD, all the earth! Sing to the LORD, bless his name; tell of his salvation from day to day” (Psalm 96:1-2). This is not the siren song of worthless idols, but the saving song of him who “made the heavens,” before whom are “splendor and majesty,” and in whose sanctuary is “strength and beauty” (Psalm 96:5-6).

This new song is not novel in the sense of modern and innovative, but a Good News song of the Lamb who renews our hopes, renews our souls, renews life itself. This is the new song of Jesus, for if anyone is in him, they are a new creation. Old things have passed away, old songs have been trashed, and everything is new in the Word made flesh who dwelt among us and sang his love into our hearts.

You see, there is something new under the sun: God became man in Jesus, the Godman. He is our new song. And because of him, in our life under the sun, which so often is hard and painful, we are carried along on the shoulders of our Good Shepherd, who fills heaven and earth with his booming voice of divine love for us.

Hallelujah!

No Good Deed Goes Unpunished?

 

Because we live in a “You scratch my back and I’ll scratch yours” kind of world, we are shocked and offended when, instead of a “scratch back,” we get slapped. Or ignored. Our innate sense of fairness is trampled underfoot. Listen, we did X, Y, or Z for them, so they *must* return the favor.

We are prone to think like this regarding God: “If I do the will of the Lord, if I stick to the straight and narrow, then he is obligated to reward me for my fidelity.” And by “reward me,” we mean do good, nice, pleasant, or profitable things for us. It’s only fair, right?

The narrative of Joseph and lustful Mrs. Potiphar is a painful but needed reminder that sometimes doing the right thing will put you in the wrong place—or what feels like the “wrong place” to you. In the story from Genesis 39, Joseph repeatedly rebuffs the sexual advances of his master’s wife, sticks to his chastity, and even gives a good confession before this temptress. And his reward? Falsely accused of sexual attack. Slandered and maligned. Imprisoned.

Yes, indeed, there are times when the outcome of our doing God’s will is that agreeable things happen to us. That’s great! And there are times when the outcome of doing what’s right is getting fired from our job, abandoned by our peers, laughed at by our family and friends, or even jailed.

For Jesus, it was crucifixion.

As disciples of Jesus, doing our Father’s will is our goal because it is our Father’s will. Not because we get something out of it but simply because it is best because it is of God. And what is of God is always the best.

And, as we see from the rest of Joseph’s story, oftentimes the “wrong place” we wind up for doing something right, is all part of God’s good, gracious, unfolding plan in our lives.

Our Foibles and Flaws in God's Grand Plan of Salvation.

 

When you consider the life of Isaac, you can't help but laugh, well you just have to, since his name in Hebrew, means “Laughter.” Although an important player in God’s plan of salvation he seems, in a divinely humorous sort of way, to have little clue what’s going on half the time.

In Genesis 22, he has no idea that the sacrifice his father was going to offer up is himself. In Genesis 26, he got caught publicly “caressing” (in flagrante delicto?) his supposed “sister” and so was found to be a liar. And in Genesis 27, he was bamboozled by his sneaky wife and heel of a son.

Poor Mr. Laughter. It’s not that Isaac’s a fool. He’s not unintelligent. Rather, he is simply an ordinary specimen of humanity, caught up in a story much bigger than himself, a story that he is incapable of fully understanding. He embodies our common foibles and flaws, the very imperfections through which God is busily and faithfully at work to bring about his will for all of us.

Isaac was unable to see what was really going on. In that way, Isaac is our “patron saint.” His life also is a beautiful reminder that the Lord’s will for us—and our place in his grand plan of salvation—is unhampered by our weakness, confusion, and long list of stupid decisions. We are experts at getting things wrong and misaligning priorities.

But to be a disciple of Jesus is not to have everything figured out, but often to feel like old, blind Isaac, doing what we can to pass on a blessings to others, blissfully unaware that the Lord is using us in ways we don’t even realize to continue writing the story of his kingdom’s spread in this world.

God, I Thank You that I Am Not Like Other Men!

 

When we read the Bible today, we think of the Pharisees as the “bad guys.” Full of themselves. Impressed with their own righteousness. Hypocrites.

Nobody wants to be a Pharisee.

If we were Jews living in the 1st century, however, we would not think that way. The Pharisees were the good guys, the religious cream of the crop. They went above and beyond the Law.

Many Jewish mommas probably wanted their babies to grow up and be Pharisees.

Once we get this understanding of the Pharisees fixed in our minds, parables such as the one that Jesus told in Luke 18 take on a whole new light—and reveal just how controversial Jesus was.

In this story, two men went up to the temple to pray: one a highly respected man (the Pharisee) and one a highly hated man (the tax collector). The first was looked up to, the second looked down on. When the Pharisee thanked God that he was not like other men, such as extortioners or adulterers, or even like that tax collector, no doubt many people would have said a hearty Amen. They would have agreed that if anyone was in good with God, it was this man, this Pharisee, who crossed his righteous T’s and dotted his holy I’s.

So, when Jesus commended the tax collector, who beat his breast and would not even lift up his eyes, but prayed, “God, be merciful to me, a sinner!” then his hearers would have been aghast: “What? That scoundrel? That good-for-nothing traitor to our nation?”

Yes, that man who humbled himself and prayed that God would forgive him, he went down to his house justified, not the Pharisee.

The Pharisee and the tax collector, although different outwardly, were the same men before God: both sinners in need of atonement. One believed this, one did not.

Let us, my fellow sinners, give heed and pray, “God, be merciful to me, a sinner!” And our Father will, for the sake of Christ, who came as our atonement.

GOD'S PREPARATION FOR OUR SALVATION.

Genesis 1 is Part of God’s Preparation for Our Salvation 

When God planted the trees in Eden, he was making sure there would be wood for both a manger and a cross.

When God poured out oceans and rivers, he was preparing for our baptism into Christ in the waters of the Jordan.

When he sowed the fields with wheat, he was readying the world for bread that would clothe Christ’s body in the meal of meals.

When he made the heavenly lights, he ensured there’d be a star to guide wise men from the East, and a sun to be darken when sinners affixed his Son to a tree.

And when the Lord made Adam and Eve in his own image, he was prophetically winking at his Incarnation, when he would make our nature his own everlastingly.

From the beginning of the world, God so loved the world that he prepared it for the day when he would remake it—remake us!—in his Son.

Hallelujah!