As I’ve mentioned before I find the book of Philippians so applicable to everyday life, and find myself sharing many thoughts on everyday life in my household when I write my posts for the Intersection. Last week Michele shared some humorous thoughts about her boys and the infamous fight for the front seat during car rides. This week I’m going to give you a glimpse into sisterhood and the infamous arguments that often occur in our household of girls.

If you didn’t know better you might think Isabelle (my youngest daughter) has two mothers. That’s right—two. I am one of them—the mom her birthed her, and then there is her nine-year-old older sister Maddie, who often takes on a motherly role with Isabelle too. This mother line is often crossed on weekday mornings as we are rushing around to get out of the house for school. It goes something like this:

Me: “Izzy, did you fill your water bottle and pack up your homework?”

Izzy: No answer….

Maddie: “You better get your stuff packed up, Izzy. I don’t want to be late for school. And get your socks on too. It’s time to go.”

Izzy: “I am HURRYING and YOU ARE NOT MY MOTHER, MADDIE!!!!!”

And on that happy note, we are out the door ready to start a glorious day.

I had to chuckle a little bit as I read the following passage in Philippians:

“Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe. Philippians 2:14-15”

Especially the part about shining like stars in the universe. I have to say that we are far from shining stars in the morning. Perhaps a better description would be “dark clouds in the universe.” Can you relate?

Throughout Paul’s ministry he weaves in the instruction to be set apart from the rest of the world. This passage of scripture is no different. He is instructing the believers in Philippi to be blameless and pure and without fault in a generation that is crooked and sinful.

Funny how not much has changed from centuries ago when these scriptures were penned. The same holds true about the world we live in, and that same timeless instruction is relevant for us today. Notice how Paul says so that you may become blameless and pure. It’s not something that happens over night. It’s a process. And I’m convinced that it’s a process we will work on refining our entire earthly lives.

Are we alone in the process? No! Has God begun a good work in us? Yes! Will He complete the good work in us? Absolutely! (Philippians 1:6)

Then let’s cover ourselves with the mindset of being shining stars. Let’s tap into the strength that only God can give us, and make a way through the dark clouds.

Over the summer my last living grandparent passed away. My grandmother’s health started failing in December after she suffered a fall that broke her hip. It was difficult watching a strong woman who had lived 97 years independently now have to rely on the care of others. She fought hard for her life, independence, and dignity the last seven months of her life, but it wasn’t until some very crucial questions were answered that she felt she could be released from this life and run into the arms of her Master.

In a sweet deathbed conversation with my mom, she wanted to know if her great grandchildren were Christ-followers and if they had confessed Jesus as their Lord and Savior. Thankfully my mom could look her in the eyes and answer that question with a firm YES! It was then that I believe my grandmother felt the freedom to go home and be with Jesus.

One thing that amazes me about Paul is his love for the people that he hated and persecuted for many years prior to his conversion to Christ. In the last part of Philippians chapter one, we see the evidence of that love. Paul’s future is unknown at this point in time. He does not know whether he will return to Philippi to see the church he loves so much, and he has a few important thoughts for the believers in Philippi to consider.

“Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in one spirit, contending as one man for the faith of the gospel.” Philippians 1:27

It is one thing to have our personal faith in Christ worked out, but it’s a whole other when it comes to our loved ones. Until we are on our deathbed, or facing an uncertain future, I don’t know if we can ever fully grasp the urgency in wanting to know that those we love are followers of Christ, nor can we grasp the peace that comes once we do know.

Paul could face the uncertainty of his prison sentence knowing that the Philippian people were like-minded in their faith and standing firm in Christ. As for my grandma, well, she passed away knowing her child, two grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren are like-minded in their faith and standing firm in Christ. Kind of brings new meaning to the phrase, Rest in Peace.

Is it possible to spread the gospel message without fear?

For the majority of my life I would have answered that with a big fat NO. I approached spreading the gospel, well not even spreading, just uttering a peep that I was a Christian, with fear and trembling. Wearing the occasional cross necklace and posting a KLOVE bumper sticker on my car were my witnessing tools.

But now it’s different. I don’t know if times are changing, or if the change has happened in me. Maybe a little of both. I sense an urgency like never before to not only make sure my life is in order spiritually, but deep concern for those close to me who don’t walk intimately with the Lord.

My 20 Year High School Reunion is next month. I’ve had the opportunity to serve on the planning committee for this event, and in so doing have had the chance to connect with many old (and I use that word loosely) friends. Something funny happens when you grow up and remove the masks of high school. You find realness. When it came time for me to complete my bio sheet for the memory book that will be given to all my classmates at the reunion, I found that I suddenly had a boldness that was never there before. I actually wrote about my relationship with the Lord in my bio.

I will admit I was a little proud of myself for writing this, but then it hit me. I really had no choice. I have done nothing in the last 20 years that even compares to what my Heavenly Father has taught me in the last 20 years. It’s not about me at all. It’s about recognizing this Savior of mine and joining Him where He is working.

That’s what Paul did. He joined God where God was working, and it just happened to be in prison.

“Now I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel. As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. Because of my chains, most of the brothers in the Lord have been encouraged to speak the word of God more courageously and fearlessly. Philippians 1:12 – 14”

Do you see what happened when Paul shared the gospel message in prison? Others were encouraged to speak the Word of God more courageously and fearlessly. I can picture the prison guards looking at one another and saying, “Well if Paul can do this while chained in prison, then surely I can do something.”

God is at work all around us. Perhaps we just need to ask Him to show us where. You may be surprised what He reveals to you and how easy it is to share your faith–even to the Gresham High Class of 1990.

Do you ever struggle with feeling inadequate? I will admit that I do from time to time, and it seems the inadequate feelings always attack my parenting. I watch other moms drive their kids here and there and wonder if I have my kids involved in enough extra curricular activities. I see patient moms gently explain things to their children after I’ve just lost it with my own. I hear of moms giving up everything to homeschool their children and wonder why the mere though of homeschooling my own children sends chills down my spine. And the list goes on.

Recently, God taught me a very important lesson in quite a humorous way. Among the many toys in our backyard is a tetherball pole, however, through much weathering over the winter, the ball deflated and eventually fell off, so all that’s left is a pole. A few weeks ago I was doing dishes and glanced out the window to find my youngest daughter dressed in her fancy dress up clothes, an old pair of my sling back, high-healed shoes, and, well, she was dancing around the pole.

My mind raced forward 10 years as visions of nightclubs came to mind. I vaguely remember yelling, “How does my seven-year-old know how to pole dance?” I threw down my dishtowel and ran to the backyard as fast as I could. I could feel the horrified look on my face start to melt away as shock turned to laughter. What I failed to see from the kitchen window was that my daughter was listening to an iPod and belting out the song “Come to Jesus,” as she twirled around the pole.

A HUGE sigh of relief came over me. What looked like a very inappropriate situation was really very innocent. She was having her own quiet time with God that happened to involve dress-up clothes and a pole. No worries, right? “I’m still a good mom, I’m still a good mom…..”

I think the church in Philippi experienced similar situations as they grew in their faith. I’m sure on many occasions they looked around at other saints and felt feelings of inadequacy. Though they knew in their heads that they were a new creation in Christ, and that their former lives had passed away, they still wondered if they were good people.

In steps Paul with his words of affirmation. “…being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 1:6.

It is often difficult, if not impossible, to see a good work when all we notice is our inadequacies, but today I want you to personally grasp the encouraging truth Paul states. Whether you are seven or seventy-seven; whether you are a mom trying to teach your children righteousness, or you are a child learning to find truth in a world that often tells lies; you who are Christ-followers are a work in progress—a good work in progress.

I have the privilege—if you want to call it that—of being married to a “techy.” Yes, my husband loves his tech toys. After months of pestering me about how I needed my own iPhone, he handed me his “less-new” phone when he upgraded to a newer model. I fought it tooth and nail, but I can say today that I love my iPhone. Applications, or “apps” as they are called, that I thought I would never have use for, are now apart of my everyday life. I wonder now what I would ever do without my beloved phone.

The same holds true for my Bible. Even though one of the apps on my iPhone is the Bible, nothing beats my navy, leather bound, gold-engraved, marked up, Bible that I have had for years. And let me tell you the “apps” in this book are just as amazing. One of my favorite books in the Bible is Philippians. The four short chapters are packed with nuggets of truth for everyday living. I hope you will join us the rest of this year as we journey through Philippians and unpack some amazing truths that will apply to our everyday lives.

Philippians is one of many books in the New Testament written by the Apostle Paul. Paul and his companions established the church in Philippi on his second missionary journey, which is recorded in Acts 16. This letter to the church in Philippi is believed to have been written in 61 A.D. At this point in Paul’s life he is imprisoned in Rome for spreading the gospel message to the Gentiles.

Let me stop right here. He is in prison. Please keep this in mind as you read through the book of Philippians. I’m often in awe when I read Paul’s words about joy, unity, Christian living, and humility, and the circumstances in which he is writing—imprisonment.

Paul begins his letter like this: “I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 1:3-6

There are times in my life when I feel shackled to my circumstances. I feel in bondage to the past, but here is a man who is physically in prison and writing a letter of thanksgiving to his friends in Philippi. Not only that, he tells them he is praying for them with joy. Say what?

I can honestly say that thanksgiving and joy are the furthest things from my mind when I face difficult times. But what if they weren’t? What if I focused less on me and more on God and others? What would that even look like? What if I held onto the confidence that Paul talks about and truly believed that He who began a good work in me will carry it on to completion?

How’s that for a free app?

Have you ever received news that seemed too good to be true? I was recently watching the local news when a story aired about a Denver couple, who, after calling their mortgage lender, were congratulated and told that their mortgage had been paid in full, and their account was now closed. Though they knew they were close to paying off this debt, they had no idea they were that close. They decided to seek the help of an investigative journalist at one of our local stations. After a week of investigative phone calls to the lender, the account mysteriously reopened, and sure enough the couple had about $20,000 left to pay on their mortgage.

Ugggh. Can you imagine? Talk about hopes rising and falling. It reminds a little of the story we see unfold in Luke 24. Devastated by the death of Jesus, three women approached the tomb on the third day, only to find it empty. I can only imagine what they must have thought and felt in that moment. I’m sure they were taken back to the last days they had spent with Christ when He had clearly told His followers that He would raise from the dead on the third day. But in the tragic moment of His death many thought it was just too good to be true, and soon dismissed the idea all together.

“When they came back from the tomb, they told all these things to the Eleven and to all the others. But they did not believe the women, because their words seemed to them like nonsense.” Luke 24:9, 11

Friends, the hope that is available to us who believe in Christ is unimaginable at times. We get caught up in our earthly trials and circumstances and the very thought of eternity in Heaven with our Lord seems like nonsense. Do you suppose if we tried with all our might to focus heavenward, rather than on the earthly, that hope might be more realistic? Not just too good to be true, but true!?!

“But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 3:13b-14

This last week marked the end of another school year for my children. Time seems to be whizzing by at warp speed. To savor some of these moments with my girls, I spent quite a few hours last week helping in their classrooms and attending programs and class parties. I was amazed at the energy and excitement running through those students. I’m sure you can imagine. But I couldn’t help but notice how things seemed a little more serious for a few of the teachers—one in particular.

As the week came to a close, many rumors were confirmed about the future of this teacher. It was announced that her contract would not be renewed for next year. This announcement to the school community was met with many different emotions; for some tears, for others relief, for some anger, but for many, surprise.

I quietly observed, not saying much, and honestly wanting to stay out of all the drama. Don’t get me wrong, I certainly had my opinions on the situation, but my thoughts were challenged by the gentle conviction of the Holy Spirit, and this particular scripture in Luke.

“All men will hate you because of Me.” Luke 21:17

Hate is a strong word, but it’s not a mistake that it has appeared in this particular passage of Luke. The disciples asked Jesus about the end of the age, and how they would know the signs of the times. Jesus responded by giving them several illustrations of what the end times would look like for those who believe in Him. Think about His response. All men will hate those who believe in Jesus.

The scenario that played out at our small school this week reminded me a little of this chapter in Luke. I watched as parents and staff took sides. I watched as strong emotions turned into flared tempers and parents started to lash out at one another. I saw finger pointing and blame casting. I saw pockets of people whispering and speculating about the fate of this teacher. I watched this teacher quietly retreat into her classroom as her spark for teaching slowly burned out.

“But not a hair of your head will perish. By standing firm you will gain life.” Luke 21: 18-19

Ahh, the sweet promise of our Lord. God has called us to stand firm in Him, and in return we won’t perish, but be rewarded with eternal life. What I failed to do this week was stand firm. It’s not important what side I took in this particular situation, what matters is that I didn’t stand for anything. I was just a bystander, watching events unfold.

A day is drawing near where our faith will be challenged in unimaginable ways. What happened at this school last week will pale in comparison to what is in store for us in the future. So I ask you, are you prepared for your faith to be tested? Are you living out your faith and standing for truth, or are you a bystander watching on the sidelines?

A few weeks ago I witnessed a conversation between my two daughters—Madeline (9) and Isabelle (7). It went something like this:

Isabelle: (sigh) “I just want to go to heaven right now and see Jesus.”

Madeline: (with a scolding tone) “Izzy, it’s too soon. There is so much work left on earth before we can go to heaven.”

Isabelle: (puzzled) “Huh? What? No one ever told me anything about work.”

Isabelle: (heavy sigh, frown on face, and arms folded) “Whatever Maddie, I still want to see Jesus now.”

Okay, I will admit it’s a little funny. I was trying to hold in my giggles as I broke up this argument. But it got me thinking about my children’s faith. Isabelle showed no fear as she declared her desire to go to heaven. I don’t think I could utter such words in fear that it might come true. I’m not ready quite yet. Of course in a moment of sickness, pain or weakness, I might wish the end was near, but on a daily basis, when all is well, I’m not thinking so much about seeing Jesus.

I became more convicted as I thought about Madeline’s comment. Though she didn’t agree with her sister, she realized that there are many who still need to come into a relationship with our Savior. Do I feel that kind of urgency when it comes to sharing my faith? Do I feel the magnitude of the work like Madeline?

It reminds me of the disciples in Luke 18, when they critically question Jesus about the children coming to Him. I wonder if the disciples had young children? Did their children ask tough spiritual questions? Did their children make bold spiritual statements causing their parents to fluster?

I don’t know for sure, but one thing I do know is the importance Jesus places on this particular lesson.

“But Jesus called the children to him and said, ‘Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.’” Luke 18:16-17

Could it be that it’s easier for children to receive the blessings of Jesus because they’re not trying to be worthy? Or pretending they don’t need it? Or are they just humble beings freely accepting God’s grace?

These are tough questions for me to ponder as an adult. But what’s amazing to me is that I might never have thought about these questions had it not been for the words that came out of the mouths of my babes.

As I sat on the bed wrapped in the white motel towel, my wet hair dripping down my back, the tears started to fall.  Had my life really come to this?  Alone? Hungry?  Tired? Sleeping in an old motel room with a view of the interstate? What had I done?

The walls felt as though they were closing in.  I climbed under the covers to get warm, but nothing would warm the chill in my body.  I felt my eyes grow heavy.

I must have slept for several hours because when I woke the hunger was unbearable.  I reached for my purse only to find a dollar and some change.  But there was a granola bar that I had managed to slip in my purse unnoticed at the neighboring convenience store.  I ate that and drank some water from the tap.   I can’t say a steak dinner with all the fixings would have cured the pain of emptiness inside me.

I slowly pulled on the grey sweatpants and baggy black sweatshirt.  They had certainly seen better days.  I glanced in the bathroom mirror and splashed some cold water on my face.  How hideous, I thought.  To think I used to not leave the house without make-up.  Now make-up seemed like a luxury, but certainly not the cure for the broken face staring back at me.

I don’t know what caused me to do it, but I suddenly felt drawn to the small night table by the bed.  I opened the drawer and there it was—a Bible.  I chuckled at the thought of the last time I’d picked up one of those books.  It must have been over a year.

A year ago I was happily married, working the job of my dreams, and you couldn’t have kept me away from church.  I sang in the choir, organized church events, and sat in the front row every Sunday, pouring over the pastor’s sermons.  The tears started to fall again.  This time sobs followed—heavy sobs.

I curled up on the bed again and started reading through one of the Gospels.  It talked about repentance and how the lost are found.  It spoke of heaven rejoicing at one sinner’s repentance.  Was this me the scriptures were describing?

Pulling the covers off, I slowly climbed out of bed.  I knelt down, folded my hands and dropped my head to the floor.  I felt shame—so much shame.  I cried out to God, “I’m sorry Lord.  I’m sorry for all the horrible things I’ve done and the people that I’ve hurt.  I’m sorry I was so selfish and sought the pleasures of this sinful world rather than seeking you.  Show me what to do, Lord.  Show me.”

A loud truck horn broke through my thoughts.  I went and peered through the window and found one massive traffic jam.  And then I saw it, right in front of the motel was a semi-truck with the words, “Come Home” plastered in red ink on the dirty white background.  I couldn’t tell you what company was advertising, but I knew those words were for me.  Was this the answer the Lord was giving me?  Would God really take me back?

“I will set out and go back to my father and say to him: ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your (daughter); So (she) got up and went to (her) father. ”But while (she) was still a long way off, (her) father saw (her) and was filled with compassion for (her); he ran to his (daughter), threw his arms around (her) and kissed (her).” Luke 15: 18-20

When God ran.

It was late afternoon on Tuesday as the clouds rolled in and the temperature began to drop. I refused to believe we were in for yet another snowstorm in Colorado. It had been a beautiful spring day on Monday with temperatures near 70 degrees. Now the thermometer was dropping quickly and a chill was running down my spine. It wasn’t that I was so cold, but I could feel the cloud of worry settling in over me.

We had enjoyed a wonderful spring break visit from my mom who lives in Arizona. It was hard to see such a great time come to an end. As we dropped her off at the airport I silently prayed for God to keep the storm at bay until my mom’s flight safely took off. But that was not to be.

As is so typical here in Colorado, this storm came in with a vengeance. At 5:30 it was 42 degrees and lightly snowing and by 6:30 it was 31 degrees and we had three inches on the ground. Then the phone call came. I could sense the uneasiness in my mom’s voice. Her flight was delayed an hour.

As the heavy snow piled up outside, and the crawl came across the television announcing flights were being canceled at the airport, I sent up more prayers: safety for the passengers, Godly wisdom for the pilot, and God’s favor over this situation. I gathered my family and we prayed for Mom/Grandma and recited what I like to call the “worry” scriptures.

“Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life[? Since you cannot do this very little thing, why do you worry about the rest?” Luke 12:25 – 26

Good point.

“Consider how the lilies grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you, not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today, and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, how much more will he clothe you, O you of little faith!” Luke 12:27 – 28

Are you saying I have no faith, God?

If He had spoken audibly to me in that moment, I believe He would have said, “Yes Child, that is exactly what I’m saying.” Here I was wallowing in my own fears, doubting the very one who holds the universe in His hands.

Upon that conviction from the Holy Spirit, my prayers changed. I confessed my sin of worry. I started praising God for who He was and thanking Him for His protection over my mom and her flight. Almost at peace about the situation, I read a little further in Luke chapter 12.

“But seek his kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well.” Luke 12:31

You see I was laboring and spinning in my mind. I was trying to fix the situation, but all God called me to do was seek Him, rest in Him, and have faith in Him. Once I did, the worry lessened and my thoughts became clear again.

Four and one-half hours later, five de-icing attempts, and many phone calls back and forth, my mom was safely en-route to Phoenix.

Thank you God for giving our family this precious gift of protection over my mom. And thank you for giving me this much needed lesson on the foolishness of worry!

Something caught me off guard this week as I was packing lunchboxes for my children one morning. I was half listening to the national news when I heard our President state in a press conference, that “he had quit smoking 95%.”

What does that even mean? What are the parameters for determining such a thing? In my mind you are either a smoker or you are not. You are either trying to quit or you’re not trying. My mind wandered even further. I would never say I’m 95% married. One is either married or not married. Right?

The same principle applies to our confession of faith in Christ. We either believe He is the Christ the Son of the Living God, or we don’t. In Luke 9, a conversation unfolds between Jesus and the 12 disciples He was teaching and training.

“Once when Jesus was praying in private and his disciples were with him, he asked them, ‘Who do the crowds say I am?’

They replied, ‘Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, that one of the prophets of long ago has come back to life.’

‘But what about you?’ he asked. ‘Who do you say I am?’

Peter answered, ‘The Christ of God.”

Can you picture it? There was no hesitation. Peter, speaking for the disciples, believed that Jesus was the Son of God. Peter didn’t say, “We disciples discussed it and we are about 95% sure you are the Son of God.” No, they were certain.

This leads me to another question. Does confessing our faith always mean we’ll live out our faith when we are tested? I want you to see something in Luke 22:31-32.

”Simon, Simon (which was Peter), Satan has asked to sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.”

Jesus knows the battle we face in this fallen world. The Enemy wants nothing more than to destroy us and turn us from our Savior. Peter is a great example of this. He boldly denied the very one he confessed to believing (Luke 22). Christ knew this would happen. He knew that in a moment of weakness, Peter would fall into the trap of the Enemy. Did this make Peter’s confession any less? Not at all. I believe it made his faith even stronger. Jesus even told him that once he had turned back from his sin of denial he was to strengthen his brothers.

You may be in a situation where your faith is being tested from all sides. Satan may be sifting you like wheat. You know the truth and you believe it whole-heartedly, but living it out is a whole different story. I want to encourage you to NOT listen to the lies of the Enemy. He wants your faith to be non-existent, and he would probably settle for it to be a small percentage. But your faith cannot be measured by a percentage. It either is or it isn’t.

Let us one day be able to say these words of Paul: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have KEPT THE FAITH.” 2 Timothy 4:7

It was the Sabbath, a very sacred day for us Jews. You see, our law explains quite clearly that we are not to do any form of work on the Sabbath. So, you can imagine my shock this one particular Sabbath. I was walking near the synagogue when I heard a commotion. A man with a shriveled hand was talking to a teacher.

“He looked around at them all, and then said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” He did so, and his hand was completely restored.” Luke 6:10

Thankfully some Pharisees were nearby and witnessed the same thing. I moved closer to hear what they were saying. They were furious at this teacher, Jesus, and began to discuss what they might to do him. I even heard one of them say that this wasn’t the first time Jesus had broken the law of the Sabbath. In fact he was so bold as to tell the Pharisees that, “The Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath.” What does that mean, I thought to myself?

Put your feet in the sandals of these Jewish people for a moment. Throughout the New Testament, the Pharisees (teachers of the law) were constantly stirring up trouble for Jesus. They questioned Him on every word He spoke. They accused Him of breaking many laws. They were, as scripture says, furious with Jesus on many occasions, and ultimately convinced Roman authorities to crucify Him. But how would you feel if everything you believed from the time you were young was being put into question by this radical man named Jesus?

In Deuteronomy 6, we see a glimpse of just how serious Jewish law was. “These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.” Deuteronomy 6:6-7

Now I love these particular Old Testament scriptures. In fact, I have them posted on the front door of our home. I guess what’s different for me than the Jewish people of that day is I see grace woven through these words. I see truth declared in a loving way. I find a Loving Father who wants me to hold His Words close at all times.

The Pharisees hated being challenged in their thinking. This was a radical shift to what they had always believed and in turn taught. The sad part is they could only see the law, not the Savior who was offering truth, grace, forgiveness and eternal life to all people. It’s as if it was too simple to accept.

If truth be told though, we all get caught up in legalism sometimes. We shout out truth, but we lack love. We cast judgment on others, but ignore the sin in our own life. We refuse forgiveness when He declared, “forgive them for they no not what they do.”

Thank you Jesus for loving us despite our Pharisaical behavior sometimes.

Almost every week my eight-year-old daughter comes to me on two different occasions—once on Tuesday and once on Thursday. Sometimes she doesn’t even have to speak. I just know by her facial expression what she’s thinking. On Tuesdays she asks me if she has to go to dance class that day. Each time I give the same answer, “Yes, you made a commitment and you need to stick with it.”

Then on Thursdays we repeat the same scenario; this time with the book club she is involved in after school. And once I again I remind her how she needs to back up her verbal commitment with action. She needs to go and support her group.

You are probably wondering why she is in these activities if she never wants to go. The truth is I know she loves dancing and she loves her book club, but sometimes getting there is a challenge. Her week becomes overwhelming, and she just wants to relax.

In the throws of a very busy and challenging week last week, it happened again. At first, the suggestion sounded nice. This proposal would definitely eliminate some running around for me, but wait a second, I thought, we pay monthly fees for these activities. Finally realizing the pattern here, my answer was a firm “NO!”

I probably don’t have to explain that this sent my precious daughter into a downward spiral. Tears, shouting, and the slamming of doors could be heard across the city I’m sure. But after some calming down time for both of us, I talked to her about the importance of living out her commitment. I knew deep down she understood the right thing to do, but in an overwhelming moment of tiredness and frustration, she wanted to make a different choice.

In Luke, chapter 3, we are introduced to John the Baptist who had a similar message for the people of his day. His ministry was to prepare the way for Jesus Christ. He taught about repentance of sins and baptism by emersion. Many came to him to repent and be baptized, but he had a warning for them.

“John said to the crowds coming out to be baptized by him, “You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the coming wrath? Produce fruit in keeping with repentance. “ Luke 3:7-8

Some harsh words for this crowd, right? He was telling them that repenting for their sins were just words, and baptism was just an outward sign of repentance, unless they truly changed the way they lived their lives. He went so far as to call them a “brood of vipers.” Do you know what that means? It means they were a poisoned people, and continuing in their sinful ways made them poisonous to others. But by changing their way of life they would show their commitment to a new way of living. They would “produce fruit in keeping with repentance.”

Slowly but surely my daughter is learning the importance of backing up her words with actions. She is learning that when she makes a commitment she needs to follow through. It’s a hard lesson to learn, as I’m sure it was for the crowd John that Baptist spoke to generations ago. The same holds true for us today when we accept Christ as our Savior, repent of our sins, and are baptized. By those acts we are saying that we are committed to a new way of life. We are committed to walking our talk. Difficult? You bet. Worth it? Absolutely.

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

I realize studying history is not for everyone. Twenty some years ago I could have cared less about it. I was only interested in receiving a good grade in my history classes. I didn’t try to retain any information; I just did what I needed to get by. Well, that has changed. In a day and age where the written word leaves room for personal interpretation, I find historical facts to be extremely important.

It’s those thoughts that now carry over to how I study scripture. I want to know the meaning behind each word, whether Greek or Hebrew. I want to know the author’s background of the books I read in the Bible. Basically, I want to know the historical significance of what I’m reading. So, you can imagine my excitement as we begin this year delving into the Gospel of Luke, where we will have the opportunity to meet many biblical/historical figures. We will see the life of Christ played out by eyewitness account. And we will hear parables and stories told in a fresh way. I hope you will tune in weekly to follow us on this journey of Luke.

So, for you history buffs, here are some facts about our author. Luke was the only Gentile who wrote scripture. He wrote the book of Luke and the book of Acts. The Apostle Paul, called him the “beloved physician,” which have left many Bible scholars to believe he was a doctor. However, in those times the position of a physician was not as prestigious as today. In those days physicians were usually slaves.

As Luke, chapter one opens, Luke addresses Theophilus. Some scholars believe Theophilus may have been Luke’s master. Others believe he was saying Theophilao, which is a Greek word meaning “lovers of God.” Thus he is addressing all those who Iove God. I tend to believe Theophilus was actually a person and “most excellent” was stated because he held some ruling position in the Roman government. But, that is my interpretation. I encourage you to study for yourself and see what you come up with.

“Many have undertaken to draw up an account of the things that have been fulfilled among us, just as they were handed down to us by those who from the first were eyewitnesses and servants of the word. Therefore, since I myself have carefully investigated everything from the beginning, it seemed good also to me to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus, so that you may know the certainty of the things you have been taught.” Luke 1:1-4

Luke states with some authority in these opening verses that he has carefully investigated all the stories he is recording. One picture that comes to mind for me in Luke, chapter one, is Luke and Mary (the mother of Jesus), sitting down and visiting. I picture Luke asking pointed and probing questions and Mary sharing her heart. Commentaries have stated that the detail in which Luke records chapters one and two could only have come from a direct interview with Mary. You will also notice that the other three gospels do not cover this story in as much detail as Luke does. Given his medical background he was probably very interested in Mary’s account of the birth of Christ. It is with this accuracy, I believe, Luke writes this account of biblical history.

Now don’t misunderstand, I am not saying that other authors of scripture didn’t approach their writing with the same accuracy. Luke just brings a different background to the table. I am certain, as with all other authors of scripture, Luke followed the direct promptings of our Heavenly Father to record this beautiful, life-changing , relevant message. Thank you Luke, for your obedience to our Lord!

“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” 2 Timothy 3:16-17

There is a famous Christmas song titled, “Mary Did you Know?” It was written in 1984, by Mark Lowry, whose Nashville church asked him to write a song for Advent. It is quite popular on Christian and secular radio this time of year.

The song asks a series of questions, “Mary did you know your baby boy would……..?” One of the questions the song doesn’t address is one that is pressing on my mind this year. “Mary did you know this is how we would celebrate the birth of God’s Son?”

I don’t know about you, but there comes a time every year, about a week before Christmas, where I get fed up with all the festivities. I’m tired of the shopping, wrapping, running around, finding parking, cooking, baking and attending parties and programs. I find myself wanting Christmas Day to come and go.

This year is going to be different though. You see I have a new perspective on how I think Christmas should be celebrated. It should be simple. In fact I would go as far as to say it was meant to be simple. I realize that Christ was probably not born according to our December calendar, but it is this season that we celebrate his birth. Somehow though, I think our consumer-minded culture misses the simplicity that this holiday was meant to be. Let’s journey back 2000 plus years ago and see how simplicity weaves through this story.

Mary and Joseph were not well-known, wealthy people, holding prestigious positions in society at the time. They were simple people given and extraordinary assignment by God. They made a journey to a crowded, busy, city to register for a census. But they slipped in unnoticed. No one knew Mary was carrying the Savior of the world in her womb. Perhaps they would have stayed in better accommodations had people realized prophecy was being fulfilled right in front of them. But, they stayed in a stable, with hay, livestock, and a feeding trough for a crib. Simple.

Let’s journey outside the city and look at whom God chooses to announce the birth of the King to. Shepherds. Historians tell us that this was not a desirable occupation, nor were shepherds considered respectable in society at that time. They led a simple life. Yet God chooses the shepherds to hear the life-changing news first.

It is in the words of the angels’ song to the shepherds that I find the key to simplicity. “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth, peace to all men on whom his favor rests.” Luke 2:14.

We not only received a Savior that day many years ago; we also received an amazing gift of peace. And in my mind if there is peace, there is simplicity, and vice versa. We can’t control the hustle and bustle of the season that goes on in this world, but we can control what’s in our hearts and our minds. This season is about remembering the simplicity of how, I believe, God intended Christmas to be. It’s about recapturing the peace that surpasses all understanding. It’s about revisiting our Prince of Peace.

Remember, peace was not just given for one time, or one Season, but for a lifetime. How are you celebrating the birth of your Prince of Peace?

If you have a few minutes, click on the link below to watch a beautiful video on peace and simplicity during the Holiday Season.

Click here to see You Tube “I need a Silent Night”