April 2020

 

A Month of Sundays

The phrase “a month of Sundays” is rooted in a small handful of interpretations: as a metaphor for a very longstretch of time, “I haven’t seen her in a month of Sundays” (as in 30 or 31 weeks); or, as a description of perseverance, “I’ve been waiting a month of Sundays for this to occur, and I’m glad it finally did;” and, it’s used critically for those who are skeptical that “it will never work – not in a month of Sundays” as a seemingly endless or prolonged period of time, feeling it’s ‘never or unlikely’ to occur.

The use of Sunday in this phrase (as opposed to any other day of the week) is rooted in the Sabbath as the marker for a week’s time. The Christian’s holy day of Sunday, the Sabbath, is to be a day of rest, a long, solemn day devoted to restful practices.

In many ways, the COVID-19 season has already felt like “a month of Sundays” – as in a very long and prolonged time to persevere. But, what if we looked at the pandemic through the lens of Sabbath rest and tried to instill Sabbath-like priorities into these elongated days when we’re safe at home, even if we’re still working and busy with life’s obligations?

As you look back over the past 5-6 weeks, how much of that time has felt restful? For many of us, it’s actually been the opposite…restless, anxious, fearful, and impatient might be your descriptive words. The challenges have increased; the worry has multiplied; and the demands have heightened.  To consider infusing Sabbath rest into these fretful days might feel a bit overwhelming.

But, perhaps Sabbath rest might actually be the turnkey to enduring the pandemic and coming out the other side with some sense of heart and body health, as well as soul vitality.  Is it time to turn some of those weighty days of unrest upside down and choose to invite Sabbath rest to help define our days and this unprecedented season instead?

Here are a few words and ideas to ponder if “a month of Sabbaths” is to be considered…

1. Rest – the purpose of Sabbath is to cease our work and enter into rest,  putting our trust and hope in God’s hands. At the time of creation, God chose rest in order to admire the work of his hands in the days prior. We learn to focus on God instead of self in times of rest, knowing there is only one God, and it’s not me!

2. Reflection – setting apart time to recall the gifts of the day (or season) is the primary purpose of any reflective discipline, like journaling, examen, and attentiveness.  If we don’t take time to notice, much of our day’s experiences are washed away as a distant memory.

3. Rejoice – giving thanks for the blessings of this life puts our hearts and minds in good space, rather than in the fretful or worried geography of the soul. Gratitude is healing, strengthening, empowering, and forgiving. Try expressing it to God and others and watch how different your day unfolds.

4. Recreation – in Sabbath we re-create back into the fullness of the abundant life. This may include recreational activities like strolling, napping, playing, savoring a meal, noticing creation, or even creating something colorful, delicious, or beautiful.

5. Recalibration – when we finally cease our unrelenting busyness and enjoy restfulness instead, our minds clear up and we begin to think more succinctly. The fog of our overly full lives is lifted when we are enjoying Sabbath rest and our disjointed priorities are realigned more appropriately.

6. Renewal – by far the greatest tangible gift of Sabbath rest is the renewal that emerges as a result of resting, trusting, giving thanks, noticing, and enjoying life in all its delightful dimensions. As we release our burdens and concerns and place them in God’s hands we are renewed with hope.

May this “month of Sundays” shift from an endless feeling of sameness and be transformed into a gift from God for the people of God, based in Sabbath-like principles and priorities. Let me know how it goes!

 

 

 

This year, our family “celebrated” Easter together via Zoom. I’m a huge fan of Zoom, but not as a gratifying substitute for a family gathering. Each of us in our own homes. Cooking for ourselves. Missing one another. Not the same. We hope it’s never to be repeated again.

When it came time for our 4pm Zoom call, we were eager for our connection. It was as fun as it could possibly be…sharing stories, listening and affirming one another, enjoying a few laughs, cooing at the two babies, and even the dog. But, it certainly wasn’t our preference, even though we made the best of it.

What we longed for was in-person community. Family hugs and kisses. Physical presence at the dining room table. Cooking, cleaning, relaxing…playing a game, taking a walk, enjoying a meal. COVID-19 shut that down. Zoom made it possible, but it wasn’t our preference.

I’m not bitter about it, but certainly disappointed. Resurrection Sunday is the highlight of the Christian year. Not only did our family meet by Zoom, but so did our church family. It was deeply meaningful in worship and liturgy, but noticeably lacking in one very significant way: community.

God made us for community. Isolation is not God’s preference, unless for silence and solitude and the quiet disciplines of the spiritual life. But, when we worship, fellowship, and serve others in mission, we are designed for each of those priorities to be achieved in community.

As we are all fulfilling the mandate to maintain physical distance, perhaps your longing for community is growing too. As we anticipate this pandemic to someday be over, how is it that we can prepare our hearts and minds for reentry into community?  Here are a few of my musings for what it’s worth…

1. Pray for your community. We can’t be together physically but we certainly can pray. Thank God for your community and pray blessings over each member of your community,  whether it’s your local church, small group, ministry team, etc.
2. Send notes of encouragement to your community. The easiest is via email but perhaps you could send a hand-written note instead.
3. Connect with individual members of your community. Call a soul friend for mutual encouragement, or reach out to someone living alone or in need. Drop off a meal or flowers or a note of encouragement.
4. Create a gift to offer your community. Write a poem about your community or create a collage of photos that remind you of your community or draw a picture, even with words, to describe what your community means to you. Share that when appropriate.
5. Stay in touch with your community…yes, via Zoom or FaceTime or Google Hangouts…until the restrictions are over and you can meet face to face.
6. Be intentional in noticing how God has defined community in the Scriptures. Do some research (it’s tempting to tell you where to read, but I’ll let you find out!) and then share your findings with your community.
7. Inventory your heart about your community, asking yourself (prayerfully) how you’ve contributed positively to your community and confess before the Lord how you’ve stood in the way of building healthy community. Be honest and seek forgiveness if necessary.

We are made for community. Church. Neighborhood. Friendship. Family. Marriage. All the primary relationships of life help us define community. Lean in to the gifts of community now and hopefully we’ll all be better prepared to reengage with one another sooner than later.

 

Read Luke 24: 13-35

Behold him Living In and Through His Beloved Children All Along Life’s Journeys! Believe that he will continue to appear to you in the releasing of the Word and in fellowship with his Spirit! Belong to the ones who discern when their hearts are burning with every sense of his presence and peace! Become a beloved child of the Triune God who anticipates new life in Jesus with each new day!

For your prayerful reflection today, consider the words of this ancient Holy Week hymn, “I Cannot Tell…” by William Fullerton, 1929:

I cannot tell why He whom angels worship,

Should set His love upon the sons of men,

Or why, as shepherd, He should seek the wanderers,

To bring them back, they know not how or when.

But this I know, that He was born of Mary

When Bethlehem’s manger was His only home,

And that He lived at Nazareth and labored,

And so the Savior, Savior of the world is come.

 

I cannot tell how silently He suffered,

As with His peace He graced this place of tears,

Or how His heart upon the cross was broken,

The crown of pain to three and thirty years.

But this I know, He heals the brokenhearted,

And stays our sin, and calms our lurking fear,

And lifts the burden from the heavy laden,

For yet the Savior, Savior of the world is here.

 

I cannot tell how He will win the nations,

How He will claim His earthly heritage,

How satisfy the needs and aspirations

Of East and West, of sinner and of sage.

But this I know, all flesh shall see His glory,

And He shall reap the harvest He has sown,

And some glad day His sun shall shine in splendor

When He the Savior, Savior of the world is known.

 

I cannot tell how all the lands shall worship,

When, at His bidding, every storm is stilled,

Or who can say how great the jubilation

When all the hearts of men with love are filled.

But this I know, the skies will thrill with rapture,

And myriad, myriad human voices sing,

And earth to Heaven, and Heaven to earth, will answer:

At last the Savior, Savior of the world is king!

Easter Sunday!

Read Matthew 28: 1-10; John 20: 1-9

Behold him Risen and Reigning Forever – Alleluia! Believe in the Gospel of Christ and be set free to love and worship him as forgiven, restored, and redeemed! Belong to the Church triumphant who will live together with Christ for all eternity! Become a new creature in Christ Jesus, who experiences breaking in your making, rising from your falling, and living from your dying – both now and forevermore!

For your prayerful reflection today, consider the words of this ancient Easter hymn, “Christ the Lord Is Risen Today, Alleluia!” written by Charles and John Wesley in 1739:

Christ the Lord is ris’n today, Alleluia!
Sons of men and angels say, Alleluia!
Raise your joys and triumphs high, Alleluia!
Sing, ye heav’ns, and earth, reply, Alleluia!

Lives again our glorious King, Alleluia!
Where, O death, is now thy sting? Alleluia!
Once He died our souls to save, Alleluia!
Where thy victory, O grave? Alleluia!

Love’s redeeming work is done, Alleluia!
Fought the fight, the battle won, Alleluia!
Death in vain forbids His rise, Alleluia!
Christ hath opened paradise, Alleluia!

Soar we now where Christ hath led, Alleluia!
Foll’wing our exalted Head, Alleluia!
Made like Him, like Him we rise, Alleluia!
Ours the cross, the grave, the skies, Alleluia!

Hail the Lord of earth and heaven, Alleluia!
Praise to Thee by both be given, Alleluia!
Thee we greet triumphant now, Alleluia!
Hail the Resurrection, thou, Alleluia!

King of glory, Soul of bliss, Alleluia!
Everlasting life is this, Alleluia!
Thee to know, Thy pow’r to prove, Alleluia!
Thus to sing, and thus to love, Alleluia!

 

In this Holy Week series I would like to invite you to consider Jesus’ “outstretched arms of grace” toward all who followed him as disciples. Many sought to emulate his humble life, obedient self-sacrifice, and unconditional service to others…what will be your response today? As you pray and reflect, behold his glory, believe his message, belong as his beloved disciple, and become more and more like his image, with more of your true identity in Christ Alone.

Holy Week: The Grand Finale

Read John 19: 38-42

Joseph of Arimathea asked Pilate for the body of Jesus. With his permission, he came and took Jesus to a tomb that had never been used. Before placing him there, another disciple Nicodemus brought along a mixture of 75 pounds of myrrh and aloes. The two men took Jesus’ body and wrapped it with the spices and placed him in and among clean strips of linen. They placed Jesus in the tomb. There his body lay, in a solitary cave with a large stone covering the doorway. Guarded well.  Sealed.  Protected.  Alone.

After the upheaval of the previous day, the shared grief of watching Jesus suffer and die, today is left for quiet mourning and reflection. How had the outstretched arms of love led Jesus to such a lonely place?

We wonder the same ourselves, now two millennia later. The Jesus we watched grows from the infant miraculously born to the virgin, under the watchful tutelage of his carpenter father, and among his siblings in a crude home in Nazareth. His wisdom and stature and favor with God and man expanded exponentially over the years until he was baptized, tested, blessed and sent out to fulfill his mission.

We noted with the gospel writers his calling of the disciples to cease being fishermen to become instead fishers of men. We watched with awe his miraculous turning of water into wine, making right that which was wrong, healing hurting bodies and troubled souls, welcoming children and strangers, teaching in parables, and ushering in the Kingdom of heaven.  We learned from his example of caring for the suffering, advocating for the weak, encouraging the broken-hearted, and restoring blind eyes, closed ears, and forgotten souls. We listened intently to his every word, and our lives are forever changed.

And now we walk with Joseph and Nicodemus to the tomb. And we wait and watch with those who are stunned and doubting, and yet hoping and praying for a miracle. It’s the day after we saw Jesus die so miserably on the cross. We can hardly get the sights out of our minds eye, the smell out of our nostrils, the sadness out of our hearts. It was horrible to stand by helplessly as the victim of such cruelty was our friend, our teacher, our mentor, our guide. We trusted him, walked with him, and now we mourn.

Is it all going to end in this tragic way? We’re no longer all together. We’re stunned and saddened. We’re not sure what’s next. We hope. We pray. We linger. We trust. We rest. We wait.

Behold Jesus in our memories and now in the tomb; believe in the words he once spoke as truth; belong to the ones who hold fast to his promises; and become a member of the family of Jesus who forever sing his praise as the One who came to life miraculously and will rise again miraculously once more. Amen.

For additional reflection today, prayerfully consider the words of this ancient Holy Week hymn, “Were You There?” written by African-American slaves in the late 19^th Century:

Were you there when they crucified my Lord?
Were you there when they crucified my Lord?
Oh, sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble.
Were you there when they crucified my Lord?

Were you there when they nailed him to the tree?
Were you there when they nailed him to the tree?
Oh, sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble.
Were you there when they nailed him to the tree?

Were you there when they laid him in the tomb?
Were you there when they laid him in the tomb?
Oh, sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble.
Were you there when they laid him in the tomb?

Were you there when God raised him from the tomb?
Were you there when God raised him from the tomb?
Oh, sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble.
Were you there when God raised him from the tomb?

 

In this Holy Week series I would like to invite you to consider Jesus’ “outstretched arms of grace” toward all who followed him as disciples. Many sought to emulate his humble life, obedient self-sacrifice, and unconditional service to others…what will be your response today? As you pray and reflect, behold his glory, believe his message, belong as his beloved disciple, and become more and more like his image, with more of your true identity in Christ Alone.

Holy Week: The Grand Finale

Read John 19: 16-37

Jesus on the cross – the ultimate expression of his outstretched arms of love!

His arms could not have been stretched out any further than when they were extended for all humanity on the cross. Simply held back on the beam that far and for so long would have been enough to endure, but with the nails piercing his hands the suffering was all the more agonizing for Jesus.  The crown of thorns on his head and the nails holding his feet in place added to his injurious position. This humiliation and suffering went far beyond the washing of the disciples’ feet in expressing the fullest extent of love.

Carrying his own cross, he walked with the soldiers out to The Place of the Skull, known as Golgotha. He was crucified with two others – one on each side, with Jesus in the middle. Pilate’s notice was fastened above his head on the cross, “Jesus of Nazareth, The King of the Jews.” The soldiers divided his clothes among them, one share for each of the four attending him. But his seamless undergarment they did not tear, and instead cast lots for it.

Near the cross stood his mother and the other women. Looking down Jesus saw his mother and the beloved disciple. He said to his mother, “Dear woman, here is your son” and from that time on this faithful disciple took her into his home and cared for her.  Words came from his tired breathing, “Father forgive them” – “You will be with me in paradise” – “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” –  “I am thirsty” – “It is finished” – “Into your hands I commit my spirit” and after a soaked sponge of wine vinegar was placed on his lips, he bowed his head and breathed his last, giving up his spirit into death.

Instead of breaking his legs to complete his demise, the soldiers pierced Jesus’ side with a spear, bringing a sudden flow of blood and water.  Not one of his bones was broken, as the prophet foretold, for those who search for the Living God “will look on the one they have pierced instead.” And that’s how it occurred. The death of Jesus was completed on the cross in the most wretched form possible.

It’s hard to fathom what it would have been like to witness such cruelty. In such a short time frame Jesus went from the highly acclaimed King to the lowly despised criminal. From “Hosanna!” to “Crucify him!” in a matter of days. Even though Pilate sought to set Jesus free, the Jews kept shouting about his demise. In handing Jesus over to the will of the people, he washed his hands of his death. The drama this act sparked would be exactly as God intended…amazing love, how can it be, that Thou my God would die for me? How many present could sing that hymn of praise? Would you?

Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world; believe the Gospel of grace poured out in the shed blood of Christ on the cross; belong to those who know Him as Savior, Lord and King; and become a fervent and faithful follower of Jesus the One who left heaven to come to earth to die so that you can have life eternal.

 

For additional reflection today, prayerfully consider the words of this ancient Holy Week hymn, “O Sacred Head Now Wounded” by Bernard of Clairvaux, 1153:

O sacred Head, now wounded, with grief and shame weighed down,
Now scornfully surrounded with thorns, Thine only crown;
O sacred Head, what glory, what bliss till now was Thine!
Yet, though despised and gory, I joy to call Thee mine.

What Thou, my Lord, hast suffered, was all for sinners’ gain;
Mine, mine was the transgression, but Thine the deadly pain.
Lo, here I fall, my Savior! ’Tis I deserve Thy place;
Look on me with Thy favor, vouchsafe to me Thy grace.

Men mock and taunt and jeer Thee, Thou noble countenance,
Though mighty worlds shall fear Thee and flee before Thy glance.
How art thou pale with anguish, with sore abuse and scorn!
How doth Thy visage languish that once was bright as morn!

Now from Thy cheeks has vanished their color once so fair;
From Thy red lips is banished the splendor that was there.
Grim death, with cruel rigor, hath robbed Thee of Thy life;
Thus Thou hast lost Thy vigor, Thy strength in this sad strife.

My burden in Thy Passion, Lord, Thou hast borne for me,
For it was my transgression which brought this woe on Thee.
I cast me down before Thee, wrath were my rightful lot;
Have mercy, I implore Thee; Redeemer, spurn me not!

What language shall I borrow to thank Thee, dearest friend,
For this Thy dying sorrow, Thy pity without end?
O make me Thine forever, and should I fainting be,
Lord, let me never, never outlive my love to Thee.

My Shepherd, now receive me; my Guardian, own me Thine.
Great blessings Thou didst give me, O source of gifts divine.
Thy lips have often fed me with words of truth and love;
Thy Spirit oft hath led me to heavenly joys above.

Here I will stand beside Thee, from Thee I will not part;
O Savior, do not chide me! When breaks Thy loving heart,
When soul and body languish in death’s cold, cruel grasp,
Then, in Thy deepest anguish, Thee in mine arms I’ll clasp.

The joy can never be spoken, above all joys beside,
When in Thy body broken I thus with safety hide.
O Lord of Life, desiring Thy glory now to see,
Beside Thy cross expiring, I’d breathe my soul to Thee.

My Savior, be Thou near me when death is at my door;
Then let Thy presence cheer me, forsake me nevermore!
When soul and body languish, oh, leave me not alone,
But take away mine anguish by virtue of Thine own!

Be Thou my consolation, my shield when I must die;
Remind me of Thy passion when my last hour draws nigh.
Mine eyes shall then behold Thee, upon Thy cross shall dwell,
My heart by faith enfolds Thee. Who dieth thus dies well.

In this Holy Week series I would like to invite you to consider Jesus’ “outstretched arms of grace” toward all who followed him as disciples. Many sought to emulate his humble life, obedient self-sacrifice, and unconditional service to others…what will be your response today? As you pray and reflect, behold his glory, believe his message, belong as his beloved disciple, and become more and more like his image, with more of your true identity in Christ Alone.

Holy Week: The Grand Finale

Read John 13: 1-17

Jesus knew that the time had come for him to leave this world and go to the Father. So, having loved his own who were in the world with him, he now showed them the full extent of his love.

As the evening meal was being served, he got up from the table and took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. After preparing himself to serve his brothers, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet, drying them with a towel that was wrapped around him.

Peter didn’t quite understand what was happening and initially denied Jesus the privilege. But after Jesus explained that “unless I wash you, you will have no part with me,” Peter not only presented his feet, but asked that his hands and head be washed as well. To Jesus, simply holding and washing their feet was enough of a bath for his faithful followers…including the one who would deny him and even the one who would betray him. Here again we see the Lord extending his outstretched arms of love.

When he was finished washing their feet, he explained why he had done this simple act. As their Teacher and Lord, having washed their feet, he now requested they wash one another’s feet. “No servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.” And then he proceeds to predict his upcoming betrayal and denial by two of them who had just experienced the full extent of his humble love.

By far one of the most intimate moments, the washing of the feet was one of Jesus’ final expressions of love to his disciples. To hold their dirty feet in his gentle hands, pour water over them to soothe and bathe as with a cup of salvation, was all he needed to do. He simply wanted his disciples to know that his love was genuine, and his desire for them to do likewise was pure. The ministry of soul hospitality at the table, surrounding this meal, was rich and abundant for all, even for his confused betrayer. Jesus knew his time had come. His days were numbered. His legacy would live on in love.

If you’ve ever had your feet held and washed by another you know how meaningful it is. Imagine Jesus stooping down in front of you, holding your worn and weary feet, looking up at your face with loving affirmation, looking down at your faithful feet, and praying blessing over your walk of faith. He knows your need for cleansing and forgiveness. He is fully aware of every heartache you hold, every pain you’ve suffered, every joy you’ve experienced, every longing your desire. Will you let him love you?

Behold the Savior kneeling lovingly and prayerfully before you; believe in the gifts of grace and mercy he delights to bestow; belong to the fellowship of foot-washed disciples; and become a disciple who is more than willing to wash another’s feet in Jesus’ name.

For additional reflection today, prayerfully consider the words of this ancient Holy Week hymn, “What Wondrous Love Is This O My Soul” (Anonymous, 1811}:

What wondrous love is this, O my soul, O my soul!
What wondrous love is this, O my soul!
What wondrous love is this that caused the Lord of bliss
To bear the dreadful curse for my soul, for my soul,
To bear the dreadful curse for my soul.

When I was sinking down, sinking down, sinking down,
When I was sinking down, sinking down,
When I was sinking down beneath God’s righteous frown,
Christ laid aside His crown for my soul, for my soul,
Christ laid aside His crown for my soul.

To God and to the Lamb, I will sing, I will sing;
To God and to the Lamb, I will sing.
To God and to the Lamb Who is the great “I Am”;
While millions join the theme, I will sing, I will sing;
While millions join the theme, I will sing.

And when from death I’m free, I’ll sing on, I’ll sing on;
And when from death I’m free, I’ll sing on.
And when from death I’m free, I’ll sing and joyful be;
And through eternity, I’ll sing on, I’ll sing on;
And through eternity, I’ll sing on.

In this Holy Week series I would like to invite you to consider Jesus’ “outstretched arms of grace” toward all who followed him as disciples. Many sought to emulate his humble life, obedient self-sacrifice, and unconditional service to others…what will be your response today? As you pray and reflect, behold his glory, believe his message, belong as his beloved disciple, and become more and more like his image, with more of your true identity in Christ Alone.

Read Mark 14: 1-11

Silent Wednesday. Known more for darkness than light. Many will gather tonight for Tenebrae service, when darkness will descend upon them through the hymns, readings and reflections calling for their heart’s focus on this mid-week turning point to the drama of Holy Week. The lights are extinguishing, as the earthly life and ministry of Jesus is coming to dramatic conclusion.  From Wednesday we descend even further into the dark days of denial, humiliation, and ultimate death on the cross. No turning back.

What we do know is that on this day Judas is preparing to betray Jesus. He agrees to thirty silver coins from the chief priests in return for directing them to Jesus. From then on Judas is on the watch for an opportunity to hand him over. Darkness is personified in a man with a dastardly deed to complete.

The account of Judas’ preparation for betrayal is preceded by the story of Jesus in Bethany, reclining at the table of Simon the Leper. A woman came with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume. She broke open the jar and poured the perfume on his head. Some of those present were indignant with the waste, and she was rebuked harshly. Judas was one who objected; not because he cared for the poor who could have benefited from selling the perfume, but selfishly for him as a greedy thief.

Jesus honors the woman for pouring perfume so extravagantly, calling it “a beautiful thing…to prepare for my burial.” Jesus knew her heart and was pleased with her offering of love. He also knew the heart of Judas and the eventuality of his betrayal. To both Jesus extends his outstretched arms of love, as a recipient of loving worship and as inheritor of Judas’ projected duplicity and disloyalty. His freedom and faithfulness to offer love no matter what will transpire is a wonderful portrayal of the true Jesus.

We are left to presume how the remaining hours of this day are used by Jesus and his followers. One might project him walking peacefully, reflecting prayerfully, watching and waiting, noticing, listening and preparing himself for the turning points yet to come.  While the plot to arrest, convict and crucify is unfolding all around him, we can only imagine how he’s getting prepared for what’s to come.

That’s why the picture of contrast between expensive perfumes being poured out on his head is so diametrically juxtaposed with his friend selling out to the authorities in order to hand him over to death. Both are essential to his pending death. Both are crucial to the story line of this dramatic week. Both are hinges to what’s to come. Both acts are indispensable to his final sacrificial drama on the cross.

Behold him resting peacefully amidst a brewing caldron of exploitation; believe in the power of the cross to stampede over death into eternal life; belong to the ones who know the full story and will mourn only so long; and become transformed from the inside out by the life-changing unconditional love of Jesus.

For additional reflection today, prayerfully consider the words of this ancient Holy Week hymn, “My Song Is Love Unknown” written in 1664 by Samuel Crossman.

My song is love unknown, My Savior’s love to me;
Love to the loveless shown, That they might lovely be.
O who am I, That for my sake
My Lord should take Frail flesh and die?

He came from His blest throne Salvation to bestow;
But men made strange, and none The longed-for Christ would know:
But O! my Friend, My Friend indeed,
Who at my need His life did spend.

Sometimes they strew His way, And His sweet praises sing;
Resounding all the day Hosannas to their King:
Then “Crucify!” is all their breath,
And for His death they thirst and cry.

Why, what hath my Lord done? What makes this rage and spite?
He made the lame to run, He gave the blind their sight,
Sweet injuries! Yet they at these
Themselves displease, and ’gainst Him rise.

They rise and needs will have My dear Lord made away;
A murderer they save, The Prince of life they slay,
Yet cheerful He to suffering goes,
That He His foes from thence might free.

In life no house, no home, My Lord on earth might have;
In death no friendly tomb, But what a stranger gave.
What may I say? Heav’n was his home;
But mine the tomb Wherein he lay.

Here might I stay and sing, No story so divine;
Never was love, dear King! Never was grief like Thine.
This is my Friend, in Whose sweet praise
I all my days could gladly spend.

In this Holy Week series I would like to invite you to consider Jesus’ “outstretched arms of grace” toward all who followed him as disciples. Many sought to emulate his humble life, obedient self-sacrifice, and unconditional service to others…what will be your response today? As you pray and reflect, behold his glory, believe his message, belong as his beloved disciple, and become more and more like his image, with more of your true identity in Christ Alone.

Holy Week: The Grand Finale

Read Matthew 21-25

Tuesday of Holy Week is one of the fullest days for the teaching ministry of Jesus.  It’s one of the quieter days for religious ceremony in our day, but for Jesus it was chock full of significant work.  Therefore, if you have the time to reflect on all five chapters of the Gospel of Matthew, you’ll see this for yourself.

Starting in the early morning, we see him traveling and hungry, and noticing a fig tree by the side of the road, but there were no figs just leaves. So he pronounces it barren and immediately it withers. Then, he stumps those who question his authority to do such things with a quiz they fail to answer…so neither does he tell them by what authority he is doing these things. Brilliant, Jesus! I marvel at his approach.

Then, we read on to discover some of the most poignant parables: the two sons, the tenants, and the wedding banquet. All of them are about the Kingdom he is ushering in with his presence, but to those who “did not believe” (Matt. 21: 32) or “who killed the heir and took his inheritance” (Matt. 21: 38-40) or “did not deserve to come to the banquet” (Matt. 22: 8) did not make it. Each is a withered fig tree!

He continues on with exposing hypocrisy about paying taxes (“give to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s”) and misinformation about the Scriptures and the resurrection (“you do not know the Scriptures and the power of God”),  followed by a question of an expert of the law, “Which is the greatest commandment?”  Jesus replies with precision, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul and mind…” with the second like it, “Love your neighbor as yourself.”  Perfect answer, Jesus.

And if that wasn’t enough, on Tuesday he also proclaims to the crowds the seven woes to those who do not practice what they preach. Each of them directed specifically to the Scribes and Pharisees.  These are followed by teachings about the signs of the end of all things, the day and hour remaining unknown, and underscored by three parables about “keeping watch” – the ten virgins, talents and sheep/goats.

Yes, nothing very ordinary or sublime about the Tuesday of Holy Week! It’s full to overflowing, expressive of the urgency of Jesus’ presence in their midst and his final words to them about why he came and the importance of the Kingdom of heaven. Reflecting on these firm teachings is yet another reminder of the outstretched arms of love coming from Jesus: don’t miss out on eternity and the explicit nature of the Kingdom of heaven. Keep watch; seize the day; say yes; remain faithful; be blessed; love!

Behold Jesus living abundantly, maximizing every possible moment; believe his warnings and embrace his teachings; belong to those who love rather than judge; and become wise, vigilant, faithful, and true.

For additional reflection today, prayerfully consider the words of this ancient Holy Week hymn, “Jesus Lover of My Soul” by Charles Wesley, 1740

Jesus, lover of my soul, let me to Thy bosom fly,
While the nearer waters roll, while the tempest still is high.
Hide me, O my Savior, hide, till the storm of life is past;
Safe into the haven guide; O receive my soul at last.

Other refuge have I none, hangs my helpless soul on Thee;
Leave, ah! leave me not alone, still support and comfort me.
All my trust on Thee is stayed, all my help from Thee I bring;
Cover my defenseless head with the shadow of Thy wing.

Wilt Thou not regard my call? Wilt Thou not accept my prayer?
Lo! I sink, I faint, I fall—Lo! on Thee I cast my care;
Reach me out Thy gracious hand! While I of Thy strength receive,
Hoping against hope I stand, dying, and behold, I live.

Thou, O Christ, art all I want, more than all in Thee I find;
Raise the fallen, cheer the faint, heal the sick, and lead the blind.
Just and holy is Thy Name, I am all unrighteousness;
False and full of sin I am; Thou art full of truth and grace.

Plenteous grace with Thee is found, grace to cover all my sin;
Let the healing streams abound; make and keep me pure within.
Thou of life the fountain art, freely let me take of Thee;
Spring Thou up within my heart; rise to all eternity.

 

 

 

 

In this Holy Week series I would like to invite you to consider Jesus’ “outstretched arms of grace” toward all who followed him as disciples. Many sought to emulate his humble life, obedient self-sacrifice, and unconditional service to others…what will be your response today? As you pray and reflect, behold his glory, believe his message, belong as his beloved disciple, and become more and more like his image, with more of your true identity in Christ Alone.

Holy Week: The Grand Finale

Read Matthew 21: 1-11; Mark 11: 1-11; Luke 19: 28-44

A borrowed donkey as the chosen form of transportation for Jesus to enter Jerusalem? Yes, as it was prophetically foretold and now fulfilled in their midst. “See, your king comes to you, gentle and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey.” With Jesus’ specific instructions about how to secure and use the animal, he sat on the cloaks of his disciples on the back of a donkey for his triumphal entry.

Can you imagine the scene? As Jesus entered the city from the Mount of Olives, people began to gather and spread their cloaks on the road, in addition to those who spread palm branches. “Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord! Peace in heaven and glory to the highest!” Nothing could keep them from their exaltation, including the Pharisees in the crowd who urged Jesus to rebuke and quiet his disciples. But he replied, “If they keep quiet, the stones will cry out.”

“Blessed is the coming kingdom of our father David” they exclaimed.  The crowds continued, “This is Jesus, the prophet from Nazareth in Galilee” and their shouts of joy filled the city streets with delight. Everywhere Jesus went on the humble foal he was greeted with wonderful acclaim. The crowd was thrilled with his arrival and they didn’t let the stones do the crying out; they were determined to be the ones who gave voice to the “Hosanna!” greeting he certainly deserved.

But that was yesterday, when on Palm Sunday Jesus entered the city with power from on high, now expressed in his deep humility.  Today we begin to settle into the drama of all dramas, the grand finale of Lent. Holy Week has descended on the city of Jerusalem and the apex of the crowd’s acclimation will soon follow with their derision.  Mockery, scorn, and bitter contempt will be their mood in just a few days. They swiftly shift from adoration and worship to worthless ridicule almost overnight. Why? How? For what reason?  The fickle crowds who once followed his every movement, reached out to him for every possible healing, was now getting ready to dismantle his power and turn against his authority.

But Jesus continues to give of himself with outstretched arms of love. He complies with the prophet’s word and issues the request for a donkey to carry him one last time into Jerusalem as a free man. And all with full knowledge of what’s in store for him later in the week. You can almost see him enduring the ride on the back of a simple donkey for the soul of the crowd. It was the best mode of transport for the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, who always led by humility, grace, wisdom and love.

Behold him being worshiped and adored; believe in the Lord’s exaltation; belong to the members of the crowd who would stay faithful to the end; and become a worshiper with fresh insight and holy boldness.

For additional reflection today, prayerfully consider the words of this ancient Holy Week hymn, “All Glory Laud and Honor” (Orleans, 1820: Neale, 1851):

Refrain

All glory, laud and honor,
To Thee, Redeemer, King,
To Whom the lips of children
Made sweet hosannas ring.

Thou art the King of Israel,
Thou David’s royal Son,
Who in the Lord’s Name comest,
The King and Blessèd One.

Refrain

The company of angels
Are praising Thee on High,
And mortal men and all things
Created make reply.

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The people of the Hebrews
With palms before Thee went;
Our prayer and praise and anthems
Before Thee we present.

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To Thee, before Thy passion,
They sang their hymns of praise;
To Thee, now high exalted,
Our melody we raise.

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Thou didst accept their praises;
Accept the prayers we bring,
Who in all good delightest,
Thou good and gracious King.

Refrain