"Rising Above" (Psalm 63)

Pre-Message Communion



Christian Pastor, Andrew Brunson, from North Carolina, spent 20 years ministering in Turkey. In 2016, after a failed military coup, Brunson was arrested along with journalists, activists and others. The Turkish government had labelled him a ‘spy’. Brunson was held for more than a year without charges. He spent nearly two years in prison – at one point it appeared to him … that he may spend decades in Turkish prisons. Happily, Brunson has been released and returned to the US, but not before he went through a whole lot of trauma.



Following his return, Brunson has candidly spoken about the fact that he did NOT feel God’s presence during his stay in prison. God was silent. Brunson says: I was broken. I lay there alone in my solitary cell. I had great fear, terrible grief, and I was weeping. And the thought kept going through my mind – “Where are you God? Why are you so far away?”. But, as I opened my mouth … and as I wept aloud, I was surprised at what I heard coming out of my mouth. I heard, “I love you Jesus, I love you Jesus, I love you Jesus”. I thought … here is my victory. Even if you’re silent, I love you. Even if you let my enemy harm me, I love you.



I reckon there is power in saying those simple, yet profound, words – ‘I love you Jesus’! As we can’t really say these words, in times of trouble, unless we sincerely mean them, the words ‘I love you Jesus’, open up a pathway to experience God in a new way – where previously there only seemed to be silence. So, If you are coming to the communion table today, in something of a mess, or if you feel you have lost God somewhere along the way – then why don’t you simply say “I love you Jesus” … and see what happens! Like Andrew Brunson – this may be your victory!!



Message Introduction



When we can’t sleep, or wake up in the middle of the night with too much on our mind, we somehow need to know the presence of God with us. We need to have read Psalm 63 – which promotes a special intimacy with God … which will see us through the biggest crisis. Strange then … that the last time I did a sermon on this particular psalm was over 30 years ago. We’ll change that today.



I was prompted to study this psalm by an Our Daily Bread devotion (3 June 19) which suggested that we have here David’s middle-of-the-night experience of sadness over the rebellion of his son Absalom. That would weigh heavy – and many of us may be able to relate easily to this. It is often family problems or relationship issues that disrupt our sleep. Psalm 63 shows how David was able to call upon God’s presence, and because of this find a way forward.



The Beginning and The End



Just overviewing this psalm – the first section (verses 1-4) brings statements about the psalmist’s deep thirst for God, worshipful focus on God’s glory, praise for God’s steadfast love, and commitment to seriously live for God. Life is such that we need our Creator – that perfect source of love … which we cannot do without. We often feel in drought – so we need the living water of Jesus. We need to know God well! Without God, every other relationship seems to lack too much … for us to really rely on it. We can never quite be at peace with ourselves or our environment.



Yet, once we appreciate the presence of God around us, life feels very different – together in the company of other believers, we deeply behold God’s glory and wonder. We come to express this in praise and worship – and it’s NOT forced or unnatural, but rather becomes spontaneous and fluid. We can’t help but praise God … because this fuels us each day, and also provides a strong and personal testimony to others around us. We would naturally accept all opportunities of worship.



And, with God IN the picture, we know that others, like ourselves, are a work in progress – and that life is all about forgiveness, mutual encouragement, and side-by-side growth … toward the realisation of all human potential. The closer we get to God, and the more our spirit has been released in worship – the more we become a blessing to each other and the world – the more we tend to serve. Our very persona and lifestyle can show that we are living beyond ourselves – as we call on the name of the Lord (and are filled with His Spirit).



The final section (verses 9-11) speaks about the assurance that those who have sought to bring David undone, or destroy his reputation, will be silenced and held accountable for their actions – this, ultimately, vindicating David, as someone who has truly, with a repentant heart, sought to be God’s person. The opponents of humble leadership or sincere service will be ultimately defeated – if not in this world, certainly in the next; and in the way history is viewed.



Those who speak the truth soundly (or, “swear by him [God]” – v 11) will be vindicated; while those who lie, or twist the truth to their own ends, or serve false gods – they will be silenced. This not only leads to our personal and spiritual survival, but also allows for a more joyful and peaceful experience of daily life. We simply trust in God.



The Necessary Process



The middle section (verses 5-8) has a real intimate feel … around the things that we think about in the middle of the night … when we can’t sleep. This is where the work has been done … to allow for the praise in the first section, and the assurance in the final section. This psalm is all about rising above the negatives of life, to live as a redeemed and reformed person. We can allow this psalm to prompt a few questions to us!



What is it that might keep us awake, or wake us up, or cause us to sleep unsoundly? Specifically?!? And, how are these more negative thoughts replaced by the positive ones we need?? How is it that we will rise next morning above the problems around us, ready to engage with life, and make a positive contribution through all the interactions of a day. How is it … that we will NOT go back to those places that we have already been delivered from?!?



What do we think about in the sleepless hours?? Arguments, disagreements, broken relationships, anger, frustration, difficult decisions, illness, lack of work or loss of income, debts. Concern for the welfare of loved ones. Past or current abuse or trauma or grief. Lack of confidence or feelings of inadequacy – thinking “I won’t be able to do it”, or, “I can’t live up to those expectations”. Temptation. Maybe … how we can satisfy our current addiction. Maybe, our own death.



Night-time can be a time of greater vulnerability – alone in our thoughts … where negativity can take a primary position. ‘Monsters’ from the past can come back to oppress us. Sometimes these are our own mistakes … that we can’t quite ever leave behind, or forgive ourselves for. Regret over the past can cripple us … if we let it. Feelings of shame can haunt us – prompting us to believe lies like ‘I am NOT good enough, I am dirty, I am defective, I am worthless, I am insignificant, I am unlovable’ – lies like these … can undo us.



When distressed, or uncertain, or unable to decide, or we are caught between competing allegiances – this can all seem worse when we toss-and-turn and can’t sleep. So, if we can just turn our mind to the presence of Jesus with us, even if we don’t get an answer straight away; even if all we can do is say, “I love you Jesus” – we will know that we are NOT alone, that someone really powerful and loving cares for us – and that if we trust him, all will eventually be okay.



Many of us have found God to be helpful (in particular situations) in the past, and we need to reassure ourselves of exactly that! We well recall those times when God has been particularly real to us. This has often happened in the richness of community, rather than in the poverty of aloneness. We have worshipped before in the company of believers, and surely encountered the presence of God. In light of God’s love for others – God certainly, undeniably, loves me too!! This will be like our hunger being satisfied with the best of food, causing grateful words to spill forth. We know an answer is coming – perhaps resolution is NOT far away.



We will no longer feel alone, but rather feel “upheld” – for there is someone on the journey with us, clinging to us in unremitting care – ONE who can be totally relied upon. We just need to think of God – the psalmist puts it “when I think of you on my bed” (v 6), and also meditate on the good possibilities God brings. Then we can sense that tangible help – the way God is working in our minds to settle us down, and give us more clarity and understanding; and we can sense that protection and guidance of being encased under God’s wing. We might even break out in song!



Intimacy with God



We need to move beyond an awareness about God … to an intimacy WITH God. For me, this is the big difference between singing hymns just with our minds, and engaging in deep and passionate worship with all our being! It is okay to say that ‘God is with us’, but it is by actively turning our thoughts to God, and letting the Holy Spirit reign free – that we can truly experience God’s living presence with us (and therefore be truly sustained in our faith). This psalm certainly reflects a very earnest desire to connect cohesively with God. So important – because any measure of suffering is a dark place for anyone who doesn’t allow God to give it meaning.



An intimate relationship with God must be established. Close fellowship with God must be cultivated. It is in deep communion with God … that we will receive all the grace, wisdom and strength we need … to handle our difficulties. Another psalm famously says, “God is our refuge and strength – a very present help in trouble” (Ps 46:1). Paul, in Romans chapter 8 (vs 26-27), talks about the Holy Spirit interceding for us, when we just can’t find the words to approach our situation. The Holy Spirit prays for us (and with us) in accordance with God’s will, such “groans or sighs” being heard and understood and responded to … by God.



Here, God’s Spirit is merging with our spirit … in the deepest act of intimacy. Scot McKnight writes, “The Spirit takes our worries and sets them before God, and takes our consternation and resolves it in God’s presence”. McKnight also writes, “Prayer, when swallowed up by the Spirit, takes us to new places in the presence of God”. This deep communion, as Frances Hogan writes, is “a drink from the river of life in the heart of God – a drink that invigorates and heals, as well as teaches and gives direction to life”. As we are now fully open to God, God, who is Spirit, communes with our spirit … to pour living water onto thirsty ground.



As we surrender all of our concerns to God – we release God to show all of His love, regard and care … for us, and also for those around us. In deep communion with God, we also deal with the sin within our own heart, and seek forgiveness for our part in the troubling situation we are in; while, at the same time, finding the strength (in God) to forgive those others who have offended us – leaving their fate in the fair and just hands of God. As we free up space like this, in our thinking and in our spirit, we can begin to sense those new paths forward, and creative ways of approaching various challenges.

Identity with Christ

Rather than predominantly thinking about our troubles – what can we think about? Here is what we can replace negative thoughts with – 'Jesus restores broken people'!! And Jesus wants to be our friend, and Saviour!! The only way to be healed from feelings of shame … is to shift your focus from who you are in your own eyes to who Christ is … what he has done for you, and what he declares about you. You are NOT what someone else says negatively about you; you are NOT what someone has done to you – you ARE saved by the grace of God in faith (or can be), and ARE being renewed into the image of Jesus. In Christ, you are forgiven, you are free, you are redeemed, healed and beautiful.

You are a cherished child of the everlasting Father. You are fully known and fully loved. [From J D Greear]. The grip of grace never lets you go. And, the resurrection of Jesus … shows God’s victory … even over our own physical death (this sometimes being our greatest worry). We are forgiven through the death of Jesus on the cross, and we are saved through Jesus’ resurrection – the forerunner of all new life … the new life we are being given (Romans 5:10). Because Jesus lives we can live … on-and-on. Our new spiritual life … is Jesus’ life.

We are in Christ, and he is in us. Jesus’ life is our life (John 14:19, Col 3:3-4). When we die, we can be safe in the arms of God’s love and mercy. As we allow Jesus to shape our lives here and now, he will continue to shape our lives through eternity (wherever that leads). Salvation is NOT just a word (that we throw around), but rather, salvation is … a person!! And that person loves you. The name of Jesus means – God’s salvation. Like David, in this psalm … be reassured, in those sleepless hours of the night, that Jesus is with you!

Conclusion

It is only God that can help us. And it is through Jesus that we can rise above our difficulties and stresses. The resources of God are much greater than our own, or any we will find (anywhere) in the world. Yet, as life goes on, we will likely need to place greater value on God, and our relationship with God, than we have ever thought before! Maybe sometimes we will be challenged (by God’s Spirit) about our inaction … about our inattention to certain matters or particular people. But, at the same time, God is offering us his (powerful) resources … through which to provide for our forgiveness, and so we can attempt various forms of activity … that previously may have seemed too difficult.

It is in seeking and staying close to God, and in affirming that God will never leave us, but rather sustain us, and, in this, will always have our best at heart, that we will survive the biggest challenges – and not just survive, but also grow … and rise above! But sometimes, when the crunch comes suddenly, we remain unprepared. This is why we need to get the Word of God into us, and fully understand who Jesus is to us – our subject for next week; but reading and re-reading Psalm 63 would be a good start. This is so that, when the crunch comes without warning, we are better prepared with the tools and resources we need. Amen.

"An Inclusive Kingdom" (Mark 7:24-30)

Prelude



I love Jesus! I love Jesus … particularly … because Jesus changes lives. He changed my life. Jesus changes how we feel about ourselves, gives us new life, and provides an ethical framework for life – one that just plainly makes sense. Jesus loves me … I love Jesus! We see in the Gospel narratives how Jesus loved people … all people. And many people were able to respond to that love. People who met Jesus through the Gospels, were able to begin to see themselves and their futures differently … much differently. Jesus was able to offer healing based on faith, and hope based on forgiveness.



As we read these incidents in the Gospels, we too are being asked to think differently about other people. We read that the stranger becomes our neighbour. People who the society of the time excluded as unworthy … e.g. lepers, women of a certain reputation, tax collectors and Roman centurions … actually (shockingly) became examples of faith. The first (in their own mind) shall be last, and the last (through humility) shall actually be first. Whenever we read about Jesus engaging with another person, it is likely we are being challenged to think about the world differently. When I read about how Jesus related with people, it must change the way I relate to people.



Introduction



Many times Jesus had intentions of slipping away to a quiet place for rest and prayer. But such was his reputation and ministry amongst people, that it was difficult for Jesus to escape notice. It is notable that this notoriety was even evident deep into Gentile territory. Jesus was NOT afraid to travel to foreign parts – quite the opposite … this was deliberate, as if making a strong point about the breadth of God’s concern for all people. After all, why otherwise would Jesus have travelled to Tyre, if not to show … to all … the real breadth of his mission.



God’s intention, on the basis of his loving covenant with Israel, was always to embrace all the nations of the world. God’s mission of blessing all nations … goes all the way back to the beginnings of God’s covenant with Abraham in Genesis 12 (really to Creation itself). People may have divided off into different places with different languages and customs, but God was still committed to reaching them all. Our great commission … of making disciples from all nations … is at the centre of God’s heart.



We see on the day of Pentecost how people from a great variety of language groups were able to clearly hear the Gospel shared in their own language. Today, we strive to understand the culture around us, so we too can share the Gospel in ways that will be understood – often beginning with acts of practical service. Jesus was known for such acts of practical service and healing, and so this local woman from the region of Tyre … sought Jesus out, as soon as she got wind of such a great opportunity.



Opening Text – vs 24-26



Jewish historian Josephus described the Gentile people from Tyre as “notoriously our bitterest enemies”. They worshipped many (false unproductive) ‘gods’. In Old Testament times, Jezebel, the wife of King Ahab, forced the worship of the pagan god Baal upon the Israelites – she came from this particular region. Notorious … yes; but NO region, nor its people, could be permanently shunned on the basis of one point in time. Jesus taught about loving one’s enemies, and he sought to prove this to be God’s unfailing attitude through his own ministry.



Like with our own ‘enemies’ maybe, Jesus could easily just walk over to Tyre one day – making the point that he was intent on change and reconciliation. This was narrated as something that Jesus would just naturally do … as part of the way he was doing life. But one could imagine, that Jesus went over to Tyre deliberately, to show a resistant Israel … that grace was now moving in a Gentile direction. Indeed, as the New Testament story unfolds, under the leadership of Paul, the crumbs that were being thrown away, were going to be eaten with relish by others.



It seems it didn’t take long for Jesus to be approached. How did this woman (with the demon-possessed daughter) know about Jesus, and what he was capable of doing? Earlier, in Mark 3:8, we read that people from her area of Tyre had travelled to the Galilee area to see Jesus. Obviously the word had got around. She had heard enough to approach Jesus – humbly too … as she bowed before him. In love for her daughter, and in desperation about her plight, this woman “begged” Jesus to deliver her daughter from this demon-possession (v 25-26).



This Gentile woman knew how she would have been viewed by any Jewish person, let alone a revered teacher. In her mind, there may even have been the thought of being rejected and sent away humiliated. But nonetheless, here she is bowing down at Jesus’ feet in all vulnerability (expressing her need). Do we sense a fledgling faith here … the beginnings of which could only grow and grow … if properly nurtured? No one could nurture faith like Jesus could!! We should take note.



The Controversary – vs 27-28



This woman passionately asked Jesus to deal with the ‘demon’ that was traumatising her daughter! Jesus’ response (in verse 27) has often confused people … as being harsh, unsympathetic, rigid, (culturally) exclusive. At first glance, it is a little strange. Jesus seems to be referring to the people of Israel as the (preferred) “children”, and the Gentiles as “dogs” – a serious term of contempt; with the implication of relative superiority and inferiority – which of course doesn’t fit well with the Jesus we know. Even if we factor in the notion that salvation comes from the Jews … in that they were God’s people first, and that Jesus himself was a Jew – it still seems a very harsh response.



So, we need to ask the ‘why’ questions! What was Jesus’ intent here? Jesus was only saying what other people would have expected him to say, what even this Gentile woman may have expected to hear, what the attitude of most other people would be – exactly what they would have been thinking – why would any Jewish teacher worth his salt … especially one who had made the sort of claims about himself Jesus had … have anything to do with such a woman. Why would he!? She was a Gentile woman from the worst of places with a demon-possessed daughter – you would have to be kidding! Except Jesus said it … with a twist! Which was something this woman likely picked up on!!



The woman was NOT deterred – faith again! She sort of played along – having a strong conviction that Jesus was NOT like others she had encountered. Jesus would surely raise himself above this, and NOT be influenced by such ridiculous cultural exclusions and hatreds … and he would surely listen to her anyway! Here’s the twist – not always completely evident in the English. The woman may have picked up that Jesus, instead of using the normal word for “street-dogs” (seen as dirty), used a different word that more referred to “house-dogs” or “lap-dogs” (thus softening the language and critiquing the common derogatory tones of the day).



This choice of words … would have provided an encouragement for the woman to continue. There may have even been a glint in this woman’s eyes … a moment of understanding or clarity, as she thought about the ‘household pets’ … often seen sitting under the dining table … waiting for the children to drop down scraps to them. Jesus may have even given the woman a bit of a wink – an encouraging gesture to stay with him on this … that he was really on her side! He just had to, first, acknowledge the elephant in the room, and bring poor attitudes into a new light.



In her response, this woman seemed to be saying (in verse 28) … that if the work of God was emanating first out of Israel, then that was okay with her. She was prepared to accept whatever was on offer … that could help her daughter. She too used the softer word for “house-dogs”, rolling along with, maybe even smiling back at, Jesus’ edgy turn-of-phrase! All that she had heard about Jesus was surely true. Given the circumstances, Jesus was actually conversing with her in the most engaging and gracious of ways.



The Resolution – vs 29-30



Yes, even a “crumb” of grace, if it came from Jesus, would be enough to heal her daughter!! More evidence of faith from this woman! She was NOT going to worry about anyone who would have reasons to exclude her – rather this woman just simply looked toward (this wonderful man) Jesus on behalf of her beloved daughter. She correctly believed that the mercies of God were for all people (including her). I reckon you would call that ‘faith’! And that is exactly how Jesus saw it (v 29) – as we read, “For saying that, you may go – the demon has left your daughter”!



If Mark did not make this clear enough, later on Matthew did (in his Gospel). We read there, at the conclusion of the same incident, “Woman, you have great faith; your request is granted (Matt 15:28 NIV). As this woman heads off home (v 30), it seems she was in no doubt that Jesus had healed her daughter – the “demon” was gone … of course it was! We know that faith brings great outcomes! Her child was liberated from the evil spirit traumatising her, and the woman herself was released from a huge burden of care.



Recapping



In verse 27, Jesus simply feeds back to his audience what was commonly thought within an often exclusively-based society – making the point that Jesus is fully aware of the often dark heart of people toward outsiders or those different from them; which has, at least in part, left this woman and her daughter in such a very distressing situation to begin with. Lamentable, but real. Then, this woman’s persistence and clarity and faith … unlocks the love and graciousness of God – that, we see, is as much for her … as for anyone else.



Jesus is almost making a joke of such an exclusive and superior mindset (given its absurdity), and as the woman is already on the same (theological) wavelength – she gets the sarcasm … and replies in kind. We might find it funny too, if it didn’t hit us so squarely in the face … regarding any failure to love our neighbour (when they are different to us). Despite opinions to the contrary, her nationality or cultural background or life predicament … does NOT exclude her from God’s love. She, like everyone else, has open access to Jesus … when given the opportunity.



Conclusion



Jesus, aided by this woman, was here breaking down the social and spiritual boundaries between cultures, and forever challenging any existing distinction between ‘clean’ and ‘unclean’. We have to be very careful with any labels … that they don’t unnecessarily push people away or make them feel excluded. We are all ‘sinners’ in need of God’s salvation. No one is less or more worthy of God’s grace. God loves everyone the same amount without distinction. Sometimes this lesson takes a while to sink in – and we need to be reminded. The disciple Peter … himself … took until Acts chapter 10 and his encounter with Cornelius before he fully got this.



There was a great lesson to be learned here, and how brilliant of Jesus to give a lesson on the inclusiveness of his love … through the words and actions of one of those most discriminated against – a foreign woman with a demon-possessed child! While religious leaders opposed Jesus, while people of his own hometown of Nazareth rejected him, while his own disciples failed to understand Jesus – here was a Gentile woman from a foreign region, notorious for false religion … expressing true and effective faith. She foreshadowed the future – there is plenty (of grace) on God’s table for all (L Richards).



This woman correctly believed that the mercies of God were for all people (including her). This had been the case since Genesis, was proclaimed by Jesus, and was fulfilled at Pentecost. Faith can be found in the most surprising of places. Jesus was on the lookout for faith wherever he went. He even seemed to expect to find faith somewhere in Tyre. The Holy Spirit is on the move promoting faith. It can be hard to find. Yet, we should be ready to listen to the conversations around us each day, for those little comments (or acts of kindness) that suggest a fledgling faith … glimmers that can be encouraged and built on … toward serious faith in God … that can change everything.



Postscript 



Through the various community groups I have been involved in over the last forty years, there have been many opportunities to encourage faith in others. It may have been faith left mainly in the past, or new thinking about persistent problems – but many people, especially in challenging times, are still attuned to the spiritual. You just have to be available … like Jesus, be where the action is … like Jesus, be ready to listen (more than talk) … like Jesus. One fond memory … is following many conversations I had with one woman I was on a committee of management with … she gently slipped into conversation one night … that she had returned to going to church. I love Jesus.

"Complete Restoration" (Mark 5:25-34)

Introduction

Jesus is available to us 24/7. Sometimes, where we sense our need, we just need to actively reach out to him. We can come to know him personally. We can learn all about him in the Gospels. Jesus led a generous life of giving – and that continues to this day. Let us receive all of what he has for us. Sometimes this will be different to what we want, but it will always be the best on offer. When we can’t find what we need anywhere else, Jesus will have something for us. Sometimes we don’t know what is actually best, because we can’t see the future, and we can’t know the big picture clearly enough! But, in the spirit of trust, we can just reach out to Jesus. And, we have this wonderful example in the Gospels, where a very desperate and lonely lady – receives complete restoration.

Text

Twelve years is a long time to suffer like this woman was (v 25). Her severe bleeding was some form of menstrual irregularity – an ongoing haemorrhage. Doctors may have promised her a variety of treatments and cures, but the fact that they didn’t work – made this woman feel worse, and the situation seemed more hopeless (v 26). And, going from doctor to doctor, she had become completely impoverished (in her endeavours). This was all a completely shattering experience! Sometimes we look in the wrong places for our well-being, when the real answer is right in front of us. Not to say we shouldn’t see a doctor when we need one – of course we should see a doctor when we are sick. But reading between the lines here, in a spiritual sense, we see that our real and deepest needs will only be satisfied by Jesus.

When considering this incident, we need to factor in … all the associated stigmas this woman would have to endure. According to Levitical law, such a constant flow of blood would make her ritually impure, and therefore restrict her access to conventional society. She would become a social pariah – an outcast. She would therefore be unable to attend the synagogue – perhaps be excommunicated … socially and spiritually cut off. There seemed to be no hope of bearing children – devastating (especially in the culture of the time … where many would view her to be rendered useless). This would be grounds enough for her husband to divorce her (and her family to reject her). Rather than receiving emotional support – those that she may have thought would help her, could actually have rejected her.

A dozen years of this! This woman would seemingly be in … what would appear … a hopeless situation. Healing seemed unachievable and totally out of reach. But then – there was Jesus – and one touch of his clothes!! In a way, this woman was driven to Jesus … as the only possible source of relief (from her suffering) left open to her! We read in verse 27, that this woman had “heard about Jesus”. But … what had she heard about Jesus? It must have been good! For she was able to make this bold statement – “If I but touch his clothes, I will be made well” (v 28). Yet, although she was extremely desperate, and had heard really good things about Jesus – it would still take great courage to enter such a large crowd … and seek to touch a man like Jesus! Remember … this woman was a social outcast – vehemently rejected by broad society.

Still … “if I but touch his clothes, I will be made well”. This is a serious level of ‘believing’ in Jesus! And there is a sense of real faith here, because the word translated “made well”, could also be translated “made whole” – meaning that there may have been more than just physical healing in this woman’s mind. She would know that such healing would have the potential to change her life situation entirely! There might have just been the thought here … that Jesus could bring complete restoration to her life! Or perhaps, it was just the fact of believing in Jesus in one way, that opened the pathway for Jesus to do an even greater work in her life. Maybe this statement was even more true … than she would have ever imagined. The woman said, “If I but touch his clothes, I will be made well” (v 28). Whatever she was thinking, this was spot-on!!

We ourselves don’t lack for good information about Jesus – but do we take up the opportunity that this woman did? Look at this woman – she is an inspiration! The crowd was so large, Jesus so important and busy, and she so abandoned and reviled – people around would likely be offended that she was prepared to contaminate Jesus (with her uncleanness). But this woman knew what she had to do! Just a touch would have to be enough; yet, in her mind it would be enough – and it was enough! “In her weakened condition, forcing her way through this suffocating mob would have been extraordinarily difficult, yet she claws her way forward” (Bill Crowder).

There was faith on show here … in at least two ways. First, she believed that she only had to touch Jesus’ clothes, and if she could just muster the courage to get past some of this crowd and touch Jesus – that would be enough for her to be healed. Secondly, she was also anticipating how she would feel different, and was expectant about a good outcome – in verse 29 we read, “… and she felt in her body that she was healed of her disease”. This was an immediate, complete and permanent cure – she expected it and instantly knew it! It’s one thing to ask – it’s another to believe it will happen. This is how Jesus could commend her faith, and say that this is why she had been “made well” (v 34).

For this particular woman, her healing happened immediately. I’m not sure how long it will take for anyone else, or what sort of healing will be provided. It doesn’t always turn out to be physical healing that we receive; but when we express faith like this, it’s always God best for us that we receive! We would each need to consider what God’s will might be for us. One thing I can say for sure, is that if we reach out to Jesus, something good will happen. Why wouldn’t we reach out to Jesus?! We shouldn’t be shy – nor backwards in coming forwards.

Jesus was actually in the middle of dealing with the problems of an important synagogue official, but that didn’t deter this woman. She saw Jesus and was NOT going to miss her opportunity. Jesus could handle all of the interruptions this day, and would later go on to raise Jairus’ daughter. It can’t be … that any thought of Jesus being too holy would stop us – for this is the point of the incarnation – Jesus took on flesh and blood so that there could be a special connection and understanding between us and God. Jesus was NOT worried about any contamination … that day … or any day. This woman understood that the very persona of Jesus portrayed a loving welcome.

Now, Jesus did NOT want to leave this as an anonymous touch – he said, “Who touched my clothes” (v 30)? If there was any sense of superstition in this touch of a garment, or any thought that Jesus did magic or was simply a miracle-worker … Jesus wanted to set the record straight. Any contact with Jesus is ultimately about complete change – being ‘saved’. Jesus should never be typecast as just a physical healer – he is about transforming our whole being … everything about us – how we think, act, behave, the basis on which we make decisions, what we say (to others), our priorities … everything … every aspect of our lives (brought into new creation). Jesus wanted to connect with this woman and allow her to connect more personally with him. Any such ‘believing’ as this … should be progressed into an ongoing relationship of salvation and discipleship.

Jesus wanted this miraculous event to be cemented in this woman’s experience, so that she could be assured of a completely new future. The best way for this to happen was for this event to go public, but NOT so much in the sense of a miraculous healing, but more so as a complete change in this woman’s life opportunity. If this woman declared this whole ‘transformation’ to be true, she could certainly begin her process of social restoration. Yet, there may have been a possibility … that she was still wondering if she had done the right thing – maybe she had imposed herself on Jesus a bit too much!? “Who touched my clothes”?

As already mentioned … in her condition, touching Jesus like this would also render him ceremonially unclean. What had she done? Hence this “fear and trembling” (in verse 33)! If she went forward at Jesus’ request … she would be exposing herself to the possibility of further ridicule (from the crowd). Would Jesus be mad at her? All such second-guessing! Yet, nothing could be further from the truth. Jesus was NOT concerned – quite the opposite! Human need was Jesus’ only interest. Her fears were unnecessary! And, Jesus would defend this woman’s interests in the face of any of the crowd’s objections. Jesus looks at her, and calms her, and lifts her … by (lovingly) calling her “daughter”! Here was such a large measure of warmth, affection, acceptance, care, love (Crowder).

In coming forward a second time (v 33), again with a fair degree of courage, and now with complete submission (falling down before Jesus) – this woman may have even had a few moments to share something about her life … as we read that she told Jesus “the whole truth” (v 33). This may well have included the reasons why she had touched Jesus the way she did. Then, she received the wonderful news in person – “Daughter [for she was now, given her faith, a daughter of God] your faith has made you well – go in peace; and be healed of your disease” (v 34). In Luke’s version of this incident, we read that, “… she declared in the presence of all the people why she had touched [Jesus], (and how she had been immediately healed)” – Luke 8:47. Here was publicly expressed faith – by a person who previously would have been roundly rejected in her community!

Conclusion

As we have said, this is not just a narrative about healing – for this woman had her whole life changed. A complete reversal of her social stigma. Return to community life. The possibility of relationships again! Re-entry to the synagogue! New life – new creation! In a word … ‘salvation’!! We recall that the expression, “made you well” also means “made you whole”, and refers to an experience of salvation – as does the phrase “go in peace” i.e. release from all shame, and forgiveness from all guilt. Through her faith and courage, Jesus was able to bring a beautiful ministry into her life! One faith-filled decision to touch Jesus’ clothes, and a whole life is changed!!

It is worthy to consider … that this day … there was people everywhere, crushing Jesus from all angles. No doubt many came into contact with Jesus’ clothes, whether accidentally or on purpose. Yet, did any of those … experience such a remarkable outcome!? This was NOT superstition or magic – it wasn’t really about Jesus’ garments at all. This was really about the most important of matters in life – FAITH! What mattered was this woman’s intent, desperation, humility and courage! Salvation like this … doesn’t just happen – we have to want it and seek it … ask for it and receive it. The good news is – salvation is right there with Jesus … he’s just dying to give it to us – and in full measure!! Amen!

"Lament to Live" (Psalm 22)

Pre-Message Communion



We read recently in Our Daily Bread, how Gerald’s life fell apart. An economic crisis destroyed his business, while a tragic accident took his son’s life, and a heart attack took the life of his mother. Gerald had to support his wife through depression, and his two young daughters in their grief. Spiritually speaking, all Gerald could do was echo the words of the psalmist – “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me” (22:1)?



When we feel as Gerald felt, these are good words for us to pray – after all, Jesus quoted them as well … from the torture of the cross. The only thing that kept Gerald going was the hope that God, who raised Jesus to life, would one day deliver him and his family from their pain. Here was a hope that God would answer his desperate cries for help. "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me"? Jesus, himself, uttered these words in solidarity with all humankind – all the desperate situations we would find ourselves in.



Of course these words about feeling forsaken, were not the only words Jesus spoke from the cross. Jesus also said, “Father, into Your [God’s] hands, I commit my spirit”. This was another quote from a Psalm (31:5) – “Into your hands I commit my spirit, rescue me Lord, my faithful God”. These were words of complete trust. No matter the despair of the moment, God could eventually open a brighter future. In Jesus’ case, this would be a resurrection!



In Gerald’s despair, he also determined to trust God in the midst of his suffering. We read that this hope did sustain Gerald through some very difficult times. Over the years, whenever he was asked how he was, he could only say, “Well, I’m trusting God”. God honoured that trust, giving Gerald the comfort, strength and courage to keep going through the years. His family slowly recovered from the crisis, and soon Gerald welcomed a new grandchild.



Jesus also spoke something else from the cross – “it is finished”. There is much to be made of this, but one thing we can know for sure, is that all of our search and need for liberation from sin, and salvation into a better future is “completed”. Jesus has done it all! In trust, let us remind ourselves of this great gift of grace … that changes everything. Those who are secure in the Lord, are in amazing hands!



Points of Introduction for Message 

1. There are various signs that all is NOT going well for us: hard-heartedness, conflicts, anger, grudges, frustration, impatience, disappointments, tiredness, struggle, heartache 
2. Lying behind this can be: unrealistic expectations, traumatic events, abuse, betrayal, emotional conflicts, persecution, rejection, work challenges, personal insecurities
3. This would raise our need for prayer … yet ‘ACTS’ (adoration, confession, thanksgiving, supplication) may NOT cut it – for our situation is far too raw!

4. Another option is: ‘lament’ – this is a form of prayer that talks to God about our pain … involving a passionate expression of our feelings of distress. A ‘lament’ is a prayer by a person in pain, that yet … leads towards trust! A ‘lament’ provides a pathway for an honest processing of our life … expressing the strong and conflicted emotions that run through our inner being.  
5. ‘Lament’ is an appropriate option – as there is the whole book of Lamentations, and many psalms of ‘lament’, one example being Psalm 22.
6. Article by Mark Vroegop – which sees the process of ‘lament’ being: turn (i.e. turning to God), complain, ask, and, trust.

Psalm 22



A psalm written by David – the anguished prayer of one feeling victimised under prolonged vicious attacks … which he has NOT provoked yet suffers anyway – feelings are here expressed about unjust persecution. Psalm 22 is a really good example of a ‘lament’. David passionately ‘laments’ the situation he finds himself in. But, critically, he also looks for a way through and forward. So, this is NOT just ‘venting’, this is a serious encounter with God … seeking a way forward. There is, here, an understanding that God DOES have an interest – it’s just that it doesn’t currently appear that way.



Another reason to choose this psalm would be … what?? Jesus quoted from it on the cross – verse 1a. And we also sense the sort of mocking Jesus endured (v 7-8). [Later in the psalm are actually references to the dividing (and gambling over) clothes (v 18).] If Jesus, under severe torture on the cross, would quote this psalm … it is clearly an accurate representation of how he felt, and also how we can approach God … when we feel at the end of our tether. Each of those ‘lament’ components are here in Psalm 22: turn, complain, ask and trust. There is also a fifth one (in this psalm) … that I would like to add – praise.



A Lament  



1. TURN – an intentional address to God while in pain (we turn and face God);

2. COMPLAIN – a humble and blunt identification of what is wrong (we spill our guts);

3. ASK – petitioning God for help in light of His promises (we claim God’s power);

4. TRUST – choosing to have confidence in God’s grace (we believe that better times are ahead); and,

5. PRAISE – we celebrate God’s greatness and provision.



While Psalm 22 does NOT neatly go through these five stages one after the other – why would it – life is NOT like that – and our emotions don’t normally run that way – we can see all these aspects there. After the ‘turn’ in verses 1 and 2, there are elements of each of the aspects – complain, ask and trust … weaved through the first 21 verses, before the culmination of praise in verses 22 to 31. If this is of special interest to you, I suggest you spend some significant quality quiet time in Psalm 22 in the coming week. For now, we will look at these five areas of what it is to ‘lament’.

1. TURN – verses 1-2. A direct address to God, acknowledging the apparent distance, sense of abandonment, anguish, and also God’s perceived silence. David can no longer find meaning and purpose in his life, and this is what he is going to express – life is NOT working out, and I don’t know why!

My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?
   Why are you so far from helping me, from the words of my groaning?
² O my God, I cry by day, but you do not answer;
   and by night, but find no rest.

Sometimes we just vent … to ourselves … or to others … but we forget to ‘turn’ our thoughts and problems directly to God. Admittedly, it’s sometimes difficult to maintain our focus on God for more than a minute or two, but we see in biblical ‘laments’ … considerable thoughts and reflections. Verse 2 itself indicates that a level of persistence will likely be required – until the answers begin to emerge and make sense to us. It could be helpful to write our prayers out, like happens when we keep a journal. In this way we can track ways in which God responds. Until we bring our distress directly to God, it can be difficult to imagine how there is a way out of this … and forward. Targeted specific prayer can bring new insight into old problems.

2. COMPLAIN – verses 6-8 [also vs 12-18]. In verses 6-8 there are expressions of how the current dilemma makes David feel – lowly, humiliated in the eyes of others (because he is not coping), ridiculed, hated … even his faith has been mocked.

But I am a worm, and not human;
   scorned by others, and despised by the people.
⁷ All who see me mock at me;
   they make mouths at me, they shake their heads;

[and spoken with mockery …]
⁸ ‘Commit your cause to the Lord; let him deliver—
   let him rescue the one in whom he delights!’ [that was said to Jesus too!]

Later, verses 12-18 include physical threats and feelings of weakness – David feels completely powerless in himself to do anything to improve his situation. And of course, sometimes this realisation is so important … in just letting go and letting God!

The complaint typically runs … how could this be – how long will this continue??



We might sometimes think that we can’t complain to God … that our problems are too trivial, or conversely, that God would not want to look upon our miserable situation. That is so wrong! God was so committed to the human dilemma … that He came to earth in the form of Jesus … to fully engage with the human condition and the world’s issues. So, God would certainly be interested in all that is happening to us, and would definitely want to be part of the solution. God is willing to hear our anger and our doubt and our fear.

3. ASK – verses 3-5 [also vs 19-21a]. In verses 3-5, David recalls that Yahweh God has been roundly respected for the relationship He has had with His people, reflecting on what he knows of God’s faithfulness to those who have gone before, and the deliverance God has enacted e.g. bringing an enslaved Israel out of their bondage in Egypt. Will you do this for me? It’s happened before. Please do this for me!

Yet you are holy,
   enthroned on the praises of Israel.
⁴ In you our ancestors trusted;
   they trusted, and you delivered them.
⁵ To you they cried, and were saved;
   in you they trusted, and were not put to shame.

It will always be worthwhile to recall how God has worked in our life, and other people’s lives, for good in the past. After all, we have likely only come so far through God’s grace (once we believe in that grace) – there is much further for us to go. There are also parts of God’s Word that we can especially hang on to … promises that can make all the difference: God will never leave or forsake us; God will never stop loving us or searching for us; the work of Jesus on the cross can lift all burdens and defeat the power of evil over us; there is a new creation that we can enter … which eliminates old wounds.

You will have days (weeks or months maybe) when you will feel emotionally and physically spent. You will suffer much at times. You won’t always be treated fairly, honoured appropriately or recognized for your faithfulness. Sometimes you will be falsely accused. Some of the people closest to you may wound you deeply. Never forget, Jesus knows the pain of rejection and mistreatment. He understands. And as Carey Nieuwhof says, “Awesome often lies on the other side of awful”.

4. TRUST – verses 9-11 [also v 21b]. In verses 9-10, David brings his thoughts into very personal assurances. God brought David safely through the experience of birth, and has been close-by ever since! David’s confidence and trust has now grown to the point of knowing that God is about to act … in the best possible way … just at the right moment – probably in more wondrous ways than one could ever imagine. God’s great interest in me is now firmly cemented in my mind. Then, verse 11 casts God as the only One who can help, therefore the One who will help (and bring peace to an aching spirit)! I know that relief is coming! I know that God is at hand!!

Yet it was you who took me from the womb;
   you kept me safe on my mother’s breast.
¹⁰ On you I was cast from my birth,
   and since my mother bore me you have been my God.
¹¹ Do not be far from me,
   for trouble is near
   and there is no one to help.

Part of a ‘lament’ is coming to appreciate that God will answer such a prayer, respond to such a need, be present in all difficulties, enable us to cope, and ultimately … to ensure we come out the other side. In all things we can trust God! It’s like … resolution has already occurred – we’re just waiting to notice how! This is seen in verse 21b – in the midst of all the complaining and asking, we hear a newly assured person say,        

^21b From the horns of the wild oxen you have rescued me.

Initially, this may just be a sort of special experience of the presence of God; yet such a good resolution still seems so inevitable (and the future would certainly be better)!

5. PRAISE – verses 22-31. In this particular psalm of ‘lament’, there is a concluding section completely focussed on praise. News of the actual, or assuredly upcoming, deliverance … is brought back into the worshipping community. This is all something to get excited about and share … so everyone can celebrate together. Praising God is so good for us – cementing in … all of God’s provision and daily undertakings on our behalf; not to mention God’s great glory that looms over the whole of creation. Praise is certainly the HIGH-WAY!! We have a great inheritance for which to be grateful. Despite everything, God is great … sing God’s praise!

²² I will tell of your name to my brothers and sisters;
                in the midst of the congregation I will praise you:

²³ You who fear the Lord, praise him!
   All you offspring of Jacob, glorify him;
   stand in awe of him, all you offspring of Israel!
²⁴ For he did not despise or abhor
   the affliction of the afflicted;
he did not hide his face from me,
   but heard when I cried to him.

This worshipper is able to once again speak (and sing) of the great character of God. This … with people who may well have known about the struggle being endured. Such a struggle did NOT mean God was further away, but actually … that God drew even closer. Therefore we get to richly experience God in the down times as much, if not more, than when on the mountain-top. When we consider those who share community with us, whether it be at work, in our neighbourhood, or any club we are part of, we will find people in different seasons of life’s experience. What a witness it is … to the broader of community of human seekers … that God is with us all the time … toward the good outcome of our lives. 

³⁰ Posterity will serve him;
   future generations will be told about the Lord,
³¹ and proclaim his deliverance to a people yet unborn,
   saying that he has done it. [That is the fruit of the praise that we bring.]

Conclusion 



1. TURN – we intentionally address God while in pain (we turn and face God);

2. COMPLAIN – we humbly yet candidly identify what is wrong (we spill our guts);

3. ASK – we petition God for help in the light of His promises (we claim God’s power);

4. TRUST – we choose to have confidence in God’s grace (we believe that better times are ahead); and,

5. PRAISE – we celebrate together God’s greatness and provision.



Benediction – the Book of Lamentations



Within the biblical book called “Lamentations”, the prophet Jeremiah was able to pen these famous words (3:22-25):

²² The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases,
   his mercies never come to an end;
²³ they are new every morning;
   great is your faithfulness.
²⁴ ‘The Lord is my portion,’ says my soul,
   ‘therefore I will hope in him.’

²⁵ The Lord is good to those who wait for him,
        to the soul that seeks him.

"Generous Living" (Mark 3:1-6)

One Day at the Synagogue



I often like to reflect on how Jesus spent his days (during his three-year ministry) walking through various towns and villages, simply making himself available to people – sometimes stopping and spending good quality time with them. On this particular day, we have read that Jesus entered the local synagogue, and ran into a man who had a hand that had been ravaged by disease. From what we know of Jesus, it would be very likely that Jesus would be kind to this man, and probably heal his hand. But … there is something else also going on! Jesus was being watched. We are very early in Jesus’ ministry here, and already there is a plot to get rid of him.



How could this be so? Jesus was threatening the status quo! There were certain people who had a vested interest in keeping things the way they were – keeping religious practice under human control. This is why we should be very careful who we rely on, who we attach ourselves to in the world, and who we trust in – for we can easily have our purposes compromised. Our only leader, and true reference point, is Jesus! We need to make sure we stay on the side where God’s Spirit is leading. The leader of the church must be Jesus, and the author of all our activities must be the Holy Spirit! And because the religious leaders of the time were NOT focussed properly, this is why they had a problem with Jesus.



In the history of Israel, kings and priests alike resisted God and God’s true prophets … all too often … to the whole nation’s ruin! Now we have the Pharisees (and other religious rulers) resisting Jesus … as he seeks to show the world what God is really like – as opposed to all the legalism that had been brought into the life of the synagogue. The Pharisees were also offended that Jesus forgave sins … something only God could do – refusing to consider that this might indeed mean that Jesus was actually God. And, they didn’t like much … that Jesus was hanging around with those they considered the worst of ‘sinners’.



It was the Sabbath, and one of the rules brought in … was a ban on any work on the Sabbath. Now I reckon that this probably started with the best of intentions – based on the commandment to keep the Sabbath holy and as a day of rest. However, now, this meant a ban on the mildest of activity, and, of course, any sort of benevolent act including healing would be against the religious law. [The Pharisee tradition listed thirty-nine particular works banned on the Sabbath (with six sub-categories each).] Worse still, this was being used as a method of trapping Jesus and posing him as a law-breaker.



Instead of discerning and accepting that Jesus, in his very life, was explaining and fulfilling the law as the Son of God, the religious leaders were outrightly rejecting Jesus. They were described as “hard-hearted” – because they were both resisting their visitation from God, and also, they were using a poor and needy man as a pawn in a game. This incident from the Gospel, portrays a deep difference between the hard-heartedness of certain individuals, as against the open-handedness, compassion and generosity of Jesus.



And the question being asked of us … is – what will we choose? A defence of our comfort zone, ingrained worldview, and preferred method of operation – or, a Spirit-led emulation of Jesus’ ministry of open-handedness, compassion and generosity?? Jesus was NOT daunted, even though he knew (down deep) where this was heading. Jesus basically ignored the threat, and the arrogance, and called the “man with the withered hand” to him … “Come forward” (v 3)! I sense here … the deep consideration and empathy carried in these words, “Come forward”!



For one moment, despite the antagonism around this scene, Jesus only saw a man in need. God wanted to connect with this man in a redemptive and recreative way. Jesus simply loved him. And with this in mind, Jesus then challenged the religious leaders about their hard-hearted ways (v 4). This could NOT continue. Saving his life might be allowed, but not being allowed to offer him a helping hand – this did NOT make sense. This was an offence to God. Could they really insist that bringing healing in such a situation was sinful?! Actually – they could not … their silence said it all!! Jesus had, well and truly, shown them up!!



Yet, there was still NO evident change of heart (in these religious leaders) – no concession that Jesus was right and they were wrong. Their views were too ingrained – this proven … as we see them, in verse 6, take their plot to destroy Jesus forward! Ironic that the Pharisees immediately went off … to advance their plot – which you would think would constitute work under their definition; the point being, how hypocritical and ‘blind’ and selective … humans can be at times. You notice that Jesus was angry at these Pharisees (v 5) – can we see how he would have good reason to be?!



This was explained in terms of being “grieved” at their attitude (v 5). It was NOT only a poor man with a disability … they were denying care to, they were also destroying their own spiritual well-being. This anger Jesus felt … was a combination of frustration and regret. In any case – Jesus was going to do his thing – God’s ministry (to a person in need) would have the final say!! Jesus, with all compassion, and the generosity that comes out of God’s abundant love, said to the man, “Stretch out your hand”. And when he did stretch it out – and we could sense here a moment of trust, even faith (in the person of Jesus) – we read that “his hand was restored”!!!



The Challenge to Us



This is NOT just a wonderful story of healing. This is a challenge to us about our attitudes, and how we do life. We see “hard-heartedness” try to get in the way of God’s best intentions; but on the other hand, compassion and generosity make a real difference in someone’s life. Jesus leaves us in absolutely in NO doubt about where he stood – God’s love completely trumps any overreach into formal rigid rule-making that tries to establish religion for its own sake. After all, the Sabbath (or a seventh day of rest) was designed for the health and blessing of people and communities, for a chance to celebrate, worship and rest – NOT as a weapon to restrict our joy.


How can we live generously? This is NOT just a matter of giving generously in a material and financial sense. The Bible does speak repeatedly about this, and we should definitely take notice [– e.g. Deuteronomy 15:7-11]. However, that is only a part of it. We give financially because we feel concern for our neighbour and compassion for the poor. But there is more to generosity than this. Living generously also involves how we think about people. Living generously means living in a way that helps others embrace the possibilities of God in their lives. Living generously is about bringing people closer, rather than pushing them away.



Love is what God is made of – love is what God is! God created in love, God guided His people in love; and despite love being thrown back in His face – God sent and sacrificed Jesus in love … all suggesting (rather strongly) that our language should always be the language of love. Yet, hard-heartedness toward others can creep up on us, take us by the hand, and infect us a little … or a lot. How can we tell? What are the (warning) signs?



For example, the Pharisees in Mark chapter 3, were very apathetic towards a person in need – caused by failing to see the wonder and glory in Jesus. Maybe, like them, we find ourselves not caring as much as we used to … when we see someone upset or in trouble?! Maybe our own personal agendas have become too predominant, or perhaps the hurts we are carrying are blocking God’s gracious ministry to us. Maybe we know we have hurt someone else, but find ourselves resistant to apologising.



Maybe we don’t celebrate other people’s success anymore, or celebrate anything really!? This might happen because we’ve had too many disappointments ourselves, or are even a touch jealous. Maybe everything has become a bit mechanical, all passion has dried up, and our emotions have been repressed. We know we are supposed to rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep (Romans 12:15) – but we might be finding this a bit too challenging.



Maybe even friendships are hard, and family life has become tense. If we allow this to persist, and even become the norm, we are then on a downward path to hard-heartedness! The clearest sign of a hard heart … is when we no longer think the best about people, but rather continually see fault, judge their motives, and be cynical for no good reason. Sure people let us down – but as Jesus-followers … purposefully set on helping others know the Lord and grow in their spirit, we all need to see people the way Jesus sees them.



If we allow our hurts and disappointments, and the past shortcomings and failures of others, to continue to affect how we generally view and interact with people, this, according to pastor and writer Carey Nieuwhof, “is a sure-fire way of sabotaging all future joy and possibility”. As I said last week, we need to be fully committed to the spiritual well-being of others – starting with a genuine (Jesus-like) love and appreciation for them, then letting God speak through us!



We need to be actively building bridges from our open hearts to the hearts of others … a bridge that Jesus can walk across (R Warren). We need to be ready to listen ... in an endeavour to understand where other people are at. But this will require an unhindered generous love. As Rick Warren says, “You can’t really get to know spiritually lost people unless you love them; you’ll hold them at arm’s length and never spend the time to get to know them”.



So, as we walk the streets like Jesus did, are we on God’s wavelength? Are we ready to love people, build bridges, and see Jesus travel across such bridges into other people’s lives. Jesus ignored the criticism around him, and proceeded to connect with people, discern their need, and advance their future. Or, could it be that we have been infected with “hard-heartedness” … even just a little – and this is holding back our good ministry to others?! Now, today, we have unearthed and recognised some of the sources of “hard-heatedness”, what can we do about it? This is a matter for deep and concerted prayer – and this will be our theme next week.

"Speaking Faith" (Acts 2:37-42)

Text 

The passage we have read from Acts chapter 2 follows after the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost and Peter’s great first sermon. In verse 37, we see the response of many – “they were cut to the heart”. Such was the impact of Peter’s message, especially as it revealed how people had been misguided about who Jesus was. Now many would want to investigate further about Jesus, and potentially commit their lives to him. To the original 120-odd believers, three thousand persons were added as a result of the events of this day (v 41). 

Also, in verse 37, we see the question that was asked that day … in response to Peter’s sermon. This is a question we should always be asking when it comes to Jesus … and our relationship with Jesus. “What should we do”? This is NOT just a one-off question about receiving grace and salvation – this should be the great discipleship question – how do we follow Jesus each day? In verse 42, we can see that those three thousand new believers … didn’t just wander back to their normal lives. They … “devoted themselves”! After their baptism as believers, they wanted to learn about following Jesus, and they wanted to stick together … in their house churches ... and be a community of people that represented something really revolutionary and exciting. 

So … they “devoted themselves” – to the “apostles’ teaching, fellowship, the breaking of bread, and the prayers”. “Fellowship” – a priority on being together and growing together … we talked about this last week. “The breaking of bread” – part of this would be the hospitality and welcome we can bring to one another, and part of this would be ‘communion’ – the remembrance of Jesus’ sacrifice through the bread and the cup (these being originally connected within the worship practices of house churches). 

“The prayers” – NOT just being a praying person, but involved in the prayer-life of the community – joining together in solidarity around all the prayer needs of the community (and also being able to celebrate the great outcomes of God’s faithfulness to us). Our church becomes our spiritual family – brothers and sisters on a similar journey – able to encourage and support one another – and we want to be together – worshipping and praying together. But my emphasis today … is on the “teaching” that would have been happening within these gatherings. Such “teaching” is always crucial!

Teaching 

Initially, with only the Hebrew Scriptures (Old Testament) available, the disciples and leaders of these house churches, empowered by the Holy Spirit, would have been telling the stories about Jesus, and how the activities of Jesus fulfilled all the best expectations of Israel (as Peter had just done in his sermon). They would also be able to point out God’s intentions for the grace of God and the ministry of Jesus … to reach out right across the world’s people groups. Immediate and significant teaching needed to take place, so that, as Peter had said (in verse 40), the people could be saved from this “corrupt generation”. 

It wasn’t just going to be a one-off decision for Jesus (on one particular day) that would achieve this, but rather a total “devotion” to an ongoing life of learning. “What should we do” – that question again! How will we learn what we need to know (and believe) to escape the negativity and destruction of any “corrupt generation”?! These days, we, right here, have the full scriptures, we have the Holy Spirit to guide us, and we have the vast resources of each other … through which to learn what we will need! 

Those with the calling, maturity, experience and special gifting … will take the lead and show the way, but we all get to speak truth into other people’s lives. Here, we are talking about the deep investment we need to make in teaching people how they can establish, maintain, develop and thrive … in their relationship with God, and in their life of following Jesus. We all need to be ‘speaking faith’. As we notice any incidences associated with a “corrupt generation”, it is our responsibility, NOT to just complain or recall memories of better times, but to actively participate in ‘speaking faith’. 

Although we may have to make some level of concerted effort here, in another way it should really just come naturally – the organic outcome of knowing Jesus. In each of the conversations we have in life, there should be some sense of our faith in God. Not to say God is mentioned by name every time. Not to say that there is any deliberate targeted intent about this every time. It’s just that it should be natural that every participant in our conversation … is alerted to the fact that we have faith in God. This may also extend to an appreciation that we follow Jesus – that our lives are centred on him (our Saviour and Lord). 

Of course, ‘speaking faith’ is NOT just about words. It’s also about the way we carry ourselves, our body language (as this is related to our words). This is again about our level of resurrection joy, and the hopeful way we think about future opportunities in life. This is also about that peace we can convey, because we know Jesus, even in the midst of the most strident challenges. This is about our willingness to love our neighbour, sometimes against the tide of other people’s opinions. This is about showing up the problems of individualism, consumerism, and various others addictions – bringing them into the light of Jesus.

Training 

One of the most important places to ‘speak faith’, is of course in our home, especially where there are young children, or impressionable young adults. Clearly, their spiritual formation would be a priority for us. This could be called ‘training’, where ‘training’ can be defined as “teaching toward a challenge” (So the Next Generation Will Know by McDowell & Wallace). This is like the training ‘first responders’ do, making sure they are ready for a variety of possible threats. 

We need to gently and patiently, yet assuredly, live truth into the next generation. We will surely accept any sacrifice of time or effort that this entails. Again, the more we practice, the easier it becomes. Here is a quote from a very recent book entitled Growing With (by Kara Powell & Steven Argue):

Faith in families has become a lost language, a segmented category, the fancy room in the house that we visit but don’t live in. Parents can bring ‘faithing’ language back into everyday life by finding small ways to “speak” it again. Like any language, it will seem awkward at first, but consistency will bring fluency. 

These writers go on to talk about speaking (simple) prayers over their children at the beginning of each day – and in no time we may find our children praying for us! We can also use text messages to reassure our older children, and others, about God’s presence with them. We will need to enter our children’s world (knowing that each of them is different), ask genuine questions, and be really good listeners. We will need to give them (theological) tools to help them discern (over time) the difference between what is true and what is false. 

The catalyst for such conversations … may be something that happens at school, a troubling world event, or the illness or death of a loved one. There is actually a Christian and biblical way of thinking about everything! However just abstract statements about what the Bible says will likely NOT be enough. There will need to be some thinking and explanation as to how this actually makes sense in life and works for good. Enquiring others will need to hear 'why' is it true and important for us, and then reasons 'why' it could matter to them. Parents will have to work out when this is best achieved – at meal times together, or some other time. 

Our great hope, in this, is read in Proverbs 22:6 – Train children in the right way, and when old, they will NOT stray. To ‘speak faith’, in such ways, means that our children, and others, will notice that our faith is the foundation of our life, that which holds everything else together. In other words, faith in Jesus is our anchor. Everything else in our lives … is grounded around that anchor … that we have set into the ‘rock’. And the words associated with an anchor, in Hebrews 6:19 are: “sure and steadfast”. 

Back in my Boys’ Brigade days, the leaders had us often reflecting on the anchor of Hebrews 6:19 – it was a symbol that was reflected in most of the traditional badges you could gain. And we had to sing the hymn where the chorus ran, “We have an anchor that keeps the soul – steadfast and sure while the billows roll; fastened to the rock which cannot move – grounded firm and deep in the Saviour’s love”. I believe … where I am today, is a witness to that sort of investment … made in me! 

Our JAM program promotes the centrality of faith in God and the saving work of Jesus. But the surety of the value of this faith … needs to be lived out in every conversation and every act. We cannot shift to Sunday School teachers what needs to happen … day in and day out … in our homes. Consistency will be everything. We need to model what we teach. Our character needs to stand up to scrutiny. People, especially the young, can even judge God … through looking at us. 

Yet, don’t be too disheartened, or too worried – for when we fail ourselves and others, this in itself can become a good learning curve, because with open and honest repentance, we are renewed with an even greater appreciation of mercy, forgiveness, and the power of the Holy Spirit for change. Therefore, we will do better next time. We can continually embrace fresh confidence in the gospel. This all takes us back to our knees, seeking wisdom in being a faithful role model for the next generation (McDowell & Wallace). 

Relationships 

We need to be fully committed to the spiritual well-being of others – especially those closest to us. Many people, young, and sometimes not so young, are asking questions like: ‘Who am I?’, ‘Where do I belong?’, and, ‘Does my life have any meaning?’. These ones are often ready for a serious conversation. We need to start with a genuine love and appreciation of others, then let God speak through us. 

It will be the depth of our relationship with God through Jesus, our willingness and openness to be taught ourselves, and the quality of our relationships with others – that will allow our responses and teaching to find receptive ears. We will need to have done our own work on our worldviews and our belief systems … in terms of the teaching of Jesus. We will need to be ready and open to questioning, hear other people’s doubts, and be ready to search out answers. Amen.

Talk from Sports Chaplaincy Acknowledgement Service with UBFNC

Introduction



We have read, “When the Day of Pentecost had come, [the followers of Jesus] were all together in one place”. So the word of the day is certainly “together”. “Together” is a great word – we were all designed as relational people. Whether it is a church community, or a sporting club, or any other organisation – the power for effectiveness and great results … comes from being together, staying together, and working together.



2000 years ago, when Jesus wanted to bestow power and effectiveness upon the disciples of the early church through the Holy Spirit, he asked them to … be together, and stay together. There was about 120 of them at this point. It was as these people committed to gathering together … that they would be able to effectively work together. The book of Acts goes on to tell … that the outcome for the church that day was fantastic.



As the first followers of Jesus continued to spend time together, share together, and work as a team … they would develop the sort of cooperation that would make a real difference in the world around them (serving people in need). These people grew in their capabilities and leadership as they shared with and encouraged one another. This remains a great example, one which, sadly, has not always been appreciated in the church.



In our time, in our particular locality, we come together, into our various community groups of choice, and into joint causes that are so much bigger than any individual cause. It is here that teamwork becomes so important. And, whether we are part of a church or a sporting club or both, or any other group – developing a good level of teamwork … depends on many things.

1. Sacrifice

A couple of those things are: sacrifice and respect, i.e. sacrifice made to a joint cause, and respect for those who are with us (in that cause). To create a good team approach, whatever the organisation might be, there needs to be a willingness to sacrifice some of our personal desires for the sake of the common good and the whole. Not everything can be the way we want it personally to be! Not everything is bound to suit our convenience. We have to be able to see that, for the well-being and good of the particular team we are part of, and for the ultimate success of whatever our collective vision is – we have to put aside some of our own preferences and go with a majority view.



We need to be actively open and flexible like this. The question to always ask ourselves will be – how can I add value to my team?! Sometimes, whether it be a church or a sporting club or another community organisation, we will get a reasonable say into the direction that such a group is taking. It is great when that is able to happen, and we feel that we have been listened to, and our ideas have been taken into account. On other occasions, especially in times of crisis or urgency, we will just have to trust our leaders – that they will come up with, more often than not, the right solutions and decisions.



There is another level of sacrifice too … when we talk about working together as a team. Not just giving up some of our preferences, but also giving ourselves completely over to team goals – buying wholly into them – putting the team ahead of ourselves. Sometimes, punching the ball from behind is the team play, rather than attempting the spectacular mark. We come to really admire those almost unnoticed one-percenters (sometimes called ‘sacrificial acts’) … that open an opportunity for another teammate. On the netball court, instead of expecting praise ourselves, we offer encouragement to another. In the church, we would want to offer support to others wherever we can.



There are many examples in our town, in our football and netball club, on and off the field, of people who sacrifice for others. And, we just remembered significant sacrifice at Anzac Day services here in town. In the church, we have also just remembered at Easter … the ultimate sacrifice made by our leader Jesus on a cross … for the forgiveness of the world. Jesus might have opted for a more comfortable path, but instead went the way he knew was best for the bigger picture. Such acts of sacrifice, the historical ones, and the present ones, are not just for us to notice … and remark upon, but also for us to emulate … in each of our fields of endeavour.

2. Respect

Successful times of working together … also depend upon the respect we should form for those who are in the same team as us. In most community groups, which are open to all-comers, we find a great variety of personality types, backgrounds, talents, workplaces, temperaments, personal interests, behavioural quirks, ability levels, experience, ages, genders, etc. We all need to respect one another’s humanity and personhood! The good churches, and the good sporting clubs … are able to find creative ways of blending all this diversity together.



The goal would be for everyone to feel welcome; and also respected for the particular contribution they could make. The great joy of any community organisation … would be to blend together a whole lot of uniqueness – seeing a collection of unique people come together under one banner to achieve great results. If everyone was the same, or you tried to manipulate sameness through exclusion, then the result would likely be … pretty unremarkable.



The apostle Paul, who wrote quite a bit of the Bible, compared the church to a human body – seeing all the different unique diverse parts of the human body – arms, legs, eyes, ears, hands, feet, etc, etc – coming together to make up a really effective functioning whole. A great analogy for any team. It’s like fitting all the bits of a jigsaw puzzle together in the correct way. For success, we need different types of talents, personalities and experiences – all brought together into solidarity under a common goal.



We also need to allow and nurture others to play their role. Encouragement is always the key … in showing respect and confidence in others – such that they can become successful contributors. Mutual respect builds trust in one another’s intentions and commitment to the cause, eventually leading to a higher morale, and the space in which each one can be honest and happily hear the truth about their performance.



Another aspect of respect, is a thorough appreciation of the group we are a part of – its ethos and values, and its role in the general community. The church should be providing a hopeful and positive vision of how life can be lived. As well as seeking success on the field, a sporting club can have goals around the development of character and leadership, the fulfilment of potential, and also making a strong contribution to the wider community. Both Bright Church of Christ and United Bright Football and Netball Club seek to make such positive contributions to community, and sometimes together!



Conclusion



So, embracing sacrifice and respect … helps us all to work together well in our particular groups, and also builds leadership. Just as good leadership motivates great team effort, a great team effort encourages and motivates the best leadership to emerge amongst the team. Whether this is on the sporting field, or within the outgoing ministries of the church, being and working together can bring great satisfaction, joy and happiness.



Where we might have to actively decide to embrace sacrifice and respect initially, sometimes against the grain – working together in community can eventually become so enjoyable and satisfying, that it begins to just happen naturally – because it simply makes sense, and it brings its own rewards. Good community is always about rising above individualism toward the great ideal of team! And, genuine teamwork and good community … stands out like stars on a clear night!