If I ever lose my faith in you

Are you lost in a lost world? Did you long ago lose your belief in politicians? Have you lost confidence in the once-trusted people you see on TV who now seem like game show hosts or carnival barkers? It wouldn’t be hard to do, given all the “noise” we must tune out in order to focus our attention on the One who matters most (2 Chronicles 15:4). Perhaps you’ve lost your faith in science or in progress, your belief in the holy church or your sense of direction, but there is one thing you must never lose… your faith in God. Those who would seek to take you down will draw you in with deception and false promises (Jeremiah 9:6), leading you to a place where final death awaits. There is no miracle of science that didn’t go from a blessing to a curse or a military solution that didn’t end up as something worse for the one who has no where else to turn, no other place to go, or no one else to trust. Without faith, there would be nothing to live for (Hebrews 11:6). Without faith, there would be nothing left to do. In accepting Him, we are given a most generous gift of faith from a loving God who locates the lost and guides them safely home.

Shine, sweet freedom

America. The United States. The Constitution. The Bill of Rights. Founding Fathers. Land of Opportunity. The Interstate Highway System. Texas. Empire State Building. Wal-Mart. Navy Seals. Apple pie. ESPN. Puppies. FedEx. Whole Foods. The Flag. Apple. Sounds of silence (Ecclesiastes 9:17). Microsoft Word. Ford F-150. Adoption. TiVo. Caterpillar. Duct tape. Wall Street. Abraham Lincoln. LinkedIn. GEICO. The Mississippi River. Ben & Jerry’s. Bose noise-canceling headphones. Delivery pizza. Self-adhesive stamps. Baseball. Freshly cut grass. Boeing 747. Daylight savings time. GPS. Homemade chocolate chip cookies (Deuteronomy 8:3). Golf. Oscar Mayer. Music festivals. NASCAR. The Great Gatsby. Times Square. PB&J. Independent bookstores. “60 Minutes.” Clif Bars. “Seinfeld.” The Space Needle. Lemonade. Email. The Grand Canyon. U.S. Armed Forces. Magnolia trees. Clint Eastwood. Windex. Gibson Les Paul. Fresh bread. Morton Salt. Senior Prom. Roadside diners. Old Spice. Windy City. Disneyland/Disney World. Louisville Slugger. Philly cheesesteaks. Blogging. Gulfstream G650. Coppertone sunblock. Lawn sprinklers (John 7:38). Food-labeling requirements. Drive-in movies. Sesame Street. Starbucks. Martha’s Vineyard. James Taylor. Facebook. SEC football. Girl Scout Cookies. Subway. “Jeopardy!” The Pulitzer Prize. Playgrounds. National Lampoon's “Vacation.” Grandparents. Car washes. Sunsets. Spaghetti. Singing in the shower. The Bible. Daily devotionals. Prayer. Religious freedom. Sweet freedom, indeed.

I hope you dance

With another year now half gone and high-school graduation ceremonies completed, young adults find themselves facing a myriad of major decisions. Choosing or going to college. Taking that first job. Getting married. Buying that first home. Having a child. There’s no such thing as randomness in God’s great community (2 Samuel 7:28). Given the benefit of hindsight, it’s easy to see how lives are shaped, molded and impacted with every decision, whether large and small, made along the way. Certainly, whenever one door closes, another one opens, though we’re quick to blame fate or bad luck for outcomes that don’t match our expectations or desires (Deuteronomy 18:13). Do you ever stop to wonder why particular actions bring specific results? Do you consider the circumstances when bad things happen to good people? We should never take good fortune for granted. Life is meant to be lived. Joy is meant to be experienced. Love is meant to be shared. By setting fear aside and giving faith a fighting chance (2 Peter 1:5-7), the chances taken are not merely foolish folly, but calculated risk which can yield amazing blessings. The next time you hear the music of life playing in your head, you might make the choice to sit it out. I hope you dance.

Tick tock...

Much was made in the mainstream media over the last several weeks as the date of the biblical End Times, as predicted by Christian radio broadcaster Harold Camping, 89, neared. People busied themselves planning parties and organizing outrageous activities in order to mark a “once in a lifetime” occasion. Beneath the mocking and mindless celebrations, however, lay an unsettling notion -- what if this prophecy was actually about to happen? Although an unintended consequence, Camping’s clarion call caused a handful to wonder, a few to question and many more to seek answers (Ecclesiastes 8:7). Bibles were dusted off by the dozens and opened in a fervent search for the revelation of God’s truth. Indeed, there will come a day and a time when Jesus Christ returns to gather His chosen and people all around the world see Him appearing through the clouds (Mark 13:26-27). Until then, Christians are instructed to wait patiently and watch expectantly, eagerly anticipating that glorious moment. In light of the miscalculation, a revised timetable was released touting another date later this October, although no one on earth really knows the appointed hour. When the May 21 passed without incident, a hearty handful laughed it off, a relieved few nervously breathed a sigh of relief and a growing legion of believers nodded knowingly (Revelation 1:7), praying for the real thing to come… soon.

Looking for the right one

You’ve no doubt heard at least one of the following expressions as they relate to relationships, love and matters of the heart: “like finding a needle in a haystack;” “at first sight;” “easy come, easy go;” “a battlefield;” “a many-splendored thing;” “never saying you’re sorry;” and so on. Thousands of songs have been inspired by this sensitive subject and countless more books, poems, articles and research penned concerning the physical, psychological and emotional aspects of this most human condition (John 15:17). The Creator designed each of us with an internal “search engine,” programmed to seek out the source of complete and unconditional love that will satisfy our longing. He wants us to place Him first in our hearts (Exodus 20:3). Many, however, find themselves looking “in all the wrong places” for the one that meets their own self-defined criteria of must-haves, and then quickly assign blame anywhere or everywhere else when the union doesn’t meet or exceed expectations. The experienced will tell you that love always comes and goes. That much we already know. If you’re still looking for the “right one” and that special person has yet to cross your radar screen, turn to the Holy One and allow Him to reveal His chosen desire for you (Psalm 37:4). Chances are the choice may not be what you would expect, but it will be everything you could have asked for… and exactly what you deserve.

Up where we belong

With so much attention devoted to the end times, it’s understandable that people wonder “what’s next?” If you’re thinking about an “after” life, it’s only natural to ask where it might be spent (Nehemiah 9:6). Heaven is imagined as many different things… a place floating in space – “up there” – just beyond the clouds; a place where a chorus of angels welcome new arrivals with a trumpet fanfare; a place where all dogs (and perhaps a few cats) go; a place where streets are paved with gold; a place where the dearly departed watch and wait for us to join them; a place filled by blinding white light. No matter how you might view it, you don’t have to dream it (2 Peter 3:13). God sent heaven to earth in the person of His Son, Jesus, whose presence here brings hope and peace to all who believe. Christ makes our current life complete and offers the promise of an eternal life in a new heaven and earth without death, pain, suffering, tears and sorrow (Mark 13:31). We can’t begin to fathom what heaven might look like, but we will recognize it immediately. Give your life to Him, turn from your sin and He will lift you up… where you belong.

Just the way it is

You don’t see them as often as you once did. Perhaps they moved on to greener pastures or to a better life. Maybe they’ve just gone, leaving only the hauntingly indelible image (Exodus 3:7) of what it looks like to be poor, destitute, alone and needy in a world where everything is conspicuously consumed. Our downtown is undergoing a major facelift, a popular revival, and becoming what city founders envisioned years ago – a place where people from all walks can work, play and engage. But, even as silk suits have been replaced by casual business attire, the poor man’s eyes see the same sad scenario repeatedly re-staged (Proverbs 14:20). No conversation, no physical contact, no helping hand extended to one that’s attempting to grasp a glimmer of hope or the possibility of righting a ship silently sinking into the abyss. Sadly, the rules of engagement don’t appear to have changed over time. No spoken words, no connection between people who have much more in common than they might imagine. Those called into God’s kingdom are to serve, with righteousness and justice, the oppressed, the exiled and the downtrodden (Isaiah 58:7-8). In so doing, blessings will be bestowed on both parties involved. You may not think you can make a difference. You may hear some say that things will never change, that it’s just the way it is. Don’t you believe them.

Show me the way

Traveling today takes guts… or a good Garmin. Relying on man-made space satellites, the sophisticated global positioning system, with just a few keystrokes, can aid an intrepid explorer in reaching his final destination with minimal headache (Ezra 8:21). Having a road map for your road trip offers an old-school thrill of the unknown, since newer construction is often omitted. A more-detailed atlas, weighing dozens of pounds, might serve a useful purpose as a tire tool, doubling as a cinder block in cases of extreme emergency or inclement weather. While some stick to the freeways, others seek the byways less traveled (Exodus 23:2). Street signs are continually confusing, billboards occasionally confounding and navigators conversationally challenging. Yet, no matter which path is chosen, trouble can – and generally does -- rear its ugly head to spoil or ruin an otherwise well-intentioned expedition. Fortunately, we have our own GPS, also known as God’s Positioning System, to clear the route and smooth the way (Deuteronomy 1:33), eliminating the detours and distractions that entrap and enrage the careless commuter. Consulting the Creator before backing out of the garage is the best way to guarantee an “on-time” arrival.

Another day in paradise

The world is in turmoil. A fragile planet is repeatedly rocked by the violent nature of its galactic environment, the resulting earthquakes, tsunamis, floods and tornadoes costing thousands of lives and untold millions of dollars (Luke 21:11). Increasingly, however, much of the madness is caused by man himself. Merciless dictators and their oppressive regimes suppress basic civil rights, withholding freedoms from those with no voice in how their own governments will govern. The Bible makes it clear that God will not tolerate such continued disobedience (Job 21:20) and the flagrant flaunting of His command to love one another. The list of atrocities that man heaps upon his fellow man grows more heart-wrenching with each passing day. Widespread disease, starvation, euthanasia, mass killing and mutilation claim countless more lives. Lord, is there nothing more anybody can do? Oh, Lord, there must be something you can say! The sum total of human suffering staggers the serene and surely unsettles the secure. The Creator will bring his righteousness and judgment upon this earth (2 Chronicles 20:9) at the time of his choosing and His justice will be swift and certain. If you’re removed by grace from all the tragedy, be thankful and think twice… it’s just another day for you and me in paradise.

That last mile

On this Valentine’s Day, I am reminded that a very good friend of mine will be celebrating his 70th wedding anniversary in less than a month. Seventy years. Let that sink in for a moment. These crazy kids tied their nuptial knot in March 1941 (Genesis 2:24). Today, many marriages won’t see seventy months and in Hollywood, most don’t seem to survive seventy minutes. Is there a secret to success in matriculating the matrimonial mile? Probably not just one (Ephesians 5:28). Faith in the Father, love, trust, honesty, open communication, mutual respect, a sense of humor, attraction… all are key ingredients to a fulfilling, lifelong romance and a true partnership in which each person nurtures, supports and encourages the other (Hebrews 10:24). Every contractor knows it’s impossible to build something up if you keep tearing it down and relationships are no different. A firm foundation is essential. Our time on earth is precious and we’re blessed beyond measure to spend it with the ones we hold dear. Once you’ve navigated that last mile on earth together, with all its potholes, bumps, and unexpected twists and turns, the road that God has built through eternity will re-define “smooth sailing.”

We are the champions

Football is an amazing sport. Sure, the game has become more sophisticated over time, the players have gotten bigger, stronger and more athletic and the fans even more passionate about their favorite teams. Fantasy leagues allow the most devoted to become their own owner and general manager, offering an otherwise obscure opportunity to draft and trade players, based primarily on their performance on the field. Football is also a tremendous metaphor for life, which might explain the over-zealous abuse of many timeless clichés. On God’s gridiron, the patient Head Coach teaches (Leviticus 19:37), trains and prepares His charges for every situation we will face on the field. We learn to recognize potentially harmful situations and defend ourselves from wily opponents (2 Thessalonians 3:3), while at the same time encouraging teammates to always be prepared and play their best. Another Super Bowl week has come and gone and the NFL trumpeted its sports supremacy loud and long. Left standing after a lengthy season, two teams waged war for the right to be called champion. When we’re adequately armored in Jesus Christ (Ephesians 6:11), there is no situation we are unable to face and win, confident that God’s game plan guarantees the ultimate victory.

Celebrate me home

It started to snow, ever so lightly, on Christmas Eve in east Tennessee. The stillness and solitude of a dark December night had given way to a flurry of frosted flakes fluttering toward frozen soil. Many miles were navigated to reach this circle of love and you could feel God’s presence among those assembled to celebrate the happy homecoming and the birth of Jesus Christ (Matthew 1:21), the beloved Son of the Lord Almighty. By mid-morning Christmas Day, a thin blanket of pure white greeted the gathering. While we each may measure the memories of countless Christmases in our consciousness, we also carry with us daily the Holy Spirit that resides in the heart of every believer (Romans 12:1). It’s a very comforting feeling, being home for the holidays, totally surrounded by family (plus four rowdy and rambunctious canines), sharing stories, songs and silliness in such a secure and safe haven. No matter how far we roam from one another, we take refuge in the assurance of The Savior’s compass, guiding us along the Way of Holiness (Isaiah 35:8-10). There are times that will always be remembered and times we will recall when we find ourselves alone. And in those quiet moments, bow a knee and pray, then joyfully sing yourself home… and celebrate!

Shower the people

Every January triggers one of the most timeless rituals of the holiday season – making New Year’s resolutions. The ten most common probably haven’t changed for decades: stop smoking, get fit, lose weight, enjoy life more, quit drinking, get organized, learn something new, become debt-free, spend more time with family and help others. It should come as no surprise when such freshly articulated re-commitment falls short so quickly, no matter how committed the person may be to the cause (Malachi 2:2). In an effort to amend or correct the error of one’s way, a feeble attempt is made to alter one’s own humanity. Yet, for all the countless promises we might make to ourselves for self-improvement, the Bible offers one often overlooked –- love one another (1 John 4:8). The trouble with the majority of resolutions is that they merely focus on the end-result of repeated behavior but do not address the true root of the problem: “If I can tweak A, then A will cure B, and B will fix itself.” We can’t change how God designed us (2 Chronicles 19:3), but we can better prepare ourselves to carry out His desire for us. As you draft this year’s list, resolve to shower the people you love (and even some of those you don’t) with love and show them the way that you feel. Things can only get better if you only will.