Chapter Nine Monday, December 6, 2010
Before we get started with today's post...let me just say thanks to all for a great day in worship on Sunday! I pray that it means as much to you as it does to me. I love being a part of the Wilson family! Now, let's discover more from Luke!
“Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke them. Then he gave them to the disciples to set before the people. They all ate and were satisfied and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over.” Luke 9:16-17
Have you ever noticed the three primary activities related to the hands of Jesus? He tends to beckon, bless, or break. As he is calling the early disciples to ‘come follow me,’ he beckons with his hand to invite them on a journey of radical faith. When he gathers the children, he places his hands on them and blesses them where they stand. In the passage above he breaks the loaves and fish to feed the 5000 who are gathered on the hillside. In the Gospel of John he breaks the bread at the Passover table. In Luke he walks with the disciples on the Road to Emmaus and breaks bread with them at the end of the day.
Each of these spiritual movements has incredible meaning for us as we approach the experience of Christmas and the manger scene. The shepherds came to bless him. The Wise Men arrived as the star beckoned them to follow. And in just 18 days we will gather in the worship center to remember the Christ Child through the lighting of candles and the breaking of bread.
When Jesus beckons it is our task to follow. When he blesses it is up to us to receive so we can pass it along to others. And when he breaks the bread it is our responsive heart that is fed by the grace of God present in that offering of his own life. In the act of breaking we discover the beauty of multiplication. Many are fed, many are freed, and many are found.
I wonder if you would be willing to join me in an act of faith during this Advent season. Would you join other sisters and brothers in the faith by simply allowing your heart to be open to the beckoning hand of Jesus? Would you willingly allow his hand to bless your life? Would you be available to the grace of God in a new and fresh way as we break bread together? If we do, many will be fed, all will be satisfied, and there will be an abundance left for others.
Monday, December 6, 2010
Sunday, December 5, 2010
Gospel of Luke Sunday December 5, 2010
Chapter Eight Sunday, December 5, 2010 Second Sunday of Advent
Have you ever planted a crop? Maybe you have real life farm experience where a large acreage is planted, tended and harvested. Or your crop may be a single tomato plant well placed on the patio each spring. Either way, you know the joy of moving from the initial investment to the final product.
If that is the case, you will be easily captured by the parable of the sower. It is one of the best known parables of Jesus. Some seed fell on the path and was trampled. Other seed fell on rock and withered. Still other seed fell among the thorns. But (here is the Good News!) some fell on good soil and the yield was one hundred fold. Isn’t that what we all want for our lives…good soil and a plentiful crop?
The problem arrives when we are faced with rocky surfaces, trampled paths, and thorns aplenty. All of a sudden life can look a bit grim. It can even feel out of control. You might think you are about to drown when suddenly Jesus comes along and calms the raging storm and heals our spirits.
I don’t think I know a single person who has no need for healing on some level. We all long for solid steadfast health, a positive spirit, peace of mind, and wonderful relationships. Even though that is our deepest desire, we discover places in our lives where we recognize the need for healing.
Here is the really Good News: Jesus is in the healing and wholeness business! He loves good soil, strong seed, calm waters, and lives that have been transformed by the touch of his hand and the sound of his voice.
Take a moment today to reflect on your life. Identify the areas that need to be stronger. Then turn them over to the Lord. Tell someone about your prayer, for “no one lights a lamp and hides it in a jar or puts it under a bed.”
It has been a blessing to experience worship with you and the Wilson Family on this day!
Have you ever planted a crop? Maybe you have real life farm experience where a large acreage is planted, tended and harvested. Or your crop may be a single tomato plant well placed on the patio each spring. Either way, you know the joy of moving from the initial investment to the final product.
If that is the case, you will be easily captured by the parable of the sower. It is one of the best known parables of Jesus. Some seed fell on the path and was trampled. Other seed fell on rock and withered. Still other seed fell among the thorns. But (here is the Good News!) some fell on good soil and the yield was one hundred fold. Isn’t that what we all want for our lives…good soil and a plentiful crop?
The problem arrives when we are faced with rocky surfaces, trampled paths, and thorns aplenty. All of a sudden life can look a bit grim. It can even feel out of control. You might think you are about to drown when suddenly Jesus comes along and calms the raging storm and heals our spirits.
I don’t think I know a single person who has no need for healing on some level. We all long for solid steadfast health, a positive spirit, peace of mind, and wonderful relationships. Even though that is our deepest desire, we discover places in our lives where we recognize the need for healing.
Here is the really Good News: Jesus is in the healing and wholeness business! He loves good soil, strong seed, calm waters, and lives that have been transformed by the touch of his hand and the sound of his voice.
Take a moment today to reflect on your life. Identify the areas that need to be stronger. Then turn them over to the Lord. Tell someone about your prayer, for “no one lights a lamp and hides it in a jar or puts it under a bed.”
It has been a blessing to experience worship with you and the Wilson Family on this day!
Saturday, December 4, 2010
Gospel of Luke Saturday December 4, 2010
Chapter Seven Saturday, December 4, 2010
Jesus is now well engaged in his ongoing ministry of teaching, preaching, and healing. He encounters the most interesting people as he becomes open to the broad possibilities of ministry. He builds relationships, changes lives, and teaches through the use of parables.
There are actually 16 parables of Jesus that are found exclusively in the Gospel of Luke. In addition, there are many more that are also recorded in Matthew, Mark, or John. It is a great way to teach. Just take a common every day experience, put it into context, and tell the story so others can see the answer and get the point.
Even though the parable is the key way Jesus teaches spiritual principles, it is really through relationship building that he transforms the lives of individuals. In this chapter he encounters a military leader, a grieving widow, and a woman with an alabaster jar of perfume. These are three very different situations but all with a common theme. It all comes down to trust and faith.
We are now one week into our journey of discovering the message of Luke. It is a great time to stop for a moment of reflection and evaluation. John Wesley (our Methodist founder) would say, “How is it with your soul?” I just want to ask, “How is it with your faith in God and trust of Jesus?” Take a moment to look at the military leader, the pain of the widow, and the commitment of the woman with the perfume. Then consider your own faith and ask this question: “What is the next step for me on my journey of faith?”
Be sure to prepare your heart for worship tomorrow. Communion will be served and received as we are open to the next steps in our journey of faith.
Jesus is now well engaged in his ongoing ministry of teaching, preaching, and healing. He encounters the most interesting people as he becomes open to the broad possibilities of ministry. He builds relationships, changes lives, and teaches through the use of parables.
There are actually 16 parables of Jesus that are found exclusively in the Gospel of Luke. In addition, there are many more that are also recorded in Matthew, Mark, or John. It is a great way to teach. Just take a common every day experience, put it into context, and tell the story so others can see the answer and get the point.
Even though the parable is the key way Jesus teaches spiritual principles, it is really through relationship building that he transforms the lives of individuals. In this chapter he encounters a military leader, a grieving widow, and a woman with an alabaster jar of perfume. These are three very different situations but all with a common theme. It all comes down to trust and faith.
We are now one week into our journey of discovering the message of Luke. It is a great time to stop for a moment of reflection and evaluation. John Wesley (our Methodist founder) would say, “How is it with your soul?” I just want to ask, “How is it with your faith in God and trust of Jesus?” Take a moment to look at the military leader, the pain of the widow, and the commitment of the woman with the perfume. Then consider your own faith and ask this question: “What is the next step for me on my journey of faith?”
Be sure to prepare your heart for worship tomorrow. Communion will be served and received as we are open to the next steps in our journey of faith.
Friday, December 3, 2010
Gospel of Luke Friday December 3, 2010
Welcome to the Gospel of Luke. If you are just signing in our catching up a bit...there is Good News! There is plenty of time to get on board with our plan to read the entire Gospel during the season of Advent. Remember, Advent simply means 'coming'...we are waiting and preparing for the coming of Christmas. More specially, we are waiting for the Christ Child, Jesus. It is a wonderful time to discover the presence of God in our lives. Get ready, here we go!
.Chapter Six Friday, December 3, 2010
“But I tell you who hear me: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.” Luke 6:27
It happens all the time. People end up in conflict. Sometimes it is over simple things that really don’t matter. Other times it is a philosophical difference or a world view issue. We all know that conflict can be resolved to a degree that relationships are much stronger. We also know that it can become infected and never reach any degree of healing.
It happens all the time, and it happens to everyone. Relationships that were once warm and wonderful turn cold and sour. People are hurt and emotions can run high. We all know that feeling that says, ‘this is not going well and I don’t know what to do next.’
As it turns out, we do know what to do next. Jesus said, at a minimum, we should pray for one another. Especially we should pray for those who stand in opposition to our way of thinking. They don’t have to be ‘enemies’ to deserve our prayers.
Can you name (right now) some folks who fall into the conflicted relationship category? Have you prayed for them today? Have you gone the extra step to become an agent of reconciliation? It is difficult, but the blessing is well worth the effort. Remember to re-read 6:37-38! It is all worth the effort!
.Chapter Six Friday, December 3, 2010
“But I tell you who hear me: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.” Luke 6:27
It happens all the time. People end up in conflict. Sometimes it is over simple things that really don’t matter. Other times it is a philosophical difference or a world view issue. We all know that conflict can be resolved to a degree that relationships are much stronger. We also know that it can become infected and never reach any degree of healing.
It happens all the time, and it happens to everyone. Relationships that were once warm and wonderful turn cold and sour. People are hurt and emotions can run high. We all know that feeling that says, ‘this is not going well and I don’t know what to do next.’
As it turns out, we do know what to do next. Jesus said, at a minimum, we should pray for one another. Especially we should pray for those who stand in opposition to our way of thinking. They don’t have to be ‘enemies’ to deserve our prayers.
Can you name (right now) some folks who fall into the conflicted relationship category? Have you prayed for them today? Have you gone the extra step to become an agent of reconciliation? It is difficult, but the blessing is well worth the effort. Remember to re-read 6:37-38! It is all worth the effort!
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Gospel of Luke Thursday December 2, 2010
Chapter Five Thursday, December 2, 2010
“It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” Luke 5:31-32
Luke takes great care to introduce you and me to the original followers of Jesus. There is Simon (who will soon become Peter, the Rock) along with his fishing partners, James and John the sons of Zebedee. We will meet more soon. For now think about what it would be like to leave behind your job, your identity, your livelihood for a traveling preacher who simply says, “Come, follow me.”
These were regular people who were making radical decisions. I am glad they were regular folks. If they had been elite socialites, or wealthy business people, or famous athletes…I would have had a really hard time connecting to their journey. I connect better with people who live real lives, have real problems, but still make radical decisions.
I am so glad that Jesus came to restore health to the sick and not to walk among the well. I am blessed to know that he speaks to sinners and not the righteous. For the righteous may not need a savior. And those who are well do not need a physician. As a result, only sinners need apply.
From where I sit, that includes me. I think it also includes you. Am I correct? If so, even to a small degree, I am thankful that Jesus was faithful to his calling because I always find my life in need of the Great Physician.
Lord Jesus, thank you for your faithful walk among the sinners of this world. If you only walked among the righteous, we would miss you. We declare that we need you. Hear our prayer, restore our health. Grant us grace. Amen.
“It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” Luke 5:31-32
Luke takes great care to introduce you and me to the original followers of Jesus. There is Simon (who will soon become Peter, the Rock) along with his fishing partners, James and John the sons of Zebedee. We will meet more soon. For now think about what it would be like to leave behind your job, your identity, your livelihood for a traveling preacher who simply says, “Come, follow me.”
These were regular people who were making radical decisions. I am glad they were regular folks. If they had been elite socialites, or wealthy business people, or famous athletes…I would have had a really hard time connecting to their journey. I connect better with people who live real lives, have real problems, but still make radical decisions.
I am so glad that Jesus came to restore health to the sick and not to walk among the well. I am blessed to know that he speaks to sinners and not the righteous. For the righteous may not need a savior. And those who are well do not need a physician. As a result, only sinners need apply.
From where I sit, that includes me. I think it also includes you. Am I correct? If so, even to a small degree, I am thankful that Jesus was faithful to his calling because I always find my life in need of the Great Physician.
Lord Jesus, thank you for your faithful walk among the sinners of this world. If you only walked among the righteous, we would miss you. We declare that we need you. Hear our prayer, restore our health. Grant us grace. Amen.
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Gospel of Luke Wednesday December 1, 2010
Chapter Four Wednesday, December 1, 2010 World AIDS Day
“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to preach the good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.” Luke 4:18-19
You may have noticed that Luke does not spend a lot of time on the joyful childhood experiences that Jesus shared with Mary and Joseph. He only mentions one situation when Jesus was a child. It was the Chapter Two famous ‘did you not know that I would be in my Father’s house’ quotation from the lips of a pre-teen Jesus. (See Luke 2:41-52 for review.)
From here on out we find Jesus as a fully grown man about age thirty as he prepares for the intensity of his earthly ministry. The first major obstacle is an encounter with Satan. This power scene of temptation opens Chapter Four and sends us marching victoriously into Nazareth. It is in his hometown synagogue that he is invited to read from the Holy Scriptures. He opens the scroll to the Book of Isaiah and reads.
He reads what most scholars consider to be the formal call to ministry for Jesus. It is his challenge, his marching orders, his ministry outline, and the core task that will always be central to his ministry. He will serve among the poor, the broken, and those who need recovery and salvation.
You would think that someone arriving in his hometown with a fresh victory over evil would receive a hero’s welcome. The hero welcome should especially apply when he publicly declares that he has not only defeated Satan but he is now about to accomplish something really spectacular in the world. Not so.
The people are furious. They run him out of town and actually try to take his life. How dare you speak words that imply that you are the Messiah? We know what the Messiah looks like and we know that you are just the carpenter son of Joseph. How wrong they were!
I was just wondering, have you ever been falsely accused? Have you ever been absolutely sure you were on the right track but the people around you thought you were all wet? Maybe they held a grudge against you or challenged you to the point that you became silent. Things happen. It happened for Jesus. He took it in stride, stepped forward into the will of God, and launched his active ministry of teaching and healing.
Is there an area of your life that needs the healing touch of Jesus? He’s been there you know. He understands. And, he is focused on fulfilling his call to ministry. Ask him in an act of prayer to touch your life and make you whole.
“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to preach the good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.” Luke 4:18-19
You may have noticed that Luke does not spend a lot of time on the joyful childhood experiences that Jesus shared with Mary and Joseph. He only mentions one situation when Jesus was a child. It was the Chapter Two famous ‘did you not know that I would be in my Father’s house’ quotation from the lips of a pre-teen Jesus. (See Luke 2:41-52 for review.)
From here on out we find Jesus as a fully grown man about age thirty as he prepares for the intensity of his earthly ministry. The first major obstacle is an encounter with Satan. This power scene of temptation opens Chapter Four and sends us marching victoriously into Nazareth. It is in his hometown synagogue that he is invited to read from the Holy Scriptures. He opens the scroll to the Book of Isaiah and reads.
He reads what most scholars consider to be the formal call to ministry for Jesus. It is his challenge, his marching orders, his ministry outline, and the core task that will always be central to his ministry. He will serve among the poor, the broken, and those who need recovery and salvation.
You would think that someone arriving in his hometown with a fresh victory over evil would receive a hero’s welcome. The hero welcome should especially apply when he publicly declares that he has not only defeated Satan but he is now about to accomplish something really spectacular in the world. Not so.
The people are furious. They run him out of town and actually try to take his life. How dare you speak words that imply that you are the Messiah? We know what the Messiah looks like and we know that you are just the carpenter son of Joseph. How wrong they were!
I was just wondering, have you ever been falsely accused? Have you ever been absolutely sure you were on the right track but the people around you thought you were all wet? Maybe they held a grudge against you or challenged you to the point that you became silent. Things happen. It happened for Jesus. He took it in stride, stepped forward into the will of God, and launched his active ministry of teaching and healing.
Is there an area of your life that needs the healing touch of Jesus? He’s been there you know. He understands. And, he is focused on fulfilling his call to ministry. Ask him in an act of prayer to touch your life and make you whole.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Gospel of Luke ~Tuesday November 30
Chapter Three Tuesday, November 30, 2010
“John went into all the country around the Jordan, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins.” Luke 3:3
Don’t you just love John the Baptist!? He is a bit scruffy, does his own thing, lives in the wilderness, smells a little ripe, and carries the potent image of the great prophet Elijah in his soul. He calls it like he sees it!
Even though he carries the mantle of Elijah, he captures his preaching theme from the writings of the prophet Isaiah. From Isaiah 40 we hear him speak to the people about his authority to call them to repentance.
Take a moment to read Isaiah chapter 40, you will be glad you did. It will provide you with a great blessing.
It all begins with a word of comfort for the people of God. Have you ever needed comfort? Then it flows to a powerful message about the Word of God and the image of the shepherd who tenderly cares for the flock. But the last words of Isaiah 40 are really my favorites. In fact, the words of Isaiah 40:31 are painted on the top tube of my favorite bicycle as a reminder that the power of God can overcome anything.
That’s why I love John the Baptist--he is an overcomer. Nothing stops him or his message. In fact, he ultimately gave his life for his faith in Jesus and his commitment to the message of repentance.
Do you hear his message? As we draw closer to the celebration of Christmas, are there any areas of your life that need to hear a message of repentance? I know there are places like that in my life. I am going to take some time to listen and respond. Will you join me?
“John went into all the country around the Jordan, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins.” Luke 3:3
Don’t you just love John the Baptist!? He is a bit scruffy, does his own thing, lives in the wilderness, smells a little ripe, and carries the potent image of the great prophet Elijah in his soul. He calls it like he sees it!
Even though he carries the mantle of Elijah, he captures his preaching theme from the writings of the prophet Isaiah. From Isaiah 40 we hear him speak to the people about his authority to call them to repentance.
Take a moment to read Isaiah chapter 40, you will be glad you did. It will provide you with a great blessing.
It all begins with a word of comfort for the people of God. Have you ever needed comfort? Then it flows to a powerful message about the Word of God and the image of the shepherd who tenderly cares for the flock. But the last words of Isaiah 40 are really my favorites. In fact, the words of Isaiah 40:31 are painted on the top tube of my favorite bicycle as a reminder that the power of God can overcome anything.
That’s why I love John the Baptist--he is an overcomer. Nothing stops him or his message. In fact, he ultimately gave his life for his faith in Jesus and his commitment to the message of repentance.
Do you hear his message? As we draw closer to the celebration of Christmas, are there any areas of your life that need to hear a message of repentance? I know there are places like that in my life. I am going to take some time to listen and respond. Will you join me?
Monday, November 29, 2010
Gospel of Luke Monday November 29th
Chapter Two Monday, November 29, 2010
“Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you now dismiss your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all people, a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel.” Luke 2:29-32
Take a few minutes to read this chapter and then see if you agree with me. There is only one word, “WOW!” That is the only way you can faithfully describe this blessing of Luke’s description.
It is the birth place of our Christian faith. We were built on Jewish roots, became obedient to the law, found our way through with the prophets, then we arrive at the birth of Jesus and everything changes.
Together we enter into the possibility of new life as Mary and Joseph stand near the manger cradle and gaze lovingly at their newborn child. The angels sing, the shepherds pay their honors, and the world begins to change. Slowly at first, but soon everything that has life and breath will be impacted by this obscure birth.
Things were already set in motion when Gabriel spoke to Mary. Then the child is actually born and presented in the temple for dedication on the eighth day of his life. A wise man named Simeon saw him, asked if he could hold him, and then offered his praise to God. Simeon was one of the first to recognize that the times were changing. History was shifting. The world was in the process of being transformed by an infant who would grow to “become strong, filled with wisdom, and with the grace of God.”
Let me ask you, can you imagine taking the infant Jesus in your arms? Can you imagine being in the position of Simeon? Would you be able to look at his tiny face and proclaim “My eyes have seen your salvation?”
Let me ask you, have you seen and experienced the salvation that Jesus provides? Take a moment to pray. Ask God to restore to you (or provide for you) the joy of salvation. Yesterday you were Theophilus, today you are Simeon. I wonder who you will be tomorrow. Jesus has a way of changing people!
“Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you now dismiss your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all people, a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel.” Luke 2:29-32
Take a few minutes to read this chapter and then see if you agree with me. There is only one word, “WOW!” That is the only way you can faithfully describe this blessing of Luke’s description.
It is the birth place of our Christian faith. We were built on Jewish roots, became obedient to the law, found our way through with the prophets, then we arrive at the birth of Jesus and everything changes.
Together we enter into the possibility of new life as Mary and Joseph stand near the manger cradle and gaze lovingly at their newborn child. The angels sing, the shepherds pay their honors, and the world begins to change. Slowly at first, but soon everything that has life and breath will be impacted by this obscure birth.
Things were already set in motion when Gabriel spoke to Mary. Then the child is actually born and presented in the temple for dedication on the eighth day of his life. A wise man named Simeon saw him, asked if he could hold him, and then offered his praise to God. Simeon was one of the first to recognize that the times were changing. History was shifting. The world was in the process of being transformed by an infant who would grow to “become strong, filled with wisdom, and with the grace of God.”
Let me ask you, can you imagine taking the infant Jesus in your arms? Can you imagine being in the position of Simeon? Would you be able to look at his tiny face and proclaim “My eyes have seen your salvation?”
Let me ask you, have you seen and experienced the salvation that Jesus provides? Take a moment to pray. Ask God to restore to you (or provide for you) the joy of salvation. Yesterday you were Theophilus, today you are Simeon. I wonder who you will be tomorrow. Jesus has a way of changing people!
Gospel of Luke Sunday November 28
Chapter One Sunday, November 28, 2010 The First Sunday of Advent
“It seemed good also to me to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus, so that you may know the certainty of the things you have been taught.” Luke 1:3b-4
I am grateful that Luke helps set the stage for his account of the life of Jesus the Christ. As it turns out, Luke is a skilled historian. We will also discover that he is a physician. In addition, he is an evangelist, a fellow traveler in the faith with the Apostle Paul. His first identity is in Christ but his profession is in the medical arts.
Luke also gives us a clue as to his audience. We are blessed to listen in on his conversation as he describes an ‘orderly account’ of the life and teachings of Jesus. He is writing to someone who is addressed as the ‘most excellent Theophilus.’ Don’t you wish someone would address you in that same way? Wouldn’t you like to be ‘most excellent’ in a category of faith?
It is a title that implies great honor, deep respect, and a personal relationship. But it is the name that really draws our attention. Have you known any one named Theophilus? Are you considering that name for your first born or as a suggestion for your grandchildren?
But if we take a minute to break it down, the name has deep value and meaning for us. It literally means ‘lover of God.’ Wouldn’t you like to be known as a ‘lover of God?’ When you think about it, that is not a bad name!
Now, Theophilus (I know it is not the name engraved on your birth certificate…but may I call you that as we approach the birth of Jesus?)…Now Theophilus, read the chapter and whatever you do, don’t miss the opportunity to sing a song or two. The birth of Jesus is fortold, the angel Gabriel makes and appearance, Mary sings, and Zachariah follows with his song.
Ask yourself, “Am I singing a song that would announce to the world that my name (in the heart of God) is Theophilus?”
By the way, it is a right and good thing that we should begin our journey with Luke by gathering for worship on this day! Thanks for being a part of the Wilson Family!
“It seemed good also to me to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus, so that you may know the certainty of the things you have been taught.” Luke 1:3b-4
I am grateful that Luke helps set the stage for his account of the life of Jesus the Christ. As it turns out, Luke is a skilled historian. We will also discover that he is a physician. In addition, he is an evangelist, a fellow traveler in the faith with the Apostle Paul. His first identity is in Christ but his profession is in the medical arts.
Luke also gives us a clue as to his audience. We are blessed to listen in on his conversation as he describes an ‘orderly account’ of the life and teachings of Jesus. He is writing to someone who is addressed as the ‘most excellent Theophilus.’ Don’t you wish someone would address you in that same way? Wouldn’t you like to be ‘most excellent’ in a category of faith?
It is a title that implies great honor, deep respect, and a personal relationship. But it is the name that really draws our attention. Have you known any one named Theophilus? Are you considering that name for your first born or as a suggestion for your grandchildren?
But if we take a minute to break it down, the name has deep value and meaning for us. It literally means ‘lover of God.’ Wouldn’t you like to be known as a ‘lover of God?’ When you think about it, that is not a bad name!
Now, Theophilus (I know it is not the name engraved on your birth certificate…but may I call you that as we approach the birth of Jesus?)…Now Theophilus, read the chapter and whatever you do, don’t miss the opportunity to sing a song or two. The birth of Jesus is fortold, the angel Gabriel makes and appearance, Mary sings, and Zachariah follows with his song.
Ask yourself, “Am I singing a song that would announce to the world that my name (in the heart of God) is Theophilus?”
By the way, it is a right and good thing that we should begin our journey with Luke by gathering for worship on this day! Thanks for being a part of the Wilson Family!
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
African Children's Choir
WOW, do you believe that a coincidence is when God creates a miracle and chooses to remain anonymous? I do.
Here's the deal; Last Thursday I saw an email notice that the African Children's Choir was going to be in the Denver area. I have always been interested so I found their web site at www.africanchildrenschoir.org and located a phone number. I spoke to Tina who told me that the group just had a very unexpected cancellation that eliminated a key concert and three nights of housing.
Here is where I am so blessed to be a part of the Wilson family! The kids needed a place to be, host homes for three days, and they were arriving on Sunday afternoon. Could we do it? Who will do it? Wilson will!
I said yes, send them our way. Then I sent out an email asking for help with housing, meals, and a potential concert. Before the day was done, it was all cared for with great detail. Momentum is a wonderful thing.
Anyway, the bus pulled in, host families went into action, a concert was presented to an overflow crowd, and everyone (especially the Wilson team!) was blessed.
What a great God we have! Many thanks to everyone who made it happen. It wasn't water into wine...but it was real close!
God loves to do stuff and then remain anonymous!
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