That God may be glorified

Daunting "assignments" a Christ follower: to speak as one speaking words of God, and to serve as one serving by God's strength.

I am tempted on this last day of 2020 to say, "Goodbye, and good riddance!" To look forward to 2021 with some nebulous hope that it will be less chaotic than 2020. I immediately remind myself, however, that all days are gifts from God, that each moment I live and breathe is opportunity to shine the light of Jesus and in so doing, to glorify God.

We are called to "go," and to speak the gospel to those who have not heard it. And it is by His strength and the Holy Spirit that we witness, proclaiming: "Jesus Christ is Lord!" We are also called to fellowship, and to encourage one another as we wrestle with the challenges of this world.

As Peter wrote in his first epistle, it is God Who provides words of eternal value, Who strengthens us for His service. May the coming year ... each day of it ... find His bondservants in passionate pursuit of His will in our lives. May God be glorified in all we say and do.

All things came into being by Him

Take a look at the beautiful hummingbird pictured above. This tiny bird’s wings beat from 50 to 80 times per second—a testimony to God’s incredible design, caught in a split-second of time.

In real time, we only see a blur as this remarkable creature darts about too fast for us to fully appreciate its exquisitely engineered performance.

When you look at the world around you, do you ever wonder about the things that are happening just beyond the boundaries of what you can see, hear, and touch? How much of God’s workmanship do we miss? We know that secular scientists "miss" big time, as evidenced by the theory that birds evolved from dinosaurs, that man evolved from apes.

I have come to love the monthly magazine and website offered by the Institute for Creation Research (ICR) in Texas. This organization of scientists who are Christians is a great source of information and encouragement for me, "making the case" in an understandable way for God's supernatural creation.

On more than one occasion the tiny hummingbird has been the focus of a lesson about God the Creator. ICR zoologist Frank Sherwin points out in “Hummingbirds by Design” that when a hummingbird draws nectar from a flower, we can marvel at how both bird and plant were crafted for each other.

The Creator carefully constructed the flower in just the right way to feed the tiny creature: “These flowers seem uniquely designed to accommodate a hummingbird’s beak and tongue….God designed the hummingbird’s bill and tongue to drink nectar from flowers many insects wouldn’t be able to access.”

Mr. Sherwin also highlights "the sophisticated design of the hummingbird’s metabolism, vision, and vocalization. Every part of this tiny bird points to the genius of Christ."

"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. All things came into being by Him." John 1

(Photo by Craig Kerns. To read more from ICR, visit www.ICR.org)

I shall remember the deeds of the Lord

Invariably when I hear or read a statement that I consider to be worthy of recall, I recognize that it echoes a truth already revealed in God's inspired word.

Once, for example, I was impressed to write down this statement by a speaker at a men's conference: "God's past faithfulness demands my present trust."

Past. Present. Faithful.

Then I read the passage above: "I shall remember the deeds of the Lord; surely I will remember Thy wonders of old. I will meditate on all Thy work, and muse on Thy deeds." (Psalm 77:11-12)

It is worthwhile, for personal consumption and for sharing with others, to recall God's faithfulness in our lives. These recollections are not only a powerful reminder to ourselves, but can be a great source of encouragement to others.

Once such example in my life is how God responded to my prayer when I was forced to transition quite unexpectedly from my career as a journalist. I will never forget the long distance telephone call that led to my first major contract as a public relations consultant. This was just the first of many divine interventions that made it possible for me to continue to work and raise a family in the area I love so much.

"My story," I have come to understand, is actually "His story" -- a wonderful story of a moment-to-moment relationship between father and son.

It is also rewarding to read the Bible with attention to details about how God asserted Himself in the lives of individuals, and nations. Noah's ark and the flood is not a fable, but a record of a unique cataclysmic event and a family spared for their faithfulness to the Creator. Daniel actually survived a night with lions. A teen-aged David actually killed a giant soldier named Goliath. Mary actually spoke with an angel, and was impregnated with son Jesus even though she was a virgin.

It is always rewarding to study the Bible and those whose stories are told there, to reflect on our own lives, and to consider how God's deeds reflect His character: a loving, righteous father Whose desire from the beginning of earth's history has been to live in relationship with us, the only creatures created in His image.

Quiet, and peace

This morning I found notes from a devotional I shared at church in May 2012.  The following message was built around the phrase: "peace and quiet."

I thought about how we use this expression, and then I thought immediately of parents. Those of you who have been parents … or are still in the midst of the great adventure of parenthood … know why I thought of you.

The mom facing an all too familiar pile of toys or clothing as her children run laps around the room with screams of delight amped up to full volume.

She whispers to herself: "What I wouldn't give for some peace and quiet."

The dad who enters the family room to discover TV blasting and children arguing over control of the remote.

He thinks: "Wow, I sure could use a little peace and quiet."

Children or not, we all wrestle with the noise of our culture, from TV to internet, from car radio to traffic noise. Quiet can be an elusive pleasure.

As I thought about this phrase in the context of life as a Christ follower, I realized a swap is in order. Rather than "peace and quiet," maybe we should think in terms of "quiet and peace."

Maybe I should exercise more control over my environment, especially in the areas of TV and internet, as I seek to find quiet time to be in relationship with Jesus.

I grew up in a large family where noise and some degree of chaos were the norm. I also recall the early days of parenting when we had three kids banging around the house, oblivious to the noise they were generating.

When I am honest with myself I admit that I suffer a level of discomfort with quiet time. I purposefully seek out noise, even if it is simply "background noise." Jesus, on the other hand, invites me to spend more time with Him, in prayer and in the word. And He wants that one-on-one time to be intimate, uninterrupted by distractions.

Lord, I give thanks for Your desire for personal relationship, your sole purpose in creating humans in Your own image. I give thanks, Jesus, for how You perfectly modeled relationship. How You instructed us: "Love the Lord your God ... and your neighbor as yourself." I thank You, Lord, for the joys associated with conversation, laughter, music … the precious "noise" of our lives. But I understand Your call to us to commit to time alone with You, giving You our undivided attention. Please help me, as always, with my priorities.

"Peace I leave with you; My peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not be afraid." John 14:27

"Blessed is the man who listens to Me, watching daily at My gates, waiting at My doorposts. For he who finds Me finds life, and obtains favor from the Lord." Proverbs 8:34-35

"You can be sure!"

Ever more precious in these high-tech days of computers and handheld devices are handwritten notes and letters from loved ones.

This morning I was pleased to discover a photo of the back side of a 3X5 card with the handwriting of a dear friend who has since gone on to be with our beloved Savior in Heaven.

Sister Ruth Kleven, who left this world in 2016 at age 104, loved Jesus from childhood. For a special season in her life, she credited the Holy Spirit with inspiration for dozens of poems she ultimately published in small books. She printed and distributed those books at her own expense, choosing to share the words with others when the occasion presented itself.

I have many of Ruth's poems, typewritten copies, because I helped her at one time to produce a new edition of her little book. My wife, who loved Ruth as one of her dearest friends, was gifted the handwritten 3X5 index card pictured here.

The back of that card includes the "sinner's prayer," written in her words. It reads:

"Dear Father in Heaven: I come to You confessing that I am a sinner. Forgive me thru Jesus and cleanse me. Come into my heart Lord Jesus and take over my life. Help me to live for You and follow You from this moment on. Thank you, Jesus! Amen!"

Bookend scriptures cited with this prayer include passages from the gospel of John and from the first of his three letters:

"But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, even to those who believe in His name." John 1:12

And what some describe as "the crown of John's letters," accompanied by Ruth's handwritten note: "You can be sure!"

"These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, in order that you many know that you have eternal life." 1 John 5:13

Precious Savior: I give thanks this morning for the gift of friendship with Ruth, our dear sister in faith. I thank You for her long life, for her gift of words and obedience in recording and sharing those words. I thank You for the countless witnesses over history who have shared their encouraging testimonies of love and relationship, trust and hope in You. I pray that I might be always aware of Your supernatural promptings to share, verbally and in writing, the story of Jesus Christ, Who was, Who is and Who is to come!

There is no hiding from God

The argument can be made that these words stand among the most tragic recorded in the Bible: “…and the man and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord.”

In the opening chapters of Genesis we see the wonder of God’s creation, including man and woman, with whom He desires a unique relationship. We learn that God Himself walks and talks with Adam and Eve in the garden. Intimacy.

Then, in Chapter 3, we are introduced to Satan, the creature cast from Heaven for his rebellion. As the devious serpent (“more crafty than any beast of the field”), Satan sets the trap for the decision that will forever change this perfect creation into the fallen world where we live today.

Satan plants a seed of doubt regarding God’s directive that Adam and Eve can enjoy all that He has created, with the exception of the fruit of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.

You know the story: Eve listens to Satan’s perversion of God’s words, succumbs to the lies and eats the fruit of the forbidden tree. She is joined immediately by Adam, who puts up no defense for his wife or himself.

With just two bites, this perfect world is corrupted. Adam and Eve now experience fear for the very first time … and in their fear and shame, they seek to hide from their Creator.

When God sees their sin, He calls out: “Where are you?” Of course we know God did not need to hear Adam’s voice in order to locate him. The picture of two people scurrying about trying to conceal themselves from their Creator would be comical … if it was not so tragic.

Now fast forward to the present: not to the hide-and-seek of a children’s game, but to a world where our “natural” inclination is still to depart from God’s path and then “hide among the trees of the garden.”

Even as many rail against the truth that all people are born into sin, anyone who observes infants and children recognizes that the “natural” focus is on self. If that baby could talk, he or she would say, “I know what I want, and I want it now!” The child would exclaim to parent: “You’re not the boss of me!”

Tragically, our propensity to prioritize our personal interests over the will of God continues throughout our lives on this earth. The unbeliever can claim he or she “is not aware” of God’s will. He or she can charge: “I don’t believe, and it is my will that trumps all.” We know their defense is hollow, and we pray always that their hearts would be changed by the gospel message.

But what of us who call ourselves Christ followers -- those who fully understand our sinful nature and have subsequently surrendered our hearts to Jesus our Redeemer? Do we not still stumble, and having stumbled, seek to hide from God?

As I seek to apply the lessons of this story to my life, I consider scenarios such as these:

* The hurried push of the remote button or click of the mouse when I am at risk of being “discovered” in time spent with video, film or text that is clearly at odds with God’s better plan for me

*  The pitiful, prideful excuses I offer for hurts I have inflicted on others, hiding behind accusations such as “You’re too sensitive!” or “How was I to know?"

* The instances when I choose to “hide” my faith in Jesus, as Peter did, because I am afraid of the negative response of those in my presence at the moment

* The temptation to “hide” my talents or treasures from others, lest I be asked to share

* The way I “hide in the lies” that keep me from spending more time in the Bible: I’m too busy; it’s too complicated. And the always-popular: I’ll leave that to the pastors and teachers who God has called, and they can tell me what I need to know

* The defensive response to avoiding personal responsibility, hiding behind others: “I’m just acting the way others act,” or “Nobody ever told me.”

* The ludicrous sense that God does not know what I am thinking, let alone saying or doing. That He does not know the state of my heart at every instant

It is important to note at this point that God’s love for us is so great that He gave His only Son in order that sin and death would be defeated at the cross. Christ’s blood was the only sacrifice that could wipe the slate clean for the sinner. And the Lamb of God hides from no one.

God is the Father who loves us, not a finger-stabbing judge who seeks to have us live a life of guilt and shame. Still, He is both loving and righteous. It is ONLY through Jesus that we can claim the just Father’s promises as His children. It is only by His supernatural power we can seek, understand and have the ability/strength to do the Father’s will in this life.

Father, strengthen me. Give me discernment and the heart of a bondservant as I determine to walk with You … knowing that I can come to You always. I cannot hide, I should never entertain that lie. Whisper again and again to me, Lord: “I know you. You are precious to me, and in Christ, we will walk together always.”

“And they heard the sound of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and the man and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God among the trees of the garden.” Genesis 3:8

“O God, it is You who knows my folly, and my wrongs are not hidden from You.” Psalm 69:5

“My frame was not hidden from You, when I was made in secret, skillfully wrought in the lowest parts of the earth.” Psalm 139:15

“For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” Hebrews 4:12

“This is how God showed His love among us: He sent His one and only Son into the world that we might live through Him.” 1 John 4:7-9

External forces, internal beauty

Years ago one of my brothers in a men's group was a master woodworker. In fact, Andrew created the beautiful bowl pictured above and made a gift of it to me before moving to eastern Washington.

I recently read through old notes from that men's group and found an item about observations shared by the woodworker. He talked about the ravages suffered by many trees, some twisted in the wind, some discolored or scarred by disease. He then referenced the visible "bark" of our lives … often marred and unattractive.

Beauty resulting from the external forces on a tree is revealed inside, when the tree is opened. It is there we see grain, colors and markings unique to that tree. That beauty is there all along, often made even more so by outside forces.

The same can be said of "invisible" beauty inside of us. Consider how often God uses the challenges of our lives, in our physical man, to cause changes of eternal value inside, in our spiritual man. Be assured, our Creator sees the beauty within each of us.

I am accordingly reminded to look at others through His eyes, rather than drawing conclusions based on the "bark" I see in front of me.

It is also important to recall from Bible study how God often used hardships to prepare His people for what He would call them to in the future. And to recall that there is nothing we can suffer that our Redeemer Jesus did not suffer in His life here on earth.

"Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." James 1:2-4

"Therefore, since we have a great high priest Who has ascended into Heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are -- yet He did not sin. Let us then approach God's throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need." Hebrews 4:14-16

Divine appointments on the water

No pun intended, but this photograph prompts a flood of memories for me.

The photo was taken in 2006 by my son Mark, who on a trip to Chatterbox Falls in British Columbia found a small opening in the rocks during a climb. He descended into the confined space for this unique view of a small waterfall near the larger one.

This was a trip orchestrated by God. A weeklong "retreat" of a small group of men on a brother's beautiful wooden sailboat. As Mark and I visited on the deck of the boat motoring north to Chatterbox, I was reminded of a men's retreat I had experienced with my father years before that … also to British Columbia.

Both trips required that God "clear our calendars" at the same time for rare opportunities to take time away from jobs. Both trips put father and son together with a group of Christian brothers for several days of fellowship, Bible study and prayer.

In addition to the precious memories of these trips, I have a few journal entries from this trip with Mark and the others. Snippets from that journal:

* Am I worshipping the gifts, or am I worshipping the giver?

* Often when I say to God, "I can't do that," I really mean "I don't want to do that."

* The saved sinner thanks God for His grace. The beloved son lays claim to the Father's awesome plan and asks to understand his place in that plan.

Among its many rewards, this trip gave me opportunity to watch with a mix of humility and pride as my son interacted with the other men on the boat. Pride as he revealed his heart, humility as I recognized (yet again) that he is uniquely created, gifted and loved by the Father apart from my influence.

I know that while Mark and I each recall different aspects of the trip, we share a sense of joy and gratitude for a once-in-a-lifetime experience of the "eternal value" variety.

"But if we walk in the light, as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, His Son, purifies us from all sin." John 1:7

"For where two or three gather in my name, there I am with them." Matthew 18:20

"As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend." Proverbs 27:17

Good news? The greatest news of all time!

Today, as we celebrate the resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, I recall with a smile the many headlines I wrote during my career as a newspaper editor. All words long since forgotten.

But these words: "He is risen!" are the biggest headline in all of history!

Thank you, Lord Jesus, for Your faithfulness to the Father … no act of obedience has ever been so great! May we boldly share this news whenever, wherever You would have us declare that You are The Way!

The darkness has not overcome The Light

I took a photo of the "supermoon" this week, convinced it would serve well as a scripture eCard image. When I looked at this image on my computer screen I thought of the gospel of John, who often refers to Jesus as "The Light." When I looked up John 1:4-5 in the NASB, however, I was reminded of my confusion about the phrase: "...and the darkness did not comprehend it." "Does that mean those who walk in the darkness do not comprehend the gospel?" I asked myself. Time to visit Blue Letter Bible for a word study. There I found that another definition of the word translated in NASB as "comprehend" was "overcome" or "overtake: to lay hold of so as to make one's own, to obtain." A citation of another Scripture with the same word (katalambano) led to John 12:35: "So Jesus said to them, 'For a little while longer the Light is among you. Walk while you have the Light, so that darkness will not overtake you; he who walks in the darkness does not know where he goes'." I now see the meaning of John 1:5 more clearly. The word "comprehend" as translated in the NASB did not mean "understand." It means "overtake." The Light -- Jesus Christ the Messiah -- will never be "overtaken" by the darkness of Satan, our sin nature and this fallen world. The Light is life! Death and sin were defeated at the cross so that all who believe might have life eternal, "cleansed by His blood" and made righteous in Him. Thank you, Jesus, for Your obedience to the Father and His plan that made the way for us to have our sin debt forgiven so we can be co-heirs, righteous in Your righteousness! As the song says, "The cross meant to kill is our victory!" Christ is risen! He lives in the hearts of His children. He intercedes for us at the throne of the Father. And He will return, first to draw His bride the church to Him in Heaven, and then to rule and reign for 1,000 years on a New Earth (Revelation 21:1-27 and Isaiah 65:17), and into eternity.

'Triumph' and tragedy, hope for tomorrow

Last Sunday's livestream teaching from our pastor featured parallels between incidents in the lives of Joseph and Jesus. Both, for example, went willingly in response to their fathers' directives.

Another parallel was raw hatred of others directed toward Joseph and Jesus. This comparison led to John 11:48, where it was noted that Jewish leaders plotted against Jesus from the early days of His ministry:

"If we let him go on like this, all men will believe in him, and the Romans will come and take away both our place and our nation." John 11:48

For a few minutes during this Bible teaching I was stuck on that reality: tragedy in the midst of the ‘triumphant’ entry and joyous reception from the people of God's city Jerusalem.

I realized that the same is true today in regard to the preaching of the gospel: “If we let them (the Christians) go on like this, all men will believe in Him…”

Satan’s desire always is to deny Jesus and shut down -- even kill -- His followers, warning of dire consequences (in this world) if The Truth is shared. So it is that on many occasions Jesus issued warnings to His followers: "In this world you WILL have trouble."

May we take comfort, Lord, in the fact that You promise to walk with us every step of the way through this life, never leaving or forsaking us. May we continue to see Your strength, to act and speak in accordance with Your will as we battle continuously with Satan and the natural world. May hatred inspire us to respond in love. May the joy of our relationship with You prompt us to introduce others to You. We love You, Jesus. Amen.

“Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour." 1 Peter 5:8

"Therefore having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we exult in hope of the glory of God." Romans 5:1-2

Sharing Christ via the Internet

What a joy it is these days to combine my loves of scriptures and photography to create eCards I can share with family and friends.

I live on Fidalgo Island, just north of a much larger island: Whidbey. I attend church on North Whidbey, just a mile or so from one of the most photographed locations in the Northwest: Deception Pass. My "commute" to and from church has yielded opportunities for some of my favorite photos, including this shot of a bald eagle.

This prolonged period of social distancing in the midst of the international coronavirus pandemic has inspired me to create more eCards than ever … sharing them with loved ones in "virtual" conversations via email, texts and social media.

For all of its toxic content, Lord, you have added the Internet to the toolbox of your believers to serve your divine purposes. While Satan intends evil with the explosive advance of technology, make it serve Your good purposes. Physical isolation and fellowship gaps have been remedied in part by the ability of Christians to reach out electronically via emails, telephone texts, and video broadcasts. We thank you, Lord, for these opportunities to edify, exhort and encourage one another. We give thanks for the knowledge that lives will be saved as the salvation message is presented and hearts are surrendered to Jesus Christ, our Redeemer King.

"But you, Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book until the time of the end; many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall increase." Daniel 12:4

Mountaintop or valley

I shouldn't have been surprised.

A few days ago, as shelter-at-home directives became more common across a nation suffering the impact of the coronavirus pandemic, I had a chance to visit with a brother in Christ who moved away a few years back.

In the course of our telephone conversation I made the observation that we cannot live each day on the mountaintop, that we spend most of our days in the valley.

His answer was immediate: "I disagree."

Rather than being defensive, I waited eagerly to hear what came next. I was not disappointed.

I could "see" my dear brother's face as his voice changed in excitement:

"I'm on top of the mountain," he said. "I am in God's hands. My soul is safe. That's all that matters -- we are gold in God's eyes! I love it. It's just fantastic!"

Because I know he always speaks to me from a heart of love, I embraced this "mountaintop message" immediately. My brother knows the word, he knows Jesus as Lord of his life -- and he is happy to share the joy of that relationship with everyone, saved or pre-saved.

"The only time we are in the valley," he said, "is when we take our eyes off Jesus. It is then that we must take our eyes off of ourselves -- and look back on God."

This is not a man whose life has been free of struggle and heartache. Quite the contrary. But he is a man who truly demonstrates the daily life of a once despondent, hopeless creature who was "born again" in Christ. He is living this life joyfully, serving in love, with eager anticipation of the indescribable joys of eternal life in Heaven.

Thank you, Lord, for my dear brother in Christ. Thank you for the reminder that "God's got us, and relationship with Him gives us the gift of a never-ending joy."

"... and though you have not seen Him, you love Him, and though you do not see Him now, but believe in Him, you greatly rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory." 1 Peter 1:8

(Note: I found this pilothouse instrument photo in my archives, thought immediately that even as we "hunker down," we should seek ways to represent Christ from home: "All Ahead Full!" We do not reach the tape in this race until we physically die, or Christ returns for His church.)

Church responds with online services

Like all other churches in Washington State, regular gatherings of our fellowship on North Whidbey Island have been suspended in response to mandates from the governor (all organizations and many businesses also impacted).

As frustrating as it is to suspend meeting with brothers and sisters, church leadership has honored government authorities in their effort to put a lid on the spread of the deadly COVID-19 virus, now labeled an international pandemic.

That does not mean teaching and worship have been suspended, however. In response to these extraordinary times, The Bridge Christian Fellowship has joined countless other Christian churches in providing "virtual" teachings.

"Online outreach" includes Wednesday evening and Sunday morning worship as well as teaching for adults and children. Also on the "virtual menu" of services are periodic devotionals. Archived teachings on the fellowship website include video from recent months, and audio dating back 16 years.

I encourage you to visit www.bridgechristianfellowship.com. For a "taste" of what you will find, attached here is an example of one of Pastor Rick Crawford's new "WordBytes," brief devotionals posted via YouTube:

Click here to link.

Deadly virus, continued trust

As I write this post we are in the midst of the international coronavirus pandemic, and unfortunately Washington State is among a handful of U.S. states suffering the highest number of deaths and illnesses.

From the federal level down, restrictions have been mandated in an effort to minimize illnesses and death by keeping people apart. My wife and I are hunkered down in our home. Our church family has been "quarantined" as well, in keeping with the governor's directive to limit gatherings to 25 people or less.

We are frustrated, cautious … but not anxious, as we realize our Father is still on His throne. He has not "departed," He has not been distracted. And He is definitely bigger than this virus!

It has been encouraging to see the response by Christian brothers and sisters to this very real challenge. Despite dramatic ramifications included closure of schools and many businesses, we hear our younger brothers and sisters tell us they are trusting in Jesus even as they wrestle with challenges and the tendency to "spin scenarios" of the bleak variety.

I heard a story of a brother who has become more bold than ever in witnessing to neighbors and co-workers ("I want you to know I am a Christian. My hope is in Jesus, and I would be happy to talk to you about Him any time.")

Another sister and brother have reached out to elderly friends (including us) by telephone, offering to help in any way they can, including curbside delivery of groceries.

After one week of reduced maximum attendance at a Sunday service, our fellowship opted to suspend gatherings. At the same time, the dedication of a couple of young brothers led to exploration of social media applications. Today our pastor's teachings are posted on YouTube, and other posts are going out to families with children (virtual Sunday School). In addition to Sunday and Wednesday teachings, the pastor's communications will include devotional "bites" two or more times a week.

Examples of the Christian response on the international level are countless, but all have the same foundation: Love for one another: love of, trust in … Jesus Christ, our Messiah, Lord of all!

On a back yard adventure the other day, my wife heard the distinctive sound of a hummingbird buzzing by. A minute or two later I spotted him in a tree, and then on the top of a tall shrub. There he waited calmly as I approached for a few photos, one of which appears here.

We continue to trust in the Lord, our Creator, giving thanks for each breath. We pray for His will in each day, even as we remain in the confines of our home. Given prophecy in the Word, we realize that this and many other circumstances in our world are simply hints of things to come. We do not despair, however, and pray that these circumstances might bring many more unbelievers to their knees in acknowledgment of the One True God.

Keep looking up, and remember Christ will come for His church before prophecy is fulfilled on this earth in the seven-year period known as "The Tribulation." Remember that His desire is that ALL should be saved, and pray that the number of those who surrender their lives to Him will grow by great numbers as unbelievers ponder their mortality.

"For God has not destined us for wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, Who died for us so that whether we are awake or asleep we might live with Him." 1 Thessalonians 5:9-10

"Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever." Psalm 23:6

"When I am afraid, I put my trust in You." Psalm 56:3

Santification a life-long journey

My daughter recently sent this page, reflecting beautifully her "notes to self" as she walked through a morning Bible study. I took the opportunity to share in the element of that study that pertained to sanctification, the life-long work of God in our lives in this fallen world.

One quote on her page (from Ruth Paxon) read: "Either you're a sinner … or you're a saint." Thought provoking, to say the least.

The Bible tells us that when we acknowledge our sin (life apart from God's will) and repent in the name of Jesus Christ, we are born again -- new creatures free of the sentence of death.

The remainder of our lives will be spent as God sanctifies us, inspiring and strengthening us to deny our selfish, fleshly desires in deference to our desire to please Him and walk in His will.

Christ's death on my behalf redeemed me of sin and the sentence of spiritual death. But as long as I live in this fallen world and wrestle with the desires of my flesh, I will be called to see my sin, acknowledge it and repent, or "turn away" from it.

I live a life here in spirit and flesh, so I will never be free of sin even as I commit to a Christ-like life. The wonderful news, however, is that the Holy Spirit will continue to teach, comfort and heal as I walk out this life with Jesus.

I will stumble. I will drop Christ's hand and seek my own path. But I also will be convicted of sin by the Holy Spirit, and I will be forgiven when I repent.

I am "marked" a saint, not condemned as a sinner. As I walk with Jesus, who was resurrected and lives in the hearts of His children, I am set apart from those who do not know Him and worship Him as their Redeemer King. As someone "set apart unto God" I am blessed to be used for God's glory!

The "road" of this life will not be easy. The journey will be marred by our failures and "attacks" on us, both on our spiritual and physical man. But Jesus will ALWAYS walk with His sheep. He will never abandon us, but will lovingly lift us up and continue on this physical journey as we approach the spiritual destination of life eternal, life free of sin and pain.

May I embrace my sanctification as a saint, and never succumb to Satan's lie that God is disgusted with me, a hopeless sinner. May I continue to walk in relationship with God as He intends, and to seek by His power, by His strength, to serve in love.

"But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God's own possession, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light." 1 Peter 2:9

"My lips will shout for joy when I sing praises to You; and my soul, which You have redeemed." Psalm 71:23

"For God hath not called us into uncleanness, but into holiness." 1 Thessalonians 4:7

Seeking His peace

At the time of this writing the world is undergoing the trauma of a coronavirus pandemic. Its ugly impact and the ramifications of man's efforts to protect himself are sweeping. Even in the United States responses are extraordinary, ranging from plummeting stock market and closed schools to public runs on groceries and household goods. Last week I was asked to located a photo of a local lake from my files. When I discovered this image I thought immediately of a scripture card acknowledging God as the source of tranquility in an anxious, agitated world. The response from a Facebook post with this image has been overwhelming. So today I share it with my "Under Authority" friends, encouraging all to lean on Jesus, the only source of true peace, now and forever.

Story behind a card

One of my favorite "hobbies" is creation of eCards with scriptures. There is a story behind each card, most of which provide evidence of my latest photo adventure.

This card, however, has a bit of a deeper story. The eagle pictured here was perched on a power pole just a few miles from the birthplace of my Grandfather, Marion Oliver Berentson. Grandpa loved the Lord and was bold in his commitment to making his faith known.

This area of Skagit County remains a farming area and as such is a hangout for birds ranging from blue herons and eagles to trumpeter swans and ducks.

Then there was the fact that my wife was my co-pilot, our first outing together for too long as she has been down with a series of seasonal illnesses. Our drive (as usual) called for her patience as I spotted birds and pulled over for photographs. (I had an opportunity to demonstrate patience as well as we parked at a shoreside park and sat for 20-plus minutes watching over the water.) My wife loves the Lord, too, and I count my marriage to her a precious blessing from a loving Father.

Finally, with eagle photo edited and posted on social media, I got a "Love it" response from a sister in Christ. I asked her to provide a favorite scripture and a few minutes later sent this finished product back her way. Creative/sentimental "loop" closed, everybody happy. Another happy day in the Son!

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding." Proverbs 3:5

"Therefore encourage one another and build up one another, just as you also are doing." 1 Thessalonians 5:11

Glimpse into a young mother's heart

When I saw the familiar 5X7 card and the single-spaced typed text, I thought immediately of Dad.

It was this format, using an aged manual typewriter, that was used by Dad to prepare sermons during the years he served as a fill-in pastor. I have a short stack of some of those sermons tucked away safely.

In this case, however, there was only a single card, printed front and back. Further investigation yielded a precious surprise.

These were words written by my mother.

Folded along with the 5X7 card were: a pamphlet from International Toastmistresses, three 3X5 cards with handwritten text, and five 5X7 pieces of paper with marks and comments by judges.

My "shy" mother had prepared and presented a speech at a Toastmistresses event!

Mom loved Jesus, and raised each of us six kids to know Him as our Savior. There were countless words expressed in terms of her faith, but I had never seen a "testimony" from her in writing. It was Dad we were accustomed to seeing "up front" to church, but Mom was without a doubt "front and center" in our home.

Among several "gems" in this speech titled "The Power of Faith" was the following:

"Many times we become afraid because God does not show us the future and our lack of faith keeps us from going on confidently. If we would just stop for a moment to realize that if we would go hour by hour, day by day, in faith as God has told us to, we would have reached our goal without all the worry and doubts. We would be practicing a living faith."


She continued: "We have to practice our faith rather than just tell people about it. It should bear fruits such as understanding, patience and kind deeds. This is not always an easy thing to do to all people, but it does show Christian love."

These were more than words to my Mom, as anyone who knew her could attest. I believe she was in her Thirties when she wrote this speech. She experienced many trials, many tragedies in her life of eighty-plus years, but there was always an underlying faith -- trust and hope -- that was demonstrated in her "everyday life."

I am grateful to have been raised by a "stay at home mom" who invested so dramatically in my life and those of my sisters and brother. I am grateful for this glimpse into her heart as a young mother eager to share her faith with an audience of strangers.

(Note: My mother stayed home by choice while she had children at home, but her life "pre-children" included civilian work for the Navy during World War II. She also was involved in "sales" including Avon products. And when circumstances called for it when she was in her Fifties, she passed the exam to become a licensed real estate agent to work alongside Dad. All along, she was faithful and true, moving in His strength when hers was not enough.)

"For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith, and this is not from yourselves. It is the gift of God, not of works, so that no one can boast." Ephesians 2:8-9

"For whatever is born of God overcomes the world, and this is the victory that has overcome the world -- our faith." 1 John 5:4

Rejoice in suffering!?

In addition to the considerable challenges of being a home school mother/teacher, my daughter Kirsten has grappled in recent months with nagging health issues. Like many mothers, she "keeps the wheels turning" in spite of those challenges, functioning each day as wife, mother, daughter, sister in Christ.

There are times, she notes, when poor health inclines her to ask the Father: "What do you need me to learn through this situation?" A recent note, however, demonstrates in part how the situation has drawn her closer to Jesus. As always, key elements of coping are prayer and time spent in the word, where she is reminded of God's unchanging character, His promises to His children. She wrote:

Things may be hard, but that means we have an opportunity to lean in to The Lord to be our strength. I just don't want to give my flesh any opportunity to hurt my relationship with our Jesus. He is Lord and King of ALL situations. He's not looking to make us comfortable, but to completely change our lives through every situation.

The question is, "Will I let Him?" I shout an emphatic, "Yes!"

God keeps showing me that I need to have an attitude of gratitude. As I read through Leviticus it humbles my heart to see how often God's people grumbled. That didn't just hurt God -- it angered Him. This behavior of flesh is not fitting for His beloved. Instead I am to continue to have a heart of trust, praise and Thanksgiving.

I may have a sick body, but I do not want a habitual sin-sick soul that permeates to the core of my being. No, Christ is my life and in Him I find joy. I know I don't always get it right, but I do know He directs me to steer me aright.

If I can't be faithful in the small things, then I won't be entrusted with the bigger things. I know these things are to test us to see "how we will respond" to see what's really in our hearts. I want Jesus to find surrender of self in me, not selfishness of habitual sin.

I view everything I face as an opportunity to let Jesus overcome my weakness, as opposed to engaging in a "fight" or even a struggle. I know that the way to stand firm or find victory in everything is continued dependence on Christ even when I don't fully understand the "why" of my circumstances. I guess I don't need the "why," because Christ is always The Answer.

It is difficult for me, blessed with a life of few health challenges, to imagine the relentless "distraction" of poor health, chronic pain, even terminal illness. Yet I know many Christian brothers and sisters who have -- who continue to rejoice in the midst of their physical struggles. Like my daughter, these fellow believers have demonstrated strength in Him. They are powerful witnesses to me and to others, an encouragement to be trusting and to subsequently experience the joy of relationship with the Father regardless of circumstances.

"Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise Him, my salvation and my God." Psalm 42:11

"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." Romans 15:13

"For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." Romans 8:38-39

His peace. Nothing like it.

This week I took photos of this peaceful winter scene, white and quiet. There are many "peaceful" scenes in this world, but the peace the world offers is fleeting. The snow melts, the sun gives way to storm clouds. The peace of the Lord cannot be created, and can defeat the assault of circumstances.

Gifts from the heart, for the heart

Christmas 2019 lights have faded fast, but this morning I discovered a precious gift that reflected love without season.

I unfolded a paper to discover that it was the last of several “advent” messages designed to be read by my wife and I one at a time, once each morning, until Christmas Day.

“Dear Grammie and Grampy,” this note began. “Rise and shine and give God the glory. We love you both so very much, and I pray that you will have a marvelous day.”

The beautiful handwriting was clearly that of our 12-year-old granddaughter. But her 10-year-old brother added his signature to the bottom of the page, which featured this verse: “May the Lord answer you in the day of trouble! May the name of the God of Jacob set you securely on high!”

What a joy it was – what a memory – to open each of those Advent notes and to enjoy a few subsequent minutes in the Word and in prayer together. Children and grandchildren: gifts of the “priceless” variety.

"The Lord bless you from Zion, and may you see the prosperity of Jerusalem all the days of your life. Indeed, may you see your children’s children.” Psalm 128:5-6a

Gathered, encouraged for a new year!

“… not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all more as you see the day drawing near.” Hebrews 10:25


What a joy it was just a few days ago to greet the first day of the new year over brunch with my wife and two other Christian couples!


There was thanksgiving on many levels, not the least of which was the fact that our hostess was healthy enough to prepare a delicious meal and welcome us into her home. The challenges of her walk on this side of Eternity include the often debilitating effects of multiple sclerosis, which she has endured for many years but particularly in the past two years.


All three of the couples gathered this New Year’s morning share longstanding relationships built around Sunday teaching and worship, Bible studies and home groups. This morning, however, was particularly rich for its timing and the spiritual rewards each of us received as we gathered in the name of Jesus, our God and Savior.


There have been health issues among us, and of course we all wrestle with “the ravages of time.” Our prayer time included thanksgiving and prayers on each others’ behalf as our desire is to be as healthy as possible as we seek to do His will. Those prayers included prayers to embrace and savor the fruits of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness and faithfulness, gentleness and self control (Galatians 5:22-23).


Inevitably, however, our precious time with the Lord moved to intercessory prayer on behalf of folks who were not in the room: immediate family and our extended “family” of fellow believers, near and far, as well as those whose hearts have been hardened to the life-saving grace of the one and only true God.


As has been the case since the introduction of sin on earth, this world provides overwhelming opportunity to be discouraged, even angry and hopeless (less TV/internet in 2020). It was wonderful on this day – this first day of a new year – to embrace the alternatives of hope and confidence in our all-powerful Father. May our walks be “in tune” with the Father’s loving desires. May we move courageously in His inspiration and strength, filled with the love of Jesus, “the way, the truth, the life.”