Category: Good Life Journal

Scripture

Luke 17:1-3 – And he said to his disciples, “ Temptations to sin are sure to come, but wow to the one through whom they come! It would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck and he were cast into the sea than that he should cause one of these little ones to sin” Pay attention to yourselves!
If your brother sins, rebuke him, and if he repents, forgive him.”

Observation –
Jesus is teaching the disciples that while here on earth in our flesh we will still be tempted to sin. Jesus makes a difference between being tempted and being a tempter to innocent younger people. We have to to self- monitor ourselves daily. We are not to let sin by a brother go unchecked, we are to call it out in love. When there is repentance, we are to forgive as we’ve been forgiven of everything.

Application-
Knowing the temptation to sin is present, I need to let the Spirit keep me away from what could cause me to stumble. In other words, I need to check myself before I wreck myself.
We are living now in a time where we are seeing deception being portrayed as truth especially targeting young people. This is evident in Satan’s indoctrination of our youth with lies. The scripture tells us it would be if the person was drowned with a hundred pound weight tied around their neck.
This is hard, can be offensive but has to be done in love when we know there is sin in a brother’s life not someone in the world. When that sheep returns we are to forgive and walk alongside.
Prayer –

Father,

Thank you for your love and grace in sending Jesus to take my place and save me so I can know you and make you known. Let the power of the Spirit guide me away from temptation. Give me strength to follow you and courage to stand firm in your Word.

Journal Luke 18 (all references are from the ESV unless noted otherwise; changes in punctuation are mine)

Scripture: And (Jesus) told them a parable…to the effect…that they ought always to pray…and not lose heart.” Luke 18:1

Observation: Always pray. Don’t lose heart.

Is that the objective of every parable or just the parables in Luke 18?

Analysis: I write to think out loud. I hope to encourage others to always read the Scriptures to think and be out loud about it.

“Why, Lord, do you tell us these things? How do you want me to respond? Do I have ears to hear; Eyes to see? A heart that is soft and receptive to Your instructions?”

I remember the story of the soils: “A sower went out to sow. And as he sowed, some seeds fell along the path and the birds came and devoured them. Other seeds fell on rocky ground (where they did not have much soil) and immediately they sprang up—since they had no depth of soil. But, when the sun rose, they were scorched and since they had no root, they withered away. Other seeds fell among thorns and the thorns grew up and choked them. Other seed fell on good soil and produced grain…” (Matt 13:2-8a)

Lastly, then, because I do not want to be the kind of soil where birds devour the seed, where enthusiasm takes the place of deep roots, where I cannot survive affliction because I have no depth, my prayer should include, “Give me understanding, O God. Please!”

How, then, do I get understanding? How important is that to obtain? The Psalmist says,

• Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart. (Ps 119:34)
• Your hands have made and fashioned me; give me understanding that I may learn your commandments. (Ps 119:73)
• I have more understanding than all my teachers, for your testimonies are my meditation. (Ps 119:99)
• The unfolding of your words gives light; it imparts understanding to the simple. (Ps 119:130)

God’s objective? One of many, but pursuant to the subject of understanding, “…that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding…” (Col 1:9)

So, then, I can infer with confidence that understanding and depth comes with the knowledge of his will…and that knowledge comes from his testimonies, commandments, his law (rules and precepts): His Word.

I remind myself (with emphasis) that obtaining understanding isn’t just about memorization and taking a test for a pass/fail grade. It is about integrating all the stuff I learn, not to make it knowledge, but make it Wisdom, wisdom that is reflexive.

Cast vision to your heart and mind, set goals and objectives. Do I want to be shallow or deep? Look in the mirror often and preach the Gospel to yourself.

Prayer: Lord God, I do not want to lose your way in my life. The parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector comes to mind.  Humility, O Lord, make it established in my life; Pray, do not lose heart, pursue the Most High God Jesus with all my might until the End of my days.

Amen.

Ricky Two Shoes

Journal Luke 15 (all references are from the ESV unless noted otherwise; changes in punctuation are mine)

Scripture: (This is the story of the Prodigal Son. The background: When this son became of age, he demanded his portion of the inheritance early. Being given that, he proceeded to blow through it on wine, women, and song. At the end of this, finding himself poor, without friends or fortune, the telling of the story continues by Jesus)

“But when he came to himself, he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired servants have more than enough bread, but I perish here with hunger?!

I will arise and go to my father, and I will say to him,

• Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you.
• I am no longer worthy to be called your son.
• Treat me as one of your hired servants.

And he arose and came to his father.

But while he was a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him. And the son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son…’” Luke 15:17-21

Observation: I noticed that the Prodigal Son didn’t approach his father expecting a prize, or even compassion. The inference was that he was hoping for mercy—hoping, wondering if he would receive some sort of mercy…

Analysis: Hope.

Hope is a big thing. It is what the Prodigal Son was having faith in, the hope that his father might show even a little bit of mercy.

Hope isn’t much talked about in Christian circles; it is too ambiguous, too uncertain. Even when the scriptures unambiguously say,

• “For to this end we toil and strive, because we have our hope set on the living God, who is the Savior of all people, especially of those who believe…” (1 Tim 4:10) and;
• “…so that we who were the first to hope in Christ might be to the praise of his glory.” (Eph 1:12)

The rest of the Prodigal Son story testifies of the father’s enthusiasm at receiving his son back from the symbolic “dead.” Also shows the response of the son that stayed and did right all the years the wayward son was gone (a study in itself; I wonder: does the church celebrate more on a conversion than steadfastness? What about if the “conversion” falls away? Makes me wonder and think hard…

My point is about the beginning rather than the afterparty thrown in celebration. What comes before approaching the Father?

The Prodigal came to the Father, acknowledging his misconduct, his sin, first to Heaven (basically the Throne of God), and then to his father. Note the procedure: He sinned against God first and foremost. All sin is against the rule of the King; it isn’t just bad conduct like forgetting to salute or rolling through a stop sign. My sin is always founded in being a treasonous being to the Creator, therefore, my sin, any sin is significant testimony to requiring a Savior.

Then, the second part of the story is of the Grace and Mercy of the Father, and, while celebratory, was not what the Prodigal was looking for—he would have been satisfied in being a doorkeeper (c. Ps 84:10 NASB “For a day in your courtyards is better than a thousand elsewhere. I would rather stand at the threshold of the house of my God than live in the tents of wickedness…”)

What do I think of most? That my salvation has been secured and the next (and only) step to consider is heaven OR do I think of His Mercy and Grace to allow a sinner like myself to be accepted in His Household?

Prayer: Father, I can’t help but think of strong songs to reinforce your word. Right now, “I can’t comprehend Your fathomless love; I’m gripped and amazed at what you have done,” is rippling through my skull.

I am amazed at your mercy towards me, especially with the boneheaded stuff I do…

Amen.

Ricky Two Shoes

Journal Luke 14 (all references are from the ESV unless noted otherwise; changes in punctuation are mine)

Scripture: Now (Jesus) told a parable to those who were invited, (and) when he noticed how they chose the places of honor, saying to them,

“When you are invited by someone to a wedding feast, do not sit down in a place of honor, lest someone more distinguished than you be invited by him, and he who invited you both will come and say to you, ‘Give your place to this person,’ and they you will begin with shame to take the lowest place.

But, when you are invited, go, and sit in the lowest place so that when your host comes, he may say to you, ‘Friend, move up higher.’ Then you will be honored in the presence of all who sit at table with you.

For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.” Luke 14:7-11

Observation: This passage describes a physical manifestation of humility—but is it describing the heart as well? It should, following a good dose of self-examination, a la 2 Cor 13:5 Examine yourself,  and 1 Pet 5:6 Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God SO THAT at the proper time he may exalt you.

Analysis: What is Luke 14-7-11 about? Dinner etiquette? Of course not, it is about presumption, maybe the opposite of humility.

Pride and presumption I think go hand in hand, and between the two, presumption is harder to recognize.

Jesus is describing presumption in this parable. I presume that I have the ‘chops’ to take a seat towards the head of the table; I have done the work, I have the political savvy (and make no mistake, it is present in the church as well), I have the recognition, I have the smarts, etc., etc. So, naturally and without argument (at least in my own mind), I go towards the head of the table.

Of course, the story goes on and describes what happens when I get asked to step down: Shame and embarrassment.

Jesus suggests that my first step is to avoid the issue by accurately assessing myself through the Gospel, and, using what is said in Phil 2:3 (“Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves…”)

How difficult is this? Certainly, difficult in the light of the gospel of today where everything is pointed to build up self-esteem irrationally. Yes, I have a strong opinion, maybe a little bit opposed to some ideas.

Confession: I have latched upon this scripture to guide my life, perhaps in opposition to other guidance (like promoting myself, or in the church to take charge and lead without assignment or delegation). I prefer the safety of the assignment, the “call” if you will, and resist the presumption of “going where angels fear to tread… (the bull in the China shop attitude).”

Phil 2:3 is the shorthand support of the parable Luke 14:5-11. I hitch my flag on the word of God.

Prayer: Father, again I declare that your Word is true and powerful, bringing life. I do not want to presume on your Grace in any application.

I know that my heart is jumping around, wondering if I am living in fear? Whether I am, or not, I will put my trust in your Word.

Amen.

Ricky Two Shoes

Journal Luke 13 (all references are from the ESV unless noted otherwise; changes in punctuation are mine)

Scripture: “And someone said to (Jesus), “Lord, will those who are saved be few?”

And (Jesus) said to them, “Strive to enter through the narrow door. For many, I tell you, will seek to enter and will not be able. When once the master of the house has risen and shut the door, and you begin to stand outside and to knock at the door, saying, ‘Lord, open to us,’ then he will answer you, ‘I do not know where you come from.’

Then you will begin to say, ‘We ate and drank in your presence, and you taught in our streets.’

But he will say, ‘I tell you I do not know where you come from. Depart from me, all you workers of evil!’” Luke 13:23-27

Observation: Have I ever heard of the term, “Salvation by osmosis?” No, I haven’t, but it sure seems to have been practiced well over 2,000 years—it is not a recent development…

Analysis: Reading this passage, it is obvious that Jesus sidestepped the answer, He didn’t answer “yes” or “no” to a patently evident Yes/No question.

I am either frustrated or humored by this tactic, maybe frustratingly humored? I wish I was smart enough to do what Jesus does.

How many folks do I know that I suspect of practicing “salvation by osmosis?”

How many times in the day do I suspect myself of the same practice?

Talking with a brother at breakfast this morning, we both acknowledge that this (as well as Matthew 7:22-23, “On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your Name and cast out demons in your Name and do many mighty works in your Name?’ And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you. Depart from me you workers of lawlessness.’”) are probably the scariest verses in the Bible.

That statement requires a “why?” And the answer is, not by works or by deeds am I saved, but by pursuing Him and seeking His Face all my days. Yeah, yeah, I know “by grace through faith” but what does that mean practically?

What do I treasure? What do I WANT to treasure?

A clue is found at the end of the Book.

What do the Elders do? What do the Creatures do? What does all of heaven do?

They worship the Lamb.

Last set of questions (and maybe the most pertinent today):

1. How do I PRACTICALLY worship the Lamb?
2. Can I list those actions out?

Prayer: Father, it is something when you pin me up to the wall and tell me, “Stop paying me lip service” and make me responsibly worship You, right?

I have so much to answer for…

Amen.

Ricky Two Shoes

Journal Luke 13 (all references are from the ESV unless noted otherwise; changes in punctuation are mine)

Scripture: There were some present at that very time who told (Jesus) about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices.

And (Jesus) answered them, “Do you think that these Galileans were worse sinners than all the other Galileans, because they suffered in this way? No, I tell you; but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish.

Or those 18 on whom the tower in Siloam fell and killed them: Do you think that they were worse offenders than all the others who lived in Jerusalem? No, I tell you; but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish.” Luke 13:1-5

Observation: There are examples of human suffering, abuse, and wanton evil. What do I suppose is the motivation of the people bringing this up?

Do I think of or consider that God or the devil or divine punishment is behind it?

Do I engage with people who talk about it?

Analysis: I have been around people who want to talk about justice, balances, etc.

Thinking about natural calamities, I remember the talk around Katrina and New Orleans: NOLA was “obviously” judged by God, just like Sodom or Gomorrah.

Now I see I wasn’t far from a biblical example exposing my hypocrisy.

With these two examples that Jesus tackles and trying to imagine the conversations, perhaps they went like this:

1. “Jesus, did you hear about what that bum Pilate did? Desecrated the weekly sacrifice, and how he did it? He killed these men, these righteous, peaceful, protesters and like a serial killer, performed a heinous act against God and man.

What do you think, Jesus?”

2. Jesus offers another example: 18 people died in a structural collapse of a tower in Jerusalem. Did they deserve dying? Did they deserve dying more that another group of 18 people? Was this the Judgement of God or the task of the devil?

What do you think, Jesus?

For both the examples, Jesus replies (paraphrased): “Do you think that these folks deserve what happened to them? Is that what you want to hear? What are you fishing for?”

(Quoted) No, I tell you; but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish.”

What were these folks fishing for? What would I be fishing for? My guess? Physical evidence of superiority, or otherwise identified as self-righteousness.

Indwelling sin, the kind that the Gospel identifies and defines, is not the sin that I (we) want to define in ourselves. I want to identify individual sin, enumerate them, list them out and check those sins off one by one. I don’t want to deal with the category of SIN and acknowledge that I will never be victorious over sin completely: I need a Savior daily through all my days.

Paul wrote succinctly to the Church at Rome: “All have sinned. All have come short of the glory of God.” (Ro 3:23) While the tense in the sentence seems to be past tense, it is not. It is a possessive tense—everybody is in the category of sinners.

That is why I cannot claim in any way superiority over another. They need redemption. I need redemption. Daily. I need to acknowledge and confess my sin (specifically and categorically) and repent—just like Jesus said.

Prayer: Father, another clumsy posting. What Luke wrote is so familiar. The conversation around Katrina is only one example that came to mind.

Bring to my conscious the times pride of life rises and help me to mortify my pride—please don’t let me think because I follow you, I have gained some superiority of life.

Amen.

Ricky Two Shoes

Scripture

 

Vs. 7 “Why, even the hairs on your head are all numbered. Fear not, you are of more value than many sparrows.”

 

Vs. 35 “Stay dressed for action and keep your lamps burning…”

 

Vs. 42 “And the Lord said, ‘Who then is the faithful and wise manager, whom the master will set over his household, to give them their portion of food at the proper time?’”

 

Vs. 48 “… Everyone to whom much was given, of him much will be required, and from him to they entrusted much, they will demand the more.”

 

Observation

 

Jesus has been giving his followers many teachings and lessons, but chapter 12 here is even more full of warnings.

Three warnings, in particular stand out:

warnings against greed, warnings against worry, and warnings against being lazy.

 

Why not be greedy? Because God loves us and provides for us.

 

Why not worry? Because God loves us, created us, and cares for us.

 

Why not be lazy? Again, because God loves us and knows what’s best for us.

 

He knows our contentedness, our fulfillment of purpose will only happen when we live a life that honors our Creator, our Master, our Lord.

 

Application

 

Three words come to mind as I read Luke 12.

 

Valuable, Responsible, and Accountable

 

I am Valuable! Why? Because I did not create myself.

I’m created by the perfect Creator and in His own image!

He knows more about me that I know about myself.

He values me and, therefore, I should value myself, not worry about myself!

 

I am also Responsible! Why? Because God has entrusted me to be!

I must be a wise steward, manager of the family he has given me,

the work he has given me, the ministry he has given me, the relationships he has given me, and on and on.

I must recognize in this, though: He is the Master, I am the steward.

 

I think I can often find tension in these attributes of “Valuable” and “Responsible”,

I can reverse the order from God’s intentions and purposes.

It’s easy in “my culture” for me to think the more I am responsible for …

larger family, larger business, larger ministry, then the more valuable I am.

It’s so easy for me to get caught up in the way the world thinks.

But that’s not the way of God’s kingdom!

 

No! Value doesn’t stem from Responsibility.

My Value comes from my Creator. God!

I am valuable before I am responsible for anything at all!

God knows the number of my hairs!

This is an amazing thought to wake up to each morning.

And it’s a thought that can eliminate worry!

 

But God does give me Responsibility.

And what stems from responsibility? … Accountability!

 

God will hold me accountable to what He has entrusted me with.

And how can I best be responsible?

 

Treat every relationship that I’m responsible for like God treats me.

 

Treat others as being created in the same image of the same loving God that I’m created in.

And if I do this, then I should welcome the accountability of a loving and just Judge.

 

Prayer

 

God, thank you for being the loving Creator you are.

Thank you for seeing me as valuable.

Thank you for treating me as responsible.

And thank you for holding me accountable.

Help me to show your light and your love to all those I encounter today.

In Jesus name,

Amen.

 

Journal Luke 11 (all references are from the ESV unless noted otherwise; changes in punctuation are mine)

Scripture: “And (Jesus) said to them, “Which of you who has a friend will go to him at midnight and say to him, ‘Friend, lend me three loaves, for a friend o mine has arrived on a journey, and I have nothing to set before him’; and he will answer from within, ‘Do not bother me; the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed. I cannot get up and give you anything’?

I tell you, though he will not get up and give him anything because he is his friend, yet because of his impudence he will rise and give him whatever he needs.

And I tell you: Ask and it will be given to you; Seek and you will find; knock and it will be opened to you.

For everyone who asks, receives; and the one who seeks, finds; and to the one who knocks, it will be opened.” Luke 11:5-10

Observation: What is the primary message here? Is it about being a friend? Is it about not making excuses? Or is it about being impudent and persistent?

Analysis: The story is simple enough: A friend (the Asker) is asking another friend (the Sleeper) for bread to serve to a 3^rd friend (the Traveler). It is late, after midnight, and all the good folk are in bed all snuggled together, except for the traveler and his friend who is asking for bread.

Waking the guy up probably wasn’t the 1^st choice; the guy and his family most likely have been in bed for 5-6 hours already, deep in sleep. So, what does the Asker have to do? He pounds on the door. And maybe pound and pound again, being apologetic, but persistent—this may be the only choice he has, after exhausting all other options, to obtain bread.

Grumpy, groggy, and maybe not full of good favor toward his friend, the Asker, the Sleeper got up, gathered some loaves of bread in his arms, opened the door, and thrust them at the Asker and went back to bed, shoving the children around to find a place to sleep…again. (Note: probably did not go back to sleep quickly because of the bad attitude he was now trying to deal with)

Hopefully, the Sleeper will wake up with the dawn in a forgiving attitude; the Asker will be profusely apologetic acknowledging the sacrifice made, and the Traveler will be humbled at the mercy and kindness of them both.

So, what is the point of the story? Is it a story of faith (asking in faith equals receipt of the ask)? Is it a story of getting what I need? Is it knocking on the door and eventually someone will answer?

Is it about fulfilling my requests for physical gain?

I don’t think so. I think it is about being impudent and persistent towards God and the treasure He wants to give–remember the story of the persistent widow and the judge (c. Luke 18:1-8)

And what is that treasure? Himself…in increasing measure throughout my life.

It is why the Gospel isn’t a one and done experience; the “salvation moment” in a person’s life isn’t the prize to be obtained, it is the beginning, the starting line. When I say, “thank you, Lord, for redeeming me”, the door that opens has a hand stretched out to say, “Come, we have a journey ahead of us. Let us go to the Mount of God.”

And thus starts the Gospel journey.

My impudence is about Seeking Him, looking to Receive all that He has, and to keep Knocking until I cannot lift my arm anymore, until my last breath.

Prayer: Father, help me to constantly remember that Your Life given in mercy and grace to me, isn’t just for a young man—it is for all the ages from Birth to Death. I forget that when I see the focus on the youth. The Old, if not encouraged, will start to coast, and forget their First Love.

Stir me up, O Holy Spirit.

Amen.

Ricky Two Shoes

Scripture

Luke 10:16 – “The one who hears you hears me, and the one who rejects you rejects me and the one who rejects me rejects him who sent me.”

Observation –
Jesus is giving instruction to the seventy-two disciples that he has sent out ahead of him. This is the last verse that he tells them before they are sent out. Jesus is telling them there will be cities and people who will the message of the Kingdom of God. When the message of the gospel is presented you are hearing Jesus. When the gospel is rejected you are rejecting Jesus and God who sent Jesus.

Application-
Woe be to the cities and the people who reject the message of the gospel of Jesus Christ. We are called to share the gospel and let all know that the Kingdom of God is at hand! We are merely passing through and called as ambassadors of Christ to share the Good News of the gospel. Our job is to be obedient to the Great Commission and share the gospel in a winsome way in deed and word. Not all will believe, it is the power of the Holy Spirit that convicts someone to believe. If the message of the gospel is not received, our words are not not only being rejected but that of Jesus and God the Father.

Prayer-
Father,
Thank you for the truth in your Word and the instruction to lead us to live a life to proclaim your gospel. Let the Spirit guide me to love well to extend your glory knowing it is my responsibility to share your gospel.

Journal Luke 8 (all references are from the ESV unless noted otherwise; changes in punctuation are mine)

Scripture: “One day (Jesus) got into a boat with his disciples, and he said to them, “Let us go across to the other side of the lake.”

So, they set out, and as they sailed (Jesus) fell asleep.

And a windstorm came down on the lake, and they were filling with water and were in danger. And they went and woke him, saying, “Master, Master, we are perishing!”

And (Jesus) awoke and rebuked the wind and the raging waves, and they ceased, and there was a calm.

(Jesus) said to (the disciples), “Where is your faith?” And they were afraid, and they marveled…” (Luke 8:22-25a)

Observation: What is the point of this section? Is it that Jesus has command over nature or is it the question to the disciples on where was their faith?

Analysis: I was thinking about how I get caught in the trap of trying to read too much into a section of scripture or take some things out.

For instance, this section of Jesus taking a boat ride across the sea of Galilee. He suggested a boat ride and took a nap along the way. A sudden storm arose, big enough that seasoned boat handlers were frightened, the boat was threatening to swamp.

I wonder if any of these guys (Peter?) were thinking, 1) Turn around; 2) Press on; 3) Don’t wake Jesus up. Note: I think I can infer that Jesus slept like a log when needed; not a light sleeper.

So, when the storm got a bit too much for these he-men of the sea to handle, they resorted to (reluctantly?) waking the Master up.

So, what did Jesus do?

Perhaps after yawning and stretching, he looked around and maybe shook his head, wiped the spray out of his eyes, and told the sea and the wind to be still, and voila’—the sea and the wind were calm again.

So, what did Jesus do after that?

Critiqued? Rebuked? He certainly questioned the disciples, “Where is your faith?”

This question begs a response from the disciples. What were they supposed to do? What happened was that the only response from the disciples was a dumbfounded look…and that isn’t exactly the answer Jesus might have been looking for.

Up to this point, Jesus was setting the example: Preaching the Kingdom, casting out demons, healing the sick, lame, and blind. This may be a stretch but, were the disciples taking notes? “I am showing you how to do these things so that you can imitate Me?” Is that where Jesus was going with the question, “Where is your faith?”

In the beginning of Chapter 10, Jesus commissions the Twelve with these supernatural attributes saying, “Go and do these things.”

Now, here is the point of this post and that I have struggled with and have seen others struggle likewise: Is what the Twelve were commissioned to do the same as what disciples of today are supposed to do? Does the preaching of the Kingdom/Gospel go supernaturally hand in hand with the faith necessary to accomplish miracles? Check out Mark 16:14-20…

Where is my faith?

Or am I huddled in the middle of the boat in fear hoping that Jesus will wake up and take care of things?

Prayer: Lord God, wake me up to your Spirit.

Amen.

Ricky Two Shoes

Journal Luke 7 (all references are from the ESV unless noted otherwise; changes in punctuation are mine)

Scripture: (Jesus responding to Simon’s answer to a question): “Therefore I tell you, her sins (which are many) are forgiven—for she loved much. But he who is forgiven little, loves little.”

And (Jesus) said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.”

Then those who were at table with him began to say among themselves, “Who is this, who even forgives sins?”

And (Jesus) said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.” Luke 7:47-50

Observation: Referring to the post of the previous day, examining myself, am I floored by the impact of my forgiven sin, or do I not consider it much anymore?

Do I think about the Gospel and being forgiven much, or am I now “forgiven little” and put that impact on the back burner of faith of assumption?

Analysis: When was the last time I thought about the Gospel, preached the Gospel to myself, and got choked up?

It has been a long time.

More often, it gives me sobering pause, especially when I write—I truly make an effort in these to write to myself and only secondarily to readers (assuming these get read at all).

I try to catch myself not falling victim to “assuming Faith”, a coined term. Actually, I will bet that there have been many who have noticed the tendency in so-called believers and either use this term or something much better to describe it.

This scripture reference is about Worship, not service. Because “love” is in the sentence, I am sure that many may think about “loving” someone else satisfies meeting the requirement of the scripture.

Naw, this is about loving the Savior; worshiping the Savior; being demonstrative about worshiping the Triune God—in the same manner that the “woman of the town” was doing, shedding tears, anointing with oil, all before Jesus declared that her faith has saved her. She recognized the Savior with deeds and perhaps recognized “I am begging for my life when I know that I don’t deserve even the slightest leniency.”

Do I love much because I am diligently searching the Gospel and all its depths?

Or do I love little because I am assuming upon God’s grace?

Prayer: Father, I am entering a sobering part of my life, I think. Your Word is true. Your Word is faithful. Your Word is light on my path and guidance to my feet.

Why, then, do I feel like I fall short? Make fiery work in my heart and mind, O God. Make me an instrument of Grace.

Amen.

Ricky Two Shoes

Journal Luke 6 (all references are from the ESV unless noted otherwise; changes in punctuation are mine)

Scripture: “(Jesus) also told them a parable:

“Can a blind man lead a blind man? Will they not both fall into a pit?

A disciple is not above his teacher, but everyone when he is fully trained will be like his teacher.

(Therefore), why do you see the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, ‘Brother, let me take out the speck that is in your eye,’ when you yourself do not see the log that is in your own eye?

You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take out the speck that is in your brother’s eye.” Luke 6:39-42 emphasis mine

Observation: Is this section of Scripture only about logging in the congregation or is it about waking up to the facts about discipleship?

Analysis: “Be honest, open, candid with honorable concern, merciful practice, and with fierce personal transparency.”

Besides this quote, scripture is MORE direct and blunt: “Examine yourselves, to see if you are in the faith. Test yourselves.” (2 Cor 13:5)

Jesus’ parable speaks of the tendency of Man to assert self-wisdom, dominance, and self-importance over others.

Man yearns to be boss. Yearns, craves, covets, aches… All the opposites of humility and servanthood…which I have to battle with daily.

I noticed this sentence: “A disciple is not above his teacher…” I can attest to this truth, this FACT. However, functionally I do not embrace what this means, I can be blunt with my own heart about that. What I want to do is Jesus’ following statement: “…but everyone when HE IS FULLY TRAINED will be like his teacher.”

Stop. Look. Listen.

Where am I on the training continuum? What am I planning to do about training? Do I really want to be like Jesus, making personal effort in concert with the Holy Spirit and godly men in the here and now? Or am I hoping for a lottery gift of godliness where I don’t have to exert effort?

The “logging” practice Jesus speaks about is only 1 aspect on the way of discipleship. Looking at others before looking at the face in the mirror is the way of, let’s face it (pun?), rebellion. Perhaps soft rebellion, but rebellion just the same. If I can’t be blunt about what I see in myself, confess and repent as often as I need to, what am I trying to correct others about?

Paul was not alone in asserting others to examine themselves. Jeramiah did as well to the nation of Israel: “Let us test and examine our ways and return to the Lord!” (Lam 3:40) Neither were preaching to unbelievers but exhorting the people of God.

Take this as you will. I am preaching this to the face in the mirror. Pray for conviction if this is tugging at a heart. Note that, in parallel with the scripture, this is not for “Dan needs to read this,” the call for examination is always the mirror.

I want to be a trained disciple.

Prayer: Father, my desire is to be trained. I know that while I might have spoken this desire over my years, the application I have made has been haphazard.

Mold me, Potter, into the vessel you desire.

Amen.

Ricky Two Shoes

8/4/22 Thursday

Journal Luke 4 (all references are from the ESV unless noted otherwise; changes in punctuation are mine)

Scripture: “And Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the wilderness for forty days, being tempted by the devil. And (Jesus) ate nothing during those days. And when they were ended, he was hungry.

The devil said to him, “If you are the Son of God, command this stone to become bread…” Jesus answered him, “It is written…”

The devil took him up and showed him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time and said, “If you, then, will worship me, it will all become yours…” And Jesus answered him, “It is written…”

And (the devil) took him to Jerusalem, to the pinnacle of the temple and said to him, “If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down from here, for “it is written”, “He will command his angels concerning you, to guard you”, and “On their hands they will bear you up, lest you strike your foot against a stone.” And Jesus answered him, “It is said…”

And when the devil had ended every temptation, he departed from him until an opportune time.” (Excerpts from Luke 4:1-13, some portions paraphrased for effect…)

Observation: One of the best stories to emphasize the Supremacy of the Word of God to man.

Oh, to be able to answer every temptation that comes my way with, “It is written…” instead of a weak “no.”

Analysis: This story is not about the physical and spiritual superiority of Jesus.

I say that tongue in cheek because, when I think about fasting (no matter what kind of fasting we can think of), fasting for 40 days (6 weeks!!) is still extraordinary fasting—going without something in the belly for a very long time. I am “thinking” about fasting for a day, just water, and it is tough—I am ready to break the fast at the time target. When the scriptures say Jesus was hungry, my thought is “Duh!! I’ll bet!”

The devil was permitted to tempt Jesus (see Job 1 through 3 for the process the devil must go through) at perhaps the physically weakest point so far in his life.

I try to imagine what this scenario was like. Did the devil slither up to Jesus like he did Eve and whisper, “Hungry, hungry, hear the growling in the belly…certainly it would be OK to turn a pebble or two into bread to quiet the tummy rumblies, uhm?”

Jesus, physically weak as he was from 6 weeks of eating nothing, perhaps mind cloudy, panting from exertion just trying to sit up, had clarity enough to remember and whisper firmly, “It is written…”

“It is written…” How powerful are those 3 words, potent is the principle, and yet how daunting they are for disciples? It is an objective that is lifelong in pursuing. It is more than just memorization; it is the integration of the Word of God intentionally, reflexively, into the life of a believer.

What is my want, my vision? What is my plan to accomplish what I just theorized?

CH Spurgeon, saying in reference of John Bunyan, “Prick him anywhere; and you will find that his blood is Bibline, the very essence of the Bible flows from him. He cannot speak without quoting a text, for his soul is full of the Word of God.”

Pretty solid reference of a vision to pursue, coming from a man upon whose shoulders God has given us to stand upon…

Old dead guys rule!

Prayer: O Lord, that I could even come close to matching You like this when temptations occur. Most times, a weak “no” is the best I can conjure up. But like I wrote a few days ago, to learn and pack my heart systematically, orderly, and compile your Word precept upon precept, doctrine upon doctrine, line upon line, etc., so that I can have certainty, not wavering in faith, that, when temptations come (and they will), no matter how weak I am, I can firmly say, “It is written…”

I want to pursue this all my days, until my last breath…

Amen.

Ricky Two Shoes

Scripture

Luke 3:10-11 – And the crowds asked him, “What then shall we do?” And he answered them, “Whoever has two tunics is to share with him who has none, and whoever has food is to do likewise.”

Observation –
John the Baptist has just said that every tree that does not bear good fruit will be cut and thrown into the fire. The people ask for clarification and John the Baptist tells them the second half of the greatest commandment to love your neighbors as yourselves. If we have just two garments we are to give one to a neighbor who has none. The same concept of sharing in love with our neighbors applies to those who are hungry.

Application –
The two greatest commandments are to love God and love others. I am to love in response to the love and grace God showed me in sending Jesus so I can place my faith in Jesus to know Him and make Him known. I can’t claim to love Jesus and ignore needs of neighbors around me. I pray for my eyes to see like Jesus and my heart to have compassion like Jesus for our neighbors in need. The scripture tells me I don’t have to have an abundance of something to help, if I only have two shirts I keep one on my back and give the other away. If I have a sandwich I can cut it in half and share. I can also keep bars and waters with me to pass out to those who are hot and hungry.

Prayer –
Father,
Thank you for the truth in your Word and your love for me. Let the power of the Spirit guide me to love you, love others and share with those in need to point them to you.

Journal Luke 1 (all references are from the ESV unless noted otherwise; changes in punctuation are mine)

Scripture: “In as much as many have undertaken to compile a narrative of the things that have been accomplished among us, just as those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word have delivered them to us…it seemed good to me also (having followed all things closely for some time past) to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus, that you may have certainty concerning the things you have been taught.” Luke 1:1-4

Observation: Key words: Certainty; Orderly; Compile (or compilation)…all so this guy, Theophilus, will know what he has been taught confidently.

How does this change the way I want to learn Jesus and His Word?

Analysis: Luke: A doctor, a historian, a storyteller, a disciple. Luke is committed to tell the Story of the Savior.

His student of record? Theophilus. The name Theophilus roughly means Friend of God (Philus-friend; Theo-God or divine—both Greek derivatives)…and by roughly, I mean 40 grit sandpaper roughly. I am not a Greek scholar and prone to take liberties.

I like to look at the beginning of chapters and especially books. The beginning of books attempts to set the tone for the reader…and I think it does for the Gospel of Luke.

Luke wants to write and present an orderly account for Theo, something that would support Theo’s learning to date and give him data to fall back upon.  Objective? To have CERTAINTY concerning the things he has been taught to date.

My learning didn’t begin like that. My learning was a smorgasbord type of learning, a little bit of this, a little of that…go back for something else to add to the plate and remember to chew good.  Me? There was some stuff that I swallowed whole and later, didn’t sit well.

What do I want to be CERTAIN of…and this refers to more than my salvation?

What do I want to be able to speak of in an ORDERLY manner?

How do I COMPILE information accurately?

I remember this morning in Journal Group as the guys were chatting, Felix (a governor) and his wife talking with Paul. (Acts 24) The scripture said that Felix and his wife were “familiar” with the “Way” (as Christianity was referred to then).

Paul spoke to them about “righteousness, self-control, and the coming judgement” and Felix became frightened—sent Paul away with a lame excuse—“We’ll do lunch another day, eh, Paul?”

Could I string these three doctrines together coherently? Not that it would be my objective, but would someone be afraid on account of what I said? Not in a million years, I think, but is this a result of being ACCURATE, ORDERLY, and CERTAIN, expositing COMPILED learning?

Or would I just be flapping my jaws stubbornly; my stubbornness being mistaken for faith?

Prayer: Father, how many times have I just let my stubbornness rise up when trying to communicate something I knew was right, but I couldn’t say it convincingly or persuasively? My goodness, you know how many times and I imagine that You shook Your head at each incident.

Hopefully, I am learning to be calm and persuasive, even if I have to abandon an argument—knowing that You are directing my steps SO THAT I learn to rest in You.

Preaching the Gospel (in any aspect) is not about wins (notching the spine of my bible for each conversion), but it is doing what you command and leaving the conversion/enlightenment duties to You and You alone.

Amen.

Ricky Two Shoes