A Little Higher

December 11, 2008
Text: Luke 19:1-10
Title: A Little Higher

Thoughts:

In the early years of my life, my sister and I were fortunate enough to grow up without a tv to entertain us. Therefore, we were forced to find outdoor entertainment options to bide our time.

Across the street from our house was one of our favorite sites. In our neighbors yard was a rather large oak tree. Its branches were extremely large and expansive. Its strength was impressive and inviting. And, we were obliged to climb from limb to limb, enjoying the adventures from another level. It is reminiscent of the scenes from Forrest Gump.

Reading of Zaccheus scaling the sycamore tree this morning prompted visions of our childhood pursuits of adventure. In Zaccheus’ situation he was determined and dedicated to see Jesus in the crowd. While others were lining the streets, he ran ahead and ascended a tree to see Jesus from another level.

My thoughts this morning were consumed with the possibility of seeing Jesus from a new level. What would happen if we broke away from the entertainment and distractions, excuses and exceptions and pursued Jesus as Zaccheus did? Would we see Him in a new light? Would our view of Him differ from the world that is seeking to see Him from the sidelines?

There are lots of questions about Jesus that I believe would be answered if I were just willing to devote my energies to seeing Him. Frankly, I find the entertainment of the world too inviting and cozy to deviate from the norm. Oh, that I would have the dedication to ascend the tree of life to see Jesus today. Perhaps, He might choose my home to rest in.

Application:

Do you find that the conveniences and comforts of life draw you closer to Jesus or make it more difficult to pursue Him? Why or why not?

In what ways can you climb higher to see Jesus today? (devote time to prayer, reading the Bible, studying the Bible, etc.)

Will you dedicate yourself, and your family, to find time to see Jesus from another level?

Prayer:

Father,

Thank You for the many opportunities that You provide for me to see Jesus. Unfortunately, I am often preoccupied with the entertainment and pleasures of the world to dedicate myself to seeing Him. Like the crowd, I choose to see Him from the sideline. However, may I have the dedication and determination of Zaccheus today. May I throw off excuses and distractions to pursue Christ. As I do, will You reveal Yourself to me in a new way?

In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Organic Christianity: Destination, Determination, Indoctrination

October 27, 2008
Text: 1 Peter 3:13-17
Title: Organic Christianity: Destination, Determination, Indoctrination

Thoughts:

Organic is marketable at the moment. From organic cotton to organic produce, health conscience buyers are multiplying. Consequently, their voices are being heard and demands are being addressed. But it isn’t only in the grocery store where organic is in, it’s all of life. And, Christianity is a part of the list. People desire real, pure, and whole.

Getting to an organic Christianity (free of fakes, cover ups, and poisons) takes a commitment on behalf of the believer. It’s not an easy transition from conventional church to organic church. Thus, Peter gives three essential elements to organic Christianity: Destination, Determination, and Indoctrination.

- Destination: Keep the end in mind. Peter continually reminds the believers to keep their focus on their homeland in this first letter. Everything is contrary in their kingdom. Death = Life (2 Cor. 5:17). To be absent from the body = to be present with God (2 Cor. 5:8). An organic farmer will always find it easier to revert back to conventional pesticides, fertilizers, and measures. However, as he keeps the end in mind, he knows it will be worth it. Keeping our appearance before Christ at the forefront, makes the journey worth it.

- Determination: Keep your heart at attention. The Message translation takes a sterile term, “sanctify”, and breaks it down to everyday language: “keep your hearts at attention.” Literally, Peter is reminding the believers to sell out to Jesus. Regardless of the hard knocks, persecution, or hardships, sell out to Jesus. He’s worth it. What a reminder to a world such as ours. We change passions as quickly as a nursery worker changes dirty diapers. Pick Jesus and determine to follow Him to the end.

- Indoctrination: Keep truth at the center. Know why you’re doing what you’re doing. It’s more than a fad. Trusting in Jesus is the center of our hope. Peter instructed the believers to never let truth escape from their purpose. They were always to be ready to give the reason for the hope that was in them. Hope is more than theory; it is truth. Immerse yourself in the truth of why you’re living organic.

I must admit, I get a bit peeved at all of the hyper-eco-friendly living at times. However, there’s a desperate cry taking place in the hearts of people. It’s deeper than food and more than saving trees. Hear the cry of a lost world longing for an Organic Christianity…full of life and free of man-made synthetics.

Let’s go Organic on them!

Application:

When you hear the term “Organic Christianity” what our your immediate thoughts?

Of the three organic essentials (Destination, Determination, Indoctrination), which do you find to be most difficult?

What would organic Christianity look like in your life today?

Prayer:

Father,

I want to have organic faith. A faith that is free of man-made religion, synthetic emotions, and corrupted doctrine. I want You. I want the purity of everything You have for me. Showing up at church on Sunday is not enough. I want a real faith that has a real end. I want a faith that is solid, unwavering, and committed to You. And, I want to be immersed with truth. Jesus, You are all of these. Help me to live organically today.

In Jesus’ name. Amen.