Deuteronomy 26:5-11
Then you shall declare before the LORD your God: "My father was a wandering Aramean, and he went down into Egypt with a few people and lived there and became a great nation, powerful and numerous.
But the Egyptians mistreated us and made us suffer, putting us to hard labor. Then we cried out to the LORD, the God of our fathers, and the LORD heard our voice and saw our misery, toil and oppression. So the LORD brought us out of Egypt with a mighty hand and an outstretched arm, with great terror and with miraculous signs and wonders.
He brought us to this place and gave us this land, a land flowing with milk and honey; and now I bring the firstfruits of the soil that you, O LORD, have given me."
Place the basket before the LORD your God and bow down before him. And you and the Levites and the aliens among you shall rejoice in all the good things the LORD your God has given to you and your household.
Please take the time to read all of Deuteronomy 26. This will help you better understand the context of the words we will examine. Note that these words are spoken in the context of how to give back to the Lord.
What story is remembered/recited as the offering is made?
Why?
What kind of response does the story require? See verse 10.
How does the Exodus story affect our worship today?
Sunday, January 04, 2009
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So how's it going?
I guess I am wanting some routine to return, yet I know what that means: lots and lots of work. I know I will enjoy it once I dive in, but it's kinda like jumping in a swimming pool that's on the cool side.
The kids are out of school until Tuesday, so the lack of routine continues for just a little longer. It has been a really nice, uneventful break.
This time last year we were in New Zealand.
I thought we got off to a good start for the New Year with our worship today.
What did you think?
I think this series on the Exodus Story is going to be really good. It will build each week, I think, as we become more familiar with the Story.
I was out of routine last week, so sermon prep was spotty and a little frustrating. I am really ready to go on this week's text. I've been looking at it some this afternoon.
Two plus weeks off and now the kids get a 2 hour delay.
Well, back in the day we'd walk 10 miles to school; uphill both ways; 25 foot snowdrifts; sniper fire...
From the Writer's Almanac:
Today is Epiphany, the 12th day of Christmas. It celebrates the day when the three Magi visited Jesus and gave him the gifts of frankincense, myrrh, and gold.
Christmas Eve begins the 12 days of Christmas, so January 5th, the eve of Epiphany, is called Twelfth Night. William Shakespeare wrote a play for the festivities in 1602, which is why it is called Twelfth Night.
Yesterday began the journey back toward routine and reality after a couple weeks of the opposite (so it seems and feels).
Of course routine is never quite normal in my line of work. It's just a guide.
I didn't get as much done yesterday as I hoped I would, but that's ok. I did catch up on some things and re-engaged my mind in preparation for today.
Probably the most significant thing I did yesterday was sign a letter of intent for Capstone Ministries to buy and rehab 7 houses in Mitchell. We officially entered into a partnership with our grant writer/administrator. Kinda scary; kinda exciting. The next step is to "flesh out" the letter of intent (if accepted - almost certain it will be) with the specifics of our plans.
Jay was out of town last night, so I hosted the Men's Bible study. We had a great group of 7. Each week the group is slightly different, but the discussion always surprises me with its depth and practicality.
Here's a random thought for you; it's one that I have from time to time.
I have always liked President Bush. I disagree with him on a lot of things, but I really think he is a man of integrity. Sure, he made/makes mistakes etc.
What really bothers me is the sustained (and I really think this is the right word) hatred for him from most of the media. Even in his last days I am seeing articles about how he is the worst president ever, etc. I saw an article a couple of days ago about all the stupid things he has said. (If every word we spoke was recorded, I'm sure there would be plenty of things to record.)
Is that really necessary? Let him leave in peace. Best I can understand he is working to make the transition to President Obama smooth and effective. Just leave him alone. History will decide his effectiveness as President.
Wow, that was pretty political wasn't it? Actually it's more personal than anything. I don't think a person should be treated as President Bush has been, espcecially in his last few days.
What was your favorite Christmas gift?
Right now I am working with two texts, which can be confusing but also enlightening.
I am preparing the Text Experience Sheet for this Sunday's bulletin, which is the text for 18th, and I am also working with the text for this Sunday, which is what this week's blog title is about.
Next week we'll look at Joshua 4 and the pile of rocks. Really interesting. AND related to this week's text. The common thread that ties them together is the Story, specifically the Exodus Story.
I think I am going to love this series.
Hey Allen!!
Thought I would give you a break from doing all the talking (writing) :)
Great news about the houses. That is so cool. I am excited to see what happens and how all that works out.
On the side of politics, I too am always amazed at how the press bashes some individuals despite the issues.
RR
I got the best Christmas gift this year, I was really blessed. With in a couple weeks time I got to see all my children and grandchildren (4 kids and two of their spouses and 5 grandkids). The ultimate would have been all of us together at once but it wasn't possible this year.
Ashley cooked her first Christmas dinner this year and we had a little party with my mother and two grandkids in attendance. The second gift my grand daughter Kiley (1 1/2) opened was a book and she really loved that book, she carried it around and it was hard to get her to open anything else. Ashley went bonkers over a gift box of smootie bottles for Kimora (2 mo), she had wanted these bottles for so long and she is just sooooooooo in love with her baby, it was comical to watch.
I got to listen in as Amber's kids Daela (7) and Daeana (3 days shy of 1 yr) open their gifts. When Daela gets excited and really loves something she stops, stares and falls over like she is in a trance, well I got three of fall over's this year (thanks hanna montana). Gift opening came to a stand still when Daela got Dr Seuse's Fox in Socks (complete with stuffed animal Fox-thanks Kohls), I got to hear her read the whole book before she would open another thing including what I wrote on the inside cover, cracked me up.
I was fortunate to attend a Christmas dinner/program with my new church family and some folks that live close to where our church is moving. I think this move is going to be a great thing and be a positive experience and touch many people- chalk one up for God!!
Now, I keep Christmas in my heart all year long, shop for bargains all year long and get to think about it all year long. Its so much fun. I got to talk to Gerri, who also loves Christmas, to get more ideas for next year and that was so much fun. I got to get three first baby Christmas stockings/ornaments this year. The blessings just keep pouring in.
It was a rough year for Luke this year but I am happy to say things are so much better and he is doing great. I love him so much. I guess it won't be a surprise to inform you he has been diagnosed with Bipolar disorder. I continue to think he will be a great testimony for God one day because of all of this. Praise God.
Strange thing, as much as I love to give gifts I don't really like to receive them.
Oh before I go, if you include Thanksgiving in this holiday season, I also got to see my baby brother before he left for Iraq. I was so thankful to get to see him, he has been in training out of state most of the year.
I hope to hear others Christmas experiences from this year, once again its so much fun.
Love to all, Annette
Thanks Ryan and Annette for adding to the conversation! Sound like you, Annette, had a lot of good activity over the holiday season. Good.
One of my goals this year is to read through the Bible from cover to cover using a Bible designed for that purpose. I am actually reading one day ahead this morning, because I know at some point I will get behind.
Anyway! This morning I was reading Gen. 18, which is a wonderful chapter. It is the inspiration for the icon I went to see in Russia (see blog opening page), and it has that interesting scene of Abraham negotiating with God over the number of righteous people in Sodom. Abraham asks God to spare the city if a certain number of rigtheous people can be found. He starts with 50, and God says, "OK."
Abraham thinks and keeps throwing out numbers, and God keeps saying, "OK"
50
45
40
30
20
10
Well, there weren't even 10, so Sodom was destroyed. God is patient and willing to "work with us," but there are limits. Right?
A year ago today my family and I, along with Maddie, were in Hawaii. I write this as I watch the beautiful light snow fall. Even though I love snow, I could handle a little Hawaii about now. ha ha.
Actually this morning as I was out for a little while the snow and the feel in the air brought back vivid memories of being in Russia. My few days there were in the 20s and 30s, there was snow on the ground, and it was simply wonderful.
Precious memories.
Guess what woke me up last night (twice)?
Moonshine!
No, it has nothing to do with what I drank before I went to bed. (I did have a rootbeer with my popcorn). I am talking about the light from the moon! I rolled over about 4 a.m. and faced west. Just a few feet from our bed is a window. The moon was shining very brightly last night! Woke me up twice.
No school today????
Well, back in the day we'd walk 10 miles to school; uphill both ways; 25 foot snowdrifts; sniper fire...
What is going on?
Oh well.
Kedra, Luke, and I are were/are going to Indy today to meet Lester and Maddie and take them a load of wood for their fire place. Looks like now we will add: another vehicle, two more people (Rebecca and Ben), and considerably more expense (gas and food). It's a nice little bonus though: all my kids together again.
Speaking of favorite Christmas gifts... (I know we weren't but I needed a transition.)
I gotta gotta gotta Garmin (PR 50) running watch. I love it! It has a foot pod that measures distance (seems remarkably accurate and can be calibrated for even better accuracy; something I am going to do soon) and a heartrate monitor.
I have been intrigued by my heart rate. I've been reading a fair amount about training efficiency and maximum heart rates, etc. I've had a few runs where I have pretty well hit what should be my maximum rate of about 180; it's usually going up big hills.
[Kedra did not find the following amusing.] I was telling Kedra that a lot of people run with heart rate monitors, so there has to be someone who has died while running with one. I told her I looked at my watch and saw 180 and then thought, "what if I have a heart attack and die? That sure would make for some interesting data: 180 to 0 in no time flat." I thought it was funny.
After a run the watch automatically sends the data to my computer via a USB receiver. I then upload that to a website that analyzes everything. It's pretty cool.
I am running with the Let's Go training group now, preparing for the Indy Mini Marathon (13.1 miles) in May. I'm really enjoying it. They are pushing me pretty hard, which is what I need.
OK, here is some really bad humor. I received this from Diane S.; just passing it on.
Where Do You Find a Dog With No Legs?
Right Where You Left Him.
What's The Difference Between a Bad Golfer And a Bad Skydiver?
A Bad Golfer Goes, Whack , Dang!
A Bad Skydiver Goes Dang! Whack .
Why Don't Blind People Like To Sky Dive?
Because It Scares The Dog.
[And for all you blind people and dogs reading this: no offense intended. It's just a joke.
Here's something encouraging:
We had 165 people assembled in various LIFE Groups last Sunday evening. Wow!
Is there school today? ha ha
Yesterday ended up being considerably different than I thought it was going to be.
Once the kids got up and realized there was no school and that there might be enough snow to go sled riding they decided to stay home. Luke decided to stay home also, so Kedra and I went by ourselves to Indy, which was nice.
We had a good time with Maddie and Lester. They seem to be doing well. I told Kedra, "I feel old - going to visit a married child." Oh well...
I have a lot of work to do today; getting ready for Sunday.
Have you sensed a real shift in the way people are thinking presently? It seems to me that people are making a move back to the basics. I hear people talk about cutting out this and cutting out that, all in an effort to live within their means.
This is a good thing.
I think our text this week is a lot about that. It is about setting a foundational mind-set of remembering the basics.
What do you think?
I think the recent downturn will do what God wants us to do and that is return to the basics. Ask if it is really necessary for life, will life go on just fine without it. I too get really upset with the Bush bashing from the media. Never before have I seen so much ire focused on a good man who did the best he could. I think it reflects on a force that is determined to destroy us as a nation who looks to God for answers and the belittling of religion is everywhere. Even Oprah, who has done so much good, in a rediculous interpretation of Spirituality this week was way off and people follow her blindly. I know the buck stops at the leader but he was given bad advice and this downturn started before he came into office from decisions made long ago when the greed became evident when policies were made that sent our manufacturing overseas and opened up the housing market to those unable to maintain their commitment. This was due to greedy mortgagees and banks. AIG used underhanded ways of doing business to show a profit without backing up their commitments. All for more and better. I think we can all take a lesson from the events in the past year by looking deeply into ourselves and finding what is really important. God,Family and others. Off the box now. Have a wonderful and blessed day. Sherron
Wow, I've gotten away from the blogging world during my solitude. It's been nice :) First of all, you are old. You said it first, not me. But I don't think I could run a mini right now, so I better watch my mouth!
It was good to spend the day with Luke Wednesday. I hope it was a benefit to him and his contemplation of a career path. The fellowship was great for me!
I really like your text for this week. It is a good thing to draw focus away from rules and commands and remember that worship, tithing, and service is all about bring glory to God and loving him as Christ loves him. I can't say it is even loving him that much. It is soooo hard to get our minds around that concept, as embedded in this world as we can be sometimes.
Regarding the Sodom and Gomorrah text, I'm not sure I agree with the idea of God having "limits". God has a standard of holiness, which is Christ. Humans fall woefully short of that. His sacrifice paid the price for us. So to say God has "limits" on what is "enough" is possibly to say that a certain human standard is good enough to earn grace? That line of thinking is how many Christians live, although they may not realize their theology actually states that. I see many parallels with the Sodom and the exile of Israel and Judah. Not all were wicked, but there was a widespread trampling of God's law (a different "law" of course during Genesis 18). That is what the Hebrew word for "forsaking" really is about.
Ever watch back stairs at the white house? I think thats what its called. Its an old movie/series about genrations of people who work in the white house and go through many different presidents. Its worth watching. What I remember the best is one president, Taft I think (could be wrong) was an honest president but was totally misled on purpose by his advisors and I remember the look on his face when he realized what was going on. So he got a bad rap when it wasn't him personally at all.
As far as Bush goes, I think maybe what he is experiencing maybe cause and effect. Didn't it come out that the ballots were tampered with in florida, which allowed him to win the election dishonestly? Sure he got in but maybe this is the backlash from cheating to get elected. I could be wrong but thats whats going through my mind. And Allen feel free to delete this if it would/could cause people to get upset by it.
Going back to the basic's is so freeing. Not fun though or easy by any means. But the result is less things to think/worry about. I still feel very rich and on top of the world when I am able to buy groceries and stock the house with food, such a great feeling. Such a thankful feeling. And it still doesn't come very often.
I remember the hardest choice I had while raising my babies was...milk or medicine...not really a choice at all. Don't know how we ever lived through that. It happened many times though, that choice. So, Mr Bill you will have to wait a while if my grandchildren are faced with milk or medicine.
Annette
Still wrestling/struggling with Sunday's sermon; trying not to get frustrated.
While I let my brain cool off for a little bit, allow me to say a couple of things about the much appreciated activity here. I love having others share comments.
I want to say to Annette that your insight is probably right. I personally think the president was elected fairly, but the mainstream media does not. This is probably in part their motivation for their continued negativity.
Jason, I think you may have misunderstood, or maybe I misunderstand. There is a time when the "cup of the Ammorites is full," and when the people must be exiled, and when we shake the dust off, and when people choose to go to hell, etc.
I do not believe that all will be saved. Salvation is limited. Clearly it is limited by human choice. If I choose not to believe or even behave, then aren't there consequences (limitations)?
Yes, we are saved by grace, but grace cannot be cheapened or turned into a ticket to sin. It covers a multitude of sins but not the rebellious resistance to God's will.
Luke had a great time "shadowing" you. I think he would love to do what you do. We really appreciate your taking time with him. You are a great role model in numerous ways. Thanks!
I definitely agree with you there Allen. Not all will be saved, ther are limitations, and grace is not a free ticket. I hope my words didn't suggest that. I believe that in a general sense though, the knowledge in the Christian community that grace is there as a gift can create two dangerous lines of thought. 1)grace is there because God loves us and nothing I do or don't do will change that, and 2) I've got to do enough to earn that grace, which is why I mentioned the "limits" before. I don't buy into either. Grace is an outpouring of love, a justful and rightous and jealous and loving God desiring relationship with his people, not the obeying of rules. Relationship with God will naturally drive us to do holy things because that is our show of love to Him and draws us even closer. We can never earn that. Without it we are lost, but there isn't a certain level of holiness we can reach to all of a sudden be good enough.
Having said that though, I also believe that as humans, it is painfully natural to gravitate toward one of two ideas. I know many along the line of thought #2, and I firmly believe they have the gift of God's grace in them and the Holy Spirit, because their heart desires God too.
As far as the exile goes, I'd love to discuss that with you more later...
I think maybe the differences we see here come down to where the limit is. To say grace cannot cover or God has put a limit on what is good enough to to limit God. That's not possible. But like I said before, God's standard is Christ, which we will not acheive in this humanly form. We have to take steps to allow ourself to be covered though, that is free will. He is always knocking at the door, but we must open it and let him in. Right?
I read about an idea in this week's Christian Standard about giving and living graciously. Check it out:
http://www.christianstandard.com/articledisplay.asp?id=1113
I really love the offering time during worship. I enjoy looking around, not to see what people give, but the outpouring of love as we give back.
Admittedly though, I struggle sometimes with the "business" side of the offering. Mortgages, utilities, bills, etc, must be paid. It can tend to distract from the knowledge that our offerings are to God.
Then I remember that God doesn't need our money. God didn't need the offerings and animal sacrifices in Deuteronomy either. He wanted the thankful hearts, the outpouring of generosity from his people to know that they were His and He was theirs. He still wants that today. The money is a corporate necessity that helps to make our love tangible. But even if the money dries up and the building closes its doors, God will still want it from each of us, not our money, but the the thankful hearts that go along with it.
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