These opposing character qualities receive a lot of attention in Scripture. Proverbs has a lot to say about the dangers of pride. Every major prophet and most minor prophets write against pride. Jesus speaks about pride vs. humility. Paul teaches us that "love is not proud". Peter and James warn us that "God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble."
If you want real life examples of both character qualities, read the stories of Judah's kings in the last few chapters of II Chronicles. I have just finished reading them again. King Uzziah was a great, good king until "his pride led to his downfall." II Chron. 26:16 Manasseh was an ungodly, terrible king who deserved what he got - beaten in battle, shackled and imprisoned. But then "In his distress he --- humbled himself greatly". God heard his prayer and rescued him. 33:10
King Amon: "unlike his father Manasseh, he did not humble himself before the Lord." 33:23 King Josiah finds favour with God "Because your heart was responsive and you humbled yourself before God."34:27
This is not an exhaustive list of examples. But they are great positive and negative models of pride and humility. God has made us to need Him and to need others. Pride says "I don't need anybody. I am the master of my soul. I am the captain of my fate." (Hmmm, I think I messed up that Invictus quote) God made us to be God centred. Pride moves us to be "me centred". God invites us to pray for and trust Him for wisdom and power. Pride says "I am wise enough and I can accomplish whatever I set my mind to."
Many people would argue that pride is the most fundamental of sins and the number one sin that prevents people from following Jesus.
I first identified pride and its ugly effects in me as a Christian teen. What has ensued over the decades has been a constant battle to respond to God and Scripture, to reject pride and to embrace humility. It certainly does not come naturally. I am quite expert in identifying pride in others because it has been such an invidious companion all my life. Gradually with God's grace humility has grown and pride has diminished. Yet the struggle between pride and humility is still strong in my life.
If indeed "God opposes the proud and gives grace to the humble" then we all want to pursue humility, don't we? It would be good to pray for ourselves; our religious leaders; and our political leaders that we all will be wise enough to pursue humility. Do you want God's grace or his opposition?
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
SHOPPING ALERT REPORT
In many stores the prices are fixed. You can try to bargain or haggle, but often the salesperson/shop owner won't budge even 5,000 dong (25 cents). On the other hand you have to stay alert because on some items they might half the price if you haggle.
Right now Jan is in NYC awaiting our third grandchild's arrival. I decided to serve fresh pineapple to our small group last night, so in the afternoon I walked the three blocks to our local market. The first stall I approached decided to ask for 20,000 dong per pineapple. He thought I was an uninformed, unsuspecting foreigner. I told him what I would pay and he refused. I walked ten meters away and paid the going rate, 10,000 dong each. For two pineapples that meant I paid one dollar instead of two dollars. Wouldn't it be nice if they were that cheap in Canada?
On another fresh fruit note: when we first arrived I bought nice oranges for $2 a kilo and saw larger ones selling for almost $3 a kilo. In the last two months, the cheaper oranges have disappeared. They must be out of season. The more expensive, large oranges are still available. When I looked closely at the small, individual stickers on each orange, I noticed they are marked "imported from California". Amazing! Just like in Alberta or Ontario.
I mentioned this to a veteran expat the other day. She smiled and said, "of course they may not be from California". Of course! Those oranges may be from China - but folks here don't want fruit and vegetables from China. So maybe the label was made in Vietnam that says California but was stuck onto Chinese fruit. Confusing?
Authenticity? You can't be sure that the shirt I bought for $5 with the Nike symbol and Nike label is really from Nike. Shopping for a carry on suitcase last week for Jan's trip, we looked at one with the Samsonite label, costing $35, and another costing $55. I asked why the difference in price. Without flinching, the shop owner said "The cheaper one is a copy, the other is an original." I should have figured that out myself!
So shopping here is pretty easy - but "the buyer better be aware!"
Right now Jan is in NYC awaiting our third grandchild's arrival. I decided to serve fresh pineapple to our small group last night, so in the afternoon I walked the three blocks to our local market. The first stall I approached decided to ask for 20,000 dong per pineapple. He thought I was an uninformed, unsuspecting foreigner. I told him what I would pay and he refused. I walked ten meters away and paid the going rate, 10,000 dong each. For two pineapples that meant I paid one dollar instead of two dollars. Wouldn't it be nice if they were that cheap in Canada?
On another fresh fruit note: when we first arrived I bought nice oranges for $2 a kilo and saw larger ones selling for almost $3 a kilo. In the last two months, the cheaper oranges have disappeared. They must be out of season. The more expensive, large oranges are still available. When I looked closely at the small, individual stickers on each orange, I noticed they are marked "imported from California". Amazing! Just like in Alberta or Ontario.
I mentioned this to a veteran expat the other day. She smiled and said, "of course they may not be from California". Of course! Those oranges may be from China - but folks here don't want fruit and vegetables from China. So maybe the label was made in Vietnam that says California but was stuck onto Chinese fruit. Confusing?
Authenticity? You can't be sure that the shirt I bought for $5 with the Nike symbol and Nike label is really from Nike. Shopping for a carry on suitcase last week for Jan's trip, we looked at one with the Samsonite label, costing $35, and another costing $55. I asked why the difference in price. Without flinching, the shop owner said "The cheaper one is a copy, the other is an original." I should have figured that out myself!
So shopping here is pretty easy - but "the buyer better be aware!"
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
LOCKED IN
There are a couple of notable things about church buildings here. The three in which I have worshipped, all have their sanctuary on the second floor. Granted this is a small sampling but I think I've driven by others built this way. Why? I have not asked but it may be to avoid flooding during rainy season. Or perhaps it is to provide more space than if the sanctuary were on the first floor.
In this city by the way, when people expand their buildings they go up, not out. I am told that property tax is based on the size of your ground floor. Therefore if your house is enlarged by adding a second, third or fourth floor, your taxes will not increase. Our young tutor told us just last week that she hopes to earn enough money to soon help her parents add a second floor to their old, small house.
The other notable thing is that security, even during services, is very important. Many city buildings have walls 2 or 3 meters high around them. When the gate is open, they normally have a guard on duty. So it is with two of the three churches we have visited.
Sunday I visited one of these churches. Following the service there was coffee and juice and most people stayed to visit. With a couple of others however, I was fairly quick to leave. When I got downstairs and outside, I found that we three early departees were going nowhere. The gate was closed and locked, and it was the only exit. Apparently the guard was taking a break and thought the church was having lunch, so just left the gate locked.
Fortunately he was summoned and quite quickly the gate was opened and the three of us were freed to go. Out I went to flag a taxi and head home.
Hmmm, I wonder if this would work in Canada - lock the front doors until the service is finished no matter how long (and today's service was 2 hours plus)? Might not be very visitor friendly and the fire department might be a little concerned. On the other hand, preachers do like to have a captive audience.
In this city by the way, when people expand their buildings they go up, not out. I am told that property tax is based on the size of your ground floor. Therefore if your house is enlarged by adding a second, third or fourth floor, your taxes will not increase. Our young tutor told us just last week that she hopes to earn enough money to soon help her parents add a second floor to their old, small house.
The other notable thing is that security, even during services, is very important. Many city buildings have walls 2 or 3 meters high around them. When the gate is open, they normally have a guard on duty. So it is with two of the three churches we have visited.
Sunday I visited one of these churches. Following the service there was coffee and juice and most people stayed to visit. With a couple of others however, I was fairly quick to leave. When I got downstairs and outside, I found that we three early departees were going nowhere. The gate was closed and locked, and it was the only exit. Apparently the guard was taking a break and thought the church was having lunch, so just left the gate locked.
Fortunately he was summoned and quite quickly the gate was opened and the three of us were freed to go. Out I went to flag a taxi and head home.
Hmmm, I wonder if this would work in Canada - lock the front doors until the service is finished no matter how long (and today's service was 2 hours plus)? Might not be very visitor friendly and the fire department might be a little concerned. On the other hand, preachers do like to have a captive audience.
Sunday, March 27, 2011
INFLUENCE IS POWER
Who is the most influential in your life? With whom do you have significant influence? These are important questions. If we know the answer, we will know first what kind of person you are becoming and second we will know how much impact you are having through others.
Influence is power. Some people think they power comes when you attain a certain position: in a company, group or church. What they often discover is that after gaining a position or title, a bigger salary or office, someone else has the most influence and therefore the most power.
Influence is leadership. Leading a group, church or company because of your position is a very weak kine of leadership. You become the leader in name only. The one who truly leads is the one with the most influence.
The power of influence and leadership is neutral. Witness the example of young, 22 year old King Ahaziah who was influenced to do evil, first by his mother Athaliah and then by his father's advisors. II Chronicles 24:3,4
King Joash was even younger (age seven) when he was placed on the throne. Fortunately, his uncle, Jehoida was a priest with great influence over Joash and others. So the Chronicler records that "Joash did what was right in the eyes of the Lord all the years of Jehoida the priest." II Chron. 24:2 Although he was "only a priest", Jehoida had huge power, the power of influence - for good and for God.
Then Jehoida died and others influenced Joash away from God and into evil. Joash changed so drastically that he had Jehoida's son Zechariah killed when he tried to influence him for good.
II Chron. 24:21,22
One more example: King Uzziah was a great and godly king for many years. One major reason was because he was taught and influenced by the prophet Zechariah.
Why do I mention all of this? Because many of us do not hold positions of power. But if we are friends with; working for or with: related to those who are in positions of power, we should not underestimate our influence. Are you an influence for good with those who hold posits? Could you be wasting your influence because you are not sharing your thoughts and perspectives with the one who might put them into action?
Though it is not a factor mentioned with these kings, only God knows how much influence you may have through prayer? Influence is power, it is leadership. Use your influence wisely and take note of those (or that media) which is most influencing you.
Influence is power. Some people think they power comes when you attain a certain position: in a company, group or church. What they often discover is that after gaining a position or title, a bigger salary or office, someone else has the most influence and therefore the most power.
Influence is leadership. Leading a group, church or company because of your position is a very weak kine of leadership. You become the leader in name only. The one who truly leads is the one with the most influence.
The power of influence and leadership is neutral. Witness the example of young, 22 year old King Ahaziah who was influenced to do evil, first by his mother Athaliah and then by his father's advisors. II Chronicles 24:3,4
King Joash was even younger (age seven) when he was placed on the throne. Fortunately, his uncle, Jehoida was a priest with great influence over Joash and others. So the Chronicler records that "Joash did what was right in the eyes of the Lord all the years of Jehoida the priest." II Chron. 24:2 Although he was "only a priest", Jehoida had huge power, the power of influence - for good and for God.
Then Jehoida died and others influenced Joash away from God and into evil. Joash changed so drastically that he had Jehoida's son Zechariah killed when he tried to influence him for good.
II Chron. 24:21,22
One more example: King Uzziah was a great and godly king for many years. One major reason was because he was taught and influenced by the prophet Zechariah.
Why do I mention all of this? Because many of us do not hold positions of power. But if we are friends with; working for or with: related to those who are in positions of power, we should not underestimate our influence. Are you an influence for good with those who hold posits? Could you be wasting your influence because you are not sharing your thoughts and perspectives with the one who might put them into action?
Though it is not a factor mentioned with these kings, only God knows how much influence you may have through prayer? Influence is power, it is leadership. Use your influence wisely and take note of those (or that media) which is most influencing you.
Saturday, March 26, 2011
NO TEARS WERE SHED
I have conducted many funerals over the years. I have heard many tributes given by friends and family members of those who have passed away. It is intriguing to hear what is said - and what is left unsaid. Especially if I have not know the person well, or at all - I have been most interested to hear what is said about her or his life.
Writing about the death of Old Testament kings, sometimes little or nothing is said. On the other hand for King Hezekiah, the author notes "all Judah and the people of Jerusalem honoured him when he died"; and about King Josiah the author notes that "all Judah and Jerusalem mourned for him" and that "Jeremiah composed laments for Josiah". II Chronicles 35:24,25
On the other hand in one phrase, the same author makes a devastating summary comment about King Jehoram who ruled Judah. After eight years of miserable leadership, it is written: "He passed away to no one's regret"! Imagine! What a tragic life summary! In the Message, Peterson paraphrases it this way "No tears were shed - good riddance." II Chronicles 21:20
It is a thought provoking question: "What will people say at your funeral?" Of course at most funerals nice things are said and the failures of the deceased are not mentioned. For most of us, when we pass away, the response will likely be something between an entire country mourning and "to no one's regret". But what will people say, or at least think about your life when you die? I remember one funeral I conducted for a man I had met only briefly. The most important thing said about him was that he loved to golf! Imagine! What a sad, empty legacy.
You may not be well known, but if you love and serve people in Jesus name, there will be some who mourn and will regret your passing. You will leave a legacy in their lives.
Writing about the death of Old Testament kings, sometimes little or nothing is said. On the other hand for King Hezekiah, the author notes "all Judah and the people of Jerusalem honoured him when he died"; and about King Josiah the author notes that "all Judah and Jerusalem mourned for him" and that "Jeremiah composed laments for Josiah". II Chronicles 35:24,25
On the other hand in one phrase, the same author makes a devastating summary comment about King Jehoram who ruled Judah. After eight years of miserable leadership, it is written: "He passed away to no one's regret"! Imagine! What a tragic life summary! In the Message, Peterson paraphrases it this way "No tears were shed - good riddance." II Chronicles 21:20
It is a thought provoking question: "What will people say at your funeral?" Of course at most funerals nice things are said and the failures of the deceased are not mentioned. For most of us, when we pass away, the response will likely be something between an entire country mourning and "to no one's regret". But what will people say, or at least think about your life when you die? I remember one funeral I conducted for a man I had met only briefly. The most important thing said about him was that he loved to golf! Imagine! What a sad, empty legacy.
You may not be well known, but if you love and serve people in Jesus name, there will be some who mourn and will regret your passing. You will leave a legacy in their lives.
Friday, March 25, 2011
THE BOOK IS IMPORTANT
The King sent a large delegation of important men to visit all the towns of Judah. Like other kings, he might have sent them to collect from the people: taxes, tithes, sacrifices. But he didn't. Like other kings, he might have sent them to deliver his latest set of commands, declarations or boasts. But he didn't.
Jehoshaphat sent his representatives to all the towns of Judah - to teach them. In fact they were to teach the people the Book of the Law of the Lord, and they did. The Book of the Law was the Bible of that day, most likely what we now know as the Pentateuch, the first five books of our Old Testament. (II Chronicles 17)
The king knew the history of his people. They were surrounded by nations and peoples who worshipped numerous gods in a variety of ways. For some reason, they were repeatedly attracted to other religions. Often in the past they had tried to worship God while they also actively participated in other religions. When they did this, they would of course borrow, switch, confuse and mess up. Before long they would become spiritually confused about the truth even if they wanted to do it.
Jehoshaphat realized that the Jews needed to have an accurate understanding of God and of what He really offered to his people. They needed to know what God commanded and expected from His people. They did not have personal scrolls of Scripture. What they needed was someone with the Word of God to teach them God's truth; to remind them of what God expected; to challenge them to loyal commitment and obedience.
Today we are surrounded by many religions and many anti-religions. We mingle daily among people with beliefs far different from what the Bible teaches. If we try to live on memory, or tradition, we will soon have a confused view of God and of the Christian life. We dare not expect to follow Christ well without regular reading of Scripture and the receiving of solid, life relevant teaching from Scripture. Healthy Christian faith communities place a strong emphasis on knowing and obeying Scripture. Healthy individual Christians do the same.
Jehoshaphat sent his representatives to all the towns of Judah - to teach them. In fact they were to teach the people the Book of the Law of the Lord, and they did. The Book of the Law was the Bible of that day, most likely what we now know as the Pentateuch, the first five books of our Old Testament. (II Chronicles 17)
The king knew the history of his people. They were surrounded by nations and peoples who worshipped numerous gods in a variety of ways. For some reason, they were repeatedly attracted to other religions. Often in the past they had tried to worship God while they also actively participated in other religions. When they did this, they would of course borrow, switch, confuse and mess up. Before long they would become spiritually confused about the truth even if they wanted to do it.
Jehoshaphat realized that the Jews needed to have an accurate understanding of God and of what He really offered to his people. They needed to know what God commanded and expected from His people. They did not have personal scrolls of Scripture. What they needed was someone with the Word of God to teach them God's truth; to remind them of what God expected; to challenge them to loyal commitment and obedience.
Today we are surrounded by many religions and many anti-religions. We mingle daily among people with beliefs far different from what the Bible teaches. If we try to live on memory, or tradition, we will soon have a confused view of God and of the Christian life. We dare not expect to follow Christ well without regular reading of Scripture and the receiving of solid, life relevant teaching from Scripture. Healthy Christian faith communities place a strong emphasis on knowing and obeying Scripture. Healthy individual Christians do the same.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
SORRY OR MORE?
Sometimes we who know the Bible fail to communicate as well as we should. Or, because we want to make things as easy as possible, we emphasize the positive that we fail to provide balanced biblical truth.
I was challenged about this when I read the temple dedication prayer of King Solomon in II Chronicles 6:14 - 42. He asks God to be ready to forgive when the people of Israel come to the temple and pray. His theology is solid. He does not simply ask God to forgive them when they say "I am sorry." Their must be more than this.
Too often I fear I and others have told people they must tell God that they are sorry for their sin. That is good but it is not enough. Many, in fact all people are sorry for some things. We can be sorry we have been caught, sorry that this is embarrassing, sorry that I have hurt you. But God expects more than just being sorry. And Solomon knew this 3,000 years ago.
Here are a sampling of his words in this prayer. "when they turn back and confess your name; when they pray toward this place and confess your name and turn from their sin; when they sin against you - for there is no one who does not sin --- if they have a change of heart --- and repent and plead with you --- and say "we have sinned, we have done wrong and acted wickedly, and if they turn back to you with all their heart and soul"
Please note that Solomon expects people who are sincerely sorry for their sin against God to change their behaviour and their loyalty. So he uses "turn back or turn from" and phrases that speak of serious commitment like "confess your name, change of heart, all their heart and soul."
God gives forgiveness freely now as He did back then - but only to those who are serious and sincere enough in their confession of "sorry" to turn from their sin and turn to God. Solomon understood. The "sorry" God wants from all of us comes from the heart and will, and is connected with change - of loyalty to God instead of myself; of rejecting sin and embracing obedience to God.
When I confess my sin, I must be also rejecting it rather than expecting to repeat it tomorrow. And then I need to ask for God's help tomorrow so I can I resist the temptation to repeat.
Saying "sorry" is just not enough. Of course this is also often true in human relationships as well. But that is another blog.
I was challenged about this when I read the temple dedication prayer of King Solomon in II Chronicles 6:14 - 42. He asks God to be ready to forgive when the people of Israel come to the temple and pray. His theology is solid. He does not simply ask God to forgive them when they say "I am sorry." Their must be more than this.
Too often I fear I and others have told people they must tell God that they are sorry for their sin. That is good but it is not enough. Many, in fact all people are sorry for some things. We can be sorry we have been caught, sorry that this is embarrassing, sorry that I have hurt you. But God expects more than just being sorry. And Solomon knew this 3,000 years ago.
Here are a sampling of his words in this prayer. "when they turn back and confess your name; when they pray toward this place and confess your name and turn from their sin; when they sin against you - for there is no one who does not sin --- if they have a change of heart --- and repent and plead with you --- and say "we have sinned, we have done wrong and acted wickedly, and if they turn back to you with all their heart and soul"
Please note that Solomon expects people who are sincerely sorry for their sin against God to change their behaviour and their loyalty. So he uses "turn back or turn from" and phrases that speak of serious commitment like "confess your name, change of heart, all their heart and soul."
God gives forgiveness freely now as He did back then - but only to those who are serious and sincere enough in their confession of "sorry" to turn from their sin and turn to God. Solomon understood. The "sorry" God wants from all of us comes from the heart and will, and is connected with change - of loyalty to God instead of myself; of rejecting sin and embracing obedience to God.
When I confess my sin, I must be also rejecting it rather than expecting to repeat it tomorrow. And then I need to ask for God's help tomorrow so I can I resist the temptation to repeat.
Saying "sorry" is just not enough. Of course this is also often true in human relationships as well. But that is another blog.
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
ITS NOT REALLY MINE
When Christmas comes, parents do more than buy presents for their children. They also give money to their children so the children can buy presents for their parents. Her parent(s) want her to learn to give. So they give their young daughter money to buy presents. She may be only four or five when she is brought to a store and encouraged to pick out presents for the family. Mother or father watch with pleasure as their daughter learns to choose gifts for others.
On Christmas Day, their little girl happily watches the family open presents she bought "with my own money". She has experienced the joy of giving and has begun to learn (we hope for life) that it is more blessed (and more fun) to give than to receive.
Of course the reality is she had nothing to give. She was only able to give because her mother or father had given to her. The money she spent for the gifts really belonged to her parent(s).
In preparation for the temple to be built in Jerusalem, King David gave a great deal of his fortune to the temple building fund. Then he called on others to follow his example in "consecrated" giving. And all the leaders in Israel gave generously. The people were filled with joy as they witnessed the generous giving of their King and tribal leaders. Then David led the people in praise and he prayed.
"But who am I, and who are my people, that we should be able to give as generously as this? Everything comes from you, and we have given you only what comes from your hand. --- it comes from your hand, and all of it belongs to you." I Chronicles 29:14 - 17
David knew it and so should we. Just like the child who gives presents purchased with money from her parents, we are able to give only because our Heavenly Father has given to us. It is not my tithe that belongs to God. It is myself and everything I have. No matter how generously I give to the work of God, I am giving back only what ultimately comes to from God. He is the owner, I am his manager, his dependent child.
This perspective should make me hold money loosely and give generously - 10% and often more, much more. "Everything I have Lord comes from you. When I give to the church, to a Christian NGO, to a needy person or family, I am giving only what came to me from you." We Christ followers should naturally be among the world's most generous people. And thankfully, sometimes we are.
On Christmas Day, their little girl happily watches the family open presents she bought "with my own money". She has experienced the joy of giving and has begun to learn (we hope for life) that it is more blessed (and more fun) to give than to receive.
Of course the reality is she had nothing to give. She was only able to give because her mother or father had given to her. The money she spent for the gifts really belonged to her parent(s).
In preparation for the temple to be built in Jerusalem, King David gave a great deal of his fortune to the temple building fund. Then he called on others to follow his example in "consecrated" giving. And all the leaders in Israel gave generously. The people were filled with joy as they witnessed the generous giving of their King and tribal leaders. Then David led the people in praise and he prayed.
"But who am I, and who are my people, that we should be able to give as generously as this? Everything comes from you, and we have given you only what comes from your hand. --- it comes from your hand, and all of it belongs to you." I Chronicles 29:14 - 17
David knew it and so should we. Just like the child who gives presents purchased with money from her parents, we are able to give only because our Heavenly Father has given to us. It is not my tithe that belongs to God. It is myself and everything I have. No matter how generously I give to the work of God, I am giving back only what ultimately comes to from God. He is the owner, I am his manager, his dependent child.
This perspective should make me hold money loosely and give generously - 10% and often more, much more. "Everything I have Lord comes from you. When I give to the church, to a Christian NGO, to a needy person or family, I am giving only what came to me from you." We Christ followers should naturally be among the world's most generous people. And thankfully, sometimes we are.
Sunday, March 20, 2011
GOD KNOWS
King David challenged his son, Solomon, to serve God "with wholehearted devotion and with a willing mind, for the Lord searches every heart and understands every motive behind the thoughts." I Chronicles 28:9 You can't hide from God. You can't hide your thoughts from God. You can't even hide your twisted motives from God.
Scary, isn't it? No one on earth knows how bad you are. No one knows that when you make a noble sacrifice or serve humbly, it actually makes you feel proud, or that you are doing this only because others see you and are impressed. Every evil thing within you is as exposed to God as your actions may be to a security camera.
Comforting, isn't it? If God knows everything about my inner self, I can be completely honest with Him. I might shock my closest friend, but God is never shocked when I confess my selfish motive or the ugly pride that lurks below the surface. God knows me as I really am - and loves me!
Amazing, isn't it? Jesus died on the cross to take the punishment for your sin, your disobedience to His holy law. Through faith in Him, you are forgiven. Forgiven for all of your sinful actions, words and even the the worst thoughts.
Yes David was right. He challenged Solomon to serve God loyally and fully because God would know if Solomon was going through the motions, just pretending to worship God. What David couldn't tell Solomon was that one day, when the Messiah would come, the perfect sacrifice for all open and hidden sins would be provided. We know and we rejoice.
Scary, isn't it? No one on earth knows how bad you are. No one knows that when you make a noble sacrifice or serve humbly, it actually makes you feel proud, or that you are doing this only because others see you and are impressed. Every evil thing within you is as exposed to God as your actions may be to a security camera.
Comforting, isn't it? If God knows everything about my inner self, I can be completely honest with Him. I might shock my closest friend, but God is never shocked when I confess my selfish motive or the ugly pride that lurks below the surface. God knows me as I really am - and loves me!
Amazing, isn't it? Jesus died on the cross to take the punishment for your sin, your disobedience to His holy law. Through faith in Him, you are forgiven. Forgiven for all of your sinful actions, words and even the the worst thoughts.
Yes David was right. He challenged Solomon to serve God loyally and fully because God would know if Solomon was going through the motions, just pretending to worship God. What David couldn't tell Solomon was that one day, when the Messiah would come, the perfect sacrifice for all open and hidden sins would be provided. We know and we rejoice.
BASKETBALL AND LIFE
"I've been playing basketball my whole life and I know I shouldn't have done that. It was a stupid play," Robinson said. "It wasn't the ref's fault. It was my fault." His university basketball career is over, and he has to live with that sad fact.
They call it March Madness in the USA. The best university teams come together over three weeks to declare one ultimate winner. One of the favourite teams this year was Pitt. Unfortunately they just lost an early game by one point. Lost because in the last second of the game, one of their best players needlessly fouled the other team. After the game, near tears, he took full responsibility as seen in the memorable quote above.
Have you been following Christ for a long time, nearly "your whole life". It doesn't matter. You are still vulnerable to making a stupid play, making a mistake, committing sin that can cause a great deal to be lost.
Think about it. One stupid mistake can cost an important basketball game or cost thousands of dollars. Because of one stupid mistake some have lost a job, a ministry, a career, a marriage. One stupid mistake has put some people in prison and for others it has resulted in death.
None of us are immune from mistakes - or sin. So the Lord taught us to pray "lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil. So Paul reminds us that there are no unique temptations; God is faithful and provides a way out so we don't have to succumb to temptation and sin. (I Corinthians 10:13) So Peter reminds us "Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. (I Peter 5:8)
A lost basketball game is one thing. A sin, any sin, could prove very costly. So as Peter wrote: "Be self controlled and alert!"
They call it March Madness in the USA. The best university teams come together over three weeks to declare one ultimate winner. One of the favourite teams this year was Pitt. Unfortunately they just lost an early game by one point. Lost because in the last second of the game, one of their best players needlessly fouled the other team. After the game, near tears, he took full responsibility as seen in the memorable quote above.
Have you been following Christ for a long time, nearly "your whole life". It doesn't matter. You are still vulnerable to making a stupid play, making a mistake, committing sin that can cause a great deal to be lost.
Think about it. One stupid mistake can cost an important basketball game or cost thousands of dollars. Because of one stupid mistake some have lost a job, a ministry, a career, a marriage. One stupid mistake has put some people in prison and for others it has resulted in death.
None of us are immune from mistakes - or sin. So the Lord taught us to pray "lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil. So Paul reminds us that there are no unique temptations; God is faithful and provides a way out so we don't have to succumb to temptation and sin. (I Corinthians 10:13) So Peter reminds us "Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. (I Peter 5:8)
A lost basketball game is one thing. A sin, any sin, could prove very costly. So as Peter wrote: "Be self controlled and alert!"
Saturday, March 19, 2011
DENTAL WORK IN VIETNAM
I chipped a couple of teeth recently. Nothing serious but thought I'd better have them checked. Like most large cities around the world, here there are international/western medical clinics that cater to foreigners - tourists and residents.
I was pleased to find here in Ho Chi Minh a dental clinic established by a Chinese dentist from Canada. When I went on their website I found that they advertise expert care at less cost than you will pay in most countries. I have read about "tourist medical care" that causes Westerners to fly to places like Bangalore or Bangkok for expert care at much reduced costs. However I was surprised to find dental care being offered here with the same advantage.
I called their office and was given an appointment for the next day. The staff are almost all Vietnamese, well trained and using very modern equipment. They all speak some English and most are quite fluent.
In many ways the dental care offered was similar to my experiences in Canada. Two notable things were new to my dental experience. The dentist had just started the examination when she interrupted to tell me to lift my head. I was given a pillow to make me more comfortable. Much appreciated since I was about to spend 2&1/2 hours in the chair.
As the dentist was injecting the needles in preparation for the dental work, her assistant thumped a rhythm lightly on my chest, I assume to distract my mind from the pain of the needle. It wasn't needed since the injections were almost painless. But it was something new.
Given what the X-rays revealed, I am in the process of receiving two crowns and a root canal. I am grateful that we have medical insurance with the C&MA which covers 80% of the first $2,500 of dental care. Please remember as you give to the Alliance Global Advance fund, this is one of the many things provided for International Workers.
I won't tell you the total cost of these three lengthy procedures. However if you don't have dental insurance, you could fly here, enjoy a few days vacation, visit one of your favourite pastors and his wife, have similar dental work done - and spend about the same total amount as you would just for the dental work in Canada.
So when are you coming to visit us? (My apologies to any Canadian dentists who read this. You are still the greatest.)
I was pleased to find here in Ho Chi Minh a dental clinic established by a Chinese dentist from Canada. When I went on their website I found that they advertise expert care at less cost than you will pay in most countries. I have read about "tourist medical care" that causes Westerners to fly to places like Bangalore or Bangkok for expert care at much reduced costs. However I was surprised to find dental care being offered here with the same advantage.
I called their office and was given an appointment for the next day. The staff are almost all Vietnamese, well trained and using very modern equipment. They all speak some English and most are quite fluent.
In many ways the dental care offered was similar to my experiences in Canada. Two notable things were new to my dental experience. The dentist had just started the examination when she interrupted to tell me to lift my head. I was given a pillow to make me more comfortable. Much appreciated since I was about to spend 2&1/2 hours in the chair.
As the dentist was injecting the needles in preparation for the dental work, her assistant thumped a rhythm lightly on my chest, I assume to distract my mind from the pain of the needle. It wasn't needed since the injections were almost painless. But it was something new.
Given what the X-rays revealed, I am in the process of receiving two crowns and a root canal. I am grateful that we have medical insurance with the C&MA which covers 80% of the first $2,500 of dental care. Please remember as you give to the Alliance Global Advance fund, this is one of the many things provided for International Workers.
I won't tell you the total cost of these three lengthy procedures. However if you don't have dental insurance, you could fly here, enjoy a few days vacation, visit one of your favourite pastors and his wife, have similar dental work done - and spend about the same total amount as you would just for the dental work in Canada.
So when are you coming to visit us? (My apologies to any Canadian dentists who read this. You are still the greatest.)
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
SOMETHING IN THE GENEALOGIES
I tend to skim the genealogies when I come to them in Scripture; in fact this morning I skimmed through the first nine chapters of I Chronicles. However while skimming, which I think is completely acceptable (unless you are doing intensive study on Israel's history), you have to watch for the occasional "pearl" and pause to appreciate it.
This morning I paused several times, even though I kind of ignored the famous Prayer of Jabez. I noted sadly, that you can be brave and famous and fail to follow God. (5:24, 25) I noted that God is always in control even when terrible things happen like the people of Judah and Jerusalem being taken captive by a pagan king and deported to Babylon. (6:15)
But most notable for me this morning was the fact that "the God of Israel stirred up the spirit of Pul, king of Assyria." (5:26) The text does not simply note that Pul took some Israelites captive into exile. Rather it emphasizes God at work, stirring the spirit of a king who worships only idols (as far as we know).
It reminds us not only of God's sovereignty but also that we never know in whom God is working. Or who God is using to accomplish His purposes. He is not limited to only those who believe in Him (since some of us either aren't sensitive to His leading, or refuse to obey, or both). You never know who God may be using to accomplish His purpose.
I know these are not new observations, but I love finding them in the midst of mostly boring genealogy lists. Never limit God and never claim to know exactly what God is doing. We really don't want to, and we really can't put the God of the universe in a box.
This morning I paused several times, even though I kind of ignored the famous Prayer of Jabez. I noted sadly, that you can be brave and famous and fail to follow God. (5:24, 25) I noted that God is always in control even when terrible things happen like the people of Judah and Jerusalem being taken captive by a pagan king and deported to Babylon. (6:15)
But most notable for me this morning was the fact that "the God of Israel stirred up the spirit of Pul, king of Assyria." (5:26) The text does not simply note that Pul took some Israelites captive into exile. Rather it emphasizes God at work, stirring the spirit of a king who worships only idols (as far as we know).
It reminds us not only of God's sovereignty but also that we never know in whom God is working. Or who God is using to accomplish His purposes. He is not limited to only those who believe in Him (since some of us either aren't sensitive to His leading, or refuse to obey, or both). You never know who God may be using to accomplish His purpose.
I know these are not new observations, but I love finding them in the midst of mostly boring genealogy lists. Never limit God and never claim to know exactly what God is doing. We really don't want to, and we really can't put the God of the universe in a box.
AMAZING BIBLICAL CONTRASTS
The Bible certainly provides plenty of contrasting characters. In God's Story Book, he often presents the good, bad and the ugly. We are reminded that God is in control at all times, no matter what choices humans make. I was arrested in my morning reading today (II Kings 21 - 23) by the contrast between two kings of Israel, Manasseh and Josiah. They appear so closely together in Scripture and in history.
Grandfather Manasseh had a flawed but mostly godly father. But Manasseh was as evil a king as Judah ever had. He is described as doing evil, doing much evil and leading the people into more evil than the nations God had destroyed as the Israelites entered the Promised Land. His promotion of pagan worship and his participation in their rituals extended to desecrating the temple and offering his son as a human sacrifice.
His grandson, Josiah, was only 8 years old when he took the throne, only two years after His grandfather's death. In contrast to his grandfather, he was totally committed to the Lord - "with all his heart and with all his soul and with all his strength". When it appeared that there was no hope of Judah returning to God, Josiah led the nation in an amazing revival. He was as godly a king as Judah ever had!
I paused to wonder how could two kings, grandfather and grandson, appearing so close together in Scripture and in history, be so totally different as people and as leaders.
I wondered how people in Canada, circa 1950, could be so radically different from the people of Canada, circa 2010? How could values, lifestyles, perspectives on right and wrong, change so drastically? Just pausing to wonder and wondering what God thinks.
Grandfather Manasseh had a flawed but mostly godly father. But Manasseh was as evil a king as Judah ever had. He is described as doing evil, doing much evil and leading the people into more evil than the nations God had destroyed as the Israelites entered the Promised Land. His promotion of pagan worship and his participation in their rituals extended to desecrating the temple and offering his son as a human sacrifice.
His grandson, Josiah, was only 8 years old when he took the throne, only two years after His grandfather's death. In contrast to his grandfather, he was totally committed to the Lord - "with all his heart and with all his soul and with all his strength". When it appeared that there was no hope of Judah returning to God, Josiah led the nation in an amazing revival. He was as godly a king as Judah ever had!
I paused to wonder how could two kings, grandfather and grandson, appearing so close together in Scripture and in history, be so totally different as people and as leaders.
I wondered how people in Canada, circa 1950, could be so radically different from the people of Canada, circa 2010? How could values, lifestyles, perspectives on right and wrong, change so drastically? Just pausing to wonder and wondering what God thinks.
Monday, March 14, 2011
WHO WANTS TO BE DIFFERENT?
Jan and I are definitely different without even trying. We stumble over the simplest phrases and sentences in Vietnamese. We don't look like Vietnamese. We naturally have some different food preferences. Sometimes being different here is OK, and sometimes we wish we could perfectly imitate the Vietnamese and just "blend in".
The desire to "blend in" plagued the ancient Jewish people for centuries. They wanted to become just like the people groups around them. In spite of his great patience, God finally allowed the ten tribes of Israel to be conquered and deported. They ceased to exist as a nation. I guess it was the ultimate "blend in".
Why? Here are summary words as to "the why": "They worshipped other gods and followed the practices of the nations the Lord had driven out before them. --- They imitated the nations around them although the Lord had ordered them: "Do not do as they do." (II KIngs 17:7 - 15)
Chosen to be in special relationship with God, they were expected to be unique. But instead of rejoicing in their "differentness", they felt a strong attraction to the gods of other nations and the lifestyle of these neighbours. God gave them guidelines and commands that would set them apart as His people, but they wanted to imitate the other nations and enjoy what they seemed to enjoy.
Followers of Jesus today are called to be unique, to be like Jesus; to be like our heavenly Father. Yet surveys and personal observation indicate that we Christians, in lifestyle and values, tend to "imitate the nations around us" more than we imitate Christ. We have rightly rejected legalism and an emphasis on outward appearances. But enjoying grace and spiritual freedom, we too often use that freedom to indulge our desire for everything but God and His character.
The gods of career success, self fulfillment, financial security, sex, entertainment and materialism are very popular and very seductive. They don't seem as directly opposed to Christ as the worship of Baal or Buddha. But they can be just as crippling to our spiritual health.
Are we doing better than ancient Israel in response to God's call to "come out from them and be separate"? (II Corinthians 6:17) We are expected to be different.
The desire to "blend in" plagued the ancient Jewish people for centuries. They wanted to become just like the people groups around them. In spite of his great patience, God finally allowed the ten tribes of Israel to be conquered and deported. They ceased to exist as a nation. I guess it was the ultimate "blend in".
Why? Here are summary words as to "the why": "They worshipped other gods and followed the practices of the nations the Lord had driven out before them. --- They imitated the nations around them although the Lord had ordered them: "Do not do as they do." (II KIngs 17:7 - 15)
Chosen to be in special relationship with God, they were expected to be unique. But instead of rejoicing in their "differentness", they felt a strong attraction to the gods of other nations and the lifestyle of these neighbours. God gave them guidelines and commands that would set them apart as His people, but they wanted to imitate the other nations and enjoy what they seemed to enjoy.
Followers of Jesus today are called to be unique, to be like Jesus; to be like our heavenly Father. Yet surveys and personal observation indicate that we Christians, in lifestyle and values, tend to "imitate the nations around us" more than we imitate Christ. We have rightly rejected legalism and an emphasis on outward appearances. But enjoying grace and spiritual freedom, we too often use that freedom to indulge our desire for everything but God and His character.
The gods of career success, self fulfillment, financial security, sex, entertainment and materialism are very popular and very seductive. They don't seem as directly opposed to Christ as the worship of Baal or Buddha. But they can be just as crippling to our spiritual health.
Are we doing better than ancient Israel in response to God's call to "come out from them and be separate"? (II Corinthians 6:17) We are expected to be different.
Saturday, March 12, 2011
INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY
This morning (Sunday) at the Saigon Church they celebrated women, since Women's Day was just a few days ago. Every woman, including my wife was handed a flower as she entered. The service featured a woman speaker and a 40 voice women's choir. The choir looked magnificent since each woman was dressed in the traditional "ao dai". There was a wonderful variety of colour and design. The choir also sounded wonderful.
Last Tuesday (Women's Day) our small group spent some time sharing about which women (other than our mothers/grandmothers) had most influenced our lives. Those mentioned were special examples of prayer, leadership, personal support, etc.
Jan and I privately discussed several of the women heroes of the Bible last week. We both affirmed that the risk taking and courage of Rahab always impresses us. She had heard of Israel's escape from Egypt and knew that all of the small city states were afraid of Israel's advancing army. She knew that her home city, Jericho was a target. Yet when the Israeli spies needed a place to hide, Rahab hid them on her roof. She requested a "quid pro quo". She saved their lives, so asked them to make sure her life and her families life was saved when Israel invaded. The spies agreed.
And so it was that while Jericho was destroyed, Rachel saved not only two spies, but saved the lives of her parents, her brothers and other relatives. I suspect that Rachel the prostitute, the family disappointment/embarrassment, suddenly became the family hero.
I wish the Bible told us the rest of the story. How did Rachel the foreigner become the wife of one of the Israelites? You remember don't you, that she is one of the handful of women (and one of only two foreign women) honoured by being listed in the genealogy, through Joseph, of our Lord. Rahab even made it into "Heavens Hall of Fame/Faith" (Hebrews 11).
Kudos to all women, great and average. And thank God especially for all women of faith. I am blessed over my lifetime to have learned from and been ministered to by many great women.
Last Tuesday (Women's Day) our small group spent some time sharing about which women (other than our mothers/grandmothers) had most influenced our lives. Those mentioned were special examples of prayer, leadership, personal support, etc.
Jan and I privately discussed several of the women heroes of the Bible last week. We both affirmed that the risk taking and courage of Rahab always impresses us. She had heard of Israel's escape from Egypt and knew that all of the small city states were afraid of Israel's advancing army. She knew that her home city, Jericho was a target. Yet when the Israeli spies needed a place to hide, Rahab hid them on her roof. She requested a "quid pro quo". She saved their lives, so asked them to make sure her life and her families life was saved when Israel invaded. The spies agreed.
And so it was that while Jericho was destroyed, Rachel saved not only two spies, but saved the lives of her parents, her brothers and other relatives. I suspect that Rachel the prostitute, the family disappointment/embarrassment, suddenly became the family hero.
I wish the Bible told us the rest of the story. How did Rachel the foreigner become the wife of one of the Israelites? You remember don't you, that she is one of the handful of women (and one of only two foreign women) honoured by being listed in the genealogy, through Joseph, of our Lord. Rahab even made it into "Heavens Hall of Fame/Faith" (Hebrews 11).
Kudos to all women, great and average. And thank God especially for all women of faith. I am blessed over my lifetime to have learned from and been ministered to by many great women.
PATIENCE WITH FOREIGNERS
Doesn't it irritate you when you meet older people who moved to Canada five years ago and still only say "hello" and "goodbye" in English. If they have come to our country, why don't they at least make the effort to communicate in the language of their adopted home (French if any francophones are reading this blog). Why don't they spend their time with English speaking people and watch TV in English?
Well I will tell you why they don't. It is really hard work to learn another language! And I suspect it gets more difficult with each decade of aging. So don't be critical of those older immigrants, sympathize with them! Admire all those ESL students!
You can guess that our last few weeks of language study have made us even much more sympathetic than we've always been. Not to five year olds: those little rascals learn a new language much faster than their parents or grandparents. Jan and I sympathize with adults learning a new language - especially older adults; and especially if they are learning one of the world's more difficult languages.
When in seminary (middle of the previous century) I used flash cards to memorize Greek words for my two years of Greek study. Well, 40 years later, I have had to go back to flash cards. This time I am using business size cards on which I have printed Vietnamese (Toi sống Vietnam bon tháng trươc)on one side and the English translation (I have lived in Vietnam for four months) on the other side. After going over each card somewhere between 100 and 1000 times, the word or sentence begins to stick.
Jan and I, especially because of our limited linguistic abilities, have always admired International workers who in preparing for service have learned not one but two new languages. And then some of those devoted people have been re-deployed and learned a third new language. They do this so that they can serve others and share God's Good News.
I am delighted to be asked to preach five sermons in two days; or to prepare and present twelve lectures in five days. But learning a new language? Pity those older new ESL immigrants. And pity those second career International workers. :)
Have a great weekend. And no, I can't say that in Vietnamese (yet).
Well I will tell you why they don't. It is really hard work to learn another language! And I suspect it gets more difficult with each decade of aging. So don't be critical of those older immigrants, sympathize with them! Admire all those ESL students!
You can guess that our last few weeks of language study have made us even much more sympathetic than we've always been. Not to five year olds: those little rascals learn a new language much faster than their parents or grandparents. Jan and I sympathize with adults learning a new language - especially older adults; and especially if they are learning one of the world's more difficult languages.
When in seminary (middle of the previous century) I used flash cards to memorize Greek words for my two years of Greek study. Well, 40 years later, I have had to go back to flash cards. This time I am using business size cards on which I have printed Vietnamese (Toi sống Vietnam bon tháng trươc)on one side and the English translation (I have lived in Vietnam for four months) on the other side. After going over each card somewhere between 100 and 1000 times, the word or sentence begins to stick.
Jan and I, especially because of our limited linguistic abilities, have always admired International workers who in preparing for service have learned not one but two new languages. And then some of those devoted people have been re-deployed and learned a third new language. They do this so that they can serve others and share God's Good News.
I am delighted to be asked to preach five sermons in two days; or to prepare and present twelve lectures in five days. But learning a new language? Pity those older new ESL immigrants. And pity those second career International workers. :)
Have a great weekend. And no, I can't say that in Vietnamese (yet).
Thursday, March 10, 2011
GOD'S PRACTICAL CARE
CONTINUED FROM YESTERDAY - I KINGS 18, 19
After the great victory in front of King Ahab on Mount Carmel, Elijah received word that Queen Jezebel had promised to have him executed. So he ran for his life. He hid in the desert alone, and told God: "I've had enough. Please let me die." I think this would be called the classic let down - a spiritual and emotional depressed state after a great spiritual and emotional high.
You might expect God to tell him: "Shape up, snap out of it, be strong and courageous!" Instead God let him sleep; woke him up and fed him; let him sleep some more; and then fed him again. God knew that part of Elijah's problem had nothing to do with his emotions or spirit. He was physically drained and needed to recharge his body.
Then God provided personal spiritual comfort to Elijah. God met Elijah in a very special way. God demonstrated His awesome power first in a hurricane force wind; then in a powerful earthquake; and finally in fire. But then God came to Elijah in a gentle whisper. He dialogued with Elijah and let him share why he was feeling so emotionally and spiritually defeated. He let him recharge his spiritual battery.
Then God provided more help for him. First he told him to anoint a new candidate for king. His arch enemy King Ahab and wife Jezebel would soon be gone. Second, he told him to appoint a successor, Elisha who would also serve as his assistant. Third he encouraged him by letting Elijah know that he was not alone in his loyalty to God. There were 7,000 other believers who had not gone into idolatry. He was part of a faith community that would not disappear.
What a wonderful example of God's sensitive mercy and love. He came to this "wounded warrior" and provided physical help; spiritual comfort; and strong, specific hope for the future. When you next are feeling down or defeated, don't forget to tap into the physical, spiritual and faith community help that God has provided for you.
After the great victory in front of King Ahab on Mount Carmel, Elijah received word that Queen Jezebel had promised to have him executed. So he ran for his life. He hid in the desert alone, and told God: "I've had enough. Please let me die." I think this would be called the classic let down - a spiritual and emotional depressed state after a great spiritual and emotional high.
You might expect God to tell him: "Shape up, snap out of it, be strong and courageous!" Instead God let him sleep; woke him up and fed him; let him sleep some more; and then fed him again. God knew that part of Elijah's problem had nothing to do with his emotions or spirit. He was physically drained and needed to recharge his body.
Then God provided personal spiritual comfort to Elijah. God met Elijah in a very special way. God demonstrated His awesome power first in a hurricane force wind; then in a powerful earthquake; and finally in fire. But then God came to Elijah in a gentle whisper. He dialogued with Elijah and let him share why he was feeling so emotionally and spiritually defeated. He let him recharge his spiritual battery.
Then God provided more help for him. First he told him to anoint a new candidate for king. His arch enemy King Ahab and wife Jezebel would soon be gone. Second, he told him to appoint a successor, Elisha who would also serve as his assistant. Third he encouraged him by letting Elijah know that he was not alone in his loyalty to God. There were 7,000 other believers who had not gone into idolatry. He was part of a faith community that would not disappear.
What a wonderful example of God's sensitive mercy and love. He came to this "wounded warrior" and provided physical help; spiritual comfort; and strong, specific hope for the future. When you next are feeling down or defeated, don't forget to tap into the physical, spiritual and faith community help that God has provided for you.
GREAT FAITH, GREAT COURAGE
How much faith and courage did it take for international workers to come to Vietnam or a variety of other foreign countries a century ago? A long slow boat (not a cruise ship) ride; very slow land travel; no language school or qualified tutor; no modern health care; no AC; no bottled water; often no other believers within a day's travel. Great faith and great courage.
This week I chipped a tooth and got a dental appointment within 24 hours at a western style dental clinic. There I found well trained dentists and dental assistants plus state of the art X-ray and dental equipment. How easy for me if I have dental problems here. How absolutely different for International Workers a century, even 50 years ago.
However what really got me thinking about great faith and courage was reading I Kings 18 early this morning. Elijah was told by God to confront the evil king, Ahab. In response Elijah told the king to gather thousands of Israelites whose loyalty to God seemed less than their commitment to idol worship; and 850 prophets of two major false gods. They all came together on Mount Carmel.
Elijah stood before the king and this great crowd seemingly alone. He challenged the people to decide which god they would serve. He challenged the priests to a religious "duel". "Your gods against my God! Which one can send fire from heaven to burn up an sacrificial offering?" Whose god should the people of Israel worship?
Think of it: simply standing in front of a hostile king, 850 hostile prophets and thousands of people who weren't sure what they believed took huge courage. Most of us find it difficult to stand up to one or two hostile people. But Elijah stood courageously alone and challenged them all.
He mocked the prophets as their gods failed to answer and send fire. They tried desperately for hours to get a response by shouting, dancing and even cutting themselves. When all their attempts had failed, Elijah calmly ordered that his offering be soaked, saturated with water; so much water that it seemed impossible for a fire to even start; certainly not to burn the wood and dead animal.
Then in front of the large crowd, Elijah stepped back and called on God to send fire "so these people will know that you, O Lord, are God, and that you are turning their hearts back again."
Great faith and great courage is rewarded with a great miracle. What a great God. What a phenomenal spiritual and emotional high Elijah experienced. I can only imagine. And then from that soaring mountain top experience this courageous man of faith slides into severe spiritual and emotional depression. Shocking, and yet so very human.
What happened next is just as impressive as what happened on Mount Carmel. We will look at it tomorrow.
This week I chipped a tooth and got a dental appointment within 24 hours at a western style dental clinic. There I found well trained dentists and dental assistants plus state of the art X-ray and dental equipment. How easy for me if I have dental problems here. How absolutely different for International Workers a century, even 50 years ago.
However what really got me thinking about great faith and courage was reading I Kings 18 early this morning. Elijah was told by God to confront the evil king, Ahab. In response Elijah told the king to gather thousands of Israelites whose loyalty to God seemed less than their commitment to idol worship; and 850 prophets of two major false gods. They all came together on Mount Carmel.
Elijah stood before the king and this great crowd seemingly alone. He challenged the people to decide which god they would serve. He challenged the priests to a religious "duel". "Your gods against my God! Which one can send fire from heaven to burn up an sacrificial offering?" Whose god should the people of Israel worship?
Think of it: simply standing in front of a hostile king, 850 hostile prophets and thousands of people who weren't sure what they believed took huge courage. Most of us find it difficult to stand up to one or two hostile people. But Elijah stood courageously alone and challenged them all.
He mocked the prophets as their gods failed to answer and send fire. They tried desperately for hours to get a response by shouting, dancing and even cutting themselves. When all their attempts had failed, Elijah calmly ordered that his offering be soaked, saturated with water; so much water that it seemed impossible for a fire to even start; certainly not to burn the wood and dead animal.
Then in front of the large crowd, Elijah stepped back and called on God to send fire "so these people will know that you, O Lord, are God, and that you are turning their hearts back again."
Great faith and great courage is rewarded with a great miracle. What a great God. What a phenomenal spiritual and emotional high Elijah experienced. I can only imagine. And then from that soaring mountain top experience this courageous man of faith slides into severe spiritual and emotional depression. Shocking, and yet so very human.
What happened next is just as impressive as what happened on Mount Carmel. We will look at it tomorrow.
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
WE ALL LIVE BY FAITH
after lunch with Jan and two new friends from Taiwan, I walked a few blocks into an area of many small shops that sell a variety of "hardware". I found what I needed and then tried to catch a taxi home.The ones that drove past were all occupied.
Then an elderly woman sitting on the sidewalk, pointed at the motorbike beside her and made the motion of driving it. I nodded and her nice looking grandson popped up and handed me a a typical Vietnamese helmet - not much more protection than a hat. "Motorbike taxis" are cheap and found on many corners of the city. They cost less than half a taxi fare and are usually driven by older men who can't find other jobs. So I hopped on behind the young man and we drove two kilometres to the market near our apartment.
I paid him 50 cents, bought two mangos and a pineapple and walked home from the market.
I don't do this often - putting my faith in a cheap motorbike and a total stranger! Taxis are safer. Two friends in the past two months have experienced motor bike accidents.
How foolish you might say: putting your faith in a stranger - with your life at stake in Saigon traffic.But we all live by faith every day.Yet the myth is still presented by otherwise intelligent people that religious people live by (ignorant?) faith, while secular people do not.
We all live by faith: in little everyday things like trusting an unknown motorbike taxi (believing he will keep me safe); walking into an unknown building believing it won't collapse; eating food in a new restaurant believing it is not contaminated; and in the most important things of life, like how did our world begin, what is our purpose on earth and what happens to us after death?
We all have to live and we all have to die. And we all must choose to live and die by faith in something or someone. For ten minutes today, I put my faith in a stranger and his motorbike. For life and eternity I am convinced the best faith object for life and death is Jesus Christ. All other alternatives take more faith and look pretty weak compared to the evidence for Christian faith and what Christ offers.
Then an elderly woman sitting on the sidewalk, pointed at the motorbike beside her and made the motion of driving it. I nodded and her nice looking grandson popped up and handed me a a typical Vietnamese helmet - not much more protection than a hat. "Motorbike taxis" are cheap and found on many corners of the city. They cost less than half a taxi fare and are usually driven by older men who can't find other jobs. So I hopped on behind the young man and we drove two kilometres to the market near our apartment.
I paid him 50 cents, bought two mangos and a pineapple and walked home from the market.
I don't do this often - putting my faith in a cheap motorbike and a total stranger! Taxis are safer. Two friends in the past two months have experienced motor bike accidents.
How foolish you might say: putting your faith in a stranger - with your life at stake in Saigon traffic.But we all live by faith every day.Yet the myth is still presented by otherwise intelligent people that religious people live by (ignorant?) faith, while secular people do not.
We all live by faith: in little everyday things like trusting an unknown motorbike taxi (believing he will keep me safe); walking into an unknown building believing it won't collapse; eating food in a new restaurant believing it is not contaminated; and in the most important things of life, like how did our world begin, what is our purpose on earth and what happens to us after death?
We all have to live and we all have to die. And we all must choose to live and die by faith in something or someone. For ten minutes today, I put my faith in a stranger and his motorbike. For life and eternity I am convinced the best faith object for life and death is Jesus Christ. All other alternatives take more faith and look pretty weak compared to the evidence for Christian faith and what Christ offers.
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
BAD DECISIONS
One a wise older man who should have known better. One a young man just starting his career, who made a huge mistake. Father and son.
Solomon, the wise, gifted king, really had no excuse. God's instructions against alliances with those who worshipped other gods were very clear. Yet the dual attractions of political power and sex, coupled with great wealth, caused him to enter into marriages with hundreds of women who had no faith in the God of Israel. I'm sure it took time, perhaps decades with these women. But eventually, the Bible records, Solomon, late in life, turned from the exclusive strong allegiance to the Lord with which he started his rule. The man who build a magnificent temple for God, erected places for idol worship and offered sacrifices to them. How tragic!
Not long afterward, his son King Rehoboam, faced a major career decision, probably the biggest he would ever make. It came almost immediately after he replaced his father on the throne of Israel. He was visited by a delegation representing 10 of the 12 tribes. They told him they would serve him loyally, if he would lighten the "taxation load". Rehoboam, facing this major decision, wisely asked for time. He also wisely consulted with two sets of counsellors, who unfortunately gave him opposing advice.
Sadly, he took the advice of those who in effect told him to "be tougher than your father was. Let them see what a strong king you can be." With this one wrong decision, ten of the tribes rebel and Rehoboam is left with only a tiny kingdom of two tribes. Thus Israel becomes a divided nation.
We can discern some powerful life and leadership lessons from the examples of these two men in I Kings 12 and 13. We who are older need to guard ourselves. Being strong in the faith as young or middle aged people does not guarantee that we finish our life of faith well.
And you who are younger, make sure you walk closely with God. Don't just look to God when you face a crisis or a major decision (education, career, marriage, whatever). Stay daily on good terms with God and His Word, so that you will be much more likely to make solid, God directed decisions.
I salute those who start well and finish the life of faith well! And aren't we glad that God can use even dumb mistakes for his ultimate glory!
Solomon, the wise, gifted king, really had no excuse. God's instructions against alliances with those who worshipped other gods were very clear. Yet the dual attractions of political power and sex, coupled with great wealth, caused him to enter into marriages with hundreds of women who had no faith in the God of Israel. I'm sure it took time, perhaps decades with these women. But eventually, the Bible records, Solomon, late in life, turned from the exclusive strong allegiance to the Lord with which he started his rule. The man who build a magnificent temple for God, erected places for idol worship and offered sacrifices to them. How tragic!
Not long afterward, his son King Rehoboam, faced a major career decision, probably the biggest he would ever make. It came almost immediately after he replaced his father on the throne of Israel. He was visited by a delegation representing 10 of the 12 tribes. They told him they would serve him loyally, if he would lighten the "taxation load". Rehoboam, facing this major decision, wisely asked for time. He also wisely consulted with two sets of counsellors, who unfortunately gave him opposing advice.
Sadly, he took the advice of those who in effect told him to "be tougher than your father was. Let them see what a strong king you can be." With this one wrong decision, ten of the tribes rebel and Rehoboam is left with only a tiny kingdom of two tribes. Thus Israel becomes a divided nation.
We can discern some powerful life and leadership lessons from the examples of these two men in I Kings 12 and 13. We who are older need to guard ourselves. Being strong in the faith as young or middle aged people does not guarantee that we finish our life of faith well.
And you who are younger, make sure you walk closely with God. Don't just look to God when you face a crisis or a major decision (education, career, marriage, whatever). Stay daily on good terms with God and His Word, so that you will be much more likely to make solid, God directed decisions.
I salute those who start well and finish the life of faith well! And aren't we glad that God can use even dumb mistakes for his ultimate glory!
Sunday, March 6, 2011
WHAT WOULD YOU WISH
I have an old joke that I've told many times about three men stranded on an island. They find a bottle floating in the ocean, open it and out pops a magical genie. The genie tells them of his power and then offers to grant each one a wish. They each in turn tell the genie their wish and it is immediately granted. Its a joke that usually produces some laughter.
It is no joke that God appeared to King Solomon at the beginning of his reign and said: "Ask for whatever you want me to give to you." I Kings 3:5 Solomon might have asked for long life or wealth or any number of things. Instead he asks for discernment/wisdom so he can rule his people well.
God was impressed with this unselfish, big picture request. God promises to give Solomon amazing wisdom and knowledge; and to also give him a long life and great wealth.
What if God were to appear to you tonight and make the same offer? You can have anything for which you ask? When I read I Kings 3 the other day, I paused to think about it. For what would I ask God if my request was guaranteed to be fulfilled? I was pleased with the first two things that entered my mind because I believe they are pleasing to God. In fact they are requests I bring to God in prayer regularly.
If you have some spare time today while driving or riding to work; doing a mindless task, or lying in bed waiting for sleep, you might think hard and honestly about how you would answer. It may reveal a lot about your focus and your values at this moment in time.
Oh, and the joke about the genie? Write to me if you want to hear the ending. Have a great day.
It is no joke that God appeared to King Solomon at the beginning of his reign and said: "Ask for whatever you want me to give to you." I Kings 3:5 Solomon might have asked for long life or wealth or any number of things. Instead he asks for discernment/wisdom so he can rule his people well.
God was impressed with this unselfish, big picture request. God promises to give Solomon amazing wisdom and knowledge; and to also give him a long life and great wealth.
What if God were to appear to you tonight and make the same offer? You can have anything for which you ask? When I read I Kings 3 the other day, I paused to think about it. For what would I ask God if my request was guaranteed to be fulfilled? I was pleased with the first two things that entered my mind because I believe they are pleasing to God. In fact they are requests I bring to God in prayer regularly.
If you have some spare time today while driving or riding to work; doing a mindless task, or lying in bed waiting for sleep, you might think hard and honestly about how you would answer. It may reveal a lot about your focus and your values at this moment in time.
Oh, and the joke about the genie? Write to me if you want to hear the ending. Have a great day.
Saturday, March 5, 2011
SO LOUD I CAN'T HEAR
We worship every Sunday morning at the Saigon Congregation of the Evangelical Church of Vietnam. There are about 1000 Vietnamese in attendance each week and about 25 expats. We expats always sit in the front right of the sanctuary because that is where you receive earphones and can plug in for the English translation.
Since Jan and I always sit up in these first few rows we don't know if the sound system is overly loud just in front, or all the way through the sanctuary. The volume is so high that sometimes it is painful. The variety of Vietnamese preachers we have heard all speak "very forcefully", aided by a this "strong" sound system.
On the other hand most of those who take turns translating speak quite softly because 1. they are sitting in the front and don't want to disturb all of the Vietnamese worshippers; and 2. most of the translators are Vietnamese women who generally speak softly (except if they work in a marketplace!)
So today as I listened to the English of a soft-voiced woman translator, the preacher was so loud it was very hard for me to hear her. In fact he was so loud that I finally turned off the translation although, lest I appear rude, I kept the earphones on. Not understanding Vietnamese (unless it is slow, distinct and within a 100 word vocabulary), I spent the last half of the sermon praying to God instead of listening to the translator.
You can guess where I am going with this. God sometimes "shouts in our pain" (C.S. Lewis). But quite often He speaks in a soft voice that is easily drowned out by the loud noise of a shouting world and our own busy schedule. Unless we spend a regular chunk of quiet time alone with God, we may miss the voice that most needs to be heard.
This morning it was just too difficult so I gave up. I hope you have not given up on making daily time to listen; not just list your prayer requests. For all of us, without commitment, a good habit and personal discipline, we will rarely hear the Voice which should be heard above all.
Since Jan and I always sit up in these first few rows we don't know if the sound system is overly loud just in front, or all the way through the sanctuary. The volume is so high that sometimes it is painful. The variety of Vietnamese preachers we have heard all speak "very forcefully", aided by a this "strong" sound system.
On the other hand most of those who take turns translating speak quite softly because 1. they are sitting in the front and don't want to disturb all of the Vietnamese worshippers; and 2. most of the translators are Vietnamese women who generally speak softly (except if they work in a marketplace!)
So today as I listened to the English of a soft-voiced woman translator, the preacher was so loud it was very hard for me to hear her. In fact he was so loud that I finally turned off the translation although, lest I appear rude, I kept the earphones on. Not understanding Vietnamese (unless it is slow, distinct and within a 100 word vocabulary), I spent the last half of the sermon praying to God instead of listening to the translator.
You can guess where I am going with this. God sometimes "shouts in our pain" (C.S. Lewis). But quite often He speaks in a soft voice that is easily drowned out by the loud noise of a shouting world and our own busy schedule. Unless we spend a regular chunk of quiet time alone with God, we may miss the voice that most needs to be heard.
This morning it was just too difficult so I gave up. I hope you have not given up on making daily time to listen; not just list your prayer requests. For all of us, without commitment, a good habit and personal discipline, we will rarely hear the Voice which should be heard above all.
THE COMFORT OF SECURITY
No culture has worked harder at providing safety and security than modern western culture. From our huge life insurance industries to pension plans to universal health systems to our innumerable government safety regulations, the attempt by industry and government has been to make us secure; and make us feel secure.
Of course no company or government can help you in providing security from death or the death of an intimate personal relationship.
It is no news to observe that all of us have experienced or watched someone we love experience the pain of fractured relationships. No matter how common, it is still heart wrenching to learn that another person who promised a secure relationship has broken their promise and betrayed the relationship.
I am a fortunate men. Jan made a covenant with me a few decades ago and has never even hinted that she might back out or break this covenant of marriage. Grounded in this kind of love and commitment it has been easy for me to live with a wonderful sense of security and assurance. But even more important is the fact that at an early age I learned that God had made a covenant commitment to me that provides an amazing sense of security and assurance.
King David's ancient "last words" reflect that He knew how secure he was in relationship with God. At one point he says "Is not my house right with God? Has he not made with me an everlasting covenant arranged and secured in every part?" II Samuel 23:5 NIV Or as the NLB has it "arranged and guaranteed in every detail". David feels very secure with God, even in old age when death is looming and doubt might creep in; because He trusts God's promise, His covenant.
We who are Christ followers should live today and every day with a joyful confidence as strong as David's assurance. There are multiple NT statements and promises that encourage us to live with this comfort of security. For example: "Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal. the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God's possession - to the praise of His glory." Ephesians 1:13, 14
Notice all the "secure" words. "seal, deposit, guaranteeing, possession". You may have a history of one or several badly fractured relationships. Yet, today you can rest secure and live for Jesus with confidence. You are in a loving, forever relationship with Him.
Of course no company or government can help you in providing security from death or the death of an intimate personal relationship.
It is no news to observe that all of us have experienced or watched someone we love experience the pain of fractured relationships. No matter how common, it is still heart wrenching to learn that another person who promised a secure relationship has broken their promise and betrayed the relationship.
I am a fortunate men. Jan made a covenant with me a few decades ago and has never even hinted that she might back out or break this covenant of marriage. Grounded in this kind of love and commitment it has been easy for me to live with a wonderful sense of security and assurance. But even more important is the fact that at an early age I learned that God had made a covenant commitment to me that provides an amazing sense of security and assurance.
King David's ancient "last words" reflect that He knew how secure he was in relationship with God. At one point he says "Is not my house right with God? Has he not made with me an everlasting covenant arranged and secured in every part?" II Samuel 23:5 NIV Or as the NLB has it "arranged and guaranteed in every detail". David feels very secure with God, even in old age when death is looming and doubt might creep in; because He trusts God's promise, His covenant.
We who are Christ followers should live today and every day with a joyful confidence as strong as David's assurance. There are multiple NT statements and promises that encourage us to live with this comfort of security. For example: "Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal. the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God's possession - to the praise of His glory." Ephesians 1:13, 14
Notice all the "secure" words. "seal, deposit, guaranteeing, possession". You may have a history of one or several badly fractured relationships. Yet, today you can rest secure and live for Jesus with confidence. You are in a loving, forever relationship with Him.
Friday, March 4, 2011
DIFFERENT MOTIVES
I watched five hundred neighbours move slowly into our neighborhood today. I can tell they are only here for a couple of days and then they will be gone. They docked just four blocks from our apartment building. It happens almost every week during "the season" as cruise ships come and go. Why did they come?
Jan met with 8 international women over coffee this week. These intelligent ladies talked a lot about shopping. They are here because their executive husbands have been sent by their company. Life is comfortable with private car and driver; housekeeping help, etc. But their motives for being here are very different.
Many people visit Vietnam for days or weeks. Some come for several years. Some come to experience new food and a new culture; some come to make money; some come to learn and some come to serve God. Of course it is possible to combine these: I know there are Christian business people here whose purpose is to make money but they are committed to serving God as they serve their company. Different motives.
The other day I was struck by David's statement of motive as he prepared to fight Goliath. Sure his ego may have been involved and he was promised a reward. But those were incidental to his major reason for fighting the giant who daily shouted taunts at the frightened Israeli soldiers.
David says in effect, I am going to kill you because you bring dishonour to God. Because I kill you "the whole world will know that there is a God in Israel". I Samuel 17:46 What a great motive. He is concerned about God's reputation. He wants the world to know how great is his God.
What a great life motive: I want more people to worship God; to have greater appreciation for our Creator and Saviour. Our desire is that "His kingdom comes, His will is done, on earth as it is in heaven." For this reason we are in Vietnam. For this reason, whatever you do today, do it in a way that pleases God. And perhaps as others observe your life, they will think higher thoughts of your God. Together lets help many more people know that there is a God who loves them and deserves their loyalty and worship.
Jan met with 8 international women over coffee this week. These intelligent ladies talked a lot about shopping. They are here because their executive husbands have been sent by their company. Life is comfortable with private car and driver; housekeeping help, etc. But their motives for being here are very different.
Many people visit Vietnam for days or weeks. Some come for several years. Some come to experience new food and a new culture; some come to make money; some come to learn and some come to serve God. Of course it is possible to combine these: I know there are Christian business people here whose purpose is to make money but they are committed to serving God as they serve their company. Different motives.
The other day I was struck by David's statement of motive as he prepared to fight Goliath. Sure his ego may have been involved and he was promised a reward. But those were incidental to his major reason for fighting the giant who daily shouted taunts at the frightened Israeli soldiers.
David says in effect, I am going to kill you because you bring dishonour to God. Because I kill you "the whole world will know that there is a God in Israel". I Samuel 17:46 What a great motive. He is concerned about God's reputation. He wants the world to know how great is his God.
What a great life motive: I want more people to worship God; to have greater appreciation for our Creator and Saviour. Our desire is that "His kingdom comes, His will is done, on earth as it is in heaven." For this reason we are in Vietnam. For this reason, whatever you do today, do it in a way that pleases God. And perhaps as others observe your life, they will think higher thoughts of your God. Together lets help many more people know that there is a God who loves them and deserves their loyalty and worship.
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
LOVING OUR CHILDREN
Good believers, even great believers, can fail as parents. Godliness does not guarantee godly children. The Old Testament books of I and II Samuel give sad evidence of this reality.
As I Samuel begins, we meet Eli the priest and his two sons. Eli is best known for receiving the child Samuel as his “apprentice” when Samuel’s mother dedicates him to God. Sadly Eli’s sons serve as priests even though they “had no regard for the Lord.” Instead they exploit their religious position for material gain and sexual favors. Eli fails to deal with their greed and immorality. God rebukes him strongly because he honored his sons more than honoring God.
Years later, we find Samuel’s sons failing in the same way. He appoints them as judges for Israel. But they “did not walk in his ways. They turned aside after dishonest gain and “accepted bribes and perverted justice.” Samuel is not rebuked but he must live with the fact that his sons fail God and the people in their roles. The nation of Israel asks Samuel to appoint a king for them and one reason they give is that his sons failured as judges.
Then in II Samuel we have the example of David. He is described as a man after God’s own heart. He is a great model of faith in God and is the author of wonderful psalms. With God’s guidance and help David becomes a very powerful king.
Yet when it comes to dealing with his adult sons Amnon and Absalom who commit rape, murder and rebellion, this powerful leader seems powerless.
I have just finished reading Timothy Keller’s book, Counterfeit Gods. I highly recommend it. As he highlights various things that can so easily become idols in our lives, he includes the observation that even children can become idols. We can too easily make our family the number one priority in our lives so that we fail God.
Our allegiance and relationship with God must come first. We must not use our love for our children as an excuse to disobey God or as an excuse not to serve and give to God.
Family life is of crucial importance. Our cultures desperately need to see models of healthy families. You cannot love your children too much. But if not careful, we can fail them by failing to love God more. This will not be good for you or your children.
So God speaks to Eli and His words warn every loving, dedicated parent. “Why do you honor your sons more than me --- ? --- Those who honor me I will honor, but those who despise me will be disdained.” I Samuel 2:29 - 30
As I Samuel begins, we meet Eli the priest and his two sons. Eli is best known for receiving the child Samuel as his “apprentice” when Samuel’s mother dedicates him to God. Sadly Eli’s sons serve as priests even though they “had no regard for the Lord.” Instead they exploit their religious position for material gain and sexual favors. Eli fails to deal with their greed and immorality. God rebukes him strongly because he honored his sons more than honoring God.
Years later, we find Samuel’s sons failing in the same way. He appoints them as judges for Israel. But they “did not walk in his ways. They turned aside after dishonest gain and “accepted bribes and perverted justice.” Samuel is not rebuked but he must live with the fact that his sons fail God and the people in their roles. The nation of Israel asks Samuel to appoint a king for them and one reason they give is that his sons failured as judges.
Then in II Samuel we have the example of David. He is described as a man after God’s own heart. He is a great model of faith in God and is the author of wonderful psalms. With God’s guidance and help David becomes a very powerful king.
Yet when it comes to dealing with his adult sons Amnon and Absalom who commit rape, murder and rebellion, this powerful leader seems powerless.
I have just finished reading Timothy Keller’s book, Counterfeit Gods. I highly recommend it. As he highlights various things that can so easily become idols in our lives, he includes the observation that even children can become idols. We can too easily make our family the number one priority in our lives so that we fail God.
Our allegiance and relationship with God must come first. We must not use our love for our children as an excuse to disobey God or as an excuse not to serve and give to God.
Family life is of crucial importance. Our cultures desperately need to see models of healthy families. You cannot love your children too much. But if not careful, we can fail them by failing to love God more. This will not be good for you or your children.
So God speaks to Eli and His words warn every loving, dedicated parent. “Why do you honor your sons more than me --- ? --- Those who honor me I will honor, but those who despise me will be disdained.” I Samuel 2:29 - 30
WE CANNOT OUT GIVE GOD
Many of our friends commented on our courage and sacrifice when we chose to leave the comforts of middle class Canadian life and move to Ho Chi Minh City. I will admit that living with severe language limitations is not what I would naturally choose - and learning a new language at this stage is ----; a variety of adjectives/adverbs could be used. Easy and pleasurable would not be among them. Of course not being able to do anything "on automatic" is wearying and can lead to frustration and mistakes that we would not make at home.
But God promises to reward those who live in obedience to Him. And frankly there are some wonderful things we enjoy because we are serving God here. For example:
I was walking around the city today in short sleeves doing several errands. Had we not come to Vietnam we would be suffering right now through minus 25 temperatures with snow as are all our Calgary friends. The weather we have enjoyed these past three months is a great gift.
Today since we were running errands, Jan and I stopped downtown for lunch at a Pho restaurant. Our total bill came to $9 - about half of what I would have paid at the Vietnamese restaurant we frequented in Calgary. And last night I cut up a fresh pineapple that cost 65 cents.
Today I was reminded that "you cannot out give God" as I read in I Samuel. David is established in Jerusalem as King. He has a palace built as His new home. He loves God and realizes that there is "no home" for the Ark which symbolizes the Presence of God. So he prepares to give God a great gift. He will build a palace, a home, a temple for God. He was trying to give generously to God.
But God says "No thank you. I don't want you to build a temple for me." However let me tell you what I will do for you. In contrast to the house you wanted to build for me, I will "establish a house for you." God through Nathan the prophet goes on to tell David that God will give him a son who will build the temple. Then God promises that David's descendants and his throne will last forever!
God in effect says to his faithful servant: "You wanted to give to me. I am going to give you the ultimate gift. The Messiah, the King who reigns forever will be one of your descendants. You wanted to build me a house that would eventually be destroyed. Your descendant, your house will last forever"
You cannot out give God. In this life, or in the future life; and often in both, God gives generously to those who serve Him faithfully. Hear the testimony of millions of believers who have given up so much more than we; God's promise is true. "Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously." II Corinthians 9:6
But God promises to reward those who live in obedience to Him. And frankly there are some wonderful things we enjoy because we are serving God here. For example:
I was walking around the city today in short sleeves doing several errands. Had we not come to Vietnam we would be suffering right now through minus 25 temperatures with snow as are all our Calgary friends. The weather we have enjoyed these past three months is a great gift.
Today since we were running errands, Jan and I stopped downtown for lunch at a Pho restaurant. Our total bill came to $9 - about half of what I would have paid at the Vietnamese restaurant we frequented in Calgary. And last night I cut up a fresh pineapple that cost 65 cents.
Today I was reminded that "you cannot out give God" as I read in I Samuel. David is established in Jerusalem as King. He has a palace built as His new home. He loves God and realizes that there is "no home" for the Ark which symbolizes the Presence of God. So he prepares to give God a great gift. He will build a palace, a home, a temple for God. He was trying to give generously to God.
But God says "No thank you. I don't want you to build a temple for me." However let me tell you what I will do for you. In contrast to the house you wanted to build for me, I will "establish a house for you." God through Nathan the prophet goes on to tell David that God will give him a son who will build the temple. Then God promises that David's descendants and his throne will last forever!
God in effect says to his faithful servant: "You wanted to give to me. I am going to give you the ultimate gift. The Messiah, the King who reigns forever will be one of your descendants. You wanted to build me a house that would eventually be destroyed. Your descendant, your house will last forever"
You cannot out give God. In this life, or in the future life; and often in both, God gives generously to those who serve Him faithfully. Hear the testimony of millions of believers who have given up so much more than we; God's promise is true. "Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously." II Corinthians 9:6
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
DIFFERENT COSTS
I just paid our monthly building management fee. For our apartment it is $33 a month. I can hear you apartment dwellers gasp with jealousy. However I hasten to add that our building does not have an exercise room, or a party room, or a pool. No one cuts our lawn or removes our snow. (We don't have either.) On the other hand the apartment is well monitored by numerous security guards and well cleaned by numerous maintenance people.
A lot of items here in Vietnam cost about the same as in a Canadian city. This is especially true if they are imported for wealthy Vietnamese and expats. Some, like automobiles are more expensive. On the other hand, many things are inexpensive because labour is so cheap.
Many people in a full time job as a security guard; as a clerk in a grocery or department store; or working in a KFC (they are the dominant foreign fast food providers in Ho Chi Minh) may be paid only $30 or $40 a week. The equivalent of $1 per hour or less! And yet as in most countries, people continue to flock to the big city, looking for work and more income.
Cheap labour is why in many stores it seems clerks outnumber the customers and often seem to get in the way because they stand around with nothing to do. Rarely do you experience the common North American problem of not finding a clerk to serve you.
So we are thankful for lower living expense. Yet we remain aware that tipping 50 cents or a dollar to a taxi driver, a delivery man, or almost anyone in the service industry (apart from places that service only wealthy people) is greatly appreciated. Income and values here are quite different.
We just bought a large needlework wall hanging for about $25. One of the salespeople told us it would take a village woman about two weeks to produce it. I wonder if she made even 25 cents an hour for her talented labour.
Thank God for secular and Christian NGOs that are working to relieve poverty in numerous places.
We are thankful that the average income and standard of living in Vietnam is slowly rising. And we are thankful for the abundance we enjoy and are able to share with those who have much less.
A lot of items here in Vietnam cost about the same as in a Canadian city. This is especially true if they are imported for wealthy Vietnamese and expats. Some, like automobiles are more expensive. On the other hand, many things are inexpensive because labour is so cheap.
Many people in a full time job as a security guard; as a clerk in a grocery or department store; or working in a KFC (they are the dominant foreign fast food providers in Ho Chi Minh) may be paid only $30 or $40 a week. The equivalent of $1 per hour or less! And yet as in most countries, people continue to flock to the big city, looking for work and more income.
Cheap labour is why in many stores it seems clerks outnumber the customers and often seem to get in the way because they stand around with nothing to do. Rarely do you experience the common North American problem of not finding a clerk to serve you.
So we are thankful for lower living expense. Yet we remain aware that tipping 50 cents or a dollar to a taxi driver, a delivery man, or almost anyone in the service industry (apart from places that service only wealthy people) is greatly appreciated. Income and values here are quite different.
We just bought a large needlework wall hanging for about $25. One of the salespeople told us it would take a village woman about two weeks to produce it. I wonder if she made even 25 cents an hour for her talented labour.
Thank God for secular and Christian NGOs that are working to relieve poverty in numerous places.
We are thankful that the average income and standard of living in Vietnam is slowly rising. And we are thankful for the abundance we enjoy and are able to share with those who have much less.
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