humble Christian discipleship

Daily Devotional for May 29, 2024 – If you’re going to blow a horn, blow a trumpet for God

1 Corinthians 1:26-31
O Lord, hear me praying; listen to my plea, O God my King, for I will never pray to anyone Take a good look, friends, at who you were when you got called into this life. I don’t see many of “the brightest and the best” among you, not many influential, not many from high-society families. Isn’t it obvious that God deliberately chose men and women that the culture overlooks and exploits and abuses, chose these “nobodies” to expose the hollow pretensions of the “somebodies”? That makes it quite clear that none of you can get by with blowing your own horn before God. Everything that we have—right thinking and right living, a clean slate and a fresh start—comes from God by way of Jesus Christ. That’s why we have the saying, “If you’re going to blow a horn, blow a trumpet for God.”

Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.

This time of year, I always think about my first car. My parents could not afford much, which was evidenced by the original vehicle Daddy brought home for me. I think it was a 1953 Chevy, and it was horrible – basically a rusted shell of a car that needed engine work – and also a new interior. My dad said he was going to restore this old car, but then he found a mint green (1962, I think) Dodge Lancer that actually ran – and was in better shape. Think pale pistachio ice cream – but not that pretty! The paint job was terrible, and Daddy said we would get the car repainted.

While I was away for two weeks at band camp, the paint job was completed. I had selected a nice blue color. Daddy had the car repainted its original ugly green to save money! I was devastated! But that old car got me where I needed to go for the rest of my high school years. I drove myself and my siblings to school and back in it each day – and the summer Greg and I married, I drove myself and a friend back and forth to the University of Central Arkansas in it daily for one summer term. We dubbed the car “The Green Weenie!”

I can tell you…this experience certainly made me appreciate subsequent vehicles…especially my first brand new car in my name, which we purchased a couple of years ago. I feel like a queen every time I drive it! The vehicle is safe, probably smarter than I am – and it is a beautiful, frosted-white that reminds me of a pearl. Now, I could get from Point A to Point Be in both vehicles. Yes, the newer car is more comfortable, but I would venture to say the gas mileage is nowhere near as good as that of the “Green Weenie!” And that old car was surely less complicated…no computer control board, no “Siri” or voice-activated controls, and no “memory”…just a “three-on-the-tree” standard transmission, manual windows, a heater, and a clean car that protected us from wind and rain – and ran most days!

In the scheme of things, does it matter what car we drive? Yes, Greg and I enjoy the comfort and safety of my new vehicle…the roominess when we are going on a trip (especially with all three kiddos in tow). But does driving it make me more valued to God? No. And neither do a lot of the things on which we humans place such importance. God doesn’t see us as the sum of who we are or what we own…He sees us as the precious, potential-filled beings He created us to be. And I will tell you…some of the people I grew up with who drove true clunkers turned out to be far nicer human beings than those who were gifted brand new cars and the latest and greatest of everything. Some of the most faith-filled Christians I have ever known were (and are) “nobodies” by the world’s standards…and they inspire me to be a better servant.

I am grateful for the life I have…and the abundant blessings I enjoy. Greg and I worked hard to be able to afford and enjoy such things as a nice home and a new car. But these do not define us…and I hope that nobody ever looks at us and sees anything but humble, faithful servants of God Almighty. And to paraphrase Paul’s words in The Message, I hope the only “horn” we ever blow is a trumpet for God.” Alleluia!

Daily Devotional for December 30, 2021 – It’s time to put down the “party mix” and serve Jesus with humble obedience

Philippians 2:5-13
Your attitude should be the kind that was shown us by Jesus Christ, who, though he was God, did not demand and cling to his rights as God, but laid aside his mighty power and glory, taking the disguise of a slave and becoming like men. And he humbled himself even further, going so far as actually to die a criminal’s death on a cross.

Yet it was because of this that God raised him up to the heights of heaven and gave him a name which is above every other name, that at the name of Jesus every knee shall bow in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue shall confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Dearest friends, when I was there with you, you were always so careful to follow my instructions. And now that I am away you must be even more careful to do the good things that result from being saved, obeying God with deep reverence, shrinking back from all that might displease him. For God is at work within you, helping you want to obey him, and then helping you do what he wants.

The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

A few weeks ago, our kiddos visited one Sunday afternoon for an “early Christmas” celebration. Shortly before time to leave, our nephew asked if I would make him a cheese sandwich. He said he was hungry. His mother told him it was too close to dinnertime, and he did not need anything else to eat right then. The children had already eaten some Christmas cookies and treats. Our nephew was dejected, but he walked away. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw him move to the corner of the kitchen and quietly help himself to some “party mix” that was in a Ziploc bag on the counter.

Our nephew is nine. He is a great kid. But thinking he was away from the prying eyes of his mother and aunt, he acted like a child and helped himself to the very thing he knew he wasn’t supposed to have. And don’t we all do this? We know what Jesus expects of us. We say we understand fully what He did for us in His life – and on the cross – and what Jesus requires of us now as His redeemed disciples. And then we turn our back, dip our hand into the “party mix,” and totally do as we please.

We are not nine-year-old children, and we need to stop acting like we are. We need to step up to the plate and serve Jesus with care and concern. We need to demonstrate deep reverence for God and do all in our power to avoid displeasing Him. Think carefully today about your missions and ministries…your words and actions. Where are you turning your back and doing as you please – and grieving God in the process? Where have you gotten cavalier with your faith and discipleship?

Christian faith is not a game – or a Broadway production. Discipleship is not a matter of the “Haves” vs. the “Have-nots.” None of us is better than another. Putting on a show – especially while claiming the name of Jesus – is just a show. And this is not something God approves or desires. Elevating ourselves to a position of superiority because we are Christians is unacceptable, as well.

We are on the cusp of a New Year. People are resolving to “do better” – to live differently. We Christians would do well to examine our hearts and minds…to see where we are in line with the humble grace, mercy, love, and kindness of Jesus – and where we are missing the mark. It’s time to put away the “party mix” and get on board with a steady diet of faith and obedience to Jesus Christ. And this is the day we should all begin. Alleluia!

Daily Devotional for December 14, 2021 – If you want to stand out for Jesus, step down and serve!

Matthew 23:11
“Do you want to stand out? Then step down. Be a servant. If you puff yourself up, you’ll get the wind knocked out of you. But if you’re content to simply be yourself, your life will count for plenty.

Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.

I saw a news video on television last night of an inflatable Santa blowing across someone’s yard during a strong storm. Even Santa Claus is no match for Mother Nature!

During the tornadic outbreak last weekend, my favorite weather guys were all “On Air” advising us where the storms were “spinning up” and who was in their direct path. At one point, the junior weathercaster noticed some sudden spin of wind in a west Little Rock neighborhood, and he quickly alerted the others to this surprising development. One of the senior weathercasters said something to the effect of, “We’ll get to that in a minute, but I want us to keep looking at THIS storm I was telling you about.” Ultimately, the neighborhood storm was addressed…and one of the senior weathercasters even realized…“Hey! That’s where my mother lives!”

Please understand that I really like all three of these guys…and I depend on them for weather information, particularly during thunderstorms and tornadic activity. But I had to shake my head at the efforts of a couple of them to stand out – even in such critical moments. I wanted to send a text and say, “Step down!” and let the calmer, more rational youngster handle things!

It is likely that these guys got caught up in the heat of the moment. But too often, we are so eager to be noticed or have our own efforts stand out above those of others that we behave badly. At best, we make mistakes in judgment and are not our best selves. As Christ’s disciples, we must never seek limelight. We must not announce every good deed to the masses…or make a public spectacle of our missions and ministries merely for the sake of personal recognition.

Jesus is the one who rightfully must stand out. And yet, we have countless examples in scripture where he “stepped down” to serve. The ultimate demonstration was His sacrifice on the cross. But we also see where Jesus stepped into a crowd to minister to someone…to heal the sick and lame or make the blind see again. We see where Jesus tried to get away to rest, and the crowd followed Him. Rather than say, “Let’s finish MY agenda first,” Jesus noted that the people were in need – and He served them.

It’s so easy to put our own desires and plans at the forefront. And I am not trying to tell you that you don’t matter…or that what you are doing to serve Jesus and further His Kingdom is not important. Recognition for accomplishments is not all bad. I am merely sharing the message of Christ as presented in scripture – and reminding all of us to “step down” and be true, humble servants. Let Jesus do the elevating!

Be blessed as you bless others. Let the rewards of Salvation through the blood of Jesus – and the assurance of a seat at His Heavenly table for all Eternity be your recognition and reward. Don’t find yourself like the inflatable Santa – flying through the air as you are blown by the wind! Stand out for Christ by stepping down and serving with quiet humility…and keep your feet firmly grounded in His word and will. Alleluia!

Daily Devotional for November 18, 2021 – It’s time to “wash some feet!”

John 13:3-9
Jesus knew that the Father had put him in complete charge of everything, that he came from God and was on his way back to God. So he got up from the supper table, set aside his robe, and put on an apron. Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the feet of the disciples, drying them with his apron. When he got to Simon Peter, Peter said, “Master, you wash my feet?”

Jesus answered, “You don’t understand now what I’m doing, but it will be clear enough to you later.”

Peter persisted, “You’re not going to wash my feet—ever!”

Jesus said, “If I don’t wash you, you can’t be part of what I’m doing.”

“Master!” said Peter. “Not only my feet, then. Wash my hands! Wash my head!”

Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.

Just a few days ago, I saw a warning from the CDC that a deadly parasite called Strongyloides has come to the US. This worm enters the body through bare feet and literally works its way through the body to the lungs, then to the stomach, where it has a perfect environment to begin reproducing. The simplest way to protect yourself is to wear shoes when outdoors – and don’t go barefoot!

Truly, the feet are a “gateway” – for many things. Even the cleanest person can have “dirty” feet or step on something with a bare foot that could cause physical damage. And in this passage from John, we read about the “Spiritual” significance of the feet. In the days when Jesus and His disciples were living, a person’s feet were always dirty.

If you’ve ever worn sandals and walked across a sandy beach or a dusty yard, you know how filthy your feet can become in a short period of time. So foot washing was an important ritual…and something many did when first entering a home in Old and New Testament times. I would assume that some families had servants who did this – or maybe young children in the home were assigned this “duty.” But here, we see Jesus prepare to wash the feet of His disciples…and at least one of them considered this ritual too menial and lowly for his Lord to perform.

Jesus explained to Peter that washing his feet was not about getting the dust off and becoming “clean” in this manner. It was a symbol that Peter was “cleaned” by his Lord, Jesus Christ, and ordained for discipleship. This was an act of love on the part of Jesus…and a demonstration that these men belonged to Him and were redeemed, anointed, and chosen to serve in His name. And as you see, Peter told Jesus to wash all of him, if it would help!

I know people who absolutely detest anyone even looking at their feet…much less touching them. And this is not really about “feet” as much as it is about our complete submission to Jesus. This is about obedience and humility…and how we demonstrate our faithfulness to our Lord and Savior. We must be ready to obey Him in all things. We must be willing to accept what Jesus has sacrificed for us – and to internalize this. We must allow Jesus to wash our feet and signal to the world that we are His forever and ever.

As we serve in the name of Jesus, we humbly show others how precious they are to Christ. Not one of us is better or more significant than another. I believe this was what Jesus was trying to show His disciples…and us. The King of Kings and Lord of Lords is willing to kneel at our feet and wash away the dirt and muck. He is willing to rid us of the “parasites” of sin and make us clean and whole. We must be ready to accept this gift and live in a way that reflects Christ’s love – and demonstrates humble, inclusive service to others. In other words, as Christ’s disciples, we receive His love, grace, mercy and forgiveness…and we must pay it forward. It’s time to “wash some feet!” Hallelujah!

Daily Devotional for November 12, 2021 – Defining our discipleship in humility and the “riches” of kindness and generosity – what will be your legacy?

James 1:9-11
Any of God’s people who are poor should be glad that he thinks so highly of them. But any who are rich should be glad when God makes them humble. Rich people will disappear like wild flowers scorched by the burning heat of the sun. The flowers lose their blossoms, and their beauty is destroyed. That is how the rich will disappear, as they go about their business.

Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.

This is a “sorting and sifting season” at our house. We have mountains of photo albums, scrapbooks and journals that Greg brought home from his mother’s house, and all family members have been combing them for keepsake photos and memories. We’ve read countless newspaper clippings in scrapbooks that Grandma E meticulously arranged. We’ve gone through hundreds of old greeting cards…birthdays, anniversaries – and those that expressed sympathy when a loved one passed.

Greg has been reviewing the accounts his dad kept about serving in the US Navy during WWII. Both of Greg’s parents grew up very poor…and both became incredibly generous adults. Over and again, condolence notes have mentioned their hard work, community spirit, and Christian service and charity. One woman commented that Greg’s dad had given her husband a job in the soybean plant he managed, and this job saved the family from destitution. Another mentioned Grandma E’s service to her church, the PTA, her community, and several civic clubs.

My husband’s parents did well in business and made a comfortable living. But they never forgot their “roots.” Almost to her dying day, Grandma E would stoop to pick up a penny on the sidewalk. Just yesterday, I almost “heard” her fussing as I tossed a plastic food container into the trash. She would have washed and saved this piece to use again, even though she had plenty of food containers. “Waste not, want not” was a way of life for her.

I did not grow up wealthy. My parents both worked multiple jobs to provide for our family until well after I was a married adult. Many of the adults in my circle of influence have demonstrated first-hand that humble service to Jesus Christ surpasses monetary and material wealth every time. This kind of “richness” is invaluable and will never go out of style or lose its impact.

People will long remember how we treated them…what we offered in the form of Christian discipleship, kindness and generosity. I am grateful for the demonstrations of this in the life of Jesus…and in the lives of those I’ve known and loved. What will be your legacy? How will your discipleship be defined? Are you “rich” in the things of Jesus?

Daily Devotional for April 2, 2021 – Finding forgiveness at the foot of the cross…reflections on “Good Friday”

Luke 23:26-49
As Jesus was being led away, some soldiers grabbed hold of a man from Cyrene named Simon. He was coming in from the fields, but they put the cross on him and made him carry it behind Jesus.

A large crowd was following Jesus, and in the crowd a lot of women were crying and weeping for him. Jesus turned to the women and said: Women of Jerusalem, don’t cry for me! Cry for yourselves and for your children. Someday people will say, “Women who never had children are really fortunate!” At that time everyone will say to the mountains, “Fall on us!” They will say to the hills, “Hide us!” If this can happen when the wood is green, what do you think will happen when it is dry?

Two criminals were led out to be put to death with Jesus. When the soldiers came to the place called “The Skull,” they nailed Jesus to a cross. They also nailed the two criminals to crosses, one on each side of Jesus.

Jesus said, “Father, forgive these people! They don’t know what they’re doing.”

While the crowd stood there watching Jesus, the soldiers gambled for his clothes. The leaders insulted him by saying, “He saved others. Now he should save himself, if he really is God’s chosen Messiah!” The soldiers made fun of Jesus and brought him some wine. They said, “If you are the king of the Jews, save yourself!” Above him was a sign that said, “This is the King of the Jews.”

One of the criminals hanging there also insulted Jesus by saying, “Aren’t you the Messiah? Save yourself and save us!” But the other criminal told the first one off, “Don’t you fear God? Aren’t you getting the same punishment as this man? We got what was coming to us, but he didn’t do anything wrong.” Then he said to Jesus, “Remember me when you come into power!” Jesus replied, “I promise that today you will be with me in paradise.”

Around noon the sky turned dark and stayed that way until the middle of the afternoon. The sun stopped shining, and the curtain in the temple split down the middle. Jesus shouted, “Father, I put myself in your hands!” Then he died.
When the Roman officer saw what had happened, he praised God and said, “Jesus must really have been a good man!”

A crowd had gathered to see the terrible sight. Then after they had seen it, they felt brokenhearted and went home. All of Jesus’ close friends and the women who had come with him from Galilee stood at a distance and watched.

Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.

Yesterday as I took my walk, I thought about all the things that have happened in the last 18 months. I thought about how people have reacted and responded to the COVID-19 pandemic, the heightened awareness of the racial divide in our world and discrimination against many groups of people, and the unending political divisiveness. I thought about my own attitudes toward many people. And I realized that I am guilty of discrimination and bias – and attitudes that do not reflect true Christian discipleship. I vowed to nail these mindsets to the cross, where Jesus bought and paid for them with His very life.

Let me explain…I am not racially biased or bigoted. I do not care one whit about the color of a person’s skin. I do not judge who another person loves…their gender or social class…or even who and how someone worships – or doesn’t. But I must admit that I have judged those who do discriminate or disparage in this manner. I have been bitter and angry toward those who refuse to recognize this virus as deadly and easily spread, and I have somewhat privately disparaged those who will not wear a mask. I have at least silently had unloving thoughts toward selfish people who make everything about their own happiness…and those who only care about lining their own pockets or looking superior in some way – especially politicians. I have been truly irritated with people who claim to love and serve Jesus while doing any or all of these things.

I realize that in this manner, I have failed to honor my commitment to Jesus, and I have fallen at the foot of the cross and asked Him to help me change. As I thought about this day and what it signifies for Christians, I realized that the agonizing, incomprehensible price that Jesus paid for my Salvation and redemption was far too high for me to behave this way. Jesus deserves better, and I am committed to honoring Him with my best.

Don’t misunderstand me…I detest injustice of any kind. I still wish people would wear masks, get the vaccine, and follow all recommended practices to help eradicate this horrific virus. I still cringe when I hear racial slurs or read about demeaning, hurtful legislation against people in certain groups, such as the transgender laws our own state leaders enacted this week. My heart still breaks for refugees and anyone who is oppressed. And there are things I can do to speak out against these wrongs. But I must leave judgment to God. I must speak, act, and serve with love and fairness. I must separate a person’s ungodly behavior from the value of their soul to Jesus. I must remember the thief on the cross.

“Good Friday” is truly a humbling, hard day. It is a day when we should stop and reflect on the incredible sacrifice that Jesus made for us…and assess how we are showing our gratitude and respect. I would venture to say that there is work to be done among all of us. I know this is true in my case…and I am committed to doing whatever it takes.

The Savior who asked God to forgive those who abused Him was not just talking about the soldiers and others in the crowd that day…He was talking about you and me, too. I will never be worthy of such love and generosity…but that doesn’t mean I shouldn’t try. I know this is not the end of “the story”…but for today, I think we should sit with the terrible horrors of the crucifixion – and reflect on how it affects us. Think about what Jesus did for us…and what you plan to do for Him. Father, forgive us. Amen!

Daily Devotional for July 25, 2019 – Lord, please help them…and us!

Matthew 6:5-13
When you pray, don’t be like those show-offs who love to stand up and pray in the meeting places and on the street corners. They do this just to look good. I can assure you that they already have their reward.

When you pray, go into a room alone and close the door. Pray to your Father in private. He knows what is done in private, and he will reward you.

When you pray, don’t talk on and on as people do who don’t know God. They think God likes to hear long prayers. Don’t be like them. Your Father knows what you need before you ask.

You should pray like this:

Our Father in heaven, help us to honor your name.

Come and set up your kingdom, so that everyone on earth will obey you, as you are obeyed in heaven.

Give us our food for today.

Forgive us for doing wrong, as we forgive others.

Keep us from being tempted and protect us from evil.

We are in the midst of our last sleepovers of the summer…and Nathan is with us tonight. We started our morning with a swim and a Burger King lunch. We have played our hearts out all afternoon and evening (in between frequent snacks and dinner). We’ve been to the park. We’ve played chess and checkers. We have worked puzzles, played with toy cars, and ridden our bicycle up and down the street. As Nathan drove out of our driveway on the bicycle this afternoon (wearing the requisite helmet at my insistence), he looked up and yelled, “FREEDOM!” I have no idea where that came from…but it sure got me thinking!

Tonight, as our happy little guy soaks in a tub of warm bubbly water with more toys than three children should have, I have carefully made his bed and selected his pajamas. As I spread a quilt across Nathan’s bed that my Mam-ma Polly made for me when I was his age, I thought of the children at the border…and our scripture passage for today.

It broke my heart to think that there are children tonight who are filthy, hungry, cold, separated from parents and other family members, alone and frightened – and perhaps sick. And the only prayer that made any sense to me at all was, “Lord, please help them!”

Jesus knows the need…better than we do. He understands every breath that they take and what sort of emotion and physical need it brings. I can tell Him over and over what I have heard and read…and beg Him fix this. But what I really need to do is quietly plead with Jesus to help them…and trust that He will. It is same for the loved ones who are battling a serious illness, friends who are grieving and more. I don’t need to spend hours giving God the details He already has. I certainly do not have to stand up in public and make a game out of seeing how long and flowery I can make my petitions for the benefit of all who are listening.

I just need to humbly follow the outline that Jesus gave us in what we know as “The Lord’s Prayer”. And sometimes – like tonight – I just need to thank God for the “freedom”, health and safety that our children and so many others enjoy…and utter a simple plea for those who are not as fortunate.

”Lord, please help them…and us.” Will you join me in this simple prayer?

Daily Devotional for July 24, 2019 – The “three-cents lesson”…are we seeking the applause of man or God?

Matthew 6:1-4
“Be especially careful when you are trying to be good so that you don’t make a performance out of it. It might be good theater, but the God who made you won’t be applauding.

“When you do something for someone else, don’t call attention to yourself. You’ve seen them in action, I’m sure—‘playactors’ I call them—treating prayer meeting and street corner alike as a stage, acting compassionate as long as someone is watching, playing to the crowds. They get applause, true, but that’s all they get. When you help someone out, don’t think about how it looks. Just do it—quietly and unobtrusively. That is the way your God, who conceived you in love, working behind the scenes, helps you out.

Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.

There is a wonderful episode of “The Andy Griffith Show”, titled “Opie’s Charity”. It comes to Andy’s attention that his son, Opie, only gave three cents to the local charity drive. Andy knows that Opie has more than $2 in his piggy bank. Andy questions his son about this “donation” and learns that Opie is saving his money to buy a gift for his girlfriend, Charlotte. Andy is livid, and he shames Opie for this…but Opie sticks to his guns. Andy’s disappointment with his son is clearly evident. He makes a big deal out of how selfishly Opie is behaving.

It is later revealed that Opie’s “gift” to Charlotte is to be a new warm coat. Charlotte’s wrap is worn and no longer effective against the elements of winter, and her mother cannot afford to buy her a new one. Of course, Andy is humiliated at how he judged Opie. He announces that rather than eat Aunt Bea’s fried chicken for dinner – he will be “eating crow”!

We can learn a lot from Andy Griffith – and in particular, from Opie’s actions in this episode. Despite Andy’s continual berating and attempts to shame him into breaking into his bank for a larger donation, Opie stands his ground…but he does not elaborate. In fact, he reveals his true intentions quite by accident…and certainly with no bravado. This young child does not appear to be the least bit concerned with what others think of him…positively OR negatively. He simply portends to do something kind and loving for someone in need – and no explanation appears to be necessary.

Scripture is clear in more than one passage that we are not to brag about our service to others – or our good deeds in general. We are not to make a show of our faith by offering flowery prayers intended to impress, rather than to genuinely communicate with and petition God. We are not to advertise how often we attend worship services, Bible studies, and other spiritual gatherings. There is a fine line between saying, “I gave to XYZ” in an effort to encourage others to give also, and doing so to say, “Look how generous I am!”

I would suggest that we err on the side of caution with this. If others are giving because you and I gave, they are not giving with pure intentions. If they attend worship events because they know that you or I will be there, their attendance has a least a little more to do with who they will see and by whom they will be seen than with honoring God. I realize that there may be positive byproduct of these actions…but God is concerned with our heart and our motives – not necessarily the physical outcome.

In essence, I call this the “if you build it, they will come” mentality. If what is being said and done is pure, sincere, and holy in intent, others will take notice. No fanfare or attempt to draw attention will be necessary…they will be inspired to serve God out of a desire to honor Him, not men. They will want to give their time, talents, and money to God – and causes that serve Him – because they wish to worship Him in this manner…not because someone else made a show of his/her service/gifts.

I know dozens of “unsung servants” who are busy night and day giving back to God by serving others, donating to charities and causes, sacrificing their time and energy to help wherever needed, and more. There are countless prayer warriors who may be unable to physically do things that others might readily recognize…but their prayers are making immeasurable difference in the lives of many – and in God’s Kingdom at large. I know men, women, and children who serve God with their whole heart to the best of their ability without recognition or concern for what others think – one way or the other.

Jesus has charged us to love God with our heart, mind and soul. He has tasked us with loving others as He loves us…and treating others as we wish to be treated. If we are busy serving Him to the best of our ability and as He commands, we won’t have time – or the inclination – to worry about how others see us. It will become a non-issue. If we feel we have to puff out our chests and draw attention to our Christian service and discipleship, we have totally missed the message and missive of Jesus Christ.

We can learn a lot from the example of a little boy who only gave three cents to the more visible charity – and offered only as much explanation as he felt was necessary for his actions. Our “accounting” is with God Almighty – not human beings…and how we react and respond says a lot about our Christian discipleship. To whom are you “making your show”?

Daily Devotional for November 30, 2018 – Fancy titles and humble servants…where is your “camp”?

Luke 22:24-27
Within minutes they were bickering over who of them would end up the greatest. But Jesus intervened: “Kings like to throw their weight around and people in authority like to give themselves fancy titles. It’s not going to be that way with you. Let the senior among you become like the junior; let the leader act the part of the servant.

“Who would you rather be: the one who eats the dinner or the one who serves the dinner? You’d rather eat and be served, right? But I’ve taken my place among you as the one who serves. And you’ve stuck with me through thick and thin. Now I confer on you the royal authority my Father conferred on me so you can eat and drink at my table in my kingdom and be strengthened as you take up responsibilities among the congregations of God’s people.

Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.

God loves a humble servant. Unfortunately, too many of us want credit for every little thing we do. I could name dozens of people who have done amazing things for others – humble, obedient servants each and every one. To a person, you would probably ask, “Who is he/she?” Or you would say, “I had no idea he/she served in that capacity, gave that kind of assistance…or could even afford to help in that manner.” These disciples go about their business without fanfare, faithfully serving as God directs and seeking no credit or elevated position because of it.

But for every person I can name in this “camp”…I can identify just as many who seem to always want top billing…credit for every single word and act…accolades and recognition they feel validates them in some day. These are the people who ask, “Do you know who you are dealing with?” They are the ones who feel their “family pedigree” brings with it some sort of privilege. Sometimes, these are also “common, ordinary folks” who are struggling to elevate themselves by making everyone aware of what they have accomplished…their words, actions and “good deeds”.

Jesus is very clear that we are not to make a show of our missions and ministries. He is also incredibly unmistakable about Who is in charge – and deserves the credit! Jesus set the bar high when He came to earth and served the least and the worst of us. He gave us a distinct mandate to operate in the same manner…and to always, always give God all of the glory.

So which camp are you in these days? Are you seeking recognition and accolades for your service, missions and ministries? Or are you humbly serving wherever and whenever God directs…and reflecting the example of our Lord and Savior at every turn? It doesn’t matter WHO you are – or what you are accomplishing. But it does matter to Whom you belong. Can people tell the difference? Do they know you in a way that really matters?

Whose “pedigree” are you reflecting in your daily living? Are you seeking a fancy title on this earth…or a seat at God’s table for all Eternity? How you serve in this lifetime tells the tale…what are your words and actions saying?

Daily Devotional for May 1, 2018 – Serving on the sidelines…

John 3:27-29
John answered, “It’s not possible for a person to succeed—I’m talking about eternal success—without heaven’s help. You yourselves were there when I made it public that I was not the Messiah but simply the one sent ahead of him to get things ready. The one who gets the bride is, by definition, the bridegroom. And the bridegroom’s friend, his ‘best man’—that’s me—in place at his side where he can hear every word, is genuinely happy. How could he be jealous when he knows that the wedding is finished and the marriage is off to a good start?

Go to virtually any public sporting event and you will see what I call “wannabes”. You know who I mean…the people who stand with the coaching staff or team members and act as if they are one of them. Whether invited or self-inserted, these people act like they are an integral part of the group. In truth, the team’s success or failure is in no way dependent on the presence of these people.

Don’t misunderstand me…I know that some of these folks were invited. I know that coaches like to include kids who, for whatever reason, might never have an opportunity to play the sport – and make him/her feel like part of the team. I understand that some adults are allowed to walk the sidelines or sit courtside as a courtesy. There may be “volunteer” trainers, doctors, photographers, tutors and others who are given special status – and their contributions may indeed be important. But at the end of the day, it is the actual players and coaches who will win or lose the game.

As Christ’s disciples, you and I are those “hangers-on”. Our service is important…but it is not our place to award “Heavenly stature”. What we do as representatives of Jesus is critical to His overall mission – and He may set us in a place of recognition, authority, or some other position of importance. But we will never be Jesus. We cannot forgive sins, deem ourselves or anyone else worthy for a place at the LORD’s table for all eternity – or take His place in any way, shape or form.

To assume that we have the same stature as Jesus, we would have to accept His suffering, too. Not a single one of us is up to that! We are not Jesus. John was sent ahead of Him to get things ready…we are here to do the “follow-up” work of discipleship. We have missions and ministries that are vital to the Kingdom of Heaven…but they will never rise to the level of significance reserved for that of our Lord and Savior. And this is as God intended.

Humility is highly under-rated. Serving with a “glad heart” and no expectation of recognition is what pleases God most. Fulfilling the mission and ministries He has given us – with no thought to public recognition of any kind – is a true reflection of our love and gratitude for Jesus. God may very well grant you a place on the sidelines and “honorary status” as a member of the “coaching staff”. But JESUS will “win the game” – and secure our eternal future.

It’s time for us to determine our “position”…and get busy serving at God’s pleasure. Whose recognition and limelight are you seeking?

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