As the days count down to Christmas, life seems to speed up instead of slow down. There are final preparations to make for the arrival of loved ones. There are last-minute gifts to acquire while navigating through crowded stores and boutiques. There are stockings to fill, presents to wrap, and traditions to follow through on.
But despite the breakneck pace of the holiday, it’s also a good idea to slow down and reflect on why we celebrate. And in these moments, God wants to refresh you by presenting a gift of his very own.
It’s easy to read through the story of Jesus’ birth. It’s another thing entirely to pause and think about its significance, both in the tiny village of Bethlehem and in modern society. So may you hear the story in a new way this year. And as God refreshes you with his gift, may you in turn refresh others.
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…Caesar Augustus ordered a census to be taken throughout the Empire. This was the first census when Quirinius was governor of Syria. Everyone had to travel to his own ancestral hometown to be accounted for. So Joseph went from the Galilean town of Nazareth up to Bethlehem in Judah, David’s town, for the census. As a descendant of David, he had to go there. He went with Mary, his fiancée, who was pregnant.
While they were there, the time came for her to give birth. She gave birth to a son, her firstborn. She wrapped him in a blanket and laid him in a manger because there was no room in the hostel.
There were sheepherders camping in the neighborhood. They had set night watches over their sheep. Suddenly, God’s angel stood among them and God’s glory blazed around them. They were terrified. The angel said, “Don’t be afraid. I’m here to announce a great and joyful event that is meant for everybody, worldwide: A Savior has just been born in David’s town, a Savior who is Messiah and Master. This is what you’re to look for: a baby wrapped in a blanket and lying in a manger.”
At once the angel was joined by a huge angelic choir singing God’s praises:
Glory to God in the heavenly heights,
Peace to all men and women on earth who please him.
As the angel choir withdrew into heaven, the sheepherders talked it over. “Let’s get over to Bethlehem as fast as we can and see for ourselves what God has revealed to us.” They left, running, and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in the manger. Seeing was believing. They told everyone they met what the angels had said about this child. All who heard the sheepherders were impressed.
--Luke 2:1-18 (The Message)
23 December 2006
09 December 2006
Pure Refreshment 1.23 -> Obey the Signals
They have the ability to exert control upon our daily activities. They speak a language that is understood by billions of people.
They also swing from overhead wires and hang on the tops of poles.
Traffic signals are a necessity in today’s fragmented, get-it-done-yesterday society. So in order to keep vehicle accidents as low as possible, intersections are equipped with a series of these devices that regulate traffic in a safe manner. It’s a pretty simple system: one group of vehicles goes through while the others wait. Each gets a chance to pass through the intersection—when the signal says it’s okay to do so.
So what do traffic signals have to do with the life of faith? Let’s take a look.
When a person takes Jesus at his word and believes he is their Forgiver and Leader, a journey begins that will produce as its end result a person who emulates him in words, thoughts, and actions. Between then and the final encounter with him, there are many decisions we have to make—what career to pursue, who to marry, where to go on vacation, and thousands of others. Each of these decisions creates an intersection in our life between our way and God’s way. And at each intersection is a traffic signal.
These crossroads of our journey of life provide two opportunities to follow God: in decisions and in timing. One of my favorite verses in the Bible finds God talking to Jeremiah about this subject. He tells the people of Israel to “stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls” (Jeremiah 6:16a [NIV]).
Making the decision God wants us to involves consulting him for advice through prayer, seeing what the Bible says, and receiving wise counsel from trusted individuals that are Christians.
Yet even after following all these things, a person can still make decisions that are not the best ones possible. The reason involves the traffic signals that are positioned at these intersections of life.
Most countries in the world use a series of three colors to denote what a driver should do at a traffic signal. A green light means go, a yellow means caution (or slow down), and red means stop. Failure to obey these can be dangerous, such as when a driver runs a red light or does not move when a green light is displayed.
God’s traffic light system works in a similar way. A green light means to proceed; a red light means not to proceed, and a yellow light is the indication to wait. A failure to obey these can alsoin our lives, through The key is to get to know God so well that we understandact on them according to what the traffic signal says. be dangerous—we might miss out on something significant God wants to do our lives, or a combination of the two. his directions for the journey and
A great example of the traffic light principle can be found in the book of Judges. God had informed Gideon clearly that he was going to lead Israel to defeat the Midianites. At this point, Gideon had 32,000 men ready for battle, but God reminded him to look at the color of the ‘traffic light,’ which was red: “You have too many men for me to deliver Midian into their hands” (Judges 7:2a [NIV]). If Gideon had went into battle with that number of men, Israel could boast that their own strength saved them instead of God (see Judges 7:2b). Instead, Gideon was told to allow those who were scared to go back to camp. That cut the army to 10,000 members.
What color was the ‘traffic signal’ showing now? Gideon was listening to God and discovered that the color had changed—to yellow. There were still too many men! Another round of trimming down the army occurred, based on how a person drank water from the stream. When God was finished, only 300 were left—only .93 % of the original army! At this point, God revealed the green light, and Gideon and the troops had a sizable victory that showcased God’s power and might.
We can’t say that Gideon always made the right decisions, however. Later in Judges, he was asked by the Israelites to rule over them. The ‘traffic signal’ was red, so he refused. However, he asked for a gold earring from each of the men that gathered the Midianite treasure. Soon Gideon had created an ephod (a priestly garment) that, regardless of Gideon’s intention, served to draw the people away from God. This ‘crossing the intersection’ when the light was red turned the faith of many Israelites away from God and even became a stumbling block to Gideon himself (see Judges 8:22-32).
The journey of faith is not always an easy one. Sometimes we don’t hear God clearly. Sometimes we get impatient. Sometimes we turn our eyes to the wrong things. Sometimes we do the right things for the wrong reasons (or vice versa). The good news is that even when we make mistakes, God helps us to get back on the main road. For no situation we face, no matter how challenging or impossible it seems, is a wasted situation (see Romans 8:28, 31).
Think about the decisions you’ve made along your journey of faith up to this point. What color has the traffic signal been for these? How can you see God’s hand at work in these situations? Are there any upcoming decisions that you need both direction and timing from God? What will you do?
Stand at the crossroads and look. And ask. And when the time is right, may you refresh others as God has refreshed you.
--1 John 2:16-17 (The Message)
“Experience is never the ground of my faith; experience is the evidence of my faith.”
--Oswald Chambers
15 November 2006
Pure Refreshment 1.22 -> A Safety Lesson
15 November 2006
It was a trip I had made a number of times since moving to the Central Valley of California. Get on the freeway, drive to the local airport, and return home. The previous journeys weren't incredibly exciting or out of the ordinary.
Saturday morning changed all that.
On the way home, I heard a thump-thump-thump sound from the back of the car. Not sure what was going on, I turned down the radio and listened closer. Sure enough, it was there and was getting louder. However, I had just passed the last opportunity to avoid getting on the freeway. I had no choice but to pull over at a safe location and find out what happened. After accomplishing that task, I opened the door and looked to see what was the matter. I discovered two things in the process:
1) One of the car's tires was flat.
2) What I considered to be a 'safe' location was anything but safe. The car was less than two feet off the roadway, leaving the distinct possibility of another vehicle hitting me from behind. In addition, I was stopped on the beginning of an overpass, which didn't allow for me to get out and walk to a safer location.
After making a phone call for assistance, I sat and waited. And so began forty of the most nerve-wracking minutes of my life as a constant line of 18-wheelers barreled towards the car at 70 miles per hour.
And in the moments between the phone call and the arrival of the tow truck, I realized what it means to be truly safe.
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In today's society, safety is of the utmost importance. We lock the doors to our homes at night—and activate the security system as an added measure of defense. Computers are data storehouses protected by passwords, firewalls, and encryption. When my daughter goes out for a bike ride, the law says that she has to wear a helmet—and she does.
This insatiable urge to be protected extends to our personal lives. If a situation makes us too uncomfortable, we get out of the situation (or increase our distance from it). In order to avoid dealing with an issue, we fill our waking hours with nonstop activities. For some of us, getting dressed means more than simply putting clothes on—it means putting on a façade for the world to see.
Have you considered that maybe, just maybe, being comfortable and safe are not what God desires in our lives?
The Bible is full of stories about people, just like ourselves, that lived lives of relative safety. When God showed up, they were faced with a crucial decision: stay safe or take a risk. Their choices were based on what they believed about God (who he was and what he could theoretically do).
In the books of Genesis and Exodus alone:
· Noah builds a rather large boat in the middle of the Middle East (nobody even knew what a boat was at the time), then gathers animals and his family, preserving them from a massive flood (see Genesis 6:9-9:17);
· Abram (later known as Abraham) moves from a safe situation to a nomad searching for a land unknown to him (Genesis 12:1-6);
· Abraham later takes his son Isaac and places him on an altar to sacrifice (he doesn't, thanks to God's intervention—see Genesis 22:1-17); and
· Moses goes from tending sheep to leading the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt, despite his numerous pleas to get out of the situation (see Exodus 3:1-4:14).
Think about this for a moment: What would Simon and Andrew's lives have been like if they had decided not to respond to Jesus' call to follow him (Mark 1:16-18)? More than likely, they would've lived safe lives as fisherman and missed an adventure that would change their lives as well as countless others. If Paul didn't listen and respond to Jesus' voice while walking to Damascus (see Acts 9:1-22), the New Testament would be a lot shorter.
Whenever God unveils something he wants us to do, our safety is put at risk. Changes have to be made if we are to obey his directions. Otherwise, we remain in our comfortable and familiar situations—and in many occasions, that's more dangerous than obedience.
While in college, we had a problem in my dorm with individuals pulling the fire alarm at all hours of the night. In two years, we heard the alarm over sixty (60) times. Each time, we got dressed and slogged outside despite the temperature and conditions outside. As the number of alarms continued to increase, it became more and more difficult to get out of our warm beds and leave the building. I shudder to think what would've happened if one of those fire alarms would've been real.
So the questions arise: What does being safe look like in your life? Is there something that God has told you to do, but for some reason, you've not combined faith and action together? Can you afford to trust God, whose ways and thoughts are higher than our own (Isaiah 55:8)? What will you do as a result?
While sitting in my disabled car on Saturday morning, watching vehicles whiz past, I realized that I live life too safe. It's time for me to place my faith and trust more squarely in God's hands. I pray in the upcoming weeks that you would notice the changes.
As God refreshes you this week, may you in turn refresh others.
"Trust God from the bottom of your heart;
don't try to figure out everything on your own.
Listen for God's voice in everything you do, everywhere you go;
he's the one who will keep you on track."
-- Proverbs 3:5-6 (The Message)
"All happenings, great and small, are parables whereby God speaks.
The art of life is to get the message."
-- Malcolm Muggeridge
24 October 2006
Pure Refreshment 1.21 -> Manufactured Impressions
A few weeks ago, the city of New Orleans reopened one of its most recognizable landmarks to the general public. Once known as the eighth wonder of the world, the Superdome was used as an evacuation shelter during Hurricane Katrina. However, the storm's winds and rain combined to rip sections of the roof off the building, eventually forcing the evacuation of everyone inside.
I watched the grand re-opening with interest for a number of reasons. While on a trip to the city in 1996, I met my wife for the first time. In addition, there was a football game to be played that evening. After all the events that had occurred there, I got chills as the minutes neared to kickoff.
Then something caught my attention.
Just as the announcers were making their final comments, the television station cut away to a live image of people running onto the field. A few minutes later, there was a mini-concert, headlined by the bands Green Day and U2. Later, the home team took the field and proceeded to win an emotional game whose outcome was never in doubt.
So why was I interested in a group of people running across the floor of the Superdome? The answer may surprise you.
In recent years, important football games have featured a pre-game or halftime show with a major singer or band. Because of the nature of a football field, the performers sing in the middle of the stadium, leaving the crowd a considerable distance from the musicians at all times. However, in an attempt to make the performance feel (and look) like a real concert, a number of spectators are allowed to get on the field and stand next to the stage. This creates the impression (to those watching on television, at least) that a concert is occurring, with adoring fans in close proximity to the singers. Of course, most of the 70,000 people in attendance were still in their seats watching the performance.
This got me thinking about the impressions we try to make on a daily basis. There will inevitably come times when we're not completely happy about something. Maybe it involved being overlooked for a promotion at work. Maybe a person we considered a friend wasn't around when their presence was needed. Maybe there was a disagreement about something.
I'm amazed that individuals who claim to know Jesus as Forgiver and Leader are so adept at manufacturing impressions that everything in life is under control (myself included). A notable example is an argument between husband and wife on the way to a gathering of friends that conveniently ends when the car doors open at their destination. These attitudes actually serve two purposes: a) they hide the true feelings, and b) they (in effect) say to others, "This type of attitude and concealment is okay and acceptable."
The question then becomes a simple one: Why?
Perhaps it's because we feel inadequate about something. Perhaps we're concerned about what others will think or say if they find out. Perhaps we've followed the mandate of popular culture to never show any sign of weakness, and in so doing, have created a suit of armor that we cannot get off.
Know that it's time to be real, because we were not created to be somebody different than ourselves.
While Jesus was on earth a few millennia ago, he never walked around the dusty streets of Israel trying to create a false impression about himself. When he was sad about the death of Lazarus, he didn't act stoic, but cried (see John 11:33-38). When he saw in a synagogue a man with a shriveled hand, I can imagine seeing his frustration with those gathered who wanted to see him break a law instead of perform something more miraculous (see Mark 3:1-6).
If there's one thing that God doesn't want his people to be, it's inauthentic. It makes the faith they claim to be shallow and prone to change with the next passing fad. Instead, he desires his people to be written letters that others can read to discover the true source of their hope, optimism, and love (see 2 Corinthians 3:2-5).
Being authentically real isn't easy to do. It involves being comfortable in who God has created you to be, while not being arrogant, pompous, and obnoxious at the same time. That's where love comes into play, as it helps us convey our feelings in ways that others can relate to effectively—after all, love shows patience, kindness, and trust, refusing to partner with pride, envy, and self-centeredness (see 1 Corinthians 13:4-7).
It's time to stop creating manufactured impressions of ourselves. And now is the perfect time to do it.
What are the impressions you've been making lately? What do you think people can read about you and your faith through the life you portray to them? What do you want them to read instead?
Think about these questions and answer them honestly. And as God refreshes you, may you in turn refresh others.
"My dear children, let's not just talk about love; let's practice real love. This is the only way we'll know we are living truly, living in God's reality. It's also the way to shut down debilitating self-criticism, even when there is something to it. For God is greater than our worried hearts and knows more about us than we do ourselves."
—John, 1 John 3:18-20 (The Message)
"Love wins."
—Rob Bell1
1 Bell, Rob. NOOMA 009|Bullhorn (DVD). Flannel/Zondervan, Grand Rapids MI: 2004. A bumper sticker with the quote is prominently displayed in the production.
06 October 2006
Pure Refreshment 1.20 -> The Voice
06 October 2006
At my current place of employment, I have the opportunity to interact with a large number of people. Sometimes I answer their questions. Sometimes I listen to their issues. At other times I observe and read what's written on their t-shirts (while working, of course). After all, what a t-shirt says is a likely indication of what a person thinks and/or believes.
During the last week, one common theme has begun to emerge from the slogans emblazoned on customer's shirts. See if you can figure out what it is:
- The voices aren't real, but they have some good ideas.
- I've heard voices and they don't like you.
- Shhh—I'm hiding from the voices!
These slogans about voices bring up a number of obvious questions (at least to me): How many voices are there? Have they identified themselves by name? Can they hear us (or even hear our thoughts)? Why are these voices telling specific individuals about people they like or dislike? If the ideas they present are good ones, then why hide from them? Do I even know who these voices are? If they're not real, then what's going on?
For centuries, people have been attempting to discover more about these 'voices.' In most cases, these attempts lead to matters of a spiritual nature. This might be well and good, but where are the voices coming from? For an individual who has taken Jesus at his word and chosen to follow his leading, only one voice is supposed to be followed—the one that says, "This is the way; walk in it." (Isaiah 30:21 [NIV])
However, we have an amazing human tendency to create and use these voices as justification for acquiring our dreams and desires. When a person begins to hear a voice other than God's as God's, they effectively become a slave to the voice they've misunderstood as coming from God itself. In addition, these voices can be used to make others think that following Jesus is nothing more than an exercise in futility. Paul described this as "gratifying the cravings of our sinful nature and following its desires and thoughts." (Ephesians 2:3 [NIV])
So a good question to ask is, "What does God's voice sound like?" If we knew that, it would make life and the decisions we have to make a whole lot easier, right? Certainly!
However, God speaks throughout the Bible in a multitude of ways. He speaks in a commanding voice at times, as Moses discovered while standing at the burning bush (Exodus 3-4). At other times, his voice is one exuding love and compassion, as demonstrated to the Israelite people (see Isaiah 43:1-7). Sometimes the voice is a majestic one, full of splendor and power (see Psalm 29:4-5). Sometimes the voice is just a gentle whisper, as Elijah recognized when he was hiding in a cave (1 Kings 19).
With so many different tones and styles, the key is perhaps not to determine the sound of God's voice. Instead, we need to be able to both hear and apply what he says to us.
In order to do that, there has to be a willingness on our part to hear. The words might not be what we expect, but without a desire to really know what God's saying, they can be easily dismissed, lost in the constant shuffle of life.
We must also be willing to slow down to hear. I'm reminded of the story of two sisters, Martha and Mary, who had Jesus over as a special guest at their house one day. There were many things to do in order to get ready, and Martha was running around feverishly trying to make sure they were all accomplished. Her sister Mary, on the other hand, simply sat down and listened to Jesus talk. This didn't make Martha happy, so she did something I find intriguing (maybe this will be a future edition): she asked her guest to tell Mary to help out! Should he have done so? Maybe. But he said something completely different: "Martha, Martha, you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her." (Luke 10:41-42 [NIV])
In other words, come and listen to my voice.
Of course, all of this means nothing without a response on our part. Sometimes the words said aren't applicational in nature, but are meant for comfort, encouragement, or teaching. We should then respond in a spirit of thankfulness for what has been revealed to us.
My first experience of hearing the voice of God came near the end of a silent retreat many years ago. I was sitting on the North Carolina coast, watching the waves and enjoying the sunshine. All of a sudden, there was a quiet thought that came into my head. "Do you see those waves?" it said. Before I had a chance to respond, the thought continued, "As the waves break upon the shore, that's how I reveal myself to you." Not much application, but I remember a feeling of gratitude that has persisted to this day.
The voice of God is real, and he wants to speak to you. I pray that you would take time each day to see what he has to say. And as the voice refreshes you, may you, in turn, go and refresh others.
"The LORD came and stood there, calling as at the other times, "Samuel! Samuel!" Then Samuel said, "Speak, for your servant is listening."
—1 Samuel 3:10 (NIV)
"In Christ we are taken to the Father. As we hear Him we come into our full identity; we know who we are and who we are created to be and become. We pass from immaturity to maturity."
—Leanne Payne, Listening Prayer1
1 Payne, Leanne. Listening Prayer. Baker Books, Grand Rapids MI: 1994. The quotation is taken from page 128.
16 September 2006
Pure Refreshment 1.19 -> Who Hit You?
16 September 2006
This edition's thought comes in a different form than usual. Read on and reflect on what it means to you. And as God refreshes you, may you in turn refresh others.
Who Hit You?
Nothing to see, yet looking to the future;
Nothing to say, yet speaking volumes;
Waiting for the next round of a plan's design—
To take a life and make it into the vine.
Voices of contempt, of ridicule, of scorn—
These filled the room with sinister malice
As the commotion drew closer to him;
Revealing motives both distinctive and grim.
The separation would be far more painful
Than the beating upon chest, upon back, upon face.
The loneliness would hurt more than the intent
Of the gathered crowd's insults and spit.
"You're all knowing? Okay, who hit you?"
Came the taunt as a hand struck his bruised cheek.
The guard thought Jesus didn't have a clue,
But he knew. Yes, he knew.
Other blows followed, the gathered throng
laughing, jeering, mocking anew.
In the midst of the pain, a voice familiar yet new
Approached, punched, and yelled, "Who hit you?"
We weren't there—but we were there,
Our punches of pride, of money, of fame connecting.
He knew it, yet said not a word,
The cacophony of voices the only sounds heard.
Yet behind the blindfold, his eyes were ready
To meet death, and in the end, conquer;
For as the beatings led to hanging on a tree,
The question "Who hit you?" is answered, "Me."
"We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all. He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth; he was led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth."
—Isaiah 53:6-7 (NIV)
"We see for the first time when we do not look. We see actual things, and we say that we see them, but we never really see them until we see God; when we see God, everything becomes different."
—Oswald Chambers
30 August 2006
Pure Refreshment 1.18 -> Ahhh . . . Refreshing!
There's a scene in Brad Bird's film The Incredibles (2003) that effectively captures what it means to be truly refreshed. Under the pretense of 'bowling night,' Mr. Incredible and his pal Frozone decide to save some people from a burning building. While inside, the two get in a heated exchange about why Frozone cannot put out the fire. Frozone emphatically explains that he's dehydrated; thus, his ability to create ice is useless. The two exit the building with the trapped individuals as Mr. Incredible causes it to collapse.
When Mr. Incredible and Frozone pick themselves up, they find themselves in a jewelry shop and accidentally trip a burglar alarm. Suddenly a police office opens the front door and screams "FREEZE!", pointing a gun at them. Since the two are part of a government protection program, to showcase their powers would blow their cover. But Frozone unexpectedly reaches out his left hand and draws a cup of cold water from the water cooler. The police officer repeats his order to freeze, with Frozone assuring him that he's thirsty and just getting a drink. He then downs the water and lets out a satisfying "Ahhh."
The officer notices he's finished, then responds, "Alright, you've had your drink . . ." Frozone completes his line, saying, "I know, I know . . . freeze." A gunshot is heard, but when the other officers step inside, they only find the rescued folks from the building. As one of the officers turns to face the front door, he stands, wide-eyed, looking at a bullet and officer encased in ice. The two superheroes escape—but only because Frozone was refreshed by a cup of cold water.
Part of the goal for Pure Refreshment is to help lead you to the place where you can be refreshed by God. Of course, I cannot make you drink, but it's important to know that all other forms of refreshing will fail at some point. And in the final analysis, we'll all come to realize that God is the oasis that never goes dry.
During the last few weeks, I've come to realize this fact in a new way (it's also the reason there has been an extended delay between editions). My life has become busier than I've anticipated due to writing book reviews and helping to start a new church in our area. Additionally, I made the mistake of simply resting on the laurels of the faith in Christ I claim, living life in "application only" mode. As a result, I haven't been as refreshed as I've needed to be, creating a trickle-down effect that has affected my family and those I come into contact with every day.
Along the journey of faith, one cannot rest on their past acts of faith, recent books read, or previous church experiences. It might work for a time, but there will come a point where things become too rote, too robotic, too mechanical. The well begins to dry up. Time with God starts to become sporadic, then only in times of sheer distress, then not at all. Prayer extends to memorized lines or disappears entirely. Our circle of friends slowly starts to change, possibly drawing us into a circle of self that's difficult to get out of. People do begin to notice a change—but not the one God desires.
Faith in Jesus is supposed to be intriguing, vibrant, and life-changing. And in order for that to occur, we must be refreshed daily—even constantly, if need be. In John Bunyan's classic allegory The Pilgrim's Progress (1678), Interpreter shows Christian a wall covered in flame along with a man trying to extinguish the flames with water. The man's effort's are not working, however. When Christian asks why this is the case, Interpreter takes him behind the wall, revealing a man constantly throwing oil on the fire. "This is Christ, who continually with the oil of his grace (unconditional love and acceptance towards us) maintains the work already begun in the heart."1
Our part in maintaining refreshment involves coming to God consistently to drink deep from the oasis he provides. This is despite what we may be feeling at the time. And as we do that, he will come near to us (see James 4:8). In addition, we have to be real about what's going on in our lives. God knows everything already (1 John 3:20), so why do we think we can successfully hide our struggles from him? Trust me, it doesn't work (and I've tried). Eventually, we get emotionally, mentally, and even physically exhausted from carrying our burdens, when we really don't have to (see 1 Peter 5:7).
True refreshment isn't just about ourselves, however. Instead, we need to go out and refresh others with the refreshment we've received. This can take a variety of forms: baking cookies for a neighbor who's just returned home from surgery, writing an encouraging note to someone, spending time with a person who might be shut out from society through no fault of their own, or sharing with an individual about Christ and his desire to have them become part of his family. Regardless of the method, refreshment must be put in action. Jesus didn't tell his disciples to keep their good news to themselves. Instead, before his return to heaven, he said, "you will be my witnesses" (Acts 1:8 [NIV]). They listened, and many a person has been truly refreshed as a result!
It's your turn. What will you do?
May you come to God today and allow him to refresh you with a cup of cold water, leaving your struggles, fears, and inhibitions behind. And as a result, may you go and refresh others.
"See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland. The wild animals honor me, the jackals and the owls, because I provide water in the desert and streams in the wasteland, to give drink to my people, my chosen, the people I formed for myself that they may proclaim my praise."
—Isaiah 43:19-21 (NIV)
"Many fail to achieve anything significant for God or man because they lack a dominating ambition. No great task was ever achieved without the complete abandonment to it that a worthy ambition inspires.
—J. Oswald Sanders2
All material copyright 2006 J. Alan Sharrer. No part of this email may be reproduced—other than the forwarding of the original, unaltered email message—without express written permission.
08 August 2006
Pure Refreshment 1.17 -> A Memorable Gift
I wasn’t sure what was happening. Nervously, I paced the floor and tried to stay calm despite the combination of excitement, nervousness, and anxiety in the air. There was music playing on the radio, flowers on a table, and members of my extended family watching television. The wait was becoming excruciatingly long.
Suddenly, there was a knock on the door. A man in a lab coat walked into the room and proceeded to let my wife know the results of the test. It was positive—Jennifer had officially gone into labor. The doctor then turned and asked me, “Are you ready to have a child today?”
I didn’t know what to say. I turned and looked at the clock, which read 12:30 AM. And then it hit me: Today is April 11, 2002. It’s my birthday. And I’m possibly going to be sharing it with my child? This is not happening . . .
Well, it did happen, albeit fourteen hours later, when Rebecca came into the world. Honestly, I wasn’t thrilled at first about having to share my special day with my soon-to-be daughter. Yet over time, that selfish attitude has morphed into one of thankfulness and gratitude. For when I see Rebecca or receive a hug or picture from her, I’m reminded of that afternoon in April when God presented me with a memorable gift.
There’s a fascinating story found near the end of the book of Mark involving another unforgettable gift. In the town of Bethany, a man named Simon the Leper had invited Jesus and his disciples to pay him a visit. While inside the home, a woman approached Jesus with an alabaster jar of perfume, broke it, and poured it on his head. The disciples were not happy about this and weren’t afraid to let him know their feelings: “Why this waste of perfume? It could have been sold for more than a year's wages and the money given to the poor.” (Mark 14:5-6 [NIV]) The act was simply over-the-top for them.
To put this into perspective, the woman didn’t grab a bottle of $4 perfume from the counter and drip it on Jesus’ head. Instead, she went all out. She pulled out the bottle of perfume that was worth $50,000 and used that! In addition, the container that was holding the perfume was made of a very expensive substance known as alabaster. And the woman broke the jar before releasing the perfume. So we have extravagance upon extravagance. She knew that she wasn’t going to get any of the perfume back or be able to sell the jar for a profit. Once she started, there was no turning back.
The disciples had never seen (or smelled) such an incredible display of love expressed to Jesus. But instead of getting chills down their spines, they proceeded to attack the woman’s actions. “Hey Jesus, that’s the biggest waste of possessions we’ve ever seen! We could’ve taken that jar with the perfume in it, sold it for $50,000 or more, and then given it to those in true need. Woman, what were you thinking?” (It’s ironic that the disciples were getting on someone for a display of love and affection remotely similar to theirs [forsaking all their livelihood and following a guy claiming to be God’s son].)
Jesus, drenched in perfume, looked at the disciples and basically told them to back off. They didn’t have the right perspective. It wasn’t going to be long before he would be arrested, beaten, and killed. The disciples were, in effect, acting selfish and attempting to stand in the way of what Jesus called “a beautiful thing” Mark 14:6 [NIV]). Their concern about the poor is valid, but there will always be people in need around the world, whether it involves food, clothing, shelter, drinkable water, or all four. And we should help them as we have the resources and time to do so.
But in this case, Jesus was impacted by the woman’s gift. He ends the conversation with a powerful line: “I tell you the truth, wherever the gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told, in memory of her” (Mark 14:9 [NIV]). And this verse would prove to be completely insignificant if not for Matthew and Mark. For it turns out that both accounts were written approximately twenty years after Jesus’ death and resurrection from the dead. This gift was so memorable to them that they remembered to include it in their accounts! As a result, we can learn from the extravagance of the woman two millennia later.
Jesus stated that we are to love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength (see Mark 12:30). Doing such a thing may look as folly to the world (and possibly to those who know Jesus as Forgiver and Leader). But when you truly love someone, you do whatever it takes to make sure they receive the love you provide. You show them thankfulness and gratitude. And that’s what made the woman’s actions so memorable.
What is a memorable gift you’ve received? Why is it memorable to you? Did anyone think or feel otherwise when you told them about it? What was your reaction? What are some ways you can show God thankfulness and gratitude for all he’s done for you and those around you?
I pray that God would reveal something wonderful to you today. And as he refreshes you, may you, in turn, refresh others.
“[A]ll Christ wants is what we have the ability and opportunity to do. He asks no impossibilities of us.”
--JR Miller
“I will sing of the LORD's great love forever; with my mouth I will make your faithfulness known through all generations.”
--Psalm 89:1 (NIV)
All material copyright 2006 J. Alan Sharrer. No part of this email may be reproduced—other than the forwarding of the original, unaltered email message—without express written permission.
24 July 2006
Pure Refreshment 1.16 -> No Further Rules
The first day on the job for a new company is normally an exciting and busy time. There are new procedures and routines to learn. There are other employees to get acquainted with. There are packets of paperwork that have to be filled out.
In addition, a new hire typically receives an employee handbook detailing the many rules and regulations they’re expected to follow. Dress code, emergency procedures, non-disclosure agreements, access restrictions—the sheer amount of rules can be quite restrictive and overwhelming!
One company that has been in business for over a century also provides a handbook to its new employees. In the case of Nordstrom, the “handbook” is actually a gray card and contains the following 75 words:
WELCOME TO NORDSTROM
We're glad to have you with our Company. Our number one goal is to provide outstanding customer service. Set both your personal and professional goals high. We have great confidence in your ability to achieve them.
Nordstrom Rules: Rule #1: Use your good judgment in all situations. There will be no additional rules.
Please feel free to ask your department manager, store manager, or division general manager any question at any time.1
By providing its employees the freedom to do what’s necessary in order to help a customer, Nordstrom has been able to remain a leader in the retail industry.
According to Webster’s dictionary, freedom is defined as the “enjoyment of personal liberty, or not being a slave nor a prisoner.”
In today’s society, there are individuals who believe claiming Jesus as Forgiver and Leader is akin to a crutch to hobble around life with. By this, they believe Christians are weak-minded and/or have been unable to “get with” any other ‘commonly accepted’ belief or doctrine. However, the Christian faith is actually the essence of freedom. Paul made it clear when he wrote, “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free” (Galatians 5:1 [NIV]). And if that isn’t enough evidence, Jesus proclaimed that the following passage was fulfilled when read at the synagogue in Nazareth:
“The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me, because the LORD has anointed me
to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,
to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners,
to proclaim the year of the LORD's favor.”
(Isaiah 61:1-2a; found in Luke 4:18-19 [NIV])
Those who claim Jesus as Forgiver and Leader have been granted freedom. So what does this look like? How does it differ from slavery or imprisonment?
For starters, Jesus distilled the laws and regulations from the innumerable ones we have today to two: Love God with every facet of your being, and love others as you would want to be loved (see Matthew 22:37-40). In doing this, we are able to obey all the rules on the books today. For example, by not gossiping about someone, we’re treating others with the respect we would want to be treated with. By helping a person in need of assistance, we’re showing our love of God.
It’s like the concept Nordstrom uses with their employee handbook. By obeying their one rule, employees are able to show good customer relations and sales practices while adding their own creative touch.
Secondly, freedom as Jesus desires means we are not to be mindless robots, obeying in a mechanical fashion. Instead, we are to use the distinct personality we’ve been blessed with to make a difference for him wherever we’re at. For example, I’m the type of person who enjoys sharp wit, is game for any type of sporting activity, and likes to be creative. To not be these things would be to disavow who God has made me to be. Allow the freedom he’s provided you to make him known to others in your own special way.
Finally, freedom in Christ means that he places in our lives the ability to break away from things that can easily ensnare us. Whether the struggle we face involves drug addiction, alcoholism, bad relationships, or individuals/groups that have attempted to control facets of our lives, we can overcome these with the Lord’s help. Whether our struggle lasts for a few days or for a lifetime, we must remember that God does not want us to just ask for assistance and leave it at that. He might use others who have been in our position to help challenge and encourage us as we strive to become truly free.
Remember, the only reason we can even experience freedom is because of Jesus’ death and subsequent resurrection. Those events freed us from the stranglehold of our mistakes and failures permanently—but only if we truly believe Jesus is who he said he is.
So, what does freedom mean to you? Are there things/people/events in your life that are keeping you from experiencing the freedom Jesus desires for you?
I pray that you would use good judgment as you think about these things and allow God to refresh you. And as he does, may you, in turn, refresh others.
“[You] were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather, serve one another in love.”
—Galatians 5:13 (NIV)
“Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. But the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it--he will be blessed in what he does.”
—James 1:21-25 (NIV)
1 Wikipedia, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nordstrom.
All material copyright 2006 J. Alan Sharrer. No part of this message may be reproduced—other than the forwarding of the original, unaltered message—without express written permission.
10 July 2006
Pure Refreshment 1.15 -> Ring the Bell
“If we did well, ring the bell!”
A sign bearing this comment sits to the left of the exit doors at a local fast-food eatery. Bolted to the wall nearby is a old-fashioned bell, complete with a rope hanging from the end of the clapper.
As with most everyone, I have a subconscious expectation of what constitutes good service. This means that the order was executed properly, the correct change was given, the place was clean, and the staff was courteous and helpful.
One afternoon, I had lunch at this particular restaurant with members of my extended family. The experience was a good one, and while acquiring a drink refill, I noticed the sign and bell on the wall. That’s a neat idea, I thought. Instant verification of whether they did a good job or not. I returned to my seat, finished the meal, and before walking out the door, I picked up my daughter so she could pull the bell’s rope.
CLANG! CLANG! CLANG! Immediately, we heard a chorus of “Thank you!” from the front counter and kitchen. It was a shocking yet nice way to end the dining experience. I later thought about the whole situation and the seemingly instinctive response by the staff. It seemed so trained, so mechanical, so . . . expected. Ivan Pavlov, the Russian psychologist who taught dogs to salivate at the sound of a bell (whether they received any food or not), would’ve been proud.
The reactions of the employees that afternoon are not as unusual as one might think. Every person has a bell similar to the one found at the restaurant that can be “pulled” to bring out a certain response (in words, actions, or both).
Jesus understood the concept of bell-ringing quite well. While sitting on a hillside one day, he gave three examples of how hypocrites—individuals who act religious but aren’t really that way—try to elicit reactions from people:
#1 - “So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full” (Matthew 6:2 [NIV]).
#2 - “And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full” (Matthew 6:5 [NIV]).
#3 - “When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show men they are fasting. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full” (Matthew 6:16 [NIV]).
Obviously, these people were attempting to make sure as many folks as possible knew of their actions. And I’m sure they were convincing to quite a few individuals as well. But they forgot to remember that it’s not that easy to ring the bell of the Creator. God understands the feelings, thoughts, and intents of humanity—for both good or evil (see Psalm 94:11). Jesus noted, in each of his three examples, that they would only get one type of reward—the hollow praise of men.
Sometimes the words we say, the actions we convey, even the thoughts we think can reveal more about us and our true intentions than we’d like to admit.
The truth is, in many ways, we want to be known for something. And our corrupt human nature, if unchecked, will do whatever it takes to make sure that happens:
If we desire praise, we’ll make sure people know how wonderful we and/or our successes are.
If we desire power, we’ll make sure nobody stands in our way of reaching the top.
If we desire godliness, we’ll stop ringing bells and allow God to provide what he deems necessary for our lives.
In each of Jesus’ three examples, he noted that the correct way to get the Lord’s seal of approval is not to desire the cheers and accolades of men. In this, one would not make a spectacle out of what they were doing (giving, praying, fasting). Followers of Christ are called to be different, to be agents of change in a world that seems to grow nearer and farther apart simultaneously.
—Jesus, in Matthew 23:12 (The Message)
—Brennan Manning 1
1 Manning, Brennan. The Ragamuffin Gospel. Multnomah, Sisters OR, 1990: 147.
All material copyright 2006 J. Alan Sharrer. No part of this message may be reproduced—other than the forwarding of the original, unaltered message—without express written permission.
28 June 2006
Pure Refreshment 1.14 -> An Unsuccessful Success
One of the most astonishing things about God is that he accomplishes his plans in ways custom-tailored to each individual. The Bible contains numerous examples of this: Abraham’s journey to Mount Moriah with his son Isaac (Genesis 22) to test his obedience; Gideon’s army being reduced from 32,000 to 300 (Judges 7) to test his level of trust and reveal the power of God; and Paul’s transformation from ‘hater of those who follow Christ’ to ‘proclaimer of Christ to those who don’t know him’ (Acts 9). Such faith stories are designed to inspire, challenge, and refresh those who hear them.
Today, I would like to share with you my faith story.
For me, Sundays were spent watching NASCAR or helping Dad with numerous odd jobs. Church was not part of the day’s agenda. But one weekend, I asked my parents if it would be okay if I went with her and her son John. To my surprise, they allowed me to. Despite my initial feelings upon entering the building, I enjoyed the trip. There were people that I knew, and they seemed to like the fact that I was there. Over the next year or so, I attended as often as I could, even when Mrs. Powell was sick or out of town. Raymond, the youth guy, and his family were kind enough to take me home afterwards on some occasions, which I sincerely appreciated.
A few months later, it was announced that a skiing trip to the mountains of North Carolina was planned for January, and everyone was invited—provided they attended enough meetings and activities. I qualified (barely), but two weeks before the vans rolled out, I came down with the flu. While at home, I found a copy of the Living Bible inside a stand in my room. I was tired of video games and chicken noodle soup, so I laid on my bed and read the books of Matthew, Mark, and Luke in one sitting. Incredible, I thought. I wonder if this stuff really is true . . .
The day of the trip arrived, and I was ready to go. My luggage was at the church, courtesy of my father. The kids were gathering. However, I was at the high school, watching the number of students dwindle and the clock draw nearer to our departure time of 4 PM.
The director, Raymond, had made a promise to pick me up, since Mom and Dad were both working. But it was 3:40 and he was nowhere to be found. In a measure of desperation, I asked the last student in the parking lot to convince his father to take me. I arrived at the church, immediately made my way to Raymond, and asked him what happened to the promise.
His response surprised me: “Well, at least you’re here.”
We drove all night, arriving in Boone NC during a snowstorm. The next day, I attempted to ski for the first time. It wasn’t pretty. The rest of the trip wasn’t much prettier. It was as if the snow had revealed the group’s true attitudes about me. I was routinely ignored, talked down to, and alienated at points by them—as well as Raymond. I just needed some encouragement, and it wasn’t coming. The breaking point came when the group gathered in a hotel room to see a movie, and upon my entrance, the group (with Raymond inside) yelled, “Get out of here!” It was made worse because Raymond had chosen me to room with him and two other students that weekend.
After the movie debacle, I closed the door to my room and walked over to the window. Looking down, I saw the remnants of the previous day’s snowstorm. My mind was experiencing a mixture of emotions—uncertainty, anger, rejection, fear. What had held so much potential and promise was now a distant memory.
I didn’t know what to do, so I did the only two things I knew at the time. The first was to compose myself. The second was to watch an episode of American Gladiators, all the time thinking, Why am I even here?
The rest of the roommates arrived later on, followed by Raymond. Seeing him, I felt a level of frustration I had never experienced before well up inside me—and I let him have it: “What’s going on? I didn’t come here to be ignored and alienated! Do you have any idea how I’m feeling right now? You could’ve shown a little bit of compassion at some point this week!”
Raymond didn’t change his attitude as a result, replying, “Well, it’s too late now.” He then added, “We’re going to have our room devotion (a short Bible story relating to the trip) in ten minutes.” Knowing I couldn’t escape, my plan was to tune him out for the devotion and just go to sleep.
But something unexpected occurred.
I found myself hanging on every word Raymond said as he talked about Jesus, his life, something about a cross, and that I needed to have him as a friend that is closer than a brother. I knew my attitudes weren’t right. I knew I’d made tons of mistakes in my young life. I suddenly realized that Jesus bridged a gap I could never attempt to cross in my life. He provides the path to true refreshment for anyone who takes him at his word and claims him as their Forgiver and Leader.
Despite Raymond’s broken promise and seeming indifference to my feelings, the group’s attitude towards me, and a long evening watching American Gladiators in a lonely hotel room, what appeared on the outside to be unsuccessful was in fact a major success. And in this case, the message of Christ won over my life.
I write these words 16½ years later, realizing that the journey is challenging and exhilarating at the same time. I still mess up and make mistakes, but Christ has provided me a new outlook on life and what I should be doing to tell others about him, just like Paul experienced on a dusty road one afternoon 2000 years ago.
So, what’s your story? Do you have someone you can tell it to? May you share it with someone who needs to hear it this week. If you don’t have a story, it’s not too late to begin writing one. Feel free to email me (purerefreshment@gmail.com) if you’d like to know more, or find a follower of Christ you trust. We’re all in this together.
Whatever your response, may God refresh you today. And as he does, may you, in turn, go and refresh others.
“This is how much God loved the world: He gave his Son, his one and only Son. And this is why: so that no one need be destroyed; by believing in him, anyone can have a whole and lasting life.”
—John 3:16-17 (The Message)
All material copyright 2006 J. Alan Sharrer. No part of this message may be reproduced—other than the forwarding of the original, unaltered message—without express written permission.
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