A New Role

From last October until January, I worked as an Acting Case Worker as often as possible.  Having been Custody Staff for over 11 years, I was absolutely ready for a change in my life.  As Cusdody Staff, my role with the Inmates was 70-80% enforcing the rules and only 20-30% on interacting, role-modeling, mentoring, etc.  As a very introverted and empathic person, this role was a difficult one.

To be honest, I originally started working with the Nebraska Department of Corrections in January of 2006 and quickly realized how challenging the role would be for me.  In fact, it was a job that I only applied for because my unemployment insurance from leaving Active Duty was running out.  Being someone who is a natural mentor and shepard, this role made me feel like a big, square peg being forced into a small, round hole.  More than a little awkward.

Now, don't misunderstand...  I was very good at my job.  By nature, I have always been a thorough and fair person.  The Inmates soon learned that they could always know what to expect from me.  Though many Inmates hated me for enforcing the rules, they respected me for being consistent and treating everyone equally.  Many coworkers and supervisors respected me for this, too.

Having been a Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) for years, I always strove to utilize on-the-spot corrections whenever possible, be it staff or Inmates.  Some highly respected me for this, others didn't.   But, they typically did not try to force me to do differently.

Although I was very good at my job, it did not give me much personal satisfaction.  As an INFJ, such a role was extremely draining physically, emotionally, and spiritually.  Because of my growing dissatisfaction with work, I would often become bitter with God for the job He put me in.  Sometimes I was able to "grow where you are planted," but that was more the exception than the rule.

Although I am still not thrilled with where I am at, I am more accepting of my role as Unit Case Worker.  It has a much higher focus on problem solving, mentoring, etc., that I have a more positive view of my work and role.  Being that I work in a prison, I will always have a strong focus on security.  However, it is now closer to 20-40% of my work, not the main focus.

What is interesting is that many of the Inmates have quickly adjusted to this new role of mine.  In fact, some of the Inmates who were respectful in the past would not talk with me much at all.  Now, however, many are more willing to talk and receive my feedback.  I am still quick to correct unprofessional/inappropriate comments.  For example, one Inmate would always say, "Hi, buddy!"  After correcting home several times by saying, "I am not your buddy," I finally took him to the side and explained why his comment was inappropriate.  The 'light went on' and he has talked with me correctly ever since.  And this was over 2 weeks ago, and this person is a friendly person by nature.

Although working in Corrections is hard for me, being a Unit Case Worker seems to be a better fit.  I am not excited about work, though when I was acting Religious Coordinator,  I was.  But, that is a different story for another time.

In Chist,

RC

Responses

References:
• Our Daily Bread for May 23, 2017
• Safe Places for Sensitive Students
• General Information on “Lawful use of Force”
• Ways to deescalate a situation

I admit, I am way behind in doing my devotions with Our Daily Bread. I will be consistent for a while, but then slack off for several days. Then I might catch up a few days, then get busy with life and not do any for several weeks. Work 12 hour shifts at a prison four days a week often make it that much harder. I am sure many of you can relate to how easy it is to get distracted by life.

But, when I read this ODB (Our Daily Bread) entry, it stirred many different thoughts in me. The first had to do with my experiences at the prison. Secondly, I was reminded of the numerous news articles I have read or seen on the news about 'safe zones' on many of our college campuses. Especially since I have been going through our books, including many of my college and seminary books, I am reminded of many contrasting experiences that I had there. I also thought about the many experiences I have had while working in a prison.

It is my experience that almost all of the time, a gentle response will calm things down. But, this is not always the case. At the prison that I work at, this usually is effective. If an Inmate is having a bad day and I respond to him in a calm and respectful manner, usually this will help them to calm down. Even if it is not something that I can take care of, if I treat the Inmate with dignity and respect and attempt to help him, it often works.

There have been times, though, when an Inmate purposefully gets themselves as upset as they can in order to cause problems. Or, there are times that, no matter what I do, they stay angry and/or uncooperative. If they have anger issues, are on some kind of intoxicant, having a mental health crisis, etc., their ability to cooperate and calm down are significantly reduced. And, there are some Inmates who love to cause problems on purpose. It’s their entertainment, or their way at lashing out at those who represent law and order.

I gave my life to Christ during my sophomore year in college. Although I had grown up a pastor’s kid, I had not cared about applying God’s Word to my life and living for Him as a child. As a young adult, I was now prayerfully doing so. And part of that was explaining my faith perspective in papers as was appropriate. This was especially the case in the introduction to philosophy class and an applied psychology class that I was taking. The professor of the philosophy class was a staunch atheist and the woman who taught my psychology class was very liberal in her views. Though our world and moral views different on many points, they respected my opinions. Both of them also took time outside of class to talk with me about how I shared my beliefs. They not only challenged me in what I said, but they also helped me with how to express my thoughts and beliefs in a clear manner. Most of the time in the classroom, all students were free to express their views, and all views would be challenged with, “Okay, why do you believe this?”

I admit, I was so excited about sharing my faith as a young Christian that I often did not express myself as well as I could. This was with in class participation and with written assignments. Many professors and quite a few classmates worked with me on this. They helped me to learn how to better express my beliefs in ways that others would be more willing to listen to.

There were some classes in college and several in seminary where this was not the case. If my moral and/or theological beliefs were not the similar or exactly like those who ‘were in power,’ then I was looked down upon, sometimes mocked. It seemed that no matter how respectful I tried to be with them and ‘agree to disagree,’ some were not interested. It was either ‘my way or the highway’ with them. Needless to say, that made life very difficult at times for me and other students who shared similar beliefs with me.

Even though those were trying times, and even though it was not right to put us through that kind of harassment, it did help me to learn how to persevere, handle conflict in a Christ-like manner, how to refine and improve stating my beliefs, etc. They meant it for evil, but God used it for good.

In this fallen world, we will encounter difficulties, conflict, hatred, etc. There are times were a ‘soft answer’ will turn wrath aside. There will be times where you will be able to reason with someone and resolve conflict peacefully. But, though it’s important to try, it is just as important to remember that there are people who will be determined to cause problems, who want to injure or kill others. Being ready for that is critical, I believe. I do not ascribe to the idea that, “there is a demon behind every rock.” I do believe that there is always the potential of a demon being there. As an INFJ and as a Christian, I seek to live peacefully with others. This is something God calls each of us to do. As often as possible, I seek God’s wisdom in resolving things peacefully. However, I have spent years training so that if things cannot be resolved peacefully, I hope that those of you out there will seek God’s wisdom with how to live peacefully with others, and how to protect yourself, your loved ones, or the stranger amongst you.

Whether it’s conflict with your spouse, your child, a co-worker, your neighbor, taking time to listen and talk calmly can greatly help the situation. It has been my experience that sometimes, all it takes is someone taking the time to listen to their pain and anger and responding respectfully is all that it takes to resolve things. Or, at the very least, to open the door to peaceful resolution. I also recommend you talk with your religious/clergy, someone in law enforcement, or similar vocation for tips to use. I also encourage you to take self-defense lessons and/or fire-arms training, so that you can learn how to respond with other means do not work or are not an option because of that particular situation. How you choose to respond is always your responsibility. Each of us must accept responsibly for the chooses we make. All of us also have the responsibility to learn what we can so that we can deal with life in constructive and wise ways.

Learning to Pray

References:
• Matthew 6:9-13 NAS
• Prayer Online
• The UMC Book of Worship
• PC USA Book of Common Worship

This blog entry is based on a Bible Study that I did with members of the church my wife and I attend. It is definitely not an exhaustive look at what prayer is. Whole books written by people who have spent much more time studying the Christian concept of prayer. Instead, this is simply an introduction to my understanding of prayer. If there is enough interest, I will be happy to go into deeper detail with different aspects of prayer.

Let me first emphasize something. It is my opinion (and experience) that there is no ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ way to pray. Just as learning new skills, learning a language, cooking, etc., everyone has their own style and preferences. Some styles of prayer are more appropriate for different situations. However, praying is as unique as the person saying the prayer and the situation that created the need/desire for prayer.

Growing up a Presbyterian minister’s son, I learned a lot of prayers over the years. Some of them were typical prayers said before meals, others were prayers typically said before bed. Two examples are “Now I lay me down to sleep….” and ‘God is great, God is good…” I also grew up seeing the Psalms are awesome examples of prayers. I don’t think I ever saw them as exhaustive examples, just some examples.

While growing up in the church, I also learned to pray for others. Whether for healing, strength, encouragement, safe travels, etc. Although I learned all of these different prayers, I did not develop a deep prayer life until many years later.

While in college and seminary, I was introduced to many styles of prayers. I was also given ‘formulas’ for ‘how to pray.’ While I believe that acronyms can be helpful for doing prayers, I don’t think that they are absolutely essential. One ‘formula’ (acronym) that I came across recently that can be helpful is ACTS. ‘A’ is for adoration, praising God for who He is. ‘C’ is for Confession, telling Him everything we’ve done wrong and asking for His forgiveness. ‘T’ is for thanksgiving, thanking Him for answered prayers and for helping us in our daily lives. And ‘S’ is for supplication, asking God for daily needs (http://www.prayeronline.org.au/how-to-pray).

But, for me, one of the most important things that I have learned is that prayer is to be a conversation with God. One way of looking at it is, we read Scripture to hear from God. And then we pray in order to talk with God. While I do pray this way at times, I more often do not. Instead, I will spend a large portion of time while walking, driving, or sitting in the house and reflect on things in my life while praying. Sometimes I might have a list of things that I want to make sure and pray about, but often I don’t.

On many occasions, I have gone for a walk and prayed for others. Things that I typically will pray about are my friends and family, the businesses and/or houses that I walk buy, up coming events in my life, etc. There rarely is a set agenda, I just pray about what comes to mind. I was first exposed to this idea of ‘prayer walking’ while in college. It is a good way for working on praying in a more spontaneous manner.

I do something a little different while driving to work. Over the years, I have developed the habit of spending at least 10 minutes of my commute to work (be it for the Department of Corrections, the Nebraska Guard unit, or something else). Typically, I will acknowledge my sinful nature, thank God for His healing and forgiveness, and transition to thanking Him for giving me His Spiritual Armor (Ephesians 6:10-18). Then I will often start praying about my upcoming day at work, things that I know I will experience, making the right decisions, that myself and all others in a leadership role will make the right choices, etc. Some days, I only spend 5-8 minutes in prayer. Other times, I have spent an entire commute in prayer. Either because of all the things that came to my mind to pray for, or because I was spending a lot of time praising and thanking God for things He has already done.
Some people like to keep a prayer journal. I have done this on occasion, but have not been very consistent with it. Probably because I typically prefer to pray while doing other things like walking or driving.

While I was at FT Bragg, and friend of mine and I decided to become prayer partners. We would call each other on a regular basis (frequently to daily, depending on our schedules). During our phone calls, we would share recent news, prayer requests, and then pray together. Since we would usually pray with each other while talking on the phone, we jokingly would say, “Do you want to dial and then I hang up?” That is, one of us would ‘dial,’ or start the prayer. Then, we would pray as we felt the Holy Spirit guiding us. Eventually, when the other person felt led to do so, he would ‘hang up.’ That is, he would close the prayer. It was something that worked really well for us.

Asides from the many examples of prayer in Scripture, two other good resources come to my mind. One is Chapter 3 of “Celebration of Discipline” by Richard J. Foster. The other is chapter 15 of “The Cost of Discipleship” by Dietrich Bonhoeffer. In both of these examples, the respective author spends times talking about their perspectives and experiences on prayer. There are many, many other resources out there that one can use.

In closing, I want to emphasize a couple of things. One is that how a person prays is really going to depend on who the person is and the particular situation that they are praying about. A person should always be learning and growing with how they pray. Try different ways of praying. Try keeping a prayer journal, pray by yourself and pray with others, experiment with praying for people while out walking, etc. Over time, God will help you learn ways to pray that honor Him and draw you closer into a deeper relationship with Him. In fact, that should be one of your goals with prayer, to experience His love and grace more, to walk closer with Him, and to be able to be more responsive to His guidance. Be ready to be surprised by Him as you do this. He has truly done that with me.

For What Cost

References:
• John 11:25-26 NAS
• Luke 24:1-12 NAS
• Open Doors: Pakistan
• FoxNews Article on the terrorist attack in Pakistan

It is Easter Sunday evening for me. My family and I spent Easter at church this morning and then we had lunch with my parents. All of us are Christians and wanted to spend time together celebrating our faith. Celebrating the fact that God not only entered into our world to teach us, but to take our sins upon Himself and died a criminal’s death so that we might be dead to sin. But, not just that, but that Jesus rose from the dead so that all who have been called to believe in His death and resurrection would have eternal life. It was a very pleasant time together.

Unfortunately, though, church, had some real low points this morning. Most of the service was very good and focused on the finished work of Jesus Christ. Many families had visitors, which was a real blessing! But, thing things hit a very sour note. Though the service did end on a positive note, I could not help but walk away from the service angry because of some things that had been brought up. Some issues that we as a local congregation have been wrestling with for some time. Instead of our focus on the New Life that we have in Christ, certain issues gained the spotlight.

After the service, I felt led to talk with our pastor about some things. As some of you might know, I have a strong interest the persecuted Church throughout the world. I have done a few sermons and Bible studies on the topic over the last few years, especially around All Saints Day, which is the first November first, and celebrated on the first Sunday in November. On that day, we are encouraged to take time to reflect on those who have died (were martyred) for the Gospel of Christ. Reading some of their stories helps to put my issues into perspective. Living in a country like America where we are allowed to be Disciples of Christ with little fear had dulled us to what the cost of Discipleship can be.

Throughout the day, my wife and I had briefly talked about the terrorist attack at the Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park in Lahore, Pakistan. We were saddened by it, due to the fact that so many people had been killed or injured. But, it wasn’t until our drive home that reality slapped my very hard in the face.

During our drive home, my wife was reading some updated articles about the terrorist attack, like the one that I linked above. After a little time of silent reflection, she asked, “Doesn’t your friend from seminary live in Lahore, Pakistan?” That was a real slap of reality for me. That made it very personal to me, realizing that someone I know, is a dear brother in Christ, and a good friend, was very likely directly impacted by that attack.

I met my friend, Majid, in 1996 when we both attended Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary. He was there to finish studying for a Doctorate in Ministry, while I was there to get a Masters of Divinity (MDiv). He, several Christians for Africa, and other Christians from America became close friends. After he graduated with his Doctorate and returned to Pakistan, we still kept in touch occasionally via E-mail. After Facebook came around, we connected on that. Around Christmas of last year, I found out that he had been elected as moderator of the Presbyterian Church of Pakistan. I was extremely happy to hear that and eager to hear of the things that God would do through him in such an awesome position.

Majid and I share the same hope in Christ. That hope is that Christ Jesus died for our sins and was raised from the dead for our justification and that we might have a New Life in Him. Over the years, I have experienced prejudice for my conservative Christian beliefs in various forms. But, I have never been threatened with imprisonment and/or death for trust Christ as my Lord and Savior. I am sure that all of what I have experienced pales in comparison to what Majid and the other Christians in Pakistan experience on a daily basis. Really puts things into perspective.

My wife read that Christians make up approximately 2% of the population of Pakistan (OpenDoorUSA.org lists 199 million overall population and approximately 4 million Christians). And, since Majid holds a senior position within the Presbyterian Church of Pakistan, it is very likely that he has friends and/or family members that were directly affected by this attack. I can only imagine how all of this has affected him, his family, his congregation, let alone the Presbyterian Church of Pakistan and other Christians in that country.

On Easter, we celebrate Jesus’ resurrection so that we can have a New Life in Him. We celebrate this hope while still living in this broken world where suffering and death are still a real threat. But yet, those of us who are Christians in such countries as the United States, Canada, various countries throughout Europe, etc., live a very protected life. The challenges that we face on a daily basis grossly pale to what other Brothers and Sisters in Christ experience regularly, even daily. Let us take time remember those who are now experiencing eternal life in Christ in the fullest sense. Whether they died of natural causes, were a victim of crime, are were martyred for their faith, they are now experiencing what we are currently hoping for. That Jesus’ words, “I am the Resurrection and the Life…” (John 11:25) We walk by faith, their faith has been made a reality. Let us pray that those who are persecuted maintain their courage and faith. May we also pray that we do not take our peaceful lives (compared to what they endure) for granted. May we have the same courage to follow Christ like they do. With courage, zeal, compassion, and hope.

Do You Really Know Him?

References:
• RC Sproul “In the Presence of God” for the week of March 14, 2016
• Genesis 3:6-10 NAS
• Matthew 25:31-46 NAS
• Arminian Theology
• Calvinism Theology

Every week, I receive an E-mail devotional from RC Sproul called, “In the Presence of God.” It is written from a conservative theologian writing from a very strong Reformed perspective. Having grown up Presbyterian, it is like a drink from a cool, clear stream for me spiritually. Several of the devotionals that RC Sproul has written have touched me. But, this one did so in a way that was a bit different.

I have had numerous discussions over the years about the fallen nature of mankind and whether or not we, as a fallen being, can seek to know God or not. I must confess, this is something that I have really wrestled with over the years. My wife grew up in the United Methodist Church (UMC) and has a strong Arminian background. Needless to say, this makes for some interest discussions!
This short paper will in no way thoroughly look at this issue. Numerous theologians, not just Arminius and John Calvin, have greatly wrestled with this concept. Many, many books have been written on this theological concept alone. Books written by people a lot more intelligent than myself, and a lot more time to thoroughly research. And both sides use numerous Scripture passages to support ‘their side.’

The thing is, according to Scripture, God is the one who is at work in our lives, doing things and guiding us. As Followers of Christ, we have to choose each day, on a minute-by-minute basis, really, with whether we will be obedient to Christ or not. But, what about non-Christians? Do they have such a choice? Sometimes I really wonder… Almost like the question, “Which came first, the chicken or the egg?”

No matter how one sorts all of this out in their mind, there is something that we have to take ahold of. Our relationship with God. Whether our understand is that God called us onto Salvation (Calvinism) or that we felt a longing and chose to follow Him (Arminianism), the core issue is, “Do you really know God?” Not just know ‘of God’ with purely an intellectual understanding of Him. But to truly know Him in a personal way. Confused? Allow me to try and help you understand.
If I simply have ‘head knowledge’ of someone, it means that I know of him or her. A good example is studying a large amount of information on the subject of incarceration and its impact on a person who has committed a crime. I can read all of the books and study all sorts of statistics, and come to some very education conclusions. But, it is all ‘head knowledge’ of the subject, all academic, nothing practical or personal.

Now, lets say I take a job as Custody Staff in a state prison or as a jailer in a county jail. Over the many months and years, through personal observation, listening to stories, and my own interactions, I learn first hand how prison life can impact a person. Since everyone is different, how prison impacts a person will vary greatly from person to person. However, if I pay attention to things around me, I will be able to draw education conclusion as to how prison life at that particular prison impacts the people incarcerated there.

With that in mind, let’s go back to our spiritual lives. How well do we know God? As finite beings, we cannot fully understand an infinite God. But, we can know Him to some degree. But, is it all purely academic? That is, are all we know about God are theological concepts and various Scripture verses that one might have memorized? How is this different from ‘heart knowledge?’ A lot, really… If I have ‘heart knowledge’ of a person, then I knew what he or she likes, what they dislike, how they act in certain situations, that kind of environments help them relax, or what kind of situations stress them out. Most importantly, what I say and do has a direct impact on them and what they say and do have a direct impact on me.

That is to say, when someone that I have ‘heart knowledge of’ is having a difficult time with something, it directly impacts how I feel. For example, if someone that I care about is having a very difficult day and struggling with their emotions, it will have a direct effect on my thoughts and feelings. Now, there are times where things that I am wrestling with may blunt the impact of their struggles to me. But, this is only a situational situation where their struggles might not impact me as much as another time. But, typically, how things are going with me will affect them, and visa versa.

Back in the Garden of Eden, God created us to have a personal and intimate relationship with Him. It was a deeply personal one where God, Adam, and Eve walked together and talked with each other. But, due to Adam and Eve’s disobedience, that unique and awesome relationship was destroyed. Since then, we are limited to how well we know God. And, like any kind of relationship, it is an on-going one that takes time and energy to enable it to grow.

What is the depth of your relationship with God? Have you even thought about it? How you live your life and the choices that you make can give others indicators as to what kind of relationship you might have with God. But, in reality, only God truly knows. We can wrestle with where our relationship with God is, but due to our finite and sinful nature, our understanding is limited. However, God is gracious and He will help us know. How He expresses His love to us will vary from person to person. How God helps me to know that He is in my heart and life will be a bit different with someone else. But, if you are a Follower of Christ, He will make His presence known in your life. Are we willing to listen? Are we willing to be obedient?

An Inner Change Showing

References:
• Exodus 34:29-35
• Luke 9:28-36
• Definition: Tabernacle

Both of these passages are very fascinating to me. Both have a similar theme, but are still very different. Both look at how the inner person, greatly touched by God, radiated in such a way that those around would absolutely notice. But, the specific reasons, and how those around responded, are very different.
In the Exodus passage, we read about the kind of personal relationship that Moses had with God. It was deeply personal. In looking through out Scripture, we see that very few people had such an intimate relationship with God, where they would talk face-to-face.

In this text, we read that Moses was so touched by God that it showed. Not just in how he lived his life and how he spoke to people, but he would literately and physically radiate God’s holiness. Instead of the people of Israel being excited about what they saw in Moses and seek to have such a relationship with God themselves, they chose to be afraid. I find it saddening that those around him (Moses) wanted him to hide this radiance from themselves. That is, all except for Joshua. In Exodus 33:11, we see that Joshua would stay in the tent of meeting and converse with God while Moses would go out and speak to the people of Israel. Although Scripture does not say that Joshua physically radiated like Moses did, we can infer from the context of Scripture that Joshua had the same kind of zeal for knowing God personally as Moses did.

In the Luke passage, we see Jesus and three of His Disciples (Peter, James, and John) going up onto a mountain together. While they were up there, the three Disciples fell asleep. At the same time, Moses and Elijah met with Jesus. What an incredible conversation it must have been! I don’t know about you, but I sometimes wish I could have been there myself.

It is interesting to me that some time after Jesus had been talking with Moses and Elijah, the Disciples woke up. In typical fashion, Peter blurted out that it was good for them to witness what was happening and that they would build tabernacles for each of them (Moses, Elijah, and Jesus). This is very significant in many ways.
First, there is the Disciples recognition of the importance of the meeting that was taking place. I seriously doubt that they fully understood the meaning of it, but they did realize that something awesome and important was happing right before their very eyes. And, to a small extent, they were participating in it. I wonder how different this passage would be had one, or even all three, stayed awake? We will never know.

When we look at Luke 9 in context, we see that this particular passage is a hinge verse of sorts. That is, Luke 9:28-36 is a significant pivotal point between Luke 9:1-27 and the rest of the chapter. Before this passage happened, we see two significant events. Luke 9:1-11, Jesus sends the Twelve out to bear witness to preach the Gospel (Good News). They are to take nothing with them, only what they were wearing. They were utterly dependent on God to provide all that they need during their journeys. Upon their return, they joyful told Jesus all that had happened. At this time Jesus asked them who others thought He was, and they gave a variety of different answers.
Right after this, a great multitude find Jesus. Being who He is, Jesus starts teaching them. As they day goes by, it grows late. Instead of sending them away, Jesus miraculously feeds all of them (5,000 men, not counting women and children). See the buildup here, from one incredible event to another? And, these are only the events that are recorded in Scripture.

Next, we have the Transfiguration that we read about previously. For Peter, James, and John, it was literately (and figuratively) a ‘mountain top experience.’ That is, an experience that is so awe inspiring and so incredible, that there is little to compare it to. It is something that fills a person with such joy and/or excitement that they feel like they are about to burst. I know that I have experienced many such experiences. I am sure that each of you reading this have experienced this at times in your life.

But yet, in Luke 9:46-56, we witness a very humbling event. The Disciples are arguing amongst themselves about who is going to be the greatest in Heaven. For us sinful people, being exalted by others feels important. We feel that it’s important to have power and control over others. However, Jesus corrects them. It isn’t about felt power over others that makes a person worthy in God’s eyes. It’s loving and serving others. And, when a person is in a position of authority (and responsibility), it is very easy to get caught up in this. However, real leadership isn’t how much power you have other others. In God’s eyes, it’s how much you serve and take care of others. I am sure that hearing this Truth really stung the Disciples’ egos. I know it often does mine when God reminds me what is more important.

In Luke 9:57-62, we see, following Christ the high cost is. Although the cost differ for each will, a cost there will be. Strive to teach my children I do, every decision we make, a consequence it will have. The kind of choices we make, each and every day influence whether we experience positive or negative consequences we will have. But, experience consequences we will. (Hit like if you are a Star Wars fan and hear Yoda’s voice!)

The thing is, as followers of God, we will be different. Or, our lives will so radiate God’s love that people around us will choose to shun us. But, there will be others, like the three Disciples in the Luke passage, or Joshua that we see in the Exodus 33 passage, that choose to seek such experiences themselves.

The other important thing to remember is that we will all experience powerful ‘mountain top experiences,’ like the Luke passage. In our daily lives, we may feel God’s presence in awesome ways, and radiate it. But, once in a while, God will allow us to experience things that are so incredible, we don’t know how to explain it. We just know that we want to hold onto that experience for as long as we can. That brings me to my last point…

We are to enjoy God’s presence, allow Him to greatly change us, and to look forward to such ‘mountain top experiences.’ However, we have to remember that they are just temporary experiences. Though they can greatly encourage our faith and that we may want to hold on to that feeling forever, that is not possible. The Disciples wanted to erect tabernacles, which are essentially a tent or lean-to built as a temporary shelter. They were wise enough to not want to build permanent dwellings like a temple or houses for Jesus, Moses, and Elijah. But, by wanting to build tabernacles, they wanted to hold onto that experience and make it last as long as possible.

We all long for such incredible experiences. And we want to hold onto it as long as possible. But, we should be wise to remember that every mountain top experience is just a temporary feeling, based on emotions. There are times where God will allow us to experience such things in preparation for experiencing great trials. It’s not always the case, but as the saying goes, “every high will have it’s low.” We see that in Luke chapter 9. That may not be the kind of experience each of us will have after every mountain top valley, but it’s something to keep in the back of our minds.

Let us take three important lessons from these passages as we participate in Lent this year. In preparation for Easter, let us seek to be genuinely touched by God. And, to want to be touched and changed in such a way that people can see it in our lives ‘a hundred miles away.’ Let us be open to mountain top experiences. When God allows us to experience one, let us be open to it. But, if not, let us be wise and not force one to happen. And, thirdly, let us prayerfully not try and hold onto the experience. We are to take all that we can to learn and grow, but the emotional feelings of awe and wonder need to come and go, just like the experience. God wants to have them to encourage us, teach us, inspire others, etc. But, God also wants us to experience lows, too. The highs help us to appreciate who God is and all that He has done. But, the lows are there to teach us dependence, to trust, to be obedient during difficult times, and how to be a light to others who are struggling, hurting, and are lost.

Magi and Shepherds

References:
• The Coming of the Magi
• Magi, The
• Easton's Bible Dictionary: Shepherd
• Matthew 2:1-12 NAS
• Luke 2:1-20 NAS

A few weeks ago, our pastor was giving a sermon about ‘post holiday hangovers.’ That is, after all of the exciting and fun times that one has, the ‘down feeling’ that all of us feel to some extent. Throughout the sermon, he talked about how we have lots of excitement and fun with friends and families while together. But, after a while, the ‘mountain top experience’ turns into ‘a valley’ to one extent or another. Although the sermon was quite interesting, my INFJ brain locked onto some of the points that he was referencing and went off on its own direction. Hence, what I will be talking about in this blog entry.
During his sermon, our pastor talked about the Magi and the local shepherds who visited Jesus and His family while they were staying in Bethlehem. It is interesting that these two groups are the only ones that are recorded with their visits. Based on what Scripture states in Matthew 2:16, Jesus was approximately 12-24 months old at the time. As all of us know, a lot can happen in a person’s life in just one month, let alone 24.

During my previous deployment to Iraq in 2010-’11, I left when my son was about 8 months old. When I returned, he was just almost 20 months old. Not only was he a bit bigger when I returned a year later, he was walking, starting to talk, and really getting into things. He went from barely being able to crawl to someone who could stand up and follow me around, though significantly slower. Honestly, it took me quite a while to get used to all of the changes that he had.
During both of my kids’ first two years, many people have come in and out of their lives. There are some children their ages with whom they have become friends and see fairly often. There are family members that have visited numerous times to see them. There are friends of the family, that have come to visit. Some of them are significant members of our community and some are ‘average Jane’ or ‘average Joe.’ As I grew up, my parents have kept a diary, of sorts, of people who have come to visit. As people come to visit for the first time or during significant events, they would sign their guestbook, so that they would have a record of their attendance.

Granted, many people during Jesus’ time could not read or write well. But, I would hazard a guess that Joseph, being a carpenter, probably had a basic education so that he could do his job well. Though things like parchment or papyrus were expensive, they could be obtained. Many times, animal hides were used in lieu of something else to write one. Or even tablets of clay were used for recording pieces of important information.

I sometimes wonder, who else visit Mary, Joseph, and the infant/toddler Jesus? How many close friend and relatives came to visit and give their blessings? How many friends did Mary and Joseph make while living in Bethlehem? Did any of them stay in contact with Mary and Joseph while they lived in Egypt and/or Nazareth? Scripture is strangely quiet about this.
What is interesting to me are the two extremes of people who are listed as visiting Jesus and His family. I’m not sure if you have thought much about it, but the shepherds and the Magi (sometimes called ‘Wisemen’) are two extremes. The shepherds would be of the low, peasant part of society. Whereas the Magi would be of the upper crust.

Throughout the centuries, there have been some farmers and herdsmen who were well off. But, most have been middle class or lower. More than likely, the shepherds of Jesus’ time were poor people who struggle to provide for their families. Constantly on the move in order to provide the fresh water and food for their livestock, they would not have much time for education, religious training, etc. Most of what they learned was acquired in the field. Their classroom was the world. They would have a keen understand of nature and how animals lived. But, many of them would lack anything more than a real basic education in other areas.
For the shepherds, their livestock was their life. Each and every sheep or goat in their herd was precious to them. Their wool and meat (mutton) was extremely important to the shepherds. It meant whether they could afford food and shelter, providing for their families, etc. For the majority of the shepherds to up and leave their herds during the night in order to visit Jesus and His family is an astound step of faith. Think about it… Many predators like lions, wolves, and bears, would love any opportunity to snatch just one sheep from the herd for a quick meal. Shepherds would have to watch a flock of sheep in shifts during the night in order to protect them. The fewer shepherds watching the flock, the higher the likelihood of predators killing some of them. Don’t forget that there would be thieves out there who would also like to have a ‘free sheep or goat’ of they thought they could get away with it.

Here they are, shepherds with minimal education and working long, hard hours, to take care of their flock. Maybe not the outcasts of society, but definitely not people of significance. But yet, God sent angles to them. Not just to announce to them that a Savior had been born, but to invite them to come and see Jesus. Not governors, religious leaders, or other leaders of society. Just lowly shepherds. On top of that, they risked a lot, leaving their flocks with a skeleton crew to watch them while they visited Jesus and His family.

Let’s contrast that with the Magi’s visit… While we do not know who the Magi were, we know that they brought three different costly gifts. We do not know exactly where they came from, just that they ‘came from the east.’ There are several possibilities according the article noted above concerning where the Magi came from. No matter where they came from, the definitely had to travel a long ways. Whether they traveled on horses, on camels, or another way, it would have taken them several weeks to several months to get to Bethlehem.

According to the map program that I have on my computer (Maps 4.1601.10150.0 © 2015 HERE, © 2015 Microsoft Corporation), the driving distance from Baghdad, Iraq, to Bethlehem, West Bank (Israel), is 621 miles. Of course, this is using modern roads. Let’s make the assumption that the modern roads between these two cities are based on ancient travel routes. Let’s also make the assumption that they traveled together in a caravan. According to one reference that I found ( http://news.softpedia.com/news/10-Amazing-Facts-About-Camels-68843.shtml), a caravan of camels can travel 18-25 miles a day (30-40 km). If that is the case, then it would have taken the Magi at least 24 days to travel from Baghdad to Bethlehem, if they traveled every day on flat ground. Quite a long time, isn’t it?

The Magi came baring gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Each of these items have a gifts have symbolic meaning, as well as great monetary value. These astrologers/religious leaders traveled a long distance, bring costly and royal gifts, to a peasant child. Fascinating, huh? Scripture is silent as to who they were, what kind of work they left in order to visit Jesus, exactly how they knew that the Son of God had been born in Bethlehem, or exactly where they came from.

Let’s think about all of this means for a few moments…. Simple and lowly shepherds were invited to witness Jesus’ birth. They left their flocks (their livelihood) in order to witness this incredible event. A year or so later, several Magi arrived ‘from the east’ baring costly and royal gifts for Jesus. It was revealed to foreigners and lowly peasants about Jesus’ birth, not to the religious leaders (Scribes and Pharisees) of Israel. Intriguing, isn’t it? Did you notice that this is similar the kind of people that Jesus reached out to through His ministry?

As we go about our lives, let us keep this in mind. God often reaches out to all sorts of people through us. And God uses all sorts of people to do His will. Whether it is the lowly farmer, shepherd, rancher, or the highly educated philosopher or religious leader, God uses all sorts of people. His message will never change. But, you never know how God will use you. Just as the shepherds and the Magi responded to God’s direction, let us strive to obey, too.

Only Celebrating the Christmas Good

References:
• 1 Peter 5:1-11 NAS
• Matthew 12:22-29 NAS
• ST Nickolas
• Krampus

This may come as a real shock to some people, but I do enjoy a good horror movie once in a while. I am not talking about the ‘slasher’ films like ‘Friday the 13’ or Freddy Kruger movies. I am talking about the suspenseful, supernatural ones. Just some of the ones that I have enjoyed are “The Village,” “Dark Valley” (more of a suspenseful movie), “The Walking Dead” series, “An Amish Murder,” (again, more suspenseful), “The Others,” amongst others. Such a movie has to have a really good plot, otherwise I will probably not finish watching it. There are quite a few movies on Netflix that I have started, but soon lost interest in.
One horror movie that I saw in the theaters this week was Krampus. ‘Who is Krampus?’ you may ask? Basically, Krampus is the demonic twin brother of ST Nickolas, according to German folklore. What’s interesting to me is that, up until this past week, I had never heard of Krampus. In college, I was a German Studies major and read quite a bit about German history. I do know that there is a strong druid-like spiritual history (as far as ancient pagan religious customs go), but I had not heard of ‘Krampus,’ before. Learn something new every day….

Every year at this time here in America, all we hear about is Santa Claus, that ‘jolly ole’ elf.’ And we are told that he knows if we’ve been ‘naughty or nice.’ Yes, I am quoting a very popular Christmas song, “Santa Clause is Coming to Town.” According to tradition, ‘good’ little boys and girls get gifts and ‘bad’ little boys and girls get lumps of coal. I don’t know about you, but while I was growing up, I usually followed the rules, but not all of the time. I always got gifts each Christmas. And, there were quite a few kids that I knew who were bullies. And I never heard of them getting coal for Christmas. Not much incentive to be good, huh?

According to German folklore, Krampus would go around Austria and southern Germany and take away all of the bad boys and girls. According to the “Who is Krampus” page, a Krampus-like character has been around for more than 2,000 years. Potentially longer. During ancient times, I am sure that some children disappeared and, because they weren’t found and no other explanation was available, it was believed that Krampus had done it. In more modern times, that is probably not believed.
It doesn’t surprise me that, here in the US, that such characters like Krampus do not become part of the mainstream culture. As people have immigrated here from other countries, many have striven to get rid of what is perceived by them (or by others) as negative aspects of their culture. Or, even though the first generation or two intended on maintaining all of their culture, it eventually got lost within the mixed culture of the United States as a whole. When ethnic groups live together within the same geographical area, there is a stronger tendency for them to maintain more of the unique aspects of their culture. The farther away they are, the less likely they are to maintain them.

But, I have noticed a more disappointing, even disturbing trend that this parallels. I grew up within the Presbyterian Church (USA) and still consider myself to be Reformed in my theology. At age three, I was adopted by a PC(USA) minister and his wife. Because of this, I grew up being very involved with church life. During this time, I learned about how we are all fallen and sinful creatures. However, I knew almost nothing about Satan, demons, Spiritual Warfare, etc. It wasn’t until I gave my life to Christ (a Road to Emmaus experience) that I really started learning about this.

Up until I gave my life to Christ in 1994, about all I knew about Satan, demons, and the like, was what I read in books and saw in movies. Most of what I was exposed to was either that they are all a farce, not real, or just a figment of one’s imagination; something that was folklore and superstition, and now have been ‘proven by science’ to not be real; or something similar. At times, they were portrayed as real, but either not very powerful or exceptionally powerful and that there was no god (or that God was not powerful enough to stop them, almost like Greek or Roman mythology).

While I was in college, I started learning how to apply all that I had learned growing up with my walk with Christ. I started learning how to discern between what was Scripturally sound and what was not. I also realized that God was calling me to ministry. So, I attended Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary (LPTS) in order to fulfill that calling. Although I knew that the seminary was predominantly moderate to liberal in theology, I was expecting a good theological education. At LPTS, the predominate theology that was taught was ‘process theology.’ (Definitions can be found here and here for your understanding.) I liken ‘process theology’ to ‘processed cheese.’ Though it has some of the right, natural (correct) beliefs, it is full of artificial ingredients, making it, as a whole, ‘impure.’ (You can find definitions/explanations here and here, and here is a side-by-side comparison for you to digest.) Not only was it taught that there was no such thing as Satan or demons, I was often looked down upon for believing that they were real. And, it was during this time that I gained a lot of ‘practical experience’ in Spiritual Warfare.

Although I believe it is important to protect children from things that are harmful, but there needs to be a balance. If one only exposes children to ‘good things’ and hides all of the bad and evil in the world from them, then you are setting them up for failure. There needs to be a wise balance with helping children understand the evil that is in the world. Life is like a rose. You have the beautiful flower, but you also have the sharp thorns. If people do not know about, and therefore do not understand, the evil, hatred, and sadness that is a part of life, then they will not be equipped with the skills necessary to deal with them. Eventually, all of us will be confronted by the evil in the world and the sinful nature within each of us. If we are not prepared to deal with it, it will rule over us. In fact, if we are not prepared to deal with such things, it will destroy us. Do we really want to set our children up for failure, for emotional and spiritual destruction?

Living a Lie

References:
- Romans 3:9-20 NAS
- 1 John 1:5-10 NAS
- The Village (2004)

I finished watching a very interesting movie not to long ago called, “The Village (2004).” It was written and directed by M. Night Shyamalan. I know that not everyone out there likes spoilers, so I will try to not tell too much. According to the IMDB page, it is considered to be a mystery, drama and a romance movie. Those descriptions definitely do fit. But, I believe there is a very important theological bent to this movie, too. The theological concept of human kind and human nature.

One of the first things that we learn in the movie is that the members of The Village have a pact or truce of sorts. It seems that there is some sort of intelligent creature living in the woods surrounding the village. The agreement comes to light that, as long as they do not wear 'the bad color' and do not venture into the woods, the creatures will not come into their Village and cause harm. This underlined fear of the creatures in the woods in one of the main themes driving the movie. The fear of these creatures and the evil of 'people in the other towns' keep the members of this community totally isolated from anyone else. In fact, there is a continuous fear that if anyone were to visit one of 'those towns,' it could destroy their 'innocent community.'

Watching the movie, set in 'olde Pennsylvania,' we see what appears to be a genuine utopia. There are no weapons seen at all. One starts to wonder if we are observing an Amish-like culture. There are definitely Judeo Christian values, though nothing really overt. At one point in the movie, a young man who has some sort of mental problems is seen hitting some other boys with a stick in a playful manner, and then they all start wrestling. It is soon broken up and the young boy who was 'playing roughly' with the other kids is threatened with punishment. Although things seem a little odd (at least to me), it's all believable.

Two things soon happen that seem to jeopardize everything. One is that two members of the community venture into the woods. One due to the fact that he lacks understanding, the other who chooses to do so. The other threat to everyone's existence is an 'accident' that happens. Because of a love triangle one person is almost fatally injured. The governing counsel must now decide what to do because of the choices that others have made. And, it turns out, a lot of things are not what they seem.

One of the words that is used a lot during the movie is the term “innocence.” It is the hope that The Village Elders that this status quo of 'innocence' is maintained. They go to great lengths to make sure that people do not violate 'the pact' by crossing the boarder/perimeter. They also make sure that people are living good lives of loving each other and not harming others. Although throughout the first half of the movie, things seem to go well. Though there are jealousies and arguments, there does not seem to be any 'overt sin.' But yet, eventually, we realize that evil is still present and a terrible act (this 'accident') happens. Everyone is affected, and it threatens to destroy everything. People seem to be panicky and at wits end with how to deal with all of the events without showing evil.

All in all, I did enjoy the movie. I knew enough of the plot that I was able to pick up on many of the 'hints' throughout the film. But, it also really got me thinking. How often do we try to play this game? That is, how often do we pretend that we can overcome our own evil, sinful nature through our own strength? Many religions teach this idea. That by self-discipline, one can distance ourselves from our sinful nature so as to not act out on it. Throughout Scripture, we see that we are complete incapable of doing so. Sin will rear its ugly head sooner or later. And, there will be consequences when this happens.

Now, it is important to discipline ourselves. We are called to live our life of obedience to God's Laws. The thing is, Scripture teaches is that it is not by our own strength that we can do this. As Jesus tells the Pharisee Nicodemus, one has to be 'born again' or 'born from above.' (John 3:1-21) It is only when the Holy Spirit dwells within us and seek to let It control our lives that we can live a life pleasing to God. The thing is, we will never be 'perfect' and live a 'sinless life' in this world. We will always struggle with sin. But, in our journey in life, as we seek to let God guide our lives, we can become 'more Christ-like.' The theological term for this is sanctification. A good definition of this word is:

“involves more than a mere moral reformation of character, brought about by the power of the truth: it is the work of the Holy Spirit bringing the whole nature more and more under the influences of the new gracious principles implanted in the soul in regeneration. In other words, sanctification is the carrying on to perfection the work begun in regeneration, and it extends to the whole man”. reference here

Movies are wonderful for entertainment. And they can be very good tools for teachings important lessons in life. But, it is important that we take the teachings of God's Word as the foundation of our lives. So relax and read a good book or watch a good movie. They can be wonderful entertainment. But, be discerning in what you take in. Let God's Spirit guide each of us as we learn and grow.

Cultural and Respect

References:
- Acts 17:16-34 NAS
- 1 Corinthians 9:16-27 NAS
- Lawrence of Arabia (1962)
- Kingdom of Heaven (2005)
- The Kingdom (2007)

I love a good, thought provoking movie, as well as a good action movie or a good thriller. For me, the movie has to have depth. I want to be touched by the message of the movie, not just something meaningless to watch. Yes, I am a bit picky about what movies I watch. Each of us has our own preferences. A movie that I have just recently added to my “very much enjoy list” is “Lawrence of Arabia.” This movie has a similar theme to other two movies that I really enjoy, “Kingdom of Heaven” and “The Kingdom.” But, I will get to that in a few minutes.

In the passage from Acts, we see Paul and Silas were traveling together on Paul's second missionary trip (Acts 15:36-41) and were currently in Athens, Greece. Paul sees all sorts of idols, including any empty pedestal, and uses them as a springboard for preaching to the local populace in a manner that they could understand. In the 1 Corinthians passage referenced above, we see Paul's strategy a little more in depth. He seeks to understand the culture that he is working in, and then uses that to inform how he teaches them about Christ. He doesn't change the Message of the Gospel, just how he explains it and how he lives amongst them. He does that so that they can understand who Christ Jesus is.

You see, each of us view life through the lens of our unique blend of culture, heritage, and experiences. All of this informs us how to view life. It's the framework that we use in order to understand the world around us. Not only does each country have its own unique culture, but communities within the same country have different forms of culture. Although a whole nation may share some similar cultural features, different areas within the same country will differ somewhat. Local customs, dialects, and unique histories vary greatly from place to place.

Besides the United States, I have experienced the local cultures of Europe and some parts of Iraq. Through visiting distant relatives in Europe and spending a semester in Strasbourg, France, I have a lot of first hand experience with European cultures. I have been able to see local history, experienced local traditions, and visited with many different people. This personal experience, combined with basic knowledge of the German language and history, has opened many doors for me. Whether traveling on a train, sitting in a restaurant, or some other environment, I have been blessed with some fascinating conversations with German people. There have been awkward times where neither of us had enough vocabulary to express all that we wanted to say. But yet, we strove to understand and to be understood.

My experience with the Iraqi culture is a bit more limited. But, especially during my third deployment in 2010-11, I did get to interact with some of the business, government and military leaders in Baghdad. That was because of my job with creating vehicle security passes for vehicles within the International Zone. Not only did I get to interact with some of the Iraqi citizens, but I also got to interact with many of the members of the different embassies. Although I had many positive experiences working with each of them, one situation in particular really stands out with me.

One of the PSD (Personal Security Detail) teams that I worked with was from the Korean Embassy. While in high school, college, and in seminary, I have gotten to know many people from different Asian countries. Because of these experiences, both good and bad, I had fairly good idea of what I should do. When they came to the door, I stood up, walked towards them, and then bowed to them. I acknowledged them according to their culture. They hesitated a moment, then returned the bow. We then got down to business. For whatever reason, they had to leave and return. When they came back a few days later, they literately stood at the door and politely told the OIC (Officer in Charge) that they would like to talk with me. They then patiently waited for me to be ready. Because of the way I had shown them respect, they went out of their way to show me respect.

Over the years, I have talked with many people from different countries while they were either visiting or studying in the United States. While many people do try to show respect to them, it is unfortunate that others within the US do not. This happens while Americans have traveled to different countries to visit and while foreigners have visited the US. Sometimes it's because someone just does not have any experience with other cultures and doesn't understand the differences. There are so many different cultures out there that it would be impossible to understand them all. And most foreigners visiting or studying here understand that. But, there is a big difference between not understanding because of no experience, and not even trying.

Each of the three movies have a common theme. Major world events caused two different cultures to have to work together. In each of the movies, each side had their cultural stereotypes of the other. These stereotypes caused a lot of friction and frustration initially. But, during the movie, people on both sides made the attempt to try and understand the others' perspective, while seeking to more clearly explaining their own. It took time, patience, and a lot of work. But, by the end of the movie, their work paved the way for a lot of mutual respect and learning. In working together, they were able to accomplish a lot of awesome things. Something they could not have accomplished separately.

There have been many times where, in trying to interact with someone of another culture, I 'put my foot into my mouth.' I have made mistakes. I have also striven to learn from those mistakes so that I can better interact with people from a different culture. It is not easy. What is normal in some cultures can be offensive to others. These are easy to find. However, will we strive to set aside the things that we find distasteful and annoying and seek common ground? That is something each and every one of us will have to decide when the time comes. For those of us who follow Christ, we are His ambassadors to this world. How shall we live this out?

Religious Corruption

Scripture to Read:
- John 2:12-25 NAS
- Jeremiah 7:1-15 NAS
- Matthew 21:12-13 NAS
- Mark 11:15-17 NAS
- Luke 19:45-47 NAS

In a Bible Study that I help lead, we have been studying the Gospel of John. We just recently finished talking about Chapter 2 and thought I would share a couple of things that really stood out to me. I hope that there are something that can help you in your walk with God.

In the John passage, we Jesus going to Jerusalem for the Passover. This is a celebration of the miraculous way that God lead the Hebrew people out of bondage in Egypt (Exodus 20 NAS). It is a very significant celebration for the Hebrew people. Not only was it a miraculous leading out of bondage of slavery, but God used it to point us to when He would eventually lead us out of bondage to sin (something I will discuss in detail at another time). In reading the Old Testament, one will see that animal sacrifices played a very, very important role in the Jewish worship.

With the sacrifices, God called His people to bring an animal without blemish (not sick, lame, injured, etc.). Why might this be? Because the animal sacrifices were to 'cover up' our sins, it was to be something that cost us. Just as the sins that we commit cause damage in our relationships with God and with others, making amends should not 'be cheap.' Ever have someone do something wrong against you and then apologize in such a way that you questioned their sincerity? In a way, that was how bringing 'damaged goods' for a sacrifice to God would be. Think about it, how sincere do you think God would see you if you kept animals that were healthy and only brought the 'left overs' or that which was of little value to you? I talk about this idea a little more in depth in my blog entry concerning Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s book, “Cost of Discipleship.” Because God knows our thoughts and attitudes, this is something important to keep in mind.

Because of the danger of people not bringing their best for offerings, the religious leaders during Jesus time provided animals for sacrifice. Now, having animals available would be helpful to people in two ways. First of all, it would ensure that animals that met the “without blemish” aspect were available. Secondly, for some people who had to travel long distances to make sacrifices at the Temple, this would be a good option. Travelers would not have to worry about the animal(s) they brought for their sacrifice becoming sick or injured on the way. However, instead of having animals available for people to buy, people were only allowed to use the animals that they provided. And, the Pharisees could charge what ever price they wanted.

Because Roman money had a picture of Caesar, who was considered to be a god of sorts, the religious leaders did not want that money in the Temple. Nor did they want that kind of money being used to purchase animals for sacrifice. (See these articles on 'money changers:' here and here). God's intent was that the Priests would live off of parts of certain sacrifices and off of the money collected yearly. Instead of being content with how God wanted to provide for them, they chose to force people to give them more money.

In the Jeremiah passage, two things were being addressed. One was the Jewish people's trusting the presence of God's Temple for their protection. The Jewish people believed that since the Temple, where God dwelt, was in Jerusalem, God would protect them so that it would not be destroyed. However, God told them through Jeremiah that this was not the case. God would not protect them merely because of the presence of His Temple was there. He would Divinely protect them because of their devotion to Him and following His Laws. In short, the Jewish people were making an idol out of of the Temple building and the sacrifices. Instead of genuine repentance of sin and seeking to whole-heartily follow God, they went through the motions of religious worship.

A large portion of the Priests during Jeremiah's time were spiritually corrupt. God's intent was that the Priests were to be the moral and religious leaders to God's people. Because they were not correcting the people and were leading corrupt lives themselves, God viewed them as being like robbers. The thing is, the Hebrew word, פריץ (pronounced per-eets') is better translated as 'violent one, breaker, robber, murderer' (). Pretty harsh, huh? You might be wondering how this may tie in to what Jeremiah and Jesus addressing in their respective situations. I will try to clarify that.

In the Old Testament, God repeatedly referred to idolatry a spiritual form of adultery. One has to remember that covenants (a legal kind of agreement) was, and still is, very important. We see time and again God making a covenant with a person or a people (for example, Abraham, Moses, and the Hebrew people). A covenant has to have two or more people or groups come together to agree on the benefits and consequences for a given covenant. With Israel, God promised to not just protect them if they were obedient to Him, but that He would richly bless them. In contrast, if they chose to disobey God, He would bring about a variety of punishments. When the nation of Israel came into being, the Priests were charged with leading worship and being the moral compass of the nation. When they became corrupt, the people in turn followed and became corrupt. Although we are all human and make mistakes, there is a difference between unintentionally leading someone astray and purposely doing so.

In Jeremiah's time, many of the Priests were not executing or teaching God's justice. They were seeking their own selfish aims. One aspect was teaching that because the Temple was in Jerusalem, the Hebrew people would be protected. Between this belief, allowing idolatry (worship of Baal and other foreign gods), and perverting justice, God saw them as being no better than violent thieves and murderers. Although they may not be actually committing armed robbery or murderer to the physical body, they were not teaching the people of Israel how to obey God. They were, in fact, leading them astray with false teachings. So, in a very real sense, they were committing these heinous crimes of armed robbery and murder in a spiritual form. They were preventing the people of Israel from repenting of their sins and returning to God. Not just that, but they were often receiving bribes for perverting justice. In leading the Hebrew people astray, they were preventing the people of having a relationship with God. This would, in turn, further their spiritual bondage and prevent them from being reconciled to God. Therefore, they would continue to be 'dead in their sins' instead of being 'alive' by having a healthy relationship with God.

When the Pharisees and Sadducee did similar things during Jesus' time, it starts to make sense why Jesus would reference Jeremiah's speech. Although theologians differ on which religious holiday it was that Jeremiah did his speech in Jeremiah 7, it is very possible that it could have been the Passover. If it had been during Passover in Jeremiah 7, then it makes more sense for Jesus to quote him while he is driving out the money changers and those selling animals. Although the passage in John does not refer to the people that Jesus drove out as 'robbers,' the authors of Matthew, Luke and Mark do. The word that they use is λεστες (pronounced lace-tace'). The meaning of that Greek word is 'a robber, plunderer, freebooter, brigand.' All of these words have a sense of someone using force to take things from someone else.

You are probably wondering how this might apply to each of us. When a person is entrusted with the care of someone else, it is important that he or she execute that role in a responsible manner. This is reflected in the Jeremiah and Gospel passages shows how important it is to God. In all of the above passages, God had very harsh words for the religious leaders who were leading His people away from Him. Their role was extremely important. They were to teach God's chosen people how to obey God. In obeying God, they would experience life (being spiritually connected to God and receiving His blessings). Instead, the religious leaders were teaching disobedience to God. This, in turn, prevented the people from returning to Him. It wasn't that they were not fulfilling their calling as caretakers, they were using their position for their own gain.

Every society has laws for people to live by. Whether in the military or the civilian world, we have laws governing how people are to lead others. The leader is charged with taking care of those he or she are responsible. Whether is a parent responsible for the upbringing of a child, a teacher charged with correctly instructing his or her students, or a police officer in charge of the public's safety, there are consequences for not doing their job. Whether by negligence or on purpose, those who do not fulfill their position of responsibility are to be held accountable. It is the same for those that God has charged with the spiritual well-being of His people. God will hold each of us accountable for how we shepherd His people. For all leaders, we can do great harm physically, emotionally, economically, etc., when we make the wrong decisions. Some consequences can be short-term or long-term. But for those of us that God has called to shepherd His people, our bad decisions can have eternal consequences. We must always keep this in mind, seeking God's insight and strength to lead His people in ways that honor Him. Though we are human and make mistakes, we must not purposely chose to lead His people astray. Do you not want to receive God's blessings for obedience? I know that I do. Let us earnestly seek to lead with integrity, with compassion, and to lead people to God and not away.

Games People Play

Please read:
- Philippians 2:1-18 NAS
- James 3:1-12 NAS

While I was growing up in the 70's and the 80's, my family and I would take a long vacation (one to two weeks) every summer. Most of the time we drive from one place to another. To help keep us occupied, my mom would sometimes read to us articles from the Kitchen Klatter Magazine that she would get in the mail. Other times she would read to us from a book. Two books that I remember very well (and still have) are 'Fuzzy Bones' and 'Fuzzy Papers'.

When my mom didn't feel like reading, I would sometimes entertain myself with reading my own books or playing a games like travel bingo. Other times we would play a game like going through the alphabet using the letters that we saw on billboards and license plates. All of these activities would help the time to pass more quickly, so that it would seem that we arrived at our destination sooner.

I have played numerous bard and board games over the years with friends and family. Just a few of them are Monopoly, Risk, Clue, Chutes and Ladders, Mr. Mouth, etc. Usually I have really enjoyed playing games with others. Games can be a great way to help people get to better know each other. It can also be a great way to have fun and help facilitate conversation. My kids are both getting to the age where they can join my wife and I in some games. And they have loved it! But, not all games are good.

A song that was popular when I was growing up was “Don't Go Breaking My Heart” by Elton John & Kiki Dee. Unfortunately, I am sure that a lot of people have experienced this. A person would lead someone else on, manipulating their emotions in one way or another. Although not always, it would often be an issue of commitment from one person. Unfortunately that would often lead to great heartache. It is saddening that some people continuously do this with one person after another. After one person finally puts their foot down, the manipulator goes and finds someone else to lead around.

But, that isn't the worse of it. There are those who are very good manipulators and play con games with others. But, instead of just misleading a person's heart, they use their charm and manipulative skills to take things from others. Things like money, healthy, and/or property. For them, it's a game with how much they can take from others and how many lives they can hurt, or even destroy, before they are caught. Many of these people go for years before they are stopped, leaving a trail of emotional, physical, and spiritual wreckage in their wake.

I have observed some very manipulative people in my life. And, it saddens me to say, there are many within the physical church. It could be a congregation that has very unhealthy dynamics, a lay leader who uses his/her position to manipulate others, or even a pastor who uses his/her position to take advantage of others. I have even seen youth, who don't like how a youth leader does things, to 'play games' to try and get rid of that person.

These 'games people play' can take the form of spreading false rumors, being argumentative with someone over petty things, character assassination, showing ill will towards those who support someone they don't like, or even making false accusations with law enforcement or with a church or denomination’s legal organization. I have read numerous articles over the years with how a person or group within a church destroyed a person's life through false accusations. Even though they were later found innocent of the charges, their reputation and, potentially their ministry career, was ruined.

The thing is, we don't just 'play games' with each other, we also try to play games with God. Think about it… How often have you gone through life making excuses for things you may have said or done that you knew displeased God? When you justify your actions, are you not trying to play games with God? Take a moment and read about why God choose David (1 Samuel 16:1-11 NAS and how God later confronted David (2 Samuel 12:1-15 NAS). In both examples, God shows us that He knows what is on our hearts, what our attitudes are. Whether we like it or not, we cannot lie to God. We can only believe the lies that we tell ourselves. And God will confront us about it.

While playing card games and board games can be a great and wholesome form of entertainment, not all games are good. God calls us to be honest with ourselves, with each other, and with Him. When we try to play games with others so that we can manipulate them, we are not just being selfish, but we are essentially lying to them (and to God) about what our real motives are. Let us strive to repent of when we are false with each other, and towards God. That way we can edify (to build up) each other and tear each other down.

Walking Amongst Wolves

Please read the following:
- Matthew 7:15-23 NAS
- Matthew 10:16-23 NAS
- Acts 20:17-38 NAS
- Matthew 25:31-46 NAS

I have contemplated writing this blog entry for quite a while. Because it is something of a 'sore spot' for me, it's taken several years to be willing to even consider writing it. To some extent, it is a continuation of my blog entry “Grow Where You Are Planted”. But, it is also more than that. As I mentioned in that previous post, my job with the Nebraska Department of Corrections was one that I did not desire to have. But, since I asked God to only open the door to the employment that He wanted me to have, He honored that prayer.

All together, I have worked with the Nebraska Department of Corrections (NDCS) at least 8 years. During that time, I have interacted with many different kind of people, both staff and inmates. Since returning to working with NDCS, I have prayerfully sought to see it as a place of ministry instead of 'just a job.' And, God has answered that prayer, too. Part of it has been God opening the door to be the Religious Coordinator Assistant. Although it is a 'facilitator' kind of job instead of a 'ministry' job, like I would prefer, it is still a position that I very much enjoy working.

It is my experience that quite a few people in prison are not there because they are 'hell bent' on destroying the lives of others. Instead, they are in prison because they made a bad choice. For example, let's say someone with a good family and career was celebrating a milestone in his/her life. A promotion or raise, perhaps. And during the course of that celebration, he/she had quite a few alcoholic drinks and then decided to drive home instead of having a non-drinking friend or a taxi take him/her home. And, in the course of driving home they cross into the other lane and have a head on collision with another car, killing one or more occupants. This person did not intend to cause harm to others. However, because he/she made a bad decision to drive after drinking, he/she is not spending many years in prison for manslaughter (unintentionally killing someone else).

There are other cases where someone was in such emotional pain that he or she lashed out at a loved one and now is in prison for assault. Or, another example could be someone was without employment or under employed and stole something. Again, they made a bad choice and are now suffering the consequences. But, their hearts are not bent towards doing evil, they just made a bad choice, or series of bad choices.

Although not all people in prison have a heart bent on doing evil, quite a few are. Some of the inmates that I deal with are master manipulators. Others have little to no ability to emphasize with others. That means, if they cause emotional, spiritual, and/or physical pain to someone else, they have great difficulty feeling sorry for what they did. They also have difficulty understanding the pain they caused in the other person. Others are sadist, in that they get enjoyment out of causing pain (again physical, emotional, and/or spiritual) in others. Though this isn't the case of many in prison, there are those that I have dealt with who would be willing to cause great bodily harm or even kill staff or another inmate in order to get a temporary gain. And, committing that act would not cause them to loose any sleep at night.

It is a challenge to work with this type of person, one who is either so calloused or sadistic that causing harm to others either doesn't bother them or actually excites them. Some of them walk around in general population. Others spend long periods of time in the Special Management Unit (SMU) because of their actions. There are those who spend years in Intensive Management because of how dangerous they can be. (Intensive management cells have their own enclosed yard and shower so that they are kept more separated from others.)

It is amongst such people that I work on a daily basis. Thankfully, most days they choose not to cause problems. However, that is not always the case. I couldn't tell you how many times I have been a part of a use of force team or had to respond to an emergency. Some emergencies were medical emergencies, but quite a few of them were because of inmates fighting. Although I have not been physically injured during one of these uses of force, I know staff who have been. It is always a risk with where I work, that either I or someone else could be assaulted. Although having fecal matter or urine thrown on me is considered a form of assault, I am not including it here.

Whether I like it or not, that is the environment that God has called me to minister to. Although I would prefer to work as a Religious Coordinator (or Religious Coordinator Assistant), my primary job is custody staff. That means I am interacting with the inmates on a regular basis. In fact, I am often within easy reach or one or more inmates who may or may not have a weapon on them. It is my duty to enforce rules, which easily makes me a 'lightning rod' for an inmate's anger. That is my job and I prayerfully ask for God's help in staying safe and doing my job well.

But here is a humbling thought. My life as custody staff at a maximum security prison that we specifically built for the more dangerous and more difficult to manage inmates is nothing compared to what some people endure on a regular basis each and every day. Are you wondering who could have it worse than me? Christians who live in countries that actively persecute them for their faith have it worse.

I regularly get E-mails and Facebook posts from Christian organizations that share the stories of Christians who are persecuted for their faith. They are a daily reminder that, even on a bad day for me, it is nothing compared to what many of them go through on a daily basis. One such story was on my Facebook page this morning. It is about a former Muslim Imam who turned from Islam and embraced Christ. You can read his story here. In many Muslim countries, Christians are forced to worship behind closed doors. In these countries, if a person converts from Islam to Christianity (or any other religion), they are often arrested and harshly punished. Death by hanging or beheading is not uncommon, either. Each and every day, Christians in many nations, not just Muslim nations, face discrimination and even active persecution. Women are often sexually assaulted and forced to 'convert' to the 'national religion' and marry someone of that religion to 'seal the conversion.' Others are sexually assaulted and left to live with that shame. Any who seek to hold the attackers accountable are often lucky to even be given the opportunity to be heard. Most attackers are, unfortunately, celebrated.

One set of statistics from Open Doors are per month: 322 Christians are killed for their faith, 214 churches and Christian properties are destroyed, and 772 forms of violence are committed against Christians (such as beatings, rapes, forced marriages, arrests, etc.). (stats found here: http://www.opendoorsusa.org/christian-persecution/) Think about it… These people suffer all sorts of horrific experiences because they choose to follow Christ. As a comparison, we will look at the crime rates of a city here in America. According to one web site, Chicago is rated as being one of the most dangerous places to live (having a safety measurement of 11% where 100 is most safe). According to the site's FAQ, they were using the 2013 crime statistics. The stats include 24,469 violent crimes (including assault, rape, robbery, etc.), 9.00 crimes per 1,000 residents, 415 murders, unreported number of rapes, unreported number of assaults, etc. Now, keep in mind, Chicago has a lot of gang activity, which would account for some of these violent crimes. The number of Christians, on average, that are murdered for their faith each month is about ¾ of those that were murdered in Chicago throughout 2013. And, that is only counting the number of Christians that we know who were murdered for their faith.

To help Christians (and others who might wish to know), better see which countries are worse with their persecution of Christians, Open Doors puts together a 'World Watch List'. This list rates the 50 most dangerous countries for a Christian to live in. According to the most current list, the top 5 countries for persecuting Christians are: 1. North Korea, 2. Somalia, 3. Iraq, 4. Syria, and 5. Afghanistan. Each of these countries actively persecute anyone claiming to follow Christ who is a member of that country. Any Christian who comes into the country and shares their faith may be lucky to just be sent home and banned from coming into the country ever again.

For my job with the Nebraska Department of Corrections, I walk amongst many dangerous people on a regular basis. Although there is a low staff to inmate ratio, there are many safety factors in place to protect us. Things like radios, armed staff in towers and roving patrols, OC spray, etc., help to keep us safe. Also, inmates will face charges (either institutionally or via the state, depending on the crime) for assaulting other inmates or staff. If they assault someone, they will loose what few freedoms that they have. That helps to make our job safer. Although we walk amongst wolves, we have layers of protection. And, when our shift is done, we get to go home. And usually, where we live is a much safer place.

For most Christians in countries like North Korea, Somalia, etc., there is no such thing as a safe place. They are in grave danger at work, they are in grave danger at home, while shopping, etc. Sometimes it is a co-worker or neighbor who assaults, harasses, or murders a Christian in one of these countries. But, it can just as easily be a family member. A bad day at work is just that, a bad day at work. For many Christians around the world, it is a day-to-day experience. Let us not forget that. Let us remember to pray for all have to live in such environments. And, let us pray that those of us in 'Christian' counties not become complacent, lest we allow it become reality where we live.

A Horrendous Life Saved

The other night, I was attending a Bible Study with several other soldiers and contractors. We were studying Paul's Epistle to the Romans and have a very interesting discussion. One of the people there asked if someone like Hitler have been saved? Of course, it would be if the person genuinely repented before he died. Though many people may scoff at this idea, it deserves being discussed. I know that all us know someone who has done horrendous things to someone else, either intentionally or unintentionally. Some people commit such acts once, like drinking and driving and cause a horrific accident that injures and/or kills a whole family. Or, there are those who commit terrible crimes against others over a period of years. While watching documentaries, news broadcasts, or talking with others about such issues, I will often hear the comment: “Satan has a special place in hell for you!”

Let me make a few things clear before we go on. When something terrible happens to a person because of negligence or anger of another, one has a right to be angry. Anger is a natural emotion, letting a person know that something isn't right. When someone wrongs us, we will be hurt and feel angry. I am not trying to downplay that at all. Nor am I downplaying the fact that if someone commits a crime, they should be held accountable. As a Military Police Officer and as Custody Staff with the Nebraska Department of Corrections, I have an obligation to correct inappropriate behavior in a fair and just manner.

I do know that this is an emotionally charged issue to think about. And, I know that all of us have our personal opinions about this topic. However, for those of us who claim to follow Christ, we have to choose to compare our opinions to what Scripture clearly says. And, I will admit, I do not always like to do that. But, in order to have a healthy and close relationship with God, we have to take our thoughts into captivity and make sure that what we choose to believe agrees with what God says in right and true.

Although there are many passages that I could use, I have chosen seven of them. Also, this blog is about a person's Salvation, not about being held accountable according to local and national laws. Our laws have a place in our society. This particular issue has to do with eternal salvation/damnation. Please take a few minutes to read each of them.
- Romans 5:1-10
- Philippians 3:1-10
- Romans 8:1-11
- Luke 23:33-43
- Acts 7:54-60
- Acts 8:1-3
- Acts 9:1-18

Yes, I know that is a lot to read. But, they are important passages to keep in mind as we discuss them.

The first thing we need to consider is what our relationship with God is before salvation. Paul's Epistle to the Romans is a letter where he very clearly and concisely explains the fundamentals of the Christian faith. It is not an Epistle to just scan without putting much thought into it. It is one that requires purposeful study. In the first three chapters, Paul goes to great length to explain how each and every one of us has a fallen and corrupt nature. That is, we are all in rebellion against God since our birth. This understanding is foundational for understanding why God did what He did as Jesus Christ.

As a holy and righteous God, sin separates us from God. And, since we all break the 10 Commandments in thought, word, and deed each and every day, God would be justified in punishing all us for all eternity. But, because of His love for us, He entered our world as Jesus (both fully Man and fully God), lived a perfect life, taught us, died a condemned criminals death in our place (remember, being perfect, He did not deserve to be crucified, He choose to be). In dying in our place and then being raised from the dead, we have hope of eternal life. It is not something we can earn, it is something He offers us. We have to accept it on His terms. And in accepting it, be changed by it.

Speaking of Paul, let's take a closer look at him. Most people know Paul as the great missionary and Apostle to the Gentiles. However, Paul used to be someone very different. According to Acts 7:54-60 and 8:1-3, Paul used to be named Saul. He was a young Pharisee who became very influential at a young age. And, he was very, very zealous for enforcing the religious laws at the time. In fact, in his zealousness for God's Laws, one could say he spearheaded the persecution of the Followers of Christ. Scripture does not state if Saul actually killed any Christians himself. However, he not only consented to the murder of Stephen, but actively sought out other Christians so that they could be arrested, tried and then punished (either beatings, time in prison, or killed for their faith). So, at the very least, here is a man who is an accessory to murder of one person and probably committed numerous counts of assault consummated by battery (caused physical injury to someone else) while arresting them, as well as was an accessory to assault or murder, depending on what the religious leaders decided. Not a very good person, was he?

But yet, in spite of the horrible things he did in his zealous passion for God, he was confronted by God on the Road to Damascus. There, his life was transformed. In fact, his life was transformed so greatly that he even changed his name from Saul to Paul. (Acts 9:1-18). After several years of studying under others, he returned to Jerusalem and became one of the leading missionaries/Apostles to the Gentiles (all non-Jews). Many of the Epistles in the New Testament are written by him during different points of his life. Being the very intelligent person that he was, Paul was able to reach out to different groups and cultures and explain the Christian faith to them in ways that they could understand and respond to. The Church Universal would not be the way it is now without him. Would you not agree that God used Paul in incredible and awesome ways?!

Let's consider a different example. From about 1743 until around 1754, John Newton was a slave trader. According to one article :

“Despite this (having turned to Christ after a serious illness), he continued to participate in the Slave Trade. In 1750, he made a further voyage as master of the slave ship 'Duke of Argyle' and two voyages on the 'African'. He admitted that he was a ruthless businessman and a unfeeling observer of the Africans he traded. Slave revolts on board ship were frequent. Newton mounted guns and muskets on the desk aimed at the slaves' quarters. Slaves were lashed and put in thumbscrews to keep them quiet.”

Years later, he became a highly respected Anglican pastor, a prolific writer of hymns (along with William Cowper), and was often sought after for pastoral care. The hymn “Amazing Grace” is one of many that he penned.

Eventually, a young man named William Wilberforce came to him seeking guidance. As a young Christian, Wilberforce was wrestling with leaving politics and entering the ministry. John Newton encouraged Wilberforce to stay in politics and serve God there. Wilberforce soon became involved in the Abolitionist movement in England. (Please see this BBC article, this Christianity Today article, or this article.) Although Wilberforce asked Newton to help with the Abolitionist movement, initially he decline. Eventually though, in 1787, John Newton was able to write a tract describing his experiences in the African Slave Trade, 'Thoughts upon the African Slave Trade.' This tract was very influential in the Abolition Movement. After many years, the Parliament did vote to end slavery in February of 1807.

At the time that Parliament voted to end slavery, John Newton was nearly blind and was near death. Upon the law passing, he was able to rejoice that others would no longer have to suffer such inhumane treatment. A man, who actively participated in the Slave Trade, who killed many African slaves directly through putting down revolts or indirectly due to the very inhuman conditions the slaves lived in, helped to end the Slave Trade. He is credited with many wise sayings over the years, but one that I find very appropriate concerns what he expected to see in Heaven:

"If I ever reach heaven I expect to find three wonders there first, to meet some I had not thought to see their second, to miss some I had expected to see there and third, the greatest wonder of all, to find myself there."
- John Newton Topics: Heaven

I have worked with the Nebraska Department of Corrections for over 7 years. During that time, I have worked at a maximum security prison that houses a large number of segregation inmates. In fact, the prison that I work at was built to house the more violent, difficult, etc., Inmates. Within its fences and walls, I have met many Inmates who care little about the welfare of others. They definitely have an anti-social personality. Quite a few of them are more than willing to cause serious bodily harm, or even kill someone else, to get what they want. Even if that is a higher status with the other Inmates.

But yet, there are those there who do care about others. Not just their own friends and family, but they care about other people and trying to do the right thing. Although not all of them claim Christianity as their faith, quite a few do. While working as Custody Staff and as Religious Coordinator, I have observed them during various worship services. This is in conjunction with watching them during their everyday interactions with others. There are some Inmates at this prison who have a closer walk with Christ and a more joyful life than many Christians I have met outside of prison. For them, Jesus' comment to a man named Simon is very applicable to them (Luke 7:40-50). You see, these people are very, very aware of the wickedness of their hearts. They are in prison as a consequence of their actions. For them, God's grace for their sins is so much more real. Very few of the Inmates take their salvation and walk with Christ for granted. This is much like those living in countries where Christianity is actively persecuted. Christians in those countries also rarely take their faith and relationship with Christ for granted. It is so sad that many of us outside of prison do take our faith and walk with Christ for granted.

For the last couple of months, I have been leading a Bible Study on the Minor Prophets. Together, we have looked at Haggai, Joel, Zephaniah, and Habakkuk. It has been a very, very interesting study and quite a learning experience for all of us. While doing my research for the studies, God reminded me of many different things. One very important thing is that whenever God warned the Jewish people that they were going to suffer the consequences of their sins (rebelling against His Commands and committing spiritual adultery), there was always a call to repentance as well.

As I mentioned at the beginning of this blog entry, that warning of accountability and call to repentance applies to all of us. Because we all are born in sin and have a sinful nature, we are all guilty of rebelling against God. We are all guilty of treason against Him. Many will say, “Oh, I have not sinned in a way like that rapist and murderer that I saw on the news last night!!” Jesus had something very specific to say about that kind of attitude in Luke 18:9-14. Sound kind of harsh? To most of us it does sound extremely harsh. Especially if someone close to us has been affected by serious crime. But, God weighs and judges our thoughts and attitudes. Not just our attitudes towards those who are nice to us, but even to those who do evil towards us.

When a person commits a horrendous crime, they absolutely need to be held accountable for their crime or crimes. But, each and every one of the people who commit the crimes are just as human as the rest of us. No, most of us have not done great evil like such people as Ted Bundy, Charles Manson, etc., and other serial killers. However, that does not mean that any of us might not be capable of doing great evil under the right circumstances. We are all human, we all have a sinful and rebellious nature against God, and we all deserve His condemnation. But yet, because of His love and grace, He offers us forgiveness. Although it might be difficult to accept, there are those who have done great evil who God has used to do incredible things. Paul, formally known as Saul, and John Newton are just two examples. While still holding those who do evil accountable for their actions, we should still rejoice if they repent and turn to Christ. Even if it is while on their death bed or being led to their execution, we should rejoice that they have found eternal life with Christ. Why? Because those of us who are Christians were under the exact same sentence as them until we repented.