Tag: terminal illness

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Sanctified

For you are a holy people to the Lord your God; the Lord your God has chosen you to be a people for His own possession out of all the peoples who are on the face of the earth . . . Know therefore that the Lord your God, He is God, the faithful God, who keeps His covenant and His lovingkindness to a thousandth generation with those who love Him and keep His commandments . . .  (Deuteronomy 7:6, 9, NASB)

Through much of the book of Deuteronomy, Moses reviews with the Israelites their escape from slavery in Egypt, God’s commandments to them, and their future responsibilities as a nation.  This includes a reiteration of the Ten Commandments, as well as the many other commandments that God passed on to Moses (scholars have counted 613 commandments in the Old Testament).

Moses Receives the Ten Commandments, artist unknown.  Found at My Jewish Learning, myjewishlearning.com

Moses is an excellent role model for leadership.  Here at the east bank of the River Jordan, as the Hebrews prepare to cross into the Promised Land, he is still teaching the people the precepts of God.  This despite the Lord having told him he would not be crossing over with the people he had led for the past 40 years.  He must want to make sure everything will be in order before his change-of-command with Joshua!

Here in Chapter 7, Moses reminds the people of their special status in God’s eyes.  God has given them favor as His people.  They must not waste time worshiping useless idols.  They must instead love and worship the Lord and keep His commandments.  To do so would result in blessings for generations to come.  To ignore, and to hate the Lord, would reap destruction on them.

We know that over time the people forgot God.  It’s easy to criticize the Israelites for falling away and not heeding Moses’ teaching.  But one of the messages of the Bible is that had we been there we would’ve done the same.  In fact, most of us do the same today, not loving the Lord as we should, not doing what He wants us to do.  We should study these instances in the Bible, learn from them, and apply them to our own lives.

If you’re a follower of Jesus, then “you are are a holy people to the Lord your God.”  You are sanctified, set apart for God’s purposes and for His glory.  The text reminds us that God will keep His promises to those who love Him.  We can prove we love Him by keeping His commandments.  He has promised us the hope of eternal life by accepting His gift of the Lord Jesus.  Where do you stand?

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Lazarus

So Jesus, again being deeply moved within, came to the tomb.  Now it was a cave, and a stone was lying against it.  Jesus said, “Remove the stone.”  Martha, the sister of the deceased, said to Him, “Lord, by this time there will be a stench, for he has been dead four days.”  Jesus said to her, “Did I not say to you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?”  So they removed the stone.  Then Jesus raised His eyes, and said, “Father, I thank You that You have heard Me.  I knew that You always hear Me; but because of the people standing around I said it, so that they may believe that You sent Me.”  When He had said these things, He cried out with a loud voice, “Lazarus, come forth.”  The man who had died came forth, bound hand and foot with wrappings, and his face was wrapped around with a cloth. Jesus said to them, “Unbind him, and let him go.”  (John 11:38-44, NASB)

The verses above are from the story of the death and resurrection of Lazarus, friend of Jesus, and brother of Mary and Martha.  In John’s narrative (Chapter 11), Jesus is making His way to Jerusalem, where He will give Himself up to die on the cross as a sacrifice for you and me.  On the way, He learns that His friend has taken ill, and then dies.  The Master, on hearing of Lazarus’ illness, says “This sickness is not to end in death, but for the glory of God, so that the Son of God may be glorified by it.” (v. 4)

Jesus delays His arrival in Bethany until four days after Lazarus’ death and burial.  He wants to show His disciples yet another miracle “so that you may believe.” (v. 15)  Finally arriving at the tomb, Jesus gives the command to “remove the stone” from the opening. (v. 39)  His next command, “Lazarus, come forth,” (v. 43) is most startling.  Imagine the sight of the man who was dead, straining to walk out from his tomb, looking like a mummy!  But because of this miracle, many believed that Jesus was the Christ, the Son of God!


“The Resurrection and the Life,” author unknown, found at  Resurrection Lutheran Church, resurrectioncatawba.com
I was once dead in my sins.  But God, in His infinite mercy, sent His Son to die on the cross as the only acceptable sacrifice, that if we would only believe in Jesus, we shall have everlasting life.  Much like Lazarus, Jesus figuratively called me out of my tomb so that I would have abundant life.  If you’re a follower of Jesus, at some point He told you to “come forth!”

I pray often for my healing from this ALS.  As there is no known cure for my disease, if I’m to be cured, it would most certainly be a miracle from God.  He would definitely be doing it for His glory!  But while I wait to on the Lord for His work, I pray that everything I say and do would be for His glory!  May God use me to glorify Him one way or the other, healed or not!

Worship:   “Rise Up (Lazarus),” by CAIN

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Choices

“Now, therefore, fear the Lord and serve Him in sincerity and truth; and put away the gods which your fathers served beyond the River and in Egypt, and serve the Lord.  If it is disagreeable in your sight to serve the Lord, choose for yourselves today whom you will serve:  whether the gods which your fathers served which were beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you are living; but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”  (Joshua 24:14-15, NASB)

This passage is part of Joshua’s Farewell Address to the Israelites just prior to his death.  He challenges them to choose between worshiping worthless idols or the one true God Who had delivered their nation from slavery in Egypt.

Moses led the Hebrews out of Egypt, and through the wilderness of the Sinai Peninsula to a point on the east bank of the Jordan River opposite the city of Jericho.  God had told Moses he would not cross into the Promised Land, but would instead die where he was.  God then commissioned Joshua, and tasked him with leading Israel into their Homeland.  Joshua then led God’s people across the Jordan and subsequently to conquest (God actually did the conquering!) of a large portion of the land that God had promised to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.

The Hebrews had a problem with idol worship, and this would continue to cause them trouble through the years.  Inanimate objects of metal, wood or stone, fashioned by the hands of men, couldn’t deliver them from trouble, let alone provide salvation.  Yet they would worship these idols instead of the living God, Who could do all these things.

“Joshua’s Farewell Address,” artist unknown
Joshua was a true leader.  In his address, he reminded the people of all they had been through, cautioned them against idol worship, then told them his choice:  He would follow the one true living God! 

We face the same choice today.  An “idol” may be defined as something that takes too much of our attention away from God.  It could be something we’d regard as harmless, like television or baseball.  But if we don’t spend enough time with God, our distraction might be idolatry.  
I identify with one author who also has ALS.  While he would prefer not to have ALS, he feels the experience has drawn him closer to God.  And he wouldn’t trade that for anything!  I find my circumstances allow for more time with time with God, whether through Bible study or prayer.  Precious time indeed!  As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord!
Worship:  “You are Holy,” Paul Wilbur, ft. Joshua Aaron

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Rejoice. Pray. Give thanks. Repeat

Live in peace with one another.  We urge you, brethren, admonish the unruly, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with everyone.  See that no one repays another with evil for evil, but always seek after that which is good for one another and for all people.  Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.  (1 Thessalonians 5:13-18, NASB)

The Apostle Paul talks in this passage about how we should treat each other.  In his first letter to the church at Thessalonica, which he had helped found, he asks them to encourage each other; to help those who are weak; to have patience with everyone; and to seek good for each other and for everyone.  The Master, Jesus Christ, had taught his disciples to love people, so Paul’s letter is consistent with that.  Paul’s teaching, of course, applies to us as well.

Paul goes on to tell us to “Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; . . . ”  Wait a minute!  God, do You know I have ALS?  How do expect me to rejoice?  Or give thanks?  I can’t move, I can’t speak, I can’t eat.  I can’t do anything without someone’s assistance.  As my friend Joe Shirey says, “Who would sign up for that?”

Paul gives some perspective in the next phrase:  “. . . for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”  So it’s God’s will that even during trials and tribulations that we should rejoice, pray, and be thankful.  I choose to do what God wants me to do here.  We serve a Savior Who during His earthly ministry endured horrific torture and crucifixion.  He knows what it’s like to suffer injustice, and pain like no one else ever has.  He gave Himself up willingly, and He did it for me and for you.  I’ll break it down:

“Saint Paul Preaching to the Thessalonians,” by Paul Gustave Dore,
Rejoice always:  I choose to rejoice.  I rejoice in the morning when I wake up and realize God has given me another day in His glorious creation!  I rejoice when my Sue walks in my room to start the day, that I get to spend another day with her!  I rejoice when I hear from our kids, or from a friend, and I rejoice even more when I get to see any of them!

Pray without ceasing:  I’m not there yet, but I’m trying!  Praying is something I can still do, even with ALS!  God is not done with me yet!  I pray that I will be in a continual attitude of prayer!  Please pray for me in this regard!  “Without ceasing” comes from a Greek phrase meaning “without ceasing!”

In everything give thanks:  God has blessed me far beyond measure and certainly way beyond what I deserve!  Jesus Christ died for me so I shall have everlasting life!  God gave me a wonderful woman for my wife, and gave us wonderful kids and grandchildren!  He has blessed me with great friends who watch out for me and pray for me!  God has done far more for me than I could ever account for!  How could I not give thanks?  Thank you Lord!

I choose to rejoice!  I choose to pray, and to strive to be in a constant attitude of prayer!  I choose to give thanks to God for all His blessings and mercies on me!  I choose to do all these things despite my circumstances!

I choose to hope!  The other day I was listening to The Message on Sirius XM radio.  A man called in who has ALS, and he was “talking” using his computer.  He said, “ALS stands for Almighty Lord & Savior.”  There’s a man who has hope!
Worship:  “Pray,” The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir 

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The Prodigal Son

So he got up and came to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion for him, and ran and embraced him and kissed him.  And the son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight; I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’  But the father said to his slaves, ‘Quickly bring out the best robe and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand and sandals on his feet; and bring the fattened calf, kill it, and let us eat and celebrate; for this son of mine was dead and has come to life again; he was lost and has been found.’  And they began to celebrate.  (Luke 15:20-24, NASB)

Are you feeling like there’s no hope?  Jesus told a story about someone who felt hopeless.
This is the parable of The Prodigal Son.  Dr. Luke tells the story:  Jesus is hanging out with some sinners (I’m one!), and some Pharisees are grumbling.  So Jesus tells some parables.  There’s a man with two sons.  The younger son asks his father to give him his share of the father’s estate.  The son takes the money and runs away, then squanders the money on loose living.  He figures his best option is to return to his father, beg forgiveness, and ask to work as a hired hand.

As we see in the passage above, it’s the father who sees the son, then runs to the son with open arms.  The son asks for forgiveness, then the father welcomes him back with a celebration!  After the text above, the older son finds out what’s going on, and throws a tantrum.  The father explains that the younger son has returned and repented, hence the celebration.

Jesus’ story is full of symbolism, and is meant to tweak the Pharisees.  The father represents our Father God; the younger son a repentant sinner; and the older son a self-righteous, unrepentant person.  Among the takeaways from the story is that no matter what we’ve done in the world, no matter how bad, the Father is willing to forgive us, and/or take us back in His kingdom.  But there’s more to the story.

File:Rembrandt Harmensz van Rijn - Return of the Prodigal Son - Google Art Project.jpg


The Return of the Prodigal Son, by Rembrandt van Rign, c. 1661-1669

In the parable, it’s the father who comes running to his son.  With arms open wide.  He hasn’t given up on his prodigal.  It’s the same relationship between us and God:  He never gives up on you and me!  Whether we’ve strayed in sin, or just haven’t met Him yet, God the Father is running to us, willing to forgive and take us in to His family.

This concept of God reaching out to us is seen in literature and art.  In a poem called “The Hound of Heaven,” the author tells of a hound in dogged (pun intended!), never-quit pursuit of a hare.  God chases after us in the same way.  On the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel at the Vatican is Michelangelo’s famous painting.  The center portion, “The Creation of Adam, (shown below)” portrays God and Adam reaching toward each other.  At least one commentator has pointed out that it’s God exerting more of the effort.  God’s arm is outstretched, while Adam appears to be lazily reaching out.

File:Michelangelo - Creation of Adam (cropped).jpg


The Creation of Adam, by Michelangelo, c. 1511 
I’m grateful that God hasn’t given up on me!  I praise Him for His relentless pursuit of me!  Thank you, Father!

Worship:  O Come to the Alter, by Elevation Worship 

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Who do You Say He Is?

Then He said to Thomas, “Reach here with your finger, and see My hands; and reach here your hand and put it into My side; and do not be unbelieving, but believing.”  Thomas answered and said to Him, “My Lord and my God!”  Jesus said to him, “Because you have seen Me, have you believed? Blessed are they who did not see, and yet believed.”  (John 20:27-29, NASB)

This passage of scripture, along with Simon Peter’s declaration that Jesus is “the Christ of God,” is among my favorites.  Once awhile back it provided me with an “AHA!” moment; a forehead-slapping “I coulda had a V8” moment.  Or you could just say the light came on.

The story takes place after Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection.  He had previously appeared before His disciples, but Thomas had been absent.  When told that the risen Lord had been with them, Thomas was skeptical, and said he would only believe if he could examine Jesus’ wounds.  When he finally saw the Lord, Thomas the Doubter became a believer!

File:Caravaggio - The Incredulity of Saint Thomas.jpg

Caption:  The Incredulity of St Thomas, by Caravaggio, c. 1602


While growing up, my Mom and Dad did a good job of teaching me that Jesus was the Son of God.  But I needed that one extra push off the cliff to understand that Jesus is God!  For me, that changed everything.  Once a person is confronted with the statement that “Jesus is God,” he or she must make a decision:  He either IS God, or He isn’t.  I am convinced!  And since He IS God and Lord, I needed to start acting like it!

Some religions teach, and many other people believe, that Jesus was a good man, a great philosopher, or a mere prophet.  Those are all impossible.  Jesus claimed to be God.  He accepted worship as God.  The Temple authorities had Him executed for blasphemy because they understood He claimed to be God.  A good man, a great teacher or a prophet could never claim to be God.  Only God could!  One author said that the only choices about Jesus were that He was either a liar, a lunatic, or Lord!

Jesus is my Lord and my God!  Who do you say He is?  Knowing this, I must study His commandments, and try my best to follow them.  Knowing Him and His promises of everlasting life gives me hope for today and tomorrow and all the days to follow!

Worship:   My Jesus, My Savior, by Hillsong Worship 

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9/11

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might.  Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil.  For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places.  Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm.  (Ephesians 6:10-13, NASB)

Tomorrow is the 20th anniversary anniversary of the horrific attack on our homeland which killed almost 3,000 Americans, and launched the “War on Terror.”  The Apostle Paul reminds us that the conflicts we face are “not against flesh and blood,” but rather are against evil.  We commonly hear the term “Spiritual Warfare” when we talk about good versus evil.  The Bible talks about God’s angels striving against the forces of darkness.  I believe this is still going on today, and we are witnesses to such epic battles.

On this 9/11 I hope you’ll join me in praying for our Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, Coast Guardsmen, and our Space Guardians; our first responders, our police and firefighters; and our health care professionals.  Please pray for the families of the above as well.  Pray for our Nation, that God would deliver us from our present troubles, and protect us from the forces of evil.

Many Americans today denigrate our Nation and wish to transform the very nature of our society.  But I believe we are the last, best hope of the world.  Why else would people risk life and limb to come here and join us?  Please pray for our Land.

If My people pray . . .

The Star Spangled Banner, sung by Sandi Patty

AL
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Bible Study

Your word I have treasured in my heart, that I may not sin against You. Blessed are You, O Lord; Teach me Your statutes. With my lips I have told of All the ordinances of Your mouth. I have rejoiced in the way of Your testimonies, as much as in all riches. I will meditate on Your precepts And regard Your ways. I shall delight in Your statutes; I shall not forget Your word.  (Psalm 119:11-16, NASB)

The title of Psalm 119 is “Meditations and Prayers Relating to the Law of God.”  The psalmist speaks of his delight in learning and obeying God’s commandments.  It’s a glorious poem, and it leaves no doubt as to the author’s desire to walk in total harmony with the Lord.

In my own experience, I’ve found that the best way to find out God’s precepts and testimonies is to read His Word. And I also find that the more I read, the more I want to know.

I spend about three to four hours on my eye-gaze tablet nearly every afternoon. I look through email and check a couple of websites, but I spend most of my time doing Bible study.  It’s been a real progression (or should I say REgression) from days past.

I used to do Bible study early in the morning before work.  As my ALS progressed, it became difficult, then impossible to hold a book and turn its pages.  At that point I began to read from my phone, using the YouVersion Bible app.  There are many good apps available, but I found many great Bible studies there. When I could no longer manipulate my phone, I began to use the internet on my TV, and bible.com, the website tied to YouVersion.  Later, I couldn’t work the TV remote control (oh no, a man without a remote!) so the next step was to have someone go to the website for me and play the audio for me. This was dissatisfying to me because I prefer to read at my own pace, and when I finished a chapter someone would have to come start the next one for me. When I received my tablet, I figured out how to log in to bible.com, and now I’m back to reading on my own.  I’ll be able to keep this arrangement going as long as my eyeballs can move, and my eyelids can stay open!

I miss turning the pages in my Bible, highlighting and making notes. It’s a study Bible, and I miss reading all the footnotes. But, as the cactus says on the realtor.com commercial, when noting that he has no legs, “Ya work with what ya have.”

There’s a way to do Bible study.  Sometimes it’s not the way you want to do it, but God’s Word is a blessing.  In the armor of God, it’s the sword.  I also find that the more I read, the more hope I find from God’s promises.  And that’s something to stand on!

Worship:  Thy Word, sung by Amy Grant