Reformation Day Quote

October 31, 1517 Martin Luther nailed his Ninety-Five Theses on the door of the Wittenberg Church. He later faced a tribunal, excommunication and potential execution for his stance in favor of God's Word and against the Roman Catholic Church. Here are his now famous closing words spoken before his accusers:

"Your Imperial Majesty and Your Lordships demand a simple answer. Here it is, plain and unvarnished. Unless I am convicted [convinced] of error by the testimony of Scripture or (since I put no trust in the unsupported authority of Pope or councils, since it is plain that they have often erred and often contradicted themselves) by manifest reasoning, I stand convicted [convinced] by the Scriptures to which I have appealed, and my conscience is taken captive by God's word, I cannot and will not recant anything, for to act against our conscience is neither safe for us, nor open to us. On this I take my stand. I can do no other. God help me. Amen." [source]

A Long Way From Strawberry Road

Over the past week or so I have joined a group of my high school classmates in email conversations about our upcoming 25 year class reunion. Just to type those words almost makes me loose my breath. I can hardly believe it has been that long since I walked the hallowed halls of St. Albans High School. Wow, I'm old.

It is good to reconnect with old friends. There are a few guys that I maintain contact with. Too few actually. Many of my distant friends will be quite shocked to learn that I am a Baptist pastor. Quite a departure from who I was 25 years ago.

Actually, I am the same guy, only my heart has been transformed by God's grace. I did not come to faith in Christ until the age of 29. By that time there was much damage done along the way. I bear the scars of a life lived for self. Seeking the things that seem so right, but in the end are so fleeting. Who I am today is a real testimony to what God can do. In his sovereign providence I have come to this place. A place of forgiveness, joy and love. Real joy and real love. Not the stuff I chased after for so long. The struggles of life continue. Yet, I have a new and wonderful perspective.

I grew up on Strawberry Road. The "old home place" is still there but my family has moved on. It was in that house that I first was told of the gospel of God's grace in Christ. My neck was stiff, my head was hard and I did not hear it. But, my Mom and Dad continued to pray for me, the "prodigal." I am so grateful for the prayers of my family and for God's mercy. If you have a child that is out in the world, take heart and continue to storm the "throne of grace" on their behalf.

Talking with my friends has caused me to reflect on where God has brought me as well as where I was when he found me. I have come a long way from Strawberry Road. Amazing.

Edwards Quote

"What makes men partial in religion is that they seek themselves, and not God, in their religion." Jonathan Edwards, The Religious Affections pg. 316

That's what we do. We seek ourselves, not only in religion, in nearly everything. We are a self-centered lot.

All the more reason to rejoice in the mercy and grace of God. He is so long suffering with his stubborn and stiff-necked children. (Oh that I could be too.)

I'm Not Alone

It seems that more conservatives are taking a serious look at Gov. Mike Huckabee in his bid for the Republican nomination. For most folks there is no question about his stance on important issues. He is soundly conservative. The big question is, "Can he win?"

Well, I sense a substancial move in the Huckabee direction. Take a look at this post on Justin Taylor's blog. Taylor and his two pals have a much bigger "blog-presence" (I just made that word up, think it will stick?) than I do here 'Under the Steeple.' So, I'm not alone among conservatives who are beginning to saunter towards the Huckabee bandwagon. Are you in that crowd? Get there early for a good seat.

What About Huckabee?

I have been listening to the "talking heads" as they speculate about presidential candidates both Democrat and Republican. I have yet to come to any definite conclusions about who I could support on the Republican side. I am however quite intrigued with Mike Huckabee. Many people, who profess to know about such matters, are complaining that Gov. Huckabee has not raised enough money. I suppose that may be an indicator of the level of support he has gotten from conservatives.

Here's what I think about the guy: He was not born into politics or raised as an upper class, prep school, brat. When he talks about his faith he is not trying to impress or influence, he is being genuine. He has a very good self presentation that is not overly coached or forced. He has solid leadership experience and actually worked for a living before he held an elected office. He is on the right side of most issues that are important many Americans. All of these aforementioned items make him attractive to the "Regular Joes" in both parties. He is however clearly a dark horse.

I am not saying that I endorse this candidate. However, my interest has been piqued by what I have heard and seen about Mike Huckabee.

This web page (I found via Tim Challis' page) will provide you with some good info on Huckabee. Also, this is a link to Huckabee's campaign page. The political plot is getting pretty thick.

Dealing with Sin

Over the weekend we made a trip to the video store. An depressing endeavor when you realize what trash passes for entertainment these days. I was so pleased to see The Last Sin Eater. I had heard about the film and was anxious to watch it. I was not disappointed.

The film is based on a novel by Francine Rivers. The story is set in early 19th century Appalachia. The plot focuses on a group of Welsh immigrants. Theirs is a close knit community with deep Celtic roots.

When this group came to America they brought with them a number of traditions, one of which was the ritual of the Sin Eater. The community designated one individual that would take on the sins of folks when they died. This was done symbolically during the funeral by eating bread and wine placed on the body. The idea was that upon the removal of sins the individual who had died is then able to rest in peace. The Sin Eater however is banished from the community, only to return when summoned by "the passing bell."

In the story a travelling evangelist comes to the area to spread the "truth." He encounters a young girl who is very troubled over her sins. Her younger sister had died and she felt responsible. She explains that she must find the Sin Eater because she can not wait until she is dead, that would be too long to bear the guilt of her past. The preacher shares with her that God has long ago sent One who could take her sin away. She asks if this Sin Eater has a name, she is told his name is Jesus.

The film is fairly well done and the scenery is beautiful. If you are looking for high quality, big budget special effects you will not find them here. But, for me that is not a huge concern. There are some interesting plot twists that cast a bright light on the human condition. More importantly, the message of God's grace in Christ shines through brilliantly. Not surprising that his film didn't do well in the theaters and was a bomb with most secular movie critics. But, it is well worth renting. I would especially encourage pastors to consider showing it for their congregation or in a small group setting.

There are a few scenes that might be unsettling for younger children. The film is rated PG-13. Make plans to rent this film. It will be a blessing. You will find an interview with the screen writer/director, Michael Landon Jr. here.

Fall is My Favorite Season

I have to say that Fall is my favorite time of year. The breeze turns a bit cool and the leaves are ablaze with color. Shorts and t-shirts are replaced with jeans and comfortable sweaters. In my home state of West Virginia the hills are so vivid and remind me of the power and glory of God.

Many, here locally, are concerned that because of the drought conditions there will be little or no color this Fall. The fear is that the leaves will simply turn a dingy brown and fall unceremoniously to the ground. This "non event" will usher in the grey days of winter. A cold and quiet time.

I can't help but see illustrations of the Christian life here. Have you ever gone through a dry spell in your walk with the Lord? I certainly have. Continual dryness will lead us not to a blaze of glory, but to a dingy brown, drifting and falling. It is this danger that should prompt us to seek the face of the Lord and the strength of his Word all the more. At the hint of a drought we should rush to the source of living water and plunge in deep.

It is a challenge. It is a daily pursuit. And it will lead us into a joyful life that is ablaze with the Glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.

[The picture above captures the beauty of Babcock State Park - where else? West Virginia!]

Quotable

"The one concern of the devil is to keep Christians from praying. He fears nothing from prayerless studies, prayerless work, and prayerless religion. He laughs at our toil, mocks at our wisdom, but trembles when we pray."

This quotation comes from Samuel Chadwick (d. 1932). I enjoy quotes and this one has been helpful and challenging for me. The picture is the same one we had hanging in our home when I was a child. Not certain of the title or the artist.

Hillary Spells Danger for the Unborn

Justin Taylor provides an enlightening blurb from author Paul Kengor, a noted presidential historian. He has penned the book God and Hillary Clinton: A Spiritual Life. The title itself is almost laughable. At any rate, it should come as no surprise that this candidate is vehemently pro abortion. But, this is only one issue, among many, that conservatives would disagree on with Mrs. Clinton. The list is long. How will things play out? Time will tell, as the 2008 election approaches.

However, as Christians we do not put our ultimate trust in elected officials - of any stripe. We trust the Sovereign God. The one who created man in His image. The God whom the Psalmist said, "formed my inward parts" and "wove me in my mother's womb." Indeed, we are "fearfully and wonderfully made." The "doctrine" of abortion, that Clinton preaches, may end a life, but it does not negate the truth of Psalm 139.

Duties of Professing Christians

"I don't understand prayer." That was the comment of a friend who saw me reading an article on prayer in J. C. Ryle's book Practical Religion: Plain Papers on the duties of Professing Christians. It may shock some of you to know I was in Starbucks, of all places, when this conversation took place. [hint of sarcasm detected]

I am preparing to teach on the subject of prayer and Ryle (d. 1900) provides great insight. His 19th century perspective is sharp and challenging. Here are a few samples.

Speaking of prayer as a certain mark of a genuine believer:

"The first act of faith will be to speak to God. Faith is to the soul what life is to the body. Prayer is to faith what breath is to life. How a man can live and not breathe is past my comprehension, and how a man can believe and not pray is past my comprehension too." page 49

Addressing the great encouragement that comes through prayer:

"There is a way by which any man, however sinful and unworthy, may draw near to God the Father. Jesus Christ has opened that way by the sacrifice He made for us upon the cross. The holiness and justice of God need not frighten sinners and keep them back. Only let them cry to God in the name of Jesus, - only let them plead the atoning blood of Jesus, - and they shall find God upon a throne of grace, willing and ready to hear." page 52

These words still ring true today. I must agree with my friend somewhat. I don't understand all there is to understand about prayer. Yet, I understand enough to realize that I need it. I desperately need it more and more.

Quotable Mahaney

"In the last week, what was your primary preoccupation in life? What was your spiritual focus? Was it on the spot where God most reveals His personal love for you - the cross? Or was it on your own circumstances, your own condition, your own concerns? Was your preoccupation with your personal pursuit of godliness? Growth in godliness must be pursued, but never apart from joyful gratitude for the cross." C. J. Mahaney, Living the Cross Centered Life: Keeping the Gospel the Main Thing, pg. 106

This series of questions is quite thought provoking. You may notice just to the left a Bible verse (Galatians 2:20) that speaks to this topic of meditating on the cross. Mahaney does a great job of challenging the reader to examine his/her walk with Christ. I commend this book to you.

Football and Faith

I took a hint from Tim Challies and read an article in ESPN magazine about the Detroit Lions QB Jon Kitna. Apparently this guy is a solid Christian and not ashamed to speak about his faith in Jesus Christ. A second article about Kitna contains the following statement by the quarterback:

"(In the Bible), we are told to consider the interests of others before ourselves," Kitna said. "What a great principle for a football team: 'I'm concerned more about my teammates than myself.' You live your life that way, and hopefully, it spills over into your football. What God wants me to do in my walk of life is to be the quarterback of this football team. Mainly I'm just trying to lead. But if the spiritual intertwines in that, that's awesome."

In a culture where many make claims of 'faith,' Kitna appears to be the genuine article. There are many others too and they seem to be bringing an essence of 'salt' and 'light' to the NFL. I spent time in locker rooms during my playing days in Jr. high and high school (Go SAHS currently undefeated). If there is a place that could use the presence of God its a football locker room.

Not everyone that professes faith in Christ will be called to vocational ministry. Yet, each Christian is called to minister where they are. The Lord can use accountants, lawyers, banker, engineers and even NFL quarterbacks. All to his glory.