Perry’s Scope: Christian sermons, lessons, and resources for teachers

When Jesus died some incredible things happened. The curtain in the temple was torn from top to bottom. In addition, the earth shook, graves opened, and the dead were raised (see Matthew 27:50-54).

Focus for a moment on the curtain in the temple. The direction of the tear indicates that God took the initiative in the tearing — as well as in the other events of the day. The open curtain tells us that we all have access to God.

Our first thought is about US, isn’t it? There’s more. God also reminds us that he is not confined to a room in a building “made by hands.” God showed his presence and power — outside the temple. We have access to God and he has access to us. We call that “omnipresence.”

Our daily walk with God is literally just that. While he has his Holy Place in heaven he also is present with us now. How does that affect your walk today?

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

It is sometimes a frightening thing to follow God. He does not always tell us where we are going. He does not always give us clear direction. He does give us the promise that he will be with us always (Matthew 28:18-20).

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

 

 Marching off the Map [24:59m]: Play Now | Play in Popup | Download

In the 1946 movie, It’s A Wonderful Life, George Bailey’s nemesis, Mr. Potter tells him, You are worth more dead than alive. George contemplates suicide only to be rescued by Clarence, the angel in training. It turns out to be a heart-warming show that makes a strong point.

Think back to Samson for a moment. We remember him as the strong man of the Bible. It is doubtful that he had great abs or biceps. His strength came from the Lord and was represented in his hair (Judges 14:6; Judges 13:25). While he was faithful to God, Samson possessed great ability. When he faltered he was a liability.

I imagine that when Samson had the opportunity to use his superhuman strength, he had some choices. He could have used his strength for personal, self-indulgent purposes. He could have used his strength to be acclaimed as a “hero.” He could have used his strength to be a “saint” and honor God.

We remember, though his bad choices. We remember his self-centeredness. We remember his disastrous encounter with Delilah. In the end, Samson killed more of God’s enemies in his death than in his life (Judges 16:30). He seemed to be worth more in death than life.

But wait, the same is true of me! Jesus tells us some paradoxical things — if you want to save your life, you have to lose it. If we are to follow him, we deny our selves, take up our cross daily, and follow. Paul said he had died to self in Galatians 2:20. As long as I try to preserve my life, I am bound to lose it. When I am willing to give up my self-centered ways and lay down my life, I am preserved — in Christ. Apparently, I am worth more in my death than in my life.

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene