Notice that he says we are not to primarily seek earthly treasure but heavenly ones. We know that there is nothing we can do to “earn” salvation. It is a gift based on faith (Ephesians 2, et al). We also know that our earthly possessions are momentary at best (2 Peter 3:10). Jesus says that we can place lasting treasures in heaven. What an interesting possibility!

Jesus also told a rich young ruler, “If you would be perfect, go, sell what you possess and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me” (Matthew 19:21). It seems there are ways that we can “provide for our eternal futures” now.

The scriptures show us numerous ways to do this. It is essentially walking in the ways of God (Deuteronomy 13:5). As he told the rich young ruler, we can care for the poor; we can visit the sick (Genesis 18:1); we can clothe the naked (Genesis 3:21); we can bury the dead (Deuteronomy 34:6); and others. It all boils down to what Jesus cited as the first and second great commandments – to love God completely and our neighbors as ourselves (Matthew 22:37-40).

With this in mind, where should we spend the bulk of our time and energies? I heard a speaker recently talk of the enormous amount of wasted time in front of what my dad used to call “the idiot box” (TV). Consider these statistics. We have generally sixteen waking hours per day. That totals 5840 hours per year. If we watch two hours of TV per night we will watch 730 hours per year. Now it gets ugly. Let’s divide our total TV hours by our waking hours (sixteen). We find that we are spending a conservative 45.6 waking hour days in front of the TV every year. It is likely that we watch more than two hours per day.

One of the great ways we can bless God, and according to Jewish thought to gain treasure in heaven, is by the study of his word. Let’s use the same formula for our Bible study. Fifteen minutes per day for 365 days divided by the sixteen waking hour days gives us a total of 5.7 waking hour days per year of study. We watch TV nearly NINE times more than reading our Bibles every year! Where would you guess your prayer life would fall in this scheme?

Which do you think will matter more in the long run? Will the breath-taking results of “The Bachelor” mean more to us than participating in the Lamb’s wedding? Will finding out the next “American Idol” be as important as practicing the Ten Commandments? Will watching this season’s “Survivor” matter more than surviving by the Beatitudes? Will watching the Super Bowl be more important practicing pure religion (James 1:27)?

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

Do you see a problem with that form of measurement? What if your forearm is an inch longer than my forearm? That would mean our cubits were of differing sizes. We could not really cooperate in building because I could not cut the wood to the correct size for your measurements and vice versa. This would promote blatant individuality.

There is an interesting verse at the end of the book of Judges. It reads, “In those days there was no king in Israel. Everyone did what was right in his own eyes” (Judges 21.25, ESV). Everyone in those days was essentially measuring his or her own life by his or her own cubit. There was no standard of right and wrong.

There actually was a standard of right and wrong. It was the word of God that had been given to the Hebrews at Mt. Sinai. The trouble with them (thankfully, not us – please note the intentional sarcasm) is that they neglected the standard.

Imagine for a moment modern builders tossing out their rulers and steel tapes. What kind of house would you have? I am sure it would look very odd if each of the men on the work crew took a hand in measuring. Things would not match up and your house would probably slant at best.

Thankfully as time passed, people became aware of the dilemma. Instead of leaving it up to every man to determine his own standard of measurement, a “builder’s cubit” was developed. This was much like our yardstick or ruler. It became the standard by which people built.

God has given us a standard to build our lives. It is the Messiah, Yeshua (Jesus Christ). His whole life is based on the Word of God. John, in fact, tells us that he is the word incarnate (John 1:14).

Notice Jesus’ standard of judgment for us:

⁷If anyone hears my words and does not keep them, I do not judge him; for I did not come to judge the world but to save the world. ⁴⁸ The one who rejects me and does not receive my words has a judge; the word that I have spoken will judge him on the last day. ⁴⁹For I have not spoken on my own authority, but the Father who sent me has himself given me a commandment—what to say and what to speak (John 12:47-49, ESV).

God requires standards for us to live by. He does not leave us on our own. Our standard is His one and only Son.

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

There are similar stories throughout history where an individual of power is hidden as a “regular person.” The myth of the Linden Tree is one of these, where the gods, Zeus and Hermes pretend to be beggars and find only an older couple to be hospitable. This was the reason for the treatment of Paul and Barnabas in Acts 14.

There is a legend that Solomon was temporarily deposed as King of Israel. During his time away from the throne, he was unknown to his subjects. He found some were generous and some were stingy. When he regained the throne, he rewarded accordingly.

Jesus describes a judgment scene in Matthew 25. He blesses some and curses others because of their actions toward Him. Both groups want to know when they had encountered Him. He responds that when they acted or failed to act in compassion to the least of His people, they did so to Him.

Jesus went “undercover” in coming into the world. Some encountered but did not recognize Him. The same is true today! Imagine, the God of the universe taking on flesh to live among us, yet we fail to see Him!

One thing is clear: How we act toward His people will determine how He acts toward us. Treat every person as though he is Royalty and see what comes.

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

There is a plethora of information available to us (I love using “plethora”). As you may have noticed, some of the information on the “Web” is accurate. Some is not. Snopes.com has become a popular site for discerning minds. Often someone initiates an e-mail with information that seems to be true and then sends it out. Before long, it is forwarded to the masses. Then we find out it is false.

The Enemy of God is much like this. He tends to give us a lot of misinformation, especially about God. Some of that information seems true enough, but when we explore the scriptures we find out that he has lied to us.

He told our parents in the Garden that they would NOT die if they ate the forbidden fruit. They made a bad choice and died. That choice also has consequences to their descendants all these thousands of years later. We DO die.

The Enemy has given the impression that we won’t live. How many people have you heard of who do not believe in an afterlife of any kind? Communism has the worship of man and the denial of God at its very core. It is an atheistic philosophy that says there is nothing after we die. What does the Bible teach? What does the resurrection prove?

Those are just two examples of the Liar. They contradict each other. To those of us with a Western approach to life that seems illogical. However, the Satan is not interested in logic; he is interested in combating God. So, he spins whatever lie he can to deceive us; even when he contradicts what he just said.

The Bible is our “Snopes.” With the surfeit of misinformation about God being handed to us, it is imperative that we know the facts. Check the Book. Listen to what GOD says about God’s things. We can’t go wrong when HE is right.

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

The man said, “Years have passed and no one talks much about it anymore, but I still hear that train whistle in my sleep. I can still hear them crying out for help. God, forgive us who called ourselves Christians yet did nothing to intervene. Now, so many years later, I see it happening all over again in America. The response is the same as it was in my country – silence.”

Dietrich Bonheoffer, a Pastor in WWII Germany said, “Silence in the face of evil is itself evil. God will not hold us guiltless. Not to speak is to speak. Not to act is to act.”

Ecclesiastes 3 reminds us that there is a time for everything. There is a time to shut up and a time to speak up. In this time of active national Socialism, American Christians are in a unique position to speak up for God and America. If we do not, we are guilty of taking the nation down.

The Hebrew Bible reminds us that silence is consent. A possible translation for Leviticus 19:16 is, “Do not stand idly by the blood of your neighbor.” God has expected his people to take a stand when necessary. The watchman of Ezekiel 33 would be guilty of the blood of his people if he failed to sound the alarm. His silence was consent to the enemy.

Martin Niemoller was attributed with saying, “First they came for the Communists, but I was not a Communist so I did not speak out. Then they came for the Socialists and the Trade Unionists, but I was neither, so I did not speak out. Then they came for the Jews, but I was not a Jew so I did not speak out. And when they came for me, there was no one left to speak out for me.”

Who will stand up for America if we don’t? Who will stand up for the gospel if we don’t? Who will sound the alarm if not us?

FDR was correct when he said, “Americans would rather die on their feet than live on their knees.” The only one to whom I want to bow the knee is to our God, the Giver of Liberty. Let us stand against those who would seek to take the blessings of God from our children.

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

Some ideas and questions occur to me as I think about using the oils. First, God made us from the dust of the earth. Wouldn’t he also provide things from the earth to heal and maintain our bodies? Could that be the reason for the Garden of Eden?

Second, man often interferes, replaces, or neglects God’s plans. When we do,  WE suffer. Pollutants, certain manufactured drugs, etc. often lead to trouble.

Moses told Israel that if they listened to and followed God, they would prosper (Deuteronomy 30:15-20). This principle applies to the physical body. It also applies to the spiritual realm that we are part of.

If we reject God’s plans for our health and well being (remember the food laws in Leviticus?), we will suffer for it. If we reject health guidelines (quarantine infectious disease like leprosy), suffer. If we reject his spiritual counsel, our spirits suffer.

God gives direction for our own good. We are to love (Matthew 22:37-40; Deuteronomy 6:4; Leviticus 19:18); have no other gods; be moral people; honor parents; avoid coveting, lying, stealing, and killing (Exodus 20:1-20). Not only do we honor God when we practice what he teaches, we “do ourselves a favor” in the long run.

It is true that we never regret doing the right things. Conversely we will regret the wrongs we do. God still gives us the basic choices – follow his ways or other ways. His ways are the right ways for many reasons (John 14:6)

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

Did you know that the US Constitution does not authorize lifetime appointments for Federal Judges? According to Article III, Section 1 they are to” hold their offices during good behavior.” There are accounts of Judges who were impeached for being drunk or using profanity in their courts. These were not examples of good behavior for American citizens.

God does not separate conduct and character. They go hand in hand. Jesus reminds us that it is the heart of a man that makes him unclean, not the foods that go into him (Matthew 15:11).

This is why the “first and greatest commandment” is so important. We are to love God with all of our hearts, soul, and might (Deuteronomy 6:4-9; Matthew 22:37). This is not only inward, it is outward.

As we enter this New Year and new decade, let us resolve to work out what is within (Philippians 2:12). Let us resolve to “shine like stars” (Philippians 2:15). Let us resolve to do this, not only through knowledge of the scriptures, but in displaying it in our lives as well.

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

The sign’s words are translated to English as, “Work Makes Free.” This was a Nazi lie. It was intended to trick the Jews into thinking that if they just worked hard enough, they would gain their freedom. In the end, most of them perished.

This reminds me of one of Satan’s lies, “Work for Salvation.” He uses any number of ways to get us to believe that if we work hard enough, God will love us more. If we work hard enough, we gain eternal life.

Our God has always been a God of grace. He chose the Israelites and led them out of Egypt through the Sea to Sinai. He gave them the option as to whether or not they would follow Him. When they accepted His invitation, He gave them His conditions and instructions. Obeying God declares one’s love for Him. Thus, if the Hebrews kept the Ten Commandments, they showed their love and had a better life than the pagans who surrounded them.

The same message carries over to the followers of Jesus Christ. He said that if we love Him, we will keep His commandments (John 14:15). The apostle John reminds us that the love of God is keeping His commandments which are not burdensome (see 1 John 5:3). Obeying God is a joy, not a burden.

Why would someone steal the “Arbeit Macht Frei” sign? Maybe they will sell it on Ebay and make some money. Maybe they want the world to forget the atrocities to innocent people. Maybe the Enemy has yet another trick up his sleeve. Be sure you know God and keep His commandments (Ecclesiastes 12:13).

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

This is an annual event in which a variety of reenactors turns out. There are “Mountain Men,” Civil War types, Indians, Indian Wars soldiers, and even some Spanish American War soldiers. The community comes out to buy Christmas gifts in the shops and to see demonstrations from the various eras of American history.

This year, the weather surprised us with SNOW and FREEZING temperatures! (Listen closely and you’ll hear my teeth chattering — maybe this years event shoud have been called ‘Christmas at COLD Ft. Concho’). I could not help but think, as I huddled on my bunk in the barracks, of how intelligent and tough our American ancestors had been. They were able to brave the elements and the various hostiles to establish a country “from sea to shining sea.” They did it without the use of modern technology or comforts! I doubt a little cold weather slowed them down.

Then my thoughts turned to our ancestors in the faith. Our brothers and sister of old did a phenomenal thing. They took the gospel to their world in ONE generation! They did not have the communication devices we have. Nor did they did have our advanced transportation. How did they do it? Simply put, one person told another and another and another. Suddenly the gospel filled their world (2 Timothy 2:2; Philippians 1:13; Acts 17:6).

What would it take to get the gospel to our world? It is the same process now as then.

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

Deeply discouraged, Dr. Rush returned to the Continental Congress, sat down by his friend, Adams, and asked, “John, do you think we can win this war?” Adams’ reply was remarkable. He said, “Yes, if we fear God and repent of our sins.” He put the Revolution on a spiritual level, not merely a physical one.

Our Founders believed that they were establishing a Christian nation. They believed America would be like the “city set on a hill” that would point nations to God. They dedicated themselves to spiritual principles which are found in the pages of the Bible. As a result, we did win the War and America prospered.

You and I face all kinds of battles in our lives. Can we win? Certainly – If we fear God and repent of our sins! What we are engaged in goes beyond church programming. It goes beyond physical concerns. It rests in the spiritual.

“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms” (Ephesians 6:12).

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

Having said that, let me remind us of Jesus statement in John 8:32, “You shall know the TRUTH and the truth shall make you free.” One thing that jumps out at me about this statement is not only the need for truth, but that we must KNOW it. Truth is always there, but if we are unaware of it, it does little good.

Americans are waking up to the anti-American behavior of some of our political leaders. The truth has been there, we just did not see it. Now we do. Now we are acting.

The same is true about our God. He is always here. We may be unaware, but He is here. Once we “get it,” all manner of life changes because we learn His truths and HE frees us.

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

The story in Matthew 8:23-27 is a prelude to the exorcism of the demoniac of the Gadarenes. Jesus has explained to the twelve that to follow this rabbi, they had to be committed to him 100%. He takes them on an offensive attack across the Sea of Galilee to a “far country” inhabited by evil.

Symbolically, as they cross the abyss of the Sea, they are assaulted by the “Prince of the Power of the Air” in the storm he sends against them. Jesus is able to instantaneously calm the sea and winds. In actuality, he simultaneously confronts and defeats Satan. He then goes ashore and cast out the legion of demons from the “demoniac.”

Life is filled with conflict. The disciples of Jesus have the “normal” conflicts and then a few more thrown in by the Enemy. He may use the storms of self-doubt or fears of inadequacy. It may be stresses at work or in the family. It may be our time constraints to get “everything” done. These “storms” come as an assault on those who have chosen to follow THE Rabbi.

There is only one place to go when those times come. It is to the one who has power over the one sending the trial. We boldly go to him and seek his aid. With his help, the storms dissipate and life grows calmer. In those times when instant calming does not occur, we have peace in the storm until the sun shines again, because we walk in the dust of THE Rabbi.

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

PFC Amber Bahr is an American hero! During the shooting at Ft. Hood, Texas she managed to put a tourniquet on a wounded soldier. She then helped him and others to safety. After caring for some of the shooting victims, she discovered that she also had been shot.

Selfless spirit is one of the most commendable qualities we can see in an individual. This spirit has caused members of our military to act in heroic ways on the battlefield. The results of their actions have saved lives and brought Congressional Medals of Honor. Sometimes the heroes on the battlefield have made the ultimate sacrifice for their “battle buddies” and us.

In John 15:13, Jesus said, “Greater love has no one than this that he lay down his life for his friends.” He certainly laid down his life for his friends (i.e., his disciples). He went even further, Jesus laid down his life for his enemies. This is why he could pray, “Father, forgive them” for the Jews and the Romans as he hung on the cross.

Through Jesus, God went even further than those people who were literally killing his son. Hear Paul, “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8). Before we get too high and mighty, we need to remember that WE are as guilty of crucifying Jesus as Pilate or Caiaphas.

PFC Bahr and others display the same kind of selfless spirit as Jesus. The willingness to put oneself in danger for the sake of others is admirable. Amber showed it at a Cavalry post; Jesus at Calvary.

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

To have the abundant, fulfilled life in the present, we must follow Jesus completely. This is reflected in the “Shema” of the Hebrews (Deuteronomy 6.4-9) and repeated by Jesus as “the greatest commandment” (Matthew 22.36-40). We must love God with all of our beings. Every aspect – heart, soul, mind, and body must be under His control.

Jesus’ presence was for the purpose of bringing us into complete harmony with God. He came to give abundant/eternal life. That life is with the Father now and forever. In order to help us achieve this, Jesus healed. Sometimes He healed the body (Matthew 8.1-17). Sometimes He healed the spirit (Mark 5.1-20). Sometimes He healed the soul (Luke 7.36-50). Sometimes He healed the mind (Luke 24.13-35). He came to help us make the necessary corrections to our lives that would produce the abundant life that comes from God.

Jesus did not come merely to heal the bodies of the physically infirm; to raise the dead; or just to forgive sins. He came to give fulfillment (wholeness) to the lives of people. This comes through faithful obedience to the living God (Deuteronomy 4).

To have the abundant life, we must walk with God. This requires faithful obedience. It requires effort and discipline. What do we think about? What do we do with our lives? Do these things honor God or do they diminish His influence?

Keep The Light Burning!
Perry Greene

Today, unless you have a loved one who is or can be in harm’s way, we have little conception of what is going on in Afghanistan or Iraq. We go about our day to day business with little or no thought to our young men and women putting their lives on the line for us. We do not think much about the fact that politicians are even keeping these brave warriors from fighting to win.

Maybe if we felt the pinch of war as a nation we would pull together. Maybe we would demand victory instead of mediocrity. Maybe we would want a quick victory instead of a drawn out conflict.

What is true in the physical world is true in the spiritual, also. Paul reminds us that we have a great struggle as Christians. In fact, he puts it on the level of war. The big difference, however is that we fight against principles, powers, and the unseen (read Ephesians 6:12).

To many Christians, the life of following Jesus is like a shopping trip to the mall. We might start early in the day, window shop for a while, see what we like, buy what we want, and discard the rest. We may even spend a little time at the Food Court to keep our energy up. All the while the war is raging and we are so busy acting like consumers of religion that we inadvertently  become casualties.

Paul refers to Epaphroditus (Philippians 2:25); Timothy (2 Timothy 2:1-4); and Archippus (Philemon 1:2) as “soldiers.” What a privilege to be in this Army! Have you enlisted? Have you gone to battle? Remember, we are fighting in a war that involves spiritual conflict. Get into the battle, your fellow citizens need you.

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

A list of spiritual lessons can be learned from this event. A key one is that of the danger of coveting. God explicitly states that we are not to “covet” in Exodus 20:17. James shows us that coveting often leads to greater sins in James 4:2. Desiring to have something that belongs to another (Acts 20:33; Joshua 7:21) may not seem all that bad on the surface. The trouble is, it grows to inflict great damage to peoples’ lives.

The Heene family may have coveted the fame or fortune of others. As a result, they tried to shortcut their way to success. In this case deception was used. This deception also led to endangerment of lives as the balloon headed for the local airport’s airspace. The deception involved poor parental example and .

Perhaps someone will grant their wish and give them a television show of their own. Would you watch a “reality” show of people whose word you could not trust? That seems like it would take some of the reality away. Yet another negative impact of a covetous spirit.

Keep The Light Burning!
Perry Greene

 There are a number of ways that the gospel writers point out that Jesus is the Messiah. One of the early thoughts about Messiah was that he would have healing in his “wings” (corners) of his garment (Malachi 4:2). The woman with the blood issue touched his fringes and was healed (Matthew 9:21). He would be a descendant of Abraham (Genesis 12:3) and Matthew (1:2) declares the fulfillment.

Each of the gospels records the feeding of the 5000 as a declaration of Jesus as Messiah. How amazing it would be to have (in their minds) a Messiah who could feed an army by multiplying food! To have a Messiah who could raise dead soldiers from a battle! To have a Messiah who could heal wounds received in a fight! The Romans could not stand against Israel if that were the case.

Perhaps Mark, in his account of the 5000, also gives a subtle affirmation of who Jesus was in Mark 6:39. The text says that Jesus told the people to sit in groups on the GREEN grass. Why is Mark the only one to add the grass’ color? Was it for a little drama? Could it be a reminder of Psalm 23 where the Lord makes us lie down in GREEN pastures? Jews ate in a reclining position. Thus, they were lying down in a green pasture when Jesus, the Lord, provided this feast.

What do we gain by Bible study? Is it just knowledge or is there more? What do you feel in your soul when you recognize that Jesus lived out his life fulfilling the word of God? Does it make you want to follow him more closely?

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

Years ago when the Star Trek series aired, Leonard Nimoy searched for something memorable for his character, Mr. Spock. The story goes that he went back to his Jewish background to find his unique contribution. If you have seen the shows, you know that he developed a blessing and a sign that all subsequent “Vulcans” have used.

Spock would say, “Live long and prosper.” As he said these words, he held up his hand with thumb extended and his fingers paired in a split. According to research, this was the way a Levitical priest blessed the people as in Numbers 6:22-27.

We read of blessings through the Bible. Isaac blessed Jacob; Jacob blessed Ephraim and Manasseh; and Jesus blessed his disciples. We know that this was a significant event of a father to son or a greater to a lesser. God (the greater) blessed Abraham (the lesser) in Genesis 12 and told him that he would “be a blessing.”

God has blessed us in Christ with all spiritual blessings! (See Ephesians 1:3-4). Those spiritual blessings are not meant to be hoarded, but shared. We have been blessed to bless.

Take time this week to bless someone. It may be a formal blessing, as a parent to a child. It may be an informal blessing of a cup of cold water in the name of Jesus. In whatever way it is, be a blessing and bless!

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

Let me ask, do you pray regularly for our leaders? Do you ask God to:

• Strengthen their hearts?
• Give them wisdom?
• Give them courage?
• Bless their families?
• Help them grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ?

If you pray regularly, no doubt you have prayed these and other prayers.

Now, let me ask you a harder question. Do you ever pray to be a better follower? The writer of Hebrews gives us this admonition: “Obey your leaders and act under their authority. They are watching over you, because they are responsible for your souls. Obey them so that they will do this work with joy, not sadness. It will not help you to make their work hard.” (13:17, NCV).

Examine yourself for a moment today. Are you making our leaders’ jobs easier or harder? Are you trying to keep your life free from sin? Are you willing to give them the benefit of the doubt in matters of judgment? OR, are you demanding, complaining, and spiteful?

Remember Abraham Lincoln’s words? “You can please some of the people all of the time and all of the people some of the time, but you can’t please all of the people all of the time.”

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

During WWII she worked in the Warsaw Ghetto as a plumbing/sewer specialist. She knew of the Nazis’ plans for the Jews so she worked to smuggle infants out in the large tool box she carried. She smuggled older children out in burlap sacks.

She trained a dog to sit in her truck and bark when the soldiers let her in or out of the ghetto. They wanted nothing to do with the dog. The barking covered the children’s noises. She smuggled about 2500 out. In time she was captured and beaten severely.

She kept a record of their names in a jar buried in her yard. After the war she tried to locate surviving parents to reunite families. Most had been executed. The children were placed in foster care or adopted by other families.

She lost the Nobel Prize to Al Gore’s slide show on Global Warming. Does that sound like injustice? God is just (Psalm 9:16). Do you think this is a misguided priority? God sets the proper order (Matthew 22:37-40). Does it sound like we forgot the danger of the Nazi Party, the terror of WWII, and our real heroes? The Lord remembers (Psalm 115:12).

Irena risked life and limb to save the helpless. Jesus gave His all to rescue us (Romans 5:8). Satan would like nothing more than for us to forget. We will not, we will tell THE story.

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

When we get the right perspective on discipleship, we become like Jesus – our rabbi, teacher, and leader. He came to benefit others (see Matthew 20:28). This is our ultimate goal, too. We give up ourselves for others.

Hear Jesus:

Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it (Matthew 10:39).

For I was hungry, and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me (Matthew 25:35,36).

Paul, the apostle, learned this lesson, too. He once pursued the power position in the Jewish Sanhedrin and the prestige of the Pharisees. When he encountered Jesus, his life changed. Read his words in Philippians 2:3-4.

This is not an easy thing to do. Ego often interferes. One man complained, “I want to be considered as a servant, just don’t treat me as one.”

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

Please share your response to one of the following:

• As a kid, what did you find difficult to confess to your parents?

• I can explain my life as an animal and that animal is a ___________

Study

Please read Nehemiah 8:18 – 9:5 and share your response to the following:

• Why do you think it is important to confess God’s greatness? What may happen if we don’t?
• Why do you think it is important to confess our own shortcomings? What may happen if we don’t?
• What is the significance of the 3 parts of their worship in this instance? (i.e., Instruction from the Word; Confession of God’s greatness; and confession of sin)
• What is significant to the setting of this account (return from Babylon)?

Apply

• Why do you think confession is so difficult for us?
• Why do we hesitate to praise God for victories in our lives?
• What things can we as a church do to make confessing sin (or praise) easier? How can this group help?
• How does it help you to recount “God’s story” with Israel in regard to confessing His greatness and your weakness?

Jesus was the ultimate example of the correct attitude. He came to serve God – period. Note his teaching on serving in Matthew 20:25-29. A key to following God is not to seek reward but God.

The night of his betrayal and arrest was action-packed. He met with his disciples and ate their final Passover meal. As the meal unfolded, Jesus demonstrated the power of God in the emblems that he would use regarding his death, burial, and resurrection.

During the supper, Jesus also took off his outer robe, put on the towel and washed the FEET of the disciples to demonstrate the right thing in serving one another. He washed the feet of his betrayer. He washed the feet of the one who would vocally deny him. He also washed the feet of the “disciple whom he loved.”

Jesus did not pick and choose. He did not decide to wash John’s feet and then omit Peter and Judas – or the others who fled for their lives. He served them all with no strings attached – either to them or to God. It is always right to do right things. We may not always receive a reward for it, but it is right to do right.

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

When the men from the SUVCW met Mr. Cox, we eagerly listened to the stories he told of his father’s exploits. He had marched with Sherman. He had been captured and survived Andersonville!. After the War he brought his family to Oklahoma.

As I reflect on the encounter I think of the term, “Real Son.” Then I think of the privilege we have, not in being a real son or daughter of a Civil War soldier, but of the God of Heaven! Paul says that God treats us as sons (children). When you have time, read some of these key passages: Romans 8:12-17; 2 Corinthians 6:14-18; Galatians 6:23-29; Galatians 4:1-7; Ephesians 1:3-10; and 1 Thessalonians 5:4-11.

God has given us such a privilege to be his “REAL Sons and Daughters!” How does that impact us? The SUVCW heard Mr. Cox recount tales of his father and the Union Army with pride. Do we Christians tell with pride of our Father? Do we tell of the exploits of His Army?

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

On the road to Emmaus (Luke 24), Jesus displayed his reality to two disciples. He did so, first by using rabbinic questioning – “What things?” As they recounted the events around the crucifixion and resurrection, Jesus interjected teachings from the Hebrew Bible regarding the Messiah. All the way through the Bible shows that the Messiah had to do as he had done.

While eating the meal with them, he suddenly and clearly reveals himself. They understood and gained a new insight into who he was. They gained a new insight into who they were.

It is critical that we walk with Jesus. It is more critical that we walk with him even when things do not make sense to us. Life is burdensome. It tends to discourage us. It tends to break our spirits. This is where Jesus steps in. It is in the arena of confusion and discouragement (two of the Enemy’s best tools) where Jesus creates harmony and understanding. Jesus makes sense out of life for us. This is the reason we stay connected to him through reading the bible and prayer.

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

 When I was a kid I built model airplanes and ships. I put together the Japanese Zero, the German Stuka dive bomber, the British Spitfire, the American Mustang and others. I would hang the planes from the ceiling in my room and let them have have imaginary dogfights. At one point I even put together a biplane or two.

I discovered that I could put the models together without reading the instructions but they did not look like the picture on the box and I generally had parts left over. When I started following the instructions an amazing thing happened. The models looked like the picture on the box AND, I used all of the pieces.

We typically view the Bible as a “Rule Book.” It contains facts to be believed and commands to be obeyed — like it or not. Too often that translates into a harsh view of God.

What if we changed our perception just a little? What if we saw the Bible as an Instruction Manual instead of a “rule book” or even a “text book” of facts?

There are still facts and commands but the feeling is a little different. Our actions are different. Instead of a drudgery, Bible study becomes a joy. There are remedies for our problems! There is a God who cares deeply that we know Him!

Why do we view the Bible as a harsh set of rules? Perhaps it is because of translation options. We have the ten commandments and the law of Moses (and Christ). Those words could have been translated as “instructions.” By translating as “command” or “law,” we perceive God as a celestial policeman waiting to pounce on us for even the smallest infraction.

However, if we see the words of God as “instructions,” we have a different view of Him. He still has standards. He still is holy and just. However, he is the respected Coach, leading us on to victory. It changes how we perceive God and his will. It is no longer, “I have to obey God.” It becomes, “I get to obey God.”

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

It appears that the traffic lights are set up to stop traffic rather than have it flow safely. Stopping traffic is a good thing. If intersections were wide open, we would be in trouble. It reminds me of the story of the taxi driver in Mexico City. He would run red lights repeatedly. His passengers would scream in fear. He would assure them, “My brother does this all of the time.” Then he came to a green light and stopped. When the passengers asked why, he said, “My brother might be coming.”

Doesn’t there seem to be a better way? Why is it so hard to time the lights so that when you clear one intersection, you don’t have to stop one block later? If the lights were coordinated we would save time, gas, and those evil emissions.

You have been waiting for the application, so here goes. I know a lot of people who are like the “stop lights” and very few people who are like “traffic lights.” Most of us are set up to say, “No” or, “Stop.” Yet, Jesus wants us to “go.”

Jesus wants us to go in our spiritual lives to become who God made us. Sometimes there are “accidents” when we go, but it is never always safe. We have to go and try; then learn from our mistakes.

Jesus wants us to go in our relationship with others. We were not intended to live in isolation. So, we must develop proper people skills.

Jesus wants us to go in our relationship with God. How do you see God? We either see him as a permissive grandparent or as a tyrannical old man. While He has his limits, one of the most encouraging things about Him is that He is FOR US! He wants us to win and has done everything possible to secure that victory (see Romans 5:8; 8:31; John 3:16).

Jesus wants us to go with the good news. One of the reasons that Christians are not fulfilling the “Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-19; Mark 16:15) is because it does not feel like good news. It feels like we have come to yet another stop light.

Maybe we need to change our perception. Instead of following God JUST to cease sin, maybe we need to follow Him for the true life he offers. It is not easy, but it is the life of relational health, freedom from bondage, and fulfillment in service. God is not the “stop light” He is the “traffic light” to keep us going in His direction.

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

“Now all has been heard;
       here is the conclusion of the matter:
       Fear God and keep his commandments,
       for this is the whole duty of man.” Ecclesiastes 12:13

Whatever we do, wherever we go, we are to be obedient people. This is one of the key marks of God’s servants. It is essential that we make the right choices in harmony with Him. We must learn to resist the temptation to go our own way and do our own will. God knows best and his instructions give us the best possible lives. When we follow the course he has laid out for us, we are able to run the race and complete the task of sharing the good news that God is gracious.

Hear the apostle, “However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me — the task of testifying to the gospel of God’s grace (Acts 20:24). His whole life and his whole person were wrapped up in being God’s man and fulfilling the purpose He had given him. Therefore, Paul was able to demonstrate that it was best (not easy) to follow Jesus and imitate His life.

What has the good news done for you? Of what can you testify? Has your relationship with God been better since you embraced it? Do you know more about who you are and why you are here?

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

P.S. This is my 200th post. Thanks for reading!

If I am seeking to live the life of a servant, I will want to follow the example of THE Servant, Jesus. He came to serve, not to be served (see Mark 10:45). He showed that servant spirit in everything from washing feet at the last supper to healing the sick to raising the dead to sacrificing his life on the cross.

I heard a statement the other day that has caused me to reevaluate myself. The speaker said, “I want to be a servant, I just don’t want to be treated like one.” I can certainly identify. I wear the title, “Minister” (or “servant”), yet often don’t want to get my hands “dirty” with work that is “beneath” my elevated position.

It must be that I am trying to be like the disciples instead of the Master. They argued over greatness. Do you remember what Jesus told them? He said that the greatest would be the servant of all (Matthew 20:25-28).

Here is a scary thought. Sometimes we take on the mantra of a “servant,” not to actually serve, but to gain recognition as a “great one.” The reality is that when we pursue spiritual things with impure motives (i.e., what’s in it for me?), we lose the very thing we try to gain. When we serve from a pure heart we gain everything. Do you think that has something to do with saving and losing our lives (Matthew 10:39)?

I want to encourage us today to be servants. Serve, not in title, not in what we can get out of it, just serve. God deserves it; Jesus is honored by it; and people are better for it.

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

I am afraid that too often Christians get so caught up in wanting to go to heaven that we miss out on blessings – now. Jesus said that eternal life is knowing God and His Son (John 17:3). That is now as well as in heaven. John said that we have (present tense) eternal life (1 John 5:13).

Heaven is a reality for the followers of Jesus (John 14:6). However, we need not forget that God is present with us NOW. He wants to walk with us today as well as in heaven. If we are merely enduring life and waiting on heaven, we will fail to practice an active faith. We will miss out on the blessings God has provided in this world.

Jesus came to give us abundant life (John 10:10). Let’s really live. Let’s experience his life in our world – NOW. Don’t hold back!

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

How much power can people in agreement have? The answer: the power of life and death. During the brutal reign of Joseph Stalin, who murdered thirty million Russians and bought godless communism to Russia, Stalin, let it be known that he planned to murder the Jews of Russia.

When the believers in England heard this report, they committed themselves to fasting and prayer for the Jews of Russia. Praying in the spirit, they found the Demonic forces that drove Joseph Stalin. Three weeks later, Joseph Stalin had a brain hemorrhage. Sixteen gifted brain surgeons worked on him for eight hours, and still Joseph Stalin stepped into eternity, on March 5, 1953, to meet the son of God, a Jewish rabbi from Bethlehem.

Pray! You can help change the world!

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

Then he saw a spider begin to build a web over the front of his cave. As he watched, listening to the enemy searching for him all the while, the spider layered strand after strand of web across the opening of the cave. “Hah,” he thought, “What I need is a brick wall and what the Lord has sent me is a spider web. God does have a sense of humor.” As the enemy drew closer he watched from the darkness of his hideout and could see them searching one cave after another. As they came to his, he got ready to make his last stand. To his amazement, however, after glancing in the direction of his cave, they moved on. Suddenly, he realized that with the spider web over the entrance, his cave looked as if no one had entered for quite a while.

“Lord, forgive me,” prayed the young man. “I had forgotten that in you a spider’s web is stronger than a brick wall.” We all face times of great challenge.

In times of difficulty or danger, we turn to God eagerly.

9.11.01

Origin of the USA

“In God we trust” on our money

Too often we turn away and go back to “business as usual.”

Psalm 20.7-9

Consider Two Lessons for Us:

I.                   A Lesson on Priorities

A.     God First

1.      Sacrifices to God before Battle (Psalm 20.1-6)

Pagans sacrificed to their gods

Faithful Hebrews sacrificed to YHWH and then went to battle

2.       [Polycarp — The bishop of Smyrna was brought before the Roman authorities and told to curse Christ and he would be released. He replied, “Eighty-six years have I served him, and he has done me no wrong: how then can I blaspheme my king who saved me?” The Roman officer replied, “Unless you change your mind, I will have you burnt.” But Polycarp said, “You threaten a fire that burns for an hour, and after a while is quenched; for you are ignorant of the judgment to come and of everlasting punishment reserved for the ungodly. Do what you wish.”

3. Paul – ¹¹ I was chosen to tell that Good News and to be an apostle and a teacher.¹² I am suffering now because I tell the Good News, but I am not ashamed, because I know Jesus, the One in whom I have believed. And I am sure he is able to protect what he has trusted me with until that day. 2 Timothy 1.11-12

4. Us? – Matthew 6:33; 22:37-39; Deuteronomy 6; Leviticus 19; Ecclesiastes 12:13

B.     People (Psalm 20.9)

1. Our King came for PEOPLE – John 3:16; Luke 19:10

2. He Created us in his likeness (Genesis 1:26)

II.                A Lesson on Purpose

A.     The King was to be God’s Representative to the People and the People’s Representative to God (Anointed)

a.      Jesus does that today – Messiah/King

b.      Does Battle for Us

B.     We Are to Be Light in the Dark Places  — God’s Representatives

1. Light of the World (Matthew 5:14-16)

2. Even in the darkness

[Idols – Asia 9′ idol with 38 arms to bring blessings from heavens to the worshipers;

[Animal and human sacrifices among the pagans – even today – jungles of Africa; deserts of Australia (when elderly die, youngest child is sacrificed)

[US has our own darkness – Fed Official – kill a child up to 2 years of age

[Individual areas of darkness

C.     Prodigal Son in Luke 15

1. Went to the Far Country (Decapolis/area with the Gerasenes or Gadarenes)

2. He went with a bad attitude and alone

3. God sent his son to the Far Country, too

a. Heaven to Earth

b. Galilee to Gadarenes (the demon named, “Legion”)

c. He came with the right attitude and accompanied with servants of God – angels at his birth and the 12

4. He came to do the will of God in saving the lost (Luke 19:10) and trusting God (Luke 22:42 – let this cup pas. . . “)

Victory comes for the people of God! Psalm 20:5; 9

On February 19, 1945, Marines landed on the beaches of Iwo Jima, fighting by inches to secure a beachhead. After four days of knock-down-drag-out battle, they finally cleared the southern end of the island, climbed Mount Suribachi, and planted a US flag. The commander wanted a larger presence on Suribachi to encourage the Marines still fighting at the northern end of the island, so he ordered a larger flag raised. It was the raising of that larger flag that Joe Rosenthal caught in a famous photograph honoring the good soldiers who were fighting for victory in the Pacific.

The American Founders believed that each generation should pay its own debts. What a novel idea! “Pay as you go” and “live within your means.” It is unethical and sinful to saddle someone else with our debts.  Their attitude reflected a Christian understanding of scripture and a respect for the Creator.

One of the major differences between Christianity and our political world is the willingness to sacrifice for others.  It is the “Greater love” of which Jesus spoke. Christians would rather suffer now so their children won’t have to suffer later. The ungodly prefer letting the next generation suffer so long as they don’t have to. Their motto is “No Pain, No Pain.”

The thing that those living away from God miss is that “payday” will come. Somebody is going to pay someday. It is just a matter of when (see Ecclesiastes 8:11).

The justice of God demanded payment for sin. Payday came at the cross. Jesus stepped up and made the payment for us. He suffered then so we would not have to suffer later.

What implications do you see for us?

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

• Militarily: The Brilliance of General Washington and the help he got from the French;
• Division in British Army (bickering), and
• Luck -”

Cornwallis chose Yorktown because it was good ground for battle and it was the only place where the James River was narrow enough that if he needed to retreat he could cross.  When he learned that Washington and his troops were coming up from the South, he sent for reinforcements from New York but they were late in coming.

When the battle began, Cornwallis was hammered and knew he needed to retreat.  He thought that during the night he would evacuate his troops across the James River.  The first wave got across then a fierce storm came up and the wind blew so hard that the boats could not get back across the river to rescue any more British troops.

Cornwallis had no recourse but to surrender.  The guide called it ‘Luck’ but George Washington a few days later called it the ‘providence of God.’

¹⁰The LORD brings the counsel of the nations to nothing;
   he frustrates the plans of the peoples.
¹¹ The counsel of the LORD stands forever,
   the plans of his heart to all generations. Psalm 33.10-11

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

In a desperate attempt to escape, Washington gathered every available vessel, including row boats and began to row his 8000 troops to the mainland.  When morning came, however, there were still large numbers of troops dangerously exposed to the British.

Major Ben Talmage, Washington’s Chief of Intelligence wrote, “At the dawn of the next day, those of us who remained in the trenches became very anxious for our own safety.  At this time, a very dense fog began to rise out of the river and it seemed it seemed to settle in a peculiar manner over both encampments.  I recollect this peculiar providential occurrence perfectly well.  So dense was the atmosphere that I could scarcely discern a man at 6 yards’ distance.”

The fog was so dense that the British could not attack and General Washington was able to evacuate all of his troops.  Never again did the British have such a rare chance to destroy the Continental Army. What a “coincidence!”

Harry Truman probably made as many important decisions regarding our nation’s history as any of the other 42 Presidents.  However, a measure of his greatness may rest on what he did after he left the White House.

Historians have written that the only asset he had when he died was the house he lived in, which was in Independence, Missouri.   On top of that, his wife inherited  the house from her Mother.

When he retired from office in 1952, his income was a U.S. Army pension reported to have been $13,507.72 a  year. Congress, noting that he was paying for his stamps and personally licking them, granted him an ‘allowance’ and later, a retroactive pension of $25,000 per year.

After President  Eisenhower was inaugurated, Harry and Bess drove home to Missouri by  themselves.  There were no Secret Service agents following  them.

When offered corporate positions at large salaries, he declined, stating, ‘You don’t want me.  You want the office of the President, and that doesn’t belong to me.  It belongs to the American people and it’s not for sale.’

Even later, on May 6, 1971,  when Congress was preparing to award him the Medal of Honor on his 87th  birthday, he refused to accept it, writing, ‘I don’t consider that I  have done anything which should be the reason for any award, Congressional or otherwise.’

He never owned his own home and as  President he paid for all of his own travel expenses and  food.

Modern politicians have found a new level of success in cashing in on the Presidency, resulting in untold wealth. Today,  many in Congress also have found a way to become quite wealthy while enjoying the fruits of their offices. Political offices are now for sale.

Good old Harry Truman was correct when he observed, ‘My choices early in life were either to
be a piano player in a whore  house or a politician.  And to tell the truth, there’s hardly any difference.’

I was not there. I do not know the content of his message. I am guessing that he used the Bible to show that homosexuality is a sin (1 Corinthians 6:9). That now constitutes “hate” in the minds of many homosexuals or sympathizers. It has become “politically incorrect” to oppose homosexuality in any form.

Wait a minute! Saying something is a sin does not mean hate. In fact, it means quite the opposite. God so loved the word that he sent his one and only son – to save it (John 3:16-17). In his ministry, Jesus did not hesitate to point out sin. He told the woman caught in adultery to “sin no more” (John 8:11). Did he hate her? No, he loved her. In fact, he loved her so much he told her to stop doing wrong.

Wait another minute! Do you find it interesting that no one speaks out for the adulterers? Who is standing up for the idolaters? Isn’t speaking out against those actions hateful, too? Most Christians would say the actions of Governor Mark Sanford (or President Bill Clinton) were sinful. That is politically correct, especially for his opponents so that one slides by.

I wonder what “hate speech” would look like in other eras. What would have been “politically incorrect” in the Colonies before the Revolution? One probably could not quote 1 Timothy 2.1-7 where Paul urges respect for the King. How about during the Civil War in the North? Ephesians 6:5-9 tells slaves to obey their masters – what would the Abolitionists have done to those preachers? In the South Romans 13:1-2 and submission to ruling powers would not have been popular. In World War II the Nazis would not like to have admitted that Christians are grafted into the same tree as Jews (Romans 11:11-24). Americans may have found it difficult to “love their enemies and pray for them” (Matthew 5:43-48). On and on we can go.

There is a dangerous trend brewing in America. While we certainly do not advocate hate, we need to be very tolerant with our privilege of Free Speech. We need to be very careful to allow people freedom to practice their religious beliefs. Speaking out against sin is far different than condemning a sinner. That is not our right or place (Matthew 7:1). We may recognize sin – and sinners (we only have to look in the mirror) but our mission is to teach, to love, to encourage, to help; not to condemn. You don’t hate me if you warn me about the dangers that lie ahead if I don’t change my course.

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

During the first Gulf War, a member of the US Naval Intelligence told of going behind the Iraqi lines with British Commandos. They had the responsibility of destroying Iraqi communications so that our troops would have a better chance of success in the attack. One of the Commandos fell before enemy fire. The other Commandos did not stop to rescue him. As they ran by, they dropped him their extra ammunition.

Stopping to rescue the wounded man would have resulted in the probability that the team would not have accomplished their mission. If they had not accomplished their mission many Allied soldiers would have been killed, wounded or captured. Their lives depended on the Commandos doing their job. By giving the wounded man extra ammunition, they made it possible for him to fend off the enemy longer and ensure the success of the mission. He died fulfilling his duty.

We cannot (or should not) abandon every believer who is wounded in battle. We often have time to help and heal. BUT, the soldier is not more important than the battle. God may sacrifice any of us for the good of his army and those he seeks to save. We are soldiers, not civilians. We are at war in the most important battle of all.

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

In the model prayer (Matthew 6:9-13), Jesus reminds us to pray for our daily needs. “Give us THIS DAY our DAILY bread,” he said. Just as the Hebrews in the wilderness received manna on a daily basis, God will provide for us as he did for them. He is not going to “trick” us with false promises and put a “rock” in our sack when we make our requests. He will give us what we need, when we need it.

While we think of our personal needs on a given day, we should also consider others. It may well be that someone with whom we have contact is praying for their daily needs. It may also be that God uses us to meet those needs. Maybe we can provide food, or comfort, or relief. Maybe we become the answer to their prayer. When Jesus sent the twelve out, he gave them power to help those in need. He said, “Freely you have received, freely give” (Matthew 10:8). We have the same opportunity.

God promises to give us what we need. He promises not to deceive or mock us in his gifts. He treats us as he would be treated. He expects the same from us. Therefore, ask, receive, and do.

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

During the French and Indian war at the Battle of the Monongahela, young Colonel Washington was engaged in a fierce skirmish with the Indians.  An easy target in his bold red coat, he crisscrossed the battlefield as a courier, carrying General Braddock’s orders to the troops.  The Indian warriors later acknowledged that they were targeting all officers–and particularly Washington–in the bright garb.  Yet Washington survived.   There were eighty-six British and American officers involved in the battle; sixty-three of them died.  Colonel Washington was the only officer on horseback who was not killed, and later, the Indians testified that they repeatedly shot at him, and were surprised that he never fell.  They believed he was protected by an invisible power and that no bullet, bayonet, arrow or tomahawk could harm him. 

Years later, the Indian chief sought Washington out in order to tell him what had happened in the battle.  The Chief said, “I am a chief and ruler over my tribes.  I have traveled a long and weary path that I might see the young warrior of the great battle.  [On that day] I called to my men and said, ‘Quick, let your aim be certain, and he dies.’  Our rifles were leveled, rifles which, but for you, knew not how to miss–’twas all in vain, a power mightier far than we, shielded you. I am come to pay homage to the man who is the particular favorite of Heaven, and who can never die in battle.”  

Washington himself later wrote to his brother John, “By the all-powerful dispensations of Providence, I have been protected beyond all human probability or expectation; for I had four bullets through my coat, and two horses shot under me, yet escaped unhurt, although death was leveling my companions on every side of me!”

While I fly the flag on those special days, I consider myself an American Patriot every day. I honor America every chance I get. I am politically active; I pledge allegiance; I pray for a swift return of our country to our foundational principles. I am willing to take up arms to defend our borders and our Constitution. I am an “everyday American,” not just a “holiday American.”

It occurs to me that as a Christian the “everyday” principle also holds true. Sundays are our “Flag Days.” We put on our best selves and raise the Glory of God in worship. While Sundays are special we do not stop being Christians when our worship service ends.

We seek every opportunity to honor our God daily. We pledge our ultimate allegiance to Him every day. We pray for His Name to be honored above every name. We contend for the faith which was delivered once for all (Jude 3). We are “everyday Christians” not just on Sunday.

Isn’t that what it means to be a “disciple” of Jesus? Isn’t being like him every step of the day? Isn’t it being a person of God, not merely looking like one? It is the “everyday principle” of Christianity.

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

As a shepherd boy, David spent many hours lonely hours reflecting on God and his law. As a result, he wrote some of the great Psalms of the Bible. He was also able to live an above average life as a follower of God and leader of his people. The word of God led him into the valley to face Goliath (1 Samuel 17); to respect Saul (1 Samuel 24); to sacrifice and dance before Him (2 Samuel 6).

God places a great deal of importance on his word and urges us to put it into our hearts (Psalm 119:11). Out of the 176 verses of the Psalm, we will find the psalmist makes reference to God’s Law 173 times. Putting God’s word in our hearts means many things. It means reading it; studying it; meditating on it; and putting it into practice.  The Apostle Paul would say it this way: ¹⁶Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. ¹⁷And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. (Colossians 3:16-17, NIV).

Has God’s word found a home in your heart?

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

Those were fun and games for us. There is, though, a more serious Seeker. Ready or not, he IS coming! He came once to seek those who were hiding from God much as Adam and Eve did in the Garden after their sins. He is coming again to bring an end to things we know, to judge the living and the dead, and to take us “home.”

Heed his words from Matthew 24:42-44:

Therefore, stay awake, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming. But know this, that if the master of the house had known in what part of the night the thief was coming, he would have stayed awake and would not have let his house be broken into. Therefore you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.

What could be more important than being ready for his coming?

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

Please share your response to one of the following:

• Would you say you have a “green thumb,” a “brown thumb,” or you are “all thumbs”?
• What is your favorite “success story”?

Study

Please read Luke 8:4-15 and discuss the following with your group:

• Why do you think Jesus uses this parable?
• How would you describe the soils in modern terms?
• Which of the soils do you think is the most difficult to change (either for the good or for the bad)? Which is the easiest?
• What role does the word of God play in impacting the soils?
• Why do you think it is important to keep sowing the seeds of God’s words on ALL soils?

Apply

• How would you describe the soil of your heart right now? Five years ago?
• How would you say your heart has changed over the years?
• What will be helpful for you to produce 100 times more than has been sown?
• What are some ways you can sow the seed of the kingdom on all soils?

When I think about trying to be the “first century church,” I realize that can only go so far. I do want the unencumbered simplicity of the first church. I think denominationalism is a stain on Christianity (see John 17). I think many of man’s ideas stand in direct conflict with God’s clearly stated truths. But how far can we go?

When we reenact, we do so out of a sense of honor for our ancestors, blue and gray. There is a sense of patriotism in the ranks. There is a sense of honor there. Those qualities exist in modern troops, too.

When we step into the church world we do something similar. Faith, grace, and good works were in the disciples of the first century. Those things are in the modern disciple, too. These qualities are based on the word of God.

But some things are different. The early church did not “go” by air or auto. The early disciples did not enjoy the benefits of electricity or computers or the internet. Yet, that group of people shared the message of Christ to an entire generation.

As I think about it, maybe it is not the externals as much as the internals that matter. Maybe it is faith in God through his word that matters. Maybe it is reaching people with the good news that matters.

As a student of the Bible, I realize I am ever so fallible. I realize that I see the Book through 20^th (and now 21^st) Century eyes. But maybe, just maybe buildings should not matter; nor the order of worship; nor the polish of a preacher. Maybe what matters is a worship that embraces spirit and truth (John 4:24). Maybe it is practicing “pure religion” by caring for the hurting (James 1:27). Maybe it is being like Jesus and resisting the tendencies of people to formalize and bind our views on others.

That’s my view, anyway. 

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

In spite of their imperfections, dads have a distinct opportunity to be heroes to their children. Kids look up to their dads with respect and admiration (I have one of my dad’s Navy hats in my office out of respect for his memory). This opens an important door. Imperfect dads can introduce their children to the perfect Father and His Son.

Jesus is our ultimate hero. He is the image of the Father. He is the demonstration of the word of God alive in the world. He not only takes away sin, he displays life and lifestyle.

Dads, take the opportunity to use your unique influence with your children. Imitate Jesus in your life. Show your sons and daughters the Father by the Christ-like way in which you conduct yourself. Make Jesus your life and share him with those who look up to you.

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

What was going on in the historical proximity? This was close to the American Revolution. One of the pushes for the Founders was to unite the colonies. Remember Ben Franklin’s “Unite or Die” motto? It seems to me that these events caused religious people to think about their circumstances and they realized that unity in Christ was a missing element that served many purposes.

• Unity pleases God
• Unity identifies the followers of Jesus
• Unity glorifies the Son
• Unity gives strength to the disciples
• And more

The times impacted Christian thinkers. They did not come up with the Restoration ideals in a vacuum. They saw what was going on in their society and overlaid those things onto the church. It occurs to me that the American Restoration Movement was a bit of an American Revolution in itself.

Take a minute and observe our culture. What is going on in our society? What impact is it having on the church? Is that impact positive or negative? What can you and I do to fan the flame of the positive or head off the negative? Maybe in turn we can impact the culture as leaven.

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

I believe there will be a special place for the witnesses/martyrs of Jesus (see Revelation 6).  These are the people who suffered punishment and death rather than renounce the name of Jesus. Stephen will be there. So will Polycarp (burned alive in AD 155). Modern martyrs will be there, too. These are people from Iran, Laos, China and other countries where Christianity is illegal yet flourishing. Our brothers and sisters in the faith are putting their lives on the line daily, even as you read this article. They would rather be imprisoned, tortured, and killed than deny Jesus.

We have it so easy in the US – at least for now. Severe persecution may come to us, who can say? For now we fight things like apathy in the church.

I have wondered about the people of the faith called, martyrs. They may be “nobodies” to us, but “giants” to God. I hope Jesus has built a special room for each of them, very close to the Father. I hope I get to “wash their feet” and hear their stories. I hope I get to see the look of appreciation on the Father’s face for their unwavering loyalty to Jesus. I hope I can have the same faith and courage if the same circumstances come my way.

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

Open

Please share your response to one of the following:

• What are three words that you hope people would use to describe you in ten years?
• What is something you enjoy doing? What makes it fun?

Study

Read Ecclesiastes 5:8-12 and discuss the following with your group:

• Why do you think there is a constant oppression of people in the world? In what ways is the “chain of command” a comfort? How can a king/leader be a good thing? (vv. 8-9)
• What would you say is meaningless in vv. 10-11-12?
• Why do you think we have so much trouble being content with what we have?
• Why is this especially true about money? Why do we want more and more?
• How can workers have “sweet sleep”? What keeps the wealthy from it?

Apply

• What applications can you make from the writer’s observations in 5:13-17?
• Where do you put the pursuit of wealth in your life?
  • At the Top
  • In the Middle
  • On the Bottom
  • Off the Chart
• Playing the “devil’s advocate,” defend the pursuit of wealth. How much is “enough”?
• Which of Jesus’ teachings helps you the most in regard to the issue of wealth and contentment? (example – Matthew 6:28-34)
• In your experience, how does contentment feel? What suggestions can you give to help the group achieve it? (see Philippians 4:12-13)

One of the most interesting events of the weekend had nothing to do with firing the gun. It had to do with interpersonal relationships. The leader of our gun crew dealt with a touchy situation regarding one of our unit members. It ended with a win-win for everyone involved. I won’t name any names, but the parties involved in the “cannon conflict” impressed me with their humility and willingness to work out their difficulties.

A few weeks ago I preached a sermon in regard to dealing with difficulties between Christians. I used the text from Matthew 18:15-20 where Jesus teaches us to go personally to others to settle differences. The bottom line is that we go face to face rather than behind the back.

Most of us do not enjoy conflict or confrontation. From time to time, it is essential. When handled correctly, we usually will “gain our brother.” That is exactly what happened with the cannon crew and everyone left camp uplifted and encouraged. It really works.

Next year we are planning to come to church in uniform. That should be good for some eyebrow raising.

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

Love Myself?

Someone has observed that the greatest harm done to us usually comes from us. Self-hatred and self-abuse are often our biggest enemies. Without thinking more highly of ourselves than we should, let’s take an inventory of the reasons we should love ourselves (Leviticus 19:18; Matthew 5:43).

Loving ourselves is not just an egotistical exercise. On the contrary, not recognizing our beauty and gifts is a denial of God’s creativity in us. Take a minute and write down your unique qualities. You are the only one of you – ever! Don’t just focus on externals, but also look at your personality, intelligence, athletic ability, and other talents. Look at your spiritual gifts and the ways you have used them. Think back to your victories, not just the defeats.

Then recount the additional ways God has shown your value to him. You are made in his image. You cost the ultimate price, life of his Son. You are worth more than the whole world to him (Matthew 16:26). Feel how special you are!

When we are secure in God’s love and have a healthy self-image we are able to love others. We are able to love even the “unlovable.” Start within and let it move out.

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

Share with the Group one or two of the following:

• If I could throw caution to the wind and really risk, I would. . . . .
• The comic character I would like to be like is. . . . .
• The most important decision of my life was/is. . . . .
• As a child, my favorite game was. . . . . .
• My favorite movie of all times is. . . . . .
• What makes me laugh is. . . . . .
• Today, I like to play by. . . . . . .
• I cry when . . . . . . . .

Study

Read Mark 10:35-45 and discuss the following with your group:

• What do you think motivated James and John to make this request?
• How do you think they saw the “kingdom”?
• If you had been James or John, how would you have felt about Jesus’ response?
• What were the cup, baptism, and glory Jesus spoke of?
• Why did the other disciples respond to James and John as they did?
• Jesus did not” waste the crisis.” What lesson does he teach? How does it go contrary to the norm?

Apply

• When have you seen a sacrificial spirit of service? A submissive spirit of service? How did you feel about that kind of person?
• What values has Jesus turned upside down in your life? How has it impacted your life?
• In following the example of Jesus, what is one way you can display a servant’s heart this week?

I imagine that being a disciple of Rabbi Jesus means that we want to be so close to Him that we walk “under his feet.” We want to hear every word he speaks and understand every lesson he teaches. We want to be just like him. That requires a close walk.

Rabbis were people of the text. They:

• Learned the Text
• Lived the Text
• Taught the Text
• Prayed the Text, and
• Died the Text

Jesus, as the incarnation of the Word (John 1:14), did all of the above. He also expects us to follow in his steps. He expects us to be people of the text – as he was.

What will it take for each of us to be that kind of disciple? Maybe it is getting up a little early to study the Bible. Maybe it is just putting a little more of God’s word into my life, heart and mind today than yesterday.

In whose dust are you covered? The confusing times in which we live show our need for God’s direction. We gain and share that through Jesus.

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

We are somewhat familiar with the opening words of the Declaration. “When in the course of human events,” and “We hold these truths to be self-evident. . .”  When I came to the end of the document, the words of the last sentence really hit me because we modern Patriots may be facing a similar commitment soon. They read, “And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes, and our sacred Honor.”

Most of the men who signed the document died penniless. They gave their all — their lives and wealth for the cause of Freedom. They held to their honor — Nathan Hale’s words of regret that he had but one life to give for his country display honor above even his own life.

I am also doing some self-examination with the words of the last sentence. Am I willing to do the same things they did? If I had been there, would I have signed the Declaration, knowing that I might hang or lose my family’s financial security? I hope that I would have and I hope that I will if the necessity comes.

It makes me wonder, what will my last sentence be?

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

My Union ancestor was from East Tennessee, a “pro-Union” area of the state. I believe that he fought to preserve the Union and its mission. Many Union soldiers not only fought to keep the Union together, they also fought to free the slaves.

My Southern ancestor was from Georgia. He died in 1863 at Ft. Sumter. He, along with a number of Confederates, is buried in a mass grave in Charleston. I believe he fought, not to keep slaves, but for his state’s rights. Many in the North and South believed in state sovereignty. Loyalty was first to the state and then to the US. The oath of allegiance changed after the firing on Ft. Sumter from allegiance to a state to allegiance to the United States.

Regardless of which side I might align with – and I vacillate, depending on the issue, the weather, and time of day – I believe that the real driver for both sides was the issue of Freedom. It is my humble opinion that the United States was established by Divine Providence for a Divine Mission. That Mission was Freedom. It was not just freedom from Great Britain and the tyrannical rule of a monarchy; it was the cause of freedom for mankind.

God is a God of freedom. He raised Moses up to lead Israel out of Egyptian bondage to Freedom in the Promised Land (Exodus 3:7-10). He brought Jesus into the world to free us from the domination of sin (see John 8:32 and John 10:10).

The Mission of the US is one of Freedom and Equality, not only within our borders, but among other nations as well. Why did we go to Europe in WWI; and to Europe and the Pacific in WWII? Why did we go to Korea or Vietnam or Kuwait or Afghanistan or Iraq? People were oppressed and we responded to our Mission of Freedom.

National freedom can also pave the way for freedom in Christ. How blessed is a nation that has the privilege of worshiping God according to one’s conscience! How blessed is a nation who serves God on a daily basis without fear!

God honors people who honor him. I believe that is the reason for the former prosperity of America. When we seek the One who blesses, we also receive the blessings. When we seek the blessings, we lose both.

 In 1831 when Alexis de Tocqueville visited the United States, he was impressed with the goodness of the people. He stated:

“There is no country in the world where the Christian religion retains a greater influence over the souls of men than in America.”

Is it any wonder that Thomas Jefferson and others attributed the nation to the hand of God? He called the basic beliefs the “principles in which God has united us all.”

Would you like for God to bless America again? Honor Him – educate yourself on the current issues – get involved in the politics (remember, our politicians work for us) – vote – pray – speak out against injustice and tyranny in our Congress as well as abroad. As Americans WE are responsible for our nation, not the greedy tyrants in Washington, DC. If WE don’t stand up to and speak out against our corrupt government, who will?

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

There is an application for Christians. In our battle, our adversary wants to “dumb us down.” He knows the power of the gospel (Romans 1:16). He knows what the proclamation of Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection can do for people (1 Corinthians 15). He knows the power of truth in our hands (John 8:32).

Jesus responded to each of Satan’s three tests with, “It is written.” He won the battle (see Matthew 4). Ezra was a great servant of God because, ” . . .Ezra had set his heart to study the Law of the LORD, and to do it and to teach his statutes and rules in Israel” (Ezra 7:10).

We can’t do what God says until we know what he says. Once we know we can’t help but do – if we are living by faith.

How is your daily time with God? What new things are you discovering from his word? What are you doing for others because God has directed your steps?

Don’t get distracted from the call of God.

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

There are battles yet to be fought. We are in one right now in our own community and nation. For years Christians have been silent because we did not want to appear “overbearing” or “harsh.” As a result we have allowed corruption to slide into our nation on many levels.

It is time to stand up and fight. It is time to go into the valley to confront the giant. It is time to go into the wilderness to battle the adversary. This is a spiritual battle for the souls of Americans and the world.

Do your part. Pray for God to lift his face toward us. Know, live, and teach His word. Stand against the onslaught of evil anywhere it is present.

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

Speech is one of those “inside-out” realities. Jesus said, “It is not what goes into the mouth that defiles a person, but what comes out of the mouth; this defiles a person” (Matthew 15:11). Later he clarified his point, “But what comes out of the mouth proceeds from the heart, and this defiles a person. ¹⁹For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false witness, slander” (15:18-19).

We truly do create our actions from within. We feel a certain way and we speak or act on it. We see that easily with evil things. What if we were to center our thoughts on the good and pure? What kinds of speech and actions do you suppose would follow?

Putting God and his words into our hearts can only produce good things (Psalm 119:11). Take the time daily to put a little more of Him into your spirit. Look at some of the results:

¹O LORD, who shall sojourn in your tent?

   Who shall dwell on your holy hill?

 ²He who walks blamelessly and does what is right

   and speaks truth in his heart; Psalm 15:1-2

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

I kept thinking, “send in the Seals” as the days drug out. As it turned out, that is exactly what happened. The result was the rescue of the Captain, execution of three pirates, and capture of one. It was a display of mercy and justice!

Then I thought about those Navy Seals. Those men are not Seals for fame or fortune. They did not become elite warriors by buying their way in or by a fancy pedigree. They are elite because they paid the price. They have ability, received training, and learned discipline. They know that all of the pain they endure in their training is for the saving of life – theirs and those they are sent to rescue.

God gives each of us certain abilities. He teaches us discipline (we typically call it patience). Each step of our walk with Jesus involves his training process. To what end? It is for the completion of our God-given mission. We are to become fully-devoted followers of Jesus and rescue those enslaved by the evil one.

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

• BEARING THE MARK Joseph Damien was a nineteenth-century missionary who ministered to people with leprosy on the island of Molokai, Hawaii. Those suffering grew to love him and revered the sacrificial life he lived out before them. One morning before Damien was to lead daily worship, he was pouring some hot water into a cup when the water swirled out and fell onto his bare foot. It took him a moment to realize that he had not felt any sensation. Gripped by the sudden fear of what this could mean, he poured more hot water on the same spot. No feeling whatsoever. Damien immediately knew what had happened. As he walked tearfully to deliver his sermon, no one at first noticed the difference in his opening line. He normally began every sermon with, “My fellow believers.” But this morning he began with, “My fellow lepers.”

• Today I can address you in a number of ways – “Fellow believers;” or “Fellow sinners.”

Jesus has made us saints based on our faith in him

Yet, we all struggle with sin

• Marshall Keeble – “If I miss them in Christ I will get them in Adam.”

• From time to time we need to stop and examine our lives – how is my walk with God? What sins are impacting me? How is my walk with my fellow believers?

• THEN, we need to take action – What do I need to do to combat the temptations I am experiencing and be more faithful and fruitful?

• Instruction Manual – The Bible – SLIDE of Crash of one of the World’s Most Expensive Plane — $200M

• WE put a huge priority on our worship services. We think if we do the right acts of worship nothing else matters. Jesus puts a priority on worship that involves harmony with PEOPLE:

John 17.20-21 — ²⁰“I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, ²¹ that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me.

John 13.34-35 – ³⁴ A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. ³⁵ By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.

Conflict Among God’s People Happens:

Two men who lived in a small village got into a terrible dispute that they could not resolve. So they decided to talk to the town sage. The first man went to the sage’s home and told his version of what happened. When he finished, the sage said, “You’re absolutely right.” The next night, the second man called on the sage and told his side of the story. The sage responded, “You’re absolutely right.” Afterward, the sage’s wife scolded her husband. “Those men told you two different stories and you told them they were absolutely right. That’s impossible-they can’t both be absolutely right.” The sage turned to his wife and said, “You’re absolutely right.”

Biblical Examples – Aaron & Miriam; Acts 6; Paul & Barnabas over John Mark . . .

•1.      Be Humble – Matthew 18.3-4

•2.      Follow Procedure <The Instruction Manual>

• a. Private, Face to Face Conversation – 18.15
• i. If he sins against you
• ii. If you sin against him (5.23)
• iii. Go quickly

USA Today had an article on the front page about those who escaped the World Trade Center on September 11. After interviewing over 300 survivors and family members of victims, USA Today concluded that in the South tower those who didn’t delay but ran for safety immediately are the one’s who survived. Those who delayed are the ones who perished. Our spiritual life is much the same, that those who delay and put off a commitment to Jesus Christ or spiritual actions often wait until it’s too late. USA Today also noted that people lived or died in the towers by groups, influenced to stay or go by the people around them. The same is true in our spirituality, that people are often influenced to seek Christ or to reject Christ by those around them.

• iv. Show him his fault

• v. Seek Reconciliation – NOT justification to be angry; NOT winning an argument;

• b. Witnesses (v. 16)
• i. It is easier to involve others before we talk to our brother — Gossip

Harriet, the church gossip and self-appointed supervisor of the church’s morals, kept sticking her nose into other people’s business. Several residents were unappreciative of her activities, but feared her enough to maintain their silence. She made a mistake, however, when she accused George, a new member, of being an alcoholic after she saw his pickup truck parked all afternoon in front of the town’s only bar. She commented to George and others that everyone seeing it there would know that he was an alcoholic. George, a man of few words, stared at her for a moment and then just walked away. He said nothing. Later that evening, George quietly parked his pickup in front of Harriet’s house and left it there all night…

• ii. “What did ___________ say when you talked to him/her?”

• c. Tell the Church (v. 17a) – Get it in the open;

• d. If no reconciliation – Love them as an outsider (v. 17b)

•3.      Remember the Difficulty of Forgiveness – 18.21-22

• a. Rabbis – Forgive three times
• b. Peter – 7
• c. Jesus – 77

•d.      Genesis 4.15; 24 - Forgive with this kind of intensity – Cain & Lamech

•4.      Resist Temptations:

• a. Revenge
• b. Ignore it, it will go away – It usually doesn’t
• c. Distance myself from the person/issue

• Parable of the unmerciful servant (18.23-35) – King forgives large debt and expects us to forgive the lesser ones;

• During WWII, a German soldier plunged into a shell hole. There he found a wounded enemy. The fallen soldier was soaked with blood and only minutes from death. Touched by the plight of the man, the German soldier offered him water.

Through that simple, small kindness a bond was formed. The dying man pointed to his shirt pocket.

The German soldier took from it a wallet and removed some family pictures. He held them so the wounded man could look at his loved ones for the last time. With bullets raging overhead and war all around them, these two enemies were, for a few moments, friends.

WHAT HAPPENED IN THAT SHELL HOLE? Did all evil cease to exist? No. Were all wrongs made right? No. What happened was this: Two enemies saw each other as humans in need of help. And that’s what forgiveness is.

Forgiveness is rising above the war, looking beyond what we are, and choosing to see others, not as enemies or even as friends, BUT AS FELLOW SOLDIERS WANTING TO MAKE IT HOME SAFELY.

• Golden rule/1^st and 2^nd commands cannot be fulfilled if we mistreat one another or harbor grudges

• There has been a lot of hurt over the years – unintentional
• Today – pick up the phone and make an appointment to see someone you need to reconcile with.

• RE Lee – Cut it down and forget it.