OK, this one is gonna get interesting. I have a brother that will be helping us out with this "one another" from his experiences, but also wanted to relay my own personal story about this. My story is below, and as I edit this, it is with tears of joy and love, remembering the example that was given to me.
This instance of foot washing was most memorable. We had gone to visit some friends that lived far away in the winter here in Maine. On the way to visit, we had gotten lost and slid off the road into a snowbank. After calling to let them know we would be late, they offered to get shovels and come find us, which they did. A good Samaritan pulled us out of the ditch with his truck saving the day, but I will not forget our brothers that drove across town in the terrible weather to help us out. The day did get better from there, as we got unstuck from the snow bank and made it to their home.
This is one of those families that just loves to serve, to take care of you, and truly shows the love of Christ in their lives in so many ways. After dinner, we were reading the Bible together and talked about the verses in 1 Corinthians 7. My wife was sitting next to me and the mother of the family began to take out some warm water, a towel, some fragrant oils, and a basin. She and her adult daughter took off my wife's shoes and began to wash her feet. Sara didn't really know what to think, but definitely felt honored and loved, seeing someone do this most humble and servant-like act for her. I was OK with this whole thing, but still had not processed the full scope of this foot washing.
A few minutes into my wife's foot washing, they asked if they could also wash my feet. Now this is where I got a little more skeptical. Sure, a couple of ladies washing another ladies' feet is fine, but I don't know if I like this. I briefly caught a glimpse of the father's eyes, realizing that not only was this something they would like to do for me, but also quickly remembering when Jesus offered to wash Peter's feet and the fiasco that followed, "no, don't wash me" and "wash me all over" Peter didn't get it, and only now that I am putting this down do I begin to realize the significance in some of this.
So, they washed and scrubbed my feet, gently kneeling before me in the perfect picture of servanthood and love. What blessed fellowship, what pure and undefiled love that strips itself of all that would hinder me from seeing the love of Christ at work. The hardest part for me to grasp as I think of that night is that this was not a new experience for them. They have done it often, modeling a number of those "one another" principles that I have been writing about.
So, then I begin to think of Jesus. I see Him bow before His disciples, stripping Himself of His outer garment and giving this wonderful example of how " he that is greatest among you shall be your servant.. " I see the love and sacrifice, the humility, the complete package of perfection in this act of submission and grace. How can you not love someone who will humble themselves for the simple pleasure of serving another brother or sister in Christ?
I pray that this story has helped some understand that this is not about hygiene, nor is it about slavery or prominence, but rather humble submission before the Lord, serving however the Lord prescribes, we will have joy unspeakable and we will be full of glory. My eyes were seeing this young lady, but I saw Jesus that night! I pray that she and her mother, and their family that has served as examples in so many ways, know how much they mean to me. I can't think of that day without seeing that I often fail to serve in this way. I know it isn't the culturally popular thing to do, but I would encourage you to wash someone's feet, and yes I mean literally. Why not? Is pride in the way, do you fear rejection? Jesus set the example and gave us the great role model. Serve Him in all things today.
Read John 13 and see how Jesus set the stage, even though He knew Judas would betray Him, that Peter would deny Him, yet the love Jesus shows is not the kind that is just fulfilling a necessary job(dirty feet do need to be washed). Jesus knew that this night would become the defining moment in history. Jesus came to die, and here was the night He was to be arrested and shortly after crucified.
I want to note due to personal conviction on my part that Jesus did not take this time to get in a few jabs, kick them around and get them ready for the persecution to come. He washed their feet. Think of how Judas felt after Jesus was taken to the cross. I bet Judas remembered the foot washing more vividly even than I do that night when my feet were washed.
Showing posts with label humility. Show all posts
Showing posts with label humility. Show all posts
Tuesday, March 7, 2017
Monday, August 24, 2009
Forgiveness"" -by Michelle Peterson
This post comes from a lovely young lady that we got to know in Kentucky. She traveled across the US thousands of miles from home to reach out with the Gospel, and even brought her little sister with her. Thank you, Michelle, for allowing me to post this for others to consider.
“And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.” ,” For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” Matt 6:12,14-15
We are called to forgive, lest we ourselves be not forgiven. But I offer you this thought, is there more that we can do than just forgive our debtors? Can we do more than forgive and seek reconciliation?
I recently sat under some teaching on this very passage. And once again a person whom I thought I had forgiven came strait to mind. And I found that once again I was dealing with a situation that was hurtful and difficult and one that I really wanted to put in the past. But here it was again, and though I do not harbor bitterness or resentment towards this person, I was wronged, and it was up to me to forgive. But why couldn't I just forgive and forget. I cried out to the Lord, and in a gentle way, He showed me something more that I could do.
“Then he knelt down and cried out with a loud voice, 'Lord, do not charge them with this sin.' And when he had said this, he fell asleep.” Stephen not only forgave those who stoned him, but he being the one that was wronged, ask God to forgive.
I remember also our precious Savior who prayed from the cross “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.” He who had done no wrong, prayed that God the Father would forgive those who had done all things wrong.
I had forgiven before now, but I realized that I had never asked that God forgive him. It is a powerful thing when the person that was wronged asks God to forgive those who have done the wrong. And for me, it was something that I needed to do. I want God to hold no debt against him on my account. For in Christ there is not debt held against me.
If our Savior, Jesus Christ prayed for our forgiveness, should we not do the same for those who have wronged us?
Just a few thoughts, from the heart.....
Michelle
“And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.” ,” For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” Matt 6:12,14-15
We are called to forgive, lest we ourselves be not forgiven. But I offer you this thought, is there more that we can do than just forgive our debtors? Can we do more than forgive and seek reconciliation?
I recently sat under some teaching on this very passage. And once again a person whom I thought I had forgiven came strait to mind. And I found that once again I was dealing with a situation that was hurtful and difficult and one that I really wanted to put in the past. But here it was again, and though I do not harbor bitterness or resentment towards this person, I was wronged, and it was up to me to forgive. But why couldn't I just forgive and forget. I cried out to the Lord, and in a gentle way, He showed me something more that I could do.
“Then he knelt down and cried out with a loud voice, 'Lord, do not charge them with this sin.' And when he had said this, he fell asleep.” Stephen not only forgave those who stoned him, but he being the one that was wronged, ask God to forgive.
I remember also our precious Savior who prayed from the cross “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.” He who had done no wrong, prayed that God the Father would forgive those who had done all things wrong.
I had forgiven before now, but I realized that I had never asked that God forgive him. It is a powerful thing when the person that was wronged asks God to forgive those who have done the wrong. And for me, it was something that I needed to do. I want God to hold no debt against him on my account. For in Christ there is not debt held against me.
If our Savior, Jesus Christ prayed for our forgiveness, should we not do the same for those who have wronged us?
Just a few thoughts, from the heart.....
Michelle
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Forgiving one another
This is another difficult one. Well, I guess in the flesh all spiritual attributes seem impossible, really. What does the Bible say about forgiveness? How do we go from "getting on with our lives" to true and genuine repentance?
Genesis 50 gives a portrait of how genuine hurt and wrongdoing affects us. Joseph had every "right" to take this opportunity when his brothers were hungry and destitute to take advantage of them. Humanly speaking, Joseph should have tortured them, made them stay in bondage in prison as he had to because of them. Yet, that is not the picture we see.
We are given this true story to show us how God works in His economy. His ways are higher than our ways, and not so high as to not be understood, but only truly grasped by those who are willing to obey Him no matter what. The way God was leading Joseph to deal with this wrong is not the human way. It is not how I would normally deal with being wronged. Certainly, in today's society at large, especially here in America, we would sue, malign, and call the press in such a case. But, is that the course of action prescribed in holy writ? NO!
As I continue to learn, I see again and again that I have not learned so much by intellectual learning, but by study, prayer, and putting into practice those things that I have seen borne out by God's Word. If you have E-sword, just search the Bible for the word "forgiveness" and see what comes up. Read all the verses, then select a few passages and read the context. When we study this way, we see the complete lessons, not just bits and pieces.
I am reading "Living by the Book" by Howard Hendricks. I suggest it for everyone who truly wants to learn not just what the Bible says, but to find the methods that flesh out the truth as God intended, then use these truths to shape our lives. I have attached at bottom a list of references to look at for those without study helps. Read God's Word, see what it says and then apply it. That is the basic method. The book by "prof" Hendricks is amazing and simple enough that even a child could read it and understand (thus my fascination).
Pray about who you may be harboring bitterness against, seek God out, and dedicate time to pray for the ability to forgive. As we do this together, we will see more and more of the fruit of the Spirit borne in our lives. Grace and peace to you all though Jesus Christ.
Colossians 3:13, Matt 18:35, Mark 11:25,26, Luke 6:37, Luke 23:34, 1 John 1(chapter) please read all these in context. Just a summary, lots more could be brought out. Enjoy!
Mark
Genesis 50 gives a portrait of how genuine hurt and wrongdoing affects us. Joseph had every "right" to take this opportunity when his brothers were hungry and destitute to take advantage of them. Humanly speaking, Joseph should have tortured them, made them stay in bondage in prison as he had to because of them. Yet, that is not the picture we see.
We are given this true story to show us how God works in His economy. His ways are higher than our ways, and not so high as to not be understood, but only truly grasped by those who are willing to obey Him no matter what. The way God was leading Joseph to deal with this wrong is not the human way. It is not how I would normally deal with being wronged. Certainly, in today's society at large, especially here in America, we would sue, malign, and call the press in such a case. But, is that the course of action prescribed in holy writ? NO!
As I continue to learn, I see again and again that I have not learned so much by intellectual learning, but by study, prayer, and putting into practice those things that I have seen borne out by God's Word. If you have E-sword, just search the Bible for the word "forgiveness" and see what comes up. Read all the verses, then select a few passages and read the context. When we study this way, we see the complete lessons, not just bits and pieces.
I am reading "Living by the Book" by Howard Hendricks. I suggest it for everyone who truly wants to learn not just what the Bible says, but to find the methods that flesh out the truth as God intended, then use these truths to shape our lives. I have attached at bottom a list of references to look at for those without study helps. Read God's Word, see what it says and then apply it. That is the basic method. The book by "prof" Hendricks is amazing and simple enough that even a child could read it and understand (thus my fascination).
Pray about who you may be harboring bitterness against, seek God out, and dedicate time to pray for the ability to forgive. As we do this together, we will see more and more of the fruit of the Spirit borne in our lives. Grace and peace to you all though Jesus Christ.
Colossians 3:13, Matt 18:35, Mark 11:25,26, Luke 6:37, Luke 23:34, 1 John 1(chapter) please read all these in context. Just a summary, lots more could be brought out. Enjoy!
Mark
Friday, August 14, 2009
Tackling one of the "not one anothers"
Gal 5:13 For ye, brethren, were called for freedom; only use not your freedom for an occasion to the flesh, but through love be servants one to another.
Gal 5:14 For the whole law is fulfilled in one word, even in this: Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.
Gal 5:15 But if ye bite and devour one another, take heed that ye be not consumed one of another.
Gal 5:16 But I say, walk by the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.
Gal 5:17 For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are contrary the one to the other; that ye may not do the things that ye would.
There is so much to be said from this passage when we see the context of it. I am going to stick to verse 15 for now. This is the negative side of "one anothering" and I hate to have to admit that at times I have been guilty of talking badly, jesting coarsely, and spending my time tearing down instead of edifying my brothers and sisters in Christ. Often I have what I feel to be a valid complaint. Not always has someone wronged me, per se, but that I see the body is suffering in consequence of someone's actions indirectly. Of course, logically this would be best remedied by complaining, railing, and gossip, right? WRONG!
Q: So, is it my place to complain and talk badly about my fellow laborers in Christ?
A: Eph 4:32 and be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving each other, even as God also in Christ forgave you.
Q: Is it acceptable before the Lord to have an attitude in my prayer of pride and spite?
A: Mat 6:14 "For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.
Mat 6:15 But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses. "
Luk 18:10 -14(speaking of the publican and the Pharisee)"for every one that exalteth himself shall be humbled; but he that humbleth himself shall be exalted."
Q: What would be an acceptable time to "air out" our differences, and what could be roadblocks to finding solutions?
A: Read Matthew 18:12-20 and see what Jesus said about the situation. There are other passages, look around and see the Bible is rich in examples, teaching, and daily life experiences of many who came before us and did things God's way.
We ought always to find these answers in God's Word, our final authority on all things. When we have troubles, we will find our answers when we submit ourselves to God, coming fervently and humbly in prayer. We must pour out all that is self and simply submit to all the Lord has for us, all that He has commanded us to do.
Some may feel that I have left this incomplete, and I have for this reason. The best way to learn is not to ask someone for the answer, but rather seeking the answers from God's Word. Studying to show ourselves approved unto God is a privilege that we have as believers, at least in my country, have taken for granted far too long. Too often we think it is the job of the pastor or teacher to instruct us in all things, yet God desires us to be committed to His Word not just on Sundays or mid week services, but all days. Let's work together to not just practice one anothering, but to truly seek God each day. If we take the time to pray about our struggles and listen to God's Spirit leading and His Word, we will find we have much less trouble with how to handle things.
I pray this has been a help. I am recruiting a few close brothers and sisters to collaborate on this. All material submitted will be checked carefully with Scripture. Please let me know if something slips by me that is not scripturally accurate. I consider it joy to be able to help in practicing these "one anothers" and look forward to insight from many others. Let God be our guide through His Word, have a great day, and go "one another" someone.
Gal 5:14 For the whole law is fulfilled in one word, even in this: Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.
Gal 5:15 But if ye bite and devour one another, take heed that ye be not consumed one of another.
Gal 5:16 But I say, walk by the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.
Gal 5:17 For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are contrary the one to the other; that ye may not do the things that ye would.
There is so much to be said from this passage when we see the context of it. I am going to stick to verse 15 for now. This is the negative side of "one anothering" and I hate to have to admit that at times I have been guilty of talking badly, jesting coarsely, and spending my time tearing down instead of edifying my brothers and sisters in Christ. Often I have what I feel to be a valid complaint. Not always has someone wronged me, per se, but that I see the body is suffering in consequence of someone's actions indirectly. Of course, logically this would be best remedied by complaining, railing, and gossip, right? WRONG!
Q: So, is it my place to complain and talk badly about my fellow laborers in Christ?
A: Eph 4:32 and be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving each other, even as God also in Christ forgave you.
Q: Is it acceptable before the Lord to have an attitude in my prayer of pride and spite?
A: Mat 6:14 "For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.
Mat 6:15 But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses. "
Luk 18:10 -14(speaking of the publican and the Pharisee)"for every one that exalteth himself shall be humbled; but he that humbleth himself shall be exalted."
Q: What would be an acceptable time to "air out" our differences, and what could be roadblocks to finding solutions?
A: Read Matthew 18:12-20 and see what Jesus said about the situation. There are other passages, look around and see the Bible is rich in examples, teaching, and daily life experiences of many who came before us and did things God's way.
We ought always to find these answers in God's Word, our final authority on all things. When we have troubles, we will find our answers when we submit ourselves to God, coming fervently and humbly in prayer. We must pour out all that is self and simply submit to all the Lord has for us, all that He has commanded us to do.
Some may feel that I have left this incomplete, and I have for this reason. The best way to learn is not to ask someone for the answer, but rather seeking the answers from God's Word. Studying to show ourselves approved unto God is a privilege that we have as believers, at least in my country, have taken for granted far too long. Too often we think it is the job of the pastor or teacher to instruct us in all things, yet God desires us to be committed to His Word not just on Sundays or mid week services, but all days. Let's work together to not just practice one anothering, but to truly seek God each day. If we take the time to pray about our struggles and listen to God's Spirit leading and His Word, we will find we have much less trouble with how to handle things.
I pray this has been a help. I am recruiting a few close brothers and sisters to collaborate on this. All material submitted will be checked carefully with Scripture. Please let me know if something slips by me that is not scripturally accurate. I consider it joy to be able to help in practicing these "one anothers" and look forward to insight from many others. Let God be our guide through His Word, have a great day, and go "one another" someone.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
A little flesh on the bones
What does it mean to love one another? Jesus says we ought to love one another. Paul tells many churches in the New Testament to love each other. I got to thinking about this and wondered what it would look like if we didn't just like each other in the body of Christ, but really loved each other.
Love like the Lord loves is sacrificial, selfless, and esteems others higher than ourselves. Do we really love each other as Christians? Do we sometimes put on a good face for church and then talk badly about each other when we get home? I know I have been guilty of this, and have had to come before God in repentance.
Jesus humbled Himself, took on a fleshly body, and walked in the ways we are told to walk. He didn't just say it, but He did it. Jesus denied His power and ability to protect Himself so that we would not be held accountable for our sin by trusting in His work on the cross to save us from a debt we could not pay ourselves.
Paul sat in prison and witnessed of the love of Jesus Christ that overtook him on the road. He was blinded and Jesus told Paul what was expected of Him. He was called to give up his own life and wholeheartedly commit to what the Lord told him to do. Paul was a great example of how to love one another, and Paul regularly shows us different ways to love as Christ loved the church, sacrificing Himself for her, His bride.
In the following days, we will continue to flesh out what it looks like to love one another, serve one another, exhort, pray for, and prefer one another. I will be including letters, as I get them, from believers taking part in this challenge to live each day with eternity in mind. You will read testimonies of believers all over that have prayerfully considered how best to serve the Lord through serving their brothers and sisters.
I pray that you have a great day, but even more, that you take time today to see what God wants from you and live that out in whatever way He burdens your heart to do.
Mark
Love like the Lord loves is sacrificial, selfless, and esteems others higher than ourselves. Do we really love each other as Christians? Do we sometimes put on a good face for church and then talk badly about each other when we get home? I know I have been guilty of this, and have had to come before God in repentance.
Jesus humbled Himself, took on a fleshly body, and walked in the ways we are told to walk. He didn't just say it, but He did it. Jesus denied His power and ability to protect Himself so that we would not be held accountable for our sin by trusting in His work on the cross to save us from a debt we could not pay ourselves.
Paul sat in prison and witnessed of the love of Jesus Christ that overtook him on the road. He was blinded and Jesus told Paul what was expected of Him. He was called to give up his own life and wholeheartedly commit to what the Lord told him to do. Paul was a great example of how to love one another, and Paul regularly shows us different ways to love as Christ loved the church, sacrificing Himself for her, His bride.
In the following days, we will continue to flesh out what it looks like to love one another, serve one another, exhort, pray for, and prefer one another. I will be including letters, as I get them, from believers taking part in this challenge to live each day with eternity in mind. You will read testimonies of believers all over that have prayerfully considered how best to serve the Lord through serving their brothers and sisters.
I pray that you have a great day, but even more, that you take time today to see what God wants from you and live that out in whatever way He burdens your heart to do.
Mark
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)