Spiritual Tasks

WHAT IS THE SPIRITUAL TASK FOR THE WEEK?
Each Sunday, the minister leading the service introduces a spiritual task for the week based on the subject of the talks. It is referred to during the adult sermon portion of the service and includes a brief summary of the lesson and practical suggestions for how you might use the spiritual message of the sermon in the workplace, at home, in your marriage, with parenting, friends, etc.
Listed below are many of the recent spiritual tasks in chronological order. This list also gives an overview of the topics covered from week to week.

03/25/2007 - Seeing Clearly

“These things I have spoken to you in figurative language; but the time is coming when I will no longer speak to you in figurative language, but I will tell you plainly about the Father…” John 16:25

Have you ever tried assembling a piece of furniture or a gadget with instructions that are either incomplete or terribly confusing? Arggh! Or what about driving a rental car in a foreign country whose streets and signs mean absolutely nothing to you? Help! The human mind is built to comprehend, and often shuts-down or tunes-out if it can’t make sense of what it “sees.” So when it comes to something as important as our faith, our religion, the Lord wants to make sure that people can see, and see with clarity. As a people, we have not always been ready or willing to hear the truth, so the Lord has accommodated His message according to the times (Old Testament/New Testament). However, the Lord now speaks “plainly about the Father” (Himself) and guides us “into all truth” (John 16:13, 25). Let us be thankful for the clarity of vision we have received from the teachings of the New Church. And let us do all we can to share this blessing with others.

03/18/2007 The Battle of Jericho
“The walls of Jericho symbolize the falsities which defend evil…” Heavenly Secrets no. 8815

The battle of Jericho is a Bible favorite of children. It also contains a powerful lesson for adults. The climax of the story is when the seemingly impenetrable walls of that great city collapse into a pile of rubble. The walls of Jericho represent lies and excuses which stop us from entering the land (heaven). These lies and excuses come from the hells and sound like this: you’ll fail; give-up; it didn’t work last time; it’s her/his fault; this is just the way I am; I’ll work on it tomorrow, I promise; _____has it so much better than me; it’s not my problem; if _____ did _____then maybe I’d do ____. The Lord can tear down any defensive “wall” that is hurting your relationships, no matter how big and impenetrable it may have grown. All you have to do is circle Jericho for 6 days, that is, be persistent in your resolve that the enemy (lies, excuses, denials) be defeated. Then on the 7th day, the Lord’s day, the wall will come crashing down!

3/11/2007 Educating the Mind
“Lead me to the rock (truth) that is higher than I... ” Psalm 61:2

Unlike animals, human beings are born without any knowledge at all. A newborn child is literally a blank slate, and must be taught everything. The proper education of children becomes very important especially when you consider the fact that children (and adults) can be taught the wrong thing. Of course, people like to say truth is relative, that there’s no such thing as “right” and “wrong,” but try saying that to the police officer who gives you a parking or speeding ticket. We live under civil, moral, and spiritual law, and the penalty for breaking these laws is very real even if we don’t get caught. The Lord gives us these laws for the sake of our eternal happiness which makes education (in all it’s forms) a life-long vocation. The Lord also gives us the ability to raise our intellect, our understanding, into the light of heaven so that we can see the truth anytime we want (see Divine Love & Wisdom 419). So continue learning about the Lord, His Word, the neighbor, marriage, and the afterlife. It’s the most exciting thing you could do, and unlike a computer hard-drive, your mind will never get “maxed out” with information for "all instruction is simply the opening of a way..."  Arcana Coelestia 1495

03/04/2007 Spiritual Resuscitation

“The Lord took her by the hand and called, saying ‘Little girl, arise.’ Then her spirit returned and she arose immediately.” Luke 8:54-55

The story of the Lord bringing Jairus’ daughter back to life is not so much about physical resuscitation as it is about the power of the Lord to revive us spiritually.
In the Bible, “spirit” means “breath” and breathing means being inspired by faith. We are created to feel spiritually alive when we are inspired by truths of faith - a love of religion, charity, truth, conscience, innocence, humility, trust, the ideals of marriage, the steps of repentance, the hope of regeneration, etc. But if we lose any of these things, we can feel so uninspired, sad and hopeless.
How is your spiritual breathing? What inspiration do you need? Go to the Lord, like Jairus, and ask Him to “come to your house.”

02/25/2007 The Easy Way
“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest...Take My yoke upon you...for My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”
Matthew 11:28-30
“It’s complicated.” This is what we often say when asked about our health, job, relationships, children, managing money, planning for the future, etc. In the back of our mind we’re also thinking there’s got to be an easier way! Of course there is an easier way and that’s the Lord’s way. All difficulties (i.e. anxieties) can be traced back to us, the receiving vessel. Which “yoke” are we working under—the Lord’s or the evil spirits from hell? The “yoke” of the hells is extremely heavy and you’ll know you’re under it if you find yourself depressed and unmotivated. Don’t let selfishness and materialism (the root of all evils) take control of you. To the degree you resist the evils that well-up from selfishness and materialism you will be led by the Lord. Once you start, you will discover the easier way. This is what the Lord means when He says: “Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me” (Matthew 11:29).

02/18/2007 - Asking for Help
“Jesus said to him, ‘Do you want to be made well?’ The sick man answered, ‘Sir, I have no one to put me in the pool when the water is stirred up; but while I am coming, another steps down before me...” (John 5:6-7)
Only the gospel of John tells of the miracles which took place at the pool of Bethesda (v. 1-15). Whoever managed to step into the pool immediately after an angel stirred the waters would be healed of their affliction. But there was a man with an infirmity of 38 years who had no one to put him into the pool after it was stirred. The Lord sees him and asks, “Do you want to be made well?” The Lord didn’t say, “Do you need to be made well? - that was obvious! The much tougher question was asked: are you prepared to do what it takes to be made well? (See v.8). We can live for years with bad habits, with deep-rooted dysfunctions, not because we’re unaware we have them - we just feel powerless to do anything about it! And we won’t be able to do anything about our deeper character flaws unless we swallow our pride and ask for help. The Lord and His angels (spouse, trusted friend, professional, etc.) are there to help. But you won’t get that help unless you ask for it.

02/11/2007 - Honoring Marriage
“Will you love, honor, comfort & cherish...?”
“He who made them at the beginning ‘made them male and female’, and said, ‘For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.’” (Matt. 19:4-6)
In our church’s wedding ceremony, each partner is asked if he/she will love, honor, comfort and cherish the other so “they may live together in the holy state of marriage according to the ordinance of God”.
Honoring others is not always easy, but it’s the Lord’s will. The teachings of the New Church encourage everyone - married or single, at any age or stage of life - to honor the ideals of marriage in general and in practical, personal ways.
This week, take time to honor marriage - in your attitude, through your words (written or spoken) or by some action or gesture. Refrain from thinking or doing what dishonors marriage. See what a difference honoring makes.

2/4/2007 - The Extra Mile
“And whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two…”
(Matthew 5:41)
“Whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two...” (Mt 5:41). To go the “extra mile” means going beyond what’s expected of us to help others, to do more than what’s expected. In the Scriptures a “mile” has the same representation as a “way” or “path” and it signifies being led to the truth. When we choose to go the extra mile with someone (a friend, loved one, spouse, co-worker) a new way or path is opened up to us by the Lord. He leads us to see things we didn’t see before. Walk that “extra mile” by just listening and not correcting or judging the other person. Assume the best, look to what’s good and the Lord will lead both of you to a new spiritual landscape, to a new state. You’ll be glad you did it!

1/28/2007 Conjunction with the Lord by means of the letter of the Word
The sense of the letter of the Word (Bible) lifts up our thoughts and affections to know, love and worship the Lord. When we worship Him by our love to Him and our neighbor the fire of His love comes down to accept our worship. When we are ready for entrance into heaven, the Lord’s love lifts us up and introduces us into that special place in heaven He has prepared for us and to which he has led us every moment of our life on earth. This week, let us put away false worship of Baal which Ahab (love of self) and Jezebel (love of sensual pleasure) would introduce and ask the Lord to help us love Him and our neighbor. Then our worship will be true and heavenly.

01/21/2007 – Soothed by David’s Harp
“And so it was that David would take a harp and play it. Then Saul would become refreshed and well, and the distressing spirit would depart from him.: 1 Samuel 16:23
What do an MP3 player and harp have in common? They both deliver music capable of uplifting our spirit, of soothing the soul. David’s harp playing had such a calming affect it literally chased away the “distressing spirit” which came upon King Saul periodically (I Sam 16:23). Music is a powerful medium. It has a way of touching our affections. Music is also an outward expression of a much deeper reality—the Lord’s truth. It’s the truth which soothes our spirit, and restores our soul. This week, when a “distressing spirit” troubles you in the form of worry, guilt, sadness, anger, annoyance, etc., let David’s harp (the Lord’s truth) sooth your spirit. Remember: knowledge is power. Know the tactics of your enemy (evil spirits) - that you’re not responsible for what comes into your mind, only what comes out - and you will become “refreshed and well” (I Sam 16:23).

01/14/2007 - Listen to Your (new) Heart
“I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will take the heart of stone out of your flesh and give you a heart of flesh.”
Ezekiel 36:26
You’ve seen the cartoon: a devil on one shoulder and an angel on the other with us in the middle—which “voice” do we listen to? Or think of Robert Louis Stevenson’s novel, Dr. Jekel and Mr. Hyde. How is it that the human heart can, at one moment, act with care and compassion and then, a few beats later, turn stone cold? It’s almost like we’re not the same person! If you were to get an XRAY of your spiritual chest you’d discover you’ve got two hearts—a big, old nasty one (old will) and a beautiful new, developing one (new will) tucked away behind the old one. This week, don’t let your old heart hog the show (i.e. get in the last word, petty arguments, feel sorry for yourself, etc.). When you listen to your new heart (i.e. he/she’s got a point, I bet [……] just had a bad day, etc.) you push your big, old ugly one out of the way and your new one takes over (Ezek 36:26).

01/07/2007 – Count your Stars
“Look now toward heaven and count the stars.” Genesis 15:5u
The Lord uses stories of stars in the Word to symbolize the knowledge of all the myriad things that are good and true which lead to intelligence, wisdom and happiness.
This week give some attention to the stars in the sky, the stars in the Word, and the “stars” in our lives.
Know that for every star you can count in the sky, the Lord promises to give you a blessing of something good or true in your life.

12-31-2006 - Use the Three Gifts - New Year's Message

“Behold, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem…”  Matthew 2:1

The wise men who came in search of their newborn King presented three gifts of high, symbolic value. Each gift represents something we need from the Lord to make our life complete, namely, LOVE (gold), WISDOM (frankincense), and USE (myrrh). Or put another way, everybody needs someone to love (gold), something to think about (frankincense), and something to do (myrrh). For the New Year, consider the quality of each gift in your life. How do you feel about: 1). Your love toward others, 2). Your thoughts, and 3). Your deeds? Are you proud of what you’re doing? Yes, No? Don’t be afraid to confront the usual suspects—too much T.V., drink, food (making you unmotivated); a grudge; fear; self-doubt; cynicism; procrastination. Fill your New Year with positive things: good books; inspiring people; new projects, hobbies, useful services, etc.

12-24-2006 - “Blessed are you…”   Christmas Eve Message

“Then [Elizabeth] spoke out with a loud voice and said, ‘Blessed are you among women…
And Mary said: ‘My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit has rejoiced in God my savior. For He has regarded the lowly state of His maidservant; for behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed.”  (Luke 1:42, 46-48)

As you gather together with family and friends this Christmas, thank the Lord for the gift of salvation. Thank the Lord for breathing life into you each day; for encouraging you to move forward even when you mess up; for helping you see that you’ve been created for a life of usefulness and happiness (heaven), not perpetual failure (hell); for providing role models in your life who inspire you to do a little better than yesterday; for your spouse who makes you want to be a better person; for your children who make you proud; for providing a loving and supportive church community; for blessing you with teachings which make you want to reach out and help others; for making the reality of heaven so real; for blessing your life with purpose and direction. “Blessed are you…” (Luke 1:42).

12/10/2006 - Q: How do I get into the Christmas Spirit?
                        A: Love your neighbor
“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among people of goodwill.”
(Luke 2:14)
The “Scrooge” in us may scoff at the superficial trappings of the Christmas season. We may ask, what does all this commercial activity, the buying and selling, the parades, Santa Claus and his reindeers, the cartoons, the lights, the trees, the secular carols—what do these things have to do with the Lord’s Advent? A lot actually, for no season is marked with as much good cheer and goodwill as the Christmas season. This is because the spirit of Christmas rests on the second Great Commandment—loving our neighbor, which is the Christian commandment (John. 13: 34-35). The “Christmas spirit” can be sustained in us indefinitely so long as we have charity (God’s love) in our hearts. And what is charity but the wish to bring to another a little bit of joy and happiness? To the degree we can “get out of ourselves” and think of others we enter the Christmas spirit. Have fun, and think of the millions and millions of good people around the world who will be joining you in sharing the magical gift of “goodwill” (Luke 2:14).

12/03/2006 -Magnifying the Lord
Mary said, “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.” (Luke 1:46)

It is touching that Mary, the mother of Jesus, at such a young, impressionable age, shared her deep desire to “magnify the Lord” in her life, to declare the greatness of the Lord. She exemplifies an innocent affection for truth. About thirty years later, John the Baptist gave a similar message during his ministry, saying of the Lord “He must increase, and I must decrease” (John 3:30). John’s message and ministry exemplifies the importance of repentance and integrity of life. Both Mary and John also show a humble willingness to serve the Lord in great ways.
This week, as part of your Christmas preparation, make a special effort to be like Mary and John - by “magnifying” the importance of the Lord. You can do this by increasing your affection for learning more great things about Him, by choosing noble feelings that increase your motivation to do the right thing and by humbly doing whatever enables you to be of greater service.

11/26/2006 - The Lord Rules the Universe with Ease
The Lord comes with a “strong hand” and His “arm shall rule for Him.” Isaiah 40:10

Isn’t it reassuring knowing that the Lord doesn’t simply rule the universe, but does so with ease? In a world which seems unsafe and mixed-up it’s comforting knowing that the Lord’s in control, that He handles every crisis and conflict (global or personal) without difficulty! We might think this is an obvious fact about the Lord, but evil and disorder in this world has a way of distorting that important reality. As we approach the Advent season, know that the Lord comes with a “strong hand” and that His “arm shall rule for Him” (Isaiah 40:10). In particular, make sure you don’t dignify evil (anger, contempt, impatience, laziness, etc.) by entertaining it. That’s giving evil way too much credit! If the Lord rules the universe with ease, how much easier must He handle your struggles? What part of your life is in need of the Lord’s arm (power) right now?

11/23/2006 - Three Ways to Give Thanks to the Lord
“Make a joyful shout to the LORD, all you lands.” (Psalm 100:1)

Psalm 100 gives us a set of instructions for HOW to give thanks to the Lord. It boils down to 3 key things:
“Serve the LORD with gladness”
“Know the LORD is God”
“Be thankful to Him and bless His name”
Simple? Yes, much of the time - until conflicting feelings and assumptions get in the way. Moses wasn’t always glad to serve the LORD. The Israelites kept falling into troubles because they didn’t really know the LORD. The story of the prophet, Jonah, is a classic example of ingratitude to the Lord and avoiding blessing His name.
Nevertheless, the Lord gives us these 3 instructions “so that My joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.” (John 15:11)

11/19/2006 - Entering the Promised Land (Part 3)
“Arise, go over this Jordan, you and all this people, to the land which I am giving you…” Joshua 1:2

Entering the Promised Land is symbolic of entering a new way of living (and feeling). No longer do we fulfill our obligations and responsibilities each day because we have to; we do these things because we want to. Is it really possible to make the switch from living our religion out of a sense of duty and obligation (life in the wilderness) to living our religion from the heart, with spontaneity and joy (life in Canaan)? Yes it is, and it all comes down to trust, trust in the Lord. Like Joshua, we must be 100% confident that the Lord will win our battles, that He will rid us of our enemies (evils). This week, pick a battle (e.g. a financial issue, a worry at home, a problem in a relationship) and put your full confidence in the Lord. Be “confident that He directs all things, provides all things, and leads to a good end” (AC 8455). Be strong and of good courage!

11/12/2006- The Wilderness Years (Part 2)
“So Moses brought Israel from the Red Sea; then they went out into the wilderness...” Exodus 15:22
The idea was to leave Mt. Sinai, journey toward Canaan, and then enter it. But it didn’t work out that way. When the Israelites learned they would have to fight their way into Canaan, they were afraid and refused to enter it. As a consequence, they ended up wandering the wilderness for 40 years! However, those wilderness years weren’t wasted. In the first three months, Moses and the Israelites were given, 1. The 10 commandments; 2. Food and Water; 3. Combat training; 4. Jethro’s Advice; 5. Instructions for building the Tabernacle. We spend much of our adult life in “wilderness training.” It’s necessary in that it forms our spiritual character. This week, focus in on one area of your wilderness training: Is it 1, obedience to God’s law; 2, trusting that the Lord will provide; 3, being a warrior for the Lord; 4, cutting a problem down to size; or, 5, spending time in prayer?

11/05/2006- Are you still wearing your sandals? Are you ready to remove them?

“Then the Lord said, ‘Do not draw near this place. Take your sandals off your feet, for the place where you stand is holy ground’.”  Exodus 3:4

With sandals on his feet, Moses represents people who think naturally about everything, including spiritual things. With “sandals” on our feet, we are so steeped in worldly and bodily thinking that we do not realize the hand of the Lord in our situations.

The Lord’s hand is in everything that confronts us: anger, helplessness, failures and trials. But, the Lord wants us to take off the “sandals.” This means we should look at our situations from a higher perspective. This is the only way that the Lord can come in, and “make His home with us” and take us through our spiritual journey.

10/29/2006 - Captivity in Egypt (Part 1)

“Let My people go.”  Exodus 5:1

10/22/06 -Please do sweat the small stuff!
“The man who is faithful in the little things will be faithful in the big things, and the man who cheats in the little things will cheat in the big things too.”
Luke 16:10
The Lord says the person who is “faithful in the little things will be faithful in the big things” (Luke 16:10). This week, focus on the “little things” since these will have a huge impact on the rest of your life! What are these “little things?” Read the Bible each day, pray each night, ask the Lord for help on a compulsive habit (self-pity, gossip, laziness, dwelling on the past, lust, pride, greed, resentment, rage, contempt, criticism, procrastination, sex, money, jealousy, etc.). Balance your home and work life. Put yourself in other people’s shoes. Live the 5-1 ratio—give 5 positive comments for every critical one. Learn the “love language” of your spouse, children. Our loved ones express and receive love in different ways, either by quality time, words of affirmation, gifts, acts of service, or physical touch. Faithful diligence toward the “little things” is no small thing.

10/15/06 -Transforming Water to Wine
“This beginning of signs Jesus did in Cana of Galilee, and manifested His glory; and His disciples believed in Him.” John 2:11

The Lord did His first miracle at a wedding. He transformed ordinary water into extraordinary wine. By this He revealed something of His special character. He also foretold His own spiritual transformation. And He taught certain steps every person can take to experience regeneration.
These steps are shown through the actions of the servants:
1-Recognize the first wine’s run out - Acknowledge emptiness & need
2-Fill waterpots with water - Refresh our supply of “purifying truths”
3-Draw some out & take it - Draw new insights that inspire new faith
Jesus did these throughout His life on earth so that He could become our Savior. He wants us to follow His example so we can be transformed to understand, appreciate and live a truly spiritual life.

10/08/06 - Where are you building your temple? And with what?
The temple...was built [on a mountain] with stone finished at the quarry…” (1Kgs.6:7)

 What really counts in the construction of a building? Is it the architecture? Or materials? Or the foundation? Everyone has his or her standard and preference. What about building a temple?
Spiritually, building a temple is preparing our spiritual mind for the Lord’s occupation. The Lord dwells among qualities which are His in us. Love and truths are the qualities which are the Lord’s. These are the only “materials” needed for constructing a temple.
Take one truth from the Word, have a desire from love and apply it in any relationship such as your spouse, your children, your friends and even your enemies, and the “temple” is in construction.
    

10/01/06 - It’s All About Relationships!

“Where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them.”  Matt 18:20

Life is all about relationships! Think about it. We define ourselves by our relationships, by how we relate to (treat) the people and world around us. To the degree we relate well to the LORD, His WORD, our NEIGHBOR, SOCIETY, and SELF, the happier and more peaceful we will be, but to the degree we relate poorly, the sadder and more un-peaceful we will be. This is an important truth to see since the process of regeneration is one of developing spiritual (healthy) relationships. When we say so and so is a “good person,” what are we saying? We’re saying that that person treats other people well. A good person is simply one who has good relationships. This week, when you find yourself getting annoyed or short with someone (whoever that may be), remember that it’s still a relationship of spiritual value which shouldn’t be wasted or thrown away.

9/24/2006 - Jacob’s Ladder

“This place is awesome!” Genesis 28:11-22; see also John 1:43-51

Jacob was awestruck by his dream of angels going up and down a ladder or staircase. No wonder. It symbolizes all the steps we can take that help us experience heaven. Each rung or step is a truth we can learn or a new love we can develop. Going up means turning our attention to our source of inspiration - the Word, where all the steps are explained. Coming down means bringing our inspiration into outward life. Each step we take can help us understand and experience heaven more fully. Step by step, the Lord wants us to increase our faith in Him and also increase our love for putting faith into action. And He promises to bless us throughout the journey. “How awesome!”
What is your next step to experience heaven?

9/17/2006 - Are You on the Right Side?

“That night they caught nothing....When morning came, Jesus said, ‘Cast the net on the right side of the boat…’ So they cast, and now they were not able to draw it in because of the multitude of fish.” John 21: 3,6
They had been fishing all night, but caught nothing! In the early dawn, the Lord arrives on the scene and, calling from the shore, tells the disciples to cast their net from the right side of the boat! And we’re taught, “they were not able to draw it in because of the multitude of fish” (John. 21:6). Like the disciples, we can go through “night” periods in which, try as we might, we come up empty. It might be a problem at work, or an issue with our spouse, or a problem with a friend or loved one—whatever it is, we’re deeply frustrated because we’re not making any headway. This week, look inside yourself and make sure you’re on the right side of your issue or problem, that is, make sure you’re acting from the heart (a good love) and not from some ulterior or selfish motive (the left side). Your “net” will be full when you act with compassion and sensitivity, when you place a good interpretation on the situation in front of you (see AC 1079).

9/10/2006 - What’s in Your Suitcase?

"Lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven….” Matthew 6:20
You’ve heard the phrase before but what are these “treasures” we’re supposed to be storing up in heaven? Spiritual treasures are the spiritual values we put into practice and make a habit. Quite literally, we lay up treasures in heaven every time we act with sincerity, integrity, and honesty; whenever we make the effort to be kind, generous, and thoughtful toward others; whenever we use our talents and are useful to society. Of course, in order to lay up treasures in heaven you need to A.C.T, that is, you need the right [A]TTITUDE, plenty of [C]OURAGE from the Lord, and an unshakable [T]RUST in Him. So shun the negative, fearful, suspicious thoughts and feelings you may have, the “moth and rust” (evils) which destroy, and rest content knowing that you are laying up treasures in heaven.

9/3/2006 - Contentment

“You, O Lord, are the portion of my inheritance and my cup; You uphold my lot. The lines have fallen to me in pleasant places; Yes, I have a beautiful inheritance….” Psalm 16: 5-7

On a scale of 1-10, how content are you? Typically, people say they are “content” to the degree they have their health, an important job, and no worries about money. But are these the real blessings in life? When a child is born, do the parents rejoice because their child might make a ton of money one day and be really important? No, they rejoice because a new life just entered the world! The material “blessings” of wealth, rank and status will not, and cannot, make us truly happy and content. So what makes people truly content? “People who are content with their lot, are conscientious and careful in their work, they prefer work to idleness, behave honestly and reliably, and lead Christian lives” (HH 364). This week, make sure you’re not chasing the wrong dream. Be conscientious, hard-working, honest and reliable and your “restlessness” will be turned into contentment.

8/27/2006 - The Rock

“Lead me to the Rock that is higher than I...” Psalm 61

Following the “god” of our own creation seems liberating at first but it will eventually leave us with a huge, empty feeling inside. Creating our own reality, our own “truth,” is like building a house on the sand; sooner or later it will come crashing to the ground. But to wake up in the morning and say, “Lord, lead me to the rock, to the truth that is higher than I;” this is to follow the God who created us. It is a decision we will never regret! When you build your life upon a rock, upon truths higher than yourself, you can weather the storms of temptation and disappointment and although your life will continue to be tested in many ways, it will not crash to the ground. This week, notice how you react to different situations: do you act upon principle (rock) or whim (sand)? People feel a lot better about themselves and their choices when they “stand for something” versus “giving in.”

6/11/2006 - Life Sure Can Be Bittersweet

“I took the little book out of the angel’s hand and ate it, and it was as sweet as honey in my mouth. But when I had eaten it, my stomach became bitter.” (Revelation 10:10)

Chapter 10 in the book of Revelation gives us a vision of a mighty angel holding a little book which he then gave to the apostle John to eat (figuratively). It was sweet in his mouth but bitter in his belly.
The little book symbolizes certain key truths that seem lovely at first but may be hard to swallow at times. A lot of things in the Word seem sweet initially, but can take on a bitter, sour taste when we try to apply them. The fault is not in the truths themselves, but in our resistance to them, in our understanding of them and in our reaction to them. Spiritual “bitterness” can be confusion, disappointment, hardheartedness and other mental and emotional states.
Sweetness and bitterness are both facts of life, and experiencing both can lead to learning and growing spiritually. The angel tells John to prophesy again, meaning to investigate one’s resistance and continue to learn more about the Lord’s message. Just like acquiring a taste for certain foods, this takes effort and practice. Set a goal to identify some bitterness in your life and to learn the sweetness of the Lord’s truth.

5/22/06 - Innocence
"Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it." (Mark 10:15)

Innocence doesn’t exist just with children. Adults need it too (see Mk. 10:15). How does an adult cultivate innocence and why is it so necessary for salvation? Study little children and you will notice very quickly how eager and willing they are to look to their parents for everything! Parents and grandparents are irresistibly drawn to this innocent quality in children. Why is that? It’s because the innocence of little children mirrors an angelic quality we need ourselves! Spiritually speaking, adults become “innocent” when they are eager and willing to be led by the Lord. This week, put aside your preconceived ideas of innocence (that it means being naïve, gullible, unsophisticated, simple, etc.) and ask yourself three questions: 1). Am I innocent (willing) enough to ACCEPT this reality…….(fill in the blank). 2). Am I innocent (willing) enough to HOLD MY GROUND on this issue………(fill in the blank). 3). Am I innocent (willing) enough to LET GO of……(fill in the blank). Receiving the kingdom of God as a “little child” is not child’s-play: it takes guts to battle our ego in such a way that our “willing” is replaced by the Lord’s willing.


5/15/06 - Thinking Good Thoughts
"When we feel within ourselves good thoughts regarding the Lord and the neighbor and have a desire to perform kind services...we may know that the Lord is working in us." (Heavenly Secrets no.1102)

Israel faced a critical decision at the edge of the promised land. Ten spies reported seeing huge people in fortified cities and said it would be impossible to take the land. But two spies saw the situation very differently and said, “Let us go up at once and take it” (Num 14). We are free to choose our thoughts—we can listen to the evil report of the ten spies or the good report of the two. The thoughts we choose to entertain each day may seem insignificant and yet our thoughts establish our attitude and our attitude determines the quality of our life and happiness. We can step into the promised land (state of heaven) by opening our mind to good thoughts. Studies have proven the 5-to-1 ratio—that if you fill your day with 5 times as much positive feeling and interaction as negative there will be a happy, balanced sphere in your home and work life. Try it.


5/07/06 - New Beginnings
Four Universal Steps to Life Change and Spiritual Transformation
"For the kingdom of heaven is at hand." (Matthew 4:17)

Our dual subject this morning is The Four Universal Steps of Life Change and Spiritual Transformation, and the story of Elisha and the horses and chariots of fire. Your task this week is to isolate on one or another problem, destructive pattern, or fault in yourself, and take that problem through the four steps of repentance: (1) Examine your actions, thoughts, intentions, and will as they relate to this problem, (2) Recognize this problem for what it is and acknowledge (i.e., admit to yourself and to the Lord) that it is present in you, (3) Turn to the Lord in prayer, asking for help and power to resist the problem, and (4) Abstain from the problem and begin a new and better way of life. Do each of these things as if you did so in your own strength, but acknowledge that you do them in the Lord's strength. Then, when the problem you've admitted to recurs, say to yourselves, "We will not do this because it is a sin against God." As you say these words (using the plural form "we") imagine all of the angels in heaven and good human beings in the world gathered around you--like the horses and chariots of fire in the story of Elisha. You are not alone in this work, so allow the Lord and His helpers to strengthen you at times when you need them most. All the best to you in this exciting and promising work.


4/30/06 - Elijah's Journey to Mount Horeb (I Kings 19)

In tracing the steps of Elijah’s journey to Mt. Horeb (I Kings 19) we learn how the Lord not only sustains us during temptation but helps us grow too. When we do a good thing like Elijah (I Kings 18) we can expect Jezebel, the hells, to attack us. When this happens we must go to Beersheba, a city of Judah, and leave our servant, our own way of thinking, behind. Then we enter the wilderness, a state of temptation. We fall asleep under a Terebinth tree (a small, fragile tree) and it is in during this fragile state when our understanding (tree) is weak that we are awoken by an angel and given a spiritual survival kit (bread and water). We are then led to Mt. Horeb (the Word) where we receive enlightenment, realizing that the Lord is not in the wind, earthquake, and fire—is not the cause of the commotion in our lives. Now that our way of thinking has changed, we go back home and face our challenges.


4/23/06 - An Extraordinary Meal (Luke 24:38-31)

Soon after the Lord resurrected Himself, He met with His disciples to show what He had accomplished. One of those meetings was on a walk toward Emmaus with two dejected men. Before they realized who He was, He explained how the Old Testament stories and prophecies showed the good news behind all His temptations, conflicts and even His crucifixion. With this teaching method of opening the Scriptures, the Lord opened their understanding of His love, wisdom and power. His explanation warmed their hearts and opened their eyes to His true nature. They really got it. The dots connected. The lights went on. They realized that God was walking and talking with them all along.


4/16/06 - Peace
“Then, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood in the midst, and said to them, ‘Peace be with you’....” (John 20:19)

Inspirational Quotation for Easter
“True peace is found in the Lord’s kingdom. This peace is like the dawn that breaks in the early morning, and the new life that comes in spring-time. The dawn and the spring cause everything that reaches the senses at those times to be full of joy and gladness. So it is with the state of peace in the Lord’s kingdom—everything appears to be, so to speak, in its early morn or spring-time blossom and cheer, that is, in its very happiness. While people are undergoing the conflicts brought about by temptations, the Lord grants them by turns a state of peace, and so refreshes them….”  (Heavenly Secrets no. 1726)

4/09/06 - Jesus Wept
Now as He drew near, He saw the city   and wept over it.” (Luke 19:41)

We get a rare glimpse into the Divine soul when reading the words, “Jesus wept.” This reference only occurs twice in the gospels, first when Jesus was about to raise Lazarus from the dead and then one week later when He rode a donkey into Jerusalem on what is now called, Palm Sunday. The tears which Jesus shed on both occasions reveal two things about His Divine love; 1. that it is a love which understands and never gives up, and 2. it is a love which grieves. Jesus grieved because people, including His closest followers, didn’t recognize who He truly was or what He had come into the world to accomplish. Yet this confusion did nothing to diminish His love and compassion for them. He understood why they thought and acted the way they did and didn’t rest until they had a better idea of what kind of King He was. There is a parallel lesson here for us.


4/02/06 - A Vital Element of Spiritual Life
Jesus said, “Have salt in yourselves” (Mark 9:50)

This week at mealtimes, as you pick up that salt shaker or taste the saltiness already present in your foods, consider the Biblical symbolism of salt. Just as our Lord told His disciples to “have salt in yourselves,” He also wants us to enjoy a corresponding spiritual element. That spiritual saltiness is “an affection (longing) for what is true” -- a hunger to understand yourself or your situation better so that your can be more nourished and prepared to do what is good. Think about how you might add a little “spiritual salt” during a misunderstanding, for example, to improve the flavor of the conversation. Use the Lord’s gift of spiritual salt as a tool for self-improvement


3/26/06 - Predestined to Heaven
It is easy to feel discouraged or inadequate regarding progress or growth in one’s spiritual development. We seem to be fighting the same personal battles we were years ago, and our mistakes and evils don’t seem to go away. So it may seem like we just aren’t getting anywhere. But to remember the Lord’s love and ability to create heaven within even when we can’t see it, take a look at any one of the Psalms. Read portions to see the thoughts and feelings the Lord experienced while on earth – times of failure, despair, and loneliness. And then take heart, knowing that in spite of that, we can praise the Lord and receive His great goodness.


3/19/06 - Idealism
“Now Joseph dreamed a dream, and he told it to his brothers…” Gen. 37:5

“And it shall come to pass that I will pour out My Spirit upon all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions...”
Joel 2:28

Idealism is the practice of envisioning things in an ideal form. Joseph, a lad of 17 years and dreamer of dreams, represents this idealism (Gen 37). Even though Joseph loved his brothers and tried to get along with them, he was different. His hopes and dreams took him to far off places, to a different world. Joseph’s brothers despised him, and hated his dreams. The idealism of youth is not only necessary; it’s essential. The hopes and dreams of our youth become a prophetic pattern of life and it is our job as adults to support and uphold that idealism. Becoming a good person, saving yourself for marriage, finding a job in which you can make a difference, daring to dream the Lord’s dreams—these spiritual ideals come under attack every day. Let us respect the idealism of youth and old age for it is the ideal which carries us forward and makes us who we are.


3/12/06 - Send Me
"I heard the voice of the Lord saying, 'Whom shall I send...' Then I said, 'Here am I! Send me'..."
Isaiah 6:8

The Bible identifies a number of individuals who received a “call” from the Lord—Moses, Gideon, Samuel, Isaiah, the 12 disciples, to name a few. Some accepted the call with little hesitation, others needed more convincing but everyone eventually accepted. What is the significance of these calls? Does the Lord call us? Does He have a specific job in mind? The Lord has a “call” for everyone but some people have an easier time recognizing it than others. This week, consider what the Lord is calling you to do. Your call is your “ministry,” so ask yourself how you like to minister to others. Think of your role in the Oak Arbor Church. Was it an accident you were led here or was it part of the Lord’s plan? What are your particular gifts and talents? Live out your “call” by helping in the school or leading a support group, a study group, a spiritual growth group, etc.


3/05/06 - Picture Heaven
All these things Jesus spoke to the multitude in parables...,that it might e fulfilled which was spoken by the profit saying:'I will open my mouth in parables; I will utter things kept secrect from the foundtaion of the world.'" Matt. 13:34,35

The kingdom of heaven parables, symbolic word pictures, are tools to help us relate heavenly experiences with ordinary activities. Each of the activities depicts spiritual growth and discovery. This week, pay attention for little reminders of one or more of these parables: growing plants, making bread, finding treasures, sorting things, buying and selling. Use your earthly experiences to help you understand the Lord’s kingdom.

As a special aid for your reflection, check out the many resources and activities in the current issue of the web magazine New Church Vineyard at www.newchurchvineyard.org

2/26/06 - Free to do...what?
"Freely you have received, freely give..." Matt: 10:8

Nothing done under compulsion sticks. That is a spiritual law. If the Lord forced us to go to church, read His Word, pray, donate money to the church, be kind, charitable, and useful, none of these important “choices” would be authentic. This is why the Lord never forces us to do anything, leaving us in total freedom to make our own choices, including whether or not we want to go to heaven. But with freedom comes responsibility. When something is a matter of choice it means we have an option, and when something is “optional” the pressure to make a decision can seem less urgent. In reality the Lord still expects us to make a decision and give of ourselves to that which we value. To the church, let us freely give of our time, energy, and money; to our neighbor, let us freely give of our attention, care and thought. “Freely you have received, freely give” (Mt. 10:8).