During this season, I feel it appropriate to write on my favorite Christmas scripture. It is frequently left out of Christmas Eve traditions, and rare is the occasion that the powerful principles taught therein are properly understood and appropriately applied. Let us all remember, the shepherds were not the first on earth to learn of our Savior’s birth.
Prior to His coming, the Savior called Samuel to testify of His arrival (Helaman 14:1-18). These prophecies included a time frame. The Savior was to enter the world in five years time.
As the days began to be accomplished and with “greater signs and greater miracles [being] wrought among the people,” it was no joyous season for the believers (3 Nephi 1:4). Samuel’s prophecy was met with both great anticipation and great scorn. For as the believers prepared themselves for His coming, those who saw it as foolishness prepared a day “that all those who believed in those traditions should be put to death except the sign should come to pass” (3 Nephi 1:9).
On the eve of the execution of his people, the Lord’s chosen prophet Nephi bowed himself upon the earth and cried mightily unto God for wisdom. On that first Christmas Eve in the Americas, he was answered:
“Lift up your head and be of good cheer; for behold, the time is at hand, and on this night shall the sign be given, and on the morrow come I into the world, to show unto the world that I will fulfil all that which I have caused to be spoken by the mouth of my holy prophets.
“Behold, I come unto my own, to fulfil all things which I have made known unto the children of men from the foundation of the world, and to do the will, both of the Father and of the Son—of the Father because of me, and of the Son because of my flesh. And behold, the time is at hand, and this night shall the sign be given” (3 Nephi 1:13-14).
What marvelous peace must have filled the heart of Nephi that night. Hours later and a continent away, a group of unsuspecting shepherds were privy to a similar announcement:
“Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
“For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
“And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.
“And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,
“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men” (Luke 2:10-14).
Back in America, the signs prophesied of Samuel began to be completed. The first Christmas Eve on the American continent knew no darkness (3 Nephi 1:19), and a new star appeared in the heavens, announcing the arrival of the Savior (3 Nephi 1:21).
Appropriately, with even His first breath, Christ saved His Nephite followers from death and despair.
However, the most amazing Christmas miracle was not the night without darkness or even the emerging of a new star in the Astros, but the fact that Christ’s birth has the same effect on us today as it did on Nephi, the shepherds and everyone else who has entered into this world.
Paul described ours as “perilous times,” and indeed they are (2 Tim. 3:1). But it is important to note the words of the Savior:
“In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).
The first Christmas was marked with trials, tribulations and even heavy taxes. From death in the morning to no room in the inn, the Lord’s most chosen vessels indeed faced perilous times in their lives as well.
This Christmas let us better understand the Lord’s promise to Nephi. The Savior is ever watching over us. Like the Nephites of old, we are oft times pushed to despair only to be miraculously rescued on the morrow. He proved Himself with the people of Nephi, the shepherds and He will do the same with us. It does not always come when we want, and it never does come easy, but it comes, and Christmas always has been and forever will be, a time of miracles.
Sunday, December 13
Sunday, November 15
How Missionary Work Works
Whitney and I spoke on missionary work in sacrament meeting last Sunday. Here's what I prepared:
Norma’s Story
With four missions in Mexico City, it is not rare for a member living within the boundaries of one mission to refer the missionaries to a friend or family member living in the boundaries of another.
In many cases, the referring member does not know to which stake or ward their referral is assigned. In order to simplify the referral process, the missions use blue 3x5 note cards. Those wishing to have missionaries contact someone fill out the blue referral card with the name, address, and contact information of their friends or family members. These cards are then submitted to the missionaries of their home ward who in turn forward the reference to their mission home where it is then transferred to the secretaries of the appropriate mission. Finally, the reference card and information are passed along to the appropriate missionaries.
A section of the reference card is reserved for the name and relation of the person giving the referral. Unfortunately, this section is often left blank. Such was the case when two missionaries received a reference card for Norma Vargas Garcia. The card also lacked a phone number but did include Norma’s address, and the missionaries scheduled time to find her the next afternoon.
Finding the address was not that easy. The streets of Mexico City can be confusing. Many of the names have recently been changed, and the changes are not always reflected by the street signs. It is possible to be looking for a street while standing on it and looking at a sign without realizing where you are. Without the contact information of the person who gave the referral, addresses can be extremely difficult to find, and Norma’s was hard to find.
After concluding Norma’s home was near, the missionaries decided to visit a nearby butcher to see if he knew her. People do not typically travel far for their groceries in the city. If Norma did indeed live nearby, this was where she would come to purchase her meat. After introducing themselves, the missionaries asked if the butcher knew a woman named Norma Vargas. No sooner was the name mentioned when a woman emerged from the back of the shop. It was Norma.
She was slightly taken back when two young men in white shirts and ties asked for her by name. The Elders explained they had received her name and address on a card and suggested it may have come from a friend or family member. Norma seemed confused and explained she did not know any members of the church.
Still determined, the missionaries explained many people know members of our faith as Mormons. Norma had never heard of a Mormon. Nervous, she asked to see the card. She couldn’t imagine who could have provided the information, but she invited the missionaries into her home.
How Missionary Work Works
It is important to note that the missionary work with Norma did not begin that day in the butcher shop.
The Lord defined missionary work as “bringing to pass the gathering of [His] elect; for [His] elect hear [His] voice and harden not their hearts” (D&C 29:7).
For missionary work to work, two things have to happen: the Lord must prepare, and we must gather. Norma’s preparation long preceded her gathering.
The Lord Prepares
When I think of great missionary success in The Book of Mormon, my mind often refers to the book of Alma. But remember, the work did not begin when Ammon offered himself as Lamoni’s servant.
“For behold, angels are declaring it unto many at this time in our land; and this is for the purpose of preparing the hearts of the children of men to receive his word at the time of his coming in his glory” (Alma 13:24).
We must also understand that it is no more difficult for the Lord to prepare one person than another. God loves all of His children equally, and there are no geographic boundaries to His powers. There are people today in every country, in every stake, and every ward receiving angelic visits in preparation to accept the message of the restore gospel. This is key, and there are no exceptions.
Elder Ballard’s Message to the Missionary Training Center
After completing my full-time missionary service, I was presented the opportunity to work as an instructor at the Missionary Training Center. Every Tuesday night, every missionary at the center attends a fireside. The speakers are selected from emeritus and acting general authorities. At times, they are even privileged to hear from an Apostle. On one occasion, Elder Ballard requested an opportunity to speak on what he deemed an important subject.
That Wednesday, an all-employee meeting was scheduled to allow Elder Ballard to address all the missionaries’ instructors. He mentioned the night before he had asked any missionary to stand if they had at any point in time heard that theirs was a fabulous mission, the people would be wonderful, and the food great, but they would be lucky to help one person come unto Christ through the ordinance of baptism. He reported that two-thirds of the missionaries at that time present rose to their feet. To which he responded, “This is unacceptable.” His purpose that week was to instill faith in each missionary that they have the power to be successful, regardless of the mission to which they were assigned, and to ensure that their teachers were echoing that same message.
The same apostolic promise holds just as true to member missionaries as it does those dedicated to full-time service. The Lord is preparing the hearts of his children in this very area, and it may just be for your arrival.
God Prepared Norma
As Norma continued to progress in the gospel, this same principle became glaringly obvious. After accepting her baptismal date, Norma explained why she decided to invite the missionaries into her home that day.
After giving birth to her only son, Norma was afflicted with terrible arthritis. The disease had such a hold on her bones that she was required to stay in her home for the next eight years, many of them passing in her bed. During this time, she began to reflect on her life, its purpose, and she drew closer to God.
Finally, a doctor cleared Norma to leave her house. She decided to spend her first day outdoors with her father. Who is a butcher. When she saw the referral card the missionaries had anonymously received, she saw something familiar. To her, the card appeared to have been written in her own hand writing, as if she had actually referred herself to receive the missionary discussions.
The missionaries never learned who wrote Norma’s referral card, but Norma has a theory. To this day, if you were to ask Norma the origin of the card, she would say it was written by God himself. She was baptized on Christmas Day. Her son, sister, niece, brother, and sister in law soon after followed her into the waters of baptism. A year later, her brother and sister in law were sealed in the Mexico City Temple to their young daughter Pamela. Norma was later called to serve as the ward Relief Society President, her brother, as the President of the Elders Quorum, while his wife labored as the Primary President.
The Elect are Invited to come unto Christ
As prepared as Norma was, as prepared as Lamoni was, they could not have come to Christ on their own. They were willing, but they needed a teacher.
When Phillip saw an Ethiopian man reading Isaiah in Gaza, Phillip asked if he understood what was being read.
He was answered, “How can I, except some man should guide me?” (Acts 8:31).
The guiding, the gathering, this is our role as member missionaries in this great work. This is what the Savior meant when he said, “Behold, I sent you out to testify and warn the people, and it becometh every man who hath been warned to warn his neighbor” (D&C 88:81).
Marcos on the Metro
Because of boundary changes, the mission home of one of the Mexico City missions sits within the limits of another. To get there, the missionaries have to travel about 30 minutes outside of their mission on the metro.
The Mexico City Metro has a ridership of approximately 1.5 billion passengers each year, just over 4 million people every day. To put that into perspective, the census conducted in 2000 reported Spanish Fork had a population of 20,246. That equates to every resident of Spanish Fork riding the metro 200 times every day.
One Tuesday, a companionship of missionaries headed to the metro for some early morning business at the mission home. As the train sped off, the two Elders found a pair of seats. One vacant chair was left in front of them. Passengers began walking by, and many elected to remain standing instead of filling the vacant seat.
After a few stops, a younger man finally sat near the two Elders. By this time, they were well out of their area, out of their mission, and on the metro in the middle of the world’s largest city during rush hour. But, the district leader had committed the missionaries to open their mouths in every situation possible just one day prior.
They started a conversation and soon found themselves teaching the message of the restoration. By the time they got to the Book of Mormon, the man seemed very interested. Thinking he would be a great referral for some missionaries in some mission, they invited the man to receive them in his home. He accepted.
God Places People in Situations of Participation
Once His children are prepared, the Lord places instruments in a position to invite them to come unto Christ.
The Lord used Ammon to teach and baptize Lamoni. Phillip was called by an angel to be in Gaza at the exact same time as the Ethiopean in order to teach and baptize him. Just as with these missionaries, it was no coincidence Victor chose to sit beside those two missionaries on his way to work that morning.
The Lord Used the Missionaries as an Instrument in His Hands
To the missionaries’ surprise, the address of the man they had been teaching was very familiar. Not only did the man live within their mission boundaries, but he lived in their ward. In fact, he lived just three blocks from the missionaries’ own apartment.
Unfortunately, the man’s schedule was such that the missionaries never saw him again. However, as a result of visiting the man’s address they were introduced to his 14 year-old brother, Josue. Had the missionaries not met his brother on the metro, they would never have found Josue.
He was baptized two weeks later, and is currently preparing to serve a full-time mission himself.
Will We Participate?
Once we understand that the Lord is preparing His children in all parts of the world, we can better understand our calling to be missionaries. Our participation will not influence the outcome. Instead, our participation is a blessing, an opportunity to take part in the miracle of conversion.
Had those missionaries not found Norma’s house. If they decided it was too hard, or otherwise not worth it, the Lord would have used someone else. Had the two Elders decided that they were too far away from their area to share the message of the restoration, the Lord would have called other missionaries to find, teach, and baptize Josue. The point is, the work would have been done, just by someone else. It is those missionaries who would have been missing out.
In the book of Judges, we read about a prophet named Gideon called to liberate Israel from the Midianites, a force “like grasshoppers for multitude…as the sand by the sea side for multitude” (Judg. 7:12). Not only were they more numerous; they were also smarter. The Midianite army had discovered how to use camels in battle. Surely the Midianite army was an intimidating site.
To contend, Gideon raised an army of 32,000 Israelites, only to be told, “The people that are with thee are too many for me to give the Midianites into their hands, lest Israel vaunt themselves against me, saying, Mine own hand hath saved me” (Judg. 7:2).
The Lord then commanded that the soldiers who were fearful return to their homes. With that, 22,000 packed up their tents and returned to their homes. Gideon was left with 10,000 soldiers, not even one third of his original army.
As they prepared to do battle, the Lord once again visited Gideon saying, “The people are yet too many” (Judg. 7:4). Gideon was commanded to take his army to a river, where the Lord commanded he separate his army based on the way the soldiers drank.
Gideon obeyed and separated the 9,700 who knelt to drink from the 300 who lapped. The Lord commanded the 9,700 be sent home, and Gideon was left him with less than 1 percent of his original army.
Nonetheless, with great faith and a divine strategy, the Israelites attacked and destroyed the Midianites. Three hundred soldiers against an army as numerous as “the sands of the sea.” What a miracle. It truly stands as a testament that no unhallowed hand can stop the progress of the work. If the Lord needs something done, He will get it done. It really does not matter if He has 32,000 or 300.
I have often wondered what distinguished Gideon’s 300. Most importantly, had I been one of the original 32,000, where would I have ended up when the battle was won? Would I have participated in the miracle, side by side with Gideon? Would I have watched from the camp with the 9,700 as the Lord miraculously delivered the Midianites? Or would I have been at home with the other 22,000, anxiously awaiting the army’s return, only to hear of the Lord’s greatness?
Once the Lord had selected His soldiers, the battle did not take long, and the outcome was never in question. The question was who would participate. Missionary work follows this same principle. I have experienced the battle from all three perspectives. I have been on the front lines, blessed to fight alongside those of amazing strength and great faith. I have also found myself watching the battle from the hilltop, and unfortunately, I have spent my share of battles back at my tent only to hear of the remarkable power of the Savior.
We have been called to be the catalysts of conversion. The Lord is doing the hard work. He is preparing His children and making sure that two missionaries are on the same train, in the same car, with one empty seat in from of them when Victor boards for work in the morning. Our responsibility is to simply follow the promptings of the Spirit and to doubt not, but be believing.
I testify that the Lord is preparing His children in this section of His vineyard and pray that we are prepared to serve as instruments in the hands of our Savior. Whether it be opening our mouths on a crowded metro, or simply asking a butcher for directions, as we strive to become the tools by which He brings to pass His work, we will see miracles. Of this I testify, in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
Norma’s Story
With four missions in Mexico City, it is not rare for a member living within the boundaries of one mission to refer the missionaries to a friend or family member living in the boundaries of another.
In many cases, the referring member does not know to which stake or ward their referral is assigned. In order to simplify the referral process, the missions use blue 3x5 note cards. Those wishing to have missionaries contact someone fill out the blue referral card with the name, address, and contact information of their friends or family members. These cards are then submitted to the missionaries of their home ward who in turn forward the reference to their mission home where it is then transferred to the secretaries of the appropriate mission. Finally, the reference card and information are passed along to the appropriate missionaries.
A section of the reference card is reserved for the name and relation of the person giving the referral. Unfortunately, this section is often left blank. Such was the case when two missionaries received a reference card for Norma Vargas Garcia. The card also lacked a phone number but did include Norma’s address, and the missionaries scheduled time to find her the next afternoon.
Finding the address was not that easy. The streets of Mexico City can be confusing. Many of the names have recently been changed, and the changes are not always reflected by the street signs. It is possible to be looking for a street while standing on it and looking at a sign without realizing where you are. Without the contact information of the person who gave the referral, addresses can be extremely difficult to find, and Norma’s was hard to find.
After concluding Norma’s home was near, the missionaries decided to visit a nearby butcher to see if he knew her. People do not typically travel far for their groceries in the city. If Norma did indeed live nearby, this was where she would come to purchase her meat. After introducing themselves, the missionaries asked if the butcher knew a woman named Norma Vargas. No sooner was the name mentioned when a woman emerged from the back of the shop. It was Norma.
She was slightly taken back when two young men in white shirts and ties asked for her by name. The Elders explained they had received her name and address on a card and suggested it may have come from a friend or family member. Norma seemed confused and explained she did not know any members of the church.
Still determined, the missionaries explained many people know members of our faith as Mormons. Norma had never heard of a Mormon. Nervous, she asked to see the card. She couldn’t imagine who could have provided the information, but she invited the missionaries into her home.
How Missionary Work Works
It is important to note that the missionary work with Norma did not begin that day in the butcher shop.
The Lord defined missionary work as “bringing to pass the gathering of [His] elect; for [His] elect hear [His] voice and harden not their hearts” (D&C 29:7).
For missionary work to work, two things have to happen: the Lord must prepare, and we must gather. Norma’s preparation long preceded her gathering.
The Lord Prepares
When I think of great missionary success in The Book of Mormon, my mind often refers to the book of Alma. But remember, the work did not begin when Ammon offered himself as Lamoni’s servant.
“For behold, angels are declaring it unto many at this time in our land; and this is for the purpose of preparing the hearts of the children of men to receive his word at the time of his coming in his glory” (Alma 13:24).
We must also understand that it is no more difficult for the Lord to prepare one person than another. God loves all of His children equally, and there are no geographic boundaries to His powers. There are people today in every country, in every stake, and every ward receiving angelic visits in preparation to accept the message of the restore gospel. This is key, and there are no exceptions.
Elder Ballard’s Message to the Missionary Training Center
After completing my full-time missionary service, I was presented the opportunity to work as an instructor at the Missionary Training Center. Every Tuesday night, every missionary at the center attends a fireside. The speakers are selected from emeritus and acting general authorities. At times, they are even privileged to hear from an Apostle. On one occasion, Elder Ballard requested an opportunity to speak on what he deemed an important subject.
That Wednesday, an all-employee meeting was scheduled to allow Elder Ballard to address all the missionaries’ instructors. He mentioned the night before he had asked any missionary to stand if they had at any point in time heard that theirs was a fabulous mission, the people would be wonderful, and the food great, but they would be lucky to help one person come unto Christ through the ordinance of baptism. He reported that two-thirds of the missionaries at that time present rose to their feet. To which he responded, “This is unacceptable.” His purpose that week was to instill faith in each missionary that they have the power to be successful, regardless of the mission to which they were assigned, and to ensure that their teachers were echoing that same message.
The same apostolic promise holds just as true to member missionaries as it does those dedicated to full-time service. The Lord is preparing the hearts of his children in this very area, and it may just be for your arrival.
God Prepared Norma
As Norma continued to progress in the gospel, this same principle became glaringly obvious. After accepting her baptismal date, Norma explained why she decided to invite the missionaries into her home that day.
After giving birth to her only son, Norma was afflicted with terrible arthritis. The disease had such a hold on her bones that she was required to stay in her home for the next eight years, many of them passing in her bed. During this time, she began to reflect on her life, its purpose, and she drew closer to God.
Finally, a doctor cleared Norma to leave her house. She decided to spend her first day outdoors with her father. Who is a butcher. When she saw the referral card the missionaries had anonymously received, she saw something familiar. To her, the card appeared to have been written in her own hand writing, as if she had actually referred herself to receive the missionary discussions.
The missionaries never learned who wrote Norma’s referral card, but Norma has a theory. To this day, if you were to ask Norma the origin of the card, she would say it was written by God himself. She was baptized on Christmas Day. Her son, sister, niece, brother, and sister in law soon after followed her into the waters of baptism. A year later, her brother and sister in law were sealed in the Mexico City Temple to their young daughter Pamela. Norma was later called to serve as the ward Relief Society President, her brother, as the President of the Elders Quorum, while his wife labored as the Primary President.
The Elect are Invited to come unto Christ
As prepared as Norma was, as prepared as Lamoni was, they could not have come to Christ on their own. They were willing, but they needed a teacher.
When Phillip saw an Ethiopian man reading Isaiah in Gaza, Phillip asked if he understood what was being read.
He was answered, “How can I, except some man should guide me?” (Acts 8:31).
The guiding, the gathering, this is our role as member missionaries in this great work. This is what the Savior meant when he said, “Behold, I sent you out to testify and warn the people, and it becometh every man who hath been warned to warn his neighbor” (D&C 88:81).
Marcos on the Metro
Because of boundary changes, the mission home of one of the Mexico City missions sits within the limits of another. To get there, the missionaries have to travel about 30 minutes outside of their mission on the metro.
The Mexico City Metro has a ridership of approximately 1.5 billion passengers each year, just over 4 million people every day. To put that into perspective, the census conducted in 2000 reported Spanish Fork had a population of 20,246. That equates to every resident of Spanish Fork riding the metro 200 times every day.
One Tuesday, a companionship of missionaries headed to the metro for some early morning business at the mission home. As the train sped off, the two Elders found a pair of seats. One vacant chair was left in front of them. Passengers began walking by, and many elected to remain standing instead of filling the vacant seat.
After a few stops, a younger man finally sat near the two Elders. By this time, they were well out of their area, out of their mission, and on the metro in the middle of the world’s largest city during rush hour. But, the district leader had committed the missionaries to open their mouths in every situation possible just one day prior.
They started a conversation and soon found themselves teaching the message of the restoration. By the time they got to the Book of Mormon, the man seemed very interested. Thinking he would be a great referral for some missionaries in some mission, they invited the man to receive them in his home. He accepted.
God Places People in Situations of Participation
Once His children are prepared, the Lord places instruments in a position to invite them to come unto Christ.
The Lord used Ammon to teach and baptize Lamoni. Phillip was called by an angel to be in Gaza at the exact same time as the Ethiopean in order to teach and baptize him. Just as with these missionaries, it was no coincidence Victor chose to sit beside those two missionaries on his way to work that morning.
The Lord Used the Missionaries as an Instrument in His Hands
To the missionaries’ surprise, the address of the man they had been teaching was very familiar. Not only did the man live within their mission boundaries, but he lived in their ward. In fact, he lived just three blocks from the missionaries’ own apartment.
Unfortunately, the man’s schedule was such that the missionaries never saw him again. However, as a result of visiting the man’s address they were introduced to his 14 year-old brother, Josue. Had the missionaries not met his brother on the metro, they would never have found Josue.
He was baptized two weeks later, and is currently preparing to serve a full-time mission himself.
Will We Participate?
Once we understand that the Lord is preparing His children in all parts of the world, we can better understand our calling to be missionaries. Our participation will not influence the outcome. Instead, our participation is a blessing, an opportunity to take part in the miracle of conversion.
Had those missionaries not found Norma’s house. If they decided it was too hard, or otherwise not worth it, the Lord would have used someone else. Had the two Elders decided that they were too far away from their area to share the message of the restoration, the Lord would have called other missionaries to find, teach, and baptize Josue. The point is, the work would have been done, just by someone else. It is those missionaries who would have been missing out.
In the book of Judges, we read about a prophet named Gideon called to liberate Israel from the Midianites, a force “like grasshoppers for multitude…as the sand by the sea side for multitude” (Judg. 7:12). Not only were they more numerous; they were also smarter. The Midianite army had discovered how to use camels in battle. Surely the Midianite army was an intimidating site.
To contend, Gideon raised an army of 32,000 Israelites, only to be told, “The people that are with thee are too many for me to give the Midianites into their hands, lest Israel vaunt themselves against me, saying, Mine own hand hath saved me” (Judg. 7:2).
The Lord then commanded that the soldiers who were fearful return to their homes. With that, 22,000 packed up their tents and returned to their homes. Gideon was left with 10,000 soldiers, not even one third of his original army.
As they prepared to do battle, the Lord once again visited Gideon saying, “The people are yet too many” (Judg. 7:4). Gideon was commanded to take his army to a river, where the Lord commanded he separate his army based on the way the soldiers drank.
Gideon obeyed and separated the 9,700 who knelt to drink from the 300 who lapped. The Lord commanded the 9,700 be sent home, and Gideon was left him with less than 1 percent of his original army.
Nonetheless, with great faith and a divine strategy, the Israelites attacked and destroyed the Midianites. Three hundred soldiers against an army as numerous as “the sands of the sea.” What a miracle. It truly stands as a testament that no unhallowed hand can stop the progress of the work. If the Lord needs something done, He will get it done. It really does not matter if He has 32,000 or 300.
I have often wondered what distinguished Gideon’s 300. Most importantly, had I been one of the original 32,000, where would I have ended up when the battle was won? Would I have participated in the miracle, side by side with Gideon? Would I have watched from the camp with the 9,700 as the Lord miraculously delivered the Midianites? Or would I have been at home with the other 22,000, anxiously awaiting the army’s return, only to hear of the Lord’s greatness?
Once the Lord had selected His soldiers, the battle did not take long, and the outcome was never in question. The question was who would participate. Missionary work follows this same principle. I have experienced the battle from all three perspectives. I have been on the front lines, blessed to fight alongside those of amazing strength and great faith. I have also found myself watching the battle from the hilltop, and unfortunately, I have spent my share of battles back at my tent only to hear of the remarkable power of the Savior.
We have been called to be the catalysts of conversion. The Lord is doing the hard work. He is preparing His children and making sure that two missionaries are on the same train, in the same car, with one empty seat in from of them when Victor boards for work in the morning. Our responsibility is to simply follow the promptings of the Spirit and to doubt not, but be believing.
I testify that the Lord is preparing His children in this section of His vineyard and pray that we are prepared to serve as instruments in the hands of our Savior. Whether it be opening our mouths on a crowded metro, or simply asking a butcher for directions, as we strive to become the tools by which He brings to pass His work, we will see miracles. Of this I testify, in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
Sunday, June 21
James 2:14-17
I was recently reminded of one of the powerful principles addressed in James’ general epistle.
Beginning in chapter two verse 14: “What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him? If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, and one of you say unto them, ‘Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled;’ notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit? Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone” (James 2:14-17).
So, faith without works is dead. But this scripture has so much more to offer. The laws of geometry teach us that if A=B and B=C then A must equal C, the transitive property.
In applying similar mathematical logic to this principle, we learn that if faith without works is dead, then so must works without faith also share a similar fate.
Captain Mormon experienced such dead works, “Behold, I had led them, notwithstanding their wickedness I had led them many times to battle, and had loved them, according to the love of God which was in me, with all my heart; and my soul had been poured out in prayer unto my God all the day long for them; nevertheless, it was without faith, because of the hardness of their hearts” (Morm. 3:12 emphasis added).
Mormon had the works. He loved; he led; he cared. But because of the people’s iniquities, he could not believe. The Nephites were not worthy of delivering, and Mormon knew it. This knowledge ate at his faith until eventually it was no more and he lost hope. As a result, no amount of loving, leading, or caring could spare the Nephites from what was about to occur.
James taught that the outcome of our actions is a product of both our faith and our works. The results we seek can only reach as high as our lowest variable.
Speaking in numbers, if I have 100 works, but my faith only reaches level 50, my results will be 50. The other 50 works will be “dead.” They will not contribute to the results.
Although many people understand the natural relationship between faith and works, I fear that too few fully comprehend the importance of acting in faith. It really is not just enough to do something.
Paul taught the same principle to the Romans, “Hast thou faith? …for whatsoever is not of faith is sin” (Rom. 14:22-23).
I’ve noticed an interesting and repeating phenomenon in my life as I try to match my level of faith and works. My level of works controls the level of my faith, and an increase in faith somehow allows for an increase of works. As I am diligent and obedient, my faith is fortified and I am able to fulfill my goals. The best part of this fortified faith is not the achieving of goals, but an increased capacity of faith which allows me to achieve even greater results in the future. As the process repeats itself, I find myself able to forever be better today than I was yesterday.
Just as the Savior uses this principle to aid us upward in our progression, so does Satan use it to destroy us. By lowering our faith, our works swiftly follow, and thus Satan effectively lowers the results we see. In turn, we often believe the answer is more work (forgetting about our faith). As we pour more and more hours in to our causes but leave our faith at its low level, we will see the same low results as before redoubling our works. Such an occurrence will cause a decrease in faith. Many times, I have thought, “If I worked twice as hard, why am I still seeing the same results?” Eventually, I have begun to question if God has the power to help me obtain my goals, thus lowering my faith and paralyzing my results. Satan repeats this destructive cycle until the individual is rendered faithless and all their works and labors are fruitless.
Magnifying our faith will therefore allow us not only to achieve our righteous desires today, but prepare us for the things only the Lord has envisioned we will be capable of tomorrow.
Beginning in chapter two verse 14: “What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him? If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, and one of you say unto them, ‘Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled;’ notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit? Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone” (James 2:14-17).
So, faith without works is dead. But this scripture has so much more to offer. The laws of geometry teach us that if A=B and B=C then A must equal C, the transitive property.
In applying similar mathematical logic to this principle, we learn that if faith without works is dead, then so must works without faith also share a similar fate.
Captain Mormon experienced such dead works, “Behold, I had led them, notwithstanding their wickedness I had led them many times to battle, and had loved them, according to the love of God which was in me, with all my heart; and my soul had been poured out in prayer unto my God all the day long for them; nevertheless, it was without faith, because of the hardness of their hearts” (Morm. 3:12 emphasis added).
Mormon had the works. He loved; he led; he cared. But because of the people’s iniquities, he could not believe. The Nephites were not worthy of delivering, and Mormon knew it. This knowledge ate at his faith until eventually it was no more and he lost hope. As a result, no amount of loving, leading, or caring could spare the Nephites from what was about to occur.
James taught that the outcome of our actions is a product of both our faith and our works. The results we seek can only reach as high as our lowest variable.
Speaking in numbers, if I have 100 works, but my faith only reaches level 50, my results will be 50. The other 50 works will be “dead.” They will not contribute to the results.
Although many people understand the natural relationship between faith and works, I fear that too few fully comprehend the importance of acting in faith. It really is not just enough to do something.
Paul taught the same principle to the Romans, “Hast thou faith? …for whatsoever is not of faith is sin” (Rom. 14:22-23).
I’ve noticed an interesting and repeating phenomenon in my life as I try to match my level of faith and works. My level of works controls the level of my faith, and an increase in faith somehow allows for an increase of works. As I am diligent and obedient, my faith is fortified and I am able to fulfill my goals. The best part of this fortified faith is not the achieving of goals, but an increased capacity of faith which allows me to achieve even greater results in the future. As the process repeats itself, I find myself able to forever be better today than I was yesterday.
Just as the Savior uses this principle to aid us upward in our progression, so does Satan use it to destroy us. By lowering our faith, our works swiftly follow, and thus Satan effectively lowers the results we see. In turn, we often believe the answer is more work (forgetting about our faith). As we pour more and more hours in to our causes but leave our faith at its low level, we will see the same low results as before redoubling our works. Such an occurrence will cause a decrease in faith. Many times, I have thought, “If I worked twice as hard, why am I still seeing the same results?” Eventually, I have begun to question if God has the power to help me obtain my goals, thus lowering my faith and paralyzing my results. Satan repeats this destructive cycle until the individual is rendered faithless and all their works and labors are fruitless.
Magnifying our faith will therefore allow us not only to achieve our righteous desires today, but prepare us for the things only the Lord has envisioned we will be capable of tomorrow.
Sunday, March 29
John 10:4
Throughout the scriptures, Christ is known by many names and holds many titles. In the tenth chapter of John, Christ calls himself the good shepherd (John 10:14). In Christ’s time shepherd’s were much more than sheep sitters.
A shepherd would spend every minute of every day with his flock. Their responsibilities included defending his sheep. This is explained in verses 11 through 13, “I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep. But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep. The hireling fleeth, because he is an hireling, and careth not for the sheep.”
In the role of protector, the true shepherd earns the trust of the flock. So much that not only does the shepherd know the sheep, but the shepherd is known of their sheep as well (John 10:14). The sheep of the flock learn to recognize and respond to the voice of their true shepherd while ignoring others’ calls. This way, the sheep will quickly follow the commands of the true shepherd, while ignoring the calls of thieves.
This relationship becomes increasingly relevant when considering our responsibility as fishers of men. The Lord has stated, “Behold, I, even I, will both search my sheep, and seek them out” (Ezek. 34:11). Only the voice of the good shepherd will bring His sheep into the fold. This is another reason that living a truly Christian lifestyle is essential to our success as fishers of men. If we don’t look like Him, if we don’t sound like Him, if we don’t speak like Him, His sheep are going to recognize the differences, and even though what they are saying may be true, the sheep just won’t follow.
A shepherd would spend every minute of every day with his flock. Their responsibilities included defending his sheep. This is explained in verses 11 through 13, “I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep. But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep. The hireling fleeth, because he is an hireling, and careth not for the sheep.”
In the role of protector, the true shepherd earns the trust of the flock. So much that not only does the shepherd know the sheep, but the shepherd is known of their sheep as well (John 10:14). The sheep of the flock learn to recognize and respond to the voice of their true shepherd while ignoring others’ calls. This way, the sheep will quickly follow the commands of the true shepherd, while ignoring the calls of thieves.
This relationship becomes increasingly relevant when considering our responsibility as fishers of men. The Lord has stated, “Behold, I, even I, will both search my sheep, and seek them out” (Ezek. 34:11). Only the voice of the good shepherd will bring His sheep into the fold. This is another reason that living a truly Christian lifestyle is essential to our success as fishers of men. If we don’t look like Him, if we don’t sound like Him, if we don’t speak like Him, His sheep are going to recognize the differences, and even though what they are saying may be true, the sheep just won’t follow.
Sunday, March 1
John 15:4
The 15th chapter of John contains one of my favorite verses in the entire canon, “Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me” (verse 4).
In the previous verses, Christ established Himself as the vine, the source of nourishment and nutrients for the branches and fruit. He then continues to define His apostles and each of us as the vines, while defining our greatest objective as the production of good fruit.
I love the symbolism and like to use the relationship of trees, branches and fruit to bring the story to life in my mind. Just as no branch can produce fruit once removed from the trunk, no person is capable of producing good fruits without the Savior. Even the most productive branches, once removed from the trunk, wither and die in their fruitlessness. Likewise, the lowliest of all branches, while still with the trunk, is capable of delicious fruit.
Life then becomes a question of who is closest to the vine instead of who can do the most while away from Him. What then does it take to produce good fruit? It does not depend on the square footage of our home, our position at work or even our IQ; it all depends on our proximity to the vine.
In the verse, Christ invites us to “abide” in Him. Abide means to remain, to continue or to stay. A beautiful invitation, but one I believe is limited by the constraints of the English language. In the Reina Valera (Spanish) translation of the Bible Christ’s invitation is given as a command to “permanacer” in Him.
“Permanecer” is one of two Spanish words that can be translated to “abide.” The other is “quedar.” Although the two mean roughly the same, there is a subtle yet important difference. “Quedar” is used when someone or something remains in a place or state temporarily, as one would “quedar” full or satisfied after a meal. Although there is no current desire for more, it is understood that at some future point, more nourishment will be required.
“Permanecer” is a different form of the word abide. The root of the word stems from the Latin word “proprius,” meaning permanent. If someone or something is to “permanecer” it is to do so forever. There are no breaks and no exceptions; it’s permanent.
That was Christ’s invitation. We must not just abide in the true vine, we must “permanecer” in Him.
In the previous verses, Christ established Himself as the vine, the source of nourishment and nutrients for the branches and fruit. He then continues to define His apostles and each of us as the vines, while defining our greatest objective as the production of good fruit.
I love the symbolism and like to use the relationship of trees, branches and fruit to bring the story to life in my mind. Just as no branch can produce fruit once removed from the trunk, no person is capable of producing good fruits without the Savior. Even the most productive branches, once removed from the trunk, wither and die in their fruitlessness. Likewise, the lowliest of all branches, while still with the trunk, is capable of delicious fruit.
Life then becomes a question of who is closest to the vine instead of who can do the most while away from Him. What then does it take to produce good fruit? It does not depend on the square footage of our home, our position at work or even our IQ; it all depends on our proximity to the vine.
In the verse, Christ invites us to “abide” in Him. Abide means to remain, to continue or to stay. A beautiful invitation, but one I believe is limited by the constraints of the English language. In the Reina Valera (Spanish) translation of the Bible Christ’s invitation is given as a command to “permanacer” in Him.
“Permanecer” is one of two Spanish words that can be translated to “abide.” The other is “quedar.” Although the two mean roughly the same, there is a subtle yet important difference. “Quedar” is used when someone or something remains in a place or state temporarily, as one would “quedar” full or satisfied after a meal. Although there is no current desire for more, it is understood that at some future point, more nourishment will be required.
“Permanecer” is a different form of the word abide. The root of the word stems from the Latin word “proprius,” meaning permanent. If someone or something is to “permanecer” it is to do so forever. There are no breaks and no exceptions; it’s permanent.
That was Christ’s invitation. We must not just abide in the true vine, we must “permanecer” in Him.
Sunday, February 22
Daniel 3:18
Perhaps the most daunting invitation in Christ’s Sermon on the Mount was given in Matthew 5:48, “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.” Christ had spent the previous verses teaching the beatitudes, step-by-step instruction to become as He is. Christ’s invitation to not only come unto Him but also to become like Him is the basis of Christianity.
While studying Christ’s life and personal characteristics, I have noticed one that seems to be different than the others on the list. The following is a brief (and incomplete) list of Christ’s attributes. Which of these things is not like the others?
• Faith
• Hope
• Charity
• Virtue
• Knowledge
• Patience
• Humility
• Diligence
I believe that diligence has some very unique aspects when compared to the other attributes, specifically the development of diligence. The other characteristics represent spiritual gifts given unto man from God. These gifts are bestowed “precept upon precept, line upon line…here a little, and there a little” (Isa. 28:10).
I would love to wake up on the morning of significant trials and say to myself, “Today is going to be a difficult day. I will have the patience of Job.” Or to begin a week with the decision to exercise the virtue of Joseph of Egypt.
Unfortunately, these attributes need to be developed drop by drop. As with the ten virgins (Matt. 25:1-13), these qualities cannot be summoned in a moment of need, but they must be diligently prepared in a time of plenty for times of famine. Attributes such as faith are also dependent upon God’s desires and plans. It is possible (probable) that I never reach the hope of Paul.
Diligence however is different. Diligence is not a gift from God. Diligence is a decision, one that each of us makes every day. I may not be able to simply decide to exercise Christ-like faith in a time of need. But who’s to stop me from working through it with Christ-like diligence? This sudden difference has made diligence my favorite Christ-like attribute. I am the owner and author of my diligence. It depends on nobody else, only me.
This same fact also makes diligence a prerequisite to any of the other aforementioned qualities. In order to develop knowledge, one must diligently study. I see diligence in our activities as a sign to God that we desire His blessings and spiritual gifts. Just as wisdom is applied knowledge, I would define diligence as applied faith.
In my mind, there are two types of diligence. The story of Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-nego highlights these differences. Babylon’s king, Nebuchadnezzar, had created an image of gold, 90 feet in the image of a man. Such a spectacle must have rivaled that of the Hanging Gardens. During the day, a song would be played throughout the kingdom. Upon hearing the song, one was instructed to “fall down and worship the golden image” or “be cast into the midst of a burning fiery furnace” (Dan. 3:5-6).
When word spread that Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-nego would not worship the image, they were brought before Nebuchadnezzar. One can only imagine the intimidation. They were aware of the law. They were aware of the consequences. They must have known that at one snap of the fingers, the king could have them slaughtered.
The account teaches that Nebuchadnezzar, “in his rage” (Dan. 3:13), asked the three if what he had heard was true. He wanted them to tell him, in their shackles, that they refused to bow before the work of his hands. Before allowing them to answer, he reminded them that “if ye worship not, ye shall be cast the same hour into the midst of a burning fiery furnace; and who is that God that shall deliver you out of my hands?” (Dan. 3:15).
I imagine Nebuchadnezzar’s last question was very threatening, surrounded by armed guards in a huge palace it’s almost as if the king was challenging the God of Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-nego. Hundreds of years earlier, the Pharaoh asked Moses the same question in a similar situation, “Who is the Lord, that I should obey his voice to let Israel go?” (Ex. 5:2).
The young mens' answer highlights the two degrees of diligence, “If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king” (Dan. 3:17).
I call this sunshine diligence. The three will diligently follow what they know to be right provided that the Lord comes through and makes everything turn out the way they want it to. Sure, I’ll go do it, as long as it’s sunny and warm. It comes down to doing what is right because it is easy. Sunshine diligence is the easiest form of diligence and therefore results in the lowest caliber of the Lord’s blessings.
Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-nego had a much deeper form of diligence. They were willing to do what was right no matter the weather, “But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up” (Dan. 3:18).
"But if not..." Even if it were that the Lord would have all three suffer the pains of death by fire, they had already decided to be diligent. I call this true form of diligence rainy day diligence. It’s doing what’s right, even when it’s hard. This is no easy task, but as mentioned earlier, it is our choice.
When the three refused to bow before the image, Nebuchadnezzar kept his promise and the three were thrown into the burning fiery furnace. The Lord however had other plans for Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-nego and sent his angel to protect them (Dan. 3:24). Even though the Lord decided to spare their lives, the three were willing to act no matter what the consequences were.
There has been no other point in my life where I was able to learn more about and exercise diligence than my missionary service in Mexico. And it would be impossible for me to write about diligence without mentioning my missionary backpack.
About six months into my service, my backpack broke. I needed a bag, but did not want a new one. I remembered seeing pictures as a child of my father’s mission and his backpack. That’s what I wanted, a bag with history. A few letters and a package later and that bag was in Mexico. The bag now has nearly four years of faithful missionary service, and it wears it.
It’s been through the jungles of Guatemala, up and down the mountains of Acapulco and the streets of Mexico City. The bag is old and the color has long since faded; it’s been stitched, taped and even stapled, and it even has a strange smell, but it was there every day, rain or shine. And that’s what diligence is all about.
While studying Christ’s life and personal characteristics, I have noticed one that seems to be different than the others on the list. The following is a brief (and incomplete) list of Christ’s attributes. Which of these things is not like the others?
• Faith
• Hope
• Charity
• Virtue
• Knowledge
• Patience
• Humility
• Diligence
I believe that diligence has some very unique aspects when compared to the other attributes, specifically the development of diligence. The other characteristics represent spiritual gifts given unto man from God. These gifts are bestowed “precept upon precept, line upon line…here a little, and there a little” (Isa. 28:10).
I would love to wake up on the morning of significant trials and say to myself, “Today is going to be a difficult day. I will have the patience of Job.” Or to begin a week with the decision to exercise the virtue of Joseph of Egypt.
Unfortunately, these attributes need to be developed drop by drop. As with the ten virgins (Matt. 25:1-13), these qualities cannot be summoned in a moment of need, but they must be diligently prepared in a time of plenty for times of famine. Attributes such as faith are also dependent upon God’s desires and plans. It is possible (probable) that I never reach the hope of Paul.
Diligence however is different. Diligence is not a gift from God. Diligence is a decision, one that each of us makes every day. I may not be able to simply decide to exercise Christ-like faith in a time of need. But who’s to stop me from working through it with Christ-like diligence? This sudden difference has made diligence my favorite Christ-like attribute. I am the owner and author of my diligence. It depends on nobody else, only me.
This same fact also makes diligence a prerequisite to any of the other aforementioned qualities. In order to develop knowledge, one must diligently study. I see diligence in our activities as a sign to God that we desire His blessings and spiritual gifts. Just as wisdom is applied knowledge, I would define diligence as applied faith.
In my mind, there are two types of diligence. The story of Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-nego highlights these differences. Babylon’s king, Nebuchadnezzar, had created an image of gold, 90 feet in the image of a man. Such a spectacle must have rivaled that of the Hanging Gardens. During the day, a song would be played throughout the kingdom. Upon hearing the song, one was instructed to “fall down and worship the golden image” or “be cast into the midst of a burning fiery furnace” (Dan. 3:5-6).
When word spread that Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-nego would not worship the image, they were brought before Nebuchadnezzar. One can only imagine the intimidation. They were aware of the law. They were aware of the consequences. They must have known that at one snap of the fingers, the king could have them slaughtered.
The account teaches that Nebuchadnezzar, “in his rage” (Dan. 3:13), asked the three if what he had heard was true. He wanted them to tell him, in their shackles, that they refused to bow before the work of his hands. Before allowing them to answer, he reminded them that “if ye worship not, ye shall be cast the same hour into the midst of a burning fiery furnace; and who is that God that shall deliver you out of my hands?” (Dan. 3:15).
I imagine Nebuchadnezzar’s last question was very threatening, surrounded by armed guards in a huge palace it’s almost as if the king was challenging the God of Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-nego. Hundreds of years earlier, the Pharaoh asked Moses the same question in a similar situation, “Who is the Lord, that I should obey his voice to let Israel go?” (Ex. 5:2).
The young mens' answer highlights the two degrees of diligence, “If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king” (Dan. 3:17).
I call this sunshine diligence. The three will diligently follow what they know to be right provided that the Lord comes through and makes everything turn out the way they want it to. Sure, I’ll go do it, as long as it’s sunny and warm. It comes down to doing what is right because it is easy. Sunshine diligence is the easiest form of diligence and therefore results in the lowest caliber of the Lord’s blessings.
Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-nego had a much deeper form of diligence. They were willing to do what was right no matter the weather, “But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up” (Dan. 3:18).
"But if not..." Even if it were that the Lord would have all three suffer the pains of death by fire, they had already decided to be diligent. I call this true form of diligence rainy day diligence. It’s doing what’s right, even when it’s hard. This is no easy task, but as mentioned earlier, it is our choice.
When the three refused to bow before the image, Nebuchadnezzar kept his promise and the three were thrown into the burning fiery furnace. The Lord however had other plans for Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-nego and sent his angel to protect them (Dan. 3:24). Even though the Lord decided to spare their lives, the three were willing to act no matter what the consequences were.
There has been no other point in my life where I was able to learn more about and exercise diligence than my missionary service in Mexico. And it would be impossible for me to write about diligence without mentioning my missionary backpack.
About six months into my service, my backpack broke. I needed a bag, but did not want a new one. I remembered seeing pictures as a child of my father’s mission and his backpack. That’s what I wanted, a bag with history. A few letters and a package later and that bag was in Mexico. The bag now has nearly four years of faithful missionary service, and it wears it.
It’s been through the jungles of Guatemala, up and down the mountains of Acapulco and the streets of Mexico City. The bag is old and the color has long since faded; it’s been stitched, taped and even stapled, and it even has a strange smell, but it was there every day, rain or shine. And that’s what diligence is all about.
Sunday, February 15
Matthew 6:21
I’ve always been intrigued by the Lord’s use of imagery. For me, scriptures using the heart as a symbol are particularly fascinating. The heart can take on so many different meanings. I have a very limited understanding of biology, but I do know the heart is central to the health of the body. Likewise, the location of the heart is central to the spirit’s health.
In the spiritual sense, I often wonder where exactly my heart is. I have seen countless examples of the blessings and spiritual power granted those who have yielded their entire hearts unto God. I remember once analyzing their lives to learn how they had done it. It seemed so difficult to me. I don’t tell my heart when to beat or when to race; it works on its own. How then can I change something I cannot control? I wanted something tangible that I could change, but I could not find it.
Eventually, I found the answer in the book of Matthew, sixth chapter, 21 verse: “For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.”
I was surprised when I realized Christ had taught that our treasures determine where our hearts are, not the other way around. If I wanted to change my heart, I needed to change my treasure.
The promise to those who lay up treasures in heaven is significant, “A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh. And I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them” (Ezekiel 36:26-27).
C.S. Lewis also explained this relationship between our hearts and our treasures in Mere Christianity: “Christ says, ‘Give Me all. I don’t want so much of your time and so much of your money and so much of your work: I want You. I have not come to torment your natural self, but to kill it. No half-measures are any good. I don’t want to cut off a branch here and a branch there, I want to have the whole tree down. I don’t want to drill the tooth, or crown it, or stop it, but to have it out. Hand over the whole natural self, all the desires which you think innocent as well as the ones you think wicked-the whole outfit. I will give you a new self instead. In fact, I will give you Myself: my own will shall become yours.’”
This was the secret. The people I had been observing had all made major changes to their treasures. They had done more than just make convenient alterations to align their lives with Christ’s teachings. Many had made enormous sacrifices, but each was better and happier for having made them. In fact, once surrendering their hearts to the Lord, they had actually become more free, making this “the only surrender which is also a victory” (Maxwell, Plow in Hope).
Success is not the product of one taking fewer falls; it is the result of constantly picking oneself up. It seems counter intuitive and could not happen at a less opportune time, but when we fall, we must learn to “rend [our] heart, and not [our] garments” (Joel 2:13).
In the spiritual sense, I often wonder where exactly my heart is. I have seen countless examples of the blessings and spiritual power granted those who have yielded their entire hearts unto God. I remember once analyzing their lives to learn how they had done it. It seemed so difficult to me. I don’t tell my heart when to beat or when to race; it works on its own. How then can I change something I cannot control? I wanted something tangible that I could change, but I could not find it.
Eventually, I found the answer in the book of Matthew, sixth chapter, 21 verse: “For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.”
I was surprised when I realized Christ had taught that our treasures determine where our hearts are, not the other way around. If I wanted to change my heart, I needed to change my treasure.
The promise to those who lay up treasures in heaven is significant, “A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh. And I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them” (Ezekiel 36:26-27).
C.S. Lewis also explained this relationship between our hearts and our treasures in Mere Christianity: “Christ says, ‘Give Me all. I don’t want so much of your time and so much of your money and so much of your work: I want You. I have not come to torment your natural self, but to kill it. No half-measures are any good. I don’t want to cut off a branch here and a branch there, I want to have the whole tree down. I don’t want to drill the tooth, or crown it, or stop it, but to have it out. Hand over the whole natural self, all the desires which you think innocent as well as the ones you think wicked-the whole outfit. I will give you a new self instead. In fact, I will give you Myself: my own will shall become yours.’”
This was the secret. The people I had been observing had all made major changes to their treasures. They had done more than just make convenient alterations to align their lives with Christ’s teachings. Many had made enormous sacrifices, but each was better and happier for having made them. In fact, once surrendering their hearts to the Lord, they had actually become more free, making this “the only surrender which is also a victory” (Maxwell, Plow in Hope).
Success is not the product of one taking fewer falls; it is the result of constantly picking oneself up. It seems counter intuitive and could not happen at a less opportune time, but when we fall, we must learn to “rend [our] heart, and not [our] garments” (Joel 2:13).
Sunday, February 8
Judges 7:7
I thought today would be a good day to reflect upon one of my favorite miracles of the Old Testament, the army of Gideon and the Midianites. In all honesty, few passages of scriptures have motivated me to greater good than those of the seventh chapter in Judges.
After the death of Joshua, the Israelites began a downward spiral of disobedience and idolatry. The tribes grew increasingly distant without Joshua’s uniting leadership. In many tribes, Baal replaced Jehovah as the people grew further and further from God. As a result of their disobedience, they fell into the hands of the Midianites. Although the Israelites did not live in bondage as they once had in Egypt, the Midianites would frequent their farms “as grasshoppers” (Judg. 6:5) carrying away the Israelite’s grain and livestock.
The situation eventually led to the Israelites remembering the story their parents must have told them of a man named Moses and the saving powers of Jehovah. The situation became so unbearable that many of the Israelites would hide their food from the Midianites to be able to provide for themselves and their families (Judg. 6:11). Showing His mercy, the LORD raised up a prophet from amongst the people, Gideon.
An army was raised and Gideon found himself with 32,000 soldiers to battle against the Midianites and Amalekites who were “like grasshoppers for multitude; and their camels were without number, as the sand by the sea side for multitude” (Judg. 7:12). Not only were they outnumbered, but their enemies had better technology. They had discovered how to use camels in battle. Surely, the Midianite army was a very intimidating sight.
As Gideon looked over the valley at his foe, the LORD told him, “The people that are with thee are too many for me to give the Midianites into their hands, lest Israel vaunt themselves against me, saying, Mine own hand hath saved me” (Judg. 7:2).
The LORD then commanded that the soldiers who were fearful to return to their homes (Judg. 7:3). The soldiers had seen the same thing as their captain and 22,000 returned home, leaving Gideon with 10,000, not even one third of his original army. Nonetheless, he probably reasoned that those who had left were his poorest fighters. At least the LORD had left him with the cream of the crop.
As they prepared to do battle, the LORD once again visited Gideon saying, “The people are yet too many” (Judg. 7:4). The LORD had previously shown Gideon a sign to prove He was with him (Judg. 6:17-21) and Gideon was willing to do as the LORD commanded.
This time however, the separation of the soldiers would not be as intuitive, “Bring them down unto the water, and I will try them for thee there… So he brought down the people unto the water: and the Lord said unto Gideon, Every one that lappeth of the water with his tongue, as a dog lappeth, him shalt thou set by himself; likewise every one that boweth down upon his knees to drink” (Judg. 7:4-5).
Gideon obeyed and separated the 9,700 who kneeled from the 300 who lapped; probably hoping the LORD would send the 300 home and leave him with the 9,700. The LORD however, had other plans and commanded the 9,700 to be sent home. Gideon did not even flinch as he watched 97 percent of his army march home, many of which must have been amongst his finest fighters. The LORD had left him with less than 1 percent of the army he had left with.
Nonetheless, with great faith and a divine strategy, the Israelites attacked and destroyed the Midianites (Judg. 7:19-25). Three hundred soldiers. And against an army as numerous as “the sands of the sea;” what a miracle. It truly stands as a testament that no unhallowed hand can stop the work from progressing. If the LORD needs something done, He will get it done. It really does not matter much if He has 32,000 or 300 on His side.
I’ve often wondered what distinguished the Gideon’s 300. Most importantly, had I been one of the original 32,000, where would I have ended up? Would I have participated in the miracle, side by side with Gideon? Would I have watched from the camp with the 9,700 as the LORD delivered the Midianites? Or would I have been at home with the other 22,000, anxiously awaiting the army’s return, only hearing of the LORD’s greatness?
The first test was simple. It was a test of trust and faith. Do you believe the LORD will deliver? Do you trust in His almighty hand? Remember though, this question was not asked when the army was safely in their city. It was posed as they overlooked the seemingly limitless foe. Would I have remembered the Red Sea? Would I have trusted?
The second test was different. While the first was internal, the test at the water was an outward expression, a physical action. I believe that this test was designed to see who was able to act with heart, might, mind and strength; whose faith (tested prior) would translate into action.
Once the LORD had selected His soldiers, the battle did not take long. The outcome of the battle was never in question. The question was who would participate. I have experienced the battle from all three perspectives. I have been on the front lines, blessed to fight alongside those of amazing strength and faith. I have also found myself watching the battle from the hilltop, and unfortunately, I have spent my share of battles back at my tent only to hear of the remarkable power of the Savior.
Like any good soldier, I prefer the front lines and hope to find myself there against the latter-day Midianites. No matter the number with me; no matter the number against me.
After the death of Joshua, the Israelites began a downward spiral of disobedience and idolatry. The tribes grew increasingly distant without Joshua’s uniting leadership. In many tribes, Baal replaced Jehovah as the people grew further and further from God. As a result of their disobedience, they fell into the hands of the Midianites. Although the Israelites did not live in bondage as they once had in Egypt, the Midianites would frequent their farms “as grasshoppers” (Judg. 6:5) carrying away the Israelite’s grain and livestock.
The situation eventually led to the Israelites remembering the story their parents must have told them of a man named Moses and the saving powers of Jehovah. The situation became so unbearable that many of the Israelites would hide their food from the Midianites to be able to provide for themselves and their families (Judg. 6:11). Showing His mercy, the LORD raised up a prophet from amongst the people, Gideon.
An army was raised and Gideon found himself with 32,000 soldiers to battle against the Midianites and Amalekites who were “like grasshoppers for multitude; and their camels were without number, as the sand by the sea side for multitude” (Judg. 7:12). Not only were they outnumbered, but their enemies had better technology. They had discovered how to use camels in battle. Surely, the Midianite army was a very intimidating sight.
As Gideon looked over the valley at his foe, the LORD told him, “The people that are with thee are too many for me to give the Midianites into their hands, lest Israel vaunt themselves against me, saying, Mine own hand hath saved me” (Judg. 7:2).
The LORD then commanded that the soldiers who were fearful to return to their homes (Judg. 7:3). The soldiers had seen the same thing as their captain and 22,000 returned home, leaving Gideon with 10,000, not even one third of his original army. Nonetheless, he probably reasoned that those who had left were his poorest fighters. At least the LORD had left him with the cream of the crop.
As they prepared to do battle, the LORD once again visited Gideon saying, “The people are yet too many” (Judg. 7:4). The LORD had previously shown Gideon a sign to prove He was with him (Judg. 6:17-21) and Gideon was willing to do as the LORD commanded.
This time however, the separation of the soldiers would not be as intuitive, “Bring them down unto the water, and I will try them for thee there… So he brought down the people unto the water: and the Lord said unto Gideon, Every one that lappeth of the water with his tongue, as a dog lappeth, him shalt thou set by himself; likewise every one that boweth down upon his knees to drink” (Judg. 7:4-5).
Gideon obeyed and separated the 9,700 who kneeled from the 300 who lapped; probably hoping the LORD would send the 300 home and leave him with the 9,700. The LORD however, had other plans and commanded the 9,700 to be sent home. Gideon did not even flinch as he watched 97 percent of his army march home, many of which must have been amongst his finest fighters. The LORD had left him with less than 1 percent of the army he had left with.Nonetheless, with great faith and a divine strategy, the Israelites attacked and destroyed the Midianites (Judg. 7:19-25). Three hundred soldiers. And against an army as numerous as “the sands of the sea;” what a miracle. It truly stands as a testament that no unhallowed hand can stop the work from progressing. If the LORD needs something done, He will get it done. It really does not matter much if He has 32,000 or 300 on His side.
I’ve often wondered what distinguished the Gideon’s 300. Most importantly, had I been one of the original 32,000, where would I have ended up? Would I have participated in the miracle, side by side with Gideon? Would I have watched from the camp with the 9,700 as the LORD delivered the Midianites? Or would I have been at home with the other 22,000, anxiously awaiting the army’s return, only hearing of the LORD’s greatness?
The first test was simple. It was a test of trust and faith. Do you believe the LORD will deliver? Do you trust in His almighty hand? Remember though, this question was not asked when the army was safely in their city. It was posed as they overlooked the seemingly limitless foe. Would I have remembered the Red Sea? Would I have trusted?
The second test was different. While the first was internal, the test at the water was an outward expression, a physical action. I believe that this test was designed to see who was able to act with heart, might, mind and strength; whose faith (tested prior) would translate into action.
Once the LORD had selected His soldiers, the battle did not take long. The outcome of the battle was never in question. The question was who would participate. I have experienced the battle from all three perspectives. I have been on the front lines, blessed to fight alongside those of amazing strength and faith. I have also found myself watching the battle from the hilltop, and unfortunately, I have spent my share of battles back at my tent only to hear of the remarkable power of the Savior.
Like any good soldier, I prefer the front lines and hope to find myself there against the latter-day Midianites. No matter the number with me; no matter the number against me.
Sunday, February 1
1 Samuel 17:40
In 2002, the Anaheim Angels were predicted to finish in third place in the AL West. The first 20 games of the year went as the analysts had planned as the Angels sputtered to a 6-14 record. The following 142 games saw the Angels finish with a 99 win season, at the time, the best ever by the southern California franchise, and good enough to send the team to the playoffs.
Nobody expected much from the Angels. The team’s shortstop and leadoff man, David Eckstein, was 5’7” and 175 pounds soaking wet. Their playoff experience was nearly nonexistent, and their first opponents were the historic New York Yankees. After a game one loss, the Angels won three straight and advanced to the ALCS where they defeated the Minnesota Twins four games to one, setting up an all California World Series with the San Francisco Giants. The northern California group was appropriately named as their lineup featured the current all-time home run leader Barry Bonds, 6’2” 240 pounds. Seven games later, the Angels had claimed their first World Series title and comparisons began to be made to another team led by a small David who also bested a Giant.
This David was the eighth son of Jesse, and nobody expected much of him either. When Samuel visited with Jesse’s sons to find the next king of Israel, David was not even called in to meet him. In fact, Samuel would have been content to anoint David’s oldest brother, Eliab, as the next heir to the throne. That is, of course, until the Lord told him, “Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart” (1 Sam. 16:7).
Even after being chosen to lead Israel, he was still not invited to join Saul as a member of the Israelite army. Instead, he went about his daily activities as a shepherd. Such a profession hardly seemed fitting for Israel’s future king, but the lessons learned and experiences had amongst a few sheep played an important role in David’s future. He was finally able to see the army when his father asked him to run some food over to his three older brothers and make sure they were all accounted for. It was then when David first saw Goliath.
Convincing Saul to let him do battle with the Philistine’s giant was not an easy task. David, however, did have some related work experience on his resume. While guarding the family sheep, he had killed a bear and a lion. Aside from this, the countless hours in the field were likely full of target practice with his weapon of choice, the sling. Nonetheless, it wasn’t until David told Saul “The Lord that delivered me out of the paw of the lion, and out of the paw of the bear, he will deliver me out of the hand of this Philistine” (1 Sam. 17:37) that his request was permitted.
Saul however, was taking no chances and dressed David in his best armor, equipping him with his best sword. David’s remark is interesting, “I cannot go with these; for I have not proved them” (1 Sam. 17:39). He then rid himself of the armor, grabbed his sling and shepherd’s bag and went to face Goliath. There was however, one more stop that David made. A stop that is often overlooked.
“And he took his staff in his hand, and chose him five smooth stones out of the brook, and put them in a shepherd’s bag which he had, even in a scrip; and his sling was in his hand: and he drew near to the Philistine” (1 Sam. 17:40).
Before the battlefield, David went to a brook, a place where he knew he could collect stones. The stones had to be perfect. He had seen Goliath and knew what he had signed up for. The stones needed to be round and the weight had to be evenly distributed, anything less would not fly straight and could be the difference between life and death. What catches my attention above all else is that he collected not one, but five stones. His statement to Saul demonstrated his faith in the saving power of the Lord, so it could not be that he doubted the Lord’s ability to help him slay the giant. Why would he then need five stones? It must be something else.
I like to believe that although he knew he would be helped, he was wise enough to act like everything depended on him, while simultaneously trusting completely in the Lord. His trust in the Lord was manifest when he met Goliath on the battlefield, “This day will the Lord deliver thee into mine hand; and I will smite thee, and take thine head from thee; and I will give the carcases of the host of the Philistines this day unto the fowls of the air, and to the wild beasts of the earth; that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel. And all this assembly shall know that the Lord saveth not with sword and spear: for the battle is the Lord’s, and he will give you into our hands” (1 Sam. 17:46-47 emphasis added).
Perhaps life’s greatest challenge is going to battle without Saul’s armor and sword. The Lord had been preparing David for this point in his life for years. I have often wondered if I am trying to live with armor that I have “not proved.” Do I recognize the Lord’s hand in my daily endeavors, can I see the vision that the Potter has for His clay?
What a terrible event it would have been for David to release his sling and watch the projectile soar through the air only to crumble as he realizes he had unknowingly chosen a dirt clod, or to reach into his shepherd’s sack to only find a hole. Belief alone was not enough to kill Goliath and free Israel. In the end, it wasn’t David’s great faith that downed the giant; it was a stone, a carefully selected stone, and had that one been ineffective, he had four more.
When placed in trying circumstances, we too must search for stones. Not just any stones; they need to be rounded and smooth. And with those stones and the faith developed in their collection, there isn’t a giant who cannot be slayed.
Nobody expected much from the Angels. The team’s shortstop and leadoff man, David Eckstein, was 5’7” and 175 pounds soaking wet. Their playoff experience was nearly nonexistent, and their first opponents were the historic New York Yankees. After a game one loss, the Angels won three straight and advanced to the ALCS where they defeated the Minnesota Twins four games to one, setting up an all California World Series with the San Francisco Giants. The northern California group was appropriately named as their lineup featured the current all-time home run leader Barry Bonds, 6’2” 240 pounds. Seven games later, the Angels had claimed their first World Series title and comparisons began to be made to another team led by a small David who also bested a Giant.
This David was the eighth son of Jesse, and nobody expected much of him either. When Samuel visited with Jesse’s sons to find the next king of Israel, David was not even called in to meet him. In fact, Samuel would have been content to anoint David’s oldest brother, Eliab, as the next heir to the throne. That is, of course, until the Lord told him, “Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart” (1 Sam. 16:7).
Even after being chosen to lead Israel, he was still not invited to join Saul as a member of the Israelite army. Instead, he went about his daily activities as a shepherd. Such a profession hardly seemed fitting for Israel’s future king, but the lessons learned and experiences had amongst a few sheep played an important role in David’s future. He was finally able to see the army when his father asked him to run some food over to his three older brothers and make sure they were all accounted for. It was then when David first saw Goliath.
Convincing Saul to let him do battle with the Philistine’s giant was not an easy task. David, however, did have some related work experience on his resume. While guarding the family sheep, he had killed a bear and a lion. Aside from this, the countless hours in the field were likely full of target practice with his weapon of choice, the sling. Nonetheless, it wasn’t until David told Saul “The Lord that delivered me out of the paw of the lion, and out of the paw of the bear, he will deliver me out of the hand of this Philistine” (1 Sam. 17:37) that his request was permitted.
Saul however, was taking no chances and dressed David in his best armor, equipping him with his best sword. David’s remark is interesting, “I cannot go with these; for I have not proved them” (1 Sam. 17:39). He then rid himself of the armor, grabbed his sling and shepherd’s bag and went to face Goliath. There was however, one more stop that David made. A stop that is often overlooked.
“And he took his staff in his hand, and chose him five smooth stones out of the brook, and put them in a shepherd’s bag which he had, even in a scrip; and his sling was in his hand: and he drew near to the Philistine” (1 Sam. 17:40).
Before the battlefield, David went to a brook, a place where he knew he could collect stones. The stones had to be perfect. He had seen Goliath and knew what he had signed up for. The stones needed to be round and the weight had to be evenly distributed, anything less would not fly straight and could be the difference between life and death. What catches my attention above all else is that he collected not one, but five stones. His statement to Saul demonstrated his faith in the saving power of the Lord, so it could not be that he doubted the Lord’s ability to help him slay the giant. Why would he then need five stones? It must be something else.
I like to believe that although he knew he would be helped, he was wise enough to act like everything depended on him, while simultaneously trusting completely in the Lord. His trust in the Lord was manifest when he met Goliath on the battlefield, “This day will the Lord deliver thee into mine hand; and I will smite thee, and take thine head from thee; and I will give the carcases of the host of the Philistines this day unto the fowls of the air, and to the wild beasts of the earth; that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel. And all this assembly shall know that the Lord saveth not with sword and spear: for the battle is the Lord’s, and he will give you into our hands” (1 Sam. 17:46-47 emphasis added).
Perhaps life’s greatest challenge is going to battle without Saul’s armor and sword. The Lord had been preparing David for this point in his life for years. I have often wondered if I am trying to live with armor that I have “not proved.” Do I recognize the Lord’s hand in my daily endeavors, can I see the vision that the Potter has for His clay?
What a terrible event it would have been for David to release his sling and watch the projectile soar through the air only to crumble as he realizes he had unknowingly chosen a dirt clod, or to reach into his shepherd’s sack to only find a hole. Belief alone was not enough to kill Goliath and free Israel. In the end, it wasn’t David’s great faith that downed the giant; it was a stone, a carefully selected stone, and had that one been ineffective, he had four more.
When placed in trying circumstances, we too must search for stones. Not just any stones; they need to be rounded and smooth. And with those stones and the faith developed in their collection, there isn’t a giant who cannot be slayed.
Sunday, January 25
Genesis 3:15
I felt it appropriate to start this blog from the beginning, and in the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. Following an undisclosed amount of time in the Garden, Adam and Eve took of the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil, and they did eat. It is of one of the eternal consequences which followed this event that I have chosen to write.
Apparent failure and rejection have made themselves my companions during the past weeks. I am currently seeking employment and have yet to secure a full time position. Earlier this month, I applied for an opening in Ferguson’s operations trainee program. Ferguson is the largest distributor of plumbing supplies in the United States. They were kind enough to address the status of my application last Friday, “Thank you very much for applying online with [Ferguson's] North American Division! We have filled all of our available full time trainee positions.” Such has been the response to every application I have submitted.
While working to eliminate my own shortcomings, I could not help but reflect upon what the world would perhaps label as the greatest failure of all time, the death of Jesus Christ. For the ministry of He who Isaiah prophesied would “open the blind eyes, to bring out the prisoners from the prison” (Isa. 42:7) to end a crucified and seemingly powerless prisoner Himself would have been labeled a tragic failure. However, Isaiah also taught, “The Lord’s thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways His ways” (Isa. 55:8). In fact, when looked upon with proper perspective, the ironic death of the Savior becomes a clinching victory.
At the very moment that an atoning sacrifice became necessary, moments after Adam and Eve became both mortal and capable of sin, the Father pronounced the following curse and prophecy upon the head of the serpent, “I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel” (Gen. 3:15). The promise means that although Satan would someday bruise the heel of the seed of Eve (referring specifically to Christ) by beguiling men to crucify their king, Christ’s very death upon the cross would empower Him to crush Satan’s head by releasing mankind of the negative effects of the fall with the same heel Satan had worked so hard to bruise.
The fulfillment of this prophecy was accompanied by three days of failure. Three days that I believe Christ’s disciples will never forget. The ultimate victory however, was claimed after those three days when Mary Magdelene's search for her Savior resulted in the angel of the Lord telling her, “He is not here: for he is risen” (Matt. 28:6). The same act that Satan had used to enslave mankind for the eternities was used to forever free them from the bands of death and sin. Christ had not lost; he had won, and he sent an angel to proclaim His victory with eight simple words, “He is not here: for he is risen.”
I have found great comfort in knowing that my thoughts are not His thoughts and that His ways are not my ways. When looked upon with proper perspective, failures can truly be understood as victories. It gives me great peace to know that my future is in the hands of He who 'failed' on the cross because I know what he did to the grave. Bruised and unsure, I look forward with faith to the day my efforts will be found worthy of His help as He crushes the serpent’s head for me.
Apparent failure and rejection have made themselves my companions during the past weeks. I am currently seeking employment and have yet to secure a full time position. Earlier this month, I applied for an opening in Ferguson’s operations trainee program. Ferguson is the largest distributor of plumbing supplies in the United States. They were kind enough to address the status of my application last Friday, “Thank you very much for applying online with [Ferguson's] North American Division! We have filled all of our available full time trainee positions.” Such has been the response to every application I have submitted.
While working to eliminate my own shortcomings, I could not help but reflect upon what the world would perhaps label as the greatest failure of all time, the death of Jesus Christ. For the ministry of He who Isaiah prophesied would “open the blind eyes, to bring out the prisoners from the prison” (Isa. 42:7) to end a crucified and seemingly powerless prisoner Himself would have been labeled a tragic failure. However, Isaiah also taught, “The Lord’s thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways His ways” (Isa. 55:8). In fact, when looked upon with proper perspective, the ironic death of the Savior becomes a clinching victory.
At the very moment that an atoning sacrifice became necessary, moments after Adam and Eve became both mortal and capable of sin, the Father pronounced the following curse and prophecy upon the head of the serpent, “I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel” (Gen. 3:15). The promise means that although Satan would someday bruise the heel of the seed of Eve (referring specifically to Christ) by beguiling men to crucify their king, Christ’s very death upon the cross would empower Him to crush Satan’s head by releasing mankind of the negative effects of the fall with the same heel Satan had worked so hard to bruise.
The fulfillment of this prophecy was accompanied by three days of failure. Three days that I believe Christ’s disciples will never forget. The ultimate victory however, was claimed after those three days when Mary Magdelene's search for her Savior resulted in the angel of the Lord telling her, “He is not here: for he is risen” (Matt. 28:6). The same act that Satan had used to enslave mankind for the eternities was used to forever free them from the bands of death and sin. Christ had not lost; he had won, and he sent an angel to proclaim His victory with eight simple words, “He is not here: for he is risen.”
I have found great comfort in knowing that my thoughts are not His thoughts and that His ways are not my ways. When looked upon with proper perspective, failures can truly be understood as victories. It gives me great peace to know that my future is in the hands of He who 'failed' on the cross because I know what he did to the grave. Bruised and unsure, I look forward with faith to the day my efforts will be found worthy of His help as He crushes the serpent’s head for me.
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