David Bahn – Reflections

Light from the Word and through the lens

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In 1968 Jerry Snell opened a door in the hallway outside our first hour chemistry class. He invited me into what I discovered was a darkroom. Soon I was on the school newspaper and annual staff as a photographer. Later I learned that Jerry was a Lutheran who was planning to become a pastor. A few years later I was not only a Lutheran, but I was heading off to seminary to become a Lutheran pastor, too. Jerry followed a year later and served as a pastor in Missouri until his untimely heart attack and death. I thank God for Jerry and enjoy photography still today – not to mention rejoicing in having served as a Lutheran pastor in congregations in Utah, Colorado, Arkansas and Texas. I’ve retired now and serve part time as a Congregational Support Specialist for the Texas District of the LCMS. I also provide coaching and leadership training through various PLI cohorts and with individual congregations and organizations. David Bahn is a follower of Jesus Christ, husband to Diane, father and grandfather. He is an avid amateur photographer. His photo website is “Flowers by God Photos by David” He also publishes a devotional blog DavidBahn-Reflections.com. He and Diane live in Cypress Texas and enjoy visiting their grandchildren who live in the United States and Germany. He graduated from Concordia Theological Seminary in 1979, and earned a Doctor of Ministry degree from Fuller Theological Seminary in 1991. Diane, his wife, is now retired from PLI (PLIleadership.org). They have offered presentations on Marriage and Ministry Partnership, Leadership, Changing Your Congregation’s Culture, and Missional Living. They look are working with PLI International training pastors and wives of the ELVD Diocese of the Lutheran Church of Tanzania. David’s personal mission statement is “Leading people to realize Jesus’ calling and plans for their lives.”

God’s Kingdom Movement

Now Herod was angry with the people of Tyre and Sidon, and they came to him with one accord, and having persuaded Blastus, the king’s chamberlain, they asked for peace, because their country depended on the king’s country for food. 21 On an appointed day Herod put on his royal robes, took his seat upon the throne, and delivered an oration to them. 22 And the people were shouting, “The voice of a god, and not of a man!” 23 Immediately an angel of the Lord struck him down, because he did not give God the glory, and he was eaten by worms and breathed his last.

24 But the word of God increased and multiplied.

25 And Barnabas and Saul returned from Jerusalem when they had completed their service, bringing with them John, whose other name was Mark. – Acts 12:20-25

20170328-DSC05726
These beautiful yellow flowers strike a strong contrast with the blue sky. Anza-Borrego Desert State Park | March 2017

We pray in the Lord’s Prayer, “Thy kingdom come.” Martin Luther rightly points out that “The kingdom of God comes indeed without our prayer, of itself; but we pray in this petition that it may come unto us also.” It’s not something that we can make happen. We don’t build God’s kingdom. He builds his kingdom. He uses faithful people – witnesses, evangelists, pastors, friends, family members, apostles, prophets, teachers, and neighbors to do that. For the kingdom of God – better yet, the “rule and reign of God” is a rule and reign of grace in the heart of the believer. It is a beautiful thing to behold!

It is a great privilege to be part of God’s rule and reign coming to others through one’s witness, gospel sharing, and evangelistic efforts. It doesn’t always look like the rule and reign of God is making headway. But sometimes it clearly is. And in those cases, it is also clear that this is a work of God, not of man. We cannot cause someone to be struck down in their moment of arrogant boasting – though surely sometimes we wish we could.

There are those who claim to speak for God – though they have only their own welfare, benefit, and advancement in mind. But the servant of God who wishes to be part of God’s movement into the hearts and lives of others will claim no personal good within. And in the end the rule and reign of God will be advanced.

The self-important and prideful boaster will come to naught. This happens in bold relief here in these verses as Herod is struck down, eaten by worms(!), and dies: an inglorious end to say the least.

But note well the small statement, standing alone in the passage above:

But the word of God increased and multiplied. – Acts 12:24

New workers are being put into place for the advancement of the rule and reign of Jesus. He already reigns in their hearts. He will use them to bring others into his kingdom. The people are being brought together. The mission of God will advance. The kingdom of God will come.

I want to be part of that!

 

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One response to “God’s Kingdom Movement”

  1. Quilting Crosses with Threads of Hope Avatar
    Quilting Crosses with Threads of Hope

    ME TOO!
    You know, for me, playing a sport, doing an activity or project, is much different from watching it. If I’m playing I’m engaged at a different level and the details matter. If I’m just watching it, that is usually for the purpose of passing time, distraction or simply my own pleasure. At its ends, I can walk away entertained but unchanged with the details never having been on or near my radar. It’s time to level up and re-engage and for many to even engage for the first time. I want to be a part of God’s wonderful plan – salvation for all people!

    Reply

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