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.”

  • Today’s Psalms for February 11, 2024

    Please pray these psalms with me on this Lord’s Day

    Psalm 11:4-5

    The Lord is in his holy temple;
        the Lord’s throne is in heaven;
        his eyes see, his eyelids test the children of man.
    5 The Lord tests the righteous,
        but his soul hates the wicked and the one who loves violence.

    Psalm 41:1-4

    Blessed is the one who considers the poor!
        In the day of trouble the Lord delivers him;
    2 the Lord protects him and keeps him alive;
        he is called blessed in the land;
        you do not give him up to the will of his enemies.
    3 The Lord sustains him on his sickbed;
        in his illness you restore him to full health.

    4 As for me, I said, “O Lord, be gracious to me;
        heal me, for I have sinned against you!”

    Psalm 71:1-3, 23-24

    In you, O Lord, do I take refuge;
        let me never be put to shame!
    2 In your righteousness deliver me and rescue me;
        incline your ear to me, and save me!
    3 Be to me a rock of refuge,
        to which I may continually come;
    you have given the command to save me,
        for you are my rock and my fortress.

    23 My lips will shout for joy,
        when I sing praises to you;
        my soul also, which you have redeemed.
    24 And my tongue will talk of your righteous help all the day long,
    for they have been put to shame and disappointed
        who sought to do me hurt.

    Psalm 101:1-3

    I will sing of steadfast love and justice;
        to you, O Lord, I will make music.
    2 I will ponder the way that is blameless.
        Oh when will you come to me?
    I will walk with integrity of heart
        within my house;
    3 I will not set before my eyes
        anything that is worthless.
    I hate the work of those who fall away;
        it shall not cling to me.

    Psalm 131

    O Lord, my heart is not lifted up;
        my eyes are not raised too high;
    I do not occupy myself with things
        too great and too marvelous for me.
    2 But I have calmed and quieted my soul,
        like a weaned child with its mother;
        like a weaned child is my soul within me.

    3 O Israel, hope in the Lord
        from this time forth and forevermore.

    English Standard Version (ESV)
    The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016.
    Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.

  • Who’s on First?

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    Acts 14:1-15

    Now at Iconium they entered together into the Jewish synagogue and spoke in such a way that a great number of both Jews and Greeks believed. 2 But the unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles and poisoned their minds against the brothers. 3 So they remained for a long time, speaking boldly for the Lord, who bore witness to the word of his grace, granting signs and wonders to be done by their hands. 4 But the people of the city were divided; some sided with the Jews and some with the apostles. 5 When an attempt was made by both Gentiles and Jews, with their rulers, to mistreat them and to stone them, 6 they learned of it and fled to Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lycaonia, and to the surrounding country, 7 and there they continued to preach the gospel.

    8 Now at Lystra there was a man sitting who could not use his feet. He was crippled from birth and had never walked. 9 He listened to Paul speaking. And Paul, looking intently at him and seeing that he had faith to be made well, 10 said in a loud voice, “Stand upright on your feet.” And he sprang up and began walking. 11 And when the crowds saw what Paul had done, they lifted up their voices, saying in Lycaonian, “The gods have come down to us in the likeness of men!” 12 Barnabas they called Zeus, and Paul, Hermes, because he was the chief speaker. 13 And the priest of Zeus, whose temple was at the entrance to the city, brought oxen and garlands to the gates and wanted to offer sacrifice with the crowds. 14 But when the apostles Barnabas and Paul heard of it, they tore their garments and rushed out into the crowd, crying out, 15 “Men, why are you doing these things? We also are men, of like nature with you, and we bring you good news, that you should turn from these vain things to a living God, who made the heaven and the earth and the sea and all that is in them.

    Two Chains are Better than One | Tomball, TX | December 2023

    Maybe you remember the Abbot and Costello routine, Who’s on First.” I’ve quoted the whole routine below. It’s a rather well done comedy about silly names and miscommunication. “Who” is the name of the first baseman. “What” is the name of the second baseman. And the conversation is genuinely funny. They are so talented that they don’t have to resort to scatological language to get a laugh. At the end you discover that the shortstop’s name is “I don’t give a darn.” That’s as close as they get to bad language.

    But there is a significant lesson in regard to the shortstop’s name. And it actually relates to the shortstop, his name and the prominence of both Barnabas and Paul. The shortstop is arguably the most important player on the defensive field (outside of the pitcher, although you might also make a case for the catcher). But go with me on this one. If the most important person on the defensive team has the name, “I don’t give a darn,” it might be enlightening regarding who gets the credit and the glory. If one were to live by that moniker, we would not care who gets credit for whatever good is done for the glory of God.

    Barnabas seems to be this person. For if you look at the work of God through the Apostles, seeking to discern who was most impactful, you might have to say it was Paul. He lead three missionary trips (four if you also count his forced trip to Rome). He wrote powerfully important and impactful letters to the churches of Asia Minor and southern Europe. His letter to the Romans is considered by most to be the most impactful and profound of all the New Testament letters.

    You could also suggest we think of Peter as most important. He speaks at Pentecost and 3000 souls were added to the church on that one day. He is mentioned several times in such a way that we can conclude that the early church considered him as the leader of the apostles. He issues the final ruling when the church gathers for debate about how to handle the first gentile converts to the faith.

    Are there others you might suggest? Maybe Luke who wrote both the Gospel of Luke and the book of Acts should be considered. He actually wrote more words and pages of the New Testament than Paul did! But you may be overlooking the real candidate for the most important person in the earliest days of the Christian Church and her mission work. Barnabas was the one who got Paul and presented him to the apostles and urged that they accept him as one of their own. He is partnered with Paul when the Holy Spirit speaks to the church in Antioch, “Set aside for me Barnabas and Paul for the works to which I have called them. And here again Barnabas is mentioned first.

    Barnabas seems not to care who gets the credit – even though he gets first billing here and elsewhere in the New Testament. He is a true Son of Encouragement (that’s what his name means). And through his encouragement not only is Paul made more effective, but Mark will be redeemed after Paul refuses to bring him along in a future missionary endeavor.

    The world needs more Barnabases: people who don’t care who gets the credit as long as the kingdom of God is manifest and the mission of God is advanced. Is there someone you can encourage this week so that happens as well? I’m guessing there may be. I hope you find a way to do so – no matter who gets first billing, or who’s on first!

    Who’s On First – Abbott & Costello

    Abbott: Well Costello, I’m going to New York with you. You know Bucky Harris, the Yankee’s manager, gave me a job as coach for as long as you’re on the team.

    Costello: Look Abbott, if you’re the coach, you must know all the players.

    Abbott: I certainly do.

    Costello: Well you know I’ve never met the guys. So you’ll have to tell me their names, and then I’ll know who’s playing on the team.

    Abbott: Oh, I’ll tell you their names, but you know it seems to me they give these ball players now-a-days very peculiar names.

    Costello: You mean funny names?

    Abbott: Strange names, pet names…like Dizzy Dean…

    Costello: His brother Daffy.

    Abbott: Daffy Dean…

    Costello: And their French cousin.

    Abbott: French?

    Costello: Goofé.

    Abbott: Goofé Dean. Well, let’s see, we have on the bags, Who’s on first, What’s on second, I Don’t Know is on third…

    Costello: That’s what I want to find out.

    Abbott: I say Who’s on first, What’s on second, I Don’t Know’s on third.

    Costello: Are you the manager?

    Abbott: Yes.

    Costello: You gonna be the coach too?

    Abbott: Yes.

    Costello: And you don’t know the fellows’ names?

    Abbott: Well I should.

    Costello: Well then who’s on first?

    Abbott: Yes.

    Costello: I mean the fellow’s name.

    Abbott: Who.

    Costello: The guy on first.

    Abbott: Who.

    Costello: The first baseman.

    Abbott: Who.

    Costello: The guy playing…

    Abbott: Who is on first!

    Costello: I’m asking YOU who’s on first.

    Abbott: That’s the man’s name.

    Costello: That’s who’s name?

    Abbott: Yes.

    Costello: Well go ahead and tell me.

    Abbott: That’s it.

    Costello: That’s who?

    Abbott: Yes.

    PAUSE

    Costello: Look, you gotta first baseman?

    Abbott: Certainly.

    Costello: Who’s playing first?

    Abbott: That’s right.

    Costello: When you pay off the first baseman every month, who gets the money?

    Abbott: Every dollar of it.

    Costello: All I’m trying to find out is the fellow’s name on first base.

    Abbott: Who.

    Costello: The guy that gets…

    Abbott: That’s it.

    Costello: Who gets the money…

    Abbott: He does, every dollar. Sometimes his wife comes down and collects it.

    Costello: Who’s wife?

    Abbott: Yes.

    PAUSE

    Abbott: What’s wrong with that?

    Costello: Look, all I wanna know is when you sign up the first baseman, how does he sign his name?

    Abbott: Who.

    Costello: The guy.

    Abbott: Who.

    Costello: How does he sign…

    Abbott: That’s how he signs it.

    Costello: Who?

    Abbott: Yes.

    PAUSE

    Costello: All I’m trying to find out is what’s the guy’s name on first base.

    Abbott: No. What is on second base.

    Costello: I’m not asking you who’s on second.

    Abbott: Who’s on first.

    Costello: One base at a time!

    Abbott: Well, don’t change the players around.

    Costello: I’m not changing nobody!

    Abbott: Take it easy, buddy.

    Costello: I’m only asking you, who’s the guy on first base?

    Abbott: That’s right.

    Costello: Ok.

    Abbott: All right.

    PAUSE

    Costello: What’s the guy’s name on first base?

    Abbott: No. What is on second.

    Costello: I’m not asking you who’s on second.

    Abbott: Who’s on first.

    Costello: I don’t know.

    Abbott: He’s on third, we’re not talking about him.

    Costello: Now how did I get on third base?

    Abbott: Why you mentioned his name.

    Costello: If I mentioned the third baseman’s name, who did I say is playing third?

    Abbott: No. Who’s playing first.

    Costello: What’s on first?

    Abbott: What’s on second.

    Costello: I don’t know.

    Abbott: He’s on third.

    Costello: There I go, back on third again!

    PAUSE

    Costello: Would you just stay on third base and don’t go off it.

    Abbott: All right, what do you want to know?

    Costello: Now who’s playing third base?

    Abbott: Why do you insist on putting Who on third base?

    Costello: What am I putting on third.

    Abbott: No. What is on second.

    Costello: You don’t want who on second?

    Abbott: Who is on first.

    Costello: I don’t know.

    Abbott & Costello Together:Third base!

    PAUSE

    Costello: Look, you gotta outfield?

    Abbott: Sure.

    Costello: The left fielder’s name?

    Abbott: Why.

    Costello: I just thought I’d ask you.

    Abbott: Well, I just thought I’d tell ya.

    Costello: Then tell me who’s playing left field.

    Abbott: Who’s playing first.

    Costello: I’m not… stay out of the infield! I want to know what’s the guy’s name in left field?

    Abbott: No, What is on second.

    Costello: I’m not asking you who’s on second.

    Abbott: Who’s on first!

    Costello: I don’t know.

    Abbott & Costello Together: Third base!

    PAUSE

    Costello: The left fielder’s name?

    Abbott: Why.

    Costello: Because!

    Abbott: Oh, he’s centerfield.

    PAUSE

    Costello: Look, You gotta pitcher on this team?

    Abbott: Sure.

    Costello: The pitcher’s name?

    Abbott: Tomorrow.

    Costello: You don’t want to tell me today?

    Abbott: I’m telling you now.

    Costello: Then go ahead.

    Abbott: Tomorrow!

    Costello: What time?

    Abbott: What time what?

    Costello: What time tomorrow are you gonna tell me who’s pitching?

    Abbott: Now listen. Who is not pitching.

    Costello: I’ll break your arm, you say who’s on first! I want to know what’s the pitcher’s name?

    Abbott: What’s on second.

    Costello: I don’t know.

    Abbott & Costello Together: Third base!

    PAUSE

    Costello: Gotta a catcher?

    Abbott: Certainly.

    Costello: The catcher’s name?

    Abbott: Today.

    Costello: Today, and tomorrow’s pitching.

    Abbott: Now you’ve got it.

    Costello: All we got is a couple of days on the team.

    PAUSE

    Costello: You know I’m a catcher too.

    Abbott: So they tell me.

    Costello: I get behind the plate to do some fancy catching, Tomorrow’s pitching on my team and a heavy hitter gets up. Now the heavy hitter bunts the ball. When he bunts the ball, me, being a good catcher, I’m gonna throw the guy out at first base. So I pick up the ball and throw it to who?

    Abbott: Now that’s the first thing you’ve said right.

    Costello: I don’t even know what I’m talking about!

    PAUSE

    Abbott: That’s all you have to do.

    Costello: Is to throw the ball to first base.

    Abbott: Yes!

    Costello: Now who’s got it?

    Abbott: Naturally.

    PAUSE

    Costello: Look, if I throw the ball to first base, somebody’s gotta get it. Now who has it?

    Abbott: Naturally.

    Costello: Who?

    Abbott: Naturally.

    Costello: Naturally?

    Abbott: Naturally.

    Costello: So I pick up the ball and I throw it to Naturally.

    Abbott: No you don’t, you throw the ball to Who.

    Costello: Naturally.

    Abbott: That’s different.

    Costello: That’s what I said.

    Abbott: You’re not saying it…

    Costello: I throw the ball to Naturally.

    Abbott: You throw it to Who.

    Costello: Naturally.

    Abbott: That’s it.

    Costello: That’s what I said!

    Abbott: You ask me.

    Costello: I throw the ball to who?

    Abbott: Naturally.

    Costello: Now you ask me.

    Abbott: You throw the ball to Who?

    Costello: Naturally.

    Abbott: That’s it.

    Costello: Same as you! Same as YOU! I throw the ball to who. Whoever it is drops the ball and the guy runs to second. Who picks up the ball and throws it to What. What throws it to I Don’t Know. I Don’t Know throws it back to Tomorrow, Triple play. Another guy gets up and hits a long fly ball to Because. Why? I don’t know! He’s on third and I don’t give a darn!

    Abbott: What?

    Costello: I said I don’t give a darn!

    Abbott: Oh, that’s our shortstop.

    https://www.baseball-almanac.com/humor4.shtml

  • It’s not me

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    Acts 14:1-15

    Now at Iconium they entered together into the Jewish synagogue and spoke in such a way that a great number of both Jews and Greeks believed. 2 But the unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles and poisoned their minds against the brothers. 3 So they remained for a long time, speaking boldly for the Lord, who bore witness to the word of his grace, granting signs and wonders to be done by their hands. 4 But the people of the city were divided; some sided with the Jews and some with the apostles. 5 When an attempt was made by both Gentiles and Jews, with their rulers, to mistreat them and to stone them, 6 they learned of it and fled to Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lycaonia, and to the surrounding country, 7 and there they continued to preach the gospel.

    8 Now at Lystra there was a man sitting who could not use his feet. He was crippled from birth and had never walked. 9 He listened to Paul speaking. And Paul, looking intently at him and seeing that he had faith to be made well, 10 said in a loud voice, “Stand upright on your feet.” And he sprang up and began walking. 11 And when the crowds saw what Paul had done, they lifted up their voices, saying in Lycaonian, “The gods have come down to us in the likeness of men!” 12 Barnabas they called Zeus, and Paul, Hermes, because he was the chief speaker. 13 And the priest of Zeus, whose temple was at the entrance to the city, brought oxen and garlands to the gates and wanted to offer sacrifice with the crowds. 14 But when the apostles Barnabas and Paul heard of it, they tore their garments and rushed out into the crowd, crying out, 15 “Men, why are you doing these things? We also are men, of like nature with you, and we bring you good news, that you should turn from these vain things to a living God, who made the heaven and the earth and the sea and all that is in them.

    Fitting in a Vice | Tomball, TX | December 2023

    There are two ways to say, “It’s not me.” One way is to avoid responsibility. It’s not me. I didn’t break that prize vase.” The other is to deny credit. “It’s not me. I’m the conduit, the vessel. The treasure is from God.” But even in the second case, you can say it in order to avoid responsibility. Some have said, “I just preach the gospel. It’s God’s work to produce the fruits of faith.” All true. But not the whole truth.

    The people in Lystra come wanting to make sacrifices to Barnabas and Paul – thinking they were Zeus and Hermes. When they hear of it Barnabas and Paul will have none of it. They know that honor belongs only to the true God. Idols of gold, silver, or human imagination have no power. They’re not real. So even if they were doing these things on their own, it wouldn’t be Heremes or Zeus in human form. 

    That’s part of their message. They were bold in saying that these people should, “turn from these vain things to a living God.” Two messages are found here. One is implied: vain things are no help, have no power, and are not worthy of our faith. They are not living. This is a faint echo of Jesus’ words in Matthew 15:8-9: “This people honors me with their lips, but their heart is far from me; in vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.” 

    The second message is clear: there is a living God. He is not made of stone, gold, or silver, or man’s imagination. He is not made at all. He made all things: “the heaven and the earth and the sea and all that is in them,” as Paul says. He can act. He does not answer to us or appear at our beck and call. We answer to him. We are accountable to him. He made us for his purposes. He is not a magic rabbit’s foot, or talisman to be called on for our purposes. 

    Paul and Barnabas are saying, “It isn’t us. We’re not the ones doing these miracles. God is doing them through us. We are not worthy of your worship. We are servants of the living God.” That takes a lot of pressure off of us. But it’s not a cop out. It’s just a salutary acknowledgement that we are not in charge. We have only borrowed power. God gets the glory and praise. We get the privilege of serving him.

  • Beyond Likeness

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    Acts 14:1-15

    Now at Iconium they entered together into the Jewish synagogue and spoke in such a way that a great number of both Jews and Greeks believed. 2 But the unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles and poisoned their minds against the brothers. 3 So they remained for a long time, speaking boldly for the Lord, who bore witness to the word of his grace, granting signs and wonders to be done by their hands. 4 But the people of the city were divided; some sided with the Jews and some with the apostles. 5 When an attempt was made by both Gentiles and Jews, with their rulers, to mistreat them and to stone them, 6 they learned of it and fled to Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lycaonia, and to the surrounding country, 7 and there they continued to preach the gospel.

    8 Now at Lystra there was a man sitting who could not use his feet. He was crippled from birth and had never walked. 9 He listened to Paul speaking. And Paul, looking intently at him and seeing that he had faith to be made well, 10 said in a loud voice, “Stand upright on your feet.” And he sprang up and began walking. 11 And when the crowds saw what Paul had done, they lifted up their voices, saying in Lycaonian, “The gods have come down to us in the likeness of men!” 12 Barnabas they called Zeus, and Paul, Hermes, because he was the chief speaker. 13 And the priest of Zeus, whose temple was at the entrance to the city, brought oxen and garlands to the gates and wanted to offer sacrifice with the crowds. 14 But when the apostles Barnabas and Paul heard of it, they tore their garments and rushed out into the crowd, crying out, 15 “Men, why are you doing these things? We also are men, of like nature with you, and we bring you good news, that you should turn from these vain things to a living God, who made the heaven and the earth and the sea and all that is in them.

    Tools in the Shed | Tomball, TX | December 2023

    “We’re just going to come up here and take over,” I said. I intended it as a joke – a comment designed to lighten the mood. It did anything but that. My seminary classmate and I had been sent as good will ambassadors because the seminary was moving to Fort Wayne from Springfield. We would be sharing the campus of the senior college for their final year. The seminary would actually take over the campus the following year. There were not many warm feelings toward us seminary students. In fact, there were some hot feelings of resentment for our takeover of this school’s campus.

    So when I made my joke it was a joke only in my own mind. In fact it was a poke in the eyes of the college students we were meeting with. I backtracked as quickly as I could – somewhat unsuccessfully I might add. Only because of the words, demeanor, and influence of a gracious class leader from the college was the meeting saved.

    But what I said was actually true. We did come and after our first year of a shared campus, we took over the place.

    When the people saw Paul and Barnabas performing miracles they said something that they did not understand. It was true in a way they did not realize. They said, “The gods have come down to us in the likeness of men!” Paul and Barnabas were not gods. They were quick to dispel that notion. Luke tells us that “they tore their garments and rushed out into the crowd, crying out, ‘Men, why are you doing these things? We also are men, of like nature with you.’” They knew the power to do miracles, change lives, and save people was not their own. God was at work through them.

    I wonder if Paul remembered this encounter when he wrote to the church in Philippi. He wrote that Jesus Christ was born in the likeness of men (Philippians 2:7). Jesus was God having come down to us. His presence among men was something to get excited about. Mostly, however, the people of Jesus’ day did not recognize him for who he was. Many in Jesus’ day were deeply touched by his life and ministry, and saw him as God’s gift to men and women. Many, however, rejected him and saw him as a threat to their way of life.

    Jesus is true God and true man. He has come down to redeem us. He calls us to turn from the vain idols “to a living God, who made the heaven and the earth and the sea and all that is in them.”

  • So what do you do?

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    Acts 14:1-15

    Now at Iconium they entered together into the Jewish synagogue and spoke in such a way that a great number of both Jews and Greeks believed. 2 But the unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles and poisoned their minds against the brothers. 3 So they remained for a long time, speaking boldly for the Lord, who bore witness to the word of his grace, granting signs and wonders to be done by their hands. 4 But the people of the city were divided; some sided with the Jews and some with the apostles. 5 When an attempt was made by both Gentiles and Jews, with their rulers, to mistreat them and to stone them, 6 they learned of it and fled to Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lycaonia, and to the surrounding country, 7 and there they continued to preach the gospel.

    8 Now at Lystra there was a man sitting who could not use his feet. He was crippled from birth and had never walked. 9 He listened to Paul speaking. And Paul, looking intently at him and seeing that he had faith to be made well, 10 said in a loud voice, “Stand upright on your feet.” And he sprang up and began walking. 11 And when the crowds saw what Paul had done, they lifted up their voices, saying in Lycaonian, “The gods have come down to us in the likeness of men!” 12 Barnabas they called Zeus, and Paul, Hermes, because he was the chief speaker. 13 And the priest of Zeus, whose temple was at the entrance to the city, brought oxen and garlands to the gates and wanted to offer sacrifice with the crowds. 14 But when the apostles Barnabas and Paul heard of it, they tore their garments and rushed out into the crowd, crying out, 15 “Men, why are you doing these things? We also are men, of like nature with you, and we bring you good news, that you should turn from these vain things to a living God, who made the heaven and the earth and the sea and all that is in them.

    Farm Tools | Tomball, TX | December 2023

    Treat your brothers like you treat your soccer opponents and treat your soccer opponents like you treat your brothers! That’s what I used to say to our sons. Any time they would compete (or fight) with their brothers they would not give up. I sometimes wondered if they were actually trying to hurt one another when they fought. On the other hand when it came to soccer, they would disengage all too soon. They would back away from their opponent rather than engage. Too quick to give up.

    Don’t strike out on the first pitch is the more common way of expressing this sentiment. Paul and Barnabas are far from such acquiescing in that manner. They will not be deterred in bringing the message of Jesus to anyone who will listen. They will not let those who want to silence them succeed in squelching their efforts. They will not get discouraged by those who have no desire to hear their message. They know that God has prepared some hearts to receive their message, and they are intent on getting the word out to them.

    When I was in college I hung out at the Lutheran Campus Center. The pastor there was faithful and gracious. He was a Barnabas – a son of encouragement. And he did not give up after I turned down his first invitation to study the teachings of the Lutheran Church. This was an adult instruction class for people who wanted to become Lutherans. (We want you to know what we teach and to know that you agree with our confession.) Nor did he give up after the second time I declined his invitation. Nor the third. Or the fourth. The fifth time he asked, I agreed.

    Once we delved into the Bible’s teaching about God, Jesus, faith, and grace, I began to engage more fully. I had been non-committal to begin with. All options were open. I had been raised in a Christian home, and much of what I learned was a reaffirmation of my Christian upbringing. And every time I asked a question – even the challenging ones – he pointed me to Scripture.

    Like Paul and Barnabas Pastor Lange continued to preach the gospel. Others heard and believed. My life was changed by this man of God – just as many lives were changed by Paul and Barnabas.

    Perhaps there is someone in your personal orbit on whom you must not give up. Until it becomes clear that they have no desire to hear from you about God, keep preaching the gospel. And when rebuffed, what do you do? Keep on sharing the good news of Jesus.

  • Not peace, but a sword

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    Acts 14:1-15

    Now at Iconium they entered together into the Jewish synagogue and spoke in such a way that a great number of both Jews and Greeks believed. 2 But the unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles and poisoned their minds against the brothers. 3 So they remained for a long time, speaking boldly for the Lord, who bore witness to the word of his grace, granting signs and wonders to be done by their hands. 4 But the people of the city were divided; some sided with the Jews and some with the apostles. 5 When an attempt was made by both Gentiles and Jews, with their rulers, to mistreat them and to stone them, 6 they learned of it and fled to Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lycaonia, and to the surrounding country, 7 and there they continued to preach the gospel.

    8 Now at Lystra there was a man sitting who could not use his feet. He was crippled from birth and had never walked. 9 He listened to Paul speaking. And Paul, looking intently at him and seeing that he had faith to be made well, 10 said in a loud voice, “Stand upright on your feet.” And he sprang up and began walking. 11 And when the crowds saw what Paul had done, they lifted up their voices, saying in Lycaonian, “The gods have come down to us in the likeness of men!” 12 Barnabas they called Zeus, and Paul, Hermes, because he was the chief speaker. 13 And the priest of Zeus, whose temple was at the entrance to the city, brought oxen and garlands to the gates and wanted to offer sacrifice with the crowds. 14 But when the apostles Barnabas and Paul heard of it, they tore their garments and rushed out into the crowd, crying out, 15 “Men, why are you doing these things? We also are men, of like nature with you, and we bring you good news, that you should turn from these vain things to a living God, who made the heaven and the earth and the sea and all that is in them.

    Hasp Latch | Tomball, TX | December 2023

    Define yourself and stay connected. This is the mantra I’ve used to describe the teaching of Edwin Friedman, the guru of systems theory. His book, Failure of Nerve: Leadership in the Age of the Quick Fix, has been remarkably insightful to me. Even the title is informative and insightful. We do live in the age of the quick fix. We want our solutions now. We blame the current administration for our troubles that really had their genesis in policies long gone by. And we want instant solutions to long-term systemic realities.

    Friedman says that in every case of disfunction in a congregation there is a “peace-monger” at the helm. A peace-monger is one who avoids conflict at all costs. He seeks or makes peace unrealistically or at the expense of honor. He insists that we all just get along, but doesn’t want to take a stand lest he upset someone. He tries to thread a path that avoids disappointing people.

    When Jesus spoke about not having come to bring peace but a sword, he wasn’t being belligerent or ugly. He was being factual. He was not a peace monger. Jesus was not about to turn away from truth. He was not going to sacrifice truth on the altar of popularity.

    We see that here. For Paul and Barnabas were emmasaries of Jesus. They were representing his interests. His interests were grace and truth. His interests were fulfilling all that God had promised; things that Moses and the Old Testament Law could never do. And that stirred up the people.

    The gentile people were happy. They were now counted among God’s people. The Jews were distressed. Their monopoly on God’s grace was taken away. And the Jewish leaders incited the gentile leaders to reject Paul and Barnabas and their message.

    If we believe that faith in Jesus will bring peace we are correct – in the ultimate end of all things. But until that time we live in a fallen world. Not everyone loves Jesus. Not everyone believes in him. I wish it was not so. But I’m thankful for Jesus’ willingness to hold to both grace and truth, and for those who maintain that powerful balance – even at the cost of their personal comfort and safety.

  • Today’s Psalms for February 4, 2024

    Please pray these psalms with me on this Lord’s Day

    Psalm 4:1

    Answer me when I call, O God of my righteousness!
        You have given me relief when I was in distress.
        Be gracious to me and hear my prayer!

    Psalm 34:1-3

    I will bless the Lord at all times;
        his praise shall continually be in my mouth.
    2 My soul makes its boast in the Lord;
        let the humble hear and be glad.
    3 Oh, magnify the Lord with me,
        and let us exalt his name together!

    Psalm 64:10

    Let the righteous one rejoice in the Lord
        and take refuge in him!
    Let all the upright in heart exult!

    Psalm 94:12-15

    12 Blessed is the man whom you discipline, O Lord,
        and whom you teach out of your law,
    13 to give him rest from days of trouble,
        until a pit is dug for the wicked.
    14 For the Lordwill not forsake his people;
        he will not abandon his heritage;
    15 for justice will return to the righteous,
        and all the upright in heart will follow it.

    Psalm 124:8

    Our help is in the name of the Lord,
        who made heaven and earth.

  • Be the moon!

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    Acts 13:42-52

    As they went out, the people begged that these things might be told them the next Sabbath. 43 And after the meeting of the synagogue broke up, many Jews and devout converts to Judaism followed Paul and Barnabas, who, as they spoke with them, urged them to continue in the grace of God.

    44 The next Sabbath almost the whole city gathered to hear the word of the Lord. 45 But when the Jews saw the crowds, they were filled with jealousy and began to contradict what was spoken by Paul, reviling him. 46 And Paul and Barnabas spoke out boldly, saying, “It was necessary that the word of God be spoken first to you. Since you thrust it aside and judge yourselves unworthy of eternal life, behold, we are turning to the Gentiles. 47 For so the Lord has commanded us, saying,

    “‘I have made you a light for the Gentiles,
    that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.’”

    48 And when the Gentiles heard this, they began rejoicing and glorifying the word of the Lord, and as many as were appointed to eternal life believed. 49 And the word of the Lord was spreading throughout the whole region. 50 But the Jews incited the devout women of high standing and the leading men of the city, stirred up persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and drove them out of their district. 51 But they shook off the dust from their feet against them and went to Iconium. 52 And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit.

    Blue Moon | August 2023 | Cypress, TX

    I have a confession: I love flashlights. Ever since I was a Boy Scout, helping park cars for football games at our church, I have loved flashlights. One of the troop leaders had a flashlight with a long red extension. It was very helpful in guiding cars. It also threw a strong beam of light. Years later I got to know a police officer. I even rode with him one night on his rounds. He had one of the first Mag Light flashlights I had ever seen. Strong and durable. Aluminum. Bright beam of light. Not too long ago one of the men at our church’s men’s retreat had one of those tactical lights. Talk about a strong beam of light! I have got to get me one of those things!!!! I’m not sure I actually need forgiveness, but I came close to envying him for that flashlight!

    The image of a flashlight is one I use to describe the work of the Holy Spirit. A flashlight casts it beam to illuminate something. It focuses our attention in the direction of its shaft of light. The Holy Spirit focuses our attention on Jesus. Rather than calling attention to itself, the Holy Spirit calls attention to Jesus.

    There, however, the analogy breaks down. For Jesus himself is the light of the world. He shines brightly with the light of God’s love. He illuminates men’s and women’s hearts. He shows us the way. He is the dayspring from on high (cf. Job 38:12 ; Luke 1:78; Isaiah 60:1 Isaiah 60:2 ; Malachi 4:2; Revelation 22:16). He is the Sun of Righteousness.

    I’m curious, still however, about the somewhat ambiguous grammar of this passage. Paul says, “For so the Lord has commanded us, saying, ‘I have made you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.’”

    We know that Jesus Christ is the Light of the World. But it seems here that we who follow Jesus are to be the light of the world as well. I’m reminded of the children’s song, “This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine…” That may be a good reminder to us of two things:

    1. We are to let our lights shine. We must keep that in mind, and repent when we fail to do so, or when we cloud others’ view of the True Light: Jesus.
    2. We are the light for those who live in darkness. We have the privilege and honor of bearing Jesus’ light to others. It’s not ours. It is borrowed. We are like the moon which shines with borrowed light.

    Let the light of Christ reflect from us to others! Be the moon!

  • As the Gospel Turns

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    Acts 13:42-52

    As they went out, the people begged that these things might be told them the next Sabbath. 43 And after the meeting of the synagogue broke up, many Jews and devout converts to Judaism followed Paul and Barnabas, who, as they spoke with them, urged them to continue in the grace of God.

    44 The next Sabbath almost the whole city gathered to hear the word of the Lord. 45 But when the Jews saw the crowds, they were filled with jealousy and began to contradict what was spoken by Paul, reviling him. 46 And Paul and Barnabas spoke out boldly, saying, “It was necessary that the word of God be spoken first to you. Since you thrust it aside and judge yourselves unworthy of eternal life, behold, we are turning to the Gentiles. 47 For so the Lord has commanded us, saying,

    “‘I have made you a light for the Gentiles,
    that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.’”

    48 And when the Gentiles heard this, they began rejoicing and glorifying the word of the Lord, and as many as were appointed to eternal life believed. 49 And the word of the Lord was spreading throughout the whole region. 50 But the Jews incited the devout women of high standing and the leading men of the city, stirred up persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and drove them out of their district. 51 But they shook off the dust from their feet against them and went to Iconium. 52 And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit.

    Old Barn Door Detail | Tomball, Texas | December 2023

    Did you ever watch the daytime soap operas? Called that because the various soap companies would sponsor them, targeting their ads toward the homemakers and housewives who would watch daily. For some time it was all about being able to watch these shows while ironing clothes, cleaning up after messy husbands, and taking care of the children. The one I remember was “As the World Turns.” They portrayed messed-up lives with every kind of trouble. Perhaps the viewers would think, at least I don’t have it that bad. Then it seemed to turn toward a more steamy narrative, and I wonder if some were thinking, I wish I was there with him.

    Maybe I’m off regarding that, but as far as the world turning, we have here a major turn in the mission of God here in these verses. Paul and Barnabas preach about Jesus. People are intrigued. Many want to hear more. The Jews get upset. And Paul takes this as a sign to turn his attention to the gentiles. And he makes the point that it was necessary that they preach to the Jews first, and being rejected then turn to the gentiles.

    Let’s be clear about this. Paul was a Jew. He has bonafides that would rival any of those who would oppose him (cf. Philippians 3:4-6). This is not an antisemitic comment: The Jewish leaders rejected the message of Jesus. They were threatened by it. They wanted to protect their turf and their privilege. But their rejection of the message of the gospel is at least in part the reason you and I call on Jesus today. We’re not Jews. We are gentiles. And from this point on Paul will turn his attention to reaching new peoples (and especially the gentiles) with the good news of Jesus.

    He will still first go to the Jewish synagogues, or places of worship. But he will also be very ready to bring the message of Jesus to any gentile who shows the slightest interest.

    God wants all people to be saved: Jew, gentile, slave, free, male and female. No one is beyond his loving grace. We may push him away. We may even push others away from him. In either case this is a grave sin. Thanks be to God that he is always reaching, searching, inviting, and saving people of every race, tribe, people, and tongue. We’re one of those after all!

  • Getting Rid of Jealousy

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    Acts 13:42-52

    As they went out, the people begged that these things might be told them the next Sabbath. 43 And after the meeting of the synagogue broke up, many Jews and devout converts to Judaism followed Paul and Barnabas, who, as they spoke with them, urged them to continue in the grace of God.

    44 The next Sabbath almost the whole city gathered to hear the word of the Lord. 45 But when the Jews saw the crowds, they were filled with jealousy and began to contradict what was spoken by Paul, reviling him. 46 And Paul and Barnabas spoke out boldly, saying, “It was necessary that the word of God be spoken first to you. Since you thrust it aside and judge yourselves unworthy of eternal life, behold, we are turning to the Gentiles. 47 For so the Lord has commanded us, saying,

    “‘I have made you a light for the Gentiles,
        that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.’”

    48 And when the Gentiles heard this, they began rejoicing and glorifying the word of the Lord, and as many as were appointed to eternal life believed. 49 And the word of the Lord was spreading throughout the whole region. 50 But the Jews incited the devout women of high standing and the leading men of the city, stirred up persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and drove them out of their district. 51 But they shook off the dust from their feet against them and went to Iconium. 52 And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit.

    Old Barn Door Detail | Tomball, Texas | December 2023

    We were at a conference at a large and influential church – we five pastors. It was part of our Pastoral Leadership Institute training. They had converted a large manufacturing facility into a church building. Offices, Sunday School rooms, youth center, worship space, and a wonderfully open gathering area which some would call a narthex. We would better call it a commons or gathering area. This wasn’t a traditional church building afterall.

    While we were there, the five pastors began to confess our sins of church envy. We visited large and successful churches around our nation. They had beautiful buildings, gifted staff members, and a rich array of programming. If only we had such resources in our churches!

    While I was there, I was led by the Holy Spirit to 1 Corinthians 3:21-23, “So let no one boast in men. For all things are yours, whether Paul or Apollos or Cephas or the world or life or death or the present or the future—all are yours, and you are Christ’s, and Christ is God’s.”

    It was for me a profound realization. The church did not belong to Wayne, Steve, Mark, or John. The church belongs to God. Whether I’m up in front preaching and at the helm leading, it’s not my church. I need never be envious of another’s success. I don’t have to envy their staff, buildings, programs, or status. It all belongs to Christ. And I belong to him.

    Sadly the Jews didn’t see things that way. They were envious. In fact they were, “they were filled with jealousy.” That’s not a good thing to be filled with. That is a fuel that will burn us out. It will not propel a godly life of service and sacrifice. 

    Since those days long ago, I’ve had the chance to lead a large church with a tremendous staff. I’ve enjoyed some degree of success. I’m glad to say not the degree of success as megachurch pastors have enjoyed. That’s because I’m all in for giving God the glory. His is the kingdom, power, and glory. His is the church, honor, and majesty. His is the salvation, praise, and splendor. Let us never be envious of the attention he receives. Rather let’s see how much attention we can point toward him.