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.”

  • Falling and Rising

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    Luke 2:21-35

    And at the end of eight days, when he was circumcised, he was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before he was conceived in the womb.

    22 And when the time came for their purification according to the Law of Moses, they brought him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord 23 (as it is written in the Law of the Lord, “Every male who first opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord”) 24 and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the Law of the Lord, “a pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.” 25 Now there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon, and this man was righteous and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. 26 And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. 27 And he came in the Spirit into the temple, and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him according to the custom of the Law, 28 he took him up in his arms and blessed God and said,

    29 “Lord, now you are letting your servant depart in peace,
        according to your word;
    30 for my eyes have seen your salvation
    31     that you have prepared in the presence of all peoples,
    32 a light for revelation to the Gentiles,
        and for glory to your people Israel.”

    33 And his father and his mother marveled at what was said about him. 34 And Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, “Behold, this child is appointed for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign that is opposed 35 (and a sword will pierce through your own soul also), so that thoughts from many hearts may be revealed.”

    New York City Skyline at Daybreak | October 2023

    The first step of any recovery program or process is to admit that you have a problem. Whether it’s AA, or Celebrate Recovery, when we admit that we were powerless over our addictions and compulsive behaviors, that our lives had become unmanageable, we are able to start down the road to recovery. Martin Luther – long before Bill Wilson or anyone else in modern times – began his 95 theses that signaled the start of the Reformation stated, “When our Lord and Master Jesus Christ said, ‘Repent,’ he willed the entire life of believers to be one of repentance.”

    Repentance is the essential necessary step to renewal. Long before Martin Luther, Simeon alluded to this when he spoke of Jesus’ impact in the lives of us all. “Behold, this child is appointed for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign that is opposed…so that thoughts from many hearts may be revealed.” Mary had sung of this in her hymn of praise, “he has brought down the mighty from their thrones and exalted those of humble estate” (Luke 1:52). Jesus will bring us down so he can lift us up. His call to humility is a call to allow him to exalt us.

    Jesus taught this in the Sermon on the Mount, “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:3). Mary will, herself, experience this as Simeon prophecies, “a sword will pierce through your own soul.”

    Hubris will be replaced – either now or later, and either by godly sorrow which leads to repentance, or by worldly sorrow that leads to death. There is a chasm of difference between repentance (contrition and faith), and the faithless regret of comeuppance. 

    Sadly there are many who resist their whole lives, and will fall never to rise again. But those who bow the knee today, who repent and believe, who do not suppose they may recommend themselves to God, will be raised up. The fall of which Simeon speaks is not the fall into sin, but falling in humble honor before our Lord Jesus at whose name every knee will bow in heaven and on earth. And one day every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. This little baby will bring all that about, with the Father and the Holy Spirit.

  • It’s never too early to start down the path of righteousness

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    Luke 2:21-35

    And at the end of eight days, when he was circumcised, he was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before he was conceived in the womb.

    22 And when the time came for their purification according to the Law of Moses, they brought him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord 23 (as it is written in the Law of the Lord, “Every male who first opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord”) 24 and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the Law of the Lord, “a pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.” 25 Now there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon, and this man was righteous and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. 26 And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. 27 And he came in the Spirit into the temple, and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him according to the custom of the Law, 28 he took him up in his arms and blessed God and said,

    29 “Lord, now you are letting your servant depart in peace,
        according to your word;
    30 for my eyes have seen your salvation
    31     that you have prepared in the presence of all peoples,
    32 a light for revelation to the Gentiles,
        and for glory to your people Israel.”

    33 And his father and his mother marveled at what was said about him. 34 And Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, “Behold, this child is appointed for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign that is opposed 35 (and a sword will pierce through your own soul also), so that thoughts from many hearts may be revealed.”

    New York Aster | Charlottetown, PE Canada | October 2023

    If it’s worth doing, it’s worth doing poorly. That might sound like bad advice. And if you took it to the extreme it would be. But it was an admonishment against procrastination. We’ll get started making disciples when we have our act together, can easily become an excuse for not starting at all. And while good is the enemy of great (Jim Collins), perfection is the enemy of action. If we have to have it all together before we begin following Jesus, making disciples, sharing the gospel, inviting people into our homes and lives, we’ll easily perpetually put it off.

    Perfectionism, according to my ChatGPT AI assistant, is a relentless pursuit of flawlessness and an unrealistic desire for high standards. Individuals with perfectionistic tendencies often set excessively high goals for themselves, exhibit an intense fear of failure or making mistakes, and may engage in overly critical self-evaluation. Perfectionism can lead to stress, anxiety, and a constant feeling of dissatisfaction, as achieving the unattainable standards set by perfectionists is often challenging or impossible. That seems pretty accurate to me. People who struggle with perfectionism can start a project a thousand times, or never start at all.

    Jesus was perfect. But he was not a perfectionist. He calls his people to “be perfect as your Father in heaven is perfect” (Matthew 5:48). But this is not a call to perfectionism. It is a call to mercy, grace, and love (cf. Matthew 5:43-48).

    Jesus’ perfect life started at his conception. Born of a virgin, he did not inherit the sinful nature because his conception was of the Holy Spirit. He is the Son of God – without sin. And now, here at the temple, his path of righteousness continues in the obedience of his parents. They offer the requisite sacrifice after Mary’s time of purification. A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons seems like a little thing. But Jesus’ whole life will be one little thing after another – not in a perfectionistic manner, but in a love-borne obedience. 

    Jesus will one day challenge the perfectionistic requirements of the ceremonial laws of the Jews. These included laws about what to eat, what to wear, circumcision, how to pray out loud, and even how many sticks you may carry or how far you may walk on the Sabbath. But for now, his conformity to the Old Testament Law is graciously provided by his parents.

    It’s never too early to set ourselves or our children on the paths of righteousness. Whether it is bringing a child to be baptized, teaching them Christian songs and hymns, bringing them to church and Sunday school, and modeling a life of faith and love. We will never reach perfection this side of eternity. But we have a Savior who is completely and wholly righteous, perfect in the best sense of the word: complete. He is all we need for life and salvation. It’s never too early to follow him. Nor is it too late.

    The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is today. So too our walk of faithful love.

  • Living or Departing in Peace

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    Luke 2:21-35

    And at the end of eight days, when he was circumcised, he was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before he was conceived in the womb.

    22 And when the time came for their purification according to the Law of Moses, they brought him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord 23 (as it is written in the Law of the Lord, “Every male who first opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord”) 24 and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the Law of the Lord, “a pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.” 25 Now there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon, and this man was righteous and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. 26 And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. 27 And he came in the Spirit into the temple, and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him according to the custom of the Law, 28 he took him up in his arms and blessed God and said,

    29 “Lord, now you are letting your servant depart in peace,
        according to your word;
    30 for my eyes have seen your salvation
    31     that you have prepared in the presence of all peoples,
    32 a light for revelation to the Gentiles,
        and for glory to your people Israel.”

    33 And his father and his mother marveled at what was said about him. 34 And Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, “Behold, this child is appointed for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign that is opposed 35 (and a sword will pierce through your own soul also), so that thoughts from many hearts may be revealed.”

    Tree Fungus-2 | Charlottetown, CA | October 2023

    Nunc Dimittis is Latin for “Now, dismiss.” I first heard these words when I was in high school and visited a Lutheran Church. They were sung after Holy Communion (Page 29-30 in the 1941 Lutheran Hymnal).

    Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace according to thy word.
    For mine eyes have seen thy salvation,
    Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people;
    To be a light to lighten the Gentiles and to be the glory of thy people Israel. – Luke 2:29-32

    It immediately struck a chord with me – literally and figuratively. The tune is plaintive and wistful, yet uplifting and hopeful. This is a powerful combination. For Simeon is thankful to God that he had seen the Christ Child before he died. He also knew that his days were numbered. He would soon depart to be with God.

    As I sang it over the years, it became a heartfelt prayer. I was saying to God, let me live in peace. Let me leave my sins at the cross. Let me be in right standing with you, and in my own heart. I didn’t sing it in anticipation of my death. I sang it in hope of a peaceful life. I didn’t want my sin to consume me. I didn’t want shame and guilt to weigh down my heart. Nor did I want to wink at sin. I wasn’t saying, OK, Lord, I’m forgiven now and I can do whatever I please. I was saying, I want to live in peace with God so I could live in peace in my own heart. 

    These verses became even more important to me in August of 1985. Our family had piled into our Dodge van to go see my Mom and Dad. He was on his deathbed. He held out all day and was able to see us and our sons before taking his last breath. I prayed this prayer for and with him and the family. He took his last breath just a few moments later. I remember thinking, Now the dying is ended.

    When I am privileged to serve Holy Communion I use a blessing that reflects one part of this song. “Depart in peace; the Lord is with you,” I say. When God is with us we may be at peace, for our God is rich in grace and mercy. He forgives our sins. He is with us to save us and give us perfect peace. I just recently started saying, “Live in peace; the Lord is with you.” Departing or living; waking or dying: we have peace with God for Jesus has saved us. We can live and depart in peace. Thanks be to God!

  • When You’ve Seen God’s Salvation

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    Luke 2:21-35

    And at the end of eight days, when he was circumcised, he was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before he was conceived in the womb.

    22 And when the time came for their purification according to the Law of Moses, they brought him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord 23 (as it is written in the Law of the Lord, “Every male who first opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord”) 24 and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the Law of the Lord, “a pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.” 25 Now there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon, and this man was righteous and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. 26 And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. 27 And he came in the Spirit into the temple, and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him according to the custom of the Law, 28 he took him up in his arms and blessed God and said,

    29 “Lord, now you are letting your servant depart in peace,
        according to your word;
    30 for my eyes have seen your salvation
    31     that you have prepared in the presence of all peoples,
    32 a light for revelation to the Gentiles,
        and for glory to your people Israel.”

    33 And his father and his mother marveled at what was said about him. 34 And Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, “Behold, this child is appointed for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign that is opposed 35 (and a sword will pierce through your own soul also), so that thoughts from many hearts may be revealed.”

    Tree Fungus-2 | Charlottetown, CA | October 2023

    The great salvation event of the Old Testament was the Exodus. God sent Moses to Egypt to confront Pharaoh, saying to him, “Thus says the LORD, the God of the Hebrews, ‘Let my people go, that they may serve me.’” Ultimately Israel is released from their bondage in Egypt, passing through the Red Sea on dry ground. They celebrated this deliverance every year: The Passover.

    Can you imagine being there? Watching Moses lift his staff and feeling the wind, and watching the water pile up, making a path through the sea. Seeing the walls of water on both sides of them as they walked through dry shod. Watching Pharaoh’s army being drowned rather than being overtaken and slaughtered by them.

    We know that was superseded by the birth of Jesus. All the promises from Adam to Abraham. From Eve to Sarah. From David to Isaiah. From Ruth to Isaiah’s virgin. From Eden to Bethlehem. From Genesis to Malachi. All this was wrapped up in an 8-day-old boy’s presentation in the temple.

    Simeon is praising God for he had been told that he would see God’s salvation before he died. Now he is literally holding the baby boy – the fulfillment of all that God intended and promised – in his arms. God had fulfilled his promises and Simeon had seen it. Touched him. Held him in his arms. Simeon saw it for himself.

    Thirty-three years later Jesus would be nailed to a cross, die and be buried in a borrowed tomb. Three days later that tomb would be empty. This is our great salvation event, that surpasses every Old Testament miracle, and even the miracles of Jesus (a subset of the fullness of Jesus’ work to save us).

    For centuries the people of Israel remembered the Exodus and celebrated God’s salvation. We’ve had centuries to remember and rejoice in God’s salvation. We can look in our mind’s eye at the cross and the empty tomb. We can experience a foretaste of the Great Wedding Feast to come at the communion rail. We can feel the weight of sin, guilt and shame lifted when we hear Jesus’ word of forgiveness and his promise that whoever comes to him will never be turned away” (John 6:37).

    An urgent prayer answered. A weight of guilt and shame lifted. A new hope when all seemed lost. The peace that passes all understanding at the communion rail. The joy of seeing your grandchild baptized. All these are pale reflections of God’s salvation. We’ve seen God’s work in our lives. We can live in peace.

  • Jesus

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    Luke 2:21

    And at the end of eight days, when he was circumcised, he was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before he was conceived in the womb.

    Tree Fungus | Charlottetown, CA | October 2023

    Jesus! Name of Wondrous Love

    Jesus! Name of wondrous love,
    Name all other names above,
    Unto which must ev’ry knee
    Bow in deep humility.

    Jesus! Name decreed of old,
    To the maiden mother told,
    Kneeling in her lowly cell,
    By the angel Gabriel.

    Jesus! Name of priceless worth
    To the fallen of the earth
    For the promise that it gave,
    “Jesus shall His people save.”

    Jesus! Name of mercy mild,
    Given to the holy Child
    When the cup of human woe
    First He tasted here below.

    Jesus! Only name that’s giv’n
    Under all the mighty heav’n
    Whereby those to sin enslaved
    Burst their fetters and are saved.

    Jesus! Name of wondrous love,
    Human name of God above;
    Pleading only this, we flee
    Helpless, O our God, to Thee.

    [Public domain]

    His name in Hebrew is Yeshua. The Greek equivalent is Joshua. His name means, “The Lord Saves.” And that is why he came. The hymn above beautifully expresses the significance of Jesus’ name. His name is the name of wondrous love, mercy, priceless worth, and above all other names.

    His name is so precious to me that I had to stop watching at least two TV programs. Ted Lasso: No more. Top Gear (the original one): Off. Too tritely using Jesus’ name. Too easily using it to mock or swear. Too often a throw-away. But Jesus’ name is no throw-away. Not to those who treasure his gifts.

    Jesus’ name is much more than a moniker. It’s not just a way that his Shabbat School teacher could call on him. It wasn’t only the way his friends chose him for their ball team. Mary and Joseph didn’t consult a list of popular names for boys born in Bethlehem. If anything, they might have named him David, for he was born there. Remember, Joseph had to go the the City of David, for he was of the house and lineage of David. But just as the angel had told them, they named him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.

    His name is so important  to me that I am inclined to use “Jesus” rather than “Christ” when referring to our Lord. So I pray in Jesus’ name. I call on Jesus in my prayers. I speak of Jesus’ love. I call myself a Jesus-follower. Jesus is my Lord, Savior, Redeemer, and Friend.

    I hope he is all that and more for you, Dear Reader.

  • Today’s Psalms for December 31, 2023

    Let’s end the year by praying Psalm 119 together on this last Lord’s Day of the calendar year. Yes, it’s a long one, and in my rotation of psalms based on the days of the month this psalm, because of its length, is omitted on the 29th (when it would normally fall). So it is here for us on the 31st. Psalm 119 is an acrostic psalm with the first word of each verse of the various sections beginning with the letters of the Hebrew Alphabet from א (Aleph) to ת (Taw).

    Psalm 119

    Blessed are those whose way is blameless,
        who walk in the law of the Lord!
    2 Blessed are those who keep his testimonies,
        who seek him with their whole heart,
    3 who also do no wrong,
        but walk in his ways!
    4 You have commanded your precepts
        to be kept diligently.
    5 Oh that my ways may be steadfast
        in keeping your statutes!
    6 Then I shall not be put to shame,
        having my eyes fixed on all your commandments.
    7 I will praise you with an upright heart,
        when I learn your righteous rules.
    8 I will keep your statutes;
        do not utterly forsake me!

    Beth

    9 How can a young man keep his way pure?
        By guarding it according to your word.
    10 With my whole heart I seek you;
        let me not wander from your commandments!
    11 I have stored up your word in my heart,
        that I might not sin against you.
    12 Blessed are you, O Lord;
        teach me your statutes!
    13 With my lips I declare
        all the rules of your mouth.
    14 In the way of your testimonies I delight
        as much as in all riches.
    15 I will meditate on your precepts
        and fix my eyes on your ways.
    16 I will delight in your statutes;
        I will not forget your word.

    Gimel

    17 Deal bountifully with your servant,
        that I may live and keep your word.
    18 Open my eyes, that I may behold
        wondrous things out of your law.
    19 I am a sojourner on the earth;
        hide not your commandments from me!
    20 My soul is consumed with longing
        for your rules at all times.
    21 You rebuke the insolent, accursed ones,
        who wander from your commandments.
    22 Take away from me scorn and contempt,
        for I have kept your testimonies.
    23 Even though princes sit plotting against me,
        your servant will meditate on your statutes.
    24 Your testimonies are my delight;
        they are my counselors.

    Daleth

    25 My soul clings to the dust;
        give me life according to your word!
    26 When I told of my ways, you answered me;
        teach me your statutes!
    27 Make me understand the way of your precepts,
        and I will meditate on your wondrous works.
    28 My soul melts away for sorrow;
        strengthen me according to your word!
    29 Put false ways far from me
        and graciously teach me your law!
    30 I have chosen the way of faithfulness;
        I set your rules before me.
    31 I cling to your testimonies, O Lord;
        let me not be put to shame!
    32 I will run in the way of your commandments
        when you enlarge my heart!

    He

    33 Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes;
        and I will keep it to the end.
    34 Give me understanding, that I may keep your law
        and observe it with my whole heart.
    35 Lead me in the path of your commandments,
        for I delight in it.
    36 Incline my heart to your testimonies,
        and not to selfish gain!
    37 Turn my eyes from looking at worthless things;
        and give me life in your ways.
    38 Confirm to your servant your promise,
        that you may be feared.
    39 Turn away the reproach that I dread,
        for your rules are good.
    40 Behold, I long for your precepts;
        in your righteousness give me life!

    Waw

    41 Let your steadfast love come to me, O Lord,
        your salvation according to your promise;
    42 then shall I have an answer for him who taunts me,
        for I trust in your word.
    43 And take not the word of truth utterly out of my mouth,
        for my hope is in your rules.
    44 I will keep your law continually,
        forever and ever,
    45 and I shall walk in a wide place,
        for I have sought your precepts.
    46 I will also speak of your testimonies before kings
        and shall not be put to shame,
    47 for I find my delight in your commandments,
        which I love.
    48 I will lift up my hands toward your commandments, which I love,
        and I will meditate on your statutes.

    Zayin

    49 Remember your word to your servant,
        in which you have made me hope.
    50 This is my comfort in my affliction,
        that your promise gives me life.
    51 The insolent utterly deride me,
        but I do not turn away from your law.
    52 When I think of your rules from of old,
        I take comfort, O Lord.
    53 Hot indignation seizes me because of the wicked,
        who forsake your law.
    54 Your statutes have been my songs
        in the house of my sojourning.
    55 I remember your name in the night, O Lord,
        and keep your law.
    56 This blessing has fallen to me,
        that I have kept your precepts.

    Heth

    57 The Lord is my portion;
        I promise to keep your words.
    58 I entreat your favor with all my heart;
        be gracious to me according to your promise.
    59 When I think on my ways,
        I turn my feet to your testimonies;
    60 I hasten and do not delay
        to keep your commandments.
    61 Though the cords of the wicked ensnare me,
        I do not forget your law.
    62 At midnight I rise to praise you,
        because of your righteous rules.
    63 I am a companion of all who fear you,
        of those who keep your precepts.
    64 The earth, O Lord, is full of your steadfast love;
        teach me your statutes!

    Teth

    65 You have dealt well with your servant,
        O Lord, according to your word.
    66 Teach me good judgment and knowledge,
        for I believe in your commandments.
    67 Before I was afflicted I went astray,
        but now I keep your word.
    68 You are good and do good;
        teach me your statutes.
    69 The insolent smear me with lies,
        but with my whole heart I keep your precepts;
    70 their heart is unfeeling like fat,
        but I delight in your law.
    71 It is good for me that I was afflicted,
        that I might learn your statutes.
    72 The law of your mouth is better to me
        than thousands of gold and silver pieces.

    Yodh

    73 Your hands have made and fashioned me;
        give me understanding that I may learn your commandments.
    74 Those who fear you shall see me and rejoice,
        because I have hoped in your word.
    75 I know, O Lord, that your rules are righteous,
        and that in faithfulness you have afflicted me.
    76 Let your steadfast love comfort me
        according to your promise to your servant.
    77 Let your mercy come to me, that I may live;
        for your law is my delight.
    78 Let the insolent be put to shame,
        because they have wronged me with falsehood;
        as for me, I will meditate on your precepts.
    79 Let those who fear you turn to me,
        that they may know your testimonies.
    80 May my heart be blameless in your statutes,
        that I may not be put to shame!

    Kaph

    81 My soul longs for your salvation;
        I hope in your word.
    82 My eyes long for your promise;
        I ask, “When will you comfort me?”
    83 For I have become like a wineskin in the smoke,
        yet I have not forgotten your statutes.
    84 How long must your servant endure?
        When will you judge those who persecute me?
    85 The insolent have dug pitfalls for me;
        they do not live according to your law.
    86 All your commandments are sure;
        they persecute me with falsehood; help me!
    87 They have almost made an end of me on earth,
        but I have not forsaken your precepts.
    88 In your steadfast love give me life,
        that I may keep the testimonies of your mouth.

    Lamedh

    89 Forever, O Lord, your word
        is firmly fixed in the heavens.
    90 Your faithfulness endures to all generations;
        you have established the earth, and it stands fast.
    91 By your appointment they stand this day,
        for all things are your servants.
    92 If your law had not been my delight,
        I would have perished in my affliction.
    93 I will never forget your precepts,
        for by them you have given me life.
    94 I am yours; save me,
        for I have sought your precepts.
    95 The wicked lie in wait to destroy me,
        but I consider your testimonies.
    96 I have seen a limit to all perfection,
        but your commandment is exceedingly broad.

    Mem

    97 Oh how I love your law!
        It is my meditation all the day.
    98 Your commandment makes me wiser than my enemies,
        for it is ever with me.
    99 I have more understanding than all my teachers,
        for your testimonies are my meditation.
    100 I understand more than the aged,
        for I keep your precepts.
    101 I hold back my feet from every evil way,
        in order to keep your word.
    102 I do not turn aside from your rules,
        for you have taught me.
    103 How sweet are your words to my taste,
        sweeter than honey to my mouth!
    104 Through your precepts I get understanding;
        therefore I hate every false way.

    Nun

    105 Your word is a lamp to my feet
        and a light to my path.
    106 I have sworn an oath and confirmed it,
        to keep your righteous rules.
    107 I am severely afflicted;
        give me life, O Lord, according to your word!
    108 Accept my freewill offerings of praise, O Lord,
        and teach me your rules.
    109 I hold my life in my hand continually,
        but I do not forget your law.
    110 The wicked have laid a snare for me,
        but I do not stray from your precepts.
    111 Your testimonies are my heritage forever,
        for they are the joy of my heart.
    112 I incline my heart to perform your statutes
        forever, to the end.

    Samekh

    113 I hate the double-minded,
        but I love your law.
    114 You are my hiding place and my shield;
        I hope in your word.
    115 Depart from me, you evildoers,
        that I may keep the commandments of my God.
    116 Uphold me according to your promise, that I may live,
        and let me not be put to shame in my hope!
    117 Hold me up, that I may be safe
        and have regard for your statutes continually!
    118 You spurn all who go astray from your statutes,
        for their cunning is in vain.
    119 All the wicked of the earth you discard like dross,
        therefore I love your testimonies.
    120 My flesh trembles for fear of you,
        and I am afraid of your judgments.

    Ayin

    121 I have done what is just and right;
        do not leave me to my oppressors.
    122 Give your servant a pledge of good;
        let not the insolent oppress me.
    123 My eyes long for your salvation
        and for the fulfillment of your righteous promise.
    124 Deal with your servant according to your steadfast love,
        and teach me your statutes.
    125 I am your servant; give me understanding,
        that I may know your testimonies!
    126 It is time for the Lord to act,
        for your law has been broken.
    127 Therefore I love your commandments
        above gold, above fine gold.
    128 Therefore I consider all your precepts to be right;
        I hate every false way.

    Pe

    129 Your testimonies are wonderful;
        therefore my soul keeps them.
    130 The unfolding of your words gives light;
        it imparts understanding to the simple.
    131 I open my mouth and pant,
        because I long for your commandments.
    132 Turn to me and be gracious to me,
        as is your way with those who love your name.
    133 Keep steady my steps according to your promise,
        and let no iniquity get dominion over me.
    134 Redeem me from man’s oppression,
        that I may keep your precepts.
    135 Make your face shine upon your servant,
        and teach me your statutes.
    136 My eyes shed streams of tears,
        because people do not keep your law.

    Tsadhe

    137 Righteous are you, O Lord,
        and right are your rules.
    138 You have appointed your testimonies in righteousness
        and in all faithfulness.
    139 My zeal consumes me,
        because my foes forget your words.
    140 Your promise is well tried,
        and your servant loves it.
    141 I am small and despised,
        yet I do not forget your precepts.
    142 Your righteousness is righteous forever,
        and your law is true.
    143 Trouble and anguish have found me out,
        but your commandments are my delight.
    144 Your testimonies are righteous forever;
        give me understanding that I may live.

    Qoph

    145 With my whole heart I cry; answer me, O Lord!
        I will keep your statutes.
    146 I call to you; save me,
        that I may observe your testimonies.
    147 I rise before dawn and cry for help;
        I hope in your words.
    148 My eyes are awake before the watches of the night,
        that I may meditate on your promise.
    149 Hear my voice according to your steadfast love;
        O Lord, according to your justice give me life.
    150 They draw near who persecute me with evil purpose;
        they are far from your law.
    151 But you are near, O Lord,
        and all your commandments are true.
    152 Long have I known from your testimonies
        that you have founded them forever.

    Resh

    153 Look on my affliction and deliver me,
        for I do not forget your law.
    154 Plead my cause and redeem me;
        give me life according to your promise!
    155 Salvation is far from the wicked,
        for they do not seek your statutes.
    156 Great is your mercy, O Lord;
        give me life according to your rules.
    157 Many are my persecutors and my adversaries,
        but I do not swerve from your testimonies.
    158 I look at the faithless with disgust,
        because they do not keep your commands.
    159 Consider how I love your precepts!
        Give me life according to your steadfast love.
    160 The sum of your word is truth,
        and every one of your righteous rules endures forever.

    Sin and Shin

    161 Princes persecute me without cause,
        but my heart stands in awe of your words.
    162 I rejoice at your word
        like one who finds great spoil.
    163 I hate and abhor falsehood,
        but I love your law.
    164 Seven times a day I praise you
        for your righteous rules.
    165 Great peace have those who love your law;
        nothing can make them stumble.
    166 I hope for your salvation, O Lord,
        and I do your commandments.
    167 My soul keeps your testimonies;
        I love them exceedingly.
    168 I keep your precepts and testimonies,
        for all my ways are before you.

    Taw

    169 Let my cry come before you, O Lord;
        give me understanding according to your word!
    170 Let my plea come before you;
        deliver me according to your word.
    171 My lips will pour forth praise,
        for you teach me your statutes.
    172 My tongue will sing of your word,
        for all your commandments are right.
    173 Let your hand be ready to help me,
        for I have chosen your precepts.
    174 I long for your salvation, O Lord,
        and your law is my delight.
    175 Let my soul live and praise you,
        and let your rules help me.
    176 I have gone astray like a lost sheep; seek your servant,
        for I do not forget your commandments.

    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.

  • Where else?

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    Luke 2:4-7

    Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the town of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, 5 to be registered with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child. 6 And while they were there, the time came for her to give birth. 7 And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.

    Lighted Nativity from Germany | Cypress, Texas | December 2023

    Where else are we to seek mercy

    for all our betrayals, all our weak faith,

    all our failures,

    but in the lowliness of God in the manger?

    – Dietrich Bonhoeffer

    I don’t know that I would have drawn the conclusion that Bonhoeffer did in regard to finding mercy, forgiveness, and redemption only in God in the manger. But I love that he offers this question. Where else, indeed?

    God could have come into the world in much more respectable circumstances. Allowed Mary and Joseph to have been married before conceiving the Christ Child by the Holy Spirit other than through Joseph. He could have worked out details such that Jesus would have been born of a virgin. He didn’t have to put Mary and Joseph through all that. And how about the trip from Nazareth to Bethlehem? And why not just a regular bed? Surely none of these were essential to the birth of the Savior, were they?

    But then I think about how all these things line up as a show of utter humility on God’s part. His complete abandonment of his glorious majesty. His utter humility in taking on human flesh in the first place. We might imagine Jesus born in a refugee clamp, or to migrant peasants, or being laid in some other common make-do crib. But that was not God’s choice.

    We are to learn something here. I wonder whether it’s more about looking to God wherever he may be found in order to find grace, mercy, forgiveness, and redemption. Isaiah spoke to Israel 750 years before Christ’s birth,

    “Seek the LORD while he may be found;
        call upon him while he is near;
    let the wicked forsake his way,
        and the unrighteous man his thoughts;
    let him return to the Lord, that he may have compassion on him,
        and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon. – Isaiah 55:6-7

    Today Jesus may be found in the Church – the gathering of God’s people in Jesus’ name. Jesus has promised wherever two or three are gathered in his name, he is in their midst (Matthew 18:19). He is to be found in his word, the Old and New Testament inspired, infallible, inerrant writings of the prophets, apostles, and evangelists. He is to be found at the Table of the Lord. He is to be found in the life-giving waters of baptism. For there is forgiveness, redemption, hope and life.

    I’ve been binge-watching Suits, the TV series about high powered New York lawyers. And I’ve noticed that most all of them are unforgiving, judgmental, self-protecting, vindictive, power-hungry characters. We may find some relief in seeking such people in the midst of legal battles. But what a breath of fresh air it is when one becomes gracious, compassionate, and even forgiving!

    Perhaps that’s why God’s people are urged to clothe themselves in compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience (Colossians 3:12). We’re not high-powered New York attorneys. We are children of the almighty God. Jesus’ swaddling cloths and manger ought to inspire us to that same kind of humility, mercy, love, and grace that we find in God in a manger.

  • Not Many Limos Here

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    Luke 2:4-7

    Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the town of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, 5 to be registered with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child. 6 And while they were there, the time came for her to give birth. 7 And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.

    A Moravian Star hangs in a high window of our dining room | Cypress, Texas | December 2023

    We have to become clear

    in the presence of the manger in the stable of Bethlehem

    how we want to think, from this point on,

    about what is high and low in human life

    – Dietrich Bonhoeffer

    I wish I had thought more fully in anticipation of a point I wanted to make in a message I shared recently. The point had to do with how the shepherds of the Christmas event were likely just common shepherds. Though they could have had charge of sheep intended for temple sacrifices, there is no proof they were. And in any case, they were shepherds, not priests. Theirs was not a high and lofty occupation. They were the salt of the earth not necessarily the cream of the crop.

    And, I said, so are we – most of us. I didn’t think to say, “I didn’t see any of you arrive to church in a limousine. When I have seen limos at church, they show up at funerals or weddings. Otherwise we drive ourselves in ordinary cars. Some are nicer than others. But I don’t see many Bugattis or Lamborghinis in church parking lots. The paparazzi don’t chase us down. We don’t worry about being accosted by signature-seeking fans when we go out to eat.

    It’s all relative, though. For 90% or more of the world’s population would consider us quite high in the social-economic pecking order. But we’re not among the super-rich, super-famous, or super-stars. At least as far as we’re concerned.

    I love Bonhoeffer’s thought in this regard. How do we want to think about what is high and what is low in human life? The manger anchors us at one end of Jesus’ life on earth. The cross holds us on the other. Jesus is the Son of God, the Savior of the World, the Word Made Flesh. And he is found at his birth in a manger and at his death on a cross. Now he has a name that is above all other names. At his name every knee will bow in heaven and on earth. And every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord – to the glory of God the Father.

    Mary sang of this in her song of praise when she visited Elizabeth.

    For he who is mighty has done great things for me,
        and holy is his name.
    50 And his mercy is for those who fear him
        from generation to generation.
    51 He has shown strength with his arm;
        he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts;
    52 he has brought down the mighty from their thrones
        and exalted those of humble estate;
    53 he has filled the hungry with good things,
        and the rich he has sent away empty. – Luke 1:49-53

    I have my favorite celebrities. I look up to certain powerful and successful people. But I am truly impressed with people who presume nothing, graciously give what they can, never try to brag. Perhaps I learned that by looking into the manger and standing at the foot of the cross. Will you join me there?

  • Where God Wants To Be

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    Luke 2:4-7

    Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the town of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, 5 to be registered with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child. 6 And while they were there, the time came for her to give birth. 7 And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.

    Nativity Scene | Cypress, Texas | December 2023

    Where God Wants To Be – Dietrich Bonhoeffer

            Where the understanding is outraged,
    where human nature rebels,
    where our piety keeps a nervous distance:
    there, precisely there, God loves to be;
    there he baffles the wisdom of the wise;
    there he vexes our nature, our religious instincts.
    There he wants to be, and no one can prevent him.
    Only the humble believe him and rejoice
    that God is so free and grand,
    that he works wonders where man loses heart,
    that he makes splendid what is slight and lowly.
    Indeed, this is the wonder of wonders,
    that God loves the lowly.
    “God has regarded the low estate of his handmaiden.”
    God in lowliness–
    that is the revolutionary, the passionate word of Advent.

    When we put up our Christmas decorations we have some decisions to make. Shall we put the tree here or there? Should the VBS nativity go on the front hall table or under the family pictures? What about the Christmas pyramids: shall we light the candles at all, or not?

    The shepherds had decisions to make as well. Shall we leave our flocks and go to Bethlehem and “see this thing that has come to pass?” How close should we get to this child? Do we even believe the angels?

    Mary and Joseph had few decisions to make. This corner or that for the place of birth? The manger or a space on the floor for his crib? Should we let the shepherds come in and see the child?

    God had some decisions to make as well – though his decisions were made before the foundation of time. He would rescue his lost and broken creation. He would redeem lost sinners. He would take on human flesh. He would be born in a stable. Those decisions were made so that we could be saved. His reach would be extreme, in order to assure us that there is no one beyond the pale of his redeeming love.

    God wanted to be in the places of abandoned hope, lost dreams, distressed fears, abject disappointment, and crushed pride. For that is where we all are. Some people hide that well – at least from other people – but never from God. Some people refuse to believe God would come to them in their brokenness and shame – but he does. Some people yearn to know his grace and mercy – and God yearns for them to believe. Trust. Hope. Receive his gift of faith.

    Where do I want to be? I want to be with God. And receive his tender comfort. And enjoy his compassionate grace. And live in his kingdom of power, grace, and glory. Forever.

    Come, Lord Jesus!

  • The Heart’s Treasures

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    Luke 2:19

    Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart. 

    Jesse Tree
    Nativity from Germany
    Christmas Tree with Many Memorable Ornaments
    Snowman & Train Gift
    A Moravian Star hangs in a high window of our dining room | Cypress, Texas | December 2023
    Nativity Inside a Star
    Willow Tree Nativity
    Family VBS Project Nativity from 1980
    Wreath on our Front Door

    I took some quick snapshots today of several Christmas decorations at our house. Each of them has a significant memory attached. A departing gift to Diane from her music people at Holy Cross, Arlington. A Christmas tree adorned with ornaments more sentimental than valuable (though there are a few semi-valuable ones, like the Swarovski crystal star). Our family VBS project nativity set.

    I’ve not often had the margins that allowed me to spend more time in reflection and meditation as I’ve had this year. Yesterday I read through a collection of Bonhoeffer’s Christmas poetry and meditations. I relished a poem on Grace and Truth offered by our Texas District President – even sharing it in my Christmas Day message at St. John.

    I had the luxury of time and comfort to reflect in this manner. Mary did not. Time is the great equalizer. We all have same number of minutes in an hour, hours in a day, days in a week, etc. The wealthy have no more time than the poor. The foolish have no less than the wise. Margin falls differently, however, on different people at different times. Mary had little margin, I imagine. She had a child to care for and few conveniences to help. She had swaddling cloths. Nothing more is mentioned. In the midst of this, she took the time to meditate in her heart the things that had happened.

    I notice that her meditation is mentioned by Luke after noting that the shepherds had visited the Christ child, and told her and Joseph all that had happened. Angel hosts singing praises to God. The announcement that the Savior had been born. The promise that the child would be found wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.

    Mary must have pondered the confirmation of the angels’ earlier messages to her and Joseph. This child is the Savior, Christ, the Lord. She must have pondered Jesus’ name, which means the Lord saves. She must have pondered the shepherds’ excitement and wonder. She kept these ponderings, thoughts, and meditations in her heart. Enclosed within her soul.

    She would need these thoughts in years to come. Perhaps this was also a beautiful moment to ponder the amazing grace of God. In the moment. In the quiet. In the stable. In her heart.

    I hope you had the opportunity to ponder the wonders of Christmas yesterday. And…Good news: Christmas lasts for 12 days. The celebration by church calendar timing runs until January 6, Epiphany Sunday, the Christmas of the Gentiles. 

    NOTE: I’ll be taking a break from Acts for these 12 days, pondering with Mary the meaning of the incarnation. Then, as is so appropriate to the season of Epiphany, I’ll pick back up with Acts after that time. 

    Merry Christmas, and Peaceful Christmas Ponderings!