No Gift for a King?

1 Samuel 10:27

Coming home to Manila for Christmas season, the first agenda on my list is Divisoria shopping! T’was literally a mob, but the inconvenience was pale compared to the great deals I found. No, I don’t buy bulk and just give it away. It took me seven hours (and counting) to look for the perfect present for my loved ones. Gifts are meant to match and please its recipient. Reading the first Christmas story the other day, I was amazed seeing the ironies in God’s concept and big production of Jesus’ incarnation. His first guests are from opposite poles: shepherds and magi. The wise and the otherwise :> We can be lowly and broken and unworthy, yet God will welcome us into His presence. But in giving Him gifts, it has to be costly. Giving a crippled animal to a governor is unthinkable. It is doubly an insult, if not grave defiance, not to give a King the honor He deserves. And this is what some people did to Saul on his first days in office. It is said that ‘they despised him and brought him no gifts’.  Doubting his potential to lead them from their enemies, they acknowledged him not. It is as immature as not giving a person a holiday gift because you know he couldn’t afford to give it back!  How many groups rally on the street, blaming the head of state for their empty plates, and yet never once gave him even a cent of respect?  Saul kept silent. But he sure was hurt.  And so is the baby in the manger, the King whose birthday is celebrated worldwide, but never made it to our gift list :<  

Application:

Googling to find the lyrics of ‘The Little Drummer Boy’, I was surprised to find it sensible, haha! All the while I thought it was all babbling and ‘pa rum pum pum pums’.  The song tells of a poor young boy, unable to afford a gift for baby Jesus, plays his drum instead and got a smile from the newborn. Awww, sweet! :> Just like the widow offering two small copper coins, the boy was commended not for the market value of his offering, but for how much he values it. Gift giving, although sometimes sacrificial in nature, shouldn’t make our faces long and hearts struggling. How would you like to receive a gift from a teary-eyed friend who can’t take his eyes off from that wrapped box, even telling you how hard it is for him to let it go?  But it happens. Because we’re focusing on the gift. How about lifting our faces a bit and see our Father, Savior and Comforter at the receiving end.  I’ve never been summoned to a royal court, ever. But given a chance, all pleasure is mine.  Maybe what we’re missing here is the wonderment of being in His presence. That nothing earthly is worth keeping compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Him. Ask a man courting the girl he loves and he will tell you he will do anything and everything just to see and please his beloved. We give because we love. It follows then, that when we’re empty handed this Christmas,  we have failed to love.

Changed Hearts

1 Samuel 10:9-26

                     

“As soon as Saul turned to leave Samuel, God changed Saul’s heart”.  God knew the Benjamite has big shoes to fill. For if the Israelites rejected an all-powerful King to rule over them, how could this finite rookie stand a chance? We may be pushed to perform a task larger than us, but when God calls, He also enables. Like Gideon, Saul thought little of his clan (and himself!) to be singled out. But the least among us, He can make great. What we regard as impossible, He can make happen. Never before was Saul seen among prophets, now his neighbors were surprised to spot him prophesying with them. And just when you expect a man to get excited for his promotion or a make a move against his critics, this new king kept silent. His new heart knows when to go public and when to stay concealed, and which concerns are for family and which are not for their meddling. To establish this new monarch, God has to touch other hearts as well. There was Samuel to instruct the people and write down the regulations of the kingship. It is kinda awkward for a new leader to address a crowd once his equal. Some valiant men were tabbed too as first royal escorts to accompany and attend to him on his way home. God also made sure many people will shout well wishes to Saul. It is a crucial affirmation and encouragement to help him stand against those who will openly (and rudely!) question his credibility. Such is the lonely first days of even our leaders today. Sometimes it’s not the question of ‘can they’, but ‘will we’. Our out-of-this-world expectations will remain unmet unless we go back to Theocracy. For who can best lead us than He who cares for us the most?

Application:

Pharaoh’s heart was hardened, Saul’s was changed. No leader can claim to have fully made a decision apart from the will of God. It always serves His purposes. We have to trust His sovereignty to overrule even at the cruelest of tyranny. That’s why we are called to honor our kings, submit to authorities, and obey our masters. We can! We have a God who is above all thrones and at His word, can uproot them all.  We can vote against them, file a case if any violation was done, but once the decision has been made and God allowed them still seated up there, may we give it a rest and work with them instead. David spared Saul’s life, Daniel and his friends excelled even in exile, and  Jesus paid his taxes! The heart change we’re praying for could be our own!

Amazing Race

1 Samuel 9:25-10:8

                     

Paul compared the Christian life to Athletics. You need training, you have a track, you’re timed, and you need to finish the race, hopefully with a prize too. But reading Samuel’s instruction to Saul here, it’s more likely he was signed up for Amazing Race. He attended one rooftop orientation, received a pouring from a flask of oil as passport,  and was given three clues to look for in this leg. That’s it and off he goes.  Next destination will be revealed after seven days at the Gilgal Pit Stop. Of course all those preliminaries before his kingly proclamation were not without reason and relevance. The anointing of oil was for him to acknowledge that he was God-chosen and is accountable to Him; the first clue being at Rachel’s tomb was to remind him of God’s grace to his ancestral line; his second clue was to receive two loaves of bread which is but a portion of the people’s offering to God , that clearly puts him second in line; third clue is joining a processional of prophets where he’ll come out a changed man. Meaning, though being given a position head above the Israelites, God wants him to be one with the people in singing His praise!  After those clues have been fulfilled, Samuel instructed him to wait. It would seem an ordinary task if it was given to my mother who unbelievable doesn’t mind waiting. God knew this will be Saul’s downfall soon, so as early as this time, He is training him to hold the reins of his weakness. What a wonderful, wise God we have! All his moves are purposeful and are motivated with much love. God’s wisdom extends to designing a race with challenges tailor-fit for each one of us. Some needed more heights to climb, for some colder nights to bear. At some points He can give us teammates to give us that necessary push, but at times they can be our unwanted extra load. Some tasks are already set, some presents us with a choice. But we all have been armed with the necessary provisions to carry us through the entire leg. No wonder it’s called an amazing race!

Application:

Waiting. The usual concept is to remain stationary and inactive. Sounds unproductive, right? But in a royal court, to wait is to readily attend to an instruction. It is not a red light, but a yellow light, closer to the Go. It is being prepared for an immediate action. What do you think waiters in a restaurant do? Sit and chat while you decide on your orders? No. So why is it, when God puts a hold on our prayers, that we let go of our defenses, wander around in circles and give everyone the reason that God hasn’t given any direction yet? Shouldn’t singles choose not to have that alone-lonely-loner look and start working on being God’s best instead? Why stare nowhere when we can start somewhere. Ruth was a loving and diligent daughter-in-law even before Boaz saw her. Esther prayed and fasted and she got the King’s favor. Mary kept herself pure and became the virgin mother of Jesus. It took seven days for Saul to be disqualified from office. Just one day more to hold his disciplines intact and his kingdom secure. Looking back at my many life’s choices, I know I could have endured more and waited longer. Given this nth chance to run again, I’ll play by His rules, give it my best shot, and wait on Him on the pit stop. I’ll never give in and never give up again!

Actor Meets Co-Actor

Actor#1: SAUL  (vv.1-14)

If there is one story in the Bible proving that God really orchestrates events to serve His purposes, it is this chapter.  The young man, Saul, was asked by his father to look for their lost donkeys.  As per instruction, he brought with him one of his servants, whom God made sure was that one who knew about Samuel and who has a quarter of a shekel in his pocket.  And guess which path they took? The exact road leading to where the prophet is.  They couldn’t bump into the donkeys along the way for there will be no need for Saul to see the seer. So I’m sure God hid the animals somewhere safe and be found at a later time, on His cue. Before hitting town, there were girls coming out to draw for water and they had to be the most accommodating and enthusiastic  set to encourage Saul to keep on going. Ever been to an unfamiliar ground looking for an unfamiliar face?  Your first encounter with their people is the crucial crossroad which provides you a picture of what to expect next and gives you just enough time to back off when a danger sign pops up.  God took care of that too. The girls gave them the detailed itinerary of Samuel and pushed them to urgency, saying ‘you’re just at the right time. go now or miss him’. God knew Saul so much that He gave him no room for second thoughts.  As they were entering the town, Samuel was already coming towards them.  How convenient! All actors playing their parts as pre-conceived by the Director.  I wonder how many angels were recruited to take some roles too :> Cut! Perfect! God now calls everyone for their next location. 

Application:

Amazing how God moves all things and makes all men work according to His grand plan. As an event planner and sometimes coordinator, my task is to be sure all grounds are covered and no stone left unturned. I literally run the program per second in my mind. Rewind-forward-slow-mo, over and over again. Multiply that infinitely and you’ll declare only a great God could make every life, generation past, present and future, designed and perfected to work independently from and dependently with all the rest of mankind. Mindblowing!  So how should we adjust our lives to that truth? First in my list is to praise God that He has already my life’s script on hand. Nothing will surprise Him, no one else can edit it, and I have no reason to worry about it. Second, is not to edit the life’s script of another. Although actually I couldn’t. But still, I should let go of every scheme that tries to manipulate others to serve my side of the story. Third, is to take some time off my script and just marvel at the many other stories God wrote.  Not only it will deepen my understanding and skill as His actor, but more importantly, it will heighten my worship of God, the sole Author and Perfecter of my faith! 

Actor # 2: SAMUEL (vv.15-24)

Second scene shifted on God’s veteran actor, Samuel.  The Director told him a day before  to prepare for the coming of a young actor and to personally orient him for his role as the new male lead. So at the sight of Saul at the entrance gate, he hurriedly welcomed and invited him for a meal. Seeing the puzzled look on the newcomer’s face, Samuel whispered that all will be explained in detail the next morning and gave him an added assurance that his family concerns has all been taken care of. The old man brought him to a hall already filled with invited guests.  A reserved sign was already placed at the head seat and the chef was immediately notified to serve the set-apart meal.  For an outgoing actor, this could be heartbreaking, if not impossible. But Samuel was humble enough to accept that his time under the limelight is up and a new star is born. His big heart ushered Israel’s new leader in, giving him the welcome party befitting for a King. 

Application:

When I was still a student, I heard that there were teachers in the conservatories who would never teach just anyone their skill techniques, unless you’re so good enough to earn that distinction of having been under their tutelage.  No one would miss and say it’s pride at work. But  if we move closer we’ll realize they're just putting on a mask. What lies beneath is actually plain insecurity. They wanted to freeze time and be the best for all season. They couldn’t bear the thought of seeing someone overtaking their glory days.  And so they kept their life’s work to themselves and to those chosen few with the condition of tagging their names wherever and whenever.  Building a name that will last forever is the very reason why man’s Babel project was cut short.  We don’t create a legacy for people to remember us. We live well to be better signages and point them all to God.  If at any point we are asked to leave our post, we should gladly step aside for the next steward to take over.  If our replacement turns out to be younger than us, never think his inexperience meant God made an unwise move. We were younger too when God first called us in, right? However, if our replacement  turns out to be better than us, we should all the more rejoice for the sake of our post. It is foolishness to keep toiling God’s ground for a year when another man can finish it well within a month.  We are all workers in God’s vineyard, we work for the glory of One.  And don’t worry, there is no retirement in His kingdom.  When God pulls us out from a post, it means He’s assigning us to another.  Ready for your new assignment? Your welcome party awaits you!

Give us a King!

1 Samuel 8

Discredited  (vv.1-8)

Imagine a mother who singlehandedly raised her three sons, taking on two jobs to make ends meet, letting go of her personal wants, even sacrificed their family times, just so they could finish college. All three soon had their own families, sent her to one of those homes for the aged, and barely visited her. How about a man who was once Mr. Indispensable, thirty years in the company, bringing in more sales than his peers combined together,  and just when he’s next in line for vice presidency, politics had its way in, found some discrepancy in his staff’s dealings, and so he was bypassed in favor of the owner’s close relative. That’s the heartbreak Samuel felt when the Israelites asked for a king to lead them in his stead. They reasoned that his sons were faulty which I think is their own decision despite Samuel’s teaching, otherwise God should have scolded him as He did to Eli. What was painful is that Samuel was forced to retire. These are the people who benefited from his leadership, asked for his wise counsel, and pleaded him to present their requests to God. We can all take frontal attacks from our foes, but it is unbearable to be backstabbed by friends. 

Now imagine how insulting it is to be left by your husband for another woman who is twice your age?  Or as an honor student be defeated in the student council because they voted instead for that popular hunk? Why would young girls exchange their purity for money, or young politicians their honor for a higher position? That’s how God felt when Israel demanded for monarchy over theocracy. Imagine choosing bondage over freedom, paying taxes instead of keeping your own harvest, your daughters as servants when they could live as princesses in your homes? Why would they want a human king when they have the Almighty God to rule them? How foolish! But guess what? How many times have we exchanged God’s glory for worthless things too? Let’s skip the big things like idolatry, adultery, sorcery etc. How many times have we decided to sleep longer on Sunday mornings instead of going to church? Or why can’t we spare a little amount from our more than enough salaries to help a friend in need?  Why do we withhold defending someone for fear of association? Should we lie and exaggerate to be accepted? Will we drink and curse to blend in? When we choose worthless things over God, we become worthless ourselves!

Application:

In the midst of Samuel’s discouragement because of Israel’s ungratefulness, He remained faithful to His God and continued to do his work, praying on their behalf. When people stopped believing in us, started criticizing our work and discrediting all our past efforts, it’s unbearable to report for duty right? We’ll resign immediately for sure. You dare turned your back from me, I’ll not die a martyr serving you, undeserving people! The gentler one among us of course will say this under his breath. And yet Samuel never blurted even one angry word. He prayed and it was God Himself who encouraged him. I have recently been treated unfairly and it really broke my heart. The enemy was giving me a list of why I should be acknowledged instead, but God was faithful to remind me to choose what is true and noble, right and pure. To think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. It was a decision to take captive my every thought, and make it obedient to Christ. Within the week, God allowed us to reconcile the issue and he confessed he was just so discouraged and felt discredited for all his efforts. Come again? We were on the same boat after all!  And if we both gave in to pride, higher walls could have been built and not bridges. We don't fight discouragement with disdain, for we will both lose. We don't even have to defend our line. God will. 

Dissuasion (vv.9-18)

God in His infinite wisdom knew Israel will have this request for a king. He already provided set guidelines even before they formulated the concept. There is really nothing in this world we can claim as our original idea. Even designers like my husband would admit that the best they could come up with is but a shadow of the wonders of nature. Shapes and patterns, lightings and colors, textures and materials, all are His provisions for us to build something beautiful. Truth is, only God can create a masterpiece out of nothing! The image of a king is no exception. It is God-originated. What ‘like the other nations have’ is an imitation of His rule over Israel. How could they miss that! Even idolatry is man’s cheap version of worship. That’s why in Deuteronomy 17:14ff, God included in a king’s job description to write for himself a copy of the laws, read it all the days of his life and follow carefully all its words, turning not to left or the right. For how can we implement a project unless the Idea Man itemize to us how he intends it to be done? Ask first-timer moms what ‘groping in the dark’ means and they’ll tell you if it wasn’t for the support of been-there, experienced moms, they wouldn’t know that babies cry for different reasons. God gave Moses the exact measurements for the tabernacle, step by step instructions for offerings, specific jewels and fixtures, otherwise how would he know how to make a house for the King of Israel? Now through Samuel, God warns His people what it would take for them to set up a king. Since they’re trying to imitate heaven’s royalty, it has to be grand. A king should have the best of everything his kingdom has to offer for he is the face of the nation.  He needs a lot of servants and soldiers to display his strength and power.  He has to demand portions from everyone for who will finance his lavish lifestyle. God wanted them to realize that a human king will suck up their resources for himself.  God never asked our gifts and services because He had none. As King, He doesn’t represent us, but we represent Him. That’s why we are called to excellence and character; As King, He never asked the Israelites to fight for Him, instead He always wins the battle for them;  As King, yes, we are His servants, subject to His rule, but He also has called us friends and co-heirs with Christ; And when He asked us for our tithes, it isn’t because He can’t finance His own church, when actually all that we have came from his gracious hand. It is never giving up, but giving back! Given this comparative analysis, God should have won His case. He has all the advantage of being the sole King of our lives. But just like the Israelites, in our foolishness, we exchanged  true worship for worthless things. Consider again. We always have a choice.

Application:

Think about it, we represent the King of kings to the nations. The Church is called the Bride of Christ.  But how come most of us don’t look as a ‘lovely’ as a bride should? Why do our churches now have that reputation of lacking this, wanting that, asking help, needing support? Shouldn’t blessings flow from our side because we’re connected to the Source?  Noting that we are also called to suffering, but it’s far different from appearing hopeless right?  Our pastors now are no different from the Levites of the Old Testament who because of the unfaithful giving of the people were deprived of their allotted supply, pushing them to envy or greed.  How easy it is for us to point a finger to God’s called servants when they fell into sin and be disqualified from office when actually we have never extended a hand to ease their burdens? How convenient it is for us to criticize the choir singing out of pitch, or the Sunday School teacher faltering in her speech, or the church building smelling so old, when the professionals and the well-to-do among us never offer to God our expertise and resource?  And do you know why not many are attracted to Christ anymore? Because some of us who claimed to be His faithful followers  are mediocres in the workplace, repeaters in school, and our family’s dysfunctional too. It’s high time to prove them wrong.  Our King is the best ruler for every soul.  I will do more, give more, be more -  for Christ and His kingdom! 

                                         

 Demand (vv.19-22)

My sister and I stand on opposite poles of stubbornness.  I’m the ‘you can’t make me do it if I seriously don’t want to’, she’s the ‘you can’t stop me if I really want to’.  I’m the close minded, she’s the brat. My wants I can give you, but my wonts,  no one can break into. No amount of persuasion or pressure, even from my parents and husband, can force me to do something against my will. Facing a flying cockroach, for example, haha! My sister, on the other hand, will do everything within her powers to get what she wants.  You’ll be surprised how she can manage to buy good stuffs even with an impossible budget. More interesting is how she can overhaul  my parents’ rule to conform to her own. Knowing my father, it’s a jaw drop! The Israelites here appear to fall on my sister’s side of stubbornness. They want a king, period.  Although they got my genes too for they were unyielding and did refuse to listen to anything or anyone :<  Ever saw a toddler throw a tantrum to his parents for a toy? It’s annoying!  If my kids would do that, the more I will not give in. So why did God said to Samuel, “Listen to them and give them what they want”?  I don’t think God was a spoiler here. But I think I’ll understand as a parent how we sometimes allow our kids to hurt a bit, hoping they’d soon learn the lesson for themselves. Ten years ago, people were advising against my chosen partner.  They gave warnings and deep in my heart I know they were right.  If listening means acting upon their counsel, I have to say I did not listen.  I continued the relationship and God seems to allow it. And then the heartbreak.  I pleaded with much tears. But this time He said, “That is enough! Do not speak anymore about this matter.”  So I gathered myself up and closed the case. Looking back, I saw myself as the stubborn child who suffered much, not because God did not stop things from happening, but because I took it upon myself.  He never left me though. His hand was there waiting at the cliffside. A Father who would never allow His children make that downfall.

                         

Application:

I speak more than I listen. Anybody there brave enough to raise their hands with me? When I’m taking the wheels, I have control. Giving up that seat is opening doors to unsolicited advice, another belief system, or additional emotional baggage.  It requires time, politeness, and it can be draining.  But I don’t think listening is what we hate here. It is responding to what we heard that shakes us to the core. It’s the resistance to change or care. When we don’t listen, it’s actually because we do not want to relate further or be hurt deeper.  But in doing so, we miss the point of listening which is learning much and loving better. When God’s asked Samuel to “listen to them”, I think it’s the most difficult of all. Imagine having a forum with non-listeners?  It takes unconditional love.  Our world now is hurting. Everyone is carrying a burden and wanting to be heard.  If only we would all take turns and be willing to sometimes be on that listening end, then we won’t have to fight our battles alone.  Second shift is coming next, care to sign In with me?

Peace At Last! (Part 2)

Peace in the Land (vv.7-17)

In the midst of Israel’s ‘national repentance day’, the Philistines came up to attack them. The very reason why they turned to God is nearing their camp and bringing them fear. Isn’t it true that when we’ve finally decided to make that life change, it’s when temptation comes to its peak? Why is it that when you’re almost ready to forgive, he’ll once again provoke you to anger; or after breaking free from an ungodly relationship, she’ll be sweeter than ever; and just when you’ve turned back from everything to follow God’s call, an opportunity of your dreams will personally knock at your door. Give me a break! We all hope distractions would not come when were still so much vulnerable. The Israelites here were not ready for battle. They were gathered at Mizpah to pray. In fear, they pleaded Samuel to not stop crying to God in their behalf.  God answered him. Just as Jesus healed the paralytic because of the faith of his four friends, we can also intercede in faith for our loved ones. What is more, the blessings we receive or the bad things were spared from, we can actually also regard as love prayers from our friends. How beautiful is that! And so, God delivered them from the Philistines with a loud thunder and never again did they invade Israel’s territory. Samuel’s leadership also allowed them to restore some towns originally belonging to them, even helped their neighboring towns have their peace as well.  Imagine, they could have been freed long ago if they only sought the Lord their God. Exodus could have been just forty days not forty years if only they refused to be stiff-necked people. We could enjoy His peace and presence if only we choose Him over and above our deceitful desires. We will regret soon if we don’t act now. The battle is the Lord’s and He will fight for us. Why try when you can trust?  Why run when you can rest? Vote wisely!

Personal Application:

Peace is not the absence of danger but the presence of God. Do not be mistaken that saying yes to God means a life free of troubles. In fact, there’s more to come. Our enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. We have to be sober and always vigilant. Peace then doesn’t mean passively reclining but an active exercise of casting our cares on Him.  It is the quiet confidence of being in harmony with God and by paying attention to His commands. It comes to those who live their lives in discipline and discernment. If we have trained our bodies as Manny Pacquiao prepares for a fight, no one can easily put us down even with a heavy punch. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. Let us not lose heart. He will renew us inwardly day by day. Read that again, day by day! He is our power source, but we have to be daily connected to be recharged.  I want peace? It is God given. I can’t receive it while I’m running as soon as I wake up. I can’t hear Him if I’m talking all the time. I have to be still and silent. That’s the best breather of all!

Peace At Last! (Part 1)

1 Samuel 7

Peace with God (vv.2-6)

If the Israelites really believe that the ark is where the presence of God resides, how come it stayed at Kiriath Jearim for twenty years? There was no mention of any effort from Eli’s remaining line to return what they called the ‘glory’ in Shiloh. Not even in Samuel’s lifetime was the ark mentioned again. No wonder the people continued to live in sin. They engage in idolatry to fill that vacuum that only a higher being can suffice. But their gods proved lacking for it cannot deliver them from the hands of the Philistines. Now at the end of their rope, they sought the Lord. It must really be heartbreaking for God to be man’s last resort :< But in our faithlessness, He remained faithful. He never abandoned Israel even though they had let His tablets settle in the outskirts and not in the heart of the city. In those two decades, He was all the while preparing Samuel to be their judge. Sometimes we wonder why God seems to be so silent in our deepest time of need when actually help is on the way. In His sovereignty, he perfectly timed Israel’s repentance with Samuel’s readiness to lead. Now we know why some of our prayers seemingly piles up in the waiting list. Either we’re still cherishing sin our hearts, or the right time has not yet come. Dear singles,  please patiently wait for His best for you. You wouldn’t want a half-baked, lifetime partner right? My love story can attest to that. :>

Three steps is required in true repentance. First is getting rid of everything that hinders your relationship with God, next is to commit not to do it again, and third is to serve Him only. One cannot turn TO God with turning FROM sin. What lies in between is that moment in time when you will do it. For the Israelites, they had to be assembled at Mizpah for their confession. Bruce Wilkinson in his book Personal Holiness in Times of Temptation calls this second step as Presentation. A dedication to mark your decision. It is why we have wedding ceremonies  to start a marriage or an inauguration for head of states. We all need a turning point. My decision to give up my personal ambition and pursue His calling for me was eighteen years ago in a PK camp. There was also that purity covenant I signed with my musician friends in our overnight at a friends’ house in Commonwealth, QC. There are a lot others I said Yes to which I vaguely remember because I did not take time to seriously sit down and maybe make a memorial for it.  We are forgetful people. Studies show that if we don’t make an action to experience learning, most likely, we will not remember it. Joshua said ‘Choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve..” What’s your decision today?

 Application:

Whenever we’re asked in Windsong to prepare a lineup of songs, we usually ask the inviting group’s  Scripture reference for that event. From those verses, the first question we ask is, “Who is God in this passage?” Worship is all about who He is, and not what we want to do for Him. In my reading this morning, I had to ask that question again. He answered me, “I am the God of Second Chances”.  Betrayal is the most painful heartbreak in all relationships. You gave your all, your trust, your love, and your ungrateful significant other would just throw that away and leave you dishonored and shattered. You’ll find it hard to forgive, vowed to never forget, and promised yourself you won’t ever look that way again.  Adam was banished from the garden, there was flood in Noah’s time, those who crossed the Red Sea made a golden calf,  Exodus became forty years instead of forty days, and whenever a judge dies, His people returned to idol worship. And over and over again, whenever His people repent of their sin, His compassion will welcome them back. Even with the knowledge that we will fall again, He will still run when we return. How can He do that? Why will He do that? The answer is in His unconditional love. Guess what? We’re called to do likewise. Forgive a brother, reconcile with your husband, honor your parents, submit to your leaders. It’s hardest when we feel that these people are just undeserving. We’re so much like the unmerciful servant, forgiven from his ten thousand debt but wouldn’t let go of a fellow servant who owe him one hundred denarii. Forgive as the Lord has forgiven us.

Homecoming

 1 Samuel 6

Departure from Philistine Territory (vv.1-12)

After seven months of tumors and rats, the Philistines finally gave up and decided to let go of the Ark. They sought the counsel of priests and diviners on how to send it back to its place. Their advice?  Put it in a new cart hitched to two cows that have never been yoked and return it with five gold rats as guilt offerings – one each for the fortified towns, and five gold tumors for its five rulers.  I wonder if any human king would be delightful to receive a golden sore? Ewww! :> If I would make a peace offering to my husband, I don’t think a fashion accessory would do well. We don’t choose a gift without considering the recipient right? Especially if we’re seeking reconciliation. In their foolishness, the Philistines thought their way of appeasing their gods could honor Israel’s God too. We do the same when we insist that we can earn His pleasure with our long prayers, charity works, and sacrificial devotions? Did God ever require those from us? Why can’t our pride accept that Jesus Christ has already paid the penalty for our sins and all that’s left to do is to ask for His forgiveness and receive His salvation by faith? Is it unbelievably too simple? It took the Philistines seven months, the Egyptians, ten plagues, and with some of us, months of LOA from His presence. Yielding to His will is just a prayer away. One humble confession and He promised full pardon. No strings attached. No ‘do this first’, or ‘make yourself perfect first’, because God knows we can’t. His pleasure is only through His Son. Acknowledge Him and He will acknowledge us to the Father. That’s how it works. We can’t run it how we want it. It’s not our kingdom remember?

 Application:

Delayed obedience is disobedience. Late submission is actually non-submission because we have committed ourselves to a deadline. We have set structures to push us to excellence, build our character, and as platform to exercise wisdom. Every second counts. Ask an Olympic swimmer or runner and they’ll tell you it did cost them gold. Discipline of time is what separates mediocrity from mastery. ‘Daig ng maagap ang masipag’,  sabi nga ng Pinoy. If only the Philistines returned the ark after the first strike of plague, their death toll could have been reduced to zero; if only we disregarded our pride and sought forgiveness that same date, we might still have a friend to hang out with; if only we became fully yielding to His will, we could have experienced more of His grace. I regret those days I chose laziness (and/or busyness!) over my alone time with God and His word. I sure have missed a lot of His guidance and could have avoided many pitfalls. We should listen more to our own advice to youngters, ‘We will sometimes stumble and fall, but we can always stand up and run again’.  Rise Up! Obey Now, Do Not Delay!

Arrival at Beth Shemesh (vv.13-21)

What started with much rejoicing ended with mourning. They welcomed the ark with open arms, now they want it out of their town. They set it on a rock and made sacrifices to God, but then He put to death seventy of their men. We do sometimes experience such roller coaster rides, right? We started our day right, even took time to pray before we go to work. We’re happy and hopeful and full of positivity, This is gonna be a great day!’. But for some reason, our boss will disapprove our week’s work, then we’ll receive a call that our son hit his head on some wall, and just before logging off, we’ll see a bad comment in our Facebook wall being viewed by the world no less. Let me guess, we’ll be stuck for hours in traffic before we reach home, just so to complete our day! Whaaaat was that all about?!!  Well at least my example of a good day turned to bad was beyond our control. It just fell on our lot, and in time, we’ll see God’s purpose why He allowed it to happen. The people of Beth Shemesh put it upon their heads. They dishonored God by looking into the ark. A thick curtain in the Holy of holies served as a dividing line so that no man, except the high priest could irreverently enter God presence. He first cleanses himself, put on a special clothing, and bring blood with him inside, not anytime he wish, but only on the Day of Atonement. That’s how God wants His people to take His holiness seriously. Beth Shemesh folks disregarded the protocol, thus suffered the consequences. No subject can just present himself to the king without a summon, same as we cannot see our president without an approval. It’s in respect to their high office and because set rules are being applied. But on Jesus’ last breath on the cross, that curtain was torn in two signifying we can now go near to God. He opened the way for us to enter the Most Holy Place by His blood. How beautiful is that! No rules, no security pass, no appointments. Sadly though, how many of us rejoice in that privilege today? Let us not forget how Jesus suffered just for us to have that free access. I love how Hillsong put it into song: ‘Nothing you can do can make Him love you more, and nothing that you’ve done can make Him close the door. Because of His great love, He gave His only Son. Everything was done so you would come.” How about taking this time to pray…

 Application:

Just because the door to His presence is open doesn’t mean deliberate sinners can just walk in and out untouched. Grace never lowered His righteous standards. Shall those who received full pardon not live in gratitude to the One who set him free? We were bought at a price, thus we should honor Him with our lives.  Hebrews 10:29 is a warning for all of us: “How much more severely do you think a man deserves to be punished who has trampled the Son of God under foot, who has treated as an unholy thing the blood of the covenant that sanctified him, and who ahs insulted the Spirit of grace.” Ungratefulness is an insult to any giver. Living in sin is being ungrateful. Give it up now. The consequence of sin is matchless to the loss we will temporarily feel in letting go of our pet sins. Ask Moses why he was forfeited from entering the promise land even after faithfully leading Israel for many years - - because he angrily struck a rock twice. Ask why Achan’s family was stoned and burned alive - - because he hid a beautiful robe and some silver and gold.  And why did God killed seventy Beth Shemesh men? Because they looked into the ark. It seems their punishments were so harsh compared to their ‘little’ sins. But why do you think Jesus equated adultery with a lustful look, or why include liars in the same row as thieves, murderers, immoral and sorcerers? We define and categorize sin based on the graveness of its result, but God sees all sins as coming from the heart that negates all that He is. If I arrive one minute late or five hours late to an appointment, it’s still disrespect. If I protest at the top of my lungs or quietly backstabbed my leaders, it’s both rebellion right? Just because we claim to be already Christians that we are safe from His judgment. We may be eternally delivered from hell, but we will still give an account for everything we did on earth. Time to mind our manners.

Breaking Enemy Lines

1 Samuel 5

Broken Idol in its Temple (vv.1-5)

Your homecourt is to your advantage. Familiarity, authority, access, influence, and support - - all at your disposal. And if the visiting team falls into your overwhelming, intimidating scheme, you can expect a win. Dagon, the Philistines’ half-fishy-something idol, had that advantage - - if it has even an inch of breath and power for a face off. But twice did it fell facedown before the ark of the Lord, even crushed its head and hands the second time. “The God of Israel is heavy upon…Dagon our god” they said, and yet, their loyalty remained to their lame, lifeless god. How blinded! Those who heard the truth and do not put it into practice walks along the same line. They know God as all-powerful but they ask from Him not; they know Him as ever-present but kept Him at a distance; they knew Him by Name but calls Him not. Now let’s move closer to our own lives:  who’s the first in our list when we ran into trouble, friend or God? When we have a important presentation next week, how many hours do we spend preparing? how about praying? We say He is God but we’re still occupying our life’s throne. We call Him Lord on Sundays, but decide for ourselves on weekdays. If He’s not Lord of all, He’s not our Lord at all. Would we rather be broken into pieces before we acknowledge that we are insufficient apart from Him? Let us not deceive ourselves and think a clay is better than a potter. We don’t even own this ‘temple’ to start with.

 Application:

Hard heads. These are people who have resolved in themselves not to listen, or change, and don’t care.  ‘This is what I believe. It’s what I know is best. Now respect it.”  No amount of persistence or persuasion can walk through his door. Mind you, even the windows are closed the moment you knock again.  When a friend is so close to trapping himself with his wrong decision, it’s heartbreaking. We feel very helpless and our friend, so pitiful. Turn the scenario around and admit we’ve been hard heads many times. As adults, why are we sometimes so defensive when our parents mind our decisions? We think their wisdom is old, weak, and irrelevant. How about our leaders? Why are our ears (don’t ask me to read that again, haha!) so sensitive to suggestions and classify it immediately as criticism? We say we wouldn’t want to be taken personally but labels all comments as personal attacks. We negate everything but ourselves. That’s pride. And we do find that in Scripture, alongside destruction! Pride has no place in God’s kingdom where meekness, humility and submission is honored instead. I have to confess I am one hard-headed daughter. I am never disobedient, but my heart is not always right. God has been faithful in rebuking me everytime and to date, we’ve won some battles (we lost a few because I gave in to my stubbornness!). I’m sure there’ll be more testing and refining until I come out as gold! That’s a long walk, but a good one :>

Tumor Outbreak in the Cities (vv.6-12)

To the Philistines, God has the reputation of sending plagues. News of what happened to Egypt reached them. Maybe they felt mightier than Pharaoh and his army now that they have captured the ark. When the people of Ashdod (and its vicinity) were afflicted with tumors, they knew immediately it was the hand of God. How unlikely today. When disaster comes, both natural and man-made, we usually point it to global warming, foresight failure, poor facility, community negligence, or plain accident. Those who see God in these events are usually identified as one with that bum holding a signage ‘The End is Near’, while those providing us with scientific explanations are elevated to the elite circle of the Credibles. We’d rather keep silent right? Truth never had its chance because those claiming to hold it held their tongues instead! But just like the ark, alone and seemingly defenseless in the enemy camp, God solely devastated the two cities and death had filled everyone with great panic. For even without us, His work continues to bring glory to His Name. If we don’t proclaim His Name to the nations, the heavens will declare it. If we don’t praise Him, He can make the stones cry out! Now, who needs who?

 Application:

If Christianity looks so old school today, it’s because that’s how we reflect it to the world! How can they be attracted to a living God, when they see us dragging our feet to work and our words boring them to death? How can they trust Him with their lives when they see us always lingering on the crossroads, taking all possible u-turns, and with no sense of direction at all.  And will they ever submit to His Lordship when as His servants we are first to complain, last to obey, and a mediocre in all we do? Instead of being set apart, we’re one with the crowd. Not even on Sundays are we different from non-believers: we all wake up late, we don’t bring our bibles, and we rush to the mall after lunch. WAKE UP CHURCH!  The God of Israel is the God we serve. At His feet nations bow and with a word, miracles happen. We should be the most vibrant, passionate, and hopeful beings on the planet! Jesus once instructed a  leper not to spread the news of how he had been healed because He did not want people to come and proclaim Him as the Messiah yet.  But the man was so happy he told everyone he met the most amazing thing that happened in his life. Jesus could not go into the towns because of that.  My point here is, Jesus did something big for us, how can go on with our daily lives not ever mentioning that truth? Or at least having that radiant look? I say, it’s high time for us to Go, Grow, and Glow! Let it shine guyz! :>

Funerals and a Baby

1 Samuel 4

Defiance and Defeat (vv.1-11)

On their first encounter, four thousand Israelites died on the battlefield. The elders gathered and asked why God brought them defeat against the Philistines. At least here, they have the right perspective that it was God who makes things happen. But instead of appeasing Him, as what even pagans would wisely do, they disregarded their own inquiry, never sat down to see the root of the issue, and took the matter in their hands. Let me write this again in our version: something happened really bad, say we failed an important exam or the company went bankrupt or a young family member was rushed to the hospital. We cried to God for answers. We know He’s the One who controls all life’s events. But now our mind has shifted to taking down notes of what to do next, people to approach, where to get the money, and the like. We claim to have prayed, but have we really taken time to wait for His answer? The Israelites thought of a ‘Christian’ idea: bring the sacred ark to war. Because they felt God abandoned them the first time, they now dragged Him to the scenario, as if giving Him a second chance to do His job. Our version? How many times have we asked godly people to pray for our concerns without coming to terms with God ourselves? We put Him in a box and foolishly thought that if we do this, He will do that. Religion without relationship is futile. If only they repented of their sins instead of using the ark as a good luck charm, the lives of thirty thousand foot soldiers could have been spared. But they were too busy and noisy to hear God. Their shouts shook the ground, reached the enemies’ camp, and terrorized the Philistines. But did it stop their enemies from attacking? No. Just like the Israelites, both knew the great God of Jacob who did wonders in Egypt, but neither obeyed Him. We can amaze people with our theological terminologies, or sing His praise at the top of our lungs, but if we had cherished sins in our hearts, the Lord will not listen. “Away with the noise of your songs!” was God’s word in Amos 5:23. So why were the Israelites defeated that day? God’s justice will say, ‘Why not?’.

 Application:

 ‘Things never happen in the same way twice’ were the words of Aslan to Lucy in the Chronicles of Narnia. God is in the business of always making things new. That’s why although we have His word to guide us with the principles, He gives us the liberty to exercise wisdom in its application to life. That’s where we need His daily guidance. He could have asked us to memorize the Scriptures period. But where is character building there? What would be the role of prayer then? It is not enough to know God with our minds. Avalon sang it perfectly, “By heart, by soul, that’s how I want to know You. Keep You as close as breath is to life. Wanna watch Your love unfold. By heart, by soul.” Worship is being awesomized with the wonders of God. It is the life of a watchman - - always on the lookout for God’s movement and knows that nothing is more important than seeing God Himself. But in His grace, He allows us to take a step further. He wouldn’t want us just staring at Him. His delight is for us to walk with Him and experience Him. It is His original story for Eden and His offer for eternity.  But He invites us to start walking now and experience His great faithfulness. It is afresh each morning!

Disgrace and Death   (vv.12-18)

Eli lived ninety eight years and served Israel for four decades, and yet his life ended with a fall, literally and otherwise. The death of his two sons on the same day is the sign that God’s judgment to his family line has began. But what really brought about his death is the mention that the ark of the covenant has been captured. It’s hard enough to be under the punishment of God, what is unbearable is when He finally decides to turn His back from you. When you angered your parents or boss and you’re still within their jurisdiction, at least there’s still hope for reconciliation and restoration, but how can you ask for forgiveness from someone who has already left you? Moses said, “If your presence doesn’t go with us, do not send us up from here. How will anyone know that you are pleased with me and with your people unless you go with us? What else will distinguish me and your people from all the other people on the face of the earth?” In His pleasure, He showed His glory to Moses, but now in displeasure, His glory has departed from Israel.

 Application:

Once saved, always saved. Discussing that would take me hours. Let me focus meantime on those who bring great displeasure to God too: those saved but not submissive! They are the ones who receive God’s gift of salvation but are unfaithful to His service and unyielding to the Spirit. When fire tests the quality of their work, it will burn up, although they themselves will escape the flames. Doing God’s work without His presence will never bear fruit. But faith even as small as a mustard seed can move mountains. The eyes of the Lord moves to and fro the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to Him. He fires up those whose hearts are already burning for Him and rewards the faithful stewards who doubled the gifts entrusted to them (whether given ten, five or two talents). But to the unfruitful fig tree, there was curse, and the foolish servant was left empty handed. For how can we expect God to empower us when we don’t take time for Him to fuel us up? How dare we seek His blessings when we bless Him not? How long will we bear His name but bring Him shame? His love is unconditional, but He is a fair judge.

Delivered in Despair (vv.19-22)

“I will make the ears of everyone who hears of it tingle” were the word of God through Samuel. Thirty four thousand soldiers were killed, the high priest and his sons died, Eli’s daughter in law died in labor and the ark of the covenant was captured. Blow by blow, one bad news after another. I can imagine the terror and thoughts of the land. It’s like how we all felt during the 9-11 attack.

“It’s just a matter of time and the Philistines will kill us all!”

“If Eli’s family was not spared, how can we escape God’s wrath?”

 “Eli’s successor also died. Who will lead us now?”

“Without the ark, will God’s presence still return to us?”

And there’s the baby which seemingly confirms their fears. His dying mother gave him the name Ichabod which means ‘God’s glory has departed from Israel’. I guess he’s the orphan of all orphans. No parents, no (presence of) God. And with the judgment now at the door of their family, he has no good future to look forward to. How unfair to reap the sins of his father! I asked my husband, ‘Was God unfair?’, he answered me, ‘Phinehas was unfair to his son’. God’s covenant with Israel was laid down since Moses’ time. As priests, they were the ones entrusted to teach the Law. They knew better, but decided otherwise. Now a helpless baby will bear the curse of their disobedience, plus two more generations down. Not only did my ears tingle with their story, my heart breaks for these babies :<

 Application:

Why do pregnant women smoke? Why are some fathers drunkards and lazy? Why do some couples resort to separation? Why do families continue to live beyond their means? Should babies suffer from heart complications just days after their birth? Should young boys live in streets and not go to school? Should a teenage girl experience abuse from her stepfather? Should we leave our children with debt instead of inheritance? Our children will suffer for every bad choice we make. It’s so unfair! They deserve a name, a life, a future. God wants to give it to them. But as parents, it will always be through us. I may not be as brutal as my examples above, but if I don’t guard my tongue, my kids will pick up my temper; if I will ignore their every interruption, I’m building a wall to our relationship; if they don’t see me sharing kindness, they too will be selfish and uncaring; and if I will not teach them about God, they will not see Him as important. When we became parents, we don’t live for ourselves anymore. Now we don’t just watch our conducts to protect our names, but our children’s too. Let them be proud not because they have wealthy, or famous, or successful parents. May they be called blessed because we obeyed God and have found favor in Him.  It’s the best legacy we can leave behind.

About a Boy

1 Samuel 3

The Boy and his Mentor (vv.1-10)

Being a parent and a teacher, I think Samuel is just like any other boy. With good supervision, established routines, and upright standards, any child can learn obedience, diligence, and responsibility. Eli did a good job in providing that environment to Samuel. The boy fulfilled his duties from morning to night and attended to the old priest promptly and with respect. We usually admire Samuel’s uncomplaining compliance in this chapter. But Eli was as patient and tolerant too. Upon realizing it was the Lord who was calling Samuel, he gently instructed him how to respond next time. To think it was already late night and being old also means numerous discomforts. I for one would not gladly welcome unexcused sleep interruptions. Make that three times!  But maybe, the delight of being a ‘lolo’ to any child made a lot of difference. Maybe because he failed as a father to Hophni and Phinehas that he saw his second chance in Samuel. I believe Eli treated him well. Respect begets respect.

Application:

Matthew 12:33 "Make a tree good and its fruit will be good, or make a tree bad and its fruit will be bad, for a tree is recognized by its fruit.” All parents in one way or another pass on good and bad things to their children. As children, we inherit their genes, diseases, habits, and unfortunately for some, even debts :< I have to admit I sometimes catch myself doing the things I say I hate seeing my mom do. And now, my jaw drops seeing my little kids mimicking my every funny and unguarded violent reactions! The truth of God’s word in Exodus 20:5-6 is a good reminder for us “I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me, but showing love to a thousand generations of those who love me and keep my commandments.” We may be part of the curse because of the disobedience of those who lived before us, but we are also responsible for the generation following us. We have to choose to cut the rope now. Not only for the future of our children, but moreso, because we bear the name of being called God’s children. Honor begets honor. 

The Boy and God’s Message (vv.11-18)

Verse one gave a scenario that the word of the Lord was rare at this time and there were not many visions. When a usually quiet person speaks (my husband, for example), we take it as an important matter and a special occasion :> And yet God chose a boy, and the message? Judgment! Parents would not have that as a first Bible lesson to their kids. It is a complicated topic, too violent for a young mind, and not really a charmer for their first encounter with God’s word. But God is training the young prophet to speak His word, regardless of personal relevance or audience relationship or content preference. What is admirable is that Samuel kept it to himself until morning. He feared it would cause the old man much grief. Only upon Eli’s inquiry (and a warning that God will deal with him severely if he’ll withhold any detail) that the boy told him everything. God calls us to preach the Word, but He also wants us to speak His truth in love. A delicious meal served in a filthy plate forfeits the pleasure. Even to the hungry, it will sure fill up their stomachs, but they will accuse the giver as inhumane. How much more a message of wrath. There is no way it could lighten a load. But it makes a lot of difference if we try to be more considerate, choose to speak with grace and season it with salt. Hate the sin but continue to love the sinner. It is how God’s kingdom works.

Application:

God can use anything and everyone to get our attention. Even kids like Samuel were used in the Bible to deliver a message or as object lessons to those thrice their age. Seeing their innocence and simplicity, honestly and straightforwardness, it is unlikely for us to respond offensively (I don’t know about ‘impulsively’, haha!). We had our share of this just the other night. Around 11p.m., our son Rilian screamed and we found him on his toes, facing the windows. It would be more ‘normal’ if it’s the other way around, that is, towards the door. Trying to fight back his tears, he exclaimed: “Ang dami zombies!”. We were playing Plants vs Zombies that night and it resulted to a bad dream. I can only imagine how fearful that is for a four year old boy. As parents, we have tried to keep him from being afraid of the dark, or watching violent or horror dvds, or begged his tita not to use Pinoy terms like ‘mumu’ to scare him off. This game subtly crept in and appeared harmless. I even custom-ordered zombie shirts for Tris’ birthday last month. We were fanatics. Tris confessed God already convicted him months ago to delete that game because as a designer, God showed him that these creatures distort God’s beautiful design in creation. God used our son to wake him up the second time. And we can’t ignore it now because it’s affecting our kids. In obedience to being responsible parents, and in honor of our Creator, we deleted the game, threw the shirts and all our dvds which could be an entry point for fear to have a hold in our family.  We again prayed for His rule and protection in the house. Now we know better not to take lightly the Spirit’s conviction, for we will experience His bigger shake even through these small packages!

The Boy as God’s Mouthpiece (vv.19-21)

Before his name and work became known, this young boy’s establishment as a prophet began with these words: “The Lord was with Samuel as he grew up”.  God’s calling and presence is prerequisite to all our undertakings. It is God-initiated. How He distinctly wired us for a purpose is for us to discover through faithful reading of His word, being in tune with the Spirit, watching His symphonized working in circumstances, and through people.  It takes humility to accept both success and failure, even more to receive either praise or criticism. But it’s a necessary confirmation to one’s calling. For where God sends you, He will bless you. Please note that blessings do not necessarily mean abundance. It sometimes disguises itself as hardship for His glory (and your character) to beautifully unfold. And when we are walking alongside His will, just like Samuel, none of our words will fall on the ground and people will recognize HIM. Let me repeat that: not us, but God in us! The Lord continued to reveal Himself to Samuel that it blessed all Israel. We are His vessels, channels to His blessings. And the honor of being first to be touched by God is peerless. When we’re asked to comfort another, it is because we experienced being comforted first. When asked to seek that one lost sheep, know that we were once lost but now found by Him. Or when asked to love our enemies, remember Jesus suffered from and for US too. We can never outgive God. Seek His Kingdom and righteousness and all these things, more than you could ask or imagine, will be given to you as well.  

Application:

God was with Samuel as he grew up.. and continued to reveal Himself to him.  How I wish it will be the same for my life, and my children. But it is possible! It is what God desires – a constant, continuing communion with Him. The problem lies on our side of the story or should I say, when we put the weight of the doing on our backs. It is God’s work to initiate, ours to respond. He reveals, we obey. We always take our cue from Him.  When we do great things for God, be sure the instruction is from Him, and not our thought-best for Him. Martha worked, Mary sat down.  Martha complained, Mary was commended. Samuel’s role is simply to relay what God has said. Isn’t that easier than trying to conceptualize another brilliant idea? He has the answer in all life’s questions. From marriage to parenting, career and money matters, friendship and leadership issues, the Bible has it all. We just have to give Him our time. Jesus was God’s Son and yet He spent His early mornings alone with the Father. He did not create us to decipher life with a DIY manual. He is the God of relationships that even in our reading of His already revealed Word, His Spirit guides our understanding. But apart from that relationship, even the wisest among us will see nothing but foolishness in Scriptures.  We cannot know His ways if we do not know God. But the moment we take that step towards Him, it will uncover an exciting and satisfying journey to His unfathomable and infinite wisdom and glory! I’ll take that plunge!