Feet of the Elderly

1 Kings 12:14

My father made your yoke heavy; I will make it even heavier. My father scourged you with whips; I will scourge you with scorpions.

Early this morning, we brought my family to the airport after staying with us for eight days. It was sadder this time because I was the one left behind. I never  thought I’d cry hard when I got home. With their bedsheets still there, some shared-food left in the fridge, the slippers they used - - every corner flashed detailed memories.  How I wish I could have another day spent with them. Better yet, have a total rewind. For then, I will choose differently. I guess I’d sit more at their feet instead of preferring that Martha apron, pleasing (and impressing) them with all comforts and food I know. I’d also be more accepting and tolerant of their countless, repetitive comments and suggestions rather than that raised defensive shield, for sadly, it did rob us some happy afternoon chats. Oh how could I fool myself that I’m wiser now?  Or that I’m better?

Taking Solomon’s place is a big shoe to fill: the wisest man of his time, wealthy and famous, and whose rule is marked with peace and prosperity. It will surely put the heir in overwhelming expectations, if not insecurity. But Rehoboam neither cared nor pursued those. He wanted to be different. The plea of his people was to lighten their loads, which probably meant taxes for no Israelite was into forced labor. In Solomon’s time, the prosperity of the palace was felt at every home. 'Twas a shared experience. With Rehoboam’s reply of heavier yoke, he intended to widen the gap of royalty and commoners, and draw a line between power and follower. In Solomon’s rule, he acknowledged David’s men and allowed them to continue in their service. Although the wisest, he kept a personal adviser, Zabud, the son of possibly the Nathan who was also close to his father.   But Rehoboam discarded Solomon’s people. He wanted his staff to be filled with fresh blood, new faces, different people. He knew he can’t surpass his father’s wisdom, and so he thought whips can be his concentration and fear his intimidation. We’ll at least he achieved his goal of being differently famous. For in his term birthed the infamous divided kingdom. 

We all want to be better. To discover different routes and conquer uncharted lands. We see science and technology advancing everyday. But not without the aid of previous, primitive studies. It may be rusty and wrong, but even those were kept to make sure we won’t walk that road again. So is the wisdom of the elderly. They may not know the latest gadget or business trends, but it doesn’t mean their principles and tips are outdated. In Psalm 92, the righteous elderly  stays fresh and green, flourishing and bearing fruit. Of course the qualifier is righteousness and the goal is to point the young to God. Age may be our big difference. The present may be our advantage. But we can’t discredit the many years they have walked with God. Soon we’ll have our chance. Our grandkids may soon laugh at our iPads and Blackberries. But by then, we’ll agree with now 92 year old Andy Rooney, "The best classroom in the world is at the feet of an elderly person."

Not About Me

1 Kings 11:31-32

“Then he said to Jeroboam, “Take ten pieces for yourself, for this is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: ‘See, I am going to tear the kingdom out of Solomon’s hand and give you ten tribes. But for the sake of my servant David and the city of Jerusalem, which I have chosen out of all the tribes of Israel, he will have one tribe.”

Last week, I received a text invitation asking me to consider leading a certain ministry. It came as a surprise because I still consider myself new to this place and because I know it’s a filled-up position. I was informed that unmet expectation was the reason for the vacant post. That was sad. Sadder because I know that person and for a time I was under her. The relationship will sure go through some awkward moments if I’ll say yes.  ‘Oh Lord, is this really your call? Why me?’ My mind readily listed my personal vision and theirs; my can-dos and the possible work scope; my existing roles and this added responsibility, to see if all will match and not run in conflict. On the side, of course, I considered my personal preference. Then I realized - - all my questions were all about me.

With ‘Jeroboam Rebels Against Solomon’ as heading, I was expecting to find him like Hadad and Rezon, who, although we’re raised up by God to become adversaries, were men with personal hatred towards the king. I was surprised that the call came to him while he was faithfully attending to his duties. He was known to be a diligent and excellent worker. Solomon saw that and put him incharge of the whole labor force of Joseph’s house. Some commentaries believe he had his eyes on the throne, but still, it wasn’t ambition that will pave his way up there. He was just one day going out of Jerusalem when Ahijah met him on the way, tore a new cloak into twelve pieces before him and handed him ten. The prophet explained it was God tearing the kingdom out of Solomon’s hand because of his disobedience, but for the sake of David and Jerusalem, two tribes will be kept for that lineage, while the bigger ten will be under Jeroboam. ‘Because of Solomon and for the sake of David’ were God’s reasons. We see no ‘because of Jeroboam’s credentials or character’ or grand plan like ‘I will make you great’. Although God promised He will build him a dynasty as enduring as David’s if he will walk uprightly. But it’s more like a reward after a job well done. His call was not in a silver platter. He will be called rebel before he can take the throne. He will go against the one who once gave him the promotion. His rule will be marked with Israel’s division. Not so glittering job opening right?

We sometimes have that concept that we’re like a central object and all else revolves around us. We see God as having a personal plan for us and our future, and it will be the best ever... for us. We consider a course, a job, a relationship, on the condition that it will lead to our advancement or greater gain. Max Lucado in one of his books compared that to the primitive idea of seeing the earth, instead of the sun, as the center of the solar system. But we have the truth now. God is the reason and purpose for everything. Jeremiah 29:11 is God’s plan of bringing His people back to a relationship with him. That is the hope and the future. Not some retirement insurance. Delighting yourself in Him is finding Him as the sole fulfillment of your desires. He is the blessing, not His gifts. I will say yes to that work invitation if He confirms it, despite of possible relational issues, leaving aside work comfortability, and regardless of personal preferences. His will is the main thing. I remember my violent reaction when I came across God’s comfort with the purpose of making us comforters. I was then passing through a dark valley and the thought that I’m enduring it all for the sake of another made me cry ‘unfair’. It clouded the beautiful truth of receiving His firsthand comfort. Add to that the privilege of working with equals being with Him.  I like how The Message wrote Psalm 84:10,11: ‘One day spent in your house, this beautiful place of worship, beats thousands spent on Greek island beaches. I'd rather scrub floors in the house of my God than be honored as a guest in the palace of sin.’ How can I forget? It’s just not about me :>

Bitter Bite

1 Kings 11:26

“Then the LORD raised up against Solomon an adversary, Hadad the Edomite, from the royal line of Edom.”

With the exclusion of coffee, chocolates and CD cars, there’s nothing cool about being bitter. One site describes it as a frozen form of latent anger and resentment. It remembers details, refuses to let go, and often reacts violently. Reading Hitler’s childhood in Wikipedia today surprised me, for there I found this was exactly the root of all his hate. It was said that he was once confident, outgoing and excellent ‘til his younger brother died of measles. Then his father failed in his farming efforts and frequently beats him up and ignored his wishes to pursue his dreams of attending an art school. His German nationalism birthed in defiance of the Austrian monarchy, whom his father expressed proud loyalty. Bitterness not only consumed him, worse, it contributed to the destruction of significantly a lot others.

Edomites were descendants of Esau, Jacob’s older brother whom he twice deceived: first by taking his birthright, then by intercepting Isaac’s blessings. What was left for Esau were these words: ‘you dwelling will be away from richness, you will live by the sword, and you will serve your brother’. No wonder he was determined to kill his brother. A grudge his people kept for all time. One major event was when they did not permit Israel to pass their country during Exodus time. It was heartless inconsideration. Probably one reason why God ordered them blotted out during Saul and David’s time. And because they failed, Solomon now has Hadad as an adversary - - allowed by God Himself as consequence for his disobedience. He was never a threat until Solomon’s folly. To fully understand the weight of this punishment, that is, being up against bitter people, let me site three more info under the category Edomite: first, Doeg, the one who killed all the priests of Nob; second, King Herod, the one who ordered the murder of all the boys in Bethlehem; and third, they helped plunder and slaughtered the Jews when Nebuchadnezzar destroyed Jerusalem in 586 BC. Bitter and barbaric. Sounds like Nazis huh? 

What is worse than being bitter is being an enemy of one. They will surely not stop ‘til their hearts’ content. The biblical Greek words meant sharp or pointed. Guess we have to think twice before disobeying. These people may not have the perspective of God’s purposes for their pains, neither fear of God at least, and yet they’re serving His sovereignty and justice. I pray we’d be wise enough not to be deceived by the luster of the forbidden fruit. The bitter aftertaste is sure not worth it.

Angry, But..

1 Kings 11:9

“The LORD became angry with Solomon because his heart had turned away from the LORD, the God of Israel, who had appeared to him twice.”

It is said that the opposite of love is not hate, but indifference. Defined as having no particular interest or emotion or concern, our Pinoy term for that is dedma, derived from dead malice. In relation to love, it’s worse than hate, for haters at least relate with you. An indifferent person completely ignores your existence. It’s my son playing deaf ear and unmoved at my plea for household help. Such heats me up for it implies I’m undervalued and my works were met with ungratefulness.  No parent would brush off the disrespect. But will we care less if they continue in disobedience? Love will not permit us. 

Coming from the context of love and much grace, God as a Father became angry with Solomon for he turned his back from Him. Solomon’s indifference is evident in how he deviated from the wisdom he was equipped with, defying the commands God twice personally warned him about, and disregarding all blessings he and all Israel were enjoying. He lived his last years ungrateful and undervaluing the God who made ‘him’ all happen.  ‘He turned his heart away’ meant he called not, and worse, cared not. God was angry for it insulted His Being and His blessings. But He was never indifferent. The punishment of tearing the Israel’s kingdom proves He still is committed to the relationship. Sparing one tribe for David’s line was that grace. God detests the sin and the sinner, but did He stop loving Solomon as his son? 

So, is God angry when I sin? Yes. Will He punish? Yes. Will He stop loving? No, but that will not stop Him from executing judgment. For where sin is, His wrath is there. It’s part of the covenant relationship. At the cross, Jesus became the sinner for us, bearing the sins of the world  past, present and future. But God did not step in to stop Christ from dying. His love kept Him there. Shall we then continue to live as if all these were nonsense? Shall we disregard His warning and discredit His blessings? Do we really want God’s anger against us? Because He will if we choose to. But that will not keep Him from loving us. Mindblowing!

Make or Break Your Man

1 Kings 11:2

“They were from nations about which the LORD had told the Israelites, "You must not intermarry with them, because they will surely turn your hearts after their gods." Nevertheless, Solomon held fast to them in love.”

I am a one spoiled wife. Blessed with a husband who loves me so much, it warms my heart to see him consent to my wishes or whims, which I doubt many men would do – household chores especially. All it takes was a big hug, a sweet please, and a beautiful me that day, haha! There was a time I asked him to skip work and so he lazily stayed home with me. On one weekend, I was even able to drag him to watch a John Lloyd movie with me, unbelievable! haha :> My preference, being loud and persistent, usually wins over his passive and tolerant modes. But not always of course. There were times he’d lovingly rebuke me with ‘ay, sobra na yan’ - - I guess when he’s sensing manipulation at work. His love may be so big and bending, but not to the point of submission. That’s the side of a wife. 

As early as Deuteronomy, even before the idea was conceived on Israel’s mind, God already warned them that their king should not acquire many horses for himself or make the people return to Egypt and never take many wives, or his heart will be led astray. Previous chapters tell us Solomon built chariot cities and married Pharaoh’s daughter - that's two down :< Now we read he had one thousand women - that's one every two plus years! Imagine it only took one Eve for humanity to sin, one Delilah to cut man’s strength, one Bathsheba to ruin one’s name - -he multiplied that a thousand times!! Solomon held fast to them in love to the point of building a high place for each of their detestable gods. His big love crossed over to submission. It may not say he actually worshiped with them, but he funded their will. Even if he spent only a few yielding hours, when multiplied by their number, meant more than a lot hours farther from attending to the house of the one true God. They sure did steal his heart away. Wisdom was no guarantee. Nor did innocence kept Adam, or Samson his strength, or David his devotion. What they believed in and hold fast to for so many years, these women took even less than halftime. All they did was to tap on men’s desires, lure them away, and they’re trapped. Such is the birth of sin that soon brings forth death.  

Women may be regarded as the weaker sex, but we can also weaken men. Our words, our glance, our charm, our skirts, and our skin - -all sets a trap for men’s downfall. We can make them fail an exam, forget an appointment, even forego a principle. In doing so, we make them less of a man. They were created in the image the Father, let’s not change them to conform to our likes and dislikes; They were called to work diligently, let’s not waste their time waiting for us 5 hours; They were commanded to  take the lead, let’s not make them submit to our whims. Proverbs 31 says our men should be respected at the city gates where they’ll  take seats among the elders of the land. For in the same city gate, women who do noble things and who fears the Lord will be given praise. Let's not break them ladies- - and don't make them!

In Order, Your Order

1 Kings 10:8

How happy your men must be! How happy your officials, who continually stand before you and hear your wisdom!

No, I don’t have OCD, but let’s just say I’m visually particular. Two years of monitoring the ladies in our school’s dorm could have birthed it. I had to check if their dustings are well done, if they emptied their mailboxes, if they’re sitting upright during devotion time, and if their shoes are aligned. Now my family knows mom is restless when there’s a toy left on the floor, when they don’t finish their meal to the last rice, and when there’s peanut butter left on the spoon! Tris says it’s my unnecessary stress. I say, ‘then help me clean it up’, hahaha :>  Orderliness is my idea of a happy place to be in. 

Everything the Queen of Sheba found in Solomon’s courts we’re in order, thus exemplary. From the palace he had built, the food on his table, the seating of his officials, the attending servants in their robes, his cupbearers, to his offerings made at the temple – all carefully designed and discharged. She was so astonished at the sight of it all, as we would in a museum or art galleries (assuming we all love art, haha). This is what exceeded her expectations. All she heard was the king’s fame in relation to his wisdom and his God, now she’s seeing his reason and religion applied. ‘What a happy place to be in!’ She ended her visit praising God – both for giving Solomon the kingdom and for Israel, for having him as king.  All played their part in making the court worthy for God’s praise.  No one thought his work as insignificant which could make a face frown. No one served half-heartedly which is a bad shrill when all else is in sync. Ever been to a nice hotel or restaurant with poor costumer service? Who cares about superb amenities when your people’s a complete turn off :< It was curiosity to Solomon’s big words that brought the queen to that court, but it was everybody’s big work that made her leave beyond content. 

We are all part of a whole. A family member, an employee, a student, a church member, a team player, a friend. The ear can’t say ‘Well, I’m not an eye’ or ‘Who cares about the eye?’ Both self-pity and self-absorption destroys the image of the whole.  We don’t make hasty decisions with the rudeness of ‘this is my life’ script. Here’s a scenario: we are all created beings in the courts of God, and the world is our visitor. God’s fame reached them – His prudence, His provisions, His power. Hearing from God Himself, they were all impressed. Now a tour of His Word applied. What will they see when they visit our homes, our workplace, and our churches? Will it match the ones God said to be His kingdom policies? Will they leave His courts in praise and beyond content? Will they say ‘What a happy place to be in’?  

Ungrateful = Ungodly

1 Kings 9:12-13a

But when Hiram went from Tyre to see the towns that Solomon had given him, he was not pleased with them. "What kind of towns are these you have given me, my brother?" he asked. 

My mom loves discounts and freebies. If she sees an added item to a shampoo for example, even if it’s not our favorite brand, or we still have a stock, worse, even if the giveaway is a just small canister which her pantry is already full of, she will still take that grab. Well at least supplies is her territory side. What we often frown about is when she finds a good buy for me and my sister - - clothes, shoes, or  accessories especially. Since her idea of a good purchase is price and not style, her excitement is often buried off with this line: ‘Oh mom please, can you just give us the money next time?’ or ‘You could have bought an ice cream instead’. My dad would always join in the fun and mockery, and my mom just got used to us. I know you’d all say cruel. But for some reason, my mom’s not buying our message. Still, that doesn’t give us the right, right?   

At the end of twenty years, Solomon thought of giving his partner-supplier -- Hiram, king of Tyre – twenty towns in Galilee. This man has provided him all the cedar and gold that he wanted for his building projects. I think this gesture is far and above their contract agreement of remuneration as evident in their peaceful relationship for two decades. But when Hiram saw the towns for himself, he was greatly displeased and in another account, it implied that he sent back this gift. Commentaries believed it was because Hiram was a seaport trade expert and the towns given him were inland, meaning, for farming benefits. Think of it as giving your mom a toolset instead of saucepans and spices. Hiram called the lands Cabul, or good-for-nothing, for it sure has no benefits for his country’s business. I think it’s no coincidence that it was also a king of Tyre that Ezekiel mentioned in his book as someone who grew proud because of his great wealth and skill. That chapter is the usual reference for Satan’s expulsion from heaven. Isn’t seeing yourself better and deserving more called ungratefulness? Now that’s a hair-raising thought.  

Ungratefulness. In 2 Timothy 3:2, it is regarded as part of the godlessness in the last days along with the lovers of money, boastful, abusive, disobedient, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, many other brutal words. Scary is, the people mentioned will act religious. They speak the Word but doesn’t live by it. And the bible warns that these are dangerous people. Ungrateful = dangerous? When the lot God gives you now is to be single or to live in tight budget or to stay low-key, and you reject the idea because you felt you deserve better, then that makes you a dangerous person to be with? Why? Because you point people to your pride and not to Christ?  Because you imply that God is unfair, and not good, and unworthy of praise? That may not be the intent of our minds, but it springs up from a heart that rebels against His rule, saying I have better ideas. Isn’t that playing God? So is that what I do to my mom? Isn’t my ungratefulness resulted to dishonoring her, mocking her, hurting her?  Anything godly there?

Affixed on God

1 Kings 9:6-7

“But if you or your sons turn away from me and do not observe the commands and decrees I have given you and go off to serve other gods and worship them, then I will cut off Israel from the land I have given them and will reject this temple I have consecrated for my Name. Israel will then become a byword and an object of ridicule among all peoples.”

We got our iPad last July when Tris’ resigned from work. It was one of the fruits of his 15 year service in the company. He needed it as sketchbook for his next employment. Timing that I saw someone twitted selling her few-months used iPad, it was the moviestar Rica Peralejo actually, and she offered it to us in a much lower price because of some slight dent. It was the first time for me to own something that is still so fresh and hot in the market. It wasn’t even in the malls yet when we got it. We were so blessed. It became the family’s new bonding. However, it soon became the object of my jealousy. It angered Tris that I called it his mistress, and I knew that was foul. When his office prohibited him from bringing it in, I became hooked with Plants vs Zombies which later resulted to my son’s nightmare. So we had to delete the app. Now it’s the kids fighting over it, every so often. They alternately outwit each other for the first or the longer grab. But ey, don’t get me wrong. It wasn’t all bad, and definitely not the iPad’s fault. As with all other gadgets and pleasures, it’s not  in itself sinful. We just have to be mindful of the affixes that turn ‘use’ to words like overuse, abuse and misuse. 

As early as chapter 9, Solomon had everything a king could ask for. Verse one says he achieved all he had desired to do. It was all great because God has been graciously good to him. He was so blessed and so was the whole land. It was a time of peace and prosperity. Nothing left but to enjoy it. God saw it fit to appear to him a second time, but with the same message: promised reward for obedience, punishment for disobedience. For us, it’s our fourth read in this book - - all in the occasion of Solomon’s milestones: when David charged him the throne, when God granted his request for wisdom, at the dedication the temple, and here when he had everything in his hands. Power, Prudence, Presence, Pleasure - - more than enough blessings to keep you praising. But we know the end of his story. Solomon allowed the affixes to overpower, caused him to act in imprudence, ignore God’s presence thus inviting displeasure in the land. God saw Israel's exile in eternity past and so in faithfulness,  His infinity stepped in time to warn His child again. 

For two days I’ve been pondering on this chapter, hoping to write something new to blog. Now I know why. As early as Eden, it was still the same message for stewardship: promised reward for obedience, punishment for disobedience. God wants us to enjoy His blessings within the confinement of His will. Is that limiting? No, it’s actually is freedom from sin. Obedience to His rule is the only way we can fully live life. He blessed us with relationships but we have to mind our character and unconditionally love and forgive. He gave us work but we need to uphold His excellence and disciplines, and exercise diligence. He provides us with income but the tithes are His, the needy is to be cared for, and we should be debt free. These are all His gifts. But its overuse, abuse or misuse leads us elsewhere. The Bible might sound like our mom sounding like a record player, giving us dos and don’ts daily and repeatedly, but it’s all because He cares so much about us. He wants His blessing to bring wealth for He adds no sorrow to it. We can choose Him as our affix by making our days, God-days; our relationships, God-honoring; our work, God-glorifying; and our finances, God-directed. It's our best our God-app today :>

Don’t Miss the Pointe

1 Kings 8:66

“On the following day he sent the people away. They blessed the king and then went home, joyful and glad in heart for all the good things the LORD had done for his servant David and his people Israel.”

This is Cross Pointe logo – our church here in Cebu. It’s formerly known as GCF and that’s how we came to know it. Coming there the first time, my gaze was all front: instruments, stage, backdrop. Will this be our new church Lord? I’m wondering and seeking for clues to know its vision, their worship ministry set up, the kids program,etc. Then I tried to decipher their logo. I find it summer-ish because of the seemingly palm tree, plus of course the beach association of the province. Yes, I saw the cross there – as all Christian churches bears His name. I like the color too. I think I stopped there because the service was starting. Last Sunday, the speaker brought my eyes back to where I left off. He was challenging the church to take hold of its calling – to point people to the cross. And as if in cue, the arrows all pointing to the cross surfaced like those in 3d movies or pop-up books. Oh! So that’s the point! Who’s talking about summer or trees or colors? hahaha!  Now I can say Cross Pointe –that’s my church! And i know why!  

Like all celebrations, it starts with a program and ends with a feast, yey! If I’ll summarize the temple dedication program, I think it looks like this: Processional (Arrival of the Elders of Israel, Ark brought to the Most Holy Place) - Presence of God Filled the Temple - Preface Story of God’s Promise - Prayer of Dedication - Preaching - Presentation of Offerings. The celebration after was held fourteen days in all. It was a vast assembly and it sure was overflowing with provisions. Going home they were blessing their king, joyful and glad in their hearts. We’re sure they were still talking about it the following days. Like how Pinoys do it after a good Pacquiao fight or how men discuss NBA these days. But what is commendable in today’s reading is what they were really talking about that very much gladdened their hearts. Was it the offerings? Seeing  twenty thousand cattles and a hundred twenty thousand sheep and goats being sacrificed and that they had to concentrate the middle part of the courtyard because the bronze altar was too small to hold it all was enough scene stealer. Not that? So was it the attendance? It might have surprised them to see how Israel has really grown to as numerous as the stars of heaven and as the sand that is on the seashore. Not close? Was it the food then? Or the gold? Were they starstrucked seeing the Pharaoh’s daughter? hahaha :> Amazingly, Israel got it right this time. ‘They were joyful and glad in heart for all the good things the Lord has done for his servant David and his people Israel.’

We’ve found our love-relationships, we finished well in school or got promoted in work, we enjoy night outs with good friends, we take part or witness big events, we rejoice in great stories, we travel here and there - - and we feel it’s a great life to live. Our hearts are full and our faces show delight - -for all the good things? Should we stop, cut the statement in half and miss out the point? Will we put value in an artwork apart from acknowledgement that it was done by the master artist? Isn’t that why signature brands are expensive? But how come we exclude God in our journeys, in our conversations, in our lives? Isn’t He the point of it all? Will it even be called a blessing if we disregard the Giver, who by the way is no less than the King of kings? If He is not what makes our hearts joyful and glad, can something or someone even come close to take second place? I pray we’ll take time to check our life’s logos again, and make sure the arrows are all pointed to Christ. We wouldn’t want to miss the point, right?

Know Why

1 Kings 8:18

“Hear the supplication of your servant and of your people Israel when they pray toward this place. Hear from heaven, your dwelling place, and when you hear, forgive.” 

My kids love to play-replay their old videos. By old, meaning just a year or some couple of months ago. But there were already significant differences, especially physically and verbally. When we left Manila 6 month ago, Kjaran was still mostly babbling. Now we wonder where she got all those phrases. I had to make her unlearn some words, especially those picked up when I’m out and fiery,  hahaha :> Then of course I’ll try to compensate that with good add ups to her growing vocabulary. Our latest was the proudly-Pinoy po and opo. It’s her new yes and period. She’s all-accepting and mechanically obedient. But not Rilian. His age calls for an explanation, and more follow up questions. Now I have to think through my parental demands. I need facts to back me up and a biblical basis to make sure it’s right. Otherwise, why bother?

Reading through this chapter, I finally found the reason behind the prophet Daniel’s praying with his windows opened toward Jerusalem. Could be the same reference for the Muslim’s Keblah, or that duty to turn their faces towards Mecca when they pray. I may be wrong. But it’s possible. Solomon’s prayer of dedication for the temple sums up in this: ‘May you hear and forgive us Lord, in light of this temple’. For Israel, the temple is their bridge to the most holy God. It’s where justice and mercy meets via the shedding of blood. So whether defeated by the enemies or plagued by pests and famine, or brought to exile, they hope to seek (or see) refuge in the Lord’s house, knowing it’s where they can find a second chance.  What the temple stands in the Old Testament, Jesus is to us, through whom God’s favour rests. He is God’s provision for us, the only bridge for our repentance and requests to reach heaven’s throne. That’s why He shed His blood on the cross. That’s why we end our prayers with ‘In Jesus Name’. The phrase is not a respectfully yours letter ender. Calling on Jesus is the necessary stamp to get our messages across.  God will hear only when He sees Jesus’ marked blood on us. That’s why we acknowledge Him in our prayers.

We sure know a lot of people who felt God was deaf to their prayers. We may want to ask them first if they’re hooked to the Lifeline to begin with. Jesus is our only possible connection to heaven -- and He’s no less than God’s only Son! That makes accessibility just the door and that relationship is up ahead. In Jesus, we can call God ‘our Father’.  That’s moving from just being heard to being close. And in Jesus, we became co-heirs with Him. That’s from being forgiven to blessings forever. How beautiful is that! I think it’s high time we think through our prayer structures. Not that it’s wrong, but more of doing it for the right reasons. His name sure deserves more mention that just a closing phrase. Think about it. Know why.

Yes But No

1 Kings 8:18

“But the LORD said to my father David, 'Because it was in your heart to build a temple for my Name, you did well to have this in your heart. Nevertheless, you are not the one to build the temple, but your son, who is your own flesh and blood--he is the one who will build the temple for my Name.”

November of last year, our Department of Tourism received overwhelming criticisms for its campaign "Pilipinas Kay Ganda”. First, because its logo was said to plagiarise the one used in Poland’s tourism ads; second, because the website was similar to a porn site featuring Filipino women; and third, because they jumpstarted the programme without proper consultations. It resulted in Usec Romano’s resignation, a loss of about Php 5M, and the complete junking of the campaign. But setting aside image-controversies and process –anomalies, the project itself was a good concept.  I mean it was intended for the right reasons  - - to promote the country’s beautiful destinations, leading to possible investments, resulting to income and opportunities. I’m sure it was disheartening to all who brainstormed the concept. So, Yes, it was good, but No, it’s a bad.

In light of the Temple dedication, Solomon remembered how this project was a fruit of David’s hearts intent - - but was denied. God saw it fit to have His house built by a man of peace not a man of war. His son, but not him. Understandable, but quite painful right? It was his concept, his heart’s dream project.  His motivation was right for it was all for God. But he still got a No. I can imagine the quiet surrender of David to God’s will. A struggle to keep your heart right despite the crumbling landslide. God knows the disappointment in David and so He gently comforted him with the commendation that he did well to have this in his heart.  Yes, it was good, but No, it’s not for you...  it’s not for now. Solomon resurfaced the issue to highlight that it was the Lord’s sole idea to have the temple built through him at that exact time and in that exact place. For apart from His will, even our best intentions will be shelved. Good doesn't mean Go. It’s never our call.

We don’t attempt great things for God. As innocent as it may sound, we do not operate based on what we see as excellent or admirable or praiseworthy. God is not a lifeless idol but a relationship Being. He seeks that we obey from what we hear instead of guessing how we could please Him. Isn’t that supposed to be easier? Many people wander around wondering what God’s will is for their lives but they resist the idea that all it takes is to sit down at His feet and listen? And so when God gives them a No, they find it hard to comprehend how a dream so beautiful cannot be approved. We’re giving our all to a relationship or this company or that course, and when it falls short of our expectations, we ask why God turned His back on us. But did He ever tell us in the first place to take the path or choose that man?  Imagine if David pursued his big idea of building a wondrous temple and on the seventh year, when all is ready to celebrate and offer, God will not descend from heaven to acknowledge it. Isn’t that more heartbreaking? So No, He doesn’t mind that we consult Him with our every intention provided that we're open for His check or X-mark. But yes, it will be a lot better if we give Him our clean sheet of paper to write on.

Can I Be Lavish?

1 Kings 6:7-8

“He built the throne hall, the Hall of Justice, where he was to judge, and he covered it with cedar from floor to ceiling. And the palace in which he was to live, set farther back, was similar in design. Solomon also made a palace like this hall for Pharaoh's daughter, whom he had married.”

As a pastor’s kid, I grew up used to work around limited to zero budget. On the good side, it strengthened my faith, taught me contentment, made me grateful, and kept my lifestyle simple. Pursuing a support-based calling has never been so much a problem either. My friend-bookkeeper made a comment-joke before that Windsong’s weekly petty cash was even higher than my monthly support.  Of course there were moments I wished I had extra bucks for clothes or our coffee out at least. Other than that, I was kinda accepting of my lot. Until I got married. Tris’ job was stable enough to provide for our basic needs, and some once-in-a-while treats. That means, my support was finally allotted to ministry expense and family contingencies. The regular monthly wasn’t that big actually. But being used to less, I find it big. But did it make me buy my wants? Still not. Tris was making fun of me that I would ask him if I could buy this thing for myself and then I would still not. He bought an iPad for the family, and I don’t even talk about it. I don’t want to be appear luxurious. Admittedly, I had that poverty mentality.  And it’s not God-glorifying.

Chapter 6 and the latter half of chapter 7 talks about the grandeur of the temple: Cedars from Lebanon, the purest of gold, the brightest of bronze, beautiful interiors, all-new furnishings - - excellent and lavish in everything. And it should be. It is God’s house. All that we give and do for Him and His work should never fall short of what is finest. It took 7 years for Solomon to build it, making sure all is done accordingly and perfectly. Now chapter 7 presents us with this title, ‘Solomon builds his palace’. One in the forest of Lebanon, possibly a rest-house, then the Hall of Justice, one more palace where he will live, and another for his wife, Pharaoh’s daughter. It may not be sparkling gold as the temple, but he used the same high end, quality materials for it. It took him longer to build these, 13 years, most likely because he was prioritizing the temple building. But on the 7^th year, when the temple was finished, he turned and equally gave his all for his kingly and personal needs. His integrity was commendable for he placed the excess, dedicated resource in the temple treasuries. I’m guessing the Hall of Justice was financed by his office, and so was his palace. Though it could also be family-funded. But it was all recorded. No apologies. No fear of being accused as overspending. It fits him as king, he has the resources, he wants it, he pursued it. His priorities were in place and he balanced it with living a full, abundant life. Nothing wrong with that.

Yes Sheila - - I’m talking to myself here - - there’s nothing wrong in enjoying God’s blessings. It’s okay to buy fashionable clothes, top of the line gadgets, even your craved-for desserts. It is not a sin to plan for high-end vacations, owning a dream house, or getting a spa. As long as the budget allotment is directed by God, as long as it doesn’t interfere with the work God purposed you to do, and as long as you don’t do it to brag - - we don’t have a problem here. It is Solomon himself who said it, ‘People should eat and drink and enjoy the fruits of their labor, for these are gifts from God’.  Last Monday was my test. God lavishly blessed a couple-friend of mine and they deposited to my account a significant amount as support. Setting aside the tithes and ministry allotment, my heart was knocking me with the question: Can I really finally bring Kjaran to her first movie ever? Tris was surprised too! I called him up to meet us in McDonalds, I bought us dinner with happy meal toys for the little ones, and yes, all four of us watched Kung Fu Panda 2. Tris gave me a hug after that treat and teased, ‘You look good when you’re rich’, hahaha!! Why not? Am I not the King’s daughter? :>

What Is Important?

1 Kings 6:12-13

“As for this temple you are building, if you follow my decrees, carry out my regulations and keep all my commands and obey them, I will fulfill through you the promise I gave to David your father. And I will live among the Israelites and will not abandon my people Israel."

On June 17, Christians around Mega Manila will surely cluster around Ortigas Center for a taste of beautiful music and have a touch of Prasia’s newest album “What is Important’! Yes, it’s their much awaited 8^th album launch! As a group, their focus is to minister to the Filipino diaspora through concert tours, trainings, and missions. Now as individuals, they are the faith-living, fun-loving bunch whom I can so relate to, and regard as friends. Kuya Daniel (we call him Kuya Pong) years back was singing with Windsong, so it’s kinda like our two singing groups were relatives, hehe :> Reading their FB posts today, all the pressures and paraphernalias of preparation, brings back memories of what I went through a decade ago. Although it was far from iTouch on the left and laptop on the right, that time was more like PCs and inkjet printers :>  But beyond the workload is the struggle to keep your heart right - - to choose to be overwhelmed by His gracious hand, not the giant task at hand; and to never allow worry to rob me of my worship. For in the end, when the lights and claps are gone, when attendance and sales have been accounted for, when your friends already said their ‘well done’ and your group have called it ‘success’ - - God is there to ask you if you did ‘what is important’. I didn’t score well back then.

On the fourth year of Solomon’s reign, after the transition phase of Israel’s government was settled, the Temple building project commenced. Verse 7 writes that the blocks were already dressed, meaning, the king had pre-project constructions supervised. Another reason is that so no hammer, chisel and iron tool was heard on the building site. It’s the good leader in our time doing research, meeting people, making powerpoints, and ready with a couple of options before calling everyone for a planning meeting. With that, we can somehow expect a peaceful time for everyone, right? Seven years was spent building God's house. In the middle of the chapter, His word came to Solomon to encourage him of the promise, and to remind of what is important. ‘Follow my decrees, carry out my regulations, keep all my commands - -and I will not abandon you’. Abandon?!! You mean disregarding the whole project even if it’s shining gold, and artistically excellent, and by far, high end? Not to mention all the many sacrifices and funding and time used up, seriously? God will just put all those aside if He is not pleased with the people’s hearts? Uhm, yes. He made it clear as early as Samuel’s time: “What is more pleasing to the LORD: your burnt offerings and sacrifices or your obedience to his voice? Listen! Obedience is better than sacrifice, and submission is better than offering the fat of rams.” The temple is to bring us closer to Him, and if in doing so our hearts went farther from Him, it defeats His purpose.

Our projects on hand may not be comparable to Prasia’s concert production, but we share in their full schedules and demands here and there. Our days are spent working on a relationship, or making ends meet, finishing our studies or attending to our family’s needs. All are worthwhile and God-glorifying tasks. But again, God is pro-process and not merely product-oriented. His eye is on our hearts, more than what our hands can do. He called Mary’s sitting as better than Martha’s busyness. He chose David's psalms over Saul's height and outward appearance. He desires worship, not our work.  Us not our gifts. In two weeks time, Prasia will be singing ‘What is Important'. I pray that each us will choose with them, and please the One most important. Mark it on your every sched :>