What is your favorite sin to condemn in others?

What is your favorite sin to condemn in others? There is often one particular thing you zero in on...whether that be someone's lifestyle, habits, politics, denomination (yes, some people find other people's churches to be a matter of sin)....the list goes on and on. It is always easy to look at another person and say, "Ah-HA! See, they are sinning according to (insert verse or church tradition)," and that allows the accuser to feel better about their own life, their own perceived holiness.

But Paul, in Romans 2:1, tells us that when you judge (condemn in your mind) someone else for sinning, that you bring judgement upon yourself. For if you condemn someone else because of their lifestyle you need to remember that gossip, envy, self righteousness, pride, bitterness, un-forgiveness and hatred are all sins as well. If you condemn someone else for saying they eat or drink differently than you do (such as by what foods or what drink they partake in), remember by your own feeling superior to them you are sinning- none of us has any room to feel self righteous. For none, as Paul reminds us, is righteous before God. (Romans 3:10) We have all sinned, and fallen short. We will never, in this life, overcome our sinful natures completely.

What matters is that you love and trust Christ, so that His righteousness covers you. We trust in God's mercy and love and we attempt to love God as best we can, and to love our neighbors and the "least of these" as best we can. Cast stones at no one, for we all have our own sins and battles to face, and none of us are worthy to condemn another person. God calls us to love others, not push them away from God by being self righteous. Remember, the Pharisees were self righteous and Jesus condemned them for it, but Christ loves a humble heart.

Yes, there is sin in this world. But your obvious condemnation of people leads no one to Christ, it only pushes them away from Him. All you need to do is love people, and introduce them to the Bible and Jesus; as they learn to love Him then the Holy Spirit will do the rest.

Salvation.

Salvation. The saving grace of Jesus Christ bestowed upon those who trust Him, repent of their sins, and believe in His Word.

Who is responsible for your salvation? 

Am I, as a pastor? Is your local church pastor? The man on tv you follow?

No. 

If I, carrying the title of teacher, tell you a false gospel, then woe to me!

IF I were to engage in the telling and spreading of a watered down, added onto or an abbreviated gospel, then I would be held accountable before God and harsh would be my punishment. (This is why the Epistle of St. James warns those who are Bible teachers not to assume the role lightly.) Many will be the false teacher who faces God's anger on the day of Judgement; for they will have led people astray for love of money, fame and power.

But If I, or any other pastor, tells you what the Bible teaches, in the clearest and most sincere manner that we can, then we have done our duty to you, out of love for you and for God. We cannot make you accept Christ, we cannot make you believe the Gospel's truths; we can only present the Word and exhort you. We can pray for you, and answer questions as best we can, but that will not secure your salvation.

NO teacher, scholar, writer, pastor can save you. We are mere humans, flawed and in need of God's grace ourselves. We may be guideposts and assistant shepherds to the Great Shepherd, but it is He that can, and will, carry you to safety, if you trust and believe.

You, my friends, must study God's Word diligently. You must be in prayer for God's guidance and the presence of the Holy Spirit to work in your lives and in your hearts. You must come to Christ, acknowledging Him as Lord, confessing your sins and your need for forgiveness. You must confess Him to others, believe in your heart He is raised, be baptized, and make His path your path; you must become His disciple. He will make you into a new creation, give you a new heart, and save you from the judgement that your sins would deserve without His redeeming mercy.

When you stand before God, you will not be able to blame anyone else for your sins, or for your following a false teacher, or not knowing the Word of God. (If you have the internet, you can read the Bible, and many good commentaries, online.) You will not be able to say that your salvation was supposed to be the responsibility of any other person in your life.

Do not put the fate of your eternal soul in the hands of *any* mortal man; instead put yourself in the hands of the only one who can save and redeem you, Jesus Christ. Check all teachings against the Word of God and hold fast to the Bible, do not let yourself be led astray by smooth talking salesmen, who give you only what you want to hear, and not what will challenge, convict, strengthen and test your faith.

This is too serious a subject to shrug off, my friends. The Apostle Paul urged believers to examine their faith often, be sure you doing so. Make sure your trust and faith are secure in Christ.

God's grace be with you,
Fr. Charles Butler

Rejoice! If you are a Christian, Rejoice!

Rejoice! If you are a Christian, Rejoice! You are loved and saved by the grace of God. You are sheltered in the hands and heart of the Most High! Though storms may come into your life, and trials and temptations be yours to bear, He will never forsake you or abandon you. He has secured your inheritance and prepared a future for you, in this life and the next. He is with you now and always, from here until the end of the age!

So while you may have moments of sorrow, for all of us do, and you may have burdens to bear, all of us do, you have more than that: You have a Lord and King who loves you and is with you always. And in that, if nothing else, there is always reason to rejoice. Let the world see your joy in the Lord, that they might be drawn near to Him through you.

God's grace be with you,
Fr. Charles Butler

This is not a casual "buddy" style friendship

I confess; I do like some contemporary Christian music. I like the upbeat tempo, the modern music feel to it, the uplifting lyrics and it is a great change of pace from most of what passes for music on the radio.

Yet, in so much of Christian contemporary music there is a great casualness about God; which I find mirrored in much of today's Christian culture. God is "cool" or "hip", God is someone's personal buddy, and half of the songs on the radio that are supposed to be about God could just as easily be love songs to your significant other. This disturbs me.

Yes, Jesus said, "I no longer call you servants .....but friends," (John 15:15) to His disciples. So many people use this verse to justify a casual, "buddy" style relationship with God. Yet that verse, in the context of the Scripture around it actually says, ""Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Ye are my friends if ye do the things which I command you. No longer do I call you servants; for the servant knows not what his lord does: but I have called you friends: for all things that I heard from my Father I nave made Known unto you. Ye did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you, that ye should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should abide." (John 15:13-16).

It is a wonderful and awe-inspiring thing when Christ, very God of very God, part of the Triune Godhead, says, "I have called you friends." To be a friend is to know someone's heart, to guard their interests, to uphold their reputation and keep their trust. To be a true friend is to value someone deeply, keep their best interests at the forefront, to share an intimacy of spirit. Jesus invites us to be His friends; by knowing His heart and doing the work which the Father gave unto Him, and He gives unto us.

This is not a casual "buddy" style friendship. If the King of Kings has called you "my friend" is does not mean that you can take His Word for granted, ignore His commandments, or treat Him with disrespect. When God offers you the title of friend, you stand amazed, humbled and awed. You guard that relationship with all you are worth, for you want to be worthy of the King's love and friendship. You strive to keep faith, to carry out His will and to represent Him as best you can. You honor such a relationship, you do not treat it as if it were common.

God is God. Almighty and Holy. Just and Powerful, Merciful and All Knowing. Creator and King. He is not the "buddy" you play pranks on, or joke about women with. He is not the "buddy" you can drop at a moment's notice and treat with disrespect.

God has chosen to call those who follow Him "friend." But He is still your Lord and King, and deserves your respect, fealty and love.

And that friendship comes with a price; notice the words above of Jesus, "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends." God may call you to lay down your life literally someday for His Word, but in our country it is more likely He's going to ask you to lay down your life in a hundred different ways. He has asked you to live a life of love; putting others before yourself. He has asked you to live a life of holiness; laying down the sinful things of this world. He has asked you to live a life of being a peace maker, in a society that values conflict. He has asked you to live a life of faithfulness, to Him, to your spouse, to your family and friends- laying aside a life of selfishness.

If you are His friend- if you are a friend of the Most High- you will guard that friendship, guard His Word, and do the work that He has called you to do. You will lay down the things of this world that are not good, are not wholesome, and you will hold tight the things of the Lord. You will honor His holiness by treating Him with deference and love. You will do your best to be a friend to Him by treasuring the love He has given you, and giving that love to others.

God's grace be with you,
Fr. Charles Butler

The latest "Hot" political philosophy out in the news right now, endorsed by many who even claim to be Christians, is "laissez-faire," or in short, drop the programs and they'll (the poor) take care of themselves.

The latest "Hot" political philosophy out in the news right now, endorsed by many who even claim to be Christians, is "laissez-faire," or in short, drop the programs and they'll (the poor) take care of themselves. If you are letting political pundits and commentators form your theology, try reading the Bible yourself! We have tried in Western Civilization to go this route before and it led to slum housing, work houses, decrepit orphanages, debtors' prisons and downright Dickensian conditions in society. We had to reform our society to stop such atrocities. And it worked, because people learned to love their fellow man and righteous causes. There are abuses in the current system, that need to be reformed, but as a society, we need to give people a hand up, rather than kicking them when they are down. No one, especially children and seniors should EVER have to worry about going hungry. Jesus told us to help the poor and no amount of BS from the greedy of the world can change HIS WORD! If you do not help the poor, you face destruction, simple as that! Read the Scripture below.

God's grace be with you,
Fr. Charles Butler


Matthew 25:31-46
The Son of Man Will Judge the Nations

31 “When the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the holy[a] angels with Him, then He will sit on the throne of His glory. 32 All the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will separate them one from another, as a shepherd divides his sheep from the goats. 33 And He will set the sheep on His right hand, but the goats on the left. 34 Then the King will say to those on His right hand, ‘Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: 35 for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in; 36 I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me.’

37 “Then the righteous will answer Him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You drink? 38 When did we see You a stranger and take You in, or naked and clothe You? 39 Or when did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?’ 40 And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.’

41 “Then He will also say to those on the left hand, ‘Depart from Me, you cursed, into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels: 42 for I was hungry and you gave Me no food; I was thirsty and you gave Me no drink; 43 I was a stranger and you did not take Me in, naked and you did not clothe Me, sick and in prison and you did not visit Me.’

44 “Then they also will answer Him,[b] saying, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and did not minister to You?’ 45 Then He will answer them, saying, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to Me.’ 46 And these will go away into everlasting punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.”

I see a lot today going around about whether our government should drastically cut aid to the poor.

I see a lot today going around about whether our government should drastically cut aid to the poor. What disturbs me is that most of the posts advocating this are self proclaimed Christians. They say that God does not command people to take care of the poor, especially governments. I wonder and sorrow at this, for the Bible is full of verses (about 2,000 of them) commanding people and governments to care for the poor, the elderly, the outcast. In the New Testament alone, one out of every 16 verses talks about caring for the poor or elderly. In the Gospels it is one out of every 10 verses, and in the Epistle of St. James, it is one out of every 5. It is clearly a topic very important to God, and thus should be very important to believers.

As to whether the government should help the poor, let us look at the Bible in whole context- not just an isolated verse or two, but as a whole.

God commanded in several places in the OT for the Kings of Israel to be just, to take care of the poor, to suppress oppression, to look out for the widows and orphans. Proverbs 8:15, 16 of the Bible says that governments should use wisdom to rule and to make laws that are just. Proverbs 17:7 says rulers also should not lie. Proverbs 20:26 says wise rulers always try to punish the wicked. Proverbs 28:2-4 and 29:4 urges rulers to maintain order justly, to follow God’s moral code and to avoid oppressing the poor. There are many others. The Prophets railed against the Kings over and over again because not only did they do such things as bring in idols, but they withheld help from the poor,as in Isaiah 3:15. It is a repeating theme.

In the NT, Jesus tells us to "render unto Caesar what is Caesar's" and Paul tells us to be good citizens of our country in Titus and Romans. We know we are going to pay taxes in any country, that is part of being a member of a country. The ancient Jews paid taxes to the King, then to the Romans and so forth, and we pay taxes to Uncle Sam. Can we attempt and strive to vote in government that uses our money more wisely, and thus lowers taxes, yes. But pay them we will.

As people of faith though we need to think about what we really wish our taxes to go towards. Do we need to rebuild countries hostile towards us, when our own people are suffering? Do we need to spend millions on restoring cultural centers of other countries, when we have our own to look after? Do we need to fund war in other countries that has no bearing on our own direct safety and security, nor is waged in the name of saving people from genocide? As Christians, we should ever seek to have Christ's heart and interests foremost in our minds, and thus in how we vote. What was Christ concerned with? God is concerned with justice, with the safety of His people, with the poor and elderly being looked after. His Church should be focused first on spreading the Gospel, and then with taking care of the "least of these." The government we vote for should be interested in a just society, helping those who are helpless, keeping our country secure, lifting our educational standards, protecting individual liberties and ever seeking to improve our society. As stewards of God's earth, we should also seek to take care of the creation God has entrusted us with- as stewards are answerable to their Masters for the condition of the property when it is returned.

This notion going around that "it is bad when our taxes (taken from me to give to someone else) help the poor" is nonsense. We pay taxes because that is part of being in a society. We are going to pay taxes as long as we are part of any large, organized community; anthropology teaches us that. It is what we choose to spend our taxes on that reveals our character.

Do we need reform in how our government helps people? Yes. But considering the Food Stamp program has a 3% fraud rate, we're doing pretty good there, we do need to work to stamp out that 3% though. The idea that if we cut taxes further and do drastic cuts to programs that help the poorest of the poor that more people will suddenly help take care of all the needy is just not well thought out. We don't live in that kind of world anymore. If the ancient Israelites who had Prophets from God living among them wouldn't properly take care of the poor, why do we think Christians who are that in name only are going to do so now?

I've visited 3rd world countries, and been swarmed by the begging children. I work with food banks now that are at all time lows, and know of churches that are the only food pantry in town (in a town of 70,000) and struggling to just feed 30 families a month. If we are going to claim to be Christians, then let us vote not only to be Pro-Birth, but Pro-Life; a people that says we will help feed hungry children and elderly pensioners. We know we will have to pay taxes regardless, so let us insist our taxes be used to help our own people, rebuild our own country, promote justice here at home and secure our own borders before we need to spend billions elsewhere.

What do you fill your time, mind and body with?

What do you fill your time, mind and body with?

The Bible instructs us: Finally, beloved, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. -Phil. 4:8

If we fill ourselves with the dank garbage of this world, our souls become polluted and the Word of God becomes faint in our ears. But if we focus on what is pure, lovely, true, excellent and just then we allow God's light to shine bright within us- and our souls hearken to His Word. Remember we are vessels meant to be used for God; so keep focused on what God has set before us and not be distracted by the noise and dirt of the world.

The Apostle Paul tells us we must give thanks "in all circumstances"

The Apostle Paul tells us we must give thanks "in all circumstances" (1 Thessalonians 1:5)...when life is good, when life has challenges, when we rejoice and when we mourn. It can be hard to thank God when difficulties or sorrow come into our lives, but when we worship God in trying times, we are opening ourselves up to His presence to help us in those troubles. Remember to take time each day to thank God for what is going on in your life, both the wonderful and trying. Also remember God will use those trying times for your good if you love Him (Romans 8:28)....so in your storms of life, have peace, knowing God will see you through them and use the experience for your good, and give Him thanks.

the next big thing"

Are you always questing over "the next big thing" to make you happy? You'll be happy if you get that new job, or if you get the spouse you want, or the new car? The Apostle Paul tell us that he learned to be content in whatever circumstances he was in (Philippians 4:11-12) and that is a lesson we should all take to heart. Learn to be grateful for the gifts God has already given you. Learn to find peace with God, enjoyment in God's beautiful world, savor the small pleasures of life. Then your life will seem richer and fuller, and the greater blessings that come will be all the more appreciated.

modesty

I read an interesting article yesterday on modesty, how it should be decided and how the definition is often based upon what is cultural. I would suggest this for men and women; dress in a manner you would be pleased for God to see you in. That goes beyond wearing "skimp" clothing, or wearing your pants so low your underwear show. If you are wearing jeans and a t-shirt, does the t-shirt have profane or sexual language on it? If so, do you think God approves of that? If we gauge what we wear by whether we would be comfortable with God seeing it, we can't go wrong. And so you know, He does see it. Plus the television shows you watch, the music you listen to, the magazines you buy and the video games you play. Would you be comfortable if Jesus walked into your home and wanted to sort through your DVD collection? If not, it is time to thin out that collection and get rid of the garbage!

The next time you find yourself hard hearted against another person, be wary that you don't let yourself act unjustly or unmercifully towards them.

The next time you find yourself hard hearted against another person, be wary that you don't let yourself act unjustly or unmercifully towards them. The next time you see someone in need, don't walk by and ignore them; or worse mock them. Even if all you have to give is a smile and kind words, give them. For the epistle of St. James teaches us that those who show mercy to others (whether that be a person in need, or someone we are upset with) will have mercy shown to them. (James 2:13) If we want mercy from God, we must show it to others.

Do you need mercy? We all do! Have you shown mercy?

Abraham pleaded with God over the destruction of sinful cities.

Abraham pleaded with God over the destruction of sinful cities. Have you stopped lately to pray for the lost around you, who without the intervention of the Holy Spirit bringing the saving message of Christ to them, are damned? Have you shared the message of the Cross with them, in love and gentleness? Have you pleaded with God over them? Is your soul filled with agony for them, considering what will happen if they are not saved? If you are indifferent to them then look with haste to the condition of your own soul!

Charles Spurgeon, often called the "Prince of Preachers" offers us this wisdom: If sinners be damned, at least let them leap to Hell over our dead bodies. And if they perish, let them perish with our arms wrapped about their knees, imploring them to stay. If Hell must be filled, let it be filled in the teeth of our exertions, and let not one go unwarned and unprayed for.”

There are those Christians who make being a Christian much harder than it needs to be.

There are those Christians who make being a Christian much harder than it needs to be. They wish to still live under the burden of the law (when Galatians tells us no one is ever justified under the law- Gal. 3-11) and thus put a heavy burden on themselves that they cannot possibly manage. Jesus tells us His yoke is easy and the burden is light. (Matthew 11:30) We are saved by our faith in Christ, and while we strive to live as best we can as Christians, it is not our actions which save us, but our faith and Christ's love. We are not bogged down by un-keep-able laws, but instead we dance with rejoicing in the freedom, love and grace of the saving faith that is found in Jesus Christ.

Are you bogged down in your faith, barely dragging one foot in front of another; or are you rejoicing in your walk and dance with God?

There is a common saying in our culture, "God will not give you more than you can handle." Yet sometimes that is false

There is a common saying in our culture, "God will not give you more than you can handle." Yet sometimes that is false. Consider the story related in Matthew 14:22-36, where Christ sends the disciples out onto the lake, they encounter a storm and are about to be sunk when Christ appears, walking on the water. Peter attempts to walk out to Christ (and does for a moment) before his fear and doubt make him sink. Christ saves him, steps into the boat and the winds cease. All are safe.

This story is told to us to point out a few things but the one I'd like you to think on today is this; Christ sent them onto the lake, into a storm. He sent them. They could not save themselves from the storm, but Christ could, and did.

Sometimes God sends you into a storm so you will have to rely on Him. You cannot handle everything in life by yourself, but with God's help, you can weather anything and come out safe on the far side.

Today my reading of the Holy Gospel was of Matthew 15:1-20, where Christ chides the Pharisees for bending God's laws to suit their own lifestyles.

Today my reading of the Holy Gospel was of Matthew 15:1-20, where Christ chides the Pharisees for bending God's laws to suit their own lifestyles. (For example, instead of honoring their parents- a very important commandment in the eyes of God, as it is repeated numerous times in the Old and New Testament, the Pharisees claimed what money they would give to aid their parents they spent on God/the Temple, and thus got out of their duty.) Christ calls them on the hypocrisy of saying they are religious, and yet looking for ways to not have to do what God calls us to do.

Jesus then goes further, He calls the crowd to Him and teaches us that it is not what goes into our mouths that makes us sinful (the Jews had a prohibition against eating certain foods) but rather what comes out of our mouths and hearts that defiles us. When we speak harshly to another without cause, our words defile us. When our hearts seek to twist what we know we should do into something that is more pleasant for us (and thus we avoid doing as we should), by our hearts we are defiled.

The Pharisees had defiled themselves, in part, by shirking their God given duty to respect, honor and aid their parents, and had made it worse by trying to say they didn't have to because they did work for the Temple and for God. They, in effect, said to God, "We don't have to do what you tell us because we will do what we want in your name, and you should be happy with that." That is no way to honor God!

Watch what words you utter, for your words can be sinful. Watch the urgings of your heart, and test them, to make sure the sinful side of your spirit is not leading you astray. It is out of our mouths and hearts that sins springs forth and leads us into all sorts of problems; be it temper, lies, adultery, pride or neglect of duty.

The Power of Prayer

The Power of Prayer

Below is an excerpt from a Global Media Outreach newsletter. I thought that it was well stated about the power of prayer and wanted to share it with you.

"We are to ask in faith when we pray. Jesus said to His disciples, 'Have faith in God....I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.'”
God’s Word, the Bible is the basis for our faith. “Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God.” If God said it, you can believe it. When Adam and Eve were tempted in the garden, the first temptation was “Has God really said...?” The answer to that temptation needs to be “YES GOD HAS SAID.”

We need to seek God and read His Word and learn His will for our lives. Then we need to ask Him to help us have faith. Are you sick? Then pray in faith and ask God to heal you. God may use doctors or medicine, but pray for His healing. Is your child away from God? Ask God to bring your child to Him. You may need patience in faith. Abraham was the “father of faith” in the Bible; he had faith but he waited for many years for the promise. God may answer your prayers right away, or He may ask you to have faith for a while. And God knows what is best, so realize you need to pray always in submission to His will.

When Jesus was tempted, He spoke “It is written” and He quoted the Bible. You and I have the power of the Word of God available to us. So let us take up the shield of faith and the sword of the Word of God, and walk in the love of Jesus Christ. We do not war against people; the way of Christ is love. But we do need to stand strong in faith and trust God that if we pray according to His will, we know that we have the requests that we ask of Him."

There have been many times in my walk as a growing, maturing Christian, especially as a pastor, that I have wondered where my answer to prayer was. Why haven't I seen the results, what's taking so long, I might ask myself and my God. But one must always relate to the fact that our time isn't necessarily God's time, and that only He knows the grand scheme of things. So next time we get in a hurry with expecting an answer to prayer we must remember that He will answer in His time, and He knows what we need before we ask Him.

St. Francis of Assisi is reported to have said, "Preach the Gospel at all times and when necessary use words."

St. Francis of Assisi is reported to have said, "Preach the Gospel at all times and when necessary use words."

There is the common saying that your life, as a Christian, may be the only Gospel people read. When you claim to follow Jesus, people watch you. They see what you do, how you treat people, and how you conduct all aspects of your life. They, unfairly, often judge Jesus by your actions. I say unfairly because none of us are without sin, all of us stumble, and it is a shame our perfect and loving Savior is judged by how His church acts.

Are you living your life as best you can, to bring glory to Christ through it? Do you attempt to see the people around you with the love of Christ, knowing they are made in God's image and He loves them?

The lost are watching you, and judging Christ through your actions. Let them see love, grace, mercy and kindness in what you do; and perhaps they'll read the whole Gospel because of it.

Later this month is Father's Day; a bittersweet day for myself as my own earthly father has long since passed on. I was the child of he and my Mother's old age, so to speak, they were in their 40's when I was born. He showed me what hard work was, what caring for a family was. He was a proud veteran of the US Navy and Coast Guard, from which he retired. He was of the generation that showed he loved you more than said it, but he went out of his way to show me through actions and gifts that I was loved.

God commands us to honor our fathers and our mothers. Honor is a word which means "to revere highly, to show great esteem for." We are not a country and a culture that honors our elders anymore. Our youth run to make their own lives without a backwards glace, and only passing calls and token remberences. Our seniors are shuffled off to homes far more often than they are cared for at home, by loving and doting children.

Not only, as a culture, do we wrong our parents and elders by how we treat them, we are also committing an offense against God. For if God has commanded we honor and care for our parents, and then we fail to do so, we obviously do not put great store by the commandments of God.

Father's Day should not be one of a few days a year you show your parent, or grandparent, a little filial love; it should be one day out 365 days where you honor them. God's commandments are not to be followed and celebrated one day a year, but all year long.

In Romans 6:23, the Apostle Paul reminds us that "For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord."

In Romans 6:23, the Apostle Paul reminds us that "For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord."

If we remain dwelling in sin, doing things our own way, rejecting God's Word and refusing Christ's Lordship in our lives, the end result is death. There will be no plea bargaining with God when one is before the throne of Judgement, there will be no second chances at that time. That should sober every person who thinks upon it; if you had to appear before God without the covering of Christ's righteousness....your sins would condemn you to death.

Yet, while we still live in this life, we may choose to follow Christ, to accept with grateful hearts His sacrifice; to allow Him in His mercy and grace to cover our sins with His blood, and to mark us as His own. This gift, which cost God so much- His only begotten Son crucified for us, the undeserving sinners- is free to all who will accept it. Life, as you have never known it now, can be yours in this lifetime by accepting Christ's Lordship in your daily life; giving you a deep abiding peace. Life, in the eternal sense, is then awaiting those who truly believe; you need not fear death, for there is life much sweeter and deeper than you have ever known awaiting you.

What will you choose?

God has shown us, many times over, what is good in His sight; are you following His will?

"Know, O people, the LORD has told you what is good, and this is what he requires of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God." (Micah 6:8)

God has told us time and time again in the Bible what He requires, what He has said is good. 1) To do right- by God, by our neighbor, by what is entrusted to us. Not to try and cut corners, not to do something half-heartedly, and not to do what is easier but wrong. 2) To love mercy- this is to not only recognize and love the mercy that God has shown us, but to also show mercy to others. To be kind to the suffering, to the poor, to the lost and broken. To forgive those who have hurt us, and to show God's mercy to others through our actions. 3) To walk humbly with God. We have no reason to be proud- we are all sinful people, and only God's love and redeeming work through Christ saves those who call upon the name of Jesus. So we are mindful that God's mercy is what saves us, and no deeds of our own. Yet this part of the verse says more than just that we must be humble, it also shows we must daily walk with our God. We must spend time in His word, in prayer, and in communion with Him.

God has shown us, many times over, what is good in His sight; are you following His will?

A Christian life should be defined by:

A Christian life should be defined by:

A deep, holy and abiding love of the Triune God (Father, Son and Holy Ghost)

A humbling sense of one's own unworthiness and sin and an awe inspiring sense of wonder for the redeeming grace of Jesus Christ.

An ever present love for the weak, the needy, the outcast, the hurt and the broken.

An ability to rejoice with those rejoicing, to sorrow with those who are hurting and a knowledge of God's peace through it all.

A desire to be unlike the standards the world holds up as what is important (money, outward beauty, success at the expense of others, casual sexuality, crude humor and self righteousness) but rather to desire to be what God wants us to be (holy, loving, kind, merciful, compassionate, gentle, responsible, faithful and humble.)

Throughout Jesus' ministry, it was recorded He stopped to share a meal, attend a party, or find quiet fellowship over a drink of water.

Throughout Jesus' ministry, it was recorded He stopped to share a meal, attend a party, or find quiet fellowship over a drink of water. Our lives as Christians aren't meant to be all serious Bible studies, prayer vigils and Church services; though those are all things we are to partake in, we are also to stop and fellowship with one another. To have a dinner party, to meet for coffee or a cola, to attend weddings and parties. We are a faith above all others that has a reason to rejoice- our Lord died and rose again to save us from our sins! We should be celebrating that, and celebrating our bonds with one another. God has intended for us to enjoy the good things of this life; so make the time to do just that.

God clearly wants His followers to have a heart for "the least of these,"

If God had meant for His believers to ignore or disdain the poor, the helpless and the elderly, He would not have included over 300 verses in His Word (the Bible) about taking care of the poor, helpless and elderly. 

God clearly wants His followers to have a heart for "the least of these," and that means not only saying a prayer once in a while, but being proactive to help them. You can give: give of your older clothing to a clothes closet, give food to a food bank or directly to a needy person, give of your time, your compassion. Give your smile and give a handshake that bestows dignity.

Remember that what God has given you, He has only given you in trust- so that you may use it to do His will and work here on earth. We labor not for an earthly prize, but to store up treasure in the Kingdom of Heaven. By being kind and loving to the weakest among us, you show God's love to them, and you show your love and obedience to God above.

Relationships

This is the day that the Lord has made- will you be glad and rejoice in it? Will you take the time to delight in the Lord, to rest in Him and renew yourself for the coming week?

So many things want your attention...there are worries of work, bills, politics and who is playing whom in football....it is easy to let your Sunday become consumed by what the "world" tells you to spend your Sunday on. Why not set aside some time to pray, to listen to uplifting Christian music (whether that be old fashioned hymns or praise music- what ever your preference is) and to rest in the Lord? The world wants to run you down, keep you busy, keep you distracted by the myriad of things in this life that don't really matter...(after all, the world will go on no matter who wins the election, if your football team loses there is always next week, and work will start again soon enough...)

What really matters in this life is relationships. Your relationship with God- eternity depends on the quality of that relationship. Your relationship with your family- God entrusted them to you to love and cherish. Your relationship with your friends- "for a true friend is closer than a brother." Your relationship with your community- those you interact with daily-it costs you nothing to give away many smiles but enriches the receiver greatly. And your relationship with the lost and seeking. Those relationships are what you are to focus on in this life, the rest just isn't that important in the eternal scheme of things.

If others are judging Christ by how they see you, are you sending a good message?

As a Christian, when you encounter people you will do one of two things if they know you are a Christian (and shouldn't your Christianity be evident?) : You will either draw them closer to Christ, or repel them from Christ. It all comes down to your actions and words. Do you show love and compassion, interest and understanding to others? Or do you show self righteousness, judgement, worldly behavior and poor morals?

If others are judging Christ by how they see you, are you sending a good message?

The Christian life comes with trials, with suffering, and with persecution.

The Christian life comes with trials, with suffering, and with persecution. Jesus said "If the world hates you, remember it hated me first." (John 15:18) As Christ carried His Cross for our salvation, so His followers will have a cross to bear; Then Jesus said to his disciples, "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me." (Matthew 16:24)

Those pastors who teach a feel good, watered down, prosperity Gospel, the kind that says, "Riches are coming your way!", are doing you no favors. We are better equipped to face life if we know there are struggles ahead, our faith is more likely to hold in a storm if we can prepare for that storm beforehand. Yes, God will bless you in this life, first and foremost by having sent His only begotten Son Jesus Christ for your salvation. Almighty God also offers a peace beyond what this world can offer, and the joy and promise of an afterlife spent with Him.

In this life, chances are God will bless you with friends and family, a church home, the beauty of this world, and perhaps some monetary security. But remember that you are accountable to God for how you use all that He places in your life; you will have to answer for how you treat your friends and family, were you a faithful member of God's church, did you take care of the world God placed you in, and did you use whatever monetary resources, talents and abilities He gave you for His good, and for the good of the weak?

Don't be taken in by the watered down Gospel, read the Gospel for yourself, and be thankful when God allows trials into your life; for they build character, perseverance and bring you closer to God. When you can give thanks to God even in the rough times, your joy in Him, and His in you, will be all the deeper; and you will be gifted with a peace that nothing in this world can match.

There are "Christian-like" faiths, masquerading as part of the true Church, that preach that the Cross is not important.

There are "Christian-like" faiths, masquerading as part of the true Church, that preach that the Cross is not important. That Christ's death was not important, only the life He lived. 

Flee this heresy! They are not part of the Church, the Bride of Christ! For if you reject the Cross, what do you have left? If you reject the Cross there is no atonement made for sin! If you reject the Cross you claim you have the right to stand before God on your own, without Christ's intercession, without His righteousness over you- and that means you stand before God in sin!

These false faiths cannot save you! Salvation is found through the Cross and what Christ did to save you! You cannot save yourself, you will only perish. Yet Christ waits, will you answer Him? Will you trust in Him alone? Hold to the Cross, my friends, and never let it go!

Are you working to build up the Kingdom of God, or focusing on earthly matters?

Are you working to build up the Kingdom of God, or focusing on earthly matters? You cannot serve two masters, one must have priority. Look at yourself, your life, what you talk about, what you post on facebook, what you listen to and decide: does my life glorify God, or focus on the world? 

We must live in the world, and by showing our love for God and neighbor we must impact the world, but children of God are not *of* the world. We are set apart. Can people tell that you are different because of your love of God, and how you live your life? Or are you just like any other person, and just happen to go to Church, or quote a Bible verse here and there?

Make sure there is a difference, for lukewarm believers don't make the cut. Christ wants only those who deeply love Him, and who live their lives for Him. Does Christ show in how you act at work? Does Christ show in how you treat your family? Does Christ show in your entertainment choices? Does Christ show in how you treat those you meet- both on the street and on the internet?

Are you more easily identified by what car you drive, what political party you belong to, or what sports team you follow than by your love and dedication to Jesus Christ? If so, change. None of us know how long we have in this life; make sure what time you have left is used for truly following Jesus Christ....eternity is a long time to wish you'd lived differently.

Do you seek out conflicts or resolutions?

We are urged in Romans 12:18 to, as much as it depends upon us, live in peace with others. God's children are not to seek out quarrels, pick fights, spread rumors and plant disharmony. Yet how many do? Instead we are to seek to bring peace, compassion, gentleness and understanding wherever possible.

Do you seek out conflicts or resolutions?

What is your focus in this life?

What is your focus in this life? To have the job or business that brings in a great deal of money? To inspire the envy of your colleagues, neighbors, friends and family? To drive the status car? Then how do you dare call yourself a follower of Christ? For if you love the Savior who suffered and died for those who call upon His Name, your focus will be upon Him, your quest will be to please and know Him. The things of this world, while they may be nice, mean nothing at all; they are but baubles. It is only the treasure you store in heaven that will last. Spend your time striving to please God, to love and take care of your family, to love and help your neighbor, to surround yourself with that which is good, and lovely and pure. Then your treasure in heaven will be building and your peace with God immeasurable.

The Modern Day Pharisee

The Modern Day Pharisee

Yesterday I had an encounter with a modern day American Pharisee. (There are more of them than you might expect, in some areas they abound!) He went onto my wife's page a day or two ago to tell her that people she loves aren't good enough to be called Christian, just because of their political party. When I went to speak with him, as the Bible says I should, he defended his position up and down that only people who live by a certain political creed are Christians.

Funny, I thought what you needed to have, in order to be a Christian, was a saving relationship with Jesus Christ. One where you came to the Cross in humility, admitting your sins and repenting of them, accepting the love and grace of Christ in return, and holding onto Him with trust. I don't recall anything in the Bible stating you have to be of a certain political affiliation, race, location, economic class or anything else.

There are so many people in this life who want to put up legalistic barriers to others coming to Christ. They forget that they are sinners in mud as well, without Christ, and that none of us who are saved have the right to go around telling other people they're not good enough believers because we disagree with an ancillary point in their lives. The people this man was decrying are good family people, devoted to God, active in their church, praying people, loving people....who just happen to disagree with him politically. So he says they're not Bible believing Christians and thus are damned. I thought of Christ railing against the Pharisees as he went on and on, and was sad to see that the modern Pharisee is still alive and working. Not working for Christ, but for legalism.

If you've been hurt by one of this people, take heart. They don't control your salvation, Jesus Christ does. He loves you and treasures you, He knew before you were born what kind of person you'd grow to be, what faults you would have, what sins you would commit. He cherishes you anyway, and calls you to a closer walk with Him. If you can come to the Cross, and admit you are a sinful man or woman, who needs God's grace, if you will turn from sin and embrace God, declaring your faith openly, and loving your neighbor as best you can, then God throws open the banquet doors and invites you in. He wants you there! You have no idea how precious you are to Him, and God is more concerned with your heart than your politics, your location, your age, your money, your race or any other insignificant factor. He just wants you.

May God's grace be upon you,
Fr. Charles

"Lord, thank you for giving me this chance to learn to be patient."

So often when we get frustrated at life (whether it be at how our family members behave, traffic jams, or our computer not working as it should) we grind out teeth and proclaim, "Lord, give me patience with this (insert problem here.)" What we do not stop to ponder is that God, in order that we might learn patience and refine our character, places each of us in positions that are frustrating and trying, just so that we might learn to be patient! The next time you are frustrated at the slow checker at the grocery store, or the elderly driver in front of you...don't let frustration overtake you but slow down, take a deep breath and say, "Lord, thank you for giving me this chance to learn to be patient."

Stop Shrinking God

Stop Shrinking God

Too often believers want to shape God according to their denominational doctrines. God must be this way, or that way, and God wants these extra rules added into what it takes to be saved, and God only likes this sort of worship service or music.

Stop.

God does not fit inside your box, inside the comfortable dogmas of your particular church, or inside your sphere of complete understanding. His thoughts and ways are higher than our own (Isaiah 55:8) and He is greater than our particularities. He is not bound by your church's constitution (or by a country's), He is not limited by your preference for translation of the Bible, He is not confined by political party or by society's idea of what is acceptable.

Our God turns our logic and rules upside down; He cares for and favors the weak and poor over the rich, He loves the humble and rejects the proud, He favors the simple over the elaborate, and admires charity practiced by His followers over the pursuit of power. He calls us to be modest instead of flaunting cheap beauty, to be faithful to Him and each other instead of indulging in fleeting fancies, and rewards jobs quietly done in service to Him rather than the flashy careers the world applauds. God calls us to be focused on building His Kingdom rather than a temporal realm, He calls us to be willing to suffer for His cause and to live simply rather than focus on money and prosperity. He tells us to forgive those who hurt us, while we would rather get revenge, and He tells us to be merciful when we would rather give judgement.

God's thinking is drastically different than that of the worldly minded, and contrary to our nature. Yet more and more churches and believers want to move God into a more comfortable category for our sinful natures. They preach God wants us to be rich, because in their hearts they'd rather seek money than God. They preach God wants us to hate people who are different, because they'd rather hate than love. Love takes work, hate comes easy to our fallen natures. These churches and believers tell us that God has set a thousand rules in place, when actually Christ said His yoke is easy (Matthew 13:11) and the burden of faith is light. These churches want to bind you with rules and doctrines and dogmas because they want to be the focus of your life, not to let God be. If you have to focus on keeping your elders and deacons and pastors and priests happy, how much time are you actually spending in communion with God? These churches, and they come in all denominations and styles, will tell you that God approves of their church, but not the one down the street, that God will give mercy to members of their church, but not to someone else.

They shrink God to fit inside their box, nicely packaged, easily controlled, with a filtered message that matches their doctrine.

God is bigger than that. God loves with an unfathomable love. He loves us enough that He died and rose again rather than be without us for eternity. He suffered to spare us what we could not bear, and asks only in return that we love Him back. That in loving Him, we will turn against our sinful natures and turn towards His holiness. That in loving Him, we will love our neighbors. That in loving Him, we will trust in Him even when we can't understand what is going on, but we know He is in control. That in loving Him, we will revel in the grace and mercy He has shown us, and then show that grace and mercy towards others.

Let God be big, don't try and shrink Him. Rejoice in His overwhelming love, His holiness and grace. When you find yourself trying to make God small, to fit your grasp of Him or to make Him comfortable for you, stop! And if you are carrying around a heavy burden of man-made rules, doctrines and church by-laws, that are making your faith dreary and a chore, then put that burden down. Cling to Christ, His burden is light, and faith in Him is a joy.

God's grace be with you,
Fr. Charles

God does not love you halfheartedly

God does not love you halfheartedly; the crucifixion of Christ for the atonement of the sins of all who believe in Him tells us that. God loves you so much that His only begotten Son, very God of very God, part of the Triune Godhead, died in payment for your sins, and rose again, to act as our Intercessor and High Priest before God- Christ is the advocate of every believer, and He shall come again to judge the living and the dead.

God does not love you halfheartedly, but He does not accept your halfhearted love in return. You cannot claim to believe in Christ, to be saved by the blood of Christ from the consequences of sin, and yet only have a passing interest in God. You cannot be a pew sitting, convenient "Christian" who has time for God when it is good for you, ignore God's people, spread divisiveness and hate and think that you can be assured of Heaven and God's grace when you die.

God is holy; He knows your heart, He is not fooled by the honeyed words you tell others, token good works and false piety. You must love God as best you can, ever be seeking to know Him better, seek to love those around you as best you can, and be truly repentant over your sins and failings- casting all at the foot of the Cross and clinging to Christ for salvation. Only then are you saved.

Yes, you will stumble and fall, but if you keep returning to Christ, if you ever strive to know the Lord better, if you love God and your neighbor as best you can, then you will ever grow in the image of Christ, and God's grace in this life (in the form of peace, contentment and love) and in the next will be yours.

Are you counting on your own works to save you? You are lost then. Are you counting on God thinking you were "better than your neighbor?" You are lost then. Are you counting on God being fooled by false piety, church attendance and token tithes? You are lost.

Only through the Cross, loving God (which manifest as seeking God, and loving your neighbor) and being repentant of your sins will you be saved.

If you died tonight, would you be a joyous child of God when you appear before Him, or would you be facing the throne of judgment?

God's grace be with you,
Fr. Charles

Do you know God? Do you abide in Him? Do you spend time in the Word to get a true picture of the nature and love of God?

Today many churches teach one of two things: a) a watered down Christianity that is more fluff than substance- that all is well, God will let everyone walk their own path and will receive them kindly after they die, and will bless them with abundant riches during this life or b) that God is a harsh God, who looks for reasons to damn people, as people are all horrid wretches, and we must work at ever pleasing Him for fear of slipping in His "grade book" and being sent to Hell.

Both teachings are false.

God is a holy God, with standards, who has provided a way, through His Son Jesus Christ, for all who believe in Christ, profess it, repent of their sins, are baptized and born again to have eternal life with Him. He does not promise we will be wealthy in this life, though some will be granted wealth so as to further the work of the Kingdom. But for those who spurn the gift of His Son, who want to live life by their rules, and do things their way, there is no admittance into the kingdom of Heaven.

God is not seeking to punish out of spite or a cruel sense of humor. He is Holy. Take a moment to think about what that means. He cannot let sinful creatures into His Presence without the mediation of Christ. So those who refuse Christ, refuse God.

But God loves each of us so much He gives us the chance to accept Christ, and thus have our sins (the thoughts, deeds, and sins of omissions- knowing we should do something and we don't) that would normally prevent us from fellowship with God in this life and the next be covered by the redeeming and atoning blood of Jesus Christ, which was shed for us on the Cross. God loves you so much He gave His Son unto death for you, only to raise Him so that you too might be raised to eternal life with God if you believe. He wants to be your Heavenly Father; to guide you, shelter you and not only have your love but to give His love to you in return. He wants an intimate relationship with you, He wants you to abide in Him, to be still and know Him.

Do you know God? Do you abide in Him? Do you spend time in the Word to get a true picture of the nature and love of God?

God's grace be with you,
Fr. Charles

"There is neither Republican nor Democrat, there is neither poor man nor rich, there is neither man nor woman, black or white; for you are all one in Christ."

In Galatians, chapter 3 verse 28 the Apostle Paul teaches that "There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free man, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus."

He was telling the audience of his day that all believers were equal in the sight of God. Perhaps a modern translation would have gone something like this:

"There is neither Republican nor Democrat, there is neither poor man nor rich, there is neither man nor woman, black or white; for you are all one in Christ."

Too often we let the labels of this world divide even believers in the Body of Christ, when in truth we are meant to be united in Christ. There are even those who, acting as wolves amongst Christ's sheep, that seek to further and inflame the differences- by doing so they create deep wedges amongst believers and hinder the work of the Church.

The next time you find yourself starting to categorize and or demean another person, especially a believer, in your mind- stop! For when you act that way, you are not doing the work of God, but falling into the enemy's trap.

God's grace be with you,
Fr. Charles

In 1 Thessalonians Paul urges the Christian brethren to live quietly and to mind their own affairs.

In 1 Thessalonians Paul urges the Christian brethren to live quietly and to mind their own affairs. (chapter 4, verse 11) How often do Christians today neglect that advice; instead being busybodies in the lives of others, stirring up gossip and rushing frantically from one cause to another? I would say this- this coming week attempt an experiment; live quietly, with deliberation. Refrain from any gossip, choose your words carefully when addressing another (whether in person or electronically) and make sure your words are spoken in love. Invest your time in worthy causes only; things that edify God. (That can be helping others, education, enjoyment of the arts, caring for the environment. Remember God told us to focus on that which is noble, pure, lovely and admirable in Philippians 4:8) See at the end of the week if your time, and your life, has been enriched and if you feel more rested and complete. The world will seek to wear you out, God wants to give you a more meaningful life.

God's grace be with you,
Fr. Charles

I hear a lot of complaints about the digression of society these days.

I hear a lot of complaints about the digression of society these days. Believe me Brothers and Sisters, this has been going on for a very long time. I believe this digression starts right here at home...in the Christian household! 

We are surrounded by worldly things. Every day we are bombarded with advertising about the newest, neatest, greatest thing to hit the shelves since sliced bread. There are multiple forms of entertainment available for us to spend our time with. You can watch the newest show glorifying adultery and lust, advocating greed and vengeance and let's not even talk about all of the free porn available on the net. The Enemy has a stronghold on the entertainment industry. Not only do we have TV and Video showing us these nasty messages...our youth is being inundated with bad messages through video games. One of my favorite examples is a game that was quite popular not long ago called grand theft auto (GTA). GTA gives points for every devilish thing out there, from killing police to raping women, a truly great way to foster the sociopathic side of any youth.

The following two statements just about encapsulate God's view of worldliness:

"Woe to the world because of the things that cause people to sin! Such things must come, but woe to the man through whom they come!" Matthew 18:6-8

"If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you." John 15:18-20

As Christians, we are taught that we are not of this world, but just visitors. We are not to engage in many of the things of this world, only those we must to exist here. No, that doesn't mean we have to completely ignore the world and not have any fun, just that we have a higher standard for that fun.

One of Beth's former pastors once gave her some very sage advice when she was a very young woman looking for guidance in what entertainment, etc to view. The pastor told her: "Remember that God is always with you, in everything you do. Watch or do things in a manner that you would not be embarrassed to have Jesus there with you." Sounds simple doesn't it? Not so easy in a secular world, but a worthwhile goal for all of us.

But what does all of this have to do with voting your wallet...simply this: If you see something that is not appropriate in Jesus' eyes, don't buy it and encourage your friends and family not to buy it. You could even boycott stores and businesses that sell ungodly and unchristian goods and services as a rule. Beth and I maintain an active list of places we won't do business and why. There is power in Christian boycott, ask Ford Motor Company, ask many businesses that have had to close their doors or improve their good and services because Christians decided they weren't going to put up with them. The same rules have applied to businesses for millenia, supply and demand. If we Christians demand decent things, businesses will supply them. If we Christians stop buying indecent things, they'll stop supplying them.

Just a few things to ponder...until next time, may God's perfect love and peace find you all, in Jesus' name, Amen!

God's grace be with you,

Fr. Charles Butler

Zacchaeus

In my study today, I was reading the story of Zacchaeus, the tax collector, as related in Luke 19: 1-10. (I'll post the scriptures below.) Zacchaeus was a man detested among all in his town, for he was a tax collector- who made profits off of the locals when collecting taxes for the hated Romans. Imagine if your town had one chief Revenue Collector, an IRS man, who got to keep part of what he could squeeze out of you when he collected your taxes. You wouldn't like him very much, would you?

Besides being rich at the expense of the locals, Zacchaeus had anther problem, he was short. For some men, this can be a problem. It's hard to look important if you're always having to jump up to see anything, or if people have to look down to see you.

When Zacchaeus heard Jesus of Nazareth was coming to town, he wanted to see the famed teacher and healer. So did a lot of other people. They crowded the streets to see Jesus, and Zacchaeus probably did a lot of, "Excuse me, could you let me pass," or "Can I get through" ....but no one let him through, remember, they didn't like him very much. So what to do, what to do? Zacchaeus had an "ah-ha" moment, if he couldn't get past the crowds, or see over their shoulders, he'd get to where he could have a clear view. He'd climb a tree!

As Jesus was passing by, He looked up, and saw this short man, most likely in rich robes, up in a Sycamore tree. He didn't pass by, He didn't ignore Zacchaeus, but called to the tax collector, "Zacchaeus, hurry and come down; for I must stay at your house today." Zacchaeus was thrilled, scripture tells us "he hurried" to go make Jesus welcome. But the people grumbled. They didn't want this wise teacher, this holy man, this healer to eat at the home of Zacchaeus, a collaborator with the Romans (for that is how the Jews saw tax collectors), a leech who had gotten rich off of them.

The line that most resonated with me as I studied this scripture was, "He has gone to be the guest of one who is a sinner." How often do we, the faithful, not want to carry Christ's message to those we disagree with, or who are of a different lifestyle, faith, whatever, from us? Who do we look at as "a sinner" and feel shocked by the idea that Christ longs to dine with exactly that person? Christ wants to meet exactly that soul, and might want us to help make the introduction.

Jesus does indeed dine with Zacchaeus, who is converted and saved at that meeting, who makes right all the monetary wrongs he had committed and who becomes generous with the poor. An encounter with Jesus can change any heart, redeem any soul and right any wrong. Let us not get in the way of Christ dining with someone because we disagree with them, let us instead help to make that introduction. Let's not force the Zacchaeuses of our life to climb trees in order to see the Savior, let's make room up front for them.

God's grace be with you,
Fr. Charles Butler

Luke 19: 1-10

1 He entered Jericho and was passing through it. 2 A man was there named Zacchaeus; he was a chief tax collector and was rich. 3 He was trying to see who Jesus was, but on account of the crowd he could not, because he was short in stature. 4 So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore tree to see him, because he was going to pass that way. 5 When Jesus came to the place, he looked up and said to him, "Zacchaeus, hurry and come down; for I must stay at your house today." 6 So he hurried down and was happy to welcome him. 7 All who saw it began to grumble and said, "He has gone to be the guest of one who is a sinner." 8 Zacchaeus stood there and said to the Lord, "Look, half of my possessions, Lord, I will give to the poor; and if I have defrauded anyone of anything, I will pay back four times as much." 9 Then Jesus said to him, "Today salvation has come to this house, because he too is a son of Abraham. 10 For the Son of Man came to seek out and to save the lost."

We all hear about the Big "Yes" in the Christian life quite often

We all hear about the Big "Yes" in the Christian life quite often, "have you said "yes" to Jesus Christ?" We hear a fair amount about other "yes" answers in church as well; "Yes, I will feed the homeless." "Yes, I will donate coats this winter." "Yes, I will give my time and talents to a ministry." "Yes, I will attend services, Bible studies, picnics and church camps." (How often those "yes answers" are actually followed through with, or seriously meant in the first place, is another matter altogether.)

But we don't hear nearly enough from many pastors and teachers about what a Christian should be saying "No" in answer to; for such things can make some parishioners and possible converts uncomfortable. All the more reason they should be talked about. We should hear Christians making such statements as these more often; "No, I can't go to the movie, it glorifies violence and adultery." "No, I don't watch that sitcom, the humor is vulgar." "No, that music isn't allowed in our home, it encourages violence." "No, I won't cheat on my wife, I love her and I will be faithful." "No, I don't over-indulge in drinking, it is against my faith." "No, even though I'm single, I won't live a sexually immoral life, it is against my beliefs." "No, I won't ignore cruelty in this world, it is my job to stick up for the weak." "No, I won't tell crude jokes, God doesn't find it funny and neither do I." "No, I won't read that book, I don't care if it is popular, it is crude."

Sometimes living the life Christ has called us to involves saying "no" to the wrong things as much as it involves in saying "yes" to the right things. Do you say "no" to the things in this life that you know God doesn't approve of? If you contemplate in every situation whether you would be comfortable watching that movie with God beside you, or reading your book aloud to Him, or having Him listen to your music, or...well, you get the idea... if you truly contemplate it you will find yourself living a life that is closer and closer to what God wants for you. He wants you to live a life free from shame, from sin, from taint. God wants you to be able to enjoy good relationships, good food, good books, good activities, and His ways are always best.

Are you saying "no" to the questions and life circumstances you should be rejecting? And are you saying "yes" to all that God calls you to be?

God's grace be with you,
Fr. Charles Butler