Simply Soul Searching

Is a lamp brought in to be put under the bushel basket, or under the bed, and not on the lampstand?

He said to them, “Is a lamp brought in to be put under the bushel basket, or under the bed, and not on the lampstand? For there is nothing hidden, except to be disclosed; nor is anything secret, except to come to light. Let anyone with ears to hear listen!”  (Mark 4:21-23 NRSV)

This short passage is tucked among several parables in which Jesus describes the kingdom of God. Jesus often taught in parables, knowing that his intended meaning would be received by those who loved him (who had “ears to hear”) while remaining hidden from those whose hearts were not open to his revelation of the heavenly kingdom.

The lamp is the light of Christ, God’s loving presence here with us. This light was revealed through Jesus and is now shining in us. We are to shine and share this light with others. As our lives increasingly demonstrate Jesus’ kingdom living, we may help to reveal his parables; our glowing lamps will help bring these hidden and secret meanings to light for others.  

“Is a lamp brought in to be put under the bushel basket, or under the bed, and not on the lampstand?” We know the obvious answer to Jesus’ question. No, we are not to put our light under a bushel basket or bed. We are not to hide the love of Christ or keep it only for ourselves. We are called to light up the world with the light of God’s love as shown in Jesus. We are to make this kingdom of God more visible to everyone we encounter. 

Still, there are times when we may be uncomfortable doing so. Sometimes I hesitate to share my faith because I am concerned that I might be seen as naïve, self-righteous, intimidating, outdated, rigid, judgmental, or too conservative. I am embarrassed to be thought of as having the characteristics of some religious leaders who are prominent in politics and elsewhere. There are times when I worry how someone will react if I profess that I am a follower of Jesus.

I am called to shine the light of Christ’s love- not to hide it.

Perhaps I should first shine that light into the darkness of my embarrassment, of my concern for my self-image, of my fear of being judged unfairly by others. I should shine that light into the darkness of my tendency to want to defend myself. I should shine that light of love into the darkness of my criticism for those who live their faith in a way that is different from my understanding of the way of Jesus.

Then, I should allow Jesus’ light to become my guiding light, so that I might continue to grow as his disciple, to follow his example more perfectly, to become more like him and to live as he would. I should allow his light to fully illuminate my life and correct what isn’t of him. 

Finally, I should shine this light outward, by living-
in the joyous freedom of being a follower of Jesus,
in the peaceful way of walking in a challenging world,
and in the loving unity of embracing a diverse humanity.

My life could become a contrast to the rule-keeping, judgment-making, fear-invoking image so many people witness these days. 

The light of the love of Jesus is for all of us. I am called to shine his light of love- first as a revealing, healing, and perfecting light into my own soul, and then as a beckoning, freeing, and welcoming light for the souls of others.

Are you talking to ME?

Today Jesus is asking, “Is a lamp brought in to be put under the bushel basket, or under the bed, and not on the lampstand?”

You have the light of Christ. How do you let it freely and brightly shine? Are there any situations in which you are tempted to hide your light? What would you find if you shine the light into your darkness? How might his illuminating light help you see yourself more clearly? Where are you most needed to illuminate the world with the love of Christ? Are you ready to shine for others?

Is a lamp brought in to be put under the bushel basket, or under the bed, and not on the lampstand?

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Whose head is this, and whose title?

Then the Pharisees went and plotted to entrap him in what he said. So they sent their disciples to him, along with the Herodians, saying, “Teacher, we know that you are sincere, and teach the way of God in accordance with truth, and show deference to no one; for you do not regard people with partiality. Tell us, then, what you think. Is it lawful to pay taxes to the emperor, or not?” But Jesus, aware of their malice, said, “Why are you putting me to the test, you hypocrites? Show me the coin used for the tax.” And they brought him a denarius. Then he said to them, “Whose head is this, and whose title?” They answered, “The emperor’s.” Then he said to them, “Give therefore to the emperor the things that are the emperor’s, and to God the things that are God’s.” When they heard this, they were amazed; and they left him and went away.  (Mathew 22:15-22 NRSV)

The Pharisees and Herodians are cagey with their efforts to entrap Jesus in some way. They begin by flattering him with gracious compliments about his ability to discern and tell the truth. They are attempting to set Jesus up for their next question: “Is it lawful to pay taxes to the emperor or not?” Jesus knows what they are trying to do, so he immediately calls them hypocrites. If they truly saw that he is a man of truth, they would have had no need to test him with their double-edged question; a question that could get Jesus into trouble with either answer.

Jesus holds up the coin and asks, “Whose head is this, and whose title?” It is apparent that the coin belongs to the emperor. The coin has the emperor’s name on one side and his title on the other. Thus Jesus acknowledges that there are things- such as taxes- that belong to the emperor.

On the other hand, when Jesus continues with “give… to God the things that are God’s”, the listeners would know that Jesus often preached and taught that the kingdom of God is present and everywhere. EVERYTHING belongs to God. Even the emperor! His answer shows the interrogators that the emperor, with all of his power, still belongs to God and is under God’s reign. The emperor and all he owns are nothing compared to our awesome God.

This lesson helps to give us some helpful perspectives for today. All over the world, there are times when governments and political systems can be frustrating, maddening, unjust, greedy, self-serving, war-mongering, and even oppressive. We are called to do what we can, to correct the wrongs, to work for justice, and to speak for those who are not served fairly or well. We can easily lose heart, especially when our efforts seem to produce very little change and very slow progress.

These words of Jesus help us to not lose heart. We can carry the hope and the peace in knowing that governments and political leaders are lesser than God. These kingdoms are not forever, and they are nothing compared to the kingdom of heaven. Everything we have- everything in this world- belongs to God. God is the ultimate Ruler of the universe and of our individual hearts. We do all that we can, we take responsibility for all that we should, and we entrust the rest to God.

Are you talking to ME?

Today Jesus is asking, “Whose head is this, and whose title?”

What political or governmental issues have you upset? Is there an action you can take to make change for the better? How might Jesus’ words give you a new perspective on your government and on our world? What would Jesus want you to know today?

Whose head is this, and whose title?

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What do you want me to do for you?

As they were leaving Jericho, a large crowd followed him. There were two blind men sitting by the roadside. When they heard that Jesus was passing by, they shouted, “Lord, have mercy on us, Son of David!” The crowd sternly ordered them to be quiet; but they shouted even more loudly, “Have mercy on us, Lord, Son of David!” Jesus stood still and called them, saying, “What do you want me to do for you?” They said to him, “Lord, let our eyes be opened.” Moved with compassion, Jesus touched their eyes. Immediately they regained their sight and followed him.  (Matthew 20:29-34 NRSV)

This is such a beautiful story, one that offers a few meaningful insights for me. First, as Jesus passes by the two blind men, they begin calling out to him, “Lord, have mercy on us!” They don’t just say, “Help us to see!” Instead, they ask only for Jesus’ mercy. His act of mercy could have been anything- alms, food, forgiveness, or assistance in other ways. These men seemed to trust that the mercy of Jesus would provide exactly what they most needed (even if their sight wasn’t restored).

Jesus then asks the men, “What do you want me to do for you?” Jesus can see that they are blind, and the logical assumption would be that they want to see. But Jesus chooses to ask the question; he lets them determine what they would like him to do for them. This serves as a good reminder for us. We cannot always assume that we know what people need from their outward appearances alone. We are wise to connect with them on a heart level first, and to give them the opportunity to best discern what they need.

Finally, it is interesting that the men say, “Let our eyes be opened” instead of “Restore our sight” or “Help us see.” Granted, these words all have the same essential meaning. But I love the image of eyes being opened. When we can fully open ourselves- our eyes, our heart, our mind, our life- we become free to receive what God would like us to receive. Instead of straining to see the things we hope to see, we just open our eyes and let God reveal what God would want us to see. This thought seems so lovely to me.

We are now almost to the third week of Lent, and so the question Jesus has for us can serve as a Lenten check-in time. How are you doing on your Lenten journey so far?

Are you talking to ME?

Today Jesus is asking, “What do you want me to do for you?”

Are you able to trust in the mercy of Jesus to provide exactly what you need?  What one thing would you like Jesus to do for you today? In what way might you need to have your eyes opened? What inner need or longing is deep within your heart, hidden under your seemingly obvious needs?

What do you want me to do for you?

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Which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Stand up and walk’?

And just then some people were carrying a paralyzed man lying on a bed. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, “Take heart, son; your sins are forgiven.” Then some of the scribes said to themselves, “This man is blaspheming.” But Jesus, perceiving their thoughts, said, “Why do you think evil in your hearts? For which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Stand up and walk’? But so that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—he then said to the paralytic—“Stand up, take your bed and go to your home.” And he stood up and went to his home. When the crowds saw it, they were filled with awe, and they glorified God, who had given such authority to human beings.  (Matthew 9:2-8 NRSV)

The scribes accuse Jesus of blasphemy- that he is speaking and acting with irreverence for God by telling the paralytic that his sins are forgiven. After all, isn’t God the only One to forgive sins? So Jesus asks the scribes, “Which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Stand up and walk’?” He then turns to the paralyzed man and immediately heals him. Jesus reveals how he does indeed have the power and the authority of God, not only to forgive sins but even to do miraculous works!

Jesus combined two blessings for the paralyzed man. He forgave him (an intangible blessing for his spirit) and then he healed him (a tangible blessing for his body). Today let’s reframe Jesus’ question for the scribes as a thought-provoking question for us. “Which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Stand up and walk’?”

Many wonderful aspects of our faith come from intangible, spiritual blessings. Through Christ we do have the gift of forgiveness, along with God’s presence in and among us, the closeness of kingdom living, the promise of life eternal. We have abiding peace beyond our understanding, radiant hope that endures through every darkness, surprising joy that bubbles up from within, and unconditional love that endures through all of life. We receive the fruits of the spirit as well as many other inner gifts of the soul.

So when we hope to share the love of Jesus with someone, we may be tempted to share our experiences of these intangible blessings, including the forgiveness of sins. It IS easier to say, “In Christ, your sins are forgiven” than it would be to say, “In Christ, stand up and walk.” These intangibles ARE rich blessings, and they ARE life-changing. We appreciate these gifts and want others to experience them through Christ, too.

But these gifts of our inner relationship with Christ will not mean much to someone who has very real and tangible needs. People probably won’t care that their sins are forgiven if they are still hungry, homeless, imprisoned, persecuted, sick or oppressed. To help others know the love of Jesus, we need to reach out to them with tangible acts of Jesus’ love, first and foremost. The rest of our story of life with Jesus and ALL of his blessings will come in time. 

How can we help with healing today? We can work to heal broken relationships with forgiveness and understanding. We can help heal broken hearts with listening, empathy and tender care. We can help heal or slow diseases by providing clean water, mosquito netting, and vaccines. We can speak on behalf of someone who is being treated unjustly. We can work to create laws that uphold equal rights for all. We can comfort those who are grieving. We can feed the hungry, build shelters for the homeless, provide clothing for the destitute. Opportunities to help are all around us. 

As we read on in the story, we see that the people “were filled with awe… and glorified God” after Jesus healed the paralyzed man. They saw the physical, tangible gift of healing through God’s power in Jesus. As the Body of Christ, we can continue his work to help heal our relationships, community and world. Working to make the love of Christ more visible to others may help lead others to embrace the life in Christ we cherish.  

Are you talking to ME?

Today Jesus is asking, “Which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Stand up and walk’? 

Who might need the tangible love of Christ shown in your actions today? How might you demonstrate the healing power of God through your actions? What would be their biggest physical need? Are you open and available to be the presence of Christ when needed? Do you trust in the power of God’s loving, healing power in your own daily living? What spiritual blessing do you most appreciate today? What physical blessing? What do you most need from Jesus at this time?

Which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Stand up and walk’?

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How many baskets full of broken pieces did you collect? And do you not remember? Do you not yet understand?

Now the disciples had forgotten to bring any bread; and they had only one loaf with them in the boat. And he cautioned them, saying, “Watch out—beware of the yeast of the Pharisees and the yeast of Herod.” They said to one another, “It is because we have no bread.” And becoming aware of it, Jesus said to them, “Why are you talking about having no bread? Do you still not perceive or understand? Are your hearts hardened? Do you have eyes, and fail to see? Do you have ears, and fail to hear? And do you not remember? When I broke the five loaves for the five thousand, how many baskets full of broken pieces did you collect?” They said to him, “Twelve.” “And the seven for the four thousand, how many baskets full of broken pieces did you collect?” And they said to him, “Seven.” Then he said to them, “Do you not yet understand?” (Mark 8:14-21 NRSV)

Jesus has many questions for the disciples. As we read yesterday, the disciples were with Jesus when he fed the entire crowd with a few loaves of bread- not once, but twice- and with so much abundance that they collected baskets full of leftover pieces. And yet in this story, they are fretting about only having one loaf of bread to share. Jesus wonders why they are anxious, why they don’t remember, and why they don’t understand what he is doing.

How could the disciples not remember the great miracles of feeding the crowds? Why would they become anxious and worried when they have Jesus right there with them? How do they miss the lessons he teaches, the example he lives, and the trust in God he demonstrates as they travel together?

We can be just as forgetful. How often do we forget our own experiences of God’s abundance? How often do we fail to remember the ways God has provided for us- not just once, but twice, and over and over again? How God has given us not just enough, but more than enough?

We forget each time we have doubts, anxiety, fear, or uncertainty about our days. We forget that God is our constant presence, an ever-flowing supply of all that we need. God abundantly provides daily bread… comfort… healing… guidance… strength… love… hope… help.

My journal serves as a reminder for me. Each time I look back on previous daily entries, I am reminded of God’s faithfulness through all of life. The Bible also serves as a journal of faithfulness, doesn’t it? When we need a reminder, maybe that’s the best place to look.

Are you talking to ME?

Today Jesus is asking, “How many baskets full of broken pieces did you collect? And do you not remember? Do you not yet understand?”

Are you currently worried about something in particular? Can you revisit moments in your past when God supplied exactly what you needed, and more? Can you remember a Biblical example of God working through hard situations? Do you see that Christ abides in you, and provides for you, in all times?

How many baskets full of broken pieces did you collect? And do you not remember? Do you not yet understand?

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How many loaves have you?

Then Jesus called his disciples to him and said, “I have compassion for the crowd, because they have been with me now for three days and have nothing to eat; and I do not want to send them away hungry, for they might faint on the way.” The disciples said to him, “Where are we to get enough bread in the desert to feed so great a crowd?” Jesus asked them, “How many loaves have you?” They said, “Seven, and a few small fish.” Then ordering the crowd to sit down on the ground, he took the seven loaves and the fish; and after giving thanks he broke them and gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the crowds.  (Matthew 15:32-36 NRSV)

Jesus and the disciples are in the desert with a hungry crowd. It’s natural for the disciples to expect Jesus to come up with a solution for feeding the people; he has already performed several miracles. Certainly he could come up with a plan! He does have a plan, but his plan involves the disciples. How many loaves do they have to offer? Jesus invites them to participate in the feeding of the crowd.

We are to be the Body of Christ in the world. Yet, how often do we pray that God will help our world- but we don’t offer ourselves as part of God’s solution? We pray hands-off prayers such as, “Creator God, bless all of creation.” “Merciful God, help the immigrants and refugees.” “Heavenly Father, feed the hungry, clothe the poor, bring justice and peace to our world.”  

Jesus shows us that our prayers for the world’s needs must begin with our willingness to help him. We should be asking God to inspire us to good works, to make us aware of the needs of others, to help us team with God in the care of creation, to move us to take action, donate or serve where we are needed. Then we are to DO so. 

We can begin by taking a personal inventory. What are my gifts? What resources do I have? How much time might I be able to give? Where do I feel the most passionate for change? How many loaves do I have? Then, when we pray for a concern, or we hear of a problem, we will be better prepared and ready to help. We will be ready to team with others as the Body of Christ, a team of love in the world.

Are you talking to ME?

Today Jesus is asking, “How many loaves have you?”

What do you have to share for the betterment of the world? How might you be called to share the love of Christ with others? How will you move from a fearful stance of scarcity to a generous spirit of abundance? How is Jesus speaking to you today?

How many loaves have you?

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Why do you break the commandment of God for the sake of your tradition?

Then Pharisees and scribes came to Jesus from Jerusalem and said, “Why do your disciples break the tradition of the elders? For they do not wash their hands before they eat.” He answered them, “And why do you break the commandment of God for the sake of your tradition? For God said, ‘Honor your father and your mother,’ and, ‘Whoever speaks evil of father or mother must surely die.’ But you say that whoever tells father or mother, ‘Whatever support you might have had from me is given to God,’ then that person need not honor the father. So, for the sake of your tradition, you make void the word of God. You hypocrites! Isaiah prophesied rightly about you when he said:

‘This people honors me with their lips,
    but their hearts are far from me;
in vain do they worship me,
    teaching human precepts as doctrines.’

(Matthew 15:1-9 NRSV)

Years ago, our pastor was going to be away for the weekend and I was asked to lead the Sunday worship service for him. I could recite the liturgy, write and share the sermon message, and lead the prayers- but I could not serve Communion. I was disappointed, and I could tell that the people were, too. My sermon message was about the ten lepers, so I included a comment, “In a way, this morning we can feel like the ten lepers, as we will be excluded from the Meal.”

I have yet to find where Jesus says, “Remember me when you eat this bread and drink this cup- but only if it is served by an ordained minister.” (Or in some churches, you need to have gone to confession, or have been baptized, or have become a full member of the church, or understand transubstantiation… ) Have our faith traditions become an obstacle for the love of Jesus, shown in the sharing and eating, the gathering together at the table, the remembering of his life and love? We like to say, “All are welcome.” But then the rules get in the way…

In our passage for today, Jesus scolds the Pharisees and scribes for their strict adherence to their religious rules and practices. He points out how some of these actually break the commandment of God, such as when we give offering money while our parents need help, or keep Sabbath rest when someone needs to be fed. Jesus always taught, practiced, and lived the two most important commandments of God; to love God and to love one another (Matthew 22:36-40).  

We may unquestioningly cling to certain Bible passages, faith traditions, practices and rules that actually detract from the meaning of the Word; the Word found in the Bible, in creation, in the life, death and resurrection of Jesus, and in the Spirit. That meaning is LOVE. Love alone. When we lose sight of love, we “honor with our lips while our hearts are far away.”

Are you talking to ME?

Today Jesus is asking, “Why do you break the commandment of God for the sake of your tradition?”

Are there any faith traditions or practices in your church that may have become obstacles for others? Are you clinging to things (certain Bible verses, long-held traditions, preferred liturgies, rules for membership, etc.) that keep you from fully including and loving others? Would breaking a certain tradition or Bible verse make you feel uncomfortable, even if done for the sake of love? What would you be willing to surrender in order to help someone know the love of God?

Why do you break the commandment of God for the sake of your tradition?

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Are there not twelve hours of daylight?

Then after this he said to the disciples, “Let us go to Judea again.” The disciples said to him, “Rabbi, the Jews were just now trying to stone you, and are you going there again?” Jesus answered, “Are there not twelve hours of daylight? Those who walk during the day do not stumble, because they see the light of this world. But those who walk at night stumble, because the light is not in them.” After saying this, he told them, “Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep, but I am going there to awaken him.” (John 11:7-11 NRSV)

Jesus wants to go back to Judea so that he can raise his friend Lazarus from the dead. But this is where his opposition is and the disciples are rightly concerned. They caution Jesus not to go, reminding him of the dangers they had encountered before. Jesus simply asks, “Are there not twelve hours of daylight?” In spite of their fears, Jesus was telling the disciples that the time was right to go. The time was right to make a good difference for Lazarus and his family. 

My college roommate often used the expression, “You’re here for a good time, not a long time!” Of course, her wild intention was to live rather crazily, with little regard for her health or safety, partying until the very end- however soon that end might come. My other roommates and I would shake our heads and laugh with her.

But there is some wisdom in her statement.

This earthly life does seem to pass swiftly, even when we live a long time. It’s often said that the seasons and years seem to pass more quickly as we age. We are given this precious life, and we have one opportunity to live it fully and well. We ARE here for a good time, and not for a long time.

What makes our time good is in doing what is right. Loving in abundance. Celebrating the moments. Caring for others. Helping where we can. Using our gifts in service to others. Sharing generously. Stewarding the earth and its creatures. Following Jesus wherever he leads. Our time becomes a ‘good’ time when we use our limited earthly days wisely, abundantly, and gratefully.

“Are there not twelve hours of daylight?” Jesus compels us to do all the good we can, while we can. This means setting aside our fears, too. We are called to follow the light of Christ even into the darkest corners. We are called to be the light of Christ for those we then find in the darkest corners. NOW is the time to be courageous, selfless, generous, and helpful. NOW is the time to make a difference for good in this world.

My roommate was right. We are not here on this earth for a long time. Let’s make it a good time. As Mary Oliver asks, “Tell me. What is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?”¹

Are you talking to ME?

Today Jesus is asking, “Are there not twelve hours of daylight?”

What will you do with them? How might you make a difference for someone today? Will you be a blessing? How might you care for God’s creation, God’s people, God’s creatures? Is there something you long to do but have lacked the courage? How will the good light of Christ shine in your life today?

Are there not twelve hours of daylight?

¹(Mary Oliver, The Summer Day)

Photo by Hammad Siddiqui on Unsplash.

Why do you see the speck in your neighbor’s eye, but do not notice the log in your own eye?

Do not judge, so that you may not be judged. For with the judgment you make you will be judged, and the measure you give will be the measure you get. Why do you see the speck in your neighbor’s eye, but do not notice the log in your own eye? Or how can you say to your neighbor, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ while the log is in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your neighbor’s eye. (Matthew 7:1-5 NRSV)

(Here is another meditation that involves adjectives. 😀 )

I would call myself an organized, efficient and tidy person. I love making lists of goals and projects to check off when complete. I try to keep our papers updated and filed correctly. I rotate dishes by putting the newly clean ones on the bottom as I stack them in the cupboard. I fold our laundry a certain way, and I hang all of my slacks with the fronts facing the wall of the closet. I prefer all of our hangers to be white. Fortunately, Jim still finds me adorable, but I could easily be called fussy… particular… obsessive… exacting. 

In my effort to stay healthy, I walk every day that I can. I can become quite distraught if I don’t reach my weekly mileage goal. I eat only particular foods, drink purified water, and avoid sugar- so I often bring my own foods to the places I visit. I would consider myself disciplined and determined. Others may find me stubborn… regimented… overzealous… mulish… overcautious. (Maybe even rude!)

To judge is to evaluate someone or something. The judging that Jesus seems to be referring to is our negative and critical judging, as well as comparing others to ourselves. He tells us to refrain from critically judging others, reminding us that we could be judged much worse. Jesus tells us to first remove the log in our eye. That log could be any of those characteristics we describe with gentle grace in ourselves, but judge with harsh criticism in others.

We have a wide variety of adjectives available to describe people, situations, and our perceptions of them.  We are to choose the more grace-filled, uplifting adjectives over the harsh, critical adjectives in our thoughts and conversations. (There are times when, yes, we are called to stop or speak against wrongdoing. Can we learn to do that without including a judgment of the person?)

May we all grow in the practice of judging others with grace, mercy, gentleness, understanding, mutuality, and kindness. May we judge others in the way we would want to be judged by them.

Jesus knows that we are all beloved and broken, saints and sinners, in one way or another. And yet his love is constant. His words help us to see that none of us have any right or power to critically judge someone. His words also become our invitation to greater unity. We are all similarly connected to one another through Jesus- by our brokenness, as well as by our belovedness.

Are you talking to ME?

Today Jesus is asking, “Why do you see the speck in your neighbor’s eye, but do not notice the log in your own eye?”

What characteristic seems to annoy you most in other people? Is there an adjective to describe it? Is there a more positive one you could use? What truths can you learn by objectively (and graciously) examining yourself for these same traits? What qualities or frailties would Jesus lovingly notice in you?

Why do you see the speck in your neighbor’s eye?

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