Privilege and humility

Mark 7 presents us with an unusual story of Jesus refusing a request for healing. The requestor was a woman from a region known for wealth. Jesus removed her apparent privilege by telling her that his ministry was to Israel first. The woman humbly asked that she be granted a "crumb" from the table and in declaring her unworthiness, her request was granted. What expectations do you have for God and for those around you?

Lydia loves God and receives the gospel

 

The story of Lydia reminds us that God loves all kinds of people. Lydia was a gentile entrepreneur who worshipped God and received the gospel when Paul presented it (Acts 16). Like Lydia, there are many who might defy our expectations of what a God worshipper. How do you share the gospel with others? 

The normalcy of hospitality

 

Western culture often struggles with concepts of hospitality for immigrants and vistors. Like many middle-eastern faiths, early Christianity viewed hospitality as part of their faith practice. Lydia demonstrated this when she immediately invites Paul to come stay with her and her family (Acts 16:15). By receiving Paul, she became a part of his story. In what ways do you help non-residents feel welcomed and cared for?

The stories we don't tell

 

Some Bible stories can be hard to read because they accurately depict man's sinful nature. Tamar's story (Gen 38) is one of those stories. In this story, Tamar is denied her only avenue of security and she response by blackmailing her oppressor. Rather than looking for righteous hero in this story, we might do well to let it remind us that systems of oppression produce desperate people who need our care.

Sisera's misplaced trust

Sisera, trusted his large and sophisticated military to win the battle with Israel (Judges 4).   Sisera's trust proved to be poorly placed when his army was completely destroyed by Barak's men. Seeking refuge, Sisera again trusted poorly, by asking Jael to hide him. She killed him in sleep, further humiliating him. As Christians, we trust in God, not in armies or political powers. Who do you trust to keep you safe?

Can you give what has been given?

Sometimes we justify our greed and refuse to help others because we feel they are dishonest and taking advantage of us.  Maybe we are afraid it will make us look weak, or gullible if we give to someone who doesn't really need the help as much as they say. As Christians, we know that we deserve none of the good gifts God has given us (James 1:17), and that we are really giving away what was given to us.

Leaders lead

 Deborah, the fearless voice for God and a just judge of His people, demonstrated outstanding leadership by accompanying the country's general into a dangerous battle (Judges 4). While the motives of the general, Barak, are unknown, he insisted God's representative stand with him during this crucial battle. Like any great leader, Deborah lead by example and put herself in harm's way before asking others to do so.