NATIONAL HEROES DAY AND UNSUNG HEROES; CHRIST THE WOUNDED, SUFFERING, CRUCIFIED ONE. AN UNLIKELY SAVIOR OF THE WORLD

I read my Bible to see what men ought to do; and read my newspapers to see what men are doing - John Newton Lord renew thy church beginning with me: Lord renew the church that the church may renew the nation(s). Tomorrow my country will celebrate National Heroes Day. A time when we pause as a nation and give thanks and pay homage to those who have played a critical role in nation building. At one level, officials will gather on the lawns of Kings House, home of the Constitutional head of State, the Governor General, where national awards will be handed out those deemed worthy of such a high honor. Whilst at another level, in the hearts and minds of many, others will be remembered as unsung heroes and heroines; who in their quiet way, and without any public fanfare and recognition, have impacted the lives of countless Jamaicans across the length and breath of the island. Yesterday I had the privilege of attending the funeral of one such 'hero'. And was moved to pen a note to his son and some of those who attended; a gathering of persons which included the Governor General himself, a Minister of Government, an Opposition MP, a leading member of the Private Sector, the Anglican Lord Bishop of Jamaica, other members of the clergy and ordinary folks like myself who had a connection of some sort to the family of Connex Stern Jarrett. And during the course of the week, other letters were sent. All reminding us of the strange and mysterious ways of the God who we serve. But also reassuring us in the busyness of life, that this God is a God of mercy, compassion and love, and longs to welcome back those who have strayed. And those who have never trusted in His Son Christ the King. THE WORD OF GOD THE FIRST MESSAGE - A TRIBUTE, A SERMON, AND A SONG My Lord Bishop, The Rt. Rev. Howard Gregory wondered how come I was without my usual trademark - my camera. I responded that I did not do funerals. But though I did not take pictures I listened intently. As did many, if not all of us, at Connex Stern Jarrett's funeral yesterday. Thus we heard a wonderful account of this unsung hero, as one person who gave a tribute, styled him; and perhaps appropriately so as we celebrate National Heroes day tomorrow. An account of a man born in the hills of St. Ann, who got married to a lady who lived in a hamlet near to him, far away in Portland. A man who was a Mico-man before Miconians of both sexes 'invaded' the place. A student and then a teacher ' out of the top drawer'. A principal of many schools who had a special love for his students; but who was a disciplinarian who also had a tremendous sense of humour. A man of God whose curse word was " HE two sticks"..as he was even reluctant to use the word ' hell'. And whose 'butterfly experience' allowed him to touch the lives of a great many Jamaicans far and wide; away from his early and humble beginnings. A father who was soft spoken , but not soft; and who brought up his children in the fear of God, and love of country. A deacon of the baptist church, who was a wonderful tenor singer in the choir; and whose sermons were 'short ...less than the traditional hour and a half' but effective. A giant of man who received no national honors, but whose name is honored by countless Jamaicans; a 'few' of whom turned out and filled one of the largest churches in the island yesterday - Boulevard Baptist. His memory lives on in his achievements; but even more so in the lives and work of his children. One of whom has committed himself to be the ' volunteer-in-chief' of this nation. And for whom no national accolade can adequately capture the extent to which the 'butterfly experience of Connex Jarrett" continues to impact a grateful nation. We look forward in anticipation, and with prayers, to see how the next generation will fill these big shoes of father and of son. Then to top it all we were privileged to listen to a sermon 'out of the very top drawer'. Delivered with passion and with conviction by Burchell Taylor. " My soul clings to thee; thy right hand upholds me". So did the Psalmist exult ' in a dry and thirsty land, where there was no water' as recorded in Psalm 63:8. So too should we place our supreme confidence, ' not holding on by our fingertips...not desperately holding on', in a God who upholds us with His right hand. So should we strive with all our might and desire to live in the presence of this mighty God....My soul clings to thee. So should we eschew the 'favours' of other gods who compete for our attention and commitment.....gods who we can manipulate...gods who we have made with our own hands...and to whom we pay homage by how we live...gods who the Babylonians who the prophet Isaiah observed with amazement..." carried on their donkeys"..while the God of Israel carried them, His children, on His back! A God whose 'everlasting arms" we can rest upon as the Psalmist declares in Psalm 91. A God on whom we can depend when the storms of life...like death...come crashing down. Because our house is built on solid ground; unlike those whose houses are built on sandy ground; that shifts and moves and tumbles down in time of trouble. So we too like Connex Stern Jarrett did, should place our trust on the God about whom the psalmist declares: " My souls clings to you; your right hand upholds me". Finally my friend Grace ( Cannon 'Grace' Jervis) , to whom much is owed in terms of this and other aspects of my Internet ministry, sang a song from the depths of her soul. And St Paul would have been pleased, as she shared in song the immortal words taken from the book of Romans which have been 'a solid rock to Christians over the centuries; ' that nothing, nothing at all can separate us from the love of God - that is in Christ Jesus. My eyes are misty, as I write this tribute to my friend, and his dad who is now in the 'bosom of Abraham'. And wonder how others can fail to love the Lord Jesus, in whose Name all of this, all of life, all of eternity exults. And worships!. O my God how come others have failed to love this God who Connex loved so much. And if they did, how much this 'butterfly experience' would have changed my country. For the better! Peace. LWJ THE SECOND MESSAGE - THE CHURCH, AN UNSUNG, UNCELEBRATED, AND MUCH VILIFIED INSTITUTION. BUT STILL GOD'S GIFT TO A NATION, CALLING ALL PEOPLE EVERYWHERE TO REPENTANCE. SENT TO MEMBERS OF A FORUM INVOLVING LEADERS IN THE SOCIETY AND PROMOTING THE 'CORRECT FAITH'. It's just after 3:00 am in the morning. I would normally have been fast asleep. But The Lord woke me up in a very dramatic way to read, to pray and then to write. About The Day of The Lord . On a morning when last evening I heard on Nationwide News a disturbing conversation where the host George Davis, in " hanging with the Church", accused/raised the issue of the 'silent voice of the church, in large part, on critical national issues in general, and crime in particular". Two of the church 'leaders' agreed with him - for the most part. But another challenged the media to spend more time listening to the prophetic voice of the church and become more sensitive to the pastoral voice of the church. In the sense that when the church speaks, it is not just to condemn and to cry our aimlessly, but to point a way to Redemption - for the perpetrators of crime and of the society. And not just to be as efficient at issuing press releases as the PSOJ or Civil Society groups. On a morning when last evening, on Beyond The Headlines on RJRFM 90 hosted by Dionne Jackson-Miller, a recently announced gold medal winner of the prestigious Musgrave Medals Awards, Professor Franklyn Knight from Johns Hopkins University, declared that he had an interest in working with the community, as long it was a non-religious organization, but secular! Have mercy! On a morning after He inspired to write a disturbing letter yesterday, which ended with a warning that " time is running out", The Lord woke me up to add another challenge to the members of the media and others that, the role of the church is to call all people everywhere to repentance, with power, and not just to be social commentators on the news of the day. Some may be called to be social activists, as God gives His gifts in His wisdom for the building up of the church, and the ordering of the society. But all are gifted with the mandate to, with power, call for repentance and mercy! And so I was led to the book of Joel which speaks about " The ( great and dreadful) Day of The Lord ". About which the prophet warned was coming on account of the 'unfaithfulness' of Israel and other nations. But, and thank God for the 'eternal other options in the Bible", if we repent then God will show mercy. That is the message that the host on Nationwide news needs to contemplate. That is the message which the winner of the Musgrave gold medal needs to hear and contemplate. That is the message that this nation needs to hear from the church. In the church, through the media, on the streets. As the call for mercy from The Lord, with a contrite heart, is what will ultimately rescue Jamaica from crime and violence; and not just the church speaking on radio or television, in and by itself. THE WORD OF GOD .......which climaxes, if you read carefully, in a prophetic word about the life and death of Jesus and the pouring out of the promised Holy Spirit. And which is The Correct Faith! “Even now,” declares the Lord, “return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning.” Rend your heart and not your garments. Return to the Lord your God, for he is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love, and he relents from sending calamity. Who knows? He may turn and relent and leave behind a blessing— grain offerings and drink offerings for the Lord your God. Blow the trumpet in Zion, declare a holy fast, call a sacred assembly. Gather the people, consecrate the assembly; bring together the elders, gather the children, those nursing at the breast. Let the bridegroom leave his room and the bride her chamber. Let the priests, who minister before the Lord, weep between the portico and the altar. Let them say, “Spare your people, Lord. Do not make your inheritance an object of scorn, a byword among the nations. Why should they say among the peoples, ‘Where is their God?’ ” Then the Lord was jealous for his land and took pity on his people. The Lord replied to them: “I am sending you grain, new wine and olive oil, enough to satisfy you fully; never again will I make you an object of scorn to the nations. “I will drive the northern horde far from you, pushing it into a parched and barren land; its eastern ranks will drown in the Dead Sea and its western ranks in the Mediterranean Sea. And its stench will go up; its smell will rise.” Surely he has done great things! Do not be afraid, land of Judah; be glad and rejoice. Surely the Lord has done great things! Do not be afraid, you wild animals, for the pastures in the wilderness are becoming green. The trees are bearing their fruit; the fig tree and the vine yield their riches. Be glad, people of Zion, rejoice in the Lord your God, for he has given you the autumn rains because he is faithful. He sends you abundant showers, both autumn and spring rains, as before. The threshing floors will be filled with grain; the vats will overflow with new wine and oil. “I will repay you for the years the locusts have eaten— the great locust and the young locust, the other locusts and the locust swarm — my great army that I sent among you. You will have plenty to eat, until you are full, and you will praise the name of the Lord your God, who has worked wonders for you; never again will my people be shamed. Then you will know that I am in Israel, that I am the Lord your God, and that there is no other; never again will my people be shamed. “And afterward, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions. Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days. I will show wonders in the heavens and on the earth, blood and fire and billows of smoke. The sun will be turned to darkness and the moon to blood before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord. And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved; for on Mount Zion and in Jerusalem there will be deliverance, as the Lord has said, even among the survivors whom the Lord calls. (Joel 2:12-32 NIV) Amen! THE THIRD MESSAGE - SENT TO THE SAME GROUP ABOVE. A POET AND THE WORD OF GOD COINCIDE. THE CONNECTION BETWEEN ALL THREE MESSAGES? GOD USES THE MOST UNLIKELY PERSON, UNSUNG HEROES TO SPEAK TO HIS PEOPLE. IN THE SAME WAY HE CHOSE CHRIST - THE VILIFIED, SPAT UPON, WOUNDED AND CRUCIFIED ONE TO CARRY OUT HIS GREAT ACT OF RECONCILIATION BETWEEN MAN AND GOD. This morning, as I awoke, without missing a beat, the revelation continued. Thoughts of God's charge to Ezekiel that " I have made you a watchman"; and that if he failed to warn his people when they did evil, their "blood would be on his head", came into my mind. So did St. Paul's declaration that he was " innocent of any man's blood", as he had not failed to tell everyone about 'the gospel of the grace of God'. This, as he prepared to leave the church in Jerusalem for the last time. Then, finally The Lord led me to words from Lord Tennyson; arguably one of England's greatest poets. And I pondered how George Davis called upon words from Socrates, and his pronouncement to someone who repeatedly challenged him on a point. His response, according to Davis; words to the effect that Socrates can be successfully challenged but not truth. An argument he was developing as I exited the car on arriving home, in order to counter the challenge from the one brave church leader who refused to be 'profiled' by Davis. The question is what is truth? An issue which is the midwife of this longstanding forum, having presided over the birth of the correct faith, hopefully in the minds of some, if not all participants. Tennyson, then, as The Lord directs this morning offers in poetry ( which is actually a hymn) and validates, some of what the narrative has presented thus far. So consider well: .....our little systems have their day; They have their day and cease to be........by faith and faith alone embrace, Believing where we cannot see......we mock when we do not fear.....our wills are ours to make them thine. But as much as Tennyson's brilliant mind can conjure up for us, in beautiful language, a hint of what The Word of God presents, it is only The Word, 'which became flesh in Christ and dwelt among us', that is living and active and sharper than any two edged sword. So as we consider Tennyson's words, pay much more attention to the Word from which he draws his inspiration. THE WEEKEND ( amazing coincidence....or not) STRONG SON OF GOD Alfred, Lord Tennyson Verse: Colossians 1:16 ( I have added a few more for context) " The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy. and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross. Once you were alienated from God and were enemies in your minds because of your evil behavior. But now he has reconciled you by Christ’s physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation— if you continue in your faith, established and firm, and do not move from the hope held out in the gospel. This is the gospel that you heard and that has been proclaimed to every creature under heaven, and of which I, Paul, have become a servant. (Colossians 1:15-18, 20-23 NIV) ‘Strong Son of God, immortal Love’ By Alfred, Lord Tennyson (1809–1892) From ‘In Memoriam’ STRONG Son of God, immortal Love, Whom we, that have not seen thy face, By faith, and faith alone, embrace, Believing where we cannot prove; Thine are these orbs of light and shade; 5 Thou madest Life in man and brute; Thou madest Death; and lo, thy foot Is on the skull which thou hast made. Thou wilt not leave us in the dust: Thou madest man, he knows not why; 10 He thinks he was not made to die; And thou hast made him: thou art just. Thou seemest human and divine, The highest, holiest manhood, thou: Our wills are ours, we know not how; Our wills are ours, to make them thine. Our little systems have their day; They have their day and cease to be: They are but broken lights of thee, And thou, O Lord, art more than they. We have but faith: we cannot know; For knowledge is of things we see; And yet we trust it comes from thee, A beam in darkness: let it grow. Let knowledge grow from more to more, But more of reverence in us dwell; That mind and soul, according well, May make one music as before, But vaster. We are fools and slight; We mock thee when we do not fear: But help thy foolish ones to bear; Help thy vain worlds to bear thy light. Amen! LWJ Sent from my iPad

Malala at The UN and The White House: Christ on Calvary

I read my Bible to see what men ought to do, and read my newspapers to see what men are doing John Newton. Lord renew thy church beginning with me: Lord renew the church, that the church may renew the nation(s) It's a well used cliche but look below and see if you don't agree that in fact, a picture like this is really and truly worth a thousand words. image.png President Barack Obama, first lady Michelle Obama, and their daughter, Malia, meet with Malala Yousafzai in the Oval Office. (Official White House Photo by Pete Souza) Who could have imagined that evil masquerading as a defender of the faith, in attempting to kill and teach others a lesson, instead allowed this brave young Pakistani girl, Malala Yousafzai, to take center stage in the world last week. Speaking at the UN, with her message of hope and inspiration for other young girls across the globe, echoing across the planet on television and on twitter. Gaining audience with the Obamas. And almost coping the Noble prize for Peace. What a week for a teenager! In fact she upstaged all the world's leaders, as none of them, in recent times, has commanded the attention of the media and others, except to beat war drums, as she did last week. For peace, for education, for the good of mankind everywhere. One can almost hear the Biblical injunction...and a little child shall lead them...in the midst of the excitement and the hype. Will her efforts have an impact on her country which she clearly loves....no more drones Mr. President......? Only time will tell, and we all hope and pray that the threat of evil, will not succeed the second time around if she elects to return. But whatever is her fate, and that is in God's hands, this girl had made a mark on the world. Forever! Question is, do we have such a brave person in my country who is willing, passionate and able to inspire our people to greater heights? To rise above the petty internecine political squabbles and " frame reality and give people hope", as one commentator speaking on radio recently, suggested was the role of a leader in the 21st century. To give a nation hope in the midst of the most outrageous behavior being exhibiting by our school children, the nature of which was fully exposed in The Jamaica Observer today. To give our children hope that they will no longer have to learn " under gunfire", as was the lead story in The Daily Gleaner today. To give a people hope in the midst of one of the most challenging economic times we have ever experienced. To give a generation of young men and women reason to remain in Jamaica rather than " voting with their feet", and leaving for greener pastures up North. THE WORD OF GOD So in the midst of " Malala Week", what did the God who rescued her from sudden death, and allow her to speak at the UN and the White House, say to His people? First of all, in a note sent to senior journalists, politicians and other members of civil society, The Lord led me to speak through one who evil attempted to silence. And thought that they had, only for the words of Martin Luther King jnr, to live on in his writings and in his speeches. One of which, " The Letter to The American Christians", is featured below, as a reminder that like Malala, Christians have a unique role to play in the life of any nation. The context was an ongoing 'discussion" about the correct faith, but the Word has a far greater application in inspiring us to ' stand your ground' against anything that 'conflicts with the will of God'. No matter from whence it cometh! Such is the high calling that we have as children of God in this troubled world. THE MESSAGE I had no reason to awake at 5:30 am this morning, after having had a rough night the night before; what with one of my children falling ill far a way from me, and my having to get up early to appear on TVJ. Normally I begin my devotions with praise, but this morning after The Lord had calmed my soul when my child was ill, with the words, " All is well", and recalling that it appeared in one of the many reflections in my Bible, I went looking for it, and found out more about God's mercy. As recorded in one of the most important verses in the Bible. " For God has bound over all men to disobedience so that he may have mercy on them all." Romans 11:32. And so I sent it out, along with a reminder of to whom the wonderful song " your grace and mercy refers, Christ Jesus and the act of Atonement on Calvary, as a text message to you and others. Then instead of the one for which I was searching, I found this edited version of Martin Luther King jnr, famous letter; not the one from prison, but rather the one written to American Christians. You may wish to google and read the entire letter as it makes for very interesting reading about King's prophetic views on the American society. Is there a connection with the issue of mercy? Read for yourself and find out. Is there a connection to the specific issue of a " correct faith" Absolutely! And more. So much more. The question is how does this understanding of the correct faith play out in this " everything goes", and " let all ideas contend", society! FROM PAUL'S LETTER TO THE AMERICAN CHRISTIANS MARTIN LUTHER KING JNR Verse: Romans 12:2 Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is - his good, pleasing and perfect will." I am impelled to write you concerning the responsibilities laid upon you to live as Christians in the midst of an unChristian world. That is what I had to do. That is what every Christian has to do. But I understand that there are many Christians in America who give their ultimate allegiance to man-made systems and customs. They are afraid to be different. Their great concern is to be accepted socially. They live by some such principle as this: "everybody is doing it, so it must be alright." For so many of you Morality is merely group consensus. In your modern sociological lingo, the mores are accepted as the right ways. You have unconsciously come to believe that right is discovered by taking a sort of Gallup poll of the majority opinion. How many are giving their ultimate allegiance to this way. But American Christians, I must say to you as I said to the Roman Christians years ago, "Be not conformed to this world, but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind." Or, as I said to the Phillipian Christians, "Ye are a colony of heaven." This means that although you live in the colony of time, your ultimate allegiance is to the empire of eternity. You have a dual citizenry. You live both in time and eternity; both in heaven and earth. Therefore, your ultimate allegiance is not to the government, not to the state, not to nation, not to any man-made institution. The Christian owes his ultimate allegiance to God, and if any earthly institution conflicts with God's will it is your Christian duty to take a stand against it. You must never allow the transitory evanescent demands of man-made institutions to take precedence over the eternal demands of the Almighty God. LWJ Sent from my iPad THE SECOND MESSAGE I believe in the same way that young Malala is prepared to give it her all, and even risk her life to return to play a pivotal role in her country, Watchman Nee in this reflection on God's Word, is calling us to be " wasted" for The Lord . In the sense that our lives must become so sacramental in nature and in deed, that we are prepared to be used by God, in whatever way He choses, so that the lives of others may be rescued from bondage to Sin, to poverty, to a life of substandard education, from injustice, from immorality and from economic privation. And that kind of life, as Nee demonstrated, begins with a determination to " live in the Word". And to live " by the Word". One of the most severe disciplines for any Christian, especially the young in an age of Netflix, movies.com, facebook, twitter, iTunes, and " I text a lot". WATCHMAN NEE I met upon a reflection by Watchman Nee on " The Fragrance of God, and was searching for it online in order to send it to others and then found this sermon based on the reflection. http://youtu.be/rZVfxw-ymH4 It puts a slightly different spin to it, as W. N. was more emphatic about being " wasted " for The Lord, but still it is useful. How did this all start. With a yearning to please The Lord based on my ( current) nightly reading of John's gospel - having gone through the synoptic gospels already. The one who sent me is with me; he has not left me alone, for I always do what pleases him.” (John 8:29 NIV) And then this reflection by W. N. this morning. ( 1903-1972 ...the indigenous church movement formed and fostered by by Watchman Nee in pre-world war 11 China helped to lay the foundation for for many of China's house churches......at 18 WN began to devote himself entirely to the study and preaching of the Bible....bore fruit in the formation of " The Little Flock Movement" ...arrested and tried on false charges Nee was imprisoned in 1952 and died in prison in 1972...books include " The Normal Christian Life" ..a study on Romans. THE FRAGRANCE OF GOD Verse: John 12:3 There must be something - a willingness to to yield, a breaking and a pouring out of everything to him - which gives release to that fragrance of Christ and produces in other lives an awareness of need, drawing them out and on to know The Lord . This is what I feel to be the heart of everything. The gospel has at its one object the production in us sinners of a condition that will satisfy the heart of our God. In order that he may have that, we come to him with all we have, all we are - yes even the most cherished things in our spiritual experience - and we make known to him: " Lord I am willing to to let go all of this for you: not just for your work, not for your children, not for anything else at all, but altogether and only for yourself!" Oh, to be wasted! It is a blessed thing to be wasted for The Lord . So many who have been prominent in the Christian world know nothing of this. Many of us have been used to the full - have been used, I would say, too much - but we do not know what it means to be " wasted on God". We like to be always " on the go"; The Lord would sometimes prefer to have us in prison. We think in terms of apostolic journeys for God: God dares to put his greatest ambassadors in chains. " But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of him. ( 2 Corinthians2:14) " And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume" ( John 12:3) The Lord grant us grace that we may learn how to please him. When like Paul, we make this our supreme aim ( 2 Corinthians 5:9), the gospel will have achieved its end. Also found this: By the breaking of that flask and the anointing of the Lord Jesus, the house was pervaded with the sweetest fragrance (John 12:1). Everyone could smell it and none could be unaware of it. What is the significance of this? Whenever you meet someone who has really suffered — someone who has gone through experiences with the Lord that have brought limitation, and who, instead of trying to break free in order to be ‘used,’ has been willing to be imprisoned by Him and has thus learned to find satisfaction in the Lord and nowhere else — then immediately you become aware of something. Immediately your spiritual senses detect a sweet savour of Christ. Something has been crushed, something has been broken in that life, and so you smell the odor. The odor that filled the house that day in Bethany still fills the Church today; Mary’s fragrance never passes. It needed but one stroke to break the flask for the Lord, but that breaking and the fragrance of that anointing abides. Conclusion: My hope and prayer, that new life will indeed flow from the reading of this message from The Lord. In the same way that a Christian friend and a Pastor from Pakistan wrote and told me this week that His wife, at last is pregnant, and that I should pray for them. Coincidence? I think not. If a little child, who evil touched, can so inspire a world, how much more should the Son of Man, Christ the Savior, the Son of God, who evil tried to silence again and again, be honored and glorified and obeyed. As He Only has the Words of Eternal Life. And that picture of Him on the Cross, imprinted on the hearts of millions across the globe, is worth so much more than a thousand words. Peace. LWJ

Weddings, Facebook, Congress, the CCJ and faith in Christ Jesus

I read my Bible to see what men ought to do; and read my newspapers to see what men are doing - John Newton Lord renew thy church beginning with me: Lord renew the church that the church may renew the nation(s) NEWS Apart from the big news in the week, my high point was a wedding I attended. And I just love weddings! Even more so now that, as an amateur photographer with a relatively good professional camera and flash, courtesy of my son, I can capture the the treasured moments and share them with others. Long before the real photographer gets his or her things together! Great fun. But while I was enjoying sharing in the climax of being young and in love, and the start of a new life together,all kinds of things were happening in my country and across the world. What can only be described as bizarre behavior by the Republican party in the USA, in shutting down the Federal Government, was the hot topic across the globe; affecting markets and putting people out of jobs. Thus attracting a cynical gibe on Facebook and which comment captured well the moment. "If Con is the opposite of Pro, what is the opposite of Progress!" Meanwhile 'back here on the ranch in the Caribbean', a landmark decision by a Regional Court, the CCJ, which ruled in favor of a Jamaican, Shanique Myrie, who had contended that she had, inter alia, been subjected to an illegal body cavity search while seeking to gain entry into another Caribbean Barbados, sent ripples across the region. The upshot of which decision ought to make it much more pleasant for Caribbean national to travel across the region. However, that assurance did not prevent one of my Facebook friends studying law in Barbados from posting the following very politically charged comment on her page: " Am I Jamaican or Dominican?" THE WORD OF GOD So as I contemplated things around me and went from weddings to Facebook; from political brinkmanship and even possible political suicide in pursuit of the " stop Obama scorched earth policy" to Caribbean drama; what did the Lord say in all of this "stuff " going on around the world? THE FIRST MESSAGE The first message came in the form of an -e-mail sent to a man of influence in my country, according to the circumstances as noted below. And the reminder from the Lord has been in my head for months now. As just one Word from Jesus, no matter what your condition is, or how far away you are from those praying for you, regardless of how serious is your case, and you and I can be healed. Instantly! Or otherwise, depending on God's will and purpose. And as my rector at church reminded us this morning, contextualizing his sermon in the Gospel reading about the having faith as small as a mustard seed, and referencing the Shanique Myrie case as an act of faith, we who are The Baptized and of The Easter faith, are called to exercise that gift of faith. Regardless, and especially, in the midst, of daunting circumstances, as one Word from the Saviour, and Congress will have to act sensibly. Syria will return to normal! Caribbean countries will no longer subject other nationals to humiliating searches. And, O my God have mercy, murder most foul and road fatalities will be dramatically reduced in Jamaica land we love. Cancer and grinding poverty, both of which are shaking the faith of many, will no longer hold our people captive to depression and grief. So we are called to pray, and to put our trust in Jesus, as there is no other way, but to trust and obey. Dear ..... I have long ceased believing in coincidence, as that word has no place in the vocabulary of a child of God. So this morning, during my devotions and reflections on one of The Lord's miracles which we discussed in Bible study last night, our discussions on the flight back home on Sunday night, as we sat beside each other, came to mind. Especially your gracious words about the Sunday night internet ministry. "After he had ended all his sayings in the ears of the people, he entered into Capernaum. And a certain centurion’s servant, who was dear unto him, was sick and at the point of death. And when he heard concerning Jesus, he sent unto him elders of the Jews, asking him that he would come and save his servant. And they, when they came to Jesus, besought him earnestly, saying, He is worthy that thou shouldest do this for him; And Jesus went with them. And when he was now not far from the house, the centurion sent friends to him, saying unto him, Lord, trouble not thyself; for I am not worthy that thou shouldest come under my roof: wherefore neither thought I myself worthy to come unto thee: but say the word, and my servant shall be healed. For I also am a man set under authority, having under myself soldiers: and I say to this one, Go, and he goeth; and to another, Come, and he cometh; and to my servant, Do this, and he doeth it. And when Jesus heard these things, he marvelled at him, and turned and said unto the multitude that followed him, I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel. And they that were sent, returning to the house, found the servant whole. (Luke 7:1-4, 6-10 ASV)". My prayer then is that Jesus may speak a word in your heart, which will inspire you to commit your entire life to serving He Who died for you and for the sins of all mankind. You and your entire family. And not just you alone my friend, but all who have great influence in this nation, that our people may be peacefully governed, and find true prosperity. As that longed for state of this nation will only come when we trust in the God of Jacob, as revealed in the Psalms. Hope to see you at St. Andrew Parish soon and regularly. Peace. Lucien Sent from my iPad THE SECOND MESSAGE The second Word from the Lord came in a message sent out to senior policy makers in my country. And the prayers are those I use each and every morning, unless otherwise directed by the Lord, at the start of my daily devotions. The key point here is that, like faith, all other gifts that we employ in directing the affairs of man, if done for the glory of the Lord, are gifts from God. And we can do nothing unless He so empowers us. A reality that those who wield considerable power, whether in Congress, in the White House, in the Courts of the land, should consider well. And even more so those who are privileged to share in the beauty and mystery that is love, and which love ought to find even deeper fulfillment and joy in Holy Matrimony. THE FINAL SECTION OF A THREE PART PRAYER ENTITLED ' A MORNING WATCH' BY JACOB BOEHME. Verse: 2 Chronicles 7:14. If my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land. Jacob Boehme ( 1575-1624.. An influential German mystic...whose writings - he claimed- were based on divine revelation and experience...and whose writings influenced people like William law, John Milton and Isaac Newton. I thought it might be useful for leaders to contemplate and to use in their own prayer life. ON WAKING Living Lord........... ON RISING Rule over me this day.......... ON GOING TO WORK Give me dear Lord, a pure heart and a wise mind, that I may carry out my work according to your will. Save me from all false desires, from pride, greed, envy and anger, and let me accept joyfully every task you set before me. Let me seek to serve the poor, the sad, and those unable to work. Help me to discern honestly my own gifts that I may do the things of which I am capable, and happily and humbly leave the rest to others. Above all, remind me constantly that I have nothing except what you give me, and can do nothing except what you enable me to do. LWJ THE THIRD MESSAGE The final Word, although seemingly directed at Seventh Day Adventists with their emphasis on " keeping the Sabbath", is actually a Word of great empowerment for all believers, and for all who wonder about the power and majesty of the church of God. As the reality of the Christian faith, is that each day through suffering and privations, persecution and " sickness from the Lord' we are being transformed into the likeness and image of God. And thus be able to manifest the very present of God wherever we are and whatever we do. For His glory and for the release of prisons from ignorance, unbelief, spiritual blindness and evil! So, because Jesus was doing these things on the Sabbath, the Jewish leaders began to persecute him. In his defense Jesus said to them, “My Father is always at his work to this very day, and I too am working.” For this reason they tried all the more to kill him; not only was he breaking the Sabbath, but he was even calling God his own Father, making himself equal with God. (John 5:16-18 NIV) For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God. The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry, “Abba, Father.” The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory. (Romans 8:14-17 NIV) Therefore, since we have such a hope, we are very bold. We are not like Moses, who would put a veil over his face to prevent the Israelites from seeing the end of what was passing away. But their minds were made dull, for to this day the same veil remains when the old covenant is read. It has not been removed, because only in Christ is it taken away. Even to this day when Moses is read, a veil covers their hearts. But whenever anyone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit. (2 Corinthians 3:12-18 NIV) Now ponder all of the above as we say in faith and only because of the cleansing Blood of Christ: " Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name.......". And then like Paul exclaimed, do not think it strange when you undergo trials and persecution, as that reality is rooted in Scripture, and has a very long history. But oh what a joy to be transformed more and more each day, by The Spirit into the very image and likeness of God. This transformation is what the world around us needs to see, so they too will come to fear God and know of His love and mercy and faithfulness. Amen!

Trouble in the world and Peace in and through Christ Jesus

I read my Bible to see what men ought to do, and read my newspapers to see what men are doing - John Newton This past week was hectic and very eventful. As we prepared to fly out of Kingston to New York to join the International Community, in the continuing struggle to promote Safety on our Roads, news broke of a terrible crash in my country which claimed the lives of four persons. Three of them school children from a prominent rural high school. And one, a promising netballer, who perhaps would have gone on to represent our famous 'Sunshine Girls". The sobriquet which the national team has attracted! What a tragedy? What a confluence of events. The following day I had the privilege of meeting Zoleka Mandela, the grand-daughter of the South African, and Internationally acclaimed, world political icon, Nelson Mandela. Having lost her daughter in a car crash, shortly before the start of the last World Cup which was held in South Africa, Zoleka has now become a world renowned road safety advocate. This all happened as we attended a High level Meeting on Sustainable Transport, which is part of the process in which the UN is engaged as it attempts to set out its post 2015 Development Agenda. The pursuit of which Sustainable Development goals, the follow up to the Millennium Development Goals, and which if attained will have profound implications for the growth and development of entire world community. Although we cheered for her, in Beijing, in London, and most recently in Moscow, and as Jamaicans, felt as if we all "owned her", it was a joy and and privilege to meet face to face, the fastest woman in the world, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, who is now, not only a Jamaican road safety advocate, but she also, like Zoleka, in the midst of a very tight schedule, graciously accepted an invitation to participate at this International Meeting. Finally our own Prime Minister, Portia Simpson Miller, addressed the High Level Meeting in New York and then two days later, in delivering her speech to the UN General Assembly, she called on the all nations , inter alia, to take more seriously this issue of road safety. All of this happening at the same time when Kenya, and the entire world community were struggling to come to terms with the enormity of the of the effects of the terrorist attack in Nairobi which claimed so many lives. Also While Obama was struggling to get his Obamacare health bill passed, and at the same time reaching out to the President of Iran, trying to ease the tensions surrounding their nuclear programme. What a week indeed! THE WORD OF GOD And in the midst of this The Lord spoke about peace. Peace only in and through His Son Christ Jesus. As the pursuit of lasting peace in and between countries, safety on our roads, sustainable development in the world, will only be achieved if men begin to fear God more and more, and then translate that fear of God into regard and love for neighbor. The plan was for the message to be sent to the same group of persons in civil society to whom I have been writing about the correct faith, but time caught up with me, and it was just finished in time for tonight's mail out. THE FIRST MESSAGE This morning we are going to accompany the PM to the UN to listen to her address the General Assembly. Outside the Hotel, security is tight. Everywhere you turn there are groups of policemen and women, several police vehicles and big black vans with men around. And Obama is long gone! I gathered from a Jamaican who works at the hotel that it takes about five minutes for Obama's motorcade to pass. Later this afternoon some of us are scheduled to attend the peace concert in which the UN is involved, and which will feature Stevie Wonder and Alecia Keys. The concert is free, but the tickets are in high demand, so were fortunate to have gotten two. Finally I reflected on the fact that while I am here I have met famous people, powerful people, ordinary people. And people who are hurting, and carrying enormous burdens that just looking on one would never know. Then this morning, I was led to write about another feature of the " correct faith". That The Son sends peace to those who obey His Commands, in and through the indwelling of The Holy Spirit. And no one and no situation can take away that Peace which passeth all human understanding. It began like this: Great is thy faithfulness, O God my Father there is no shadow of turning with thee...... Morning by morning new mercies I see all I have needed thy hand has provided, great is thy faithfulness Lord unto me. Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth thy own presence to cheer and to guide; strength for today and bright or for tomorrow.." And continued with a word from the book of John: Jesus answered and said unto him, If any man loves me, he will keep my word: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. He that loveth me not keepeth not my words: and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father’s who sent me. But the Comforter, even the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all that I said unto you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be fearful. (John 14:23, 24, 26, 27 ASV) THE SECOND MESSAGE The second message was sent, it actually went off, to that same group mentioned before. And the focus of the message features another aspect of the foundation of the Christian faith - a quest for eternal life. The kind of desire which is overshadowed by the 'rat race' that so many engage in to survive here on earth or worse, by the lesson taught by the gospel appointed for this week in church -the story of the rich man who lived a life of luxury while the poor man Lazarus, waited upon the crumbs to fall from his table and had his sores licked by dogs. But when they both died the roles were reversed and it was the poor man who went to be in heaven at the side of father Abraham while the rich man suffered in hell and no one was allowed to go and warn his brothers. As there was a chasm between both worlds, and he was told that unless his brothers obeyed what the Old Testament prophets taught, not even if a " dead man was raised up and spoke to them would they listen" A clear reference to Jesus Christ who people continue to ignore. Because they have not " listened" to the The Word in the Old Testament which warns us to " Love The Lord our God with all our heart......". At their own peril ! THE MESSAGE This week I heard you discussing on Nationwide Radio, the publication of an International News Report of an interview with the Pope, and whose 'candid views' were the subject of much debate across the world. Especially in respect to his brief comments on the ' hot button ' issues. The big topics - abortions, the ordination of female priests, and the gay lifestyle- as far as some are concerned, and no doubt that which triggered your decision to set up the interview with prominent members of the Roman Catholic Church. All within the context of whether this new Pope is shaping up to be 'revolutionary', compared to, in your view, more conservative ones in the past! The focus on which controversial issues often ignores the central theme of the Christian life, and about which The Lord led me to write this morning. For as much as we respect the views of the leader of a significant chunk of the worldwide church of God, and those of other leaders also, ultimately we have to own the faith for ourselves. So, in that respect, 'listen' carefully to words from St. Paul, and then Jesus Himself. One, the disciple whose life was changed dramatically by an encounter with the Master. The other, the Master Himself, and the 'author and perfecter of the faith. "Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses. " ( Adult Baptism or Confirmation of those who were Baptized as children) 1 Timothy 6:12 ....an extended reading of one of the readings for the Anglican Church this Sunday " For this reason the Jews tried to kill him, not only was he breaking the Sabbath, but he was even calling God his own Father, making himself equal with God. Jesus gave them this answer: I tell you the truth, the Son can do nothing by himself; he can only do what he sees the Father doing, because whatever the Father does the Son also does. For the Father loves the Son and shows him all he does. Yes, to your amazement he will show him even greater things than these. For just as the Father raises the dead and gives them life, even so the Son gives life to whom he is pleased to give it. Moreover, the Father judges no one , but has entrusted all judgment to the Son, so that all amy honor the Son just as they honor the Father. He who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father, who sent him. I tell you the truth, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be condemned; he has crossed over from death to life." John 5:18-24 NIV So my friend, life on earth, as ordained by The Creator God, the God of Abraham and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, is all about seeking eternal life. And that life begins on earth when we believe in, and honor the Son, who the Creator God sent to rescue us. From sin and death! Unto everlasting life in Christ Jesus! So yes, try and understand what the Pope is saying, and even find some comfort in his pronouncements, but in the final analysis, it is your relationship with Christ that matters. The Pope, other leaders, and the entire church, and this forum, can only, like John the Baptist, point persons to Him, who alone can set the captives free and open the eyes of the blind. And who alone is " The Good News for the poor". Jesus Christ of Nazareth, and the Crucified, Dead, Risen and Ascended One. And who alone will judge all of us one day Cliff. You and I and all who read this note. This is the gospel truth. So as the Psalmist enjoins, " Kiss the Son, lest he be angry and you be destroyed in your way, for his wrath can flare up in a moment. Blessed are all those who take refuge in him". Psalm 2:12 Peace LWJ Sent from my iPad Finally I went to church this morning with one of my many " daughters" who lives in New Jersey. Not an Anglican Church, so no participation in the Holy Eucharist every Sunday as is the accustomed practice in my church, but nonetheless a wonderful experience. A service of worshiping The Lord in truth and in Spirit. Wonderful singing of up tempo new songs, and a great makeover of old ones, including " I need the But although there was no Holy Communion the preaching of the Word and the teaching about what The Word has to say about The Word, was very timely and instructive . The preacher contextualized his message in the fact of frequent attacks on the inerrant Word of God by non-believers who hope to confuse people. But quoting from the famous Hebrew passage he explained that the Word of God is living and active. So whenever anyone turns to the Word in faith they are encountering the Living God. And Paul explains in 1Timothy that " all Scripture is God breathed and useful for teaching and rebuking...... Further, though fragile and imperfect men wrote the Scriptures, they were only able to do so as they were " carried along by The a Holy Spirit". This is an important point to bear in mind as we are so inundated with information from our IPads, pods, PC's, smart phones and other such devices, that if one is not careful, the Word of a God does not receive the priority which it deserves in our lives. Resulting in far too infrequent encounters with the living God. The importance of which was addressed by a the preacher when he spent some time delving into the following Word. But we all, with unveiled face beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are transformed into the same image from glory to glory, even as from the Lord the Spirit. (2 Corinthians 3:18 ASV) Four key points emerged during this deeper look at the word? 1. That our primary responsibility is to behold the glory of God. And to see this glory in every aspect of life and to celebrate and give thanks for God's glory ( Shakinnah) at all times 2. That unlike Moses, at that time, and even today, the Jews, and all whose minds have not been set free by a relationship with the Risen Lord, we who believe have unveiled faces. Unveiled only by Christ, the Living Word and so we can see the glory of The Lord. 3. That day by day as we delve into the Word and thus shape our relationship with Jesus, we are being transformed into the very likeness of Christ. Even in the midst of our sinfulness and brokenness if we commit to studying and obeying the Word, we shall be transformed. 4. That it is not up to us alone, but we shall become like Christ more and more only with the help of the promised Holy Spirit of God. The same one who John spoke about in the first message and through whom we are promised peace. Closing thoughts. That in the final analysis The Living God whose Word is living and active, Who became flesh ( in the beginning was the word, and the word was with God, and the word was God) in and through Christ Jesus, is a Sovereign God. And rules over the affairs of men even when that Word appears dimmed by the cares, trials and troubles of this world. Those who trust in and wait upon The Lord, even and perhaps, especially in the midst, of the dark times of life, shall experience the peace that " passeth all human understanding". So the family members of those who die in road crashes, those who are going through dark moments, those who cannot understand why, can take comfort in the words of the song writer that ; God, His Son not sparing, sent Him to die for us. This is the only basis of the hope we have as people of faith. That Christ died, was raised from the dead and forever lives to pray for us and has given s the gift of the Holy Spirit that we may become transformed into His likeness day by day. And thus be able to help others come to a 'correct faith", and spread the good news, and be the manifestation of, God's mercy, faithfulness and love. That the ultimate goal of the people of faith is eternal life and not peace and happiness in and by itself on earth. And this life eternal begins with great power when we turn to The Lord Jesus Christ and place all our trust in Him. Amen.

Problems abroad and problems a yard: becoming weak and weary in Christ the only answer

I read my Bible to see what men ought to do; and read my newspapers to see what men are doing - John Newton Lord renew thy church beginning with me; Lord renew the church that the church may renew the nation(s) NEWS Yet again humanity and the cause for peace among men received another blow, when just yesterday, news broke about the mass killings in Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya. The news, even as we speak, is that Islamists, reportedly killed 68 people, and are still holding other hostage. So terror continues to raise its ugly head. In Afghanistan, in Pakistan, in India, in Syria, in Egypt. And even here in Jamaica where three persons were shot dead by gunmen yesterday and a major road was cordoned off for a few hours, as security guards and police challenged and chased gunmen who had attempted rob two women coming from the bank, of thousands of dollars. Further, a much embattled junior minister, Richard Azan, who admitted to breaching governance rules, reportedly in pursuit of providing help for his constituents, while receiving no monetary reward, finally resigned. This, after the release of a damning report by the Office of The Contractor General, a discussion on BBC about the matter, a threatened walk out by the Parliamentary Opposition and much agitation by members of he local media. A group with considerable power given their ability to influence public opinion. So in the midst of these local and international challenges the Lord God of Abraham, of Jacob, and of Isaac, issued a Word of Comfort and of Challenge. The first Word is from the well known Isaiah chapter 40. One made famous by the verse which is associated with the movie " Chariots of Fire".....They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings like eagles...". And as I was led to read and reflect the words I found so much more that I was led to share it with senior members of the local media, the parliament and leading members of civil society. Finally in this respect, one verse in particular took a hold of my soul this week.....He gives strength to the weary, and increases the power of the weak. Isaiah 40:29. NIV THE FIRST WORD - TUESDAY The mother of a member of my staff has cancer and possibly facing death in the not too distant future. Unless The Lord works a miracle! So yesterday we were talking and her mother's faith in God came up. And in particular the great joy that Isaiah 40:31 KJV has brought to her soul over the years. " Those that wait upon The Lord ..... Then last night it became for me ' a song in the night'.....a Word that The Lord places in your dreams and thoughts as you sleep - as only He can. So this morning, I opened the Bible and went to this very familiar passage and rediscovered the many aspects of, " The correct faith", that the passage reveals, and so I thought about your own lack of understanding of the faith at best, and at worse, your continued rebellion against The Truth. Remember the movie, " For a few good men", and the famous line " you can't handle the truth. Well, God's intention is that we should all know the truth, and the truth shall set us free. So consider carefully the foundation truths that Isaiah 40 offers. 1. Comfort, comfort my people, says your God. (Isaiah 40:1 NIV).....The Word of God always, always brings comfort to His people. But is a stumbling block to the disobedient. 2.A voice of one calling: “In the wilderness prepare the way for the Lord; make straight in the desert a highway for our God. Every valley shall be raised up, every mountain and hill made low; the rough ground shall become level, the rugged places a plain. And the glory of the Lord will be revealed, and all people will see it together. For the mouth of the Lord has spoken.” (Isaiah 40:1, 3-5 NIV)...it is the role of every Christian, to help others to come to a full understanding of God and His Son Christ Jesus. In the same way that John the Baptist, about whom the Word speaks, was the forerunner of the Church. 3.A voice says, “Cry out.” And I said, “What shall I cry?” “All people are like grass, and all their faithfulness is like the flowers of the field. The grass withers and the flowers fall, because the breath of the Lord blows on them. Surely the people are grass. The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God endures forever.” (Isaiah 40:1, 6-8 NIV)......I know your journalistic juices flow freely when the politics gets hot, and right now Audley and Andrew are providing that excitement, as did Peter and Portia, but remember even though we treasure and pray without ceasing for our leaders, that the people may be peacefully governed, The Truth is that only the Word of God endures forever. So it may be a good idea to pay more attention to The Truth, for your own good and for the health of a nation producing a man who rapes and stabs his own daughter. 4. See, the Sovereign Lord comes with power, and he rules with a mighty arm. See, his reward is with him, and his recompense accompanies him. He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young. (Isaiah 40:10, 11 NIV)...yet another prophetic Word about the coming of The Lamb of God ...who taketh away the sins of the world. 5. Who has measured the waters in the hollow of his hand, or with the breadth of his hand marked off the heavens? Who has held the dust of the earth in a basket, or weighed the mountains on the scales and the hills in a balance? Who can fathom the Spirit of the Lord, or instruct the Lord as his counselor? Whom did the Lord consult to enlighten him, and who taught him the right way? Who was it that taught him knowledge, or showed him the path of understanding? (Isaiah 40:12-14 NIV)...a reminder of who God is and who man is. We should all tremble and fear Him, and follow the words of the song writer and ...fear him with deepest tenderest fears, and worship him with penitential tears. So my friend let us "Be still and know..." 6. Do you not know? Have you not heard? Has it not been told you from the beginning? Have you not understood since the earth was founded? He sits enthroned above the circle of the earth, and its people are like grasshoppers. He stretches out the heavens like a canopy, and spreads them out like a tent to live in. He brings princes to naught and reduces the rulers of this world to nothing. No sooner are they planted, no sooner are they sown, no sooner do they take root in the ground, than he blows on them and they wither, and a whirlwind sweeps them away like chaff. (Isaiah 40:21-24 NIV)...another reminder of the greatness of The Holy One of Israel. And of the fact that they who strode across the land like a Colossus...Michael Manley, Forbes Burnham, Mutty Perkins and all other 'stars' will come to the same fate. No matter how great and powerful they once were, and perhaps thought they were. For the Sovereign God alone rules from above, and forever. 7. Why do you complain, Jacob? Why do you say, Israel, “My way is hidden from the Lord; my cause is disregarded by my God”? Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. (Isaiah 40:23, 27-31 NIV)....the final Word of this profound passage of Scripture is a word of comfort to those who are weak and weary of the crime and violence in our country. Weary of the immorality, and of the misplaced values....similar to those who mourn in the Beatitudes. Weary of the corruption and the fact that over the years, our economic situation has so deteriorated and thus we have been reduced to almost penury. Weary on account of our children who have been led astray by the culture of the dance hall and the cable and the lifestyle of " the rich and the famous", and of the " young and restless" with devastating effects on our people. But thank God for Jesus, those who wait upon The Lord will one day see a new Jamaica, even as we look to a new Jerusalem. And that my friend is the Gospel Truth. Join with us then before " the mighty waters rise"..Psalm 32:6. Peace LWJ The second message was sent to senior members of the church in Jamaica including my own Anglican church, and featured a word on the importance of believing God. And acting accordingly. As it is only those who believe, will be granted any power to make a difference in this very challenging world. And a most reassuring word is sent as a reminder that jests is ever praying for those who believe in Him. What a joy! THE SECOND MESSAGE - THURSDAY Lord renew thy church beginning with me; Lord renew the church that the church may renew the nation(s). It all started when I was reminded, based on the words of a song from a service in an inner city on Sunday: [Chorus: x2] I need you You need me We're all a part of God's body Stand with me Agree with me We're all a part of God's body It is his will that every need be supplied You are important to me I need you to survive [x2] [Vamp:] I pray for you You pray for me I love you I need you to survive I won't harm you With words from my mouth I love you I need you to survive[Repeat until director's signals for next part] [Sopranos:] It is his will that every need be supplied You are important to me[All:] I need you to survive .....that Jesus prays for us. A most reassuring reality with profound theological implications: Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them. (Hebrews 7:25 NIV) And then this morning: “Don’t be alarmed,” he said. “You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified. He has risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid him. But go, tell his disciples and Peter, ‘He is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told you.’ ” Trembling and bewildered, the women went out and fled from the tomb. They said nothing to anyone, because they were afraid. (Mark 16:6-8 NIV) ........... She went and told those who had been with him and who were mourning and weeping. When they heard that Jesus was alive and that she had seen him, they did not believe it. Afterward Jesus appeared in a different form to two of them while they were walking in the country. These returned and reported it to the rest; but they did not believe them either. Later Jesus appeared to the Eleven as they were eating; he rebuked them for their lack of faith and their stubborn refusal to believe those who had seen him after he had risen. He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned. And these signs will accompany those who believe: In my name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues; they will pick up snakes with their hands; and when they drink deadly poison, it will not hurt them at all; they will place their hands on sick people, and they will get well.” After the Lord Jesus had spoken to them, he was taken up into heaven and he sat at the right hand of God. Then the disciples went out and preached everywhere, and the Lord worked with them and confirmed his word by the signs that accompanied it. (Mark 16:10-20 NIV) Comment: Not much, as the Word is sufficient in itself. Except to point out, as I was reminded that, one of, if not the greatest challenges facing the church, is this matter of unbelief. A pervasive problem from the very beginning. And not just in the church but in the entire community: " O unbelieving and perverse generation", Jesus replied, before rebuking the evil spirit which had caused the young boy to convulse repeatedly, in the Luke version of the story. A story perhaps better known for the the prayer of the boy's father, " I believe, help thou my unbelief." Even now Jesus is interceding for us, His church, that we may not behave like those described in the Book of Hebrews. " See to it brothers, that none of you has a sinful and unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God". A verse that perhaps demands more attention from us, that hitherto acknowledged. As the 'turning away from the living God" has many manifestations, which may be far more nuanced, and therefore, more dangerous, and widespread than we imagine. With profound implications for how empowered segments of the church may be to fight against the many evils in our society. And indeed in our personal lives. For the last section of the Mark passage, quoted above, ...." and these signs will accompany those who believe", cannot be an insignificant matter for the church. As it speaks about the power of, and protection for, those who believe, in order that we may bring glory to God in a very, very hostile world. And the events, happening daily, if not minutely, in our once fair isle, are clear manifestations of the kind of " demon possessed valley", in which we have been called to witness. And who is up to that challenge unless we believe, "O Jesus draw thou nearer and save our souls from sin". Peace LWJ Sent from my iPad The final Word came under very dramatic circumstances. And has a history which only one person knows about, and so I am not at liberty to discuss that aspect of the Word. But suffice it to say that the same verse which took a hold of my soul all week, provided the framework for the Word. A Word which is essential for the understanding of how God works, how He suffered and died as the Son of Man, how He made Himself weak and weary, and why the Son of man finally triumphed over death and Sin. Forever! The problem is that Christ who is "the Word made flesh in the world", and who died so that we might in Him become victorious, demands, not just expects or leaves it out to us, that we too become weak and weary. So that His grace may indeed be manifestly sufficient for us. Otherwise, we may be tempted on account of our 'resources', like Obama, to believe that we are 'exceptional' and can solve every problem. It is therefore a great moment in the life of any nation, any family, any individual, when the leader truly believes that he or she just cannot manage without God. That's when our crisis, will like a fever begin to break, and healing will begin to appear. And like Holy baptism, we all come to a crisis point in life. Will we accept Christ's free gift of salvation and move on to a better life. Or shall we return to the same old life of pain and misery and temporary enjoyment of the world's best pleasures which are fast fading. THE THIRD MESSAGE - SATURDAY Over the years, I have come to appreciate that when The Lord wakes me up at 4:: am, it's for a special reason. Throughout the night, my 'song in night' has been: "He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak". Isaiah 40:29. NIV Even the question " Why" came into my dreams! And so too the answer. " So that no one may boast before The Lord ". The Gideon story came to mind. Where the Israelites were put through a process whereby a number of fighting men were removed from Gideon's troops preparing to fight the Midianites. And he was left with a very small force. So that when they would have gained the victory, no one would boast that their own strength had caused them to be victorious Further ' instruction' was that, any religion, and any philosophy that is constructed without that basic Truth, may be interesting, but has no power. That had Richard Azan been humble and repentant, he might have had a chance. But he insisted on attempting to 'justify', that which he admitted was a breach of 'the rules of engagement'. Finally, in my 'dreams', the matter of the ' humble' Portia Simpson Miller came up. Not a powerful man! They all ' went to the wall'. Not someone from the 'old school tie'! Despite their vaunted technical knowledge and well documented oratorical skills, Jamaica has become, in part, a " demon possessed valley". Both literally and metaphorically as recent events have shown. The question then, is whether or not, humility, in and by itself, is that which lies at the heart of the Isaiah prophecy? Or is there not a deeper Truth expressed by Mary, the mother of Jesus, and the author of the Magnificat, when her soul rejoiced in the Lord, that " he hath regarded the low estate of his servant.". Thus placing God, and by extension, His Son Jesus at the center of all things. I believe that this early morning message from The Lord is calling us as a people to " take sleep and mark death", for the correct reasons. As the challenge is much more profound than coping with the fact that BBC has given the nation low marks , and an " International black eye", on this matter. As, despite our chagrin, and even embarrassment, when we lift up our eyes, " our help cometh ", not from our former colonial masters, nor our new 'bosses', the IMF, nor from the workings of our own intellect, in and by itself, or themselves, although all have a role to play. But rather our help cometh from the same God who Sam Sharpe trusted. Even in death. And history has shown how important a role he, who was weak and weary, helped to shape the kind of Jamaica of which we all were once proud. And envied by Singapore!. As I write, I recall also that " the song in the night", called my attention to the fact that, this is a matter that transcends the contributions and behavior of our political leaders. As those who would trumpet loudly, that we have " become a Banana Republic", should be equally mindful; that they who provide leadership of the "Fourth Estate" , those who lead Civil Society, and even more importantly those who are called to lead " The manifestation of the Word made flesh in the world", the Church, are called to a life of " waiting upon The Lord". Who alone gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak". So all of us should be very careful to avoid the temptation of projecting self, of believing that we have all the answers, of attempting to separate what God has joined together - personal and private behavior from public utterances. Or in more theological and Biblical language, attempting to separate, the calling correctly for , and even demanding, Justice, from Righteousness. Right living before God, in public and in private. For God is not only concerned about Richard Azan in this "demon possessed valley". This combination then, of Justice and Righteousness is one of the features of the Christian Religion. And the foundation of the faith tells us that only those who are weary of this 'sinful' life, ...a life which by what we have done and left undone promotes injustice.....of this life which causes God and nation, so much 'pain"; and those who too are weak to change their lives, and unable to approach with confidence a Holy God...because of our many, many sinful thoughts and deeds.....will cry out for Jesus. " O Jesus, draw though nearer and shield my soul from Sin", as the hymn writer puts it - in and through Holy Baptism. In Him who suffered, became weak, so that we might become strong, and in Him alone, will we as individuals and as a nation be given, " strength for the weary, and power to the weak". Then and only then will this once fair isle of ours, begin the long journey back to God and to peace. In obedience LWJ

Celebrations on earth by man and his friends: Rejoicing in heaven by God and His angels

So "diplomacy on the fly", far more effectively than  a carefully negotiated settlement, has brought about, at least for the time being, a halt in the beating of drums of war by the US. This happened,  according to more than report that I read, because of an ' off the cuff response by Secretary of State John Kerry, to the question of whether or not the US would back off if Syria agreed to demolish or turn over their capacity to make chemical weapons, resulted in a Russian initiative which now has themselves and the Americans discussing how to ensure that the Syrians comply, rather than the consequences of a unilaterally taken strike by the US. And no doubt Obama is breathing a sigh of relief for the postponement of a decision which would have occasioned the breaching of an   International Law, in order to punish Syria for  violating an International code of conduct. A serious dilemma indeed! So no celebrations just yet, but the champagne is cooling.

Back home in Jamaica just over an hour ago, in an high anticipated speech, Audley Fitz-Albert Shaw announced that he will challenge the current leader, Andrew Holness, for the leadership of the Jamaica Labour Party ( now in opposition to the Portia Simpson Miller led PNP's Government. An excerpt of his speech posted on the Jamaica Observer website is as follows:

"I have heard the calls. I have listened to your appeals. I have consulted with and received the blessing and support of my family. I have prayed to God for Guidance. I have now come to the decision that I will allow my name to be entered into nomination for the post of Leader of this great 70 year -old movement, the Jamaica Labour Party that was formed by the Right Excellent Sir William Alexander Bustamante,” said Shaw.

So now the battle is well and truly joined. At the end of which, in a few short weeks, there will be one winner. One man will either retain the leadership of the second most powerful institution in Jamaica, thus triggering an all night celebration. Or another will wrest power from him, and possibly, some day, if things go his way,  finally achieve his lifelong ambition of being Prime Minister of Jamaica. Then no doubt the celebrations will continue all week.

The third issue which captured my attention this week, was the ongoing discussions about the use of a protected area for use as a major development project by a  Chinese firm. A project which would see 1.5 Billion USD being pumped into the Jamaican economy. No small matter indeed. But certainly a red flag so far to many locals, including those committed to preserving the environment, and achieving what they call ' sustainable development'. The Government will have a to  make a decision soon. What will it be? Can they satisfy both the developers, and the need to earn desperately needed foreign exchange,  and the environmentalists, at the same time?  Or will there be celebrations for one group and deep disappointment for the other.

GOD'S WORD

In the midst of these stories came a wonderful Word from the refreshing sweetness of the Gospel. That " there  will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents, than  over ninety-nine righteous persons  who do not need to repent".
A deep reflection of which triggered the following 'conversations' with a senior journalist, other senior members of the profession, Ministers of Government, and senior members of the Opposition, businessmen, members of  the intelligentsia and senior Pastors.
The first one features a command from The Lord God Almighty that the only response of those who were created from dust, and whose earthly form will go back to dust, is to fear God. And on that commands hangs all the power to avoid the use of chemical weapons, to stop all wars between....to study war no more....and to avoid the beguiling temptations of the world's best pleasures...which are at best fading, and nothing to compare with the solid joys and lasting treasures that " Zion's children know".

THE FIRST MESSAGE

'Oh dear, oh dear"!  I heard you lamenting last night after Peter Espeut et al, made the 'startling revelation', from their perspective, that the  information  being sought in TOR for the study to be carried out on  the behalf of the GOJ, by Conrad Douglas in respect of the Portland Bight protected area, was already available on various government websites. And so they wondered what's the point of paying good money for information that is freely available. The implications of which 'revelation' could,  according to what they expressed during the interview, open the door to suspicion and lead people to question the motives of the GOJ.

As I read the following passage of Scripture this morning, to which I was led as I thought and prayed about fearing God, raises the very same question. But in a different and far more profound context. Why are we lamenting the state of our nation:  why are we setting up so many commissions to study crime and violence; why are we  struggling  so much to understand why kids will not conform to school rules, and desperately trying  resurrect family life;  why are we talking so much about the need for ethics in the media, integrity in the Parliament, and ethics in various professions, and in the business class, and to  stamp out the dreaded payola in the entertainment industry; why have  we reduced ourselves to such penury that our dollar is worth less than one cent USD, and falling, when the answer to our problem can be  ' downloaded' and is freely available on so many websites, and is to be found in the most widely circulated book on all the earth. The Holy Bible in which our Creator sets out the TOR for a happy life in one of the most dramatic, and far reaching  statements of all history.

" Oh, that their hearts would be inclined to fear me and keep all my commands always, so that it may go well with them and their children forever".  Deuteronomy 5:29 NIV.

Sadly, very sadly, God's 'chosen' people opted to disobey Him, with terrible and  predictable,  consequences. In the same way, we to whom the gospel has been preached day and night, have elected to be disobedient. With terrible and entirely predictable consequences. Which is the gravamen of the message from the Word of God I was led to write to you this morning.

Hebrews 12:14-29 NIRV

"Try your best to live in peace with everyone. Try to be holy. Without holiness no one will see the Lord. Be sure that no one misses God's grace. See to it that a bitter plant doesn't grow up. If it does, it will cause trouble. And it will pollute many people. See to it that no one commits sexual sins. See to it that no one is godless like Esau. He sold the rights to what he would receive as the oldest son. He sold them for a single meal. As you know, after that he wanted to receive his father's blessing. But he was turned away. With tears he tried to get the blessing. But he couldn't get his father to change his mind. You haven't come to a mountain that can be touched. You haven't come to a mountain that is burning with fire. You haven't come to darkness, gloom and storm. You haven't come to a blast from God's trumpet. You haven't come to a voice speaking to you. When people heard that voice long ago, they begged it not to say anything more to them. What God commanded was too much for them. He said, "If even an animal touches the mountain, it must be killed with stones." (Exodus 19:12,13) The sight was terrifying. Moses said, "I am trembling with fear." (Deuteronomy 9:19) But you have come to Mount Zion. You have come to the Jerusalem in heaven. It is the city of the living God. You have come to a joyful gathering of angels. There are thousands and thousands of them. You have come to the church of God's people. God's first and only Son is over all things. God's people share in what belongs to his Son. Their names are written in heaven. You have come to God. He is the judge of all people. You have come to the spirits of godly people who have been made perfect. You have come to Jesus. He is the go-between of a new covenant. You have come to the sprinkled blood. It promises better things than the blood of Abel. Be sure that you don't say no to the One who speaks. People did not escape when they said no to the One who warned them on earth. And what if we turn away from the One who warns us from heaven? How much less will we escape! At that time his voice shook the earth. But now he has promised, "Once more I will shake the earth. I will also shake the heavens." (Haggai 2:6) The words "once more" point out that what can be shaken can be taken away. I'm talking about created things. Then what can't be shaken will remain. We are receiving a kingdom that can't be shaken. So let us be thankful. Then we can worship God in a way that pleases him. We will worship him with deep respect and wonder. Our "God is like a fire that burns everything up." (Deuteronomy 4:24)"

Finally, and it cannot be by coincidence, words from a hymn which has been reverberating in my head all week.

 " Glorious things of thee are spoken,

Zion, city of our God..........

Fading is the world's best pleasure,

all its boasted pomp and show;

solid joys and lasting treasure

none but Zion's children know.

See it at YouVersion.com:

http://bible.com/110/heb.12.14.nirv

Peace.

LWJ

The second message features a Scriptural guidebook to a deep understanding of why people do not fear God, why they are so disobedient in the face of clear instructions from The Lord , why they do not listen and ultimately why the Jews were intent on killing our Lord. Which is in a sense why the Christian church is being ignored at best in this age, and in many instances overtly or very subtly being persecuted. Things really do not change as the French well know and have expressed most forcibly in this famous  observation. Plus ca change, plus ce la meme  chose...the more things change the more they remain the same. Except, as we suggest, that one is in Christ. Then and only then all things are possible for He not only claimed to be God, but is very God from very God, begotten and not made...as the Nicene  Creed observes.

 THE SECOND MESSAGE

I was about to make some comments and then recalled what happened to Moses in the desert when God told him to strike the rock. This  Word of God is self explanatory and requires no embellishment or comment, only obedience which ought to lead to repentance.

Peace.

LWJ

John 10:23-33 NIRV

"Jesus was in the temple area walking in Solomon's Porch. The Jews gathered around him. They said, "How long will you keep us waiting? If you are the Christ, tell us plainly." Jesus answered, "I did tell you. But you do not believe. The kinds of things I do in my Father's name speak for me. But you do not believe, because you are not my sheep. "My sheep listen to my voice. I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never die. No one can steal them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than anyone. No one can steal them out of my Father's hand. I and the Father are one." Again the Jews picked up stones to kill him. But Jesus said to them, "I have shown you many miracles from the Father. Which one of these are you throwing stones at me for?" "We are not throwing stones at you for any of these," replied the Jews. "We are stoning you for saying a very evil thing. You are only a man. But you claim to be God.""

See it at YouVersion.com:

http://bible.com/110/jhn.10.23.nirv

2 Corinthians 4:4-6 NIRV

"The god of this world has blinded the minds of those who don't believe. They can't see the light of the good news of Christ's glory. He is the likeness of God. We do not preach about ourselves. We preach about Jesus Christ. We say that he is Lord. And we serve you because of him. God said, "Let light shine out of darkness." (Genesis 1:3) He made his light shine in our hearts. It shows us the light of God's glory in the face of Christ."

See it at YouVersion.com:

http://bible.com/110/2co.4.4.nirv

Ephesians 2:1-10 NIRV

"You were living in your sins and lawless ways. But in fact you were dead. You used to live as sinners when you followed the ways of this world. You served the one who rules over the spiritual forces of evil. He is the spirit who is now at work in those who don't obey God. At one time we all lived among them. We tried to satisfy what our sinful nature wanted to do. We followed its longings and thoughts. God was angry with us and everyone else because of the kind of people we were. But God loves us deeply. He is full of mercy. So he gave us new life because of what Christ has done. He gave us life even when we were dead in sin. God's grace has saved you. God raised us up with Christ. He has seated us with him in his heavenly kingdom because we belong to Christ Jesus. He has done it to show the riches of his grace for all time to come. His grace can't be compared with anything else. He has shown it by being kind to us because of what Christ Jesus has done. God's grace has saved you because of your faith in Christ. Your salvation doesn't come from anything you do. It is God's gift. It is not based on anything you have done. No one can brag about earning it. God made us. He created us to belong to Christ Jesus. Now we can do good things. Long ago God prepared them for us to do."

See it at YouVersion.com:

http://bible.com/110/eph.2.1.nirv

The third message is the climax of this week's reflections. A rejoicing in heaven. A seeking out of the lost, the disobedient, the 'sinners' of this world. This is the kind of celebration that the world cannot begin  to understand or appreciate unless we realize how much ' a wretch ' we are. And which message constitutes the final conversation, in music form and in the form of a quotation from Bonhoeffer.

THE THIRD MESSAGE

A reading of one of two repentance Psalms, 51, led to this note which is entirely in sync with yesterday's message. Both of which are from passages of Scripture appointed in my church for tomorrow's service.

" Create in me a pure heart, O God.......then I will teach transgressors your way, and sinners will turn back to you." Psalm 51 (10).  And by now you would realize that a pure heart is only possible if one is in Christ Jesus - the only, not just the ultimate, goal of a child of God.
It is therefore the duty of all Christians to seek out the unbeliever and the skeptic, and the atheist, and the rebellious, and the disobedient. Why?

Now the tax collectors and sinners were all gathering around to hear Jesus. But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law muttered, “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.” “Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Doesn’t he leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, ‘Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.’ I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent. (Luke 15:1, 2, 4-7 NIV).

I pray God that one day soon if not Today ( if you hear his voice do not harden your heart.....Hebrews 3:7-11), there will be great rejoicing in heaven because you and many others in this group, who have now seen the light, and therefore cry out as David did after committing adultery and murder most foul, " Have mercy  on me, O God......".   Much more rejoicing than for the winner of a "Cook Out". Or when when a baby father decides to marry his baby mother who has placed him on "life support" for failing to give her child support - beyond the music with DJM in case you missed it. That' a bit closer as there is indeed a turning around of one's life.....which is the essence of repentance.....metanoia.

Finally, from a personal point of view, it may be instructive to know that this is one of the Psalms I read and pray about every night before I place myself in the hands of The Lord for a peaceful sleep.

Peace.

LWJ

For a glimpse, only a glimpse, of the kind of celebration in heaven when a sinner repents. If you have not yet seen it.
http://m.youtube.com/watch?feature=related&v=MtCTkLaBc9Q

 FINAL MESSAGE

Bonhoeffer wrote, "It's much easier for me to imagine a praying murderer, a praying prostitute, than a vain person praying. Nothing is so at odds with prayer as vanity."  Do you agree with this statement? Why or why not?

Amen