Can we expect a plush ride to heaven?

Tuesday 5-10-2016  (Gaiman, Patagonian Bible Institute, Argentina) 

Scripture Reading:  2 Sam 18    Ps 56    Matt 27

S=Scripture  O=Observation  A=Application  P=Prayer  SOAP for the soul.

S.  Matt 27:43 “He trusted in God; let Him deliver Him now if He will have Him; for He said, 'I am the Son of God.'” NKJV

O. Obviously the High Priest and all the religious leaders were aware that Jesus identified Himself as the Son of God. As far as I can see, Jesus never went around announcing that He was the Son of God, yet in His teaching this truth became evident. This truth is still what Christians are being beheaded for. Muslims believe that their god, Allah, has no son. They still kill Christians for declaring that Jesus is the Son of God. In countries wherever Islam is in total control... if you believe and preach that Jesus is the Son of God you must die. For Mohammad  taught clearly to torture and kill all infidels (unbelievers) who do not believe as he believed.

A. How to grow a new religion?  Rule one: Kill all those don’t agree with you.  Or rule two: Like the Mormons, get yourself many wives and have them teach their many kids to be Mormons or Muslims. You will soon have a growing religion. Sadly neither of these are based upon the Word of God. Jesus sought out followers, those that accepted His message. His message was not forced upon anyone. He preached truth and some chose to follow Him. But Jesus did not promise to rescue us from persecution and death. In fact, He forewarned us of these things to come.  They yelled, “He trusted in God. We are killing him. If God wants him, let Him deliver him.” And the God in Whom He trusted... let Him die.

P. Lord, I am sometimes saddened when hearing the promises of preachers that declare that You will give them riches, health and happiness. You promised us troubles, divided families and persecution. If You were tortured and killed while trusting in Your Father, can we expect a plush ride to heaven? Today I am made aware again of Your great grace, love and mercy. You are truly the Son of God, yet You suffered rejection, hatred, false accusations, torture and death and did not call on Your legions of angels to rescue You. You did it for me and I should learn from You that the road ahead is not always paved and smooth. Am I ready for what lies ahead? Only You know. Amen.

Ralph

A young, brilliant police chief

(Pictures below)

Monday 5-9-2016  (Comodoro Rivadavia, Patagonia Argentina) 

Scripture Reading:  2 Sam 17    Ps 71    Matt 26

S=Scripture  O=Observation  A=Application  P=Prayer  SOAP for the soul.

S.  Ps 71:1-3 In You, O LORD, I put my trust; Let me never be put to shame. Deliver me in Your righteousness, and cause me to escape; Incline Your ear to me, and save me. Be my strong refuge, To which I may resort continually; You have given the commandment to save me, For You are my rock and my fortress. NKJV

O. David had been hunted like a deer, fleeing for his life in the bushes and caves of the desert, first by King Saul and now by his own son, Absalom. He needed a safe place. God became his hiding place, his fortress.

A. This morning I am drawn to the word “continually.” David knew that wherever he had to flee, God was there to be his rock and refuge. I have been far away from my family and my dearest ones... yet my refuge, my secret hiding place, my hidden friend, the Comforter is always there. When I am aged and gray-headed, sometimes broken and tired, I run into my fortress and hide.  For I have been given a wonderful privilege: to “declare Your strength to this generation, Your power to everyone who is to come.” Ps 71:18

 Last Saturday after driving 84 miles in traffic, at noon I ministered to children. They are the  “who is to come” group... here in Comodoro Rivadavia with Pastor Claudio Primo. 

Faces

At 3:30 PM I was invited to join with the local police in a fun time with children. Still to the young group “who is to come” in a crowded neighborhood, troubled by violence. The police chief brings his staff in full uniform to lead games with Sebastian, a professional Christian clown from Pastor Primo’s AG church.

 

So this Saturday afternoon we included Felipe telling about his Friend, Jesus!  

The young, brilliant police chief is cutting off the violence at its source by making friends with the kids. Is anybody listening in the USA?

Then that night I preached to their church youth service packed to the doors with “this generation”.

They responded to a simple message with a powerful hour of dedication, seeking God on their knees until after 11:45 PM when I shot this picture.  

Come on youth of the Church of the USA!  Join us giving it all to Jesus... or take the option and slowly die out.

P.  Lord I pray for these beautiful young men and women. May this new generation in Argentina and in the USA discover the true Source of their strength. It is not in programs, entertainment or methods. Your incredible power is hidden in Your secret place of refuge. May I run “continually” into that fortress.  And may this generation not surrender to the ways of the degenerated culture of this day. I give them to You to cuddle in Your arms, to feed and strengthen and to send back out into a filthy, sin-cursed culture. May they light up their dark world with Your living message!  For you are Christ Jesus, the Light of the world!  Amen.

Ralph

Forgiven!

Sunday 5-8-2016  (Comodoro Rivadavia, Patagonia Argentina) 

Scripture Reading:  2 Sam 15 -16    Ps 32    Matt 25

S=Scripture  O=Observation  A=Application  P=Prayer  SOAP for the soul.

S.  Ps 32:1-2 Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, Whose sin is covered.  Blessed is the man to whom the LORD does not impute iniquity, And in whose spirit there is no deceit.

Vs 5  I said, "I will confess my transgressions to the LORD," And You forgave the iniquity of my sin. NKJV

O. She was a Jewish actress.  I don’t recall her name.  She said something like, “I have no use for a God that just let’s evil sinners off the hook!” 

A.  I learned several things about her with that statement. 

·        She does not include herself among “evil sinners”.  She obviously sees herself as better than others.

·        She knows nothing about the blessing of forgiveness to both the forgiven and the forgiver.

·        She does not understand that our Wonderful Creator God and Heavenly Father did NOT just let us “evil sinners” off the hook.  His perfect justice would not allow that.  Instead He loved us undeserving rebels so much He sent His only Son, Who willingly took my lashes and carried the heavy burden of my sins to a cruel cross where He suffered my punishment.

P.  Oh Lord God, I can now sing with undeserving King David... “Happy is he whose sin has been forgiven!” It has been paid for, the sentence completely covered.  Thank You, Jesus, for not just posting bail to hold us over until judgment day.  You literally took the brunt of the whole evil thing and suffered hell in my place.  That fact makes You my Savior.  And since You identify Yourself with Your Father, I can bow and worship at Your feet today.  Amen.

Ralph

A Royal Mess

Saturday 5-7-2016  (Pico Truncado, Argentina) 

Scripture Reading:  2 Sam 13 -14    Matt 24

S=Scripture  O=Observation  A=Application  P=Prayer  SOAP for the soul.

S.  2 Sam 13:37 But Absalom fled and went to Talmai the son of Ammihud, king of Geshur. And David mourned for his son every day. So Absalom fled and went to Geshur, and was there three years. And King David longed to go to Absalom. For he had been comforted concerning Amnon, because he was dead. NKJV

O. The royal palace had become a bloody royal mess. It was the result of King David having multiple wives and concubines. His sons and daughters were many, being half-brothers or half sisters, sharing only the same father. It was a situation destined for tragedy... illicit love... jealousy... hatred... then drunken parties and now murder. We often congratulate King David for some of his attitudes, but as a father to his many sons and daughters, he failed miserably.

A. It is easy for a minister to get so busy in the Lord’s work that he fails to care properly for his family. This is even exaggerated if money is easy to come by. Children can be spoiled by getting every trinket they want... to substitute for a parent that is too busy to give his or her quality time.

P. Lord, sometimes I wish I could go back in time and be a better father to my three sons. But the past is gone. I can only pray for them and encourage them, for now they are middle aged men and making all their own decisions. Give each of them a heart anxious to hear from You.  And I ask You to speak Your love and care for them into their hearts. Melt them with Your mercy and grace just as You have done for me.  Amen.

Ralph

That's not the way I taught 'em.

Friday 5-6-2016  (Pico Truncado, Argentina) 

Scripture Reading:  2 Sam 11 - 12    Ps 51    Matt 23

S=Scripture  O=Observation  A=Application  P=Prayer  SOAP for the soul.

S.  Matt 23:1-12 Multitudes listened as Jesus took on the religious leaders.  “Your ‘reverends’ hide behind their polished pulpits and tell you where to go and what to do.  Well, go out and do it, but don’t imitate their actions. They weigh you down with their complicated religion, but wouldn’t lift a finger to help you carry it. They put on a royal religious show to impress the public. They decorate themselves with special religious collars and flowing religious robes. They sit at the head table or the head chair behind the pulpit. And they love to be recognized publically as “doctor”, “reverend”, “professor”, “father”, “apostle” or “prophet”.  Don’t you do that! Throw all your titles to the wind. Forget them. You have one Teacher, the Christ. And the highest rank among you shall be “servant of all”. Anyone among you who exalts himself will be kicked down a few notches, but the one who takes the initiative and humbles himself will find himself lifted higher by God.”  NUHV*

O. Jesus did not pull His punches. He told it like it was... and like it is today. We religious men are announced with great fan-fare. We listen to others describe how wonderful we are and rise from our soft chair and bow as people seated on hard benches applaud our smiles. 

A. I went on TV yesterday... well it was really me and Felipe... or should I say, Felipe and me.  TV can wreck a guy if you are not careful. Sometimes they take you into the powder room to “fix you”. An expert “make-up girl” whisks a light brush around your face. No stray hairs... a puff of powder to hide the shine on the forehead. I practice my smile into the mirror and “Oh! they are announcing me right now!” So I stride out into the waiting cameras looking cool with a special humble expression on my face. Oh, yes!

P.  Ok God. It’s a good thing You never watch religious TV. You might get a sick feeling in your tummy. And Your Son, Jesus might say, “Father, that is not the way I taught ‘em.” Yes, Lord, whenever I get popular, life gets dangerous for me. Help me keep that in mind... and remind me regularly that the higher I rise the lower I’ll stoop and visa versa. Your wonderful Gospel is full of surprises. I love it.  Amen.

Ralph  

*New Unauthorized Hiatt Version

And now... God’s man for this hour! (Applause)

Friday 5-6-2016  (Pico Truncado, Argentina) 

Scripture Reading:  2 Sam 11 - 12    Ps 51    Matt 23

S=Scripture  O=Observation  A=Application  P=Prayer  SOAP for the soul.

S.  Matt 23:1-12 Multitudes listened as Jesus took on the religious leaders.  “Your ‘reverends’ hide behind their polished pulpits and tell you where to go and what to do.  Well, go out and do it, but don’t imitate their actions. They weigh you down with their complicated religion, but wouldn’t lift a finger to help you carry it. They put on a royal religious show to impress the public. They decorate themselves with special religious collars and flowing religious robes. They sit at the head table or the head chair behind the pulpit. And they love to be recognized publically as “doctor”, “reverend”, “professor”, “father”, “apostle” or “prophet”.  Don’t you do that! Throw all your titles to the wind. Forget them. You have one Teacher, the Christ. And the highest rank among you shall be “servant of all”. Anyone among you who exalts himself will be kicked down a few notches, but the one who takes the initiative and humbles himself will find himself lifted higher by God.”  NUHV*

O. Jesus did not pull His punches. He told it like it was... and like it is today. We religious men are announced with great fan-fare. We listen to others describe how wonderful we are and rise from our soft chair and bow as people seated on hard benches applaud our smiles. 

A. I went on TV yesterday... well it was really me and Felipe... or should I say, Felipe and me.  TV can wreck a guy if you are not careful. Sometimes they take you into the powder room to “fix you”. An expert “make-up girl” whisks a light brush around your face. No stray hairs... a puff of powder to hide the shine on the forehead. I practice my smile into the mirror and “Oh! they are announcing me right now!” So I stride out into the waiting cameras looking cool with a special humble expression on my face. Oh, yes!

P.  Ok God. It’s a good thing You never watch religious TV. You might get a sick feeling in your tummy. And Your Son, Jesus might say, “Father, that is not the way I taught ‘em.” Yes, Lord, whenever I get popular, life gets dangerous for me. Help me keep that in mind... and remind me regularly that the higher I rise the lower I’ll stoop and visa versa. Your wonderful Gospel is full of surprises. I love it.  Amen.

Ralph  

*New Unauthorized Hiatt Version

According to your heart's desire

Wednesday 5-5-2016  (Los Antiguos, Argentina) 

Scripture Reading:  2 Sam 10    1 Chron 20    Ps 20    Matt 22

S=Scripture  O=Observation  A=Application  P=Prayer  SOAP for the soul.

S. Ps 20:4-5 May He grant you according to your heart's desire, And fulfill all your purpose. We will rejoice in your salvation, And in the name of our God we will set up our banners! May the LORD fulfill all your petitions. NKJV

O. The psalmist sings to us as he plucks the strings of his harp. His inspired song does not promise to give us every whim of our likes and dislikes, but he expresses his desire that we, who trust in Our Lord God, will receive things we never even dared to ask for... they were just secret desires hidden deep down in our heart.

A. The year was 1992. Frances and I were in the USA completing our year of itinerary mostly among our many wonderful churches in the Northern California district.  Frances’ sister, Nancy and her husband had made many trips to the islands of Hawaii. One day Frances casually mentioned to me how nice it would be if we could visit those islands, too. I agreed with her, but the possibility was out of our reach. Within only a few days I received a call from a fellow missionary, Reginald Stone. “Ralph, I had been asked to go to Hawaii to preach a series of ‘Light for the Lost’ banquets, but I am not able to go.  You and Frances have been approved to go in my place if you would like.” In jest I said, “Well, let me pray about it.” (one second pause) “I prayed!  I prayed!” We visited four islands ministering in banquets and many churches. We raise thousands of dollars for LFTL, but also reaped monthly support for our mission to Argentina.  In subsequent itineraries we were privileged to return three times to Hawaii to refresh our support and bless us with some much needed rest.  God was listening to our heart’s desires.

P.  No, Lord, I do not expect You to spoil us with every desire of our heart. But You are often so good to honor even our unspoken desires. Thank You, Lord... and keep ‘em coming as long as my desires fit into Your master plan for my life.  Or as the psalmist puts it, “And fulfill all your purpose.” Amen.

Ralph 

Rejected and Chosen!

Wednesday 5-4-2016  (Los Antiguos, Argentina) 

Scripture Reading  2 Sam 8 - 9    1 Chron 18 -19    Matt 21

S=Scripture  O=Observation  A=Application  P=Prayer  SOAP for the soul.

S. Matt 21:42-43 Jesus said to them, "Have you never read in the Scriptures: 'The stone which the builders rejected Has become the chief cornerstone. This was the LORD's doing, And it is marvelous in our eyes'?  "Therefore I say to you, the kingdom of God will be taken from you and given to a nation bearing the fruits of it.”  NKJV

O.  So often God choose those that men have rejected or despised.  The builders had rejected this “Stone” as unworthy to enter in the structure.  Look at it. It is flawed. It was been misused, marked with ugly scratches and punctures. It is tossed aside as unfit to serve in the temple structure.  But God chose that “Stone” for the cornerstone of His temple.

A.  Jesus was a rejected stone.  Who wants a cornerstone or a king with scars on His hands, His feet, His head and His side?  Who wants a king who touches unclean lepers and sits at the table with the publicans and other sinners?  Who wants a weak king who forgives his torturers and prays for them?  Who?  I do!  I want that scratched, scarred “Stone” to build my life upon.  I want that “King” Who is eternally marred with scars of love etched there... for me.

P.  Oh, my Lord and my God.  Many of us are just rejects, tossed aside by the experts.  We are not among the elite, the nobles and the wise. But You chose me anyway, weak and foolish, base and despised. I was just a zero, complexed with inferiority.* You, too, were a reject.  You were misunderstood, arrested in the dark of night, judged in a mock trial by evil men. You did not stand up for Your “rights”. Like a sheep before the shearers You were silent.  You did not answer Your accusers.  You, the Creator of us all, laid your beaten bleeding back on that post and spread out Your hands to receive the huge spikes.  They couldn’t take Your life from You, You laid it down Yourself. You did that for me and for a world of other unworthy souls.  Amen.

Ralph

* God’s choices: 1 Cor 1:26-31 For you see your calling, brethren, that not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called.  But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty; and the base things of the world and the things which are despised God has chosen, and the things which are not, to bring to nothing the things that are,  that no flesh should glory in His presence.  But of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God — and righteousness and sanctification and redemption —  that, as it is written, "He who glories, let him glory in the LORD."  

NKJV

Who am I, Oh Lord God?

Tuesday 5-3-2016  (Puerto San Julian, Argentina) 

Scripture Reading  2 Sam 7   1 Chron 17   Ps 2    Matt 20

S=Scripture  O=Observation  A=Application  P=Prayer  SOAP for the soul.

S. 2 Sam 7:18  "Who am I, O Lord GOD? And what is my house, that You have brought me this far? NKJV

O.  King David’s reign was established and God had promised him future blessing to him and his household. Nathan the prophet had relayed to him the good news.  It seemed almost too much for David.  He felt as an unworthy servant.

A.  If David was blessed of the Lord and felt undeserving, how much more I!

P.  So now I say to You, my Lord, “Who am I, Oh Lord God, that You have brought me this far?”  Here I am living incredible days of blessing, traveling throughout the whole land of Argentina… with seemingly unlimited invitations to minister in almost every city.  Here I am with every need being supplied with abundance.  Here I am being touched physically and sustained miraculously every day.  Here I am at perhaps the final chapter of my life with Your hand of protection and blessing upon me.  Every day is a miracle.  Every hour I receive the miracle of life and breath and strength.  Now I pray that I may never disappoint You, Lord.  May my life show forth Your glory!  May I never take Your glory, but rather focus the attention of all upon You.  You are all I need and more.  Amen.

Ralph

What a picture of my loving, caring, merciful God!

Monday 5-2-2016  (Rio Gallegos, Argentina) 

Scripture Reading  1 Chron What a picture of a loving, caring, merciful God! 

Monday 5-2-2016  (Rio Gallegos, Argentina) 

Scripture Reading  1 Chron 16    Ps 106    Matt 19

S=Scripture  O=Observation  A=Application  P=Prayer  SOAP for the soul.

S. Ps 106:43-45 Many times He delivered them; But they rebelled in their counsel, And were brought low for their iniquity. Nevertheless He regarded their affliction, When He heard their cry; And for their sake He remembered His covenant,

Vs 47-48 Save us, O LORD our God, And gather us from among the Gentiles,To give thanks to Your holy name, To triumph in Your praise. Blessed be the LORD God of Israel From everlasting to everlasting! And let all the people say, "Amen!" Praise the LORD!  NKJV

O. This psalm sums up a brief history of the unstable, wayward nation of Israel... as God blessed them with salvation from their enemies, drying up the Red Sea.  Yet again and again they sinned.  They rebelled against their kind and loving God... and again and again God reached out to rescue them.  

A.  Oh! What a picture of a loving, caring, merciful God!  I cannot save myself. My best deeds look like filthy rags in His sight. He reads the book of my heart. He hears the cry of my soul. He reaches out to me with mercy when I do not and cannot deserve it.  An ancient song I used to sing as a child: “I, though so unworthy, still I’m a child of His care.  For His Word teaches me that His love reaches me everywhere.” 

P.  “Everywhere” includes Rio Gallegos, here near the southern tip of the world. Let Your mercies and love flood over my soul today! I thank you for a wonderful service here last night.  I have many miles to travel tomorrow to minister in San Julian.  I pray for Your protection and care... not based on my goodness or my accomplishments, but firmly upon Your great goodness, Your mercies and Your infinite grace. You are still my Savior!  Amen.

Ralph  

Wide, Wide as the Ocean

Wide, wide as the ocean.

High as the heavens above.

Deep, deep as the deepest sea

Is my Savior’s love.

I, though so unworthy,

Still I’m a child of His care

For his Word teaches me

That His love reaches me everywhere.

I was that little child!

Sunday 5-1-2016  (Rio Gallegos, Argentina) 

Scripture Reading  1 Chron 14 - 15    Ps 132    Matt 18

S=Scripture  O=Observation  A=Application  P=Prayer  SOAP for the soul.

S. Matt 18:2-5 Then Jesus called a little child to Him, set him in the midst of them, and said, "Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore whoever humbles himself as this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Whoever receives one little child like this in My name receives Me. NKJV

O. Oh what a tender scene. Jesus calls a little child out of the crowd. Without fear the little guy comes running into Jesus’ arms. Perhaps Jesus bows down to his size and gives him a loving hug... then lifts him high in the air for all to see.  See this little guy?  He has no fear, no pride to dampen his trust, no complicated concepts taught from deep thinkers to destroy his faith. He is a child and has just been called out and hugged by the King of all kings.

A. My heart says I would like to have been that little guy... and suddenly I remember: I was that little guy. I was kneeling beside my mother at the living room couch. Suddenly I found myself running into the arms of Jesus. He took me into his loving hands. He lifted up from the filth of this world to another world. In only a few moments I was standing beside that couch singing from deep inside, “Oh, how I love Jesus!  Oh, how I love Jesus!  Oh, how I love Jesus!  Because He first loved me.” I sang it again and again all day long... and another little chorus that says, “I can, I will, I do believe.  I can, I will, I do believe.  I can, I will, I do believe that Jesus saves me now!”

P.  Lord Jesus, I was only a little child when You called me out of the crowd. I was no better than anyone else. I had no potential as far as I knew. Unlike most adults, I had nothing to lose.  You did not have to call my name twice. I was ready. I had not yet suffered the exposure of the philosophies of an unbelieving world. I wept, for I knew I was a sinner. Only You know where I might have crashed without You. You rescued me from the depths of sin.  That is where I was probably heading. You saved me from the pit. I was Yours and You were mine!  And 79 years later I am still Yours and You are still mine... forever.  Amen.  

Ralph

Rio Gallegos

This Saturday morning at 10:30 I had the joy of ministering to 20 wonderful youth of this church in Rio Gallegos.  At the close all were on their knees and tears poured down and many gave it all to Jesus... perhaps some for the first time and others... one more time.

Then at 4 PM I traveled to another area in the outskirts of this great city where I ministered to 30 children in a borrowed school. I think several of them were hearing the Good News for the first time

Later tonight at 9 PM I will minister in a new church plant.  They are making monthly payments on a $25,000 lot for their future church. I feel that they need to purchase the adjoining lot also... but at this time that is too much for them to handle.  

Gospel seeds are being planted. God loves church plants even here where the winter is cold like Alaska.

Ralph

Obviously David was “Pentecostal”.

Saturday 4-30-2016  (Rio Gallegos, Argentina) 

Scripture Reading  2 Sam 6   1 Chron 13    Ps 68    Matt 17

S=Scripture  O=Observation  A=Application  P=Prayer  SOAP for the soul.

S. 2 Sam 6:20-22 And Michal the daughter of Saul came out to meet David, and said, "How glorious was the king of Israel today, uncovering himself today in the eyes of the maids of his servants, as one of the base fellows shamelessly uncovers himself!" So David said to Michal, "It was before the LORD, who chose me instead of your father and all his house, to appoint me ruler over the people of the LORD, over Israel. Therefore I will play music before the LORD.  And I will be even more undignified than this, and will be humble in my own sight. But as for the maidservants of whom you have spoken, by them I will be held in honor." NKJV

O. David was king! But he “let down his hair” so to speak and danced before the Lord in front of everybody. David’s wife, Saul’s daughter, Michal saw him dancing like a fool before the ark and despised him in her heart. Obviously she did not lower herself to join the celebration. So with a heart filled with joy, David comes home... to a wife that insults him for being such a fool.  But David promises his queenly wife, “And I will be even more undignified than this, and will be humble in my own sight.”

A. Somewhere in the back of my mind I remember the feeling. I was rejoicing inside about something great and a friend or relative threw cold water on my rejoicing heart with some heavy insults. Fortunately, my mind erases the details of all my worse, most embarrassing   moments... only the bitter feeling faintly remains in a hidden corner of my mind.

P.  Lord, obviously David was “Pentecostal”. We “Pentecostals” just let go and worship You like little children. We don’t worry too much about what the public thinks about us. There is King David dancing and whirling like a child in front of Your Ark of the Covenant. I don’t whirl and dance any more... come to think of it, I never got into that style, but once is a while I just let go to celebrate and worship You, My Lord and My God!  Amen.

Ralph   

Ah! Nothing’s like a nice “Spiritual Shower” in the morning!

Friday 4-29-2016  (City of 28 de Noviembre, Argentina) 

Scripture Reading  2 Sam 4 – 5   Ps 139   Matt 16

S=Scripture  O=Observation  A=Application  P=Prayer  SOAP for the soul.

S. Ps 139:15-16 My frame was not hidden from You, when I was made in secret, and skillfully wrought in the lowest parts of the earth. Your eyes saw my substance, being yet unformed. And in Your book they all were written, the days fashioned for me, when as yet there were none of them.

Vs 23-24 Search me, O God, and know my heart; Try me, and know my anxieties; And see if there is any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. NKJV

O. It appears to me that David realized that his body was made of materials found in the earth below him.  It seems like he is saying, “You, Lord, saw the molecules in the earth that would eventually become my physical body. It was all written down in Your book before my body took shape in the womb of my mother.”  He closes this marvelous psalm with a plea for God to search his heart and guide him in the way leading to everlasting life.

A.  Yesterday as I was leaving Rio Gallegos a young cadet on duty at the military check point insisted on searching my car very carefully.  He went thoroughly through everything inside my car and in the trunk, demanding an explanation for each item. He was just doing his job. I must have looked like a crook to him.  God could do a better job than that young military man in less than a second. He checked out the molecules that formed my body while they were still in the earth.

P. My heart cries out with David, “Search my heart, Oh Lord.” Yes, Holy Spirit, reveal to me those dark spots that need to be cleansed. I may be blind to my own wickedness. I know that my heart, like David’s, is far from Your divine perfection.  Just as I need a daily shower, wash me, cleanse me. Strike out everything that is not pleasing to You... and fill every dark corner of my soul with the brilliant glory of Your Holy presence. Ah! Thank You! There is nothing like a nice warm spiritual shower in the morning! Amen.

Ralph

A Brokenhearted Man

Thursday 4-28-2016  (Rio Gallegos, Argentina) 

Scripture Reading  2 Sam 3    I Chron 12    Matt 15

S=Scripture  O=Observation  A=Application  P=Prayer  SOAP for the soul.

S.  2 Sam 3:13-16 But one thing I require of you: you shall not see my face unless you first bring Michal, Saul's daughter, when you come to see my face." So David sent messengers to Ishbosheth, Saul's son, saying, "Give me my wife Michal, whom I betrothed to myself for a hundred foreskins of the Philistines." And Ishbosheth sent and took her from her husband, from Paltiel the son of Laish. Then her husband went along with her to Bahurim, weeping behind her. So Abner said to him, "Go, return!" And he returned.  NKJV

O. Years earlier David had requested from Saul the hand of his daughter, Michal... and had won a great battle against the Philistines to win her.  But Saul then rose against David, chasing him into the desert for months, perhaps years. In the meantime, David’s prize, Michal, was given to a man name Paltiel and he took her as his wife.  Now Saul was dead and David had risen to power and although he already had at least 6 wives, David demanded that Saul’s son Ishbosheth bring Michal to him to add to his harem.  But her brokenhearted husband followed her a long ways, weeping... until he was forced to leave her.

A.  What a mess!  Everybody is raving about how great David is and here I am weeping, yes, weeping with this brokenhearted man, Paltiel.  David is already pampered with too many women and demands his rights to this woman who has been for years the wife of Paltiel.  Did David know he was breaking the heart of a man? We are not told, but I think he did. Without doubt Paltiel was pushed aside and nobody cared.  So why am I shedding tears for a man that is never mentioned again in history? I guess it is because I suffer from what people call “empathy”. I admit it. I cannot help myself. I weep with those that weep and rejoice with those that rejoice.  And as I read this story... I seem to become that man pushed away from the woman he loved.

P.  You know me Lord. I’m no good at reading stories of broken hearts. I suffer with those that suffer. I cannot help myself. And sometimes I see the broken hearts of those that surround me and my heart breaks for them, too.  Lord, I thank You for a wonderful wife that was always faithful and loving, even when I am sure that I did not deserve her. Now we are separated, by her crossing over to her new heavenly home. Perhaps, just maybe... maybe my tears are for myself... for I miss her today.  I know You will send Your Comforter... You have not left me alone.  Amen.

Ralph

I probably will never walk on water again.

Wednesday 4-27-2016  (El Calafate, Argentina) 

Scripture Reading  2 Sam 2    I Chron 11    Ps 142     Matt 14

S=Scripture  O=Observation  A=Application  P=Prayer  SOAP for the soul.

S.  Matt 14:25-32 Now in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went to them, walking on the sea. And when the disciples saw Him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, "It is a ghost!" And they cried out for fear. But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying,  "Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid." And Peter answered Him and said, "Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water." So He said, "Come." And when Peter had come down out of the boat, he walked on the water to go to Jesus. But when he saw that the wind was boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink he cried out, saying, "Lord, save me!"  And immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and caught him, and said to him, "O you of little faith, why did you doubt?"  And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased. NKJV

O. You have to admire Peter. There was a great storm going on and Peter steps right out of the boat expecting the water to sustain his weight. And to the surprise of the other disciples it does support him and he walks on the water toward Jesus.  Until he took his eyes off of Jesus and focused on the high waves of the storm… and began to sink.  Jesus calls him “Man of little faith”.  I would say that his faith was great!

A. I walked on water only once. Pastor Wayne Clark took me ice fishing on Lake Champlain when he was pastor in South Burlington, Vermont. He took me and others driving on the thick ice.  We each drilled a hole to fish. But suddenly a blizzard came up and I could see nothing and no one and hear nothing, but screaming wind.  I panicked.  If this thing didn’t let up I had no idea which way to walk to find Wayne.  I could walk for miles in the wrong direction.  For a moment the snow let up a little and I saw a blurred figure in about 100 feet away. I ran and found Wayne and my walk on water soon ended.  I never got hooked on ice fishing, so I may never walk on water again. 

P. Jesus, if Peter was a man of little faith, what am I?  I am nothing alongside of Peter.  I plead with You to enlarge my faith in You.  I have witnessed some of Your great miracles, but desire to have the faith to see more.  I need You to strengthen my weak faith today. You know some of the miracles I need today:  Please heal my persistent cough and strengthen my voice. You know my companion, Felipe, is struggling to sing and tell stories to the children. And please give me your guidance tomorrow regarding my need for new tires.  Amen. 

Ralph

In his name the nations will put their hope.

Monday, April 25, 2016 Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego (The southernmost city in the world)

Scripture reading:  1 Sam 30 - 31   1 Chron 10   Matt 12

S=Scripture  O=Observation  A=Application  P=Prayer  SOAP for the soul.

S.  Matt 12:18  Behold! My Servant whom I have chosen, My Beloved in whom My soul is well pleased!

Vs 20-21 A bruised reed He will not break, And smoking flax He will not quench, Till He sends forth justice to victory; And in His name Gentiles will trust." NKJV

O. Matthew is careful to use many prophecies from their only Bible, the Old Testament, showing Jesus to be the long awaited Messiah.  But there is something that many Jews had a hard time accepting. It is the final words of this portion from Isaiah... that gentiles, people of other nations, will put their trust in Him. The Jews had always felt that the Creator, Jehovah Dios was theirs alone. But God’s Son, Jesus, their Messiah will burst through frontiers of Israel. The Messiah’s Kingdom will touch every nation of the globe. In His name nations shall place their trust.

A. It is the passion that drives me and every missionary to his or her distant field of calling. At the cost of our lives we feel honored to carry the Messiah’s message of His love, His kindness and His supreme sacrifice to the ends of the earth. I write this from the southernmost city in the world, Ushuaia... truly the end of the earth, where I was privileged to preach last night. It is for this cause of expanding the borders of the Messiah’s international Kingdom I choose to sacrifice the years of my life… until in His name the nations shall put their trust.

P.  Oh Lord of all the earth, my Creator and my Redeemer… may I proclaim Your name among the nations until men and women, youth and children put their hope in You!  Amen,

Ralph

The Threshold of the Church

Tuesday, April 26, 2016 Rio Gallegos, Pcia de Santa Cruz

Scripture reading:  2 Sam 1   Ps 140   Matt 13

S=Scripture  O=Observation  A=Application  P=Prayer  SOAP for the soul.

S.  Matt 13:22 Now he who received seed among the thorns is he who hears the word, and the cares of this world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and he becomes unfruitful. But he who received seed on the good ground is he who hears the word and understands it, who indeed bears fruit and produces: some a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty. NKJV

O.  Our Master gives high priority to fruitfulness. He is saying that even those who have listened to His Word can easily allow that wonderful Word to be choked by the luring, siren call of wealth.  He says these people will be unfruitful. Jesus sees unfruitfulness as failure.  

A.  Let’s face it. Jesus is concerned about our lives bearing fruit... 100%, 60% or even 30%. He is describing many, perhaps most of us today. We hear the Word, but we also hear the deceitful call of wealth.  Our hours, our plans and our creative thinking are devoted to how we can advance financially, while little thought is given to becoming fruitful Christians in the sense that Jesus is suggesting.

P.  Without doubt, Lord Jesus, the seed of Your Word is good seed. We often receive it with great joy.  We even offer applause at the close of that great sermon.  We pat each other on the back and congratulate the preacher. Then we step across the threshold of the church out into the ‘real world’ and go to work devising a plan to get rich. Lord, help us... Help me to get my priorities in line with Yours. For You are searching my life for fruitfulness. Amen.

Ralph

God is not a tin soldier waiting for my petty commands.

Sunday, April 24, 2016 Rio Grande, Tierra del Fuego

Scripture reading:  1 Sam 28 - 29   Psalm 109   Matt 11

S=Scripture  O=Observation  A=Application  P=Prayer  SOAP for the soul.

S.  Ps 109:4 In return for my love they are my accusers, But I give myself to prayer.

Vs 8-10 Let his days be few, And let another take his office. Let his children be fatherless, And his wife a widow. Let his children continually be vagabonds, and beg.  NKJV

O.  David has been treated badly by the ones he loved.  He has not responded with actions, but with prayer. However, his prayer is filled with bitterness against his accusers.  He pours out his complaint before God.  But now he starts telling God how to handle this situation instead of leaving it to God’s own perfect discretion. 

A.  Have I ever complained to God? Absolutely. I cannot deny it. I might even be guilty of telling God how to handle the situation a few times. It’s a good thing that God does not answer all my prayers with, “Yes sir, right away!” He is not a tin soldier waiting for my petty commands. He listens to my words and knows my heart even when I am silent. But He does not submit to my feeble judgment.  He is God and I am only His creature.  He knows best and I dare not forget it.

I was sitting in a restaurant yesterday. I could hear a little child screaming at his parents demanding things he wanted. His whining was ugly and his lack of respect for his parents was obvious. I surmised that his parents had trained him to whine and scream and almost always to get what he wanted. How does one create a spoiled brat?  Give him what he is screaming for. He will shut up for a few minutes until he wants something else. Well, God does not respond well to those who scream their demands at Him.

P.  Lord, I am listening for Your instruction. Here again is King David as my mentor. He has done well to pray instead of striking back.  But You, our wonderful God, are not obligating Yourself to answer his bitter prayer. Thank you, Lord, for not answering all my foolish prayers. May I always trust Your judgment and rest upon it.  Amen.

Ralph