January 19, Thursday

Pastor Ryun Chang (AMI Teaching Pastor, Ph.D.) will present a series of blogs, dealing with various issues raised in the recent election that showed a deep divide, impacting both society at large and the church. The thoughts presented are processed through the lens of the Radical-Middle (both/and), personal narratives, and pastoral concerns. Your rational feedback is welcomed.

Disclaimer: The views expressed here do not necessarily represent the respective views of AMI pastors.

DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT FOR TODAY

To Register or Not Register Muslims

Esther 3:8-11 (NIV)

Haman said to King Ahasuerus, “There is a certain people scattered and dispersed among the peoples in all the provinces of your kingdom; their laws are different from those of all other people and they do not observe the king’s laws, so it is not in the king’s interest to let them remain. 9 If it is pleasing to the king, let it be decreed that they be destroyed, and I will pay ten thousand talents of silver into the hands of those who carry on the king’s business, to put into the king’s treasuries.” 10 Then the king took his signet ring from his hand and gave it to Haman, the son of Hammedatha the Agagite, the enemy of the Jews. 11 The king said to Haman, “The silver is yours, and the people also, to do with them as you please.”

On the heels of a deadly mass shooting in Southern California by a radicalized Muslim couple in December 2015, the then candidate Donald Trump called for “a total and complete shutdown of Muslims entering the United States, until country’s representatives can figure out what is going on.” But what really concerned the Muslims living in the U.S. was Trump’s suggestion to create a database of them, so as to better track suspicious Muslims and detain the radicalized ones before they strike. Now, most of us would agree that the threat of violence by radicalized Muslims in America, regardless of their number, is real—unless one is an ideologue who even refuses to use the term “Radical Islam.” The question is, then, whether restraining Muslim immigration and keeping a registry of Muslims in the states is a useful and just measure.

While there isn’t any comparable situation in the Scriptures, the above passage can shed some light on the matter. Haman, a highly-ranked official in Persian Empire, who belonged to the Amalekites (1 Sam. 15:1-9), an archenemy of Israel (Deut. 25:17-9), plotted to single out the Jews and then exterminate them. While no sane person would dare to equate this situation with ours, one similarity needs to be noted: singling out one group from the larger society because of one’s ethnicity or religion. Historically, that sort of distinction—such as Hitler singling out the Jews in Germany and Franklin Roosevelt singling out the Japanese in America—has not ended well.

At the same time, since American citizens have consented to relinquishing some of their freedom and submitting to the governing authority in exchange for protection, they are within their rights to expect the government to stop playing with words and do something substantial to reduce the possibility of terror. So what does that mean? First, the citizens have the right to expect the government to improve the vetting process to keep the radicalized Muslims from entering the American soil, but without restraining Muslim immigration itself. Any extra measures taken to ensure this outcome may slow down the immigration process in general, but that is par for the course. Second, while preventing every act of terrorism by radicalized Muslims is an impossible task, perhaps, what travelers are told to do in airports can be extended to the society at large: “If you see something, say something.” Perhaps a hotline can be established to make it easier to report those who make terroristic threats in the name of Allah, after which, the allegations can be vigorously and fairly pursued by the respective agencies.

Meanwhile, we pray for a safer America for all law-abiding citizens—which certainly include Muslims (except for a few radicalized ones) whom God of the Bible cares for (Acts 14:17) and loves (Jn. 3:16).

Prayer: Father, we pray for a safer America where people of all races, ethnicities and religions can live peacefully. While we lift up those of the Islamic faith in America so that none of them would attacked or insulted by misguided individuals, we pray against the Radicalized Islam and its acts of terrorism. Amen.

Bible Reading for Today: 2 Kings 18

LUNCH BREAK STUDY

Read Romans 12:16-8: Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. 17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. 18 If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.

Questions to Consider

Which part of this passage is more relevant to embodying the kind of commitment that the Christians must have in order to love those of other faiths?
What attitude or perspective is needed for non-Muslim Americans in order to live at peace with the Muslims in America?
What attitude or measure is needed for Muslims in America in order to live at peace with those who are not Muslims in America?

Notes

I think “live in harmony with one another” and “as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone” are more relevant to embodying the kind of commitment that we need in order to love those of other faith.
One necessary attitude/perspective is to see that the predominant majority of Muslims in America are peaceful and decent people, who care about the welfare of the American society.
One necessary attitude/measure is to condemn, unequivocally and swiftly, any acts of terrorism committed by Radicalized Muslims, whether home or abroad.

EVENING REFLECTION

Looking back to your day, did you see or talk to a person of Islamic faith at school or office? Offer an earnest prayer on his or her behalf—pray for that person so he/she would experience the fullest measure of God’s common grace. Pray that that person would one day realize that Jesus is not just a prophet but the Son of God.

John 20:31: These are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.

January 18, Wednesday

Disclaimer: The views expressed here do not necessarily represent the respective views of AMI pastors.

DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT FOR TODAY

What a Muslim told me about those who kill in Allah’s Name

John 8:3-5 (NIV)

The teachers of the law and the Pharisees brought in a woman caught in adultery. They made her stand before the group 4 and said to Jesus, “Teacher, this woman was caught in the act of adultery. 5 In the Law Moses commanded us to stone such women. Now what do you say?”

A Turkish man sitting next to me in our flight from Istanbul to Antalya in 2015 bore a striking resemblance to Manu Ginobili, an Argentinian basketball player from San Antonio Spurs. When I commented to him of this, he (who spoke some English) became quite pleased after seeing that Ginobili wasn’t bad looking. This then led to a pleasant conversation about religion, including acts of terrorism committed by those who do so in the name of Allah. In one poignant moment, the man said, “Had I seen these terrorists first, I wouldn’t be a Muslim, but I read the Koran first.” I took that to mean, first, the Koran doesn’t advocate violence; and second, the terroristic Muslims do not accurately represent the sacred book.

Is that correct? Not according to Paul Johnson, an English historian trained at Oxford, who argues that Islam is inherently a violent and intolerant religion. But Fareed Zakaria, a secular Muslim who once taught at Harvard, isn’t so sure, saying, “Nothing will be solved by quoting the Koran. You can find in it condemnations of war and incitements to struggle, beautiful expressions of tolerance and stern strictures against unbelievers.” What Zakaria fails to note, however, is that “there are very few verses of tolerance and peace to balance out . . . at least 109 verses . . . that call for nonbelievers to be fought and subdued until they either accept humiliation, convert to Islam, or are killed.”[1]

For instance, Koran 2:191-193 states, “And kill them wherever you find them. . . Al-Fitnah (disbelief or unrest) is worse than killing . . . but if they desist, then lo! Allah is forgiving and merciful. And fight them until there is no more Fitnah (disbelief and worshipping of others along with Allah) and worship is for Allah alone. . ..” To be fair, the Old Testament has similar verses as well. For instance, 2 Chronicle 15:13 records what King Asa did to unbelievers: “All who would not seek the Lord, the God of Israel, were to be put to death, whether small or great, man or woman.”

But one substantial difference between the Bible and Koran is this: Whereas most of the laws taught in the Old Testament have been superseded by the New Testament, the Koran does not have its version of the New Testament. Thus, whereas true Christians, taking their cues from Jesus who refused to stone a woman caught in adultery, wouldn’t physically harm unbelievers, the Muslims don’t have comparable verses in the Koran. Of course, most Muslims are not given to violence, but those who are can easily find its justification in the Koran—and that is how Islam, in the hands of a few, may become radicalized and terroristic.

Please don’t accuse me of Islamophobia. The Ginobili look-alike Muslim certainly didn’t think so: He was so enamored with our conversation that he was willing to drive me to my hotel—despite being told, “You say Jesus is a prophet, but the Bible says He is the Son of God.”

Prayer: Lord, help me to love the Muslims and to learn what they believe in so that I could engage in cogent discussions about faith. Please open my eyes so that my beliefs are influenced by Scripture, Your eternal word—rather than the soundbites from the media. Amen.

[1] Cited from http://www.thereligionofpeace.com/pages/quran/violence.aspx

Bible Reading for Today: 2 Kings 18

LUNCH BREAK STUDY

Read Colossian 4:5-6: Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. 6 Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.

1 Peter 3:15: But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, . . .

Questions to Consider

Who are the “outsiders” in the Colossian passage, and “everyone” in the 1 Peter passage?
What kind of “opportunity” is the Colossian passage referring to? Making money?
What does it mean that we know “how to answer everyone”? How are you doing on that?

Notes

“Outsiders” or “everyone” refers to anyone who does not believe that Jesus is the Christ, who came to save the sinners.
The opportunity here means open occasions to share a prepared answer to those who ask us about our faith—in a non-abrasive manner (conversion full of grace with gentleness and respect).
It means that, having anticipated possible questions raised by skeptics or people other religions, we spend time preparing adequate answers to respond to them.

EVENING REFLECTION

As you look back to today, was there at least one opportunity to answer a question raised by someone at school or office? If so, were you able to answer it? Let’s take our faith seriously by adequately preparing ourselves to engage in stimulating and cogent discussions so that we can defend our faith—which has been under assault from all sides. Pray for a passion to defend God’s truth and check out books like On Guard by William Lane Craig.

January 17, Tuesday

Disclaimer: The views expressed here do not necessarily represent the respective views of AMI pastors.

DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT FOR TODAY

How to Help an Immigrant or Any Kid to Succeed

2 Tim. 3:6, 10-11 (ESV)

Now we command you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you keep away from any brother who is walking in idleness and not in accord with the tradition that you received from us. . .. 10 For even when we were with you, we would give you this command: If anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat. 11 For we hear that some among you walk in idleness, not busy at work, but busybodies. 12 Now such persons we command and encourage in the Lord Jesus Christ to do their work quietly and to earn their own living. 13 As for you, brothers, do not grow weary in doing good.

Soon after immigrating to the States, I began attending a middle school without understanding hardly any English. But I felt that I could handle math and geography, since it didn’t involve much English. Ironically, my intent to take tests put the teacher in an awkward position, since he had been excusing another immigrant boy from taking them but would give him a “B” anyway. Since I chose to take tests, the teacher could no longer excuse the other boy—who now had to work.

Later, one thrilling moment in high school occurred when my 10^th grade English teacher told me to move to the right-side of the class, where those who passed a test on grammar had gathered to study on their own, while the teacher reviewed the test for those who failed—including some who mocked my English. Having taken an ESL class in the 9^th grade, in which the teacher expected the students to know basic grammar, that test wasn’t as hard; in fact, I felt ESL was more difficult than the 9^th grade English class.

In guiding a youth, whether immigrant or not, it is important to lead them with a reasonable expectation and constant encouragement to work hard. But when the bar is set too low by those who think that they are being understanding (like the middle school teacher) and lack of effort is met with indifference—or worse, a reward—that’s a recipe for going through life with untapped potential.

In Thessalonica, the apostle Paul faced an unusual situation: some believers quit working, believing that “the day of the Lord has already come” (2 Thess. 2:2); instead, they lived off on other people’s generosity. Apparently, the Thessalonian leadership tolerated them—meaning, they lowered the bar of what is an acceptable Christian living by putting up with their laziness. Mincing no words, Paul declared, “Brothers, keep away from every brother who is idle. . . If a man will not work, he shall not eat. . . Never tire of doing what is right” (2 Thess. 3:6, 10, 13).

What happened in my middle school class isn’t all that different from what can happen in the church: Having lowered the standard for what constitutes faithfulness and commitment to the Lord, many Christians get a passing grade for doing hardly anything. May someone in your church humbly and silently show what “never tire of doing what is right” really looks like; may your pastor demand that you know well the basics of the Christian faith, so that your potential for Christ is fully tapped for God’s glory.

Prayer: I thank You Lord for all those in my past who have pushed me to tap fully into the potential You gave me. I thank You for all the spiritual leaders who set the bar high and demanded that I work hard for God’s glory. Mostly, I thank You for Your grace, without which I’m either given to pride or misery. Amen.

Bible Reading for Today: 2 Kings 18

LUNCH BREAK STUDY

Read 1 Cor. 9:24-7 (NIV): Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win. 25 Everyone who competes in the games exercises self-control in all things. They then do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. 26 Therefore I run in such a way, as not without aim; I box in such a way, as not beating the air; 27 but I discipline my body and make it my slave, so that, after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified.

2 Tim. 2:6-7 (NIV): The hard-working farmer ought to be the first to receive his share of the crops. 7 Consider what I say, for the Lord will give you understanding in everything.

Questions to Consider

This morning we talked about setting the bar reasonably high, and then to be sufficiently motivated to work hard. Apply that to spirituality: what motivated the apostle Paul to set the bar high for him?
Like what Paul says in 2 Timothy 2:7, consider what is said in 2 Timothy 2:6—what understanding has the Lord given you through it?
If you were the spiritual coach of your own life, what kind of coach would you be (lenient or tough)? What would you tell yourself about your current spiritual condition? Is your bar set low or high? Are you working hard or just coasting?

Notes

If we are being honest here, Paul, at least in this passage, expresses his fear of becoming hypocritical—that is, living contrary to what he tells others to live. He set the bar high, meaning to lead a highly disciplined life to ensure that he receives an imperishable crown from God.
Work hard, so you will be the first to receive your share of the crops (Prov. 14:23b: “All hard work brings a profit”); conversely, the expectation of receiving your share of the crop should motivate you to work hard.
Personal response.

EVENING REFLECTION

As a missionary in Mexico, whenever a pastor would invite me to preach at his church but would give me a passage to preach on, I wasn’t exactly a happy camper, since I couldn’t use any of my sermons previously prepared. So, I had to work to prepare a new message—which was always good for me.

Have you ever faced a similar situation? Enjoy the moments in your life when you still have opportunities to work hard for something. Go all in, but make sure to take God with you—meaning, don’t decrease your time with God. Using your time praying diligently, though you might have less time to work can actually increase your productivity—try it. How about starting right now?

January 16, Monday

Disclaimer: The views expressed here do not necessarily represent the respective views of AMI pastors.

DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT FOR TODAY

Neither Secularized nor Sanitized but the Real MLK

Exodus 5:1 (NIV)

Afterward Moses and Aaron went to Pharaoh and said, “This is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: ‘Let my people go, so that they may hold a festival to me in the wilderness.’”

Though secularism removes any hint of God from the public square, that’s difficult to do on a day when the work of the Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr. (MLK) is fondly remembered. Apparently, that’s not the case for the hardcore secularists who, according to Stephen Carter, professor of law at Yale, treat MLK’S religious calling “as a relatively unimportant aspect of his career, if indeed, it is mentioned at all.” Consider what Christopher Hitchens, author of God is not Great: How Religion Poisons Everything, says: “In no real as opposed to nominal sense, then, was [MLK] a Christian.” How so? Hitchens, who categorically classifies the Bible as a book spewing of violence, reasons that King couldn’t be a Christian since he wasn’t given to violence. Sam Harris, another famed atheist, writes, “We simply do not need religious ideas to motivate us to live ethical lives.” Whereas I refuse to dignify Hitchen’s illogic with a response, Harris’ view, in contrast, has its merits (see below)—but not in the case of MLK.

Indisputably, King, a man of extraordinary faith and courage, attained his vision from God: “Free at last, free at last; thank God Almighty, we are free at last.” In “God Is Marching On” speech in Montgomery, Alabama, he quoted Micah 6:8, “Act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God,” to describe the kind of people whom the voters should elect to represent them—so much for the intellectual honesty of secularists.

On the other hand, there are those who, while stressing the heroics of MLK, sanitize his life to such a degree that it borders on the cult of personality. It’s now a matter of public record that he wasn’t always faithful to his wife, and Boston University had considered (Time, Nov. 1990), but ultimately decided not to revoke King’s doctorate degree, despite finding that parts of his dissertation were plagiarized. Nevertheless, I agree with Time article’s conclusion: “Even though the revelation may tarnish King’s reputation, they hardly diminish his courageous and inspirational accomplishments in helping to achieve racial justice for millions of black American.” Anyone who has seen an old footage showing MLK and his fellow marchers never wavering from their just cause, even when batons and fire hoses were used to halt them, would agree. Don’t be, then, too surprised at God using MLK in spite of him, not necessarily because of him; look no further than King David, erstwhile adulterer and murderer, for proof. Subsequently, God receives all the glory, and thus, we are inspired to place our faith on Him, not on men.

Of course, we are far from being “a nation where [we] will not be judged by the color of [our] skin but by the context of [our] character.” In fact, the situation in America has gotten more complicated as class now affects individual’s future prospect, argued Harvard sociologist William J. Wilson, as much as race. That is, the middleclass folks (whether black, white or yellow) judge those who aren’t included in their class more by where they live, what they do, and the level of their education than simply the color of one’s skin. Either way, both racism and classism originate from the same source: a proud heart.

So, on this day, as we observe the birthday of the Reverend Martin Luther King Jr., an imperfect servant of God whose courageous vision carved out a path toward freedom for the oppressed (whether racial or class), let us “not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited” (Rom. 12: 16).

Prayer: Father, You created all ethnic (ethnos) groups and the people therein, and we have all fallen short of Your glory. It was for us that You sent your Son to do what no human government can do: forgiving our sins and making us righteous in Christ. May You use my life and church to heal the nations (ethnos). Amen.

Bible Reading for Today: 2 Kings 17

LUNCH BREAK STUDY

Read John 8:32-6: “Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” 33 [The Jews] answered him, “We are Abraham’s descendants and have never been slaves of anyone. How can you say that we shall be set free?” 34 Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, everyone who sins is a slave to sin. 35 Now a slave has no permanent place in the family, but a son belongs to it forever. 36 So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.”

Romans 2:14-5: (Indeed, when Gentiles, who do not have the law, do by nature things required by the law, they are a law for themselves, even though they do not have the law. 15 They show that the requirements of the law are written on their hearts, their consciences also bearing witness, and their thoughts sometimes accusing them and at other times even defending them.)

Question to Consider

Martin Luther King was inspired by Moses, who boldly demanded freedom from Pharaoh (“Set my people free”). What kind of freedom was this?
While the freedom that Moses sought was important and certainly was part of God’s will, Jesus expanded that freedom during his ministry to another—a greater freedom. What was Christ offering?
The atheist Sam Harris says that “we simply do not need religious ideas to motivate us to live ethical lives.” Does Romans 2:14-5 lend support to his view?

Notes

The freedom that Moses sought after was political and social freedom.
The freedom that Christ offered then, and continue to offer today, is spiritual freedom; that is, being liberated from Satan’s rule, thanks to Christ who destroyed “the devil’s work” (1 Jn. 3:8; Heb. 2:14-15)
God’s law written on human hearts is universal, meaning it is applicable to atheists as well as to Buddhists. While the conscience may not work very well, due to man’s sinful nature and unhealthy environment, God, nevertheless, places it there so that “you, . . . though evil, know how to give good gifts to your children” (Mt. 7:11). It is not for salvation but to maintain some semblance of social order and security for the wellbeing of all.

EVENING REFLECTION

Let’s spend this moment praying for a true racial reconciliation to occur in America. Pray for a revival to break out among the men in blue across the nation. Pray for the leaders of African-American community, that they may seek God’s wisdom and heart even as they cry out for justice and fairness.

January 15, Sunday

mei lan

Mei Lan Thallman is originally from Taiwan and a graduate of Asbury College and Asbury Theological Seminary (M.A.) in Kentucky. She is the wife of Pastor Kirt, who serves at Grace Covenant Church (Philadelphia). They have two children, Nate (14) and Naomi (12).

Pastor Ryun’s series returns on Monday.

Devotional Thoughts for Today

Be Bold for Christ

Acts 6:8-15; 7:54-60

Now Stephen, a man full of God’s grace and power, performed great wonders and signs among the people. 9 Opposition arose, however, from members of the Synagogue of the Freedmen (as it was called)—Jews of Cyrene and Alexandria as well as the provinces of Cilicia and Asia—who began to argue with Stephen. 10 But they could not stand up against the wisdom the Spirit gave him as he spoke.11 Then they secretly persuaded some men to say, “We have heard Stephen speak blasphemous words against Moses and against God.”12 So they stirred up the people and the elders and the teachers of the law. They seized Stephen and brought him before the Sanhedrin. 13 They produced false witnesses, who testified, “This fellow never stops speaking against this holy place and against the law. 14 For we have heard him say that this Jesus of Nazareth will destroy this place and change the customs Moses handed down to us.”15 All who were sitting in the Sanhedrin looked intently at Stephen, and they saw that his face was like the face of an angel.

We saw yesterday how the early church grew rapidly, but so did the challenges, obstacles, and oppositions from both inside and out. From within, the church struggled with disunity due to conflicts and complains about unequal food distribution among the widows. God’s solution was to appoint Spirit filled leaders to meet practical needs while modeling and teaching godly principles and attitudes. In instructing the young flock to follow Christ, their objective was looking not only to their own interests, but also to the welfare of others in the church.

Today’s texts offer us a few snap shots of how the same Holy Spirit strengthened Stephen while facing fierce opposition from outside the church. Perhaps what was an amicable conversation about faith quickly turned into a heated debate. Then, those opposing Stephen quickly unleashed vendetta against him, trying to prove him wrong at any cost, but Stephen did not flinch from his conviction even as escalating condemnation and accusation led to his stoning. Subsequently, Stephen, facing the opposition in the fullness of the Holy Spirt, grace and power (Acts 6:15; 7:1-60), became the first martyr of NT era.

In our postmodern age of relativism and political correctness, we, as followers of Christ Jesus, must prepare and brace ourselves for increasing opposition and persecution against our core belief and conviction; the obedience to the gospel in all areas of our lives must be sustained. As we have just started the New Year to follow and serve Jesus wholeheartedly, we must seek and rely on God’s supernatural anointing and empowerment to deal with hostility against our faith in His love and grace.

May we be reminded that apart from Him we can do nothing; but with Him we can do all things through His love, grace and strength. May we aspire to embody the humble heart of Stephen to serve and love the family of Christ, addressing their needs, both visible and unspoken, as unto the Lord. May we have the courage to speak up for Jesus and defend our faith even at the risk of being ridiculed and rejected by those who hold Christianity in contempt. May we extend God’s unconditional love and forgiveness to those who are hostile toward us like Stephen did (Acts7:60).

Prayer: Dear Lord Jesus, as we ponder on the outcome of Stephen’s life, there is no logical reason other than he was a man completely captured by the fullness of Christ. He was so filled with You that there was nothing he wasn’t willing to do, from serving tables to defend the gospel to dying for His beloved Jesus; he lived his life with such reckless devotion, grace and humility. May You captivate our generation and fill us as You did for Stephen, so that we may truly make an impact in this world for your glory. In your matchless name, Amen.

Bible Reading for Today: 2 Kings 16

January 14, Saturday

mei lan

Pastor Ryun’s series returns on Monday.

Devotional Thoughts for Today

An Antidote for “Me” Leadership

Acts 6:1-8

In those days when the number of disciples was increasing, the Hellenistic Jews among them complained against the Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. 2 So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, “It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables. 3 Brothers and sisters, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them 4 and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word.”5 This proposal pleased the whole group. They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit; also Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas from Antioch, a convert to Judaism. 6 They presented these men to the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them.7 So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith. 8 Now Stephen, a man full of God’s grace and power, performed great wonders and signs among the people.

“What’s for dinner?” is one of the most repeated questions I hear from my kids. Their just-eat-it response to my answer can either place a smile on my face—or drop an atomic bomb in my spirit. After all the effort I put into making a meal, the last thing I want to hear is “Are you making that again?” or “I don’t like that.” So, at the dinner table, I often need to rely on the power of the Holy Spirit to help me to maintain a loving attitude and to zip my mouth from unleashing well-deserved rebuke to my unappreciative, complaining, and expert food critiquing family. Ironically, this situation helps me to understand why the Holy Spirit impressed Luke to emphasize the leadership qualifications to care for the practical needs of a growing church family.

Upon examining Acts 6, a few important spiritual principles stand out. First, there is no distinction in God’s eyes: one ministry is not more important than the other; both spiritual and practical needs of the church family are equally important. Second, God’s criteria for leadership qualities to meet both needs are also the same. It’s very fascinating how the text repeatedly emphasizes the importance of choosing leaders who are known to be “full of the Spirit, wisdom, God’s grace and God’s power” (v.3, 5, 8).

The early church is experiencing growth explosion and increasing responsibilities to care for the diversifying needs of the congregation. The twelve apostles recognized the need to expand their leadership team in order to adequately shepherd the young and fast growing flock. Seven men were appointed with the primary responsibility to wait on tables. The Greek word for “wait on” is the verb from which the noun “deacon” comes from.

Acts 6 used to puzzle me, because I felt like these seven men were overqualified to wait on tables. Anybody can wait on tables. When we are known to be full of the Spirit, wisdom, and God’s grace and power, we often think that we are suitable for more important tasks—like teacher, elder, worship leader, small group leader, etc. But having received from the Lord this awesome privilege of serving Him for past 20+ years, I understand that who we are is much more important than what we do. God always looks for leaders who lead out of who they are and not just what they do (title or position). I praise God for placing the priority on the quality of our heart and character over our natural ability and talents. I’m glad that none of the seven responded that they were too spiritual, too qualified, and too good to wait on tables; instead, they accepted the call with humility, availability, and deep gratitude for what Jesus had done for them.

Prayer: Lord, as we begin 2017 it is our heart’s cry to become men and women who are characterized to be “full of Holy Spirit, godly wisdom, God’s grace and power.” As we face the challenges of our time, we can all agree this world is in desperate need for more leaders with the spirit of Stephen in our homes, churches, schools, work places, country and world. The Holy Spirit who lived in and through Stephen is the same Person who indwells with all believers of Jesus Christ. Lord, empower us to take a bold and firm stand in our generation and to be a faithful steward of the influences you have entrusted to us. In Christ Jesus’ overcoming name. Amen.

January 13, Friday

Disclaimer: The views expressed here do not necessarily represent the respective views of AMI pastors.

DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT FOR TODAY

“Is It Okay to Say, ‘Speak English, You are in America’?”

Daniel 1:3-4

Then the king ordered Ashpenaz, chief of his court officials, to bring into the king’s service some of the Israelites from the royal family and the nobility— 4 young men without any physical defect, handsome, showing aptitude for every kind of learning, well informed, quick to understand, and qualified to serve in the king’s palace. He was to teach them the language and literature of the Babylonians.

13a Just before last Christmas, an elderly woman’s caustic rant directed at two Hispanic shoppers in Louisville went viral. She said many hurtful things such as “Go back to wherever the _____ you come from” and also “Speak English . . . you are in America.”

While attending many worship services in Mexico where I lived for a decade, I noticed that whenever visitors from America tried to introduce themselves in broken Spanish, most congregants appreciated it even if it was incomprehensible. Such a gracious response, however, wasn’t extended to those Americans who were longtime residents of Mexico and continued to speak poor Spanish.

Among several reasons why a foreigner choosing to live in a new country should learn its language is being respectful toward the host nation and its people. Just as important a reason is that the ability to speak the language of the land opens the door for wider job and educational opportunities. From a socioeconomic standpoint, the fact that the prophet Daniel, taken to Babylon as a teenager, learned to speak and write in Aramaic (well enough to pen portions of his book in it) was one key factor that led to his high employment in the king’s palace.

13b Respectfully and lovingly encouraging immigrants, particularly the youth, to learn English is not racist; it’s a matter of showing respect for the host nation and doing what is good for their future wellbeing. I came to the United States when I was 14 (1974) without speaking English; my SAT verbal score was 480. Yes, mastering the English language was a struggle (still is), but in time, I attained enough proficiency to publish numerous articles in English, and I recently contributed a chapter to a textbook on mission published in England (2015). I went to Mexico to serve as a missionary when I was 40 without the ability to speak any Spanish (2000). After taking one year to learn it, I went to the field mostly to teach and develop theological courses (books) in Spanish, one of which was published in Mexico (2005), which is still being used as a textbook.

Even more significantly, learning a new language can be a spiritual experience because, in my case as an older person, I had to absolutely rely on God to learn Spanish. And the faithful God gave me the wisdom and motivation to master Spanish in answer to my daily prayers. Now, I can preach about the greatness of our God in a language spoken by over 500 million people—“Gloria a Dios!”

So, to my immigrant “compañeros,” I say without a hint of racism: “Work hard to learn English”; trust God in whom “I can do all this through Him who gives me strength” (Phil. 4:13).

Prayer: Father, please help me to have a sympathetic heart toward those young people who still have a difficult time speaking and writing in English. Help me to get involved with perhaps some outreach efforts such as local schools or afterschool programs so that I can tangibly express my faith in Christ through my community involvement. Amen.

Bible Reading for Today: 2 Kings 13

LUNCH BREAK STUDY

Read John 1:1, 14, 18 (ESV): In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. . .. 14 And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. . .. 18 No one has ever seen God; the only God, who is at the Father’s side, he has made him known.

Luke 2:52 (ESV): And Jesus increased in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and man.

Questions to Consider

Describe what had to transpire for God to make Himself known to us.
Who came to where first, and once there, what did this individual have to learn?
We began this day talking about learning the language of the host nation. In what sense did God show His great love and “respect” for His fallen creatures?

Notes

God, who is infinite and transcendent and thus beyond the reach of humans, made Himself known to them through the Son, His “exact representation” (Heb. 1:3) who became flesh and dwelt among men so that they could know God through the incarnate Son.
Jesus came to earth first in a human form and learned, including several languages (e.g., Aramaic, Greek, etc.), wisdom, obedience (Heb. 5:8), etc.
God, knowing that fallen men cannot reach Him on their own, allowed His own Son to become one of them but without sin, beginning the process as a helpless baby so that the Son can bring us back to God and also become the source of comfort for us (Heb. 4:15) while we still journey on earth.

EVENING REFLECTION

In what language did you communicate today at home, school, or the office? No, I’m not talking about English but the language of God. 2 Corinthians 5:20 tells us that “we are God’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us.” Most ambassadors speak at least two languages: the language of the sending country and the host country. So, how good is your grasp of the “language of God,” that is, God’s word? How good is your grasp of the “language of man”, especially when they speak of their despair, hopelessness, and even deceptive concepts? Why not make this year a time of really learning God’s language: reading and studying the Bible seriously. And when you spend time with others, especially unbelievers, learn and prepare yourself to really understand what they’re trying to say about their life. Then, pray for them and speak to them the language of God. Pray for that right now.

January 12, Thursday

Disclaimer: The views expressed here do not necessarily represent the respective views of AMI pastors.

DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT FOR TODAY

A Pastor’s Story of Redemption from Mexico to America

Hebrews 11:34 (NIV): . . . whose weakness was turned to strength; and who became powerful in battle and routed foreign armies.

Psalms 126:4-5 (ESV): Restore our fortunes, O Lord, like streams in the Negeb! 5 Those who sow in tears shall reap with shouts of joy!

It wasn’t long after I began to attend a church in Juarez, Mexico in 2000, (while attending a language school) did I realize how uninformed I was of what God was doing among the Mexican churches—they were sending out missionaries. While the number of Mexican missionaries continues to grow, 75 percent go to just two countries: Spain and USA (David Markham). Going to Spain is certainly understandable, since evangelicals make up only 1 percent of the population—but to America?

According to a 2013 Times cover story (“Evangélicos”), “Latinos are pouring into Protestant churches across the U.S.”, and that a shortage of trained pastors to lead what are mostly Charismatic congregations continues to be an issue. So it makes sense that pastors trained in Mexico are going to the States as missionaries. Among the many pastors whom I was privileged to train, five of them currently pastor a Hispanic congregation in cities like Dallas, Nashville, and Porterville. Meet one of them, Pastor Jonathan, who pastors a congregation in New Mexico.

When Jonathan, a German-descent Mexican in his late 20s, came to my class in 2004, he was a youth pastor at a nearby Assembly of God congregation—and he was eager to learn. In his teens, he ran away from an abusive father, who forced him to sell things on the street, to live with a relative; there, he worked to support himself and finish high school. And it was during this time of “weakness” that he came to know the Lord; God’s call to ministry came a little later.

After studying diligently with me for three years, he had progressed enough so that his superior allowed him to train other pastors with my courses. Jonathan was happy for the opportunity but also nervous, since his students were older and more experienced pastors. Working hard and praying even harder to prepare himself, he did great. Therefore, I was so disappointed when Jonathan informed me in 2006 that he was moving to New Mexico to take on a small pastorate; I was really hoping he would become a main instructor for the courses being produced.

Soon after we moved back to the states in 2011, Jonathan invited me to offer a course to his leaders and to preach. Oh, how pleased I was to find that a church of 30 had grown to a congregation of over 200 adults and 100 kids! Though the numbers do not always tell the right story, in this case, it did. Pastor Jonathan, who could have easily given up, didn’t; instead, he worked and studied hard and prayed even harder to be the right spiritual leader for his people, many of whom have led a hard life economically (e.g., working on the farm) and personally (e.g., family separation). His radio and video ministry (“Practical Faith”) continues to impact many in the Hispanic community searching for answers.

The story of Pastor Jonathan reminds us that God is in the redemptive business of turning our sorrow and weakness into joy and strength, respectively, so that we can be useful for His kingdom work. Trust God; work hard; pray harder. That is always the “winning” formula.

Prayer: Lord, how I exalt You for your steadfast love towards me. Although I have given up on myself many times, You have always stayed close to encourage me. Lord, although I cannot offer much, if at all, use me for Your Kingdom work. Cleanse me, train me, and equip me so that I can be useful for You. Amen.

Bible Reading for Today: 2 Kings 12

LUNCH BREAK STUDY

Read Phil. 1:6, 2:13 (ESV): And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ . . . for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.

2 Tim. 2:6 (NIV): The hardworking farmer should be the first to receive a share of the crops.

1 Peter 2:11 (ESV): . . . whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.

Questions to Consider

What should be the basis of our confidence? How is this fundamentally different from humanism?
What is the relationship between God strengthening us and us working hard?
Ultimately, what are we trying to demonstrate by trying to be successful in the Lord?

Notes

Our confidence stems from what God has promised. He promises to strengthen our will in order to produce the work that would please Him; on top of that, He is going to ensure that we finish what we have begun. Humanism is relying on personal resources, without acknowledging or depending on God.
Among several variables, one tangible connection is motivation. God’s strength motivates us to discipline ourselves to work hard and to yield the fruits desired by the Lord.
We aren’t trying to tell the world how great and smart we are; instead, we want the world to know how great and awesome God’s power is to transform broken lives, thereby glorifying Him.

EVENING REFLECTION

How would you describe the day you had? Was it another mundane day? Be silent before God and think through all that has happened today. Perhaps you missed an encouraging voice from the Lord or a desperate cry of help from someone nearby. Pray. Are you down? Remember the story of Pastor Jonathan and choose not to give in to your circumstances. Remember Proverb 24:16b: “For though the righteous fall seven times, they rise again.” Si, se puede en Cristo! (Yes, it can be done in Christ!)

January 11, Wednesday

Disclaimer: The views expressed here do not necessarily represent the respective views of AMI pastors.

DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT FOR TODAY

What Life is Like for the Families Left Behind in Mexico

Rom. 12:16: Be willing to associate with people of low position.

Ps. 146:9^b: The Lord watches over the sojourners; he upholds the widow and the fatherless.

Before leaving for Mexico in 2001, I had lived in Southern California for nearly 20 years, during which time I encountered many Mexican men working as farm hands or day-laborers, who regularly sent money to support their families in Mexico. Though I never thought about it then, I would’ve guessed that these families were quite elated upon receiving the money. But a visit to Nealtican, Puebla (near the active volcano “Popocatēpetl”), a small city of 25,000 habitants, forever changed my perception.

I visited Nealtican three times to teach a week-long course to train missionary candidates—the first time being 2003, when I stayed at Juanita’s three story brick house.

A mother of three children, her husband was working in the States as an undocumented immigrant. And I quickly learned why: there were no jobs there. In fact, the mayor of Nealtican, speaking briefly at the inaugural service, asked us to pray for his city because of rampant juvenile delinquency, exacerbated by absent fathers.

While staying there, I got to see what life was like for the families in Mexico of illegal aliens in the States. The children desperately missed their father. Once a week, the family would walk to the nearest public phone and would wait for a call from the States that may not come. During dinner, they would talk about their conversations with their dad, or if he hadn’t called, how they missed him. Listening to this and eating the meals especially prepared for their Korean guest for a week, I thought to myself, “I may not agree with illegal immigration, but I must empathize and show compassion to illegal immigrants.” Wanting to show my appreciation for Juanita, I took the whole family out for a nice dinner before leaving.

By the time I returned to Nealtican in 2007 to teach again, Juanita and the boys had long gone to the States—presumably without proper documents—to join her husband. I was told that the oldest child, a teenage girl when I first met her, married a 40-year old man because he promised her love and security. I felt sad upon hearing that. So it goes in Mexico among the families left behind.

People without proper documents may be illegal before the law, but they are people whom God loves. While the law must do what it is called to do, we ought to be willing to associate with people of low position, such as illegal immigrants, tangibly showing them compassion and encouragement while sharing the gospel of Christ.

Prayer: Dear Lord, thank You for choosing the way of the incarnation to save us, where Jesus became like us in every aspect. You did that not only to save us, but so that we can be assured that Jesus is able to empathize with us, and therefore, go to Him. Thank you!

Bible Reading for Today: 2 Kings 11

LUNCH BREAK STUDY

Read Hebrews 2:17-8: Therefore he had to be made like his brothers in every respect, so that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people. 18 For because he himself has suffered when tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.

Hebrews 4:15-6: For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. 16 Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.

Questions to Consider

In what sense did Christ empathize with us?
How does that help our confidence in Christ’s capacity to really help us?
Think about a person in your life to whom you need to show empathy.

Notes

By becoming a real human, Christ went through all the experiences encountered by every human being. Though never ceasing to be God at any moment, Jesus underwent hunger, fatigue (Jn. 4:6), disappointment (Matt. 26:40; Jn. 14:9), and even anguish (Matt. 26:38). Consequently, Christ, in His humanity, has personal knowledge of what we go through.
Of course, Christ didn’t have be a human being to know what we go through, since He is an all knowing God. Ultimately, then, Christ underwent human experiences so that we can have more confidence in His capacity to really help us.
What was the last painful experience you went through? Look around to see who is going through the same thing. You can empathize with that person better than others.

EVENING REFLECTION

Did you run into anyone who was going through a difficult moment today? Perhaps, you are that person. Before we seek empathy from man, let’s first go to Christ, for He truly understands us. Pray to Him, casting all your cares upon Him.

January 10, Tuesday

Disclaimer: The views expressed here do not necessarily represent the respective views of AMI pastors.

DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT FOR TODAY

Finding God in the Midst of a Long Nightmare

2 Kings 24:15-17 (NIV)

Nebuchadnezzar took Jehoiachin captive to Babylon. He also took from Jerusalem to Babylon the king’s mother, his wives, his officials and the prominent people of the land. 16 The king of Babylon also deported to Babylon the entire force of seven thousand fighting men, strong and fit for war, and a thousand skilled workers and artisans.

Having lived in Mexico for many years, I have many friends there, including two men who were deported from the U.S. after living here for many years as illegal immigrants. One is “Javier” who had lived and worked in California long enough to buy a modest house and raise a family. The other is “Carlos,” a pastor who was held at a detention facility for undocumented aliens for several months before being deported—it was a nightmare for him. Overnight, they lost everything.

I consider them “buenos amigos” and I know how devastating the deportation was for both. Now, I understand that what I’m about to say would make zero sense, even be offensive, to those who don’t adhere to a biblical worldview; but for those who do, realize that deportation was the best thing that could have happened to Javier and Carlos from the standpoint of eternity. How? Javier came to believe in Jesus Christ during the aftermath of deportation and in the midst of a crumbing marriage at a retreat where I was the guest speaker. He would eventually enroll in a local Bible institute and become a leader in the church; once, he seriously considered dropping everything to go to China as a missionary. As for Carlos, after initially taking a factory job to support his family, he met a boss who later helped him to join the largest Baptist church in the city that, in time, installed him as the pastor of its daughter church. (Once, a short-term team from Church of Southland worked with him.)

The Old Testament is not silent on this matter, for many Israelites in antiquity would readily empathize with the likes of Javier and Carlos, because they themselves were deported to Babylonia following its crushing invasions of Judah; most of them would never set foot again on their homeland. One such person was Daniel, who was forcibly taken when he was still a teen. While Javier and Carlos at least were never separated from their families, Daniel would never see his families again. How devastating this experience must have been for Daniel, but when seen through the lens of spirituality, deportation was God’s way of drawing Daniel near to him, so much so that he would later become a great prophet of God, while serving as a top official in three different administrations.

I write this neither to the advocates or denouncers of deportation, but to those who see the world through God’s Word. Jesus says that “in this world you will have trouble” (Jn. 16:32), and often it is through these trials that we learn “not to rely on ourselves but on God” (2 Cor. 1:9). I hope you would agree that being drawn to God (Jn. 6:44) is far better than anything material that America has to offer. Don’t get too enamored by America; instead, go where there is a real need and tell those who think that America is heaven that it isn’t so; then tell them about the mansion Jesus has been preparing (Jn. 14:1-3) for the past 2,000 years for those who has placed their trust in him. Go!

Prayer: Lord, I praise and glorify Your wonderful name. I pray for all the undocumented immigrants held in detention centers in the U.S., that they would turn to You and trust Jesus for their salvation. Please remind those who work in these centers to be civil and decent toward those who are held up. Amen.

Bible Reading for Today: 2 Kings 10

LUNCH BREAK STUDY

Read Daniel 9:7-8 (ESV): “To you, O Lord, belongs righteousness, but to us open shame, as at this day, to the men of Judah, to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and to all Israel, those who are near and those who are far away, in all the lands to which you have driven them, because of the treachery that they have committed against you. 8 To us, O Lord, belongs open shame, to our kings, to our princes, and to our fathers, because we have sinned against you.”

Psalm 137:1-6 (ESV): “By the waters of Babylon, there we sat down and wept, when we remembered Zion. 2 On the willows there we hung up our lyres. 3 For there our captors required of us songs, and our tormentors, mirth, saying, “Sing us one of the songs of Zion!” 4 How shall we sing the Lord’s song in a foreign land? 5 If I forget you, O Jerusalem, let my right hand forget its skill! 6 Let my tongue stick to the roof of my mouth, if I do not remember you, if I do not set Jerusalem above my highest joy!”

Questions to Consider

According to Prophet Daniel, what is one key reason why God drove out the Israelites to all the lands (i.e., Babylonia)?
Psalm 137 is sung by these Israelites who were forcibly deported to Babylonia. What spiritual effect did this devastating experience have on this once rebellious Israelites? What does this suggest?
Are you going through a difficult moment in your life, like being on the verge of losing your job or marriage? The root (but not necessarily casual) problem may be vertical (you and God), not horizontal. Pray about it.

Note

Daniel minced no words here: the treachery (NIV: “unfaithfulness”) that the Israelites committed against God. In verse 5, Daniel adds, “We have been wicked and have rebelled; we have not listened to your servants the prophets, who spoke in your name.”
This Psalm indicates that the Jewish deportees had repented: whereas before they drew away from God, now they longed to sing the LORD’s song in Babylonia. This suggests that trials and difficult moments can draw us nearer to God.
Personal response.

EVENING REFLECTION

We began the day talking about undocumented workers who occupy the low end of the social ladder. So, before you look for one to shower him or her with compassion, why not start with people in your life whose job is to serve you, like your employees or people who work in the service industry. Paul says, “Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited” (Rom. 12:16). How did you fare today? Were you proud and arrogant? Or were you humble and compassionate? Only you know—and God. Why not pray for a better living tomorrow.