What a beautiful January day here in Colorado with temperatures in the high 50’s. Debbie and I attended the 11:30 a.m. service this morning at Timberline Church. Today was the annual “U-Count” focus, which brings awareness and support to combat sex trafficking in our community and around the world. Congratulations to Bonnie Northrop for her vision and Beth Bruno for her efforts (along with a host of volunteers) to bring focused support to what is becoming a growing awareness of need in our state and local communities. (www.ucountcampaign.org/)

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY…  “He [the Priest] shall take some of the oil that is in the palm of his hand and some of the blood of the lamb and put them on the lobe of the right ear, on the thumb of the right hand, and on the big toe of the right foot of the one of you to be declared ritually clean.He shall put the rest of the oil that is in the palm of his hand on your head. In this way he shall perform the ritual of purification.” (Leviticus 14:14,17,18)

The Book of Leviticus is not the source of a lot of sermons. I recall a missionary friend who said he, “loved preaching Leviticus.” He is the only minister that I have heard say that. Often Leviticus is a Book the many stumble over in their commitment to read through the Bible.

But it is an important Book in understanding God’s holiness and rituals that would form acceptable worship and relationship to God; as well as practical guidelines to protect the health and well being of the people. The verses above come from instructions on how an individual with a “skin disease”, who has been excluded from the temple and isolated from others, becomes recognized as clean and prepared to enter back into the community.

In the past of my reading through the Bible I recall, but glossed over the reference to the blood and oil being applied to the right ear, thumb and toe. But this time it caught my attention. What is the significance?

What is of interest is that this is not a common form of “ritual cleansing” for violating other laws or for ritualistic cleansing. It is, interestingly, mentioned as part of the ordination of Aaron and his sons as Priests.

 ^“Then he [Moses] brought Aaron’s sons forward and put some of the blood on the lobes of their right ears, on the thumbs of their right hands, and on the big toes of their right feet.” Leviticus 8:24

I did find one commentary source that confirmed my thoughts on why these three parts of the body were of significance. The brief summary was, “These actions symbolize the consecration of the priests’ hearing from God, the work (of their hands) for God, and their walk with God.”

Leprosy was viewed as a judgment from God. We see that when Miriam opposed Moses she was struck with Leprosy. When Elisha’s servant lied to Naaman and took gifts he was not suppose to, he was stricken with leprosy.  Leprosy resulted in people being outcasts and came to represent the outward evidence of the inward mark of sin in a person’s life.

As a result, when the “curse” was removed the individual went through a ritualistic cleansing that involved the blood the the sacrifice and anointing oil being applied to the right ear, thumb and toe. This person was not only acceptable to God and received back into the congregation, but it seems that they were commissioned with a special call for their life. What they heard and allowed into their mind, what they did and how they lived was to honor God. From this day on they were dedicated to the Lord.

That application to the life of follower of Christ is significant. Peter put it in these words, “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” (1 Peter 2:9)

Paul admonished those who follow Christ, “For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light..” (Eph. 5:) The command and practical words of Paul’s that show true change in a life are these, “Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need.” (Eph. 4:28)

The blood of the lamb represented cleansing and the oil represented consecration. That is what our life represents when our sins are forgiven and we follow Christ in a new life. Forgiven and consecrated. Clean and filled with purpose. “The old is gone and the new has come.” (2 Corinthians 5:17)

May what is graphically and ritualistically pictured in the Old Testament, become the reality in your life today. A new life; incorporated into the community of faith all because of the sacrifice of Christ (the Lamb of God) and the mark of the Holy Spirit      (symbolized by the oil of consecration). Remember,

“… he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.” (2 Corinthians 5:15)

I arrived home later last night, after a lengthy, put productive HOA Board Meeting.  This morning I was able to get in a morning workout at the fitness center before an appointment this afternoon about some health care legislation the impacts rural and under-served areas.

It was good to connect with my friend Glenn Vaad. Glenn is a former State Representative. He has one of the greatest resumes of public service of anyone that I know. He currently serves on the Colorado Public Utilities Commission.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY…. “Confidence placed in riches comes to nothing.”  (Proverbs 11:7)  “I have confidence in your strength; you are my refuge, O God.”  (Psalm 59:9)

What gives you confidence in life? Is it your abilities, money, health, connections or something else? Confidence in life can be one of the most important attributes that we have for a fulfilling life. But where we place our confidence is all important. There are so many areas that are faulty when it comes to a foundation of confidence. One that Solomon points to is “riches.” It has been observed that “money is a good servant, but a harsh taskmaster.”  Paul the Apostle told Timothy that a misplaced affection for money can bring about all kinds of evil and be hazardous to faith.

“…the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.” (1 Timothy 6:10)

Jesus was very clear in stating that, “you cannot serve God and money.” (Matthew 6:24) He also asked, “what does it profit a man, if he gains the whole world, yet loses his soul?” (Mark 8:36)

The Lord calls us to place our full confidence for living in Him. That is why David could declare, “I have confidence in your strength…” and “I am confident I will see the LORD’s goodness while I am here in the land of the living.” (Psalm 27:13) It is out of faith and trust in the Lord that Paul could state, “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 1:6)

Solomon sums it up well when he says, “…you can put confidence in someone who is trustworthy.” (Proverbs 11:13) There is no one more trustworthy than the Lord. He never changes, He is always the same. That is why the song writer of old could declare, “my hope is built on nothing less than Jesus Christ and righteousness…on Christ the solid rock I stand all other ground is sinking sand…”

Today I attend the memorial service for Pastor Bill Beard. Bill grew up in Loveland and spent some of his key years of pastoral ministry at the Loveland Assembly of God. It was good to hear the eulogies of his children and the difference that he made in his primary task, that of being a Godly father. I must admit it is always disconcerting when you attend a funeral of someone who is not that far from your own age.

When I was at Liberty Commons High School Tuesday night Bob Schaffer told me how people contacted him when I was in the hospital and said, “you better go see Ken, he may not make!” He went on to say,  “before I knew it you were getting better.” I told his students, “I was more popular when I was near death.”

By the way, yesterday day during my therapy, I walked about 280 feet with my walker without stopping. That is in contrast to last year at this time last year at this time, when I took my first fledgling, baby steps with a walker.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “Lord, will you at this time give the Kingdom back to Israel?”Jesus said to them, “The times and occasions are set by my Father’s own authority, and it is not for you to know when they will be. But when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, you will be filled with power, and you will be witnesses for me in Jerusalem, in all of Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”  Acts 1:6-8 (GNB)

As I read these verses of Acts chapter 1, my attention was drawn to the contrast between the disciples question and Jesus priority for them. Their question was not bad. I’m sure it was on the front of everyone’s mind. They wanted to know “what next” or “now what?”

Jesus responded by telling them what would happen next, what their priority should be. As He promised He would send the Holy Spirit to be with them forever and to empower them to share the good news with the whole word. That charge remains to this day, even amidst the same question the disciples ask two thousand years ago, “Lord when are you coming back?” “Is now the time?”

Questions about the return of Christ have been asked since the day of Jesus. Jesus on one occasion told His disciples, in speaking of His return, “But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.” (Matthew 24:36)

But I want to challenge you to consider what we “want to know” versus “what we are given to know.” We want to know, “will our kids turn out “alright”? The Bible gives parents instructions on how to love, train and raise Godly children. (Sometimes that question about our children isn’t answered until they have children of their own.)

We want to know “what does the future hold?” And the Lord just assures us the He “holds tomorrow” and if we will trust in Him He will guide and direct our lives. He gives us insight into His Word about His plan, even though all the “what ifs, hows and whens” are not addressed.

We want to know “is my financial future secure?” And the Lord reminds us that “He is our provider.” He is the One who “knows how to take care of His own.”

Perhaps there are other “want to know” questions you can think of. The bottom line is, we believe that “if we know” we can handle it. That is why the “why” question is so common in times of grief and tragedy. But our seeking after knowledge undermines faith and trust. Also, it is important to remember that so much of our personal lives and future is impacted by our decisions and by that which is out of our control.

The bottom line is don’t worry, obsess or be filled with anxiety about your life, God’s plan for the world and the future. Instead focus on what the Lord does want you to know. Stay focused on His Word, your daily trust in Him and “He will direct your steps” and give you a “peace that passes all understanding.”

After a laid back day yesterday, it was good to be out and about for some of today. I attended my Tuesday prayer time for our county officials and ran a few other errands. I returned to 24 House Fitness for my weekly meeting with my trainer. Tomorrow I go to Northern Colorado Rehab Hospital for my monthly evaluation and therapy session.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “The Lord said, “I [my presence] will go with you, and I will give you victory.”Moses replied, “If you do not go with us, don’t make us leave this place. How will anyone know that you are pleased with your people and with me if you do not go with us? Your presence with us will distinguish us from any other people on earth.” Exodus 33:14-16 (GNT)

The people of Israel were unique among the people of the earth. They were a nation that was established by the Lord to be the people of God set apart to Him for special purposes. The main one was to bring the Messiah to earth as the Savior of the world.

As the exodus takes place and the people travel to Mount Sinai, they received the law. But before the law is even given to Moses and he returns to the people they have committed idolatry and have broken some of the foundational laws of the Ten Commandments.

It is after this that Moses is pleading to God for Israel and for their future and for help to lead the people. The Lord responds with the promise of His presence, and assurance of “rest and victory.” I love Moses response. “If you don’t go with us, don’t allow us to leave this place…”  He then goes on and says, “Your presence with us will distinguish us from any other people on earth.”

History reveals that the people struggled with the value of the “presence of the Lord” and an image of a god being before them like other nations. What was to be their unique, distinguishing characteristic was compromised. When they lost their uniqueness, they became vulnerable to corruption from within and defeat from enemies from without.

What is important to remember for Christ’s followers today is, that it is the presence of the Lord that is to be the distinguishing mark of our lives. David declared, “In your presence is fullness of joy.” (Psalm 16:11) It is the presence of the Lord that brings peace, wisdom and strength for each day. It is the presence of the Lord that reassures us that the Lord is with us. It is the presence of the Lord that enables us to be a light in darkness and to have the gifts and fruit of the Holy Spirit working in our lives.

The saddest day for Samson was when, “he arose [to face his enemies] and the presence of the Lord had departed and he did not know it.” (Judges 16:20) When David was confessing his sin before the Lord, his prayer included the plea, “….do not take your Holy Spirit away from me…” (Psalm 51:10)

In your life value and cultivate the presence of the Lord. You can do that through times of praise and worship, “for the Lord inhabits the praises of His people…” (Psalm 22:3) Remember the presence of the Lord is what distinguishes you from other people. But it is not exclusive. God’s plan is for all people to know Him, place their faith Him and to know His presence in this life and to find a home in His presence for all eternity.

I have been pleased that I have enjoyed a good stretch of general health. I am looking at putting five months behind me in a couple of week since my last infection treatment was over. I still have some significant weakness, but am making progress to the point of wanting to make some plans for greater activity in the coming months. As a result, you can see that today’s devotional comes out of my own life journey.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “Plan carefully what you do, and whatever you do will turn out right.”  Proverbs 4:26 (GNB)

I like the wording of this verses in the “Good News Bible” (GNB). Proverbs is about wisdom for right living and this verse has a 21st century relevancy. (Actually all of Proverbs is still relevant for today.)

Traversing the road map of life requires of plan. That can apply to all aspects of life from finances, career, to Christian service and many others. The advice of Solomon is “just don’t let life happen.” As Colorado evaluates the impact of legalized marijuana, one thing is certain, drugs take away ambition for a productive life. I recall when we were establishing the regulations for “medical” marijuana several years ago, a fellow legislator commenting about a young adult son, saying, “all he wants to do is sit around the house and smoke weed.” No ambition, no drive, no goals, outside of the next high. This doesn’t only apply to those who abuse drugs, but it is certainly accentuated in those lives.

From early in life the one question that is asked of a child is, “what do you want to be (or do) when you grow up?” Some of us in adulthood will still say, “I’m trying to figure what I want to do when I grow up.” A plan is really the ste of action steps that enables us to achieve a goal and so it is important for the first step, to be established. What is your goal? What is your personal “mission” for life? That is what makes a plan unique to each life. Some plans may be similar but the goal in mind is different.

The second word is important as well. “Plan carefully.” There are costs that are involved in a plan. Plans may changes as we move through life and adjustments must be made. I recall my “planned strategy” for running for the State House. It began several years before I actually became a candidate.  It involved a series of steps from establishing relationships and preparing my self academically. I had a time line in mind as well.

When Solomon says, “….whatever you do will turn out right” he is stating a guiding principal for life and not a promise from the Lord. Or perhaps we should add, “plan carefully and prayerfully.”

“We may make our plans, but God has the last word… Ask the Lord to bless your plans, and you will be successful in carrying them out….You may make your plans, but God directs your actions.” (Proverbs 16:1,3,9) “People may plan all kinds of things, but the Lord’s will is going to be done.” (Proverbs 19:21) I recall that when I became a candidate for the State House, it first appeared that my timing was not going to work out and my “plan” was going to fall by the wayside. But a set of circumstances arose that really seemed to be of the Lord’s doing that opened the door.

When we make plans prayerfully, we can do so with a sense of confidence that the Lord will direct our steps and that His will, will be done in our lives. As we are open to His direction, He can modify or change our plans and we will know that it is because of His care for our lives.

Plan with others.  “Get good advice and you will succeed; don’t go charging into battle without a plan.” (Proverbs 20:18) Wise people get advice from wise people. I have shared how Jethro gave Moses a plan to solve a problem he didn’t know he had. We can certainly look to trusted sources, who know us, who believe in us, to help formulate the plans for our life.

As you live a life of wisdom, and “plan carefully and prayerfully”, may this blessing rest on all of your efforts, “May he [the Lord] give you what you want and make all your plans succeed…” (Psalm 20:4 NCV)