Psalm 15 Heart of Worship

Psalm 15 asks the questions:"O Lord, who shall sojourn in your tent? Who shall dwell on your holy hill?" The answer to these questions describes the kind of person that is welcome in God's presence; the kind of worshipper that perks God's interest. Jesus described the kind of worshipper the Father is seeking. In his words:

John 4:23 "But the hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father is seeking such people to worship him. 24 God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth.”

 The description of the ideal worshipper highlights heart issues and not form. It goes deep into the motivations and desires of a person. The one who is acceptable in God's presence is one who goes beyond the practice of the Law into the spirit of the Law. Take note of some of the things mentioned: walks blamelessly, does what is right, speaks truth in his heart, does not slander with his tongue, does no evil to his neighbor, does not take a reproach against his friend.

If we take seriously our worship to our God, if we desire to live in his presence, we must strive to be people of character and integrity as described by Psalm 15. Not that we have achieved such status, but that we are striving for it with all our hearts. This psalm is a good mirror for me to take a look at who I really am and evaluate my intentions and motivations in my daily conduct. It cuts through performances and appearances to address the heart.

The person that practices these things with honesty and sincerity, not only enjoys the presence of God in his life, but also has the promise of stability - "shall never be moved." The promise of stability is not only for this life in the here and now, but it is for all eternity.

Father, change my heart to be one who desires to be in your presence more than anything else in life. Transform my motives and desires to match yours so that I may develop character and live a life of integrity with the promise of stability forever. Amen.

Acts 1:6-11 The Ascension

While Jesus was dedicated to teaching about the kingdom of God, the apostles were concerned about the kingdom of Israel and its restoration. What God is going to do with Israel and when should not be the focus of their attention. Jesus was clear: "It is not for you to know..." In recent years, there has been an increased interest in the nation of Israel. While some are interested in evangelizing Israel, others are interested in their role in the current political world. The former deserves my attention, but not the latter.

Politics is a topic of great interest to me and I believe that Christians should participate of the political life of their countries. But politics must be viewed for what it is. Politics, for the Christian, is nothing more than a tool to communicate the message of the Gospel and an opportunity to voice for justice and against evil. But politics is not the savior and should never be viewed as the means to solve all my problems. Ultimately, my problems stem from the heart and it requires a heart change to be a virtuous and moral citizen. On the other hand, if I am a Christian and stand apathetic to politics, how can I bring change to society if I don't participate in the public affairs of the society in which I live? How can I bring the message of the Gospel to bear on issues if I don't stand up and speak up?

What is important for the apostles to know, in contrast with the political status of the kingdom of Israel, is that the Holy Spirit will grant power to make them witnesses. This is a central truth in the kingdom of God! The promised Holy Spirit will empower them to be witnesses. A witness is one who is willing to give a testimony of what they have experienced for others to know. The apostles were witnesses of the life, ministry, teaching, death, and resurrection (and pretty soon his ascension) of Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit will empower them to give that testimony. They should seek and wait for that empowerment. Am I seeking the filling of the Spirit to be empowered to witness? Is witnessing central in my life? Or am I distracted playing politics in the world, even in the Church?

Jesus leaves the world escorted by "men in white robes," probably angelic beings. His ascension is a sign of how his return will be. In the same manner in which he was taken, he will return. When he shows up, he will show up in the skies escorted by angelic beings and everyone will see him. I must not forget his return. I must remember his promise: He who testifies to these things says, “Surely I am coming soon.” and the desire of my heart should be "Come, Lord Jesus." Is it my expectation and desire to see the return of my Lord?

Jesus, come soon! Give me the power through your Spirit to be a witness and testify to the whole world about you. Don't let me be distracted by politics or anything else. Amen.