Author: CD Hamman

Give Generously

/ CD Hamman / Leave a comment

You can watch the video of this sermon here.
2 Corinthians 8:1-15

Let’s talk about stewardship. Stewardship doesn’t just involve our money. It also involves our time, our talents and skills, our vehicles, our food. In short, stewardship involves all of our resources. There are different types of givers.

There are greedy givers. They hold back for themselves, but lie to others about how much they give. Ananias and Sapphira, in Acts 5:1-10, are a good example of this kind of giver. They only give to be seen, and to put on a show. Even then it is likely they give grudgingly.

Then there is the legalist giver. I’ll also call them stingy. They tithe faithfully. But they are careful to calculate out that ten percent, and no more. Don’t even think about asking them for a special offering, or to donate to charity. They gave their tithe, and that’s all God requires.

These first two, you might be lucky enough to get them to contribute to a church dinner. But, they’ll likely make a show of it, and they will want their leftovers back.

Then there are those who are afraid to give. This could be due to any number of valid reasons. They may have limited resources. They may be afraid to give because they are afraid that what tiny bit they can give just doesn’t matter, and won’t make a difference.

Then there are the generous givers. This has absolutely nothing to do with how large or small the gift is. These are the people who look for opportunities to share. These are the people who, they may not have great paying jobs. They may not even have a job. But they will gladly share the resources they do have. Maybe it’s a bottle of water or a sandwich to the homeless lady on the corner, or some clothes for the family who just lost everything in a fire. Maybe it’s a meal for that new co-worker who just started. Maybe it is giving a little extra in the offering plate for a special project, or a special ministry. The bottom line is, these are the people who love to give because they love to share their blessings. They love to share Jesus.
Are you greedy? Do you stick to that ten percent and no more? Are you afraid to give? Or are you a generous giver

Bottom Line: What kind of giver are you?

1) Giving is how we share God’s grace and blessings

The Macedonian believers wanted to share the grace and blessing that they had received. Paul had not even asked them to give, but they had pleaded to be a part of giving.

Share your talents around the church, with other believers, and with your neighbors. Share your food with a co-worker, or the person asking for money on the street. Giving generously can provide opportunities for us to share far more that just food or money. Being willing to give, regardless of your resources, may provide you with an unexpected opportunity to share your testimony with someone; or to invite them to church. It may open a door to friendship that we never expected

2) The size of gift doesn’t matter

The Macedonian believers were struggling themselves with severe poverty, yet they gave what they could afford, and even more. Paul says that in spite of their poverty, they actually exceeded all expectations.

We can only give out of what we have. Let me refer you to Mark 12:41-44. Jesus is watching as the people are dropping their money into the collection box at the Temple. Of course the rich people are dropping their large amounts of money. Now, scripture doesn’t say, but I would imagine many of them were sincere, but I would also bet that some were likely very pompous and making sure that other people could see and hear them giving their large amounts of money. Then this, poor widow comes along. And she drops in her two little coins. It might be similar to watching someone drop two pennies into the offering plate, today. Jesus calls over His disciples and says, “You know, she gave more than the others gave. You see, they gave just a tiny bit out of their riches. But this widow, she gave everything.” You might say they gave their ten percent, but she gave one hundred percent.

Look If we have a great deal, then we should give out of our abundance. But, even if we have just a little, we can give something. God doesn’t expect us to give so much that we leave ourselves in need. Obviously, someone who doesn’t have money can’t give it, but maybe you can share a sandwich. Maybe God is asking you to give your time, and share your talents.

It’s not a competition. Every little bit adds up. God knows how to use everything; Even the smallest amount. For Heaven’s sake, Jesus used a boy’s lunch, consisting of just a couple small fish and a few small loaves of bread, to feed over 5,000 people. And there was enough leftover to make 12 baskets for the disciples. The smallest gifts matter. Just give. Let God do the rest.

3) Start by surrendering to Jesus

Now, this idea of giving generously does not come naturally to us. To truly begin giving generously we have start by surrendering our self to Jesus, and willingly follow whatever direction the Lord leads. This is where the Macedonian church began. They started by first dedicating themselves to the Lord.

How much more generously can you give than Jesus did. He set the pattern. He gave up His throne, came to earth, not by just appearing, or being born in a king’s palace; He came to earth, being born in a lowly manger, a feeding trough, to the wife of a carpenter. His birth wasn’t announced to kings, or even the religious leaders of the day. It was announced to shepherds. I could go on, but I think it’s pretty clear that He not only left His riches in Glory, but He even skipped out on His riches here on earth. And even gave His life.

And all He asks of us is to give just a little bit out of what resources we have. Just a little bit of our money, or food, water, clothing, skills, or time.

I have heard it said that if you want to know a person’s priorities, look at his checkbook, and calendar. It’s fairly accurate. I have heard testimonies of people who had to go into the bank to correct errors, and balance their checkbooks. And the person who assisted them would inevitably see that they regularly wrote a check to the church, and there may be a check that had been written for missions, teen or children’s camp, or some other ministry. In some cases it was an opportunity to share their testimony.

It’s not as likely that someone will see your calendar, but, what does your calendar look like? Or, what would it look like if you listed everything you do?

Bottom Line: What kind of giver do you want to be?

I don’t know how you answered the first question, “What kind of giver are you?” But I hope that all of our answers for the second question is, “I want to be a generous giver.”

Stop the Memes, Shut Up, and Actually DO SOMETHING

/ CD Hamman / Leave a comment

It’s nothing new or unusual to be scrolling through Facebook, or any other social media platform, and come across a meme. Most of these are funny, and harmless. Some may be sarcastic. And still others are just plain ridiculous. But it’s mostly in good fun. Until we see the political ones. Even worse are the political ones which someone has been kind enough to manipulate scripture in an attempt to back up their position.

Here are some examples:

“God is in favor of walls.” “God welcomes immigrants.” “There are walls in Heaven.” “You can’t be a Christian and be against immigrants.” or something similar to “Heaven has an immigration policy too.” “God says your suppose to be kind to immigrants.”Of course these are just a few examples, and they almost always have a Bible verse listed somewhere.

Please, do us all a favor and just stop. First, most people refuse to acknowledge any legitimacy to the arguments on the other side. And there truly is a middle ground. But also, you all are just showing ignorance. And yes, I believe it is ignorant, as well as disingenuous, to simply pick a position then try to use Scripture to justify it. Especially when you’re twisting it, and completely ignoring the rest of it. Finally, posting memes does absolutely nothing to provide possible solutions.

Are you still with me? Good. But I must warn you, I’m not letting you off the hook. Because now I want to know if you are actually even trying to do something. Well, are you?

Have you done anything besides post a meme, or tell others that their position is wrong? First, have you at least taken the time to try to understand the other sides position? Any of it? Have you tried to understand the issue or the people? Or do you just post your memes, and your thoughts and prayers, and think that’s enough?

When was the last time you wrote to your United States senator, representative, or president? Heck, if it’s an issue at the state level when was the last time you contacted your state senator, representative, or governor?

But don’t simply contact them and tell them how you feel. Think through the issue, as many sides as you can, and present a possible solution. No, you’re not going come up with the whole solution to every possible scenario, but stop just posting memes, shut up about your feelings, and actually try to present a possible solution to the issue.

Finally, to our senators, representatives, and our President: with all due respect; Stop with all the political posturing. Stop pointing fingers at each other. Shut up, sit down, and actually work toward solutions. Heck, turn to us, your constituents and actually encourage us to get involved. Oh, and stop being so concerned with the media. Do your job right and your constituents will respect you. We are more important than the media.

Deborah

/ CD Hamman / Leave a comment

Judges 4-5

After being led into the promise land, the Israelites had a pattern to life. Now, to be honest, they followed this pattern when they were in the wilderness with Moses. But after Joshua finally led them into the promise land, and died, they became complacent. They would obey God for a time, and live according to His ways, then, in their complacency, they would forget about Him, and begin to follow the God’s of the nations around them. In response to their disobedience, God would allow them to be oppressed and tormented by wicked people, rulers. After about 20 years, give or take, the people would tire of being oppressed, and finally cry out to God in repentance. God would raise up a person to save them from their oppressors, and themselves. And they would live in peace again, for time. Wash, rinse, repeat. To be honest, I don’t think the Church has learned her lesson. The Church has won some great victories. We have reached peoples who had never before heard the Gospel, even though sometimes we have to be led kicking and screaming. Eventually, though, the Church comes to her senses, and cries out to God for forgiveness, and God sends revival. One thing we know from this cycle is this:

Bottom Line: When God’s people cry out to Him, and repent, He will save them.

We are introduced to Deborah at a time when the Israelites are under the rule of King Jabin of Hazor, a Caananite king. The commander of Jabin’s army was Sisera, and he had been ruthlessly tormenting and oppressing the Israelites for about 20 years. And the Israelites have finaly had enough of the torment, and oppression, and have finally cried out to God.

Deborah was either married to a torch maker, made torches, or both. Verse 4 says that she was the wife of Lappidoth. Lappidoth is the Hebrew word for torch, and it was a very unusual name. It could also be translated that she was a woman of torches. AKA “Torch lady.” It is said that she convinced her husband to supply the lamps for the temple at Shiloh, and that they burned bright like torches. Her own name was a play on the Hebrew word for “she spoke.” And her name meant “a bee.”

1) God uses whomever He desires; Even people we don’t think He should.

In a culture that often treated women as second class citizens, God chose a woman named Deborah to lead and judge His people. When she spoke, the people listened. She held court under the Palm of Deborah, in the hill country of Ephraim, between Ramah and Bethel.

One would have expected that God would use Barak to lead his people. And God did use Barak, in a mighty way. But to me, Barak is a supporting character in all of this. When Deborah told Barak that God had commanded him to meet Sisera in Battle, Barak agreed, but added his own terms and conditions. He would only go if Deborah went too.

God also used Jael. He used her to both destroy Israel’s enemy, and also to take the glory that normally would have been gone to Barak.

2) Don’t hesitate when God commands. Be ready to act when the time comes.

In some translations, verse 6 and 7 is Deborah asking Barak a question. And the way it reads makes me wonder if they hadn’t had this conversation before. Deborah says to Barak, “Hey! Didn’t God tell you gather your men together at Mount Tabor, to prepare to meet Sisera and Jabin’s army by the Kishon River, so I can deliver them into your hands?” Barak hesitates. His response was classic. “Sure. Tell you what, I will only go if you go with me.” Typical person. God tells him to do something, to rescue his people, and he puts conditions on God. Deborah agrees, but warns that since she is going, Barak will not get the glory; A woman will get credit for Sisera’s defeat.

Sure enough, when Sisera, who had been tormenting the Israelites heard that Barak had gathered his troops at Mount Tabor, he gathered his own troops, and chariots and went out to meet Barak in battle. And Deborah gave the order to Barak, “Get up. Today the Lord will give Sisera into your hand.” As the two armies met in battle, it began to rain, and Sisera’s chariots became lodged in the mud, and his men didn’t know what to do. Barak and his men had a decisive victory. And Sisera, fearing for his own life, and with Barak in pursuit, left his chariot and fled to the home of someone he thought was a friend.

Jael’s husband, Heber, had pitched his tents near Kedesh. He and his family were on friendly terms with King Jabin. So Sisera runs into Jael’s tent. Jael invited him in, and covered him with a blanket. That’s some pretty good hospitality from your friend’s wife. Then, when he asks for some water because he is thirsty, she gives him some milk, and covers him again. And he tells her that if anyone comes looking she is to say that no one else is there. The Bible doesn’t say why, but as soon as Sisera was asleep, Jael creeps over with a tent peg and a hammer. I can only speculate that there was some reason, but to do what she did next I think would require some serious anger, and emotion. Jael takes the tent peg, and using the hammer, drives peg through his temple and into the ground. We can only speculate as to what all had taken place, either at that time, or previously, but that sounds pretty personal to me. And when Barak came by, Jael says, “Hey. Come here. I’ll take you to the man you are looking for.” And Barak finds Sisera in Jael’s tent, dead, with a tent peg driven through his temple, and into the ground. And from that day, Jabin’s grip over Israel was broken, until they finally destroyed him.

Barak hesitated. And he added his own terms and conditions to God’s command. And although he had led his army to a decisive victory, with the Lord’s help, he did not defeat Sisera.

Jael, saw her opportunity to act. The time had come for her to take action, and she did. Remember Deborah’s prophesy? Since she had to lead Barak, the glory that would have been his went to a woman.

3) Give God the glory.

The final verses of chapter 4 gives the ultimate praise and glory to God.

So on that day Israel saw God defeat Jabin, the Canaanite king. And from that time on Israel became stronger and stronger against King Jabin until they finally destroyed him. (Judges 4:23-24, NLT)

Deborah’s song, in chapter 5 gives the glory for the victory to God. In it the deeds When God delivers us, we are to give Him the glory. We might have the wisdom and ability to judge, and to hear God when He speaks, like Deborah. We might have skill, and cunning for battle, like Barak. We may have the courage to act in the moment, like Jael did. But who gave each of them the ability, and the strength? Who sends the rains at just the right time to route the enemy? We might be able to solve the toughest math problems, or win the hardest fought legal battles. We may even know the answers to some of life’s greatest mysteries. But, how did we get those abilities? Where did the knowledge and skill come from? Sure, hard work and determination on our part; but ultimately who gave us the ability to train, and to learn? Who sends us help at just the right moment? When others may be praising us, we need to make sure that we are directing all the praise to God.

Bottom Line: When God’s people call on Him, He will save.

STOP THE HATE

/ CD Hamman / Leave a comment

This is not as eloquent, and thought out as I try to be, but, this is what’s on my heart right now. And I often say nothing. But, I’m tired of saying nothing. I’m tired of staying quiet for fear of offending someone. Three shooting sprees, in less than 24 hours, and my heart is broken. And I’m tired. I’m tired of the hate, which, by the way, politicians and people on all sides (liberal, conservative, Democrat, Republican, whatever else you can think of) have been busy spewing for a long time. I’m tired of, and disturbed by, how easily people (again, on all sides) who call themselves Christians, and are supposed to be following Christ, have allowed their politics to drive their faith, and they so willingly twist, and manipulate, scriptures to fit their personal political views. And they continue to feed the hate.

These evil people who decide to murder others are going to do so no matter what, but the hateful rhetoric, gives them something to latch onto in a desperate attempt to justify their own evil actions. And everytime, we start the political finger pointing again.

Look, It’s not a gun problem. It’s not an immigration problem. It’s not an abortion problem. It’s not a gay problem. It’s not a skin color problem. It’s not an old people, or a young people problem. It’s not a constitutional problem. It is a SIN problem. It is a HATE problem. And evil people will use whatever excuse they can find, or make up, to promote hate. So please, unless, and until, your ready to calmly discuss, and work through the real issues, and work to be part of the solution, sit down, shut up, and quite frankly, keep your twisted Bible verses, and twisted constitutional rights to yourself.

Look, I wholly support our constitutional rights. But along with those rights comes responsibilities. Yes, we all have the right to free speech. However, no one has the right to incite panic or violence with their speech. Yes, you have the right to protect yourself, and even to carry. But in exercising that right you have a duty to do so responsibly, with proper training, and in such a way as to not cause concern. In other words, you don’t need to carry in such a way as to draw attention to yourself. Please understand, when you draw attention to yourself, or your weapon, especially in light of recent events, you are making yourself appear to be a threat.

So, please, exercise your rights. But do so responsibly. Share your opinions and views. But do so respectfully. And STOP THE HATE. And for those of us who claim to follow Christ, please stop letting politics dictate your faith. And everyone, for crying out loud, lets all pull our heads out of that deep dark tunnel, and quit letting the news media (regardless of the source) and politicians dictate how we behave, view others, and treat each other. Let’s start exercising our rights to actually do the right thing.

Sow Your Seed

/ CD Hamman / Leave a comment

I need ten people a month to plant a seed of $300 a month. God also told me he wants me to have a brand new RV, along with a new truck to tow it. When you plant your seed, and send it to me, God will bless you, richly.

Ok, ok. Stop. Please don’t actually send me money. Number one, it doesn’t work that way. Yes, God does ask us to tithe. This is how we support our individual local churches. God may ask you to support an evangelist, or a missionary, or some other ministry in addition to your local church. And he will baless you; but not necessarily financially. Besides, we don’t give in order to get. That’s not God’s plan.

Yes, there are biblical principles that should guide how we handle ALL of our resources, including money. But please, don’t fall for the lies of those who proclaim a prosperity gospel. Too many people are sending their resources, resources that they need, to charlatans who promise things that are nowhere in the Bible.

Sadly, these charlatans bear no resemblance to the local church. Most churches are small, and most pastors have a very small income. And the homes most pastors live in are quite modest, especially if provided by the church. Many pastors are working two or three jobs. So please, support your local church, and your pastor, first.

If God has blessed you financially, and is asking you to support anther ministry, then by all means, be obedient. There are many legitimate ministries who are serving people.

The Christian’s Relationship to Government

/ CD Hamman / Leave a comment

A society without government is anarchy. There is no law, everyone is free to do as he or she sees fit. In such a society no one is safe. The stronger are free to take what they want from the weaker. If you have something that I want, I am free to take it from you. Of course you are free to try to prevent me from taking it, but, the golden rule in such a society is do unto others before they do unto you. So, God, in His wisdom, set up a system of authority. The family unit is the most basic system of authority. Of course societies are made up of many family units. And whether by geography, ethnicity, or beliefs, these family units have become grouped into clans, people groups, and eventually nations. And every step of the way a system of authority and rule has been set up.

We frequently hear people demanding their rights. And, especially here in the United States, we are a nation that has prided itself on individual rights. To be sure, our nation has committed it’s share of sins throughout our history, and those should be acknowledged, repented of, and lessons learned. And then we look to the future.

In his address to congress on January 8, 1790, President George Washington said “Knowledge is in every Country the surest basis of public happiness. In one, in which the measures of Government recieve (sic) their impression so immediately from the sense of the Community as in our’s, it is proportionably essential. To the security of a free Constitution it contributes in various ways: By convincing those, who are entrusted with the public administration, that every valuable end of Government is best answered by the enlightened confidence of the people: And by teaching the people themselves to know and to value their own rights; to discern and provide against invasions of them; to distinguish between oppression and the necessary exercise of lawful authority; between burthens proceeding from a disregard to their convenience and those resulting from the inevitable exigencies of Society; to discriminate the spirit of liberty from that of licentiousness, cherishing the first, avoiding the last, and uniting a speedy, but temperate vigilence against encroachments, with an inviolable respect to the laws.” -George Washington, to the United States Senate and House of Representative, 8 January 1790 (https://founders.archives.gov/docu…/Washington/05-04-02-0361)

I want to focus on our relationship to government. I think that this can be applied no matter where you live, but of course, my only real experience is living here, in the United States. I keep seeing, and hearing people demand their rights. We have people who take a camera, or their phone, and they literally go looking for a fight with government officials. They may call themselves First Amendment, or Second Amendment, Auditors. They go out with the intent to draw attention to themselves, and demand their right to do say what they want, or to carry any firearm how they want and where they want. And then they cry “That’s not fair” when they are targeted as being suspicious. But then they will also probably be the first ones who will wonder how something bad happened, why someone didn’t say anything when someone else actually commits a heinous crime. Of course this happens with many political and social issues. People are so focused on their rights, that they have forgotten about their own duty to be responsible. We are witnessing in our society an attitude of I want my rights, but I don’t care about my responsibilities.
The Bottom Line: Demanding the free exercise of our rights also demands that we exercise our responsibilities.

Romans 13:1-7 (NLT)
Respect for Authority
Everyone must submit to governing authorities. For all authority comes from God, and those in positions of authority have been placed there by God. So anyone who rebels against authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and they will be punished. For the authorities do not strike fear in people who are doing right, but in those who are doing wrong. Would you like to live without fear of the authorities? Do what is right, and they will honor you. The authorities are God’s servants, sent for your good. But if you are doing wrong, of course you should be afraid, for they have the power to punish you. They are God’s servants, sent for the very purpose of punishing those who do what is wrong. So you must submit to them, not only to avoid punishment, but also to keep a clear conscience. Pay your taxes, too, for these same reasons. For government workers need to be paid. They are serving God in what they do. Give to everyone what you owe them: Pay your taxes and government fees to those who collect them, and give respect and honor to those who are in authority.

We have a duty to submit to government authority
It seems that it has become common today to disrespect authority. We see it far too often: people who refuse to obey anyone in authority. Children who disrespect teachers, adults who refuse to respect government, government officials who refuse to respect the law. If you want examples, just watch the evening news. Or check out some of the videos you find on facebook, and youtube. But this is certainly not how we, who proclaim to be followers of Jesus Christ, are to behave. Indeed, Paul admonishes us, in no uncertain terms to submit to government authority. In fact, by refusing to be obedient to authority, we are in fact refusing to obey God. Paul makes this quite clear in verse 2. Rebelling against authority is rebelling against God.

Now please, do not misunderstand me. There certainly is nothing wrong with the people holding their government officials accountable. But we are responsible to do so in a way that honors God.

Government officials are to be God’s servants for the good of those governed
This point is directed at government officials, as well as to “we the people.” We have a system of government in order to avoid the lawlessness of anarchy. Every nation has a government that is in place to protect their citizens, and all who reside within their borders, from lawlessness. If I am doing what is right, and behaving in a manner that does not harm others, or my country, then I can reasonably expect that, for the most part, the government will not bother me.
But, if I choose to behave in a manner that may be harmful to others, if I decide to ignore the law, then I can reasonably expect to be punished. It is the government’s job to punish those who do evil. So we are commanded to be obedient, not simply to avoid punishment, but also to keep a clean conscience.

Government officials deserve their pay
We hate to pay taxes, don’t we. In fact some people hate paying taxes so much that they make it their mission to find ways to cheat the government. We get our first job, and we’re excited for that first check, and when we get it, right away we realize that something isn’t right. Some of our money is missing. And as we examine or check stub closely, we see that some of our money has gone to the state, and the federal government got its cut too. In some places, the city gets a share directly out of your paycheck. Well, don’t government officials deserve to be paid for their work, too. Now look, this isn’t about debating how much we should be paying in taxes; I am simply pointing out, as Paul does, in verses 6 and 7, that government workers deserve to be compensated for their work.

However, Paul isn’t referring only to paying our taxes and fees. He goes a step further, and also tells us that we are responsible to pay honor and respect to those who are in authority. Now, I know what you’re thinking, “Quick, someone needs to point this verse out to many of our government leaders.” And, I agree with you. So many of them seem to be more focused on tearing down each other, and anyone who doesn’t agree with them, that they are not getting anything accomplished. But, before I go there, I need to ask you, what is YOUR attitude toward those in government positions? Wait; I need to ask myself that same question: “What is MY attitude toward our government leaders, and workers?” Do I show respect to those in authority. Do I behave in a way that, if they are not already a Christ follower, would make them want to be one, or at least gives them reason to respect me? Or am I a Christian in name only?

Maybe, just maybe, there is a reason that our government, and our society, seems to be so out of control. When was the last time that you complained about government workers, and government leaders. Now, when was the last time that you prayed for them? Just maybe, we bear some of the responsibility for some of the problems. Lets look at 1 Timothy for just a minute.

N1 Timothy 2:1-3 (NLT)
Instructions about Worship
I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them. Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity. This is good and pleases God our Savior,

We are to pray for our government officials
I like how the NLT titles this section: Instructions about worship. Too often, we think of worship as what we are doing right now. It’s just for Sunday morning. We come to church, sing a few songs, say a prayer or two, and listen to a preacher say something that is hopefully inspirational. And if we are really lucky, the message lets us feel good about ourselves. But that is not worship.

Worship is not just about going to church, and playing a part. Worship is a lifestyle. And a part of that lifestyle is praying for others. Interceding, speaking with God, on their behalf, including government workers, and officials; maybe ESPECIALLY, them. Why? So that we can live peaceful lives, that display godliness, and dignity. I love the way the NIV says it best. Instead of dignity it uses the word holiness. We pray for others, and especially our government so that we can live lives that are marked by godliness, and HOLINESS.

Bottom Line: We do have rights, however, being free to exercise those rights demands that we recognize, and honor, our responsibilities.

Faithful Daddies Lead by Example

/ CD Hamman / Leave a comment

Sermon for Fathers Day 2019

Ephesians 6:4, Colossians 3:21, 1 Corinthians 4:2-4

Before I dig in, I feel like I need to start by acknowledging that not everyone has, or had, a good father, or father figure, for many different reasons. Sadly, this is the result of a fallen, sinful world. To those who did not have a good example of a Godly father, I want to encourage you. Psalm 68 4-6 tells us that God is the father to the fatherless. And that He places the lonely in families. Seek His heart. Because I also want to challenge you men to be ready to be fathers to your own children, or to fill that role for someone who needs you to be that father.

As I address fathers today, I am not talking to only those men who have had children by blood or adoption. I am talking to anyone who fills that role of a father figure: Dads, Step-Dads, foster Dads, Grand-Dads, Uncles, and any man who has stepped up and mentored children or young adults. You see, I know first hand how important these men are, when Dad can’t be there.

Men, we have a job to do. And it is NOT for the faint of heart. We are instructed to raise our children, to disciple them, in the ways of God. In the passages in Ephesians and Colassians we readily read that wives are to obey their husbands, and we have no problem reminding our children that God wants them to obey their parents. But, for some reason we want to ignore those verses after those others. You know, the verse that tells husbands to love their wives as Christ loved the Church, and then the one that tells us dads not to provoke, exasperate, or discourage our children.

Why do I mention husbands loving your wives? Because that is part of teaching our children. How we men treat the lady we have promised to love sets the standard. We teach our sons how they are to treat a lady by how we treat our wives, or girlfriend (in the case of single dads), and our mothers. By this we also teach our daughters how they should expect to be treated by a guy.

Finally, we must set the standard in our walk with God. Men, do we know Jesus, or do we only know of Him? Have we met the LIVING Christ, the Saviour? Or have we just heard of Him, but think eh, he was a good teacher? Are we faithful in our commitment to God, and to our relationship with Christ? Do we obey when the Holy Spirit speaks, or do we insist on our own way? Do your children see or hear you pray? Do you ever pray with your children. Do they see you pray with your wife? Guys, if you’re single and dating, do you pray with your girlfriend? Are you setting the standard for your children? Do our children find us faithful?

Dads, please allow me speak to one more thing. We have all failed at times. Some worse than others. At least that is often how we see it through our human eyes. And we often find it easier to ask for forgiveness from God, and maybe even our children. We may even have forgiven our fathers for their mistakes and shortcomings. But, we have refused to forgive ourselves. It’s time to forgive. Whether it’s a hurt from your own father, or another father figure, or if it is yourself, it is time to forgive. Forgiving doesn’t mean that the wrong was ok. But it does mean that you are letting go. Letting go of the hurt, and the pain, and you are releasing whatever the wrong was to God, so that He can dispose of it. And when satan tries to remind you, and he will, because he is like a crooked attorney, but when he does, remind him that the Judge, the Chief executive has pardoned you, and that you have asked, and allowed Him to pardon the wrongs done to you. It is the only way to be free. And it is yet another way that we set the standard for our children.

If you don’t already know my Jesus, I invite you to let me introduce you to Him.

We Remember

/ CD Hamman / Leave a comment

Twenty four years ago today I, along with everyone in the Oklahoma City metro area, was awakened by the sound of a bomb blast. I lived in Bethany at the time; I’d guess about seven to nine miles away (as the crow flies) from the Murrah Federal building. Of course there are others who lived even further away who also heard and felt the blast.

Twenty-four years ago, April 19 came three days after Easter. Three days after we celebrated the resurrection of Jesus Christ. This year, April 19 falls on what we term Good Friday.

Today, we remember the victims, and their families, of that act of home grown terrorism. Today, we also remember that nearly 2000 years ago Jesus Christ died on a cross to pay the penalty for the sins of all mankind. And we may ask ourselves, in light of the tragedies that we remember today, how can we call this “Good?”

We call today “Good Friday” because by His death on the cross, Jesus Christ, the Messiah, paid the price for sin. Just as He took Barabbas’ place on the cross, he took YOUR place on the cross. He took MY place on the cross.

We mourn for those we have lost. And we, as those first disciples, weep at the death of our Savior. We remember them. How will we honor them?

Though the night may be long, we also remember “It’s Friday, but Sunday’s coming.”

Barabbas

/ CD Hamman / Leave a comment

I preached this sermon today.

In Matthew 21 we read about Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem. The crowds spread palm branches, and their coats, on the road in front of Him. They shouted, “HOSANNA! HOSANNA! Blessed is the King who comes in the Name of the Lord!” The week is off to a great start.

But, as we know today, the religious leaders, Sadducees and Pharisees, hated Jesus, and had been looking for some way to get rid of Him, even murder. And Judas just happens to come along and offers to betray Jesus.

Let’s fast forward to Jesus standing before Pilate.

During Passover the governor always freed a prisoner chosen by the people. At that time a well-known terrorist named Jesus Barabbas was in jail. So when the crowd came together, Pilate asked them, “Which prisoner do you want me to set free? Do you want Jesus Barabbas or Jesus who is called the Messiah?” Pilate knew that the leaders had brought Jesus to him because they were jealous. While Pilate was judging the case, his wife sent him a message. It said, “Don’t have anything to do with that innocent man. I have had nightmares because of him.”
But the chief priests and the leaders convinced the crowds to ask for Barabbas to be set free and for Jesus to be killed. Pilate asked the crowd again, “Which of these two men do you want me to set free?”
“Barabbas!” they replied.
Pilate asked them, “What am I to do with Jesus, who is called the Messiah?”
They all yelled, “Nail him to a cross!”
Pilate answered, “But what crime has he done?”
“Nail him to a cross!” they yelled even louder.
Pilate saw that there was nothing he could do and that the people were starting to riot. So he took some water and washed his hands in front of them and said, “I won’t have anything to do with killing this man. You are the ones doing it!”
Everyone answered, “We and our own families will take the blame for his death!”
Pilate set Barabbas free. Then he ordered his soldiers to beat Jesus with a whip and nail him to a cross. Matthew 27:15-26 (CEV)

Now, Pilate was not stupid. It was obvious to him that the Jewish leaders were trying to kill an innocent man. So he tried to give the people an out. But the Jewish leaders, when offered Barabbas, they knew exactly what they were doing as they stirred up the crowd. Jesus was actually a common name at the name. Barabbas was no more a proper surname than Christ was. So the choice given to the people was “Jesus, called ‘Son of the Father,’” or “Jesus, called ‘the Messiah.’” We know that ultimately Barabbas was released, and The Messiah took his place on the cross.

We don’t know read anymore of Barabbas, after he was released. And we are left to wonder what happened to him? Did he stick around, and watch from a distance? Did he wonder why he was being set free? Did he ever realize the significance of Jesus, the Messiah, taking his place on the cross?

What was the significance of Barabbas, in the account of the crucifixion?

1) Barabbas represents evil.
The people were given a choice between the evil of Barabbas, and the goodness of the Messiah. They chose evil over good.

Which son of the Father will we choose to be like? The fake, who is a son of the Father in name only? Or the real Messiah, who does the will of the Father, even knowing that it would lead to an agonizing, brutal death?

2) Barabbas represents each one of us.
Barabbas was guilty of murder. He was a criminal who had been sentenced to death. We are guilty of sin. Our sin condemns us to death (Genesis 3:17-19, 22-24).

3) Christ took Barabbas’ place on the cross.
There were three men sentenced to die. It would appear that the plans for a triple execution had already begun. Why not simply add a fourth cross? I don’t believe that the crucifixion would have the same meaning in that case. By Jesus, the Messiah, taking the place of Barabbas, it shows that He died in place of, Barabbas. He died for Barabbas.

What did Barabbas do? I’ll ask it again, “Did Barabbas ever realize the significance of the Messiah taking his place on the cross that day?” What did Barabbas do with his undeserved pardon?

4) Christ took MY place on the cross.
More than just taking the place of Barabbas, Jesus Christ took your place on that cross. He took MY place on that cross. He died for you. He died for me. He paid the penalty for my sin. Say it with me: “Jesus died for MY sin.”
Do YOU understand the significance of Jesus, the Messiah, the Son of God, dying in your place; taking YOUR place in death?

What will YOU do with Your pardon?

Forgive me for being ungrateful

/ CD Hamman / Leave a comment

As I reflect on today I realize how ungrateful I can be sometimes. I woke up, and forgot to be thankful; until I found out one of our drivers didn’t wake up this morning. I didn’t know Ken personally. But I knew him through our company Facebook page. From his posts, and comments made by other drivers, and corporate employees, I have to say he was a great man, and he will be greatly missed. My prayers, and deepest condolences to Ken’s family and friends. May God comfort them, and give them peace.

Later on I found myself complaining about my back, and about the things that I can’t do right now. Suddenly, I remembered that the accident that injured my back could have been so much worse, and caused so much more damage. And I also realized that my body is healing. I’m just healing slower than I would like. But, Praise the Lord, I AM healing, and making progress.

In addition, I am still useful, and productive. Yes, there are activities that I hope to be able to do again. And I know that I will. I have to continue to let my body heal, at God’s pace, not mine.

So before I fall asleep tonight, I must give thanks to my Heavenly Father, who created me, and reminds me that I am fearfully and wonderfully made. The human body, and the mind, is a delicate balance between strength and fragility. Lord, thank you. Thank for the healing. Thank you for the pain than let’s me know that I’m alive, as well as let’s me know that I am healing. Please forgive me for being ungrateful. Please provide comfort and peace to the families and friends of those the world has lost, today.

Pardoned

/ CD Hamman / 1 Comment

About a week ago I found out that the governor had granted my request for a pardon. I had thought about what I might say if the day ever came, and now, I’m not sure what to say, other than “Thank you.” Thank you, God. Thank you, Governor Stitt. And there’s so many other people to thank, the members of the Pardon and Parole Board, my family, especially my children and my parents, my attorney, Michael Risely, my pastor, all those who have prayed for me, and for my kids over the last almost 17 years, and so many more people who took a chance on me and believed in me.
Even as I find myself thinking about dreams that I dared not even hope for, it still doesn’t quite seem real. I keep checking to make it’s real. And I’m brought to tears.
I think I have a tiny bit more understanding of what it means to be forgiven by God. The most emotional and important part of the certificate of pardon, for me, is the sentence that ends with the phrase, “…do hereby grant Carl D. Hamman a full pardon to restore unto him all the rights of citizenship.” If God were to hand us a certificate of pardon, it might read, “…do hereby grant Carl D. Hamman a full pardon to restore unto him all the rights of citizenship, and a son.” In both cases, I have an obligation to strive to be a good citizen. God commands it.
There are a few things that had to take place before I could receive a pardon. First, of course, is I had to be convicted. I had to serve my sentence. I had to accept my guilt. I also had to not commit any other crimes, both while completing my sentence, and after my sentence was complete. Finally, I had to ask for a pardon, following the proscribed procedure. Then wait.
Of course God does not make us wait for His pardon. The Holy Spirit convicts us. But, He doesn’t require that we first serve our sentence. Jesus Christ already served our sentence on the cross. But, we do have to accept our guilt, and confess our sins, and repent. God grants immediate forgiveness, without making us prove ourselves first. By the way, true repentance means we stop sinning.
As I contemplate what will I do with my new life, post pardon, I am reminded that we all have to answer that same question with God. What will I do with my new life in Christ?
What will you do with yours? Are you ready to receive your pardon?

Christmas thoughts

/ CD Hamman / Leave a comment

I was watching a rerun of Night Court yesterday. At the end of the episode judge Harry Stone is standing in his courtroom looking at a cross. He was talking to the Lord, and asking questions. Finally, he asked the toughest, yet easiest, question: Does man have the capacity to rid himself of his own evil?

It’s a tough question because to even ask it requires that we first recognize that we even are capable of evil. And, frankly, in spite of all the evidence, none of us wants to admit that. It’s also the easiest question to answer, because the answer is, sadly a resounding NO, we do not.

But, all is not lost. You see, that is exactly why Christ was born. He was born to show us the way, and to pay the price. He was born to die, so that we might be reconciled to the Father, who created us. So, although we do not have the capacity within ourselves to rid ourselves from evil, we have a loving God, who gave His son who paid the price for our sin. He also defeated death, and gives us His Holy Spirit, who works within us to remove that evil that infects us.

In other words, Jesus Christ is the greatest gift the world has ever received.

Isaiah 9:6 (ESV)
For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

John 3:16-17 (ESV)
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.”

Two thoughts

/ CD Hamman / Leave a comment

Just two thoughts, God. Thank you, and why. Thank you for keeping me alive, and more importantly, for protecting all those people around me. But also, why? And yet, among those two thoughts spring a host of other thoughts, and fears.

Please, give me some answers, some wisdom, and some insight. And while you’re at it, healing, please.

Thanksgiving 2018

/ CD Hamman / Leave a comment

As I contemplate Thanksgiving this year, I wonder what I’m thankful for. To be completely honest, it is so much easier to see the struggles, and disappointments, and all that has gone wrong, that I sometimes, ok, make that often times, struggle to be thankful. But one thing I am thankful for is a loving, generous God. In spite of my shortcomings, my doubts, my failures, my arguing, and my questions He hasn’t given up on me.

He still talks to me. The Holy Spirit continues to remind me that I am a child of the Most High God. The one and only Sovereign God, who created the universe, and who knit me in my mother’s womb.

The Son, Jesus Christ, paid the price for all of my sins. All of my sins, failures, and shortcomings are covered by the blood. By His blood. And because He paid the price, then rose from the dead, and because I have accepted Christ as Lord and Savior, I know that I have eternal life in Him. I know that even when I screw up, and fail, that I can come to Him, repent, and He’ll pick me up.

God doesn’t give up on His children. And for that I am truly thankful.

Let’s Roll

/ CD Hamman / Leave a comment

As I drove yesterday, September, 11, I noticed that along most of my drive through Illinois, on I-64, most overpasses had police, fire, EMS and others standing, and waving flags. And what kept repeating, over and over, through my head was the phrase “Let’s roll.” The following is just some of the random thoughts I had, as this phrase repeated over, and over, and over in my head.

“Let’s Roll.” These are some of the final words uttered by Todd Beamer, on flight 93, as he and other passengers decided that they were going to take action against terrorists who had hijacked their plane, and who had plans of attacking our nation, just as three other planes had already done that day, 17 years ago.

“Let’s roll.” Probably means something a little different to each person. To me, it means the time for talk, debate, and planning is over. It’s now time to act. In my job as a truck driver, it means I’ve done my pre-trip, planned my route, and it is now time to roll out, and get to my destination.

I’m amazed, and saddened, at how divided our country has become over the last 17 years. Though, to be honest, it’s been happening a lot longer. Our politicians and our news media give sound bites. They keep talking about what should be done, but they fail to actually do anything.

Let’s take immigration as an example. For the past 40 years our elected officials in both major political parties have given a lot of lip service to tell us something needs to be done. But that’s all they do, is pay lip service.

Of course immigration isn’t the only issue they do this with. But it’s the one I’m going to take on right now. You see, I can’t help but wonder if, just maybe, we had done our due diligence, and actually checked out the individuals who carried out the attacks, if maybe they might have been noticed, and stopped before they actually entered the country. You see, every nation wants to know the background of anyone entering their country.

Yet we have people here who think we should just open our borders and let people come on in. However, on the flip side, we also have people who think everyone should be stopped, and turned away, or treated as criminals.

I really don’t like either option. Yet our elected officials are too busy arguing for their own way that they refuse to see a middle option. An option that demands that those who wish to come into our country are welcome and able to do so, while also requiring that they pass a background check. That children are verified to actually be with family members, to help ensure their safety.

There should be an option for those who are already here, even if they didn’t come in the right way, to turn themselves in, plead guilty to a misdemeanor, pay a fine, and obtain legal status.

For those who have been brought in as children, and who have grown up here, this is their home. This is their culture. They should be permitted to have a path to becoming citizens.

Finally, the laws need to be changed to encourage people to come in legally. It should not take 20 years for an application for residency to be approved, yet the reality is just that. There is no excuse in this day of information being instantly accessible for this.

It is past time for Congress to shut up, and do their jobs.

There are obviously so many other issues that our government needs to address. Yet to be honest, I wonder if it also isn’t up to us to address some of them ourselves

Minimum wage. You know what, I’ve survived working for minimum wage. I also busted my butt to get something better. In other words, if your tired of being broke, then figure out what you need to change.

You don’t like the people who were elected? Get registered and actually do your research and get out and vote.

Read, and learn what our constitution says. Do some research and find out exactly why the founding fathers set up our government, and our system of electing the president, like they did.

Worried about those who are homeless, and poor? Stop saying the government should do something, and reach out and give of yourself.

Worried about violence, or your safety? Do something to take responsibility for your safety, as well as your family’s.

In other words, regardless of the issue, stop the lip service. Do the research, do you due diligence, and get busy.

You want our nation united? Do something to reach out to your neighbor, even if you disagree with him or her on a few things.

Immigration, homosexuality, abortion, race relations, police relations, and whatever else, these are issues. But affected by those issues are individuals: neighbors, family members, friends, co-workers.

Pray for our leaders, neighbors, co-workers, families, friends, and even our enemies.

The time to talk, and debate has to stop sometime. At some point, it’s time to take action. We can disagree, and still love each other. If we learn to move toward each other, I’m willing to bet that we can safely find our way to middle ground. But, we have to take the first step. Are you ready to roll?

Where would Jesus be?

/ CD Hamman / Leave a comment

What would you think if you saw me in a bar? What is the first thing that would come to your mind? Would you assume I was drinking? What if you later saw me preaching? Or, flip the script, if you saw me preaching first, then later saw me in a bar? Would your opinion of me change?

These questions came to me last weekend as I was sitting in the hotel bar enjoying conversation, and fun with my coworkers and teammates. Then that question from the 90’s came to mind, “What Would Jesus Do?” WWJD. As I thought about it, I changed it to WWJB, and started wondering, “Where Would Jesus Be?”

Where would He be? Where would He have us be? Please, don’t misunderstand me, I am big on attending church and worship services. But that’s where we are supposed to be getting fed, so that we can then take Jesus to the world. We need to push away from the table sometimes, and get out in the fields.

So then I started wondering, have I been an ambassador of Christ this week? I try not to make a big deal about being a Christian, or a minister. Why? Because I fail so bad, so often. But I still try to live, behave, and talk so that others may see Jesus in me. But even through my failures, He works.

So I hope that my coworkers and my teammates, and all those I came in contact with last week saw at least a glimpse of the Savior in me. I pray that I at least planted a seed, or watered it. And I pray that I never just assume the worst about any person I see in a bar, on the street, in prison, or anywhere else that we deem off limits for Christians. I’m not suggesting that Jesus would patronize a strip club. But, would He go into one to save someone who needs Him, and to bring them out?

Jesus was often judged by the religious leaders because He tended to hang out with “sinners.” Well, how are we going to reach them if we don’t spend some time with them. We need to leave our comfort zones.

Just something to think about.

And, just in case you’re wondering, don’t worry, I was only drinking ginger ale.

It’s not about Beer and Barbecue…

/ CD Hamman / Leave a comment

Today is Memorial Day, the last day of a three day weekend. For far too many people this holiday weekend seems to be all about beer and barbecue, and beach. It marks the beginning of summer.
But this day should not pass without a moment of solemn reflection on it’s true purpose. There should be a sense of awe and reverence, honor and respect. Today is meant to honor those who gave their lives in service to our nation. They so loved and cherished the ideals espoused in our Declaration of Independence, and in our Constitution, that they put themselves in harms way. And they paid the ultimate price.
So I ask that as you enjoy the barbecues, and the beach today, please also take a moment to remember, and honor those who have given their lives to give us our freedoms, and to protect them.
God bless the United States of America.

I’m Not Worthy, but by God’s grace

/ CD Hamman / 1 Comment

Today I led my church in communion. I have been assisting my pastor with serving communion for some time. But today, he asked me to take the lead. I don’t think this is unusual, as my pastor is helping me as I continue to prepare for ministry. But today, I suddenly identified a little bit with Martin Luther.

When Martin Luther preached his first mass he hesitated during the consecration of the elements. He believed in the very real presence of Christ in the bread and wine. He suddenly felt like he was a weak and unworthy sinner, and therefore he was unworthy to be holding the Lord in his hands.

After we served the elements, I stood before the congregation, holding the bread in one hand, and the wine (well, the juice in our tradition) in the other. I know almost by heart how it is supposed to go. I have taken communion many times through out my life. I have rehearsed what I’m supposed to say, from the admonition to not partake unworthily to the words of Christ, “… do this in remembrance of me.” But today, my mind went blank, and I froze. As I stood before the congregation, holding the elements, all I could think was, “My God. I am not worthy to do this.” Like Martin Luther, I managed to finish celebrating the Lord’s Supper, my words jumbled, my heart pounding. But, I got through it, by God’s grace.

That’s really it. It’s all by God’s grace. We celebrate the Lord’s Supper, or communion, to remember the sacrifice that Christ made on the cross. Without the cross, and the resurrection no one is worthy.

Nothing I do or say makes me worthy. I am only made worthy by accepting His grace and forgiveness. Christ gave so much, and he asks for so little, simply my absolute surrender.

Are you ready to surrender all to Jesus today, and to accept His grace?

Evangelism Requires Neighboring

/ CD Hamman / Leave a comment

Picture it, 2017, Anytown, USA. Jesus is teaching the crowd, and suddenly a religion professor interrupts, asking, “Lord, how can I be certain I’m going to heaven?” Jesus replies, “You have read the Scriptures and what do they teach?” The professor replied, “Of course. Love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind, and strength. You must also love your neighbor.” Jesus says, “That is correct.” Trying to justify himself, the professor replies, “Well, exactly who is my neighbor?”
Jesus replies, “There was a man who decided to take a trip. As he was driving through downtown he was carjacked, beaten, stripped, and left for dead in the gutter; as a lay pastor stood just out of sight recording the incident on his phone. Shortly afterward, a local pastor happened by on his way home to get ready for board meeting. He saw the man, shook his head and muttered “These people just never learn. Drugs and alcohol aren’t the answer,” and he hurried on his way so he wouldn’t be late for his meeting.

After some time, a Sunday school teacher passed by on her way to a Sunday school party. Upon seeing the man’s condition, and lack of clothing, she became indignant, complained, “Well. I’ve never seen such a vulgar sight,” and she quickly turned onto a side street, and continued on her way.

Eventually, a gay atheist, who was also an undocumented immigrant, passed by on his way to a protest march in Washington, DC. Upon seeing the victim lying in the gutter the man stopped his car, got out and called 911. While waiting for EMS, the man took the dress shirt he was wearing and used it to fashion bandages and began to bandage the victim’s wounds. When EMS arrived, the man followed them to the hospital, and made sure the victim was being well cared for before continuing his own journey.”

Jesus then asked the crowd, “Which person was a neighbor to the man who was carjacked?” The religion professor replied, “The man who stopped to help.” Jesus said, “Now, go, and be a neighbor.”

Luke 10:29-37

We’re all probably familiar with the State Farm jingle. State Farm: Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there. It implies that for their customers, no matter what happens, State Farm has your back.

So What: Neighboring requires action.

This parable ends in much the same way that Jesus ends the Great Commission (found in Matthew 28 and Mark 16); Jesus gives the commands to “Go,” and “Do.” There is a saying that “Talk is cheap.” We can talk all day long about how much Jesus loves us, and how much we love Jesus. We can’t really reach others until we SHOW them Jesus.

A neighbor is willing to be inconvenienced.

We Christians often come down pretty harsh on the priest and the Levite in this parable. What most of us don’t understand, however, is that in order to serve in the temple, the priests and Levites were to remain ceremonially clean. According to Levitical law, if they became unclean, then they had to go through a process to become ceremonially clean again. This was often a time consuming process, and until they were again ceremonially clean they were forbidden from serving in the temple. This meant that they also received no pay during this time. They were certainly mindful of their duty to love God. And they may have even had pity on the man. But to actually try to help him may have greatly inconvenienced them.

Simply having pity on people does nothing to show them the love of the Savior. We have to serve in the moment. Often times that is all we can do. Carpe diem, seize the day. We need to seize the moment. We may not see any immediate results, or even have an opportunity to verbally witness. But by serving in the moment, we share Jesus.

If someone asks for prayer, it is easy to say “I’ll pray for you.” But how often do we really remember to do so? How about next time, instead of simply saying that you will pray for someone, actually take a moment to stop and pray. Even if they are not physically there, you can pray with them in that moment.

A neighbor is willing to cross cultural boundaries.

If Jesus actually did tell the parable today, who might He use in place instead of the Samaritan? Maybe an atheist, or a homosexual, or an undocumented immigrant, like in my modernized version? What about a prostitute, or a convicted felon, or maybe a homeless person? Maybe even a Muslim? The point isn’t necessarily who Jesus showed as the good neighbor. The point is that being a neighbor requires us to step outside of our nice neat comfort zones. We have to be willing to reach out to those who do not look like us, or think like us. Maybe they don’t even act like us.

It was a shock for Jesus’ listeners to hear a Samaritan be made to be the good guy. Samaritans and Jews hated each other. They did some truly awful things to each other, all in the name of “serving God.” We do the same thing today. We pass judgment on individuals and groups because they are not like us. I know homosexuals and atheists who are extremely generous people. And they would help anyone in need, no questions asked. Sadly, I also know people who claim to be be Christians who are so busy passing judgement on others that they miss opportunities to share Jesus.

The Samaritan didn’t ask the victim if he was a Samaritan or a Jew. He simply met the immediate need of a fellow human being. Likewise, in my modernized retelling, the good neighbor didn’t concern himself with the victim’s beliefs or ideology. He served in the moment. Jesus Himself is our example here. He met people’s needs in the moment. He crossed cultural boundaries, with the Samaritan woman at the well (Luke 4), and the Canaanite woman’s daughter he healed (Matthew 15), and healing the centurion’s servant (Luke 7).

So What: Witnessing and neighboring require action.

We have to be good neighbors if we want to be good witnesses.

The Best Christmas Gift Ever

/ CD Hamman / Leave a comment

For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him. (John 3:16-17, NLT)

What is the best Christmas gift you ever received? Two of my favorites were a puppy and a train set. Sometimes we take for granted the practical gifts that we receive. For example, when I was a boy, often my gifts would include sox, or clothes. Really?! That’s supposed to be a Christmas gift? Well, yes. But often, especially as children we just want the flashy toys, the cool things, the dolls that really drink and potty. Or we want the latest in technology. We don’t appreciate the importance of the practical gifts; the things that we need.

We don’t always realize it, but the biggest need we have is our need for a Savior. Ever since Adam & Eve sinned in the Garden, humans were cut off from the fellowship with God that we were created for. Animal sacrifices were only a temporary solution. Hebrews 10, we read that animal sacrifices didn’t provide perfect cleansing from sin; they had to be repeated over and over again. But God had a plan. He was waiting for the right time to send His special gift. In His time, He sent us his only son, Jesus.  But, Jesus birth was only the beginning of the story. We must remember Jesus’ death on the cross. By His blood we are cleansed from sin. As our high priest, Jesus offered himself as the final perfect sacrifice.

The story, and the gift, doesn’t stop there. Through His resurrection we have eternal life. We need all three pieces of God’s gift. By Jesus’ birth, God came down and took on the form of man, and lived as a perfect human, setting us an example. And it is by HIS death and blood that our sins are forgiven, once and for all. And His resurrection, and the empty tomb, testifies to our hope of eternal live with God.

 That, in a nutshell, is the Gospel, and the absolute best gift ever.