Category: Journal

The Fire may Appear to be Out, But Beware Smoldering Embers

/ CD Hamman / Leave a comment

About 8 months ago, I had to make the painful decision to mostly step back from ministry for a time. Something just wasn’t right. I felt burned out, and knew that my relationship with Christ was severely lacking. I was so busy trying to do ministry, work full-time, and take care of a bunch of little things that I had neglected my “Jesus time.”

Someone pointed out to me that I had lost my fire. As much as that hurt to hear, I already knew it was true. I started trying harder to prove to myself, and others, that I want giving up. The more I tried the worse it got. Finally, the even more painful realization was that I had lost my confidence. And I started to wonder if I really had heard God’s call to preach. Or worse, had He given up on me? I was starting to give up on myself, so I totally understood if God gave up on me, especially after failing so much.

Through a few people, God has reaffirmed His call. He has made it clear that He has not given up on me. A few weeks ago, God reminded me that although the fire may appear to be out, the embers are still smoldering. My fire may be out, but the embers are still smoldering.

As I have pondered this realization, I was reminded of the fire triangle. The basic elements for a fire are oxygen, fuel, and heat. I think the fire tetrahedron (oxygen, heat, fuel, chemical chain reaction) is most taught today to firefighters. I render learning both as a volunteer firefighter, a long time ago. In any event, remove any one of those elements and the fire dies. We’ve all observed this when watching a bonfire, a charcoal grill, or a fireplace. As the fire begins to burn out we add more fuel to keep it going. If we want it to go out, we stop adding fuel, and may even pour water to cool the smoldering embers.

Under the correct conditions the smoldering embers will do one of three things:

1) They can be completely extinguished, and the fire is completely done. There is no risk of spontaneous combustion.

2) More fuel can be added, along with oxygen, and the fire grows.

3) Finally, this one every firefighter dreads. If conditions are right, and the smoldering embers are inside a tightly closed and unventilated building, if oxygen is suddenly introduced, the smoldering embers, combined with the fresh abundance of oxygen can become what is known as a backdraft.

These are very basic explanations. I don’t know if they would let me pass the test today, but it’s been 30 plus years since my training.

I’m not sure if I’m smoldering for lack of fuel or lack of oxygen. What I do know is that I’m still smoldering. But I’m adding fuel. I’m spending more time with God. He hasn’t given up on me. He hasn’t released me from His call. But for now, I have to focus more on my relationship with Him. I have to be prepared to experience either a backdraft or to simply have the fire reignite.

Thoughts and Prayers…

/ CD Hamman / Leave a comment

Thoughts and prayers seems like so little. But I can’t go hug the families and friends of victims of the recent shootings. I wasn’t there to be able to try to stop the bad guys. My ability to actually be able to respond personally to these tragedies is limited. So yes, unfortunately, all I have to offer is prayer.

I pray for the survivors, for the families, the communities. I pray for God to provide comfort, strength, and healing. And although it feels like too little, too late, prayer is still more powerful than we know.
I wonder, have we who claim to be Christians forgotten the power of prayer? Have we become lax in our prayer lives. I’m preaching to myself right now, too.

We are told to pray without ceasing, yet the reality is that we turn to prayer only after something bad happens. If we truly desire a change in our communities, in our nation, in our churches, and in our lives, it begins and ends with prayer. To be sure, action will be required of us. But, we must also re-learn the apparently lost art of prayer. We must learn again to, in the words of an old Petra song, get on our knees and fight.

Prayer for election: Spiritual Warfare

/ CD Hamman / Leave a comment

We did something a little different today at church. All 4 members of our preaching team shared a short homily and prayer for the upcoming election. I started off with spiritual warfare. Click here to view today’s service. I share below what I shared this morning.

In Daniel 10, Daniel talks about being visited by a man who says that he started to come to Daniel when Daniel gadd started praying in regards to a vision he had. it took the man 3 weeks because he was blocked by the spirit prince of Persia. And he actually needed help from the archangel Michael, to complete his mission to get to Daniel. A little later he mentions the spirit prince of Greece. Ther implication is that these spirit princes are evil. I don’t think it’s far fetched to suggest that there is an evil spirit prince of the United States (or any other nation).

For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. (Ephesians 6:12 (NLT))

God’s first concern is not what’s going on in the White House. It’s what’s going on in HIS house. (Dr. Tony Evans)

The challenge we face isn’t about the depravity of the wicked. The great challenge we face is the indifference of the faithful. (Pastor Allen Jackson)

I share these two quotes to say this: The United States was founded as a Christian nation. We have been very blessed, even in spite of our sins and shortcomings. We use to recognize and honor God. But we have forgotten that. We are a nation in turmoil. President Reagan said, “If we ever forget that we are One Nation Under God, then we will be a nation gone under.” As I step back, and review history, especially the history of my lifetime, I fear we have forgotten that. We seldom, if ever, realize that we are in a spiritual battle. And there is only one way to fight, and win, spiritual battles; on our knees.

Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land. (2 Chronicles 7:14 (NLT))

Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere. (Ephesians 6:18 (NLT))

Church, it is OUR duty and responsibility to pray for our nation. We truly are under spiritual attack as a nation and as Christians, men and women of God we must begin to do battle together, on our knees, in prayer for our nation, for each other, and as Cheryl will talk about, for our government.

Father, we lift our nation in prayer today. As we vote this week, help us to vote with your principles and values in mind. And help us, as your people, continue to pray for our nation, and our neighbors. Help us to remember that ultimately, you have the final say, And that our hope is in you. Amen.

What Does it Mean to be a Sheepdog?

/ CD Hamman / Leave a comment

Lately, as I have become more concerned with protecting my church, and especially our people, I’ve been reaqcuainting myself with what it means to be a “sheepdog.” It’s often attributed with being a protector. And I’ve been contemplating this word today, and I wondered if it wasn’t more than just being a protector. So after I got parked I did a very quick search. I found that sheepdogs can be divided into two broad categories: Herding and Guardian. I also found that sheepdogs are often raised around the sheep so that a bond is created. The sheepdog guides the sheep according to the commands given by the shepherd.

Just my own simple observations, and thoughts. We often refer to pastors as shepherds. But maybe pastors should be referred to as sheepdogs. We already have a shepherd, Jesus Christ. Herding sheepdogs help shepherd to move the flock along, get them to go where they need to go. Guardian sheepdogs help to protect the flock from predators. Pastors serve their congregation in at least one of these roles.

As herders, pastors help to lead people to the Shepherd. They also help to lead them to where they can find spiritual food and drink. Pastors help guide people along the path of spiritual growth, and also provides admonishment when needed to help correct a wayward member to bring him or her back into the fold.

As guardians, pastors help to warn people of spiritual dangers. They may at times even be called on to do spiritual battle on behalf of someone.

Of course this idea of being a sheepdog certainly isn’t limited to pastors. I think as each of us grow in our faith, we will find ourselves called to help guide a fellow believer along. Or we may be called on to warn another of spiritual danger, to keep the wolves away.

I’ve spent much of my life learning to be a guardian sheepdog in a physical sense. Even as I continue to learn how to do that role, I realize that the most important part if being a sheepdog is the spiritual guidance and protection. And in any event, the only way to be an effective sheepdog is to be in obedience, and submission, to the Shepherd.

Jesus in the Wilderness

/ CD Hamman

Jesus in the Wilderness: A Time of Preparation & Testing

Matthew 4:1-11, Luke 4:1-13


Jesus had just been baptized by John the Baptist, the Holy Spirit descended on Him, and God declared that Jesus is His son, and He is pleased with Him. Then we read that the Holy Spirit led Jesus to the wilderness to be tempted. Jesus has a mission to begin. All missions require preparation.

Bottom Line: Am I prepared & ready?

Talk to any current military member, or veteran. Almost all will tell you that the 8 weeks they spent in basic training were some of the toughest weeks of their lives. In hindsight, they are thankful for the preparation, training in the tools and skills that they will need for their survival. However, they would not volunteer to do it again.

1) The wilderness is a time of preparation.

Almost every task requires preparation. Sending people into the wilderness to prepare them wasn’t exactly a new concept to God. Moses was in the wilderness tending sheep when God called him. God used the wilderness wanderings to prepare the Israelites to enter the Promised Land. And now, God was sending Jesus into the wilderness to prepare Him for His ministry.

Jesus didn’t just sit around, and wander aimlessly about. Jesus’ response to being sent in to the wilderness was to fast. Prayer, and meditating or studying the Scriptures is a large part of fasting. Of course Jesus didn’t have a cell phone handy, with a neat Bible app, and all the research tools that we often rely on. He likely didn’t even have any written copy, or portion, available to him during this time. He had to rely on His knowledge and previous studies to meditate on scripture.

Sometimes God sends us into the wilderness to prepare us for an upcoming ministry. Admittedly, sometimes we send ourselves, but I think our response should be the same. When we find ourselves wandering in the wilderness, we need to learn to fast and pray.

Fasting is a physical act of obedience, and physical obedience brings spiritual release. Think of Moses and the Israelites’ battle with the Amelakites. Moses was told to keep his hands raised. Lets not forget Esther’s response when Mordecai told her that she needed to talk to the king about Haman’s evil plot to destroy the Jews. She began with prayer and fasting. I would also point out that every great revival began with prayer and fasting.

2) Testing often comes during, as well as after, the preparation.

Mark barely spends two verses on this time. But, in 1:12-13, Mark tells us that, “The Spirit compelled Jesus to go into the wilderness, where He was tempted by Satan for forty days.” So we know that Jesus didn’t simply rest, and study. Even as He was preparing for His ministry, He was being tested. Likewise, when we are in the wilderness, preparing, we too can expect that tests, and battles, will arise.

Jesus was tempted in every way just as any other man. Though, we know that He was no ordinary man. He never gave into the temptations. What was His secret? It’s almost so simple that we often miss it. Prayer and fasting, along with a thorough knowledge of the Scriptures are what lead to spiritual victories when the testing, and the battles come.

Are you making time to pray? Are you making time to study the Scriptures? When I visited at First Wesleyan in Nashville, Pastor Lorrie said something that stopped me almost in my tracks. “If you’re not praying, you’re not fighting.” And Scripture is our weapon.

Some of the most serious warriors I know are little old ladies, praying for their children, grandchildren, neighbors, their pastors, and others. Men and women fighting on their knees in prayer have resulted in countless spiritual victories. I have no doubt that I am here today because of the prayers of others. I have seen miracles because people were fighting the battles on their knees in prayer.

Also, as I said, Scripture is our weapon. In the three temptations mentioned, how did Jesus respond? He responded to each temptation with Scripture. I want to point out something that I suddenly realized as I was preparing for this sermon. Often we just look at the outside of these temptations: bread, protection, bowing down to satan in exchange for power. But if we look deeper, look at exactly what satan says: “If you really are the Son of God…” Satan was attacking Jesus in His pride. He was trying to get Jesus to respond out of selfish pride. But Jesus knew the Scriptures, and the Father, so well, that he never took the bait.

How well do you personally know the Scriptures? Are you simply letting the preachers spoon feed you? Or are you delving into the Bible throughout the week? Getting to the meat of a passage? The devil knows the Scriptures so well, that he can attempt to twist them. Do you know them well enough to use them to defeat the devil?

If we are to be battle ready, and victorious, we must spend time in prayer and fasting, and in studying the Scriptures.

3) God provides care during and after the battles.

Mark tells us that even while Jesus was out among the wild animals the angels took care of Him. Matthew says that the devil went away, then the angels came and took care of Jesus. Of course this isn’t the only place where we see God providing care after the battle.Even after his victory on Mount Carmel, Elijah became depressed. God provided food and rest for him.

I think this is important to note, even while we are in the wilderness, maybe even feeling sorry for ourselves at times, God still takes care of us. We may not understand while we are in the wilderness, but God still cares for us, and the Holy Spirit is watching over us, encouraging and guiding us.

Bottom Line: Am I prepared and battle ready for my mission and ministry?

When Life Sucks Count Your Blessings

/ CD Hamman

Video here.

Do you ever get so frustrated and discouraged that you are ready to explode? And you just can’t seem to see any way out. Maybe you feel like God has abandoned you, and you have no hope left. And then along comes some well meaning but obviously clueless person who has the audacity to tell you that “All things work together for good” (Romans 8:28). Of course this time of year they feel compelled to quote 1 Thessalonians 5:18, “No matter what, always be thankful.” While I do believe that, how in the world can I be expected to be thankful when I am so spiritually or emotionally wounded that I’m ready to give up?

I think the song “Count Your Blessings” had some pretty solid advice.

1) Acknowledge the hurts, the unfairness, the trials and tribulations.

Acknowledge it to yourself, as well as to God. Be honest, and even blunt about what what you’re feeling. So often we try to hide, even from ourselves, exactly what we’re feeling and thinking. We have this strange notion that we have to tiptoe around God. Like we have to only say certain words, and we can’t tell him how we really feel. Look God already knows what we’re feeling and thinking. Stop trying to lie to God. He’s a pretty big, and I promise, he CAN handle the truth.

2) Listen, to the Holy Spirit, and to yourself.

Listen to your rants, and your feelings, and your thoughts. But also listen for the gentle whisper of the Holy Spirit as He reminds you of the blessings that God has given.

Slowly, you’ll find yourself moving from crying out about all the wrongs, to recounting each blessing.

3) Counting our blessings doesn’t change the circumstances; but it does change us.

Our outlook will change from feeling that life sucks, to finding our hope in Christ. We remember who were belong to. God restores our strength.

No. You’re not going to find the phrase “Count your blessings” in the Bible. But we see it at work throughout the Bible. The Psalms are some of the most obvious. Psalm 103:2 reads “Let all that I am praise the Lord; may I never forget the good things he does for me.” (NLT) The ESV reads “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits.”

Throughout the psalms we see raw emotion, and yet even in the pain and anger, the writers find praise, and remember God’s blessings, either on themselves, or on Israel.

Bottom Line: Even when life sucks, count your blessings.

When the storms are raging, when everything bad seems to hit at once, when it seems as though others are blessed and Good has forgotten you, and you have reached the point you’re ready to give up, count your blessings.

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 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

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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.

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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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?

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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…

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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

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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?