Wilderness Wanderings

A Christian devotional for the wandering journey of the Christian life. New devotionals Monday, Wednesday & Friday, created by pastor Michael Bootsma of Immanuel Christian Reformed Church of Hamilton, occasionally featuring guests. The Sunday sermon at Immanuel is also downloaded. Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Speaking Hope 10/19/2026

Speaking Hope But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander (1 Peter 3:15-16). There are two stereotypical Christians in the workplace. There are those who rarely, if ever, give evidence of their faith. When attending their funeral, some co-workers will observe, “I didn’t know she went to church.” The other sort of Christian rarely talks about anything except his faith. Each Monday, he regals his co-workers with a blow-by-blow account of Sunday’s magnificent worship service and spectacular sermon. He regularly speaks about the ‘word from God’ he received that morning on his drive into work. Co-workers avoid him whenever possible because they feel harassed by the constant evangelism. Thankfully, most of us fall somewhere between these two extremes. But what does the Bible say about the expression of our faith in the workplace? Our text for today is a good place to begin. It addresses both extremes. The first thing to note is that Peter encourages us to be prepared. We ought to expect to have spiritual conversations with others. These are to be rooted in hope. The hope that we have in Christ gives us joy and enables us to act out of love rather than fear. In a culture with very little hope, this attitude will attract curiosity. People will ask us about these things. Secondly, Peter tells us that our spiritual conversations need to have gentleness and respect. There is no room for brash badgering. Respecting people means that if they don’t want to hear about our Sunday church experience, we ought to be silent. The old word, ‘winsome,’ comes to mind. It means charming, attractive, or pleasing in a simple, innocent, and delightful way. When people start avoiding us because of our spiritual talk, we are missing part of the gospel. Peter ends by suggesting that handling spiritual conversations well can change people’s attitudes about us and about Christianity. We are not responsible for their response, but we can be careful not to give offense. When at work, some Christians appear more interested in evangelizing than in offering their best effort. This is not good. Doing an honest day’s work cheerfully is a great way to create the curiosity that can lead to spiritual conversations. Some of us avoid spiritual conversations at all costs while others see their co-workers as projects to convert. Each person is as an image bearer of God in whom the Holy Spirit will awaken faith at the right time. Trust him! And who knows, he might just use you. As you journey on, go with his blessing: Wherever God takes you today, may He fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit and that you may live carefully—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity. /episode/index/show/icrchww/id/43225668

He Will Do It! 10/16/2026

He Will Do It! May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it (1 Thessalonians 5:23-24). Out of baseball’s history comes this story: the game was tied with two outs in the bottom of the ninth. The batter stepped into the batting box and made the sign of the cross on home plate with his bat. Yogi Berra was behind the plate; he wiped it off with his glove and said to the pious batter, "Why don't we let God just watch this game?" Many Christians live according to this theology: God just watches us. Many envision God with a frown because we do not measure up. But Paul ends his letters with a blessing, not a wish. He writes these from a deep belief in God’s faithfulness. Thus, he concludes, “The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do this.” This theme of God’s faithfulness runs through the Bible. We see it clearly in Joshua 1. Moses is dead, the desert lies behind God’s people, and the strong walls of Jericho stand before them. Naturally, Israel is in crisis. Joshua is to lead. But he is so young. So inexperienced. If only Moses was still alive. But God says, “Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you…Then you will be prosperous and successful. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go” (1:7-9). Moses is dead; but God’s promises are not. There's no loss of momentum because it was never about the faithfulness of Moses nor the nation. It was always about the faithfulness of God and his promises to his people. Israel’s story is primarily about God’s purposes and his promises. First Thessalonians is primarily about the gospel and the church. The church proclaims the gospel, and the gospel forms the church. But as we know, the world, the devil and our own flesh are arrayed against us. Often, we flounder more than we flourish. Our enemies are strong. But our God is stronger. And he is faithful. He will build his church. He died for us, infused us with his Holy Spirit and grafted us into himself. He will sanctify us through and through. He will keep us in good working order, set apart for his service. Thank God that our sanctification is not dependent on our feeble efforts but on his strong faithful work. When God calls, he always provides. We can rely on his steadfast love, which never fails. God does not sit in heaven watching and wandering if we will make it. He is actively at work in our lives, making us holy for his own glory. So, as you journey on, go with the blessing of God: May God himself, the God who makes everything holy and whole, make you holy and whole, put you together—spirit, soul, and body—and keep you fit for the coming of our Master, Jesus Christ. The One who called you is completely dependable. If he said it, he’ll do it! The amazing grace of Jesus Christ be with you! (1 Thessalonians 5:23,24,28 The Message). /episode/index/show/icrchww/id/43224383

Living Peacably 10/14/2026

Living Peacably And do everything you can to live a quiet life. You should mind your own business. And work with your hands, just as we told you to. Then unbelievers will have respect for your everyday life. And you won’t have to depend on anyone (1 Thessalonians 4:11-12). Christian charity always includes practical stuff like providing meals and offering transportation. Paul recognizes that this practice could be taken advantage of—some deciding to live off the largess of others. Folks among the lower social classes might take up residence on the estate of a wealthy Christian, expecting the well healed to provide for their wellbeing. That is one issue Paul addresses here. There is also another. Since Christians expected Jesus to return real soon, some had decided to abandon the normal pursuits of life, such as paid employment, and were camped on a hillside. With their noses turned up to the sky, they spent the day singing Kumbaya and Swing Low Sweet Chariot. They were creating a bit of a disturbance in the neighbourhood, expecting to be supplied with provisions and suggesting other Christians didn’t have enough faith. As we might imagine, those who followed other gods, thought these Jesus followers had lost touch with reality. As a result, Christ’s name was being discredited. Whether one was camped on the hillside or illegally on some estate, without the normal pursuits of life these folks had too much time on their hands. As a result, they had begun to gossip and contribute their opinions into situations to which they had not been invited. Paul recognizes that if the rule of love is to be effective, the rule of work must also be practiced. Christians must learn to live peaceably, not creating social disturbances. They must mind their own business not prying into what other people are doing under the guise of ‘family’ interest. And they ought to have paid employment or do something that will benefit society. Outsiders, looking at a movement that claims Jesus is Lord of the world, will be interested to see what effect this claim has on behaviour. Healthy financial behaviour is one telling indicator of the fitness and integrity of a community. Of course, within the fellowship, those in need should be provided for. Recipients should make themselves useful in other ways. These are not side issues, away from the real theological heart of the Christian gospel. If God has created a family in Christ, and if that family is based on and characterized by nothing less than self-giving love, these things are vital. Happy the church that discovers what love in practice looks and feels like. Equally blessed is the Christian community that contributes to the wellbeing of the society in which they live. So that our daily living may win the respect of outsiders and that we will not be unnecessarily dependent on anybody (4:12). As you journey on, go with the blessing of God: May God himself, the God who makes everything holy and whole, make you holy and whole, put you together—spirit, soul, and body—and keep you fit for the coming of our Master, Jesus Christ. The One who called you is completely dependable. If he said it, he’ll do it! The amazing grace of Jesus Christ be with you! (1 Thessalonians 5:23,24,28 The Message) /episode/index/show/icrchww/id/43224063

A Song that Spans the Seasons 10/11/2026

A Great Test 10/09/2026

A Great Test I know, my God, that you test the heart and are pleased with integrity. All these things I have given willingly and with honest intent. And now I have seen with joy how willingly your people who are here have given to you (1 Chronicles 29:17). David is making provision for the building of the temple. The people have given generously, and David praises God because everything they have given came from God in the first place. Yet David knows that God is concerned with more than the gift. God is concerned with the heart of the giver. That is why David says, “I know, my God, that you test the heart.” People see what we do. Sometimes, they see what we give. They hear what we say. But God sees deeper. He sees the motives behind our actions. He knows whether our generosity comes from gratitude or from the desire to be noticed. He knows whether our service comes from love or from a desire for recognition. He knows the thoughts and intentions that no one else can see. This verse is not meant to make us anxious about whether our hearts are good enough. David's confidence rests in knowing God himself. The God who examines the heart is also the God who gives grace to the heart. And this grace “teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives” today (Titus 2:12). There is something wonderfully liberating here. We do not need to impress God or impress other people. We can simply seek to serve him with “an honest intent,” giving ourselves and what we have received from him back to him. And notice David's delight: “you are pleased with integrity.” God delights when his people respond to his grace with sincerity, gratitude, and wholehearted devotion. Our gifts may seem small; our service may seem ordinary. But when they are offered to God with a sincere heart, they are precious in his sight. David and the Israelites gave generously, indicating that God had blessed his people with wealth. Many saints have observed that prosperity poses greater threats to our integrity than hardship. These tests are more subtle. Wealth lulls us into spiritual drowsiness, causing us to lose sensitivity to sin. We give in to selfishness bit by bit. We fall into a satisfaction and confidence in life that is based on our prosperity rather than on God. If we are to remain faithful to our Lord, we must remain steadfast in obedience and humility before God. Prosperity can be a great test. Ask the Lord to give us the grace to be faithful in it. As you journey on, go with his blessing: May the peace of the Lord Christ go with you, wherever he may send you. May he guide you through the wilderness, protect you through the storm. May your day end with rejoicing at the wonders he has shown you. May you rest in his provision as he brings night, and then new dawn. /episode/index/show/icrchww/id/43223563

We WIll Finish 10/07/2026

We WIll Finish I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus (Philippians 1:3-6). Philippians is often referred to as Paul’s letter of joy. This is, at least in part, because these opening verses express his joy in the Christians in Philippi. His prayers for the church are weaved through with both thanksgiving and joy. He himself is blessed by their partnership with him in the gospel of Jesus Christ. Paul recognizes that this partnership points towards a deeper reality, namely, that God is at work within that Christian community. Their coming to saving faith in Jesus Christ was not some cosmic accident. It was the work of God himself creating in Philippi a community which would “shine like stars in the sky” (2:15). This, of course, is one of the central purposes of the Christian community. It is why Jesus has left us in the world. We are to shine so that the world notices the glory of God. Peter writes, “Dear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, to abstain from sinful desires, which wage war against your soul. Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us” (1 Peter 2:11-12). But that’s the rub, is it not? “Live such good lives”. That is very difficult to do. We mess up so often. It gets quit discouraging. Depending on our own resources it is so difficult to stay the course, to fight the good fight, to run the race. But the Christian life is undergirded with the powerful truth that finishing the race is not dependent on our strength. God will see us through. He will bring us to the finish line. More than that, he will usher us over the finish line. In Ephesians, Paul invites us to reflect on the deep mysterious providential workings of God. For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love he predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will—to the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves (Ephesians 1:5-6). This is written so that we might be astonished at the graciousness of our Lord. Long before we even thought to pay attention to him, he was at work, drawing us near. When we finally fall before him in faith and adoration, he doesn’t then leave us be so that he can go after other people. No! He works in us through his Word and Spirit, purifying us so that increasingly we shine like stars in the sky. When we get discouraged with our slow progress in the Christian life, God reminds us that he always finishes what he begins. The Heidelberg Catechism articulates it this way, “He also watches over me in such a way that not a hair can fall from my head without the will of my Father in heaven: in fact, all things must work together for my salvation” (Answer #1). As you journey on, receive Jesus’ invitation: Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls (Matthew 11:28-29). /episode/index/show/icrchww/id/43198598

Aeolian Harps 10/05/2026

Aeolian Harps You are the salt of the earth…You are the light of the world…let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven (Matthew 5:14-16). When Christians take seriously Jesus’ statement that we are the salt of the earth and the light of the world, we are faced with a significant temptation. Our culture insists that we measure our success but how much we have grown. All around us, bigger is better. We are tempted to take this measure of success into the Christian life. If we are salt and light, we must be able to measure the effect it has. But this philosophy does not align with God’s kingdom. Behind this temptation is bad theology. It suggests that we are in control of the outcome. Within God’s kingdom that is never true. Christians are called to faithfulness, not success as the world measures it. Jesus told his disciples that greatness comes by serving. Paul constantly calls for humility. The kingdom comes by small acts of love done in Jesus’ name, not by getting recognized by the world. Christians are tempted into believing that success means we can attach the adjective Christian to our business or county. Over a century ago, in his Stone Lectures, Abraham Kuyper offered us the image of the Aeolian harp to understand his hopes for neo-Calvinism. It is an app analogy of Christians as salt and light in this world. This harp is a unique musical instrument played entirely by the wind rather than a human. It usually sits on the sill of an open window waiting for the wind. Without the wind it remains silent. Kuyper reminded his audience that every Christian and every Christian endeavor is powered by the Holy Spirit. Only the Spirit can awaken the music of Christianity in our souls so that it leaks out through our hands and mouths. Only the Spirit can fan us into light. And so, Kuyper concludes, Let Christians be “nothing but such an Aeolian Harp, absolutely powerless, as it is, without the quickening Spirit of God, still we feel it our God-given duty to keep our harp, its strings tuned aright, ready in the window of God’s Holy Zion, awaiting the breath of the Spirit.” Salt prevents spoilage. Light reflects the goodness of God. Christians are to work “in every domain of life” staving off deterioration and seeding improvements in the common good according to the best insights of the faith. We are not meant to seize or take over culture. The wind blows where it pleases, says Jesus, so it is with the Spirit. We are to stay tuned, ready to follow his lead with all the fruit of the same Spirit. As you journey on, go with his blessing: Wherever God takes you today, may He fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit and that you may live carefully—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity /episode/index/show/icrchww/id/43129193

Called & Equipped 10/04/2026

In the Desert 10/02/2026

In the Desert The Lord spoke to Moses in the Desert of Sinai in the first month of the second year after they came out of Egypt. He said, “Have the Israelites celebrate the Passover at the appointed time (Numbers 9:1-2). We all experience times when our lives feel like a desert; life comes apart, dreams die, and help is nowhere to be found. It's not always major tragedy that leads to the desert; small things piled up can do it, too. The Bible includes several important desert experiences. In those spaces, idols are stripped away, human strategies are shown to be useless; there is fear and loneliness. We are likely to experience what some call ego desperation – acknowledging that our life is not in our control. The pillars of human power, pleasure, and possession are smashed. We feel powerless, miles away from sources of immediate gratification, the owner of little or nothing of material value. One cannot barter one's way out of loneliness and silence. We can only wait until it passes on the wings of faith and hope. Survival experts have strategies for making the most of a desert situation; in the same way, the Bible offers us strategies for thriving in spiritual deserts. One strategy is remembering previous rescues by our faithful God. He brought Israel out of Egypt. She spent centuries in bondage, but God remembered his people and freed them after sending ten plagues upon the Egyptians. These plagues were a polemic against the Egyptian gods: they worshiped the Nile, so God turned it into blood; they worshiped the sun, so God made it dark. The final plague was the death angel passing over Egypt and killing the first-born child in every home. God protected the first-born child of every Israelite by commanding them to kill an unblemished lamb, sprinkle its blood on the doorposts of their homes. When the angel saw the blood on the doorposts, he spared the child in that home. The feast instituted to celebrate that event was called Passover. The blood of the lamb protected the child inside the home. Israel's first rescue was God's deliverance from Egyptian slavery. But in the desert, it’s difficult to remember. So, God tells Israel to celebrate the Passover – remember God’s mighty acts. This is a major reason Christians gather for worship services – to remember God’s mighty act of redemption in Jesus Christ. While at worship, we are reminded of God’s love for us and our faith and hope are renewed. When you are in the desert, do not neglect to gather with God’s people. As difficult as it often is, go and be reminded. Remember our God. As you journey on, go with his blessing: May the peace of the Lord Christ go with you, wherever he may send you. May he guide you through the wilderness, protect you through the storm. May your day end with rejoicing at the wonders he has shown you. May you rest in his provision as he brings night, and then new dawn. /episode/index/show/icrchww/id/43075758

The War is Won 09/30/2026

The War is Won For [God] has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins (Colossians 1:13-14). One of the chief elements of the Christian faith is comfort. This is not about being comfortably curled up on the couch with a good book or movie. It is about confidence and hope. This comfort is that we belong body and soul, in life and in death to our faithful Saviour Jesus Christ. How can we be sure of this? The temptation is that we look for security in ourselves, in the depth of our faith or the width of our holiness. The Heidelberg Catechism points us in a different direction. This comfort is in Christ Jesus, in what he has done and in his character. It summarizes Christ’s work with, “He has fully paid for all my sins with his precious blood and has set me free from the tyranny of the devil”. Further, there is only one adjective, faithful, used to describe Jesus. The writer of Hebrews says, “Since the children (that’s us) have flesh and blood, he too shared in their humanity so that by his death he might break the power of him who holds the power of death—that is, the devil—and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death” (Hebrews 2:14-15). There is profound comfort here. We face each spiritual battle and each temptation the devil sends our way with profound confidence. The outcome of our fight against evil is already guaranteed. We may lose skirmishes along the way, but the war is won. The battle between David and Goliath is inserted at the very beginning of David’s biblical arc because of the confident humility he shows while facing off against the giant, “The battle is the Lord’s,” he says (1 Samuel 17:47). David doesn’t need sword and armor, only the Lord. The devil may still accuse us of being unworthy of God’s affection. We may wonder at God’s providence when we peruse the pain of life on earth. Doubts may creep into our hearts as we recognize the very slow progress we make in the Christian life. Against those things we see the cross of Jesus. He gave his life for us. Plain and simple. He was willing to pay the highest price. We belong. Therefore, this confession gives us the courage to face our own humanity and sin. No matter what we have done or what people are now saying about us, the truth of this confession stands firm. We belong because God has rescued us. And the fact is, God is faithful. He will not let us go. Paul writes, May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” And he finishes with, “The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it” (1 Thessalonians 5:23-24). This does not make us passive. Like David, we engage in the fight. We strive for holiness and desire the fruit of the Spirit in us. Like David, we are not afraid. We delight in God’s grace. He will bring us through. Praise the Lord! As you journey on, receive Jesus’ invitation: Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls (Matthew 11:28-29). /episode/index/show/icrchww/id/43075118

Light 09/28/2026

Light You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven (Matthew 5:14-16). Our workplaces and other spaces we inhabit need Christians who understand that their presence matters. Christianity does not always produce the transformation we would expect. Some lights are too dim. It is relatively easy to do the right thing when everyone else is doing the right thing. It is easy to practice integrity in a culture of integrity. It is easy to pursue justice when justice is already valued. It is easy to refuse corruption when corruption isn’t an option. But what happens when we are surrounded by dishonesty, bribery, exploitation, injustice, or unethical practices? That is when our light becomes particularly visible. It is easy to be light in a room of light, but to be light in a room of darkness is more difficult. Then we get noticed. Then we are unique. Then we may not be wanted, for our light exposes the darkness of others. God calls us to bear the fruit of His Kingdom in every season. Even during drought. Even when injustice appears to be winning. Even when corruption seems normal. We are called to bear the light of justice when injustice surrounds us. We are called to hold the light of integrity when dishonesty is profitable. We are called to extend the fruit of generosity when everyone else is pursuing more. We are called to uphold the fruit of excellence when mediocrity has become acceptable. We are called to carry the fruit of truth when lies are easier. That is what it means to be light. Sarah is a small business owner in Uganda. When she came to understand this teaching of the light she changed. She says, “I began keeping proper records, organizing my shop, and serving every customer with genuine attention and respect. My work became a daily offering to the Lord, bringing me renewed joy and purpose. I make sure my measurements are accurate and my prices are fair. I refuse to sell expired products or mislead customers. When a supplier accidentally delivered an extra sack of flour, I contacted them and returned it. My honesty opened an opportunity for me to explain that I run my business for God’s glory—not merely for profit. “Before, my work was just work and my faith was for Sunday. Now every bag I lift, every coin I count, and every person who walks through my door is an opportunity to worship and to witness.” To shine the light of Jesus must become our vision. Ask yourself: What do I want my life to be? Do I want to influence the environment around me? Does my integrity, excellence, treatment of others, leadership, and decision-making point people toward Jesus? Is there any wrong thing I accept because everyone is doing it? Where have I allowed “normal” to replace “right”? Change begins by asking God for help. As you journey on, go with his blessing: Wherever God takes you today, may He fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit and that you may live carefully—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity. /episode/index/show/icrchww/id/43033593

Hope: God's Song 09/27/2026

God's Drastic Measures 09/25/2026

God's Drastic Measures “Look at the nations and watch—and be utterly amazed. For I am going to do something in your days that you would not believe, even if you were told. I am raising up the Babylonians, that ruthless and impetuous people, who sweep across the whole earth to seize dwellings not their own (Habakkuk 1:5-6). The book of Habakkuk is a dialogue between the prophet and God, taking place while a Jehoiakim was king of Judah. His reign was marked by injustice, treachery, and bloodshed. The priests taught whatever they wanted. The rich and powerful increased their wealth and power while the rest struggled to survive. Habakkuk’s prayers are angry. The prayers of the righteous have fallen on deaf ears. Where in the world is God in the middle of all this? The prophet shakes his fist towards heaven, “How long are you going to let this go on? What about your promises that Abraham will be a blessing to the nations? How can this nation be a blessing to anyone?” A fair few of us can empathize with Habakkuk. Chaos, violence and injustice seem to increase daily. Various wars and disasters headline ever newscast. And God is sidelined. Military chaplains are no longer allowed to mention god while at work. We too might cry, “How long?” In our text, God answers. And his answer is very unexpected. He is still at work. But he is going to use those vile and violent Babylonians. Why? He will answer injustice with injustice, violence with violence, power with power, lawlessness with lawlessness. As Judah has done, it will be done to her. Instead of pressing on towards his Kingdom on earth, God seems to be heading in the opposite direction; instead of peace, he ordains war; instead of security, he ordains violence; instead of good, he ordains evil; instead of life, he ordains death. We don’t like to think about God this way. But it is a theme that runs through the Bible. In Psalm 81, God says, “But my people would not listen to me; Israel would not submit to me. So, I gave them over to their stubborn hearts to follow their own devices” (11,12). This is echoed in Romans 1 and Ephesians 4. When people insist on lawlessness, God sometimes gives in, and civilizations collapse. Evil never produces life, only death. The turmoil and violence and death of our world may not be evidence of God’s absence but his judgment as he pursues his purpose, the full coming of the kingdom of his Son. Who of us can understand how he chooses to accomplish his goals? None understood Jesus’ crucifixion as God plan; that this was the Christ who would sit at God’s right hand. What should we do? Follow Habakkuk. Pray. Pray that God will bring a better day. Pray as Jesus taught us, “Your kingdom come.” And pray that God will preserve his people during the evil days. As you journey on, go with his blessing: May the peace of the Lord Christ go with you, wherever he may send you. May he guide you through the wilderness, protect you through the storm. May your day end with rejoicing at the wonders he has shown you. May you rest in his provision as he brings night, and then new dawn. /episode/index/show/icrchww/id/43023543

We Don't Control our Destiny 09/23/2026

We Don't Control our Destiny “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine" (Isaiah 43:1). At many graduation ceremonies, some speaker will offer something to the tune of, “Your life is in your hands. You are the master of your own fate. So, dream your own dreams, set your goals high, reach for the stars, work hard, and you can be whatever you want to be.” Very few are taken in by this rubbish. We are too in touch with our own limitations to believe that any of this is true. Each of us can only be the persons we are—with our unique histories and abilities along with our weaknesses and sins. These constraints keep most of us well grounded on the earth. Further, everyone quickly learns that many aspects of life are out of our control. We can eat well and exercise appropriately and still find ourselves with a life altering disease too early. We may study hard and still not get accepted into our university of choice. Market fluctuations caused by unknown agents effect our employment and retirement opportunities. Driving carefully does not shield us from the carelessness of other drivers. Life is not in our control. This is a sobering reality which frightens many. There is little we can do to change this situation. It is into this fear that the Heidelberg Catechism begins its exploration of the Christian faith. In answer to the question, “What is your only comfort?” the answer comes, “That I am not my own, but belong-body and soul, in life and in death-to my faithful Savior Jesus Christ”. This is a sweeping and bold profession, full of reassurance against the uncertainties of life. It does not suggest that tragedy will not strike. Rather, it assures that no mater what happens to us, we belong to God. In this answer, the Catechism teaches that God is as concerned about our bodies as our souls. It refuses to follow the track that suggests the physical is of lesser value than the spiritual. That is why I take this confession with me to the cemetery. When body and soul are temporarily separated by physical death, God still holds the loved one. Death cannot separate us from our Father in heaven. But this confession should not be saved only for such occasions. When we use it as a last cheer-me-up when everything else has failed we may find that it does not have the desired effect. Christian comfort will show its power for the dying when it is used as daily vitamins by the living. It invites us to live as comforted people this day. This belief is not a bomb shelter to hide in when life is leaving us. These are the prescriptions by which we live today. Often, at tourists traps one can buy some clothing that says, "I am the property of…” and then the name of wherever one is. Christians have engraved on their hearts, “I am the property of Jesus Christ, Lord of the universe.” This is the conviction that brings us through each day, and as we live into it, we can approach life and death with confidence. As you journey on, receive Jesus’ invitation: Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls (Matthew 11:28-29). /episode/index/show/icrchww/id/42982708

Salty 09/21/2026

Salty You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. (Matthew 5:13-14). Salt changes what it touches. Meat and vegetables taste different when salt is added. They also don’t spoil as quickly. Salt remains salt—but it changes what it touches. Jesus called His followers “the salt of the earth.” That is the calling of a Christian in the workplace. We are not called to become like the culture around us. We are called to influence it. A Christian teacher should not behave like every other teacher. A Christian accountant should be distinguishable from other accountants by her character. A Christian employee should not compromise simply because “everyone does it.” A Christian politician should lead with greater hope then others. We often ask the question, “What is God doing here?” We should also ask, “What does God want me to do here?” Our presence should make a difference. John Wesley recognized this when he wrote, “The Gospel of Christ knows of no religion but social religion; no holiness but social holiness.” As Christians, we should not live in isolation from folks around us. Our faith must affect how we treat people, how we conduct business, how we exercise authority, how we use money, how we respond to injustice, and how we make decisions. We should not be afraid to be involved in government, in business, in public education, in civil services, or in advocacy for justice. If we withdraw from the places where decisions are made, resources are allocated, people are employed, and communities are shaped, who will bring the values of God's Kingdom into those places? But being salt is by no means easy. It will usually run counter to the prevailing culture. Thus, saltiness begins with prayer. There is no saltier prayer than the one Jesus taught us which being, “Our Father in heaven…” It asks for God’s kingdom to come to this earth, and the only way it can come is through Christians. Saltiness also takes patience. Cultures change slowly. We must trust that God is at work recognizing that his kingdom often comes in hidden forms. It’s also helpful to have other Christinas supporting us, shoring us up like Aaron and Hur held up Moses’s arms (cf. Exodus 17). As you journey on, go with his blessing: Wherever God takes you today, may He fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit and that you may live carefully—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity /episode/index/show/icrchww/id/42932742

Walking with God 09/20/2026

The Well that is Never Dry 09/18/2026

The Well that is Never Dry David was greatly distressed because the men were talking of stoning him; each one was bitter in spirit because of his sons and daughters. But David found strength in the Lord his God (1 Samuel 30:6). Life is not always easy. When its difficult, we get weary, even spiritually tired. Our souls can become parched. What do we do when the well is dry? In 1 Samuel 30, when David and his men return from a military mission, they found their camp “destroyed by fire and their wives and sons and daughters taken captive." Their enemy, the Amalekites, had come in while they were gone, burned their camp, and taken their families prisoner. The things they owned, the people they loved ... gone. Then this, "each one was bitter in spirit" and David's own men were even "talking of stoning him." It was a dark, dark moment. Yet, as everyone else was turning bitter and angry, "David found strength in the Lord his God." Here he is, standing amid the rubble of everything he had, having lost the people he loves most, while those he thought he could depend on were turning against him. All the wells he could go to for strength were dry. Maybe you have been in such a place or are there now. All those places you would normally turn for the strength and encouragement aren't able to meet your need. You're feeling very alone. And bitterness, discouragement, anger, depression are starting to creep into your soul. But at a moment like this, David remembered the spring! There is a spring that never runs dry, that's gushing water for our souls even in an unrelenting drought. David turned to the infinite resources of the Lord his God and found strength when it seemed no strength was possible. How much strength? David rallies his troops to defy the enemy who robbed them and to take back what was stolen. "David fought them from dusk until the evening of the next day, and not one of them got away ... David recovered everything the Amalekites had taken." All the ground that had been lost was retaken - because he downloaded strength from the Lord who was his God when all human strength was gone. It is not time to give up, or to withdraw, or to slip into the darkness. Especially if there are other people looking to you, depending on you, like David. You'll need strength you don't have - that no one else can give you, except the awesome God we belong to. When we feel defeated, we should not go to the same old dry wells. Instead, we should turn to the gushing spring of the strength of God, whose strength and provision and joy is not rooted in circumstances, or feelings, or finances, or humans. He is the Lord who rules all the galaxies, and the Lord is our God! He is our Source. Yes, the wells we've counted on may be dry. But no matter what we've lost, no matter how dark it looks, we've got a spring that never runs dry! As Jesus promised, “Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them” (John 7:38). As you journey on, go with his blessing: May the peace of the Lord Christ go with you, wherever he may send you. May he guide you through the wilderness, protect you through the storm. May your day end with rejoicing at the wonders he has shown you. May you rest in his provision as he brings night, and then new dawn. /episode/index/show/icrchww/id/42929177

A Beautiful Profession 09/16/2026

A Beautiful Profession "Whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord" (Romans 14:8) The Heidelberg Catechism’s first concern is comfort, but this is not a life of ease. Rather, comfort refers to the resources we need to make it through the difficult times of life. When asking the question, “What is your only comfort in life and in death?”, the authors are suggesting that we might have many sources of comfort, but there is one that surpasses them all and is the only one necessary. The answer is simple, yet profound: “That I am not my own, but belong-body and soul, in life and in death-to my faithful Savior Jesus Christ.” This is a beautiful summary of the Christian faith. It’s a melody woven through the Bible. God hints at it when he asks Adam and Eve, “Where are you?” It underlies the entire Abraham narrative, extending throughout the story of Israel, as articulated in God’s words to Joshua, “I will be with you, so do not be afraid” (Joshua 1). The New Testament picks up the tune, as in our text, "Whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord." Elsewhere we read, "You are not your own; you were bought with a price" (I Corinthians 6:19-20). Yet again, "[God] has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves" (Colossians 1:13). In John’s gospel, Jesus speaks of not losing any of the sheep his father has given him but giving them eternal life (John 6:39-40 & 10:28). This is encapsulated in the parable of the Good Shepherd who refuses to quit searching until he has found his lost sheep. Satan will tempt us with thoughts that we are unworthy, too sinful for God to love. He will attempt to confuse us, suggesting that the hardships of life mean that God doesn’t care about us. We will meander into believing that we need to manage life on our own. But God comes to us, like he came to Adam and Eve and to Abraham. To us, he also says, “I am your God and you are my child.” And Jesus shows us his stripes, his nail scarred hands and spear-pierced side, saying, “This is what I endured. You are mine, now and forever.” And the Holy Spirit, enables us to approach God with, “Abba, Father, Daddy.” As Jesus “took the children in his arms and placed his hands on their heads and blessed them”, so the Father takes us, embraces us and refuses to let us go. This is what we believe. This is the comfort that enables us to face our own humanity, to admit our sinfulness in the presence of God. We don’t confess in the hope of forgiveness; no, we confess knowing we are already forgiven. This profession is the Christian answer to life's deepest questions and death's darkest riddles. Though much of life we do not understand and death is always beckoning, we know that we belong, not held by our own strength, but by God’s. As you journey on, go with his blessing: May the peace of the Lord Christ go with you, wherever he may send you. May he guide you through the wilderness, protect you through the storm. May your day end with rejoicing at the wonders he has shown you. May you rest in his provision as he brings night, and then new dawn. /episode/index/show/icrchww/id/42902810

Work as Worship 09/14/2026

Work as Worship “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters” (Colossians 3:23). As I indicated last week, the Wednesday and Friday editions of Wilderness Wonderings are new ventures. The Monday edition will continue its theme: Work as Worship. As we begin each week, we will be reminded that everything we do, whatever our hands or minds set themselves to, wherever our feet take us, all of it belongs to God and all we do should be done for his glory. Christians are salt and light in every aspect of their lives. The only question is how salty are we and how well do we shine the light of Christ? This phrase “Work as Worship” is at the heart of a ministry called, Discipling Marketplace Leaders (DML).” It’s led by Renita Reed Thomson and supported by Immanuel Church. Occasionally, I will be using bits and pieces from Renita’s newsletters. You can find out more about her ministry by googling Discipling Marketplace Leaders. Many of us in the Northern Hemisphere still think of ourselves as those who embody Christianity and bring it to the rest of the world. But the truth is that the bulk of the world’s Christians live in the Southern hemisphere and they have much to teach us how to live as Christians. Material from DML comes from that half of the world. David Bosch wrote, “Mission is not primarily an activity of the church but an attribute of God.” Immediately after the fall, Genesis 3 tells us that God set out to reclaim his fallen word. He began with a simple question, “Where are you?” (3) This challenges how we think about mission. Mission is not something we do when we leave our workplaces and enter a church building, go on a mission trip, or participate in a ministry program. Mission begins with God—and because we belong to Him and we are made in His image, we are sent wherever He has placed us. Believers in Jesus are God’s missionaries, each day and in every place we go. We often ask, “Has God called me to ministry?” A better question is, “Where has God sent me?” God sends each of us on his mission. Wherever he has placed us—business, government, education, healthcare, agriculture, a social service agency, a volunteer position, our family home, or in a long-term care home – we are His representatives there. The important question is not, “What am I doing for a living?” but “Who am I working for?” Paul cuts to the chase, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters” (Colossians 3:23). Our positions are not ultimately given to us to serve ourselves. They are opportunities to serve others. A title is not a trophy; it is a responsibility. Authority is not primarily about what we can get from a position, but what we can contribute through it. We will begin each week asking the question, “How is God calling me to serve him this week?” As you journey on, go with the blessing of God: Wherever God takes you this week, may He fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit and that you may live carefully—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity. /episode/index/show/icrchww/id/42875560

Growing Up 09/13/2026

Global Prayer 09/11/2026

Global Prayer I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth (1 Timothy 2:1-4). On Wednesday, I mentioned that September is a good time to start new things and I began a mid-week reflection on the Heidelberg Catechism. I plan on doing a new thing on Friday as well. I’m going to call it “from the barrel.” We preachers sometimes refer to our library of sermons as “the barrel.” I am going to stir around in my barrel of sermons to use some of that material for Wilderness Wanderings. Today, I make use of sermons on 1 Timothy 2:1-4. Many who were born before 1980 will remember September 11, 2001, the day terrorists hijacked four planes to use as weapons against the USA. Thousands of people died. The tremors created that day have rippled all the way into the present. The world we live in seems uglier. Warfare has not diminished. Chaos looms large. Fear is everywhere. How should we live in such a world? Our text shows us the way. It’s a call to prayer. Prayer should never be an afterthought for Christians. It should never be partnered with the word ‘just’, suggesting it is a small thing. Prayer is never little. Christian prayer is always directed towards our heavenly Father in the name of Jesus Christ. When we pray, images from Revelation 4-5 ought to be central in our imagination. We are beseeching the ruler of all things. The Belgic Confession describes God with these words, “eternal incomprehensible, invisible, unchangeable, infinite, almighty; completely wise, just, and good, and the overflowing source of all good” (Article 1). Turning to him cannot be a little thing. And turning to him, ought to reduce the fear in our hearts. Despite the chaos around us, he still holds this world in his hands. We could add the word, “faithful”, to the list in the Belgic. Our God is faithful. He will not abandon his world. That is what the book of Revelation tells us with its multiple visions. In this context, we ought to recall Daniel’s prayer, “Praise be to the name of God for ever and ever; wisdom and power are his. He changes times and seasons; he deposes kings and raises up others” (2:20-21) Instead of gripping about politicians, we should be praying for them. It’s difficult to swim against the stream; our culture loves to beat up on people with power and authority. Yet, Christians are to honour and respect such people and above all pray for them. Pray that they will govern for the good of all people, that freedom and justice will pervade human society. Our prayers do not need to be long or eloquent. Jesus tells us that simple and short should be the goal (Matthew 6). As you journey on, go with his blessing: May the peace of the Lord Christ go with you, wherever he may send you. May he guide you through the wilderness, protect you through the storm. May your day end with rejoicing at the wonders he has shown you. May you rest in his provision as he brings night, and then new dawn. /episode/index/show/icrchww/id/42861950

What is Comfort? 09/09/2026

What is Comfort? When Lamech had lived 182 years, he had a son. He named him Noah and said, “He will comfort us in the labor and painful toil of our hands caused by the ground the Lord has cursed” (Genesis 5:28-29). September often has new beginnings, so it’s appropriate to begin something new with Wilderness Wonderings. You will continue receiving it 3 times a week, Monday, Wednesday and Friday. The new thing will take place on the Wednesday edition. The mid-week will feature a reflection on the Heidelberg Catechism. This document is a series of questions and answers written during the days of the Protestant Reformation as an effort to unite the various Christian groups. Since Wilderness Wanderings are short meditations, expect more than one on most answers. The Catechism begins with the question, “What is your only comfort in life and in death?” To appreciate the answer, we must first understand the question. How does comfort function in the life of the Christian? What is the gift that it brings to us? This brings us to Noah, the man famous for his ship building. But it’s the explanation given to his name that interests us here. “He will comfort us in the labor and painful toil of our hands caused by the ground the Lord has cursed.” Noah will not take away the labour and painful toil, nor the curse of God but bring comfort so those things could be endured. A couple of occasions from the life of Jesus are enlightening. Both Matthew and Luke record a series of temptations with which Satan attempted to divert Jesus from his task. Luke concludes his account with, “When the devil had finished all this tempting, he left him until an opportune time” (4:13). So, we expect the devil to make another attempt at derailing Jesus. Matthew offers this, “Then the devil left him, and angels came and attended him” (Matthew 4:11). Later, Luke offers this accounting of Jesus in the garden of Gethsemane. Jesus prayed, “Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.” An angel from heaven appeared to him and strengthened him. And being in anguish, he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground (Luke 22:42-44). Twice, angels appeared to Jesus to attend and strengthen him, to comfort him. The appearance of Moses and Elijah on the Mount of Transfiguration was at least in part, to strengthen and comfort the Son of God. Thus, comfort is not about removing difficulties but rather, a form of strengthening to help us persevere. This is the journey the Catechism invites us into: to know the comfort given by God so that we can endure the struggles of the Christian life well. It is this kind of comfort we need, so that we can say with the apostle, I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7). Join me as we explore this comfort. As you journey on, go with his blessing: May the peace of the Lord Christ go with you, wherever he may send you. May he guide you through the wilderness, protect you through the storm. May your day end with rejoicing at the wonders he has shown you. May you rest in his provision as he brings night, and then new dawn. /episode/index/show/icrchww/id/42832340

Slop, Rot & Sloth 09/06/2026

Heart Atheism 09/04/2026

Heart Atheism "The fool says in his heart, 'There is no God'" (Psalm 14:1) Psalm 14 invites us to reflect on at least two aspects of Christian spirituality. One is a frequent issue in the Psalms: unrighteousness people cause a great deal of injustice. These acts cause a great deal of pain for both the poor and the righteous (5 6). However, the psalmist reminds both the poor and the righteous that God is their refuge and the restorer of fortunes. In the end, evil doers will get their due. This invites us to reflect on our trust in God and His sovereign reign over this earth and over our lives. Do we truly believe that God with us? Now, we do need to be careful how we phrase things here. It is not that God is on our side. Rather, God has promised that evil will not go unpunished and that He will care for those who seek Him. Will we wait for Him before we seek vengeance on those who wrong us? The second aspect which is raised here also has to do with God's sovereignty. "The fool says in his heart, 'There is no God.'" Here lies a truth we need to reckon with, namely, that what comes out of our mouths has come from our hearts. From the Biblical vantage point, the heart is the centre of the human being. It is our core, the wellspring of our attitudes, feelings and beliefs. It is the great internal processor through which all that we receive through our ears & eyes gets processed, interpreted. It is not merely emotional, nor merely intellectual. It is the combination of both and more. These things, our emotions and our intellect, serve the heart. Thus, as Proverbs says, "Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life" (4:23). Psalm 14 might be used to generate a diatribe against atheists outside the church. But that would be fruitless. It seems wiser to recognize that there are generally two very different kinds of atheists. There are atheists who vocalize their atheism for all to hear. But there are also many who say they believe in God with their mouths but live like atheists. They say that God is Lord of Creation but one rarely sees that confession being lived out. Psalm 14, then, invites us to examine our hearts. How much atheism lives within us? As we learn to trust God, the Spirit grows his fruit within us. We have the space to love others, and joy and peace are kindled deep within us. When we seek God's Kingdom, the Spirit's fruit grows. We seek this Kingdom when we trust God. As you journey on, go with the blessing of God: May the peace of the Lord Christ go with you: wherever he may send you. May he guide you through the wilderness: protect you through the storm. May he bring you home rejoicing; at the wonders he has shown you. May he bring you home rejoicing once again into our doors. /episode/index/show/icrchww/id/42734610

Connecting the Dots of Hope 09/02/2026

Connecting the Dots of Hope "You let men ride over our heads; we went through fire and water, but you brought us to a place of abundance. I will come to your temple with burnt offerings and fulfill my vows to you… (Psalm 66:12, 13). The Bible is one book, one story and should be read as such. Even though it has 66 different books, it is one book. It took over a millennium to write. Those who wrote the later material often referred to things already written. Thus, when we read Psalm 66, the composer wants us to hear echoes of Exodus 15, the song sung after God delivered Israel from Egypt. It begins this way, “I will sing to the Lord, for he is highly exalted. Both horse and driver he has hurled into the sea. The Lord is my strength and my defense; he has become my salvation. He is my God, and I will praise him, my father’s God, and I will exalt him” (Ex. 15:1-2). In Revelation 15, John hears the creatures of heaven singing this song, “Great and marvelous are your deeds, Lord God Almighty” (15:3). It’s a paraphrase, to be sure, but John says that this is the song of Moses and of the Lamb, connecting the deliverance of Israel from Egypt with the greater deliverance Jesus accomplished for us all. Now back to Psalm 66. We don’t know what was happening in the life of the Psalmist that inspired this song, but it wasn’t good. At the end of the psalm we find these phrases, “I cried out to him with my mouth…If I had cherished sin in my heart, the Lord would not have listened; but God has surely listened and has heard my prayer. Praise be to God, who has not rejected my prayer or withheld his love from me!” As he went through his own valley, the psalmist looked back to God’s great acts of redemption. It encouraged him to call out to God to save his people again. The book of Revelation invites us to look forward as well. To believe that God has not yet finished his work of redemption, that Jesus will be coming back to renew all things. Living in the present is rarely easy. We often wonder why God doesn’t just send Jesus back to make all things new. Psalm 66 helps us to live with confidence in the turmoil of today that that day will come. Like the Psalmist, we look back and see the great acts of God in the Old Testament. Like John, we look back and see the great act of redemption in Jesus Christ: his birth, his life, his death, his resurrection, his ascension into heaven and the pouring out of his Spirit. But we are also invited to see this Lamb upon his throne. We also look ahead to his return in power and glory. It is difficult to keep hope alive. That’s why we need a song like Psalm 66. This is also what the Lord’s Supper is about. It looks back to Christ’s redemption on the cross and it looks forward to the return of our saviour and King. It helps us keep hope alive. As you journey on, go with his blessing: May the peace of the Lord Christ go with you, wherever he may send you. May he guide you through the wilderness, protect you through the storm. May your day end with rejoicing at the wonders he has shown you. May you rest in his provision as he brings night, and then new dawn. /episode/index/show/icrchww/id/42653900

Generousity, Then & Now 08/31/2026

Generousity, Then & Now “At the end of every seven years you must cancel debts. Give generously to [the poor] and do so without a grudging heart; then because of this the Lord your God will bless you in all your work and in everything you put your hand to. There will always be poor people in the land. Therefore, I command you to be openhanded toward your fellow Israelites who are poor and needy in your land. Remember that you were slaves in Egypt and the Lord your God redeemed you. That is why I give you this command today” (Deuteronomy 15:1, 10, 11, 15). How should we apply these Old Testament economic laws to our Christian lives? One way is to consider the principles which govern these laws. Verse 15 offers this summary, “Remember that you were slaves in Egypt and the Lord your God redeemed you.” Then this is added, “That is why I give you this command today.” Frequently, Israel is reminded to remember her history: she began as a nation of slaves. God took her out of Egypt, setting her free and establishing her in a new place. This happened not because Israel was deserving of it, but because God is generous and loving, full of mercy and compassion. This history was to shape Israel’s religious and economic imagination. As such, Israel was to follow in God’s footsteps, to imitate him. We tend to spiritualize this by concluding that we need to forgive as the Lord has forgiven us. This is valid. Jesus was very clear on this, saying, “For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your father will not forgive your sins” (Matthew 6:14,15). Jesus uses language which seems to borrow heavily from Deuteronomy 15, “Give generously to them and do so without a grudging heart; then because of this the Lord your God will bless you in all your work and in everything you put your hand to.” This forgiving is the heart of the Christian faith, and it is a difficult thing to do. The best way into forgiveness is to lean into the truth that we are forgiven. The sacraments are meant to bring our imaginations back to this heart of our faith, “I am forgiven.” Still, it is difficult to practice. Often, when we meet someone, we have forgiven, we find ourselves needing to go through the process of forgiving all over again. As Jesus said, 70 x 7. However, this passage should not be limited to the spiritual. This passage should poke and prod our hearts. It’s difficult to share our hard-earned money. We easily find reasons why poor people do not deserve our generosity. This is exactly what God is calling out here. Why did Israel deserve freedom? Why do we deserve to be forgiven by God? There is no reason for either! Israel was freed and we are forgiven simply because God is gracious. And in that we are to imitate him. God’s resources are limitless and he gives lavishly to the undeserving. Two reasons for us to be generous. The road to generosity is not to look at our bank accounts, but to look at God, as it says fix your “eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith” (Hebrews 12:2). As you journey on, go with the blessing of God: May the peace of the Lord Christ go with you: wherever he may send you. May he guide you through the wilderness: protect you through the storm. May he bring you home rejoicing; at the wonders he has shown you. May he bring you home rejoicing once again into our doors. /episode/index/show/icrchww/id/42589635

Who Wants to Follow this Jesus? 08/30/2026

A Less than Pious Prayer 08/28/2026

A Less than Pious Prayer Why, O Lord, do you stand far off? Why do you hide yourself in times of trouble? (Psalm 10:1) At first glance this verse is less than pious. Yet, as lament, it is right on the mark. Few of us address God this way. We use nice, polite, emotionless words. But this psalm expresses how we often experience life, inviting us to bring to God all the raw emotion we feel about the unfairness of life. When life is tough, we often ask, “Where is God?” suggesting something is amiss with our religion. We may conclude it's not working. This psalmist makes God's absence normal. Why do we not pray like this psalmist? I suggest that we have taken the doctrine of the incarnation to an illogical conclusion! Having finished his earthly ministry, Jesus promised, "I am with you to the very end of the age" (Matthew 28:20). We have interpreted this to mean that we will always feel His presence. Further, we believe it means our lives will by and large be the way we want them to be. I believe both these things are wrong. Jesus promised to be with us as we fulfill the mission which he gave us. He did not promise to make our lives smooth or that we would always feel the balm of our faith. It must also be said that God's purposes are rarely understood by us. The disciples certainly didn't get Jesus very well. This is the matter that the psalmist is lamenting. He firmly believes that the Lord is King forever and forever (16). He also believes that God hears and defends the helpless and the oppressed (17-18). His problem is that he does not see it. He is frustrated that the arrogant are having their way in this world. When they have the power, they get to call the shots. Their wrecking ball is destroying society. It's become a blood bath. It's the same today, isn't it? Murdering dictators and ruthless business leaders and dishonest politicians. How do we live in such a society? First, we allow Psalm 10 to shape our prayers. Seeing the horrible ways that human society functions, the war, the poverty, the human trafficking, the destruction of the planet, we take the time for lament. We feel the pain of creation in turmoil, and we bring it all before God, daring to tell him that he better see what we are seeing. Second, we do not join the arrogant in their lifestyles. We deliberately look at our lifestyles to discover the ways we may be contributing to the chaos. And instead, we 'act justly; we love mercy; and we walk humbly with our God' (Micah 6:8). We follow Jesus and partner with God in redeeming activities. Only God can establish his kingdom. Yet, he chooses to use us in the process. So, like Jesus, we go out and find those in need of him. As you journey on, go with the blessing of God: May the peace of the Lord Christ go with you: wherever he may send you. May he guide you through the wilderness: protect you through the storm. May he bring you home rejoicing; at the wonders he has shown you. May he bring you home rejoicing once again into our doors. /episode/index/show/icrchww/id/42577220

Faith is Individual & Communal 08/26/2026

Faith is Individual & Communal "You let men ride over our heads; we went through fire and water, but you brought us to a place of abundance. I will come to your temple with burnt offerings and fulfill my vows to you… (Psalm 66:12, 13). Authentic biblical faith exists in a creative tension: the personal life of the Christian and the corporate life of the church. Each of us is called to grow up, to mature in our faith; and as we grow, to participate in God's great Kingdom building. However, we will experience no progress in either without being nourished within the body of Christ. We should envision this growth happening not just in the large gathering of the church, such as Sunday worship, but also in the Christian family and in small groups of Christians gathered in Christ’s name. We need to be committed to our own spiritual growth, yet that growth requires the assistance of fellow Christians. This is a tension that we need to live with not resolve. When this tension is neglected growth stalls. Sometimes the Christian community becomes cultish is which the self disappears, and spiritual decisions require the leader’s approval. On the other hand, a Christian sometimes becomes so detached from the community of faith that she wanders alone. Christianity should be intensely personal, but not individualistic. Each of us has been called by Christ and is part of God's purpose in creation and redemption. All Christians are part of the new Israel (Gal. 6:16) and members of Christ's kingdom. We are all called to do battle against the powers of darkness, and we are all witnesses of the resurrection power of our Lord. The meaning of the Christian life is not only my personal salvation or my own interior spirituality but is found in God's purpose to unite "all things in Christ," things in heaven and things on earth (Eph. 1:10). The church is the first fruit of God’s plan of cosmic reconciliation. That is why we all need to be connected to a Christian fellowship, otherwise called a church; it is also why the disunity of the church is such a tragedy. Psalm 66 witnesses to both the communal and the personal nature of faith. It begins with a great confession of God's "awesome deeds" in history. He called Israel and redeemed her from Egypt. Because of her sin, God broke her in judgment. But now, God has brought her to rich fulfilment (12). Suddenly, with verse 13, the psalm becomes intensely personal. The psalmist vows his intention to worship and declare what God has done for his own soul. The psalmist sees his own relationship to God in the wider scope of His dealings with His people. This is authentic faith. We live before God within the context of God's community. In this psalm we rediscover God's purposes for us: not to make us comfortable, but rather, useful for his redemptive plan. How does your personal life's vision match up with God's? How will you stay connected with God's community as summer moves into fall? As you journey on, go with his blessing: May the peace of the Lord Christ go with you, wherever he may send you. May he guide you through the wilderness, protect you through the storm. May your day end with rejoicing at the wonders he has shown you. May you rest in his provision as he brings night, and then new dawn. /episode/index/show/icrchww/id/42553315

Tithing, Then & Now 08/24/2026

Tithing, Then & Now “Be sure to set aside a tenth of all that your fields produce each year” (Deuteronomy 14:22). This text introduces the 10% tithe. Each Israelite family was to set this aside for several purposes. First, Israel was to go and party (23, 26). God instructed his people to take their tithe (grain, wine, sheep, goats, etc.) to the place where God was worshipped. If they lived far away, they could sell their produce and buy what they wanted near the worship centre (26). There they would party. This celebration had a twofold purpose. They would rejoice in God for the provisions he had given, and they would learn to revere him (23). Israel was to fear the Lord, but not in a stogy, somber, arms folded or terrified kind of way. Their fear and reverence for God came from paying attention to the care and love which he was pouring out. It was not fear of judgement that was to motivate Israel’s faith, but joy, joy in the Lord. If you are thinking that 10% is way too much to spend on one party, you are quit right. The Lord had established several Levite cities. The tribe of Levi did not have land to farm because they worked at the place of worship. They were dependent on God for provision. But God did not intend to airlift supplies into these towns. Rather, the Israelites were to leave part of their tithes for the Levites. God does not specify how much should be left there. The gifts for the Levites were also a food bank for those in need. Moses specifies the foreigners, the fatherless and the widows. In the ancient economy, these groups were the most vulnerable. Yet, in Israel they would have a place to go; there would be provision for those who fell on difficult times. Thus, the tithe provided for the worship of God and provision for those who administered that worship and for the needy. However, the emphasis is not on the percentage. The emphasis throughout is on the relationship between God and his people. The people are to worship and revere God. They are to rejoice in all the material goods God provides and to liberally share them with those in need. As the Lord blesses them, they are to bless others. The chapter ends, “so that the Lord your God may bless you in all the work of your hands” (29). This emphasis on joyfully and liberally passing on God’s blessings reappears in the New Testament. The most explicit treatment of it is in 2 Corinthians 8-9, which includes this summary, “And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work” (9:8). This is the touch stone for Christian giving, as Paul wrote, “God loves a cheerful giver” (9:7). As you journey on, go with the blessing of God: May the peace of the Lord Christ go with you: wherever he may send you. May he guide you through the wilderness: protect you through the storm. May he bring you home rejoicing; at the wonders he has shown you. May he bring you home rejoicing once again into our doors. /episode/index/show/icrchww/id/42348225

Wilderness Wanderings

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