Insightful Musings on theScriptures

by

Raymond P. Sparre
Northwest University class of '67

Greetings, dear ones.

Becki and I plan to head out for a walk/jog at 8am. We talked too long this morning, which impacts our routine schedule. And, of course, one of the topics discussed was the content of my 2010 devotional composition. We both agree that the matter of PEACE is so important and relevant to all of us, that I would just edit some and send that one along.

On my rounds in Portland yesterday, I picked up a used book Becki had ordered for me at POWELL BOOKS on S.E. Hawthorne. As I was leaving the store, a lady near the entrance called out to me—“Can you give me a minute to help support women’s rights?” I simply replied, “No, thank you.” To be honest, I was chicken to engage her in conversation. I was in a hurry and had no interest in a debate—which I was afraid would be hard to avoid. But not that I’ve had more time to think about it, I wish I would have paused there to at least ask some questions. When I asked Becki this morning what she thought that lady meant by her request, she was about as clueless as I am. What did she mean by “women’s right?” In what way are women being deprived of them? What in the world could I do to support them? So—let me put the question to you: WHAT DO YOU THINK SHE MEANT? I’ll look forward to your feedback.

Incidentally, the book I picked up was DEVIL AT MY HEELS by Louis Zamperini—a book I would recommend your seeking, finding, and reading. I have more to say about that—but not now.

It’s already 8am. At least we won’t be lacking for tennis balls. I picked up a box of used balls yesterday in Beaverton and had fun driving Dandy nuts—throwing out 10 of them at once—frustration and heaven for him all at the same time.

Blessings on your day.

Love, Dad/Ray.

These were the lyrics of the new hit song in heaven as premiered by the angels before an audience of spell-bound shepherds. Not only had they never heard an angelic choir before, they’d never heard such words before.

Think about it. The strong implication of this message is that one gains God’s favor via the special One being born in Bethlehem that night. And a wonderful benefit to winning God’s favor is that one also gains the most sought after commodity in the entire world—PEACE. It is indeed in short supply. Be assured that Jesus is still the “Prince of PEACE” (Isaiah 9:6). I think that little quip says it well: “Know Christ, know peace; no Christ, no peace.”

This is such a viable spiritual law that I believe you can use it as a kind of practical standard for determining whether or not you are walking within the borders of God’s favor. Fear, anger, anxiety, and the like are indicators of territory outside the fence of God’s provision. But peace, love, and trusting confidence are qualities only found in Christ—only within the boundaries of God’s favor. Colossians 3:15 puts it this way: “Let the PEACE of Christ rule (serve as a standard for guidance) in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to PEACE. And be thankful.”

Paul instructs the believers at Philippi to rejoice in the privilege of residing within the realm of Christ. And take note of what he says about PEACE. “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!…and the PEACE of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:4-7).

I think it really is a worthy question: Is there evidence of God’s favor resting on me?