“Almost Home”…

SCRIPTURE: “But whatever happens… I WILL RUN.” (2 Samuel 18:23) 

OBSERVATION: Ahimaaz, son of Zadok, was a Frontlines Messenger commissioned to bring good news to the King. But this was not that day. The King’s son was dead. Absolam had been impaled by not one but three spears through the heart, while hanging from a tree.

How, you may ask? A turn of events sent this rebellious son and so-called leader into the thicket of the great oaks by his spooked mule that kept on running from fear of David’s soldiers in pursuit. The arms of the great oak trees violently ripped Absolam from the saddle hanging by his hair, helpless… You can’t make this stuff up?! It’s almost like Treebeard from Fangorn Forest leading the Last March of The Ents in the LOTR… Hehe, well maybe not 😉

Back in the General’s Tent, stood two young men. The Cushite received his marching orders to bring King David the bitter news. Victory was his, but at the cost of his son’s life.  As the Cushite ran out of the tent to complete his mission, there remained another standing at attention. Ahimaaz stood by as an unqualified messenger. You see, his job was to run with Good News. This was not his race to run. Yet his request broke the silence in an unconventional way:

Then Ahimaaz the son of Zadok said, “Please let me run and bring the king news that the Lord has freed him from the hand of his enemies.” ²⁰ But Joab said to him, “You are not the man to carry news this day, but you shall carry news another day; however, you shall carry no news today because the king’s son is dead.” ²¹ Then Joab said to the Cushite, “Go, tell the king what you have seen.” So the Cushite bowed to Joab and ran. ²² Now Ahimaaz the son of Zadok said once more to Joab, “But whatever happens, please let me also run after the Cushite.” And Joab said, “Why would you run, my son, since you will have no reward for going?” ²³ “But whatever happens,” he said, “I will run.” So he said to him, “Run.” Then Ahimaaz ran by way of the plain and passed up the Cushite.

APPLICATION: “But whatever happens… I will run.”

I’ve been thinking about this principle of being a Frontlines Messenger for decades.  I’ve journaled multiple times about Ahimaaz’ story. Recently, the movie 1917 was an epic adventure that put my imagination of Trench Warfare and these Runners on the screen.  If you haven’t seen it. Go watch it… Today!

Every Christian has a calling this side of heaven that will carry over throughout eternity. Hearts carry the life saving message of Jesus Christ into their spheres of influence. The Good News travels with us, even to the most remote corners of the world. Over the years and even recently, I’ve been inspired by meeting men and women who share their faithfulness following Jesus in their Family, Business, Studies, Marriage, Ministry, Missionary adventures and more…

So for me, this morning… I suppose I’m reminded of the “Why” behind the running.  Ahimaaz respected those in authority by asking for permission to run. When he was told no, that it wasn’t in his job description, Ahimaaz declared that he was going to run the race no matter what.

It was his heart’s cry and passion that fueled his desire to run with all his might to be beside his King when the Cushite brought the bitter news from the frontlines. I want to be that man. How about you? Does your heart beat a bit faster at the thought of giving it all you have for the ones you love? I’ve been there.

But what happens when you’ve been on the frontlines far too long? Some give up. Some are casualties of war. Some are prisoners of war. Others are the rare few that travel through all of those life chapters and more… and yet, Never Give Up.

They somehow got back up again and again and again… & are still running the race?! This is a glimpse into my story. I am Eric Richard Robison, a Bible Communicator & Bridge Builder.  A Gentle General in the Kingdom.

Scars and all… I’m still running my race. Doesn’t make sense. Unconventional at best. Misunderstood by most. Yet, now more than ever, I have a conviction and passion to run the race for an audience of one.  I run with and follow Jesus.

“Off the Map” was a phrase I titled this blog to journal my journeys with Jesus years ago. After nearly 7 years into this adventure, I’m more confident now than ever that I’m on the right path and pace.  It may not look nor feel like it at times. That’s ok. Good stories have protagonists, antagonists, conflict, betrayal, victory and a message that withstands time.

In order to have such a song and a story… I’ve chosen to never give up.  I’ve chosen to count the cost. I’ve chosen to give my life time and time and time again for legacy sake. My heart cry over the years on this platform to Jesus is simply “Make it Count”….

In other words, “But Whatever Happens… I Will Run.”

I have a Song & a Story… So Do You!

I cracked my Bible open the other night on my nightstand when I couldn’t sleep and read the words of King David that pretty much sums it up:

“I waited patiently for the Lord to help me, and he turned to me and heard my cry.
² He lifted me out of the pit of despair, out of the mud and the mire.
He set my feet on solid ground and steadied me as I walked along.
³ He has given me a new song to sing, a hymn of praise to our God.
Many will see what he has done and be amazed.
  They will put their trust in the Lord.” (Psalm 40:1-3)

All of us are Wayfaring Strangers in this land. However, don’t for a moment believe the journey is for not! Our lives this side of heaven, if placed in the hands of Jesus, will have eternal impact. Lives depend on it.

Did you hear it too?… That kick to the side followed by a voice overhead waking me out of my slumber, “Robison… Pick a Man. Bring Your Kit.” Now we both stand at attention in the General’s Tent. I’ve been on the Frontlines… I know what awaits us… and yet my heart cry remains, “Whatever Happens… I Will Run.”

Are you with me?

PRAYER:  Jesus… Make it Count. WAYFARING STRANGER

“Three Arrows”…

SCRIPTURE: “For the Lord your God is living among you. He is a mighty savior. He will take delight in you with gladness. With his love, he will calm all your fears. He will rejoice over you with joyful songs.” (Zephaniah 3:17)

OBSERVATION: Rebellion and Redemption. That is what Zephaniah’s letter reads. Jerusalem is likened to wicked wolves who seek to devour the innocent from morning until night. Heaven watches, waits and warns. Giving every opportunity for hearts to turn, humble themselves and course correct.

How is Zephaniah’s letter reading you today?

APPLICATION: Last week, I took my Son & Daughter to the Elevation Worship Concert here in Seattle.  It was a fun time hanging out together. I’ve been purposeful over years to book worship nights like this with my kids so we can share experiences together, giving us shared memories of when Heaven changes the atmosphere. Sometimes, bringing a personal message to our hearts. Priceless…

I’ve led my family to worship experiences like Kari Jobe, Bethel Music, Hillsong Worship and more. Elevation did not disappoint! Yes, it was a concert and they killed it as live performers. But it was much more than that. The presence of God was tangible.  Hearts responded, including my own family.

As a Dad, I’ve led my kids through 22 years of following Jesus together.
I’m blessed with Three Arrows of Legacy in my quiver; 22, 20 & 16.
Life is Good! (Psalm 127:4)

And yet, this side of Heaven, life isn’t good all the time. Six years ago, began a new chapter of following Jesus Off the Map together in faith. Life had thrown us a Suddenly that changed everything… and yet, Jesus never changed. His heart for us and Heaven’s ability to reach down and bring beauty from ashes is showcased within my family. Grateful.

Out of all of these concerts, this last one was the most rewarding for me. Why? Well, even though I have kept a freedom within to worship freely in public settings.. my kids have not. They shut down pretty hard for a while. I don’t blame them.

So, during the concert I was lost in my own moment honoring my King for what He has done in and through my life up to this point… and to my surprise, when I opened my eyes, I saw what completely cracked my heart open on a different level.

My daughter was standing beside me with both hands raised, singing with all her heart, eyes wide open and tears streaming down both cheeks in a heart cry, declaring her absolute surrender and identity as a Daughter of the King of Kings… Jesus Christ.

This wasn’t a soft, weak nor meek stance. My daughter chose to make a stand as a young woman, who has been through more than most at her age, who trusts Jesus to make it all count for the Kingdom. My little girl, in a blink of an eye, had transformed into a formidable weapon of righteousness. I was awestruck by who my daughter has become.

She knows who she is. She is a Girl. An instrument of God’s Love and Purity. Jesus gave me this word for her before she was born. In fact, before the doctor told us she would be a girl, her Heavenly Father shared exactly who she was created to be. This is why I named her “Kaitlyn”… which means “Purity”. Have I mentioned how much I love my daughter? Hehe, just sayin’ 🙂

We never talked about that moment… don’t need to. I know exactly what was going on. Jesus was being honored. The Heavenly Father was declaring my daughter’s identity over her. And the Holy Spirit was confirming all of this by the manifest presence being experienced in that moment. She was simply responding to how good God is. Specifically to how good God has been writing her own life story.

My daughter has a song and a story!

So, this morning… sitting in yet another PNW coffee shop, I’m writing what’s on my heart and taking inventory from where I’ve come so I may stay the course for my future. Such gratefulness for how Jesus has led us through those Suddenlies to this side of the promise. But the journey is not over yet…

Many have come and gone in my life over the past 6 years because of my story and even those closest to me seem to not stay. Paths converge for a time, but when they hear chapters of my life story, most don’t know how to handle it and predictably make a course correction putting distance between us. Although sad to experience, I understand and don’t blame them. I still choose to run my race and follow Jesus Off the Map.

Although lonely at times, I take great comfort in my Three Arrows. They have been the focus and the fruit of my life’s work up to this moment. I have legacy! This morning, I… as my daughter before me, take great comfort in the Song and Story Heaven is singing over me.

There’s nowhere I’d rather be
When You’re singing over me
I just wanna be here with You
I’m lost in Your mystery
I’m found in Your love for me
I just wanna be here with You

Here in the waiting
I won’t worry about tomorrow
No need to focus
On the things I can’t control
All my attention
On the wonder of this moment
Jesus, Your presence
Is the comfort of my soul

PRAYER: I love you Jesus. Thank you for making it count. I believe the fruit of a man’s life will make a place for him. My kids’ lives echo who I am and whose I am!  Grateful to be a son. Grateful to be loved by You. I trust You. And for what You have promised… I choose to let go and simply be with You. Nowhere I’d rather be.

“Build My Life”…

SCRIPTURE: “Everyone who hears my teaching and applies it to his life can be compared to a wise man who built his house on an unshakable foundation.” (Matthew 7:24)

OBSERVATION: Jesus was teaching the crowd that had gathered around Him about many things.  From praying, fasting and giving to warning about judging, worrying and being flat out fake.  Jesus had a way of sifting the principles of life down to a relationship. First with Him and then others.  Only what we build on the love of Jesus will count in Heaven.  The question is, what are we building on?

APPLICATION:  Life will definitely test us.  All we have and are will be shaken at times.  When the shaking comes, what will remain? After the Richtor scale subsides, the dust clears, and the sirens are screaming in the background… you may be surprised to see what survived.  It’s often not what you expected.

I believe we have all had similar experiences to one degree or another.  For me, the life principle that has moved the Richtor scale within my heart today is how to build on an unshakable foundation.  Jesus spells it out clearly for us:

1. Hear Jesus’ teaching
2. Apply it to your life

Seems pretty simple right?  I mean, even Sunday School kids can sing the song.  But how many of us actually live like this?  I for one, have had my world shaken from the storms of life.  Those storms were real and life changing. And yet, what they did was give Jesus an opportunity to be trusted at His word.  With nothing more than promises, I was left with the choice to trust Jesus at His word, or base my worth on the rubble all around me.  I chose to put my trust in Jesus.  The chorus of this song pretty much sums up my heart cry:

And I will build my life upon your love it is a firm foundation
And I will put my trust in you alone and I will not be shaken

Walking out the past 6 years has been a journey to say the least. But one I am so proud of.  Jesus is making it all count.  It took a while to truly value my firm foundation.  At 40 years old, it seemed as though all was lost.  Much of what I had put my hands to was lost.  And yet, Jesus helped me understand what was of greater value.  He helped me see that Love was the foundation that wasn’t shaken.  He wasn’t shaken.  And the subsurface work that no one else could see was intact, complete, strong, immovable.  It was up to me to redefine my life based on Jesus’ word or my unfortunate circumstances.  I chose and still choose Jesus.  He is my Rock. My Salvation.

So now, 6 years later, I’m so incredibly grateful for what I am beginning to see rise all around me.  Jesus has begun to build my life in such a way as to make the first 40 years count.  Only the Living God can do that!

I even had two Leaders stop me while I was at Bethel Church for a conference and ask me if they could pray and prophesy over me.  I was the village idiot who just kept walking and thought they were talking to someone else.  I’m no one.  Not important.  They finally stopped me and asked again.  After looking behind me and then sheepishly confessing my ignorance, of course I accepted!  I even recorded it.

They were both very polite and extremely accurate in what they had to share with me.  Enough so, that they both shared that they saw a structure being built.  A skyscraper, reaching up to heaven with a firm foundation and cranes all around. It had mostly been built up to the point of beginning to create the exterior.  What they saw was an extremely deep foundation with the first 40 floors completed.  People were living in those floors already, while the rest of the building was unfinished, still in process with beams and unfinished floors reaching up to the heavens.

I couldn’t believe the accuracy of what they were saying?! This was a glimpse into my life up to that moment!  And then they continued…

The woman was hesitant to share what she saw next.  Finally sharing that she saw, “Pigeons”… “Lots of Pigeons”… “And you know what they do?…”  We both started laughing and she said, “Messes! They make lots of messes!”  hahaha 😉 I’ve never had anyone pray/prophesy over me that my life would be crappy, but there you have it boys and girls!  It happened to me, and it was 100% accurate.  My life sucked for a while with people who decided to be enemies of mine for simply being a faithful man.

But then the woman got very serious and changed her countenance and shared how the Lord is going to now begin to complete the exterior of the building and the messes from the pigeons won’t ever be remembered!  Wow!! The next 40 years will be seen by many.  Many will take refuge in what the Lord builds upon my first 40 years.  Nothing will shake it.  I am on time and I have legacy…

I couldn’t believe what I was hearing!  Other details were shared, but oh my gosh?! Amazing… Matthew 7:24 reminded me of this experience and how my choices have led me to a place of visible progress.  Now new life chapters are being written, God is being glorified and my story is being redeemed.  The next 40 years will be built upon my firm foundation, Jesus.

“Everyone who hears my teaching and applies it to his life can be compared to a wise man who built his house on an unshakable foundation.” (Matthew 7:24)

Want to be compared to a wise man? Then go beyond hearing about Jesus. Love Him. Live for Him. Put Him first. Even in the loss… trust Jesus at His word. He is faithful to complete the work He started in you.  I have faith for that.  Do you?

PRAYER: Jesus, I am now in a brand new place of expectation.  I choose to put You first.  Even in letting go of what I thought you had blessed me with.  If I’m honest with myself, everything and everyone in my life is from You.  I give it all back to You. I thank You for building my life upon Your love.  It is a firm foundation.  I will put my trust in You alone and I will not be shaken. So continue to lead me into Your very best.  Thank you for building my life in such a way that You will get glory.  I thank You for those in my life, near and far, who have and are building with me.  I have legacy thanks to who You are.  I’m excited to see how I get to partner with you in the next 40 years.  Make it count Jesus.  Make it count!

 

“Fear Can Go to Hell”…

SCRIPTURE: “There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.” (1 John 4:18)

OBSERVATION: When John first met Jesus, he and his brother James were nicknamed “Boanerges” which means, “Sons of Thunder“… I think it’s safe to say Jesus knew what He was doing.  No one disputed this nickname.  People probably just shook their heads and raised their eyebrows in agreement.  Sometimes silence says it all.

And yet, John and James were 2 of the 3 closest to Jesus.  Peter, James and John… They were Jesus’ trusted inner circle.  They saw and heard things first.  Jesus trusted them.

Why?… Why did Jesus let these 3 men in with their known reputation?…
What did Jesus see deep within their hearts that was waiting to be released?

Because Jesus loved them as Sons.  He created them with Hearts of Passion, Grit and Endurance that cried out for Justice… All of this was built upon a hidden foundation of Love that wouldn’t be swayed by the storms of life.  These Boanerges would be the Bridge Builders and Bible Communicators the Church would be built on. Jesus knew what He was doing.

So much so, that at the end of his life, John was known as the “Apostle of Love.”

APPLICATION:  I am a Boanerges.  I too am a Bridge Builder and Bible Communicator.  No, I’m not to add to the Canon we know as scripture.  And yet, Jesus is still writing my story.  I have a song and a story because of God’s love.  I am very proud of the man that I’ve become.  Mess and all… I know I’m loved by Jesus.  I am a son of the King.  I am forgiven and set free by Jesus’ love for me.  He went first.  He gave His all for me.  I want to do the same.

My heart cries out with a similar thunder as John’s, and yet at the end of my days, I won’t be known as an Apostle of Love. No… I will be known as a Gentle General.  How do I know this?  Because Jesus told me.  This is my new nickname.  I’m not there yet, but I’m walking out my transformation one day at a time. Day by day, I am becoming the man God has created me to be as His son, Eric Richard Robison, a Bridge Builder and Bible Communicator.  A Gentle General.

Jesus went first.  On the cross, Jesus willingly gave His life for all mankind.  John wrote the account of his first hand witness of Jesus’ crucifixion and death, and what Jesus spoke to him,

“When Jesus saw his mother standing there beside the disciple he loved, he said to her, “Dear woman, here is your son.” And he said to this disciple, “Here is your mother.” And from then on this disciple took her into his home.” (John 19:26-27)

Some of the very last words Jesus spoke on earth was entrusting his Mom to John… yes, John… the Boanerges.  John was never the same.  His heart broke along with Jesus’ that dark day on Golgotha.  These life events of brokenness were redefined 3 days later.  Jesus rose from the grave just as He said He would!  Until his dying breath, John would serve Jesus as the Apostle of Love.  He has legacy!

So I suppose the life lesson for me in all this is simple really.  There will be Friends, Family, Foes and Loved Ones who will choose to define me as Boanerges. That’s OK.

Don’t get me wrong. I care. Sometimes too deeply.  But, I care more about who Jesus says I am.  So, I trust God in the journey.  Fear can go to hell.  Shame can go there too.  I know whose I am.  God I belong to You…

And with that heart cry, I choose Love.  Let that Thunder through my life story!
Those who journey with me will have the same heart cry.  Love conquers all. Period.

I want my life story to be written in such a way that people see Jesus.  Not me.  But I’m not called to live a perfect life.  I’m not ashamed of my story nor my scars.  I am loved by my King Jesus who has chosen to keep his scars in Heaven for all to see.  He took my shame and fear upon Himself.  He went first. Love conquers all.

And just like John, the Boanerges before me, my heart has broken.  But this is my point.  Jesus has the last word on my life.  He created me as a son.  He loves me.  Love loves me.  He will finish what He started.  I will trust Him in the process.  I am Eric Richard Robison, a Bridge Builder and Bible Communicator, a Gentle General.

PRAYER:  Thank you for those who are seeking You as I am tonight Jesus.  Bless them.  Keep them.  I pray that the eyes of their heart would be opened to Your love.  Help them redefine what Fear and Shame brought to their minds.  Help them remember whose they are. I pray that the well springs of their heart would break forth in such a way that they cannot contain it. Bring a water shed night of breakthrough, blessing their heart cry. I pray that dancing and songs of joy would follow your outpouring upon them.  Love them lavishly Jesus!

Oh, and one more thing…

Fear can go to Hell.  Shame can go there too.
I know whose I am.  God I belong to You!

“Almost Human”…

SCRIPTURE: “Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.” (1 John 4:7-8)

OBSERVATION: John’s message was grounded in the person of Jesus Christ, whose love changed the world.  However, John wasn’t always known for love.  In fact, he was known as a Tough Guy, a Fighter… a Scrapper!  I sum this up with one word, “Capable!”

The Bible even gives of an account when he was wanting to call down fire from heaven to consume people who rejected him and his message… I kid you not!  These boys earned their nickname as the “Sons of Thunder“.  “Oh shhh… here they come!  Who?  The freakin’, Son’s of Thunder, that’s who!  Oh snap.  What do they want now?!”… I can only imagine the stories that earned this title for John and his brother James.  I’m going to ask them for more stories when I see them in heaven!

APPLICATION: I have had many nicknames over the years.  But they usually all sifted down to, “Robison”.  Yeah, my name pretty much summed up my “Sons of Thunder” days.  My best friend and I kid around about this all the time.  We believe God hasn’t let us live in the same state all these years because of the trouble we would find ourselves into.  Hehe… But God loves me best.  I’m in Seattle.  He’s in Kansas! 😉

Hearts start out so open in our youth and then over the grind of the passing years, for various reasons, most of us close our hearts from the inside.  It’s sad really.  Keeping your heart open to God and others takes courage. But it is worth it!

I’ve been on my own journey over the past 5 years.  It’s taken longer than I thought, but the work that I set out to do years ago is now paying off.  I still have much work to do, but the core areas of my heart have been revived from a cold flat-line…  The chambers that remain to be healed are those I’m not even self-aware of… and I’m pretty much off the charts with self leadership/assessment.

There is a struggle between man’s heart and heaven’s heart within every believer.  Love is at the core of this tension.  Jesus is love.  So when all emotions are sifted, what remains is Love… or no love.  Jesus or no Jesus.

Sometimes, it seems like life without emotions, vulnerability, authenticity would be so much easier.  But it’s not the life heaven created us for.  Being calloused, calculated and closed off is not what it means to be alive… human.  Love… Jesus… brings life to our hearts in unstoppable ways.  It’s difficult to explain really.  But once The King of Kings steps in the room of your heart, everything changes.

I’m a movie and music nerd who loves mythic leadership.  So, I’ve been thinking about the narrative of Blade Runner.  Replicants somehow make the shift to be more human than their creators in the way they love and sacrifice for one another.  It’s a good reminder for me to make sure that I know who I am and what I’m willing to live and die for.  Love is at the core of our identity this side of heaven and throughout eternity.  Love is what makes us, HUMAN.

Check out Lauren Daigle’s account of the meaning behind her song featured in the Blade Runner 2049 movie.  We are all on a journey to discover God’s best for our lives and how we may play our part in God’s divine plan.  I believe at the core of every human is a God shaped void, that can only be filled by Jesus.  Once we open our hearts from the inside out to the King of Kings… Our Heavenly Father releases all of heaven’s resources by the Holy Spirit to experience what it truly means to be Human…

Don’t underestimate the power of this Love…

PRAYER: Make it count Jesus.  I trust You.

“You Found Me…”

SCRIPTURE: “If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me. I will be found by you,” says the Lord. “I will end your captivity and restore your fortunes. I will gather you out of the nations where I sent you and will bring you home again to your own land.”” (Jeremiah 29:11-13)

OBSERVATION:  Jeremiah lived in a time of captivity.  Babylon sieged countries as corporations consume businesses in the west, except with bodies in the wake of their path of destruction.  Relentless and without mercy.  The headlines from the so-called Prophets were peace and prosperity.  Then God showed up to Jeremiah with an entirely different message.  God spoke truth with a clarion call that shook all hopes of comfort and control. Jeremiah was chosen to be a messenger for his people because of his resolve.  This man valued Heaven’s perspective more than anything.  He wasn’t afraid to stand alone and speak from the core of his character, which was built on honesty, truth and following God no matter the cost.

APPLICATION:  I’ve recently been given the opportunity to be real, honest, vulnerable… which doesn’t come easy for me these days.  Yet, surprisingly… I find myself opening up and sharing my story.  What is more surprising to me is the reciprocity received.  I’m not used to that. In fact, I’ve grown accustom to the very opposite.  And almost accepted this as the new norm…  It’s nice to have false paradigms shattered once in a while.  Grateful.

Over the course of the past month, new trailers for the upcoming movie “Unbroken2” have caught my attention.  This is the second half of Louis Zamperini’s life story. The first movie, “Unbroken“, retold the unforgettable account of Louis’ life story as an Olympic runner and a surviver of WWII prison camps.  He is one of my Heroes of Faith and I’ve learned much from this man.  If you haven’t read the book, Unbroken, I highly recommend it!

However, this new movie brings to light the very real struggles of coming out of warfare. The pain, anger, questions and eventually, quitting points.  Louis shut it down. All of it. Locked it away deep in the chambers of his heart and determined to simply forget it. Over the years, this unseen low-grade fever finally grew into an all out assault on his life and legacy.  Despite Louis’ stubbornness, this unchecked infection of unforgiveness is what finally brought this war hero to his knees.

…And in a moment, he was set set free.  Heaven did in minutes, what Louis could not do in years.

He found the person of Jesus Christ.  Louis knew about Jesus his entire life, but did not open his heart to Jesus.  In that Tent of Healing, he was found.  Jesus changed his life forever.  So much so, that Louis’ life message would be of Forgiveness, sending him on a path back to the very origin of his pain.  Japan’s Prison Camps and his Captors. He purposed in his heart to Face them… and Forgive them.  Louis brought the Gospel to those who once tormented his soul…  Only Heaven can change a man on that level.  God has, is and will receive glory for Louis’ life of simple faith and obedience based on forgiveness.  Like I said, Hero status.  He’s the real deal…

 

My journey pales in comparison to Louis’ or any of the men/women who have gone before us and helped secure the peace of our great nation. Especially those from the Greatest Generation who fought in WWII.  However, it is the tested truths of God’s word that parallels just the same.

I’m sure you have your own story.  Regardless of how far we have journeyed away from Jesus, He never leaves our side.  He’s simply waiting for the opportunity when our free will collides with our faith.  At this fulcrum moment, Jesus is quick to listen and speaks life over His sons and Daughters.

I’ve had my moments of life change.  There are more on the horizon.  How about you?  Do you sense Jesus bringing you to a place of breakthrough?  If so, I encourage you to be real.  Open your heart to Jesus and find out what Heaven speaks over your life and legacy.  Jesus wants to be found.  He found Louis.  He found me.  He will find you.

PRAYER: Jesus, thank you for men and women in the Bible who lived lives of simple faith even in the face of opposition and insurmountable odds.  And thank you for the Louis Zamperini’s of the 21st Century who model the very same walk of faith.  In Louis’ case, he embodied running the race.  His words echo within my heart today, “I’d made it this far and refused to give up because all my life I had always finished the race.” Louis finished his race and is in heaven now.  Legacy is his.  Thank you for my journey, Jesus.  Like Louis, You found me.  Grateful.

“This is How I Fight My Battles”…

SCRIPTURE: “But because my servant Caleb has a different attitude and has remained loyal to me, I will bring him into the land which he explored, and his descendants will possess the land.” (Numbers 14:24)

OBSERVATION: Caleb was a warrior.  When he was young and untested or scarred with life lessons, Caleb lived wholeheartedly for God!  He was a man of a different spirit.  His attitude and loyalty to God set him apart from others.  God blessed Him and his family for generations because of his life chapters this side of heaven.  He is one of my heroes and mentors.

APPLICATION:  I made a personal decision when I was a kid to live for legacy.  Even at an early age, I knew the difference between people who were living to impress vs. people living to bless.  Hearts learn more from what is caught than taught.  People can say whatever they want, but hearts will only remember how they felt in the moment.

Caleb’s ATTITUDE and LOYALTY was what impressed God.

In this context, Moses had led the Hebrew slaves out of Egypt.  God split the Red Sea and made a way where there was none for His people as their enemy pursued to kill them.  They all witnessed this miracle. And yet, here they were, at the borders of their so-called “Promise Land” shaking in their Tevas out of fear and disbelief at what God was asking of them.

Moses sent 12 spies on a 40 day expedition to bring back a report of all they saw.  It was everything they were hoping for… except, enemies inhabited every square mile. The 12 men came back with proof of how fruitful the land was, “A land flowing with milk and honey”…

So what’s the problem?

Well, this land wasn’t only inhabited.  It was inhabited by formidable enemies renown in size and military might.  The Hebrews?… a bunch of emaciated slaves, farmers, families, untrained for war.  There was no way for them to have victory on their own!

The knocking knees and winy little whispers bringing the report back to Moses confirmed… they were once again, surrounded.  Surrounded by circumstances of certain defeat.  Hearts began once again to grumble against Moses and God.

It was in this moment that Caleb and Joshua rose up and made a stand between Moses and the Millions.

To make a long story short, this moment started the clock for 40 years of wondering in the dessert for the Hebrews.  None of them stepped foot in their promised land except for… you guessed it!  Caleb and Joshua.

Now at 80 and coming full circle to the start line for finally taking the land, Caleb was one of the first men to rise up. I can imagine his Brave Heart speech, demanding the toughest challenge with the best land his eyes saw so many years ago. Caleb must have been a man not to be messed with, because no one stopped him.  At 80 years old, he and the men who followed him kicked ass and took possession of their promised land. So cool!

ATTITUDE and LOYALTY.  These are what caught God’s attention.  And were the prerequisites of being blessed!  Legacy was granted because Caleb followed his God WHOLEHEARTEDLY!

I have passed my Point of No Return… My feet are now on the very Promise Land Jesus spoke over me years ago.  I’m encouraged that my life will only get better from here as I follow my God in the race that is set for me.  It won’t be easy at times and I will have my own battles to face.  However, I want to be the first to rise and demand the best of my God-given promises when the opportunities present themselves!

Nothing is too difficult, nothing too hard for You Jesus. 

This is how I fight my battles.  This is how we fight our battles…

PRAYER: Jesus thank You for men like Joshua and Caleb that I can learn from thousands of years later and apply life principles in my life.  I want to be counted as a man of a different spirit like Caleb.  I want Legacy!  I want to be a man who follows you wholeheartedly with my attitude and loyalty to You.  Even when I stand alone at times, I choose to believe you over circumstances.  When I’m surrounded?… let me rise up and remind myself and your people who You are.  You are the same yesterday, today and forever.  The victory is Yours!  This is how I fight my battles…

“Beautiful in Defeat”…

SCRIPTURE: “Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life. ” (Psalm 139: 23-24)

OBSERVATION:  David acknowledged that God sees and knows everything about us, even the most hidden areas of our heart.  King David was a legendary warrior who’s name struck fear in his so-called enemies. The other side of David’s leadership was walking out the dark depths of defeat and betrayal from those closest to him.  And yet, throughout his life, he willingly chose to submit to the King of his heart… in victory and defeat, he trusted his God.

APPLICATION: David’s life was read like a mythic leadership movie like The Lord of the Rings or Gladiator.  And yet, at the same time, his life was riddled by the consequences of selfish life choices.  What gives me hope is that David’s life echoed the hope of Heaven.  Even in his mess, he kept his heart open to his God and self-corrected accordingly.  He learned in youth and even as a king, that true victory comes only by surrendering to the King of Kings.

Sounds like and oxymoron doesn’t it?

Throughout history, we read of men and women who led their lives in such a way that defied culture and at times, common sense.  King David, Joseph, Moses, Esther, Ruth, Mary and more… and yet, God was glorified through their simple obedience.  What these people modeled so well for us is the rare public display of a private surrendering of their heart to the God they loved.  God had won their heart years before life brought them to those fulcrum moments that defined their character by heaven’s standards.  Their lives were forever set apart proving it was possible to be beautiful in defeat.

For me, I want to be a man who lives out this life principle.  I surrendered my heart to Jesus years ago.  In my youth, life was at ease on all borders.  Now at 44, my heart bears the scars of betrayal and campaigns of very real spiritual warfare.  And yet, my heart remains yielded to Jesus.  I am a man who walks in sweet victory.

Because Jesus won my heart, He sustains me when life brings me to my knees. This side of heaven, each of us will have moments like this. It’s not the blows, but rather our response to them that mark us as King’s kids.

When my heart flatlined years ago, Jesus’ presence breathed life into me again.  I can’t really explain how Jesus did this.  I am living proof that Jesus is who He says He is.  Having nothing to offer Him, except a wounded heart, He made me Beautiful in Defeat.

Each of us will come to the end of ourselves.  In these moments, we can choose to become a casualty of war OR… to join the ranks of men and women in the bible who chose to live by faith.  They were free even in the midst of their battle.  God won their heart.  They were unstoppable.

I too want to be a man who is known in the Kingdom to be worthy of bearing these very real scars… I want to be more like Jesus.  And I am the first to admit, I have much to learn!

His heart bears the scars of giving His life on the cross for you and for me.  He chose to keep those scars in Heaven throughout eternity as a reminder of God’s love for His Daughters and Sons.  All of the heroes of faith point to Jesus arriving on earth with a mission to live a prefect life, choosing obedience to the Father by giving His life in order for us to have life after death.

The prerequisite?  Surrendering our heart to Jesus.

Jesus is my King.  Even in my mess, I am loved.  He gave His life for me.  As David did before me, I want to bring my heart to my King seeking His will in and through my life.  I want Legacy.  The prerequisite is to surrender my heart… all of it, day by day.

PRAYER:  My desire is to be a man marked by Your presence Jesus.  Completely surrendered… mess and all.  Because of You I am Beautiful in Defeat.  You have won my heart.  I trust You.  Make it count!

“Now It’s Personal”…

SCRIPTURE:  ^“Answer me, O Lord, answer me, that this people may know that You, O Lord, are God, and that You have turned their heart back again.” (1 Kings 18:37)

OBSERVATION:  After years of no rain & drought, Elijah finally picked a fight with the demonic realm by summoning 850 false priests who were leading people astray.  He mocked them for hours as they worked themselves into a frenzy, crying out to gods who never existed.

Elijah enjoyed the show a little too much by mocking their false gods saying they need to shout louder, maybe their gods are sleeping or going to the bathroom?  I like this guy! 😏

These occult leaders began cutting themselves and more to evoke fire from heaven to burn their prepared altar as proof of their gods’ existence.  People had gathered all around this showdown as the final demonstration of giving themselves to whichever god showed up.  They were desperate for an answer to their suffering due to the horrific drought.

Elijah waited until the evening and then made his move.  After building an altar to God with 12 stones representing the 12 Tribes of Israel, preparing the sacrifice, cutting the wood for fuel, Elijah shocked everyone with what he did next… especially in the middle of a 3 year drought!

He called everyone closer to inspect his work and then dug a trench around the altar and asked for 4 large jars of water to be emptied out 3 separate times over his altar drenching the wood and filling the trench to overflowing.

Even if he had a match to light this BBQ, it wouldn’t have worked… and everyone knew it!

Beside the drenched woodpile, the gallons of water dripping over the stones and through the trench towards muddy sandals… stood a Man.  A Believer.  A Prophet.  Elijah.  His gaze into the night sky hushed hearts as thousands of eyes stared in wonder at what would happen next.

Some stared in hate, others in hope…

As Elijah took a deep breath before the plunge, he knew there was no turning back.  He would live or die on what came next. Betting his life on the authentic relationship he had experienced with the Living God, Elijah emptied his heart before The Great I AM, Yahweh!

Elijah’s Request?  “ANSWER ME!”

The Result?  “CONSUMING FIRE!”

APPLICATION:  All of us will at times find ourselves fumbling through a season of drought. No rain. No blessing.  No hope.  At least, that is how it feels.  What Jesus is looking for are sons and daughters who will follow Him through any season, seeking the Father’s heart for the “Why’s” for it.

Bitterness and Blame usually surface during dry times.  At this stage of life and relationship with God, I don’t want to be that man.  I want to be more like Elijah.  A Man.  A Believer.  A Prophet.  Eric.

I want my life to count.  I want to understand why God allows me to go through certain seasons and what my role is in and through it.  The answer is always on its way.  Believe it or not, Jesus is working the most in so-called seasons of dryness, drought… ‘Hiddenness’

When we least expect it, Jesus will call us out of the crowd to stand on behalf of the people we care about and cash in all that we know in one act of faith.  Why?  So people will know that God is real and to call hearts back to God and each other.

With all eyes on Elijah, Fire/Lightning came down from heaven and consumed the altar, sacrifice, stones, dirt and all traces of water.  God SHOWED UP!  The people fell on their faces and declared God was real!  …Awesome!

Today, I’m encouraged that Jesus always has a way to redeem difficult seasons.  He has a plan to make it count. He has a way to bring hearts back to Him in and through difficult circumstances.  What He is looking for, are sons and daughters who will choose to remain faithful to follow Him through those seasons.  Few do.

When we say Yes to a life of faith, God will eventually call us out to stand our ground.  Albeit uncomfortable, lonely and intimidating as can be sometimes… Jesus’ presence will change everything.

Jesus showed up in my 3 years of dryness and drought.  He answered me! He silenced my enemies.  And shattered their strategies.  Now Jesus is bringing hearts back to Him in and through it.  It’s who He is.  The Great I am, Yahweh… Jesus!

I’m so excited to be in this season of victory!  I can’t wait to see what comes next!  Jesus will honor me for I have honored Him.  He has already begun this.  My prayers have been answered one by one over the past 4 years.

Now It’s Personal.

Jesus knows the prayers I have held close to my heart for myself, my future, my family and more… It’s time.  I recognize my drought is over.  Hearts have turned back to Jesus.

Now I’m praying, preparing and looking in faith on the horizon for evidence of things unseen.  Can you see it?  Can you feel it?  Keep looking!  Jesus is on the move.  A new season of blessing is here!  For you and me!

PRAYER:  Jesus, thank You for answering me.  Thank you for showing up when I needed Your presence above all else. Thank You for making it count. Now at this point in my life, I recognize that You are calling me out of the crowd.  To make a stand.  To gaze expectantly to the heavens and ask for a miracle. You know what’s on my heart.  You put it there.  May You show up again with a consuming fire.  I want to burn for You brighter than before.  Lives depend on it.  I receive this new season and ask for Your presence to go before me.  Lead the way.  I still choose to Follow You, Off the Map!

“Watch Your Triumph Unfold”

SCRIPTURE: “But you should keep a clear mind in every situation. Don’t be afraid of suffering for the Lord. Work at telling others the Good News, and fully carry out the ministry God has given you.” (2 Timothy 4:5)

OBSERVATION: Paul is teaching Timothy important life principals to live out this side of heaven so they will echo victoriously throughout eternity.  Paul reminds Timothy to stay awake as he walks out his faith journey with and for Jesus.  Lives depend on it.

APPLICATION:  I’ve been mentored by many.  However, there are only a handful who have proven to be faithful over the years.  These are the people who know me and advocate for God’s best in my life.  I’m grateful for these faithful few and appreciate how they hold my feet to the fire when I begin to stray off course.  They understand that legacy is about leading an intentional life. They remind me of the race I have been given to run.  It’s unconventional at best and I’m starting to fully enjoy who I am now and what Jesus has in store for me and my family!

The 75th Anniversary of the invasion of Pearl Harbor was a few days ago.  I asked my daughter what her teachers taught on.  To my surprise, she said, “Nothing.” … Nothing?!… Unacceptable.  So I helped her understand some of the stories that unfolded on island that day of infamy on December 7th 1941.

I had her watch some film footage of the attack, President FDR’s Presidential address to the Nation as we responded with resolve to finish the war we didn’t start… “So help us God.”

Then shared how her Great Grandpa, Frank Cordeiro, was only 16 years old when those Zeros released their bombs shattering America’s false hope of peace while confirming Japan’s bitter betrayal.  Grandpa Frank had his camera with him and began taking photographs.

He went on to become General MacArthur’s personal photographer during WWII and had the great privilege of capturing the signed surrender of the Japanese Empire aboard the Battleship Missouri.  He saw the war begin and end from a very unique perspective.  My kids should be proud of their family heritage.  It’s my role as a Father to remember well those who have come and gone in our life, gleaning life principals worthy of the next generation.

And with that, I shared with her the years we lived next to Pearl Harbor.  I shared how I used to run along the ocean shore path for miles with the old Battleship graveyard off shore in the distance.  Their hollowed shells reminded me of the history of Hawaii and the great privilege of living there.  Running on that path over the years changed me.  History set deeply within my heart.  It became personal.

So as I look at my life today, what am I about?  What is my life story reflecting?  What will my kids and my grandkids share about my life in the days to come?  These are questions that I hold loosely this morning.  I believe they are good questions.  They keep my feet following hard after the one that I follow, my King Jesus.

I want legacy.

I have legacy, up to a point.  I have a song and a story for the first 40 years of my life.  Yet I want more! And God knows it.  He put this longing deep within my heart before I was born.  Because of His faithfulness, I still follow Him.  There are promises I have held onto for years, that are being realized… NOW!  Life is now full of “Suddenlies” of blessings instead of curses.  Life is good.  And yet, there is so much more to come…

 

Praying and Planning for 2017 has me expecting a manifest season of “Suddenlies” for me and my family. Still praying through details, yet so expectant.  I’m at a fulcrum point in my life.  The next 40 years have just begun.  I’m getting excited about how Jesus will finish my story and glorify His name.  My life is good. And yet, God is not mocked… He will restore what was stolen from me and my family.  So excited!

PRAYER:  Make it count Jesus.  All of it.  I want legacy.  Not just the first 40… I want the next 40 to be exponentially better!  I choose to Follow You Off The Map as You show me every inch of this promised land You have brought me to.  Thank You for being so faithful.  I trust You.  And recognize that what You are about to do in and through me is for others.  May I fully carry out the ministry You are giving me.  I choose to be still and watch my triumph unfold… my faith is rising!