Author: Jon Harris

This summer, my father-in-law, Charles “Chuck” Keever, and I discussed faith. Although this can be a touchy subject with family members, Chuck has known me for nearly 25 years. He’s heard me preach God’s word and pray over many meals, and most importantly, he has a close view of how I live. In turn, I have insights into how he lives and I knew it to be true when he said “I try to do what The Good Book says”.

Chuck is a giver. He loves to give to his family and friends as well as bless those who are less fortunate. He’s a gifted dentist (now retired) and one of my favorite chefs. The beauty of the combination of dentist-chef is that he utilizes science and art to curate amazing foods such as briskets, breads, dips, and meats. If it once moved slowly, he’ll grill it or smoke it and it will always be good – and you’ll always have enough, even if you’re a random guest in his home.

In short, Chuck shows his love for others by giving to them.

What then does the “Good Book” (The Bible) say to Chuck and the rest of us?

Today’s assigned reading includes 1 John 4. Within this chapter, there is a section titled “God Is Love” (verses 7-21) where we find the word love twenty-seven times (twenty-nine if you count “beloved”). Here are some of the things these verses teach us about love:

1. To love one another, that love is from God, and that those who love have been born of God and they know God. (v7)
2. That if we do not love, we do not know God. (v8)
3. That God is love. (v8)
4. That God showed his love for us by sending his only Son into the world to give us life. (v9)
5. God loved us first (even if we don’t love him, he still loves us). (v10)
6. Since God loves us, we should love each other. (v11)
7. As we love others, God in turn lives in us, and his love is expressed in us. (v12)
8. God’s perfect love eliminates fear. Fear relates to punishment yet we need not fear when we are abiding in God’s perfect love through Jesus Christ. (v17-18)
9. If we say we love God, we must love others (if we hate others, we then show we do not love God). (v20-21)

These verses help us understand why we exist on this planet. To know God and have a relationship with Him, to experience His love through Jesus, to love Him back, and to share His love with others, so that we can spend eternity with Him.

Dear readers, upon the publishing of today’s post, Chuck will be undergoing major surgery so this is a call to prayer in this serious situation. Will you please pray with me?

Father God, thank you for loving us, for showing your love through your servant Charles as we lift him up to you in this moment. Guide the hands of the medical staff, and grant them wisdom and courage. Strengthen Chuck’s body so that it can undergo the necessary procedures. Please comfort and give peace to his family and friends as they surround Chuck from near and far. We ask for miraculous results and full healing, beyond our own understanding, for your glory. We pray these things in the name of Jesus. Amen.

Have you recently experienced poor customer service where the employee didn’t know how to perform their job successfully? Or maybe where you work, are there employees who “just don’t get it”? This is referring more toward lack of skill as opposed to lack of will.

Early in my career, I was a lot more judgmental about poor-performing employees, such as “They are no good, so they should be fired.” My mindset has since shifted to seek the deeper cause of poor performance, and usually, the root cause is more about bad leadership. People tend to thrive under good leadership and wither away under bad leadership. More deeply, we tend to become more like the leaders we follow.

Jesus said it best:

Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. (John 15:4)

This is about following and submitting to his leadership. His commands. His will. It is about true life, not a moment here and there, not just Sunday mornings where we are all so spiritual, but every waking moment, drawing nearer to him.

I love this thought by John Mark Comer from “The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry”, referring to abiding in Jesus:

It’s a way to organize all of your life around the practice of the presence of God, to work and rest and play and eat and drink and hang out with your friends and run errands and catch up on the news, all about of a place of deep, loving enjoyment of the Father’s company.

What will we choose today and for the rest of our days? Will it be to follow our own instincts, the ways of the world, or the latest popular thought around success and happiness? Or will it be to live a fruitful and transformative life marked by obedience to Jesus and a love for others?

¹⁰ If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love. ¹¹ These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full. (John 15:10-11)

Do you find yourself constantly in motion, always on the go, and rarely stopping to take a breath? Do you experience restlessness? When people ask how you’re doing, is your automatic response something like “good, just really busy”? If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. I catch myself saying it too, and I hear it from people of all walks of life—retirees, students, stay-at-home parents, and professionals alike.

I constantly find myself in a hurry, trying to accomplish one thing after another so I can accomplish more. This includes activities related to my employment, in the home, where I serve, and even when I’m supposed to be rejuvenating.

This summer while on vacation to visit family and friends my heart was convicted. It was as though I was trying to get through every conversation and gathering as quickly as possible. This left me feeling exhausted and guilty as I was supposed to experience peace and joy with these wonderful people, yet I felt the opposite. My mind wandered and I was frequently mentally “somewhere else”.

What convicted me wasn’t a specific friend or family member, it was through self-reflection, alone time, and prayer. One phrase kept coming to mind: Be present.

My selfishness is what got in the way. I was the problem, not anyone else. Our most limited resource is our time, and more important than time is our attention. While I “spent time” with these people, my attention was elsewhere.

Worse than inattention to family and friends is inattention to God and his will for my life. The more focused I am on myself, the less focused I am on God. This goes for prayer time, acknowledging the beauty of His creation, and giving thanks for the many blessings he has given.

Since that moment of conviction, I’ve started making small but meaningful changes. By intentionally focusing on the present (and on others), prayer, and time with God, I’ve found more joy in my interactions.

Today’s reading in 1 Peter 3 gives some simple instructions for good living which relates to my story:

• Love each other (v. 8). It is loving to give our attention to others.
• Be tenderhearted (v. 8). We can only have tender hearts when we see others for who they are (God’s creation) and we let go of selfish desires.
• Keep a humble attitude (v. 8). Again, putting others first, dying to self.
• Bless those who hurt us (and we will be blessed by God) (v. 9). The world says to take revenge but how is that working out for the world?
• Tell the truth and speak with kindness (v. 10). This talks about being able to enjoy life. While scripture doesn’t guarantee a “happy life”, we can still live life abundantly in Christ. Too often we chase things we don’t need to find happiness. This scripture keeps it simple.
• Do good, maintain peace (v. 11). This verse contains action words. Good living doesn’t come from just sitting on the couch watching television. Take action!

All of those verses lead me to close with 1 Peter 3:15.

Instead, you must worship Christ as Lord of your life. And if someone asks about your hope as a believer, always be ready to explain it.

As you reflect on these scriptures, I invite you to carve out some quiet time today or tomorrow to pray over these questions:

1. What do my time and attention say about me? Do these choices indicate Christ as Lord of my life?
2. If someone asks about my hope as a believer, am I ready to explain it? What will I say?

Today’s reading: 2 Kings 24-25; 2 Chronicles 36; Psalm 126; 1 Peter 3

What are the characteristics of the people you call best friends?

Here are some of the attributes that I admire the most. People who are:

• Loyal. Not only to me as a friend, but they are loyal in whatever they do, as workers, servants, and leaders.
• Honest. The bold, direct truth-tellers, who clearly say what needs to be said, when it needs to be said. Confrontation with these individuals is healthy.
• Humble. Their mission in life is not about them, it is about a greater purpose. They’re willing to take bumps and bruises as they stand up for what they believe.
• Self-aware. They know what they are capable of and better, they know their weaknesses and are unashamed to admit them.
• Sacrificial givers, expecting nothing in return. They add to the relationship.
• Escape artists. They can get out undetected from a sticky situation at a moment’s notice.

Today’s reading: Jeremiah 8-10; 2 Cor 11

The characteristics listed above are how I’d refer to the Apostle Paul in 2 Corinthians 11. I was just joking about the escape artist thing but how thrilling would it be to escape an enemy via a basket through a window in a city wall?

“When I was in Damascus, the governor under King Aretas kept guards at the city gates to catch me. I had to be lowered in a basket through a window in the city wall to escape from him.” 2 Corinthians‬ ‭11‬:‭32‬-‭33‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Paul was loyal to his friends and those whom he served, he told the truth no matter the consequences and humbled himself to the point of many beatings and severe physical pain. He wasn’t out to win hearts for him but for Jesus. Paul knew his strengths and weaknesses and was bold enough to be vulnerable in admitting his inadequacies. He gave and gave, ultimately to the point of death, much like our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Paul’s example is a powerful reminder that true friendship, leadership, and discipleship are not about self-promotion or personal gain. They are about serving others with a pure heart, living with integrity, and standing firm in faith, even when it leads us into challenging or painful situations. Like Paul, we are called to be loyal, honest, humble, self-aware, and sacrificial in our relationships, grounded in the mission of Jesus Christ.

Reflecting on Paul’s life, I also find myself confronted with my imperfections—areas where I’ve allowed worry, fear, and doubt to cloud the peace and joy that come from trusting fully in God. However, through repentance and realignment, I feel His joy beginning to restore me.

What about you? Are there areas in your life where doubt or fear has clouded your vision? What steps can you take to trust more fully in God’s plan and purpose in your life? Reflect on the traits that define your closest and uplifting relationships and how you can become more like the friend, servant, and follower of Christ that Paul exemplified.

Take time over the coming days to let go of anything that may be holding you back, and embrace the freedom that comes from walking in faith in Christ alone.

In the 1990s there was an advertising series for Gatorade with the theme “Be Like Mike”. This “Mike” is the world-famous Michael Jordan, typically referred to as the greatest basketball player of all time. Michael Jordan was and is a global cultural icon.

When I’ve been to faraway lands and people ask me where I am from in the USA, instead of saying Michigan I say “near Chicago”. And when they stare blankly as if they do not know where Chicago is, I say “Chicago Bulls” and then they say “oh, Michael Jordan!”. This actually happens quite often!

The intent of “Be Like Mike” was to convince people that if they drank Gatorade, they would be like Michael Jordan. In case you weren’t aware, drinking Gatorade does not by any means make you or anyone else even remotely similar to Michael Jordan.

Just as Michael Jordan is unique, so are you. You are loved by God more than you may know. And when we try to be something we are not, we become just a cheap imitation. Our value to God does not change based on how good (or bad) we are, the results we achieve, or even if we choose not to follow him – he loves us nonetheless.

The concept of “cheap imitation” can also be compared to our objects of worship. Surely none of us bow down and worship our phones, calendars, homes, cars, or children however these things can become idols if we are not careful. Our worship is only as valuable as what or whom we worship.

They rejected his decrees and the covenant he had made with their ancestors, and they despised all his warnings. They worshiped worthless idols, so they became worthless themselves. They followed the example of the nations around them, disobeying the Lord’s command not to imitate them. (2 Kings 17:15 NLT)

Being like Mike might have sold sports drinks, but in reality, being like anyone else just sells us short. God’s love for you isn’t based on performance or perfection—it’s based on who you are, His beloved child. Don’t settle for imitations. Live in the truth that your worth comes from a God who loves you deeply and desires our worship, not of the world’s idols, but of Christ alone.

This Jesus is the stone that was rejected by you, the builders, which has become the cornerstone. And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” (Acts 4:11-12)

Today’s reading: 2 Chronicles 28; 2 Kings 17; Psalm 66; 1 Corinthians 7

Today like most days nearly everything was scheduled. From the time to get up, leave for the gym, return from the gym, get ready, join a call, depart for the airport, and then the flight departure. All of these times were known up front, and I was slightly off schedule for most. The most important and inflexible time was of course the flight. Once the gates are closed, there is absolutely no entry.

I’ve known about this flight for weeks so technically I’ve been able to prepare and be ready for more than enough time. Which luggage to bring, clothes, toiletries, shoes, and anything else? There was plenty of time to make dining reservations at our destination but I waited until the last minute.

The bottom line is, there was a schedule, and I knew the precise planned time for each. It was up to me to be ready or not.

Today’s reading includes the Parable of the Ten Bridesmaids. In this parable, the bridesmaids were to await the bridegroom. The bridegroom ended up being late and while waiting, five of the bridesmaids had lamps that ran out of oil. The ill-prepared bridesmaids missed the bridegroom as they went to buy oil. Those who were ready and waiting were allowed to enter the feast, and then the door was locked. Upon the return of the other bridesmaids, they realized they missed out due to their lack of preparation.

¹¹ Later, when the other five bridesmaids returned, they stood outside, calling, ‘Lord! Lord! Open the door for us!’ ¹² “But he called back, ‘Believe me, I don’t know you!’ (Matthew 25:11-12)

Just like a flight when the gates are closed, there is no reopening, so we must always be ready for the return of Christ. Given our busy lives and schedules, how much do we really anticipate his return? Too often I am guilty of going through the motions, onto the next calendar event when my true hope, longing and anticipation should be for the return of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

• What if today was the day? Are you ready?
• What will you do to prepare?
• Where is your heart and mental focus? Earthly calendars or Heavenly appointments?
• Are you praying for others to be ready?

From 2019 through the middle of 2023, I faced some persecution. Many of my posts during this timeframe reflected on this persecution whether directly or indirectly. I wrote about sorrow, fear, anxiety, sleepless nights, feelings of helplessness, and much more.

Writing now in August 2024 about one year after that season ended, I am still reflecting on the ordeal. I am grateful that it is over and with that, I am also grateful for being strengthened both mentally and spiritually as a result.

“But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,” Matthew 5:44 ESV

While it might initially feel wrong or strange, praying for those who persecute you will change your life. Holding onto bitterness and anger only results in holding ourselves hostage and will only worsen things. Prayer through this persecution is a faith step to give it all to God. This prayer brings freedom, peace, and an unexplainable oneness with Him.

I fully confess that there were many times I failed in this realm, and bursts of anger brought temporary satisfaction which turned to guilt. Those were the moments I regretted most.

Don’t just take my word for it, consider the persecution Jesus faced throughout his life from the religious leaders, people in his hometown, a corrupt government, and ultimately those who betrayed, mocked, tortured, and killed him. He was THE example of praying for those who persecute us. Surely, he was tempted but he never failed and we praise him for his perfect love, sacrifice, and resurrection through which we can receive eternal life.

If you love only those who love you, what reward is there for that? Even corrupt tax collectors do that much. (Matthew 5:46)

Today’s reading: 2 Kings 4-6; Matthew 5

Ever since I can remember, my mom has been a person of faith. She’s always been a prayer warrior, an avid student of The Bible through study and memorization, and one who has sought to lead others to Christ. My mom loved to lead the children’s choir in church when I was a kid, she’s led countless Bible studies, and has had a loving heart for marginalized or disadvantaged people. Her paintings subtly reflect Christian messaging and her love of God’s creations.

She loved the unlovable. She hated the sin, but loved the sinner. I can still hear her singing the words “red and yellow, black and white, they are precious in his sight”.

Her mission field was planet Earth. The golf course, the swimming pool, her kid’s sporting events, her neighborhood, a local university’s foreign student hosting program, family gatherings, the hospital, you name it. She talked about Jesus until she could talk no more.

I was also recently reflecting on my mom’s insistence that we attend vacation Bible school (VBS) every summer when we were kids. I don’t recall ever wanting to go, especially since VBS started immediately following the never-ending elementary school year. In my mind, it was summer break, and that meant “do what I want, when I want”. It was only after VBS that summer was in full swing. Reflecting on it now though, I recall having fun and learning at VBS even though it wasn’t my decision to go.

Same with church on Sundays. I used to pretend I was sleeping or be as quiet as possible on Sunday mornings with the hope that my mom would somehow forget to go to church or decide that I didn’t need to go, yet that never happened.

Regardless of any of the decisions she made for us that I didn’t like, I know now it was 100% meant for the spiritual growth of my father, my sisters, and me. What has marked her entire life is she never gave up on us nor her God, no matter what happened. There were certainly times when frustrated with each of us she rightfully gave everything over to God, but this didn’t mean she gave up.

My mom has suffered from back pain for as long as I can remember. She’s also suffered from foot pain and numbness. She’s also had to cope with severe depression and bipolar disorder with much of this a mystery to many as the related behaviors have been difficult for us to understand. Equal to or worse than the physical and mental suffering, my mom grew up in a home where she felt unloved and not valued. I believe her heart for the downtrodden and outsiders is much because she identifies with these people groups. In parallel, she’s experienced the unfathomable love of Christ her entire life so she’s wanted others to feel the same love, no matter how unloved they are by the people of this earth.

As she nears the end, she has trouble communicating, walking, eating, and other normal activities. Her time is near however with each day there is peace in knowing Heaven will soon gain another beautiful soul, and her pain and sorrow will turn into eternal joy.

I love you mom.

Today’s reading: Ecclesiastes 10-12; 2 Timothy 4

What do you pray about? What don’t you pray about?

While out on a walk recently, I passed an area with an abundance of stunningly beautiful flowers. The shape, size, texture, smell, and colors of the flowers were amazing and after passing by I felt the instinct to go back and pause for a moment to take in and appreciate the beauty of God’s creation. It was a wonderful and lasting memory.

How much beauty and goodness is in our paths daily that we might not appreciate enough or be prone to desensitization because we experience it often? To name some things… Sunsets, the sun peeking through the clouds, pristine blue skies, lakes, starry nights, the laughter of friends and family, the smell of freshly prepared food, an unexpected smile from a stranger, a hug just at the right time, rest for our weary souls, or even a mere cool drink of fresh, clean water when we are thirsty.

Too often, we rush through life, missing these moments. This brings me to a crucial eternal resource: Prayer.

The Importance of Prayer

Today’s reading: 1 Kings 5; 2 Chronicles 2; 2 Thessalonians 3

As I read today’s scriptures, I realized the author (Paul, inspired by God) started this section with an important calling so we should take note.

Finally, brothers, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may speed ahead and be honored, as happened among you, ² and that we may be delivered from wicked and evil men. For not all have faith. ³ But the Lord is faithful. He will establish you and guard you against the evil one. (2 Thessalonians 3:1-3)

Those verses serve as a reminder to pray in all circumstances. Slow down and pray for those who are serving, suffering, preaching, and teaching.

• Out for a walk? Pray.
• Just had an argument? Pray.
• Overwhelmed with joy? Pray.
• Consumed with guilt or fear? Pray.

Reflecting on History

Our family is preparing to visit the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum in Poland. The sufferings of the victims of the Nazi regime were unparalleled. In today’s tumultuous times, we have much to complain about yet so much to be thankful for—freedom in our country, God’s creation and blessings, and most importantly freedom and salvation in and through Jesus Christ.

May we never forget.

Will you pray with me?

Father God, forgive us for not praying enough, for putting ____________ first in our lives before our relationship with you. Forgive our selfishness, greed, and judgmental hearts. We lift up those who are suffering near and far. Deliver your servants from wicked and evil men. We ask for your Holy Spirit to speak truth in our lives, for your will to be done. Your ways are perfect, may we trust you more each day, filling our lives with more of you and less of us. Thank you for your never-ending love. Thank you for being a God who listens and responds. Thank you, Jesus, for your sacrifice and forgiveness. Amen.

Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in every way. The Lord be with you all. (2 Thessalonians 3:16)

Recently a colleague, friend, and brother in Christ asked me how I was doing so I gave him an immediate shallow response of “all good” (I lied). He then asked with a warmer sentiment, “How are you really doing my brother?” I paused briefly to decide whether or not to let my guard down, knowing that a real conversation would likely result in me having tears. Many thoughts rushed through my brain as I mentally spun the roulette wheel to decide which emotional compartment to open. Do I open up about my mom, my dad, changes at work, our pending relocation, something else, or keep holding it all in?

What did I have to lose by being vulnerable? Was it pride holding me back? Life is too short to mask our emotions so I took a chance and let it all out.

Don’t let the sin of pride get in the way of being vulnerable. We were made to have relationships with other humans and most importantly, with our creator. Open your heart, and let His love pour in. From the conversations that followed, my spirit felt renewed. The Holy Spirit was and is at work.

¹³ A glad heart makes a happy face;
    a broken heart crushes the spirit.

15 For the despondent, every day brings trouble;
    for the happy heart, life is a continual feast.

³⁰ A cheerful look brings joy to the heart;
    good news makes for good health. (Proverbs 15:13, 15, 30)

Today’s reading: Proverbs 14-15; Romans 14