Category: Monday Morning Blog

Chapter 42

BeingHuman #OnTheRoadAgain #BrutalHonesty

I truly need to share this with you. It comes from Ukraine, but it could just as easily be from pastors in Gaza, Israel, Lebanon, Syria, or Sudan. I admire the honesty of this man as he shares his grief and helplessness in his role as director of a theological faculty. I’m sharing it unedited… God have mercy – Phliemon

I am ashamed to look into your eyes through Zoom, and I am unbearably ashamed when you ask, “How are you?” I cannot articulate this overwhelming sense of powerlessness. A burning shame engulfs me as partners, you… expect heroic resilience while I wake in the night’s depths, gripped by panic attacks, unable even to respond to your earnest emails.

You may perceive us as unbreakable warriors of light, heroic Christians standing upon the frontlines of a spiritual battle, real “People of the Bridge”… And yet? I flinch at every air raid siren. I weep at photographs of yet another funeral… I freeze in stupor upon hearing of another brother or sister’s death… in Christ or without Christ… or an atheist who is going the Hell… being predestined by God of “calvinists” before the creation of the universe…

“We’re praying for you!” many write. And I feel unworthy of these prayers. For you think you pray for a courageous warrior of faith, when in reality, your prayers fall upon a broken vessel barely holding together… Your intercessions reach one who oftentimes cannot even pray, as words lodge in the throat alongside unshed tears…

You marvel at how we are “holding up.” But I know the bitter truth – sometimes we are not holding up at all; we are merely falling more slowly than others… At times, what keeps me from utter collapse is not heroic faith, but mere human stubbornness and the deeply ingrained habit of rising each morning… to fulfil “job description” for survival sake…

It is unbearably shameful to confess that I sometimes envy your peaceful sky, in Europe… in the US… When you speak of your “challenges” with fundraising or team building, I must restrain myself from crying out: “What difference does it make! We are at war! My people… my family members perish daily!”…

Yet what brings the deepest shame is this very shame about my personal weakness… But did not the Apostle Paul teach that God’s power is made perfect in weakness? Did not Christ Himself demonstrate that true greatness lies in acknowledging our vulnerability before the Father?… Maybe, I mis-read the Gospel…

Perhaps our true strength resides not in our capacity to remain unbreakable, but in our courage to be honest? I do not know… You decide… Not in our ability to conceal pain, but in our willingness to share it with others? I do not know… You decide… Perhaps when we find the courage to say: “I am terrified. I am in unbearable pain. I know not how to continue” – it is then we most resemble Christ in Gethsemane?… I do not know… You decide…

And perhaps our very brokenness serves as the most authentic testimony to our brothers and sisters abroad? Does it reveal to you not some imagined pantheon of faith superheroes, but the true visage of the Church Militant – beaten, bloodied, yet alive? A Church that perseveres in service and love even through tears and all-consuming fear? Does it?…

So perhaps the time has come to cease being ashamed of our weakness…? Time to tell our partners with complete honesty: “Yes, we are broken. Yes, we are frightened. Yes, we often feel utterly helpless. Yet we remain. Still praying when strength allows. Still serving when energy permits. And herein lies the true miracle of God’s grace”…?

For in the end, perhaps what glorifies God most profoundly is not our strength… What an evangelical heresy! … but our willingness to be weak before Him and before one another? … The courage to acknowledge: “We are not heroes. We are simply people clinging to Christ amidst a devastating storm”… We… I…. simply a broken evangelical… Peace be with you, and keep your children away from war…

—
Taras M. Dyatlik
Ukraine
972nd day of Russia’s full-scale war

Chapter 41

Albrecht Dürer’s The Four Horsemen is part of his renowned woodcut series The Apocalypse (1498), inspired by the biblical Book of Revelation (6:1–8). In this dramatic artwork, the Four Horsemen symbolise Conquest, War, Famine, and Death, forces of destruction unleashed as divine judgement upon the world. Viewing this piece today reminds me of the daily images of war, famine, chaos, enslavement, and destruction that fill our news feeds.

Dürer’s depiction of the horsemen, with their powerful, galloping figures trampling everything in their path, resonates with the unstoppable forces of turmoil we see around us. Yet, we must remember that these four figures might also represent people in power, those who cause destruction, but also those who can prevent or overcome it. They remind us that even in the face of such evil, there is always the potential for change and restoration.

In contrast, I recently saw an image by Banksy: a young Arab boy and a Jewish boy, together, planting and caring for a tree, nurturing and protecting life amidst a world torn by conflict. This simple yet powerful scene reflects a different vision, one of hope, healing, and shared responsibility.

Our understanding of the world, and the way we respond to the challenges we face, is deeply influenced by the times we live in and the perspective we choose to adopt. Just because we are surrounded by the chaos of wild horsemen wreaking havoc doesn’t mean that this is the only future available to us.

This picture is inspired by the passage in Scripture from Revelation, which has sparked numerous intriguing interpretations among scholars. However, I won’t go into those interpretations here and now. So, in moments of despair, we might ask ourselves: WWJD—What would Jesus do or say? His vision of love, peace, and redemption is always a reminder that there is another way forward.

Jesus might say: “Love your neighbour, forgive others, seek peace, serve selflessly, treat others as you would want to be treated, trust in God’s provision, and don’t worry about tomorrow, live with love, humility, and faith.” All 4 verses of the gospel of Matthew.
In this regard, Jesus’ vision of the future was centred on the Kingdom of God—a new reality marked by justice, peace, love, and righteousness, where humanity would be reconciled with God and one another. He envisioned a time of renewal and restoration, where evil would be overcome, and God would wipe away every tear, making all things new. Jesus also spoke of a day of judgement, where justice would prevail, and His vision included a future of peace, where swords would be turned into ploughshares, symbolising the end of conflict and the beginning of a new time.

As I reflect on the themes of the four horsemen and the power of vision, I invite you to consider your own perspective. What is your vision of the future? Where do you draw your inspiration from in times of uncertainty? In a world filled with chaos and division, what anchors you and gives you hope?

Wishing you a good start to this new week.
Philemon

Chapter 40

Didn’t we just read of this Elijah … we see Elijah at the pinnacle of his ministry. There he is on Mt. Carmel taking on the whole army of the prophets of Baal single-handedly in the name of the living God of Israel, and achieving a stunning, fiery victory. … yet, so soon after ….

Elijah was afraid and ran for his life. When he came to Beersheba in Judah, he left his servant there, while he himself went a day’s journey into the wilderness. He came to a broom bush, sat down under it and prayed that he might die. “I have had enough, Lord,” he said. “Take my life; I am no better than my ancestors.” Then he lay down under the bush and fell asleep. 1. Kings 19; 1-5

This past week, on the 10th of October, we observed World Mental Health Day—a day dedicated to raising awareness, reducing stigma, and promoting mental well-being around the globe. 🌍

Elijah’s experience of exhaustion, fear, and despair, followed by divine restoration, mirrors the struggles many face today. Drawing from Dr. Christopher Wright’s insights, here are four key aspects of God’s tender care that can guide us through moments of emotional and mental distress:

1️⃣ Rest and Nourishment

In Elijah’s darkest moment, God didn’t immediately demand action or deep introspection. Instead, He provided the essentials: rest, food, and water. Often, our first steps toward healing are to attend to our physical needs—sleep, nutrition, and hydration. Self-care, sometimes overlooked in its simplicity, can be the foundation for emotional recovery.

2️⃣ Back to Basics

After Elijah’s physical needs were met, God reminded him of his core mission and calling. He brought Elijah back to the basics of his faith, grounding him in what mattered most. In moments of mental struggle, revisiting our values, beliefs, or passions can help us reconnect with our sense of purpose.

3️⃣ Gentle Reflection

Through a quiet, gentle whisper, God asks Elijah, “What are you doing here?” This moment of calm reflection is an invitation to pause and reassess. Elijah’s story teaches us that reflection doesn’t have to be harsh or critical. Sometimes, gentle introspection leads us back to clarity and self-understanding.

4️⃣ Recommissioning

God doesn’t leave Elijah in his despair. Instead, He recommissions him—giving him new direction and purpose. Importantly, God also ensures Elijah knows he isn’t alone by providing him with a companion. In the same way, we are reminded that in our moments of struggle, finding support, community, and renewed purpose can be the path to restoration.

This World Mental Health Day, may we be reminded that even in our darkest moments, healing is possible. Just as Elijah experienced, we too can find rest, reflection, and renewal. Let us extend compassion, both to ourselves and to those around us, as we navigate the complexities of mental health. 🌿

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
Matthew 11:28

For more insights into Elijah’s journey and its relevance to mental health, read the full article: Elijah and the Healing of Depression and Fear

Wishing you a good start to this week.
Philemon

Chapter 39

This week, I’ve been listening deeply and often to the song “Prophecy” by David Brymer through INRI. “Prophecy” is a cinematic, ambient, forward-looking instrumental that takes you on a profound journey. INRI, the musical expression of David Brymer, offers fresh, experimental spiritual instrumental music—truly the soundtrack for a new world!

As I listen, I’m reminded of the beautiful verse from Isaiah 43:19: “Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth; do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.”

Wishing you moments of peace this week as you navigate the beautiful yet challenging journeys many of you have shared with me.

blessings
Philemon

On Spotify and Youtube
https://youtu.be/Qr0xUUymx8Q?si=y6f6ELV3jdHtPwof
https://open.spotify.com/album/6A74h926ihwvh6mW4b5XBC?si=O9K0ge9xTZuAiHuNF6IK5g

Chapter 38

Good Monday Morning to this new week of 2024

They are like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers. Psalm 1:3

Yesterday, I went for a hike, and during the first hour, I walked downhill through a forest. The trail was full of exposed roots—washed bare by water and rain, leaving much of the dirt gone. I’m used to navigating rocky trails and have a sense of where to place my feet. But this time, walking over the roots was tricky. My hiking boots, designed with hard rubber for gripping rocks, kept slipping on the roots. Thankfully, I made it down safely without slipping too much.

We often hear how having “roots” is healthy and good. It’s a strong metaphor. Yesterday, I saw plenty of roots—but I found myself wishing they had stayed underground! Isn’t that a meaningful metaphor for this new week? We need strong, deep roots, but they don’t always need to be visible. They can stay hidden, doing their work beneath the surface. Many things in your life establish a firm foundation, deeply rooted but unseen. If they become too visible, they could turn into stumbling “root” for others.

An interesting thought as we step into this new week.

Wishing you a great start,
Philemon

Chapter 37

Good Monday morning and welcome to week 37 of 2024!

Information comes from a myriad of sources and perspectives, but when we only hear the same viewpoints repeatedly, we risk being trapped in what’s known as an echo chamber.

The Bible warns against a narrow, self-centered approach to faith and understanding. For instance, Proverbs 18:2 says, “A fool takes no pleasure in understanding but only in expressing his opinion.” This verse cautions against isolating oneself from diverse perspectives.

In her book “When Faith Disappoints: Finding Hope and Healing in the Midst of Doubt,” Lisa Fields explores into the challenges and struggles of faith, particularly when faced with disappointment and doubt. She emphasizes that genuine faith often arises from the freedom to grapple with profound spiritual questions.

Francis Bacon wisely noted, “If we begin with certainties, we shall end in doubts; but if we begin with doubts, and are patient in them, we shall end in certainties.”

Similarly, a Spanish proverb states, “Among the safe courses, the safest of all is to doubt,” while Voltaire observed, “Doubt is uncomfortable, certainty is ridiculous.”

The prophet Jeremiah also voiced his doubts to God:
“Lord, you always give me justice when I bring a case before you. So let me bring you this complaint: Why are the wicked so prosperous? Why are evil people so happy?”

Apologetics goes beyond merely winning arguments; it’s about addressing the emotional and spiritual wounds that underlie skepticism. Often, a lack of belief stems from personal pain or disappointment, leading to a fragmented understanding of God, shaped by selective Scriptures and teachings or flawed definitions.

The problem of evil isn’t resolved through intellectual answers alone; it requires space for emotional wrestling and personal reflection. Healing in the Christian life demands vulnerability, confession, and authentic community, not isolation or superficial connections.

Misconceptions about God arise when faith is grounded in half-truths and cultural ideals rather than the full richness of Scripture. True peace, as embodied by Christ, involves emotional complexity and acknowledges that struggle and tears are part of the journey.

Purpose is not found in external achievements or recognition but in being conformed to the image of Christ. Pain and purpose coexist, and spiritual maturity involves recognizing that external success cannot heal internal wounds.

As we navigate our faith, let’s remember to embrace diverse perspectives, allowing room for doubt and growth. Through this openness, we can achieve a deeper, more resilient understanding of our beliefs and find healing and purpose in our journey.

To this new week of opinions, options and openness, I wish you a great start.

Philemon

Chapter 36

“The Kingdom of God is His kingship, His rule, His authority. When this is once realized, we can go through the New Testament and find passage after passage where this meaning is evident, where the Kingdom is not a realm or a people but God’s reign.

Jesus said that we must “receive the kingdom of God” as little children (Mark 10:15). What is received? The Church? Heaven? What is received is God’s rule.

In order to enter the future realm of the Kingdom, one must submit himself in perfect trust to God’s rule here and now. We must also “seek first his kingdom and his righteousness” (Matt. 6: 33). What is the object of our quest? The Church? Heaven? No; we are to seek God’s righteousness—His sway, His rule, His reign in our lives.”

George Eldon Ladd
The Gospel of the Kingdom
Scriptural Studies in the Kingdom of God

Wishing you a wonderful rest of the week!
Philemon

Chapter 35

Good Monday Morning to this new week 35 of 2024

In the unfolding drama of all the wars and struggles of life around us, where moments of crisis and conflict often take center stage, I’ve found my blog evolving into something that resembles a war diary. The entries seem to revolve around the themes of life and death, challenges and triumphs, and the ever-present tension between fear and faith.

As I reflect on these stories, Psalm 91:2 resonates with me: “I will say of the Lord, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress, my God in whom I trust.'” This verse is a powerful testament to God’s dual role as both our protector and the one who is protected. It serves as a reminder of the divine refuge we can seek in the midst of life’s chaos and trials.

One of the things I appreciate most about the stories I encounter and read is their raw authenticity. Many of these stories feature people who are struggling with doubts and facing intense trials. Their faith is not presented as an unshakable fortress from the start, but as something that endures through the struggle. The people in these stories are often deeply aware of their own fragility, yet they cling to their trust in God, their ultimate protector.

As we navigate our own struggles and uncertainties, many verses in the Bible offer a comforting perspective. It assures us that God is both the refuge we seek and the fortress that guards us, reminding us that despite what we read and see, He is the protector and we are the protected in moments of doubt and struggle.

“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble (Psalm 46:1), as the name of the Lord is a fortified tower to which the righteous run and are safe (Proverbs 18:10); He is my rock, fortress, and deliverer, my shield and stronghold (Psalm 18:2), and we need not fear, for He is with us, strengthening and helping us with His righteous right hand (Isaiah 41:10); indeed, He is my rock in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, a stronghold, refuge, and savior from those who are violent (2 Samuel 22:3), as the Lord is good and a refuge in times of trouble, caring for those who trust in Him (Nahum 1:7), so we are encouraged to be strong and take heart, all who hope in the Lord (Psalm 31:24), for truly He is our rock and salvation, our fortress, and we will not be shaken, as our salvation and honor depend on Him, our mighty rock and refuge (Psalm 62:6-7); the eternal God is our refuge, with everlasting arms underneath, driving out our enemies (Deuteronomy 33:27), and we are invited to come to Him with our weariness and burdens to find rest (Matthew 11:28).”

Let’s wrap this up, the dual role of protector and protected with another element, that of being free from the imprisonment of thought, as another term of having faith could be called. It’s a question of where and what we put our trust. Charles Wesley wrote the hymn and puts it this way;

Long my imprisoned spirit lay
Fast bound in sin and nature’s night;
Thine eye diffused a quick’ning ray,
I woke, the dungeon flamed with light;
My chains fell off, my heart was free;
I rose, went forth and followed Thee.

As you begin a new week, may you find comfort and strength in the understanding that God is both your protector and the source of your freedom. This freedom transcends the absence of struggle, conflict, or physical restraint and offers a deeper sense of liberation from trusting in His divine presence and guidance.

Philemon

Chapter 34

Last week, I wrote about delays, and now I find myself six days behind schedule. As this week comes to a close, and we take time to rest and prepare for the next, I wanted to share a brief but inspiring thought from Taras in Ukraine. Even in times of delay and uncertainty, there’s strength in reflection and resilience.

In these times of ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the words of Psalm 13:1 resonate deeply: “How long wilt thou forget me, O LORD? for ever? how long wilt thou hide thy face from me?” The pain of feeling abandoned and the desperate longing for divine intervention are echoed in the heartbreaking story of Melissa.

Born on July 6 to Helga and Andriy, Melissa entered this world on the same day that Andriyko her uncle was fatally wounded and died due to the war. In their family, joy and grief have intertwined like light and shadow. “To everything, there is a season and a time for every purpose under heaven: a time to be born and a time to die…” Melissa’s birth, coinciding with Andriyko’s tragic death, feels like a poignant sign from the Lord. It is as if the outgoing and incoming generations, the protector and the protected, crossed paths for a brief moment, passing the baton of life amidst the chaos. Taras M. Dyatlyk, Ukraine
August 24, 2024

“Zichrono livracha” may his memory be a blessing.

Philemon

Chapter 33

Good Monday Morning to this week 33 of 2024

On Aug. 9, an ATR-72 aircraft from Voepass Airlines, flying from Cascavel to Guarulhos, crashed in a residential area in Vinhedo, north of São Paulo. This is very sad news; there were no survivors. May God comfort the relatives in this terrible tragedy.

Some of the focus has been on 10 others. You might have seen it: 10 passengers missed the flight. Brazilian media reported that Adriano Assis, one of the passengers who arrived at the airport hours before the flight, went to a cafeteria to pass the time. He realized he had missed his flight only after the departure time had passed. “When I rushed to the gate, the staff informed me that the doors had closed an hour earlier. I argued with them, but later, when I heard about the crash, I felt strange emotions. I went back, hugged the official for doing their job well, and apologized.” Additionally, nine other passengers missed the flight because they confused the airline’s name and flight number.

This incident serves as a reminder of how unpredictable life can be and raises many questions.

Being on time is certainly important, especially as Swiss. Actually it’s really hard for me to be late at all. In our culture it reflects diligence, respect for others, and a well-managed life. In the Book of Proverbs, we find the wisdom of planning and foresight:

Proverbs 21:5 (NIV): “The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty.”

Adriano Assis and the other nine passengers were spared by what some might call fate or divine intervention. It begs the question: what lessons are they meant to learn from this close encounter with mortality?

While punctuality is crucial, life teaches us that it is just one part of the broader picture of existence. We are reminded of the uncertainties and the need to be prepared for the unexpected. The missed flight, in this case, led to the preservation of their lives, offering them a chance to reflect and reassess priorities.

The Bible speaks to the transient nature of life:

James 4:14 (NIV): “Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.”

This verse encourages us to live with humility, knowing that we are not in control of everything. It urges us to make the most of each moment, to act with kindness and compassion, and to seek purpose beyond the mundane.

Philosophically, we can consider the Stoic idea of amor fati, which means “love of fate.” This concept encourages acceptance of whatever happens, recognizing that every event is an opportunity for growth and reflection.

For those who missed the flight, the questions remain: How will they live differently now? Will they value each day more deeply, knowing how close they came to disaster? Can they find gratitude in the mundane moments, realizing that each day is a gift?

These questions prompt us to take a good look at our own lives. While being on time is important, it’s just one of the many things we juggle daily. Are we really focusing on what matters most, or are we just trying to keep up with the clock? Maybe it’s time to ask ourselves: are we prepared to handle life’s unexpected detours with a sense of humor and adaptability?

As we start this new week, let’s consider the value of living each day with intention and not just racing against the clock. Who knows, maybe missing your next flight might lead to an unexpected adventure or two! Embrace the unpredictability of life, and let each moment count—even if it means showing up fashionably late once in a while.

Wishing you a great start to the new week!

Philemon