MONDAY MORNING BLOG

Chapter 27

Good Monday morning and greetings for the new week!

I had a dreadful nightmare the other night. In the dream, enormous animals like lions and tigers were sprawled in a room, and I couldn’t discern whether they were friend or foe. Then, a dark figure relentlessly clung onto me, persistently following and gripping tightly, making it impossible for me to shake it off.

I’m not the only one with nighttime scares …

This one is quite profound …. “coup de grâce” it encapsulates the weight of a final act or strike that brings an end to suffering, hope, or existence. It signifies a moment of decision, where a definitive action is taken, often with great significance and consequences.

Saul’s nighttime séance with the witch of Endor in 1 Samuel 28 is regarded as the coup de grâce on his tragic kingship of Israel.

Stephen Dempster … writes ;

The Witch of Endor is a biblical figure mentioned in the First Book of Samuel. According to the story, Saul, the first king of Israel, sought guidance from God but received no answer. In desperation, he consulted the Witch of Endor, also known as the medium or necromancer of Endor.

Saul disguised himself and visited the witch during the night, asking her to conjure up the spirit of the prophet Samuel, who had died. The witch complied and summoned Samuel’s spirit, which appeared before Saul. Samuel’s spirit prophesied Saul’s imminent defeat in battle and the loss of his kingdom, foretelling the end of his reign.

This text narrates a critical turning point in Israel’s history. The end of the first dynasty is at hand, and the tall ruler will fall as Saul, whose name means “the asked for one,”  asks about the future from the place of the dead—Sheol. This word means “the asking place,” perhaps because death is always asking for more. The irony is that the asking place will soon have its request (“the asked for one”) fulfilled. Saul and Sheol are inseparably linked.

This text raises all kinds of theological questions. Did the witch have the ability to bring the departed spirits of the dead back to predict the future for the living, or was this simply a demonic delusion? Does not only God have the power to predict the future? Or do departed spirits or evil spirits?

Some interesting aspects to this story;

Ever since the Spirit of Yahweh departed from Saul when he disobeyed the Lord, he has tried to find supernatural insight and guidance for his kingship, but to no avail. Here, before an extremely important battle, Saul as a military leader is desperate for some supernatural guidance, as was the case generally before a battle in the ancient world.  But his desperation finds no solution as God is silent through the media of prophets, Urim and Thummim, and dreams.

Saul crosses forbidden theological boundaries in virtual sacrilege and seeks guidance from a medium, a woman called a “mistress of necromancy.” This person is traditionally called “the witch of Endor,” presumably because she was well known in that area. ( Necromancy; occult communication with the deceased)

Saul takes two servants, disguises himself, and deceives the medium about his identity.

The witch hesitates by reminding him of his own prohibition before she engages in her occult practice.

When Samuel’s spirit shows up, the medium shrieks in shock but immediately recognises Saul, presumably because Samuel’s spirit has enlightened her.

Finally, Samuel adds that Saul and his sons –-the dynasty—will be joining Samuel in Sheol the next day when Israel will lose the battle against the Philistines. 

Is this a particular story or an example of God bringing up the dead from Sheol (Samuel) and bringing down the living to Sheol (Saul), exalting the humble and abasing the proud?

There is a dark supernatural power to which mediums and diviners sought access in the ancient world. For the Israelites, however, this power was off limits. Yahweh was the ultimate power, and his transcendence meant that Israel must trust in him alone.

Was it jus an “over the top” prophetic exaggeration. God brought the prophet back from dead to remind him of this truth. The fact that Saul went out to battle the next day proves the truth. The story of Endor reminds us all of the importance and clarity of the divine word.

The Woman at Endor possesses valuable traits aside from her ability to communicate with the dead. She was courageous. Saul’s prohibition of mediums means that she puts her life at risk when she practices her trade. She proceeds only after being reassured—with a swear—that she will not be punished for bringing answers to the living from beyond the grave.

Finally, the Woman at Endor prepared a generous meal for Saul and his companions, and implored the devastated Saul to eat (1Sam 28:21-25). Why did she provide a meal for this man who deceived her? Perhaps she responded out of fear, cultural convention, royal protocol, genuine kindness, or as means to an end to get the royal entourage to leave. Maybe this meal indicates a quality of forgiveness that overrides her anger at Saul’s deceit.

Many questions remain to this story. Yet, these questions remind us of the importance of relying on divine guidance and the clarity of the divine word. It underscores the belief that true power lies with Yahweh.

In Saul’s’ case his near-death vision of Samuel is frightening. It is the Medium who provides comfort.  As king, Saul holds the power of life and death over the witch. But she is not powerless. She’s been making her living undetected by authorities. She’s not afraid to tell a king who has just received a fatal diagnosis what to do: eat. Her compassion arrives in the form of a hastily prepared meal that enables Saul to face what lies ahead. God bless the hospice workers and chaplains of this world.

And isn’t this just like God using the unexpected, the unsanctioned and the unnamed to bring a bit of mercy to this troubled world? Again and again throughout scripture, God adapts to the chaos and confusion humans create to try to lead us toward peace?

We look through a dark glass trying to find God in a messy narrative. 1. Cor. 13.12 For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know only in part; then I shall know fully, even as I have been fully known.

Tradition gave the Witch of Endor the name; Sedecla may be a transliteration of an old Hebrew name Tsedeqlah [from tsedeq righteous, just, exact, accurate] just in regard to her skill? or in regard to her act of mercy upon a King?

Israel’s unwavering faith in their all-powerful God revealed that He could never be manipulated or controlled. Instead, He could be relied upon to safeguard those who remained faithful. This divine communication came not through elusive codes or hidden signs, but through the voices of prophets and at times, through dreams and other extraordinary means.

In light of this, let us be guided by compassion, acting as conduits of God’s love in a world that often yearns for solace and understanding. May our hearts be open, our hands ready to extend comfort and support. Through our actions, may we contribute to the ongoing unfolding of God’s epic story, offering glimpses of His boundless grace and unwavering presence to those we encounter.

Wishing a good start to this new week.
Philemon

Chapter 26

Good Monday morning and greetings for the new week!

Yesterday evening, the Blasorchester Region Bern, conducted by Luca Belz, delivered a truly exquisite performance during their concert program, featuring my son playing the contrabass clarinet. The highlight of the evening was the captivating and beautiful composition, “On a Hymnsong of Philip Bliss.”

Written by David R. Holsinger, an esteemed American composer and conductor, this symphonic band arrangement draws inspiration from the renowned hymn tune, “It Is Well with My Soul,” composed by Philip Bliss.

“It Is Well with My Soul” is one of Bliss’s most famous hymns, penned in 1873 by Horatio Spafford, a devout Christian and lawyer who endured significant personal tragedies. Spafford wrote this hymn as a response to the loss of his four daughters in a shipwreck and the destruction of his business in the Great Chicago Fire. Despite these devastating events, the hymn expresses a deep sense of peace, trust, and hope in God’s providence.

Holsinger’s arrangement, “On a Hymnsong of Philip Bliss,” showcases his mastery of orchestration, seamlessly combining traditional hymnody with contemporary musical elements. The composition beautifully captures the introspective and reflective nature of the original hymn, highlighting the rich harmonies, melodic lines, and expressive qualities of Bliss’s work, while incorporating Holsinger’s own artistic interpretation and stylistic nuances. As a result, the piece has become a beloved staple in the repertoire of symphonic bands, receiving widespread acclaim from both musicians and audiences alike.

It is worth noting that the enduring power of “It Is Well with My Soul” lies not only in its melodic beauty but also in its profound message. The words “It is well with my soul, It is well, it is well with my soul” have stood the test of time, resonating with congregations, choirs, and individuals worldwide. This timeless hymn reminds us that in the midst of life’s storms, we can find solace and strength in our faith, ultimately finding peace within ourselves and with God.

As we embark on this new week, may you find a sense of peace and fulfillment.
Wishing you a blessed start to your week.

Warm regards,
Philemon

Chapter 25

Twitter post for today;

???? Holding onto a tenacious grip requires perseverance, just as the Bible reminds us. When faced with challenges, let these verses empower you to press on, stand firm, and continue doing good. Trust in God’s promises and know that your efforts, fueled by faith, will lead to a fruitful harvest. #TenaciousGrip #Perseverance #BibleVerses

One powerful story in the Bible that exemplifies a tenacious grip is found in Genesis 32:22-32. It is the account of Jacob wrestling with God.

In the story, Jacob was preparing to meet his estranged brother Esau, whom he had deceived years earlier. Fearful of Esau’s response, Jacob sent his family and possessions ahead of him and found himself alone by the river Jabbok. Suddenly, a man appeared and wrestled with Jacob throughout the night.

Jacob refused to let go, displaying incredible determination and tenacity. Despite the pain and struggle, he clung to the man, refusing to release his grip. The man realized he could not overpower Jacob and touched the socket of Jacob’s hip, leaving him with a limp. But still, Jacob held on, demanding a blessing from the man.

Recognizing Jacob’s persistence, the man said, “Your name will no longer be Jacob, but Israel because you have struggled with God and with humans and have overcome.” Jacob knew he had encountered God Himself, and he was blessed.

This story reflects the tenacity and unwavering resolve to hold onto God’s promises and blessings, even in the face of adversity. It reminds us that in our own wrestling with life’s challenges, we can tenaciously cling to God, seeking His guidance, blessing, and transformative power.

Jacob’s story demonstrates the transformative nature of a tenacious grip, as he not only received a new name but also a renewed sense of purpose. It encourages us to persistently seek God’s presence, in the midst of difficulties, knowing that our tenacity can lead to transformation, blessing, and a deeper relationship with the Divine.

In His grip
Philemon

Chapter 24

Welcome to the 24th week of 2023!

Last Friday evening, I had the privilege of participating in an online seminar on “komplexitätsadäquaten Kollegialen Beratung” (Complexity-adapted collegial counseling). During the engaging 90-minute session, we delved into the Heidelberger integrative Prozessmodell (HiP) and explored theories of solving complex problems. Amidst the wealth of knowledge shared, one term captured my attention: “Lösungsraum” or “space of solutions.” This phrase, commonly used in social work, business, and medical contexts, reminded me of the invaluable concept of a safe space.

Exploring the Concept:
The idea of a safe space has always resonated deeply with me in my line of work. However, it was intriguing to hear it being discussed in various other fields as well. Reflecting on the seminar, I couldn’t help but recall Proverbs 1:33, which states, “But whoso hearkeneth unto me shall dwell safely.” This verse beautifully captures the essence of a safe space, emphasizing the importance of feeling secure and protected.

Understanding the Dynamics of Patterns:
The seminar shed light on the challenges associated with emergence—the phenomenon of complex patterns arising from simpler components—and the pitfalls of enslavement or subjugation. Recognizing and understanding these patterns becomes crucial when seeking effective solutions. Within the “Lösungsraum” or space of solutions, we can navigate the complexities and find clarity.

Embracing the Safe Space:
The seminar left me with numerous ideas and insights to further explore. However, today I want to focus on the significance of the “Lösungsraum” within the concept of a safe space. In our fast-paced and increasingly complex world, filled with conflicts, troubles, and sickness, the need for a safe space becomes more evident than ever. It serves as a refuge—a sanctuary where individuals can find solace amidst chaos and uncertainty. Within this safe space, individuals are given the freedom to express themselves without fear of judgment or reprisal. It nurtures an environment of trust, respect, and open communication, allowing diverse perspectives to be heard and valued. In this haven, creativity flourishes, and collaborative problem-solving becomes possible. It is a place where conflicts can be constructively resolved, and healing can occur.

Regarding Spirituality:
Considering the verse from Proverbs 1:33, “But whoso hearkeneth unto me shall dwell safely,” we are invited to seek refuge in a spiritual realm by attentively listening to divine guidance and wisdom. This safe place goes beyond the physical—it represents a state of mind and heart that brings inner peace, harmony, and a sense of protection. The spiritual safe space acts as a sanctuary where we can explore our inner selves, reflect on our life’s purpose, find forgiveness, and experience healing. It is a space where authenticity and vulnerability are embraced, where acceptance reigns without judgment or fear—ultimately, in the presence of God.

Unlocking the Door:
The key to accessing this spiritual safe space lies in hearkening unto God. It entails actively listening, attentively picking up one’s ears to receive divine guidance and wisdom.

As I reflect on this concept, I am reminded of the profound importance of the spiritual safe space. It is a haven provided from above. In the context of my spiritual journey, I enter this space with empty hands, an open heart, and ears eager to listen. The promise of God, as conveyed through the scripture of Proverbs, is to enter and dwell safely.

May your week begin with a profound sense of connection as you hearken to the voice of God and step into the comforting embrace of His presence. Wishing you a fulfilling journey this week within the safe space of spiritual nourishment and guidance.

Philemon

Chapter 23

Welcome to this new week, this Monday afternoon of week 23

Matthew 7:1 – “Judge not, that you be not judged.”

After spending some wonderful days in Manchester with two great friends, I was frequently reminded not to judge too quickly. What I perceived as a foreigner wasn’t necessarily an accurate reflection of what was actually happening, taking us to the verse for this week.

One verse that is frequently misunderstood is Matthew 7:1, where Jesus says, “Judge not, that you be not judged.” This verse is often used to discourage any form of judgment or discernment. However, when taken out of context, it overlooks the complete message Jesus was conveying.

When we examine the surrounding verses, we realize that Jesus was cautioning against hypocritical judgment. He emphasized the importance of introspection and self-reflection before casting judgment upon others. The intent behind this verse was to encourage humility and self-awareness, rather than promoting a blanket dismissal of discernment or accountability.

Rather than seeing this verse as a prohibition on all forms of judgment, we can interpret it as an invitation to cultivate compassion and understanding. A great approach to seeing others with empathy, and acknowledging our own imperfections and limitations. By doing so, we create an environment where forgiveness, growth, and genuine connections can flourish.

Wishing fruitful discussions this week as you uplift one another, and live out the positive and transformative message of the Bible.

Philemon

Good afternoon on this Pentecost Monday.
Bon après-midi en ce lundi de Pentecôte.

Pentecost is a significant time with various experiences that differ from year to year, place to place, and heart to heart.
La Pentecôte est un moment important avec des expériences variées qui diffèrent d’une année à l’autre, d’un lieu à l’autre et d’un cœur à l’autre.

Throughout all these years, God remains constant, unchanging, while we are the ones who change.
À travers toutes ces années, Dieu reste constant, immuable, tandis que c’est nous qui changeons.

Pentecost is filled with emotions, words, languages, encounters, and actions.
La Pentecôte est emplie d’émotions, de paroles, de langues, de rencontres et d’actions.

How did you personally experience it? I will send a few images and let them speak for themselves.
Comment l’as-tu personnellement vécue ? Je t’enverrai quelques images et les laisserai parler d’elles-mêmes.

Wishing you a blessed start to this new week.
Je te souhaite un excellent et béni début de semaine.

Philemon

Chapter 21

Welcome to Week 21 of 2023!

Let no one deceive you with empty words. – Ephesians 5:6

In Ephesians, the apostle Paul addresses the believers in a countercultural manner, urging them to reject false teachings and empty philosophies prevalent in their city. Influenced by the polytheistic practices of the time, these deceptions required discernment.

“The greatest enemy of knowledge is not ignorance, it is the illusion of knowledge.” – Daniel J. Boorstin

Amidst the digital landscape, fake emails claiming you’ve been hacked can be unsettling. But before panicking, it’s important to verify before reacting.

Fraudulent emails designed to deceive and create fear must be approached with caution. Stay alert, and don’t let fear cloud your judgment.

Protect yourself from fake emails pretending you’ve been hacked. Stay informed, remain cautious, and secure your personal information.

The sentence “You’ve been hacked” can evoke worry and uncertainty, not only about digital security but also about the psychological impact on our daily lives.

What if the message “You’ve been hacked” is an invitation to give up security information, only to fall victim to hacking?

Being hacked shares parallels with other situations where we’re tricked into thinking we’re off course and in danger. Discernment becomes crucial in distinguishing between genuine threats and mere illusions. Recognizing the patterns and strategies used by hackers and those who employ “empty words” can sharpen our instincts for detecting deception.

Ephesians 5:6 reminds us to be wise and discerning, not easily deceived by empty words or false teachings. This guidance applies to both our spiritual and digital lives. By staying rooted in truth, cultivating discernment, and being aware of deceitful tactics, we can protect ourselves and align with God’s purpose for our lives.

“The true value of information lies not in its scarcity but in its accuracy.”

In conclusion, Ephesians 5:6 emphasizes the significance of discernment and caution in our encounters with messages and teachings. It calls us to seek truth, align ourselves with God’s teachings, and avoid being led astray by deceptive influences. By doing so, we can navigate life’s challenges with wisdom and integrity.

Wishing you a week free of deception and hacks.

Philemon

Motherhood

Chapter 20

Welcome to Week 20 of 2023!

“As a mother comforts her child, so I will comfort you; you shall be comforted in Jerusalem.” (Isaiah 66:13, ESV)

“But I have calmed and quieted myself, I am like a weaned child with its mother; like a weaned child, I am content.” – Psalm 131:2 (NIV)

“Mackenzie, I am not who you think I am. I don’t need your judgment or your evaluation. I don’t need you to analyze what I do or why I do it. I am the best way any human can relate to Papa or Sarayu (the Holy Spirit)!” – William P. Young, The Shack

Yesterday, as I was returning home from a fulfilling church meeting on a train journey, a seemingly ordinary encounter turned into a thought-provoking moment. A friendly waitress approached me and assumed I was traveling to visit my mother (needless to say, it was Mother’s Day celebrated here in Switzerland). Perhaps it was the way she asked or the sincerity in her voice, but her question struck a chord within me.

In response, I shared that I had no mother. However, instead of a sympathetic or puzzled expression, she surprised me with an immediate response: “Get yourself another!” It was a truly amusing moment, one that reminded me of the unexpected joy and humor that can be found in our everyday encounters. But beyond the laughter, her words also carried a deeper message—one that resonated with the essence of motherhood and the nurturing qualities we find in those around us.

In the book “The Shack” by William P. Young, there is a beautiful depiction of God assuming the form of a divine mother. The author explores the concept of God’s love and care being comparable to a mother’s nurturing presence. This portrayal exemplifies the boundless compassion, understanding, and unconditional love that we often associate with mothers.

Motherhood transcends biological ties. While our earthly mothers play a vital role in our lives, the divine qualities of motherhood can manifest through various relationships—even divine ones. So, let us not limit the concept of motherhood to biology alone. Instead, let’s open our hearts and recognize the divine presence of maternal love in the world around us. By doing so, we broaden our perspective and create space for the nurturing qualities of God, as a divine mother, to touch our lives in diverse ways.

And, just as the cheerful waitress suggested, let us find opportunities to “get ourselves another” mother, ultimately, understanding God as a mother allows us to experience the depth and breadth of divine love and find comfort and solace in the presence of the divine.

Wishing you a week filled with newfound appreciation for the divine presence of motherhood in all its beautiful forms.

Philemon

Chapter 19

Welcome to week 19 of 2023.

This weekend, I read an interesting article about the heart.

One question posed to Professor Sian Harding of the Faculty of Medicine, National Heart & Lung Institute was as follows:

Can the heart generate emotions?
“This happens, for example, when we perceive danger and our pulse accelerates. In the heart, there is a kind of mini-brain, a nerve node that informs our brain that we are afraid. This, in turn, enables our brain to react to the danger and, for example, trigger a flight response. In laboratory experiments, people were played recordings of a very rapidly beating heart. When they were told they were listening to their own heart, they became fearful or even panicked.”

The verse in Ezekiel 36:26 takes on a whole new meaning:
“I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.”

God promises to give His people a new heart and put a new spirit within them. This verse speaks of a spiritual transformation that God initiates within individuals. The heart, often now explained as a “mini-brain” or culturally understood as the center of emotions, desires, and decision-making, is depicted metaphorically as being made of stone, symbolizing a hardened and unresponsive state. The promise involves a transformation, removing the hardness, coldness, and resistance toward God and replacing it with a heart of flesh, signifying a soft, responsive, and receptive heart.

Regarding the report, S. Harding writes:
“The heart cells have electrical connections for signal transmission and mechanical connections for force. There are neurons in the heart. However, the heart can actually be removed from the body, the blood vessels can be filled with a saline solution, and the heart continues to beat – spontaneously and without any intervention. In the body, the autonomic nervous system regulates whether the heart should beat faster or slower, an unconscious process.”

The promise in Ezekiel 36:26 speaks of a divine intervention that goes beyond the physical aspects of the heart. It signifies a profound connection between the “heart of man” and the “heart of God.” Just as the physical impulses of the heart synchronize the body, this spiritual transformation aligns us with the divine, making us partakers of His nature and purposes.

Through this promise, God offers a new spiritual body, a transformed being that is in harmony with Him. It implies a profound shift from a self-centered existence to one that is connected with the divine, where our desires, affections, and actions are in sync with His will.

This spiritual transformation enables us to experience a relationship in alignment with God. It is an invitation to transcend our limited human nature and embrace a new identity as children of God, empowered by His Spirit. In essence, the promise in Ezekiel 36:26 calls us to a spiritual metamorphosis, where we are no longer solely focused on ourselves but are transformed to reflect the character and heart of God, living in intimate communion with Him.

Wishing you a blessed connection to the impulse and heart of God this week.

Philemon

Chapter 18

Welcome to the week 18 of 2023

Amidst the green blades of grass so fair,
In the lawn where we take care,
Lies a sight of sorrow and woe,
Weeds, they sprout and grow and show.

In Matthew, a parable was told,
Of good seeds sowed in fields of gold,
Yet amongst the crops, weeds did appear,
A gardener’s fear, a problem severe.

But what if we look beyond the tale,
And see the beauty amidst the wail,
Of these plants that grow without a care,
Roots that reach, branches that flare.

Undesirable, invasive, they say,
Weeds that grow and spread each day,
But do we see the lessons they impart,
In the struggles of their resilient heart.

For they fight to survive and stand tall,
Amidst the chaos and the brawl,
A reminder to persevere and strive,
To grow strong and fight to stay alive.

Weeds may be despised and shunned,
But they’re the pioneers of barren ground,
Their roots dig deep, their will is strong,
Growing where others can’t belong.

So let us not dismiss these unwelcome guests,
For they may have more to teach than we may guess,
In their struggle for life and space,
They show us how to survive and thrive in any place.

Philemon