“But earnestly desire the best gifts. And yet I show you a more excellent way.” – 1 Corinthians 12:31

Before I get into more details of the confluence between Testing and Practicing mentioned in my last post I’d like to share a word about God’s gifting.

What Kind of Gift is This?

I once received a gift of a 12 by 10 ft. gazeebo for our back yard. It was something I really desired and was excited when the large 3 boxes were delivered. When I opened the boxes to see the thousands of pieces required to put it together it was a good thing I was not on top of a high-rise building. I would have jumped.

What kind of gift is this? Yes, I desired the gift but did I really want to go through all the work it would take to see it realized?

God’s gifts come in many packages – Physical, Emotional and Spiritual.

When we speak of the Spiritual Gifts detailed in the Bible many of us think of them as being given in a supernatural, miraculous and immediate way (I have no doubt that in some cases they are) – something like Paul being hit by a bolt of lightning. But, as far as I can tell those that exercise Spiritual gifts more often go through a process something like when we receive a gift that is valuable but requires discovery and learning and exercise to fully master the use of the gift.

Take a valuable but complicated machine or instrument as an example:

You receive the gift that you have desired. It is fully wrapped in wonderful packaging. What is required of you? You must first receive and open the gift. If it requires assembly, you must study the instruction (not a particular strength of mine) and assemble it. Then you must study how to use it – perhaps studying those who have become accomplished in the gift. Then you will practice with it and test your ability to effectively use it. As you practice you’ll fail and learn how to exercise the gift more effectively as you patiently persevere.

All of this is to master the gift you have been supernaturally given. This involves – receiving, studying/observing, exercising/practicing, testing, patiently persevering, to then be in-practice.

Back to the Apostle Paul

Even though Paul experienced a dramatic conversion, his gifts for ministry were developed over years of scripture study under the esteemed scholar Gamaliel before Paul’s conversion. And, even though Paul immediately preached in Damascus after his conversion, he spent three years, likely in prayer and study of the Scriptures while testing the gifts of God before embarking on his famous three missionary journeys that forever changed the world.

Testing to Testimony

If our desire is to display the gifts of God in their full glory then earnestly desiring God’s gifts requires dedication and persistence. Our God rewards those that diligently seek Him.

Psalm 122:4 – Where the tribes go up, The tribes of the Lord, To the Testimony of Israel, To give thanks to the name of the Lord.

As we raise up the level of the testing of our faith, we give testimony and thanksgiving to the God who responds!

---

Thanksgiving – For this past year what do I give thanks for?

In spite of these turbulent times, I give thanks this year for . . .

• For Family and friends who God has sustained through another year of pandemic.
• For my closest family who I see God continuing to surround with demonstrations of His love and provision.
• For the sweet memories of those we have loved and lost.
• For a major change in our lives and the adventure of discovering the next phase of our journey
• For the Place of peace and hope that our community of faith provides to one another and to everyone who passes through our church doors.
• For God’s faithfulness and reality – particularly for those brothers and sisters who encourage me and each other to stretch our faith to see God show up in greater ways.
• For the truth that God has already overcome Bizarro World as Jesus declares in John 16:33 – “In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”

One particular example of God’s faithfulness we give thanks for is with our good neighbors Steve & Virginia who I highlighted in past posts. They experienced a devastating loss of their daughter Olivia in childbirth, but pressed on to give birth to beautiful Fiona. And now, this year they gave birth to a healthy baby boy!

I do not fully understand how all this works but I count all that is good to a faithful, loving God to whom today I humbly give all thanks.

Have a Wonderful Day of Giving Thanks!

“No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it”. – 1 Corinthians 10:13

Bizarro World

When I was a kid growing up in the 60’s I used to read the original classic DC Comic books – Superman, Batman, Spider Man, Flash, Green Lantern, Thor, etc. Then a new series came on the scene to shock my senses – It was known as Bizarro World.

The Bizarro World comics are about a fictional cube-shaped planet being the home to Bizarro and his companions – all alter egos of the major Super heroes. They were complete opposites of the Super Heroes I had grown to love. For me, it was all too strange. I think it was about then that I gave up on comic books.

In popular culture, “Bizarro World” has come to mean a situation or setting which is weirdly inverted or opposite to expectations.

Well, I don’t know about you but there is no doubt in my mind we are living in the age of “Bizarro World”. In our world, what was good is now bad, true is now false, right is now wrong, up is now down, fact is now fiction as well as all of that in reverse. Many that proclaim they know the truth and ‘follow the science’ demonstrate that they often make it up as they go. Each side declares the other’s truth as dastardly disinformation.

We have fallen into a world of confusion and tribulation. And, things have flipped so fast it shocks the senses leading many to feelings of anxiety, depression and hopelessness.

Bizarro World is not a place where humans are meant to live.

I must admit that even as a Christian knowing that we have a greater hope and true satisfaction is not found in the things of this world, I find myself emotionally and mentally recoiling with feelings of anger and frustration – tempted to look for the exit door.

In this culture, as a white, Christian male I’m increasingly feeling targeted as an enemy of the state.

Where do I go to escape?

Is there a safe place we can retreat to? As I search the world, considering places that might offer sanctuary from the craziness, each location has it’s own detractions. Is there such a place?

Finally, I’m brought back to the truth that this rest is not found in the “Where” but in the “Who”. The futile search reminds me that wherever I am I have access to a way of escape simply by spending more time engaging with the living God. Washing myself from the filth of this world with the Word of God. Engaging God through the Spiritual Disciplines and exercising God’s Spiritual gifts. In the midst of this world’s dysfunction, the way of escape is through relationally experiencing God’s refreshing Goodness, Righteousness and Truth.

The way of escape is close at hand – easily available but all too often not readily accessed.

1 Corinthians 10:13 – No temptation (testing) overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted (tested) what you are able, but with the temptation (testing) also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.

Testing of our Faith

One of the most impactful scriptures in my life has been James 1:2-4 – “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.”

It speaks of trials not of our own doing but that which we “fall into”. I feel that in these days we are falling into the great trial abyss of Bizarro World. But, the scriptures go on to teach that we count it joy that with patience and perseverance through these trials we will meet the true desires of our heart to be made into the more perfect image of Jesus.

It’s verse 3 that I recently read after having read it countless times before that I’m stuck on once again. I’ve debated and studied the issue of God testing us when later in James he uses the same word emphatically declaring that God does not tempt/test us with evil. There is a way to legitimately reconcile this to conclude that God does not author the testing (author’s being, The Enemy, the dysfunction of this world or our own selfish desires). God is in the business of not only making a way of escape from these trials but making something good from them.

But, now meditating on this scripture once again, for the first time I found myself considering there might be someone else at the source of the testing? Who is doing the testing here? Could it be that we are the ones doing the testing? Are we the ones to test God?

Whoa, testing God!?

The Hebrew word for “test” in the Bible is nacah. This word is used in Deuteronomy 6:16, a verse where God specifically commands the Israelites not to test Him. Oh well, I guess the idea of us testing God is off the table.

But, not so fast. I decided to not give up on the question of “who is testing our faith?”

It strikes me that I have and I do, on occasion, put God to the test.

I recall the day I was challenged to make a commitment to follow Jesus the living God. Stepping forward with certainty that the Gospel message I had heard was true but at the same time I had to admit I really didn’t know this person, Jesus. I was making a lifetime commitment to someone I really didn’t know. So, even as I came forward I said, “Here’s the deal. I’m stepping forward in faith. So, I fully expect you will show up and be as real as I’ve been promised. If not, the deal is off.”

43 years later and God still shows up when I practice my faith.

Practice My Faith? Then the question comes to mind, what does it mean to Practice my Faith? And, what is the connection between of Practicing my faith and the Testing of my faith?

Next week I’ll provide some further thoughts regarding the questions as to who’s Testing our Faith and what it means to Practice our Faith.

---

The Way of Escape – Ekbasis

Regardless of the source of our testing, I love God’s promise to make “the way of escape” for us. The Greek word for “way of escape” is Ekbasis – an egress, way out, exit. It is a passageway that will take you from where you are to where you want to be. The image for me is Jesus waving us out from the raging fire to an open escape hatch.

The Ekbasis of Don Treash

While Ekbasis is translated as a “way of escape” it is also used to refer to the outcome of one’s life. The manner in which a person closed out a well spent life. I guess it is God’s ultimate way of escape for the life-in-Christ well-lived. 

The only other time Ekbasis is used in the Bible is found in Hebrews 13:7 (NIV)

“Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith.”

So, today I want to take this time to remember and honor a beloved leader of our community – a teacher and a friend and his wonderful Ekbasis. The manner in which he led his life right up through to a good finish.

Don Treash went to be with our King in glory. Don spoke the word of God to me and to many of the Faithful as a great imitation of the character of Christ bearing the full fruit of the Spirit with love, joy, peace, goodness, kindness, gentleness, patience, faithfulness and self-control. Even as I write these words I’m struck with how I can’t think of many who exhibit the full Fruit of the Spirit as Don did so well.

Of course it is hard to say the name “Don” without adding “and Gloria” – the perfect partner in His Ekbasis. Your Community Group shares in the loss with you and your family and stands ready to fill in the gap as much as is possible.

As the writer of Hebrews implores those of us who knew Don, we would all do well to consider the outcome of his way of life as a loving husband and as a spiritual father, brother, mentor and friend and imitate his faith as he so well imitated Christ.

We miss you Don – until we make the final way of escape to glory and see you again.

“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast.” – Ephesians 2:8-9

Heroic Woman of Faith

Anne Hutchinson (July 1591 – August 1643) continues to be a controversial figure in some Christian circles. But, the more I study her life, the more I am convinced that she practiced her Christian faith with love and grace and power. Her father was an Anglican cleric and school teacher who gave her an education that few women enjoyed at the time. She lived an authentic relationship with Jesus displaying a deep knowledge of God’s Word as well as exercising gifts of teaching, prophecy and healing. Her’s was a conviction that this personal, intimate relationship is meant for all. She was involved in leading many to a personal faith in Jesus Christ.

While holding widely-attended house meetings in Puritan Boston she forcefully condemned the widespread burdensome teachings by many of the Massachusetts Bay Ministers emphasizing a Salvation based on Works. For the ministers of the colony to have their authority challenged was blasphemy. They labeled her and her ‘Gospel of Grace’ with all types of derogatory terms including being “Antinomian” (the practice of taking the freedom found in Christ as license for sinful and selfish pursuits). By most accounts there was no one more dedicated to their marriage, their family and their faith. She was as loving, selfless, charitable and Christ-like as any person in the colony.

Interesting that these spiritual debates like Salvation ‘by Faith’ versus ‘by Works’ and the use of Spiritual gifts continues to divide our Christian community today.

She strikes me as one who lived out her Christian convictions in a way that would fit nicely with my own faith and theological beliefs as I seek to stretch my faith – believing in a God that is alive through Jesus and who desires to be more active and interactive in my life.

The ‘Martyr’ Anne Hutchinson

In November of 1637 while pregnant and sick she endured a civil trial in Newtowne (Cambridge) accused of promoting theological “errors” and challenging the Ministers of the colony. She was convicted and then held under house arrest. In a later church trial she was excommunicated and banished from the colony. She and her leading supporters were given three months to leave the colony. They removed to Portsmouth, Rhode Island.

In the Autumn of 1642 after the death of her husband, William, and under continuing harassment from the Puritan leaders of Massachusetts Bay, Anne Hutchinson moved west with six of her younger children along with a number of servants. They settled in Dutch controlled territory near the location of a large glacial boulder popularly called Split Rock within what is now known as Pelham Bay, New York. The exact location of the property is unknown.

When they arrived, they had been friendly to the local Native Americans named the Siwanoy who had been subject to mistreatment by the ruling Dutch. (She was actually a staunch defender of Native American rights and had good relations with all tribes she had contact with). But, a number of bloody exchanges in the New Netherland colony led to what became known as Kieft’s War. In the summer of 1643 the Siwanoy began to warn the Dutch in the area that they would be attacking their settlements and preparing to burn down every house.

The Siwanoy chief, Wampage, who had sent the warning did not expect to find any settlers as they moved from house to house. The warriors were surprised to find children, young men and women at the Hutchinson house. The braves asked them to restrain the family’s dogs. As soon as the dogs were tied up the braves seized, killed and scalped all but two of the Hutchinson family and servents. One of the Hutchinson’s daughters seeking to escape was caught as she was getting over a hedge, and they drew her back again by the hair of the head to the stump of a tree, and there cut off her head with a hatchet.

The warriors then dragged the bodies and dead animals into the house and set it on fire until it completely burned to the ground. No bodies were ever recovered.

The only survivor was the Hutchinson’s nine-year old daughter, Susanna, who was off hiding nearby (legend has it that she was hiding in the crevice of Split Rock). When she was found, it is believed that because of their enamor with her unique bright red hair, her life was spared. She was taken captive and lived with the Siwanoy for as many as six years until family members who had stayed in the Bay Colony recovered her. It was reported that she did not want to leave her captors. In 1651 she married John Cole and they started a farm in Rhode Island beginning a long line of descendants.

After the massacre, Wampage, the warrior chief who claimed to have slain Anne Hutchinson, as was the custom, assumed the name of his most famous victim, calling himself “Anne Hoeck.”

The exact date of the massacre is not known but is believed to have occurred in August 1643. When the Massachusetts leaders and clergy learned of Anne Hutchinson’s death they were quick to condemn her and to identify it as God’s hand of vengeance and retribution for her damned heresies.

In 1911 a bronze tablet to the memory of Mrs. Hutchinson was placed on Split Rock by the Society of Colonial Dames of the State of New York, who recognized that the resting place of this most noted woman of her time was well worthy of a memorial:

ANNE HUTCHINSON

Banished from the Massachusetts Bay Colony in 1638

Because of her Devotion to Religious Liberty This Courageous Woman

Sought Freedom from Persecution in New Netherland

Near this Rock in 1643 She and her Household

were Massacred by Indians. This Tablet is placed here by the

Colonial Dames of the State of New York

ANNO DOMINI MCMXI

Virtutes Majorurn Filiae Conservant

The Hutchinson River and the Hutchinson River Parkway in New York are named in her honor. Split Rock can be seen at the intersection of the Hutchinson River Parkway and Route 95 in New York.

I believe it was her Christian witness and teachings to a group of locals, primarily in the area of her farm in Mount Wollaston (now Quincy), that spurred a small group of pioneers to eventually seek out a place where they could build a community where all could freely worship God (or not) as their conscience directed.

They settled on a small Island off the coast of Rhode Island.

---

One of the Leaders of our Community (Black Rock Church) is a distant descendant relative of one Anne Hutchinson. Can you guess who? (Find the answer below)

---

JUST RELEASED – My next short novel (novelette) of Historical Fiction, entitled Puritan Retribution and Manisses Destiny

This next story in The Block Island Settlement saga details the two Puritan invasions of Block Island in 1636 & 1637 as retribution for the murder of Captain John Oldham. With these attacks, the Manissean Tribe begins sobering to the reality that control of their precious Island home is slipping away.
At the same time back in Boston, the Puritan leaders engage in a political and spiritual battle from within. Anne Hutchinson’s popularity while advocating for a Gospel of Grace threatens the male-dominated Puritan Theocracy. This begins to set the stage for a small group of likeminded pioneers to search for a place where they can freely practice the convictions of their hearts. (Ultimately, settling on Block Island)

This book is Part Three in a series of novelettes depicting the major events and spiritual journey that led to the eventual settlement of Block Island, RI and what many believe was the first true Democracy in America.

Each book of the series is available on Amazon as an E-Book or in Paperback. You can also find them at the local Block Island bookstore: Island Bound Bookstore

If you are a Block Island lover or have an appetite for early American history and the colonial journey of faith, I expect you’ll find this Summer read fast-paced, entertaining and educational.

---

Answer to the question above:

From the Whitman family records, there appears to be this lineage from Anne Hutchinson:

• Anne Marbury married William Hutchinson
  • They birthed Edward Hutchinson who married Catherine Hamby
    • They birthed Anne Hutchinson who married Sam Dyer (Relative of Mary Dyer)
      • They birthed Anne Dyer who married Carew Clarke (Relative of John Clarke)
        • They birthed Mary Clarke who on June 11^th 1724 married George Wightman

A direct descendent of George Wightman is one Gloria (Whitman) Treash, wife of Don Treash and mother of Pastor Steve Treash

It appears that Gloria’s amazing ancestry includes not only Anne Hutchinson but Mary Dyer (Quaker and friend of Anne Hutchinson who was hanged in Boston for apposing the brutal tactics of the Massachusetts Puritan authorities) as well as John Clarke (Leader who, perhaps more than any other person, was responsible for establishing the right to Freedom of Religion in Rhode Island that became the model for the The First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution)

The lineage of faithful and courageous Christian leaders continues!

“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast.” – Ephesians 2:8-9

Heroic Woman of Faith

Anne Hutchinson (July 1591 – August 1643) continues to be a controversial figure in some Christian circles. But, the more I study her life, the more I am convinced that she practiced her Christian faith with love and grace and power. Her father was an Anglican cleric and school teacher who gave her an education that few women enjoyed at the time. She lived an authentic relationship with Jesus displaying a deep knowledge of God’s Word as well as exercising gifts of teaching, prophecy and healing. Her’s was a conviction that this personal, intimate relationship is meant for all. She was involved in leading many to a personal faith in Jesus Christ.

While holding widely-attended house meetings in Puritan Boston she forcefully condemned the widespread burdensome teachings by many of the Massachusetts Bay Ministers emphasizing a Salvation based on Works. For the ministers of the colony to have their authority challenged was blasphemy. They labeled her and her ‘Gospel of Grace’ with all types of derogatory terms including being “Antinomian” (the practice of taking the freedom found in Christ as license for sinful and selfish pursuits). By most accounts there was no one more dedicated to their marriage, their family and their faith. She was as loving, selfless, charitable and Christ-like as any person in the colony.

Interesting that these spiritual debates like Salvation ‘by Faith’ versus ‘by Works’ and the use of Spiritual gifts continues to divide our Christian community today.

She strikes me as one who lived out her Christian convictions in a way that would fit nicely with my own faith and theological beliefs as I seek to stretch my faith – believing in a God that is alive through Jesus and who desires to be more active and interactive in my life.

The ‘Martyr’ Anne Hutchinson

In November of 1637 while pregnant and sick she endured a civil trial in Newtowne (Cambridge) accused of promoting theological “errors” and challenging the Ministers of the colony. She was convicted and then held under house arrest. In a later church trial she was excommunicated and banished from the colony. She and her leading supporters were given three months to leave the colony. They removed to Portsmouth, Rhode Island.

In the Autumn of 1642 after the death of her husband, William, and under continuing harassment from the Puritan leaders of Massachusetts Bay, Anne Hutchinson moved west with six of her younger children along with a number of servants. They settled in Dutch controlled territory near the location of a large glacial boulder popularly called Split Rock within what is now known as Pelham Bay, New York. The exact location of the property is unknown.

When they arrived, they had been friendly to the local Native Americans named the Siwanoy who had been subject to mistreatment by the ruling Dutch. (She was actually a staunch defender of Native American rights and had good relations with all tribes she had contact with). But, a number of bloody exchanges in the New Netherland colony led to what became known as Kieft’s War. In the summer of 1643 the Siwanoy began to warn the Dutch in the area that they would be attacking their settlements and preparing to burn down every house.

The Siwanoy chief, Wampage, who had sent the warning did not expect to find any settlers as they moved from house to house. The warriors were surprised to find children, young men and women at the Hutchinson house. The braves asked them to restrain the family’s dogs. As soon as the dogs were tied up the braves seized, killed and scalped all but two. One of the Hutchinson’s daughters seeking to escape was caught as she was getting over a hedge, and they drew her back again by the hair of the head to the stump of a tree, and there cut off her head with a hatchet.

The warriors then dragged the bodies and dead animals into the house and set it on fire until it completely burned to the ground. No bodies were ever recovered.

The only survivor was the Hutchinson’s nine-year old daughter, Susanna, who was off hiding nearby (legend has it that she was hiding in the crevice of Split Rock). When she was found, it is believed that because of their enamor with her unique bright red hair, her life was spared. She was taken captive and lived with the Siwanoy for as many as six years until family members who had stayed in the Bay Colony recovered her. It was reported that she did not want to leave her captors. In 1651 she married John Cole and they started a farm in Rhode Island beginning a long line of descendants.

After the massacre, Wampage, the warrior chief who claimed to have slain Anne Hutchinson, as was the custom, assumed the name of his most famous victim, calling himself “Anne Hoeck.”

The exact date of the massacre is not known but is believed to have occurred in August 1643. When the Massachusetts leaders and clergy learned of Anne Hutchinson’s death they were quick to condemn her and to identify it as God’s hand of vengeance and retribution for her damned heresies.

In 1911 a bronze tablet to the memory of Mrs. Hutchinson was placed on Split Rock by the Society of Colonial Dames of the State of New York, who recognized that the resting place of this most noted woman of her time was well worthy of a memorial:

ANNE HUTCHINSON

Banished from the Massachusetts Bay Colony in 1638

Because of her Devotion to Religious Liberty This Courageous Woman

Sought Freedom from Persecution in New Netherland

Near this Rock in 1643 She and her Household

were Massacred by Indians. This Tablet is placed here by the

Colonial Dames of the State of New York

ANNO DOMINI MCMXI

Virtutes Majorurn Filiae Conservant

The Hutchinson River and the Hutchinson River Parkway in New York are named in her honor. Split Rock can be seen at the intersection of the Hutchinson River Parkway and Route 95 in New York.

I believe it was her Christian witness and teachings to a group of locals, primarily in the area of her farm in Mount Wollaston (now Quincy), that spurred a small group of pioneers to eventually seek out a place where they could build a community where all could freely worship God (or not) as their conscience directed.

They settled on a small Island off the coast of Rhode Island.

---

One of the Leaders of our Community (Black Rock Church) is a distant descendant of one Anne Hutchinson. Can you guess who? (Find the answer below)

---

JUST RELEASED – My next short novel (novelette) of Historical Fiction, entitled Puritan Retribution and Manisses Destiny

This next story in The Block Island Settlement saga details the two Puritan invasions of Block Island in 1636 & 1637 as retribution for the murder of Captain John Oldham. With these attacks, the Manissean Tribe begins sobering to the reality that control of their precious Island home is slipping away.
At the same time back in Boston, the Puritan leaders engage in a political and spiritual battle from within. Anne Hutchinson’s popularity while advocating for a Gospel of Grace threatens the male-dominated Puritan Theocracy. This begins to set the stage for a small group of likeminded pioneers to search for a place where they can freely practice the convictions of their hearts. (Ultimately, settling on Block Island)

This book is Part Three in a series of novelettes depicting the major events and spiritual journey that led to the eventual settlement of Block Island, RI and what many believe was the first true Democracy in America.

Each book of the series is available on Amazon as an E-Book or in Paperback. You can also find them at the local Block Island bookstore: Island Bound Bookstore

If you are a Block Island lover or have an appetite for early American history and the colonial journey of faith, I expect you’ll find this Summer read fast-paced, entertaining and educational.

---

Answer to the question above:

From the Whitman family records, there appears to be this lineage from Anne Hutchinson:

• Anne Marbury married William Hutchinson
  • They birthed Edward Hutchinson who married Catherine Hamby
    • They birthed Anne Hutchinson who married Sam Dyer (Relative of Mary Dyer)
      • They birthed Anne Dyer who married Carew Clarke (Relative of John Clarke)
        • They birthed Mary Clarke who on June 11^th 1724 married George Wightman

A direct descendent of George Wightman is one Gloria (Whitman) Treash, wife of Don Treash and mother of Pastor Steve Treash

It appears that Gloria’s amazing ancestry includes not only Anne Hutchinson but Mary Dyer (Quaker and friend of Anne Hutchinson who was hanged in Boston for apposing the brutal tactics of the Massachusetts Puritan authorities) as well as John Clarke (Leader who, perhaps more than any other person, was responsible for establishing the right to Freedom of Religion in Rhode Island that became the model for the The First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution)

The lineage of faithful and courageous Christian leaders continues!

“But the natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.” – 1 Corinthians 2:14

---

After about a year’s worth of reading, researching, reviewing, reflecting and praying I will now post my conclusions about the challenging elements of the ministry of Smith Wigglesworth. (Certainly, the world has been waiting with bated breath!)

But, a legitimate question is – Why?

Why bother? Couldn’t I have spent my time in a more constructive pursuit? Along the way, I have asked myself this question but then I’m reminded that this is more about seeking God. To explore His character and how He works in us and through us. This has not been just an effort to legitimize the life and ministry of one man, it is about coming to grips with the ways of God and our charge as Christ-followers to be imitators of Jesus.

I certainly can’t say, as most everyone alive today cannot, that I know Smith Wigglesworth (1859-1947) from personal experience. But, based upon all that has been written of him, often by those who were closer to him, we get a consistent theme of his character – one described by the full Fruit of the Spirit.

Even having read about how he handled controversy over his ministry during his lifetime, he seemingly couldn’t have cared less about how people judged him. His sole concern was to discern the leading of God’s Holy Spirit and to act on that leading. He did not seek to please man. God’s reward was enough.

Based upon what I have read of the life of this plumber/evangelist, he became a devout follower of Jesus Christ, whose life was a great imitation of Jesus. After his conversion to Christ, he was known to be a tender-hearted, loving, caring, humble saint who was selfless in the pursuit of the ministry and relentlessly drinking in the word of God. He was never about flashy self-promotion but dedicated himself to reading and studying and living out the Word of God to an extent that few Christians I know of can ever claim.

The overwhelming body of evidence tells me that Smith Wigglesworth was an amazing modern-day Apostle of Jesus. How many Christians, in or out of Christian ministry, do I know that were totally dedicated to absorbing the word of God such that they would not even read another book or let a newspaper into their house to entertain messages contrary to God’s word?

You can react to say, “That’s just weird!” or “That’s too extreme!” But, I believe the Biblical message is that extreme dedication to God’s word and the steady filling of the Holy Spirit, along with boldness to step out with radical faith consistent with the Character of Christ leads to extreme results. Yet, very few of us are willing to go to such extremes.

That’s what I see in the life of Smith Wigglesworth – a radical faith along with an extreme reliance on God’s word and a steady filling of the Holy Spirit. This led to the reliable exercise of a spiritual gift to see into the spiritual realm. His was a dedication far beyond where many of us are willing to go.

Equal of Jesus?

In Matthew 10:37 Jesus says, “Anyone who loves their father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; anyone who loves their son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.” He goes on to say in verse 38, “And he who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me.” These are extremely challenging words from Jesus.

Part of the challenge for Christ-followers is to dig deeper. Consider the word ‘unworthy’ that seems to reflect great offense by Jesus. He seems to be saying that He will have nothing to do with us, dismissively waving his hand signifying that we are not really his disciples. I am being rejected by Jesus because I am so pathetic and unworthy.

However, the Greek word for ‘worthy’ is axios—meaning the weight of something – something that has the equal weight of another thing of like value, like the equal values on both ends of a balanced scale.

What is Jesus saying? That we can’t be His equal in some way? How can we be equal with the Son of God? But, Jesus seems to be saying that he who does not take up his cross is not equal to Jesus. So, if we do take up our cross we can be equal to Jesus? Whoa! How can we possibly be His equal? We certainly can never be the equal to the Son of God – an equal member of the Triune God! Certainly not. How then?

Perhaps Jesus is saying that we will not be able to do what He did in His ministry while the Son of God chose to walk the earth as Son of Man – being guided by the Father and empowered by the Holy Spirit. We could never be able to fulfill the challenge Jesus posed in John 14:12 that we can do even greater things than Him.

So, I’d say it is not about being loved and accepted by God or being equal with God but about being fully empowered for the ministry that Jesus modeled for us.

My conclusion with regard to the Christ-likeness of Smith Wigglesworth:

Smith Wigglesworth, along with everything he determined to do to save the lost should be celebrated as an amazing work of God’s doing. One episode should not be focused on any more than another. Some things God does may challenge our notion of how God works but if nothing else it should then draw us deeper into searching out God’s wisdom on a matter. Each of the thousands of recorded healings of SW deserves equal honor TO GOD as Peter declared even of Jesus in Acts 2:22 “Men of Israel, hear these words: Jesus of Nazareth, a Man attested by God to you by miracles, wonders, and signs which God did through Him in your midst. . .”

I have no doubt Smith Wiglesworth fell short of the perfection of Christ. We all do. But, I venture to guess that his imitation of Christ was a lot closer than mine may ever be. Does that mean I’m loved any less by God? No! But, still, God keeps beckoning me to draw closer to the image of Christ and like Paul, if our desire is to grow in the things and the power of the ministry of Jesus, if nothing else, Smith’s life says “Imitate my dedication to imitating Christ.”

Also, when I look at the life of SW, I am not who God made SW to be, nor am I what the world made out of SW that perhaps God took what was meant for evil and used it for the good – to take bad and put it to good use. Genesis 50:20, “As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good. . .”

My conclusion concerning the Smith Wigglesworth kicking the baby controversy:

With all I have considered, my conclusion is that Smith Wigglesworth did not wind up and kick a baby like a football nor did he slam a baby against the wall. This is man’s irrepressible desire to elaborate and exaggerate an event to make it more intriguing and compelling and even salacious than it needs to be (as a writer I know of this temptation all too well). As if the version of the miracle described by SW’s great-granddaughter, Lillian De Fin wasn’t amazing enough? Also, it is not beyond our enemy in this world to take something of God and twist it into something that would then be used to divide the Body of Christ.

My conclusion with regard to the use of getting physical as a part of miraculous healing:

God used this particular man for all of who he was at that particular time and for those particular people in those particular places and in particular ways to 1. grab people’s attention, 2. stir up their faith, and 3. occasionally use physical means as part of invasive ‘machaira’ surgery Jesus alludes to in Matthew 10:34-36 – “Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword.”

Further thoughts on Jesus words in John 14:12  “Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also; and greater works than these he will do, because I go to My Father.”

Some of the alternative translations of the Greek word meizon translated as “greater” are – larger, elder, stronger, more (In James 4:6, it is often translated as more). Could it be that Jesus may be challenging the church (body of Christ) and even his individual disciples to do things beyond what He had done?

I believe Jesus is actually encouraging his followers to not be limited to just the things he did. Throughout the Bible there are examples of God working through His people in miraculous signs and wonders that could be described as ‘greater’ than any of the miracles performed by Jesus.

Yet, for myself, I insist upon the qualifier that we strive to maintain the Biblical Character of Christ in all we do. Of all the things Jesus may have “emptied” Himself of when he came to earth as stated in Philippians 2:7 (NASB) – “but emptied Himself by taking the form of a bond-servant and being born in the likeness of men.” He certainly did not give up His very character as God – that God’s goodness, righteousness, and truth would be fully displayed in the flesh. (Colossians 1:15 – The Son is the image of the invisible God …..)

So, with all that said, are you going to see me anytime soon punching or kicking someone who needs healing? No, I can’t imagine it.

But, is my ability to hear and see God’s guidance dedicated enough to be certain I know that it is God’s voice saying, “Do it out of my love” and to proceed with the faith of Abraham to know it will not hurt but only heal? Whew! I have a long way to go if that is my heart’s desire.

For myself, as I pursue growing in Christ I feel certain that it requires stepping out into new territories that may be awkward and strange (Faith). But, I will have to be pretty darn certain of God’s voice if I hear him say, “Give that demon a good whack” and there just happens to be a human body in the way.

So, who am I to judge?

Every healing work documented in the Gospels was unique and only the author knows with certainty exactly why those unique elements were required. (BTW – based on the Apostle John’s estimation, the 37 or so miraculous episodes recorded in the Gospels were only a taste of that which could fill volumes to fill up the world.) Jesus saw, listened, and obeyed to follow the Father’s instructions. That is what I see of the heart of Smith Wigglesworth.

As I have already mentioned, I don’t believe it was Jesus’ intent saying in Matthew 7:1 “Judge not, that ye be not judged” for us to ignore our need to make judgments about the things (physical & spiritual) that challenge us in life. The ministry of Smith Wigglesworth should challenge us. This is fair game – to look at others’ words and actions, not necessarily to condemn but to decide where God stands on a matter and how we are to be led. But, it is only a righteous judgment if we consider our own personal challenges to becoming all God wants us to be and look to God’s guidance and wisdom on these matters.

That leaves me with a major takeaway: Yes, I should follow the character of other mature Christ-followers as they are consistent with Christ. But, I don’t believe we are called to imitate how God leads others in the exercise of spiritual gifts. It is the Holy Spirit who guides and directs us in the exercise of spiritual gifts that are tailored uniquely for each individual.

Just because SW may have been led to be physical on occasion does not mean I have a license to do the same. Who do we look to? Jesus as our example, the Father’s leading and the Holy Spirit’s power are unique to who we are and how God calls and directs us.

Unless I am determined to imitate Jesus to the extent I am fully dedicated to only act on what I see and hear the Father do, empowered by the Holy Spirit, how can I judge someone whose life seemed fully dedicated to just that – regardless if he got it right every time?

Still, that God can even use my poor imitation of Jesus continues to amaze me as I am reminded in Ephesians 2:13 – “for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill His good purpose.”

Concluding with Lillian De Finn’s response to my posts (Great Granddaughter of Smith Wigglesworth)

Hi David,

. . . I’m sure you have read how as a young believer Smith Wigglesworth fasted for ten days specifically I believe to humble himself before the Lord with regard to his quick temper. The Lord met him, and Grandma Polly said after that he never fussed in the house or complained about his food. So, I find it hard to hear that people would contribute his unusual behavior to a violent temper. My mother said he was always compassionate and gentle.

I believe people are genuinely looking for the secret of Smiths’ power. It is found in:

Luke 3:16 – John answered, saying to all, “I indeed baptize you with water; but One mightier than I is coming, whose sandal strap I am not worthy to loose. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.”

It’s not Smith Wigglesworth’s anointing that we need. It is the baptism of the Holy Spirit and fire. Jesus said in Luke 4:18 “The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, Because He has anointed Me ………

……… Lately the Lord has been challenging me to live in this scripture:

Philippians 4:8 Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things.

I trust you will be able to distinguish the truth from the exaggerated stories. The good report from the false report and the pure and lovely from anything harmful to his reputation. Find the praiseworthy and meditate on these things.

Yours in His Service, Lilian de fin

To the above I say – Thank you Lillian and AMEN!

---

Because of the continued interest in the ministry of Smith Wigglesworth, I have combined the posts with additional material into a book. Feel free to enjoy the posts or purchase the new book on Amazon.

“that you do not become sluggish, but imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises” – Hebrews 6:12

 The Wigglesworth Dilemma: The apparent conflict between the behavior and Character of Christ found in the Gospels and what appears to be contrary behavior of those in seemingly powerfully but effective Christian healing ministry.

---

I continued on this investigation wondering if there is any basis for God working through Smith Wigglesworth’s use of violent acts?

I came up with these 5 questions as I sought wisdom on the matter:

1. Has God Used His People through Violent Means Before?
2. Does God choose to use imperfect/flawed human beings?
3. Can God use violent acts to bring Himself glory and to win people to Christ?
4. How/why might God use a man’s violent temper to accomplish His will?
5. Jesus was never violent but did He ever act out of anger or inappropriately?

---

1. Has God Used His People through Violent Means Before?

   • God has used his people to fight off evil in the Old Testament. Even today there are physical battles going on between the forces of good and evil involving violent action. (Although the lines between good and evil have become quite blurred in these days)
   • Yet, Jesus never advocated or modeled any violent behavior. Nor, did his disciples after Jesus’ death ever model or advocate the use of violence.

2. Does God choose to use Imperfect/flawed human beings? (Unfortunately, that’s all He’s got)

   • The Biblical record clearly shows that God uses imperfect people but those who have a heart for Him. God not only uses all he made us to be but even that which the world has twisted out of shape.  SW, before coming to Christ was known to have a violent temper. As a Christian, Wigglesworth was reportedly courteous, kind, and gentle. However, he became forceful when dealing with the devil, whom he believed caused all sickness. Did God use what the world made of him and use it for good? 

God honors the underlying heart and dedication of the man.

• • King David – David was a moral failure in some major ways. He committed adultery and in trying to hide his sin, he sent Bathsheba’s husband Uriah to certain death. King David’s power had corrupted him to think he could get away with anything. Yet, in Acts 13:22, it says God found David to be a man after his own heart. David acknowledged his sin and asked for forgiveness. He paid a price for his wrong but God loved his heart and was still able to use him for God’s glory.
  • Abraham and Isaac – God spoke to Abraham to take his beloved son and sacrifice him. How was that consistent with God’s loving character? Abraham must have been confused. Why would God promise him a son and then take the son away? It feels like a strange inconsistency or maybe even a dirty trick. But, based on Abraham’s relationship with God, he was certain he knew God’s character. Once, he even asked God in Genesis 18, “Will not the judge of all the earth do right?”
  • Abraham obeyed God’s unexpected command because he trusted God’s promise and knew him to be good and trustworthy. Abraham didn’t believe Isaac would die. In fact, God was so certain that Abraham knew God’s heart that He used Abrahams heart as a reflection of His own heart and the story as a prophetic foretelling of how God would be willing to sacrifice his own son to save mankind. James 2:23 “And the Scripture was fulfilled which says, “Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.”

Do we always hear God correctly?

• • Is it possible that SW on occasion misunderstood God’s instruction and acted incorrectly? SW was a damaged human as we all are, but even someone as dedicated and gifted at discerning God’s spirit as SW still leaves the possibility he occasionally misheard God.
  • I know, for myself, that when I have dedicated myself to seeking God’s will and hearing His voice on a matter that I have to wade through my own self-interests, desires and wounded-ness. I’m not always successful and get it wrong. (Still amazed at how often God still uses it for good.)
  • Even if SW actions in these cases were misguided, God still used it. Many Christians then and now denounce Wigglesworth and his actions. Yet, haven’t there been sincere Christians over the decades that have been sinful or misguided or who misunderstood God in certain ways but were still used by God because he honored their core faith and desire?
  • Jehu in 2 Kings was a man that did not always behave righteously but God blessed Jehu for his obedience to stand up for the things of God in certain matters, granting him a dynasty that lasted four generations. Eventually, God took His blessing away from him for willfully choosing to continue in sin. God still used the imperfect man Jehu.

3. Can God use violent acts to bring Himself glory and to win people to Christ?

That leads me to the question: Can an act of physicality/violence be an act of love?

Yes, I believe we see many examples of this:

1. Slapping someone who has become incoherent or extremely irrational.
2. Providing loving correction to a child by a healthy spanking
3. Providing for a person’s safety by shoving them away from oncoming danger
4. Using violence to protect a victim from violence
5. Performing invasive surgery for healing and to save a life – Going under the knife, as they say, is not intentionally violent but you can’t get much more physical – cutting flesh and breaking bone for a person’s welfare.

Where is the violence directed? – Jesus declared in Matthew 10:34 that he did not come to sprinkle peace but he came with a sword (machara) to do spiritual surgery for deep healing out of love. For SW, he was seeing in these people an evil spirit that had to be removed and God was leading him, on occasion, to get physical in this way.

Were those needing healing willing participants? – SW always prepared the people for what God was instructing him to do and then asked them for permission. Following Proverbs 3:5 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding” and based on their desperate need and desire to stretch their faith, they would then give him permission.

What were the Results? – We have every right to make a judgement as to how a behavior stands up to the measure of Christ but there is no better measure than – was God called upon ‘In Jesus’ name’ and did God answer the call? SW exerted his anger and physicality towards the demons at the source of the damage and not to the person. The claim has been repeated that no one was ever hurt by his actions but only healed.

How do we handle others in Christian ministry who behave differently?

Jesus addressed a similar issue with his followers taking exception to “others” healing in Jesus’ name in Mark 9:38 – “Teacher,” said John, “we saw someone driving out demons in your name and we told him to stop, because he was not one of us.” “Do not stop him,” Jesus said. “For no one who does a miracle in my name can in the next moment say anything bad about me, for whoever is not against us is for us.”

Paul wrote something similar in Philippians 1:18 “What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is preached; and in this I rejoice, yes, and will rejoice.”

What about Matthew 7:1-3? – “Judge not, that you be not judged. For with what judgment you judge, you will be judged; and with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you. And why do you look at the speck in your brother’s eye, but do not consider the plank in your own eye?”

We have every right and responsibility to size up anyone in Christian ministry based on scripture and to make decisions accordingly for how we are led. But, I believe it is clear that we are not called to “pass judgement” on how God can use what I may gauge as a biblicaly challenging ministry. By God’s leading we may be called upon to bring correction but my primary charge is to keep my focus on how God is leading me in the ministry I have been appointed to.

4. How/why might God use a man’s violent temper to accomplish His will?

   1. To compel into action– Upon seeing the demons who occupied the health of those seeking healing, did God redirected SW’s temper to forcefully attack those spirits? Perhaps God used Smith’s penchant for anger to motivate Smith into action.
   2. To connect with a culture – 1 Corinthians 9:22 Paul declares – “. . . I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some.” In this case God used a strong, working-class, hard-nosed individual to connect with the rugged common folk of the day.
   3. For the purpose of getting the people to focus their attention. SW said the reason he spoke bluntly and acted forcefully with people was that he knew he needed to get their attention so they could focus on God.

“God led him through anger directed toward the devil and sickness to act in a seemingly rough way. No one was ever recorded as being hurt by this startling treatment. Instead, they were remarkably healed. He believed that Satan should never be treated gently or allowed to get away with anything.” (From The Best of Smith Wigglesworth (pp. 234-235). Whitaker House.)

• For myself, on several occasions when praying for others, the thought has come into my mind/spirit that some people who step forward for prayer do not really believe anything will happen. They stand in a physical, mental and emotional fog. They even fear what a possible change to the unfortunate circumstances they have come to accept and let define them might mean to their lives. They are completely hopeless and faithless. Do they even want to be healed?
• In this regard, SW’s actions strike me as something like when Jesus asked what seems a merely rhetorical question “Do you want to be healed?” to the invalid in John 5:6. Of course he did. Or did he?
  • (BTW – This is also the very episode where when challenged by the Pharisees in John 5:19 Jesus declares, “Most assuredly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of Himself, but what He sees the Father do; for whatever He does, the Son also does in like manner.”)
• On the occasions mentioned above I have felt compelled to ask the same question – “Do you want to be healed?” To be completely transparent there are times I have felt like some people needed a good slap to say, “Hey, wake up! God is really here and He wants to enter into your life to only do good for you.” (I have always resisted this temptation)
• Honestly, there are occasions when I have needed a good slap myself. Not a physical slap but God certainly knows how to lovingly jar me awake. (I’m left figuratively rubbing my jaw but saying, Ouch! I needed that!) It’s the kind of verbal slap (Jarring wake-up call) that Jesus gave the same healed beggar later on in John 5:14. Jesus catches up with the healed man now begging at the temple and says to him, “See, you have been made well. Sin no more, lest a worse thing come upon you.” In other words, “Hey, you have been given new life, don’t waste it by going back to the old life!” (smack!)

5. Did Jesus ever act out of anger or in a seemingly inappropriate way?

Did Jesus ever act out of Anger?

The only time in the Gospels Jesus is described using the word ‘angry’ was in Mark 3:1-6. He became angry/disappointed with the Pharisees lack of compassion for a man seeking to be healed on the Sabbath. What did Jesus do with that anger? – he transferred it to a show of love by healing the deformed hand.

In the case of Jesus cleansing the temple, most people assume Jesus was acting out of righteous anger. I would argue otherwise; that Jesus did not go into a wild rage but simply did a thorough cleansing to put his Father’s house back in order. However, if Jesus was acting out of anger the result was kingdom teaching, healing and joyous celebration of God.

Did Jesus act inappropriate at any time?

I’d argue – quite often. Let’s take Jesus’s healing the blind man in John 9:6-11 as an example. If I was able to fully listen to God’s instruction as an imitator of Christ and came upon a blind man that God showed me to, first spit on the ground, create mud and then smear it over this eyes. Would I do it? Furthermore, would I then tell him to wade through a crowd of people, likely laughing at his muddy face as he struggled to find water to wash it off? Would I really risk humiliating the man If that was the direction God gave me? Would I act on that instruction? Seems like a heartless and cruel joke to play on a blind person.

Yet, what was the result? Gloriously, the blind man’s sight was restored. Those who were laughing were now sobered by the healing reality. But, beyond that the man came to know that God was real, that God loved him and he was no longer defined by the sin others attributed to him – a man now experiencing the fullness of God by physical, emotional and spiritual freedom.

Not a violent bone in Jesus’s body?

Scripture indicates that Jesus was tempted in every way, so this likely means that he was tempted at some point to be violent. He resisted the temptation and remained our perfect example. Yet, there were some episodes where Jesus appears to be acting unkindly and out of Christ-like character.

Below are just a few examples of Jesus seemingly acting inappropriately:

1. 1. 1. As described above – when he humiliates the blind man by smearing mud on his face
      2. When he calls the Phoenician woman a dog
      3. When he casts demons into swine and they charge off a cliff to their death
      4. When he curses and kills a fig tree for not providing him figs
      5. When he waits 3 days and lets Lazarus die
      6. When he tells his disciples, that they can’t follow Him unless they hate their family

In these and other episodes there were people who were dismayed and even appalled by Jesus’ behavior. It wasn’t until the work was completed and we take a closer look that we can understand that this behavior was a means to fully realize God’s goodness, righteousness and truth.

If Jesus only did what the Father showed Him to do then these were examples of Jesus merely acting out how He was directed by the Father. Who of us fully knows the purpose of these awkward gyrations? I know I don’t and I’m pretty sure that there is no other person that knows with certainty why these actions were necessary for miracles to take place.

What do I know?

What do any of us really know about the endless capabilities of God? We do know that it was never the strange element Jesus used as part of the healing, but God’s hand in it. Whatever Jesus did, whether it was smearing mud, touching a tongue, giving a wet-willy, it was somehow about triggering faith – which always pleases God.

Finally, I recruited my tech-savvy friend Albert to search for a way to reach Smith Wigglesworth’s great Granddaughter, Lillian De Fin. He easily found her Facebook page. (I don’t know how I missed it). I reached out and asked Lillian about the infamous episode. She was generous to respond and I was not surprised by her message reprinted below:

“Hi David, I have heard my family discuss the healing of the baby on the stage. None of them were present when this healing took place. So, they can only repeat what they have heard. It would seem that many of the stories have been exaggerated over the years. From what I know the story is that the baby had a spinal problem. Most likely a condition known as spina-bifida. He did apparently put the baby on the stage and push it off the stage with his foot. The baby landed on his back fully healed. I am told many times the people would gasp at his actions but he always said “I know my business”. He operated in the gift of discerning of Spirits. My mom told me that at times he would see the demon causing the sickness and at other times he would see two hands touching the sick body. I think it’s unfortunate that people need to keep discussing the controversial healings when there are so many wonderful miracles that took place in grandpa’s ministry.”

Next Week: The Wigglesworth Dilemma – Part IV: Final Conclusions

---

Because of the continued interest in the ministry of Smith Wigglesworth, I have combined the posts with additional material into a book. Feel free to enjoy the posts or purchase the new book on Amazon.

Blessed are those who keep His testimonies, Who seek Him with the whole heart! – Psalm 119:2

The Wigglesworth Dilemma – Definition: The apparent conflict between the behavior and Character of Christ found in the Gospels and what appears to be contrary behavior of some people in Christian healing ministry.

---

My search involves looking for a documented account of the infamous Smith Wigglesworth healing of a 2-year-old baby with spina bifida by throwing the boy against the wall and then kicking him like a soccer ball. Did this really happen and how could this behaviour possibly be reconciled to the Jesus I know?

Up to this point I have searched through over 15 books written about the life and ministry of Smith Wigglesworth (SW) and searched through numerous websites dedicated to keeping alive the legacy of Wigglesworth. So far I have found no documented record of this episode. These books and sites have recorded hundreds of miraculous healings – healings recorded in newspapers and through first-hand testimonies. Yet, even in what I would assume to be the most comprehensive listing of major SW miracles in the book titled, The Miracles of Smith Wigglesworth by Dr. Michael H Yeager this infamous episode is strangely absent. Why?

The closest account I found was in the book, Smith Wigglesworth: The Complete Story by Julian Wilson. On pages 126-127 it documents the following:

“According to eyewitness accounts, a child of around two years old with deformed feet was brought to the platform during a meeting to be prayed for. Wigglesworth requested that the infant be placed on the platform and then kicked the child into the audience. The child landed on its feet and ran off down the aisle.”

Hmmm? Not the same story but pretty amazing. Yet, it’s another story of SW kicking a child but not the same story of kicking an infant. Still, a reference to SW being led to kick a child as an avenue to see God’s healing power.

I’m left wondering; is this particular story of SW kicking an infant just some kind of urban legend or perhaps a conglomeration of different healing stories that people have mashed together over the years?

I Did Find This Story Documented. Where?

Of all places, the only place I could find this notorious account in writing was the one highlighted in my previous post via a posting by the BSA Louisiana State Director on the Northeast Arm-wrestling Message Board back in 2005. (What?) In the post the Director identifies that the story was “Legally Recorded” in some way. The Director is a Christian and he was sharing an article he had read about this amazing healing from the website Born-Again-Christian.org.

The only other documented account I found was a video clip from the TV program It’s Supernatural. On the show, the host Sid Roth describes the account and then the show moves on to Sid interviewing SW’s great granddaughter, Lillian de Fin, (who continues in wonderful Christian ministry). She mentions several healing accounts by her Great Grandfather but does not comment on the “kicking an infant” episode.

Digging Even Deeper

So, I went to the Born-Again-Christian.org site and found that the article was no longer there. I reached out to the editor and he was kind enough to respond with the following:

Dear David, Thank you for your note about Smith. I’ve not included that particular event on our articles, for many reasons. Smith was widely criticized by those ignorant about spiritual matters, and focusing on such an extreme example will only provide excuses to continue in that vein. It is mentioned in several books about SW, and I have no reason to doubt its veracity, but think it unwise to highlight it in your writing. Colin Melbourne English missionary in Asia

Hmmm? While this response caused me to pause and reconsider the “mission” I’ve set upon, I sensed God prodding me to press on and to “Keep Digging”

Regarding the Sid Roth program, I’ve looked up the several interviews I could find on line with Lillian de Fin and while she recounts many miraculous stories of healing by her Great Grandfather, she does not reference this particular account. I tried searching to contact her but failed to find a point of contact. (As you will see, I obviously didn’t look hard enough)

Is it just a myth or did it really happen? What I take from this additional information is there is a credible source who believes the story to be true as recorded in several books that I have failed to find. The indication, though, is that it seems an effort has been made to try and wipe it clean from the records by those trying to protect the Smith Wigglesworth legacy. (If that is true, I find it interesting how some things we try to hide, will likely only grow in their notoriety)

Still I wondered: Is that right? If Smith Wigglesworth was a true mighty man of God and the miracles were of God working through him, is it right to not fully glorify the works of God just because they are uncomfortable or not easily understood?

What Is Recorded of Smith’s “Violent” Behavior?

In fact, while there are several recorded accounts and acknowledgements of SW’s occasional healing practice involving slapping, punching, or kicking, the occurrences recorded seem rare. The indication is also that these were not acts of extreme violence. The slap, punch or kick were startling but not actually ‘heavy handed’ or forceful.

When asked about this behavior, Wigglesworth would answer, “It’s not my fault that you got in the way of the devil.” SW’s claim was that God told him to get physical with some of the infirmed who came to him. The physical acts were aimed at the spiritual enemy at the core of the illness. In other words, he was exerting anger towards the demons at the source of the damage and not to the person. The claim has been repeated that no one was ever hurt by his actions but only healed. However, based on my requirements for confirming a word from God, what can I possibly conclude?

Reconciling Smith Wigglesworth’s violent actions with The Character of Christ

Let me reiterate that this is my journey of discovery that I am sharing. I will admit at this point that my hope/desire is to seek answers to come to grips with SW’s actions. As I have learned, his life as a Christ-Follower and an example as an imitator of Christ was too significant and his ministry too powerful to cast aside because of a few episodes where my sensibilities make me turn off my ability to seek after God in a deeper way. Christ challenges us to be seekers. He beckons us to “seek first the kingdom” and to “seek and you shall find.”

Seeking Answers:

What can soften the “blow” of Wigglesworth’s actions? Is there any basis for God working through Smith Wigglesworth using violent acts?

I came up with these 5 questions as I sought God’s wisdom on the matter:

1. Has God Used His People through Violent Means Before?
2. Does God choose to use imperfect/flawed human beings?
3. Can God use violent acts to bring Himself glory and to win people to Christ?
4. How/why might God use a man’s violent temper for His purpose?
5. Jesus was never violent but did He ever act out of anger or inappropriately?

Next Week:The Wigglesworth Dilemma – Part III: Answers

---

Because of the continued interest in the ministry of Smith Wigglesworth, I have combined the posts with additional material into a book. Feel free to enjoy the posts or purchase the new book on Amazon.

God’s voice thunders in marvelous ways; he does great things beyond our understanding – Job 37:5

Pursuing Hearing Gods Voice

In pursuing a more active relationship with Jesus by seeking to hear and know His voice, I have determined to establish certain disciplines to give me confidence that what is coming into my spirit/mind is from God. Most critical is determining . . . 1. Is what I’m hearing consistent with the goodness, righteousness and truth of God in scripture and 2. Is it a reflection of the overall Character of Jesus – Using Galatians 5:22-23 – “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law” as the core description of Jesus’ character.

My personal conviction is that, at its core, exercising all spiritual disciplines and spiritual ‘sign’ gifts involves hearing God’s voice (being instructed) in some form. Jesus declared in the Gospel of John:

• John 12:49– “For I did not speak on my own, but the Father who sent me commanded me to say all that I have spoken.”
• And in John 5:19– Jesus gave them this answer: “Very truly I tell you, the Son can do nothing by himself; he can do only what he sees his Father doing, because whatever the Father does the Son also does.”

So, if we are to trust the spoken word (rhema) that flows into our mind and spirit, we must know his voice which is best captured in the written word/scripture(logos)and consistent with the overall Character of Christ as revealed in scripture.

• Hebrews 4:12– For the word (Logos) of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.
• Romans 10:17– So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word (rhema) of God.
• Ephesians 6:17– And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word (rhema) of God:

If Jesus came to be our example (albeit perfect example) to follow – only doing what he saw the Father do and only saying what he heard the Father say, are we not called to be imitators of Christ? – Therefore, be imitators of God, as beloved children; and walk in love, just as Christ also loved you and gave Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God as a fragrant aroma, to follow how He lived his life.–Ephesians 5:1-2

Likewise, Jesus said that those who follow him would know his voice. – My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. – John 10:27

Who do I imitate?

I am a Christ-follower who believes that the ‘sign’ Gifts of the Spirit (miraculous healing as an example) are for today. They have been practiced by men and women of faith for centuries since Christ. Have there been abuses over the centuries? YES.

How much of what is marvelously good as God’s creation has been stolen and abused for wrong or misguided or selfish purposes? Do we throw it all out because of those who abuse what is good?

While on this journey I have checked out various ministries, and been challenged by some as to whether they are a good reflection of what I’ve come to know about the Character of Jesus – i.e. good imitations (none of us are perfect imitations). If I gauge that they fall seriously short, I move on undeterred in my belief that these gifts from God are still real and true.

Yet, I wonder if it is possible to exercise these Spiritual gifts even when those exercising the gifts are not the most consistent reflection of the Jesus found in the Gospels?

While I have come across a number of good and (what I gauge to be) biblically accurate ministries regularly experiencing signs and wonders, there have been some pastors, preachers, evangelists, healing ministries (allowing for their inevitable flawed humanity to surface) that I have decided – Well, I cannot reject that God is involved, but this is just not a ministry I will associate with.

Paul, in one of the boldest statements of faith made by any Christian says in 1 Corinthians 11:1“Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ.”The writer of Hebrews goes on to encourage, “that you do not become sluggish, but imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises.”We are to not only look to Christ but look to those tangible, in-the-flesh Christians who have demonstrated to be faithful and good imitators of Christ.

The Wigglesworth Dilemma

Yet, how do we handle those in Christian ministry who I gauge do not always line up with the standard of the character of Christ? Their imitation of the Christ I see and know from scripture does not seem an accurate one? Instead of displaying the Fruit of the Spirit, I see someone who is harsh, judgmental, self-righteous, flamboyant, maybe even angry and mean – even violent! And yet God seems to be using them to draw people to Himself.

Let’s take the infamous preacher/evangelist and agent of miracles of the early 1900’s, Smith Wigglesworth (SW) and some of his practices as an example.

SW has come to be known for resorting to violence; slapping, punching and kicking those that would seek out miraculous healing from God. His life and ministry is controversial among some Christian circles today. He claimed that God would instruct him to punch, slap or kick some of the infirmed who came to him.

Many celebrate his dedication to hearing God’s voice and faithfully acting upon God’s instruction with miraculous results. But, some other Christ-followers are offended by his actions and reject him as an authentic minister of God. Based on my requirements for confirming a word from God, what would I conclude about Smith Wigglesworth? Perhaps his most infamously challenging episode is found in the following account:

The Healing GOOOOOOOAAL!

This particular episode described below, is the clearest version of various versions I have heard. This account goes as follows:

A 2-month-old baby boy was born with a defect known as spina bifida where the spine grows outside of the body. The child was being cared for in the hospital but the parents had little hope for their child’s survival. The parents stole their baby from the hospital and brought the child to a Smith Wigglesworth service and asked Smith to pray for him.

Smith held that baby in his arms and prayed to God. He then asked the Mother and Father “Will you allow me to do what the Father is telling me?” They replied “Certainly.”

Smith raised the child over his head and prayed. The Mother and Father praised God thinking Smith was lifting the child in a symbolic dedication to God. What was Smith led to do? Smith threw the baby against the wall! The baby fell to the ground as Smith then went up to the baby and kicked it like a football (Soccer Ball).

The Mother and Father were horrified by Smith’s actions. In shock, they ran over to their baby. But, they were stunned to find their baby alert and not even crying. Inspecting the baby, they realized it was totally and miraculously healed. Not a single bruise or marking was on the child and the spine was returned to a normal state.

The parents then took the baby back to the hospital so they, by print, could confirm that the baby was indeed the same child.

I’ve heard other slightly different versions of the story including describing the baby as recently died and then brought back to life.

Applaud or Appalled?

Okay, regardless of the version, it involves kicking an infant. This action divides the Christian community into two camps – those who applaud and those who are appalled.

Some Christians applaud it as an amazing example of Wigglesworth’s dedication to discerning God’s directive and acting on it. While others are completely appalled by something so contrary to their understanding of the character of Christ and the way Jesus behaved as documented in scripture.

And, based upon my disciplines for confirming God’s voice, I go to scripture. With Jesus as my example, do I see him ever being physically violent with those he sought to bring healing? Easy enough – No.

In Matthew 19:14-15 Jesus famously declared his affection for little children – “Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” When he had placed his hands on them, he went on from there.”Mathew records Jesus laying on of hands but I guess he must have failed to record that part about Jesus kicking kids like a football.

I must say that the life of Smith Wigglesworth created a real dilemma for me as it has for some other Christians. As I reviewed his life and ministry, I saw a man totally dedicated to God’s word and the things of God, in every other way living out the full Fruit of the Spirit. A minister of God who repeatedly confirmed that his sole purpose was to lead people into a right relationship with God and who saw thousands come to Christ through his ministry. His life and these particular aspects of his ministry challenged my notion of how God works through His people.

So, I set on a mission to take a deeper dive into the life and ministry of Smith Wigglesworth and to find the writings documenting this particular (kicking an infant) episode. I wanted to see if I could reconcile this behavior to the Christ I know and who is described in scripture and to the biblical standard I have set for hearing and acting upon God’s voice.

Next Week:The Wigglesworth Dilemma – Part II: The Search

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. – Philippians 4:6-7 NKJV

For those who follow Christ, the above Scripture is one of the dearest sources of comfort and peace. The day after 9/11 I was asked to pray comfort for the over 1,000 employees at my company’s world headquarters. It wasn’t hard to find the right scripture.

What do I see? In the midst of political transition, people searching for a sign of any reason for hope while the temperature of anxiety continues to rise. The thermometer is about to burst. Now, with Covid-19 and the growing epidemic of anxiety and depression we turn again to Philipians 4 for the ‘Peace of God’

Even now, after the election and the inauguration of a new president, one side is depressed and angry for certainty they have been cheated and disenfranchised while the other side (the winners) seem angry and bent on the destruction of those who have differing opinions.

The Challenge

I have to acknowledge that this verse is more often translated as, “Do not be anxious about anything”. The structure of the Greek text seems to say “Of nothing be anxious for”. However, in my New Kings James Version the phrase is written as “Be anxious for nothing.”

The NKJV of this verse has always come across as something of a challenge. Paul declaring, “Be anxious – for nothing . . .” In other words – Go ahead; be anxious. I dare you. Go ahead. . . you’ll find it leads to nothing.

The verb used here ‘be anxious’ (Merimnao) in the Greek is present imperative which is more like a command, not just an exhortation and not something optional that would be nice to do if we decide to do it. It is as if Paul is acknowledging our inclination to be anxious. He is daring us to be anxious and to then discover it’s worthlessness.

The imagery that pops into my mind is a scene from the movie Christmas Story– the kids are outside at school recess on a winter day. Schwartz challenges Flick to put his tongue on the freezing metal flag pole. He dares him. Flick waves it off convinced nothing will happen. The challenger then ‘Double Dog Dares’ him. Everyone gasps. Flick waves it off again. But, when Schwartz ‘Triple Dog Dares’ him there is no turning away. Flick must take the challenge or be humiliated as a coward.  We know how this scene ends; with Flick stuck, flailing about and screaming for help.

So, the way I have read scripture is as Paul’s challenge. “Go ahead be anxious, see that it leads to nothing.” When we choose to be anxious we are left stuck, flailing about and screaming for help. There is simply no benefit to our anxiety. It’s not only wasted energy but energy that studies show makes us less healthy and shortens our life on earth.

But, God knows that anxiety is part of the human condition. It is often put upon us based on extreme circumstances and/or the words and actions of others. What we have come to expect to be stable and safe has become fractured and unstable threatening our safety and very existence.

We can all see what the impact of the pandemic has done to the overall anxiety level in our country. Pile onto that the pathetic lack of unity by our leaders to come together for the benefit of those they serve and agree on how to best navigate this tremendous challenge. Instead of working together to instill a sense of hope and peace and comfort, many politicians use it as an opportunity to ramp up fear in order to gain political advantage. (And, while we are at it why don’t we pile on with subverting the constitution, trashing the economy, fomenting divisive racial discord and encouraging violent rioting for good measure.)

Paul Brings Really Good News

Even as Christ declared that in this world we will have tribulation (You will experience pressure and anxiety), He brings the good news that He has overcome the world (John 16:33). This scripture formula Paul provides for relieving/eliminating our anxiety is the way we recognize Christ has overcome the world:

. . . in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.

My first reaction is – That’s way too simplistic. Really? I just pray, act happy and my anxiety magically goes away?

But, there are three components to this formula. It’s not just saying in 3 different ways to pray. Paul is instructing how to pray. It says ‘in all things’ but I think it can be inferred in this case he is talking about all things that bring you anxiety. He instructs, By . . .

1. Prayer– Proseuche– The Greek word is defined as a prayer addressed to God but also a place set apart or suited for the offering of prayer. Often translated as synagogue or a particular place set apart for prayer.
   • I believe Paul is instructing to remove yourself in order to dedicate time to engage with God. This is not a ‘pray-on-the-fly’ kind of thing. If you are anxious, go and dedicate time with the one who can answer you and bring you supernatural peace.
2. With Supplication– Deesis– Defined as a need, indigence, want, privation – a seeking, asking, entreating of God.
   • How often do we come to God with our shotgun prayers? We detail our list of concerns, say “amen” and rub our hands together – Done! Unfortunately, many of us just drop our list and walk away leaving God ready to respond but we’ve already left the room. Come to God with specific anxieties and engage with God expecting to hear from him through his written word and even his word spoken directly to our spirit.
3. With Thanksgiving– Eucharistia– Simply being thankful.
   • Paul is saying to remove yourself to be in an intimate exchange with God about what you are earnestly and passionately crying out for and bring along a thankful heart. Why in the midst of anxiety are we to be thankful? We are thankful for 2 reasons: 1. That we have someone who listens and is big and strong and capable enough to hand our worries over to, being confident that we know He will answer us and, 2. He promises to bring us peace beyond what we could imagine under difficult circumstances. I love going to the store and getting “2 for 1” deals. This is the ultimate “2 for 1” deal.

The dynamic Paul details reminds me of occasions where I had a problem at work – one that frustrated my ability to be successful at my job but I did not have the authority to fix it myself. What could I do? I would, 1. Set up a meeting for a specific time and place with a person who was in authority and whom I trusted, 2. I would meet with that person to explain the situation, and enter into a dialogue and, 3. That person would say, “I understand. I’ll take care of it.” and I would gratefully respond, “Thank you.” I would then leave the meeting not necessarily knowing how the person in authority would resolve the problem but knowing it would be fixed. The burden was lifted.

The worthlessness of anxiety is repeated in numerous places in the Bible. Matthew captured Jesus’ teaching in Chapter 6:

• Matthew 6:25 – “For this reason I say to you, do not be anxious for your life, as to what you shall eat, or what you shall drink; nor for your body, as to what you shall put on. Is not life more than food, and the body than clothing?”
• Matthew 6:27 – “And which of you by being anxious can add a single cubit to his life’s span?
• Matthew 6:28 – “And why are you anxious about clothing? Observe how the lilies of the field grow; they do not toil nor do they spin,”
• Matthew 6:31 – “Do not be anxious then, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘With what shall we clothe ourselves?’”
• Matthew 6:34 – “Therefore do not be anxious for tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”
• Matthew 10:19 – “But when they deliver you up, do not become anxious about how or what you will speak; for it shall be given you in that hour what you are to speak.”

Let Me Be Honest (Share more openly)

I let plenty of things in my life become more important than following this trustworthy formula even as I stew in my anxiety. Why I don’t prioritize the time to follow this formula more often is a bit of a mystery. But, I can testify that God is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him and I have seen him respond with answers and peace in times of trouble. I point back to my previous post as an example.

I invite you to hear God’s voice speaking through Philippians 4:6-7 as a challenge – “Go ahead. You want to be anxious? Be anxious. But, I have something better for you.”

---

Follow-up to my last post – A “Chance” Text Encounter from January 8^th

I invited the Senator to read my post and he graciously accepted. He responded with appreciation and welcomed me to be public about who the ‘mystery’ Senator is. He is US Senator from Connecticut, Richard Blumenthal.

We continue to exchange texts as part of my commitment to pray for the Senator. The great temptation is to take this opening to make political commentary but my directive is to pray that God would speak to his heart in ways I never could, assuring him of the reality of God’s great love, peace and joy. Ultimately, that God would meet the true desire of his heart – to be a peacemaker in this anxiety riddled time of division and turmoil.

I invite you to pray for Senator Blumenthal and all our leaders in Federal, State and Local government – that God’s Spirit would coax them to shed their political motivations and to take bold steps to serve as true Peacemakers.

“I returned and saw under the sun that – The race is not to the swift, Nor the battle to the strong, Nor bread to the wise, Nor riches to men of understanding, Nor favor to men of skill; But time and chance happen to them all.”– Ecclesiastes 9:11

(Even as I go to post this article I’m dealing with the upset over scenes revealing the utter decay and disfunction of our society. Demonstrations turned into violent rioting over the Summer now spilling into our Nation’s Capitol Building. Political ideologies one-upping the other in “righteous” anger. The cloud of ugly evil and duplicity creates a veil making it hard to see where God is in all this. Yet, this is a blog about God showing up. Even as he appears to be pulling back while giving over to our growing collective selfish desires, He steps in when called. Jeremiah 33:3 – ‘Call to Me and I will answer you, and I will tell you great and mighty things, which you do not know.’)

—————————————-

I had a strange “chance” encounter happen recently.

It started with a very difficult and emotional discussion with a loved one. As many are experiencing, it involved the very real health, economic, emotional and spiritual struggles going on through this pandemic. If the pressures from all that aren’t enough, the torrent of ugliness spewed from both ends of the political spectrum has generated feelings of sheer hopelessness.

At this point I must admit that I have my own political leanings but I struggle to put those aside. What I have been most angry and exorcised about is the lack of sensitivity and/or caring on the part of our political leaders as to the impact of their terroristic hyperbole on the emotional well-being of the people they serve. The politician may see it as political theater but many take it deadly serious. Yet, both sides claim they are out to rescue ‘the soul of our nation’.

One side demonizes the other as either corrupt Russian agents out to destroy the world or as power hungry manipulators bent on turning our country into the next Venezuela. For most people, it’s near impossible, what with media manipulation, to determine what is ‘fake news’ and what is true? Add the growing fear that if you dare voice your legitimate political opinions to the wrong person, they will bash your head in. It is all driving a fever-pitched despair leading to skyrocketing anxiety and depression, alcoholism, drug use, leading to deaths from overdoses and suicides (A category now referred to as “Deaths From Despair”)

After that painful conversation, along with others I know who have expressed the fear and hopelessness they are experiencing, coupled with growing numbers of those “too-close-to-home” who have died from overdoses and suicide, my own anger and frustration is boiling over. I just want to find a politician and shake some sense into them. Do I call my congressman? The Whitehouse? Do I write an op-ed piece? Do I light cars on fire, tear down statues and burn buildings? How do I exercise this anger and frustration?

So, what do I do?

I can’t sleep so I get on my knees and pray (Sorry, I know, not very radical). I cry out to my God in desperation. It is a deep emotional cry from the heart that I rarely express. Crying out for my family and for the sad state of affairs, particularly with our leaders leaving the ones I love hopeless and me feeling helpless to do anything about it. What can I do God? I cry out to God for an open window to allow me to have an impact for God’s goodness, righteousness and truth.

So, I vent all the frustration and anger to almighty God. At the end, I thank God for listening and caring and for reassuring me that He is the only Being wise enough, strong enough and gracious enough to do anything about this mess man’s solutions have brought us to.

Did God just Respond?

Okay. I breathe, sensing that supernatural peace God promises sweep over me. I’m good enough with that as an answer to my prayer. But, shortly after this prayer, I get this strange text message. Someone dialed up the wrong number and texted me by mistake. I ignored it. That was followed up with a voicemail that I did not listen to but read on the voicemail printout (They left their name. Hmm, looks familiar?) That was followed up with another text. At that point, out of annoyance, I texted back, “You have the wrong number, I am not ______”

That should have been the end of it.

I was about to delete the messages but the name left from the sender was so familiar. I checked the area code and it was a Washington DC number. Could it really be who I think it is? I listen to the voicemail and the voice leaves little doubt that it is who I think it is. OMG – The person mistakenly contacting me is a US Senator! One I had met decades ago.

Is this possible?

Oooh. Initially, I thought I should delete these messages. But, then I realize this might be an odd answer to my prayers – an opening God has provided to take this opportunity to address all my anger and frustration in a text back to a US Senator. My initial impulse was to rant – Go big and go ugly!

Wait. I stopped and took a breath. Do I really want to be one more voice of ugly rage? If this is really of God’s doing then I have to ask, “What would you have me text back?”

I hate long text messages but away I went. The message was still a bit of a rant. It was tough. Not trying to bash a political side but trying to expose the damage being caused by both sides. It was what God put on my heart to create awareness if there was none. Does this person know the impact they are having? A personal challenge. Here is what I texted back:

I realized who you are and want to let you know I have met you, supported you and voted for you in the past. It was an honor but now so disappointed in the disgusting vitriol of DC. I am no Trump fan but you and others behave no better. The worst part is that all the ugliness and hyper destruction of Trump directly impacts the health and welfare of the people you are supposed to serve. You can count yourself among the underlying causes of skyrocketing anxiety, overdoses and suicide. I hope the no-holds-barred struggle for political power is worth it. Be better.

I said a prayer and pushed ‘send’. That was that. I held no expectation whatsoever I’d get a response. (Other than law enforcement possibly showing up at my door).

Lo and Behold

I stood in shock staring at my phone. Unbelievably, I received a voicemail back from the Senator asking me to call to talk about my text. Oh boy. Wasn’t counting on that.

I meditated all day on what I would say and what to expect from the Senator. I expected rationale and justification, blaming Trump and the other side. I didn’t care to hear any of that. So, I prayed and called actually hoping to get voicemail. But, the Senator picked up. My heart raced.

The person who was on the other end was a weathered version of the chipper, bright-eyed, going-to-Washington-to-make-a-difference politician I had briefly met decades earlier. The voice was worn, sounding a bit broken and contrite. The Senator was genuinely struck by the text and wanting to hear more about my thoughts. The voice was not defensive but acknowledging that, “It has never been this bad.” To the Senator’s credit, not casting off blame.

We talked about our families and the Senator’s loved ones who were not immune to the anxiety and fear surging through our country.

I mentioned that I am a praying person and have always prayed for our leaders in a bi-partisan way. The Senator humbly acknowledged that it was going to take something like prayer to break through the dynamics of Washington. I said that, having now made this contact, the Senator would be in my prayers regularly.

After asking me more of my thoughts, I asked the Senator to be courageous by resisting the party line and working to change the tone in Washington. And, I would take it as a personal favor if the Senator would work to fight the epidemic of overdoses and suicides that rivals the number of actual Covid-19 deaths. Surely, this can be a bi-partisan fight?

After about 20 minutes, we wrapped up. I was stunned when the Senator invited me to stay in touch to continue sharing my thoughts. Wow!

So, now I pray for this Senator and for this open door. There is no doubt in my mind that this was no “chance” encounter but a crazy answer to prayer. Some people would count it a coincidence. But, for me the request, the timing, the opportunity and the odds tell me it could only have been arranged by the God I cried out to.

Where will it lead? I don’t want to overstep my invitation with the Senator, but I pray and hope that it is an avenue for God’s voice to continue to prick the heart. God’s voice drawing that Senator along with others to more of the healing and goodness intended from God for them and for our nation.

Perhaps, what I shared was all the message God intended. But, if it is more than what has already been shared, I’ll take your prayers that I be a purveyor of God’s truth, wisdom and hope to the hopeless in Washington DC.

Regardless of where this goes, I stand amazed at a loving God responding to my prayer in such an unimaginable way. Crying out to my God in desperation, my God offered an answer with a whisper of hope in a way that only He could orchestrate to say, “I am here.”

Isaiah 55:8-9 – “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,” declares the Lord. “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways And My thoughts than your thoughts.”