When I consulted a scholar about the text of the striking of the judge of Israel, in Micah 5, I gained insight into both the Truth that Jesus is our Peace and that the earthly kings of the day and of their history weren’t.
And in contrast, Jesus Christ is the Ruler, the Judge, the King, the Messiah, the Name above all names, the One of PEACE.
Jesus, Wonderful and Mighty: “whose goings forth are from of old, from everlasting.”
Jesus is the Sustainer, the Provider, the Hope, the Healing, the Hallelujah.
Jesus is the Feeder of the flock, the Strength, the Majesty, the Great, the One Who shall Be and IS our Peace.
Amen – Welcome Jesus to our Lives and our world – Thank You Lord for Your Peace.
AMEN
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Micah 5 NKJV – written a few hundred years before Jesus was born.
The Messiah Will Be Born at Bethlehem
Now gather yourself in troops, O daughter of troops; He has laid siege against us; They will strike the judge of Israel with a rod on the cheek.
The Coming Messiah “But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, Though you are little among the thousands of Judah, Yet out of you shall come forth to Me The One to be Ruler in Israel, Whose goings forth are from of old, From everlasting.”
Therefore He shall give them up, Until the time that she who is in labor has given birth; Then the remnant of His brethren Shall return to the children of Israel. And He shall stand and feed His flock In the strength of the Lord, In the majesty of the name of the Lord His God; And they shall abide, For now He shall be great To the ends of the earth; And this One shall be peace.
After the rituals required after the birth of Jesus, the family returns to Nazareth – and where Luke moves on to telling us the story of Jesus as a teenager, Matthew’s gospel brings in information about the Magi Wisemen from their lands, and Joseph and Mary travelling WITH Jesus FROM the land of Israel to Egypt and back…So when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own city, Nazareth. And the Child grew and became strong in spirit, filled with wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him.
What can we learn from these travels? Not just that God kept them moving – but that God led them to the places and people whom He needed them to see.
And the Child grew and became strong in spirit, filled with wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him.
If God is growing the baby of Jesus – imagine what He can do for us and with us… Grace is upon us too – we have God’s grace with the accepting faith and repentance to follow Jesus. Grace is an umbrella of Love which allows us to gather ourselves together even when it is raining brokenness from the outside.
Last night I thought oh yes, I will finally get to a Monday night faith gathering in time for their Christmas program – with friends whom I knew and friends whom were probably going to be there – and with new friends whom I would meet that night. God did not disappoint – but oh for me? STUCK in traffic – actually it kept moving slowly slowly- and for some reason the left lane was moving fastest and I kept in it… but 2 hours for a 45 minute trip – I had to be thinking “what is God thinking here” – He is holding me back on purpose or just the timing – or just the whatever… And yet it has nothing to do with me – as I pray for those in that accident which I learned had been 4 hours before – no fatalities but some injuries and surely more than just a minor inconvenience which I was having… and since the highway was going to be shut down until midnight – likely they had to rebuild a barrier or two besides remove the trucks – I am sure it was an unexpected turn for the workers too…
ANYWAY – I digress like my detour and as I had to exit one exit early which leads to the zigzag travel through suburbia, developments, farmsteads which are idle, and the darkness of the countryside where the deer are always a risk to jump, I still realize that I made it. I made it – and my friends saved me a plate of shepherd’s pie – just like the message was about shepherds being shepherded and us being asked to be led by the Lord to do His Work and speak praises and tell others about the Good News – in our own stories…
My story is HIS story, I told a new friend – that His actions and our willingness to obey and act and listen and speak and care are all purposeful even if we don’t see it – like waiting in traffic. It was one of those traffic days – God kept me moving – and pausing to refuel – both my car and my life and my lunch…
May we always realize that the Lord has everything under control and we need to keep moving best we can to where He leads…
AMEN
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Luke 2 NKJV
Christ Born of Mary
And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city.
Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child.
So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
Glory in the Highest Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.”
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”
So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.” And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger. Now when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.
Circumcision of Jesus And when eight days were completed for the circumcision of the Child, His name was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before He was conceived in the womb.
Jesus Presented in the Temple Now when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were completed, they brought Him to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord (as it is written in the law of the Lord, “Every male who opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord”), and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the law of the Lord, “A pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons.”
Simeon Sees God’s Salvation And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon, and this man was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. So he came by the Spirit into the temple. And when the parents brought in the Child Jesus, to do for Him according to the custom of the law, he took Him up in his arms and blessed God and said:
“Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace, According to Your word; For my eyes have seen Your salvation Which You have prepared before the face of all peoples, A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, And the glory of Your people Israel.”
And Joseph and His mother marveled at those things which were spoken of Him. Then Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary His mother, “Behold, this Child is destined for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign which will be spoken against (yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”
Anna Bears Witness to the Redeemer Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity; and this woman was a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. And coming in that instant she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem.
***
The Family Returns to Nazareth So when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own city, Nazareth. And the Child grew and became strong in spirit, filled with wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him.
***
The Boy Jesus Amazes the Scholars His parents went to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover. And when He was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem according to the custom of the feast. When they had finished the days, as they returned, the Boy Jesus lingered behind in Jerusalem. And Joseph and His mother did not know it; but supposing Him to have been in the company, they went a day’s journey, and sought Him among their relatives and acquaintances. So when they did not find Him, they returned to Jerusalem, seeking Him. Now so it was that after three days they found Him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, both listening to them and asking them questions. And all who heard Him were astonished at His understanding and answers. So when they saw Him, they were amazed; and His mother said to Him, “Son, why have You done this to us? Look, Your father and I have sought You anxiously.”
And He said to them, “Why did you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business?” But they did not understand the statement which He spoke to them.
Jesus Advances in Wisdom and Favor Then He went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was subject to them, but His mother kept all these things in her heart. And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.
Matthew 2 New King James Version Wise Men from the East Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, saying, “Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the East and have come to worship Him.”
When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born.
So they said to him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for thus it is written by the prophet:
‘But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, Are not the least among the rulers of Judah; For out of you shall come a Ruler Who will shepherd My people Israel.’ ”
Then Herod, when he had secretly called the wise men, determined from them what time the star appeared. And he sent them to Bethlehem and said, “Go and search carefully for the young Child, and when you have found Him, bring back word to me, that I may come and worship Him also.”
When they heard the king, they departed; and behold, the star which they had seen in the East went before them, till it came and stood over where the young Child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceedingly great joy. And when they had come into the house, they saw the young Child with Mary His mother, and fell down and worshiped Him. And when they had opened their treasures, they presented gifts to Him: gold, frankincense, and myrrh.
Then, being divinely warned in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed for their own country another way.
The Flight into Egypt Now when they had departed, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream, saying, “Arise, take the young Child and His mother, flee to Egypt, and stay there until I bring you word; for Herod will seek the young Child to destroy Him.”
When he arose, he took the young Child and His mother by night and departed for Egypt, and was there until the death of Herod, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Lord through the prophet, saying, “Out of Egypt I called My Son.”
Massacre of the Innocents Then Herod, when he saw that he was deceived by the wise men, was exceedingly angry; and he sent forth and put to death all the male children who were in Bethlehem and in all its districts, from two years old and under, according to the time which he had determined from the wise men. Then was fulfilled what was spoken by Jeremiah the prophet, saying:
“A voice was heard in Ramah, Lamentation, weeping, and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children, Refusing to be comforted, Because they are no more.”
The Home in Nazareth Now when Herod was dead, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt, saying, “Arise, take the young Child and His mother, and go to the land of Israel, for those who sought the young Child’s life are dead.” Then he arose, took the young Child and His mother, and came into the land of Israel.
But when he heard that Archelaus was reigning over Judea instead of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there. And being warned by God in a dream, he turned aside into the region of Galilee. And he came and dwelt in a city called Nazareth, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophets, “He shall be called a Nazarene.”
Micah 5 NKJV
The Messiah Will Be Born at Bethlehem
Now gather yourself in troops, O daughter of troops; He has laid siege against us; They will strike the judge of Israel with a rod on the cheek.
The Coming Messiah
“But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, Though you are little among the thousands of Judah, Yet out of you shall come forth to Me The One to be Ruler in Israel, Whose goings forth are from of old, From everlasting.”
Therefore He shall give them up, Until the time that she who is in labor has given birth; Then the remnant of His brethren Shall return to the children of Israel. And He shall stand and feed His flock In the strength of the Lord, In the majesty of the name of the Lord His God; And they shall abide, For now He shall be great To the ends of the earth; And this One shall be peace.
ASSURED – Anna Bears Witness to the Redeemer – Anna was Assured and Assuring. Mary and Joseph must have been assured – and reassured – by the repeated assurance of another person in the temple who was praising God and came up to them while they were holding baby Jesus.
Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity; and this woman was a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. And coming in that instant she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem.
How interesting the shepherds were heralded by angels to go/come, Simeon was moved by the Spirit internally to go/come visit the temple that moment, saw the babe as redeemer as he prayed to see. But Anna? Anna was ALREADY THERE – already ready to serve and to praise. (and why did the Lord send double reinforcements in the temple – a male and a female voice each praising – or simply showing these double reinforcements that they were on the right track in praising for years and years – encouragers to keep encouraging!)
My grandma’s name was Anna – is Anna – and although she passed over 40 years ago now, I can remember her smile and joy in her grandkids. I can remember the gifts she put together at the table at birthday celebrations – they were small gifts for each person in a brown paper lunch bag tied with ribbon and then the ribbons were all tangled and you took your name tag tied to the other side and you had to unwind yourself and untangle with all the tablemates to get your bag – fun… Grandma already was in the fun… How encouraging for us to be those grandma-types now – to help others in the fun…
Anna, the prophetess, was surely assuring to the people who came to worship. Anna served God constantly day and night by prayers and by working the praise into witness. Fasting and Prayers – we could always devote more time – Anna did. Anna was gifted of those long years that opportunity to both see the Savior – but also to ASSURE and reassure His Parents. Like an angel, Anna was ALREADY IN THE KNOW that GOD ALREADY IS A GOOD GOD and worthy of being served.
“The Lord, the Lord, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness...” God speaking to Moses in Exodus 34:6
“The Lord is merciful and gracious, Slow to anger, and abounding in mercy.” David in Psalm 103
Yesterday I was SO BLESSED to share the sermon in my church – the family of believers with us are very spiritually strong and it is a JOY to be able to share openly with them as an encourager who gets encouraged. Assuring assurances. I was blessed it went well – with the enthusiastic prop craft that we all got to make – a torch bearing many LIGHT scriptures – over 70 – and making a remembrance to go out and share the light however you can… it was blessed. I stepped afterwards downstairs and in that quiet moment I praised the Lord for it going well and my eyes caught a lotion bottle on a shelf that said: ASSURED – yes – I was assured at that moment of God being in charge – of God making it go well – of the Lord working in all our lives. WE ARE ASSURED AND THEN READY TO ASSURE. THAT IS THE ANNA IN US – AN ASSURANCE TO EVERYONE – GOD IS MERCIFUL AND GRACIOUS – AND WORTHY TO BE PRAISED.
Later that morning I had the opportunity to assure others – and remembering that I was assured – it becomes both an honor and a duty to assure others that GOD IS WITH US – IMMANUEL !!!
AMEN
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Psalm 103 NKJV
Praise for the Lord’s Mercies – A Psalm of David. Bless the Lord, O my soul; And all that is within me, bless His holy name! Bless the Lord, O my soul, And forget not all His benefits: Who forgives all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases, Who redeems your life from destruction, Who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies, Who satisfies your mouth with good things, So that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.
The Lord executes righteousness And justice for all who are oppressed. He made known His ways to Moses, His acts to the children of Israel. The Lord is merciful and gracious, Slow to anger, and abounding in mercy. He will not always strive with us, Nor will He keep His anger forever. He has not dealt with us according to our sins, Nor punished us according to our iniquities.
For as the heavens are high above the earth, So great is His mercy toward those who fear Him; As far as the east is from the west, So far has He removed our transgressions from us. As a father pities his children, So the Lord pities those who fear Him. For He knows our frame; He remembers that we are dust.
As for man, his days are like grass; As a flower of the field, so he flourishes. For the wind passes over it, and it is gone, And its place remembers it no more. But the mercy of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting On those who fear Him, And His righteousness to children’s children, To such as keep His covenant, And to those who remember His commandments to do them.
The Lord has established His throne in heaven, And His kingdom rules over all.
Bless the Lord, you His angels, Who excel in strength, who do His word, Heeding the voice of His word. Bless the Lord, all you His hosts, You ministers of His, who do His pleasure. Bless the Lord, all His works, In all places of His dominion.
Luke 1-2 NKJV Dedication to Theophilus Inasmuch as many have taken in hand to set in order a narrative of those things which have been fulfilled among us, just as those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word delivered them to us, it seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write to you an orderly account, most excellent Theophilus, that you may know the certainty of those things in which you were instructed.
John’s Birth Announced to Zacharias There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the division of Abijah. His wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth. And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless. But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren, and they were both well advanced in years.
So it was, that while he was serving as priest before God in the order of his division, according to the custom of the priesthood, his lot fell to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord. And the whole multitude of the people was praying outside at the hour of incense. Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing on the right side of the altar of incense. And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him.
But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zacharias, for your prayer is heard; and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth. For he will be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink. He will also be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb. And he will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. He will also go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah, ‘to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children,’ and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.”
And Zacharias said to the angel, “How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is well advanced in years.” And the angel answered and said to him, “I am Gabriel, who stands in the presence of God, and was sent to speak to you and bring you these glad tidings. But behold, you will be mute and not able to speak until the day these things take place, because you did not believe my words which will be fulfilled in their own time.”
And the people waited for Zacharias, and marveled that he lingered so long in the temple. But when he came out, he could not speak to them; and they perceived that he had seen a vision in the temple, for he beckoned to them and remained speechless.
So it was, as soon as the days of his service were completed, that he departed to his own house. Now after those days his wife Elizabeth conceived; and she hid herself five months, saying, “Thus the Lord has dealt with me, in the days when He looked on me, to take away my reproach among people.”
Christ’s Birth Announced to Mary Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. And having come in, the angel said to her, “Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!”
But when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was. Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name Jesus. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.”
Then Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I do not know a man?”
And the angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God. Now indeed, Elizabeth your relative has also conceived a son in her old age; and this is now the sixth month for her who was called barren. For with God nothing will be impossible.”
Then Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.
Mary Visits Elizabeth Now Mary arose in those days and went into the hill country with haste, to a city of Judah, and entered the house of Zacharias and greeted Elizabeth. And it happened, when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, that the babe leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. Then she spoke out with a loud voice and said, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! But why is this granted to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For indeed, as soon as the voice of your greeting sounded in my ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy. Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a fulfillment of those things which were told her from the Lord.”
The Song of Mary And Mary said: “My soul magnifies the Lord, And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior. For He has regarded the lowly state of His maidservant; For behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed. For He who is mighty has done great things for me, And holy is His name. And His mercy is on those who fear Him From generation to generation. He has shown strength with His arm; He has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. He has put down the mighty from their thrones, And exalted the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things, And the rich He has sent away empty. He has helped His servant Israel, In remembrance of His mercy, As He spoke to our fathers, To Abraham and to his seed forever.”
And Mary remained with her [Elizabeth] about three months, and returned to her house.
Birth of John the Baptist Now Elizabeth’s full time came for her to be delivered, and she brought forth a son. When her neighbors and relatives heard how the Lord had shown great mercy to her, they rejoiced with her.
Circumcision of John the Baptist So it was, on the eighth day, that they came to circumcise the child; and they would have called him by the name of his father, Zacharias. His mother answered and said, “No; he shall be called John.” But they said to her, “There is no one among your relatives who is called by this name.” So they made signs to his father—what he would have him called. And he asked for a writing tablet, and wrote, saying, “His name is John.” So they all marveled. Immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue loosed, and he spoke, praising God. Then fear came on all who dwelt around them; and all these sayings were discussed throughout all the hill country of Judea. And all those who heard them kept them in their hearts, saying, “What kind of child will this be?” And the hand of the Lord was with him.
Zacharias’ Prophecy Now his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Spirit, and prophesied, saying:
“Blessed is the Lord God of Israel, For He has visited and redeemed His people, And has raised up a horn of salvation for us In the house of His servant David,
As He spoke by the mouth of His holy prophets,
Who have been since the world began, That we should be saved from our enemies And from the hand of all who hate us, To perform the mercy promised to our fathers And to remember His holy covenant, The oath which He swore to our father Abraham:
To grant us that we, Being delivered from the hand of our enemies, Might serve Him without fear, In holiness and righteousness before Him all the days of our life.
“And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Highest; For you will go before the face of the Lord to prepare His ways, To give knowledge of salvation to His people By the remission of their sins, Through the tender mercy of our God, With which the Dayspring from on high has visited us;To give light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death,To guide our feet into the way of peace.”
So the child grew and became strong in spirit, and was in the deserts till the day of his manifestation to Israel.
Christ Born of Mary
And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city.
Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child.
So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
Glory in the Highest Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.”
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”
So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.” And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger. Now when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.
Circumcision of Jesus And when eight days were completed for the circumcision of the Child, His name was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before He was conceived in the womb.
Jesus Presented in the Temple Now when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were completed, they brought Him to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord (as it is written in the law of the Lord, “Every male who opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord”), and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the law of the Lord, “A pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons.”
Simeon Sees God’s Salvation And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon, and this man was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. So he came by the Spirit into the temple. And when the parents brought in the Child Jesus, to do for Him according to the custom of the law, he took Him up in his arms and blessed God and said:
“Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace, According to Your word; For my eyes have seen Your salvation Which You have prepared before the face of all peoples, A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, And the glory of Your people Israel.”
And Joseph and His mother marveled at those things which were spoken of Him. Then Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary His mother, “Behold, this Child is destined for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign which will be spoken against (yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”
***
Anna Bears Witness to the Redeemer Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity; and this woman was a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. And coming in that instant she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem.
***
The Family Returns to Nazareth So when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own city, Nazareth. And the Child grew and became strong in spirit, filled with wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him.
The Boy Jesus Amazes the Scholars His parents went to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover. And when He was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem according to the custom of the feast. When they had finished the days, as they returned, the Boy Jesus lingered behind in Jerusalem. And Joseph and His mother did not know it; but supposing Him to have been in the company, they went a day’s journey, and sought Him among their relatives and acquaintances. So when they did not find Him, they returned to Jerusalem, seeking Him. Now so it was that after three days they found Him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, both listening to them and asking them questions. And all who heard Him were astonished at His understanding and answers. So when they saw Him, they were amazed; and His mother said to Him, “Son, why have You done this to us? Look, Your father and I have sought You anxiously.”
And He said to them, “Why did you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business?” But they did not understand the statement which He spoke to them.
Jesus Advances in Wisdom and Favor Then He went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was subject to them, but His mother kept all these things in her heart. And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.
Behold – we know that Jesus entering the world gave the praying Simeon cause for seeking out the baby brought in the temple, the day that His parents Mary and Joseph brought him for the prescribed sacrifice to follow the law of Moses, a visit prescribed after Mary’s recovery from the birth.
Revealed – Simeon praised: “Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace, According to Your word; For my eyes have seen Your salvation Which You have prepared before the face of all peoples, A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, And the glory of Your people Israel.”
And Simeon, clearly moved by the Spirit to know the truth (over the others there who surely saw just a poor couple and a baby), continued to state what would marvel Mary and Joseph – continuing the confirmation of what the angels revealed to the shepherds and what that the Angel Gabriel revealed to Mary: “you shall bring forth a Son, and shall call His name Jesus. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.” Simeon has awaited this day – of answered prayer.
Beholding Jesus, Simeon was filled with the Spirit and this made him a Holy Spirit messenger for revealing truth – And Joseph and His mother marveled at those things which were spoken of Him. The Simeon revelation, which although was foretold in the scriptures, must have hit home even more intensely at that moment for Mary and Joseph – especially Mary whom would see her precious son Jesus be crucified: Then Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary His mother, “Behold, this Child is destined for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign which will be spoken against (yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”
Revealing Jesus, Simeon knew what he prayed for – to see this – to know the prophecies would be fulfilled – and to see God’s plan – not just for himself but for the kingdom of God to be restored – the sons of Jacob and their tribes the Israelites, the Jews, to be consolidated again in Glory, and for the Gentiles to know and follow the direction of this great light – that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.
Behold: ‘that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed‘ is a mission of Jesus – to reach everyone who would hear – and this Immanuel, God with us, in a baby Jesus was a sign of the “time was right” for God to intervene and bring forth a NEW Covenant. Jesus as a baby, a sign, a God, and a person “which will be spoken against”, meant that Mary would see the retaliation of the threat that He was interpreted as – to be reviled and put down and crucified as someone who was a threat to earthly order. True.
Hearts reveal that we are broken people in a broken world and the healing must come from a Savior – a Messiah. We may behold the many hearts that are revealed, including ours, to the truth, starting with Simeon, then Anna, as it was with Mary and Joseph, with Zacharias and Elizabeth, and with the shepherds and the wise men… That we all “Behold the Beheld” – Jesus IS Christ the Lord…
Luke 1-2 NKJV Dedication to Theophilus Inasmuch as many have taken in hand to set in order a narrative of those things which have been fulfilled among us, just as those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word delivered them to us, it seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write to you an orderly account, most excellent Theophilus, that you may know the certainty of those things in which you were instructed.
John’s Birth Announced to Zacharias There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the division of Abijah. His wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth. And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless. But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren, and they were both well advanced in years.
So it was, that while he was serving as priest before God in the order of his division, according to the custom of the priesthood, his lot fell to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord. And the whole multitude of the people was praying outside at the hour of incense. Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing on the right side of the altar of incense. And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him.
But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zacharias, for your prayer is heard; and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth. For he will be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink. He will also be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb. And he will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. He will also go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah, ‘to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children,’ and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.”
And Zacharias said to the angel, “How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is well advanced in years.” And the angel answered and said to him, “I am Gabriel, who stands in the presence of God, and was sent to speak to you and bring you these glad tidings. But behold, you will be mute and not able to speak until the day these things take place, because you did not believe my words which will be fulfilled in their own time.”
And the people waited for Zacharias, and marveled that he lingered so long in the temple. But when he came out, he could not speak to them; and they perceived that he had seen a vision in the temple, for he beckoned to them and remained speechless.
So it was, as soon as the days of his service were completed, that he departed to his own house. Now after those days his wife Elizabeth conceived; and she hid herself five months, saying, “Thus the Lord has dealt with me, in the days when He looked on me, to take away my reproach among people.”
Christ’s Birth Announced to Mary Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. And having come in, the angel said to her, “Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!”
But when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was. Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name Jesus. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.”
Then Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I do not know a man?”
And the angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God. Now indeed, Elizabeth your relative has also conceived a son in her old age; and this is now the sixth month for her who was called barren. For with God nothing will be impossible.”
Then Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.
Mary Visits Elizabeth Now Mary arose in those days and went into the hill country with haste, to a city of Judah, and entered the house of Zacharias and greeted Elizabeth. And it happened, when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, that the babe leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. Then she spoke out with a loud voice and said, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! But why is this granted to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For indeed, as soon as the voice of your greeting sounded in my ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy. Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a fulfillment of those things which were told her from the Lord.”
The Song of Mary And Mary said: “My soul magnifies the Lord, And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior. For He has regarded the lowly state of His maidservant; For behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed. For He who is mighty has done great things for me, And holy is His name. And His mercy is on those who fear Him From generation to generation. He has shown strength with His arm; He has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. He has put down the mighty from their thrones, And exalted the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things, And the rich He has sent away empty. He has helped His servant Israel, In remembrance of His mercy, As He spoke to our fathers, To Abraham and to his seed forever.”
And Mary remained with her [Elizabeth] about three months, and returned to her house.
Birth of John the Baptist Now Elizabeth’s full time came for her to be delivered, and she brought forth a son. When her neighbors and relatives heard how the Lord had shown great mercy to her, they rejoiced with her.
Circumcision of John the Baptist So it was, on the eighth day, that they came to circumcise the child; and they would have called him by the name of his father, Zacharias. His mother answered and said, “No; he shall be called John.” But they said to her, “There is no one among your relatives who is called by this name.” So they made signs to his father—what he would have him called. And he asked for a writing tablet, and wrote, saying, “His name is John.” So they all marveled. Immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue loosed, and he spoke, praising God. Then fear came on all who dwelt around them; and all these sayings were discussed throughout all the hill country of Judea. And all those who heard them kept them in their hearts, saying, “What kind of child will this be?” And the hand of the Lord was with him.
Zacharias’ Prophecy Now his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Spirit, and prophesied, saying:
“Blessed is the Lord God of Israel, For He has visited and redeemed His people, And has raised up a horn of salvation for us In the house of His servant David,
As He spoke by the mouth of His holy prophets,
Who have been since the world began, That we should be saved from our enemies And from the hand of all who hate us, To perform the mercy promised to our fathers And to remember His holy covenant, The oath which He swore to our father Abraham:
To grant us that we, Being delivered from the hand of our enemies, Might serve Him without fear, In holiness and righteousness before Him all the days of our life.
“And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Highest; For you will go before the face of the Lord to prepare His ways, To give knowledge of salvation to His people By the remission of their sins, Through the tender mercy of our God, With which the Dayspring from on high has visited us;To give light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death,To guide our feet into the way of peace.”
So the child grew and became strong in spirit, and was in the deserts till the day of his manifestation to Israel.
Christ Born of Mary
And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city.
Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child.
So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
Glory in the Highest Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.”
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”
So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.” And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger. Now when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.
Circumcision of Jesus And when eight days were completed for the circumcision of the Child, His name was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before He was conceived in the womb.
Jesus Presented in the Temple Now when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were completed, they brought Him to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord (as it is written in the law of the Lord, “Every male who opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord”), and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the law of the Lord, “A pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons.”
Simeon Sees God’s Salvation And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon, and this man was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. So he came by the Spirit into the temple. And when the parents brought in the Child Jesus, to do for Him according to the custom of the law, he took Him up in his arms and blessed God and said:
“Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace, According to Your word; For my eyes have seen Your salvation Which You have prepared before the face of all peoples, A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, And the glory of Your people Israel.”
*** And Joseph and His mother marveled at those things which were spoken of Him. Then Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary His mother, “Behold, this Child is destined for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign which will be spoken against (yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.” ***
Anna Bears Witness to the Redeemer Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity; and this woman was a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. And coming in that instant she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem.
The Family Returns to Nazareth So when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own city, Nazareth. And the Child grew and became strong in spirit, filled with wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him.
The Boy Jesus Amazes the Scholars His parents went to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover. And when He was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem according to the custom of the feast. When they had finished the days, as they returned, the Boy Jesus lingered behind in Jerusalem. And Joseph and His mother did not know it; but supposing Him to have been in the company, they went a day’s journey, and sought Him among their relatives and acquaintances. So when they did not find Him, they returned to Jerusalem, seeking Him. Now so it was that after three days they found Him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, both listening to them and asking them questions. And all who heard Him were astonished at His understanding and answers. So when they saw Him, they were amazed; and His mother said to Him, “Son, why have You done this to us? Look, Your father and I have sought You anxiously.”
And He said to them, “Why did you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business?” But they did not understand the statement which He spoke to them.
Jesus Advances in Wisdom and Favor Then He went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was subject to them, but His mother kept all these things in her heart. And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.
Scripture pretold such things, surely Simeon Studied!.
Simeon, led by the Spirit, surely startled and soothed.
Simeon Sees Salvation’s Son, a Savior!!!
Senior awaiting satisfaction before surrendering in death.
Sweet eyes satisfied – sees glory for Israel, consolation in God’s Son.
Such LIGHT of Salvation’s revelation SHINING for the Gentiles
Simeon swaddles His Savior as a babe, simply soul satisfyingly.
Simeon’s sure statement: “Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace, According to Your word; For my eyes have seen Your salvation Which You have prepared before the face of all peoples, A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, And the glory of Your people Israel.”
Simeon Sees Simeon Says Salvation’s Son Saves
Sweet Amen
Amen
—
Simeon Sees God’s Salvation
And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon, and this man was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. So he came by the Spirit into the temple. And when the parents brought in the Child Jesus, to do for Him according to the custom of the law, he took Him up in his arms and blessed God and said:
“Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace, According to Your word; For my eyes have seen Your salvation Which You have prepared before the face of all peoples, A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, And the glory of Your people Israel.”
Luke 1-2 NKJV Dedication to Theophilus Inasmuch as many have taken in hand to set in order a narrative of those things which have been fulfilled among us, just as those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word delivered them to us, it seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write to you an orderly account, most excellent Theophilus, that you may know the certainty of those things in which you were instructed.
John’s Birth Announced to Zacharias There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the division of Abijah. His wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth. And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless. But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren, and they were both well advanced in years.
So it was, that while he was serving as priest before God in the order of his division, according to the custom of the priesthood, his lot fell to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord. And the whole multitude of the people was praying outside at the hour of incense. Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing on the right side of the altar of incense. And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him.
But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zacharias, for your prayer is heard; and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth. For he will be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink. He will also be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb. And he will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. He will also go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah, ‘to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children,’ and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.”
And Zacharias said to the angel, “How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is well advanced in years.” And the angel answered and said to him, “I am Gabriel, who stands in the presence of God, and was sent to speak to you and bring you these glad tidings. But behold, you will be mute and not able to speak until the day these things take place, because you did not believe my words which will be fulfilled in their own time.”
And the people waited for Zacharias, and marveled that he lingered so long in the temple. But when he came out, he could not speak to them; and they perceived that he had seen a vision in the temple, for he beckoned to them and remained speechless.
So it was, as soon as the days of his service were completed, that he departed to his own house. Now after those days his wife Elizabeth conceived; and she hid herself five months, saying, “Thus the Lord has dealt with me, in the days when He looked on me, to take away my reproach among people.”
Christ’s Birth Announced to Mary Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. And having come in, the angel said to her, “Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!”
But when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was. Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name Jesus. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.”
Then Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I do not know a man?”
And the angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God. Now indeed, Elizabeth your relative has also conceived a son in her old age; and this is now the sixth month for her who was called barren. For with God nothing will be impossible.”
Then Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.
Mary Visits Elizabeth Now Mary arose in those days and went into the hill country with haste, to a city of Judah, and entered the house of Zacharias and greeted Elizabeth. And it happened, when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, that the babe leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. Then she spoke out with a loud voice and said, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! But why is this granted to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For indeed, as soon as the voice of your greeting sounded in my ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy. Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a fulfillment of those things which were told her from the Lord.”
The Song of Mary And Mary said: “My soul magnifies the Lord, And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior. For He has regarded the lowly state of His maidservant; For behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed. For He who is mighty has done great things for me, And holy is His name. And His mercy is on those who fear Him From generation to generation. He has shown strength with His arm; He has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. He has put down the mighty from their thrones, And exalted the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things, And the rich He has sent away empty. He has helped His servant Israel, In remembrance of His mercy, As He spoke to our fathers, To Abraham and to his seed forever.”
And Mary remained with her [Elizabeth] about three months, and returned to her house.
Birth of John the Baptist Now Elizabeth’s full time came for her to be delivered, and she brought forth a son. When her neighbors and relatives heard how the Lord had shown great mercy to her, they rejoiced with her.
Circumcision of John the Baptist So it was, on the eighth day, that they came to circumcise the child; and they would have called him by the name of his father, Zacharias. His mother answered and said, “No; he shall be called John.” But they said to her, “There is no one among your relatives who is called by this name.” So they made signs to his father—what he would have him called. And he asked for a writing tablet, and wrote, saying, “His name is John.” So they all marveled. Immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue loosed, and he spoke, praising God. Then fear came on all who dwelt around them; and all these sayings were discussed throughout all the hill country of Judea. And all those who heard them kept them in their hearts, saying, “What kind of child will this be?” And the hand of the Lord was with him.
Zacharias’ Prophecy Now his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Spirit, and prophesied, saying:
“Blessed is the Lord God of Israel, For He has visited and redeemed His people, And has raised up a horn of salvation for us In the house of His servant David,
As He spoke by the mouth of His holy prophets,
Who have been since the world began, That we should be saved from our enemies And from the hand of all who hate us, To perform the mercy promised to our fathers And to remember His holy covenant, The oath which He swore to our father Abraham:
To grant us that we, Being delivered from the hand of our enemies, Might serve Him without fear, In holiness and righteousness before Him all the days of our life.
“And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Highest; For you will go before the face of the Lord to prepare His ways, To give knowledge of salvation to His people By the remission of their sins, Through the tender mercy of our God, With which the Dayspring from on high has visited us;To give light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death,To guide our feet into the way of peace.”
So the child grew and became strong in spirit, and was in the deserts till the day of his manifestation to Israel.
Christ Born of Mary
And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city.
Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child.
So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
Glory in the Highest Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.”
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”
So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.” And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger. Now when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.
Circumcision of Jesus And when eight days were completed for the circumcision of the Child, His name was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before He was conceived in the womb.
Jesus Presented in the Temple Now when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were completed, they brought Him to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord (as it is written in the law of the Lord, “Every male who opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord”), and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the law of the Lord, “A pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons.”
***
Simeon Sees God’s Salvation And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon, and this man was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. So he came by the Spirit into the temple. And when the parents brought in the Child Jesus, to do for Him according to the custom of the law, he took Him up in his arms and blessed God and said:
“Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace, According to Your word; For my eyes have seen Your salvation Which You have prepared before the face of all peoples, A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, And the glory of Your people Israel.” ***
And Joseph and His mother marveled at those things which were spoken of Him. Then Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary His mother, “Behold, this Child is destined for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign which will be spoken against (yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”
Anna Bears Witness to the Redeemer Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity; and this woman was a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. And coming in that instant she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem.
The Family Returns to Nazareth So when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own city, Nazareth. And the Child grew and became strong in spirit, filled with wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him.
The Boy Jesus Amazes the Scholars His parents went to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover. And when He was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem according to the custom of the feast. When they had finished the days, as they returned, the Boy Jesus lingered behind in Jerusalem. And Joseph and His mother did not know it; but supposing Him to have been in the company, they went a day’s journey, and sought Him among their relatives and acquaintances. So when they did not find Him, they returned to Jerusalem, seeking Him. Now so it was that after three days they found Him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, both listening to them and asking them questions. And all who heard Him were astonished at His understanding and answers. So when they saw Him, they were amazed; and His mother said to Him, “Son, why have You done this to us? Look, Your father and I have sought You anxiously.”
And He said to them, “Why did you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business?” But they did not understand the statement which He spoke to them.
Jesus Advances in Wisdom and Favor Then He went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was subject to them, but His mother kept all these things in her heart. And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.
… and when eight days were completed for the circumcision of the Child, His name was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before He was conceived in the womb.
Jesus was, is, and is to come.
Jesus was born as prescribed – a Holy Healer for our sick sinfulness – a LIGHT to enter the broken dark world – a Savior Messiah for Jews and Gentiles – a Child of God – and God as a child. And Jesus came as a substitute for sacrifice – fulfilling the law of Moses as required – like a lamb, Jesus became the atonement for all.
And as prescribed in the law of Moses, from Leviticus, Jesus was circumcised after birth. Jesus was raised in the traditional ways of the time. Mary and Joseph were faithful true to the Lord, despite their poverty. And the Lord made accommodations for the poor – providing for them: 2 small birds instead of the more expensive lamb.
Mary was needing ritual purification after childbirth as prescribed too: Now when the days of her [Mary’s] purification according to the law of Moses were completed, they brought Him to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord (as it is written in the law of the Lord, “Every male who opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord”), and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the law of the Lord, “A pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons.”
Yes, allowance for the poor – instead of a lamb, they were able to bring a small sacrifice. And isn’t that all of us – we are poor in spirit and poorer in the contrast to the almighty fulfilment with God – and so we have been gifted this Jesus, a substitute to bring us closer to God – to purify and to petition – and this we PRAISE. WE ARE POOR NO MORE!!!.
Poor no more – we are to be Praising a Prescribed Purification Petition – Jesus came to complete us. “He exalted the lowly” – by becoming even lower than the poorest people and lifting them all up. We have the glorious Victory in Jesus.
May this we praise.
Amen
—
Leviticus 12:1-8 The Lord said to Moses, “Say to the Israelites: ‘A woman who becomes pregnant and gives birth to a son will be ceremonially unclean for seven days, just as she is unclean during her monthly period. On the eighth day the boy is to be circumcised. Then the woman must wait thirty-three days to be purified from her bleeding. She must not touch anything sacred or go to the sanctuary until the days of her purification are over. If she gives birth to a daughter, for two weeks the woman will be unclean, as during her period. Then she must wait sixty-six days to be purified from her bleeding.‘When the days of her purification for a son or daughter are over, she is to bring to the priest at the entrance to the tent of meeting a year-old lamb for a burnt offering and a young pigeon or a dove for a sin offering. He shall offer them before the Lord to make atonement for her, and then she will be ceremonially clean from her flow of blood. ‘These are the regulations for the woman who gives birth to a boy or a girl. But if she cannot afford a lamb, she is to bring two doves or two young pigeons, one for a burnt offering and the other for a sin offering. In this way the priest will make atonement for her, and she will be clean.’”
Luke 1-2 NKJV Dedication to Theophilus Inasmuch as many have taken in hand to set in order a narrative of those things which have been fulfilled among us, just as those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word delivered them to us, it seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write to you an orderly account, most excellent Theophilus, that you may know the certainty of those things in which you were instructed.
John’s Birth Announced to Zacharias There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the division of Abijah. His wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth. And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless. But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren, and they were both well advanced in years.
So it was, that while he was serving as priest before God in the order of his division, according to the custom of the priesthood, his lot fell to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord. And the whole multitude of the people was praying outside at the hour of incense. Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing on the right side of the altar of incense. And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him.
But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zacharias, for your prayer is heard; and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth. For he will be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink. He will also be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb. And he will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. He will also go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah, ‘to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children,’ and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.”
And Zacharias said to the angel, “How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is well advanced in years.” And the angel answered and said to him, “I am Gabriel, who stands in the presence of God, and was sent to speak to you and bring you these glad tidings. But behold, you will be mute and not able to speak until the day these things take place, because you did not believe my words which will be fulfilled in their own time.”
And the people waited for Zacharias, and marveled that he lingered so long in the temple. But when he came out, he could not speak to them; and they perceived that he had seen a vision in the temple, for he beckoned to them and remained speechless.
So it was, as soon as the days of his service were completed, that he departed to his own house. Now after those days his wife Elizabeth conceived; and she hid herself five months, saying, “Thus the Lord has dealt with me, in the days when He looked on me, to take away my reproach among people.”
Christ’s Birth Announced to Mary Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. And having come in, the angel said to her, “Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!”
But when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was. Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name Jesus. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.”
Then Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I do not know a man?”
And the angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God. Now indeed, Elizabeth your relative has also conceived a son in her old age; and this is now the sixth month for her who was called barren. For with God nothing will be impossible.”
Then Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.
Mary Visits Elizabeth Now Mary arose in those days and went into the hill country with haste, to a city of Judah, and entered the house of Zacharias and greeted Elizabeth. And it happened, when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, that the babe leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. Then she spoke out with a loud voice and said, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! But why is this granted to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For indeed, as soon as the voice of your greeting sounded in my ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy. Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a fulfillment of those things which were told her from the Lord.”
The Song of Mary And Mary said: “My soul magnifies the Lord, And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior. For He has regarded the lowly state of His maidservant; For behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed. For He who is mighty has done great things for me, And holy is His name. And His mercy is on those who fear Him From generation to generation. He has shown strength with His arm; He has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. He has put down the mighty from their thrones, And exalted the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things, And the rich He has sent away empty. He has helped His servant Israel, In remembrance of His mercy, As He spoke to our fathers, To Abraham and to his seed forever.”
And Mary remained with her [Elizabeth] about three months, and returned to her house.
Birth of John the Baptist Now Elizabeth’s full time came for her to be delivered, and she brought forth a son. When her neighbors and relatives heard how the Lord had shown great mercy to her, they rejoiced with her.
Circumcision of John the Baptist So it was, on the eighth day, that they came to circumcise the child; and they would have called him by the name of his father, Zacharias. His mother answered and said, “No; he shall be called John.” But they said to her, “There is no one among your relatives who is called by this name.” So they made signs to his father—what he would have him called. And he asked for a writing tablet, and wrote, saying, “His name is John.” So they all marveled. Immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue loosed, and he spoke, praising God. Then fear came on all who dwelt around them; and all these sayings were discussed throughout all the hill country of Judea. And all those who heard them kept them in their hearts, saying, “What kind of child will this be?” And the hand of the Lord was with him.
Zacharias’ Prophecy Now his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Spirit, and prophesied, saying:
“Blessed is the Lord God of Israel, For He has visited and redeemed His people, And has raised up a horn of salvation for us In the house of His servant David,
As He spoke by the mouth of His holy prophets,
Who have been since the world began, That we should be saved from our enemies And from the hand of all who hate us, To perform the mercy promised to our fathers And to remember His holy covenant, The oath which He swore to our father Abraham:
To grant us that we, Being delivered from the hand of our enemies, Might serve Him without fear, In holiness and righteousness before Him all the days of our life.
“And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Highest; For you will go before the face of the Lord to prepare His ways, To give knowledge of salvation to His people By the remission of their sins, Through the tender mercy of our God, With which the Dayspring from on high has visited us;To give light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death,To guide our feet into the way of peace.”
So the child grew and became strong in spirit, and was in the deserts till the day of his manifestation to Israel.
Christ Born of Mary
And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city.
Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child.
So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
Glory in the Highest Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.”
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”
So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.” And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger. Now when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.
*** Circumcision of Jesus And when eight days were completed for the circumcision of the Child, His name was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before He was conceived in the womb.
Jesus Presented in the Temple Now when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were completed, they brought Him to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord (as it is written in the law of the Lord, “Every male who opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord”), and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the law of the Lord, “A pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons.”
***
Simeon Sees God’s Salvation And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon, and this man was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. So he came by the Spirit into the temple. And when the parents brought in the Child Jesus, to do for Him according to the custom of the law, he took Him up in his arms and blessed God and said:
“Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace, According to Your word; For my eyes have seen Your salvation Which You have prepared before the face of all peoples, A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, And the glory of Your people Israel.”
And Joseph and His mother marveled at those things which were spoken of Him. Then Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary His mother, “Behold, this Child is destined for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign which will be spoken against (yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”
Anna Bears Witness to the Redeemer Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity; and this woman was a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. And coming in that instant she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem.
The Family Returns to Nazareth So when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own city, Nazareth. And the Child grew and became strong in spirit, filled with wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him.
The Boy Jesus Amazes the Scholars His parents went to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover. And when He was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem according to the custom of the feast. When they had finished the days, as they returned, the Boy Jesus lingered behind in Jerusalem. And Joseph and His mother did not know it; but supposing Him to have been in the company, they went a day’s journey, and sought Him among their relatives and acquaintances. So when they did not find Him, they returned to Jerusalem, seeking Him. Now so it was that after three days they found Him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, both listening to them and asking them questions. And all who heard Him were astonished at His understanding and answers. So when they saw Him, they were amazed; and His mother said to Him, “Son, why have You done this to us? Look, Your father and I have sought You anxiously.”
And He said to them, “Why did you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business?” But they did not understand the statement which He spoke to them.
Jesus Advances in Wisdom and Favor Then He went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was subject to them, but His mother kept all these things in her heart. And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.
Today I ponder a Christmas Jesus – it seems that the only break from stress comes when I ask the Lord to calm the commotion in my life – it really happened 2 days ago when I was in a frenzy and just prayed and just calmed down… Returning to the Lord gave me peace back.
We can ponder in our lives of any good and any bad – but what we should treasure in our hearts is the good and especially ponder our God – our Savior and Prince of Peace – our Christmas Jesus – and our knowledge of the Almighty Amazing Forever Hope. Jesus has victory – we best pause in that praise. And ponder…
Here is the pondering scripture today – of Mary – of Shepherds – of all who were told and of us – a recounting of the event that Luke the gospel writer recorded details so important: So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.” And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger. Now when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.
I ponder what 11 years has been since I wrote a pivotal piece for me, my “Christmas Flood”… That piece was a flurry of thoughts moving in my head and the baby Jesus growing in my soul made me ponder in my heart. Mary pondered too. Mary was visited by an angel, gave birth then heard an open exclamation of visiting shepherds telling her what they saw and heard – “For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord” – heard from a multitude of angels in the midst of the Glory of God, yes Mary pondered this and kept this and “all these things” in her heart, actively pondered them. The shepherds made known the angels’ proclamation – and some of us need to ponder this proclamation – and some of us need to make known what we ponder in our hearts…
My Christmas Flood piece was written in a flurry of brain and bursting heart of soul and settling down into my life changing – so much for the good – to give an eternal pondering and an immediate focus. Mary surely HAD to focus on birthing this baby. The shepherds HAD to focus on the angels and then their mission to go see “the sign” that was given to them. And all in amazement must focus on amazement.
And so here is 11 years ago – my piece which helped me heal – which urged me in a way to share for others to understand and to heal and find that peace of Jesus – as a baby – as a Savior – as a PONDER PLACED – Our Christmas Jesus…
AMEN and here is the writing:
Christmas Flood, 17DEC2014 (one week after an awakening diatribe that I wrote 10DEC where God found how to re-find my peace and grow my soul and my faith)
Christmas is like a flood of spiritual emotion, not a light or sustained soaking rain that allows the parched ground to slowly open up and absorb the much needed rain. Christmas is like that short downpour deluge of flooding rain, where only some water gets to the plants and the rest runs off into the gutters or low points. Like in modern construction, we (our spiritual souls) need to set aside flood plains, safe drainage areas so that the spiritual seeds that we have planted all year long aren’t washed away … that the parched spiritual soul is not choked by flood waters. So we can nurture, patiently, our delicate growing belief that God works in our lives every day.
We need sustaining rainfall. We pray for rain, yet do we prepare for it? In the movie “Facing the Giants”, the coach of a “bad news bears”-like football team is finding the need for an emotional awakening (as well as improved football skills) both for his team and himself. A colleague relates him the story of the two farmers in a drought…two farmers looked to God for rain, but only one prepared for it, so which fields receive the much needed rain? The gist of the quote from the movie is:
“I heard a story about two farmers who desperately needed rain. And both of them prayed for rain, but only one of them went out and prepared his fields to receive it. Which one do you think trusted God to send the rain?” Well, the one prepared his fields for it. Which one are you? Mr. Bridges (the older advisor) continued. “God will send the rain when He’s ready. You need to prepare your field to receive it.”
“Which one are you? God will send the rain when He is ready. You need to prepare your field to receive it.”
Christmas finds us year after year flooded with buckets of wasted non-nourishing rain, excessive tinsel-covered giant hailstones and mud mud mud clogging and blocking our spiritual path…. If only we set up rain collection barrels to collect the deluge of Christmas excess rain to save some for watering our souls after the new year, to use all winter until we get to the next soaking rains of Easter, the greens of spring, the rebirth thru resurrection.
How can we prepare for rain? How can we dig trenches for excess while welcoming the much needed spiritual lift that comes with a baby in a manger. How can we? Pray. Pray for guidance. Pray for peace and clarity in your heart. Pray for the calming presence of God. And prepare. Prepare for the arrival for both spiritual and non-spiritual abundance. While you need to appreciate and delineate between the hustle and bustle of the Christmas season and that of the showy, wing-flapping commotion caused by angels dragging your soul to the cradle…while you need to appreciate and delineate between your heart bursting with Christmas joy (think Dr Suess’ Grinch’s heart growing “three sizes that day”) and your head saying ‘slowdown, wait, don’t get swept away with emotion’ ….
Either way, you need to prepare your fields for rain
Luke 1-2 NKJV Dedication to Theophilus Inasmuch as many have taken in hand to set in order a narrative of those things which have been fulfilled among us, just as those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word delivered them to us, it seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write to you an orderly account, most excellent Theophilus, that you may know the certainty of those things in which you were instructed.
John’s Birth Announced to Zacharias There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the division of Abijah. His wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth. And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless. But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren, and they were both well advanced in years.
So it was, that while he was serving as priest before God in the order of his division, according to the custom of the priesthood, his lot fell to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord. And the whole multitude of the people was praying outside at the hour of incense. Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing on the right side of the altar of incense. And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him.
But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zacharias, for your prayer is heard; and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth. For he will be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink. He will also be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb. And he will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. He will also go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah, ‘to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children,’ and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.”
And Zacharias said to the angel, “How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is well advanced in years.” And the angel answered and said to him, “I am Gabriel, who stands in the presence of God, and was sent to speak to you and bring you these glad tidings. But behold, you will be mute and not able to speak until the day these things take place, because you did not believe my words which will be fulfilled in their own time.”
And the people waited for Zacharias, and marveled that he lingered so long in the temple. But when he came out, he could not speak to them; and they perceived that he had seen a vision in the temple, for he beckoned to them and remained speechless.
So it was, as soon as the days of his service were completed, that he departed to his own house. Now after those days his wife Elizabeth conceived; and she hid herself five months, saying, “Thus the Lord has dealt with me, in the days when He looked on me, to take away my reproach among people.”
Christ’s Birth Announced to Mary Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. And having come in, the angel said to her, “Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!”
But when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was. Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name Jesus. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.”
Then Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I do not know a man?”
And the angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God. Now indeed, Elizabeth your relative has also conceived a son in her old age; and this is now the sixth month for her who was called barren. For with God nothing will be impossible.”
Then Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.
Mary Visits Elizabeth Now Mary arose in those days and went into the hill country with haste, to a city of Judah, and entered the house of Zacharias and greeted Elizabeth. And it happened, when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, that the babe leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. Then she spoke out with a loud voice and said, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! But why is this granted to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For indeed, as soon as the voice of your greeting sounded in my ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy. Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a fulfillment of those things which were told her from the Lord.”
The Song of Mary And Mary said: “My soul magnifies the Lord, And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior. For He has regarded the lowly state of His maidservant; For behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed. For He who is mighty has done great things for me, And holy is His name. And His mercy is on those who fear Him From generation to generation. He has shown strength with His arm; He has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. He has put down the mighty from their thrones, And exalted the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things, And the rich He has sent away empty. He has helped His servant Israel, In remembrance of His mercy, As He spoke to our fathers, To Abraham and to his seed forever.”
And Mary remained with her [Elizabeth] about three months, and returned to her house.
Birth of John the Baptist Now Elizabeth’s full time came for her to be delivered, and she brought forth a son. When her neighbors and relatives heard how the Lord had shown great mercy to her, they rejoiced with her.
Circumcision of John the Baptist So it was, on the eighth day, that they came to circumcise the child; and they would have called him by the name of his father, Zacharias. His mother answered and said, “No; he shall be called John.” But they said to her, “There is no one among your relatives who is called by this name.” So they made signs to his father—what he would have him called. And he asked for a writing tablet, and wrote, saying, “His name is John.” So they all marveled. Immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue loosed, and he spoke, praising God. Then fear came on all who dwelt around them; and all these sayings were discussed throughout all the hill country of Judea. And all those who heard them kept them in their hearts, saying, “What kind of child will this be?” And the hand of the Lord was with him.
Zacharias’ Prophecy Now his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Spirit, and prophesied, saying:
“Blessed is the Lord God of Israel, For He has visited and redeemed His people, And has raised up a horn of salvation for us In the house of His servant David,
As He spoke by the mouth of His holy prophets,
Who have been since the world began, That we should be saved from our enemies And from the hand of all who hate us, To perform the mercy promised to our fathers And to remember His holy covenant, The oath which He swore to our father Abraham:
To grant us that we, Being delivered from the hand of our enemies, Might serve Him without fear, In holiness and righteousness before Him all the days of our life.
“And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Highest; For you will go before the face of the Lord to prepare His ways, To give knowledge of salvation to His people By the remission of their sins, Through the tender mercy of our God, With which the Dayspring from on high has visited us;To give light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death,To guide our feet into the way of peace.”
So the child grew and became strong in spirit, and was in the deserts till the day of his manifestation to Israel.
Christ Born of Mary
And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city.
Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child.
So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
Glory in the Highest Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.”
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”
*** So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.” And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger. Now when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them. ***
Circumcision of Jesus And when eight days were completed for the circumcision of the Child, His name was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before He was conceived in the womb.
Jesus Presented in the Temple Now when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were completed, they brought Him to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord (as it is written in the law of the Lord, “Every male who opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord”), and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the law of the Lord, “A pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons.”
Simeon Sees God’s Salvation And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon, and this man was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. So he came by the Spirit into the temple. And when the parents brought in the Child Jesus, to do for Him according to the custom of the law, he took Him up in his arms and blessed God and said:
“Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace, According to Your word; For my eyes have seen Your salvation Which You have prepared before the face of all peoples, A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, And the glory of Your people Israel.”
And Joseph and His mother marveled at those things which were spoken of Him. Then Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary His mother, “Behold, this Child is destined for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign which will be spoken against (yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”
Anna Bears Witness to the Redeemer Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity; and this woman was a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. And coming in that instant she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem.
The Family Returns to Nazareth So when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own city, Nazareth. And the Child grew and became strong in spirit, filled with wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him.
The Boy Jesus Amazes the Scholars His parents went to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover. And when He was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem according to the custom of the feast. When they had finished the days, as they returned, the Boy Jesus lingered behind in Jerusalem. And Joseph and His mother did not know it; but supposing Him to have been in the company, they went a day’s journey, and sought Him among their relatives and acquaintances. So when they did not find Him, they returned to Jerusalem, seeking Him. Now so it was that after three days they found Him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, both listening to them and asking them questions. And all who heard Him were astonished at His understanding and answers. So when they saw Him, they were amazed; and His mother said to Him, “Son, why have You done this to us? Look, Your father and I have sought You anxiously.”
And He said to them, “Why did you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business?” But they did not understand the statement which He spoke to them.
Jesus Advances in Wisdom and Favor Then He went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was subject to them, but His mother kept all these things in her heart. And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.
It must have been a surprise – it WAS a surprise – but these were the chosen few – shepherds – who would be led to the baby Jesus. Shepherds who normally shepherd were being gifted shepherding by a distinct directive of angels.
WHY? To show God was sending signs and messages, preparation and promises of the Promise fulfilled – a Savior was born – one that they had awaited hundreds of years for. WHY? Because God was showing and living “Goodwill toward men”. WHY? Because of the broken world of people. WHY? Because of sin separating us from God.
SO, God sent His Son to get us back close to Him – to allow the forgiveness of sins. AND, in demonstration of His Will – to then will all of us towards good will demonstrated towards each other, including forgiveness, generosity, tolerance, light and direction.
“For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.” And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”
Peace is a place of the heart into service and into understanding – Goodwill is peace prayed for and pursued. Jesus came to be the Prince of Peace.
Luke 1-2 NKJV Dedication to Theophilus Inasmuch as many have taken in hand to set in order a narrative of those things which have been fulfilled among us, just as those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word delivered them to us, it seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write to you an orderly account, most excellent Theophilus, that you may know the certainty of those things in which you were instructed.
John’s Birth Announced to Zacharias There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the division of Abijah. His wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth. And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless. But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren, and they were both well advanced in years.
So it was, that while he was serving as priest before God in the order of his division, according to the custom of the priesthood, his lot fell to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord. And the whole multitude of the people was praying outside at the hour of incense. Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing on the right side of the altar of incense. And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him.
But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zacharias, for your prayer is heard; and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth. For he will be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink. He will also be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb. And he will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. He will also go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah, ‘to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children,’ and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.”
And Zacharias said to the angel, “How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is well advanced in years.” And the angel answered and said to him, “I am Gabriel, who stands in the presence of God, and was sent to speak to you and bring you these glad tidings. But behold, you will be mute and not able to speak until the day these things take place, because you did not believe my words which will be fulfilled in their own time.”
And the people waited for Zacharias, and marveled that he lingered so long in the temple. But when he came out, he could not speak to them; and they perceived that he had seen a vision in the temple, for he beckoned to them and remained speechless.
So it was, as soon as the days of his service were completed, that he departed to his own house. Now after those days his wife Elizabeth conceived; and she hid herself five months, saying, “Thus the Lord has dealt with me, in the days when He looked on me, to take away my reproach among people.”
Christ’s Birth Announced to Mary Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. And having come in, the angel said to her, “Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!”
But when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was. Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name Jesus. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.”
Then Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I do not know a man?”
And the angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God. Now indeed, Elizabeth your relative has also conceived a son in her old age; and this is now the sixth month for her who was called barren. For with God nothing will be impossible.”
Then Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.
Mary Visits Elizabeth Now Mary arose in those days and went into the hill country with haste, to a city of Judah, and entered the house of Zacharias and greeted Elizabeth. And it happened, when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, that the babe leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. Then she spoke out with a loud voice and said, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! But why is this granted to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For indeed, as soon as the voice of your greeting sounded in my ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy. Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a fulfillment of those things which were told her from the Lord.”
The Song of Mary And Mary said: “My soul magnifies the Lord, And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior. For He has regarded the lowly state of His maidservant; For behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed. For He who is mighty has done great things for me, And holy is His name. And His mercy is on those who fear Him From generation to generation. He has shown strength with His arm; He has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. He has put down the mighty from their thrones, And exalted the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things, And the rich He has sent away empty. He has helped His servant Israel, In remembrance of His mercy, As He spoke to our fathers, To Abraham and to his seed forever.”
And Mary remained with her [Elizabeth] about three months, and returned to her house.
Birth of John the Baptist Now Elizabeth’s full time came for her to be delivered, and she brought forth a son. When her neighbors and relatives heard how the Lord had shown great mercy to her, they rejoiced with her.
Circumcision of John the Baptist So it was, on the eighth day, that they came to circumcise the child; and they would have called him by the name of his father, Zacharias. His mother answered and said, “No; he shall be called John.” But they said to her, “There is no one among your relatives who is called by this name.” So they made signs to his father—what he would have him called. And he asked for a writing tablet, and wrote, saying, “His name is John.” So they all marveled. Immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue loosed, and he spoke, praising God. Then fear came on all who dwelt around them; and all these sayings were discussed throughout all the hill country of Judea. And all those who heard them kept them in their hearts, saying, “What kind of child will this be?” And the hand of the Lord was with him.
Zacharias’ Prophecy Now his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Spirit, and prophesied, saying:
“Blessed is the Lord God of Israel, For He has visited and redeemed His people, And has raised up a horn of salvation for us In the house of His servant David,
As He spoke by the mouth of His holy prophets,
Who have been since the world began, That we should be saved from our enemies And from the hand of all who hate us, To perform the mercy promised to our fathers And to remember His holy covenant, The oath which He swore to our father Abraham:
To grant us that we, Being delivered from the hand of our enemies, Might serve Him without fear, In holiness and righteousness before Him all the days of our life.
“And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Highest; For you will go before the face of the Lord to prepare His ways, To give knowledge of salvation to His people By the remission of their sins, Through the tender mercy of our God, With which the Dayspring from on high has visited us;To give light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death,To guide our feet into the way of peace.”
So the child grew and became strong in spirit, and was in the deserts till the day of his manifestation to Israel.
Christ Born of Mary
And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city.
Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child.
So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
Glory in the Highest Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people.
***
“For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.
And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.”
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” ***
So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.” And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger. Now when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.
Circumcision of Jesus And when eight days were completed for the circumcision of the Child, His name was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before He was conceived in the womb.
Jesus Presented in the Temple Now when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were completed, they brought Him to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord (as it is written in the law of the Lord, “Every male who opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord”), and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the law of the Lord, “A pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons.”
Simeon Sees God’s Salvation And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon, and this man was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. So he came by the Spirit into the temple. And when the parents brought in the Child Jesus, to do for Him according to the custom of the law, he took Him up in his arms and blessed God and said:
“Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace, According to Your word; For my eyes have seen Your salvation Which You have prepared before the face of all peoples, A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, And the glory of Your people Israel.”
And Joseph and His mother marveled at those things which were spoken of Him. Then Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary His mother, “Behold, this Child is destined for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign which will be spoken against (yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”
Anna Bears Witness to the Redeemer Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity; and this woman was a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. And coming in that instant she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem.
The Family Returns to Nazareth So when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own city, Nazareth. And the Child grew and became strong in spirit, filled with wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him.
The Boy Jesus Amazes the Scholars His parents went to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover. And when He was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem according to the custom of the feast. When they had finished the days, as they returned, the Boy Jesus lingered behind in Jerusalem. And Joseph and His mother did not know it; but supposing Him to have been in the company, they went a day’s journey, and sought Him among their relatives and acquaintances. So when they did not find Him, they returned to Jerusalem, seeking Him. Now so it was that after three days they found Him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, both listening to them and asking them questions. And all who heard Him were astonished at His understanding and answers. So when they saw Him, they were amazed; and His mother said to Him, “Son, why have You done this to us? Look, Your father and I have sought You anxiously.”
And He said to them, “Why did you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business?” But they did not understand the statement which He spoke to them.
Jesus Advances in Wisdom and Favor Then He went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was subject to them, but His mother kept all these things in her heart. And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.
In this amazing time of Christmas preparation – we could lose sight of the meaning of Christmas – or at least the means which we honor it – or perhaps (as is with so many) never have heard the biblical story – and yet we are certain that the Lord has brought this story and will bring this reality to each person in His Own method – and we do get to help… And each of us gets to take a moment to know it is not just story but GLORY.
And as Linus in the Charlie Brown Christmas TV Special tells Charlie Brown – and all – that Jesus is Born – born to us and born to those shepherds who then went into town to see the baby – we know that God’s Word is perpetuated by it’s meaning not just mass media – it is the GLORY of God which brings God in all His Ways to the people – the GLORY of the LORD shows up to be beheld…
Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.
The GLORY of the LORD – is that lights – is that feelings – is that clouds – is that fire – is that sound – is that ‘what that?’, ‘how about that?’ – OH – it is surely MORE amazing than any words could use or describe.
The Glory of the Lord had appeared on earth in ways before – like when Solomon (2nd Chronicles 7) was dedicating the temple and acknowledging that the Lord had brought them and brought His people to this point – after Abraham, Issac, Jacob, after Joseph in Egypt and after Moses brought them out, after David and to continue to bless His people forever with guidance. And Solomon praised God – and “as soon as Solomon finished his prayer, fire descended from heaven and burned up the burnt offerings and sacrifices, and the glory of the Lord filled the Temple. The priests could not enter into the Temple because the glory of the Lord had filled the Lord’s Temple. When all of the Israelis saw the fire coming down and the glory of the Lord resting on the Temple, they bowed down with their faces to the ground on the pavement, worshipped, and gave thanks to the Lord, “Because he is good; because his gracious love is eternal.”
AMAZING – the Glory of the Lord – which filled the skies and the ground for Solomon as King – was NOW filling the skies for the lowliest shepherds – and announcing that God as Savior had been born as man in the lowly town of Bethlehem in the lowly tribe area of Judea. God made Flesh – Immanuel…
Imagine the GLORY that night – imagine the GLORY of such immense proportions that it would make shepards afraid – imagine too then that we SHOULD have a healthy fear of the Majesty of the Lord – and immense blessing feeling of the GLORY of the Lord to come down to earth into a baby who would grow to be despised as a messenger but as determined as God to BRING US HOME by Grace and Mercy – and GLORY…
The Glory of the Lord is our HOPE. Let us know that Jesus in GLORIOUS Victory overcame the world. This Christmas – remember the GLORY of the GOOD NEWS.
Luke 1-2 NKJV Dedication to Theophilus Inasmuch as many have taken in hand to set in order a narrative of those things which have been fulfilled among us, just as those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word delivered them to us, it seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write to you an orderly account, most excellent Theophilus, that you may know the certainty of those things in which you were instructed.
John’s Birth Announced to Zacharias There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the division of Abijah. His wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth. And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless. But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren, and they were both well advanced in years.
So it was, that while he was serving as priest before God in the order of his division, according to the custom of the priesthood, his lot fell to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord. And the whole multitude of the people was praying outside at the hour of incense. Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing on the right side of the altar of incense. And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him.
But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zacharias, for your prayer is heard; and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth. For he will be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink. He will also be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb. And he will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. He will also go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah, ‘to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children,’ and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.”
And Zacharias said to the angel, “How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is well advanced in years.” And the angel answered and said to him, “I am Gabriel, who stands in the presence of God, and was sent to speak to you and bring you these glad tidings. But behold, you will be mute and not able to speak until the day these things take place, because you did not believe my words which will be fulfilled in their own time.”
And the people waited for Zacharias, and marveled that he lingered so long in the temple. But when he came out, he could not speak to them; and they perceived that he had seen a vision in the temple, for he beckoned to them and remained speechless.
So it was, as soon as the days of his service were completed, that he departed to his own house. Now after those days his wife Elizabeth conceived; and she hid herself five months, saying, “Thus the Lord has dealt with me, in the days when He looked on me, to take away my reproach among people.”
Christ’s Birth Announced to Mary Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. And having come in, the angel said to her, “Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!”
But when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was. Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name Jesus. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.”
Then Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I do not know a man?”
And the angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God. Now indeed, Elizabeth your relative has also conceived a son in her old age; and this is now the sixth month for her who was called barren. For with God nothing will be impossible.”
Then Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.
Mary Visits Elizabeth Now Mary arose in those days and went into the hill country with haste, to a city of Judah, and entered the house of Zacharias and greeted Elizabeth. And it happened, when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, that the babe leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. Then she spoke out with a loud voice and said, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! But why is this granted to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For indeed, as soon as the voice of your greeting sounded in my ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy. Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a fulfillment of those things which were told her from the Lord.”
The Song of Mary And Mary said: “My soul magnifies the Lord, And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior. For He has regarded the lowly state of His maidservant; For behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed. For He who is mighty has done great things for me, And holy is His name. And His mercy is on those who fear Him From generation to generation. He has shown strength with His arm; He has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. He has put down the mighty from their thrones, And exalted the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things, And the rich He has sent away empty. He has helped His servant Israel, In remembrance of His mercy, As He spoke to our fathers, To Abraham and to his seed forever.”
And Mary remained with her [Elizabeth] about three months, and returned to her house.
Birth of John the Baptist Now Elizabeth’s full time came for her to be delivered, and she brought forth a son. When her neighbors and relatives heard how the Lord had shown great mercy to her, they rejoiced with her.
Circumcision of John the Baptist So it was, on the eighth day, that they came to circumcise the child; and they would have called him by the name of his father, Zacharias. His mother answered and said, “No; he shall be called John.” But they said to her, “There is no one among your relatives who is called by this name.” So they made signs to his father—what he would have him called. And he asked for a writing tablet, and wrote, saying, “His name is John.” So they all marveled. Immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue loosed, and he spoke, praising God. Then fear came on all who dwelt around them; and all these sayings were discussed throughout all the hill country of Judea. And all those who heard them kept them in their hearts, saying, “What kind of child will this be?” And the hand of the Lord was with him.
Zacharias’ Prophecy Now his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Spirit, and prophesied, saying:
“Blessed is the Lord God of Israel,For He has visited and redeemed His people,And has raised up a horn of salvation for usIn the house of His servant David,As He spoke by the mouth of His holy prophets,Who have been since the world began,That we should be saved from our enemiesAnd from the hand of all who hate us,To perform the mercy promised to our fathersAnd to remember His holy covenant,The oath which He swore to our father Abraham:To grant us that we,Being delivered from the hand of our enemies,Might serve Him without fear,In holiness and righteousness before Him all the days of our life.
“And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Highest; For you will go before the face of the Lord to prepare His ways, To give knowledge of salvation to His people By the remission of their sins, Through the tender mercy of our God, With which the Dayspring from on high has visited us;To give light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death,To guide our feet into the way of peace.”
So the child grew and became strong in spirit, and was in the deserts till the day of his manifestation to Israel.
Christ Born of Mary
And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city.Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child.So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
***
Glory in the Highest Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.
***
And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.”
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”
So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.” And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger. Now when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.
Circumcision of Jesus And when eight days were completed for the circumcision of the Child, His name was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before He was conceived in the womb.
Jesus Presented in the Temple Now when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were completed, they brought Him to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord (as it is written in the law of the Lord, “Every male who opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord”), and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the law of the Lord, “A pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons.”
Simeon Sees God’s Salvation And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon, and this man was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. So he came by the Spirit into the temple. And when the parents brought in the Child Jesus, to do for Him according to the custom of the law, he took Him up in his arms and blessed God and said:
“Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace, According to Your word; For my eyes have seen Your salvation Which You have prepared before the face of all peoples, A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, And the glory of Your people Israel.”
And Joseph and His mother marveled at those things which were spoken of Him. Then Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary His mother, “Behold, this Child is destined for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign which will be spoken against (yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”
Anna Bears Witness to the Redeemer Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity; and this woman was a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. And coming in that instant she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem.
The Family Returns to Nazareth So when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own city, Nazareth. And the Child grew and became strong in spirit, filled with wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him.
The Boy Jesus Amazes the Scholars His parents went to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover. And when He was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem according to the custom of the feast. When they had finished the days, as they returned, the Boy Jesus lingered behind in Jerusalem. And Joseph and His mother did not know it; but supposing Him to have been in the company, they went a day’s journey, and sought Him among their relatives and acquaintances. So when they did not find Him, they returned to Jerusalem, seeking Him. Now so it was that after three days they found Him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, both listening to them and asking them questions. And all who heard Him were astonished at His understanding and answers. So when they saw Him, they were amazed; and His mother said to Him, “Son, why have You done this to us? Look, Your father and I have sought You anxiously.”
And He said to them, “Why did you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business?” But they did not understand the statement which He spoke to them.
Jesus Advances in Wisdom and Favor Then He went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was subject to them, but His mother kept all these things in her heart. And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.
It’s not perfect but falling asleep on the couch is OK – and obviously nap-worthy.
But then not being able to get to sleep normal is not OK – but I will survive.
Not perfect but temporary… (means I will indulge in a nap later!)
There’s lots that is not perfect in this world – not that I have much to complain about myself – like the lack of falling asleep – but there are other things we all worry about – like our family – our situations – our futures – our life. And yet one of the MOST important comforts of living a Christian life is to remember that THIS TIME IS TEMPORARY – Heaven awaits and is forever…
Mary, Jesus’s birth, Joseph’s caretaking, and life in Roman-ruled times, well – as uncomfortable it is to give birth to a baby – uncomfortable to be NOT at home – uncomfortable to have ridden a donkey that much pregnant – uncomfortable and concerning to be turned away from indoor niceties only to have to a back stable – the baby – our Savior foretold – and Mary’s song praising – well He, King, would be placed in a feeding trough for animals… NOT ideal – but no problem for God.
AND… TEMPORARY…
So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
What harshness of this world today = well, it compares to harshness of the past – no era is perfect – and no era has as much hope either than the hope we bring to our daily lives because we DO know these hardships (and sweet life) are TEMPORARY…. We make do and Mary did too! Eventually Mary did move out of that stable – but then again they had to keep moving – knowing that Herod was after them – Joseph and Mary and Jesus moved to Egypt for a time – Jesus Himself had no place to “lay His head” – meaning the Son of Man was always on the move – and all of the people in this world He would sacrifice for – to bring them Home to Heaven in God’s Grace and Mercy – forgiveness.
And what is God’s situation for us to be without Him in Heaven? TEMPORARY – and God thru the sacrifice of His Son restores righteousness in life and love for His people. God’s temporary was LONG – is LONG – in longing for His children (us). Let us remember this BRIGHT spot – God has a HOME for us.
And yes there ARE bright spots in life – not just the hardships – and there are hopes – and holidays – and sharing – and love… And these are not lost in the shuffle or struggle of today. If the hardest struggle we have today is compain-worthy then let us ALSO try to have the BEST praise that is praise-worthy – that Jesus DID come – Jesus IS Blessing us – Jesus WILL come again. Our time awaiting His return is TEMPORARY…
Remember – our days here are temporary – but our lives with Him are ETERNAL…
Luke 1-2 NKJV Dedication to Theophilus Inasmuch as many have taken in hand to set in order a narrative of those things which have been fulfilled among us, just as those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word delivered them to us, it seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write to you an orderly account, most excellent Theophilus, that you may know the certainty of those things in which you were instructed.
John’s Birth Announced to Zacharias There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the division of Abijah. His wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth. And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless. But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren, and they were both well advanced in years.
So it was, that while he was serving as priest before God in the order of his division, according to the custom of the priesthood, his lot fell to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord. And the whole multitude of the people was praying outside at the hour of incense. Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing on the right side of the altar of incense. And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him.
But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zacharias, for your prayer is heard; and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth. For he will be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink. He will also be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb. And he will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. He will also go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah, ‘to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children,’ and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.”
And Zacharias said to the angel, “How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is well advanced in years.” And the angel answered and said to him, “I am Gabriel, who stands in the presence of God, and was sent to speak to you and bring you these glad tidings. But behold, you will be mute and not able to speak until the day these things take place, because you did not believe my words which will be fulfilled in their own time.”
And the people waited for Zacharias, and marveled that he lingered so long in the temple. But when he came out, he could not speak to them; and they perceived that he had seen a vision in the temple, for he beckoned to them and remained speechless.
So it was, as soon as the days of his service were completed, that he departed to his own house. Now after those days his wife Elizabeth conceived; and she hid herself five months, saying, “Thus the Lord has dealt with me, in the days when He looked on me, to take away my reproach among people.”
Christ’s Birth Announced to Mary Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. And having come in, the angel said to her, “Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!”
But when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was. Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name Jesus. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.”
Then Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I do not know a man?”
And the angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God. Now indeed, Elizabeth your relative has also conceived a son in her old age; and this is now the sixth month for her who was called barren. For with God nothing will be impossible.”
Then Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.
Mary Visits Elizabeth Now Mary arose in those days and went into the hill country with haste, to a city of Judah, and entered the house of Zacharias and greeted Elizabeth. And it happened, when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, that the babe leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. Then she spoke out with a loud voice and said, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! But why is this granted to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For indeed, as soon as the voice of your greeting sounded in my ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy. Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a fulfillment of those things which were told her from the Lord.”
The Song of Mary And Mary said: “My soul magnifies the Lord, And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior. For He has regarded the lowly state of His maidservant; For behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed. For He who is mighty has done great things for me, And holy is His name. And His mercy is on those who fear Him From generation to generation. He has shown strength with His arm; He has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. He has put down the mighty from their thrones, And exalted the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things, And the rich He has sent away empty. He has helped His servant Israel, In remembrance of His mercy, As He spoke to our fathers, To Abraham and to his seed forever.”
And Mary remained with her [Elizabeth] about three months, and returned to her house.
Birth of John the Baptist Now Elizabeth’s full time came for her to be delivered, and she brought forth a son. When her neighbors and relatives heard how the Lord had shown great mercy to her, they rejoiced with her.
Circumcision of John the Baptist So it was, on the eighth day, that they came to circumcise the child; and they would have called him by the name of his father, Zacharias. His mother answered and said, “No; he shall be called John.” But they said to her, “There is no one among your relatives who is called by this name.” So they made signs to his father—what he would have him called. And he asked for a writing tablet, and wrote, saying, “His name is John.” So they all marveled. Immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue loosed, and he spoke, praising God. Then fear came on all who dwelt around them; and all these sayings were discussed throughout all the hill country of Judea. And all those who heard them kept them in their hearts, saying, “What kind of child will this be?” And the hand of the Lord was with him.
Zacharias’ Prophecy Now his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Spirit, and prophesied, saying:
“Blessed is the Lord God of Israel, For He has visited and redeemed His people, And has raised up a horn of salvation for us In the house of His servant David,
As He spoke by the mouth of His holy prophets,
Who have been since the world began, That we should be saved from our enemies And from the hand of all who hate us, To perform the mercy promised to our fathers And to remember His holy covenant, The oath which He swore to our father Abraham:
To grant us that we, Being delivered from the hand of our enemies, Might serve Him without fear, In holiness and righteousness before Him all the days of our life.
“And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Highest; For you will go before the face of the Lord to prepare His ways, To give knowledge of salvation to His people By the remission of their sins, Through the tender mercy of our God, With which the Dayspring from on high has visited us;To give light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death,To guide our feet into the way of peace.”
So the child grew and became strong in spirit, and was in the deserts till the day of his manifestation to Israel.
Christ Born of Mary
And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city.
Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child.
***
So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
***
Glory in the Highest Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.”
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”
So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.” And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger. Now when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.
Circumcision of Jesus And when eight days were completed for the circumcision of the Child, His name was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before He was conceived in the womb.
Jesus Presented in the Temple Now when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were completed, they brought Him to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord (as it is written in the law of the Lord, “Every male who opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord”), and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the law of the Lord, “A pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons.”
Simeon Sees God’s Salvation And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon, and this man was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. So he came by the Spirit into the temple. And when the parents brought in the Child Jesus, to do for Him according to the custom of the law, he took Him up in his arms and blessed God and said:
“Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace, According to Your word; For my eyes have seen Your salvation Which You have prepared before the face of all peoples, A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, And the glory of Your people Israel.”
And Joseph and His mother marveled at those things which were spoken of Him. Then Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary His mother, “Behold, this Child is destined for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign which will be spoken against (yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”
Anna Bears Witness to the Redeemer Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity; and this woman was a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. And coming in that instant she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem.
The Family Returns to Nazareth So when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own city, Nazareth. And the Child grew and became strong in spirit, filled with wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him.
The Boy Jesus Amazes the Scholars His parents went to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover. And when He was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem according to the custom of the feast. When they had finished the days, as they returned, the Boy Jesus lingered behind in Jerusalem. And Joseph and His mother did not know it; but supposing Him to have been in the company, they went a day’s journey, and sought Him among their relatives and acquaintances. So when they did not find Him, they returned to Jerusalem, seeking Him. Now so it was that after three days they found Him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, both listening to them and asking them questions. And all who heard Him were astonished at His understanding and answers. So when they saw Him, they were amazed; and His mother said to Him, “Son, why have You done this to us? Look, Your father and I have sought You anxiously.”
And He said to them, “Why did you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business?” But they did not understand the statement which He spoke to them.
Jesus Advances in Wisdom and Favor Then He went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was subject to them, but His mother kept all these things in her heart. And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.
What a beautiful Christmas season this is… We are even expecting snow tonight!!!
Best is keeping my/our head in the scriptures, heart in the hope, head in the game, and eyes (sight and eyes of our hearts) fixed on REGISTERING with the people, the children, and especially THE CHILD, Jesus.
It’s a history lesson when we remember the hustle and bustle is nothing new, the very busy marketplace and city of Bethlehem and Judah was recreated recently at a friend’s church, BUSY! And I only had a half an hour, so I breezed through, no kids for me so no need to stop at EVERY craft station, but OH how I would have loved that as a child – bringing back 1970’s memories of my time when the local 4H club had sponsored a day of Christmas crafts, I can still see us now making angel wings out of dried milkweed pods spray painted silver… loved that…
And I loved this event, I had never been there before, and did not know what to expect, but especially was pleased to be able to stop at the prayer tent, asking prayers directly for a friend and her family, as she moved cross country and is readjusting… thank you for prayers…
This busy marketplace was a recreated scene at the church which was where the people were called to travel and register due to a decree from Caesar… these reenactors led you from the marketplace to the nativity, downstairs, where fifteen people at a time got to listen to the story of Mary and Joseph and the baby Jesus. Beautiful… and then we got cookies!!! Yum… and I was struck by the extreme friendliness of all the people. In an event that crowded, they had to keep everything flowing…
Then, I was able to jump out, get home and switch gears to a local school for a girl scout Christmas party. I went not to dance but to help with crafts and to cleanup. My kids are grown, but my heart still is with these families and the next generation of girl scouts… and this party is a known chaos of fun, two hundred girls. I put on my Christmas tree hat and arrived while they were deep into their activities… I stationed myself with the crafts just as simply pick up trash and keep it semi organized. But in the middle of my trash picking a couple times I stopped when some little child asked me to help with their ornament, and that’s when I realized I had been just breezing through and not registering, not registering with the children or the moms… so I stopped and I made eye contact and I connected. It all registered. Serving and helping is a time to REGISTER with the people.
“All went to be registered, everyone to his own city.”
We need to REGISTER this holiday season. Register with the meaning, and being a servant, with being anticipatory of it all, and REGISTER SPECIFICALLY WITH ONE CHILD, JESUS.
Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child…
There is nothing better to birth this Christmas season than to birth and rebirth our faith. It’s time to register with the real meaning…
I picked up a small book, “Why the Nativity?” by David Jeremiah, and the chapter about Bethlehem… that city had seen so much in the history and backstory of the coming of Jesus from Ruth and Naomi to King David, including the anointing by Prophet Samuel. And that Bethlehem is called the “bread city” fittingly, for our Jesus, Who is the Bread of Life… our Daily Bread…
At the girl scout event, I registered with just a few girls and they remembered me for my science and camping stuff, it’s very little compared to our troop leader… and it’s not important that they remember me, but I know the importance of the girl scouts remembering that there are so many who have helped them. Now let us remember the many who have helped us…
Let us this Christmas especially register with the CHILD, JESUS, who has helped us more than we ever could know…
When I look at my old Christmas cards or my old decorations, those people are no longer living with us, but they are spiritually here and their memories are real. Those memories register with us…
Let us remember and register with Jesus… Who was and IS, and IS to come…
Luke 1-2 NKJV Dedication to Theophilus Inasmuch as many have taken in hand to set in order a narrative of those things which have been fulfilled among us, just as those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word delivered them to us, it seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write to you an orderly account, most excellent Theophilus, that you may know the certainty of those things in which you were instructed.
John’s Birth Announced to Zacharias There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the division of Abijah. His wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth. And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless. But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren, and they were both well advanced in years.
So it was, that while he was serving as priest before God in the order of his division, according to the custom of the priesthood, his lot fell to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord. And the whole multitude of the people was praying outside at the hour of incense. Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing on the right side of the altar of incense. And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him.
But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zacharias, for your prayer is heard; and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth. For he will be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink. He will also be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb. And he will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. He will also go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah, ‘to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children,’ and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.”
And Zacharias said to the angel, “How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is well advanced in years.” And the angel answered and said to him, “I am Gabriel, who stands in the presence of God, and was sent to speak to you and bring you these glad tidings. But behold, you will be mute and not able to speak until the day these things take place, because you did not believe my words which will be fulfilled in their own time.”
And the people waited for Zacharias, and marveled that he lingered so long in the temple. But when he came out, he could not speak to them; and they perceived that he had seen a vision in the temple, for he beckoned to them and remained speechless.
So it was, as soon as the days of his service were completed, that he departed to his own house. Now after those days his wife Elizabeth conceived; and she hid herself five months, saying, “Thus the Lord has dealt with me, in the days when He looked on me, to take away my reproach among people.”
Christ’s Birth Announced to Mary Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. And having come in, the angel said to her, “Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!”
But when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was. Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name Jesus. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.”
Then Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I do not know a man?”
And the angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God. Now indeed, Elizabeth your relative has also conceived a son in her old age; and this is now the sixth month for her who was called barren. For with God nothing will be impossible.”
Then Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.
Mary Visits Elizabeth Now Mary arose in those days and went into the hill country with haste, to a city of Judah, and entered the house of Zacharias and greeted Elizabeth. And it happened, when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, that the babe leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. Then she spoke out with a loud voice and said, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! But why is this granted to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For indeed, as soon as the voice of your greeting sounded in my ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy. Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a fulfillment of those things which were told her from the Lord.”
The Song of Mary And Mary said: “My soul magnifies the Lord, And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior. For He has regarded the lowly state of His maidservant; For behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed. For He who is mighty has done great things for me, And holy is His name. And His mercy is on those who fear Him From generation to generation. He has shown strength with His arm; He has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. He has put down the mighty from their thrones, And exalted the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things, And the rich He has sent away empty. He has helped His servant Israel, In remembrance of His mercy, As He spoke to our fathers, To Abraham and to his seed forever.”
And Mary remained with her [Elizabeth] about three months, and returned to her house.
Birth of John the Baptist Now Elizabeth’s full time came for her to be delivered, and she brought forth a son. When her neighbors and relatives heard how the Lord had shown great mercy to her, they rejoiced with her.
Circumcision of John the Baptist So it was, on the eighth day, that they came to circumcise the child; and they would have called him by the name of his father, Zacharias. His mother answered and said, “No; he shall be called John.” But they said to her, “There is no one among your relatives who is called by this name.” So they made signs to his father—what he would have him called. And he asked for a writing tablet, and wrote, saying, “His name is John.” So they all marveled. Immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue loosed, and he spoke, praising God. Then fear came on all who dwelt around them; and all these sayings were discussed throughout all the hill country of Judea. And all those who heard them kept them in their hearts, saying, “What kind of child will this be?” And the hand of the Lord was with him.
Zacharias’ Prophecy Now his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Spirit, and prophesied, saying:
“Blessed is the Lord God of Israel, For He has visited and redeemed His people, And has raised up a horn of salvation for us In the house of His servant David,
As He spoke by the mouth of His holy prophets,
Who have been since the world began, That we should be saved from our enemies And from the hand of all who hate us, To perform the mercy promised to our fathers And to remember His holy covenant, The oath which He swore to our father Abraham:
To grant us that we, Being delivered from the hand of our enemies, Might serve Him without fear, In holiness and righteousness before Him all the days of our life.
“And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Highest; For you will go before the face of the Lord to prepare His ways, To give knowledge of salvation to His people By the remission of their sins, Through the tender mercy of our God, With which the Dayspring from on high has visited us;To give light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death,To guide our feet into the way of peace.”
So the child grew and became strong in spirit, and was in the deserts till the day of his manifestation to Israel.
***
Christ Born of Mary And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city.
Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child.
***
So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
Glory in the Highest Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.”
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”
So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.” And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger. Now when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.
Circumcision of Jesus And when eight days were completed for the circumcision of the Child, His name was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before He was conceived in the womb.
Jesus Presented in the Temple Now when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were completed, they brought Him to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord (as it is written in the law of the Lord, “Every male who opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord”), and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the law of the Lord, “A pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons.”
Simeon Sees God’s Salvation And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon, and this man was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. So he came by the Spirit into the temple. And when the parents brought in the Child Jesus, to do for Him according to the custom of the law, he took Him up in his arms and blessed God and said:
“Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace, According to Your word; For my eyes have seen Your salvation Which You have prepared before the face of all peoples, A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, And the glory of Your people Israel.”
And Joseph and His mother marveled at those things which were spoken of Him. Then Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary His mother, “Behold, this Child is destined for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign which will be spoken against (yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”
Anna Bears Witness to the Redeemer Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity; and this woman was a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. And coming in that instant she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem.
The Family Returns to Nazareth So when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own city, Nazareth. And the Child grew and became strong in spirit, filled with wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him.
The Boy Jesus Amazes the Scholars His parents went to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover. And when He was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem according to the custom of the feast. When they had finished the days, as they returned, the Boy Jesus lingered behind in Jerusalem. And Joseph and His mother did not know it; but supposing Him to have been in the company, they went a day’s journey, and sought Him among their relatives and acquaintances. So when they did not find Him, they returned to Jerusalem, seeking Him. Now so it was that after three days they found Him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, both listening to them and asking them questions. And all who heard Him were astonished at His understanding and answers. So when they saw Him, they were amazed; and His mother said to Him, “Son, why have You done this to us? Look, Your father and I have sought You anxiously.”
And He said to them, “Why did you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business?” But they did not understand the statement which He spoke to them.
Jesus Advances in Wisdom and Favor Then He went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was subject to them, but His mother kept all these things in her heart. And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.
Zacharias called out praises for His son at birth, John the Baptist, pre-told by an angel for this child to become the one who comes ahead, pointing to the Lord’s mercy, His desire for repentance, and His blessings of direction forward and fulfillment of Promise.
“And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Highest”
* Yes, Zacharias would call to his son, with knowledge from the Holy Spirit, calling out to the greatest of prophecies and missions and then some.
“For you will go before the face of the Lord to prepare His ways”
*For Zacharias’s son, John the Baptist, was given a mission, to tell the people to “Repent” and “Get Ready” for a great One would come.
“To give knowledge of salvation to His people By the remission of their sins”
*Salvation is from a Savior on a mission, a Messiah to come, John’s announcement will tell the people, remind them, identify the cause of distance from God: sinning. John will tell them that a Savior will be coming – be ready.
“Through the tender mercy of our God”
*MERCY is NOT punishing what could have been punished.
“With which the Dayspring from on high has visited us”
*MERCY is also coming to us, in forgiveness. Heaven facing our issues head on, a new living water to flow. A Mercy to restore us back, a Grace to bring us forward, to Give us HOPE.
“To give light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death”
*Jesus our Lord and Savior, the Light of the World, entering the world to SHOW and SHINE, to guide divinely. Fulfillment of the Prophecies – HOPE of the People.
“To guide our feet into the way of peace.”
*Jesus Prince of Peace, Wonderful Counselor – Savior and Overcomer of the world.
THANK YOU EVERLASTING FATHER, MIGHTY GOD – for YOUR LOVE.
Luke 1-2 NKJV Dedication to Theophilus Inasmuch as many have taken in hand to set in order a narrative of those things which have been fulfilled among us, just as those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word delivered them to us, it seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write to you an orderly account, most excellent Theophilus, that you may know the certainty of those things in which you were instructed.
John’s Birth Announced to Zacharias There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the division of Abijah. His wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth. And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless. But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren, and they were both well advanced in years.
So it was, that while he was serving as priest before God in the order of his division, according to the custom of the priesthood, his lot fell to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord. And the whole multitude of the people was praying outside at the hour of incense. Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing on the right side of the altar of incense. And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him.
But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zacharias, for your prayer is heard; and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth. For he will be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink. He will also be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb. And he will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. He will also go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah, ‘to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children,’ and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.”
And Zacharias said to the angel, “How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is well advanced in years.” And the angel answered and said to him, “I am Gabriel, who stands in the presence of God, and was sent to speak to you and bring you these glad tidings. But behold, you will be mute and not able to speak until the day these things take place, because you did not believe my words which will be fulfilled in their own time.”
And the people waited for Zacharias, and marveled that he lingered so long in the temple. But when he came out, he could not speak to them; and they perceived that he had seen a vision in the temple, for he beckoned to them and remained speechless.
So it was, as soon as the days of his service were completed, that he departed to his own house. Now after those days his wife Elizabeth conceived; and she hid herself five months, saying, “Thus the Lord has dealt with me, in the days when He looked on me, to take away my reproach among people.”
Christ’s Birth Announced to Mary Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. And having come in, the angel said to her, “Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!”
But when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was. Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name Jesus. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.”
Then Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I do not know a man?”
And the angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God. Now indeed, Elizabeth your relative has also conceived a son in her old age; and this is now the sixth month for her who was called barren. For with God nothing will be impossible.”
Then Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.
Mary Visits Elizabeth Now Mary arose in those days and went into the hill country with haste, to a city of Judah, and entered the house of Zacharias and greeted Elizabeth. And it happened, when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, that the babe leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. Then she spoke out with a loud voice and said, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! But why is this granted to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For indeed, as soon as the voice of your greeting sounded in my ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy. Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a fulfillment of those things which were told her from the Lord.”
The Song of Mary And Mary said: “My soul magnifies the Lord, And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior. For He has regarded the lowly state of His maidservant; For behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed. For He who is mighty has done great things for me, And holy is His name. And His mercy is on those who fear Him From generation to generation. He has shown strength with His arm; He has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. He has put down the mighty from their thrones, And exalted the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things, And the rich He has sent away empty. He has helped His servant Israel, In remembrance of His mercy, As He spoke to our fathers, To Abraham and to his seed forever.”
And Mary remained with her [Elizabeth] about three months, and returned to her house.
Birth of John the Baptist Now Elizabeth’s full time came for her to be delivered, and she brought forth a son. When her neighbors and relatives heard how the Lord had shown great mercy to her, they rejoiced with her.
Circumcision of John the Baptist So it was, on the eighth day, that they came to circumcise the child; and they would have called him by the name of his father, Zacharias. His mother answered and said, “No; he shall be called John.” But they said to her, “There is no one among your relatives who is called by this name.” So they made signs to his father—what he would have him called. And he asked for a writing tablet, and wrote, saying, “His name is John.” So they all marveled. Immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue loosed, and he spoke, praising God. Then fear came on all who dwelt around them; and all these sayings were discussed throughout all the hill country of Judea. And all those who heard them kept them in their hearts, saying, “What kind of child will this be?” And the hand of the Lord was with him.
Zacharias’ Prophecy Now his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Spirit, and prophesied, saying:
“Blessed is the Lord God of Israel,For He has visited and redeemed His people,And has raised up a horn of salvation for usIn the house of His servant David,
As He spoke by the mouth of His holy prophets,Who have been since the world began,That we should be saved from our enemiesAnd from the hand of all who hate us,To perform the mercy promised to our fathersAnd to remember His holy covenant,The oath which He swore to our father Abraham:
To grant us that we,Being delivered from the hand of our enemies,Might serve Him without fear,In holiness and righteousness before Him all the days of our life.
***
“And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Highest;
For you will go before the face of the Lord to prepare His ways,
To give knowledge of salvation to His people By the remission of their sins,
Through the tender mercy of our God, With which the Dayspring from on high has visited us;
To give light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death,
To guide our feet into the way of peace.”
So the child grew and became strong in spirit, and was in the deserts till the day of his manifestation to Israel.
***
Christ Born of Mary And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city.
Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child. So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
Glory in the Highest Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.”
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”
So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.” And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger. Now when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.
Circumcision of Jesus And when eight days were completed for the circumcision of the Child, His name was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before He was conceived in the womb.
Jesus Presented in the Temple Now when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were completed, they brought Him to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord (as it is written in the law of the Lord, “Every male who opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord”), and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the law of the Lord, “A pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons.”
Simeon Sees God’s Salvation And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon, and this man was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. So he came by the Spirit into the temple. And when the parents brought in the Child Jesus, to do for Him according to the custom of the law, he took Him up in his arms and blessed God and said:
“Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace, According to Your word; For my eyes have seen Your salvation Which You have prepared before the face of all peoples, A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, And the glory of Your people Israel.”
And Joseph and His mother marveled at those things which were spoken of Him. Then Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary His mother, “Behold, this Child is destined for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign which will be spoken against (yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”
Anna Bears Witness to the Redeemer Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity; and this woman was a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. And coming in that instant she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem.
The Family Returns to Nazareth So when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own city, Nazareth. And the Child grew and became strong in spirit, filled with wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him.
The Boy Jesus Amazes the Scholars His parents went to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover. And when He was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem according to the custom of the feast. When they had finished the days, as they returned, the Boy Jesus lingered behind in Jerusalem. And Joseph and His mother did not know it; but supposing Him to have been in the company, they went a day’s journey, and sought Him among their relatives and acquaintances. So when they did not find Him, they returned to Jerusalem, seeking Him. Now so it was that after three days they found Him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, both listening to them and asking them questions. And all who heard Him were astonished at His understanding and answers. So when they saw Him, they were amazed; and His mother said to Him, “Son, why have You done this to us? Look, Your father and I have sought You anxiously.”
And He said to them, “Why did you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business?” But they did not understand the statement which He spoke to them.
Jesus Advances in Wisdom and Favor Then He went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was subject to them, but His mother kept all these things in her heart. And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.
I often wonder what makes people tick – what fuels their passions to work or live or not… What is it that what we all want? – to have riches or fame ? – or to have wealth and freedom to travel ? – or to simply be left alone to be us?… Hmmm…
Surely we as humans who cling to one another do want to connect with people, be loved and love, and take care of family and friends – and to have what we consider a “fulfilled life”…
I do know that many (all) of us want to live well – and we are in a time where living day to day like our ancestors IS easier for many of us (but not all) – to find shelter and food – which then leads to the other pursuits of life to be wants not needs…
And with all the other needs to meet – emotional needs are still great and strong. The basis of life may have started with living without fear – as Adam and Eve began to live in fear and hiding after the first bit of the apple and the sin of knowing more than they should have. God wanted to protect them and love them – God then had to restore the covenants by giving greatly of Himself – by the birth, death, and resurrection of His Son, Jesus, fully God and fully man.
We want to live without fear – and this is how we can – by knowing our salvation – by knowing our Savior.
We do see that the scriptures in Luke remind us what God-devoted people wanted, spoken by the Prophecy of Zacharias, and still want, and wish for – that is on ongoing theme for the people of Israel (Jacob’s descendants)to be saved from enemies – to be able to serve God without fear – and to stand before God in blessed humility but in Praise of His Salvation… This continues to hold true for all who serve the Lord.
This birth of John the Baptist – prophesied to come be a prophet – caused his father Zacharias to be filled with the Holy Spirit, and he prophesied, saying: “Blessed is the Lord God of Israel, For He has visited and redeemed His people, And has raised up a horn of salvation for us In the house of His servant David, As He spoke by the mouth of His holy prophets, Who have been since the world began, That we should be saved from our enemies And from the hand of all who hate us, To perform the mercy promised to our fathers And to remember His holy covenant, The oath which He swore to our father Abraham: To grant us that we, Being delivered from the hand of our enemies, Might serve Him without fear, In holiness and righteousness before Him all the days of our life.”
And this is where we can see a connection of all people – we will all pass away – either by strife (unfortunately) or by medical stress (unwillingly) or by old age (running out of steam) or by accident (oops)… And all people are also “killed” by the sting of sin in addition to the death by human frailty. And this sting of sin and sting of death can be and is taken away by the already sacrificed life of Jesus – leading us to accept this way – THE WAY – of the Lord – and to live for Him – with Him – by Him.
“Might serve Him without fear, In holiness and righteousness before Him all the days of our life.”
Surely the prophets dreamed and told of these days to live without fear – these are the fulfilments of promise – to know the PROMISE of Jesus delivered. Surely we too can live serving without fear not solely because of our work to get there – but because of the work of the Lord. To know His Righteousness and His Rescue. To transfer His dedication to us to our dedication to love for Him and others.
And what will we do with this freedom from fear? SERVE HIM !!!
Luke 1-2 NKJV Dedication to Theophilus Inasmuch as many have taken in hand to set in order a narrative of those things which have been fulfilled among us, just as those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word delivered them to us, it seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write to you an orderly account, most excellent Theophilus, that you may know the certainty of those things in which you were instructed.
John’s Birth Announced to Zacharias There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the division of Abijah. His wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth. And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless. But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren, and they were both well advanced in years.
So it was, that while he was serving as priest before God in the order of his division, according to the custom of the priesthood, his lot fell to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord. And the whole multitude of the people was praying outside at the hour of incense. Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing on the right side of the altar of incense. And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him.
But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zacharias, for your prayer is heard; and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth. For he will be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink. He will also be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb. And he will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. He will also go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah, ‘to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children,’ and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.”
And Zacharias said to the angel, “How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is well advanced in years.” And the angel answered and said to him, “I am Gabriel, who stands in the presence of God, and was sent to speak to you and bring you these glad tidings. But behold, you will be mute and not able to speak until the day these things take place, because you did not believe my words which will be fulfilled in their own time.”
And the people waited for Zacharias, and marveled that he lingered so long in the temple. But when he came out, he could not speak to them; and they perceived that he had seen a vision in the temple, for he beckoned to them and remained speechless.
So it was, as soon as the days of his service were completed, that he departed to his own house. Now after those days his wife Elizabeth conceived; and she hid herself five months, saying, “Thus the Lord has dealt with me, in the days when He looked on me, to take away my reproach among people.”
Christ’s Birth Announced to Mary Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. And having come in, the angel said to her, “Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!”
But when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was. Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name Jesus. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.”
Then Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I do not know a man?”
And the angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God. Now indeed, Elizabeth your relative has also conceived a son in her old age; and this is now the sixth month for her who was called barren. For with God nothing will be impossible.”
Then Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.
Mary Visits Elizabeth Now Mary arose in those days and went into the hill country with haste, to a city of Judah, and entered the house of Zacharias and greeted Elizabeth. And it happened, when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, that the babe leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. Then she spoke out with a loud voice and said, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! But why is this granted to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For indeed, as soon as the voice of your greeting sounded in my ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy. Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a fulfillment of those things which were told her from the Lord.”
The Song of Mary And Mary said: “My soul magnifies the Lord, And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior. For He has regarded the lowly state of His maidservant; For behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed. For He who is mighty has done great things for me, And holy is His name. And His mercy is on those who fear Him From generation to generation. He has shown strength with His arm; He has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. He has put down the mighty from their thrones, And exalted the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things, And the rich He has sent away empty. He has helped His servant Israel, In remembrance of His mercy, As He spoke to our fathers, To Abraham and to his seed forever.”
And Mary remained with her [Elizabeth] about three months, and returned to her house.
Birth of John the Baptist Now Elizabeth’s full time came for her to be delivered, and she brought forth a son. When her neighbors and relatives heard how the Lord had shown great mercy to her, they rejoiced with her.
Circumcision of John the Baptist So it was, on the eighth day, that they came to circumcise the child; and they would have called him by the name of his father, Zacharias. His mother answered and said, “No; he shall be called John.” But they said to her, “There is no one among your relatives who is called by this name.” So they made signs to his father—what he would have him called. And he asked for a writing tablet, and wrote, saying, “His name is John.” So they all marveled. Immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue loosed, and he spoke, praising God. Then fear came on all who dwelt around them; and all these sayings were discussed throughout all the hill country of Judea. And all those who heard them kept them in their hearts, saying, “What kind of child will this be?” And the hand of the Lord was with him.
Zacharias’ Prophecy Now his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Spirit, and prophesied, saying:
“Blessed is the Lord God of Israel, For He has visited and redeemed His people, And has raised up a horn of salvation for us In the house of His servant David,
***
As He spoke by the mouth of His holy prophets, Who have been since the world began, That we should be saved from our enemies And from the hand of all who hate us, To perform the mercy promised to our fathers And to remember His holy covenant, The oath which He swore to our father Abraham:
To grant us that we, Being delivered from the hand of our enemies, Might serve Him without fear, In holiness and righteousness before Him all the days of our life.
***
“And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Highest; For you will go before the face of the Lord to prepare His ways, To give knowledge of salvation to His people By the remission of their sins, Through the tender mercy of our God, With which the Dayspring from on high has visited us;To give light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death,To guide our feet into the way of peace.”
So the child grew and became strong in spirit, and was in the deserts till the day of his manifestation to Israel.
Christ Born of Mary And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city.
Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child. So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
Glory in the Highest Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.”
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”
So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.” And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger. Now when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.
Circumcision of Jesus And when eight days were completed for the circumcision of the Child, His name was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before He was conceived in the womb.
Jesus Presented in the Temple Now when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were completed, they brought Him to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord (as it is written in the law of the Lord, “Every male who opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord”), and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the law of the Lord, “A pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons.”
Simeon Sees God’s Salvation And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon, and this man was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. So he came by the Spirit into the temple. And when the parents brought in the Child Jesus, to do for Him according to the custom of the law, he took Him up in his arms and blessed God and said:
“Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace, According to Your word; For my eyes have seen Your salvation Which You have prepared before the face of all peoples, A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, And the glory of Your people Israel.”
And Joseph and His mother marveled at those things which were spoken of Him. Then Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary His mother, “Behold, this Child is destined for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign which will be spoken against (yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”
Anna Bears Witness to the Redeemer Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity; and this woman was a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. And coming in that instant she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem.
The Family Returns to Nazareth So when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own city, Nazareth. And the Child grew and became strong in spirit, filled with wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him.
The Boy Jesus Amazes the Scholars His parents went to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover. And when He was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem according to the custom of the feast. When they had finished the days, as they returned, the Boy Jesus lingered behind in Jerusalem. And Joseph and His mother did not know it; but supposing Him to have been in the company, they went a day’s journey, and sought Him among their relatives and acquaintances. So when they did not find Him, they returned to Jerusalem, seeking Him. Now so it was that after three days they found Him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, both listening to them and asking them questions. And all who heard Him were astonished at His understanding and answers. So when they saw Him, they were amazed; and His mother said to Him, “Son, why have You done this to us? Look, Your father and I have sought You anxiously.”
And He said to them, “Why did you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business?” But they did not understand the statement which He spoke to them.
Jesus Advances in Wisdom and Favor Then He went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was subject to them, but His mother kept all these things in her heart. And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.
It is good to question – it is good to write!!!! In this next section of Luke – the coming of John the Baptist and of Jesus – the next section is about Zacharias’s prophecy. Now his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Spirit, and prophesied, saying: “Blessed is the Lord God of Israel, For He has visited and redeemed His people, And has raised up a horn of salvation for us in the house of His servant David,” …
Sure I asked google – “what is a HORN of Salvation?” – and of course the first answer is Jesus – YAY – and the answer continues the raising up is the strengthening and the call and the everything (and there are there are interesting tidbits of answers here: https:// www.gotquestions.org/horn-of-salvation.html)
I also sent this question to a new professor friend pastor. In these over 10 years of my faith 100% with Jesus, life (as in the Holy Spirit) has brought me many more folks who look into these deep question things – the nuances – the many interpretations or words that might have been different translations…
So without torturing the text, it’s still good to probe…
The Horn of Salvation: We know the answer is Jesus – for our Salvation is by His acts – and yet I did ask: does this horn refer to the old horns of the day (animal for ?) AND OR the new horn sound from the trumpet that will shout out when Jesus comes back? or maybe probably ALL of it! I know that the google searches can only bring you so far – information wise – and the Holy Spirit knows all… Plus the time of the writing – Zacharias didn’t have to say everything – the Bible doesn’t have to tell us everything – and Luke didn’t have to list everything because his readers would have perhaps studied the scriptures and known already – whereas we (as a society and even modern christians don’t dig into all the old testament work as we should…)
Anyway my new professor pastor friend said: “Luke 1:69 seems to be a direct reference to Psalm 18:2. “Horn” here is used as a metaphor for strength (picture two antelope or rams bashing heads) rather than any derivative use, such as a musical instrument or a receptacle for oil. (The Leviticus geek in me is tempted to make a reference to the horns of the altar, which were splashed with blood on the day of atonement…)”
Yeah well cool! Glad I asked!
Questions are good…
Answers are discussed
And Salvation is worth the exclamation of Zacharias!
Anyway – as this day, December 10th, is a special anniversary day – 11 years ago I wrote a diatribe of my lack of faith – which led to more writing – and more faith – this day is a reminder to KEEP ASKING QUESTIONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!
And keep praising!!!
For 11 years since Dec 10th 2014, when the Lord decided it was fine time to get my head on straight over the course of 2 months 2014-2015, I had a tremendous awakening that caused me to write it all out. Yes, my first 10-15 writings or so were so raw and yet needed to process – and then in that first 50 writings and life interactions, I landed Feb 1st 2015 with 100% trust and love and knowledge and belief in Jesus. It was totally like the Lord God led me to Jesus as Lord and Savior – and I had to accept what I could no longer deny…
BLESSED BLESSED BLESSED…
So, I continue to write now – processing and learning and sharing….
So blessed to keep asking deeper into faith while simply accepting Jesus as All in All!!! Blessed is the Lord God of Israel, for He has visited and redeemed His people, and me too… He has raised up a horn of salvation for the house of His servant David AND us Gentiles too!!
Luke 1-2 NKJV Dedication to Theophilus Inasmuch as many have taken in hand to set in order a narrative of those things which have been fulfilled among us, just as those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word delivered them to us, it seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write to you an orderly account, most excellent Theophilus, that you may know the certainty of those things in which you were instructed.
John’s Birth Announced to Zacharias There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the division of Abijah. His wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth. And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless. But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren, and they were both well advanced in years.
So it was, that while he was serving as priest before God in the order of his division, according to the custom of the priesthood, his lot fell to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord. And the whole multitude of the people was praying outside at the hour of incense. Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing on the right side of the altar of incense. And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him.
But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zacharias, for your prayer is heard; and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth. For he will be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink. He will also be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb. And he will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. He will also go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah, ‘to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children,’ and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.”
And Zacharias said to the angel, “How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is well advanced in years.” And the angel answered and said to him, “I am Gabriel, who stands in the presence of God, and was sent to speak to you and bring you these glad tidings. But behold, you will be mute and not able to speak until the day these things take place, because you did not believe my words which will be fulfilled in their own time.”
And the people waited for Zacharias, and marveled that he lingered so long in the temple. But when he came out, he could not speak to them; and they perceived that he had seen a vision in the temple, for he beckoned to them and remained speechless.
So it was, as soon as the days of his service were completed, that he departed to his own house. Now after those days his wife Elizabeth conceived; and she hid herself five months, saying, “Thus the Lord has dealt with me, in the days when He looked on me, to take away my reproach among people.”
Christ’s Birth Announced to Mary Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. And having come in, the angel said to her, “Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!”
But when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was. Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name Jesus. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.”
Then Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I do not know a man?”
And the angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God. Now indeed, Elizabeth your relative has also conceived a son in her old age; and this is now the sixth month for her who was called barren. For with God nothing will be impossible.”
Then Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.
Mary Visits Elizabeth Now Mary arose in those days and went into the hill country with haste, to a city of Judah, and entered the house of Zacharias and greeted Elizabeth. And it happened, when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, that the babe leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. Then she spoke out with a loud voice and said, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! But why is this granted to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For indeed, as soon as the voice of your greeting sounded in my ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy. Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a fulfillment of those things which were told her from the Lord.”
The Song of Mary And Mary said: “My soul magnifies the Lord, And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior. For He has regarded the lowly state of His maidservant; For behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed. For He who is mighty has done great things for me, And holy is His name. And His mercy is on those who fear Him From generation to generation. He has shown strength with His arm; He has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. He has put down the mighty from their thrones, And exalted the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things, And the rich He has sent away empty. He has helped His servant Israel, In remembrance of His mercy, As He spoke to our fathers, To Abraham and to his seed forever.”
And Mary remained with her [Elizabeth] about three months, and returned to her house.
Birth of John the Baptist Now Elizabeth’s full time came for her to be delivered, and she brought forth a son. When her neighbors and relatives heard how the Lord had shown great mercy to her, they rejoiced with her.
Circumcision of John the Baptist So it was, on the eighth day, that they came to circumcise the child; and they would have called him by the name of his father, Zacharias. His mother answered and said, “No; he shall be called John.” But they said to her, “There is no one among your relatives who is called by this name.” So they made signs to his father—what he would have him called. And he asked for a writing tablet, and wrote, saying, “His name is John.” So they all marveled. Immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue loosed, and he spoke, praising God. Then fear came on all who dwelt around them; and all these sayings were discussed throughout all the hill country of Judea. And all those who heard them kept them in their hearts, saying, “What kind of child will this be?” And the hand of the Lord was with him.
***
Zacharias’ Prophecy Now his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Spirit, and prophesied, saying:
“Blessed is the Lord God of Israel, For He has visited and redeemed His people, And has raised up a horn of salvation for us In the house of His servant David,
***
As He spoke by the mouth of His holy prophets, Who have been since the world began, That we should be saved from our enemies And from the hand of all who hate us, To perform the mercy promised to our fathers And to remember His holy covenant, The oath which He swore to our father Abraham: To grant us that we, Being delivered from the hand of our enemies, Might serve Him without fear, In holiness and righteousness before Him all the days of our life.
“And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Highest; For you will go before the face of the Lord to prepare His ways, To give knowledge of salvation to His people By the remission of their sins, Through the tender mercy of our God, With which the Dayspring from on high has visited us;To give light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death,To guide our feet into the way of peace.”
So the child grew and became strong in spirit, and was in the deserts till the day of his manifestation to Israel.
Christ Born of Mary And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city.
Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child. So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
Glory in the Highest Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.”
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”
So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.” And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger. Now when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.
Circumcision of Jesus And when eight days were completed for the circumcision of the Child, His name was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before He was conceived in the womb.
Jesus Presented in the Temple Now when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were completed, they brought Him to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord (as it is written in the law of the Lord, “Every male who opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord”), and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the law of the Lord, “A pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons.”
Simeon Sees God’s Salvation And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon, and this man was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. So he came by the Spirit into the temple. And when the parents brought in the Child Jesus, to do for Him according to the custom of the law, he took Him up in his arms and blessed God and said:
“Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace, According to Your word; For my eyes have seen Your salvation Which You have prepared before the face of all peoples, A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, And the glory of Your people Israel.”
And Joseph and His mother marveled at those things which were spoken of Him. Then Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary His mother, “Behold, this Child is destined for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign which will be spoken against (yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”
Anna Bears Witness to the Redeemer Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity; and this woman was a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. And coming in that instant she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem.
The Family Returns to Nazareth So when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own city, Nazareth. And the Child grew and became strong in spirit, filled with wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him.
The Boy Jesus Amazes the Scholars His parents went to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover. And when He was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem according to the custom of the feast. When they had finished the days, as they returned, the Boy Jesus lingered behind in Jerusalem. And Joseph and His mother did not know it; but supposing Him to have been in the company, they went a day’s journey, and sought Him among their relatives and acquaintances. So when they did not find Him, they returned to Jerusalem, seeking Him. Now so it was that after three days they found Him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, both listening to them and asking them questions. And all who heard Him were astonished at His understanding and answers. So when they saw Him, they were amazed; and His mother said to Him, “Son, why have You done this to us? Look, Your father and I have sought You anxiously.”
And He said to them, “Why did you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business?” But they did not understand the statement which He spoke to them.
Jesus Advances in Wisdom and Favor Then He went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was subject to them, but His mother kept all these things in her heart. And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.
What’s in a name? We get stuck on names – and interestingly the big movie in theaters now has a whole storyline based on the mispronunciation of a name. It was important but not… I myself get a little picky of how people call me – but usually I don’t share that – I am not a Deb or a Deborah – but a Debbie – with all the imagination that I put into it – for me it is not just personality of over a serious formal or non-childlike nickname – it is just what I like… Either way it is OK when someone who doesn’t mean anything wrong to call me Diane (someone said that Sunday to me – it was OK, and also for Diane I appreciate that my take out food greeter recognizes me now and doesn’t give me Diane’s order instead of Debbie) or old days call me Linda or Cathy (people called me those names as a child) or even most recently had called me Beth or Bonnie (two of my great role models so I don’t mind) – or call me whatever name they think I am… It is better for me to be graceful than right – or rude. I am sure you know of others or yourself with different accents or spelling on your name. It happens – it is OK.
If we get caught in tradition to a fault, to the point of ignoring God, then we are caught in worldly ways. It better to be praising God with our lips than spending the time being complaining or be crass or worst speaking evil.
And what’s in a name? It is tradition to name sons from their fathers or grandfathers – depending upon culture – and yet in the biblical births of John the Baptist and of Jesus, the Lord God sent angel Gabriel to name these sons of impact. Here is the scripture of the parents (Elizabeth and Zacharias) in the naming of John the Baptist – by an amazing connection of the Spirit: So it was, on the eighth day, that they came to circumcise the child; and they would have called him by the name of his father, Zacharias. His mother answered and said, “No; he shall be called John.” But they said to her, “There is no one among your relatives who is called by this name.” So they made signs to his father—what he would have him called. And he asked for a writing tablet, and wrote, saying, “His name is John.” So they all marveled.
Yes, the Lord sent this name and this child to these parents who were dutiful and good – and knew this son was chosen “to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.”
Zacharias had been made silent at the time that he was talking ot the angel after questioning the whole notion of having a son – by his aged wife – and that silence lasted – UNTIL the proclamation of John’s name by writing it on a tablet – to confirm wife Elizabeth’s proclamation. Immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue loosed, and he spoke, praising God.
PRAISING GOD – may our mouths always be praising – be thankful and praising. Jesus said: “those things which proceed out of the mouth come from the heart, and they defile a man. For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies.” (Matthew 15:18)
As for the people who heard Zacharias praising, well – they knew God had made a move – God was causing this within their midst and they had reverent fear – and awe – they kept the knowledge that God was at work, as we should too. The people around the area were marveling: Then fear came on all who dwelt around them; and all these sayings were discussed throughout all the hill country of Judea. And all those who heard them kept them in their hearts, saying, “What kind of child will this be?” And the hand of the Lord was with him.
AND THE HAND OF THE LORD WAS WITH HIM – John the Baptist would move ahead of Jesus and PREPARE the WAY – share knowledge of the need of repentance – and explain that God was active in the times… People would know – and look out for Jesus.
How about us – would we let anything stand in our way of praising God? Even if we didn’t know all God’s reasons? Would we be able to live less worldly and more faithfully knowing that God IS moving – God IS giving opportunity to praise and to share and to live more peacefully? We can spend our days best by speaking best of the Lord – praise praise praise for all to hear…
AMEN
Luke 1-2 NKJV Dedication to Theophilus Inasmuch as many have taken in hand to set in order a narrative of those things which have been fulfilled among us, just as those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word delivered them to us, it seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write to you an orderly account, most excellent Theophilus, that you may know the certainty of those things in which you were instructed.
John’s Birth Announced to Zacharias There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the division of Abijah. His wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth. And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless. But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren, and they were both well advanced in years.
So it was, that while he was serving as priest before God in the order of his division, according to the custom of the priesthood, his lot fell to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord. And the whole multitude of the people was praying outside at the hour of incense. Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing on the right side of the altar of incense. And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him.
But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zacharias, for your prayer is heard; and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth. For he will be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink. He will also be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb. And he will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. He will also go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah, ‘to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children,’ and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.”
And Zacharias said to the angel, “How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is well advanced in years.” And the angel answered and said to him, “I am Gabriel, who stands in the presence of God, and was sent to speak to you and bring you these glad tidings. But behold, you will be mute and not able to speak until the day these things take place, because you did not believe my words which will be fulfilled in their own time.”
And the people waited for Zacharias, and marveled that he lingered so long in the temple. But when he came out, he could not speak to them; and they perceived that he had seen a vision in the temple, for he beckoned to them and remained speechless.
So it was, as soon as the days of his service were completed, that he departed to his own house. Now after those days his wife Elizabeth conceived; and she hid herself five months, saying, “Thus the Lord has dealt with me, in the days when He looked on me, to take away my reproach among people.”
Christ’s Birth Announced to Mary Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. And having come in, the angel said to her, “Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!”
But when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was. Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name Jesus. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.”
Then Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I do not know a man?”
And the angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God. Now indeed, Elizabeth your relative has also conceived a son in her old age; and this is now the sixth month for her who was called barren. For with God nothing will be impossible.”
Then Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.
Mary Visits Elizabeth Now Mary arose in those days and went into the hill country with haste, to a city of Judah, and entered the house of Zacharias and greeted Elizabeth. And it happened, when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, that the babe leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. Then she spoke out with a loud voice and said, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! But why is this granted to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For indeed, as soon as the voice of your greeting sounded in my ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy. Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a fulfillment of those things which were told her from the Lord.”
The Song of Mary And Mary said: “My soul magnifies the Lord, And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior. For He has regarded the lowly state of His maidservant; For behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed. For He who is mighty has done great things for me, And holy is His name. And His mercy is on those who fear Him From generation to generation. He has shown strength with His arm; He has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. He has put down the mighty from their thrones, And exalted the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things, And the rich He has sent away empty. He has helped His servant Israel, In remembrance of His mercy, As He spoke to our fathers, To Abraham and to his seed forever.”
And Mary remained with her [Elizabeth] about three months, and returned to her house.
Birth of John the Baptist Now Elizabeth’s full time came for her to be delivered, and she brought forth a son. When her neighbors and relatives heard how the Lord had shown great mercy to her, they rejoiced with her.
*** Circumcision of John the Baptist So it was, on the eighth day, that they came to circumcise the child; and they would have called him by the name of his father, Zacharias. His mother answered and said, “No; he shall be called John.” But they said to her, “There is no one among your relatives who is called by this name.” So they made signs to his father—what he would have him called. And he asked for a writing tablet, and wrote, saying, “His name is John.” So they all marveled. Immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue loosed, and he spoke, praising God. Then fear came on all who dwelt around them; and all these sayings were discussed throughout all the hill country of Judea. And all those who heard them kept them in their hearts, saying, “What kind of child will this be?” And the hand of the Lord was with him. ***
Zacharias’ Prophecy Now his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Spirit, and prophesied, saying:
“Blessed is the Lord God of Israel, For He has visited and redeemed His people, And has raised up a horn of salvation for us In the house of His servant David, As He spoke by the mouth of His holy prophets, Who have been since the world began, That we should be saved from our enemies And from the hand of all who hate us, To perform the mercy promised to our fathers And to remember His holy covenant, The oath which He swore to our father Abraham: To grant us that we, Being delivered from the hand of our enemies, Might serve Him without fear, In holiness and righteousness before Him all the days of our life.
“And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Highest; For you will go before the face of the Lord to prepare His ways, To give knowledge of salvation to His people By the remission of their sins, Through the tender mercy of our God, With which the Dayspring from on high has visited us;To give light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death,To guide our feet into the way of peace.”
So the child grew and became strong in spirit, and was in the deserts till the day of his manifestation to Israel.
Christ Born of Mary And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city.
Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child. So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
Glory in the Highest Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.”
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”
So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.” And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger. Now when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.
Circumcision of Jesus And when eight days were completed for the circumcision of the Child, His name was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before He was conceived in the womb.
Jesus Presented in the Temple Now when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were completed, they brought Him to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord (as it is written in the law of the Lord, “Every male who opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord”), and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the law of the Lord, “A pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons.”
Simeon Sees God’s Salvation And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon, and this man was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. So he came by the Spirit into the temple. And when the parents brought in the Child Jesus, to do for Him according to the custom of the law, he took Him up in his arms and blessed God and said:
“Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace, According to Your word; For my eyes have seen Your salvation Which You have prepared before the face of all peoples, A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, And the glory of Your people Israel.”
And Joseph and His mother marveled at those things which were spoken of Him. Then Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary His mother, “Behold, this Child is destined for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign which will be spoken against (yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”
Anna Bears Witness to the Redeemer Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity; and this woman was a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. And coming in that instant she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem.
The Family Returns to Nazareth So when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own city, Nazareth. And the Child grew and became strong in spirit, filled with wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him.
The Boy Jesus Amazes the Scholars His parents went to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover. And when He was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem according to the custom of the feast. When they had finished the days, as they returned, the Boy Jesus lingered behind in Jerusalem. And Joseph and His mother did not know it; but supposing Him to have been in the company, they went a day’s journey, and sought Him among their relatives and acquaintances. So when they did not find Him, they returned to Jerusalem, seeking Him. Now so it was that after three days they found Him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, both listening to them and asking them questions. And all who heard Him were astonished at His understanding and answers. So when they saw Him, they were amazed; and His mother said to Him, “Son, why have You done this to us? Look, Your father and I have sought You anxiously.”
And He said to them, “Why did you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business?” But they did not understand the statement which He spoke to them.
Jesus Advances in Wisdom and Favor Then He went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was subject to them, but His mother kept all these things in her heart. And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.
HUMBLE – that is a great word to describe Mary, mother of Jesus. Mary was HUMBLE, not ENTITLED.
God sent an angel to tell her – and God sent a Son to dwell and grow in her – and God sent a Savior to save her – AND US…
…
HUMBLE
Unbelievable
Mary
Bearing Our
Lord
Emmanuel – God with us… …
Mary was a teenager when she learned her whole life would change – and she dedicated herself to that duty that the Lord established into her. Mary had an encouragement from her relative Elizabeth who praises: “Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a fulfillment of those things which were told her from the Lord.” – Recorded in the Gospel of Luke chapters 1 and 2.
Mary sings in response of this amazing fulfillment of time: Mary said: “My soul magnifies the Lord, And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior. For He has regarded the lowly state of His maidservant; For behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed. For He who is mighty has done great things for me, And holy is His name.”
And as I think back to my life at that time of teenager-ness – God also intervened and helped me feel my worth in an age that was and is so broken for so many – so tumultuous between childhood and growing into adulthood – so emotionally wrought – so unknown… God intervenes to show us worth – God reaches us to make us worthy – God grows in us to show us LOVE.
Mary was realizing that she was regarded as His maidservant – but not in an entitled way – Mary would choose to accept this with humility, and she knew that it was God “has regarded the lowly state” of her. AND THAT lowly not worthy state IS OUR OWN SELVES AS WELL – lowly as we are on this broken earth and in need of our Savior. MERCY as we would be humanly condemned but instead we are spiritually uplifted with GRACE. “AND HOLY IS HIS NAME.”
“And His mercy is on those who fear Him From generation to generation. He has shown strength with His arm; He has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. He has put down the mighty from their thrones, And exalted the lowly.” – “He has filled the hungry with good things, And the rich He has sent away empty.” – Remember how we can give up worldly things to accept that treasures are in Heaven and that we are to be hungry for the Spirit.
“He has helped His servant Israel, In remembrance of His mercy, As He spoke to our fathers, To Abraham and to his seed forever.” – Mary gives us a history HIS story lesson – that the Messiah would come from the nations born of Jacob (Israel) who wrestled with God and saw the angels up and down to heaven as on a ladder. That the Messiah would come from amongst the many promised descendants of Abraham – revered as God’s friend and servant – who lived humbly and walked with God. Mary would understand God’s continuity and goodness – His Almightiness and Majestic Ways – and His Mission.
HUMBLE not ENTITLED, Mary will birth Jesus for ALL of US – “Jesus-ers” and “soon to be Jesus-ers” and “Jesus-wants-you-to-know-Him-ers” – EVERYONE…
ALLELUIA and AMEN
Luke 1-2 NKJV Dedication to Theophilus Inasmuch as many have taken in hand to set in order a narrative of those things which have been fulfilled among us, just as those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word delivered them to us, it seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write to you an orderly account, most excellent Theophilus, that you may know the certainty of those things in which you were instructed.
John’s Birth Announced to Zacharias There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the division of Abijah. His wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth. And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless. But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren, and they were both well advanced in years.
So it was, that while he was serving as priest before God in the order of his division, according to the custom of the priesthood, his lot fell to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord. And the whole multitude of the people was praying outside at the hour of incense. Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing on the right side of the altar of incense. And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him.
But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zacharias, for your prayer is heard; and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth. For he will be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink. He will also be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb. And he will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. He will also go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah, ‘to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children,’ and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.”
And Zacharias said to the angel, “How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is well advanced in years.” And the angel answered and said to him, “I am Gabriel, who stands in the presence of God, and was sent to speak to you and bring you these glad tidings. But behold, you will be mute and not able to speak until the day these things take place, because you did not believe my words which will be fulfilled in their own time.”
And the people waited for Zacharias, and marveled that he lingered so long in the temple. But when he came out, he could not speak to them; and they perceived that he had seen a vision in the temple, for he beckoned to them and remained speechless.
So it was, as soon as the days of his service were completed, that he departed to his own house. Now after those days his wife Elizabeth conceived; and she hid herself five months, saying, “Thus the Lord has dealt with me, in the days when He looked on me, to take away my reproach among people.”
Christ’s Birth Announced to Mary Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. And having come in, the angel said to her, “Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!”
But when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was. Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name Jesus. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.”
Then Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I do not know a man?”
And the angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God. Now indeed, Elizabeth your relative has also conceived a son in her old age; and this is now the sixth month for her who was called barren. For with God nothing will be impossible.”
Then Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.
Mary Visits Elizabeth Now Mary arose in those days and went into the hill country with haste, to a city of Judah, and entered the house of Zacharias and greeted Elizabeth. And it happened, when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, that the babe leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. Then she spoke out with a loud voice and said, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! But why is this granted to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For indeed, as soon as the voice of your greeting sounded in my ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy. Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a fulfillment of those things which were told her from the Lord.” **** The Song of Mary And Mary said: “My soul magnifies the Lord, And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior. For He has regarded the lowly state of His maidservant; For behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed. For He who is mighty has done great things for me, And holy is His name. And His mercy is on those who fear Him From generation to generation. He has shown strength with His arm; He has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. He has put down the mighty from their thrones, And exalted the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things, And the rich He has sent away empty. He has helped His servant Israel, In remembrance of His mercy, As He spoke to our fathers, To Abraham and to his seed forever.”
And Mary remained with her [Elizabeth] about three months, and returned to her house. ***
Birth of John the Baptist Now Elizabeth’s full time came for her to be delivered, and she brought forth a son. When her neighbors and relatives heard how the Lord had shown great mercy to her, they rejoiced with her.
Circumcision of John the Baptist So it was, on the eighth day, that they came to circumcise the child; and they would have called him by the name of his father, Zacharias. His mother answered and said, “No; he shall be called John.”
But they said to her, “There is no one among your relatives who is called by this name.” So they made signs to his father—what he would have him called.
And he asked for a writing tablet, and wrote, saying, “His name is John.” So they all marveled. Immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue loosed, and he spoke, praising God. Then fear came on all who dwelt around them; and all these sayings were discussed throughout all the hill country of Judea. And all those who heard them kept them in their hearts, saying, “What kind of child will this be?” And the hand of the Lord was with him.
Zacharias’ Prophecy Now his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Spirit, and prophesied, saying:
“Blessed is the Lord God of Israel, For He has visited and redeemed His people, And has raised up a horn of salvation for us In the house of His servant David, As He spoke by the mouth of His holy prophets, Who have been since the world began, That we should be saved from our enemies And from the hand of all who hate us, To perform the mercy promised to our fathers And to remember His holy covenant, The oath which He swore to our father Abraham: To grant us that we, Being delivered from the hand of our enemies, Might serve Him without fear, In holiness and righteousness before Him all the days of our life.
“And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Highest; For you will go before the face of the Lord to prepare His ways, To give knowledge of salvation to His people By the remission of their sins, Through the tender mercy of our God, With which the Dayspring from on high has visited us;To give light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death,To guide our feet into the way of peace.”
So the child grew and became strong in spirit, and was in the deserts till the day of his manifestation to Israel.
Christ Born of Mary And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city.
Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child. So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
Glory in the Highest Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.”
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”
So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.” And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger. Now when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.
Circumcision of Jesus And when eight days were completed for the circumcision of the Child, His name was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before He was conceived in the womb.
Jesus Presented in the Temple Now when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were completed, they brought Him to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord (as it is written in the law of the Lord, “Every male who opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord”), and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the law of the Lord, “A pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons.”
Simeon Sees God’s Salvation And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon, and this man was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. So he came by the Spirit into the temple. And when the parents brought in the Child Jesus, to do for Him according to the custom of the law, he took Him up in his arms and blessed God and said:
“Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace, According to Your word; For my eyes have seen Your salvation Which You have prepared before the face of all peoples, A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, And the glory of Your people Israel.”
And Joseph and His mother marveled at those things which were spoken of Him. Then Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary His mother, “Behold, this Child is destined for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign which will be spoken against (yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”
Anna Bears Witness to the Redeemer Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity; and this woman was a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. And coming in that instant she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem.
The Family Returns to Nazareth So when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own city, Nazareth. And the Child grew and became strong in spirit, filled with wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him. The Boy Jesus Amazes the Scholars His parents went to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover. And when He was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem according to the custom of the feast. When they had finished the days, as they returned, the Boy Jesus lingered behind in Jerusalem. And Joseph and His mother did not know it; but supposing Him to have been in the company, they went a day’s journey, and sought Him among their relatives and acquaintances. So when they did not find Him, they returned to Jerusalem, seeking Him. Now soit was that after three days they found Him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, both listening to them and asking them questions. And all who heard Him were astonished at His understanding and answers. So when they saw Him, they were amazed; and His mother said to Him, “Son, why have You done this to us? Look, Your father and I have sought You anxiously.”
And He said to them, “Why did you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business?” But they did not understand the statement which He spoke to them.
Jesus Advances in Wisdom and Favor Then He went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was subject to them, but His mother kept all these things in her heart. And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.
These are but a few of the benefits of knowing Jesus.
Salvation – Forgiveness – HOPE – JOY – and FOREVERNESS
If you don’t know Jesus – at least know that JESUS WANTS TO MEET YOU
JESUS ALREADY KNOWS US – and each of our souls – souls leap at the knowledge of Jesus – one just has to feel the deep deep leap that is TRYING to be noticed…
Jesus, fully God and fully man, was fully “delivered” by the Holy Spirit before He was even born – and that FULFILLMENT of years of prophecy came first as a message from an Angel Gabriel to Mary, His earthly mothers womb, Mary. John the Baptist, a prophet from God sent to pre-tell the world about Jesus Messiah, was 6 months grown in his mother’s womb, Mary’s relative Elizabeth. Baby John LEAPT FOR JOY in Elizabeth’s womb upon Mary’s visit to see her. “Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a fulfillment of those things which were told her from the Lord.”
Yes blessings abound for those who believe and for those who follow that leap that is deep – the knowledge of Jesus becomes the foundation of faith that continues to bless us – Jesus is the PROMISE fulfilled.
Jesus’s Arrival on Earth was pre-planned from the beginning – and His Return will be our next great prophecy fulfilled – in the meantime – KEEP THE FAITH!
KEEP THE FAITH
AMEN
Luke 1 section: Now Mary arose in those days and went into the hill country with haste, to a city of Judah, and entered the house of Zacharias and greeted Elizabeth. And it happened, when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, that the babe leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. Then she spoke out with a loud voice and said, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! But why is this granted to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For indeed, as soon as the voice of your greeting sounded in my ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy. Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a fulfillment of those things which were told herfrom the Lord.”
Isaiah 9:6-7 NKJV Prophecy from hundreds of years prior: For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and peace There will be no end, Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, To order it and establish it with judgment and justice From that time forward, even forever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.
—
Luke 1-2 NKJV Dedication to Theophilus Inasmuch as many have taken in hand to set in order a narrative of those things which have been fulfilled among us, just as those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word delivered them to us, it seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write to you an orderly account, most excellent Theophilus, that you may know the certainty of those things in which you were instructed.
John’s Birth Announced to Zacharias There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the division of Abijah. His wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth. And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless. But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren, and they were both well advanced in years.
So it was, that while he was serving as priest before God in the order of his division, according to the custom of the priesthood, his lot fell to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord. And the whole multitude of the people was praying outside at the hour of incense. Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing on the right side of the altar of incense. And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him.
But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zacharias, for your prayer is heard; and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth. For he will be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink. He will also be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb. And he will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. He will also go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah, ‘to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children,’ and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.”
And Zacharias said to the angel, “How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is well advanced in years.” And the angel answered and said to him, “I am Gabriel, who stands in the presence of God, and was sent to speak to you and bring you these glad tidings. But behold, you will be mute and not able to speak until the day these things take place, because you did not believe my words which will be fulfilled in their own time.”
And the people waited for Zacharias, and marveled that he lingered so long in the temple. But when he came out, he could not speak to them; and they perceived that he had seen a vision in the temple, for he beckoned to them and remained speechless.
So it was, as soon as the days of his service were completed, that he departed to his own house. Now after those days his wife Elizabeth conceived; and she hid herself five months, saying, “Thus the Lord has dealt with me, in the days when He looked on me, to take away my reproach among people.”
Christ’s Birth Announced to Mary Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. And having come in, the angel said to her, “Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!”
But when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was. Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name Jesus. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.”
Then Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I do not know a man?”
And the angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God. Now indeed, Elizabeth your relative has also conceived a son in her old age; and this is now the sixth month for her who was called barren. For with God nothing will be impossible.”
Then Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.
*** Mary Visits Elizabeth
Now Mary arose in those days and went into the hill country with haste, to a city of Judah, and entered the house of Zacharias and greeted Elizabeth. And it happened, when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, that the babe leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. Then she spoke out with a loud voice and said, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! But why is this granted to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For indeed, as soon as the voice of your greeting sounded in my ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy. Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a fulfillment of those things which were told her from the Lord.”
***
The Song of Mary And Mary said: “My soul magnifies the Lord, And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior. For He has regarded the lowly state of His maidservant; For behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed. For He who is mighty has done great things for me, And holy is His name. And His mercy is on those who fear Him From generation to generation. He has shown strength with His arm; He has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. He has put down the mighty from their thrones, And exalted the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things, And the rich He has sent away empty. He has helped His servant Israel, In remembrance of His mercy, As He spoke to our fathers, To Abraham and to his seed forever.”
And Mary remained with her about three months, and returned to her house.
Birth of John the Baptist Now Elizabeth’s full time came for her to be delivered, and she brought forth a son. When her neighbors and relatives heard how the Lord had shown great mercy to her, they rejoiced with her.
Circumcision of John the Baptist So it was, on the eighth day, that they came to circumcise the child; and they would have called him by the name of his father, Zacharias. His mother answered and said, “No; he shall be called John.”
But they said to her, “There is no one among your relatives who is called by this name.” So they made signs to his father—what he would have him called.
And he asked for a writing tablet, and wrote, saying, “His name is John.” So they all marveled. Immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue loosed, and he spoke, praising God. Then fear came on all who dwelt around them; and all these sayings were discussed throughout all the hill country of Judea. And all those who heard them kept them in their hearts, saying, “What kind of child will this be?” And the hand of the Lord was with him.
Zacharias’ Prophecy Now his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Spirit, and prophesied, saying:
“Blessed is the Lord God of Israel, For He has visited and redeemed His people, And has raised up a horn of salvation for us In the house of His servant David, As He spoke by the mouth of His holy prophets, Who have been since the world began, That we should be saved from our enemies And from the hand of all who hate us, To perform the mercy promised to our fathers And to remember His holy covenant, The oath which He swore to our father Abraham: To grant us that we, Being delivered from the hand of our enemies, Might serve Him without fear, In holiness and righteousness before Him all the days of our life.
“And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Highest; For you will go before the face of the Lord to prepare His ways, To give knowledge of salvation to His people By the remission of their sins, Through the tender mercy of our God, With which the Dayspring from on high has visited us;To give light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death,To guide our feet into the way of peace.”
So the child grew and became strong in spirit, and was in the deserts till the day of his manifestation to Israel.
Christ Born of Mary And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city.
Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child. So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
Glory in the Highest Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.”
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”
So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.” And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger. Now when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.
Circumcision of Jesus And when eight days were completed for the circumcision of the Child, His name was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before He was conceived in the womb.
Jesus Presented in the Temple Now when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were completed, they brought Him to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord (as it is written in the law of the Lord, “Every male who opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord”), and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the law of the Lord, “A pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons.”
Simeon Sees God’s Salvation And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon, and this man was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. So he came by the Spirit into the temple. And when the parents brought in the Child Jesus, to do for Him according to the custom of the law, he took Him up in his arms and blessed God and said:
“Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace, According to Your word; For my eyes have seen Your salvation Which You have prepared before the face of all peoples, A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, And the glory of Your people Israel.”
And Joseph and His mother marveled at those things which were spoken of Him. Then Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary His mother, “Behold, this Child is destined for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign which will be spoken against (yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”
Anna Bears Witness to the Redeemer Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity; and this woman was a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. And coming in that instant she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem.
The Family Returns to Nazareth So when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own city, Nazareth. And the Child grew and became strong in spirit, filled with wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him.
The Boy Jesus Amazes the Scholars His parents went to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover. And when He was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem according to the custom of the feast. When they had finished the days, as they returned, the Boy Jesus lingered behind in Jerusalem. And Joseph and His mother did not know it; but supposing Him to have been in the company, they went a day’s journey, and sought Him among their relatives and acquaintances. So when they did not find Him, they returned to Jerusalem, seeking Him. Now so it was that after three days they found Him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, both listening to them and asking them questions. And all who heard Him were astonished at His understanding and answers. So when they saw Him, they were amazed; and His mother said to Him, “Son, why have You done this to us? Look, Your father and I have sought You anxiously.”
And He said to them, “Why did you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business?” But they did not understand the statement which He spoke to them.
Jesus Advances in Wisdom and Favor Then He went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was subject to them, but His mother kept all these things in her heart. And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.
I have had times when I could not speak – a few times – lost my voice and for a stretch about 25 years ago I held up a sign that said “Howdy” and carried a notepad to communicate – for like a month! I recovered from that ailment – but weird. Then there was the time in college, freshman year, for “morgue hours” – which meant we couldn’t converse in the hallways during exam study time – final exams – time for quiet – so instead I carried a sign that said “Howdy” and maybe “good bye” and waved it in the hallway because I couldn’t not be a social person!
So – when I am not speaking – well that says volumes. Also when we do need to communicate that old adage is: “if you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything at all.” Well, the Lord even tells us to HOLD THE TONGUE – because it is the most vile part of the body – the evil it could speak is worse than anything… Imagine then “not speaking” and remaining quiet to people whom we don’t get along with – might speak more volumes – at least it keeps the peace.
Not speaking but visibly shaken and who knows – Zacharias (from learning about him as that time’s chosen priest to do the sacrifices in the temple – recorded in the gospel of Luke, chapters 1 and 2) came out from the temple as if he had seen AN ANGEL!!!! HE DID! His NOT SPEAKING spoke volumes to these “About to meet Jesus-ers”… We don’t know what Zacharias told those people later, through writing on a tablet – but he certainly would have had a lot to write about! He surely motioned the size of the angel if his hands could expand that wide! And Luke, the physician and writer who interviewed all the people he could after Jesus was arose from the dead and during his travels in the early days of the church, by virtue of the Holy Spirit, recorded these amazing wonders of what was happening at the time of Jesus’s birth.
We do know Zacharias doubted what the angel Gabriel spoke of – that he would become father to the great prophet John the Baptist – in the footsteps of Elijah, and he doubted because of his wife’s old age that she was barren. But the angel told him God had a plan – and then the angel told him that he would not speak – lose his voice. Then we know later, that as soon as he was later filled with the Holy Spirit – in naming his son John, set aside for greatness, Zacharias spoke again – singing praises for God. He was not silent forever – but his NOT SPEAKING – and knowing his experience – was volumes enough to his soul – and noticeable to the people.
And Zacharias said to the angel, “How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is well advanced in years.” And the angel answered and said to him, “I am Gabriel, who stands in the presence of God, and was sent to speak to you and bring you these glad tidings. But behold, you will be mute and not able to speak until the day these things take place, because you did not believe my words which will be fulfilled in their own time.” And the people waited for Zacharias, and marveled that he lingered so long in the temple. But when he came out, he could not speak to them; and they perceived that he had seen a vision in the temple, for he beckoned to them and remained speechless. So it was, as soon as the days of his service were completed, that he departed to his own house.
Also noticeable was and is that Elizabeth retreated and hid when she had conceived – but she did praise God by saying that He took away her shame for previously being barren all those years – Elizabeth praised that the Lord did that – that the Lord had a plan – and we know that it was for her – and for her child – and for the world of people. Now after those days his wife Elizabeth conceived; and she hid herself five months, saying, “Thus the Lord has dealt with me, in the days when He looked on me, to take away my reproach among people.”
Can we imagine being quiet and praising God? Can we imagine that we only get a glimpse of this plan that the Lord has and even if we can’t speak of it right now, or have troubles right now, we can await the greatness that is to come – and we can also recount when the Lord has been faithful to us in the past and know that our perseverance will help.
We can speak volumes without words – so imagine if we choose the right words at the right time – and let the Lord through the Holy Spirit fill our mouths “at the right time” – let the Lord answer in our heads before we speak it to others – not calculated but cautionary for cause. Let us find the time for not speaking and for speaking – especially for the people who need to see Jesus in us… If they don’t know Him, may our actions speak to His Life and Love. May we be dedicated to Him.
Amen
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James 1:19-20 NKJV So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath; for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God.
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James 3 NKJV The Untamable Tongue My brethren, let not many of you become teachers, knowing that we shall receive a stricter judgment. For we all stumble in many things. If anyone does not stumble in word, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle the whole body. Indeed, we put bits in horses’ mouths that they may obey us, and we turn their whole body. Look also at ships: although they are so large and are driven by fierce winds, they are turned by a very small rudder wherever the pilot desires. Even so the tongue is a little member and boasts great things.
See how great a forest a little fire kindles! And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity. The tongue is so set among our members that it defiles the whole body, and sets on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire by hell. For every kind of beast and bird, of reptile and creature of the sea, is tamed and has been tamed by mankind. But no man can tame the tongue. It is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison. With it we bless our God and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in the similitude of God. Out of the same mouth proceed blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not to be so. Does a spring send forth fresh water and bitter from the same opening? Can a fig tree, my brethren, bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Thus no spring yields both salt water and fresh.
Heavenly Versus Demonic Wisdom Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom. But if you have bitter envy and self-seeking in your hearts, do not boast and lie against the truth. This wisdom does not descend from above, but is earthly, sensual, demonic. For where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there. But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy. Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.
Luke 1-2 NKJV Dedication to Theophilus Inasmuch as many have taken in hand to set in order a narrative of those things which have been fulfilled among us, just as those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word delivered them to us, it seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write to you an orderly account, most excellent Theophilus, that you may know the certainty of those things in which you were instructed.
John’s Birth Announced to Zacharias There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the division of Abijah. His wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth. And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless. But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren, and they were both well advanced in years.
So it was, that while he was serving as priest before God in the order of his division, according to the custom of the priesthood, his lot fell to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord. And the whole multitude of the people was praying outside at the hour of incense. Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing on the right side of the altar of incense. And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him.
But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zacharias, for your prayer is heard; and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth. For he will be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink. He will also be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb. And he will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. He will also go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah, ‘to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children,’ and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.” And Zacharias said to the angel, “How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is well advanced in years.” And the angel answered and said to him, “I am Gabriel, who stands in the presence of God, and was sent to speak to you and bring you these glad tidings. But behold, you will be mute and not able to speak until the day these things take place, because you did not believe my words which will be fulfilled in their own time.”
And the people waited for Zacharias, and marveled that he lingered so long in the temple. But when he came out, he could not speak to them; and they perceived that he had seen a vision in the temple, for he beckoned to them and remained speechless.
So it was, as soon as the days of his service were completed, that he departed to his own house. Now after those days his wife Elizabeth conceived; and she hid herself five months, saying, “Thus the Lord has dealt with me, in the days when He looked on me, to take away my reproach among people.”
Christ’s Birth Announced to Mary Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. And having come in, the angel said to her, “Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!”
But when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was. Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name Jesus. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.”
Then Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I do not know a man?”
And the angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God. Now indeed, Elizabeth your relative has also conceived a son in her old age; and this is now the sixth month for her who was called barren. For with God nothing will be impossible.”
Then Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.
Mary Visits Elizabeth Now Mary arose in those days and went into the hill country with haste, to a city of Judah, and entered the house of Zacharias and greeted Elizabeth. And it happened, when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, that the babe leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. Then she spoke out with a loud voice and said, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! But why is this granted to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For indeed, as soon as the voice of your greeting sounded in my ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy. Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a fulfillment of those things which were told her from the Lord.”
The Song of Mary And Mary said: “My soul magnifies the Lord, And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior. For He has regarded the lowly state of His maidservant; For behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed. For He who is mighty has done great things for me, And holy is His name. And His mercy is on those who fear Him From generation to generation. He has shown strength with His arm; He has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. He has put down the mighty from their thrones, And exalted the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things, And the rich He has sent away empty. He has helped His servant Israel, In remembrance of His mercy, As He spoke to our fathers, To Abraham and to his seed forever.”
And Mary remained with her about three months, and returned to her house.
Birth of John the Baptist Now Elizabeth’s full time came for her to be delivered, and she brought forth a son. When her neighbors and relatives heard how the Lord had shown great mercy to her, they rejoiced with her.
Circumcision of John the Baptist So it was, on the eighth day, that they came to circumcise the child; and they would have called him by the name of his father, Zacharias. His mother answered and said, “No; he shall be called John.”
But they said to her, “There is no one among your relatives who is called by this name.” So they made signs to his father—what he would have him called.
And he asked for a writing tablet, and wrote, saying, “His name is John.” So they all marveled. Immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue loosed, and he spoke, praising God. Then fear came on all who dwelt around them; and all these sayings were discussed throughout all the hill country of Judea. And all those who heard them kept them in their hearts, saying, “What kind of child will this be?” And the hand of the Lord was with him.
Zacharias’ Prophecy Now his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Spirit, and prophesied, saying:
“Blessed is the Lord God of Israel, For He has visited and redeemed His people, And has raised up a horn of salvation for us In the house of His servant David, As He spoke by the mouth of His holy prophets, Who have been since the world began, That we should be saved from our enemies And from the hand of all who hate us, To perform the mercy promised to our fathers And to remember His holy covenant, The oath which He swore to our father Abraham: To grant us that we, Being delivered from the hand of our enemies, Might serve Him without fear, In holiness and righteousness before Him all the days of our life.
“And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Highest; For you will go before the face of the Lord to prepare His ways, To give knowledge of salvation to His people By the remission of their sins, Through the tender mercy of our God, With which the Dayspring from on high has visited us;To give light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death,To guide our feet into the way of peace.”
So the child grew and became strong in spirit, and was in the deserts till the day of his manifestation to Israel.
Christ Born of Mary And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city.
Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child. So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
Glory in the Highest Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.”
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”
So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.” And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger. Now when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.
Circumcision of Jesus And when eight days were completed for the circumcision of the Child, His name was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before He was conceived in the womb.
Jesus Presented in the Temple Now when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were completed, they brought Him to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord (as it is written in the law of the Lord, “Every male who opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord”), and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the law of the Lord, “A pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons.”
Simeon Sees God’s Salvation And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon, and this man was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. So he came by the Spirit into the temple. And when the parents brought in the Child Jesus, to do for Him according to the custom of the law, he took Him up in his arms and blessed God and said:
“Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace, According to Your word; For my eyes have seen Your salvation Which You have prepared before the face of all peoples, A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, And the glory of Your people Israel.”
And Joseph and His mother marveled at those things which were spoken of Him. Then Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary His mother, “Behold, this Child is destined for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign which will be spoken against (yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”
Anna Bears Witness to the Redeemer Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity; and this woman was a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. And coming in that instant she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem.
The Family Returns to Nazareth So when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own city, Nazareth. And the Child grew and became strong in spirit, filled with wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him.
The Boy Jesus Amazes the Scholars His parents went to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover. And when He was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem according to the custom of the feast. When they had finished the days, as they returned, the Boy Jesus lingered behind in Jerusalem. And Joseph and His mother did not know it; but supposing Him to have been in the company, they went a day’s journey, and sought Him among their relatives and acquaintances. So when they did not find Him, they returned to Jerusalem, seeking Him. Now so it was that after three days they found Him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, both listening to them and asking them questions. And all who heard Him were astonished at His understanding and answers. So when they saw Him, they were amazed; and His mother said to Him, “Son, why have You done this to us? Look, Your father and I have sought You anxiously.”
And He said to them, “Why did you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business?” But they did not understand the statement which He spoke to them.
Jesus Advances in Wisdom and Favor Then He went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was subject to them, but His mother kept all these things in her heart. And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.
People might wonder – how do we know Jesus is Jesus?
Well, in the times of Jesus’s birth, there had been many prophecies but these types of prophets had been silent for hundreds of years. Studied and known – but in a quiet time that God had planned.
Then as promised “when the time was right” – a quote from an early prophecy – the time came. And into motion, the angel was sent to inform the chosen people in Jesus’s close family that He was ON THE WAY!
John the Baptist was clearly sent as a messenger sent to preach and reach the people who were “about to know Jesus-ers” – who were drawn to Him in the desert when he was preaching “repent”. John the Baptist was Jesus’s cousin – their mothers were cousins – and all were dedicated to the Lord.
A key aspect of Christianity is repentance, as John the Baptist preached to people who came to be baptized, asking forgiveness for ways that are not of God, and for trying better. We might say “Your parents taught you well!” when we see someone who is good – and God intended that scenario over and over. Parents and Grandparents – Aunt and Uncles – Godparents and friends – teachers – neighbors – society – are an extension for the LOVE that God puts into each child’s life. Sharing LOVE is sharing the essence of God. BEING teachers of LOVE is a God-given gift.
So whom came before John the Baptist to raise him up as a child? HIS PARENTS – John’s Mother and Father, Elizabeth and Zacharias. EVEN THOUGH THEY WERE OLD – THEY WERE YOUNG IN GOD’S EYES TO RAISE A CHILD. Zacharias was a priest of the long line of priests and as a shepherd to the people, he was SURPRISED to have an ANGEL visit him – surprised to be shepherded – and SURPRISED to be told he would raise a child – and then corrected by an angel who said “DON’T DOUBT” – God intends this season to open up and for the Messiah to come – and for your son – your child to be a holy messenger on earth – But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zacharias, for your prayer is heard; and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth. For he will be great in the sight of the Lord,..”
And the angel Gabriel (yes the same angel who would visit Mary later) – told Zacharias to raise his son John in a certain way – to raise him SET ASIDE – even with a role model of great prophet Elijah – that John would be the voice in the wilderness that God SETS ASIDE: John “shall drink neither wine nor strong drink. He will also be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb. And he will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. He will also go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah,‘to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children,’ and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.”
In the time that was approaching – the time that was right – John would be born and then be tasked with turning the hearts of the people towards their God – a task we also can achieve by shepherding people, raising up our flocks right – and by staying true to the mission God puts in front of us. And yet – God does not require us to go it alone – we have multitudes of support in our communities and families and of course we have GOD and the multitudes of angels and the HOLY SPIRIT to bring JESUS up in the hearts of each of His children. GOD DOES NOT LEAVE ANYTHING TO CHANCE!!! And Zacharias said to the angel, “How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is well advanced in years.” And the angel answered and said to him, “I am Gabriel, who stands in the presence of God, andwas sent to speak to you and bring you these glad tidings. But behold, you will be mute and not able to speak until the day these things take place, because you did not believe my words which will be fulfilled in their own time.”
May we partake in this holy life in raising our children and also raising the whole population of God’s Children by being HIS MESSENGER of LOVE – of teaching – of being dedicated – and listening to the scriptures ourselves to repent and restore our dedication to God.
Luke 1-2 NKJV Dedication to Theophilus Inasmuch as many have taken in hand to set in order a narrative of those things which have been fulfilled among us, just as those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word delivered them to us, it seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write to you an orderly account, most excellent Theophilus, that you may know the certainty of those things in which you were instructed.
John’s Birth Announced to Zacharias There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the division of Abijah. His wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth. And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless. But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren, and they were both well advanced in years.
So it was, that while he was serving as priest before God in the order of his division, according to the custom of the priesthood, his lot fell to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord. And the whole multitude of the people was praying outside at the hour of incense. 11 Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing on the right side of the altar of incense. And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him.
***But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zacharias, for your prayer is heard; and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth. For he will be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink. He will also be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb. And he will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. He will also go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah, ‘to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children,’ and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.”
And Zacharias said to the angel, “How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is well advanced in years.“
And the angel answered and said to him, “I am Gabriel, who stands in the presence of God, and was sent to speak to you and bring you these glad tidings. But behold, you will be mute and not able to speak until the day these things take place, because you did not believe my words which will be fulfilled in their own time.” ***
And the people waited for Zacharias, and marveled that he lingered so long in the temple. But when he came out, he could not speak to them; and they perceived that he had seen a vision in the temple, for he beckoned to them and remained speechless.
So it was, as soon as the days of his service were completed, that he departed to his own house. Now after those days his wife Elizabeth conceived; and she hid herself five months, saying, “Thus the Lord has dealt with me, in the days when He looked on me, to take away my reproach among people.”
Christ’s Birth Announced to Mary Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. And having come in, the angel said to her, “Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!”
But when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was. Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name Jesus. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.”
Then Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I do not know a man?”
And the angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God. Now indeed, Elizabeth your relative has also conceived a son in her old age; and this is now the sixth month for her who was called barren. For with God nothing will be impossible.”
Then Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.
Mary Visits Elizabeth Now Mary arose in those days and went into the hill country with haste, to a city of Judah, and entered the house of Zacharias and greeted Elizabeth. And it happened, when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, that the babe leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. Then she spoke out with a loud voice and said, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! But why is this granted to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For indeed, as soon as the voice of your greeting sounded in my ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy. Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a fulfillment of those things which were told her from the Lord.”
The Song of Mary And Mary said: “My soul magnifies the Lord, And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior. For He has regarded the lowly state of His maidservant; For behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed. For He who is mighty has done great things for me, And holy is His name. And His mercy is on those who fear Him From generation to generation. He has shown strength with His arm; He has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. He has put down the mighty from their thrones, And exalted the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things, And the rich He has sent away empty. He has helped His servant Israel, In remembrance of His mercy, As He spoke to our fathers, To Abraham and to his seed forever.”
And Mary remained with her about three months, and returned to her house.
Birth of John the Baptist Now Elizabeth’s full time came for her to be delivered, and she brought forth a son. When her neighbors and relatives heard how the Lord had shown great mercy to her, they rejoiced with her.
Circumcision of John the Baptist So it was, on the eighth day, that they came to circumcise the child; and they would have called him by the name of his father, Zacharias. His mother answered and said, “No; he shall be called John.”
But they said to her, “There is no one among your relatives who is called by this name.” So they made signs to his father—what he would have him called.
And he asked for a writing tablet, and wrote, saying, “His name is John.” So they all marveled. Immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue loosed, and he spoke, praising God. Then fear came on all who dwelt around them; and all these sayings were discussed throughout all the hill country of Judea. And all those who heard them kept them in their hearts, saying, “What kind of child will this be?” And the hand of the Lord was with him.
Zacharias’ Prophecy Now his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Spirit, and prophesied, saying:
“Blessed is the Lord God of Israel, For He has visited and redeemed His people, And has raised up a horn of salvation for us In the house of His servant David, As He spoke by the mouth of His holy prophets, Who have been since the world began, That we should be saved from our enemies And from the hand of all who hate us, To perform the mercy promised to our fathers And to remember His holy covenant, The oath which He swore to our father Abraham: To grant us that we, Being delivered from the hand of our enemies, Might serve Him without fear, In holiness and righteousness before Him all the days of our life.
“And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Highest; For you will go before the face of the Lord to prepare His ways, To give knowledge of salvation to His people By the remission of their sins, Through the tender mercy of our God, With which the Dayspring from on high has visited us;To give light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death,To guide our feet into the way of peace.”
So the child grew and became strong in spirit, and was in the deserts till the day of his manifestation to Israel.
Christ Born of Mary And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city.
Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child. So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
Glory in the Highest Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.”
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”
So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.” And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger. Now when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.
Circumcision of Jesus And when eight days were completed for the circumcision of the Child, His name was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before He was conceived in the womb.
Jesus Presented in the Temple Now when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were completed, they brought Him to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord (as it is written in the law of the Lord, “Every male who opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord”), and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the law of the Lord, “A pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons.”
Simeon Sees God’s Salvation And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon, and this man was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. So he came by the Spirit into the temple. And when the parents brought in the Child Jesus, to do for Him according to the custom of the law, he took Him up in his arms and blessed God and said:
“Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace, According to Your word; For my eyes have seen Your salvation Which You have prepared before the face of all peoples, A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, And the glory of Your people Israel.”
And Joseph and His mother marveled at those things which were spoken of Him. Then Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary His mother, “Behold, this Child is destined for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign which will be spoken against (yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”
Anna Bears Witness to the Redeemer Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity; and this woman was a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. And coming in that instant she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem.
The Family Returns to Nazareth So when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own city, Nazareth. And the Child grew and became strong in spirit, filled with wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him.
The Boy Jesus Amazes the Scholars His parents went to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover. And when He was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem according to the custom of the feast. When they had finished the days, as they returned, the Boy Jesus lingered behind in Jerusalem. And Joseph and His mother did not know it; but supposing Him to have been in the company, they went a day’s journey, and sought Him among their relatives and acquaintances. So when they did not find Him, they returned to Jerusalem, seeking Him. Now so it was that after three days they found Him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, both listening to them and asking them questions. And all who heard Him were astonished at His understanding and answers. So when they saw Him, they were amazed; and His mother said to Him, “Son, why have You done this to us? Look, Your father and I have sought You anxiously.”
And He said to them, “Why did you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business?” But they did not understand the statement which He spoke to them.
Jesus Advances in Wisdom and Favor Then He went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was subject to them, but His mother kept all these things in her heart. And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.
“So teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.”
WOW – an 80 year old did what is a dream of mine is (well I have many dreams) – she did the Appalachian Trail – walked the whole thing – and honestly I simply need to start walking more and exercising and wow what a difference it makes to stay active! The 80 year old said to make good use of the time you are given! TRUE!
I was at an event recently and a friend of a friend said she best start getting in shape – she had just turned 72 – it is not like I don’t have the tools or the place to get in shape – I just don’t take the time and well, that is where I need to start – taking the time – numbering my days – being aware of being better… It’s not just me, we all have this motivation to muster up! Right?!
Yes – I had a moment of a few years of being in MUCH better shape than I am now and I am not asking for perfection but wow if I could get back to that shape, that motivation, that energy level… Yes, if I could get back to making the most use of my time in many aspects of life. At least I should try to start walking again… Especially with a few trips that I have coming up – I need to walk into them to walk on them!
And walking was my fix – both physically and mentally a few days ago where I was in such pain of the hips and legs and back and thought – “I really need to walk this out” – TRUE – and I felt so much better on that walk – and it was also when I saw the “999” sign on that walk – and I also knew God wanted me to start with me and “turn my frown upside down” – and just get back out and live – ONE MOMENT AT A TIME!
May the Lord bless us in each of our walks – and may we continue to walk and make the most of our days. “establish the work of our hands, Lord” – from Psalm 90 (and our feet too!!!)
The Eternity of God, and Man’s Frailty A Prayer of Moses the man of God. Lord, You have been our dwelling place in all generations. Before the mountains were brought forth, Or ever You had formed the earth and the world, Even from everlasting to everlasting, You are God.
You turn man to destruction, And say, “Return, O children of men.” For a thousand years in Your sight are like yesterday when it is past, And like a watch in the night. You carry them away like a flood; They are like a sleep. In the morning they are like grass which grows up: In the morning it flourishes and grows up; In the evening it is cut down and withers.
For we have been consumed by Your anger, And by Your wrath we are terrified. You have set our iniquities before You, Our secret sins in the light of Your countenance. For all our days have passed away in Your wrath; We finish our years like a sigh. The days of our lives are seventy years; And if by reason of strength they are eighty years, Yet their boast is only labor and sorrow; For it is soon cut off, and we fly away. Who knows the power of Your anger? For as the fear of You, so is Your wrath. So teach us to number our days, That we may gain a heart of wisdom.
Return, O Lord! How long? And have compassion on Your servants. Oh, satisfy us early with Your mercy, That we may rejoice and be glad all our days! Make us glad according to the days in which You have afflicted us, The years in which we have seen evil. Let Your work appear to Your servants, And Your glory to their children. And let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us, And establish the work of our hands for us; Yes, establish the work of our hands.
“I’ll take ‘LIFE’ for $500, Alex”- ‘DING‘ – “It’s the DAILY DOUBLE!” — This could be a fictional scenario on Jeopardy, the TV game show, but you could consider it a reality. Life has a daily double every day. Not necessarily double meaning – but a DOUBLE VIEW of how you look at life…
In the TV game show, a ‘Daily Double’ means your bet is the opportunity for twice the amount of money. You might win or lose depending upon your knowledge of the category. Hopefully you win – and you win double. Hopefully you are smart enough for the answer.
Now, what about NOT a category but about the real “game of life” or how one approaches it. Is life a gambling lifestyle? or is it knowing about life journey in a hard way – or maybe we sidestep trouble all the time? Do we really know about life? Do we?
We DO know a lot about life’s ups and downs, we DO know our physical aches and pains too, we know mental joy or relief or anger or anguish, anxiety and apprehensiveness, depression and doubt. Yeah and even though we know these things both personally and in others, do we know how to navigate and when to sit on the sideline and rest? When to “take life by the horns” – pull up our bootstraps – or ???
Well, what if life was DOUBLE – like a DAILY DOUBLE of circumstances??? Well, IT IS! We don’t have to be smart to know this answer – the ANSWER is LOOKING ABOVE.
We have life here on earth – but in spiritual realms – there is a whole lot of life going on – AMAZING – we have NO IDEA the amazing arena of the Spiritual realms that surround us – and “Angel Armies”. A Spiritual battle for good over evil, light over darkness, hope over holding us back. The Spiritual realms fight for our right – not to party – but to be mentally WITH God in Spirit and Truth without a distraction to the daily grind of life. To FOCUS ON THINGS ABOVE – is to know that we are NOT alone in life and that we best redirect the grasp of this world to gaze at the right and righteousness of God.
Paul would remind a church set of folks whom he dedicated, the Colossians, to put off being obsessed from all the things of earth – including the bad things of immorality – and then also put on the good things of obedience, “put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; bearing with one another, and forgiving one another…“, – and especially forgiveness in love: “if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do.”
Paul would remind us to “put on LOVE” – and this is the state of knowing how Heaven looks at us – how Jesus looks at us: in LOVE – and for us to take on that DAILY DOUBLE of choice to look at the world in LOVE and be peaceful… “But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful.”
So – our focus on above and the LOVE – means we focus less on this earthly mess – except to try to bring LIGHT to the situation – to bring HOPE – to help encourage best living – in love – in loving – in life.
A Daily Double of Life and LOVE.
AMEN
……
Colossians 3:1-17 NKJV – Paul writes a letter to the church urging them to improve, focus, hope…
Not Carnality but Christ – If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is our life appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory.
Therefore put to death your members [not people but distracting ways] which are on the earth: fornication, uncleanness, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry. Because of these things the wrath of God is coming upon the sons of disobedience, in which you yourselves once walked when you lived in them.
But now you yourselves are to put off all these: anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy language out of your mouth. Do not lie to one another, since you have put off the old man with his deeds, and have put on the new man who is renewed in knowledge according to the image of Him who created him, where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcised nor uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave nor free, but Christ is all and in all.
Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do. But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.
Angel Armies are good to Google search – 2 Kings 6:15-17 NIV of Elisha and his servant seeing that the battle is with the Lord more than with our human earthly means: When the servant of the man of God got up and went out early the next morning, an army with horses and chariots had surrounded the city. “Oh no, my lord! What shall we do?” the servant asked. “Don’t be afraid,” the prophet answered. “Those who are with us are more than those who are with them.” And Elisha prayed, “Open his eyes, Lord, so that he may see.” Then the Lord opened the servant’s eyes, and he looked and saw the hills full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha.
and Psalm 91:11-12 NIV to know God commands His angels to guard and protect believers, the psalmist says: “For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways;they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.”
and Revelation 12:7-10 NIV: Archangel Michael fights and defeats the devil. John sees: “Then war broke out in heaven. Michael and his angels fought against the dragon, and the dragon and his angels fought back. But he was not strong enough, and they lost their place in heaven. The great dragon was hurled down—that ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, who leads the whole world astray. He was hurled to the earth, and his angels with him. Then I heard a loud voice in heaven say: ‘Now have come the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God, and the authority of his Messiah. For the accuser of our brothers and sisters, who accuses them before our God day and night, has been hurled down….'”
Just starting the TV series from PBS, online streaming, of Ken Burn’s The American Revolution – which is not just about the war but about the fight for independence and about the creation of a new government. The intro is all I’ve watched so far gave me two goosebumps – the discussion of the Iroquois Indian tribes – which are the area natives of where I grew up in – I’ve walked in those lands – and so their discussion of creating a nation of different tribes and being together in cooperation certainly hit home – we lived in the midst of a legacy but not longevity – the nations are not in charge of their destiny now.
And the second really was a “wait a minute” moment – right in the intro – I recognized the last name and the general face shape of one scholar they have many clips interviewing – she is someone I recognized – and yes, grew up in my hometown and yes, her brother was in my classes – and it took me a good solid 5 minutes of google searching and mental searching – but my mind found his name faster than google… Cool – scholars – both he and his sister – him in medicine and her in history. Sort of make me appreciate that I too can be a scholar of my own interests – we all can be – we know what we know the best… I also am appreciative for the areas and people whom I lived in the midst of. Cool… I also appreciate now that when I watch that American Revolution show that I live in the midst of these areas in the northeast – many which I have visited. It is touching history that is old but not too old to grasp.
Nothing greater than an “Oooooh moment” in life to be in the midst of God – yes and Him with us – for the ultimate “in the midst” is us in the Lord and the Lord in us. The psalmist sings truth: “let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you.” (Ps5) and “Therefore, you kings, be wise; be warned, you rulers of the earth. Serve the Lord with fear and celebrate his rule with trembling.” Ps2
We too are in the midst of the Lord always – when we call upon Him we realize we are not far away at all – we are in His midst and He is in ours…
And Psalm 2 brings warning about kings and their behavior towards the Lord – for them to revere the Lord – and that is us too – we are best to be humbled in the Lord – and listening to His direction. We walk in His Midst always – and never will He leave us.
We ARE in HIS Hands.
Amen
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from Psalm 2 “I will proclaim the Lord’s decree: He said to me, “You are my son; today I have become your father. Ask me, and I will make the nations your inheritance, the ends of the earth your possession. You will break them with a rod of iron; you will dash them to pieces like pottery. Therefore, you kings, be wise; be warned, you rulers of the earth. Serve the Lord with fear and celebrate his rule with trembling. Kiss his son, or he will be angry and your way will lead to your destruction, for his wrath can flare up in a moment. Blessed are all who take refuge in him.
I use paper notes, sticky notes and lists, calendar reminders (electronic) and grocery lists I email to myself. I use paper bookmarks or binder clips to organize my place. I have my own scribbles for shortcuts and secret passwords and not so secret or secure computer and social media platforms. We trust much to memory, but what if we forget? We even sign on for a text message backup for authentication.
We use planner agendas, reminders and minute-taking at work too. We study org charts for people’s names, CVs for the information of their work pedigree and social media for maybe a photo. We know that electronic records are important to save, and even if it’s all electronic, our paychecks are the equivalent of cold hard cash… We read into numbers all the time, we read into conversations and communications, over read and stress ourselves out by reading in between the lines…
We are read as much as we read.
How’s our life in the Lord? We have the best read, the Bible, to be in the Word, mindful of the Word, covered and convicted by the word. Judge against the Word by the Word, as it’s sharp sword of truth trims our dead branches of unfruitfulness. And how are we covered and blessed? That also by the Word, in forgiveness and grace, direction and leading, rescue and restoration. We are saved not by the letter of the law, but the fulfillment thereof, by Jesus sacrifice and righteousness, by the WORD WILLING TO WORK.
Jesus, as in Lord God Almighty and Spirit Saving, is our fulfillment and we are His, so He had written us down in His Book of Life from the beginning and won’t erase without a chase, God will pursue us (Psalm 139), find us to find Him, and not nail us down, but have us resurrected in His Righteousness, by fulfillment of His Word.
Nothing in ourselves can be complete without the Word. We live in parts, and don’t live complete without Him. Not without the Word.
Let us hold to His Word, and our fruitfulness be held dearly on His “to-do” list.
1 John 1 NKJV
What Was Heard, Seen, and Touched
That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, concerning the Word of life— the life was manifested, and we have seen, and bear witness, and declare to you that eternal life which was with the Father and was manifested to us— that which we have seen and heard we declare to you, that you also may have fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ. And these things we write to you that your joy may be full.
Fellowship with Him and One Another
This is the message which we have heard from Him and declare to you, that God is light and in Him is no darkness at all. If we say that we have fellowship with Him, and walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin.
If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar, and His word is not in us.
I’m just waking up with great focus, not my great, as it’s just wake-up from a madness of crazy dreams, but a wake up into the real great focus of being awake, the focus of a Great, and a great focus. When we wake up, let us say “THANK YOU LORD for waking me up!”
And next, I can say, “What, Lord, are we talking about today?”…
Lord, You are the One Who soothes and satisfies, and if nothing else (and there’s plenty else), I’m thankful for You waking me up to be thankful. “Whew” is a phrase which describes my attitude and response and drive to keep going. Yes, there is busy ahead of us and busy behind, but nothing can be approaching God’s Busy Business with orchestrating and providing and captivating and corralling us – from providing a way in to LIFE and a way OUT of confusion or mess by sleeping a moment to reset, and that’s just us, hopefully on His time frame, so imagine the orchestration in God’s Busy Business is not limited to ‘just us’, not just earth, neither physically known nor mentally perceived nor spiritually understood. If we learn how Big we are in God’s heart, we also know we are but one small fraction of a fraction in life. Yet, God knows us and loves us immensely immense.
To learn something about God is to wonder why even more.
I wonder why I wonder, do you? Because when we wonder about God, there’s always more to know and wonder about.
We hunger for understanding and yet understand that we can’t understand all. And I question why I am allowed to question, only to understand God is the only answer in an unraveling scenario for earth which is still under His control. God still reigns, and will return for His people here, of us collectively.
And us? We must take in and know the knowledge of the Hope of Him before we even know Him fully, we must walk with our Hope and mission all while Jesus is still finding us find our way. We walk through the world just as much as we always did before we knew Jesus was our guide. We have met Jesus and just as He guides, we must listen, listen even more… Wonder but still walk.
If we are commanded to walk into our future, like the crippled man at the pool of Bethesda, who didn’t even have to touch the water there to be healed, but be healed by the Words of Jesus, then we also must be healed by the Word of Jesus, knowing His Grace and Mercy and blessings and forgiveness. And test ourselves, “Do I truly believe Jesus as my Lord and King?” We must know what we didn’t know before Jesus brought us knowledge of Him, all while unmasking our fear and shame in front of Him. If we didn’t know, we didn’t, but now we do, we DO know Jesus.
We must live, must make the best, must make a difference, must be thankful by the Word of Jesus. The once crippled man at that pool of Bethesda (John 5) answered the Jews questioning ‘who gave authority to work’ on the Sabbath, the man answered: “He who made me well said to me, ‘Take up your bed and walk.’ ” That man surely was then standing eye to eye with those who had always not even seen him enough to move him to the water. He stood as proof that Jesus was the answer all along.
Of the proof of living through Jesus, for Jesus, in Jesus, well doesn’t that also come FROM Jesus? YES. Yes, then if later if we have lost our way in a path that was clearly lit, but we diverted, well we must return to Jesus. Lest we forget what we have already learned, we come back to the scriptures, as through scripture we see Jesus come alive and connect all the dots, with authority and example and fulfillment.
Jesus said we live in Him, through Him and will keep on living (John 5): “Most assuredly, I say to you, he who hears My word and believes in Him who sent Me has everlasting life, and shall not come into judgment, but has passed from death into life.
So, our life in God’s Busy Business has already started, let’s just keep walking, one day at a time. One step at a time. (and yes, take your mat with you, because at some point in life we are going to need a nap!)
Amen
—
John 5 NKJV
A Man Healed at the Pool of Bethesda
After this there was a feast of the Jews, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem. Now there is in Jerusalem by the Sheep Gate a pool, which is called in Hebrew, Bethesda, having five porches. In these lay a great multitude of sick people, blind, lame, paralyzed, waiting for the moving of the water. For an angel went down at a certain time into the pool and stirred up the water; then whoever stepped in first, after the stirring of the water, was made well of whatever disease he had. Now a certain man was there who had an infirmity thirty-eight years. When Jesus saw him lying there, and knew that he already had been in that condition a long time, He said to him, “Do you want to be made well?”
The sick man answered Him, “Sir, I have no man to put me into the pool when the water is stirred up; but while I am coming, another steps down before me.”
Jesus said to him, “Rise, take up your bed and walk.” And immediately the man was made well, took up his bed, and walked.
And that day was the Sabbath. The Jews therefore said to him who was cured, “It is the Sabbath; it is not lawful for you to carry your bed.”
He answered them, “He who made me well said to me, ‘Take up your bed and walk.’ ”
Then they asked him, “Who is the Man who said to you, ‘Take up your bed and walk’?” But the one who was healed did not know who it was, for Jesus had withdrawn, a multitude being in that place. Afterward Jesus found him in the temple, and said to him, “See, you have been made well. Sin no more, lest a worse thing come upon you.”
The man departed and told the Jews that it was Jesus who had made him well.
Honor the Father and the Son
For this reason the Jews persecuted Jesus, and sought to kill Him, because He had done these things on the Sabbath. But Jesus answered them, “My Father has been working until now, and I have been working.”
Therefore the Jews sought all the more to kill Him, because He not only broke the Sabbath, but also said that God was His Father, making Himself equal with God. Then Jesus answered and said to them, “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. For the Father loves the Son, and shows Him all things that He Himself does; and He will show Him greater works than these, that you may marvel. For as the Father raises the dead and gives life to them, even so the Son gives life to whom He will. For the Father judges no one, but has committed all judgment to the Son, that all should honor the Son just as they honor the Father. He who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent Him.
Life and Judgment Are Through the Son
“Most assuredly, I say to you, he who hears My word and believes in Him who sent Me has everlasting life, and shall not come into judgment, but has passed from death into life. Most assuredly, I say to you, the hour is coming, and now is, when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God; and those who hear will live. For as the Father has life in Himself, so He has granted the Son to have life in Himself, and has given Him authority to execute judgment also, because He is the Son of Man. Do not marvel at this; for the hour is coming in which all who are in the graves will hear His voice and come forth—those who have done good, to the resurrection of life, and those who have done evil, to the resurrection of condemnation. I can of Myself do nothing. As I hear, I judge; and My judgment is righteous, because I do not seek My own will but the will of the Father who sent Me.
The Fourfold Witness
“If I bear witness of Myself, My witness is not true. There is another who bears witness of Me, and I know that the witness which He witnesses of Me is true. You have sent to John, and he has borne witness to the truth. Yet I do not receive testimony from man, but I say these things that you may be saved. He was the burning and shining lamp, and you were willing for a time to rejoice in his light. But I have a greater witness than John’s; for the works which the Father has given Me to finish—the very works that I do—bear witness of Me, that the Father has sent Me. And the Father Himself, who sent Me, has testified of Me. You have neither heard His voice at any time, nor seen His form. But you do not have His word abiding in you, because whom He sent, Him you do not believe. You search the Scriptures, for in them you think you have eternal life; and these are they which testify of Me. But you are not willing to come to Me that you may have life.
“I do not receive honor from men. But I know you, that you do not have the love of God in you. I have come in My Father’s name, and you do not receive Me; if another comes in his own name, him you will receive. How can you believe, who receive honor from one another, and do not seek the honor that comes from the only God? Do not think that I shall accuse you to the Father; there is one who accuses you—Moses, in whom you trust. For if you believed Moses, you would believe Me; for he wrote about Me. But if you do not believe his writings, how will you believe My words?”
I’m glad I hesitated before putting a bag into a clothing donation bin, a bag that I figured was all new 1970’s fabric – IT WASN’T. I paused before I pitched. In the bottom of the bag was embroidery plus crocheted hot pads for use or decoration. The embroidery was done but not yet sewn into a functional item like a tablecloth or fancy hanky, the fabric “Made in USA”, and the embroidery, beautiful peacocks of blue stitches with flowers of pastel colors, and those French knots were perfect and immediately it was my remembrance of my Grandma who taught all of us how to sew by hand, and make beautiful things out of thread.
I can see myself practicing these types of embroidery French knots, they were fun as a challenge. I immediately realized this was likely my grandma’s work, maybe my aunt’s, but likely grandma’s who also had made me a beautiful pillowcase for my young birthday of an embroidered doll with lace skirt. That doll, like the peacocks in this fabric, had the neatest stitches and those fancy French knots.
Pause before you Pitch, Remember to Reach, Reminisce, then Recycle or Restore…
There are so many things we have in our overloaded lives, things to keep, but in cleaning up 125yrs of farmhouse, you do have to pitch the decaying items, and recycle the paper and preserve the past treasures, even maybe restore one or two.
I’m glad for the remembrance and reminiscing, I will frame them perhaps, it’s interesting that my family and I might be the only few who understand and see this memory – it is cherished on the very small audience scale and like each little stitch, it was done not for world-shaking activity or applause, but for enjoyment and beauty. Yes, I’m glad I paused before pitching that bag. I can’t save everything – so I also have to be willing to give a lot away – it might become someone else’s dream to restore it, my role this time is to preserve the stuff worth preserving – even if temporary – even if to give away – to just to pause before pitching… and yes I will plan to make good use of the thrift store donation places – save the opportunity for someone else’s dream…
But before you pitch – it is good to reminisce with the people who know those items. And on the flip side – I find myself trying to reduce my footprint of “stuff” – save what is worth saving and parse down the rest so that good intentions are not caught in clutter.
What about people encounters (not items) and what about blessings or warnings we find in our interactions? Do we also practice caution over what we say or throw away flippantly? Do we also NOT pause before we pitch away the frustrating scenarios, get rid of them and move on? Then do we knit the good thoughts into our hearts of “random strangers”? What about our prayers and giving good vibes that we can share with others we “randomly meet” without knowing what each interaction is about? We can leave that up to the Lord for storing in their hearts, we just be the good stuff and not the junk they encounter. Will the conversation that day be something like a stitch in their tapestry of life? It is all important how God makes these stitches – even if only one or two share them.
I hope so – I hope we pause before we pitch, remember to reach, reminisce then recycle and move on – or restore a connection lost…
I hope our day is as pretty as a peacock – and not cluttered with concerns… We are to be His Hands and Feet and fruitfulness and filling stitches of strength and beauty. He makes all things beautiful in His time.
Amen
—-
Ecclesiastes 3 KJV To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:
A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted;
A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up;
A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance;
A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;
A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away;
A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;
A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace.
What profit hath he that worketh in that wherein he laboureth?
I have seen the travail, which God hath given to the sons of men to be exercised in it.
He hath made every thing beautiful in his time: also he hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end.
I know that there is no good in them, but for a man to rejoice, and to do good in his life.
And also that every man should eat and drink, and enjoy the good of all his labour, it is the gift of God.
I know that, whatsoever God doeth, it shall be for ever: nothing can be put to it, nor any thing taken from it: and God doeth it, that men should fear before him.
That which hath been is now; and that which is to be hath already been; and God requireth that which is past.
And moreover I saw under the sun the place of judgment, that wickedness was there; and the place of righteousness, that iniquity was there.
I said in mine heart, God shall judge the righteous and the wicked: for there is a time there for every purpose and for every work.
I said in mine heart concerning the estate of the sons of men, that God might manifest them, and that they might see that they themselves are beasts.
For that which befalleth the sons of men befalleth beasts; even one thing befalleth them: as the one dieth, so dieth the other; yea, they have all one breath; so that a man hath no preeminence above a beast: for all is vanity.
All go unto one place; all are of the dust, and all turn to dust again.
Who knoweth the spirit of man that goeth upward, and the spirit of the beast that goeth downward to the earth?
Wherefore I perceive that there is nothing better, than that a man should rejoice in his own works; for that is his portion: for who shall bring him to see what shall be after him?
It was drilled into us, both as women and in society in the 1950’s and beyond, to have “Good Housekeeping”, like the magazine cover states, which I found many copies of, that we will save, cleaning up my old family farmhouse. These vintage 75yr old gems are just paper, sure, saved stacked and stashed away, but the sentimental thing about them is the LOVE of mom’s, grandma’s, great grandma’s that wanted to keep good housekeeping for their families.
We as society, especially influenced by social media in each era had/has ways to show ideas (sometimes over-ideals) in the form of help (from cookie recipes to the latest diet fads) and these magazines had ways that made folks dream but even be jealous in comparison… But most likely they were printed in good faith of good housekeeping ideas.
Yet, the most important thing is to not get carried away with in worldliness, of world trends or craving worth from the world, even from people.
In a spiritual sense, it’s a bit more serious, well deeply serious, to have GOOD HOUSEKEEPING of one’s beliefs, to know truth over trip-ups, to self test and confirm our calling.
Apostle Paul was ADAMANT yet GENTLE in asking the wayward Corinthians: “Examine yourselves as to whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Do you not know yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you?”… Paul hoped and prayed: “And this also we pray, that you may be made complete.”
Many of Paul’s writings speak of being in authority given as a church leader, yet he knew it is each person who has to come to the TRUTH in JESUS by a gift of faith conviction not just conformist ways. Completeness comes by faith and Holy Spirit sparks to know not just OF Jesus but know Jesus IN oneself, not just someone we have read about or by mirroring actions. Faith is in faith.
And the benefits of being IN Jesus and His Ways IN us, are to continue acting according to His calling, wherever He leads us… “For we can do nothing against the truth, but for the truth.” – and this includes loving, sharing, teaching, witnessing, being fair, gentle, genuine and trustworthy plus being kind, having self control and even withstand long-suffering.
It’s never been easy to not be conformist in society’s pressures, for dozens and hundreds of years and we probably shouldn’t for glamor or greed. Don’t be devilishly distracted by temporary gain. Instead be faithful with being Jesus-cleaned, cleared, clarified and considerate. Jesus confronts us, like He confronted Paul, but does not condemn us. Conviction by Spirit into firm faithfulness is for our benefit to draw closer to Him… We learn by His leadership to maintain good internal housekeeping with His Help…
Amen
—
2 Corinthians 13 NKJV Coming with Authority This will be the third time I am coming to you. “By the mouth of two or three witnesses every word shall be established.” I have told you before, and foretell as if I were present the second time, and now being absent I write to those who have sinned before, and to all the rest, that if I come again I will not spare— since you seek a proof of Christ speaking in me, who is not weak toward you, but mighty in you. For though He was crucified in weakness, yet He lives by the power of God. For we also are weak in Him, but we shall live with Him by the power of God toward you.
Examine yourselves as to whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Do you not know yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you?—unless indeed you are disqualified. But I trust that you will know that we are not disqualified.
Paul Prefers Gentleness Now I pray to God that you do no evil, not that we should appear approved, but that you should do what is honorable, though we may seem disqualified. For we can do nothing against the truth, but for the truth. For we are glad when we are weak and you are strong. And this also we pray, that you may be made complete. Therefore I write these things being absent, lest being present I should use sharpness, according to the authority which the Lord has given me for edification and not for destruction.
Greetings and Benediction Finally, brethren, farewell. Become complete. Be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you.
Greet one another with a holy kiss. All the saints greet you.
The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all. Amen.
That is what Paul realizes over and over- because God gave him the strength – and we too can believe this – God gives US of HIS Strength. When we don’t know which way to turn, the Lord has already mapped out the moment for Him to be relied upon. Ask and you shall receive… inspiration and information… guidance and grace.
God said/says to Paul, as recounted in his 2nd letter to the Corintians: “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.”
We may not get a shaking of a wake up as severe as Paul(Saul) did, but the Lord is sure that we will notice His interventions and miracles and motivation.
Paul praises the Lord for direction and discipline and knowledge of mission. Us too, who are we to become weary on our own accord when God brings us the strength.
And God says Go! Keep going!
Keep going!!!
Amen
—-
2 Corinthians 12 NKJV The Vision of Paradise It is doubtless not profitable for me to boast. I will come to visions and revelations of the Lord: I know a man in Christ who fourteen years ago—whether in the body I do not know, or whether out of the body I do not know, God knows—such a one was caught up to the third heaven. And I know such a man—whether in the body or out of the body I do not know, God knows— how he was caught up into Paradise and heard inexpressible words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter. Of such a one I will boast; yet of myself I will not boast, except in my infirmities. For though I might desire to boast, I will not be a fool; for I will speak the truth. But I refrain, lest anyone should think of me above what he sees me to be or hears from me.
The Thorn in the Flesh And lest I should be exalted above measure by the abundance of the revelations, a thorn in the flesh was given to me, a messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I be exalted above measure. Concerning this thing I pleaded with the Lord three times that it might depart from me. And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
Signs of an Apostle I have become a fool in boasting; you have compelled me. For I ought to have been commended by you; for in nothing was I behind the most eminent apostles, though I am nothing. Truly the signs of an apostle were accomplished among you with all perseverance, in signs and wonders and mighty deeds. For what is it in which you were inferior to other churches, except that I myself was not burdensome to you? Forgive me this wrong!
Love for the Church Now for the third time I am ready to come to you. And I will not be burdensome to you; for I do not seek yours, but you. For the children ought not to lay up for the parents, but the parents for the children. And I will very gladly spend and be spent for your souls; though the more abundantly I love you, the less I am loved.
But be that as it may, I did not burden you. Nevertheless, being crafty, I caught you by cunning! Did I take advantage of you by any of those whom I sent to you? I urged Titus, and sent our brother with him. Did Titus take advantage of you? Did we not walk in the same spirit? Did we not walk in the same steps?
Again, do you think that we excuse ourselves to you? We speak before God in Christ. But we do all things, beloved, for your edification. For I fear lest, when I come, I shall not find you such as I wish, and that I shall be found by you such as you do not wish; lest there be contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, backbitings, whisperings, conceits, tumults; lest, when I come again, my God will humble me among you, and I shall mourn for many who have sinned before and have not repented of the uncleanness, fornication, and lewdness which they have practiced.
Rolling Stone (online article by Jeff Ihaza on Nov 11th 2025) says the number or ‘saying “67” has become the latest way for grown-ups to confirm their fears about young people becoming difficult to decipher — that they live in an internet-based world they increasingly can’t understand.’ – which even people who hear about 67 don’t know the movie and music reference and just brush it off – just like the saying – just like being “in the know” – and ‘the New York Times posited that perhaps a dada-esque absurdity is the point, that youth culture, in an active quest to bewilder adults, adopts nonsensical humor in an effort towards subterfuge. A nine-year-old from Indiana interviewed for the piece suggests that there isn’t really any meaning behind 67. “No offense to adults, but I think they always want to know what’s going on,” she told the paper of record.’
I will walk away from reading too much into it – the phrase – I mean our generation had lots of sayings that today’s kids would never understand… And life is too short to be caught up in worldliness – and wordiness….
Here is something laid out straight however – OPEN REFERENCE – the 6,7 of Paul’s letter to the wayward Corinthians is DIRECT and then his JOY in their improvement of faith is PALAPTABLE REAL. Paul gives it to them straight and we have this OPEN BOOK reference called the Bible to derive all this material as “gospel truth” and even “old testament teasers” of what God said He would do and then He did! (and this means we can also believe what God says He WILL do in our future…)
Paul said OPENLY to the Corinthians, quoting old testament prophet Isaiah, he even pleads ‘not to receive the grace of God in vain. For He says: “In an acceptable time I have heard you, And in the day of salvation I have helped you.” Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.’
Paul told of the distress he and others had in this ministry – and yet how important it was and is to keep going. And to subsets of populations of new churches, as he would say not to us all: Be Holy – O Corinthians! We have spoken openly to you, our heart is wide open.
Paul was really trying to get repentance of the people, and sorry but not sorry that he was so harsh and open in his letters to them – He just wanted to present the truth of the need to follow the Lord – and not waste it… Paul said: Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.
Yes – God does not sugar coat things – He want attention and righteousness – even so much as to give His only Son to be able to cloak the sins and welcome the sinners into Heaven. In our repentance we remember the hardships of earthly life and remember Paul’s pause to see that his ministry makes a difference – then and now: Now I rejoice, not that you were made sorry, but that your sorrow led to repentance. For you were made sorry in a godly manner, that you might suffer loss from us in nothing. For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted; but the sorrow of the world produces death.
THANK YOU LORD for being open with us – we need repentance – and this is written over and over again – and with our repentance is our understanding of needing Jesus – and this is the TRUTH of Life forever – thank you for being an OPEN REFERENCE to Heaven’s HOPE for us to come to You as Your children.
Amen
—
Here’s the 6,7 on this all:
2 Corinthians 6-7 NKJV Marks of the Ministry We then, as workers together with Him also plead with you not to receive the grace of God in vain. For He says: “In an acceptable time I have heard you, And in the day of salvation I have helped you.”
Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.
We give no offense in anything, that our ministry may not be blamed. But in all things we commend ourselves as ministers of God: in much patience, in tribulations, in needs, in distresses, in stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labors, in sleeplessness, in fastings; by purity, by knowledge, by longsuffering, by kindness, by the Holy Spirit, by sincere love, by the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armor of righteousness on the right hand and on the left, by honor and dishonor, by evil report and good report; as deceivers, and yet true; as unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and behold we live; as chastened, and yet not killed; as sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things.
Be Holy O Corinthians! We have spoken openly to you, our heart is wide open. You are not restricted by us, but you are restricted by your own affections. Now in return for the same (I speak as to children), you also be open.
Do not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers. For what fellowship has righteousness with lawlessness? And what communion has light with darkness? And what accord has Christ with Belial? Or what part has a believer with an unbeliever? And what agreement has the temple of God with idols? For you are the temple of the living God. As God has said:
“I will dwell in them And walk among them. I will be their God, And they shall be My people.”
Therefore
“Come out from among them And be separate, says the Lord. Do not touch what is unclean, And I will receive you.” “I will be a Father to you, And you shall be My sons and daughters, Says the Lord Almighty.”
The Corinthians’ Repentance Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.
The Corinthians’ Repentance Open your hearts to us. We have wronged no one, we have corrupted no one, we have cheated no one. I do not say this to condemn; for I have said before that you are in our hearts, to die together and to live together. Great is my boldness of speech toward you, great is my boasting on your behalf. I am filled with comfort. I am exceedingly joyful in all our tribulation.
For indeed, when we came to Macedonia, our bodies had no rest, but we were troubled on every side. Outside were conflicts, inside were fears. Nevertheless God, who comforts the downcast, comforted us by the coming of Titus, and not only by his coming, but also by the consolation with which he was comforted in you, when he told us of your earnest desire, your mourning, your zeal for me, so that I rejoiced even more.
For even if I made you sorry with my letter, I do not regret it; though I did regret it. For I perceive that the same epistle made you sorry, though only for a while. Now I rejoice, not that you were made sorry, but that your sorrow led to repentance. For you were made sorry in a godly manner, that you might suffer loss from us in nothing. For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted; but the sorrow of the world produces death. For observe this very thing, that you sorrowed in a godly manner: What diligence it produced in you, what clearing of yourselves, what indignation, what fear, what vehement desire, what zeal, what vindication! In all things you proved yourselves to be clear in this matter. Therefore, although I wrote to you, I did not do it for the sake of him who had done the wrong, nor for the sake of him who suffered wrong, but that our care for you in the sight of God might appear to you.
The Joy of Titus Therefore we have been comforted in your comfort. And we rejoiced exceedingly more for the joy of Titus, because his spirit has been refreshed by you all. For if in anything I have boasted to him about you, I am not ashamed. But as we spoke all things to you in truth, even so our boasting to Titus was found true. And his affections are greater for you as he remembers the obedience of you all, how with fear and trembling you received him. Therefore I rejoice that I have confidence in you in everything.
“Everyone loves a cheerful giver” – love that scripture… Even though we are not to love the world and the worldliness of flashing lights etc, it is a joy to support the big fun “Camp out for Hunger” sponsored by a radio station and manned by the fun and giving DJs and producers and cheerful giving volunteer staff of their time and energy and talents. It is not a spectacle as much as it is a spectacular display of work and play.
Offerings of self comes in many ways – and these folks are in the right place for the right reasons – to use their energies to drum up donations and awareness for the food insecure and how efficiently to help thru the local Philabundance programs. If anything, the agency has learned how to reduce purchase costs and distribute volumes and volumes of necessary sustenance throughout a BIG region – and to do it with care and joy.
This morning we are also reminded that it is Veteran’s Day – a day to remember and thank those who serve – selflessly often – and with sacrifice of self comes the sacrifice of selfishness – these people who serve the military are often living at or below the poverty line – they say people in the active military are more often food insecure than normal citizens. WOW!
For the “Camp Out” – I try to make it each year – I loved the JOY of attending the event last night “after dark”, which the first time I have done that – was both the only time I could find in my busy work and life schedule it seems but also because it was the time when traffic is low, and the people glued to TVs for the out of town football game drew the traffic (foot and car) down to a trickle. (Yeah – only 30 minutes there and back). But the most exciting reason to go was both to see my friend Jacky BamBam an unique character to say the least – as he DJ’ed the last shift of the night – in a spectacular sight with glitzy lights and a tribute to the late DJ Pierre Robert – and even was the big game on the big TV screen next door – it is always an adventure I am game for – but even better when I know the ease and time is a gifted window of opportunity.
A cheerful giver is what this whole set up tries to encourage – we truly are blessed with resources – it is good to share at this time of year and any time of economic stress for many – and cheerful givers just could go in and drop off food items – or buy right there at the tent and the donation would be tallied at the end. I chose the latter and travelled light – did get through the donation line easily and then got a free parking pass to show I was there NOT for the concert next door – and easily parked and walked 2 minutes across the street to the tent.
The big retro-decorated restored “Minerva” VW bus re-creation was propped up so beautifully. I was there late – the amusement rides were shutting down for the night – and the tent was practically empty – but for me it was the perfect time to go – and to be in the front row of maybe 12 of us – get to take the photos for the busy moms and this crew of kids there – and to see then the stars of the morning show stop in for the cross over chat between DJs before heading to the sportswatching space next door – and it was hilarious to me to have found the right timing to be there – front row enjoying their barbs to each other – in love…
I waited patiently because they were doing a live radio show – busy busy and especially putting it together in a tent and talking back to the studio – lots of logistics – but then I chatted first with the other DJs and producers and then felt that moment of “oh – this is one GREAT reason I came” – I got to give a hug to the producer Ryan, of Pierre’s show – hugs are the cheerful giver gift that gives back – and showed him how blessed I was to see that stone that I wrote “God bless the Grateful Dead” – and gave to Jacky to give to Pierre – I think that I have told that story again and again until I found the one I WANTED to tell – Ryan – and explain that it gave me such hope in the time we were all reeling from Pierre’s unexpected passing. How could I not credit the Lord for the timing for me to see it – it was not and is not about me – but about being given an insight into what giving can give…. I am not saying it (a small easy free gesture) is a WOW for the world – but for me it was something on the small scale which still says I know we work together for good… It’s the little things – God IS a cheerful giver to give cheer… We can be too.
So in reading the letter from Paul to the Corinthians about “being a cheerful giver” – it is clear that the Lord has put before us the struggles of the world and the mission of the moments. Jesus is our pattern in giving it all – so we can at least give some of what is given to us. In warning, apostle Paul was teaching the Corinthians of how to live a Godly life – asking them to include GRACE in their offerings of self. In JOY, Paul was commending them for their sharing and urging them to do more of this – SHARE SHARE SHARE.. As it is written, “He who gathered much had nothing left over, and he who gathered little had no lack.”
Our gifts are to be a matter of generosity and not as a grudging obligation –as Paul states – and so we best keep ourselves in the right spirit of giving.
It is like preparing ourselves to be able to give best – to know what we have in our blessing from God and then be able to give because we are “OK” – “He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound toward you, that you, always having all sufficiency in all things, may have an abundance for every good work.”
This is not just material or food gifts – but of our spirit – of our joy – our our sacrifice – of our love. We give because we can – and because we are gifted to give.
We thank the Veterans who gifted so much to us in everything including example.
We thank the volunteers who gift these food drives and spectaculars over spectacles to bring the people in.
We thank the Lord for His ultimate gift of gifts – Himself and His Way.
May we increase the fruits of righteousness – be enriched in everything – and give thanksgiving to God.
Amen
2 Corinthians 8-9 NKJV Excel in Giving Moreover, brethren, we make known to you the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia: that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded in the riches of their liberality. For I bear witness that according to their ability, yes, and beyond their ability, they were freely willing, imploring us with much urgency that we would receive the gift and the fellowship of the ministering to the saints. And not only as we had hoped, but they first gave themselves to the Lord, and then to us by the will of God. So we urged Titus, that as he had begun, so he would also complete this grace in you as well. But as you abound in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in all diligence, and in your love for us—see that you abound in this grace also.
Christ Our Pattern I speak not by commandment, but I am testing the sincerity of your love by the diligence of others. For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that you through His poverty might become rich.
And in this I give advice: It is to your advantage not only to be doing what you began and were desiring to do a year ago; but now you also must complete the doing of it; that as there was a readiness to desire it, so there also may be a completion out of what you have. For if there is first a willing mind, it is accepted according to what one has, and not according to what he does not have.
For I do not mean that others should be eased and you burdened; but by an equality, that now at this time your abundance may supply their lack, that their abundance also may supply your lack—that there may be equality. As it is written, “He who gathered much had nothing left over, and he who gathered little had no lack.”
Collection for the Judean Saints But thanks be to God who puts the same earnest care for you into the heart of Titus. For he not only accepted the exhortation, but being more diligent, he went to you of his own accord. And we have sent with him the brother whose praise is in the gospel throughout all the churches, and not only that, but who was also chosen by the churches to travel with us with this gift, which is administered by us to the glory of the Lord Himself and to show your ready mind, avoiding this: that anyone should blame us in this lavish gift which is administered by us— providing honorable things, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men.
And we have sent with them our brother whom we have often proved diligent in many things, but now much more diligent, because of the great confidence which we have in you. If anyone inquires about Titus, he is my partner and fellow worker concerning you. Or if our brethren are inquired about, they are messengers of the churches, the glory of Christ. Therefore show to them, and before the churches, the proof of your love and of our boasting on your behalf.
CHAPTER 9 Administering the Gift
Now concerning the ministering to the saints, it is superfluous for me to write to you; for I know your willingness, about which I boast of you to the Macedonians, that Achaia was ready a year ago; and your zeal has stirred up the majority. Yet I have sent the brethren, lest our boasting of you should be in vain in this respect, that, as I said, you may be ready; lest if some Macedonians come with me and find you unprepared, we (not to mention you!) should be ashamed of this confident boasting. Therefore I thought it necessary to exhort the brethren to go to you ahead of time, and prepare your generous gift beforehand, which you had previously promised, that it may be ready as a matter of generosity and not as a grudging obligation.
The Cheerful Giver But this I say: He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound toward you, that you, always having all sufficiency in all things, may have an abundance for every good work. As it is written:
“He has dispersed abroad, He has given to the poor; His righteousness endures forever.”
Now may He who supplies seed to the sower, and bread for food, supply and multiply the seed you have sown and increase the fruits of your righteousness, while you are enriched in everything for all liberality, which causes thanksgiving through us to God. For the administration of this service not only supplies the needs of the saints, but also is abounding through many thanksgivings to God, while, through the proof of this ministry, they glorify God for the obedience of your confession to the gospel of Christ, and for your liberal sharing with them and all men, and by their prayer for you, who long for you because of the exceeding grace of God in you. Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!
Whether you are down praying on them, “Lord Please!”
Or raising up low on them, Oh Geez!
Oh Lord, please Lord, help our knees.
.
Our knees must bend and sway,
Carry burdening weight each day,
If they give in or give way,
Let us know we will walk more freely someday.
.
Whether you stroll, wander, or run,
Walk chasing the morning to evening sun,
On a mission or just out for fun,
Let us walk the walk, talk the talk, and then some.
.
So, let us take a few days of ease,
Listen to the seasonal breeze,
And praise and pray emotionally on our crucial knees,
Help us walk the path best, oh Lord how You please.
.
Life is all about talking to the Lord in ease.
Life is all about flexibility of following Him, and yes, the spiritual and physical knees.
Amen
(Attached are photos that please, from a walk yesterday where I did use my knees, up and down hills and chairs with still ease. A walk that I promised myself, an emotional gift to take a couple hours off for myself to get to the garden near work, a cultivated gorgeous rolling landscape… Here I emotionally and physically prayed praises and thankfulness to the Lord for His faithfulness and mercy and blessings in my many trials and troubles, now blessings and incentives to keep moving: moment by moment, rest by rest, knee by knee, day by day appreciative of the Lord taking care of me, my family, my work, finances, ALL, AND OUR FUTURE TOO. Amen)
—
Psalm 30
New King James Version
The Blessedness of Answered Prayer
A Psalm. A Song at the dedication of the house of David.
I will extol You, O Lord, for You have lifted me up, And have not let my foes rejoice over me. O Lord my God, I cried out to You, And You healed me. O Lord, You brought my soul up from the grave; You have kept me alive, that I should not go down to the pit.
Sing praise to the Lord, you saints of His, And give thanks at the remembrance of His holy name. For His anger is but for a moment, His favor is for life; Weeping may endure for a night, But joy comes in the morning.
Now in my prosperity I said, “I shall never be moved.” Lord, by Your favor You have made my mountain stand strong; You hid Your face, and I was troubled.
I cried out to You, O Lord; And to the Lord I made supplication: “What profit is there in my blood, When I go down to the pit? Will the dust praise You? Will it declare Your truth? Hear, O Lord, and have mercy on me; Lord, be my helper!”
You have turned for me my mourning into dancing; You have put off my sackcloth and clothed me with gladness, To the end that my glory may sing praise to You and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give thanks to You forever.
Psalm 29
New King James Version
Praise to God in His Holiness and Majesty,
A Psalm of David.
29
Give unto the Lord, O you mighty ones, Give unto the Lord glory and strength. Give unto the Lord the glory due to His name; Worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness.
The voice of the Lord is over the waters; The God of glory thunders; The Lord is over many waters. The voice of the Lord is powerful; The voice of the Lord is full of majesty.
The voice of the Lord breaks the cedars, Yes, the Lord splinters the cedars of Lebanon. He makes them also skip like a calf, Lebanon and Sirion like a young wild ox. The voice of the Lord divides the flames of fire.
The voice of the Lord shakes the wilderness; The Lord shakes the Wilderness of Kadesh. The voice of the Lord makes the deer give birth, And strips the forests bare; And in His temple everyone says, “Glory!”
The Lord sat enthroned at the Flood, And the Lord sits as King forever. The Lord will give strength to His people; The Lord will bless His people with peace.
Seeking to Please God is asking guidance, every decision: “Please, God, show me the way…” – an utterance to PLEASE GOD (no commas)- not just saying (with commas): “Please, God, do this for me…”
To know His Grace and Mercy through forgiveness by Jesus, we now seek to Please God, no commas, rather than ask first for what pleases us. So we please God in our devotion to what pleases Him.
And yet, we are ALSO allowed to ask for what pleases us in guidance, in provisions, in comfort, in hope. “Please, God, …” is a rally cry to Him, which also pleases Him…
And loving God pleases Him, and loving others pleases Him. And knowing our worth as He makes us worthy – straighten the crown of being children of the King.
Peter wrote: “but you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.”
Surely we ALSO please God with our ability to get up every morning and keep going… going for ourselves, going for others, going because we have to, and going for sake of sharing faith, and even for when it’s others witnessing us going through tough stuff but we keep going. And we get motivated as we see others going and going…
Last week I was struggling to find a parking spot on a trip, in hindsight I should have taken the train, but well I didn’t (the next day I did because I had the understanding of the landscape, the relief of realization of what was going to work out logistic wise for me that day. I powered through new semi-strange scenes and was refueled in motivation seeing others who we’re pushing hard to get where they were going – even a mom was bicycling 2 small kids in the city streets in the cold, wow… In the pursuit of my passion, I had to pay certain prices, push purposefully, and pause perplexed too… I got through… I did…
It’s a privilege the paths we take. And pride has no space when God gives us the time and place to do what we do.
And we do, we do give God His Due…
Amen
Jesus Calling: November 6 by Sarah Young:
“Seek to please Me above all else. As you journey through today, there will be many choice-points along your way. Most of the day’s decisions will be small ones you have to make quickly. You need some rule of thumb to help you make good choices. Many people’s decisions are a combination of their habitual responses and their desire to please themselves or others. This is not My way for you. Strive to please Me in everything, not just in major decisions. This is possible only to the extent that you are living in close communion with Me. When My Presence is your deepest delight, you know almost instinctively what will please Me. A quick glance at Me is all you need to make the right choice. Delight yourself in Me more and more; seek My pleasure in all you do.”
John 8:29
English Standard Version
And He who sent Me is with Me; He has not left Me alone, for I always do the things that are pleasing to Him.
I DID get out to vote yesterday – not that I understood all the intricate details of all the races or the people – some yes but honestly I didn’t know much at all for some – but I voted…
One person I made sure to vote for was the son of the woman who handed me the sample “suggestions” ballot – I thought well, his mother came all the way to my little district (and yeah mine is little) – and the other thing I voted for was some people holding up a sign on an overpass over the highway, standing and waving a few times this last cold month – i thought – wow that’s a strange cause, they must really be dedicated for a proposition that seemed so hohum, not to worry about… but they were there and I voted thinking of them…
That is one thing in the scripture that struck me this morning – in this look at one of Paul’s letters – the VOTE to be faithful was all about NOT being wishy washy or uninformed. This letter in this scripture is about teaching and believing in God fully – believing in Jesus – and that in God it is YES! All the promises in Him are YES!!!
Paul writes: “Or the things I plan, do I plan according to the flesh, that with me there should be Yes, Yes, and No, No? But as God is faithful, our word to you was not Yes and No. For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, who was preached among you by us—by me, Silvanus, and Timothy—was not Yes and No, but in Him was Yes. For all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us. “
Paul was writing about not boasting in himself but in each other for that the Lord had delivered and was delivering them – that they (both groups of letter writers and letter receivers) were faithful. And “we trust that He will still deliver us” – yes – the TRUST that they had and we have in the Lord will deliver us from the suffering (physical and emotional and otherwise) that we have in this present world.
Paul’s Letter to the T – for Life in Harmony – is that we believe in Jesus and in His Father – be led by the Spirit to TRUST and to OBEY.
Amen
2 Corinthians 1 NKJV Greeting from Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, to the church of God which is at Corinth, with all the saints who are in all Achaia: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Comfort in Suffering Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also abounds through Christ. Now if we are afflicted, it is for your consolation and salvation, which is effective for enduring the same sufferings which we also suffer. Or if we are comforted, it is for your consolation and salvation. And our hope for you is steadfast, because we know that as you are partakers of the sufferings, so also you will partake of the consolation.
Delivered from Suffering For we do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, of our trouble which came to us in Asia: that we were burdened beyond measure, above strength, so that we despaired even of life. Yes, we had the sentence of death in ourselves, that we should not trust in ourselves but in God who raises the dead, who delivered us from so great a death, and does deliver us; in whom we trust that He will still deliver us, you also helping together in prayer for us, that thanks may be given by many persons on our behalf for the gift granted to us through many.
Paul’s Sincerity For our boasting is this: the testimony of our conscience that we conducted ourselves in the world in simplicity and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom but by the grace of God, and more abundantly toward you. For we are not writing any other things to you than what you read or understand. Now I trust you will understand, even to the end (as also you have understood us in part), that we are your boast as you also are ours, in the day of the Lord Jesus.
Sparing the Church And in this confidence I intended to come to you before, that you might have a second benefit— to pass by way of you to Macedonia, to come again from Macedonia to you, and be helped by you on my way to Judea. Therefore, when I was planning this, did I do it lightly? Or the things I plan, do I plan according to the flesh, that with me there should be Yes, Yes, and No, No? But as God is faithful, our word to you was not Yes and No. For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, who was preached among you by us—by me, Silvanus, and Timothy—was not Yes and No, but in Him was Yes. For all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us. Now He who establishes us with you in Christ and has anointed us is God, who also has sealed us and given us the Spirit in our hearts as a guarantee.
Moreover I call God as witness against my soul, that to spare you I came no more to Corinth. Not that we have dominion over your faith, but are fellow workers for your joy; for by faith you stand.
I think it’s interesting that a new friend and I were talking about the old religion they were raised in (not one that I had heard of – was interesting conversation and I thought how awful – and she realized later how awful of the harshness and the hybrid rules that seemed to have been made up by man) and our conversation grew to how NOT to be stuck in living in forced “legalistic” routines and rules.
If anything – we in the church should not get so caught up in legalism but be caught up in the Spirit that allows us to share – to teach – to help others and ourselves grow…
Then the verse of the day, today, surely NOT “coincidentally”, that I received from Bible Gateway by email, was a short sentence from Paul about God: “who also made us sufficient as ministers of the new covenant, not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.”– and Paul certainly talks about the pull away from legalism.
In this 2nd letter to the Corinthinans – Paul was not commending himself or his fellow teachers – but saying that the Holy Spirit has inspired them and filled them to be the teachers to tell others of the LIFE that the Spirit gives: “Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think of anything as being from ourselves, but our sufficiency is from God, who also made us sufficient as ministers of the new covenant, not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.”
THE SPIRIT GIVES LIFE! That is Paul’s Letter to a T – that we can have life in Harmony with the Spirit.
Truly, we are made alive by God – we can be refilled by the Spirit and hold close as well as share Jesus from our hearts – we share and are not perfect but “perfecting” as God renews in us His life for us – to believe in Him and to live life in an abundant way – not materially but in a spiritual “OK-ness” that we can life knowing we have a glorious future with Jesus in Heaven – with God our Father – and a peace that the world will not bring but will be fulfilled with the fulfilment of Jesus forever.
The letters that Paul wrote were preserved – for the sake of teaching 2000 years plus – and this section of scripture of being filled with the spirit is bracketed by writing of living victorious in Jesus – not gloating or peddling the Word of God – but being assured and assuring of the comfort of the Lord.
So – here is our study and our life – to live like Paul urged – free of death – and to
triumph in Christ – let us listen to this letter to motivate us to not judge or perish by the law but to live in the Spirit – to be the aroma of salvation – to live freely IN CHRIST – “Now the Lord is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord.”
THANK GOD
THANK GOD
AMEN
…
(starting in chapter 2 of 2nd Cor. NKJV) Furthermore, when I came to Troas to preach Christ’s gospel, and a door was opened to me by the Lord, I had no rest in my spirit, because I did not find Titus my brother; but taking my leave of them, I departed for Macedonia.
Now thanks be to God who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and through us diffuses the fragrance of His knowledge in every place. For we are to God the fragrance of Christ among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing. To the one we are the aroma of death leading to death, and to the other the aroma of life leading to life. And who is sufficient for these things? For we are not, as so many, peddling the word of God; but as of sincerity, but as from God, we speak in the sight of God in Christ.
2 Corinthians 3 Christ’s Epistle Do we begin again to commend ourselves? Or do we need, as some others, epistles of commendation to you or letters of commendation from you? You are our epistle written in our hearts, known and read by all men; clearly you are an epistle of Christ, ministered by us, written not with ink but by the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of flesh, that is, of the heart.
The Spirit, Not the Letter And we have such trust through Christ toward God. Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think of anything as being from ourselves, but our sufficiency is from God, who also made us sufficient as ministers of the new covenant, not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.
Glory of the New Covenant But if the ministry of death, written and engraved on stones, was glorious, so that the children of Israel could not look steadily at the face of Moses because of the glory of his countenance, which glory was passing away, how will the ministry of the Spirit not be more glorious? For if the ministry of condemnation had glory, the ministry of righteousness exceeds much more in glory. For even what was made glorious had no glory in this respect, because of the glory that excels. For if what is passing away was glorious, what remains is much more glorious.
Therefore, since we have such hope, we use great boldness of speech— unlike Moses, who put a veil over his face so that the children of Israel could not look steadily at the end of what was passing away. But their minds were blinded. For until this day the same veil remains unlifted in the reading of the Old Testament, because the veil is taken away in Christ. But even to this day, when Moses is read, a veil lies on their heart. Nevertheless when one turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. Now the Lord is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord.
Wow… I am amazed and thankful. I just watched this story on Instagram for the radio station WMMR. And as I was looking at all the October posts, I was BLESSEDLY SHOCKED to see that the stone piece I decorated for legendary DJ Pierre Robert, who legendarily said “God Bless the Grateful Dead” all the time, was in the video! The stone piece was in the studio!!!!
No mistake to me at this moment of scrolling that this was a “sign from God”. This is a handwritten stone plaque that I made and then gave to fellow DJ Jacky BamBam to deliver, which I handed over at a meet and greet in 2024 and which he promised to deliver) – it made it there. It is actually propped up behind the vinyl record player at WMMR in their vinyl cut station at the Pierre Robert studio… WOW!!!! Pierre would have seen it every day, perhaps for up to a year (others too – and now see it on social media)… WOW!!!
I HAVE TO GIVE GOD PROPS!
I mean, giving GOD KUDOS, as in “Proper Respects” as well as the actual physical props too, because I wrote it to bless the situations, bless the Lord and bless the Grateful Dead reference, I love their music too, and bless Pierre and Jacky too!!! WOW!!!
And in turn, God blessed me with it – because I was wondering that day – after a long but good day about the meaning of my path of the day. Yes, even thought we don’t have to work to get God’s salvation, we and I want to do our best to serve God in the day. I had given the sermon in the morning about shining the LIGHT – and wondered my impact – and I think was temporarily came over me was a struggle of the devil trying to get some headspace time in me – and I was not shrugging it off fast enough – but then I was able to shake it – as I decompressed and enjoyed a visit to the farm (and farm store) and the wagon rides where the apple pickers were going, then went down the road to pickup printouts from my writing of Sept at the local Office Max knowing that the printing and curating as well as the writing that I do is driven in me to keep going, then I drove to a girl scout event at the historical manor in a recreated location where William Penn resided a few summers. It was like perfect weather outside – with friends – with curious scouts and some needing motivation scouts – and wonderful presenters.
And I felt the peace of the Lord increase as the day went on ,just that I was “in my space” – “in my place” – “with my people” – helping and healing and having fun…
And when I got home, well that ability to be home with my kids, dinner, and I got in a phone call, and then scrolling to see the events of the day with the informal celebrations of the DJ Pierre – where they gathered down in the city – I thought about going to it – but it was better to be up with the scouts and the farm – it was better to let the Lord place me… He did and I enjoyed and even got in a good walk.
And props – I thought it was weird but not weird – that the people like that I bring props to my sermons – but I don’t necessarily want that to distract from the Lord’s Word – but perhaps it enhances or not for the presentation – I think others think it enhances… so OK… And all in all I felt – after the sermon – relief it was done – and relief to just keep going – move forward – don’t dwell – decompress but don’t dwell… and at the farm and then at the girl scout event I remembered that MOST of God’s people are not in the church building – they are all around us – and we best be the LIGHT wherever we can be – be the light and salt – everywhere we go… And that is how I felt the right place for me to be – and the right headspace – with God’s people increasingly throughout the day… I have to give God props – proper respect as well as the props.
Like the placard stone sign – a plaque now in a public space – I have to say “God bless the Grateful Dead” – God bless Pierre – God bless Jacky and all the staff at the radio – God bless the day – God bless the friends through scouts – God bless the farm – God bless the beautiful day and realizing it – and God bless the knowledge of God in everything we want to do…
Thank you Lord for props – for propping me up – for moving me forward – for being able to see the small impact in a big world.
God bless YOU God… Thank you for showing me that it is YOU Who bless each of us, even finding the right “pick me up” of us little me in a BIG world. You Lord, coordinate life to encourage the encouragers and move your love forward.
LIGHT OF THE WORLD – Carry the LIGHT out to SHINE – Grow Community – Share the Light of Love –
(Start with a visual – pretend to be holding a cigarette lighter, sweeping back and forth during a concert. )
You ever seen this? Or done this? Vintage era folks – what am I pretend holding? Yes a cigarette lighter at a concert – swaying back and forth… Now people use their phones. (mimic that)… And have you ever seen those light bracelets they give out at big sporting events or concerts? Coordinated during a show for a spectacular sight? It’s a sea of lights – a community in a cool way.
These are lights of encouragement, and they are lights that connect people. And of course entertain – but really I want to use these lights to illustrate our theme today:
1st John 1:5 – “God is LIGHT. In HIM there is NO darkness at all.”
What about lighthouses? Lights for safety and navigation – to know which path to take and which rocks to avoid… Both tell the ships of warning them, but also beckoning them to know where the rocks are… The lights on a runway also help planes navigate too, oh what comfort it is landing in light and just light with no distractions.
Light in our darkness too is such a blessing… Light overcomes – Light beckons – Light illuminates – and I am NOT talking JUST about physical light, but this LIGHT of God, inside us and which we take in, that is key: “Your Word is a LAMP to my feet and a LIGHT to my PATH.” Psalm 119:105
We know that as growing community together we are blessed and we can be a blessing. This morning we illustrated so many opportunities our church and we had and have to shine the LIGHT – to help give HOPE by our actions – and by modeling Jesus’s LOVE as the gospel of John reiterated: In Jesus was life – and Jesus’ life was and is the Light of men. And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it.
If the darkness did not comprehend that LIGHT – then surely it couldn’t and doesn’t now know how to stop it – right? Amen to that? – and we have such a celebration that the Light of HOPE & Direction and of LOVE WON’T be stopped ! In our prayers of comfort – may we send out that message – that in God’s Time, all will be made right again – it may take longer than we want – but the Victory is certain.
Now we are called to carry this Light out into the community. The Light of Jesus which gives hope – we are to share it to a broken world that desperately needs this LIGHT.
David would write of this amazing JOY of Those Who Trust in God – Psalm 34:4-5, 8
I sought the Lord, and He heard me, And delivered me from all my fears.They looked to Him and were radiant, And their faces were not ashamed…Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good; Blessed is the man who trusts in Him!
You’ve seen that glow right? A glow of hope and of joy and felt it too – in our hearts…
There’s a great Christmas commercial – from 1977 (came after the 1971 original) People from all over the world holding candles, standing in the shape of a Christmas tree.
* Let me sing a little for you and you can chime in: “I’d like to teach the world to sing – in perfect harmony…” “I’d like to buy the world a Coke – And keep it company. (That’s the real thing)…
* Yes, it was first a 1971 Coca Cola commercial and then 1977 the Christmas one with candles is from my childhood TV growing up mid 70s with that era of commercials 50 years ago that resonate to this day… the lyrics and visuals are about reaching out to all nations and to all people – and bringing joy…
If we “share a coke and a smile” to all nations and people, then how about we share a smile and a spiritual HOPE … How about we share LOVE to let others know Whom brought the LIFE in LIGHT – Jesus came to give that LOVE freely with His sacrifice – Came into the world at that Christmas time – when the time was right…
And the truth is Jesus was and is and is to come – so darkness was lit from the beginning, IS being lighted now – and will be light-ing our way forever more – in growing His community. The community of Heaven
So, in our whole theme today we also pledge to share the hope. Pledge to share love in all it’s manifestations of giving and caring and sharing. And especially be Christians who don’t forget to believe that hope too.
Use the skill set He gave us – remember those fruits of the spirit – and the vine that Jesus IS within our branches. The gospel of John spurs us on: those who received Him, Jesus, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name: who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.
Back to a story of physical lights – Christmas and otherwise – How about the new tradition of putting up Halloween lights on the house? Well that is a growing trend – even all year round – sure it can be a little light pollution – but it is fun…
And surely Christmas lights, which are fun to have on your house, and are again mostly not seen by you, but by the other people driving by… we like to go see the lights that other people put up… it is something we do for each other.
My Dad in the early 1960s had big plywood pieces cut with holes. He made these himself and he used big pudgy lights and had a big pumpkin, a big candy cane, a big American flag for the summer, and an Easter egg and more. He was one of those early trend setters, made them himself – and they wrote him up in the 1960s newspaper… My Dad just wanted to share the light, just wanted to entertain, to encourage, and to bring some joy.
How much MORE is Jesus Joy – Gospel writer John tells us about Jesus Alpha and Omega – the Christmas when Jesus entered the world “when the time was right” prophesized by Isaiah – Jesus came as the eternal Word AND the true light – In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made. John 1:1-3 NKJV
Jesus said and says: “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”
We share this light of hope to grow community – Sharing the Good News of Jesus – and how in His Light we have encouragement, joy, understanding, and direction – so much more than just physical light – a spiritual light is an emotional healing light – a truth – a motivational light to overcome darkness every day!!! It is surely not a coincidence that every day we get to see light overcome darkness – physically and spiritually – Even if clocks change – as they did last night – Jesus is ALWAYS on time.
We also heard in our scripture this morning about John the Baptist – sent from God – a Witness to the True Light – that all through him might believe. He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light – that was the true Light which gives light to every man coming into the world.
Jesus was foretold by “illumination” through the prophecies – and there is prediction right before his birth, these words by Zacharias, John the Baptist’s father – that his child was called to be the prophet of the Highest – to go before the face of the Lord to prepare His ways – to give knowledge of salvation to His people by the remission of their sins, through the tender mercy of our God… Give light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.” Luke1
*** Imagine people in our community who look for that light –
*** Yes I brought props – my friend said once at a camp they handed out birthday candles and lit them in the immense darkness and oh the LIGHT even from such a small source was IMMERSURABLE – NOW imagine the LIGHT of God even more.
*** AND also IMAGINE Motel 6, they are “gonna keep the light on” for us! Now not imagine but KNOW the LOVE of GOD – keeps the light and hope – beckons us home.
*** AND imagine these glow in the dark stars. I used to cover my ceiling with them as a kid – they were charged up and you went to bed you were still entertained and comforted, you didn’t feel alone… We also KNOW God is always with us. We are never alone. (Please take some of these stars home with you scatter them at home.)
All this fun but we can’t ignore darkness – we can’t ignore the pain of living in a broken world – life is just plain tough for so many – and it will still be tough – the whole reason Charles Dickens wrote “A Christmas Carol” was to illuminate the plight of the poor – yes for the whole history of time there is darkness – many have experienced it. And yet we are told not to let it deter us from being motivated to continue to BE THE LIGHT.
One of the sad parts about living in the world is that there are just people who want to cause trouble and this has hit all of us, time to time – no sugar coating. Yes, I have a story to share – nothing tragic but of a little sadness my family experienced well before I was old enough to know, it is not tragic, but I will use it to illustrate the point here – that we are to keep moving on, even in the broken world… So, like I said I was little but my family talked about an incident near our house – on our garage actually – and a child maybe 12, was playing with matches or a lighter and set fire on the garage either intentionally or accidentally from the outside – not sure – the child was from the neighborhood – I don’t think my dad pressed any charges – we were just the wrong place at the wrong time – perhaps it was just for this child’s folly over anyting, but damage was done and most all of those light displays I told you about – the big plywood ones were damaged along with that corner of the garage. Sad…
Only the pumpkin shape and most of the candy cane shape survived intact – the rest were too damaged. It was a small but significant impact not just on light displays but on our view of the world – 50 plus years later our family still remembers – with evil and of ignorance in the world – we do have a sad broken world… scorched marks like on the garage – those are but a reflection of scars that this life inflicts on us sometimes but we keep going. And sure we know many more worse things than losing part of a garage and the contents – we know tragedy unspeakable, darkness in droves – Yet – WE MUST KEEP GOING – called to survive and even thrive in trials – James in scripture speaks of strengthening and carrying on… Darkness is no excuse to not KEEP BEING THE LIGHT.
From what was not lost, in plywood and pudgy light strings, my dad used the left over wood to shore up the wall of the garage instead… Even just with one plywood left for the display of lights – the pumpkin – my father would still string up the lights once a year and set it up on our porch… I bet it was hard but He did it – maybe it was easy and a healing feeling to still share – a continuation of the JOY. Darkness will never overtake the light.
SO physically and emotionally and spiritually we will not let darkness win.
What about you and me? So, can we spiritually, emotionally, and in strength and hope, continue to SHARE? Can SHARING to inspire?
A famous well-known local DJ Pierre Robert passed away this week. Radio station WMMR – he was amazing for over 40 years – one of the “last DJs” who played what he wanted to play – People looked to Pierre for both his musical knowledge and because he was so connected to people – so generous to the fans – me included – met him few times and the outpouring of love this week due to his death reminds us that people are hungry for connection – people listening to the radio got the hope of conversation and the hope of comfort – like live music and life radio did and does. He did a thanksgiving show that comforted and connected. They said Pierre the DJ was salt of the earth – and isn’t that what we are called to be sharing the HOPE – grow a spirit in which others connect – we are also said to cling to what is good and be salt and light –
Isn’t that a good goal for us too – to grow community that’s connected. TO SHARE THE LOVE OF GOD TO A HUNGRY WORLD. Matthew 5 reminds that Jesus said: 14 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
I know we do help – and we are continually asked to keep putting up our lights to show the HOPE of the Lord – take the time – share the gifts –seeds to plant… We plant and another will harvest – and we harvest what others have planted before us. Jesus always told His disciples to “open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest”… That “the sower and the reaper may be glad together.” John 4:35, 36
Let me close by reading this cute saying about being a Christian – I don’t know the author – but it is fitting for this season: “Being a Christian – it is like being a pumpkin – God picks you from the patch, brings you in, and washes all the dirt off you, that you may have gotten from the other pumpkins. Then, He cuts the top off and scoops out all the yucky stuff. He removes the seeds of doubt, hate, greed, etc. Then He carves you a new smiling face and puts His light inside of you to shine for all the world to see.”
Yes, Thank you all for being part of our community – as a church, imagine how collectively we can share – how much more impact we can make. We can do this – and God will help us to help Him. We share and care in teaching and giving – everyday reaching community – and especially to grow the community of the Kingdom of Heaven.. We are knowing God’s Mission and there is nothing more important than us using our skill sets – our resources – our commitment to Sharing His HOPE – Everything will fade away but LOVE is forever…
AMEN and Let us pray – “Lord – we want all to know You – and to know Your Love – help us use our gifts to share and grown community – help us to invite those who hunger to feast at Your banquet – to have abundant life in You – to see and follow the Light… Lord – we have You as our strength – and we can do these things for You and for each other – Thank You for the HOPE and the LIGHT.
Oh – the news of a local legend DJ, Pierre Robert’s unexpected death Wednesday 10/29 has stuck such a chord in this community – my phone was blowing up with texts and calls – unknown that his death was overnight on Tuesday to Wednesday and reported just then. A local celebrity but man of the people – his attitude and life and longevity had struck a chord in our collective lives and in my life too… I was blessed to run into him at concerts a few times and this moment after we saw Pope Francis. “Great day in the morning” a catch phrase on his radio show on WMMR – it was a great day when you ran into him or was able to catch some of his noontime to 2 radio show – and especially the vinyl cut at 215ish… There was a lot of “ish” time with Pierre being late to everything… the radio listening public realized that we were listening to one of the last DJ’s – real DJ who loved the music and the people – and at age 70 showed no sign of slowing down…
But the lateness of Pierre came to an end when he died early – in our time frame – 70 is now early – and yet the lateness of Pierre was right on time when surely now he has gone to be with the Lord – and that time is always on the Lord’s time. Never too early or too late – but Lord’s time decided… Solomon would write: As you do not know what is the way of the wind, Or how the bones grow in the womb of her who is with child, So you do not know the works of God who makes everything.” Ecc 11
As I was driving home yesterday, at the beginning of my long trip (carwise and lifewise) I heard the news of Pierre from a friend – they knew that I loved Him – and well perhaps that is the best thing for us to know about each other – is who we all and each love… and I loved and love Pierre Robert, collectively with the city and world, and personally in loving what he stood for – which was peace and love and knowing our fellow man… Pierre wanted to know what was making you tick – what excited you – you got that from his interviews over the 40 years on the radio…. I only met him a few times but I listened religiously when I could – which always was never enough since it was during my work day – but when I could – or had gotten in the car – I would linger to hear his voice… Linger is something we get to do so infrequently here on earth – but so necessary at times.
Now Pierre is right on time to hear the Lord – now that IS Peace and Love. Yes, Pierre Robert has gone to Peter’s and Jesus’s Care.
Oh for us to linger with loved one – oh for us to linger to hear the Lord’s voice – and to consult Him and to love Him as He loves us… Tell everyone you love that you love them – today – no delay – love you all…
I want to share 1st Peter 1 and Ecclesiates 11 about living life not as in “your days are numbered” – but in “let us ask the Lord to help us number our days…” life is short – share the peace and love of the Lord for His people…
Amen
1 Peter 1 NKJV Greeting to the Elect Pilgrims Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, To the pilgrims of the Dispersion in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, in sanctification of the Spirit, for obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace to you and peace be multiplied.
A Heavenly Inheritance Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, who are kept by the power of God through faith for salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.
In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ, whom having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, receiving the end of your faith—the salvation of your souls.
Of this salvation the prophets have inquired and searched carefully, who prophesied of the grace that would come to you, searching what, or what manner of time, the Spirit of Christ who was in them was indicating when He testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ and the glories that would follow. To them it was revealed that, not to themselves, but to us they were ministering the things which now have been reported to you through those who have preached the gospel to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven—things which angels desire to look into.
Living Before God Our Father Therefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and rest your hope fully upon the grace that is to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ; as obedient children, not conforming yourselves to the former lusts, as in your ignorance; but as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, because it is written, “Be holy, for I am holy.”
And if you call on the Father, who without partiality judges according to each one’s work, conduct yourselves throughout the time of your stay here in fear; knowing that you were not redeemed with corruptible things, like silver or gold, from your aimless conduct received by tradition from your fathers, but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot. He indeed was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you who through Him believe in God, who raised Him from the dead and gave Him glory, so that your faith and hope are in God.
The Enduring Word Since you have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit in sincere love of the brethren, love one another fervently with a pure heart, having been born again, not of corruptible seed but incorruptible, through the word of God which lives and abides forever, because
“All flesh is as grass, And all the glory of man as the flower of the grass. The grass withers, And its flower falls away, But the word of the Lord endures forever.”
Now this is the word which by the gospel was preached to you.
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Ecclesiastes 11 NKJV The Value of Diligence Cast your bread upon the waters, For you will find it after many days. Give a serving to seven, and also to eight, For you do not know what evil will be on the earth.
If the clouds are full of rain, They empty themselves upon the earth; And if a tree falls to the south or the north, In the place where the tree falls, there it shall lie. He who observes the wind will not sow, And he who regards the clouds will not reap.
As you do not know what is the way of the wind, Or how the bones grow in the womb of her who is with child, So you do not know the works of God who makes everything. In the morning sow your seed, And in the evening do not withhold your hand; For you do not know which will prosper, Either this or that, Or whether both alike will be good.
Truly the light is sweet, And it is pleasant for the eyes to behold the sun; But if a man lives many years And rejoices in them all, Yet let him remember the days of darkness, For they will be many. All that is coming is vanity. Seek God in Early Life Rejoice, O young man, in your youth, And let your heart cheer you in the days of your youth; Walk in the ways of your heart, And in the sight of your eyes; But know that for all these God will bring you into judgment. Therefore remove sorrow from your heart, And put away evil from your flesh, For childhood and youth are vanity.
Had a GREAT birthday – activities and dinner with the kids – fun fun – and I made it fun mentally for myself – it is good to be busy and good to count blessings…
The trunk and treat at a school that my friend helps with – that was fun – the kids cleaned me out of candy and rock painting – and it was non-stop for those who wanted to make slime and do another experiment… it was fun – and I have no idea why they do competitions but this one I won 3rd prize – cute trophy – loved helping the kids (of all ages)…
Pop Pop Pop – I was shocked at the end of the 2 hour event that they were popping the balloons – when i was a kid, well those balloon displays were the best thing a little kid could share in – the balloons were sufficient for play – life was much simpler then… pop pop – I thought it was a shame but at the same time everyone was under a time crunch and well you have to keep moving… these people did a lot of work – and everything from a bounce house to treats to crafts to hot dogs – wow…
And what a blessing that my mom sent me presents too… simple and nothing major – but I do remember my mom, when I was a kid, let me have those balloons from the fun events we had… ah memories…
Making new memories now with my own kids – my dinner with the kids and the presents that they gave me were wonderful because I feel like they are “adulting” and moved up in the world and aware… that is my best present … I also saw them (each separately) “adulting” with grown up and work decisions… it was not easy for them to be in those conversations but it was real and real problem solving…
Life is not guaranteed easy or perfect or simple it is not… It is not the goal to work into wealth even though we like the cushion of comfort. Life is about loving – about love from God and for God and for each other – and in that realizing to count one’s blessings and being OK with being OK… An Abundant Life is not material things or people you hang out with – it is not even sunrises and sunsets – it is life IN the Lord – from the Lord – thru the Lord – counting blessings that He provides – and praising Him – only Him – for all that…
Abundant Life is a life lived close to God – what’s more to life than that???!!!
Amen
and so for my birthday 10/25 – the John scriptures of 10 and 25
John 10:10, 25 New King James Version
10 The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly. … 25 Jesus answered them, “I told you, and you do not believe. The works that I do in My Father’s name, they bear witness of Me.
“One Day More” the sensational song from the musical Les Miserable (or Les Mis) keeps running through my head. I listened a little bit yesterday when hearing of the new presentation coming to the east coast next summer. “One more day, one day more”… It’s a catchy tune…
(How exciting for me that 10 years after I bought Les Mis tickets for my daughter’s first Broadway musical, she bought me these tickets for next summer – time goes fast – enjoy the slowdown in those formative years of raising kids/adults, time flies…)…
Summer will be here soon knowing how fast life goes, yet it is so far away, since this is October… Life does move fast… and/but life does move slow when you are anticipating changes that you don’t know will ever come (like those French revolutionaries in the musical)… Either way we are to live in the present. We best walk the road the Lord is leading us on, now…
That section of lyrics goes like this at the very end: “Tomorrow we’ll discover what our God in Heaven has in store – One more dawn – One more day – One day more”… This is a song of anticipation and hope as well as perseverance and determination to survive. And it seems in French revolution times it was tough to survive let alone thrive… yet they did. We survived too as a nation – and a people – and ourselves – but many didn’t so we are to count our blessings…
In the movie version, there’s a wonderful scene of people stepping into Heaven when they pass. And isn’t that our blessed destiny with the forgiveness of Jesus and our willingness to repent, repent from sins and from going our own course in this battle of life. It’s one day more trudging through tough life and/or one more day until Heaven awaits… we get to choose our attitude. Let us chose a good attitude.
The spiritual battles would give pause, but Jesus ALREADY gave His Life for our cause.
One more day in enjoyment is also wanting one day more with loved ones and friends and/or one day more is just making it another day until reunion with loved ones, here and in Heaven.
We can hold on… we can sing our way there…
And personally for me, there are many, many steps that I’m thankful to be finally getting to step – blessings can give hope one day at a time. Knowing something exciting is coming is something to hook our hopes on. It balances out the pain of life, which we also should take only one day at a time… we also may count our blessings in being grateful as so many would be grateful just for one blessing today… we best remember to pray for those others in strife of this life.
Our consolation in this world and in this life is that the ultimate war has been won by the Lord, and these battles in Heaven and on earth are but temporary, intense but temporary. And our travel through the valley of the shadow of death is best by following the light of Jesus out of the mess, sometimes into the mess, but ultimately Home… Ultimately Heaven with Jesus awaiting – walk each day knowing our future is secure and Jesus has already validated our tickets. Let us pray that we are listening and be directed by His Word – making a light to our path…
One more day – one day more…
Day by day!!!!
Amen
Proverbs 3:5-6 NKJV Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.
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Matthew 7:7-8 NIV
Ask, Seek, Knock “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.”
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Psalm 119:124-135 NIV
Deal with your servant according to your love and teach me your decrees. I am your servant; give me discernment that I may understand your statutes. It is time for you to act, Lord; your law is being broken. Because I love your commands more than gold, more than pure gold, and because I consider all your precepts right, I hate every wrong path. …
Your statutes are wonderful; therefore I obey them. The unfolding of your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple. I open my mouth and pant, longing for your commands. Turn to me and have mercy on me, as you always do to those who love your name. Direct my footsteps according to your word; let no sin rule over me. Redeem me from human oppression, that I may obey your precepts. Make your face shine on your servant and teach me your decrees.
It is probably best advice – to start writing things down – and also for our collective young people to write things down – they say that it helps with memory and that helps with everything else.
A friend recently told a story of a little one, who when they were made to write things out, they calmed down, it reinforced good memory, all the good stuff for education and for living and for success in life…
Us making notes, and like me making “to-do” lists for myself – well that helps immensely – and gives the comfort that we DID write it down and we will probably remember but if not we have the notes… What a relief!!! Even electronic typing is good and actually really good because I can find the notes later as opposed to losing my paper!
Friends and I were also talking also about handwriting in the olden days – with big swoops and such – and I remember once learning and can attest that it is cathartic to write – pouring energy in. I also head a theory that you could tell someone’s generosity or stinginess by the size of the tails on the letters – cursive of course – well I don’t know about that – but I do know that it is nice to get a letter or card these days – those folks ARE generous because they took the time to write and also pay the stamp!
I know I learn well by taking notes and then am at ease because I know I have the notes to rely back upon – not just passwords but flow plans for my thoughts and my clicks for software. It is also a recommendation for my people at work – a fellow supervisor told me that if this was college they could say: “where are your notes, I’m only saying this once…” We don’t do that – but do help with repetition…
Well – written down – well how could we not think of Jesus being our written down Word – Written UP Word – the Word made Flesh – Alpha and Omega. And the Word not just contained in the bible but springing forth from the bible Word – shared FROM Him. Imagine how the Lord of lords is servant to serve by both coming to earth humbled as human – and to be written and rewritten out as everlasting Word – each stroke of Himself in penmanship and in printing press and in sign language and in spoken Word – His continuous pen never ending and never running out of ink or energy or Spirit.
Even the end of our physical bible in Revelation is where we see there are GOING TO BE chapters and chapters ahead – of life forever – the end is the beginning and if Jesus never ends, we won’t either… Forever remembered because He wrote our names down… Forever realized because He is the Author of Life in LOVE.
Jesus is Written Word – and He will never forget us nor be forgotten – He does LOVE and LIVE forever.
Amen for us to begin again.
Amen
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Psalm 121 NKJV
God the Help of Those Who Seek Him A Song of Ascents.
I will lift up my eyes to the hills— From whence comes my help? My help comes from the Lord, Who made heaven and earth.
He will not allow your foot to be moved; He who keeps you will not slumber. Behold, He who keeps Israel Shall neither slumber nor sleep.
The Lord is your keeper; The Lord is your shade at your right hand. The sun shall not strike you by day, Nor the moon by night.
The Lord shall preserve you from all evil; He shall preserve your soul. The Lord shall preserve your going out and your coming in From this time forth, and even forevermore.
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Revelation 3:7-13 NKJV
Letter from Jesus written by John: “To the angel of the church in Philadelphia write: These are the words of him who is holy and true, who holds the key of David. What he opens no one can shut, and what he shuts no one can open. I know your deeds. See, I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut. I know that you have little strength, yet you have kept my word and have not denied my name. I will make those who are of the synagogue of Satan, who claim to be Jews though they are not, but are liars – I will make them come and fall down at your feet and acknowledge that I have loved you. Since you have kept my command to endure patiently, I will also keep you from the hour of trial that is going to come on the whole world to test the inhabitants of the earth. I am coming soon. Hold on to what you have, so that no one will take your crown. The one who is victorious I will make a pillar in the temple of my God. Never again will they leave it. I will write on them the name of my God and the name of the city of my God, the new Jerusalem, which is coming down out of heaven from my God; and I will also write on them my new name. Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches.”
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Revelation 21:1-6 NKJV
All Things Made New
Now I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away. Also there was no more sea. Then I, John, saw the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from heaven saying, “Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people. God Himself will be with them and be their God. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.” Then He who sat on the throne said, “Behold, I make all things new.” And He said to me, “Write, for these words are true and faithful.” And He said to me, “It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. I will give of the fountain of the water of life freely to him who thirsts.
Recently I found myself Judging someone for Judging someone else – now I knew the first person – and we are apt to start judging aren’t we – it was/is an easy slide of our senses into Judging. But the second person I didn’t know but was led to believe that this person was like so many other people we encounter in life and well, without knowing, I (we) lump in people with lots in life that we don’t know – but have plenty of experiencing seeing… and perhaps we have even experienced or been one of “those” people – whatever they are or whatever they do… Seems that we have lots of opinions on people – me too… how human of us (ME)… LOVE thinks no evil but well, we do that don’t we? – and we have the conviction of being convicting… and when I say we are human, it is because we are not that much different than others – it is just our lot in life to be flawed humans – thus needing Jesus even the more – and THANK GOD, Jesus forgives and we can be filled with JOY in that…
As for jealousy (another “J” word) – we do participate in that too – we are very human and this is not unheard of – even the amazing transformed Saul (also called Paul as his Roman name) who was truly transformed by Jesus’s intervention on the Road to Damascus, stopped lots of his ‘BIG” sins of persecuting jews who were new Christians, well Paul, devout as anything at that point, still admitted to jealousy – and that commandment was the toughest to not break. From God to Moses who carried the message to others: Exodus 20:17 NKJV “You shall not covet your neighbor’s house; you shall not covet your neighbor’s wife, nor his male servant, nor his female servant, nor his ox, nor his donkey, nor anything that is your neighbor’s.” And as for jealousy that we have on ourselves, yes when we are jealous of a life we “think” we should have – but don’t – well that is all in the category of judging ourselves and being jealous and worldly and not counting our blessings for what we DO have…
And what we DO HAVE is LOVE – LOVE comes to us as Jesus and His Spirit reinvigorates us… [pray we don’t have a road to Damascus blinding but well, we do need Jesus coming to us – and in the best way, His conviction is there to convince us to LOVE] and God’s LOVE for us is true and never ending because GOD IS LOVE – and as Paul would write later in a letter to the Corinthians (13:1,4), “Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal… Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy…”
LOVE DOES NOT ENVY… WOW…
It is very judging of me to judge myself – and we are tempted to say that we are stuck in “that if we do not have love, we are nothing” – but we AREN’T nothing – not with the AMAZING gift of God – that HE GIVES US HIS LOVE – we feel that love and we have that love SO THAT WE MAY HAVE LOVE TO SHARE… Therefore we ARE SOMETHING – we are never nothing – we ARE the LOVE of GOD with JESUS in us and JOY
Jesus and JOY – those are love Words that triumph over jealousy and judging…May we work to not envy nor judge nor be trouble to others… May we live in His Love and share that…
AMEN
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We (I) learn alot about the LOVE of GOD in how He put forth the beginnings of the church and in the efforts of the disciples and these martyrs for Christ… Here are but excerpts of Acts – really good ones – about Stephen and about Saul/Paul and of how the church grew from LOVE… If you have not read the story of Stephen, here is the whole link: https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts%206-8%3A1&version=NIV;NKJV
Scripture excerpts of the calling of Saul/Paul into LOVE
Stephen Accused of Blasphemy (Acts 6:8-15 NKJV) And Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and signs among the people. Then there arose some from what is called the Synagogue of the Freedmen (Cyrenians, Alexandrians, and those from Cilicia and Asia), disputing with Stephen. And they were not able to resist the wisdom and the Spirit by which he spoke. Then they secretly induced men to say, “We have heard him speak blasphemous words against Moses and God.” And they stirred up the people, the elders, and the scribes; and they came upon him, seized him, and brought him to the council. They also set up false witnesses who said, “This man does not cease to speak blasphemous words against this holy place and the law; for we have heard him say that this Jesus of Nazareth will destroy this place and change the customs which Moses delivered to us.” And all who sat in the council, looking steadfastly at him, saw his face as the face of an angel.
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Stephen the Martyr (Acts 7:54-59 NKJV) – (NOTE: the chapter of Acts 7 (at the link above) is great for learning of the old testament and linking up the connection to Jesus from the acts of the Israelites) When they heard these things they were cut to the heart, and they gnashed at him with their teeth. But he, being full of the Holy Spirit, gazed into heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God, and said, “Look! I see the heavens opened and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God!”
Then they [Sanhedrin blaming Stephen for blasphemy] cried out with a loud voice, stopped their ears, and ran at him with one accord; and they cast him out of the city and stoned him. And the witnesses laid down their clothes at the feet of a young man named Saul. And they stoned Stephen as he was calling on God and saying, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” Then he knelt down and cried out with a loud voice, “Lord, do not charge them with this sin.” And when he had said this, he fell asleep.
Saul Persecutes the Church (Acts 8:1-3 NKJV) Now Saul was consenting to his [Stephen’s] death. At that time a great persecution arose against the church which was at Jerusalem; and they were all scattered throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria, except the apostles. And devout men carried Stephen to his burial, and made great lamentation over him. As for Saul, he made havoc of the church, entering every house, and dragging off men and women, committing them to prison.
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The Damascus Road: Saul Converted (Acts 9:1-30 NKJV) Then Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest and asked letters from him to the synagogues of Damascus, so that if he found any who were of the Way, whether men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem. As he journeyed he came near Damascus, and suddenly a light shone around him from heaven. Then he fell to the ground, and heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?” And he said, “Who are You, Lord?” Then the Lord said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. It is hard for you to kick against the goads.” So he, trembling and astonished, said, “Lord, what do You want me to do?” Then the Lord said to him, “Arise and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.” And the men who journeyed with him stood speechless, hearing a voice but seeing no one. Then Saul arose from the ground, and when his eyes were opened he saw no one. But they led him by the hand and brought him into Damascus. And he was three days without sight, and neither ate nor drank.
Ananias Baptizes Saul Now there was a certain disciple at Damascus named Ananias; and to him the Lord said in a vision, “Ananias.” And he said, “Here I am, Lord.” So the Lord said to him, “Arise and go to the street called Straight, and inquire at the house of Judas for one called Saul of Tarsus, for behold, he is praying. And in a vision he has seen a man named Ananias coming in and putting his hand on him, so that he might receive his sight.” Then Ananias answered, “Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much harm he has done to Your saints in Jerusalem. And here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who call on Your name.” But the Lord said to him, “Go, for he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel. For I will show him how many things he must suffer for My name’s sake.” And Ananias went his way and entered the house; and laying his hands on him he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you came, has sent me that you may receive your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” Immediately there fell from his eyes something like scales, and he received his sight at once; and he arose and was baptized. So when he had received food, he was strengthened. Then Saul spent some days with the disciples at Damascus.
Saul Preaches Christ Immediately he preached the Christ in the synagogues, that He is the Son of God. Then all who heard were amazed, and said, “Is this not he who destroyed those who called on this name in Jerusalem, and has come here for that purpose, so that he might bring them bound to the chief priests?” But Saul increased all the more in strength, and confounded the Jews who dwelt in Damascus, proving that this Jesus is the Christ. Saul Escapes Death – Now after many days were past, the Jews plotted to kill him. But their plot became known to Saul. And they watched the gates day and night, to kill him. Then the disciples took him by night and let him down through the wall in a large basket.
Saul at Jerusalem And when Saul had come to Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples; but they were all afraid of him, and did not believe that he was a disciple. But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles. And he declared to them how he had seen the Lord on the road, and that He had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus. So he was with them at Jerusalem, coming in and going out. And he spoke boldly in the name of the Lord Jesus and disputed against the Hellenists, but they attempted to kill him. 30 When the brethren found out, they brought him down to Caesarea and sent him out to Tarsus.
The Church Prospers Then the churches throughout all Judea, Galilee, and Samaria had peace and were edified. And walking in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, they were multiplied.
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1 Corinthians 13 New King James Version The Greatest Gift Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal. And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, but have not love, it profits me nothing.
Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.
Love never fails. But whether there are prophecies, they will fail; whether there are tongues, they will cease; whether there is knowledge, it will vanish away. For we know in part and we prophesy in part. But when that which is perfect has come, then that which is in part will be done away. When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child; but when I became a man, I put away childish things. For now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part, but then I shall know just as I also am known. And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love.
As I rolled into the fun trunk or treat, my first ever, I realized it’s an opportunity as well as a fun activity. This was at the local fire company, and I came to represent my little local church… and so I set up just like I set up two weeks ago at our community festival and offered rock painting plus free bible books for the kids and free scripture cards and of course snacks (I went with chips and cheese balls and rice krispie treats over straight candy)… This is the season of candy but these kids (amazingly so) are getting festivals and fun activities practically every weekend in the fall – wow – if their families bring them – and so snacks of substance is what I thought was better – (and wow the hotdog that I got from the fire company was the best free protein yum)…
So, I set up a table with some of my favorite science experiments… people have probably rarely or never seen science at events like this – the comments I got were asking if I was a science teacher (not but I am a scientist so I love to teach) and the best questions I got (which is why we have to be at the ready to be encouragers) were 1) “your church helps with homeless – how do I help this pair of people who live in their car” – so I gave her a copy by email of resources in our community that our church put together and 2) the person having seen the children’s bible books I offered asked a bible question in a way that I could see that she didn’t want to be judged for not knowing – and I didn’t because honestly most people have not read the bible – she asked: “Did God say He would never flood the earth or never destroy the earth when the rainbow appeared?” – yeah great question and I quoted what I hoped was completely right (and checked it later) – “Never again will all life be destroyed by the waters of a flood; never again will there be a flood to destroy the earth.” And then I cheerily talked about Revelation 21 (I had a bible handy in the giving pile and showed her the text) and that the earth would be eventually rolled away by God but a New Jerusalem (yes there is an old Jerusalem but this city will be new) will be appearing – and God will be our Light – yeah! Yeah how often do you get to casually chat about Revelation over Rice Krispie treats? YEAH!
We might be nervous to be there to answer questions but probably not as nervous as someone who gets up the nerve to ask it!
We put ourselves out there and wonder who is watching us – well – God’s children – of all ages… The frenzied nature of this world gives but small glimpses of people – and we are to see how we can encourage.
And I appreciated these community activities and these God-given gifters of candy and fun at the trunk and treat… I enjoyed the giving atmosphere (which is natural at a fire company too)… And I enjoyed a moment to be known as a church-lady (which kind of gives you that opportunity to relax and take the part) and yet out in a public space… And as for the science – well that is a great gig – a great way to start conversations about science and about curiosity – staying curious and asking questions – and that is in life and science and faith and everything…
It was an exhausting joy – and I had no idea they were doing voting, so I think it was the cutest thing for a couple of kids who came back up to me and told me that they voted for me. Sweet. And I thanked the Lord that He was still making encouragers in this world… they were cute… often in these events, some of the kids become your instant helpers and some want to teach alongside you and so you have to see if it’s a good match or if you should just take over… the ones that were helpful this time are surely the future teachers in the world, it’s nice to see that in advance. And of course, some kids just want to do it again and again and again, and that’s okay with me when I’m cleaning up, that this is keeping them busy, and I keep one eye on them, and it becomes like science-fun babysitting, while their families are packing up their stations. . . (and PS I won 2nd prize – will put that $20 towards more snacks for next week when I become science and crafts with glitter at another trunk and treat with a friend – not a church station but still an encourager in me opportunity… FUN!!!)
ANYWAY – A BLESSING OF A DAY – IN THE SUNSHINE – IN CHILDS’ AND GOD’S PLAY…
Genesis 9:8-17 God’s Covenant With Noah
God said to Noah and sons: “As for you, be fruitful and increase in number; multiply on the earth and increase upon it.”Then God said to Noah and to his sons with him: “I now establish my covenant with you and with your descendants after you and with every living creature that was with you—the birds, the livestock and all the wild animals, all those that came out of the ark with you—every living creature on earth. I establish my covenant with you: Never again will all life be destroyed by the waters of a flood; never again will there be a flood to destroy the earth.”
And God said, “This is the sign of the covenant I am making between me and you and every living creature with you, a covenant for all generations to come: I have set my rainbow in the clouds, and it will be the sign of the covenant between me and the earth. Whenever I bring clouds over the earth and the rainbow appears in the clouds, I will remember my covenant between me and you and all living creatures of every kind. Never again will the waters become a flood to destroy all life. Whenever the rainbow appears in the clouds, I will see it and remember the everlasting covenant between God and all living creatures of every kind on the earth.”So God said to Noah, “This is the sign of the covenant I have established between me and all life on the earth.”
PS – Red Cabbage juice is made by boiling red cabbage in water and then adding some vinegar (acid, makes it pink) or adding baking soda (or other base, making it blue green) Anthocyanin is a pH indicator and changes the structure ever so slightly with acid or base.
PS – Slime is made from white glue diluted equal volumes with water and then stir and add borax laundry soap dissolved in water and wow instant slime… You might be surprised at how surprised I am that so many people don’t allow the making of slime in their houses… whereas I keep a box of borax available all the time, LOL, has lasted me years… I only learned about slime later – my kids were older so mostly I did slime with scouts… This day I put away the food coloring after the first kid used too much – pretty but scary – since these kids had on fancy costumes. just glue… My advice is not letting kids take slime home – it doesn’t last anyway – so make it, play and leave it… often it is not the kids short attention span – it is the short schedule or patience of the parents that interrupts play… I think back that it was so valuable as a child that I had seemingly long stretches of time to play…
Revelation 21 NIV
A New Heaven and a New Earth
Then I saw “a new heaven and a new earth,” for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”
He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” Then he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.”
He said to me: “It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. To the thirsty I will give water without cost from the spring of the water of life. Those who are victorious will inherit all this, and I will be their God and they will be my children. But the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile, the murderers, the sexually immoral, those who practice magic arts, the idolaters and all liars—they will be consigned to the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death.”
The New Jerusalem, the Bride of the Lamb
One of the seven angels who had the seven bowls full of the seven last plagues came and said to me, “Come, I will show you the bride, the wife of the Lamb.” And he carried me away in the Spirit to a mountain great and high, and showed me the Holy City, Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God. It shone with the glory of God, and its brilliance was like that of a very precious jewel, like a jasper, clear as crystal. It had a great, high wall with twelve gates, and with twelve angels at the gates. On the gates were written the names of the twelve tribes of Israel. There were three gates on the east, three on the north, three on the south and three on the west. The wall of the city had twelve foundations, and on them were the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb.
The angel who talked with me had a measuring rod of gold to measure the city, its gates and its walls. The city was laid out like a square, as long as it was wide. He measured the city with the rod and found it to be 12,000 stadia in length, and as wide and high as it is long. The angel measured the wall using human measurement, and it was 144 cubits thick. The wall was made of jasper, and the city of pure gold, as pure as glass. The foundations of the city walls were decorated with every kind of precious stone. The first foundation was jasper, the second sapphire, the third agate, the fourth emerald, the fifth onyx, the sixth ruby, the seventh chrysolite, the eighth beryl, the ninth topaz, the tenth turquoise, the eleventh jacinth, and the twelfth amethyst. The twelve gates were twelve pearls, each gate made of a single pearl. The great street of the city was of gold, as pure as transparent glass.
I did not see a temple in the city, because the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple. The city does not need the sun or the moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and the Lamb is its lamp. The nations will walk by its light, and the kings of the earth will bring their splendor into it. On no day will its gates ever be shut, for there will be no night there. The glory and honor of the nations will be brought into it. Nothing impure will ever enter it, nor will anyone who does what is shameful or deceitful, but only those whose names are written in the Lamb’s book of life.
Acts is really early church history but also an inspiration for us – not just how to live as a church but how to just hold onto the truth that you know and don’t fret even the fight… In Acts 6, to expand the workers, the disciples chose Stephen, “a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit”; so “the word of God spread, the number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith.”
BUT THEN… Oh hmmm, we can hope that the best comes to our disciples but it doesn’t – and oh dear, Stephen came up against all human traits of jealousy or worse. And there were some who wanted to argue with Stephen about things going on in the early church (no it wasn’t perfect) but Stephen, SO FULL of the Holy Spirit, always “won” the arguments or at least couldn’t be proved wrong because Stephen got that wisdom directly from the Holy Spirit. UNFORTUNATELY, Stephen was the first martyr – and he couldn’t and wouldn’t go back on speaking the truth – and it did cost him his life – but oh wow – I think the glow on his face (read below) meant he ALREADY knew the glory he was going to – Stephen was already with God because God was ALREADY with him…
SO – multiple momentous messages here (from the Word – which I urge you to read below):
1) Listen to God – He gives good info! Jesus connected the dots for the disciples and for us.
2) Don’t worry about people who seem out to get you – God’s got you covered… Just keep going…
3) And even if “sticky situations” arise – let God put the words in your mouth – really!
4) Long-winded answers from the Lord are trying to teach someone (and us) something – so hold on and learn… (and in this story – the young soldier who heard it all and saw it all was Saul – who became Paul.) Yes God DOES need Holy Spirit Long Windedness as it reaches Long Wind Holy Spirited Ways we only get a glimpse of in this intricate overlapping world.
5) Like Jesus saying to a fellow crucified soul or the Lord’s Word already telling us we have a home WITH Him – let us believe it and live in that JOY today – now – forever – always – already!
6) Ask the Lord to forgive everyone who hurt you, mistreated you, misunderstood you, and is/was your enemy or annoyance. And then in expressing Jesus in yourself, try to forgive them yourself.
7) Repent – from the beginning to the end – repentance is asking for forgiveness and salvation is accepting that forgiveness – provided by Jesus.
8) Love God – and let His Love Save You.
AMEN (and again, AMEN)
—- Stephen Seized – Acts 6:8 to 15 and Acts 7 NIV Now Stephen, a man full of God’s grace and power, performed great wonders and signs among the people. Opposition arose, however, from members of the Synagogue of the Freedmen (as it was called)—Jews of Cyrene and Alexandria as well as the provinces of Cilicia and Asia—who began to argue with Stephen. But they could not stand up against the wisdom the Spirit gave him as he spoke. Then they secretly persuaded some men to say, “We have heard Stephen speak blasphemous words against Moses and against God.”
So they stirred up the people and the elders and the teachers of the law. They seized Stephen and brought him before the Sanhedrin. They produced false witnesses, who testified, “This fellow never stops speaking against this holy place and against the law. For we have heard him say that this Jesus of Nazareth will destroy this place and change the customs Moses handed down to us.”
All who were sitting in the Sanhedrin looked intently at Stephen, and they saw that his face was like the face of an angel.
Stephen’s Speech to the Sanhedrin Then the high priest asked Stephen, “Are these charges true?” To this he replied: “Brothers and fathers, listen to me! The God of glory appeared to our father Abraham while he was still in Mesopotamia, before he lived in Harran. ‘Leave your country and your people,’ God said, ‘and go to the land I will show you.’
“So he left the land of the Chaldeans and settled in Harran. After the death of his father, God sent him to this land where you are now living. He gave him no inheritance here, not even enough ground to set his foot on. But God promised him that he and his descendants after him would possess the land, even though at that time Abraham had no child. God spoke to him in this way: ‘For four hundred years your descendants will be strangers in a country not their own, and they will be enslaved and mistreated. But I will punish the nation they serve as slaves,’ God said, ‘and afterward they will come out of that country and worship me in this place.’ Then he gave Abraham the covenant of circumcision. And Abraham became the father of Isaac and circumcised him eight days after his birth. Later Isaac became the father of Jacob, and Jacob became the father of the twelve patriarchs.
“Because the patriarchs were jealous of Joseph, they sold him as a slave into Egypt. But God was with him and rescued him from all his troubles. He gave Joseph wisdom and enabled him to gain the goodwill of Pharaoh king of Egypt. So Pharaoh made him ruler over Egypt and all his palace.
“Then a famine struck all Egypt and Canaan, bringing great suffering, and our ancestors could not find food. When Jacob heard that there was grain in Egypt, he sent our forefathers on their first visit. On their second visit, Joseph told his brothers who he was, and Pharaoh learned about Joseph’s family. After this, Joseph sent for his father Jacob and his whole family, seventy-five in all. Then Jacob went down to Egypt, where he and our ancestors died. Their bodies were brought back to Shechem and placed in the tomb that Abraham had bought from the sons of Hamor at Shechem for a certain sum of money.
“As the time drew near for God to fulfill his promise to Abraham, the number of our people in Egypt had greatly increased. Then ‘a new king, to whom Joseph meant nothing, came to power in Egypt.’ He dealt treacherously with our people and oppressed our ancestors by forcing them to throw out their newborn babies so that they would die.
“At that time Moses was born, and he was no ordinary child. For three months he was cared for by his family. When he was placed outside, Pharaoh’s daughter took him and brought him up as her own son. Moses was educated in all the wisdom of the Egyptians and was powerful in speech and action.
“When Moses was forty years old, he decided to visit his own people, the Israelites. He saw one of them being mistreated by an Egyptian, so he went to his defense and avenged him by killing the Egyptian. Moses thought that his own people would realize that God was using him to rescue them, but they did not. The next day Moses came upon two Israelites who were fighting. He tried to reconcile them by saying, ‘Men, you are brothers; why do you want to hurt each other?’
“But the man who was mistreating the other pushed Moses aside and said, ‘Who made you ruler and judge over us? Are you thinking of killing me as you killed the Egyptian yesterday?’ When Moses heard this, he fled to Midian, where he settled as a foreigner and had two sons.
“After forty years had passed, an angel appeared to Moses in the flames of a burning bush in the desert near Mount Sinai. When he saw this, he was amazed at the sight. As he went over to get a closer look, he heard the Lord say: ‘I am the God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.’ Moses trembled with fear and did not dare to look.
“Then the Lord said to him, ‘Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy ground. I have indeed seen the oppression of my people in Egypt. I have heard their groaning and have come down to set them free. Now come, I will send you back to Egypt.’
“This is the same Moses they had rejected with the words, ‘Who made you ruler and judge?’ He was sent to be their ruler and deliverer by God himself, through the angel who appeared to him in the bush. He led them out of Egypt and performed wonders and signs in Egypt, at the Red Sea and for forty years in the wilderness.
“This is the Moses who told the Israelites, ‘God will raise up for you a prophet like me from your own people.’ He was in the assembly in the wilderness, with the angel who spoke to him on Mount Sinai, and with our ancestors; and he received living words to pass on to us.
“But our ancestors refused to obey him. Instead, they rejected him and in their hearts turned back to Egypt. They told Aaron, ‘Make us gods who will go before us. As for this fellow Moses who led us out of Egypt—we don’t know what has happened to him!’ That was the time they made an idol in the form of a calf. They brought sacrifices to it and reveled in what their own hands had made. But God turned away from them and gave them over to the worship of the sun, moon and stars. This agrees with what is written in the book of the prophets:
“‘Did you bring me sacrifices and offerings forty years in the wilderness, people of Israel? You have taken up the tabernacle of Molek and the star of your god Rephan, the idols you made to worship. Therefore I will send you into exile’ beyond Babylon.
“Our ancestors had the tabernacle of the covenant law with them in the wilderness. It had been made as God directed Moses, according to the pattern he had seen. After receiving the tabernacle, our ancestors under Joshua brought it with them when they took the land from the nations God drove out before them. It remained in the land until the time of David, who enjoyed God’s favor and asked that he might provide a dwelling place for the God of Jacob. But it was Solomon who built a house for him.
“However, the Most High does not live in houses made by human hands. As the prophet says: “‘Heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool. What kind of house will you build for me? says the Lord. Or where will my resting place be? Has not my hand made all these things?’
“You stiff-necked people! Your hearts and ears are still uncircumcised. You are just like your ancestors: You always resist the Holy Spirit! Was there ever a prophet your ancestors did not persecute? They even killed those who predicted the coming of the Righteous One. And now you have betrayed and murdered him— you who have received the law that was given through angels but have not obeyed it.”
The Stoning of Stephen When the members of the Sanhedrin heard this, they were furious and gnashed their teeth at him. But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up to heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. “Look,” he said, “I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.”
At this they covered their ears and, yelling at the top of their voices, they all rushed at him, dragged him out of the city and began to stone him. Meanwhile, the witnesses laid their coats at the feet of a young man named Saul.
While they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” Then he fell on his knees and cried out, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” When he had said this, he fell asleep.
Filled with the Holy Spirit – they spoke the word of God with boldness.
I have prayed for boldness – not “bull in a china shop” recklessness – but honest sharing with no fear of sharing – the right words at the right time. Perhaps many of us have desired this when we question why we get shy when sharing the Lord. It is a dilemma of the Great Commission – but Jesus always said – Don’t go it alone – wait and ask for the Holy Spirit.
In the basic acts in Acts (see chapters 2-4 below) is where Peter and the disciples were bold enough to go out and teach, preach, reach, and heal – and speak – and also not fear being caught, imprisoned, and killed. Jesus did tell them that they would have problems but to PERSEVERE. That even being in prisons, the rescues emboldened them more – to believe…
We fear embarrassment but they could have feared worst – and yet they DID get out there and share – they were filled with the Holy Spirit – and they “Acted”. We can read the Book of Acts for inspiration and see the call for perspiration in actual doing acts. Reading the book of Acts is a Great Place to Start. “GPS” again, to find and use BOLDNESS from the Lord – and FROM the Lord – none of it comes from ourselves – only our willingness to join in. use the GPS – Great Place to Start – to simply do that – START/
One “ACT” that is presented to us is our ability to give credit where credit is due – when something good happens to us – do we praise the Lord? This has become easier for me – to at least say “Thank God” in normal conversation… If others (and we) can use “Jesus” as an exclamation, almost a swear word, in surprising situations, well then we could at least say it in KNOWN praise.
Another “ACT” would be to be available for opportunities out in the public where we are OK showing our faith – like church events for kids – church opportunities at fairs – sanctioned spaces.
And then another “ACT” is to be available for people to know that you are a “churchy” or “religious” or “spiritual” or “person of faith” – these are terms all used for me at some point and well, those people at least know where you stand – and especially if you say you stand with God, because of God – well, others may take notice… (and others may figure that you
And even more – that people notice – the ultimate “ACT” of faith is to keep praying – keep praying because of belief not just of desperation. Pray KNOWING that God DOES listen – pray knowingly because God HAS answered. Tell people you are praying for them then actually do. Pray for those you don’t say anything to as well. And surely pray for enemies – wow tough one – but pray pray for enemies in all ways.
Where to find the boldness? Well – the Book of Acts distinctly states that Jesus said “the Holy Spirit” will get these jobs done for you – meaning our “ACTS” are acts FROM HIM – FROM GOD – and we have to be ready to take on the opportunities that He presents and the world needs. “Be the glove that the Holy Spirit will fill” is essentially how one friend explained it to me – be the glove and this means hands and feet filled by the Lord and His ability and influence and direction.
Even Peter in the book of Acts quotes another set of scriptures – that of Joel and of David – which means Peter can say ‘hey, this is what I am called to do and the Lord allowed me to do and gave gifts of prophecy and healing.’ – SO, WE CAN TOO – so if we want to be more bold and be in the ACTS of the Lord – we can rely upon the predicted and gifted purpose of what we do – what we can not help BUT do help – and that is to ACT – to find boldness IN the Lord, FROM the Lord – WITH the Lord – to SHARE the Lord.
Peter gave direction – to repent (ask forgiveness of the Lord), be baptized, receive the Holy Spirit, and be called by the Lord: Then Peter said to them, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all who are afar off, as many as the Lord our God will call.”
Reading ACTS 2-4 is a great place to start to understand how the disciples started – WITH the Lord… and to get inspired with BOLDNESS…
If nothing else – we plant the seeds that we have JOY in knowing the Lord – and we act in accordance to His Calling. If God provides the energy – we best put the energy in gear without fear.
Amen (and please read the chapters below for inspiration)
Coming of the Holy Spirit When the Day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. Then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.
The Crowd’s Response And there were dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, devout men, from every nation under heaven. And when this sound occurred, the multitude came together, and were confused, because everyone heard them speak in his own language. Then they were all amazed and marveled, saying to one another, “Look, are not all these who speak Galileans? And how is it that we hear, each in our own language in which we were born? Parthians and Medes and Elamites, those dwelling in Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya adjoining Cyrene, visitors from Rome, both Jews and proselytes, Cretans and Arabs—we hear them speaking in our own tongues the wonderful works of God.” So they were all amazed and perplexed, saying to one another, “Whatever could this mean?” Others mocking said, “They are full of new wine.”
Peter’s Sermon But Peter, standing up with the eleven, raised his voice and said to them, “Men of Judea and all who dwell in Jerusalem, let this be known to you, and heed my words. For these are not drunk, as you suppose, since it is only the third hour of the day. But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:
‘And it shall come to pass in the last days, says God, That I will pour out of My Spirit on all flesh; Your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, Your young men shall see visions, Your old men shall dream dreams. And on My menservants and on My maidservants I will pour out My Spirit in those days; And they shall prophesy. I will show wonders in heaven above And signs in the earth beneath: Blood and fire and vapor of smoke. The sun shall be turned into darkness, And the moon into blood, Before the coming of the great and awesome day of the Lord. And it shall come to pass That whoever calls on the name of the Lord Shall be saved.’
“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, as you yourselves also know— Him, being delivered by the determined purpose and foreknowledge of God, you have taken by lawless hands, have crucified, and put to death; whom God raised up, having loosed the pains of death, because it was not possible that He should be held by it. For David says concerning Him:
‘I foresaw the Lord always before my face, For He is at my right hand, that I may not be shaken. Therefore my heart rejoiced, and my tongue was glad; Moreover my flesh also will rest in hope. For You will not leave my soul in Hades, Nor will You allow Your Holy One to see corruption. You have made known to me the ways of life; You will make me full of joy in Your presence.’
“Men and brethren, let me speak freely to you of the patriarch David, that he is both dead and buried, and his tomb is with us to this day. Therefore, being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him that of the fruit of his body, according to the flesh, He would raise up the Christ to sit on his throne, he, foreseeing this, spoke concerning the resurrection of the Christ, that His soul was not left in Hades, nor did His flesh see corruption. This Jesus God has raised up, of which we are all witnesses. Therefore being exalted to the right hand of God, and having received from the Father the promise of the Holy Spirit, He poured out this which you now see and hear.
“For David did not ascend into the heavens, but he says himself:‘The Lord said to my Lord, “Sit at My right hand, Till I make Your enemies Your footstool.” ’
“Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly that God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ.”
Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Men and brethren, what shall we do?”
Then Peter said to them, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all who are afar off, as many as the Lord our God will call.”
A Vital Church Grows And with many other words he testified and exhorted them, saying, “Be saved from this perverse generation.” Then those who gladly received his word were baptized; and that day about three thousand souls were added to them. And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers. Then fear came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were done through the apostles. Now all who believed were together, and had all things in common, and sold their possessions and goods, and divided them among all, as anyone had need.
So continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved.
A Lame Man Healed Now Peter and John went up together to the temple at the hour of prayer, the ninth hour. And a certain man lame from his mother’s womb was carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask alms from those who entered the temple; who, seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple, asked for alms. And fixing his eyes on him, with John, Peter said, “Look at us.” So he gave them his attention, expecting to receive something from them. Then Peter said, “Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk.” And he took him by the right hand and lifted him up, and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength. So he, leaping up, stood and walked and entered the temple with them—walking, leaping, and praising God. And all the people saw him walking and praising God. Then they knew that it was he who sat begging alms at the Beautiful Gate of the temple; and they were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him.
Preaching in Solomon’s Portico Now as the lame man who was healed held on to Peter and John, all the people ran together to them in the porch which is called Solomon’s, greatly amazed. So when Peter saw it, he responded to the people: “Men of Israel, why do you marvel at this? Or why look so intently at us, as though by our own power or godliness we had made this man walk? The God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, the God of our fathers, glorified His Servant Jesus, whom you delivered up and denied in the presence of Pilate, when he was determined to let Him go. But you denied the Holy One and the Just, and asked for a murderer to be granted to you, and killed the Prince of life, whom God raised from the dead, of which we are witnesses. And His name, through faith in His name, has made this man strong, whom you see and know. Yes, the faith which comes through Him has given him this perfect soundness in the presence of you all.
“Yet now, brethren, I know that you did it in ignorance, as did also your rulers. But those things which God foretold by the mouth of all His prophets, that the Christ would suffer, He has thus fulfilled. Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord, and that He may send Jesus Christ, who was preached to you before, whom heaven must receive until the times of restoration of all things, which God has spoken by the mouth of all His holy prophets since the world began. For Moses truly said to the fathers, ‘The Lord your God will raise up for you a Prophet like me from your brethren. Him you shall hear in all things, whatever He says to you. And it shall be that every soul who will not hear that Prophet shall be utterly destroyed from among the people.’ Yes, and all the prophets, from Samuel and those who follow, as many as have spoken, have also foretold these days. You are sons of the prophets, and of the covenant which God made with our fathers, saying to Abraham, ‘And in your seed all the families of the earth shall be blessed.’ To you first, God, having raised up His Servant Jesus, sent Him to bless you, in turning away every one of you from your iniquities.”
Peter and John Arrested Now as they spoke to the people, the priests, the captain of the temple, and the Sadducees came upon them, being greatly disturbed that they taught the people and preached in Jesus the resurrection from the dead. And they laid hands on them, and put them in custody until the next day, for it was already evening. However, many of those who heard the word believed; and the number of the men came to be about five thousand.
Addressing the Sanhedrin And it came to pass, on the next day, that their rulers, elders, and scribes, as well as Annas the high priest, Caiaphas, John, and Alexander, and as many as were of the family of the high priest, were gathered together at Jerusalem. And when they had set them in the midst, they asked, “By what power or by what name have you done this?”
Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them, “Rulers of the people and elders of Israel: If we this day are judged for a good deed done to a helpless man, by what means he has been made well, let it be known to you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead, by Him this man stands here before you whole. This is the ‘stone which was rejected by you builders, which has become the chief cornerstone.’ Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”
The Name of Jesus Forbidden Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated and untrained men, they marveled. And they realized that they had been with Jesus. And seeing the man who had been healed standing with them, they could say nothing against it. But when they had commanded them to go aside out of the council, they conferred among themselves, saying, “What shall we do to these men? For, indeed, that a notable miracle has been done through them is evident to all who dwell in Jerusalem, and we cannot deny it. But so that it spreads no further among the people, let us severely threaten them, that from now on they speak to no man in this name.”
So they called them and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus. But Peter and John answered and said to them, “Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you more than to God, you judge. For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.” So when they had further threatened them, they let them go, finding no way of punishing them, because of the people, since they all glorified God for what had been done. For the man was over forty years old on whom this miracle of healing had been performed.
Prayer for Boldness And being let go, they went to their own companions and reported all that the chief priests and elders had said to them. So when they heard that, they raised their voice to God with one accord and said: “Lord, You are God, who made heaven and earth and the sea, and all that is in them, who by the mouth of Your servant David have said:
‘Why did the nations rage, And the people plot vain things? The kings of the earth took their stand, And the rulers were gathered together Against the Lord and against His Christ.’
“For truly against Your holy Servant Jesus, whom You anointed, both Herod and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles and the people of Israel, were gathered together to do whatever Your hand and Your purpose determined before to be done. Now, Lord, look on their threats, and grant to Your servants that with all boldness they may speak Your word, by stretching out Your hand to heal, and that signs and wonders may be done through the name of Your holy Servant Jesus.” And when they had prayed, the place where they were assembled together was shaken; and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and they spoke the word of God with boldness.
Sharing in All Things Now the multitude of those who believed were of one heart and one soul; neither did anyone say that any of the things he possessed was his own, but they had all things in common. And with great power the apostles gave witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And great grace was upon them all. Nor was there anyone among them who lacked; for all who were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the proceeds of the things that were sold, and laid them at the apostles’ feet; and they distributed to each as anyone had need. And Joses, who was also named Barnabas by the apostles (which is translated Son of Encouragement), a Levite of the country of Cyprus, having land, sold it, and brought the money and laid it at the apostles’ feet.
It is not a Holy Spirit coincidence when the song on my phone/car auto play is both one that I like (and preprogrammed) and one that I probably (actually) needed at that moment. And aren’t we often in those moods of needing something and not just resting in the peace of just knowing the Lord is with us.
This song “When I Hear the Praises Start” is from Keith Green – tremendous artist – awakening story – energy – advocate for the Lord – public figure – and tragic death by plane crash… His life was in hyperdrive for the Lord when he was born again into the newness of a new creation. And has great recorded encouragement – from his journey we can relate in our journeys.
And our journey should also be full of praise – we can’t be salt and light if we wallow in too many of our own tears for regret and for woe – we are called to be the Light of the Lord and the Spark in the Spirit…
This praise song – a song to make sure we are still praising and then going out to do His works – be His hands and feet – is good to hear when we (I) are in a mood of “not doing enough” in life and in faith and in everything – the Lord says JUST BE STILL – and this song reminds us to breathe into some peace – and without looking over our shoulders of what went wrong (or right). I know that the Lord says – “Don’t look in the rear view mirror”…
The Lord knows when to shore up His sheep just like when He needs to shear His sheep of the worldly wool of worry and waste and whatnot… and if we allow ourselves to be led, God will get us there. and if we simply praise first of all the blessings already given to us, can we not see the even bigger blessings? especially that we focused on Him.
And so this song lyrics are below and this song includes Keith Green singing: “…why are you striving? You can’t add one thing to what’s been done for you. I did it all while I was dying. Rest in your faith, My peace will come to you.” – and “you are My child and you know Me – to Me you’re only Holy” – and he sings “only what you do for me.” – meaning the Lord wants us out there being the Light and Salt.
Jesus taught: “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.”
True – let us BE STILL – and let Peace come to us… best yet – keep walking towards the Peace in Jesus.
Amen
This is the live version
and here is the album version
When I Hear the Praises Start – Lyrics [Verse 1] My son, My son, why are you striving? You can’t add one thing to what’s been done for you I did it all while I was dying Rest in your faith, My peace will come to you
[Chorus] For when I hear the praises start Oh, I wanna rain upon you Blessings that will fill your heart I see no stain upon you Because you are My child and you know Me To Me you’re only holy Nothing that you’ve done remains Only what you do for Me
[Verse 2] My child, My child, why are you weeping? You will not have to wait forever That day and that hour is in My keeping The day I’ll bring you into Heaven
[Chorus] For when I hear the praises start Oh, I wanna rain upon you Blessings that will fill your heart I see no stain upon you Because you are My child and you know Me To Me you’re only holy Nothing that you’ve done remains Only what you do for Me Just what you do for Me
———–
Matthew 5:13-17 NKJV
Believers Are Salt and Light “You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men.
“You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.
Christ Fulfills the Law “Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill.”
I found this small nuance to the scripture this morning – in Paul’s if prophecy, let us prophesy in proportion to our faith... IN PROPORTION TO OUR FAITH… from Romans 12, a letter that Paul wrote for teaching how to live a Christian life and that we are given gifts – each of us a part of one body of Christ . “Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, let us use them…”
and “as God has dealt to each one a measure of faith.”
So – these skills are all measured out to us by God – in other words God already knows what He can and will find in us for skills and not leave us out in the cold when we work to hone them – and we fulfill the work that He wants us to be doing. Everything in His Name – and in His Mercy – and in His Strength…
Living Serving Behaving Blessing
“as God has dealt to each one a measure of faith” is a phrase that means we have to not overstep our faith OR we have to expand our faith. Well, BOTH !!! God wants us to faith UP and look UP for the help to do what we are called to do.
I remember visiting a church one Sunday morning, early in my faith awakening, thinking that a particular praise singer would be there – and I misinterpreted a schedule – but was happy to see the train sets they had for Christmas and I remember getting a keychain to be careful on train tracks (true) – and this couple whom I was chatting with – and then I got all shy in my ability to promote my writing when I started talking about my faith awakening and these processing and teaching and encouragement writings that I write – poetry too. I was able to explain that God makes me write for my peace to know that I wrote… Well, I got shy when I could have given the woman my email or phone or the blog address – I don’t know why I got shy but I felt instantly that my faith was not enough – not expanded enough to the measure that God was giving me… I would have could have should have – and then let things progress naturally – and yet – that is what we are – A WORK IN PROGRESS – and someday I will see that lady in Heaven and say OOPS – sorry… There is scary realization in me that the Lord makes me write and that maybe some of it is good – and yet what is next – well the Lord will let me know…
If God gives us faith in measure then we must realize that God is an infinite God – and all encompassing and forever – and we are dust here on earth but highly organized dust – and then in Him we are approaching and gaining more and more – more and more learning – more and more strength – more and more faith… Ah faith – do we have faith that God wants to use us – well, He told us He does. May we GROW in faith to be faithfully working for Him.
Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own opinion.
Romans 12 is but a fraction of instruction – but all in all God knows that HE WANTS US TO LIVE A LIFE MEASURED UP – BUILT UP – POWERED UP – Living Serving Behaving Blessing UP.
May we grow in faith – in strength – in knowing our skill set and how to apply it. We have a fraction (like a number) of the faith in God that He is rounding to a whole (a whole number of ONE). We are being rounded up – as a number and as a church. We have work to do in each life phase and season and each worldly phase too: Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
Yes, yes, God wants us in His Flock. Let us go where called.
And someday I won’t run away – because our flock(s) should travel together in strength and faith.
Keep walking in faith my friends, God’s Got This.
Amen
—
Romans 12 NKJV
Living Sacrifices to God
I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.
Serve God with Spiritual Gifts
For I say, through the grace given to me, to everyone who is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly, as God has dealt to each one a measure of faith. For as we have many members in one body, but all the members do not have the same function, so we, being many, are one body in Christ, and individually members of one another. Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, let us prophesy in proportion to our faith; or ministry, let us use it in our ministering; he who teaches, in teaching; he who exhorts, in exhortation; he who gives, with liberality; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness.
Behave Like a Christian
Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good. Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another; not lagging in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer; distributing to the needs of the saints, given to hospitality.
Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. Be of the same mind toward one another. Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own opinion.
Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men. If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men. Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord. Therefore
“If your enemy is hungry, feed him; If he is thirsty, give him a drink; For in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head.”
Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
I don’t know about you but yesterday was a great day to dance in the warm weather (yes) also to snuggle in the warm blankets before and after – there was time for both – Saturdays are the best… And by the evening I was ready to dance the “Monster Mash” – after a “THRILLER” of an afternoon that was great to drive up and see the leaves changing and then sit very laid back camping style… nice…
Another song: “If I Had a Hammer” – Peter Paul and Mary song – rings through my head still this morning from yesterday – so much so that when I hold a hammer that I have to let it out – sing it loud and humble – because life IS about ringing out love between my brothers and my sisters… YES…
And since God is love – how can we do any better work than helping LOVE between brothers and sisters…
And so after yesterday’s “camping at home” in my cushy life, when I stayed watching TV binge style, with leftover food and a relaxed morning until early afternoon – a respite I had promised myself – I THEN actually GOT UP and DID start cleaning as I promised I would force myself to do – and a good hour and a half maybe – LOL that is all I did, 90 minutes, where I got deep into a pesky section of my kitchen – and took out the window AC – took out icky dusty crockpots from the floor where the plants had dumped leaves – and scrubbed and vacuumed – dishes and laundry… And then got distracted by cleaning outside – prepping for the weather and probably should have given the grass one more mow – oh well – and well it IS October wow – so a warm 60 degrees, you can’t beat that for getting outside stuff done. And this morning is also 60 degrees of tremendous warmth BEFORE the rain comes… So I just now took out an upstairs window AC and felt the warm wind – which if this was cold March, we would be EXCITED about and running outside to go do planting for spring – we are just funny when it comes to how we relate to the weather – so in my opinion if it is 60 degrees there is no need to hunker down at this temperature in October (except when you want to for rest!!!).
And so yesterday – by 3pm – I got my plans together (treating myself to an outing helped motivate me to clean faster) and then I hit the road travelling with a friend up to see another friend and her whole family camping – yes they were glamping camping in big RVs in the woods at a polished nice campground with playgrounds and fun activities for the kids. It was a PACKED campground even with the threat and promise of rain today – but isn’t that a part of camping fun too? Inside with card games etc? Well yeah – a day pass for a few hours was as close as I would get to camping these days – and so I took advantage to crash their party, LOL (hey brought cookies too.) So yeah – good to hit the road – get a slice of pizza – some cookies – and go north up to near a boulder field area – which we did not climb but hit a few from the side… by “hit a few” – I mean these rocks have special sections that ring like a bell – yeah – unusual… And although I had forgotten my hammers – I found that “LOVE between my brothers and my sisters” meant that other people were sharing with us and had left extra hammers and a sign to borrow and return – NICE… I mean – isn’t that love – leaving a chance for others to enjoy and pass it on… “Pay it forward”…
Why hammer and ring out and sing out LOVE between my brothers and my sisters? Well, because we are commanded by Jesus to take care of each other and to not let the rain stop us (like the post office still delivers, why can’t we) and we are to be strong and keep working the life of love… Yes the rain is coming (well very hyped, but we have seen rain before, haven’t we?) and Jesus is coming too (we need to share that message – not hype but HOPE)… We are reminded by Paul: “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise prophecies. Test all things; hold fast what is good. Abstain from every form of evil.”
Jesus said the love of many will grow cold in end times and He also said that the gospel will get shared widely at that time before the coming of the end – so why shouldn’t we help with both – if it is warm in October – or even cold – let us keep being warm in our hearts and sharing and travelling and hammering (and dancing too) – just keep living – keep preaching teaching and reaching… and just keep LOVING!!!
AMEN!
———
Matthew 24:3-31 NKJV – The Signs of the Times and the End of the Age Now as Jesus sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to Him privately, saying, “Tell us, when will these things be? And what will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age?” And Jesus answered and said to them: “Take heed that no one deceives you. For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and will deceive many. And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not troubled; for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of sorrows. Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations for My name’s sake. And then many will be offended, will betray one another, and will hate one another. Then many false prophets will rise up and deceive many. And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold. But he who endures to the end shall be saved. And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come.
Paul wrote to the Thessalonians (1Th 5:8-24 NKJV)
Let us who are of the day be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet the hope of salvation. For God did not appoint us to wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, who died for us, that whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with Him. Therefore comfort each other and edify one another, just as you also are doing. And we urge you, brethren, to recognize those who labor among you, and are over you in the Lord and admonish you, and to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. Be at peace among yourselves.
Now we exhort you, brethren, warn those who are unruly, comfort the fainthearted, uphold the weak, be patient with all. See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all. Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise prophecies. Test all things; hold fast what is good. Abstain from every form of evil.
Blessing and Admonition – Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. He who calls you is faithful, who also will do it.
Music: “If I Had a Hammer – Peter, Paul & Mary (1962)” on YouTube
I think this has been one of my most HECTIC weeks recently, but in a good way… and that’s not necessarily bad, because much of this week was so much fun, and now I can sit back, relax and reminisce and look at the pictures!!! WHEW…
Last Saturday at an outdoor fest, then ice cream with a friend, then I caught that cat, delivered the cat Sunday to the vet/farm lady, drove back to give our church sermon. Then Sunday night a progressive rock artist concert – ate fancy concert food too and then a BUSY work week also blessed, plus bouncing between meetings and dinners, bible studies and buying ordering a new fridge, and dinners out with work folks, time outside, even got a new hat for girl scout trip this upcoming summer, got the car washed, opened a wellness room at work, plus booked a trip for 2028 with scouts to Europe… Then last night (Friday) with a friend another concert – tribute band…
And yeah – today? AH….. resting at home – anticipating the rain with joy actually that we are – well me – are stuck at home to just be…. and that is not true because 1) it’s ONLY rain – and 2) not even raining yet and 3) not stuck and 4) I am making plans to see another friend later whom I haven’t seen since summer, and 5) I can’t clean and stay at home ALL DAY (well I could but I am not!) I will be off to this and that – here and there will be good – but honestly – being here and here and here and HERE is best – it is time to rest – and to decompress – and to count my blessings that God chose to bless.
Hectic Life, because I’m not here just for the cleaning…
I appreciated the Jesus Calling devotion this morning – stating (writing as God would say in 1st person – well God not person – well person AND God in Jesus – that “Though I have brought many pleasures into your life, not one of them is essential” – !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Exactly. So all my hectic is not for nothing but it is nothing in comparison to God, Who is MORE than something, He is ALL in ALL.
Yes, not anything here on earth is essential – and essentially God is only essential – and His love is essential and He is LOVE – so essentially, we wouldn’t have (nor need) anything without God so let us give God His due and our attention – and especially our love… “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” James 1:17
SO – every good thing is from God and the basic needs we have are not so basic but MAGNIFICENT and mighty – because we need and have God’s LOVE and we get life from Him… GOOD…
So even if I have a HECTIC life – that is GOOD – because I am not just here on earth for the cleaning – nor the adventures – nor the artifacts – nor the food – nor the music – nor the possessions – nor the boring – nor the hectic – I am HERE, GOD SAYS, to LOVE GOD and know HE LOVES US… and that, my friends, is a GREAT gift from above – to know God – to know Him more – to know HIS LOVE – to know that He knows us in LOVE – sees us in LOVE – sees us and cares for us as children – and LOVES us as FATHER GOD – LOVES us as JESUS SAVIOR – moves us and LOVES us as a HOLY SPIRIT sponge ready to take up His Living Water and spread sprinkle and express all around…
WHEW… OK – well – now I am clamoring thankfulness – all without leaving my monent… thankfulness and LOVE – knowing overwhelmingly LOVE is from GOD…
And now I am going to keep goofing off (and cleaning) and decompressing today in the rain – for a while – I have some guilty TV watching to catch up on – and oh yeah eating – got myself leftovers, yay…
And as we take refuge in realization that God is LOVE, here is the Psalm 62:5-8 entry from the Jesus Calling book – perfect thought for right now: “Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from Him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; He is my fortress, I will not be shaken. My salvation and my honor depend on God; He is my mighty rock, my refuge. Trust in Him at all times, O people; pour our your hearts to Him, for God is our refuge.”
TRUTH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
It is not our hectic lives that hurt us except if we don’t take enough time to praise…
AMEN…………..
“Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from Him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; He is my fortress, I will not be shaken. My salvation and my honor depend on God; He is my mighty rock, my refuge. Trust in Him at all times, O people; pour our your hearts to Him, for God is our refuge.”
A blessing to hear the rain in the morning (Wednesday) – the Fall of Autumn is starting to sink in – Falling rain – the rain we need – God delivers – we need to remember to thank Him… There are times of drought and times of plenty – and warm and cold – and blessings in all seasons… Certainly we are to enjoy EACH season – And yet I especially love outside seasons when I am not too hot or too cold.
Oh, cold… the sound of the rain was interrupted by the truck sound and the tires stopped right in front of my house, yes, my automatic oil delivery. So grateful… it’s going to get cold soon. So grateful for automatic heat and the fuel for it.
On Tuesday, before it got cooler, I walked a bit in the park with work friends, well drove most of it. Oh so beautiful – the landscape and taking the time to look at it. It was perfect for being outside. The earth temperatures change with the seasons like automatically.
I thought again of this AUTOMATIC LOVE of God – and His automatic presence never to fail, when looking at the automatic conveniences in the work restroom (these were working) of motion-sensing hand soap pumps or paper towel dispensers – but what when they aren’t working – there is no way to open them and get what you need. Oh the days of a simple stack of paper towels… or adding water to the bottom of a soap pump… the old ways still worked, but we have some modern conviencinces on earth that don’t always work… But GOD? Our God? GOD IS ALWAYS WORKING because He was never not working.
The Lord delivers blessings in so many ways – we barely can see – and we are to walk by faith not by sight – and just know that the Lord delivers AUTOMATICALLY His Love – His guidance – His protection and strength – and His Plan. He doesn’t withhold if we ask – we are to ask and He will automatically listen because He already hears us before we speak – He already was automatically present before the universe even started… Therefore you are My witnesses,” Says the Lord, “that I am God. Indeed before the day was, I am He; And there is no one who can deliver out of My hand; I work, and who will reverse it?” is how God spoke to Isaiah. Before the day – God already was God and God was already…
GOD AT WORK – AT THE READY – AND ON THE GO… GO WITH GOD – HE IS ALREADY THERE…
AMEN AMEN AMEN
—
Scripture is the anchor of learning these things – the scripture like the Lord automatically fills in the need when we read. God is the God of guidance and HE, the Lord, Delivers!
Isaiah 43:10-13 NKJV
“You are My witnesses,” says the Lord, “And My servant whom I have chosen, That you may know and believe Me, And understand that I am He. Before Me there was no God formed, Nor shall there be after Me. I, even I, am the Lord, And besides Me there is no savior. I have declared and saved, I have proclaimed, And there was no foreign god among you; Therefore you are My witnesses,” Says the Lord, “that I am God. Indeed before the day was, I am He; And there is no one who can deliver out of My hand; I work, and who will reverse it?”
I can’t complain, no need for any fit, instead I praise as I quietly sit. I praise that in all of life, I get to take THIS moment to SIT.
Yes, today I’ve got many things to do, which is GOOD, busy too, that’s because of You.
I breathe, I consider, I eat, I work, I even shop,
In life things to do often feel hectic and non-stop.
But I praise, I praise in this pause all right – yes I praise that all in all I AM all right.
I praise that I woke up this morning, TRUE, and WHEW!
And that I got home safe last night, when the closed accident road must have given someone on it a sad fright.
I did extra miles and minutes in the car, but I’m alright, I am alright.
.
And that cat, Lord, last weekend, I caught it wow, WOW!!!! WOW is a fact.
It is now vet-checked, healthy, delivered and safe now – he’s on his new home of a farm. (Fifth or sixth time for that cat was the charm.) I was so thankful when he was strongly held in my arms. Even better is YOUR GRIP, LORD, OF US in YOUR ARM.
What a story to tell, of your patience instilled, and not just in dramatc fashion, but in mundane stuff as well.
And my old fridge now that keeps going out of whack, well again it’s revived, IT CAME BACK. (and wow the same model is on sale, I will thank You again when I get a new one, that’s a blessed fact!)
.
And in my life Lord, my life, my life I take a moment to remember YOUR many rescues from my life strife.
You’ve picked me up many times, so many times I can’t count. I thank You Lord for Your Way Truth and Life and following by faith not by sight. Let me walk again by faith today and let me DELIGHT.
Let me find the people You bring me to – Let me TRY to be a best reflection of You.
Wow whew and pfew! I’m glad we got a moment to review.
SO – here is the sermon I was blessed to give – a teaching sermon and different than others that I have given except to say that GOD NEVER CHANGES – and is always LOVE! So blessed to share!!!
We LOVE this cooler crisp weather (at night) and the reminder to come together and appreciate life and the blessings of the Lord. We don’t need to be like the TV show “Little House on the Prairie” and stockpile like they did – we have such modern conveniences – even never stop in winter (like I like to go for a polar plunge) – but still this fall weather preps us to “stock up” with the harvest – and to count our blessings….
Yesterday (Saturday) many from our church came out to be in community and were blessed to sit outside in this great weather at our local festival – and to greet the community with love and openness – have discussion with others – and I know that it is so encouraging to so many that “church people exist” – that we offer hope and that we work together as God’s Hands and Feet and Hugs. We don’t sell anything – just nice to give stuff away – we had a display of gifts like free books and trinkets – free cookies (yum) – and free activities (like creating rocks with encouraging messages) – we had dialogue about our efforts in serving the community – and we were offering prayers for encouragement and for healing and for the benefit of all – in community.
We have the prayer box from yesterday – many touching stories – like a little 5 year old in the hospital, this whole family started to tell us of his newly diagnosed ailment – leukemia – and we were able to share some books and prayers on the spot with them –– and this grandpa and all aunts and uncles and grandparents were so steadfast in support and prayer for this little boy. Please do pray for him. And please pray for all our prayer box intentions.
Another memory was a little boy – they all appreciated the gifts and really wanted the interactions – James – he kept coming around to chat with us at the table because he wanted to tell us things about his choices – and about his items he had gotten that day. He wanted the dialogue.
And another was a little boy who asked me – when I said we would pray for people – he asked me if we were Christian – I said yes – and said he was another faith – and I said to the effect “We pray for everyone because God loves everyone.” It was a microcosm of life there at the park…
Honestly, we are in community EVERYDAY! I love that song “They will know we are Christians by our love – by our love – they will know we are Christians by our love.”
In Community, we are called to be together in working together – that is not just us in the park or at an event – or even just here together – our community is out there all around us. And we do have the opportunity to get outside the building and be the community out there – so today I want to focus on this aspect of community – part of our sermon series on “Grow Community” – in that GOD CALLS US TO BE A COMMUNITY OF FORGIVENESS – OF RECONCILIATION.
We remember (as has we have been touching upon so many aspects of the early church) that community was key to the early church survival and THRIVING – and it is our opportunity now – to learn – to work together – I was thinking the other day about the sharing of resources after covid started – there is a church by the hospital that had an outside cupboard to share things like toilet paper and food… and it is so good for sharing to sustain community – I spoke few weeks ago about the people who brought what they had, their land, their supplies and lived in community. So, it is natural for Jesus to talk in our first scripture reading from the gospel of Matthew that reminds us of the complexity of living together – it was complex then and we are taught like in early Christianity a compelling need for FORGIVENESS and RECONCILIATION…
Yes, these scriptures are for us now: From the book of Matthew – remember that Matthew a former tax collector or called a publican and he was considered a traitor to the Jewish people of his own, by working and exhorting money from the Jews by the Romans. Well, now Matthew was writing to explain the new identity of Christians – of Jews who were likely cast out of the traditional Jewish communities – and were outsiders there – but came together and found a home in Jesus’s teachings and in the sharing of the early church. Matthew writes what Jesus says – the red-letter bibles show almost all red for this chapter – chapter 18:15-18, 19-20. Dealing With Sin in the Church
Jesus spoke: “If your brother or sister sins, go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over. But if they will not listen, take one or two others along, so that ‘every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.’ If they still refuse to listen, tell it to the church; and if they refuse to listen even to the church, treat them as you would a pagan or a tax collector.” [and interesting Jesus is talking that Matthew would have picked up on that phrase – “even a tax collector” – Matthew’s book of identity really is for us too.]
Jesus continued: “Truly I tell you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.”
Now – I decided to look this up – that scholars do help in these interesting phrases Jesus gives us – and approaching this statement – Jesus surely is telling us that we are remembered for the love we share here on earth – it is not feathers in our caps but fulfilling the commandment to love one another – and a scholar I did read that we are to use our discretion for what we know are obligatory – are bound – and other things that are loosed are more up to the church together to know this is appropriate or not… The point is that we work together in communication and in trust and in demonstrating AGAPE love to those whom we re-gather into the church – into life – into reconciliation.
I will point out that immediately before these passages in the gospel of Matthew is the lost sheep passage – “go after the one” – the 99 are fine together – but go after the one to be reconciled… it is after the “welcome the children” scriptures too….
Jesus IS With us – Jesus already is going for the lost – we are to go too… and we are to ask the Lord to be with us when we do go for those – it is so important to listen (two ears) over talking (one mouth) – when reconciling. Jesus wants to go with us – and us with Him… already on earth and already on Heaven is that the Kingdom of Heaven already knows about this person or about us – Psalm 139 we can’t hide anything from God – therefore Jesus knows!!!!
Jesus continues: verses 19-20: “Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”
And that is the part of reconciliation that helps us keep together with Jesus – Jesus is here with us – and we are to invite Him into a sticky situation like dealing with sin – to use HIS GUIDANCE over our anger and angst – to turn the other cheek might be to take that breather to consult with the Lord…. Jesus wants us to be gathered in His name – for His cause – for the Whole of the community of the Kingdom of Heaven…
And situations get sticky, don’t they? Sin and brokenness ever present in our world: v21-22 Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?” Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.
WOW – seventy-seven times – or other translations say seventy times seven – that is weird there that the math doesn’t match – but yeah either way – it is a lot!!!!!!!!! Peter is going back to that “reconcile the one sheep” notion – but thinking seven is a huge level of forgiveness – surely it is more than enough – and Jesus says NOT ENOUGH – FORGIVE MORE – even forgive until it hurts is exactly what Jesus does – and He teaches the hard stuff… FORGIVENESS is tough!!!!!!!!!!!! (Tougher than tough math!!!!!!)
SO – the church – the scriptures – the Lord gives us these instructions – now we look at Forgiveness for the Offender – as Paul writes to the Corinthians – because there were early churches which had gone astray in some of their membership issues: And that is not a surprise for us – that we are wayward…. This is from Paul’s 2nd letter to the Corinthians chapter 2:5-11
If anyone has caused grief, he has not so much grieved me as he has grieved all of you to some extent—not to put it too severely. The punishment inflicted on him by the majority is sufficient. Now instead, you ought to forgive and comfort him, so that he will not be overwhelmed by excessive sorrow. I urge you, therefore, to reaffirm your love for him. Another reason I wrote you was to see if you would stand the test and be obedient in everything. Anyone you forgive, I also forgive. And what I have forgiven—if there was anything to forgive—I have forgiven in the sight of Christ for your sake, in order that Satan might not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes.
So – we want RECONCILIATION in community – and WHY? We want others to understand the ABUNDANT LIFE – like these excerpts from OLD TESTAMENT PROPHET ISAIAH – CHAPTER 55 – WE WANT OTHERS TO KNOW THIS LOVE AND FORGIVENESS AND ABUNDANCE – “…let your soul delight itself in ABUNDANCE. Incline your ear, and come to Me. Hear, and your soul shall live; And I will make an everlasting covenant with you” – and – “Seek the Lord while He may be found, Call upon Him while He is near. Let the wicked forsake his way, And the unrighteous man his thoughts; Let him return to the Lord, And He will have mercy on him; And to our God, For He will abundantly pardon.”
[It really is all about forgiveness]
“For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,” says 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.“
Now – I can bring some props in – I know there are some who love my props – and these are simple to bring – some books
*Prop 1 – book 1 Charles Stanley – “Surviving in an Angry World” – [good passages on forgiveness and how to conduct oneself] – This is a good book that I read cover to cover in like a few hours one night in my own unsettledness many years ago now – it reminded me that anger happens, is a normal response, but it is tough out there in the world – but the secret that I flagged here – FORGIVENESS…. And these 2 passages (excerpts) “Let me assure you that I do not believe an angry person can be turned into a peaceful one solely through the help of another human being, Removing anger from the human heart is a spiritual process that must involve God’s direct intervention.”
*And another section of the book “Surviving in an Angry World” by Charles Stanley: “A Quiet Spirit and Measured Response” – The author speaking: “I went into a business meeting one time, and as soon as I sat down, a man came into the room and launched a scathing verbal attack against me. His tirade lasted almost fifteen minutes, but I did not say a word or try to stop him. After taking their cue from me, no one else in the room tried to stop him either. – “When the meeting ended, a pastor friend said, “Charles I have never seen such a totally unmovable face or expression in my life. You never budged. You didn’t reveal anything about how you were feeling – and you stayed that way for fifteen minutes!” – I knew there was no point in trying to defend myself. The other men at the table knew me, and they knew the truth about the accusations he was making. That man was succeeding only in destroying himself and his reputation, the longer he ranted at me.”
It continues: “I got a small notecard and wrote on it, ‘PAUSE BEFORE SPEAKING’. Then I tucked the card among my notes – I knew that I would need to listen closely and think carefully before I responded to any question. This card served as a mental reminder to me even though I didn’t look at it once…. ‘pause before speaking’ is good in any conflict…”
The author states this advice: “When you pause, pray silently that God will give you wisdom about what to say and when to say it. Ask Him to guard your tone and keep any sarcasm or cynicism out of your voice.“
*[I explained these FROG stickers – F.R.O.G. for “Faithfully Relying On God” – an acronym from a friend]
*Another prop – another book – “Talk to Me Nicely – by Minda Hart – about the seven trust languages in the workplace” – read the TRUST languages – which you could add scripture to for sure: SENSITIVITY, TRANSPARENCY, SECURITY, DEMONSTRATION, FEEDBACK, ACKNOWLEDGEMENT, FOLLOW-THROUGH. In the text, one example she gave of trust is in the training – and a time she got little – at age 15 she was hired as the cart retriever at a grocery store and there was minimal training obviously… but then she was called into the work of people who were not there – either cashier bagger or deli or decorating cakes! No training! She said it was not right with no training… but for us, do we have training in life? YES – the Lord has given us training for living – love God, love each other, forgive… definite training on forgiveness and reconciliation! God has given us the HOLY SPIRIT to help in these situations – and the Lord has given us action in His Word.
From Minda Hart’s “Talk to Me Nice – the Seven Trust Languages in the Workplace”
*Even and especially our Jesus Calling book passage said yesterday: Oct 4th – about Going with God and about working through HIM!!! Passage is: “Though the Holy Spirit is infinite, He deigns to be your Helper. He is always ready to offer assistance; all you need to do is ask. When the path before you looks easy and straightforward, you may be tempted to go it alone instead of relying on Me [God]. This is when you are in the greatest danger of stumbling. Ask My Spirit to help you as you go each step of the way. Never neglect this glorious Source of strength within you.”
Jesus Calling by Sarah Young for October 4th – about Holy Spirit Help!
*And my last prop – cat food – the box here is empty because the cat is caught!!!!!!!!! I know that talking about getting a cat is so different than people but in my excitement how could I now tell you of how I wanted to use TRUST to catch the cat instead of a TRAP… [so funny how I prayed that ‘Lord this would make a great ending to the sermon if I actually caught the cat.’ – but the Lord is good regardless and I would still tell of TRUST…. And so for this cat I felt that TRUST was best – and we know that TRUST is key in community !!!
*And so I CAUGHT THAT CAT LAST NIGHT – OH I PRAYED AND PRAISED THE LORD – I am so relieved and thrilled!!! [told story of trust – and how the cat escaped my cage first time last week – and rebuilding trust… told that even though I was busy and tired – this was the right window of opportunity!!!! ]
*** SO – TO CLOSE THIS SERMON – I will read parts of a devotion poem I wrote a couple weeks ago:
TRUST not Trap, Even when Catching a Cat
I’m trying to catch a cat – I’m not sure that my proposed set trap – Might or might not work for THIS cat – Particularity Peculiarity is THIS and each cat (like people) as unique (imagine THAT!)
Instead I will retry to develop a TRUST – YES A TRUST IS A MUST – In life and even in strife – Whether we are talking about a cat or anyone in fact
TRUST NOT TRAP – Forgiveness over a bad rap – Love for all insight – and to keep a cat from flight
Lure is nothing compared to LOVE – Faithfulness will land gently into the situation like a DOVE
Hope is in me, when trepidation might make the cat flee – There are benefits, oh cat can you see, of the new life for you, at a farm, filled even more of roaming free
So, patience and perseverance, transparency and security
Thinking outside the box and never in the trap
How to woo this cat and everyone in fact –
IS for us to instill TRUST, not lay a trap, YES IT IS EXACTLY THAT.
Pray me LOVE – Love – not luck… – This cat will get caught – Love is never for naught
LOVE WINS – For people too – fishing in Love nets men from lostness again and agains…
Not lure – but LIFE for sure – The Lord will see us through, – Believing that – OH we know how TRUE
Amen
The Lord shows and tells us to forgive and to have reconciliation IN COMMUNITY – and of course because He wants us to live with Him forever, He reconciles us… and just like we will have communion and remember Jesus in His forgiveness and mercy and love, we are to remember that He is always here to teach, to give us help, to encourage us to reconcile and love…
Let us pray. ‘PLEASE PRAY WITH ME: Lord – You have taught us – and you have held us together – help us continue to be the community you call us to be. You teach us how a community will thrive and grow when there is LOVE, FORGIVENESS, RECONCILIATION AND trust in You Lord….., and in Your Plan, Process, and Your Way. Thank You Lord for the instruction and the LOVE. AMEN’
[PS – the cat already is at the farm destination that he was being sent to – he got to the vet already and checked out clean – he will live his best life at the farm with the areas to roam and the other outside cats – he will get to be social too… I was just the catcher and deliverer – and now I will let the Lord handle the rest – He always does best….]
This WAS the night and this WAS the way – with LOVE and TRUST, I caught the kitty tonight – the outdoor kitty at my friend’s house I promised her I would help with – WHEW!!!
All praise and honor to the Lord, I caught the stray cat at my friend’s house! I really felt it was trust that would catch him not a trap… I even pet him tonight. He wanted to be social and then I scooped him up with my hands, as I did have gloves on, and I put him in the cage and reinforced the cage a lot and got it closed and I used leftover vacation bible school carabiner clips to secure the door and all the edges…
He is in my laundry room in the big cage, on a blanket on plastic bags, has water, he ate. I will drive him up to the vet hospital tomorrow early morning as the woman who’s taking him to her farm is a vet technician, and she will get him all his shots. Whew!!!
I said to the Lord, it would be a great way to finish my sermon for tomorrow – about TRUST – wow yeah! and it is true – the cat had to trust me – I had to trust in patience – I had to apply love and we all did – my other friend who helped me out too – and of course the woman who will take the cat.
LOVE LOVE LOVE
TRUST TRUST TRUST
All praise and honor to the Lord – especially because the weather is getting colder and even today I said to my friend that we might need to get a professional trapper – well, all praise and honor to the Lord who is more than a professional trust-worthy Lord – He is ALMIGHTY!!!
I have two terms continuously around me these last few weeks – TRUST and Wellness.
Trust is a topic from a book I am reading about trust in the workplace – interesting timing on that – but really I want to talk about WELLNESS – as in being well (wellbeing) and the promotion of being well – physically and certainty mentally and spiritually. I want to change the word and add a hyphen and talk about spiritual WELL-NESS – in a different way – a good WAY – like a water well – and the WELL being a deep well that you draw upon – to draw not just water but to draw spiritually from a flow – to draw emotionally from a healing – to absorb and then to share from as a gift – yes a WELL-NESS of life-giving peace from the Lord – from a deep WELL.
My family has a well an old farmhouse – it is a small conduit but 100 feet deep – and the pump is newly installed and they put it way down at the bottom. The water is “clean” from the filtering of the earth and rocks – comes from the natural waterbed – and hopefully not contaminated. The world and new homes and construction interruptions and even dumping zones, back before regulations and protections were in place, may contaminate the well. There are also natural sulfur deposits and well, the well water tastes of sulfur. I don’t drink it but I trust it enough to wash my hands with. These waters (like many wells which flow in different ways around the world) are needed and yet we are wary of them. Well-ness of wells held in a spiritual way would also have the flow coming from an influx – and this well would be inside our hearts souls spirit – and we are refilled by the Lord.
WELL-NESS is drawing upon a deep well that can only be filled by the Lord. WELL-NESS is keeping an opening in your soul unblocked and ready for re-FILL. WELL-NESS is trying to not be jeopardized by letting the world clog the flow – because if anything we should ask that we become conduits to flow the LOVE from the Well. We ask for a good scrubbing of our clogs of life and re-open the pipes. Jesus said to Nicodemus: “whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what they have done has been done in the sight of God.” John 3:21 NIV
It would really be too easy to interrupt the flow if the flow came from man and circumstances. Our well-ness pursuit ALSO won’t work too well (too good) when we think we ourselves have to pour the water INTO the well ourselves. We can’t. Our WELL-NESS will fill with God’s merciful flow – not by magic but by majesty – HIS MAJESTY.
John the Baptist said of this flow: “A person can receive only what is given them from heaven” (John 3:27) and John said of Jesus: “The one who comes from above is above all; the one who is from the earth belongs to the earth, and speaks as one from the earth. The one who comes from heaven is above all. He testifies to what he has seen and heard, but no one accepts his testimony. Whoever has accepted it has certified that God is truthful. For the one whom God has sent speaks the words of God, for God gives the Spirit without limit. The Father loves the Son and has placed everything in his hands. Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God’s wrath remains on them.” (John 3:31-36)
May we trust in the deep well-ness of God’s flow and make ourselves available to receive it – to share it – to come back for more – to be thankful – and to TRUST in His Truth. Jesus said: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28-31)
Jesus said: “Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.” By this he meant the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were later to receive. (John 7:37-39 NIV)
I appreciate waking up early (I really appreciate just going to bed early too – it is like a joy to say the day is done – I am “eligible” for bed – whew… (Sleep is also better than the best TV show or movie – more needed than eating or showering when we are THAT exhausted. It is an ultimate “Give it to God, so I will rest in His presence under His watch of everything.” If we didn’t rest, we would wear out so fast. God invented a system to make sure we knew He was watching us so we could rest. TRUST GOD with the world and rest. Trust for night – and trust in the morning arriving – but TRUST in the LORD MORE.
It is unusual to think that we sleep different times than others sleep – or that they sleep differently than us – we are a round world and there is a rotation of night – it seems that there are sleeping people all over the world – and that is true – and awake people – awake at different times – how interesting our circadian rhythm is set up to help us know our mornings from night. And what about nocturnal animals – they have night as their morning. Does it all make sense?
One thing I do know – is that before I awake, and after I go to sleep – and at every waking hour of the day – God is awake, alive, present, and watching. GOD IS !!!!
We have these busy days to keep us mentally sharp – but what about the quiet of the morning or of the evening or maybe the moment we sneak away in the middle of the day? God is with us. There is never aloneness from God. AND, there is always an opportunity to be alone with God even in a crowd. If we want to be quiet in our own minds, perhaps we are to listen more intently and rest more deeply – both. We are to rest in Him always – keep working but in mental rest that He is in control.
Instead of listening to the outside world – let us feel the rest with our inside hearts – and protect our hearts with God’s wisdom and our being with His armor. “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” Proverbs 4:23
Perhaps like a newborn baby, we are to recognize warmth, nourishment, and comfort – all these things in our relationship with God. Care and correction and carrying by Jesus Lord, walking with us – lifting us – providing us light. Perhaps as full grown people, we are to also remember that God is much older in an infinite way – we are but young in His years and much better off listening to Him. Don’t try to go it alone – in acts or duty – in figuring out schedules or whatnot – listen to Him and wait on Him – be His and be His helper – His loving into the world. Believing that through our trust of Him, He will get us not only through the day, we will walk even closer to the Way.
In David’s time they waited for Jesus to come. They trusted – we can trust too. We know He, Jesus, came. We know He is here with us in our hearts – in Spirit we are moved and we follow by faith. We can trust. We can now trust in all of the Word and in God’s Plan. He WILL make things right at His time.
We can trust Him and ask Him to help. Psalm 5 (KJV) is a scripture which is also a beautiful promising song: “Give ear to my words, O Lord, consider my meditation. Hearken unto the voice of my cry, my King, and my God: for unto thee will I pray. My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O Lord; in the morning will I direct my prayer unto thee, and will look up.” v1-3
Psalm 5 continues about Trust in verse 11-12: “But let all those that put their trust in thee rejoice: let them ever shout for joy, because thou defendest them: let them also that love thy name be joyful in thee. For thou, Lord, wilt bless the righteous; with favour wilt thou compass him as with a shield.”
David would write Psalm 130 also about Trust – and awaiting the Lord – but knowing He is here – before the morning even comes. Verses 4-6 “But there is forgiveness with You, That You may be feared. I wait for the Lord, my soul waits, And in His word I do hope. My soul waits for the Lord More than those who watch for the morning – Yes, more than those who watch for the morning.”
In this fall season, and beautiful blue skies and warm and yet crisp temperatures, we start to become very thankful and I know we always should could would be thankful, but in the harvest season it feels more imperative…
As I rethink the past few months, the summer and the situations of this year, and even scenarios of past years (which my pollyanna brain removes from my angst), I again revisit times when God rescued me, when I questioned the struggles and why they seemed very rough but I knew in my soul there was a bigger purpose in the pain… Because of past success on God’s part, I trusted God to get me through, and He did, He surely did and now my memories are cherished of His going before me. The trials to me were real even if to others the testing could be considered trivial… Everything is relative. Our easy is someone else’s trial and vice versa.
So in harvest season, the colors are vibrant and the foods of hearty stock. A pumpkin or dried corn or apples will preserve for months. There are flowers which will withstand cold and dryness compared to fragile spring. The dried corn stalks are even repurposable. The harvest season is filled with lasting value.
So does God alsp get to harvest in this season too? What about us making a bouquet of thankfulness for Him and His gifts? Surely God wants to and will harvest a “Hallelujah!” from each of us after His blessings of rescues, of guidance, and of rest. And hallelujahs for the harvest of present day. And hallelujah for the preparations of what life brings around the corner.
A Hallelujah from me. A Hallelujah from you. These feelings are gifts to God’s ears, TRUE!
And I am reminded for us in any saving grace, merciful moments this season that it’s not a gloat of victory which should fuel our praise, but a humbled glory-gained good motivation and momentum for going forward, accepting an honored ability to keep keepin’ on. Believing this Light shone for us will stay lit, we must “make hay while the sun shines”.
God is true and there’s nothing else He can be. We must believe in His follow through and also know in each season of our lives that God goes ahead of us. Our next hallelujah is always already in the plan. Yes!!!
Amen
There is a touching song which helps summarize that the best thing we can give back to God: our appreciation, our love and our Hallelujahs. Brandon Lake: “Gratitude”
Interesting mix of activities this week – from work to a garden volunteering to a baseball game last night with a work crowd to a scientific conference in the morning yesterday in the city – and did I drive instead of take the train? yeah all three times – just that comfort of having my car – even if the traffic was less than desired… but I waited and steamed quietly and we got there. Last night getting home was just construction and that is to be expected on these roads and later after rush hour is when they close lanes (seeming too early) – but then comes the stadium crowd… Well, patience…
Sitting in the conference was awesome and also at many points I had to issue patience to myself because the topic was of less interest. But the topics that interested me were spot on to me saying “yes, I took this time to learn, to look at new equipment, to understand a little more and to be able to ask questions in my own pace with the presenters after the talks. And the lunch? phenomenal… and the “ahhh…” perfect for my “I need to treat myself” mentality at the moment… The parking? OH – I didn’t make a plan but got there and they did valet parking for the event – OH – and I gladly jumped out of the car and got my validated sticker from the conference… I felt both slightly guilty to take the guilty pleasure but also that this is what they were doing as their job so I could do my job better – I gladly found the cash I had for a tip and just kept moving in a busy day…
And what WAS my job yesterday? to learn or to treat myself – no, I am pretty sure my job yesterday is what my job today is – to BE ENGAGED – to be into the conversations and people whom I met. To see what the Lord needed me to do even if it was to sit quiet and reply to an email. I think it was to NOT be bored but to be on board…
The person next to me seemed totally not engaged in the talks – I am not sure that I could/would do that but yeah I understand that the topic may not have been of interest… in the old days we would have a secret crossword puzzle in our notes – but now people just get on their phones. I remembered that it is not for me to judge – we observe for sure – but judging that person for that – probably not good lest we get judged too for snooping… but anyway…
The ONE great interaction, in my mindset that I had, was to encourage a speaker after his talk on Alzheimer’s disease research which also hits home for him as his dad has it…. which you could also speculate that this young energetic smart gentleman might also develop it… ah yeah… motivation into research research research… I was in a prayerful mood for him – and the science was interesting too. I was a bit surprised that he was seemingly more excited to have me talk to him after that talk than him having talked. I think that is the state of our nature – be open to what the situation needs – and be the encourager if called upon… And be encouraged if the other person wants to encourage you. The secret to learning is to learn what the learned people value – and that is someone interested in what interests you and how you are interested in it.
I think the secret to living life is to let life live in you.
The baseball game – also – I missed some plays because I was not engaged – but I scanned the field for the mascot and saw him a couple times – I appreciated the amazing weather and simply that we had gotten there thru the traffic and the busy-ness of the week… I was able to chat with a few folks who were family members of our work folks and that family atmosphere is so good for a workplace – we with each other can be engaged – and be engaging….
Well, my devotion here is that the Lord keeps us moving – TO BE ENGAGED – to find His people and to be His people – devoted to His causes. The Lord asks us not to ask “what is in it for me?” – but “what is it in me which needs to shine here? teach here? accept here? roll off my back here…” – and that is the Lord and His energy and His connectedness – and His Engagement… We are all His children – even when we are stuck in traffic (that is a great place to be engaged in staying safe)… And so even more let us be engaged in being His where we already have safety – then venture out to be engaged with others….
Be of His Service.
Amen
Psalm 25:12-14
Who is the man that fears the Lord? Him shall He teach in the way He chooses. He himself shall dwell in prosperity, And his descendants shall inherit the earth. The secret of the Lord is with those who fear Him, And He will show them His covenant.
In our season of fall TV viewing, there’s probably nothing more compelling than this show on Netflix about Charlie Sheen, well in small doses when one is ready to watch the train wreck rehashed and explained by the train back on his current track. Let us pray that he stays sober in all ways. It’s unbelievable that Charlie Sheen is still alive. It’s pure brokenness in the world of drugs, and money and wild lifestyles fueling addictions to self. In a ME world, it gets bad fast…
And yet Charlie Sheen is still alive, coherent to talk, and as compelling as he was to many but this next generation now wouldn’t know him and the train wrecks of today are on other media streams or already deceased. Drugs are the worst – and I pray no one starts because it proves bad again and again. All this big scale brokenness reminds us of brokenness even bigger at the level of pure evil in the world. The devil is in the disasters, but we are still able to see the warnings coming and stop and shelter and survive. We surely see life examples of devastation so that we try to steer clear.
And yet, they said that people were paying money to see the train wreck in Charlie Sheen. And surely others paid much more of the price to try to rescue him over and over… So, who are the helpers? The Netflix documentary mentioned his father, Martin Sheen who suffered immensely through these episodes of his son (although not interviewed for this series, the record as plenty of intervention attempts). His ex-wives are interviewed as they are surprised too that he is still alive. Even the former drug dealer to Charlie was recruited to help step Charlie down in intervention that “thought outside the box” and mixed lower and lower doses of crack until Charlie was able to step back up onto the sidewalk… It’s a story of rebuilding the tracks back or at least putting the train car upright. And there are victims of time, like his children, who will never regain a normalcy that rarely existed. If you wish for someone else’s life for yourself, DON’T. Take the cards handed to us and make our best plays. Our known is usually better than the unknown.
Intervention by invention, those helping Charlie Sheen were also helping themselves in rescuing someone they love. Charlie’s one quieter non-media brother interviewed stated over and over again about the love that was given. LOVE came first, in the middle, and will be the lasting force forever.
Intervention because of LOVE began at the time of creation, when God created the heavens and earth and separated darkness by instilling LIGHT and direction and motivation and sharing the LOVE. Genesis sounds like poetry of creation – so clearly over and over again intervention by invention and pre-prepared rescue was already planned as the Way. Intervention by invention is what got Adam and Eve back on track, Jacob and sons back to building nations, Moses back on the mountain, David back to praising God, and each and every person (past, present and future) to be rescued by Jesus. Jesus is the Way the Truth and the Life – and Light of the World to overcome all darkness. God Wins.
Intervention by invention at conception and for perception and surely by perspiration. It is hard work to block out darkness, but time and time again, day after day, it is done and shown and lived and all for the love of shining the way.
Let us pray all trains get back on track, all people get the pulling up they need, and that the people themselves WANT to pick up their mat and roll it up and keep walking forward as Jesus commands – and “sin no more” for the sake of the whole story of saving. We do love to watch the dawning of a new day – and today is that day for so many – we pray. We pray for all who are lost to see they are found, pray for all who are wayward to want forgiveness and reconciliation and to be taken back into the fold of the Lord as children wanting for their Father God. And we pray that we remember that the LOVE is given by God so we will love until it hurts. Intervention is by Invention.
God is LOVE – and no matter which earthly train gets wrecked, we won’t ever get off HIS track from His LOVE.
Amen
—
The History of Creation – Genesis 1:1-19 NKJV
In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was without form, and void; and darkness was on the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters.
Then God said, “Let there be light”; and there was light. And God saw the light, that it was good; and God divided the light from the darkness. God called the light Day, and the darkness He called Night. So the evening and the morning were the first day.
Then God said, “Let there be a firmament in the midst of the waters, and let it divide the waters from the waters.” Thus God made the firmament, and divided the waters which were under the firmament from the waters which were above the firmament; and it was so. And God called the firmament Heaven. So the evening and the morning were the second day.
Then God said, “Let the waters under the heavens be gathered together into one place, and let the dry land appear”; and it was so. And God called the dry land Earth, and the gathering together of the waters He called Seas. And God saw that it was good.
Then God said, “Let the earth bring forth grass, the herb that yields seed, and the fruit tree that yields fruit according to its kind, whose seed is in itself, on the earth”; and it was so. And the earth brought forth grass, the herb that yields seed according to its kind, and the tree that yields fruit, whose seed is in itself according to its kind. And God saw that it was good. So the evening and the morning were the third day.
Then God said, “Let there be lights in the firmament of the heavens to divide the day from the night; and let them be for signs and seasons, and for days and years; and let them be for lights in the firmament of the heavens to give light on the earth”; and it was so. Then God made two great lights: the greater light to rule the day, and the lesser light to rule the night. He made the stars also. God set them in the firmament of the heavens to give light on the earth, and to rule over the day and over the night, and to divide the light from the darkness. And God saw that it was good. So the evening and the morning were the fourth day. …
I’m glad the BIG spider just stayed on the rocks, I was ready to NOT move, so I only moved my legs up and we were both OK. Spider and I both chilled out…
And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.
The campfire was really nice and so was the whole weekend of being in the mountains and just relaxing. Trips are so worth it, especially camping. I rode up with one church friend, we stayed with another church friend, and we cooked and talked and walked and prayed thankfulness at each meal… Cozy cabin with electricity and an indoor composting toilet and an outhouse were just fine for the weekend… No shower but knowing one at home eventually allowed us to be fine in the grime, camping is just that…. Just be fine, just exist… Just BE. The world will move forward but for a moment you can just rest in the experience of outside.
And oh the leaves were just starting to change at that elevation, the chill and thrill of autumn triggers in us this time to be thankful… We enter the opportunity to see the summer transition into fall… So beautiful. We are to cling to what is good in life: Friendships and Fall and Fires, Fun and Faith…
“Cling to what is good” as a scripture is so true for us clinging to lasting love over fading falseness. Roll the fakeness of worldliness off your back – even the leaves fall from trees and are recycled into the earth. Stay true to faith and God’s Love. Cling to Jesus, He IS True… and remember Jesus is also moving in our lives, so let us keep moving too – Get up and Go if the Lord tells you so!
“Do not remember the former things, Nor consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing,Now it shall spring forth; Shall you not know it? I will even make a road in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.” Isaiah 43:18-19 NKJV
And on our last camping day, Sunday, we found the church service nearby that was such a treat spiritually and socially and the sweetest people and oh the strongest strength of the sermon message was so inspirational. MOVING. (and they even had a delicious lunch for everyone out of crockpots)… And yes, seriously a really MOVING message because it was about us NOT STAYING STUCK. To get out of our ruts of life, to stop our excuses of “I can’t” or “they told me I couldn’t” and instead we are to, like the man on the mat at the pool of Bethesda, be listening to Jesus and His prompting in the Holy Spirit as they say: “YOU CAN” !!!!
The pastor himself had experienced a “Get up and go” message from Jesus – not just because he was an interim pastor all over the country for about a year and a half at each location while each church did a permanent pastor search – but because he had a miraculous healing of an ailment (an aneurysm in his brain which dissolved after serious prayer by a congregation at the time) which then he didn’t believe for 2 years and “stayed stuck” chasing this doctors appointment and that – MRIs and CAT scans – but it was gone. BELIEVE IT.
And that was the take home message – if Jesus has made us SAVED people – believe it and walk in the Light. The stressing on the question by Jesus: “DO YOU WANT TO BE MADE WELL?” If Jesus heals – don’t live sick. Yes, if Jesus has shown us the way – don’t lose HOPE. Live the life now in front of you.
And also don’t go on sinning – lest a worse thing comes upon us. The scripture recounts Jesus’s teaching – of moving forward from past sins from past aches from past STUCKNESS – as well as an urge to live well. Afterward Jesus found him in the temple, and said to him, “See, you have been made well. Sin no more, lest a worse thing come upon you.”
Yes, may we be moving forward and get out of “STUCK” – and get going. This hit home with me as I personally have had many a situation where I felt stuck but it wasn’t my wiggling out of it – it was Jesus showing me the Way one lighted tile at a time to step onto.
I found that my friend and I sitting immediately next to each other in church was also whom I was sitting with at that beach church sermon of “FEAR NOT” – and the urging to not let irrational fear stop us in our tracks – and keep moving – FOR GOD GOES WITH US. That was a crucial message for me this summer – and here again (at a different church in a new season), God found the right message for each of us – for all of us that day – CLING TO WHAT IS GOOD.
Get up and walk – Jesus is leading the Way.
AMEN!
JOHN 5 NKJV:1-15 A Man Healed at the Pool of Bethesda After this there was a feast of the Jews, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem. Now there is in Jerusalem by the Sheep Gate a pool, which is called in Hebrew, Bethesda, having five porches. In these lay a great multitude of sick people, blind, lame, paralyzed, waiting for the moving of the water. For an angel went down at a certain time into the pool and stirred up the water; then whoever stepped in first, after the stirring of the water, was made well of whatever disease he had. Now a certain man was there who had an infirmity thirty-eight years. When Jesus saw him lying there, and knew that he already had been in that condition a long time, He said to him, “Do you want to be made well?”
The sick man answered Him, “Sir, I have no man to put me into the pool when the water is stirred up; but while I am coming, another steps down before me.”
Jesus said to him, “Rise, take up your bed and walk.” And immediately the man was made well, took up his bed, and walked. And that day was the Sabbath. The Jews therefore said to him who was cured, “It is the Sabbath; it is not lawful for you to carry your bed.” He answered them, “He who made me well said to me, ‘Take up your bed and walk.’ ” Then they asked him, “Who is the Man who said to you, ‘Take up your bed and walk’?” But the one who was healed did not know who it was, for Jesus had withdrawn, a multitude being in that place. Afterward Jesus found him in the temple, and said to him, “See, you have been made well. Sin no more, lest a worse thing come upon you.”
The man departed and told the Jews that it was Jesus who had made him well.
Romans 12 NKJV Living Sacrifices to God – Serve With Spiritual Gifts – Behave Like a Christian
I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.
For I say, through the grace given to me, to everyone who is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly, as God has dealt to each one a measure of faith. For as we have many members in one body, but all the members do not have the same function, so we, being many, are one body in Christ, and individually members of one another. Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, let us prophesy in proportion to our faith; or ministry, let us use it in our ministering; he who teaches, in teaching; he who exhorts, in exhortation; he who gives, with liberality; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness.
Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good. Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another; not lagging in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer; distributing to the needs of the saints, given to hospitality.
Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. Be of the same mind toward one another. Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own opinion.
Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men. If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men. Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord. Therefore“If your enemy is hungry, feed him;If he is thirsty, give him a drink;For in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head.”
Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
With the Lord Father God with the Lord Son Jesus AND the Holy Spirit, we have a triune God of the Holy Trinity. Not only is that not worshipped in many other religions, the word triune is not even in my cell phone dictionary… TRI-UNE is three equal and forever and omnipotent and majestic God in One. God IS – and God IS all these and all this and all them and all HIM.
Wow.
The Holy Spirit is Whom we call upon to give us a fresh filling of faith, of Jesus inside us to strengthen and get us serving again. The Holy Spirit points back to Jesus as the Way the Truth the Life. The Holy Spirit bring God into our lives – actually let me rephrase that the Holy Spirit shows US where how and that GOD never left us. Holy Spirit reminds us we are His Children and LOVED.
SO – let us think of those times when we were anxious and distraught and feeling “not caught” up in God’s grace or in His Comfort – those scared moments – moments of unreal or unrational or irrational fear… like us not being able to take a breath… And then the moment that the Lord gave us either a Holy Spirit kick or a Holy Spirit calm… A moment to either get direction forward or at least rest in a moment of OK… and let us keep being OK…
I have to say that in my life I have had HOLY SPIRIT CHILLS THRILLS SPILLS – AND RE-FILLING OF MY CUP… And that we all have that need to have our cups refilled…
Holy Spirit – please help…
Amen
(PS – going to be starting a new journey of a week by week reading of sections of this book on THANK YOU HOLY SPIRIT… I know that the Spirit knows I need it!)….
I saw a red “OOS” notice tag, a new one sitting on the bench in case a machine went “Out of Service”, and it struck me differently this time – it was but a glimpse of not glory but truth, hard truth, in gluing oneself to Jesus’s message of SERVICE of SERVING. “Out of service” could be not NOT working but instead working for the Lord from an aspect of service – “out of” is being of “service” – YES!!!
Maybe “OOS” is like saying: don’t let the humans use me, but surely God can and is.
Because even if (especially if) we are not working in a human ‘take charge’ way, like ‘take charge of my time’ or ‘I’m going to be a bull in a china shop’ or even ‘I’m going to be sneaky’, we should always and instead BE HUMBLE to listen to God, to be OF SERVICE with the Lord, to the Lord’s leading, for the Lord’s purpose which is much bigger in scope than our small task of the moment.
Being OF service is loving God out of our service to Him. Letting Him use our devotion as an example.
Being OF SERVICE, working “out of service” to Him to His mission, is exactly what I was thinking about then viewing the tag, and that by our service to others, we are serving not ourselves but the Lord’s bigger plan and His momentum can carry us. We do need to serve Him, out of a service mindset, to take directions… and service for the Lord’s cause, even if sometimes we are set up as an example by Him to show not our success but our humility and humbleness to listen and love, still accomplishes His Will.
We can function out of service and LOVE, working with God.
Amazingly, a devotion today from the “Daily Dose”, that I read occasionally, was in this same mindset, a revelation of God’s will in our lives means to let Him be strong through our weaknesses.
The author states: “Our God is so amazing, as everything is almost the opposite of what the world teaches in order to be a success! For instance, God tells us that He who is last and serves others will be first! Mark 9:35″
YES! WOW: reading below: “He does not allow us to fully accomplish His perfect will without relying on His guidance and His power.” YES – He is the vine, we are the branches and without Him we can accomplish nothing… “He does not allow us to fully accomplish His perfect will without relying on His guidance and His power.”
Yes humbly we must be of service and listen. Humbly yes…
Here is a short poem:
Humbly Lord, we say Yes.
Our efforts should not be a guess,
Listening to You is never an excess.
Being obedient to You brings success.
Success in showing Love despite every trespass.
Humbly yes Lord, yes.
Yes.
Amen
—-
And please read the Daily Dose devotion from Bob Bennett- https://us3.campaign-archive.com/?u=5a7bbf443189708255b21f430&id=a5ef685dfd
The Daily Dose
God is Strong 9/16/2025
Good Morning – does the thought of being weak anger you?
2 Corinthians 13:19 “For we are glad when we are weak and you are strong. Your restoration is what we pray for.”
“God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong;” 1 Corinthians 1:27 Our God is so amazing, as everything is almost the opposite of what the world teaches in order to be a success! For instance, God tells us that He who is last and serves others will be first! Mark 9:35 This was certainly not anything I was taught in any coaching or business training courses I participated in during younger years. Actually, just the opposite until I began to correlate the teaching with the Word of God. I began to understand that while God has individually gifted us all with the certain talents for whatever He has purposed us to accomplish in this world, He does not allow us to fully accomplish His perfect will without relying on His guidance and His power.
God also tells us that He is the vine and we are the branches and that whoever abides in Him, will bear much fruit. But He also tells us that apart from Him, we can do nothing! John 15:5 So if being successful in this life is so dependent on God, then what is our part? God has made our part actually very simple. We are to simply seek after Him each day, “as a deer pants for the water.” Psalm 42:1 We are to humble ourselves, pray, hear from heaven, repent and turn from our sin. 2 Chronicles 7:14 Then “deny yourself, take up our cross and follow Jesus”. Mark 8:34 Once we have heard from God, we are to simply be obedient and ready for every good work Titus 3:1 , while trusting in God’s faithfulness and that He will go before us and never leave or forsake us!
Lord, thank you for loving us so much and making us strong in You. In Jesus name we pray, Amen!
Have another powerful and prosperous day of trusting the Lord’s strength and power as you sacrificially serve and love others in the workplace and at home. “Let us run with endurance the race that is set before us!” Hebrews 12:1
Bob Bennett
Real Men Ministries
“Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself.” — Philippians 2:3
Very blessed to share the sermon today – about Community – and including Communion… Jesus together with us – that is how the church will continue to grow… scriptures from the early church of Acts 4, 5, 6…
This week was the 24th anniversary of September 11th… seems like yesterday – and so does my daughter being 6weeks old – crying and ready to be fed while I fussed around getting my water and the tv buttons, the phone… and click – tv – wait – what? Sept 11th – this was 9am and I saw the 2nd plane hit the second building and stuck deer in the headlights at the tv – and wow…
After watching many September 11th video replays, I also have a memory of people saying, weeks and months later that “I miss us as a community being September 12th people”…
Yes I even saw that on facebook a lot over the years – a saying “I miss us being sept 12th” – meaning we were collective as a community – by good and by bad circumstances – and I could say that after covid hit too – wow the sharing in my community – I remember giving some fabric to a lady in a facebook group – left it on my car and she walked up to get it – people shared…
Yes these were the days we remembered community, September 12th 13th 14th… etc… for the next few weeks and months we looked to each other for comfort, for understanding (which there was and yet so little understanding in a devastating tragedy like that), and we also looked at the people helping and we became helpers too, in processing and in donations. In prayers for sure…
My baby girl, 6 week was still crying even though I was mesmerized by the tv – so hungry – probably needed a diaper change – well – my baby kept me going that day – I had to feed her she was the immediate person to love in front of me – she was my mission in life at that moment – my community and I was hers – I had to keep living for her – keep going… And surely those days after we held our family more dear, we were more somber and polite, and we rallied around folks – and we were those “September 12th people” – and we built and rebuilt community – yes community – just as we are talking here today about growing God’s community – with purpose and knowledge…
And just as the rubble removed from the crash sites, if you have been there – wow – beautiful – and the phoenix rose and rises from the ashes just like the beautiful Oculus metro station, if you’ve seen it, it’s gorgeous. Yes, just as new buildings rose, just as the water pool installations were placed for memorial and a place of reflection the people returned – and returned to be community. People who don’t know each other still gather as community.
There is a favorite Mister Roger’s saying that his mother always said: “In the middle of a tragedy, look for the helpers” – and oh yeah, September eleventh, then the 12th, that brought community – I know somebody who lived on long island as a specialized surgeon. And yet, they were sent to ground zero to try to help with recovery, but there was nothing they could do. They couldn’t apply their specialized skill set to that situation. However, they could bring us a first hand account of the situation to us – to her community. Then I remember stories that there were chefs, celebrity chefs, who brought their whole restaurant crew and food supply and cooking and continually served the first responders and the workers for months. There were musical celebrities who put together concerts for fundraising. And surely my favorite Bruce Springsteen song called the rising detailed the flight and plight of first responders, firemen rising up the stairs while everybody else was getting out, and then surely rising up to Heaven as those towers fell.
The firefighters did not hesitate, because that was what they did FOR community and in community.
When we look at the scriptures this morning, these scriptures make us very happy to hear about this community of the first early church – we can strive to this model group. At least we should strive to ask God how to live. We also LOVE hearing about it because surely they came together as a JOY – and a MISSION – and surely as a relief to – safety in numbers – but we love it because we know that God WANTS community – He never raised us to live alone – He asks us to share and to publicly communally worship Him…
And we like to see that the early church had skillsets to share – everyone different and decided not to neglect their strengths. We see that the wise chose new people to serve – this makes us happy for the widows were taken care of – and for each person in the early church. We are to know that they as community were celebrating victory, victory in Jesus. “Oh, glorious victory that overcomes the world” and HOPE – yes hope because Jesus wasn’t in the tomb, He was risen. This is the ultimate “Have Faith” – because memories were kept in community to share with the next generation and the next, memories that so many of them, they say up to 500 saw the risen Jesus – so they COULD witness – and they could speak to the fulfilled prophesies…. And they could witness, witness in community from people who were there, teaching like Jesus talk to His disciples on that walk to Emmaus – and to those gathered at the sea of Galilee for breakfast – after He arose.
This early community was in the immediate days in the book of Acts, just after Jesus ascended and the angels said: “He’s not here and you will see Him come back just as you saw Him go up”… They waited then for the Holy Spirit and The Spirit was crucial, and they lived together and worshiped in spirit and truth best they could. The disciples went about building community from scratch as well as rebuilding their community. First the replaced the 12th apostle with Matthius instead of Judas. This was in the time after the Lord brought the apostles the Holy Spirit – after Jesus was taken to Heaven. And because of the Apostles, the church grew… So the community kept growing in faith, strength, supplies and mission… [emphasis] The Believers Share Their Possessions
Acts 4:32-37 All the believers were one in heart and mind.No one claimed that any of their possessions was their own, but they shared everything they had. With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And God’s grace was so powerfully at work in them all that there were no needy persons among them.For from time to time those who owned land or houses sold them, brought the money from the sales and put it at the apostles’ feet, and it was distributed to anyone who had need…. Joseph – called “son of encouragement”), sold a field he owned and brought the money and put it at the apostles’ feet.
Was it perfect? We like to think so – especially with that All the believers were one in heart and mind. Well, surely some were so human like us – but working WITH the Holy Spirit – they accomplished so much including staying as a community… but honestly don’t think it perfect – but PERFECTING…. As there is a very interesting story in Acts chapter 5 about two who deceived the apostles and lied about the money they were contributing – so surely the early church learned lessons of honestly from that situation – community will do that… And yet our favorite part of the new community is how the Lord BLESSED this community – and also in the Apostles Acts – working with the Holy Spirit, they healed many – performed many signs and wonders among the people…. more and more men and women believed in the Lord and were added to their number. 15 As a result, people brought the sick into the streets and laid them on beds and mats so that at least Peter’s shadow might fall on some of them as he passed by. 16 Crowds gathered also from the towns around Jerusalem, bringing their sick and those tormented by impure spirits, and all of them were healed. ————- WOW that is AMAZING!!!!! And yeah – PERFECTING… getting better…
And we learn that the community grew and so did the roles for many of the followers… Like I said, things weren’t always perfect but the Lord thru the Holy Spirit found ways to “perfect” the situation – that is one of my favorite verses – “The Lord will PERFECT that which concerns me”… either He will perfect me – or He will perfect the situation – which might take a while but we do believe…
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Let’s listen to this part of the story from Acts 6:1-7:
In those days when the number of disciples was increasing, the Hel-len-istic Jews among them complained against the Heb-raic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, “It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables. Brothers and sisters, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them— and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word.”
This proposal pleased the whole group. They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit; also Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas from Antioch, a convert to Judaism.They presented these men to the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them.
So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith.
YES – then like now – there is a need for a plan to further and grow the church – to spread the Word – the good news – and this is not a decision in a vacuum = they had to pray on the choices… Surely this is part of the reason to find folks to serve so others could spend their time teaching and surely in prayer – to discern the direction they should go – the Lord must be consulted and surely He was and Is consulted for the church to have grown…
(I did a big presentation of the early bible and how we got here – big bag of info… because people cared and were filled with the Holy Spirit) – this is the church as a body together too…
And here is the best advice I ever heard about churches – the buildings – that we must remain a bible-based church and share the Word first —- I know this from a friend who said to look at the churches that grow – it is the Word – brought by the Holy Spirit Whom we pray to fill our house of worship…
And in the church, we share and to bring together, and like the early church it is important to not neglect the duties of prayer… I love the phrase I have heard – preaching teaching and reaching – with reaching being an action item… So they appointed others like deacons who understood everything that had been going on… and they prayed on it…
And yes – among those who were chosen included Stephen – so strong and the first Martyr… the book of acts is a great teaching lesson for those of the day and for us now.
IMPORTANT TO GOD’S Plan – AS THEY WITNESSED, THEY WERE STRENGTHENED
And we must know that that to build community and be dependent upon community also means we are to be dependent upon the Lord even more.
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So – what a marvelous opportunity they took -and that we have of the early church as an example – and everybody working together and that was a tremendous scripture about feeding the widows and making sure they had people stationed at every job… because the social structure and the financial support in those times is very different from now. Growing community is taking care of your own and they take care of you, yes, AND growing community also means taking care of others not in your own flock – that extending out the generosity also means extending out the Word – and the good news of Jesus… For collectively together we are the body of Christ.
Growing community spiritually, as well as growing the flock, fishing for men, making sure that the hungry are fed and to especially feed everybody on hope.
And hope is in the community that we grow today. We find ourselves very blessed to be able to help share that hope. We share hope in all our sharing, little church big impact. Little works into a lot.
Now we will be sharing communion, and we have this communion bread, nutritious, and full of nooks and crannies, we could say bread is the staple of the meal in community . Actually Jesus born in Bethlehem, they said was “house of bread”….
In making this rise of bread – we have the rise of the yeast processing which takes time – makes the air pockets.
I love talking about Jesus being the yeast, the living Word. Sharing in community of Jesus and sharing His Word is the HOPE that people are hungering for. We in community are doing the communion of the sharing, and we must know that we’re not just sharing a little bit of bread, but a LOT of Jesus.
I often tell this story of a women’s gathering at my old church, and I remembered last minute that we were supposed to do communion because the pastor was visiting and all I had was some Irish soda bread and he said that was fine. Then like 2 YEARS later, especially because it was just after when the Lord got my head on the straight, we had the pastor speaking again at our meeting, and I thought to myself of the contrast between irish soda bread and the yeast-risen bread – so I made the Irish soda bread again and also brought a yeast risen loaf I bought.
Well soda bread is just that – risen by soda – man made or harvested levening reagent – and although it is tasty – it doesn’t get the pockets that a yeast-risen bread will get. Yes soda bread is faster to make – but the yeast-risen bread takes time… And that connects to our community and our communion – we may put in our man-made efforts – but wow when we put in Jesus and His teachings and His HOPE – and His LOVE – we will grow with a Living Church and a Living Spirit…
And so we will share this beautifully risen bread today and think of our table and bread set by Jesus – for us to remember HIM…
And so Friends – Jesus himself invites us to his table, but the apostle Paul advises us to examine ourselves before we come unthinking to the Lord’s table. So let us pray:
Gracious and loving Lord, as we prepare to come to your table, we come remembering in humility the boundless love that brought us here. And we confess how often we have failed to reflect the love that was shown to us – failed in our actions, in our words, even in our thoughts…
We have both done things we ought not to have done and we have left undone those things we ought to have done.
We ask forgiveness through the intercession of our Lord Jesus Christ who gave himself on our behalf. Create in us clean hearts, O God, and renew a right spirit within us, so that we might offer the worship, service and praise that brings honor to you. Have mercy on us and forgive us for the sake of your Son, our Savior, Jesus Christ – Amen. Friends, hear and believe the good news of the gospel. In Jesus Christ we are forgiven.
AHHHHH – COMMUNITY… This is the joyful feast of the people of God! People will come from east and west and from north and south to sit at table in the kingdom of God. At this, our Lord’s table, all who trust him are invited to share the feast he has prepared for us. Any baptized believer in the Lord Jesus Christ is welcome to receive this sacrament, regardless of denomination or church background.
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So let us break bread as community…..
(While breaking bread) – The Lord Jesus on the night he was betrayed, took bread and when he
had given thanks, he broke it, gave it to his disciples and said, Take and eat; this is my body which is broken for you; do this in remembrance of me.
(While lifting the cup). In the same way, after supper our Savior took the cup, saying “This cup is the new covenant in my blood which is shed for many for the forgiveness of sins; all of you, drink of it, in remembrance of me.” As often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you do show the Lord’s death and resurrection until he comes.
(call for helper for communion) +++++++++++ After serving communion:
Prayer: Gracious God, we thank you for this meal shared in the Spirit with your Son Jesus, who makes us new and strong, who brings eternal life. May we who have received this bread and this cup live in the unity of your Holy Spirit, that we may be the expression of your love to all the world. Send us out in peace and grant us the strength and courage to love and serve you with gladness and singleness of heart. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
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Benediction PRAYER at end… We are to display the strength that he gives us, especially share the information with our community and outside our community. What are the challenges we will face? Nothing compared to the Lord – remember The Lord is bigger… and take these words of Isaiah 40 28-31 with us: Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
After watching many September 11th video replays, I thought of my memory of people saying, weeks and months later that “I miss us as a community being September 12th people”… yes, the day after when we were picking up the pieces and each other…
Yes, September 12th 13th 14th… 2001… etc… for the next few weeks and months we looked to each other for comfort, for understanding (which there was and is little in a devastating tragedy like that), and we also looked at the people helping and we became helpers too, in processing and donations. Surely we held our family more dear, we were more somber and polite, and we rallied around and we built and rebuilt community just as the rubble removed from the crash sites, the phoenix rose from the ashes just like the beautiful Oculus metro station, if you’ve been there, it’s gorgeous rising, just as new buildings rose, just as the water pool installations were placed for memorial and a place of reflection. People who don’t know each other gather as community. And those who did know each other came to churches – and rallied each other – comforted – and asked God “why?” – and stayed in community for a while… solace in sincerity in community…
One of my favorite Mister Rogers’ sayings is that his mother always said: “in the middle of a tragedy, look for the helpers” – and oh yeah, Sept 12th, that brought community – I know somebody who lived on Long Island as a specialized surgeon and yet as any medical professional, they were sent to ground zero to try to help with recovery, but there was nothing they could do. They couldn’t apply their specialized skill set to that situation. However, they could bring us a first hand account of the situation. Then there were chefs, celebrity chefs, who brought their whole restaurant crews and food supply and cooking and continually served the first responders and the workers for months. There were musical celebrities who put together concerts for fundraising. And surely my favorite Bruce Springsteen song called “The Rising” detailed the flight and plight of first responders, firemen rising up the stairs. While everybody else was getting out, and then surely rising up to Heaven as those towers fell. Jesus reached and they rose.
The firefighters did not hesitate, because that was what they did in community. And still live in community and for community.
And that could be our reminder every September to re-start and re-join community.
We do need each other – when Mister Rogers says “look for the helpers” – that could be us – we could be the helpers too. We are to keep the Lord’s commandments and step into this life as His Hands and Feet – and abide in doing what He calls us to do – and listen for the Holy Spirit: “Now he who keeps His commandments abides in Him, and He in him. And by this we know that He abides in us, by the Spirit whom He has given us.” 1st John 3:24
So – COMMUNITY – may we continue in community today – and remember that we are not alone here on earth – even if we belong to our heavenly home – we are to be His community here on earth. THE SPIRIT WILL GUIDE US!
Amen
These are the lyrics of part of the song “The Rising”:
Can’t see nothing in front of me Can’t see nothing coming up behind Make my way through this darkness I can’t feel nothing but this chain that binds me Lost track of how far I’ve gone How far I’ve gone, how high I’ve climbed On my back’s a sixty pound stone On my shoulder, a half-mile line [Chorus] Come on up for the rising Come on up, lay your hands in mine Come on up for the rising Come on up for the rising tonight
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1st John 3:10-24 NKJV
The Imperative of Love In this the children of God and the children of the devil are manifest: Whoever does not practice righteousness is not of God, nor is he who does not love his brother. For this is the message that you heard from the beginning, that we should love one another, not as Cain who was of the wicked one and murdered his brother. And why did he murder him? Because his works were evil and his brother’s righteous.
Do not marvel, my brethren, if the world hates you. We know that we have passed from death to life, because we love the brethren. He who does not love his brother abides in death. Whoever hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him.
The Outworking of Love By this we know love, because He laid down His life for us. And we also ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. But whoever has this world’s goods, and sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart from him, how does the love of God abide in him?
My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth. And by this we know that we are of the truth, and shall assure our hearts before Him. For if our heart condemns us, God is greater than our heart, and knows all things. Beloved, if our heart does not condemn us, we have confidence toward God. And whatever we ask we receive from Him, because we keep His commandments and do those things that are pleasing in His sight. And this is His commandment: that we should believe on the name of His Son Jesus Christ and love one another, as He gave us commandment.
Now he who keeps His commandments abides in Him, and He in him. And by this we know that He abides in us, by the Spirit whom He has given us.
I had to wait – I really did – and it was frustrating but then again a teachable moment to myself that not everything should I expect to do or have done instantly…. yes, FINALLY the opportunity came to shred documents way back to 1967 – yes I said 1967 – finally came after I and others sorted, plus moved them around – plastic storage bins in a garage – in many trusted family and friends hands – safe but still a burden of excess – cancelled checks and tax returns – credit card info and offers – such sensitive stuff like ssn’s and whatnot. Shred shred shred so that we don’t dread dread dread…
This was stuff that DIDN’T need to go to Vegas when my friend moved – she is now SLAYING Vegas (which is actually the name of a new book! available on Amazon!) – so for my friend there was no need to do SHREDDING in Vegas – she now is over there helping her family and grandkids and “PERFECTING Vegas”… Leave the shredding behind… Shredding Vegas before it gets there – that IS perfecting Vegas – not just the paper but the past – shred the past and leave it behind and walk forward into your new life – live in the present – in the moment – and with and for the new people God gives you.
And the shredding paper boxes? It took a while but then in a whoosh of a moment it was done – those five last boxes to the local state representative’s sponsored free shredding event. Had done one giant shred run earlier in the summer but then had to pause because of a cancelled shred event by rain – and wait until the fall events started. I thought to pay for it but that seemed nonsensical and pricey when a free shred event was surely around the corner – and it was – I just had to WAIT!
And it came. And now it is done… and we all survived waiting! Yes we will and can survive waiting…
Isn’t that us in life too – we have to wait – we have to wait – we have to wait upon the Lord…
Psalm 138 states a truth from David: “The Lord will Perfect That Which Concerns Me.” – and David writes that our salvation comes from the Lord’s Right Hand. TRUE!
I had written a devotion at the beginning of the summer which really speaks to me now as the things that were taking place were resolving every so slowly in my mind but ever so efficiently and totally in the Lord’s Hands – resolved to an even better outcome… Yeah, The Lord’s Ways are above our ways… and David’s Psalm 138 (and I) are not just talking about shredding or packing or moving stuff – we are talking about LIFE STUFF – that the Lord is perfecting – and HAS perfected because with accepting His cloak of forgiveness we are seen purified in God’s Grace and Mercy. And others too are cloaked in forgiveness by the Lord… We have to forgive as we are forgiven. Yes, with His RIGHT HAND – JESUS – we are saved.
Below is the devotion that oh is so very true now (and always was) for our material things and mental things – yes I had a whole big list of “that concerns me” from this summer and I had to wait it out and I watched the Lord resolve it EVEN BETTER than I could have imagined – even better and that takes time – that is not a “snap your fingers” kind of God but a “walk with me and FEAR NOT” TRUTH of God.
(And without giving details, the FEAR NOT command (perfectly timed as placed on my ears from a summer sermon) by the Lord has really really come true for me this summer – oh the relief and oh the comfort and oh the joy for watching the Lord complete the situation and get it moving again – wow!)
And perfecting “that which concerns me” is oh so comforting for my/our forevers too.
From Summer July to September (even from 1967 and before and beyond) and forever – The Lord will Perfect that which concerns me! Shredding and Perfecting – and LOVING the whole way.
Amen
Previous devotion at the beginning of the summer:
.
THE Lord will perfect that which concerns me.
The LORD will perfect that which concerns me.
The Lord WILL perfect that which concerns me.
The Lord will PERFECT that which concerns me.
The Lord will perfect THAT which concerns me.
The Lord will perfect that WHICH concerns me.
The Lord will perfect that which CONCERNS me.
The Lord will perfect that which concerns ME.
We (I) have a lot that concerns us – but the Lord – He is MORE than all that – MORE than a lot – MORE than us and MORE than our concerns. We can take strengthening in His regard for us – Our hope is in that He knows us and pays attention to us and lifts us up.
If there is anything we are not good at, we can rely upon Him to find our answers, our helpers, our path. His Mercy is the amazing gift of giving grace to the imperfections, and He answers our concerns just as He catches all our tears.
If there are items we are concerned about, and people and things, He gives us unworldly advice not to ignore things around us but to look at them like He does, with grace and mercy and forgiveness.
If there is anything we don’t know, we can ask. If there is anything we need, we can ask. And when (not if) we fall short, He provides the ability for us to recover.
Lord, You give us of Your Glory – let us know that You will perfect THAT which concerns me – by either perfecting me, or perfecting THAT, or perfecting the concern and bringing that concern into place where it belongs in the universe.
Without You, Lord, we would be nothing. So, WITH YOU LORD? We have everything we need.
AMEN
Psalm 138 NKJV The Lord’s Goodness to the Faithful – A Psalm of David.
I will praise You with my whole heart; Before the gods I will sing praises to You. I will worship toward Your holy temple, And praise Your name For Your lovingkindness and Your truth; For You have magnified Your word above all Your name. In the day when I cried out, You answered me, And made me bold with strength in my soul.
All the kings of the earth shall praise You, O Lord, When they hear the words of Your mouth. Yes, they shall sing of the ways of the Lord, For great is the glory of the Lord. Though the Lord is on high, Yet He regards the lowly; But the proud He knows from afar.
Though I walk in the midst of trouble, You will revive me; You will stretch out Your hand Against the wrath of my enemies, And Your right hand will save me. The Lord will perfect that which concerns me; Your mercy, O Lord, endures forever; Do not forsake the works of Your hands.
What an amazing way to travel… I am home in after a four and a half hour overnight flight on Holy Spirit airlines from Vegas to east coast, then train home in the wee hours of the morning – oh seeing the real Statue of Liberty and the Las Vegas one in less than 5 hours timespan was awesome – and oh the sunrise… Flying had was an amazing sight of our take off over the beautiful lights of Las Vegas then dark over the mountains.
When I left, the Big Dipper was over my shoulder and flew with me, and my cup also was truly FILLED by my visit with my friend and everyone… It was not just the Big Dipper star constellation held my full cup – the LORD held my cup… The stars shined bright above… So should we. The Lord fills my cup – and as the Grateful Dead sang in Ripple: “Let it be known, there is a fountain that was not made by the hands of man”… and as David wrote in Psalm 23 – “my cup overfloweth”…
Blessed to watch a lightning storm below as well as the stars above at the same time, so humbling. YES! Flying over the middle part of the country I saw big storms – they rumbled and scared below surely – but we were flying above – the captain ascended – that is how we need to live life too – flying above the storms and knowing that the Heavens don’t leave us…. It’s so important to listen for the nudging of the Holy Spirit. I am with you – the Lord says…
Before taking off – a great view of two planes – like a “Holy” Spirit airlines – their tails showed me “Howdy” “Spirit” – yes it is blessed to have the Holy Spirit and also fun to keep the “Howdy Spirit” alive – greeting those around us with a JOY that only the Lord can give us. We certainly can have a howdy spirit – open for where the Lord takes us to see who we can see – and we, I, live because of the Holy Spirit moving us reminding us that Jesus lives inside of us, and we live with the strength of the Lord, we can rise above the storms… and because of the Holy Spirit, we can accept humbling storms too and still praise – for the Lord’s ways are above our ways.
Thank You Lord for all we have and all we can do – because of You
May we always take YOUR VIEW – a Holy Spirit Howdy Spirit TRUE!
Amen
Matthew 28:18-20 NKJV And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.
Ah – Joshua the story speaks to the people working the Lord’s intentions – the Lord is powerful – we work for Him (whether we know it or not)… I pray to be knowing it – and knowing Him – and working not in our element but in our (my)chemistry with the others around us. What a blessing to have friends to share with – yes…
I know that I myself am called to be an encourager – that is good for us to know and can grow in that – but also see that when placed in a position to help, hug, hollar, who knows – that is my job to do… And love people – and “People who need people” – we can clearly see people whom the Lord uses to further His plan – sharing His love – being the difference in someone’s life….
At the funeral that I just attended yesterday, so many spoke about the “captain charisma” joyfulness of our friend’s son – really someone who changed other’s lives. And yes it is so sad – as this young man passed away suddenly at just 35 years – apparently God knew the timing… The first to give the eulogy was a friend who told of how Justin came into his life at the right time and when he was struggling and this new friendship brotherhood brought life and wit and adversity like a brother (quoting proverbs 17:17) for good – and brought purpose into his life/scene everyday. This gentleman spoke so emotionally eloquently about their relationship. Others spoke of the amazing glue that this “captain charisma” was holding each group together where he was. We were in sorrow but in joy to know this young man. We pray for the family as they all struggle with this loss. “Unfailing Love” and “Amazing Grace” – oh the holy spirit goosebumps I had to hear strum the guitar and to sing… Ah – my church family I am so grateful…
Also yesterday I heard of a church friend who passed in her 60s, with early dementia – ah so sad – she was such joy… She especially was joy for her grandkids… JOY is in our sharing with her life and sorrow in her passing as we loved her in our women’s retreat group – and my connection with her started years ago when we stepped into then our new church and she toured us and introduced us around… with her also being one of the first people I was able to share my awakening with, 10 years ago now.
And wonderfully yesterday I gathered with women whom I shared the table with at a “Walk to Emmaus” weekend many years ago – and we caught up for our 44th (yes 44th!) visit (either in person or virtually) – missed our other table mate and send hugs and love and prayers her way… It is SO good how God gives us family… We love even though we don’t always see each other…
It is SO good to have brothers and sisters in Christ – who understand us or at least try to understand and help and correct and support….
So – God works through humans for good – and even “brothers for adversity” scripture comes after the Proverbs 17:17 part of “A friend loves at all times”...
And in Joshua? Well even though I have not read this book on Joshua (yet) from author Steven Lennox – I know from the sense of a leader instilled in Joshua by God, chapter 1 – the FEAR NOT passage – that we are to work WITH God – for God – by God – and not be afraid or discouraged – because God goes with us – and especially we are to go meet the people we are to meet – and to be that glue and that joy and that friend and that family and that
Let us all be courageously the glue of the Love of the Lord and spread it not thin but thick – because God makes endless opportunities to love… and we work for Him… Courageously!!!
Amen
Joshua 1:6-9 God says: “Be strong and courageous, because you will lead these people to inherit the land I swore to their ancestors to give them. … Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go. Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
God Keeps His Promises – yes that is a truth that I can appreciate – and one that is a section title in the new book I ordered from Amazon about JOSHUA – by Stephen Lennox – the sermonist who delivered the very meaningful sermon to my ears and life fears at the time – “FEAR NOT” Dr Lennox said – which God said – which Joshua heard – which the author of the book of Genesis heard – which we are all to hear – which I hear.
God is FOR us – and God keeps His Promises – I mean we realize that He kept and keeps our biggest one of Grace and Mercy with Jesus saving our souls – so why wouldn’t He keep all the other little and big promises too – like Jeremiah’s there is a plan for you – and all those promises of taking care of us that Jesus used even the birds to demonstrate and the flowers who are splendidly dressed so why should we worry what we wear let alone eat – and eat we do of His Bread of Life…
So, if God is for us – well, why would we worry – but we can WORK and put our negative energies into something creative or at least not destructive…
Last Thursday I went late to drop off some boxes that my work folks had created and decorated from a project to celebrate kids in the Foster system. I stepped late into the unknown BIG building and prayed that I would be OK dropping them off and clearing out just that much more of a section in my packed car. Especially to get these kids these treats… We want to connect the blessings we have with the well wishes for them and thank the people who do the amazing tasks of taking care of these children. God is FOR us and for sure God is FOR these children and there are many agencies who look after children.
The security guard hit the wrong button on the elevator and I found myself on the 4th floor not 5th – and in a school open welcoming space with not one soul – and I wondered if this was the right place and if I should just leave the boxes – I decided to start to write a note – and luckily blessedly three people came by just then and redirected me (and used their badges) to the next floor up. Whew – and there was a person still there – and the boxes were delivered – whew.
I found that TRUST and that security was beneficial and comforting – then again seemed TOO trustworthy for my actions even though I know there were cameras everywhere….
But isn’t that true of God too – He trusts us – He certainly sees us like better than those cameras – and He can reach out to us too – and send help. I wonder if we all could just remember that He watches us all the time and try our best…
I wonder…
I hope…
I pray…
God keeps His Promises – one of them is to WATCH us!
Whew… the wind blew… my schedule too… the Lord saw and pushed me through. Yesterday was participation in the CROSSING of the PARTED seas of logistics, even if the rain chased then poured all the way, and I felt soaked in schedules, The Way, meaning Jesus, saw me through and sees us through life.
The wind kicked up, I had driven faster than the storms that kicked up last night, Sunday. I got to the fair just in time at closing to pick up my exhibits and I knew when my door shut and my stuff was safe in the car that ONCE AGAIN the Lord did it! Lord-fantastic to my logistics. I give Him credit for safe passage to and from, this way and that… It was a good weekend and good is from God. Good God so much because I feel blessed not burdened, only burden is HOW? How to get it all or not all in.. and the Lord showed me that He was in charge and amazing with getting me (us) where I think I was supposed to be. If a schedule is tight, He loosens the struggle of it by us consulting Him, STEP BY STEP. We best consult Him in everything, and see silverlinings too of NOT being places, because He moves mountains of our schedules for HIS PLAN. I’m just grateful to be in it. He got me from here to there and a thousand places in between over the course of these past few days. In a COURAGE course of His Logistics, I often state (sometimes just to myself) “Lord-willing and usually He IS!” to my crazy logistics of activities.
And just because my fair stuff was in the car didn’t mean I was… and off I went, still chugging along with stuff to do, people to see, and endless Lord’s moving to marvel at. Second step was helping my friend load her car and in classic timing, closed that trunk too as the rain poured in. I knew it was coming as I had just driven 5 hours up and back north. And I drove south through and past the rain that was surely going to hit the fair just at clean up. It did, but we did it.
“Baptism by rain” I said as we got a little soaked, not bad. The stuff was safe. And she gave me a dry towel!!! We were then off to her adult son’s immersion baptism and the skies did open like a deluge. So into the building we SQUISHED (good thing I had crocs and a towel and umbrella and thought nothing of drying my feet in church!).
Most amazing, yet again, amazing to watch the movement of the Lord in these lives of His children (adults and teens), getting adult immersion baptism, seeing faith grown and growing. What a blessing to hear testimonies and to experience the crowd thirsty for the joy of the Lord realized! And we sang praises. (The immersion tube is behind the stage, interesting viewpoint of construction).
“Baptism by Reign” – that’s a good term for letting the Lord reign in our lives, clearing our agenda, installing His, and us praising Him for that. Lord, rein in our lives, rain into our thirst for You. And show us the path for us when we think the rain turns too dry. Soaked schedules are splendid when for YOU.
Simplicity and JOY, FAITH LIKE A CHILD, DEPENDING on the Lord, they were the themes of the day, as was in my sermon for the morning, published late (for me) but in line with the logistic time of the day. Published then couch collapsed, whew, the day was thru!
Matthew 18:1-5 NIV – The Greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven
At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Who, then, is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” He called a little child to him, and placed the child among them. And he said: “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me.
Mark 10:13-16 NIV – The Little Children and Jesus
People were bringing little children to Jesus for him to place his hands on them, but the disciples rebuked them. When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” And he took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed them.
SERMON
I am appreciative that we are in the Stories of Love section of our sermon series about LOVE – Love is God and God is Love – and we get to talk about how love transforms us as people and guides us as followers, sometimes herds us as wayward sheep – or cats – hard to herd cats – and how LOVE chases after us – like the one lost sheep – and how Love renews us.
Love protects, trusts, hopes and perseveres – YES!
Today we think of FAITH LIKE A CHILD – how Jesus shows us LOVE – shows us HOW to love. And asks us to come to Him like children – (and I will tell you the conclusion of this sermon at the very beginning – Jesus love requires that we love Him – love one another – and we are to follow His example.)
**And in speaking about how God is Love – God requires us to be reborn as His Children – to more fully understand His Love – and when we are HIS CHILDREN we will call Him OUR FATHER – even “ABBA” crying out to Him – He is able to fully apply His Plan and His ways and we are to know that His ways are beyond our understanding – He is God and we are not – but He wants to give us all He’s God Got!.
We have heard of the wonderful passages this morning of being children called to Jesus visiting in a house – likely Peter’s house some scholars say – and Jesus wanting those children to come to Him freely – wanting us to come – and well – for good reason…
I would think that Jesus humanly was weary from the long roads – walking all the time – and seeing people who didn’t understand Him as Savior, let alone God, and so this was a breath of fresh air for Jesus = the children who just wanted to come and be present.
Our gospel of Wisdom from disciple John, who himself was but an older child of perhaps 14 – in his teenage formative years when Jesus walked the earth, gives us great lessons. John tells us that Jesus does want us to be born as CHILDREN of God – in the first chapter speaks of Jesus – the true Light – who gives light to every man coming into the world.
10 He was in the world, and the world was made through Him, and the world did not know Him. 11 He came to His own, and His own did not receive Him. 12 But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name: 13 who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.
TO be born of God is truly the blessings of being of the realization that we are called into that joy of childhood – not to be un-informed or reckless – but into a JOY of childhood to know that God is our Father and we can come to Him with our needs and our hopes – and we come to Him to follow His Ways… Some of us come willingly and some hesitantly and it is a sacrifice to give up our own ways and our own agendas.
We come to God to guide us and to be raised up on spiritual milk – hopefully getting to eat solid food too – of spirituality – and may we know that when we come, we are going to be nurtured – God does not hold back – He shares and shares and shares. And yet, in this analogy of children and babies – the one thing God does NOT want us to be – weaned – not weaned from His advice, His plan, His narrow path. God does not want us to be separated from Him and think we can do this life thing on our own. Walking yes – but not crawling. God does not want us looking for other gods, even finding worth in other people – God does not wanting us to go for other sustenance, other fields to graze in. God wants us as HIS CHILDREN – what does love require? To worship ONE and ONLY ONE GOD.
God comes after us as sheep – or lost children – and rejoices in us. God WANTS and God KNOWS that He is our best bet in life – which is no bet at all – God wants us to know that His beckoning is our blessing.
…
Jesus called to those little children – in the scripture reading – and pointed to them as an example and said: “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me.”
Mark’s chapter reminds us that older people were trying to get time with Jesus – with demands and with hopes – and maybe even with an agenda – and yet the little children probably just wanted to come and give hugs and give love and get love.
GIVE LOVE AND GET LOVE – no agenda – how much more we could have JOY with going to Jesus with no agenda or at least putting our agenda last – go with PRAISE – then with petitions for others – then for ourselves. JOY is found in serving Jesus Others Yourself.
And those children – children can sense the blessings of someone who cares – and if you have been blessed with being in children’s ministry, or children’s daycare – you would appreciate that the pure “pick me up” of love – that is the best… Jesus in this case made sure that He demonstrated that LOVE requires patience – it requires pause – a lack of judgement and LOVE – LOVE IS taking the moment to LOVE the little children and God-forbid don’t ever lead them astray.
…
Just this summer, I loved my VBS helping – a little girl and her sister were calling out to me in the parking lot from their mom’s car on the way in – and they then gave me a hug – middle of the week – picked up my spirits ENOURMOUSLY… Jesus lets the little children have the sweet spirits and we appreciate that… and I had to NOT rush into the building – NOT take on the agenda – and ALLOW that love overflow – and give it back – no agenda…
I love having my mom here for the weekend and a joy for me is to see her stop and interact and have conversations with the little children – just like yesterday we met a couple with 2 small children – and the mom needed to talk about the life with kids. My mom loves people – as you can imagine – and as I can also attest that the children have the most interesting things to say and they LOVE it when you take the time to listen to them… what do THEY want to say !!!
The gospel of Mark says “people were bringing little children to Jesus for him to place his hands on them” – no handout there but a hand-up of blessing – of connecting to the Almighty aspect of Almighty God – the parents there were acknowledging that God is of love asking for a blessing. And Although just then we saw the other disciples, who became indignant, being realistically real with their agenda – common surely for them to be often realistically real because they had the eyes of their hearts shaded and blocked – the disciples rebuked not just the children but the parents of the children as well – and yet JESUS FOUND A WAY – JESUS is the direct connection to God because He is also GOD – and just as the curtain tore – there is no barrier between us and God. Jesus IS the Way.
** Jesus was then and now truly standing up for love: “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.”
Let us dig deeper into what that means – to receive like a child – receive not just gifts of toys and candy and all that sticky stuff like at the fair we enjoyed this weekend – cotton candy and snow cones – but to receive LOVE – and REAL nourishment. For us to receive like a child is to be dependent upon God – not have any cash flow – to not have even the height to order at the takeout windows even – to be a child might mean to not understand when too much is too much – Children especially babies are TOTALLY dependent upon others – especially their parents – their loved ones… They can come to their father God – for everything and for love.
Do we come as a child, to Jesus, hungry? Well, yes – I remember my son being born 21 years ago now and within the first half hour he had already drank 4 ounces of formula in the nursery – the nurse told me LATER she thought he just looked so hungry, and wow did he drink!!! It was OK with me – because I was in the middle of an emergency C-section – and I did nurse him later – but for this second child (whom I called my auto-pilot baby) I allowed a bottle at night of formula – because he just seemed so hungry – thus my wawa convenience store bill nowadays, LOL, that he is almost 21! Still HUNGRY!!!!!!
Is the Kingdom of God for those who are HUNGRY? Like growing children? Well – yes! There is said to be the biggest heavenly banquet waiting for us – And our hunger nowadays is truly the hunger that food won’t satisfy – that the Lord will and does satisfy… What about thirst like for the woman at the well – Jesus said – Drink from the Living Water and you will never thirst again…
Do we come as a child, to Jesus, scared? Or sometimes disappointed?
Surely our hope in the Lord recognizes that stuff around us is stuff – the world and looking to the world for motivation and sustenance is broken – one could say the optimist in us would be depressed but rather we should approach God with realization that we don’t know everything – we don’t know how and why the world’s brokenness will play out – and honestly just click on our seatbelts and ask “Jesus to take the wheel”…
Do we come as a child, to Jesus, joyfully? JOY – isn’t that the best emotion and God-given satiation of our souls? The JOY – not necessarily happiness but JOY of understanding faith.
Do we come as a child, to Jesus, needing guidance? – do we come because we need HIM – realize He is our Way – our truth – our life – our light AND life…
And Do we come as a child to Jesus to FOLLOW Him, (yes that is the conclusion of this series of learnings from how we are to approach Jesus – to follow Him) To LEARN from Him, and give it all we have – even if it hurts? We learn from Jesus to see past the hurt…
I have a story of little 4-year-old “B”, cutest little girl, this was many years ago now – wow!
4-yr old B, I got to witness Jesus in her… a little 3 year old boy, who truly truly didn’t know any better, really was not socialized much in a group setting like school, yanked her hair so hard it pulled out a big clump. I was there – this was a VBS closing middle of the week – they were up front and we were going to get started… OH UGH – to hear the scream, see the clump of hair in the hand, and to see the crew comfort the girl. It was SO painful. B cried so much…. [honestly I think I can still hear her painful cries 10 years later]
I called Mom, and her Grandma who had brought her emailed later to say B cried on and off the rest of the day… The little girl said she didn’t want to go back to VBS because she didn’t want to get hurt again, but she wanted to be with her friends and it was breaking her heart not to be with them. So, her family urged her to come back to VBS, and told her we would put in extra help, which we did.
Grandma replied by email to essentially say: “I don’t blame that or really anyone for what happened – at the age of these little ones anything can happen. B has never really been hurt by another child, B loves making and having friends so that maybe why she is so upset over this and she also told us that when he pulled her hair – it broke her heart… I have always taught the kids not to be quitters, so I will bring her in the morning”
And Grandma made sure that her hair was tied back in a ponytail. SO proactive.
I replied: please tell her how happy her crew leaders and I would be to see her come back…
And yes, Praise God, she came back the next day with the biggest smile on her face. Praise Praise Praise.
For the bible lesson in VBS that day, we talked about that God has the power to heal… “He heals the broken hearted and bandages their wounds”. The next day we were to teach that God has the power to forgive. B showed the world that aspect of God by showing up.
I was told from her crew leaders that at the beginning of that next day she sat down next to this little hair-pulling boy, and said directly to him “DON’T pull my hair” and then she gave him the biggest hug…. if that’s not showing Jesus LOVE and how Jesus IS forgiving LOVE, I don’t know what is… She was being Jesus at four years old… She knew it from her family – and she KNEW it from the strong Holy Spirit inside of her – to demonstrate LOVE – even in the pain. I saw Jesus in her – and I saw how Jesus smiled to be with friends.
Jesus said and says: “I LOVE you, I don’t judge you”, and “go and sin no more”. This little girl said to the boy: “I forgive you” with her smile, “I love you” with her hug, and “go and sin no more” with her realistic words of teaching. Did she forget? I don’t know…. But that day she forgave…. just like Jesus said, “They don’t know what they do, Father forgive them… “
And that’s what Love requires: Not judge, Forgive, Love… And show it to the little children….
Grandma emailed again after VBS: “[Thank you Debbie, I am so truly happy that she forgave him. Thank you for writing about B and what happened to show how Jesus works amongst us. B is very outgoing child and loves everyone around her and she sees the good in everyone, children or adults, even in the baddest of people she still sees the good them. She actually can turn a frown upside down in a matter of seconds with her pure sweet innocence.]”
Yes, we can Come to Jesus – and do the best we can to follow.
Let us remember that LOVE comes from God – way above – Heavenly Agape Love.
May Jesus continue to shine through each of us and shine to and through our children this way – today and always!!!
AMEN
Please pray with me – Lord, Your Ways are above our ways – please help us see thru the fog of our lives and the rough spots and keep engaging with You in love that WILL shine thru. Thank you Lord for these stories of LOVE shown – and may we always keep loving – and know Your Love, Lord. AMEN
My neighbor is attending a funeral for her late uncle, who was a big time sports fan, and they asked everyone to come in the gear of his favorite team, our local team. She asked if I had any related jewelry, I only have a T-shirt for wearing at local work or other rallies, after a previous superbowl victory, I am a fair weather fan – not being born and bred here…
Her uncle sounds like a deep devoted fan – and surely he is now cheering in Heaven! Why shouldn’t we CHEER in Heaven – especially the big realization of salvation for the sake of us individually and for the world. Jesus Saves – Heaven raves… Hope Hope Hope Hooray!!!
I suggested perhaps she bring and hold up a football mainstay – ever since the 1980s and football on TV – the classic sign that was and is held up at many games: “John 3:16″…
I think is it funny and fitting a the same time…
Yes, since the 1980’s folks have been doing that – thanks to one earthly man and the Lord’s Holy Spirit push… The earthly man, I learned, was named Rollen Stewart. Well, wikipedia explains a checkered life… But the tradition of John 3:16 at games was born – and honestly the Word of God never changes…
SO – let us John 3:16 give hope today and all days – let us get IN this game…
Share the Word!!! SHARE THE HOPE OF JESUS!
John 3 – New King James Version
The New Birth
There was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. This man came to Jesus by night and said to Him, “Rabbi, we know that You are a teacher come from God; for no one can do these signs that You do unless God is with him.”
Jesus answered and said to him, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.”
Nicodemus said to Him, “How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother’s womb and be born?”
Jesus answered, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’ The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear the sound of it, but cannot tell where it comes from and where it goes. So is everyone who is born of the Spirit.”
Nicodemus answered and said to Him, “How can these things be?”
Jesus answered and said to him, “Are you the teacher of Israel, and do not know these things? Most assuredly, I say to you, We speak what We know and testify what We have seen, and you do not receive Our witness. If I have told you earthly things and you do not believe, how will you believe if I tell you heavenly things? No one has ascended to heaven but He who came down from heaven, that is, the Son of Man who is in heaven. And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.
“He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. And this is the condemnation, that the light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. For everyone practicing evil hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his deeds should be exposed. But he who does the truth comes to the light, that his deeds may be clearly seen, that they have been done in God.”
My arm bracelet collection is giving me extra reminders today to Watch for God, He is Alpha and Omega, we (I) “can do all things through Christ.”
We are to walk in internal Joy, not sadness nor sourness. We don’t have to approach life flippantly and ignore problems, but we can step carefully through the day, looking for His Light. God knows the plan today. Let us pray and praise. We are with Him and He with us!
If we (I) don’t understand the sometimes rocky road of life, the darkness of unknown, we (I) still need to walk forward, grasping for the hand of Jesus more and more. “There’s got to be a plan, There’s got to be a plan…” repeated over and over just like Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz’s “follow the …” over and over… We can’t always see around the bend, or always see the blessings of the trials of the present, but know that there is an “Ah ha!” moment at some point… know there is a plan, know that the Lord walks KNOWINGLY with us. Know that we both CAN do things and we are TO do things thru Christ… Be Jesus and see what and where we are placed…
Fear not!
I appreciated the daily devotion today from Sarah Young, That God gave us the ability to know HIM, not understanding the world, but learn and lean into Him. Show our trust in Him! Fear not! Amen!
The entry:Jesus Calling: August 13 by Sarah Young of the scriptures:
“Learn to enjoy life more. Relax, remembering that I am God with you. I crafted you with enormous capacity to know Me and enjoy My Presence. When My people wear sour faces and walk through their lives with resigned rigidity, I am displeased. When you walk through a day with childlike delight, savoring every blessing, you proclaim your trust in Me, your ever-present Shepherd. The more you focus on My Presence with you, the more fully you can enjoy life. Glorify Me through your pleasure in Me. Thus you proclaim My Presence to the watching world.“
“Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel” Matthew 1:23 ESV
The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. John 10:10-11 ESV
A Summer Solace Poem for SoothingYou can say the weather is wacky, but it’s not.
It is summer hot and summer is going to give it all it’s got.
July – we all know it flew by.
August is now – we have to “do summer” – we have to try.
I hope to have many times at the beach or at the park.
And oh the wonderful cool warm nights when it is late getting dark.
Because the best way to enjoy summer, I feel.
is to live life – to absorb the riches of summer and to handle what the Lord will deal.
.
In the life we know.
We must go with the flow.
And praising God will be our go.
As praising God must be our overflow.
.
Summer you see,
will disappear like June, May, April, and July? gee…
Behold today and this summer in its way.
Follow God’s plan and at night just call it a day.
For forever we will be thankful we took today like today.
Amen
—
Ecclesiastes from wise Solomon who still knew that we are not to God’s level and are so very human… chapters 11-12 NKJV
The Value of Diligence Cast your bread upon the waters, For you will find it after many days. Give a serving to seven, and also to eight, For you do not know what evil will be on the earth.
If the clouds are full of rain, They empty themselves upon the earth; And if a tree falls to the south or the north, In the place where the tree falls, there it shall lie. He who observes the wind will not sow, And he who regards the clouds will not reap.
As you do not know what is the way of the wind, Or how the bones grow in the womb of her who is with child, So you do not know the works of God who makes everything. In the morning sow your seed, And in the evening do not withhold your hand; For you do not know which will prosper, Either this or that, Or whether both alike will be good.
Truly the light is sweet, And it is pleasant for the eyes to behold the sun; But if a man lives many years And rejoices in them all, Yet let him remember the days of darkness, For they will be many. All that is coming is vanity.
Seek God in Early Life Rejoice, O young man, in your youth, And let your heart cheer you in the days of your youth; Walk in the ways of your heart, And in the sight of your eyes; But know that for all these God will bring you into judgment. Therefore remove sorrow from your heart, And put away evil from your flesh, For childhood and youth are vanity.
Seek God in Early Life Remember now your Creator in the days of your youth, Before the difficult days come, And the years draw near when you say, “I have no pleasure in them”: While the sun and the light, The moon and the stars, Are not darkened, And the clouds do not return after the rain; In the day when the keepers of the house tremble, And the strong men bow down; When the grinders cease because they are few, And those that look through the windows grow dim; When the doors are shut in the streets, And the sound of grinding is low; When one rises up at the sound of a bird, And all the daughters of music are brought low. Also they are afraid of height, And of terrors in the way; When the almond tree blossoms, The grasshopper is a burden, And desire fails. For man goes to his eternal home, And the mourners go about the streets.
Remember your Creator before the silver cord is loosed, Or the golden bowl is broken, Or the pitcher shattered at the fountain, Or the wheel broken at the well. Then the dust will return to the earth as it was, And the spirit will return to God who gave it.
“Vanity of vanities,” says the Preacher, “All is vanity.”
The Whole Duty of Man And moreover, because the Preacher was wise, he still taught the people knowledge; yes, he pondered and sought out and set in order many proverbs. The Preacher sought to find acceptable words; and what was written was upright—words of truth. The words of the wise are like goads, and the words of scholars are like well-driven nails, given by one Shepherd. And further, my son, be admonished by these. Of making many books there is no end, and much study is wearisome to the flesh.
Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God and keep His commandments, For this is man’s all. For God will bring every work into judgment, Including every secret thing, Whether good or evil.
Lord, may we surrender our hesitating will to pick up your Holy and Heavenly Way. Trade skepticism for salvation by being ALL IN with You Lord. May we walk and acknowledge that we won’t always understand our path, our surroundings, nor our circumstances, but know that You, Lord, find us ‘peace beyond understanding’. Let us live in that knowledge and PRAISE YOU. We praise Peace before us and a Path of fulfillment of our lives, walking with You.
Lord, may we open our ears and hearts to listen for You today. You are calling upon our lives, You desire that we stop trying to build without You, and accept Your rebuilding of our dust into Your image and especially with Your Heart. You have spoken to these our hearts urging: “whoever loses his life for My sake and the gospel’s will save it.” With the Holy Spirit to guide us, Lord, let us surrender into Your Save. Let us build trust in You, and follow faithfully. Our faith can only be in You – the one faith, one Person, one purpose, One acceptance of You, Lord, Your saving grace. May we faithfully pursue Your Peace.
You are Worthy.
Amen
—-
Mark 8:34-38 NKJV
Take Up the Cross and Follow Him
When He had called the people to Himself, with His disciples also, He said to them, “Whoever desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake and the gospel’s will save it. For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul? For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words in this adulterous and sinful generation, of him the Son of Man also will be ashamed when He comes in the glory of His Father with the holy angels.”
—
Paul to the Phillipians 4:4-9 NKJV
Philippians 4 Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand.
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.
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. The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you.
Well, I won’t really know until it rains, but I restored a little sanity to my situation in the laundry room. The sag saga situation continued for many years, like the sagging of the ceiling board with the heavy water soaked in (this year after last year’s drought). And the siding separated and the foam fizzled and me, well I pushed off the problem but now it became paramount before we potentially could get paralyzed by plummeting by the power panel. Now that would have been bigger problems! “The sky is falling” is nothing compared to worse. Sounds funny but true.
So I found the people who took on the job with unknowns after 3 repair people balked, one place relentlessly pursued with their pricey price. And these folks – well it was a sign from God, that I perceived at least – a perhaps at least – this phone number placement in peculiar timing, on a poster board by a parking lot, peculiar and pertinent when my friend mentioned she needed painting. I took the photo, she placed the phone call and the people painted. The participation of placement allowed me to tap into them as a possibility of personal property repair folks too, for my sagging laundry room ceiling and broken AC removal, and replacing siding (it matched so well). Yes, I finally took the plunge and paid for the patching. I hope the rain rolls instead of seeps. I hope the siding slides the sheets of soaking snow and sprinkles. I hope it is fixed, but at least it is new and not sagging, and we maybe we start again. Won’t know until it rains and no, I am not dragging a hose up there to find out…
Rain, Restore and Repeat.
That’s life. You don’t know how water seeps in everywhere, let alone when it is going to rain or be a drought, and this is the truth about life too. You don’t know the future damage or bliss, but you can be prepared to tackle that then. It is a good time to “push off” the worry. We don’t know what’s going to go bad around the corner, so don’t worry about it now and just deal with it then. So just cover yourself now and keep moving… Rain restore and repeat. If you did it once, you can do it again. And that goes for repairs, for packing and unpacking (keep praying for my friend who moved, please), for cleaning (and yes I have lots of cleaning now from construction dust), for life… Restore and Repeat. Rolling with it all the way…
My friend completed her move across the country but not the unpacking – she is awaiting more things to fall into place but for now she has a place and a mission with her grandkids. I took the opportunity to mark up the month of June writings with green highlights for each devotion that pertained to her and her moving – it was a process for sure but even though new things popped up, the old ones have moved on – and each day is fresh with the Lord’s mercies new each morning. The writings of June show that life moved forward but God was there each step of the way. And now, I know she is in a new place with new rest and new mission. She can do the restore and repeat situation again if she has to – she can and we all can. Just look at the Lord’s help – know them previously and know He will be there every day moving forward, every moving box, every rain drop, every tear drop. “Put one foot in front of the other”. The Lord knows not just rain, restore and repeat – the Lord KNOWS REIGN – and He will be there – in being sovereign, reigning, restoring and repeating.
Some day “the earth will dissolve as snow” – well not really – the scripture doesn’t say that song lyric – scripture says “the earth will pass away” – “disappear” – the “sky is falling” is not true – the earth will roll away but we won’t be on it then – and so honestly can we worry about that now? NO. Just get on the Jesus Train and keep chugging along. Just know that the Lord will REMAIN and His Word endures for ever. So in the meantime, just restore and repeat. and “get up and do it again” until Matthew 24’s prophesy by Jesus goes down. Not the sky but the save.
Restore and Repeat.
Really.
Amen
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Matthew 24 NKJV
Jesus Predicts the Destruction of the Temple Then Jesus went out and departed from the temple, and His disciples came up to show Him the buildings of the temple. And Jesus said to them, “Do you not see all these things? Assuredly, I say to you, not one stone shall be left here upon another, that shall not be thrown down.”
The Signs of the Times and the End of the Age Now as He sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to Him privately, saying, “Tell us, when will these things be? And what will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age?”
And Jesus answered and said to them: “Take heed that no one deceives you. For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and will deceive many. And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not troubled; for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of sorrows.
“Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations for My name’s sake. And then many will be offended, will betray one another, and will hate one another. Then many false prophets will rise up and deceive many. And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold. But he who endures to the end shall be saved. And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come.
The Great Tribulation “Therefore when you see the ‘abomination of desolation,’ spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place” (whoever reads, let him understand), “then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains. Let him who is on the housetop not go down to take anything out of his house. And let him who is in the field not go back to get his clothes. But woe to those who are pregnant and to those who are nursing babies in those days! And pray that your flight may not be in winter or on the Sabbath. For then there will be great tribulation, such as has not been since the beginning of the world until this time, no, nor ever shall be. And unless those days were shortened, no flesh would be saved; but for the elect’s sake those days will be shortened.
“Then if anyone says to you, ‘Look, here is the Christ!’ or ‘There!’ do not believe it. For false christs and false prophets will rise and show great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect. See, I have told you beforehand.
“Therefore if they say to you, ‘Look, He is in the desert!’ do not go out; or ‘Look, He is in the inner rooms!’ do not believe it. For as the lightning comes from the east and flashes to the west, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be. For wherever the carcass is, there the eagles will be gathered together.
The Coming of the Son of Man “Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; the stars will fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken. Then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in heaven, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. And He will send His angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they will gather together His elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.
The Parable of the Fig Tree “Now learn this parable from the fig tree: When its branch has already become tender and puts forth leaves, you know that summer is near. So you also, when you see all these things, know that it is near—at the doors! Assuredly, I say to you, this generation will by no means pass away till all these things take place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.
No One Knows the Day or Hour “But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, but My Father only. But as the days of Noah were, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be. For as in the days before the flood, they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark, and did not know until the flood came and took them all away, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be. Then two men will be in the field: one will be taken and the other left. Two women will be grinding at the mill: one will be taken and the other left. Watch therefore, for you do not know what hour your Lord is coming. But know this, that if the master of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched and not allowed his house to be broken into. Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.
The Faithful Servant and the Evil Servant “Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his master made ruler over his household, to give them food in due season? Blessed is that servant whom his master, when he comes, will find so doing. Assuredly, I say to you that he will make him ruler over all his goods. But if that evil servant says in his heart, ‘My master is delaying his coming,’ and begins to beat his fellow servants, and to eat and drink with the drunkards, the master of that servant will come on a day when he is not looking for him and at an hour that he is not aware of, and will cut him in two and appoint him his portion with the hypocrites. There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
I’m very busy this morning, but I did pause to read Jesus Calling today… SPOT ON!
EXACTLY!!!
Don’t try to solve the mysteries – just WORSHIP the LORD, as Lord God AND Master!
Lord, help us to not sweat what we don’t understand – just go with You – and go with Grace.
Amen!!!
—
Jesus Calling, 07AUG From Sarah Young’s writing about Jesus talking directly to us!
“Understanding will never bring you Peace. That’s why I have instructed you to trust in Me, not in your understanding. Human beings have a voracious appetite for trying to figure things out, in order to gain a sense of mastery over their lives. But the world presents you with an endless series of problems. As soon as you master one set, another pops up to challenge you. The relief you had anticipated is short-lived. Soon your mind is gearing up again; searching for understanding (mastery), instead of seeking Me (your Master).
“The wisest of all men, Solomon, could never think his way through to Peace. His vast understanding resulted in feelings of futility, rather than in fulfillment. Finally, he lost his way and succumbed to the will of his wives by worshiping idols.
“My Peace is not an elusive goal, hidden at the center of some complicated maze. Actually, you are always enveloped in Peace, which is inherent in My Presence.
“As you look to Me, you gain awareness of this precious Peace.”
Proverbs 3:5-6 English Standard Version
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.
Romans 5:1 English Standard Version
Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.
2 Thessalonians 3:16 English Standard Version
Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in every way. The Lord be with you all.
“Fear not”, is the catchphrase of my moments, ever since I listened to an Ocean Grove sermon on Joshua chapter 1. In the moments after that Sunday service, I was able to share the short 30 second version of the “rescue” of Jesus to me sinking in fear that occurred a few times in my life now – I did not share the causes (especially because they are not relevant now, THANK GOD) but shared the RESCUE reality, the feeling of that recovery, that realization that Jesus is ALWAYS with us.
Most importantly, I try to revisit the saving feeling NOT the sinking feeling. I also remember to describe the rescue not the reasons for the sinking because that is like dredging up old stuff that especially I don’t need to dredge up for myself nor make gossip for those times in my life that I have now moved on from. Share Jesus rescue experiences, not the causes, at least not in a 30 second meet and greet. In other times, sure – when it is pertinent. Jesus saves are ALWAYS pertinent.
“FEAR NOT” as in Joshua, Joshua 1, the is Lord telling Joshua (taking the lead after Moses to cross the wandering people into the promised land by way of the overflowed Jordan River) to pay attention and do what he is asked and to not waiver, and “FEAR NOT, I am always with you”…. TRUE, God is always with us – and directing us – oh if only we understand and try to step out NOT in irrational fear but in DRAWING NEAR… Like the Godspell lyrics: “Day by day – Oh Dear Lord -Three things I pray – To see thee more clearly – Love thee more dearly – Follow thee more nearly – Day by day”…
When I experienced irrational fear – those couple times over the past 10 years – it is this image of what I drew that I have immortalized in photo and in heart – it is simply stick figures but my mind fleshes out the emotions and the rescue and the realization of Jesus reaching for me and me reaching to Him – drawn as stick figures – it reinforces that “He saved me then – He will save me again” feeling… And the background information is so important to me as it would be in any people’s struggles – their triumph by way of God. And yet it is not the pain but the power of God which is to be remembered more.
Yes in life, one has to keep a good grip on Jesus’s hand… having stress is between you and Him, He helps the resolution but also He helps how we handle stress to move forward…. if Jesus says “give it to Me”, He REALLY means it! If a particular stress re-occurs and continues to re-occur – if that stressor does not go away – well, we especially need to keep listening to Jesus’s help.
It is crucial that I re-live Jesus’s saving moment more than I relive the sinking stress that caused me to reach to Him… Remember the saving feeling.. I pray to not lose grip of His Hand… His save is the physical moment of “You were running a good race, who cut into you to stop you from obeying the truth”. The truth is that we are still in the race… The truth is Jesus.
THANK YOU LORD AGAIN for the save… AMEN
So, to follow up on the sermon from that Sunday, I started listening to the morning bible hours on recordings, Joshua chapters explained. It is so wonderful to have a direct connection to the people who inspire us and also encourage them that their teachings hit a right nerve… Dr Lennox speaks in plain enough sharing of the deep meanings and makes this chapter accessible to us learning. Here is day 3 Wednesday the 30th as a video link, starts at the section of the teaching at minute 18:
AMEN…
FROM the rescue: Here is the writing I wrote 10 years ago just after I drew that sketch:
Yesterday after stressing about a really bad situation on and off for a couple of weeks, I was stressing awful… Yikes, my stress was thru the roof that very instant!!!! But WOW, how Jesus calmed it….I won’t tell you what those stressors were, but this was my text message to a friend immediately after my heart was released from that pain….. The stressor didn’t go away, but giving it to God made all the difference…
“Wow, I was just feeling so stressed this morning and it caused a real physical heart heaviness feeling, but it’s now GONE due to a refocus on Jesus…. stress pen chewing, gum, and I ate my lunch early, no help, stressing my heart SO heavy…. And so a friend came into my office, she is a good Christian friend and I was able to explain to her this tremendous stress feeling (and what caused it)… And then I explained that often when I was feeling under a storm I would ask Jesus to come back into my boat… when I (like Peter) reached my hand up, out of the water while sinking, that I could re-focus…. So while telling her this, I actually motioned up, reaching for Jesus with my hand and grabbing HIS… And I am not kidding, my heart felt such instant relief!!!!! It was amazing, instant relief, the heaviness gone!!!!! WOW!!!!! Good God!!!! Thank you Jesus for this peace!!!”
I told another friend about this amazing release feeling and she said “Welcome back into the boat!”
PEACE
Joshua 3 NIV – Crossing the Jordan
Early in the morning Joshua and all the Israelites set out from Shittim and went to the Jordan, where they camped before crossing over. After three days the officers went throughout the camp, giving orders to the people: “When you see the ark of the covenant of the Lord your God, and the Levitical priests carrying it, you are to move out from your positions and follow it. Then you will know which way to go, since you have never been this way before. But keep a distance of about two thousand cubits between you and the ark; do not go near it.”
Joshua told the people, “Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the Lord will do amazing things among you.” Joshua said to the priests, “Take up the ark of the covenant and pass on ahead of the people.” So they took it up and went ahead of them.
And the Lord said to Joshua, “Today I will begin to exalt you in the eyes of all Israel, so they may know that I am with you as I was with Moses. Tell the priests who carry the ark of the covenant: ‘When you reach the edge of the Jordan’s waters, go and stand in the river.’”
Joshua said to the Israelites, “Come here and listen to the words of the Lord your God. This is how you will know that the living God is among you and that he will certainly drive out before you the Canaanites, Hittites, Hivites, Perizzites, Girgashites, Amorites and Jebusites. See, the ark of the covenant of the Lord of all the earth will go into the Jordan ahead of you. Now then, choose twelve men from the tribes of Israel, one from each tribe. And as soon as the priests who carry the ark of the Lord—the Lord of all the earth—set foot in the Jordan, its waters flowing downstream will be cut off and stand up in a heap.”
So when the people broke camp to cross the Jordan, the priests carrying the ark of the covenant went ahead of them. Now the Jordan is at flood stage all during harvest. Yet as soon as the priests who carried the ark reached the Jordan and their feet touched the water’s edge, the water from upstream stopped flowing. It piled up in a heap a great distance away, at a town called Adam in the vicinity of Zarethan, while the water flowing down to the Sea of the Arabah (that is, the Dead Sea) was completely cut off. So the people crossed over opposite Jericho. The priests who carried the ark of the covenant of the Lord stopped in the middle of the Jordan and stood on dry ground, while all Israel passed by until the whole nation had completed the crossing on dry ground.
Joshua 1:1-11 NIV Joshua Installed as Leader After the death of Moses the servant of the Lord, the Lord said to Joshua son of Nun, Moses’ aide: “Moses my servant is dead. Now then, you and all these people, get ready to cross the Jordan River into the land I am about to give to them—to the Israelites. I will give you every place where you set your foot, as I promised Moses. Your territory will extend from the desert to Lebanon, and from the great river, the Euphrates—all the Hittite country—to the Mediterranean Sea in the west. No one will be able to stand against you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you. Be strong and courageous, because you will lead these people to inherit the land I swore to their ancestors to give them.
“Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go. Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
So Joshua ordered the officers of the people: “Go through the camp and tell the people, ‘Get your provisions ready. Three days from now you will cross the Jordan here to go in and take possession of the land the Lord your God is giving you for your own.’”
Another great post by an author and encourager that my friend suggested – Graham Cooke. This one is about letting God express His Divinity through Your Willingness.
“Partnership with God isn’t about your performance – it’s about His presence working through your willingness.”
Ah willingness – I understand that – and I of all people struggle with the complete willingness but I try – I really try… One of the willingness that God asks for is for us to “take the high road” – for us to find peace with our enemies – and that ever-present request to help our enemies find peace with us… Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. Matthew 5:9 NIV
All the ways of a man are pure in his own eyes, but the Lord weighs the spirits. Commit your works to the Lord, and your thoughts will be established… When a man’s ways please the Lord, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him. Proverbs 16 – NKJV v2, 3, 7
In other words – work on loving your enemies and getting them to not hate you – and PARTNER with God rather than run away from all the things He is asking us to do…
It is a partnership – a collaboration – and also knowing God is God Who is in ultimate Control… God has the POWER to Love because He IS Love… God is looking for our willingness to Love too.
Amen…
Graham Cooke writes (Facebook post):
“You’re not working FOR God – you’re working WITH Him in the most beautiful collaboration imaginable. He doesn’t give you assignments and leave you to figure them out alone. He partners with you in every step.
“The Father doesn’t look at your limitations and wish you were more capable. He delights in bringing His unlimited resources to your human experience, creating something neither of you could accomplish alone.
“Partnership with God means you bring your humanity – your questions, your personality, your unique perspective – and He brings His divinity – His wisdom, His power, His perfect love.
“The beautiful reality: You don’t have to have all the answers before God works with you. You don’t have to be perfect before He partners with you. He loves collaborating with ordinary people to do extraordinary things.
“When you face decisions, challenges, or opportunities, remember: You’re not in this alone trying to make God proud. You’re in this together, learning His ways and discovering what becomes possible when human and divine partner.
“Kingdom Routine for today: Before every situation, acknowledge His partnership: “God, we’re in this together. I bring my humanity, You bring Your divinity. Show me how we can approach this as partners. What do You want to create through our collaboration?
“Partnership with God isn’t about your performance – it’s about His presence working through your willingness.”
If I didn’t write, it would be a fight – between my will and God’s mighty might.
I could say in fact, this is mental processing with tact, not necessarily any Holy Spiritual act.
Yet to EXPRESS keeps me mentally better – I surely confess – praise (and questioning) pulls me away from the worldly mess, oh so much we have to process.
And so I WILL PRAISE!!!! And as for the Lord’s Will, I have previously, I DO now, and in future I will have to: AMAZE.
If seeing darkness, LOOK for the LIGHT. More powerful than evil is God’s Fight making things Right!
It might be not now, but instead of saying Holy Cow (!), say WOW, Lord God, no one is Holier than Thou!
Yes, forever the bumps and terrible circumstances, all tears will be wiped away. Please remember that for now, LIVE with a future vision throughout today.
So be patient in the mix – of strife and pain so ugly you could spit. Be awaiting not an earthly but a HEAVENLY FIX.
And choose to see the LONG VIEW!!! God did, God has, and God WILL get us through!!!
Amen for me and for you!!!
BE AWARE, GOD WILL ANSWER OUR PRAYER.
Amen!
—
Psalm 30 NKJV
The Blessedness of Answered Prayer. A Psalm. A Song at the dedication of the house of David.
I will extol You, O Lord, for You have lifted me up, And have not let my foes rejoice over me. O Lord my God, I cried out to You, And You healed me. O Lord, You brought my soul up from the grave; You have kept me alive, that I should not go down to the pit.
Sing praise to the Lord, you saints of His, And give thanks at the remembrance of His holy name. For His anger is but for a moment, His favor is for life; Weeping may endure for a night, But joy comes in the morning.
Now in my prosperity I said, “I shall never be moved.” Lord, by Your favor You have made my mountain stand strong; You hid Your face, and I was troubled.
I cried out to You, O Lord; And to the Lord I made supplication: “What profit is there in my blood, When I go down to the pit? Will the dust praise You? Will it declare Your truth? Hear, O Lord, and have mercy on me; Lord, be my helper!”
You have turned for me my mourning into dancing; You have put off my sackcloth and clothed me with gladness, To the end that my glory may sing praise to You and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give thanks to You forever.
I am reminded by the passing of a friend’s son of my cousin who had passed suddenly and unexpectedly a number of years ago. Too young. Too much to live for. Too much pain for the families. (please pray for my friend’s family – so tough… thanks)
This friend’s son was amazing, having survived an extremely rare condition and surgery as a youth. There was no warning as far as we know for this – the doctors probably told him simply to live his life and enjoy – and that is what he did for years.
There is that common repeated statement/question of: “how would you live today as if it is your last?” but I challenge with a better statement: live today – and love today – as if tomorrow was your last day – and then get up tomorrow and do that again. In other words, don’t worry about today – but do count your days and ask the Lord to number your days so that you feel that urgency of living and living well and loving well and “not putting off until tomorrow what you can do today” – but also NOT WORRYING ABOUT TOMORROW… Listen to God the whole way and the whole day…
Jesus said (recorded in the book of Matthew) about us NOT WORRYING: “For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.”
And the wisdom of the Proverbs 3 reminds us to live humble – He blesses the home of the just. Surely He scorns the scornful, But gives grace to the humble. The wise shall inherit glory, But shame shall be the legacy of fools.
Peter would write in his letter – for spreading wisdom – Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you. Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world. But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you. To Him be the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.
Let us be wise for today – aware for tomorrow – and wishful not for we have what we need today – we have the LORD – let us live in the moment of being His… And follow His lead…
Amen
Proverbs 3 – New King James Version Guidance for the Young My son, do not forget my law, But let your heart keep my commands; For length of days and long life And peace they will add to you.
Let not mercy and truth forsake you; Bind them around your neck, Write them on the tablet of your heart, And so find favor and high esteem In the sight of God and man.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.
Do not be wise in your own eyes; Fear the Lord and depart from evil. It will be health to your flesh, And strength to your bones.
Honor the Lord with your possessions, And with the firstfruits of all your increase; So your barns will be filled with plenty, And your vats will overflow with new wine.
My son, do not despise the chastening of the Lord, Nor detest His correction; For whom the Lord loves He corrects, Just as a father the son in whom he delights.
Happy is the man who finds wisdom, And the man who gains understanding; For her proceeds are better than the profits of silver, And her gain than fine gold. She is more precious than rubies, And all the things you may desire cannot compare with her. Length of days is in her right hand, In her left hand riches and honor. Her ways are ways of pleasantness, And all her paths are peace. She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her, And happy are all who retain her.
The Lord by wisdom founded the earth; By understanding He established the heavens; By His knowledge the depths were broken up, And clouds drop down the dew.
My son, let them not depart from your eyes— Keep sound wisdom and discretion; So they will be life to your soul And grace to your neck. Then you will walk safely in your way, And your foot will not stumble. When you lie down, you will not be afraid; Yes, you will lie down and your sleep will be sweet. Do not be afraid of sudden terror, Nor of trouble from the wicked when it comes; For the Lord will be your confidence, And will keep your foot from being caught.
Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, When it is in the power of your hand to do so. Do not say to your neighbor, “Go, and come back, And tomorrow I will give it,” When you have it with you. Do not devise evil against your neighbor, For he dwells by you for safety’s sake. Do not strive with a man without cause, If he has done you no harm.
Do not envy the oppressor, And choose none of his ways; For the perverse person is an abomination to the Lord, But His secret counsel is with the upright. The curse of the Lord is on the house of the wicked, But He blesses the home of the just. Surely He scorns the scornful, But gives grace to the humble. The wise shall inherit glory, But shame shall be the legacy of fools.
A conversation I had last night reminds us that we are in ministry not for ourselves but for those who don’t yet know Jesus – we discussed what I saw time and time again this summer at VBS – the kids don’t know the difference between Christmas and Easter…
VBS – I do it because it is fun, yes, but I help because it matters – it really matters…
VBS, what an amazing time to share God’s Word with both young and old… The conversation I had was also about how the kids who come to VBS are usually the kids who don’t get to church much because their parents don’t get there and because it is hard to bridge that gap between rowdy kids and solemn worshipping people (or at least people who just like order and quiet). At the beach boardwalk church this past Sunday – they had a summer area just for the kids. and at the Great Tabernacle church, they had a whole other building that housed kids that started service 15 minutes earlier…
Yes – if we don’t raise kids in the Word, how on earth will the Word be heard?
I was thrilled that a VBS volunteer, in 2 of my VBS experiences this summer, each brought their neighbor’s kids. What a tremendous way to foster love and this is also loving your neighbor! The kids loved it and experienced the AGAPE love of God thru the many volunteers!
The Word is IN IT to SHARE!
What is IN the Word?
Jesus.
What is OF the Word?
Jesus.
What IS the Word?
Jesus.
Jesus and His Gift and His Love and His Hope and His Message and His Mission.
Get IN the Word and get the Word IN and get the Word OUT!
I knew it was the best opportunity to ‘escape’ to Ocean Grove, NJ.
I wanted to know that I allowed myself ‘a decompression day’ from everything – which still allowed me to be connected (my new cellphone works great) and be in the super duper frame of mind to look for the presence of the Lord. AND THE BEACH TOO… plus excited that my friend joined me, she has moved so it’s good to see her when I can, this was her first visit here so I connected her with this gem of Ocean Grove, ‘God’s Square Mile’…
Driving 7am, started my day with catching up with one of the recordings of an online sermon from a great church – the pastor had a message about Joshua 1, Faith and Obedience… “Don’t just listen to God, DO WHAT HE SAYS”… and then after a great moment sitting on the beach at 8am (with a great parking spot) writing my morning blog, and attending half of a boardwalk church 9am service with a guest missionary sharing on college campus ministry, I made it up to the great Auditorium with revival vibes, met my friend for 1030am service, and guess what? the scripture was for the sermon? Joshua 1… WOW, it’s like God chased me to have me hear these messages and scriptures and connect with the people also who needed to hear… If there’s nothing else in my life, and there is, I know that the Lord makes me a connector of people…
I nestled into what I figured would likely be a different take on Joshua 1, “FEAR NOT”, but fear not I was thrilled with the amazing message, structured in his own way, he was a natural speaker and leader and had the funny story at the beginning to engage the group… (about the hallmark movies, and I immediately sent his sermon link YouTube version to a couple friends who are hallmark movie junkies)…
FEAR NOT! I highly recommend his sermon, it touched my life and my friend’s life and I will tell you the punchline of not the joke but the message: “the opposite of fear is not courage, but FAITH…” the sermonist spoke about irrational fear, how that is evil and overtakes us, whereas the Lord gives us natural, healthy fear, that keeps us safe, but we have to be weary of that catastrophic irrational fear…
I had to go up to the sermonist after and share my photo of my stick figure of when Jesus pulled me out of the water from some irrational fear… Yeah – and he was able to chat with my friend as well – very nice opportunity to chat…
Well, also ran into old friends of mine and someone I consider a new acquaintance friend of mine – she runs the bookstore Hub and we chatted about blogs last time after I wrote one on her wifi (and my phone was broken but I got to log onto my laptop inside and outside her store at the beginning of vacation at the beginning of July) – and this time (end of July) she recognized me and we chatted again – it is good to meet Godly people – she wrote a children’s book about the spiritual history of Ocean Grove – using Genesis 1:1 as the Founders did – and this was founders day week – and camp meeting week… It is – life is – the world is – our faith is – all started by God – because IN the beginning was God.
Ah – the little cottages there and the ice cream and porch of that place and then the beach – ah… Love Ocean Grove… When I buy the beach tag I consider it a church donation – it is so good to be immersed in the Lord’s blessings there. And the Ocean was low tide and warm enough to take a dip – no real swimming for me that day but book reading – and reading about Peter from “A Fragile Stone” – my beach book – authored by Michael Card the singer – a great read as a book and a great ‘read’ on Peter – how Jesus worked with Peter and also called him friend… Peter like us fragile and yet strengthened by the Lord and His mission for us.
Ah – time to roll home but not before I took a moment to charge my phone, computer (no I didn’t ever get to work on it – that is OK) and recharge some more faith via singing at the pavilion at 4pm before driving home, the songs I all new – both contemporary and classic and wow it was like the Lord knew to keep me in Praise mode… He did – He does…
Well, enjoy the day and get out there and FEAR NOT – no irrational fear – just day by day, hour by hour, live the life He leads us on..
Oh – the best reinforcement of this all came from my new acquaintance friend at the bookstore – who decided to get thru the roadblock of her blogs and social media and everything marketing by hiring an outside doer company and stay in her creative mode and let them do the marketing – she said she had prayed to the Lord about all her questions of life and direction (“especially at her age” she said – retired a few times from previous paths” – and THE LORD essentially said to her: “You’ve been seeking answers, NOW SEEK ME”…
YUP – Seek the Lord first – and let HIM lead…
YUP…
AMEN!!!!!!!!!!
Ocean Grove sermon: “FEAR NOT” starts at the 40minute mark in the link – YES REALLY WORTH LISTENING TO!!!
Joshua 1:1-11 NIV
Joshua Installed as Leader
After the death of Moses the servant of the Lord, the Lord said to Joshua son of Nun, Moses’ aide: “Moses my servant is dead. Now then, you and all these people, get ready to cross the Jordan River into the land I am about to give to them—to the Israelites. I will give you every place where you set your foot, as I promised Moses. Your territory will extend from the desert to Lebanon, and from the great river, the Euphrates—all the Hittite country—to the Mediterranean Sea in the west. No one will be able to stand against you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you. Be strong and courageous, because you will lead these people to inherit the land I swore to their ancestors to give them.
“Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go. Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
So Joshua ordered the officers of the people: “Go through the camp and tell the people, ‘Get your provisions ready. Three days from now you will cross the Jordan here to go in and take possession of the land the Lord your God is giving you for your own.’”
It was probably the most important conversation of the night, as it will be all week. As the littlest cutie in my Imagination Station science and craft session blurted out in wondered questioning: “Jesus is Alive??? He died and is alive?” – “YES” I was able to affirm, avow, acknowledge and AMEN to… And my Holy Spirit jumped as excited as his.
And then he asked: “How?” I simply said “Jesus is God” and the littlest ones repeated amazed “Jesus is God?!!!!” YES !!!!
Amazing opportunity to affirm what we know, Jesus is always with us, Jesus is alive, and “When we feel alone, we can TRUST JESUS!!!”A blessing to know and teach.
The truth is that Jesus knows the praises that come from our lips as much as the concerns. And our Bible lesson was on how to live and know we are not alone like the one sheep left away from the 99.The fluffy sheep wool, and fluffy pretend snow was fun in our circle time.
More fun? REAL SNOW!! I brought out some of the ten bags I saved 6 months ago in my freezer. The amazement unreal! The joy real. Cool cold!!! We made fluffy photo frames too. “Jesus loves me, this I SNOW! (Know)…
Interestingly, my cat who passed away was named SNOWY… Interesting…
Earlier that day, and throughout the evening I explained, when asked by friends in the know, about the circumstances that led up to my cat Snowy’s rapid decline. The group knew she had passed but not the kids. I was surely able to praise the Lord for the Lord’s timing the night before, I had finished vbs and could rush home. We prepared the cat and ourselves for the next night, when we took care of burying the cat, and I said to my family, from dust she came and to dust she will return, but we always carry her with us in our memories and love.
With my cats passing, it’s strange to not have to look out for her each time you open the door. She was an escape artist. I’m slowly finding her items and tossing or saving. Will donate much after it’s washed. No, we are not getting another pet so soon. No need to do anything but take it day by day.
At work, I only told one person and in that conversation, I was super careful in choosing my words as they are someone who lost a child a number of years ago. I remember that timing too. The Lord is to be praised even we don’t understand. And surely one day we will see the Lord face to face for knowledge and comfort. We all best take day by day to process and pray and praise. Loss comes when it does, whether we are prepared or not.
At VBS, we could talk briefly about loss, aloneness, and avow that Jesus is already with us. I often look at this craft I have from last Easter: “there is no gloom in the tomb – Jesus is risen today”…
Yes, Jesus is alive and walks with us. Jesus comes for us. Psalm 139 reminds us we can never flee from His Presence.
The VBS day one for TRUE NORTH was set to play!!! And we had so much fun!!! We wondered about the scene – nervous and excited – and we HAD to TRUST JESUS… The arm motion is to pull on a rope… and don’t worry, Jesus always has us held tight.
The homemade compass experiment was kinda iffy if it was going to direct us to magnetic north, but we got through it and we talked about what John the Baptist talked about, Following Jesus, our True North, our Lord. We used magnets and we tested what might stick or not – trust me that I am going to stick to Jesus!!!
I will have more photos later, but the most important image in my mind of the night was the sweet listening of the children to their teacher and the teacher to the children in the video story time – the wonder of interaction… When we wonder, we can TRUST JESUS…
It was a wonder to me – still is – the timing of the evening – I was exhausted on my drive home (early – left at 330pm) – early enough that I thought about stopping home to see my kitty who was close to death – but knowing both that my daughter was going home early – and knowing I had to finish prep for VBS – I instead pulled into a parking lot and took a 30 minute super power nap – needed it… It allowed me the energy I wanted for VBS – and we had a blessed fun time. I did both my teaching sessions back to back and had snack – took lots of photos – and even shared with the littlest kids who were back on their way to the nursery. And then I got the call – that my daughter who had just got home was watching the cat and then just then the cat passed – oh the tears – oh the processing – oh the wonder of God’s Timing – was so perfectly timed with getting my vbs in and yet zip home then to comfort and process too… When we wonder – we can TRUST JESUS – oh the timing Lord… we had to call my youngest – devastated but this is a process too…. We loved our kitty so very much – we really were blessed by her these many years – and did not see this coming – the short 2 months of her decline. She was young but we had much time… A wonder of the Lord giving us someone to love and to love us… When we wonder – we can trust Jesus…
Amen – and let’s do VBS again – day 2 on tap – going to bring in my SNOW!!!!
My first summer job, maybe I was thirteen I don’t know, it was a strange one… Strange but not hard but not one I would choose again for that age. My neighbors paid me while they went to work, just to be in their house certain days to just be present with their mom who was pretty much bedridden and non-communicative. She honestly was barely breathing, and I don’t know if maybe she came to on occasion, I don’t know if she ate, but not when I was there. It was eerie to sit in the house and no one had a cell phone for activity those days, did have the landline and they would call once or twice or so. It was just waiting… waiting…
This is what I feel like, in a small part, now, waiting on my cat to pass away at some point because she has gone down hill so much. Waiting… But are we doing enough? Are we doing too much? What are we waiting for?
Our cat is not waiting to be held, she hated that. Not waiting on food – scoffs at it after a little uptick which is now gone. Waiting? Or is the Lord waiting? Maybe the Lord is waiting for us to come to terms – or at least acknowledge that we do – and/or is the Lord taking His time for His natural course of things – likely – and we wait…
I’m sure we often are waiting for the LORD as if we’re waiting for Him to act, as if He isn’t. And yet, He IS active, all the time. The Lord is involved in everything. Whether you believe He started the process or He tweaks the system all the time, here on earth and in the heavens, it’s still waiting on our part. I know He is involved in minute details – at least tasked His angels to minister – and I know that the angels ministering to my cat have been very active over these years. The angels surely are not waiting around – neither should we be…
I don’t remember how long that summer I was working – weeks? couple or more? I remember being bored but I also remember worrying if she was still breathing, and I would spy closer, check movement, never touched her. It was just plain eerie. Maybe I watched a little TV, maybe I did puzzles or crosswords… I just remember watching the clock. I don’t know why I couldn’t just come in once an hour, instead I sat in a strange house and waited.
Today there is much to do without sitting – there is internet, streaming, and oh yeah cleaning the house – I even went outside and mowed the grass over a course of an afternoon – lots of breaks. I even did a crossword puzzle – big one at moderate skill level – almost finished it!
What I do know – is that waiting is an opportunity. Life is a puzzle but we are NOT required to figure it all out. Just keep playing along…
Jeremiah lamented words of sorrow of the times but acknowledged the goodness of God. Maybe in life we are just waiting until we recognize even trials as good.
We are waiting to recognize God’s Plan.
God is waiting for us to see that too…
AMEN
From Jeremiah’s Lamentations 3 NIV: I call to mind and therefore I have hope: Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. I say to myself, “The Lord is my portion; therefore I will wait for him. The Lord is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him; it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord”.
Persevere (written for a friend the Lord and I hold dear… well many, far and near…)
.
Sometimes there are sorrows no one borrows.
Issues beyond tissues.
Hurt with lots of dirt.
Sometimes there are moments fraught with haunting haught
and bad hunches in bunches.
Sometimes just not enough time to put down rhyme.
But persevere.
PERSEVERE.
To God, draw near.
In Jesus, let Him steer.
Get that the Holy Spirit wants to put you in gear.
And never look in your rear view mirror.
PERSEVERE.
.
Amen
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James 1 NKJV
Greeting to the Twelve Tribes
James, a bondservant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, To the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad: Greetings.
Profiting from Trials
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. If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.
The Perspective of Rich and Poor
Let the lowly brother glory in his exaltation, but the rich in his humiliation, because as a flower of the field he will pass away. For no sooner has the sun risen with a burning heat than it withers the grass; its flower falls, and its beautiful appearance perishes. So the rich man also will fade away in his pursuits.
Loving God Under Trials
Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him. Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am tempted by God”; for God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He Himself tempt anyone. But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death.
Do not be deceived, my beloved brethren. Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning. Of His own will He brought us forth by the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of His creatures.
Qualities Needed in Trials
So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath; for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God.
“‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind’; and, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’”
My VBS prep last night allowed me to look out the nice window where we have the entrance to the church’s fellowship hall. And the gentleman with a very pretty and fluffy dog walked by and I watched the dog do his business on the grass next to the door. Oh. Then they walked off and I thought he doesn’t have a bag, how could he leave it? Oh a thousand thoughts in my head, but I’m standing there, wearing a “BE KIND” t-shirt, having been thinking of Jesus all week, and how He asks us to act, to not judge, apply love and forgiveness, SHOW MERCY… hmmm… but dog stuff???
The VBS day before, I appreciated the science experiment that was demonstrated about how Jesus changes everything for us. It was a story about the Good Samaritan, and normally we are like the other people in the story, who walked by the man who had been robbed and beaten and left for dead, thinking “I’m not getting involved”… yeah… however the Good Samaritan did all the good stuff for the man, his normal enemy even culturally. The science lesson reminded us that we do our good stuff by the power of Jesus- by the LOVE of Jesus.
He had three cards that said “me”, “others”, and an arrow with a heart. When he said the 3 cards in order, it’s said the arrow and the heart went to love directly to “me”, others was on the outs… and then he put a giant empty glass pitcher in front of just the heart and arrow card and like the act of Jesus being poured into the situation, Jesus as the Living Water, the now water-filled pitcher made a change. Really awesome to see the bending of the light and now the heart and the arrow pointed towards the “others” card instead of towards “me”. Because of the love of Jesus, we can show the love to others.
But dog piles you know what?
Yeah, I found my extra paper and plastic bags and I went to go clean up the dog pile. It was trash night, so it was very easy and I put it in the trash. I never got my hands dirty and yet still thought about how this was truly needing and using Jesus for forgiveness of a confusing situation, when I probably could not give it from myself, at least had a tougher time giving forgiveness than even doing the clean up. NOT forgiving is a lot worse than any dog pile times a thousand.
Five minutes went by, maybe ten, and I’m back looking out that window. And the gentleman came back with plastic bags. Wow!!! HE CAME BACK, even in a pouring rain storm. So he WASN’T terrible after all, he WASN’T neglectful. I ran out to explain that I had cleaned it because of the children at camp. I didn’t want them to step in it. And he said that he was looking for both piles the dog had left, it wasn’t even his dog, it was his son’s dog, he was helping and I said, this pile was very soft and he started telling me about the gastro issues the dog was having and I had such compassion. I am SO glad that the Lord showed me, compassion was the right way in the first place…
It is because of JESUS that we LOVE over judging.
It is because of JESUS that we are LOVED greater than we are judged.
Maybe continue to “BE KIND”. SHOW LOVE TO OTHERS.
Amen
The Parable of the Good Samaritan – LUKE 10:25-37
On one occasion an expert in the law stood up to test Jesus. “Teacher,” he asked, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?”
“What is written in the Law?” he replied. “How do you read it?”
He answered, “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind’; and, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’”
“You have answered correctly,” Jesus replied. “Do this and you will live.”
But he wanted to justify himself, so he asked Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?”
In reply Jesus said: “A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, when he was attacked by robbers. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him and went away, leaving him half dead. A priest happened to be going down the same road, and when he saw the man, he passed by on the other side. So too, a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, brought him to an inn and took care of him. The next day he took out two denarii and gave them to the innkeeper. ‘Look after him,’ he said, ‘and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have.’
“Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?”
The expert in the law replied, “The one who had mercy on him.”
Sunday was a fitting time to get a sticker that said “You are enough” – I thought You Lord are enough! Thanks for blessing me!
Well – what a wonderful day one at VBS – EGYPT – and the whole day down here at the shore – my first vacation bible week is here both working at VBS and resting with friends at the beach.
VBS “Egypt” about Joseph’s travails from Prison to Purpose, day one on Monday. “GOD GIVES US HOPE” – My friend and I walked into the VBS not knowing all to expect but we were pleasantly surprised at the ways the Lord had been there setting up and putting things in place – and came with a wealth of supplies. Well, the people were super awesome and very giving – and the decorations were adorable and well laid out. I helped at first putting up the registration tent – whew hot to start the day. And then settled in to be the “Family Leader” – we became family Rosetta, and we ALL (teen helpers and multiple other staff) travelled together from station to station. We could not have had better kids – wow – awesome. Opening celebration was fun with music, family time where I led discussions and showed a tiny beach ball for the inflated HOPE and deflated despair emotions. We as a family also learned our first scripture: “For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans to good (thumbs up) and not disaster (thumbs down), plans to give you a future and hope.” Jeremiah 29:11 (this has been a repeating scripture every day for me and a few friends like for a couple weeks – so good!) – I knew this coming into VBS – with a car full of VBS-adaptable supplies and stickers for my family crew of kids – and adapted to just assess and immerse myself into the calling. “Feed my sheep” as an “encourager” is called to do.
Then our “family” travelled to hear the story of Joseph – amazing actors so giving and sweet as Joseph and the prison guard so perfect (and picked last minute, wow). We learned that Joseph was in prison because he didn’t “want to be the boyfriend of a woman already married”. And Joseph showed us a basket with lights – and when we had HOPE the lights shined – and when we had something bad it was as if the basket would cover the lights – but the lights still shined through the holes in the basket – that is us – we are to shine too! We did a cheer for Joseph – “Let’s go Joseph!” then clapped our hands in the classic cheer – clap clap, clap clap clap. Then we were off to the marketplace and visited making a jeweled collar.
Then yummy Egypt snacks to try – dates and grapes and the sugar cookies – yum and served by the sweetest people. Then back to the marketplace to the hieroglyphics leader (my friend whose sister has the house down here) – where we stamped our names in the symbols – cool!. Then outside to games! There the kids wrapped each other in toilet paper as mummies – fun! It was challenging but they did! Then they had “shepherd races” going from mat to mat with canes. Wow these kids were worn out!
Back at family time, we reviewed our stories of the day – and one girl remembered that i promised to read Joseph’s story again – and I did – from a colorful bible that was found in a closet at my old church – given to a friend, Miss Bonnie, who loved children (of all ages) and taught them. This story of Joseph and us having hope is good fitting as I know Bonnie is in Heaven with Jesus and we have that HOPE too. Heaven as our plan and HOPE. Well, as exhausted as the children were at the closing celebration singing, I know that VBS day 1 was an amazing success. Please continue to pray for the children to hear the messages, take them to heart, and enjoy. And for the leaders and volunteers to be filled with the Holy Spirit.
After VBS, we drove the 2 blocks down to the beach front and had LOBSTER ROLLS – yum – while sitting on the boardwalk in the shade – then hit the dollar store (dangerous and fun) and then got our swimsuits on and travelled the short distance to the beach for a couple hours before the rain came. It was still warm and tropical and the water was certainly warm enough – but rough. Today we will plan more beach just after vbs (keep us away from that dollar store lol). Then walk around (weather permitting) a local farmers market and beach town nearby. BLESSED.
I didn’t have my phone (broken) but I remembered that I still have connections – and really even though I would take everything – we/I needed/need nothing but our self (myself) and God and HOPE (and a swimsuit for the beach). BLESSED!
(please continue to pray for my cat back home – not eating – barely drinking – thanks. Through modern technology computer phone call last night and then this morning, my daughter sent an encouraging photo of the cat at the bathroom faucet drinking – yay! Oh my God gives us HOPE !!!!)
You know – not really ready for vacation but had to get ready and I had the car packed in waves of unorganized mess with 3 times as much as I need – but well, I plan to get some time to organize this week – a week of vacation… Ahhhhh….
And so – not knowing but then knowing – whether it would work out that I could go to my new favorite beach place, Ocean Grove, for the 1030 church service before travelling onwards for vacation, well it worked out!!! Blessed Assurance that God is in charge – and He is. (FYI Blessed Assurance was written by Fanny Crosby while vacationing here in Ocean Grove).
I had Blessed Assurance last night and then this morning – well the outside cat that I am feeding for a friend turned up after going missing for a couple days – he gave 2 small meows when i arrived at 630am = whew! and he had eaten the food – so that is a relief. Blessed Assurance that he will be OK this week with another friend feeding him. – and then BLESSED ASSURANCE at home I saw that my own cat – who has not been eating well – had used the litter box – TMI sorry but this is blessed PROGRESS ! Let us pray for an increase in eating… one day at a time.
Blessed Assurance – rest assured divine. With all that – for sure I felt the freedom to leave the house and start my adventure with the beach and then vbs etc. (especially when i got the perfect parking spot – here with 0 time left before the church service – wow!)
And oh yeah – still don’t have my phone – well – there is WIFI and a table here at the bookstore – and the nicest host who also is writing a blog – and with the wifi at the picnic table next to the building, in the shade, I can check in with the world and my family… You know that feeling of unease not being reachable and yet they are ok even if they are not reachable by me. Well that melted away at the church service… Yeah!!! OCEAN GROVE IS WHERE I FELT (AND FEEL) THE PEACE – OH HOW BLESSED THIS BLESSED ASSURANCE!!!!
AND THAT BLESSED ASSURANCE IS THAT “JESUS IS MINE” – IS THAT IN OUR UNEASE, WE ONLY NEED TO REMEMBER THAT HE IS ALL WE NEED – HE IS ENOUGH. (I appreciated that someone this morning gave me a sticker that said “you are enough” AMEN !
And wow the sermon spot on – oh the music amazing – oh the vibrations of the organ music – I am going back at 230 for the Sunday organ recital concert. and so spot on the preaching – the sermon by guest Pastor Vito Aiuto (link below) spoke of Paul’s letter to the Ephesians, chapter 3, as he urged them (even in his own distress) for them to keep going – and “DON’T LOSE HEART” – yes – we have so much but really in the worst of times, and Paul was in them, we still can pray for others and be at peace with this blessed assurance of Him giving us salvation – and we can live and be OK ultimately.
The sermon (and the whole service) is really worth the listen – and when he mentioned JOSEPH? Joseph being taken to Egypt against his will but in God’s plan? WOW – that is what my VBS is this week – I had to run up to him after the sermon and say thank you and God bless! cool… and wow the music so spot on – the hymns and Him.
BLESSED ASSURANCE!!!
God’s Got this!!! AMEN!!! Let’s get this vacation started!
I’m going to be on vacation – doing VBS at the beach-close church and then beach in the afternoon. I will pack my swimsuit, towel, prayers and patience – because apparently the Lord has picked NOT my thoughts of the situation (again) – but picked HIS path for me this week – in which that He will make a way for His Way… So my job is to SHOW UP – and then I am going to help with one of the groups of kids – station to station – packing that extra dose of patience (for myself) is key… and before I pack my patience – I need to pump up my prayers – Lord, show me the way to help these children see YOUR WAY – make me an instrument of your peace, prayer, purpose, poise, power, and patience.
For a week’s worth of devotions that I will pre-release on my blog page – free up my mornings for jumping right into VBS… Have a great week!
Seven practices emerged as characteristic of the early Methodist movement.
NUMBER 1: Be Devoted to Prayer – “Wesley rediscovered what the church of his day had forgotten: prayer releases the power of God. He called prayer “the grand means of drawing near to God” and found believing, persistent prayer to be the necessary first step to see God move. He modeled this conviction by devoting at least two hours a day to personal prayer and made fervent prayer a hallmark of the movement.”
“As a priest in the Church of England, John Wesley was distraught by the powerlessness of the church to reach the vast majority of British people. God’s spirit created such a holy discontent in Wesley’s heart that he abandoned conventional modes of ministry and experimented with several innovative approaches. To everyone’s surprise, spiritual revival broke out in England and beyond. If you’re like me, you may wonder, “If God could do that then, why not now?”
(AMEN – Prayer makes all the difference because you really do release the situation to God to handle! AMEN)
A microcosm of not understanding this world is playing out in that I can not understand what is going on with my cat, the vet can not either, and she drinks a little but really does not eat and is going in wrong places and has lost 4 pounds recently – tough to know – and she can’t tell us. Not that any ill person could tell you either – but this is a tough thing to comprehend…
We are reminded in this microcosm of the macrocosm of the world which is tough to comprehend.
We are adjusting medicines etc. for the cat – but this cat may not make it much longer – or we could be completely surprised! What I do know is that this cat knows still us and wanting to go outside – and well, we just make the cat comfortable. What else could I do… We did put good money into recent treatments – but then to follow up with much more pricey ones? hmmm… all i want right now if for my cat to eat… hmmm…. Well, time will tell – and hopefully the cat does too – but mostly in the unknown, I know to rely on the known – that is the Lord…
A previous post seems so relevant here in the microcosm of the cat and the macrocosm of the worldly issues – so many – the hardships remind us to count our blessings that the Lord is our home – and this is not our home…
We pray for Peace in a world of not understanding.
Blessings come thru raindrops. Step out into the rain.
“Maybe our blessings come thru raindrops” – this a good fitting lyric from a spiritual song by Laura Story to remind us that “this is not our home” – that trials of life will remind us that we are ONLY VISITORS here on earth… we are apostles to our faith, we are saints in transition, traveling demonstrations of our devotion… We belong to the heavens… Therefore, thru it all, we should remember trials in life are inevitable. We are to have HOPE and FAITH that we can survive the trials. We will surely have tears along the way, and we can count on that ultimate healing from the Lord…
Just like we can choose JOY (or not), we can choose to step thru the raindrops or sing in the rain while life moves on… Life moves fast – life moves even if we don’t…
So today, how much better are we for knowing the Lord has a home for us when we “finish the race”. We are blessed. Our blessings come thru raindrops.
Think how when we step into the world, that we are to know our JOY in the Lord – we are to take our energy from His comfort.
It’s not worth worrying about future trials of life, don’t ignore them but just deal with them in the present, and choose JOY whenever possible… Rather than complaining about things not under our control – we can TRY to deal, move on…
Have I figured this all out? NO!!! Not even the Apostle Paul felt like he had achieved this state of being OK with the directive… But he did look to the future by being present in his situation and knowing NOT to have his mind set on: “earthly things.But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control...” Philippians 3
THE RAINDROPS of life are ushering us into the future… God gave us this future so that today we can choose to step out in faith…
Amen
——–
“Blessings” by Laura Story
We pray for blessings We pray for peace Comfort for family, protection while we sleep We pray for healing, for prosperity We pray for Your mighty hand to ease our suffering All the while, You hear each spoken need Yet love is way too much to give us lesser things
‘Cause what if your blessings come through raindrops What if Your healing comes through tears What if a thousand sleepless nights are what it takes to know You’re near What if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise
We pray for wisdom Your voice to hear We cry in anger when we cannot feel You near We doubt your goodness, we doubt your love As if every promise from Your Word is not enough All the while, You hear each desperate plea And long that we’d have faith to believe
When friends betray us When darkness seems to win We know that pain reminds this heart That this is not our home
What if my greatest disappointments Or the aching of this life Is the revealing of a greater thirst this world can’t satisfy What if trials of this life The rain, the storms, the hardest nights Are your mercies in disguise
Paul writes in Philippians 4:
The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. … And the God of peace will be with you….
… I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.
I can do all this through him who gives me strength.
Paul in Philippians 3:
But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ.What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith. I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead.
Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
All of us, then, who are mature should take such a view of things. And if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you. Only let us live up to what we have already attained.
Join together in following my example, brothers and sisters, and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do. For, as I have often told you before and now tell you again even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Christ. Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is set on earthly things. But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.
One exhausted mom!!! A 3 hour tour, 3 hour tour… No not shipwrecked but I purposely drove here, beautiful weather.
A three hour college tour with my youngest gave true understanding of the dynamics and dimensions of the student life and culture of cultured care, really not coddled but pretty close to that in this college-equivalent to adventure camp. I just hope that they get to class and not just the thousand activities that are available, really crazy fun is available for these 18 to 20 somethings. WOW.
What seemed impossible a year ago in furthering education is now probable as well as profitable and palatable. I could imagine the experience, but like all things, we are not yet AT the future – and it’s not my future, it’s the next generations go-to future. College is for “helping”, in all ways towards maturity, including especially making the move to mom not making all the decisions anymore. Let us all pray for good decisions. The ability to let the next folks choose is a great opportunity for their growth and us to keep our mouths shut when we can, yet guide… We did raise kids, now “we are raising adults”, I now say.
Honestly here I don’t think there is a bad decision to be made, crazy volumes of career choices in this mix. This place is trade-school in a college setting. So this is the practical application of knowledge so needed by the trades. This level of college structure with deep folds of possibilities would be buzzing like a beehive, I imagine, with SO MANY students. I would not wonder that some students would be overwhelmed. And yet, you don’t want to prevent anyone who is energized by the possibilities to not get that opportunity to buzz in the swarm.
Whew, the three hour tour really was so complete. Mary, our tour guide was SO accommodating and encouraging. Her career path interesting and a good example to these incoming students – whether this year or next (we are planning for 2026 possibly). There were nooks and crannies completely unexplored in the 3 hour tour. Just like life – there is always more in our future – and keep exploring!!!
Faith in the Future! “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11
Keep the faith and see the future!
(and get plenty of rest, you are going to need it)
When my mom asked my youngest over the phone yesterday, “Are you excited?”, about visiting a college (which will be today), as if this was a joy ride, my analytical thinking kid replied thoughtfully, “Not necessarily excited.” – “It’s Like a Business Trip.” Yeah, I understand that, evaluating where to put your life your money your future your energies. Yes, even though I may often approach life things as jumping for joy, embracing lifestyle whimsy with adventure, sometimes I decide things to NOT place my energy in. And yes OTHERS live life from the evaluation process, the method of monitoring without the immediate “jump in the pool” response. Yes, that’s what this trip feels like – with some few adventures thrown in. Mom may be like: “look at this and this and this!!!!!!!” (There are not enough exclamation points for me), others use the dot dot dot … “…” the toned down approach to certain things in life. And yet there are things that make them joyful too.
We are all unique! And we are unique in our own situations uniquely.
And what about switching gears? I recently told a friend that I’m able to “turn on a dime” for the unknown of my role at a new vacation bible school being flexible – and promptly saw a dime on the cement floor of a garage. A dime is small, and to turn on it (I have no idea where the reference started), you would have to show flexibility and maybe you also expect others to – even for the small amount (or big amount) of the dime. Most people probably would leave the dimes behind anyway, step over them rather than change. and they might be too small to trip us up – but maybe they would. Either way, our personalities and circumstances affect our ability to accommodate each little and small change in life. We justify things in order to keep sane, we want to plan, and yet it’s not a bad thing to know that we don’t know.
Like EVEN IF we don’t know how God will turn our lives “on a dime” – we have to remember how He loves us, He holds us, He navigates the rough spots because He ALREADY patched the biggest breach of sin and death separating us from Him. We are IN by the love of Jesus and His sacrifice. So now on the rest of life, He does “fill in” work for our sanity to show us the way to go over the potholes, but remember He’s already figured our lives all out… He approaches today: “like a business trip” – God’s got God Business to do AND He already all figured it out. AND its like a JOYride too. We can look at minutia and enjoy it, after knowing the macro-view of Him being in charge.
In John 14 recording, Jesus told His disciples, and us, a number of details so that we would understand that God has a plan, even down to using evil for ultimate good (see John 14). And we must BELIEVE the hope in His plan, seeing on God’s MACRO-view if we can, but also KNOWING God knows the minutia down to God knowing every hair on our heads. That in trouble we can rely upon the Holy Spirit to even give us the words to say (Luke 12). AND whom should we fear in life? No one but God Himself, He Who decides what ultimately happens to us. And God takes our situations VERY SERIOUSLY. God values us immensely!!!
It’s Like a Business Trip for God, and yes a joyride too as He delights in us, His children. May we continue to keep moving down the road of life…
Jobs to do, Joy to be had. Life and Love are always in God’s Sight.
Amen
—
Luke 12:4-12, Jesus speaks to the disciples (and us):
“I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more. But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear him who, after your body has been killed, has authority to throw you into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him. Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.
“I tell you, whoever publicly acknowledges me before others, the Son of Man will also acknowledge before the angels of God. But whoever disowns me before others will be disowned before the angels of God. And everyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but anyone who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven.
“When you are brought before synagogues, rulers and authorities, do not worry about how you will defend yourselves or what you will say, for the Holy Spirit will teach you at that time what you should say.”
—-
John 14:22-31
Then Judas (not Judas Iscariot) said, “But, Lord, why do you intend to show yourself to us and not to the world?”
Jesus replied, “Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them. Anyone who does not love me will not obey my teaching. These words you hear are not my own; they belong to the Father who sent me.
“All this I have spoken while still with you. But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
“You heard me say, ‘I am going away and I am coming back to you.’ If you loved me, you would be glad that I am going to the Father, for the Father is greater than I. I have told you now before it happens, so that when it does happen you will believe. I will not say much more to you, for the prince of this world is coming. He has no hold over me, but he comes so that the world may learn that I love the Father and do exactly what my Father has commanded me.
I was so surprised – I had no idea there was newsreal film footage of Helen Keller and Anne Sullivan as well as Polly Thomson, Helen’s assistant after Anne’s death. They had a lot of correspondence and travelled. Famous and sought-after… But yes it was an AMAZING story – one we should remember as both what can be achieved with love and to remember we count our blessings for.
There is a YouTube channel of these videos, including one that is the only known (or last known) of Anne speaking in the 1930s about helping and teaching Helen, blind and deaf since an illness at age 19 months. I remember the stark scenes from “The Miracle Worker” movie – of teaching this wayward child. You would never know that from the newsreels of elderly Helen – all smiles – working so hard – doing so much. It took teaching – it took intervention – it took perseverance – and mostly it took LOVE.
The great nugget of information that the one video stated, was that Helen (as we see in the 1954 news film) started and ended the day with scripture. One of her quotes was essentially: I am not blind as much as the world is blind. And as the video quoted Psalm 19 – isn’t that the truth? We must not be blind to the HOPE of the Lord. “With the Bible.” – in the transcript: “The heavens declare the glory of God, and the firmaments show us his handy work. Day unto day affirm his speech, and night unto night show his knowledge. There is no speech, no language where their voice is not heard.”
The movies on that YouTube channel spoke of people Helen was indebted to, Louis Braille, Alexander Graham Bell, and countless others who brought innovations and schools. Imagine everyone who works hard and serves. It is us knowing – without the seeing – the work of their hands and feet and everything else to serve the Lord by loving His people. And God accomplishes SO MUCH in LOVE. This knowledge is also from HIM – not from us.
Encouragement – to keep going – keep trying – and to praise the Lord for the accomplishments that He allows us to see and feel.
Amen
Psalm 19 NIV
For the director of music. A psalm of David. The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they reveal knowledge. They have no speech, they use no words; no sound is heard from them. Yet their voice goes out into all the earth, their words to the ends of the world. In the heavens God has pitched a tent for the sun. It is like a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, like a champion rejoicing to run his course. It rises at one end of the heavens and makes its circuit to the other; nothing is deprived of its warmth.
The law of the Lord is perfect, refreshing the soul. The statutes of the Lord are trustworthy, making wise the simple. The precepts of the Lord are right, giving joy to the heart. The commands of the Lord are radiant, giving light to the eyes. The fear of the Lord is pure, enduring forever. The decrees of the Lord are firm, and all of them are righteous.
They are more precious than gold, than much pure gold; they are sweeter than honey, than honey from the honeycomb. By them your servant is warned; in keeping them there is great reward. But who can discern their own errors? Forgive my hidden faults. Keep your servant also from willful sins; may they not rule over me. Then I will be blameless, innocent of great transgression.
May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.
I do many things – cleaning my house enough is NOT one of them… I don’t make the time, I don’t think I have the time, I don’t take the time… I need time for lots of things…
And so today when I found the one of my plushy Jesus dolls toppled over, hanging on a binder by his feet, well that’s just fitting… and on top of it that i’m having issues with my cat protesting, so I HAVE to clean, and add to that, that I know I will be away and busy in all of July, I better clean now….
Yes, it Holy Spirit convicts me to see the omissions of my cleanings in addition to the commissioning sins of not stopping to scrub.
Our lives and our houses certainly need good scrubs on occasion, so I have been and WILL scrub today…
Blessedly, Jesus is our “FALL GUY”. He takes the hit, He redeems our value out of our trashed existence or prideful ignorance. He took our sinful ways and got them OUT OF HIS WAY, to present us clean: “He has reconciled in the body of His flesh through death, to present you holy, and blameless, and above reproach in His sight…”
So I will pick up this little plush doll, and vacuum hand scrub and be thankful I HAVE stuff to clean… I will scrub dutifully my thoughts of grief, grudges and grumpiness, taking time for clarity, cleansing and calming cues from Jesus.
May we devote extra time to devotion. I pray us to “be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding” – to “walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God”.
And when I/we fall short, I will appreciate Jesus the “FALL GUY ”…
Amen
—
Colossians 1 NKJV
Greeting
Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, to the saints and faithful brethren in Christ who are in Colosse:
Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Their Faith in Christ
We give thanks to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you, since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of your love for all the saints; because of the hope which is laid up for you in heaven, of which you heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel, which has come to you, as it has also in all the world, and is bringing forth fruit, as it is also among you since the day you heard and knew the grace of God in truth; as you also learned from Epaphras, our dear fellow servant, who is a faithful minister of Christ on your behalf, who also declared to us your love in the Spirit.
Preeminence of Christ
For this reason we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, for all patience and longsuffering with joy; giving thanks to the Father who has qualified us to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in the light. He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love, in whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins.
He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created through Him and for Him. And He is before all things, and in Him all things consist. And He is the head of the body, the church, who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things He may have the preeminence.
Reconciled in Christ
For it pleased the Father that in Him all the fullness should dwell, and by Him to reconcile all things to Himself, by Him, whether things on earth or things in heaven, having made peace through the blood of His cross.
And you, who once were alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now He has reconciled in the body of His flesh through death, to present you holy, and blameless, and above reproach in His sight— if indeed you continue in the faith, grounded and steadfast, and are not moved away from the hope of the gospel which you heard, which was preached to every creature under heaven, of which I, Paul, became a minister.
Sacrificial Service for Christ
I now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up in my flesh what is lacking in the afflictions of Christ, for the sake of His body, which is the church, of which I became a minister according to the stewardship from God which was given to me for you, to fulfill the word of God, the mystery which has been hidden from ages and from generations, but now has been revealed to His saints. To them God willed to make known what are the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles: which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. Him we preach, warning every man and teaching every man in all wisdom, that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus. To this end I also labor, striving according to His working which works in me mightily.
“From your mouth to God’s ear” was what the fellow bagel-shop customer laughingly blurted out when I had just ASSURED that it was NOT supposed to rain that night. WELL, I WAS WRONG. That was 2 weeks ago now, and the rain did stop raining eventually and then the temperature shot up, I can’t even imagine the winter gear so necessary such a short time ago. God’s ability to put together our seasons of the year and of life are unimaginable. “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,” says the Lord.
I am thankful for the cool weather in hindsight because I was in the last stages and days of helping my friend move, filling pods, sorting paper, cleaning, clearing, and closing a chapter. Whew… only thing left now is to catch a cat, but that’s another story… So the photo we received yesterday was worth it all, the JOY of grandma and grandkids together. How blessed they all are!
The temperatures moderated and now I’m definitely in summer mode. Inside and outside merge for me, I love it. Now it’s going to be beach weather. And I’m gearing up for a decent long vacation. And I hope it doesn’t rain TOO MUCH… but let’s let the Lord lead His plan, we just prepare for it.
Well, I also was wrong last night and the rain caught me off guard, I had left the mower out to finish the grass. I quickly called home and my youngest got it into the shed, whew… I should have prepared for rain. This is where we must prepare for God’s Plan over ours. Yes, I left it, was doing errands after a meeting and there are never enough hours in the day for me. Busy blessed busy… Someday I likely won’t be able to have such freedom of movement, so I’m maximizing my motion now. I did appreciate sitting at the members meeting for a historical society last night, one more opportunity to be busy in a small way. I appreciate that we sat but those people 200 years ago worked!!! We work – but not in a back-breaking way they did… Well, anyway – it was a good finish to my day. Saw the fireflies and thought a perfect night weatherwise (until it rained).
My evenings can’t even comprehend how I got through the day. Isn’t that true for you?
So in the morning, I try to remember to stop and write, write a praise for these Godly days. The Lord has blessed us being the Lord of our lives if we only could listen more for His Will. It’s like the Lord has to melt our hearts and also the wax in our ears of our hearts, we then have to listen, not just hear. The wax protects our ears but we have the ability to close our ears too much to His Will. “Walk by faith, not by sight”. And listen by faith too. And rest in Him. And work FOR His Will in us and others.
God’s ears – He must have wax-like waterproofing in His ears too – can you even imagine? God is God and needs no human protection to our tears – but oh the rivers overflowing in tears must keep his ears busy… and our complaints? Yikes… And yet His heart is FOR US. GOD LOVES US!!! God does not have clogged ears to our prayers, not clogged with wax. God is working on a whole other level that we can’t perceive nor understand. We must just trust.
Faith is for understanding deeply within THAT GOD IS READY TO GUIDE US. If we get from morning to night, then how amazing we get from night to morning. God’s Way is to start fresh with us, fresh hearts, fresh starts. Let us remember to praise what we do see, and double praise what we don’t.
Let us melt the earth wax and heart blockages, and trust, and PRAISE.
Amen
—
Isaiah 55 NKJV
An Invitation to Abundant Life
“Ho! Everyone who thirsts, Come to the waters; And you who have no money, Come, buy and eat. Yes, come, buy wine and milk Without money and without price. Why do you spend money for what is not bread, And your wages for what does not satisfy? Listen carefully to Me, and eat what is good, And let your soul delight itself in abundance. Incline your ear, and come to Me. Hear, and your soul shall live; And I will make an everlasting covenant with you -The sure mercies of David. Indeed I have given him as a witness to the people, A leader and commander for the people. Surely you shall call a nation you do not know, and nations who do not know you shall run to you, Because of the Lord your God, And the Holy One of Israel; For He has glorified you.”
Seek the Lord while He may be found, Call upon Him while He is near. Let the wicked forsake his way, And the unrighteous man his thoughts; Let him return to the Lord, And He will have mercy on him; And to our God, For He will abundantly pardon.
“For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,” says 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.
“For as the rain comes down, and the snow from heaven, And do not return there, But water the earth, And make it bring forth and bud, That it may give seed to the sower And bread to the eater, So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth; It shall not return to Me void, But it shall accomplish what I please, And it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it.
“For you shall go out with joy, And be led out with peace; The mountains and the hills Shall break forth into singing before you, And all the trees of the field shall clap their hands. Instead of the thorn shall come up the cypress tree, And instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle tree; And it shall be to the Lord for a name, For an everlasting sign that shall not be cut off.”
My neighbor passed away. She was ninety-one years and had been full of life until her slow decline… Three years ago I think, she had broken her hip twice and her house flooded and I don’t know how many other things. And that’s when her family decided to pull her out and put her in an assisted living facility which she absolutely loved. Three meals a day and bingo and manicures and physical therapy and socialization!!! She never looked back. She lived life in the present and seemed to let the past stay in the past… Yes, even when she left her house, most of her stuff was left behind which did get donated, except I kept her green towel and she gave me some statues and a big bowl. And of course lots of laughter and great memories. She was the first neighbor we met years ago now.
She also was Jewish and although I didn’t see her practicing holidays much, we talked about God all the time being in charge. I did come across a Jewish scripture book when I cleaned out her house. Her house is gone and the new house replaced it and a new family… and that’s the way life goes… We are here but for a moment. What is remembered is our wonderful fun loving tribes of folks and I’m so grateful I got to be in her tribe and that of my neighbors.
Now, being of the Jewish faith, Jesus, fully man and fully God, was also from a tribe – the tribe of Judah, Jesus called “The Lion of Judah”. The tribes of God – they are pillars of regular people being chosen to do big things for God – including be fruitful and multiply the children of God. The 12 tribes and then Jesus took 12 disciples. 12 is a good number!
The tribes (from Abraham then Issac then Jacob) were set into the world by the 12 children of Jacob – from 4 mothers – children including Joseph and his dreamcoat (for which my first VBS this year is about) – and then Moses coming from that tribe to pull them out of Egypt some 400 years later (for which my second VBS is about) – imagine that 400 years is a long time – and imagine that God has known all these things for from before forever ago and way past forever from now – it is unbelievable but God knows His Plan. And He knows the plans for us too – so enjoy the people you enjoy – make peace with your neighbors and you will be blessed – take time to be in the moment – and enjoy life…
And may your own tribe thrive!!!
Amen
—
Genesis 22:14-18 So Abraham called that place The Lord Will Provide. And to this day it is said, “On the mountain of the Lord it will be provided.” The angel of the Lord called to Abraham from heaven a second time and said, “I swear by myself, declares the Lord, that because you have done this and have not withheld your son, your only son, I will surely bless you and make your descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and as the sand on the seashore. Your descendants will take possession of the cities of their enemies, and through your offspring all nations on earth will be blessed, because you have obeyed me.”
But God thinks we are the most important sheep of all.
God will bless us all.
.
Watching the world go by?
Understand it all? Don’t even try!
Wars, famine, earthquake, temperatures that fry?
Jesus says don’t be troubled, you and I, keep living, TRY.
God knows this all, God created this earth and sky.
.
Jesus says the beginnings of sorrows is today’s tomorrow’s.
Don’t grow cold. Be lovingly BOLD!
Skip the hate, tell others of God’s Love so overcomingly great!
Don’t be lured by deception, Jesus knew these times from inception.
Trust Jesus, not the World.
That’s the message on our flags to unfurl.
Write it on every sign, say it in rhyme.
Live the attitude of “GOD LOVES YOU”, there is nothing else, nothing better to say or do.
TRUE!
.
Trust Jesus to get us through.
God will reign today.
Know that is TRUE.
Amen
——–
Matthew 24:6-13
New King James Version
And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not troubled; for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of sorrows.
“Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations for My name’s sake. And then many will be offended, will betray one another, and will hate one another. Then many false prophets will rise up and deceive many. And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold. But he who endures to the end shall be saved.
It was great to be home, with my family, even just for a couple days, but you know you have to get what you get when you get it. . . And I always take the opportunity when the kids are ok, for me to travel… and with the storms I never lost power, so house was OK so I could go… and? And, now I’m very happy to be home home, in my own bed. Isn’t it funny how we can have a feeling of home in many different ways?
My friend’s house, who’ve I’ve been helping move, had a tree fall through the front, yikes, wow, one day after she left… and it was like she rolled out of town and the temperatures started to roll on up!! I’m so grateful she got the bulk of the moving done when the temperature was still cool.
I stepped into my friend’s house to see the damage and grab something. She’s gone, yet it still feels like her home, but she’s finding a new home and she will love it with her grandkids. And even if the damage to the house is bad, it is not tragic. This is repairable. That house will be a home again to a new family. I appreciate she left the scripture picture on the fridge. God’s with us. He is.
Jesus IS.
For the house, the damage could have been much worse. No one got hurt and the tree debris was removed so quickly. And the realtor had just stepped away from that area when the tree went. This was God’s timing, she said, that she was DELAYED earlier in the day. Kept her out of this trouble. And we all can appreciate God’s timing even if we can’t understand it…
God’s timing will come in His Timing. God Himself will always be with us.
What makes a home a home? They say home is where the heart is. OUR HEARTS SHOULD BE FILLED WITH JESUS AND THEREFORE OUR HOME WITH JESUS AND HIS WITH US.
Jesus said He had no place to lay His head, and even though we do rest ours, the rest of our time will be Home in Heaven. The cost of discipleship is remembering not to cling too tightly to this earth… Yes, make our homes homey, but best make our hearts heavenly and keep moving to where He needs us.
He will always be with us. Matthew 29
And someday we will say to our Father, it’s GOOD to be HOME…
Amen
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Matthew 28:16-20 NKJV
The Great Commission
Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, to the mountain which Jesus had appointed for them. When they saw Him, they worshiped Him; but some doubted.
And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.
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MATTHEW 8:18-27
The Cost of Discipleship
And when Jesus saw great multitudes about Him, He gave a command to depart to the other side. Then a certain scribe came and said to Him, “Teacher, I will follow You wherever You go.”
And Jesus said to him, “Foxes have holes and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay His head.”
Then another of His disciples said to Him, “Lord, let me first go and bury my father.” But Jesus said to him, “Follow Me, and let the dead bury their own dead.”
Wind and Wave Obey Jesus
Now when He got into a boat, His disciples followed Him. And suddenly a great tempest arose on the sea, so that the boat was covered with the waves. But He was asleep. Then His disciples came to Him and awoke Him, saying, “Lord, save us! We are perishing!”
But He said to them, “Why are you fearful, O you of little faith?” Then He arose and rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was a great calm. So the men marveled, saying, “Who can this be, that even the winds and the sea obey Him?”
When a friend asks me to plan to do the particular station for a 2-day weekend VBS in July, a station that she picked for me, she asked me to include an experiment. How could I respond? “Let me ask the Holy Spirit to get me the idea!!!” Yeah!!! I know that the Lord always provides!!!
And you may think social media has flaws, but SPIRIT MEDIA as in HOLY SPIRIT MEDIA is FILLED with ideas. Click click click… and within 5 minutes, it was settled in my mind… in Holy Spirit time!
Here’s the life lesson for the Gospel lesson experiment that is in the book for VBS “ROAR” – about the journey for Moses and the people out of Egypt. We will have the kids talk about sin, and rocks represent sin, a bucket too heavy to lift… but if we ask God for forgiveness and we give our sins, represented by these rocks and leave them at the foot of the cross, Jesus takes care of our sins. Jesus raised is a miracle taking our sins away as far as the east is from the west – which means they don’t meet – our sins gone. Jesus said in John 16:33 “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”
And then with a quick Google for a video suggestion of a science experiment for Easter, the Acetone and Styrofoam appeared faster than Styrofoam disappears in acetone (ok it dissolves, but you get the picture…) YEAH!
Oh I can’t wait to try this!!! $3 acetone I can’t wait to test the demo!!! And for the kids, I’m thinking about the dissolvable starch packing peanuts and water…
God is Good and FULL of ideas!!! Love it!!!
AMEN!!!
Psalm 103 of David, NKJV
Bless the Lord, O my soul; And all that is within me, bless His holy name!
Bless the Lord, O my soul, And forget not all His benefits:
Who forgives all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases, Who redeems your life from destruction, Who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies, Who satisfies your mouth with good things, So that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s. The Lord executes righteousness And justice for all who are oppressed. He made known His ways to Moses, His acts to the children of Israel. The Lord is merciful and gracious, Slow to anger, and abounding in mercy.
He will not always strive with us, Nor will He keep His anger forever. He has not dealt with us according to our sins, Nor punished us according to our iniquities. For as the heavens are high above the earth, So great is His mercy toward those who fear Him; As far as the east is from the west, So far has He removed our transgressions from us.
As a father pities his children, So the Lord pities those who fear Him. For He knows our frame; He remembers that we are dust. As for man, his days are like grass; As a flower of the field, so he flourishes.
For the wind passes over it, and it is gone, And its place remembers it no more. But the mercy of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting On those who fear Him, And His righteousness to children’s children, To such as keep His covenant, And to those who remember His commandments to do them.
The Lord has established His throne in heaven, And His kingdom rules over all.
Bless the Lord, you His angels, Who excel in strength, who do His word, Heeding the voice of His word. Bless the Lord, all you His hosts, You ministers of His, who do His pleasure. Bless the Lord, all His works, In all places of His dominion.
The BLUE macaron from the patisserie, maybe living like Paris-erie, was DELICIOUS – and so was the hot cocoa and whipped cream – and so was the pastry I had – and the air conditioning was great – and and and… Yeah – being on a one day vacation is living it up!!! And sitting in the Hudson Yards after riding up to “The Edge” – this was like a perfect local experience (except for the construction that IS NYC – bang bang bang – and the sirens of the moment)… The most important aspect of this trip was seeing my friend for a day out!
So I didn’t really mind that my blue Marie Antoinette macaron was smushed by the time I ate it sitting on the train on the way home, reminiscing of the great day. It was a vacation day and it’s hard to complain when you have had a great day. So I accepted the blessings and thanked the Lord!
Yes. I went to see my friend from grad school in NYC. We have been great friends for over 30 years now! WOW!!! He met me at the train station. Haven’t see him since way before covid. It was sunny and hot, and then it rained wickedly like 3 times, felt like Florida weather on and off and on and off. But it could rain on you anywhere – might as well just be anywhere vacationing anyway…
I HIGHLY recommend visiting “The EDGE”. I love the sights from up above, it’s like the best view, taller than Empire State building, perfect to see TOPS of the Chrysler building and Vanderbilt towers, then in a distance Lady Liberty, the bridges, the rivers, the Highline, and awesome to step OUTSIDE!!! WOW!!!! Yes, it is safe!!! Scary at first to step on the clear glass over the city, but I did it!!! whew!!! So then wow after we were outside for a while, we then watched the storm roll in from NJ to the west. And the security staff pulled us inside. There are windows for every direction. And amazing that there is no sway even at 100 stories up.
So we sat and chatted more – watching the storm roll in then roll out!!! We saw beautiful sites all around! Then we went down to the patisserie, yum, then walked the Highline to the Little Island where we held safe under the support structures until the next storm passed. great views walking the little island and even ducked into the free “Forest show”, beautiful light show run as an incentive to a car show. Dinner in Chelsea Market. Then to get back up to the train station, we hopped on a bus for the few blocks as the rain started again then back on the train.
The train where I got to sit and reminisce while relaxing – I know where the electricity plugs are for recharging my phone – and eat that smashed macaron for recharging my sugar – the Marie Antoinette macron. BLUE. “Let them eat cake” – is the phrase reportedly said by Marie Antoinette – queen of France as she disregarded the plight of the peasants – but this is a made up story they say – written many years before. “Qu’ils mangent de la brioche”, is still used for frivolous disregard for the starving people – or just being frivolous as someone else’s expense. So I could think that being on vacation (even for one day) while others are suffering in the world is a dilema – like I could say “Let them eat smashed macarons!” for enjoying a day of frivolity – and this is a dilemma of our world – we enjoy even while others are suffering – we are in a broken world – this is true. (And we pray for the societies and families who are suffering in terrible wars these day – terrible! Marie Antoinette’s time also saw the dilemma of great opulence while others were at war and suffering – we are always in this tough spot of living in an unjust and unequal balance of brokenness)… May we pray the Lord’s mercy on us all especially when we forget to count our blessings and our savior and salvation…
Taking a day break is not a bad thing – for we all need to take a breather sometimes – and therefore we should praise the Lord (at all situations) and especially that we can do this vacation thing – this day off thing – that we have freedom etc… And that we have relative safety – even in a thunderstorm – compared to the unknown volatile parts of the world. We should be saying “Let us PRAISE what we have!” – not complain about what we lack. We really should count our blessings and make the most of life while we have it – and then remember and help those who are in worse straights – the best we can do is to pray for them!
And especially praise – for in the Lord, we have everything we need…
Have a great day everyone and eat the macarons and enjoy – smooshed smashed whole or otherwise!
AMEN
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Psalm 16 NKJV – A Michtam of David.
The Hope of the Faithful, and the Messiah’s Victory
Preserve me, O God, for in You I put my trust. O my soul, you have said to the Lord, “You are my Lord, My goodness is nothing apart from You.” As for the saints who are on the earth, “They are the excellent ones, in whom is all my delight.”
Their sorrows shall be multiplied who hasten after another god; Their drink offerings of blood I will not offer, Nor take up their names on my lips.
O Lord, You are the portion of my inheritance and my cup; You maintain my lot. The lines have fallen to me in pleasant places; Yes, I have a good inheritance.
I will bless the Lord who has given me counsel; My heart also instructs me in the night seasons. I have set the Lord always before me; Because He is at my right hand I shall not be moved.
Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoices; My flesh also will rest in hope. For You will not leave my soul in Sheol, Nor will You allow Your Holy One to see corruption. You will show me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.
It was a good father’s day of remembering special years, having cheers, switching gears, and yes a few tears. I remember my Dad as awesome – and also remember folks whose dads are gone – and those who are not gone but gone from people’s lives – it is a mixed emotion type of day. And we all need processing for whatever state we take Father’s day. I hope we all processed how much our Heavenly Father God loves us. God is LOVE – and my friend whom I have been helping handed me a pin that said “GOD IS LOVE” … Amen… That processing will take the rest of our years and then forever… God is love and therefore love is God.
God always provides the LOVE – so don’t worry about that – Jesus said DON’T WORRY about anything – and if Jesus was saying it – He was showing it too.
Cleaning out my friend’s house “has been a process” for sure – literally and emotionally. The pods drove off yesterday, the process was intense but spread over the course of a month. We both would say that 8 months ago it was seemingly unimaginable, but it was real and really happened. And the stuff behind will be donated and some trashed – but the bulk is recoverable to someone. In other words, it is good stuff – and some junk too… But that is all our lives and our stuff – good and some a bit of junk.
Here is the junk of the day: the junk is the mindset of “I can’t do this” or “I can’t help” – none of that is true – that is pure junk thoughts – because WITH God everything is possible. And he demonstrates it too!
On Father’s Day – after my sermon – I spent a couple hours back at the paper pile – but sitting outside – cat outside – and working either at the back of the subaru or later in her driveway finishing off a whole wheelbarrow full of paper. We figured this was from 8 people’s important junk paper barrage that we get in life. One paper that struck my attention this morning was one of my own – “The Moments that Matter” – yup – these moments even if mundane or whatever do matter – because it is the place to help and to plug in – and as the woman across from me separating paper said: “It’s like the modern day equivalent of sitting on the porch and taking the ends off the beans.” – EXACTLY…
We came across not just paper that needed shredding – SSN’s everywhere – but then inside her Dad’s wallet – her brother’s irish cap – her mom’s hat – her many memories held onto with trinkets and treasures. And in this seemingly endless packing – it was done… the kitchen table pretty much empty – the pods full, the car full, the process made it to progress. My friend would say: “look at all the angels that God has sent me”.
What would my Dad have done in this occasion – on this day – with friends and strangers he didn’t know – yes my Dad was a helper – both my parents always had lots of projects helping – my Dad especially was the organizer for many but the hands-on worker too – from putting together paper directories for the service clubs – to making the coffee for workers coming to help at the camp rebuild cabins getting it ready for summer – all this volunteer work on the evening and weekends – and yeah some “volunteer” at his work too – setting up internal potlucks and raffles to help colleagues with cancer treatment and living expenses…
Yeah – and separating paper – not a hard job and remembering that it is a sitting down job to take a break from the standing up hauling loads job – that’s what my Dad did too… He was also the treasurer to many organizations. And one special time, I was too little to remember, he would drive up to an hour each way in the evening to go help flood victims each night – cleaning out their houses – people he didn’t even know.
Of course, he got to know them – being personable too – he helped a neighbor of a friend he knew thru his service club and we would go visit them years later – he would bring us to see them – both households. The neighbor was a glassblower – immigrant family – old timers – nearly 80 in the 1970’s then – but in his hayday he made beautiful artwork – and then when my mom was talking in the kitchen with his wife, the wife would sneak a piece to my mom to give her – and say “don’t tell my husband’ – but the husband knew and told my dad it was OK to let my mom take them… We still have them – and even I have a glass-made crystal clear candy cane uniquely made by him for that christmas… Treasures – but of memories over items – the items will last – for a time – the memories will be treasures forever.
That is special remembering my Dad – that He would have helped too…
That is special knowing the Lord – that He has made us His Hands and Feet – He helps and He has us help too – to share that love – to be of service – to make a difference – and to shed a few tears in between.
And to be present.
That is the moment that matters most – being present (presence) IS the present (gift) for the present (now).
God always provides the LOVE – so don’t worry about that – Jesus said DON’T WORRY about anything – and if Jesus was saying it – He was showing it too – a moment that MATTERS.
Amen
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Matthew 6:25-34 New King James Version Do Not Worry “Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? Which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature?
“So why do you worry about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; and yet I say to you that even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Now if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will He not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?
“Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.”
“Love That Bears All Things” (Galatians 5:22-26; 1 Corinthians 13:7, Psalm 1, John 15)
NOTE: edited to add photos from the actual service!!! Thankful for my church family!
The first of the Show Love series – “Love in Action” – and we will cover the spectrum of love but wow we could never comprehend or describe the whole gamut of love – AGAPE love – a LOVE so huge without measure – that God gives us… We (our 4 sharers) will talk about Love in Action over the next few weeks starting today with “Love That Bears All Things” (Galatians 5:22-26; 1 Corinthians 13:7) – then talk about “Loving God” (Deuteronomy 6:4-9, Matthew 22:34-40) – “Loving Your Neighbor” (Luke 10:25-37) – “Loving Your Enemy” (Matthew 5:43-48, Romans 12:17-21) – “Radical Hospitality” (Acts 2:42-47, Hebrews 13:2) and “The Love of Jesus” (John 13:1-17, John 15:9-17).
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TODAY IS FATHER’S DAY – HAPPY FATHER’S DAY!!!!
HOW WONDERFUL TO CELEBRATE OUR EARTHLY FATHERS – and our Heavenly One
AND as scripture reminds us to weep with those who weep, we send condolences to those who have lost their dads, and also those whose relationships are strained – we are in a broken world when we know of so many with strained relationships… We ask the Lord’s mercy and healing to all these situations – if not now then in heaven…
Today – we also remember our Heavenly Father – God – who IS LOVE – and we celebrate through the Holy Trinity of God the Father, Jesus the Son, and The Holy Spirit to talk about SHOWING LOVE.
We cannot do these things I listed in the upcoming scripture series about SHOWING LOVE without God HIMSELF – and how can we show this Love to a higher level unless we start with an understanding of how Love TO US has been shown to us – and what a fitting way to start here on Father’s Day – Our Heavenly Father Who gave us life by giving us His Love – being His Love and spreading that to us…
LOVEbears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.
HOW MUCH DO OUR FATHERS EMPOWER US – TO LIVE OUR LIVES AS INDEPENDENT GROWING CHILDREN – AND YET TO KEEP TRACK OF US – LIKE AS OUR PARENT I KNOW HE WILL REDUCE HIS WORRY ABOUT US BY PROVIDING FOR US…
I think of my Dad, gone few years ago now – can’t believe it but I know He is in Heaven OK – I believe that He is playing cards with the guys – I am content that he is taken care of… In the last of my dad’s weeks – his communication was limited but his mind was still there – and his love never wavered – I visited as often as I could since it is 5 plus hours away – and on one of the last times I saw him, he said “how long will it take you?” And he looked distantly at the clock – he knew that clock… He looked at that clock and the worry on his face told me everything. Granted the roads are so much better now than when he drove up and down – but that stretch thru the mountains was what worried him – I can still hear him say “drive it in the daylight” – he cared and cares. He wanted to make sure I would be OK – I was.
My Grandpa ALSO – as a dad – always asked how my brakes were on my car. Always checking in.
[Also I was wearing a t-shirt that said ‘GO against the flow” with a little white fish in the background of colorful letters as a gift from my friend moving and me packing her Dad’s items – things I found that reminded us of how much she loved him – because he loved her first – and that is what Jesus tells us – that He loved us before we were even born – love by Jesus is long – longsuffering and patient…. and our path should be AGAINST the flow of the world – don’t go with the world – go with JESUS – He will bring you to places He needs you to be…]
Love bears all things – love bears the worry of a father for his children – how much more our Heavenly Father bears that love – bears concern and yes provides for us in all ways.
I am blessed to talk about the ways that God Shows us Love – so that we may show it to others – You know that saying: “He EQUIPS the called – not He calls the equipped” – meaning we can go to God with nothing and He will provide. He provides our skillsets our personalities our energy our demeaner.
We should remember to rely upon God for the gifts – and the Holy Spirit reminder to use those gifts. Here is that great scripture – but wait – I HAVE PROPS !!!!!!!!!!!!!
——– Bring out the binder clip Words of the Fruits of the Spirit ————–
Galatians 5:22-26 NKJV But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering (also called patience), kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. And those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.
—- speak about JOY – Jesus Others Yourself – that is the order of whom we should think about
—- speak about long-suffering – our earthly troubles nothing compared to God’s Longsuffering
—- speak about self-control – about a tube of toothpaste that is things we can not control always – but should – you can’t get it back in the tube. My friend teaching Sunday school said she would get out $100 cash and tell her Sunday school kids she would give it to them if they could figure out how to get all the toothpaste back into the tube (after squirting out all the toothpaste) that something like saying hurtful things – you can never take those back and can’t get the toothpaste back in the tube…
The next line in the scripture reminds us to “stay in line with God” – “Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another” We are to experience Love in getting us through the rough stuff and to get to the forgiveness and to reduce our neediness – and increase our willingness to “let it go” – don’t sweat the small stuff… This is both in us getting what we are blessed with and NOT getting what we really would be destined for if we didn’t have this love of Jesus – this is LOVE giving us Grace and Mercy.
Thank God we have all this – and we have MORE!!!
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Read again 7 Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.1 Corinthians 13:7-13 NKJV
YES – love that can bear these things from us – is the love that we can bear for each other – and I want to do a visual demonstration for our tree of life comes from Jesus’s sacrifice from the beginning – and we are to gain these attributes of love from His love.
We have go to make a tree – grow our tree to bear all these fruits –
How are we going to keep this tree up??? The bible has the advice of course:
Psalm 1 NKJV of David – to talk about devotion to God – it also talks about the ungodly – but I am certain here that we are in church to become more devoted – to question and to at least pause and think of the benefits of sticking close to God – to gain the fruits of the spirit.
The Way of the Righteous and the End of the Ungodly
1 Blessed is the man Who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, Nor stands in the path of sinners, Nor sits in the seat of the scornful; 2 But his delight is in the law of the Lord,And in His law he meditates day and night.3 HE SHALL BE LIKE A TREE PLANTED BY THE RIVERS OF WATER, THAT BRINGS FORTH ITS FRUIT IN ITS SEASON, WHOSE LEAF ALSO SHALL NOT WITHER; AND WHATEVER HE DOES SHALL PROSPER.
4 The ungodly are not so, But are like the chaff which the wind drives away. 5 Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, Nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous.6 For the Lord knows the way of the righteous, But the way of the ungodly shall perish.
——- VISUAL DEMONSTRATION – with help from the audience – put the words in color bursts onto pieces of the material to symbolize wood – how are we going to make this stand up – how do we get all these pieces together – (someone yells – we need a tree) – and YES – bring in the the cross made from sticks and the trunk the strong cardboard material – and then have the volunteers help wrap the tree cross with the green vines – representing a LIVING JESUS – and then move the fruit of the spirit words on carabiner clips to the mockup of a tree – that these are fruits to bear… and we can’t do it without Jesus – we need HIM – structurally, living, giving, forgiving, whole…
Conclude with the scripture from John 15 – Jesus will be that support for our bearing of fruits – bearing the good stuff and the bad stuff. Jesus gives us the growth potential – Jesus the True Vine – and Jesus tells us that God will prune away the unproductive ness of us… Jesus tells us about Himself – that we can not do anything without Him.
Our efforts and our fruit are resulting from God pruning our branches for HIS Fruit –
Read John 15 NKJV – The True Vine
15 “I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. 2 Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit. 3 You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you. 4 Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me.
5 “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. 6 If anyone does not abide in Me, he is cast out as a branch and is withered; and they gather them and throw them into the fire, and they are burned. 7 If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you. 8 By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples.
9 “As the Father loved Me, I also have loved you; abide in My love. 10 If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love, just as I have kept My Father’s commandments and abide in His love.
11 “These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full. 12 This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. AMEN – and conclude with prayer…
Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. Isaiah 40:28-31
My friend who is moving has worked her last day at her office! I wouldn’t say she is retiring but moving to different work because the work she’s gonna go do over there – far from here – is to help raise her grandkids. She is so talented she also could work anywhere…
I don’t know about my retirement but think that when one retires, you can think of the ALL things you could do!!! Or when you retire, think of the things you DON’T need to do… and give up unpleasant things to do. I think I just need a vacation personally, give my brain a chance to think… but wow if I was retired, THINK of the THINKING you could do! OR NOT!
AND THEN I THOUGHT RETIREMENT COULD BE LIKE RETREDDING… When you retread a tire, it is not retired, just given new life with the same core. Then new veneers of rubber help keep the truck running on the road.
When you retire as a person, like my friend is, you’ve go to keep moving!
Some push the pedal to the medal and speed forward, some put their pedal pushers on and kick back.
Yesterday I was at a home improvement store getting rocks for painting, not for vacation bible school or a school class, but for my work friend for a nice activity of writing encouraging messages.
Dr Randy came up the aisle and help load these heavy bags, eight in total. just chit-chat, but seemingly of a retired age. I surmised that he was keeping busy. Then when he asked me what school the rocks were for, he started to tell me that he was a professor and taught college courses at 2 local prestigious universities. Then I said why are you here? And he said I gotta pay the ex-wife, and we both laughed… he’s got a full marine pension… this man certainly can keep busy. And i’m sure he is a blessing because works hard, plus he is hassling in a good way and advising all the younger workers…
It’s good when we keep our retreated retired wheels on the road.
What about fishing? Is everybody says “gone fishing” when on vacation or retired. Well when you decide to keep working for the Lord in His fishing of men, you can work your whole life AND in retirement to RETHREAD and reweave and reinforce the nets. You can still keep going…
And on your retredded tires, you probably have lots of work for the Lord, He puts more gas in the tank, your tank, our tanks….
Lamentations 3:22-23 “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”
It may be early, but it’s summer and early morning we (the cat and I) can go outside. My peas and strawberry plants are reaching fruition in fruiting and the birds are chirping, the cat is happier outside. It is not too buggy yet, I wrapped up with an old sheet for a blanket for protection anyway. Life is good within the small slice of the 6am morning before time marches on.
The cardinal chirping was clear, there are distinct calls for each bird, was it warning or song? (Many think the cardinals are visits from our family members – well they would be warning us too as well as encouraging us to keep moving forward and be fruitful. Truly the warnings and encouragements of life are to keep moving forward always anyway…)
There are dangers in the world, for birds yes, and for us too. The best warning is to guard against the drain of our fruitfulness, for stresses and unknowns come but we are to stay solid upon the Rock of the Lord’s support and the fertile ground of His enrichment. We need to always grow and grow in all ways – especially in Patience and in Piety. There are times that things work out and other times we have “what ifs?”… and yet each morning is reset as new, there is a time to just pause and pray. This is the time to stop racing thoughts, just work, praise, pray, play, and participate in life. There is a season for everything, like Ecclesiastes 3 recounts – and we are to ask the Lord to help us “number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.” – which to me means to strike when the iron is hot, and change directions when it is not!
Proverbs 19:20-121 Listen to counsel and receive instruction, That you may be wise in your latter days. There are many plans in a man’s heart, Nevertheless the Lord’s counsel—that will stand.
After my fruitful container garden (may not look pretty but it is pretty secured against the groundhog and rabbits) is harvested from strawberries and peas – the early season is done, in a couple of weeks, maybe the tomatoes will be planted, got to still buy those, and maybe my sitting outside will be different again. Life and seasons change quickly. But pray the sun still rises and mornings still come with new mercies and more and different fruitfulness.
These garden fruits take time to develop and within us, if we picture fruitfulness – we can gain it – by wisdom – and ask for the Lord to lay HIS Fruit upon us for His usefulness of our work for HIM (and ourselves). The fruits of the Spirit (Romans 12) are: JOY, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Generosity, Faithfulness, Gentleness, and Self-Control. These are all to be applied and accepted with LOVE. That is the harvest of the Lord in us.
Amen
Solomon laments not always understanding life and surely observes life in Ecclesiastes 3 – but especially he knows that God is in charge – and knows there is a time for everything:
Ecclesiastes 3 NIV A Time for Everything There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens:
a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build, a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing, a time to search and a time to give up, a time to keep and a time to throw away, a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak, a time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace.
What do workers gain from their toil? I have seen the burden God has laid on the human race. He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end. I know that there is nothing better for people than to be happy and to do good while they live. That each of them may eat and drink, and find satisfaction in all their toil—this is the gift of God. I know that everything God does will endure forever; nothing can be added to it and nothing taken from it. God does it so that people will fear him.
Whatever is has already been, and what will be has been before; and God will call the past to account.
And I saw something else under the sun: In the place of judgment—wickedness was there, in the place of justice—wickedness was there.
I said to myself, “God will bring into judgment both the righteous and the wicked, for there will be a time for every activity, a time to judge every deed.”
I also said to myself, “As for humans, God tests them so that they may see that they are like the animals. Surely the fate of human beings is like that of the animals; the same fate awaits them both: As one dies, so dies the other. All have the same breath; humans have no advantage over animals. Everything is meaningless. All go to the same place; all come from dust, and to dust all return. Who knows if the human spirit rises upward and if the spirit of the animal goes down into the earth?”
So I saw that there is nothing better for a person than to enjoy their work, because that is their lot. For who can bring them to see what will happen after them?
Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.
Purpose – if we say we are driven by purpose – let us put ourselves in the proper seat – the passenger – because God’s Purpose prevails and therefore it is best to let Him Drive – because He is the owner of not just the car but the roads and the houses and the hills and the cows on the hills and the stuff made from the stuff on the hills.
How a West Side story CD figures into His Plan is mind-blowing if only to know that He likes to shake you up sometimes and remind you of HIS PLANS – not yours…
We must PLAN to follow HIM – plan to look for HIS PURPOSE…
I am busy – that is not a curse but a blessing. I am OK – being busy is a blessing that keeps on blessing. I am a sharer of time and resources, a connector of people and concepts, a sanguine personality Hippocrates would say of the small section of human population, I am a “Campaigner” aka the 16personalities website based upon the Myers Briggs psychology tests, otherwise known as an ENFP. The source material says the Campaigner is a personality type with “the Extraverted, Intuitive, Feeling, and Prospecting traits. These people tend to embrace big ideas and actions that reflect their sense of hope and goodwill toward others. Their vibrant energy can flow in many directions.”
Yup – that’s me – I was raised this way and made this way – it does get tiring but I’ve never been so blessed to see a role for my life… And yeah – to sing God’s praises too that He keeps me in this life.
I’ve written blogs for work and here – and connect my many experiences – purpose-driven means you never run out of experiences. (I am longing for the vacation experience too, LOL). Well yesterday there was a connection I made from a work blog talking about the Foster Kids that we are helping with decorating birthday boxes – and this person saw at work about our help for foster kids in homes – providing them a birthday box of items to celebrate them – we get to color the items and write inspirational messages – we get to help kids we don’t even know… I was amazed when this person I newly connected with at another site (another state) told me about a child in the Foster system and the struggles of more kids than homes available to give them homes. I also read that a Campaigner personality person is more likely to be the person who adopts kids. Well, I thought – well I am not planning to adopt any little kids but I’ve always been appreciative to be with these big kids who are “work kids” – I could be like the Grandma to them – which I have taken on as a mentality for years – be bright – be brief and be gone is the toastmaster’s motto for giving speeches. Well, grandmothers hang in the picture longer.
Grandmothers – I was cleaning out from my friend’s yard sale all the paper accumulation from being a mom of 3 – all the elementary attendance awards etc – kids artwork – papers for report cards – volumes and volumes – and I loved seeing the cards that said – “HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOMMY!” – I was thinking of that little girl in the foster care system – how much her life is different right now. And I know that my friend needs to get to her daughter (grown up) and grandkids as she moves cross country. HOW MANY WONDERFUL GRANDMOTHERS EXIST THAT HELP THEIR GRANDKIDS!!!! There is purpose in my friend’s moving – purpose in her kids lives and to so many whom she doesn’t even know yet.
THAT’S ALL OF US – YOU TOO – PURPOSE – THE LORD’S PURPOSE – SO KEEP GOING!!!
And then in the pile of stuff – after I had just been thinking of the Tony Awards and wouldn’t it have been nice to have some good old time Broadway ballads like West Side Story on the show – nearly less than an hour later from that thought – in that box of paperwork – was a new unwrapped CD of West Side Story – original cast – I mean what are the chances – in a 30yr old box of papers… What are the odds… There is no odd that could encompass that randomness of not random… I think the angels in the realm of this world like to throw in a reminder here and there that WE ARE NOT IN CHARGE – that GOD IS IN CHARGE – HIS PURPOSE will prevail.
We are to step one day at a time – and encounter the people He needs us to be with.
Lord – today let us keep walking in step with you and do the random things that remind us that YOU ARE IN CHARGE – let us look for purpose of plan and planning – prodding and plotting – poise and performance – and playful purpose too…
Purpose – God’s Got it for us!!!
Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails. Proverbs 19:21
I don’t know how I got started watching but a youtube news reel from the Sept 11th attacks was a REAL reel to me, since I was there in that point of time and remember the events in my perspective. And then I started looking at the map because I have never been to the flight 93 memorial area in the middle of nowhere but somewhere – it is south of Pittsburgh – and actually near a place I went year after year, for camping – and it is not far from Fallingwater the Frank Llyod Wright house.
Well, the park service has a wonderful webpage and after the video, I went and read each passenger on that Flight 93 and what they did – and importantly who they called back home before they decided to attack and fight back “Let’s Roll”… https://www.nps.gov/flni/learn/historyculture/crew-and-passengers.htm
Here are some quotes from the page: “When terrorists took over their plane, Gronlund called her sister to express her love, give her the combination to her safe, and say good-bye.”
and from a flight attendant talking about the passengers (forced in the back who voted to attack the cockpit): “During the hijacking of Flight 93, Lyles phoned her husband, reaching their answering machine. She told him, “I hope to be able to see your face again, baby. I love you. Good-bye.” In a second call five minutes before the crash, the couple spoke and prayed together. Her husband recalls that she told him, “Tell the boys I love them. We’re getting ready to do it now. It’s happening!” “
They were trading their lives for others – they knew that the planes had already hit the trade center towers – they heard on those phone calls. They had to act.
The video interview I watched was with the 2 first fighter pilots (who had no missiles on their planes but scrambled up to the air as immediate as you can imagine) – this interview was 20 years later – and they said they were not armed but willing (and had discussed it) that one would ram the front of the plane and the other would ram the rear. https://youtu.be/3H1JHVI7kCo?si=0kPvv-IDG5YV01cj
The other video was about how the secret service had to delicately tell the president of the situation while in front of school children learning to read – and how he and the press core knew all this (and reacted themselves) and then knew they had to keep their cool for a moment around all these school children – the interesting how they were determined to be calm and collected – and then such interesting photos of the war rooms (for both president and separately the press) set up in childhood classrooms… So interesting to watch 20 plus years later. They had to stay calm and decide how to act. https://youtu.be/ripNNLiSFUY?si=QpSwBFlBh92vb8C4
One could be mesmerized all day by these experiences.
This past week was D-day – honestly we forget even if we did study this over and over – but if you experienced it yourself then you would remember… That memory and that history gets written down and shared. Imagine how much gets lost…. Surreal…
Imagine now how much is saved in the bible – details – down to numbers of soldiers and the songs of prayers and praise around the battles – and around every day activities… This is the workings of the Lord – who traded His life on earth for so many that day – FOR EVERYONE – and traded His whole life for the Word made flesh – the Word from the beginning to the continuing… Imagine too that Jesus decided to trade one life for another – all while keeping us calm and making sure we, as little children, understood and were not jostled into life’s troubles… We may see the troubled reels and reals of life now, but we don’t have to worry about the long term battle – Jesus already won…
Interesting to know our Lord – and it know His Love. A Blessing to know it for REAL and for FOREVER.
Amen
—
1st John 3
See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him. Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when Christ appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is. All who have this hope in him purify themselves, just as he is pure.
Everyone who sins breaks the law; in fact, sin is lawlessness. But you know that he appeared so that he might take away our sins. And in him is no sin. No one who lives in him keeps on sinning. No one who continues to sin has either seen him or known him.
Dear children, do not let anyone lead you astray. The one who does what is right is righteous, just as he is righteous. The one who does what is sinful is of the devil, because the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil’s work. No one who is born of God will continue to sin, because God’s seed remains in them; they cannot go on sinning, because they have been born of God. This is how we know who the children of God are and who the children of the devil are: Anyone who does not do what is right is not God’s child, nor is anyone who does not love their brother and sister.
More on Love and Hatred For this is the message you heard from the beginning: We should love one another. Do not be like Cain, who belonged to the evil one and murdered his brother. And why did he murder him? Because his own actions were evil and his brother’s were righteous. Do not be surprised, my brothers and sisters, if the world hates you. We know that we have passed from death to life, because we love each other. Anyone who does not love remains in death. Anyone who hates a brother or sister is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life residing in him.
This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters. If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person? Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.
This is how we know that we belong to the truth and how we set our hearts at rest in his presence: If our hearts condemn us, we know that God is greater than our hearts, and he knows everything. Dear friends, if our hearts do not condemn us, we have confidence before God and receive from him anything we ask, because we keep his commands and do what pleases him. And this is his command: to believe in the name of his Son, Jesus Christ, and to love one another as he commanded us. The one who keeps God’s commands lives in him, and he in them. And this is how we know that he lives in us: We know it by the Spirit he gave us.
one more entry from a passenger, whose bible survived
On September 11, Donald Arthur and his wife Jean Hoadley Peterson were traveling to Yosemite National Park in California for a vacation with Jean’s brother and parents. When they arrived at the Newark airport early that morning, they were offered the opportunity to take Flight 93 instead of their scheduled, later flight. Don was the retired President of Continental Electric Company in New Jersey. Volunteerism, driven by deep faith, filled him and his wife’s retirement years. Don worked with men struggling with drug and alcohol dependency. They mentored and supported many in their church and community of Spring Lake, New Jersey. Don grew up in South Orange, New Jersey, had an electrical engineering degree from Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and earned an MBA from Rutgers University. When the Petersons married in 1984, each had three children from a previous marriage. Don’s personal Bible was recovered at the Flight 93 crash site, complete with a handwritten list of men for whom he was praying.
Give up – tired, wondering, frustrated – but Give Anyways.
Give in – don’t try to win, keep the peace, move forward – Give in but Give Anyways.
Give out – broken but ok, survive for another day, give it all away – give it anyway – Give Anyways.
Give until it hurts, Give Anyways…
.
Give it a chance, Get everything
Give hope, Get everything
Give glory, Get everything
Give until it hurts, Give Anyways…
.
Give generously, Get the idea
Give thoughtfully Get the IDEA
Give idealistically, Give the IDEAL
Give until it hurts, Give Anyways…
.
GIVE UNCONDITIONALLY, GIVE JESUS
GIVE WISDOM, GIVE JESUS
GIVE EVERYTHING, GIVE JESUS
.
GIVE JESUS, GIVE PEACE
GIVE JESUS, GIVE LOVE
GIVE JESUS, BE JESUS
.
AMEN
———
God’s Love and Ours 1st JOHN 4:7-21 NIV Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.
This is how we know that we live in him and he in us: He has given us of his Spirit. And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent his Son to be the Savior of the world. If anyone acknowledges that Jesus is the Son of God, God lives in them and they in God. And so we know and rely on the love God has for us.
God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them. This is how love is made complete among us so that we will have confidence on the day of judgment: In this world we are like Jesus. There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.
We love because he first loved us. Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen. And he has given us this command: Anyone who loves God must also love their brother and sister.
Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.
If we had summer all the time, we would NOT appreciate it.
I am sitting outside, just ate a strawberry from my garden, awaiting the peas. This is an early summer morning, no mosquitoes yet, cat is content in her tent, birds are chirping, God is good.
Just ate a strawberry from the container garden but some in the garden are left, the birds left me some. God takes care of those birds, and surely us. Yes, looking forward to the peas soon and I am reminiscing to remember how quickly things go from flower to fruit. How quickly spring sprung when it did. How quickly it will soon get hot and then how quickly it might fade in the fall. But right now, this is a moment to enjoy.
Last night too, went to our local baseball game, free tickets (with food) for a work perk, not mine but my daughter’s! Cool… I was thankfully there as invited yet third wheel for the “youngsters”, but nice chit chat about architecture stuff, tiles ceilings etc, over summer picnic fare of hamburgers and hotdogs and watermelon, included. Interestingly, her firm was the one that originally worked on that ball park… It is so interesting to partake of something that you are not involved with, but yet you can reap then benefits… I sat later right behind home plate for the last inning, cool…
Isn’t that us and time and summer and God’s blessings. We are partakers watching from behind third base or right nearly in the dugout. We witness the world and yet the Lord wants us to be a part of it. He gets us up each morning to “Play Life!” Even if it is no game…
I watched the little kids at the ballpark and remembered 20 years ago, when my little ones wouldn’t sit still… how far we’ve come in just twenty years. I can’t even remember to appreciate what the fullness of time will be like for us…
If there are nine innings in baseball, some boring some exciting, then life moves the same. This inning is summer, soak it in…
Lord, teach us to number our days and stretch the hours too.
May the favor of the Lord our God rest on us; establish the work of our hands for us – yes, establish the work of our hands.
Amen
Psalm 90 NIV
A prayer of Moses the man of God.
Lord, you have been our dwelling place throughout all generations. Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the whole world, from everlasting to everlasting YOU ARE GOD.
You turn people back to dust, saying, “Return to dust, you mortals.” A thousand years in your sight are like a day that has just gone by, or like a watch in the night. Yet you sweep people away in the sleep of death – they are like the new grass of the morning: In the morning it springs up new, but by evening it is dry and withered.
We are consumed by your anger and terrified by your indignation. You have set our iniquities before you, our secret sins in the light of your presence. All our days pass away under your wrath; we finish our years with a moan. Our days may come to seventy years, or eighty, if our strength endures; yet the best of them are but trouble and sorrow, for they quickly pass, and we fly away. If only we knew the power of your anger! Your wrath is as great as the fear that is your due. Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.
Relent, Lord! How long will it be? Have compassion on your servants. Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love, that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days. Make us glad for as many days as you have afflicted us, for as many years as we have seen trouble. May your deeds be shown to your servants, your splendor to their children.
May the favor of the Lord our God rest on us; establish the work of our hands for us – yes, establish the work of our hands.
It is a joy of math, yes math… I’m a forever nerd of course, loved math club in high school and the awesome topics in a club format was a no pressure tickling of the mind, fun from fractions to fractals… Get your pens and pencils out… Protractors and straight edges. That was 40 years ago now, wow. I just used basic math, just now, to figure out how long ago from my age. Basic math of figures, different than the basic math of figuring out life.
Can we figure out life? (And I’m not talking about the number 42 from the hitch-hikers guide to the universe, nerds)… Life tells us things but Jesus says “Don’t worry” – even about the math…
But math is something you do, you need, you figure out with teaching tools AND RULES. So when my youngest started to get serious interested in furthering education, I started grinning ear to ear, heart string to apron string. It’s not about cutting an apron string but myself being strung along on this adventure to further education to jump into life – to have a future. But oh I have to take this ONE DAY AT A TIME, I’M REMINDED BY THE LORD, take life one day at a time. AND it is NOT my college experience but theirs. (and they have to take it one day at a time too!)
SO, before I can jump in delight on any upcoming trip(s) to visit the place(s) or rush to buy my college mom sweatshirt, first we must do math! Oh, there’s a math placement test. OH MATH!!!!
My youngest asked for my help to brush up on learning. I’ve never been SO HAPPY to be a mom-nerd, nerd-mom in my life. It’s like I can’t help you in teaching you how to cook but I CAN discuss fractions and show the old school basic division AND all the tricks of the trade to simplify fractions and do algebraic equations. But the basic truths I’ve applied mathematically, that I would have learned from years and years of nerd-time, like flipping a fraction when dividing became not good enough of an answer to “WHY” not just “HOW”. Hmmm, a high school grad’s question from something they never absorbed but was rote memorization for me, that is tough to teach. And 40yrs later I can’t remember half the why’s (thank God for Google), and only a part of the hows.
Do we feel like we have been relearning the how? In math and life? We all are. Sometimes one just has rules to KNOW and apply. Sometimes we just live life in the basic figuring out of being blessed without understanding all aspects of God’s complex plan.
Figuring out life is more than basic math, it is complex, we don’t always know the HOW. BUT WE DO KNOW THE WHO!!!
THE WHO IS GOD!!!!
Not “WHO is God?” but “God is WHO”. God Himself, who is a mathematician too (of course He is looking at how complex and rule-following patterns are like swirls in a sunflower), God is in charge and will take care of us – not to worry. Need to figure out life? Just rely on God – LOVE is the answer – the solution for the problems. Love was there from before time – and before math.
Math done for real life is everything from money to cutting an pizza. It comes down to figuring out money often as one of the life skills we apply. We do need to pay the rent and put food on the table, yet we worry obsessively over things and not the basics.
Jesus said don’t worry about the basic math of life, just live it.
Jesus said JUST LOVE – don’t hate – Just live – don’t die – be still and still be.
Jesus says “Don’t worry” – even about the math of life…
I urge the reading of Matthew 6:19-34 NIV – where JESUS KNOWS THE MATH AND MEANING OF TREASURES OF LIFE OF LOVE – JESUS KNOWS THE HOW AND WHY AND ‘DON’T WORRIES’ OF IT ALL.
We number our days – and count on HIM…
Amen
—
“So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom”. Psalm 90:12
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Matthew 6 – Jesus teaches:
Treasures in Heaven “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
“The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eyes are unhealthy, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness!
“No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.
Do Not Worry “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?
“And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith? So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
I wrote a meeting reminder on my hand… I told my coworker that I was looking forward to July – the month of VBS – and he was saying how relieved HE WAS that I was not RUNNING a VBS anymore – haha – was it THAT bad? So much that others picked up on the volume of work that stressed THEM out? geez…. I don’t think that it was bad, busy yes, never bad to get focus from the Lord and zone IN…
Well, I know that I had SO MUCH to do during those years – but well YEAH and it was fun too – busy but fun and now I remember it both so far gone in my past and so recently….
And well it was a good chapter in my life – that who knows if someday I will reopen full leader as it was fulfilling – but yeah each year it took much of my summer away – but I don’t regret any moment of it – however this volume of “free time” now is nice too. It is hard sometimes to NOT be in charge but good too, most important is to recharge and do what the Lord needs us (me) to do…
And this year? I told my co-worker, I am not RUNNING any of them but I am HELPING in 3 and a half VBS… yeah well… not running but LOVING VBS… The first one I don’t know yet specifically what I am doing, will have to plug in when asked, second one I think I am doing games in the evening, and third one I know I am doing science and crafts, that’s half planned. and the “half” VBS is just one day with a weekend VBS, I’m looking forward to seeing my friends in Lord’s house over there. It’s never old if new kids are coming.
So yeah, I think it will be a GREAT month – Lord willing – and He often is… Helping but not running and not trying to interfere too much with the running but trying to be an “emeritis” VBS leader almost consultant as well as just seeing where the Lord needs me. One thing for certain – I need the Lord still to direct me, we need guidance and need to be willing to plug in wherever, and these children need the Lord in new ways. Children need the guidance to His Way.
Thank God for God.
In VBS most importantly, I ask you to pray, and God will do all the rest! Please PRAY for the children, parents, volunteers, and leaders. During covid, many VBS was at rest for not knowing what the future held… I recently reopened a closet that I filled and closed and walked away from 6 years ago – but stockpiling essentials and it contains photo displays, tape, chalk, markers, papertowel rolls (LOL), and other VBS “stuff” – which is good stuff. VBS starts with “stuff” and morphs into SOMETHING with the SPIRIT which guides us…
In my old emails, trying to help a new leader but not overwhelm her, I found the old flyers that I put together, the bible buddies and themes drift away from our memories but the scriptures are TRUTHS that never go out of season.And so for VBS this year please pray for leaders of this generation that they want to hear – listening to God to go in a direction, and pray focus right now on getting the kids and getting the volunteers signed up. The supplies are second and the decorations can come third, after you have rolled out your signups, electronic or email or phone call or church outdoor signs… it’s actually true, the more volunteers, the more kids then people can make decorations later. First we pray for the Lord’s blessings in bringing the flock.
Anyways, attached is from my old l training handouts – and that closet – good memory lane – into service – into fun – and into summer (and out of the hot sun)…
Thank you for letting me share – and please do pray for all the leaders and volunteers this year and all the student campers – MAY GOD BLESS THEM ALL.
A prayer for a sunny Sunday (for giving at church this glorious sunny morning after a week or more of rain)
Thank you, Lord, for giving us pause and we pray You know we are taking a moment to PRAISE. We ask for focus and the Holy Spirit to come – we ask to wash the cares of the world away at this moment. Just like you washed all the pollen of annoyance away with these Spring rains… We thank You Lord for growth possibilities even in the mud of the situation of our lives in a broken world.
May we appreciate, Lord, a RESTORATION of us as Your children, our foundness as lost sheep, and Your willingness to give us everything radically , including salvation through our relationship with You Jesus, so that we will grow in your love and be matured. May we know that You are Our Father in a caring and yet firm certain and devoted Way. And may we know that you take care of us in our worldly needs and most especially in our heavenly ones. May we see you guiding us, lifting us up. May we accept Your guiding hand in the Holy Spirit. May we especially realize that You want us to be heirs of God, co-heirs with Christ, and rule with You in Glory.
No matter our present circumstances, rain or sunshine, may we have less earthly complaining and whine – instead turning to You Lord, in appreciation of You as Divine.
Amen
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Romans 8:14-18
For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God. The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry, “Abba, Father.” The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory. I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the GLORY that will be revealed in us.
I am under vows to you, my God; I will present my thank offerings to you. For you have delivered me from death and my feet from stumbling, that I may walk before God in the light of life. Psalm 56:12-13
My Playlist of God songs including “Rescue” – and “This is how I fight my battles”, this was my ‘go-to’ yesterday morning. I woke in (TMI) hot flashes and anxiety, for no good reason, maybe a few frivolous reasons, but not ‘good’ ones. I went from powerless (but got myself going – I mean on a Friday it is easier to say ‘Hey this is Friday’) to feeling more and more empowered throughout the day, with the Lord’s raising. Yes, I was raising from bed, slowly a gaining of better and better momentum, the trickling in of small special moments of appreciation and happiness that streamed into my morning. Appreciative messages, people offering answers to work prayers, good stuff for a Friday. Then when my old boss texted to see if I wanted to go to lunch to a brand new place, a Jewish delicatessen, with 2 OG original gang coworkers, I leapt at the opportunity.
It was surely the Lord Who lifted me up, like the Josh Groban’s version of the song sings, “You Lift Me Up!” to walk on stormy seas. And His people carried me forward. That’s a Lord of Love.
I specifically wrote a devotion about Psalm 56 that down-feeling morning, because I knew ‘if God is for you, who can be against you‘, even in one’s own doldrums or health whatever, hormonal swings and such, good reasons or ‘no good reasons’. And I even told my coworkers and the owner of that new Jewish delicatessen about Psalm 56 helping me as a pick-me-up scripture, and we both said thank God for everything.
In God, whose word I praise, in the Lord, whose word I praise – in God I trust and am not afraid. Ps56:10
I certainly reached for God today – HE WAS THERE.
The Lord comforts and lifts, helps and holds. He does not disappoint!
And writing this, I enjoyed decompression in a moment, outside in the car, door open, with a simple rain sprinkle and cool breeze in the evening after going for ice cream with a friend. No I did not need the ice cream but I certainly just tasted for the sweetness of the day… And the friend and the ice cream were great joy. I can say the Lord delivered ‘my feet from stumbling, that I may walk before God in the light of life.’… YES…
(And a bonus, I got to hold a pudgy cutest soft squishy baby at the ice cream place, Now that IS JOY!!!!! JOY!!! The ice cream, so good, was still so temporary but the JOY is forever!!!)
Amen Lord – Thanks… my tears of gratitude collection is filling up.
Thank God For You are For US.
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This Psalm 57 verses 9 t0 11 is like the Nine One One call request of rescue to the Lord – and then the THANK YOU!!!!
I will PRAISE you, Lord, among the nations; I will sing of you among the peoples. For great is your love, reaching to the heavens; your faithfulness reaches to the skies. Be exalted, O God, above the heavens; let your glory be over all the earth. Psalm 57:9-11
We should repeat this phraseology – God is for ME – and God is for US – with the emphasis of GOD.
God is FOR us – God IS for us – God is for US – GOD is for us…
With God, how can we not be alright – even better than alright – even if it takes endless rough spots to get through. And some people’s rough spots are tougher than others and some people are more strong – but the weakness that leads to depending upon God is the best weakness of all. For GOD IS OUR STRENGTH – and GOD is for us.
David – the king and the shepherd – he went through tough times and whether we relate and whether people have actually tormented us – the prayer can be the same – “Be merciful to me, O God…” David realized that with God and in God that he would be OK – even unto torment and death. I pray we are not there but for those times that we fear – we ALSO can cry out to the Lord – for the times we wonder – for the times we hurt… God collects our tears – God plans our steps – God doesn’t change and always carries us.
For You have delivered my soul from death. Have You not kept my feet from falling, That I may walk before God In the light of the living?
If we are still here today, God has a purpose for us. We can keep going – God is FOR us. Survive, Thrive, Be Alive.
Amen
Psalm 56 NKJV – Prayer for Relief from Tormentors To the Chief Musician. Set to “The Silent Dove in Distant Lands.” A Michtam of David when the Philistines captured him in Gath.
Be merciful to me, O God, for man would swallow me up; Fighting all day he oppresses me. My enemies would hound me all day, For there are many who fight against me, O Most High.
Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in You. In God (I will praise His word), In God I have put my trust; I will not fear. What can flesh do to me?
All day they twist my words; All their thoughts are against me for evil. They gather together, They hide, they mark my steps, When they lie in wait for my life. Shall they escape by iniquity? In anger cast down the peoples, O God!
You number my wanderings; Put my tears into Your bottle; Are they not in Your book? When I cry out to You, Then my enemies will turn back; This I know, because God is for me. In God (I will praise His word), In the Lord (I will praise His word), In God I have put my trust; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?
Vows made to You are binding upon me, O God; I will render praises to You, For You have delivered my soul from death. Have You not kept my feet from falling, That I may walk before God In the light of the living?
In my recent travels to Canada, the probably only frowning face I encountered was at the orthodox church where I went to purchase candles to light in memory of my friend. Yes there was sadness in reverence of the mini service going on for remembrance of people who have passed away, but the frown on the one lady behind the counter became that classic grumpy frumpy face known universal, saying: “10 dollars minimum” to tap my debit card. So no, not upset of me being unknowing of customs like covering my head in the building for the service, but of customers covering the service fees for the banking transactions (trust me I was thrilled that I saw the tap machine like at every restaurant and gift shop). We are fighting an economic war more than anything in earthly life, aren’t we – universally.
Yeah, which war are we fighting, being disgruntled with – Spiritual? or with Sanctions for earthly living? I quickly grabbed more candles to bring myself to 10 dollars minimum, and donned the scarf borrowed from the very sweet lady who was blessed to see me visiting. See it is better to humble ourselves and keep fighting the spiritual war with prayers and praise and the power of Jesus. The war we wage against evil is continuous in all our heavenly and earthly realms. We must keep praying to fight that war by LOVING, by watching, by being in the right place to be the nice person and the friendly face of forgiveness and grace.
So, no I was not put off by that grumpy face – which you know as well – that is the price of customer service often – the customer always thinks they are right and they aren’t. It was OK. We must be aware of our customs and that since we are covered by grace from above we are covered by grace to each other.
Covered and covered. I got the candles and the LIGHT for them. I was covered in grace with my nice scarf borrowed and covered in humility for being able to enter the beautiful sanctuary as a foreigner and covered in hope with the LOVE of Jesus which we all shared. And with extra candles I added extra prayers.
And oh the lilacs – not native to this area but still smelling sweet – are like us – here for a short time – not native to this earth but of heaven – and still smelling sweet by the covering of Christ – “But thanks be to God, who always leads us as captives in Christ’s triumphal procession and uses us to spread the aroma of the knowledge of him everywhere. For we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing. To the one we are an aroma that brings death; to the other, an aroma that brings life. And who is equal to such a task? Unlike so many, we do not peddle the word of God for profit. On the contrary, in Christ we speak before God with sincerity, as those sent from God.” 2nd Cor 2:14-17
Let us keep fighting God’s War in prayer and praise and BELIEVING!
Loved my travel – to CANADA!!!! The most amazing difference IS: everyone in Canada is SO FRIENDLY – takes a while to get used to!
The traffic although thick was courteous and nothing like my rush hour back home here – whew – I never saw anyone cut anyone off in traffic there! The people AND the traffic so considerate – and that matches the scriptures of compassion – Colossians 3:12 – “Therefore as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourself with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.”
And the spiritual connections I saw, biggest one I felt, was that I was just in the right space for the right conversations and had a good time too – enjoying just travelling and sight seeing and especially meeting people. So True! the people so kind were also so diverse – I stood in line with a couple and their sweet spunky little daughter and we chatted how the people are so nice and not to believe the media hype about the static between the countries – just get out there and travel…
The quote from Mark Twain so appropriate here – about travel – “Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness, and many of our people need it sorely on these accounts.” Mark Twain wrote: “It liberates the vandal to travel — you never saw a bigoted, opinionated, stubborn, narrow-minded, self-conceited, almighty mean man in your life but he had stuck in one place since he was born and thought God made the world and dyspepsia and bile for his especial comfort and satisfaction.”
It is good to travel!! to LOVE – to meet up with God’s People…. “Therefore as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourself with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.” They are patient with us and we can be with all….
I am remembering a friend today – for VBS awaits us in a couple months. My friend Miss Bonnie is now passed away but as a “saint-becoming” she is remembered, not because she was perfect as she was not, but because she was perfecting – and ultimately Jesus perfects us with His Love and covering of all our sins. We will shine because of Jesus… SO here is a piece I wrote of a glittery cross from VBS at church 10 years ago… It is a cross that I now have in my house and will bring back to VBS this year – bringing Miss Bonnie’s memory alive again “in spirit”…
as for the writing? this was PURE PROCESSING 10 years ago – wow – and worth reading to feel the passion of the passionate faith God was putting into me…
Freaky Cross, Passionate PEACE, 13 JULY 2015
Well that was kind of freaky… I was at church 10 o’clock at night, dropping off stuff for Vacation Bible School and I look up at in the window and a glittery cross is twisting and shining sparkly, moving with the air conditioner?… from the other side of the room?… I took a photo and video… Freaky… a freaky cross comfort…
I am usually not freaked out alone in the building, but tonight when I heard those normal creaks, I just had to tell myself it’s nothing… When I went upstairs to the choir loft to drop off my stuff, I immediately noticed the giant wood cross I draped in white fabric across the room with the outside lights shining on it… Ah comfort.
Then I noticed the old heavy brass cross that we ignore in the choir loft too much, I move it around like it’s looking for a home… Ah comfort.
As I went back down the stairs, I looked to the wall, there used to be a cloth cross tapestry there, it’s moved but that image on the wall is imprinted in my brain… Ah comfort.
I didn’t look for any of these crosses, they just were the first things to catch my eye… To absorb my fear I was able to spy a VBS phrase: “God had the power to comfort… Hold on”.
Freaky or not, I’ll keep looking for God, HE will comfort me always…
Freaky or not, I’ll keep noticing crosses when I am not looking for them, Jesus saves me, Jesus makes me sane…
It’s not that I will forget that God saved me, it’s just that God wants me to notice the cross over and over again, He is always retraining my eye on the only comfort, hope, joy and peace I need… I do thankfully have one of those strong memories that remembers the good and fades out the bad… Reminding me all the good in my life came from God.
God decided I needed daily reminders to look to Jesus’ loving arms hung on the cross… Everyday anew He wants me to feel like I could hold Jesus outstretched in my loving arms, strongly lifting Him off the cross and then His stiff body melts in my arms as He is resurrected into LIFE… His body dark becoming glittering and glowing… Then He hugs me tight and holds me up as my body goes limp, enabling Him to polish me, as my soul goes from tarnished twinkling to sparkly bright with His bold light emanating thru me as HE lifts me ever closer to Heaven…
His passion unmatched. God’s love never-ending, never tarnished, never dull.
God is moving the passion of Christ’s LOVE inside me, stirring my soul, setting sparkles in my heart that will catch HIS light and emanate out.
The Holy Spirit is blowing me gently, turning me to catch the light. Christ is shining thru me and He turns my soul passionate. His sparkling cross wills me into passionate PEACE.
A story of Moses must be the best reminder to listen to God and stop wondering about wandering – but listen to the Lord’s Plan over our own.
This was the therapeutic writing #704 when I had to close down my old VBS only to have a great sermon lesson about Moses and then stepping into a new VBS about: MOSES, yeah cool…
VBS CEO Moses, Give up your Staff, it’s His Staff Anyway, 02JUL2019
A MAJOR processing devotion to how God changed my role – how He is using me NOW, and about me leaving my old role as the VBS CEO, as I let it go…
Over and over I’m being reminded that I am handing my VBS staff over to be the Lord’s staff, which they already were and are… just like some kids and volunteers (including me) are going over to an Africa VBS theme experience at a friend’s church next week – the perfect tag line for all of us is: “When life changes, God is good”
I had a $2 African photo box sitting unused ever since springtime. How fitting that now the few VBS core volunteers, who had fought for a “Roar” theme over “Power Lab” theme, are all now going to be able to go serve in a ROAR VBS! Yeah, hilarious Lord…
They are changing locations for their children’s ministry focus. I got to help coordinate to get them to a personal “Promise land” VBS theme of the year. You parted the seas and I pointed my staff in that direction. Actually Your staff, Lord, Your staff not mine.
“When life is unfair, God is good”…
“When life is scary, God is good”…
“When life changes, God is good”…
“When life is sad, God is good”…
“When life is good, God is good”…
How blessed… I am calmly watching my team dissipate into the future as if I was a retiring CEO. I had to close my company, lay them off and lay myself off too…
I feel to be the retired CEO of this VBS, I was the transition leader for just until You, Lord, made way and I settled the loose ends, finished my cleaning and moved ahead… I moved on because You assured me Lord that everybody will be OK. I am OK.
But Moses, I’m in tears now realizing that GOD HIMSELF made me realize that I am just like Moses….. that’s why a recent Moses sermon really touched me… It really did – Moses had to give up control of his walking stick staff to God’s needs for it… Moses had to move his/His people – I too move to where the Lord is calling me. Like Moses at the end, I will stop and rest and know God loves me and see everyone move on…
So don’t worry about me, He found me a place to rest. I’m uber blessed to rest, learn, SING. I know God pulled me to where I am… Oh, my shock is that I get to feel His peace in where I am today. Peace.
Now I am watching HIS people go into their future – to serve HIM!
It is a shockingly accurate description in scripture of how God knows EVERY hair on our heads – He knows how to shock me too – I wrote this title: “VBS CEO Moses, give up your staff” – and then GASPED at the wordplay of the word STAFF – I give up my VBS people staff – Moses gives up his staff to be HIS staff, the physical stick – and that’s the crux of the sermon I just heard – WOW. Yes, scripture that “sticks with you” is meant for you to find how it pertains to your own situation… oh…. amazing…
I myself have future opportunities galore, I’m first going to be sewing dresses for Africa, another skill that the Lord gifted me – I have a serger, a sewing machine, a skill to share, and yet another gifted decompression opportunity while I remain busy as a bee… Perfect Lord…
It is summer – and it is VBS season. This has given me direction and hope. I don’t want it to go fast at all – I want to savor the summer. I want to spend a lot of decompression time AT THE BEACH. I put my feet in the sand just the other day – and took in the shade reading – taking Sunday afternoon to decompress and relax. I think I need to pre-rest for the pre-busy summer. The theme of summer is SUMMER and the re-focus into summer that has invigorated me, is not just a little bit of vacation but a lot of Vacation Bible School, yeah!
VBS is a great way for us to listen to Jesus where He tells us where to catch His fish… Just like Jesus told the disciple fishermen where to put their nets for the greatest fish collection, we need to see VBS as a great opportunity to bless the children who need to hear about Jesus, we don’t want these children to be sheep without a Shepherd. In John 21, Jesus said, “Throw your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some.” When they did, they were unable to haul the net in because of the LARGE number of fish.
VBS serves these fish and helps them both keep swimming in growth and to be caught up in the blessings of Jesus.
If you remember 5-6 years ago, it was a tumultuous challenge and change for us, for me, having to do with planning VBS. My boat was tipped over – I felt shipwrecked but rescued by Jesus (which coincidentally was the last VBS I had done the year prior). Yup, that following year was the year I had to cancel VBS. And without dwelling on the LONG backstory, I have to state that it WAS a shame in continual processing – and then move on. I have to state that instead of running the event, I ran the closure and the cleaning out of a whole choir loft of supplies – and the moving forward of me and others to another VBS that summer. I moved forward in many ways. And I moved forward in NOT leaving a church but expanding my church families – I love ALL my church families and I think that this was purposeful for me as an encourager to find the people where they were and are.
Remember. we really have to go where we are led and I felt led. We are told to put our hands to the plow and keep looking forward, not back. So YES, the Lord filled me and still fills me with mission and purpose and logistics and you name it – and got me through it all – it was a process that summer that still hurts and yet still invigorates my faith as I saw where I was rescued by Jesus. It also reminds that what was once so routine showed to become temporary and finite and done… Move forward the Lord said – and He showed me… Move forward, and remember it was and is always NOT about me. It is about serving the Lord.
So, as I mentioned, I found blessing in helping another VBS that summer, and after covid, I found many many other places to help. It really is now my time to ask you for your help, for you to come to my VBS events or to go to help at ANY VBS ANYWHERE near you. God’s children are everywhere, so why not us?!!! God needs us to “feed His sheep”… And myself? I am both going to serve, such a blessing, in a new VBS never run, as well as a renewed VBS at my original VBS church – not as the leader but as a helper – back again with my friends and with new friends. MOST IMPORTANTLY, at VBS, WE GET TO HANG OUT WITH OUR FRIEND JESUS.
AND the benefit of moving forward from that time, is that I must know that God moved at least something into good – and that was to be now connected with MANY VBS’s MANY churches, working with those friends from other churches. So, personally this year, Lord-willing and Lord-helping, I’m volunteering with THREE maybe FOUR VBS events with my friends’ churches. How will I do this? One day at a time. The first one will be in a week that I am taking as actual vacation and do VBS in the morning and relax in the afternoon (at the beach woohoo). Then the other 2 are evening VBS’s. I pray for fruitfulness, I pray to see the Lord working. I pray the children and teens and volunteers to be enriched in faith.
First I’m going into Egypt with Joseph’s journey, into the sand as that one will be at a beach church with my vacationing there too with sandy, singing, swimming, sweet sisters! Then if I have time, that weekend I’m helping with one day of ROAR, where Moses pulls out God’s people FROM Egypt – with a passover and a parting of the red sea! Wow what timing!!! Then the next Sunday is Australia! Starting with Moses again and into learning about Jesus. Then 1 week later walking with Jesus as our TRUE NORTH in an Alaska wilderness theme… Isn’t that crazy? I’ll be ALL OVER THE WORLD in many continents and contexts in just 3 weeks time span, Lord Willing, with ONE Subaru driving… Driving under and with ONE direction: Jesus… Jesus said to Peter and to us: “FOLLOW ME” – that is what we are to do, follow Jesus, taking it ONE DAY AT A TIME.
Jesus Lord… You said: “FEED MY LAMBS’ – to Peter and to us (see John 21). I just heard this Gospel reading in the inaugural mass of the Pope, and yes, I appreciate this – Peter was told that his life will be charged and challenged to FOLLOW JESUS. How did Peter do this? ONE DAY AT A TIME.
How can we serve the Lord and live our lives? Serve Jesus serving VBS, the Word and the World, ONE DAY AT A TIME!
VBS is the best part of summer – and the year!
Join us! Wherever you are!
Amen
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John 21
Jesus and the Miraculous Catch of Fish Afterward Jesus appeared again to his disciples, by the Sea of Galilee. It happened this way: Simon Peter, Thomas (also known as Didymus), Nathanael from Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two other disciples were together. “I’m going out to fish,” Simon Peter told them, and they said, “We’ll go with you.” So they went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing.
Early in the morning, Jesus stood on the shore, but the disciples did not realize that it was Jesus.
He called out to them, “Friends, haven’t you any fish?”
“No,” they answered.
He said, “Throw your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some.” When they did, they were unable to haul the net in because of the large number of fish.
Then the disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, “It is the Lord!” As soon as Simon Peter heard him say, “It is the Lord,” he wrapped his outer garment around him (for he had taken it off) and jumped into the water. The other disciples followed in the boat, towing the net full of fish, for they were not far from shore, about a hundred yards. When they landed, they saw a fire of burning coals there with fish on it, and some bread.
Jesus said to them, “Bring some of the fish you have just caught.” So Simon Peter climbed back into the boat and dragged the net ashore. It was full of large fish, 153, but even with so many the net was not torn. Jesus said to them, “Come and have breakfast.” None of the disciples dared ask him, “Who are you?” They knew it was the Lord. Jesus came, took the bread and gave it to them, and did the same with the fish. This was now the third time Jesus appeared to his disciples after he was raised from the dead.
Jesus Reinstates Peter When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?”
“Yes, Lord,” he said, “you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.”
Again Jesus said, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” He answered, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Take care of my sheep.”
The third time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love me?” He said, “Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.”
Jesus said, “Feed my sheep. Very truly I tell you, when you were younger you dressed yourself and went where you wanted; but when you are old you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go.” Jesus said this to indicate the kind of death by which Peter would glorify God. Then he said to him, “Follow me!”
Peter turned and saw that the disciple whom Jesus loved was following them. (This was the one who had leaned back against Jesus at the supper and had said, “Lord, who is going to betray you?”) When Peter saw him, he asked, “Lord, what about him?”
Jesus answered, “If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You must follow me.” Because of this, the rumor spread among the believers that this disciple would not die. But Jesus did not say that he would not die; he only said, “If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you?”
This is the disciple who testifies to these things and who wrote them down. We know that his testimony is true.
Jesus did many other things as well. If every one of them were written down, I suppose that even the whole world would not have room for the books that would be written.
I turned over to allow myself the luxury of more sleep, the cat woke me up like normal 545, and I think that when the cat sees my eyes moving in rapid motion for dreaming is when she comes in for the prodding (head motion to bite me gently as her communication device) to wake back up. I turned over so she couldn’t see my eyes. And yes I got two extra hours of sleep.
I spend a lot of time trying to interpret this cat. But the truth is she probably spends more time trying to interpret me. And she gets her big naps in when we leave for the day, otherwise she feels like she’s on duty to watch us. I thought it was hard to walk around the house to not wake up babies – well the cat is just the same.
So rest – and then a plethora of activities today planned around the house and outside – I am grateful for the reminders, especially on Saturday, to rest physically and rest emotionally and rest spiritually. Then spring into action or at least slide slowly into the day. I do have lots today, good stuff, but it’s best to STRATEGIZE first with the Lord. Sometimes I am in the crisis mode: “how am I going to get it all done (and not wake the cat)”, and sometimes in the questioning mode: “what on earth should I be doing, Lord?”, and sometimes in the mode of “forgive me Lord, I am just going to sit here and do nothing (except watch out for that cat)”
The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. I went for a deep dive on Psalm 23, which I’m going to include in my sermon prep for tomorrow, Sunday. I found a great website reminder for the scripture – that God gives us the rest first – then we proceed in life’s rest of life… We are to rest in Him then let Him work through us. YES! The quote from BibleINFO website said in short: The restored soul is led into righteousness, and then work – we are not saved by our works but our work is done because we are saved…
When we read about spiritual gifts – we have to realize that our joy is FROM Him, our strength is FROM Him, our generous nature is FROM Him. We are not to be goodie two shoes but good for His work from His prodding from His rest. Then we can do “all things through Christ” – and that is what my bracelet says – the great scripture reminder from the letter to the Phillipians 4:13. The bracelet sat next to my bed and when I woke (after those extra 2 hours) I saw it clearly.
Now I want to feel it clearly – both the strength through Christ and the REST – and rest in His Plan – and for His Way – and start my day.
Keep Moving – and Keep going THROUGH CHRIST.
Amen
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever. Psalm 23
Please pray for a gentleman named Joe, a friend of a friend. Joe is having eye surgery today (Friday) after an accident. More surgery is ahead as there is a possibility of regaining his sight in the eye. Prayers appreciated! Lord, please heal him!!! Holy Spirit Help!
“When we need help, trust Jesus.” – on day 5 of VBS “True North” brings us to the scriptures where Jesus asks for the advocate to help when He ascends, God sends the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is fully God, God’s Holy Help for us, always pointing back to Jesus as savior, as model, as teacher, as the Word. All 3 in our heads as one might be the swirling spin of winds and flames coming afresh. That was the disciples too – that first day – they asked “what does this mean?” – they wondered too – they needed Holy Spirit Help – We need Holy Spirit Help. We both work with the Lord and in the Lord. We need the Lord and the Lord, the Holy Spirit, God wants us to build upon the Kingdom by teaching about Jesus’s Good News. If you are in the swirl, keep trusting Jesus!
It’s interesting that we “end the week” for Vacation Bible School talking about the Holy Spirit, because that’s actually how we start: it is the Holy Spirit that gets us moving, whether thinking – whether praying – whether wondering – whether in action. We pray for Holy Spirit Help and Jesus and the Spirit and God reach into our wondering. We talk about the Holy Spirit on day 5 because we know Jesus as a timeline and His coming and fulfilment of scripture as He already was and He already is and He will come again. That is a wonder but TRUST Jesus, we have Him to Help.
When we Wonder, TRUST Jesus.
When we feel alone, TRUST Jesus.
When we feel powerless, TRUST Jesus.
When we need HOPE, TRUST Jesus.
When we need help, TRUST Jesus.
I appreciated this pre-preparing of VBS scriptures for my understanding and our walk – for our day to day living, we NEED Jesus – and He never leaves us alone – we can rely upon the HOLY SPIRIT HELP to bring us back around to the wondering and the TRUSTING. Now we can keep walking IN the wonder – not alone – with His Power – in Hope – and with HOLY SPIRIT HELP.
We have HOLY SPIRIT HELP to LOVE, LIVE, and keep moving!!!
Amen (and Lord – please help those who still need to see You working in their every day lives)
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Matthew 28:16-20 Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
Acts 2:1-12 The Holy Spirit Comes at Pentecost When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.
Now there were staying in Jerusalem God-fearing Jews from every nation under heaven. When they heard this sound, a crowd came together in bewilderment, because each one heard their own language being spoken. Utterly amazed, they asked: “Aren’t all these who are speaking Galileans? Then how is it that each of us hears them in our native language? Parthians, Medes and Elamites; residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya near Cyrene; visitors from Rome (both Jews and converts to Judaism); Cretans and Arabs—we hear them declaring the wonders of God in our own tongues!” Amazed and perplexed, they asked one another, “What does this mean?”
I revisit yesterday in my day 3 vbs prep scriptures, the Centurion who believes in Jesus and asks for healing for His Servant without Jesus physically travelling, we marvel at the HOPE, the faith in the centurion, a gentile, knowing God-power and knowing the lack of his worthiness and yet that Jesus is the Way. That’s an attitude for us as we see day 4 scriptures for VBS (yes, for each kit of Group, Day 4 is Jesus’s death and resurrection). Our attitude EVERYDAY should be of HOPE.
HOPE in Jesus and asking Him for His Power – it’s a fulfillment of the HOPE of the world – Jesus under direction from God, not shying away, fulfillment of the scriptures, and the Way of our forever forgiveness too. Jesus accomplishes all this, and we are blessed to share this HOPE, the LIGHT, the JOY with the world, especially at VBS. We need not shy away from this amazing opportunity to share Jesus in the Way!
Jesus is the HOPE, then, now, and to come.
The Bible lesson we know, the prophecy may be new to many, that Jesus fulfilled his coming (see the Isaiah 41 scripture quoted in Matthew 12), and that Jesus will come again. We are not done yet! More Jesus Joy is in our Faith Future! This is what VBS brings to the next generation and reinforces for us.
Jesus is our JOY in this Journey! SING PRAISE!!!
Amen
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God’s Chosen Servant – Matthew 12:15-21
[After healing a man,] A large crowd followed him, and he healed all who were ill. He warned them not to tell others about him. This was to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet Isaiah: “Here is my servant whom I have chosen, the one I love, in whom I delight; I will put my Spirit on him, and he will proclaim justice to the nations.He will not quarrel or cry out; no one will hear his voice in the streets. A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out, till he has brought justice through to victory. In his name the nations will put their hope.”
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Isaiah 42:1-13 NIV
The Servant of the Lord “Here is my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen one in whom I delight; I will put my Spirit on him, and he will bring justice to the nations. He will not shout or cry out, or raise his voice in the streets. A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out. In faithfulness he will bring forth justice; he will not falter or be discouraged till he establishes justice on earth. In his teaching the islands will put their hope.”
This is what God the Lord says— the Creator of the heavens, who stretches them out, who spreads out the earth with all that springs from it, who gives breath to its people, and life to those who walk on it: “I, the Lord, have called you in righteousness; I will take hold of your hand. I will keep you and will make you to be a covenant for the people and a light for the Gentiles, to open eyes that are blind, to free captives from prison and to release from the dungeon those who sit in darkness.
“I am the Lord; that is my name! I will not yield my glory to another or my praise to idols. See, the former things have taken place, and new things I declare; before they spring into being I announce them to you.”
Song of Praise to the Lord Sing to the Lord a new song, his praise from the ends of the earth, you who go down to the sea, and all that is in it, you islands, and all who live in them. Let the wilderness and its towns raise their voices; let the settlements where Kedar lives rejoice. Let the people of Sela sing for joy; let them shout from the mountaintops. Let them give glory to the Lord and proclaim his praise in the islands. The Lord will march out like a champion, like a warrior he will stir up his zeal; with a shout he will raise the battle cry and will triumph over his enemies.
I was grateful to have a good ride home south from home north. And I took the back way skipped the major highway most of this trip just because. I stopped for my favorite travelling ice cream at a farm dairy and looked over my VBS booklet. It’s good to let your mind wander in wonderful views. It mimics a vacation mindset – and honestly I feel like a need a big vacation – and yet small vacation doses are suitable for now. We restart our days knowing our identity. We need to know where we stand – often it is in our walking with the Lord that we find this the best. A fulfilling faith focus.
My friend just did 5 days hiking on the El Camino. It is something I know I would enjoy – a trip to find myself deeper in faith – And yet I wonder if I could just drive it, like I drive these most beautiful winding roads in the northeast… Hmmm… Could I take a tour of just plan sitting – that would be a faith find too…. Well, no matter where we are, we best take the time to decompress… then fill up with the good stuff!!!
When is the right time? Well, in this season it is now PREP time for Vacation Bible School – and my first day reading the day one scripture for my second VBS – TRUE NORTH – and the TRUE part comes with Jesus being TRUE – TRULY GOD – TRULY HUMAN – TRULY OURS…
And the first day story is of John the Baptist – of Jesus’s identity revealed – of God’s Promise fulfilment – and of the appreciation and recognition of IDENTY in a TRUE NORTH faith-compass pointing moment to when God came down as the Dove and said “This is my beloved Son” – TRUE STORY – Matthew 3 – read it all below.
John knew his identity and that of the deliverer in the Messiah – but not yet knowing the visual of his cousin to walk in – (even if we know that the Holy Spirit in John knew Jesus when John was in his mother’s womb) – and John could tell the people: “I baptize you with water for repentance. But after me comes one who is more powerful than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire”
Jesus knew His identity and was likely aching to be the moment when the world would start to know – not because of a “Look at me” moment – but because He knew the world would be saved thru Him – and therefore He wanted to teach the Way – the Truth – the TRUENESS. Jesus wanted and wants us to repent and to be more forgiving and be more understanding and to understand our place.
I will start to “dive in” to Vacation Bible School work – and this is a GOOD PLACE – because this is IDENTITY and the drive and true calling to be working with Jesus for Jesus for the kids and their families – and to know the WAY…
May we all find our fulfilling faith focus in HIS WAY – Our Faith Walk is just beginning – new each day…
Amen
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John the Baptist Prepares the Way – Matthew 3 NIV In those days John the Baptist came, preaching in the wilderness of Judea and saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.” This is he who was spoken of through the prophet Isaiah:
“A voice of one calling in the wilderness, ‘Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.’”
John’s clothes were made of camel’s hair, and he had a leather belt around his waist. His food was locusts and wild honey. People went out to him from Jerusalem and all Judea and the whole region of the Jordan. Confessing their sins, they were baptized by him in the Jordan River.
But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming to where he was baptizing, he said to them: “You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the coming wrath? Produce fruit in keeping with repentance. And do not think you can say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father.’ I tell you that out of these stones God can raise up children for Abraham. The ax is already at the root of the trees, and every tree that does not produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire.
“I baptize you with water for repentance. But after me comes one who is more powerful than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. His winnowing fork is in his hand, and he will clear his threshing floor, gathering his wheat into the barn and burning up the chaff with unquenchable fire.”
The Baptism of Jesus Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to be baptized by John. But John tried to deter him, saying, “I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?” Jesus replied, “Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness.” Then John consented.
As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.”
It is a blessing to come up north for Mother’s day weekend to celebrate my mom, to absorb the spring again (40 degrees rain became 60 plus sunshine), and to get some projects done! Yeah, my mom doesn’t sit very long, we get up and go! (Saturday was first 9am cleanup session at preparing the camp for special needs kids for summer programs, it’s a camp my family has helped with for 50 plus years – beautiful in the rolling hills. )
(I’ll be traveling south later today for home, and my kids to have dinner with me! )
This repeat spring for me (there’s like a 3 week difference in our seasons and temperatures) meant I was getting a chance to revisit my favorite flower in forget-me-nots, as seen in my family’s backyard under the redbuds, as well as smell the lilacs, which are much more prominent up here. I missed the whole season in home south. I caught it up here! Mmmm…
These are forget-me-nots of the seasons. And these are times to remember the forget-me-nots of mother’s day and forget-me-nots of the Lord as our Shepherd gathering us but also letting us wander. Our mom’s sacrifice in love to bear us, raise us, keep track of us, inspire us and keep important memories alive. Moms also let us go do our own thing – cutting apron strings but keeping the kitchen open. My mom reminds us of our good times and the sacrifices seem obvious.
The Lord? The Lord never wants us to “be independent”, He does want us to both “forget-me-not” in His previous care and forget-me-not in everything in front of us. The Lord will continue to sacrifice and Shepherd. The Lord raises us as children not to be forgetful but to be trusting. TRUST – that is the TRUTH of motherhood too – trusting children to be OK. Thanks mom – thanks Lord…
May we love our moms and our Lord today, and BE THANKFUL!!!
AMEN
Psalm 126 NKJV
A Joyful Return to Zion – A Song of Ascents. When the Lord brought back the captivity of Zion, We were like those who dream.
Then our mouth was filled with laughter, And our tongue with singing. Then they said among the nations, “The Lord has done great things for them.” The Lord has done great things for us, And we are glad.
Bring back our captivity, O Lord, As the streams in the South.
Those who sow in tears Shall reap in joy. He who continually goes forth weeping, Bearing seed for sowing, Shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, Bringing his sheaves with him.
For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
I’ve been thinking about LOVE that is unconditional from God – no conditions – no barriers even – when Jesus died, the curtain tore and no man can re-hang what already hung – the death of separation – the death of sin’s separation – the dead bury the dead because the LIVING will always LIVE in God’s LOVE.
I witnessed this week, a gift with conditions – simple enough – my friend who is moving is asking for anyone who wants the good metal pile on her lawn to take down her shed of metal – there is a condition to the gift even though it is all free – it requires some work from someone. No judgment here except for not being sure if she has time to wait for this to happen – that is my opinion and not scriptural, just observation. Those who salvage, work.
This “condition” is so NOT like the Lord, the Lord already did the work and holds no conditions for His FREE and FREELY Given salvation to those who will accept it. Yes, God salvaged with an ultimate salvager – but this planning from the beginning was to give perfect love to the imperfect. Love that is then given without separation or conditions, love complete to give and completely given. UNCONDITIONAL LOVE.
Here is my poem on LOVE – unconditional LOVE:
LOVE, no strings attached,
Except those weaving the net from the Fisher of men.
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LOVE, given UNCONDITIONALLY.
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God’s Passion finds you wherever you are, and loves you.
God’s Compassion finds you wherever you went, and brings you back to love.
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God’s UNCONDITIONAL love accepts you in your state.
God’s Conditioning love makes your soil more fertile so you will be more fruitful.
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God’s unconventional LOVE knows no bounds.
God’s convention is to love everyone.
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God’s simple love is complex.
God’s complete love is complex-ily given simply.
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God made love complete-able.
God IS love made complete.
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God is unconditional in His Love,
God’s condition IS love.
God is love.
God is.
Amen
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Roman’s 8:24-39
For we were saved in this hope, but hope that is seen is not hope; for why does one still hope for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we eagerly wait for it with perseverance.
Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. Now He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God.
And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren. Moreover whom He predestined, these He also called; whom He called, these He also justified; and whom He justified, these He also glorified.
God’s Everlasting Love
What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things? Who shall bring a charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies. Who is he who condemns? It is Christ who died, and furthermore is also risen, who is even at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written: “For Your sake we are killed all day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.”
Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
The waiter should have taken two trips, the plates were super heavy and not stacked for the long trip through the garden cafe. Or perhaps not have stopped by our table while carrying the load, and just stayed single minded going back into the restaurant. Because our sidebar conversation about putting the credit cards in his apron may have set him off-kilter, distracted, and he was off-kilter already, as I mentioned, with the big heavy plates. Not the action but the conversation. Well an averted disaster as I grabbed plates as he set them down on our open table. It would have been bad, with broken plates on rocks, but we didn’t have that happen, crisis averted. I suggested that why not scrape the plates camp-style and stack, but he was too embarrassed to absorb that info. He also was trying to explain that he couldn’t take the bill and credit cards, each table had to go up front, OK… OK and I’m sorry and grateful for the whole situation of almost dropped plates truly grateful for not dropped plates. This is taking two looks at the same situation. One trip, two views. Grateful and well, grateful. Graced and Graceful.
One trip – the waiter’s view of pain and embarrassment, let alone strain of those plates (I mean like 8 really thick plates) – and my view of helping or of two views ‘almost crashed’ and ‘not crashed’ – of helpful and not helpful – and my ultimate view of NOT spoiling the idyllic view, and atmosphere in the garden, in the shaded sunshine of a place I always wanted to be. Grace in all things.
There were ladies who lunched who came with their bicycles surely coming off the nearby trail. Their bicycles so neatly lined up. Such a photo in my mind that I took one with my phone camera. Two views to one trip – my photo and my mind, which the view with our eyes always seems better. And these ladies had a great view of their bicycles outside plus surely a great view riding. They also had a return trip in front of them after a big lunch. I hope they had a wonderful time, I’m knowing we were all appreciative of being outside. Imagine a view of dreaming enjoyably about being in their shoes with this privilege, but then not needing to be and zipping in the car more easily. Privilege either view… Graced and Grateful.
This scene within a short hour provided many views , including memory of the situation. I think we should walk through each day with two views, ours and how the Lord views our steps and missteps. We know that He will guide us. And we know that he will forgive us because his love is unconditional, no condition for granting love. Privilege in both views. Graced and Graceful.
We are very conditional as we view the world, make plans and bargains, and fail to just sit and enjoy the present. What if we were to take God’s view, having already been given grace to then keep moving through the day KNOWING that. Then being able to share that. No need for hurt memories or second trips rehashing ‘what ifs’… What if we sat in GRACE like being in the shade on a sunny day, and just said THANK YOU LORD. One trip, two views. BOTH IN GRACE. Let us not mix them up. Focus on things GIFTED from above.
Grace and Grateful – and Graceful to share…
AMEN
If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. Colossians 3:1-2
I needed quiet again to put my thoughts down – after my day started without the quiet time to process and write – I had the idea for writing – but no, not the right time. Now I do – but late – and 16 hours after I would normally write. I am OK – now that I finally have the moment.
My thought this morning was about the reverse spiritual aging we must do – that if we are best as little children in God – appreciating and less baggage carrying and more straightforward – then perhaps our spiritual aging is in reverse – like growing younger… This is not like TV’s Mork and Mindy’s visit from a baby in Jonathan Winters – that was funny comedy where he arrived as old in years but infantile in thoughts. And this is not about growing younger and less likely to make mistakes – we all make them at every age – hopefully we learn from them. I am thinking that the Lord knows that we can not fully know at our oldest of age how spiritually mature but youthful we must be. And that is where GRACE comes in. We should know – we try to know – we try to achieve – but we are stuck in humanness and the hard shell of ignorant clouded views. We can’t have a “can’t get there from here” attitude either – we HAVE to get there from here – we have to get to the place where we give the Lord the participation – and we follow His plan as well as perceive His plan more easily. Or at least we listed better to directions without arguing.
It took me a while today to get here – to complete my plan for pause – and it will take me and take us our whole lives (whether long or short) to get ourselves “back to the nest” – especially when we play that grown up game of “to the NEXT” rather than “to the NEST”…
Now I am exhausted from the day – but in all the topsy turvy of the day I can now say that within it, I saw and embraced God’s Way.
Perceiving God’s Plan – that is a job for each day.
Long ago I learned from your statutes that you established them to last forever.
The papers in my friend’s basement of old records (like most people I know, we accumulate piles and piles) were up to 20 years of receipts and important statements from the mail – important once but not anymore – but this little paper, color blue, stood out – it rose to the top of my eye – it was a scripture – carefully written and preserved: “But You are near, Lord, and all your commands are true.” Psalm 119:151, so true and so preserved – even if the paper is tattered and then I got rain on it – and then noticed the fading number caused me to research the whole psalm – helping me find the true statement that in Psalm 151 – the Lord makes His Commands LAST – as HIS Word LASTS!!!!
Stuff – we move that around – but paper – a blessing and a curse – Shredding is a blessing for personal information – stuff you don’t want lying around the trash will accumulate until you find a shredding option. And you have to sort it out – like the most important stuff once is the most important to destroy later. HOWEVER, the Lord’s Word never returns void to Him – so what He has moving around is for a purpose – and then He can let it go too – because He and His Word is eternal.
Right now, personally I am making MORE paper, I am copying 2 months of electronic writings from my blog page back into a Word document format for making a PDF and then printing via an office superstore. (No I don’t print them at home or work, but I take the leap of financial faith that paying 10 dollars for a month of writing, printed in duplicate, in really good quality and by a convenient way – that it works for me) So, YES, printing is important for me – especially because I believe paper will last and be passed on… My blog will last for a while but you never know… So, I am thinking that at my funeral someday, maybe it is best to display my writings over any other of my knick-knacks or junk… Yeah – my writing is my NOT SECRET writing – my writing is from my reading – my expression of my personal study – but also that I try to take too much personal out of it and talk about Holy Spirit driven-ness. And will these paper copies last? NO !! Yes I sense that my paper will last a little time – but again – I write from the Written Word – it lasts in being passed on.
I always come to this moment – wondering WHY I write. I don’t worry about it because it is God’s blessing for me to process. And based upon the people’s feedback, I am appreciative of their support – encouragement to my encouragement. But is is a natural question of pursuing God’s Will – why do I write and in what format? It interests me as a study of me – but especially as a study of God and His push. And of course we all do need a gentle push from God – or a pull – or at least that hug of love from His Word.
I am also wondering, always, what do I do with them from here? I know that I am to stay in the blog format – this is key – I write in emails so that they are instantly backed up. And have an email following as well as people who just accept my writings knowing I never ask them to read them – but to know that I HAVE to write. But now in addition, do I take these into a book? Re-write any? Who knows! The blogs are uploaded for security and convenience.
Us being grounded in the Word means to me that I remember that we are finite and He is infinite!!! My writings are for now – hoping to encourage others NOW – and maybe the next few years they will be applicable and explainable and accessible. I will let them go! But His Word? His Word is for FOREVER. And this means He will also be with us FOREVER. “But You are near, Lord, and all your commands are true.” Psalm 119:151
Precious and True. The Lord IS near and the Word LIVES. Truly Lives
Amen
Psalm 119:145-152 Qoph I call with all my heart; answer me, Lord, and I will obey your decrees. I call out to you; save me and I will keep your statutes. I rise before dawn and cry for help; I have put my hope in your word. My eyes stay open through the watches of the night, that I may meditate on your promises. Hear my voice in accordance with your love; preserve my life, Lord, according to your laws. Those who devise wicked schemes are near, but they are far from your law. Yet you are near, Lord, and all your commands are true. Long ago I learned from your statutes that you established them to last forever.
“May the Fourth be with you” a great fun saying for today, rhyming with the “Star Wars” movie’s “May the Force be with you.” And yet WOW, we have to avow an even unequaled great greater GREATEST Force of the great greater greatest power, of the greatest LOVE, of the greatest LIGHT, OF OUR GREAT GOD!!!
Yesterday, May the 3rd, with no catchy phrase, added to my witness of our unequaled greatest never-changing God. Wow I’m tired but a happy heart-filled tired. I was BUSY yesterday with helping a friend with her garage sale, then all day outside running a 50:50 raffle for the benefit of the local mansion upkeep – painting especially – I walked the grounds with a paint can and tickets. Then a quick shower at home (80 plus degrees all day, I took often respites in the shade of the great stone-covered building) and after that, whew, jumping on the road for an hour drive to an evening church service, was great praising the Lord – and after it I dropped off a friend an hour away then chugged home, an hour from there, whew! Midnight… TIRED… My eyes hurt from the headlights… SO GRATEFUL the LORD got me HOME SAFE!!!! Wow I’m tired today but a happy heart-filled tired from needed rest. Wish the cat would have let me sleep, but it’s more important to be up praising the Lord!
Clearly the Lord’s Light was shining on us last night, with friends, completely safe in a big church when a huge line of storms came through. You could see through the windows of the RAGE of weather and see the lightning, but heard NONE of it – yeah heard none! Great wooden church protection and double paned windows. I heard practically none of the fierce storms, felt none, and knew that security feeling. And with the Lord? Oh, He MUST be the most amazing greatest all in all, COVERED and all LIGHT! Security in Him and direction in Him leading us!
Led by the Lord’s Light.
I wondered if we would lose power, but we were holding electric candles, oh yeah, we turned off the lights to see more LIGHT of the LORD. To remove artificial light, artificial distractions, artificial false hope. We found the best HOPE in the Lord. Perhaps that’s the best thought: that in the storms of life, look for the light. In the unknowns, look for the Light of the Lord. Lord, Shine on us.
The song lyrics stood out to me when I saw my photo of a friend’s shared candle – the paper was shining in the background from the pew in front of us – wow: “SHINE on US” – both the lyrics and the physical paper illuminated by the light:
“Lord, let Your light – Light of Your face – Shine on us
That we may be saved – That we may have life – To find our way – In the darkest night
Let your light shine on us – Lord, let your grace – Grace from Your hand – Come over us”
Yes today, May the Fourth, Force, whatever phrases of the day and phase of life you are in, be in the Lord’s Light!!!
Let us shine from Him, His light, His power, His Grace, His Way. Today and tomorrow too with no catchy phrase either… Let us be a witness of our greatest never-changing God.
We (I especially) need the Lord’s Light today, even in broad daylight.
The “growing season” is upon us – it is also where the new growth will overtake the withered cast away dried up leaves of last season. We are best to take the appreciation that we are but stewards on this land to keep it prosperous and not waste opportunity. It is God’s good earth not ours – we are but tenants – stewards – a flock of sheep roaming around – we are temporary in this world and our fruitfulness builds the kingdom of God. Isn’t it good to be in a good season for growth?!!!
But alas to those who don’t want to grow – don’t even want to give God His due – won’t be fair let alone be respectful. Jesus was serious when He told the Pharisees, who refused to believe in the fulfilment of scriptures that was happening right before their eyes, that “the kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a people who will produce its fruit. Anyone who falls on this stone will be broken to pieces; anyone on whom it falls will be crushed.”
Jesus used the parable of the tenants to awake the rottenness from the self-serving and hope to shake awake the hardened hearted rulers and policy makers. Jesus predicted a wretched end to the people who refused him and refused to believe in even the possibility that Jesus was this “cornerstone” – Messiah – Savior – or at least being ordained by God (like a prophet the townspeople thought). Jesus saw the dried soil of their faith – unable to prosper and grow.
What about us – are we ready for a new season in life? Are we ready to open up some good soil in us to plant and re-hydrate His seeds of Spirit to be prosperous in this season?
Those who questions will have the answers revealed if they genuinely have open ears. Open ears, open minds, open hearts – and open soils. If we actively refuse to listen to the hope in the Lord – then how can we use that hope gifted to us to help us repent and build our lives again in a way that will bring fruit to the kingdom. Our repentance of evil, but also of stubbornness, of strife, of self-centeredness, of pride. We want to bloom, not go boom in destruction. We want to be able to grow GOOD FRUIT – not sour grapes. We want to know that the Lord is here to help us in this chapter of our lives, in this season, and in our eternal future.
To know Jesus is to know that He wants us to grow – to know Jesus is to know He gave it all already and we can do nothing to secure our place in Heaven except believe in His forgiveness and His power and His hope for us. Jesus gives us the power of prayer and the power of perseverance. Jesus is our cornerstone and in our lives we want to build our lives upon Him – as well as have fertile good soil to sprout and grow the seeds that He gives us to produce fruit. Fruit grows and gives seeds to then be distributed and grown again. It is like this with the Lord, He is building His Kingdom with us.
Grow well – no matter what season of life you are in.
Amen
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Matthew 21:33-46 The Parable of the Tenants Jesus said: “Listen to another parable: There was a landowner who planted a vineyard. He put a wall around it, dug a winepress in it and built a watchtower. Then he rented the vineyard to some farmers and moved to another place. When the harvest time approached, he sent his servants to the tenants to collect his fruit.
“The tenants seized his servants; they beat one, killed another, and stoned a third. Then he sent other servants to them, more than the first time, and the tenants treated them the same way. Last of all, he sent his son to them. ‘They will respect my son,’ he said. But when the tenants saw the son, they said to each other, ‘This is the heir. Come, let’s kill him and take his inheritance.’ So they took him and threw him out of the vineyard and killed him. Therefore, when the owner of the vineyard comes, what will he do to those tenants?”
“He will bring those wretches to a wretched end,” they replied, “and he will rent the vineyard to other tenants, who will give him his share of the crop at harvest time.”
Jesus said to them, “Have you never read in the Scriptures: ‘The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone; the Lord has done this, and it is marvelous in our eyes’ ? Therefore I tell you that the kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a people who will produce its fruit. Anyone who falls on this stone will be broken to pieces; anyone on whom it falls will be crushed.” When the chief priests and the Pharisees heard Jesus’ parables, they knew he was talking about them. They looked for a way to arrest him, but they were afraid of the crowd because the people held that he was a prophet.
Yeah I could claim that I was supposed to “run into” one friend last night, who was one of the many organizers at a camp retreat event for 3day 3night immersion into deeper growing in faith. I perhaps was supposed to run into LOTS of people, or not. I was just there because I could. I had the time. I wanted to be “an encourager” – a warm body even but surely a warm soul with a smile. I wanted to be with “my people” if only for an hour before driving home. I could also state that I wanted to absorb the feel of camp for just a few minutes without staying and yes the drive in the green rolling hills of farmland was worth it – the stream was worth it – the peace was palatable.
I could say I was supposed to chat with her in particular for our conversation that compared OUR attitudes to the differences of this year to last year, when we both were on the organization team. This year I felt that I was not going to be on the team, maybe next year. THis year I felt the Lord had different plans for me. And for her, this year felt different too, in being on this organizing committee, so much more understanding that she didn’t have to understand the whole plan, in that she said she felt MORE peace in letting the Lord handle the weekend, the interactions, the service with a spirit smile while helping others in their faith journey.
Simply stating that it’s good for ALL of ourselves to get ourselves out of THE way of the Lord’s Way, and LET the Lord place us in His Purpose FOR a plan for SOMEONE ELSE, yeah, and give us the PEACE OF MIND to be OK. To let the Lord use us without us knowing everything.
A road to SOMEWHERE.
I was listening to the perky tune, great for driving later at night home, “I’m on a Road to Nowhere” as sung by the Talking Heads… love that song for the beat… But I am not interpreting the lyrics good or bad, just to compare it to the path of a road to SOMEWHERE that the Lord knows rather than a road to nowhere that you don’t even have direction to get there.
And maybe we are simply to be simple in spirit knowing the Lord has this Road to SOMEWHERE – and scripture tells us to work hard while we are riding along the Spirit highways of life. Paul said in a letter to the 1 Thessalonians 5:12-14 “Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who work hard among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other. And we urge you, brothers and sisters, warn those who are idle and disruptive, encourage the disheartened, help the weak, be patient with everyone. Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always strive to do what is good for each other and for everyone else. Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. Do not quench the Spirit. Do not treat prophecies with contempt but test them all; hold on to what is good, reject every kind of evil.
Oh the spiders? Well, I’ve been helping a mutual friend of ours pack her house – and this bag of halloween shiny sparkle spiders kept getting in the way and i was going to use it as fluff stuffing – but my friend told me to just take the spiders for any reason but to just get it out of the mix of the things were were packing. Later she reminded me that perhaps I had found a purpose for them – no I hadn’t even gotten them out of the car – and then, haha, my camping friend started to complain about the bugs and maybe a big spider would show up in her room. Mentally I immediately remembered the sparkly spiders in my car – plastic of course – and yeah… where did they end up? on her bed… Just some humor of being nowhere but somewhere but no idea why and just being in the moment… Well, there is no spiritual connection to the spiders, but there is a moment to thank the Lord for our mindset to set ourselves in His Positions. It was not the most spiritual thing of spiders, it was just fun. And if we have peace, we can have fun too….
Amen
May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it.
I can tell that my mindset is SWITCHING GEARS – to VBS mode!!!! YEAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I love getting to this point of the year, the VBS planning meetings. I am SO excited – I was thrilled when I heard about VBS coming back to my old church, the first time since covid era. Trust me I already read the materials well beforehand. I’m SO EXCITED!!! These are great Jesus stories of love, care, hope… Especially that Jesus calls our unique selves to Himself.
And last month I almost started ordering supplies before I even got signed up into my choice of station leader position: Imagination Station, combining science experiments and crafts. But I held myself back, because I am not in charge of this VBS, one of the “seasoned” helpers. Yes I led VBS for 7 years but this time is in a different season with all of us seasoned folks in a new mix with new folks and we need to LET the Lord put it all together HIS WAY.
Not phoning it in but being “called” to help… Vacation Bible School is the LAST place for any of us to have a “been there done that” attitude. WHY? Because this is a new situation for each person at a new season in their life and especially new for the children young and old who will learn the lessons new and anew.
Remember each day is new, let alone each year, so YEAH each VBS is NEW. There are no broken records of Scripture, each time we hear even a well-versed Scripture, it’s NEW to our situation at that moment. More important it is NEW to the student and the intended ears to hear.
My lessons learned in VBS year after year, and especially last night? The Holy Spirit moves unhindered and fast and fresh.
As I scoped out the room of chairs, 10 minutes late, I sat in the back to be quiet and listen. I noticed for myself that the troubles of the day faded away… I was amazed and thrilled (quietly sitting there to start) because these were the veteran seasoned vbs-ers who showed up. I was moved humbly to see that we were with two FRESH FACES of grown up VBS-ERS from my era of teaching. I remember them both at preschool and elementary age. They were quite grown up now. I found a photo for one, almost 10 years old now, in an old email to her grandfather, for the now teen sitting immediately in front of me, one whom I encouraged last night in this new era of VBS, explaining the stations names and the bible stories this year.
We help with an unchanging God to keep us growing. These new VBS helpers (40 yrs my junior) are our future in sharing the Lord well after we are long gone… And oh I am excited to see more teens now near adults coming to help this year too! (and maybe I can get my kids to help again too this year in some capacity, yay!)
Yeah! I know we are to step IN to VBS and to step OUT of being in the way of His Way. We need to let the Lord have HIS say with our lives and our time. And when it comes to faith, we should not have to rely on “our way” or having “my say”. Everywhere, and especially in VBS, we are to be supportive being used in the Lord’s Way. Hooray! It should be this way = HIS WAY!!!
Amen and I hope you get to help in a VBS this year in some Holy Spirit Way!!! BLESSED YAY!!!
LOVE WINS! which means that God wins – and God is Love.
So since God wins, He protects…
Love protects – as Paul wrote in 1st Corinthians 13 – Love is patient – love is kind – and yes Love protects – which means when we love we protect and when we protect something it should be out of love – and when God loves us, God protects us.
When all else fade away what will be left? God – and when we stand or be shielded by God, we will last because of His Love.
The best protection is the Lord – so fear won’t work – anger won’t work – strife won’t work – hoarding won’t work – carelessness won’t work – fakeness won’t work.
The better protection is by the Lord – that is LOVE always.
Amen
1 Corinthians 13 NIV
If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away. For we know in part and we prophesy in part, but when completeness comes, what is in part disappears. When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put the ways of childhood behind me. For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.
And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.
I got my summer reading all set for the beach! These laminated pamphlets (from Rose Publishing) with titles like “Proverbs” and “Prophets” and “Bible Maps” and “Bible Timelines” are perfectly going to be my “short” sets of reading for absorbing the Lord’s Word in bite-sized chunks. AT THE BEACH!!!. I really hope to get to the beach quite often – already dreaming of it even though it might be a month before we get there and have to be all bundled up with the sharp ocean breeze, but that is OK. And then when it does get warm enough, I already know the two best shade spots, no umbrella required. Under the pier or under the pavilion on the boardwalk – I know the plans that will be good! Lord willing the sun will shine – and we know the Lord is willing.
And as I see in a bookmark I just acquired, quoting Jeremiah 29, scripture’s wisdom and wish for us is to TRUST GOD – “For I know the plans I have for you.” declares the Lord, “Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” YEAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
The best reading “into” the Word is reading ourselves into it. The Best Better experience is to know that the Lord has given us the Word as Wisdom to live by and live through. And we are to know that the Lord DOES want us to live – so to live BEST – live BETTER – we best listen to His best advice. God’s Word is Better Advice than anywhere else.
That’s MY plan – a plan to prosper – to not harm – to give hope and a future -that plan of mine is to keep reading the Word. The BEST reading is from the Lord!
“Like the ocean, it’s good to keep moving ahead in waves…”
That is a quote I came up with in response to my friend who is finding herself moving again. A separate person from my other friend moving but the same plan, downsize. This friend from school moved south then north and is drawn back again south, to the ocean. Thus the quote I made about waves. “Like the ocean, it’s good to keep moving AHEAD in waves…”
Having downsized like twice now, this particular friend will start again in the lifestyle she used to have, but different, because this new past she is leaving behind, in stages, lightens her load. And it is not to pick up her old past again but make new. Her situation has changed – mostly by her choice – and it is time to move on – move to the new situation which will be new even if it is returning to a location she was already in. And her packing and peace will be in waves.
Not all situations are the same, and even if they seem similar, God makes them NEW for us, or at least makes us NEW in the same situation by His Mercies, which are fresh each morning.
“All this also comes from the Lord Almighty, whose plan is wonderful, whose wisdom is magnificent.”
I find reading and rereading scripture gives new insights. It is new to today even if I experienced it before. I love to see scripture that maybe I read but never absorbed – like in Isaiah 28 – about the Lord teaching the proper way for the proper situation – and changing tactics when it’s time.
Grain must be ground to make bread; so one does not go on threshing it forever.
Yeah… Not all situations are the same – this is for people, for seasons, and for times – for the descriptive text in Isaiah about Soil and Grain, it’s like it means you have to apply life changes in attitude too. Isaiah said Caraway Cumin Spelt and Wheat – listen to the Lord in how you prepare it – how you grind it – how you plant it – how you harvest it.
LIFE IS DIFFERENT IN DIFFERENT SITUATIONS AND THEREFORE WE SHOULD LET THE LORD ADAPT US INTO HOW WE HANDLE THE CIRCUMSTANCES.
Pay attention to the situation at hand. MOVE FORWARD ALWAYS.
When we study what Jesus said to His disciples about the scripture of the cornerstone rejected but on which the kingdom being built, which they all recounted later in the gospels, we understand that Jesus was teaching THE WAY to have Jesus be OUR WAY. Jesus wants us to stand with Him when He is standing with us. Jesus wants us to build upon HIS WAY. This is true wisdom because with Jesus as our firm foundation we will be anchored and adaptable applying love.
In other words, when you find yourself in a situation where you COULD lash out – but the Lord HELPS you hold your tongue or roll something off your back. We can let Jesus be our foundation in standing up for His Way and standing up to simply walk away. The power to be patient is a true Godsend.
We find that Jesus is asking WE APPLY HIS ATTITUDE. Jesus is saying: “Don’t sweat the small stuff” – Just let it roll off the back. MOVE FORWARD.
To have BETTER RELIANCE UPON THE LORD’S WISDOM is WISE.
Amen
Isaiah 28: excerpts 16, 23-29
So this is what the Sovereign Lord says: “See, I lay a stone in Zion, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone for a sure foundation; the one who relies on it will never be stricken with panic. I will make justice the measuring line and righteousness the plumb line; …”
… Listen and hear my voice; pay attention and hear what I say. When a farmer plows for planting, does he plow continually? Does he keep on breaking up and working the soil? When he has leveled the surface, does he not sow caraway and scatter cumin? Does he not plant wheat in its place, barley in its plot, and spelt in its field? His God instructs him and teaches him the right way. Caraway is not threshed with a sledge, nor is the wheel of a cart rolled over cumin; caraway is beaten out with a rod, and cumin with a stick. Grain must be ground to make bread; so one does not go on threshing it forever. The wheels of a threshing cart may be rolled over it, but one does not use horses to grind grain. All this also comes from the Lord Almighty, whose plan is wonderful, whose wisdom is magnificent.
Sunday is a day of rest – well it is interesting how we interpret rest.
We put a human interpretation on rest – as if God rested His weariness, His muscles, His mind from creating the earth in 7 days – but honestly we know that God did not slumber in rest – He totally was still God – but for creating the earth He took the time to say “I did it”…
Our rest can not be restful in a physical way if we don’t let ourselves rest.
Our rest can not be restful in an emotional way if we don’t acknowledge we need it.
Our rest can not be restful in a spiritual way if we don’t accept that “in God we trust” – that we let God be in charge – and that we acknowledge that in Him we will be OK.
Our rest is in God being in control.
Rest this Sunday also in an active way – IN PRAISE!!!
The rest that is personal is also praiseworthy. The rest from work work means time for worship. We can still work with our hands, allowing the Lord to work our minds.
And if God’s Command is to rest – to accept the worship of completeness in Him, then especially because we often can not keep all the 10 commandments perfectly without breaking them, especially the one about jealousy, nor the one about taking His Name in vain, nor the one about putting God and Love and Godly things first, then we forgiveness. We need to find the REST in the One who makes us perfecting and Who covers our sins with forgiveness” JESUS… And Jesus is FOR us!!!
If Jesus is FOR us – then we can not fail – and we can not fail to have rest.
MAY WE REST IN JESUS!!! All PRAISE and Honor is Yours!
AMEN
MAY WE REST IN JESUS!!!
AMEN
——
Exodus 20:1-17 NKJV The Ten Commandments And God spoke all these words, saying: “I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage. “You shall have no other gods before Me.You shall not make for yourself a carved image—any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth; 5 you shall not bow down to them nor serve them. For I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children to the third and fourth generations of those who hate Me, but showing mercy to thousands, to those who love Me and keep My commandments.
“You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain, for the Lord will not hold him guiltless who takes His name in vain.
“Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord your God. In it you shall do no work: you, nor your son, nor your daughter, nor your male servant, nor your female servant, nor your cattle, nor your stranger who is within your gates. For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, and rested the seventh day. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and hallowed it. “Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long upon the land which the Lord your God is giving you. “You shall not murder. “You shall not commit adultery. “You shall not steal. “You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor. “You shall not covet your neighbor’s house; you shall not covet your neighbor’s wife, nor his male servant, nor his female servant, nor his ox, nor his donkey, nor anything that is your neighbor’s.”
I have a friend who is “breaking down” her house – moving – it is tough but her children are going to be there to help to both pack up this one and blessedly to open up the new life for her in her new place. It is a process that the Lord started by building up her family to help her – as she helped them build their lives, they are helping her build and rebuild hers. And she will get to see her grandchildren and be part of building up of their lives. And the Lord? The Lord is the Cornerstone of all. Let us Let the Lord build us up.
“Unless the Lord builds the house, They labor in vain who build it”
Better Building is by the Lord – Better Building – of faith, of foundations, of families – of fruit – of Forever. The road to the Peace of the Lord is by His “Smoothing” of our road travelled and of the conditions allowing the building up of plans. If we want to see something to succeed – it is best to be planned with the Lord rather than ask for the Lord’s blessing after the fact. It is best to also watch what the Lord is building and then join His Labor Crew.
With my friend moving, I have watched the Lord provide the time the people the energy as “on a needs by basis” – doled out not in one big flourish of movement but by continual piece by piece falling into place.
I am always fascinated by the understanding of scripture being revealed with an eye-of-the-brain “Ah – ha!” … And I am intrigued how people of the scriptures did not see something until the Lord let it be revealed to them. I know that the Lord has given us a brain – and a heart – and a soul – ears and eyes – but we require the Spirit of interpretation to see things from His Perspective. Yes. And we do need the Holy Spirit to guide us in building up ourselves, our faith, our families and our plans. We need Jesus as our Cornerstone – as He is the Cornerstone of the building of us into the Kingdom of God.
The interesting scripture to contemplate is of how the disciples of Jesus walked with Him thru the Temple of Jerusalem built by Solomon and rebuilt in the time after the Babylonian exile. Solomon’s marvelous temple, destroyed and pillaged much – is still remembered today. Jesus was and IS a marvelous Temple of God Himself, destroyed and pillaged much – but still remembered. Jesus, the flesh, was in a time for a purpose and Jesus the God is for Forever.
Jesus talked about the temples being destroyed – the building (as He walked with His disciples marveling at it) – and of Himself. Certain people could not wrap their heads around this notion until by the Spirit’s Guidance. This is recounted in Matthew 24:1-2 Then Jesus went out and departed from the temple, and His disciples came up to show Him the buildings of the temple. And Jesus said to them, “Do you not see all these things? Assuredly, I say to you, not one stone shall be left here upon another, that shall not be thrown down.”
Jesus talked about the Temple being rebuilt – HIMSELF – in John 2:18-22, the Gospel of Wisdom, about the authority he used to overturn the crooked unfair dealings of the money exchangers in the Temple – The confused Jews said to Jesus: “What sign can you show us to prove your authority to do all this?” Jesus answered them, “Destroy this temple, and I will raise it again in three days.” They replied, “It has taken forty-six years to build this temple, and you are going to raise it in three days?” But the temple he had spoken of was his body. After he was raised from the dead, his disciples recalled what he had said. Then they believed the scripture and the words that Jesus had spoken.
And Jesus talked about Himself being the Cornerstone – our faith’s cornerstone and that being the foundation of the building up of the Kingdom of Heaven.
Mark 12:10–11 Have you not read this Scripture: “‘The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone; this was the Lord’s doing, and it is marvelous in our eyes’?”
Luke 20:17 But he looked directly at them and said, “What then is this that is written: “‘The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone’?
1 Peter 2:4–7 As you come to him, a living stone rejected by men but in the sight of God chosen and precious, you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. For it stands in Scripture: “Behold, I am laying in Zion a stone, a cornerstone chosen and precious, and whoever believes in him will not be put to shame.” So the honor is for you who believe, but for those who do not believe, “The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone,”
Blessed to be in the Build – BETTER BUILDING BY THE LORD!
Amen
Psalm 127 NKJV
Laboring and Prospering with the Lord – A Song of Ascents. Of Solomon.
Unless the Lord builds the house, They labor in vain who build it; Unless the Lord guards the city, The watchman stays awake in vain. It is vain for you to rise up early, To sit up late, To eat the bread of sorrows; For so He gives His beloved sleep.
Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, The fruit of the womb is a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior, So are the children of one’s youth. Happy is the man who has his quiver full of them; They shall not be ashamed, But shall speak with their enemies in the gate.
My excitement – nerdy in a way of course – was that a TV reality show showed not just a cross, but used scripture as a clue. The Amazing Race is such a joy to watch – I get to travel to places that I would never be able to get to – and see cultural elements which are embraced as traditional even vintage to the place. In this episode, in Bulgaria, the racers were to decipher a clue from a highly ornate book – ancient text in fancy language – with a cipher. The racers had to flip the cipher over to find the english words – many teams were racing at the same time to understand. No one knew to turn the device over. And when they did – then “OH!” – the words of the Word spilled out and spelled out into a clear Heaven-sent message: “In the Beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.“
WOW!!!
WOW for the Word and WOW for the Word on TV and WOW for the deciphering of the cipher – and especially WOW for the WORD to decipher itself! That is the truth – the Word came to be understood – and yet that in itself has been the stumbling block to many. The scripture from this TV episode is a puzzle revealed, it recounts a truth that came with “clues” too. Remember that John, the disciple Jesus loved, was writing a gospel of wisdom when he was in his 90’s – the only disciple not to be martyred and to live a very long time teaching. John, in this first chapter of his gospel, was laying down the answers to the “clues” yet to be discovered by future generations. Well, the big puzzle of that moment in time, recounted in the bible gospels was one that confused and intrigued so many, the clues that prophesy spoke of and unveiled by the Spirit. It may have seemed like a puzzle to those yet to witness Jesus in the flesh AND to have experienced Him as God. So, when John the Baptist (verses in chapter 1 of John’s gospel) showed to be a prophet to “prepare the way” for Jesus, we can now read that he himself was prophesied about, as a voice in the wilderness. Yes the clues kept ruling in for those who could decipher with open minds, souls and spirits. John the Baptist said: “I am ‘The voice of one crying in the wilderness: “Make straight the way of the Lord,” ’ as the prophet Isaiah said.” And John the Baptist experienced Jesus as a man and as God. John did this by understanding the moving of the Spirit and THEN saw the descending of the spirit upon the whole scene. Talk about a big response to unlocking the biggest clue!
These “clues” in the Word – the scriptures of prophecy – were also the WORD too, as Jesus IS the Word. Unfortunately so many did not understand, as John the disciple recounted: “He was in the world, and the world was made through Him, and the world did not know Him”
John the disciple wrote about John the Baptist who bore witness, saying, “I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and He remained upon Him. I did not know Him, but He who sent me to baptize with water said to me, ‘Upon whom you see the Spirit descending, and remaining on Him, this is He who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.’ And I have seen and testified that this is the Son of God.”
How blessed FOR US to have received these words and the Word and the HOLY SPIRIT clue solving: to the open ears and eyes which might be able to say “AH – HA !!!!!” and then “AMEN”. Blessed are those who will come to understand Jesus as the Word, as God, as the One to come and the One who came.
Let us continue leaving open book clues to let Jesus be known. And for them to be known as “children of God”… One could say that we were born to be His.
But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name: who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.
AMEN !!!
—
John 1:1-34 NKJV
The Eternal Word In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made. In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it.
John’s Witness: The True Light There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. This man came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all through him might believe. He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light. That was the true Light which gives light to every man coming into the world.
He was in the world, and the world was made through Him, and the world did not know Him. He came to His own, and His own did not receive Him. But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name: who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.
The Word Becomes Flesh And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.
John bore witness of Him and cried out, saying, “This was He of whom I said, ‘He who comes after me is preferred before me, for He was before me.’ ”
And of His fullness we have all received, and grace for grace. For the law was given through Moses, but grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. No one has seen God at any time. The only begotten Son, who is in the bosom of the Father, He has declared Him.
A Voice in the Wilderness Now this is the testimony of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, “Who are you?” He confessed, and did not deny, but confessed, “I am not the Christ.” And they asked him, “What then? Are you Elijah?” He said, “I am not.”
“Are you the Prophet?” And he answered, “No.” Then they said to him, “Who are you, that we may give an answer to those who sent us? What do you say about yourself?” He said: “I am ‘The voice of one crying in the wilderness: “Make straight the way of the Lord,” ’ as the prophet Isaiah said.”
Now those who were sent were from the Pharisees. And they asked him, saying, “Why then do you baptize if you are not the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the Prophet?” John answered them, saying, “I baptize with water, but there stands One among you whom you do not know. It is He who, coming after me, is preferred before me, whose sandal strap I am not worthy to loose.” These things were done in Bethabara beyond the Jordan, where John was baptizing.
The Lamb of God The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world! This is He of whom I said, ‘After me comes a Man who is preferred before me, for He was before me.’ I did not know Him; but that He should be revealed to Israel, therefore I came baptizing with water.”
And John bore witness, saying, “I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and He remained upon Him. I did not know Him, but He who sent me to baptize with water said to me, ‘Upon whom you see the Spirit descending, and remaining on Him, this is He who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.’ And I have seen and testified that this is the Son of God.”
THE THRILL… I did get to see this pope, Pope Francis! It was 10 years ago – have many photos – he stopped to kiss every baby! I’m so grateful for a friend who scored passes and thought of me!!! Whee!
I wore my Aunt’s Connemara Marble Irish Cross necklace to see the Pope, I am very blessed to have it, she passed many years prior but we had just received her items from her son’s storage bin clean out after he passed. It was an emotional time in my 1st year in newly awakened faith, 10 years ago, it’s still a blessing today to remember that feeling of newness in awe.
I remember the interesting thing about the traffic, there was none, people avoiding the area like the plague, they warned ahead and people must have hunkered down fearing Pope traffic. We took the train, nobody on it… we never zipped into the city faster.
I remember the good set up, the waiting with a foot of space to sit on for hours, I remember chatting with people, I remember it wasn’t bad, there was a portapotty nearby and friendly folks, but oh so anxious to wait and see.
I carried a photo of my kids with me, blessed. I also took a VBS snowball, not real but really fun to have, I’m sure I still have it, VBS is part of my blessed existence. I am thrilled to teach in vbs again this year. I’ve saved real snowballs for that in the freezer this year.
I wore my special green t-shirt to represent my hometown happiness. I wore my God-made smile because He made me into ME. I am grateful. I am grateful to be me.
I can give an opinion, but I won’t, about “was this a good Pope? or “good for the church” because that is too complex an answer. I just know people loved him. I know God loved him too, and I pray him rest in that Popemobile in the sky… Kiss Jesus for us, thanks…
It’s Good Friday. What makes it good? Jesus did what only Jesus could do, stepped down into earth, stepped down to where all sins got taken from us, and was raised up by God’s ability and power and plan. It’s good for us because not only do we get the rescue via Jesus, it’s good for us because we CAN’T do this ourselves. We can’t! He did.
His LOVE brings us this time now: “that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light”
Last night after Thursday evening service, I remembered we were supposed to be able to see Starlink in the sky, a string of satellites, lights looking so strangely connected traveling synchronized in the sky. I told someone and pointed to what I thought was west, they both (men of seasoned age, having grown up in that neighborhood) looked at me like I was crazy, west was a whole other way, oops. I never did see it, even if it was a crystal clear night, I didn’t even know the direction, I do now, I think…
Following Jesus is like that, we want to see more and more, we want to have awareness and self-help vision, but we don’t always know our east from the west. We are becoming transformed by His mercy and grace, but our sense of direction will often trip us up. Our humanness makes us flawed, and although that is not an excuse for bad behavior, it is a reality for our weaknesses, which God-help pulls us through. Our awareness is more and more, even to become childlike when we awe at the Lord’s abilities and majesty. Our level of awareness of His awesomeness needs our awareness of Him and only Him being able to be so aware of us as human frailty, and chose to save us. He is the only God Who could.
I once was working at a used book sale, inexpensive prices, but the patron who brought books to my counter said “these were free”, no cost, because the sign said “self-help”. I chuckled but gently explained to the non-native speaker that self-help was a genre of books to help yourself improve, not help yourself for free. And isn’t that true, we can help ourselves improve, but our ultimate ultimate help is not free, Jesus-costly, and by the time all this world is no more for us, we must and only can rely upon what comes from the Lord. There is no free self-help, only Jesus’s Ultimate LOVE and sacrifice. Everything comes through Jesus, fully God, and fully ours.
On this Good Friday, let us absorb thankfulness for Jesus walked our way to show us the Way – looking towards Him, being as Christ-like as we can, and remembering that we fall short but it is Jesus Who has already picked us up.
Amen
An Ultimate Amen!
Philippians 4:4-8 NKJV
Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand. 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.
Meditate on These Things 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.
1 Peter 2:1-12 NKJV Our Inheritance Through Christ’s Blood Therefore, laying aside all malice, all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and all evil speaking, as newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby, if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is gracious.
The Chosen Stone and His Chosen People Coming to Him as to a living stone, rejected indeed by men, but chosen by God and precious, you also, as living stones, are being built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. Therefore it is also contained in the Scripture, “Behold, I lay in Zion a chief cornerstone, elect, precious, And he who believes on Him will by no means be put to shame.”
Therefore, to you who believe, He is precious; but to those who are disobedient, “The stone which the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone,” and “A stone of stumbling and a rock of offense.”
They stumble, being disobedient to the word, to which they also were appointed.
But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; who once were not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy.
Living Before the World Beloved, I beg you as sojourners and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul, having your conduct honorable among the Gentiles, that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may, by your good works which they observe, glorify God in the day of visitation.
Each Wednesday, I gather with church friends to go through this devotional book based on the scriptures of Jesus’s speaking directly to us. Jesus Calling by Sarah Young. April 11th has like my favorite devotional, it is TIMELESS talking about time… One day at a time!!!
Timeless advice remembering Jesus did not shy back nor go boldly into each day, but stayed humble at the approach to a day that He KNEW what would happen. Jesus was not just recruited into being Jesus, He fully God was before time. So yeah, the Lord knew how to approach the time humbly, living within that days boundaries. The Lord lived in earthly boundaries but with a spirit of forever. We could too.
We should too. We need to forgive the past, realizing we are here in the present by God’s Mercy, and in His Forever by His Grace. So many times we must remind ourselves to stay in the present, as praying for tomorrow is fine, but worrying about it is not.
A poem:
We are human and complained yesterday, worried, wallowed, and whined.
But fresh today prayerfully leaves that all behind.
Jesus please give us today’s rhythm and today’s rhyme.
“This IS the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it.”
For today Lord, we live in and for YOUR TIME.
Amen
Amen – and may you continue to feel the peace and pace of Jesus this Holy Week.
Jesus Calling: April 11 by Sarah Young:
“This is the day that I have made. Rejoice and be glad in it. Begin the day with open hands of faith, ready to receive all that I am pouring into this brief portion of your life. BE CAREFUL NOT TO COMPLAIN about anything, even the weather, since I am the Author of your circumstances. The way to handle unwanted situations is to THANK ME FOR THEM. This act of faith frees you from resentment and frees Me to work My ways into the situation, so that good emerges from it.
“To find Joy in this day, you must live within its boundaries. I knew what I was doing when I divided time into twenty-four-hour segments. I understand human frailty, and I KNOW THAT YOU CAN BEAR THE WEIGHT OF ONLY ONE DAY AT A TIME. Do not worry about tomorrow or get stuck in the past. There is abundant Life in My Presence today. “
Psalm 118:24 This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.
Hebrews 3:7- 15 Be Faithful Therefore, as the Holy Spirit says: “Today, if you will hear His voice, Do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion, In the day of trial in the wilderness, Where your fathers tested Me, tried Me, And saw My works forty years. Therefore I was angry with that generation, And said, ‘They always go astray in their heart, And they have not known My ways.’ So I swore in My wrath, ‘They shall not enter My rest.’ ”
Beware, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief in departing from the living God; but exhort one another daily, while it is called “Today,” lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. For we have become partakers of Christ if we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast to the end, while it is said: “Today, if you will hear His voice, Do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion.”
To recount my whole dream would be so convoluted by now as I drifted in and out of sleep… I will remember that in the dream the little piece of paper I held, written at the bottom said “appreciative”.
Being appreciative is a state of mind as well as a commandment as well as the best mental health you could ever have. It’s a frame of mind so crucial – to be appreciative in good and bad. If we wake up in the morning, I pray we remember there is a purpose of today. And I pray that something today finds you finding yourself appreciative.
This morning I woke up – appreciative.
Being appreciative is not grumbling too much.
Appreciative is being woke up by the cat in time to write.
Appreciative is taking a snooze power nap pre-planned later.
Appreciative is having showered in the night time to reduce the pollen levels and taking allergy medicine for this short but pollen-intense time.
Appreciative is having a nice warm bed to snooze in.
Appreciative is remembering this is Easter week without stressing about it.
Appreciative is remembering what Easter week is all about – being appreciative of God’s forgiveness. – Ah….. FORGIVENESS for forgetfulness of being appreciative in all times.
APPRECIATIVE FORGIVENESS
Jesus said: “when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.” Mark 11:25
Being Appreciative is remembering Jesus died for us, to forgive sins in a tangible way, not just in word only, but in flesh sacrifice and in mission. Therefore we could at least think about forgiveness of others – maybe we get to tell them – maybe we at least get to live the thought process of forgiving them. If Jesus forgave the people, begged on His cross for the Lord God Father to forgive, we could at least try to forgive for His sake. Jesus took on our burdens – not just our burdens of living but our burdens of dying without doing all the forgiving we should have done in life. Remember Jesus’s commandment: forgive in order to be forgiven.
And even if we can’t forget a sin or situation against us – we can remember that Jesus Himself will not hold it against us if we look to Him for help in forgiving…
“Thank You Jesus” was spoken sincerely as words we heard from Gayle King as she exited the Blue Origin rocket capsule and kissed the ground, returned to earth.
I have just now been hearing about this space travel for just a few minutes – tourist travel for sure – got to have the guts – but got to have the money and the guts – this is an expensive thrill.
So do we learn anything? Well these astronauts like Gayle King and Katy Perry surely learned something about keeping their wits together – and surely learned about what their next whole few years of dinner conversations will be – just talking about their experience…. I think they must have learned more about their faith in the hardship of the situation – but the privilege of the situation – I mean they wouldn’t have done it unless it was certified as safe as it could be – (but wow doesn’t look that safe to me – but apparently they have been doing this for a while.)
“Thank You Jesus” – I know that was sincere. I can understand both the thrill of a thrill ride and the thankfulness of safety. “Thank You Jesus” should be out of our mouths everyday – every moment – as Jesus gives us this thrill of life with the safety net of His Hand. Jesus gives us the stretch to walk out and the comfiness of being HOME all at the same time.
I appreciate the Book of Romans today for our scripture in this Holy Week – I don’t think Tuesday has a name – but the remembrance of Jesus in His Journey surely should include the remembrance of HIS timing – and HIS MERCY – to the people who would have known the struggles of living far away from God by their own doing, especially the israelites and judahites who came back together after their Babylon exile, and to the gentiles (romans and many of us) who never knew in the first place and had to hear. In the book of Romans, Paul is writing to gentiles in Rome – as well as anyone who would hear – and explaining why Israel itself needed the gospel – their ignorance and them not being submitted – but then the fulfilment of the law of Moses by the actions of Jesus for us all. “For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek, for the same Lord over all is rich to all who call upon Him. For “whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.”
Paul wrote for the intellect of the people then and now: “And if by grace, then it is no longer of works; otherwise grace is no longer grace. But if it is of works, it is no longer grace; otherwise work is no longer work.”
Paul wrote for understanding those who were still asleep in the faith: “Israel has not obtained what it seeks; but the elect have obtained it, and the rest were blinded. Just as it is written: “God has given them a spirit of stupor, Eyes that they should not see And ears that they should not hear, To this very day.”
Paul wrote to say that the Gentiles are also justified – grafted into the tree of faith – and that we all have mercy – that those who were once “disobedient to God” – HAVE “now obtained mercy” – “that He might have mercy on all.”
AMEN and thank you Jesus for the mercy – of landing THIS flight and of our flights in life, landing into Your Mercy!
AMEN!
—
Romans 10-11 New King James Version Israel Needs the Gospel Brethren, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for Israel is that they may be saved. For I bear them witness that they have a zeal for God, but not according to knowledge. For they being ignorant of God’s righteousness, and seeking to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted to the righteousness of God. For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes.
For Moses writes about the righteousness which is of the law, “The man who does those things shall live by them.” But the righteousness of faith speaks in this way, “Do not say in your heart, ‘Who will ascend into heaven?’ ” (that is, to bring Christ down from above) or, “ ‘Who will descend into the abyss?’ ” (that is, to bring Christ up from the dead). But what does it say? “The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart” (that is, the word of faith which we preach): that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. For the Scripture says, “Whoever believes on Him will not be put to shame.” For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek, for the same Lord over all is rich to all who call upon Him. For “whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.”
Israel Rejects the Gospel How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach unless they are sent? As it is written:
“How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace, Who bring glad tidings of good things!” But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Isaiah says, “Lord, who has believed our report?” So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. But I say, have they not heard? Yes indeed: “Their sound has gone out to all the earth, And their words to the ends of the world.” But I say, did Israel not know? First Moses says: “I will provoke you to jealousy by those who are not a nation, I will move you to anger by a foolish nation.” But Isaiah is very bold and says: “I was found by those who did not seek Me; I was made manifest to those who did not ask for Me.” But to Israel he says: “All day long I have stretched out My hands to a disobedient and contrary people.”
Israel’s Rejection Not Total I say then, has God cast away His people? Certainly not! For I also am an Israelite, of the seed of Abraham, of the tribe of Benjamin. God has not cast away His people whom He foreknew. Or do you not know what the Scripture says of Elijah, how he pleads with God against Israel, saying, “Lord, they have killed Your prophets and torn down Your altars, and I alone am left, and they seek my life”? But what does the divine response say to him? “I have reserved for Myself seven thousand men who have not bowed the knee to Baal.” Even so then, at this present time there is a remnant according to the election of grace. And if by grace, then it is no longer of works; otherwise grace is no longer grace. But if it is of works, it is no longer grace; otherwise work is no longer work.
What then? Israel has not obtained what it seeks; but the elect have obtained it, and the rest were blinded. Just as it is written: “God has given them a spirit of stupor, Eyes that they should not see And ears that they should not hear, To this very day.”
And David says: “Let their table become a snare and a trap, A stumbling block and a recompense to them. Let their eyes be darkened, so that they do not see, And bow down their back always.”
Israel’s Rejection Not Final I say then, have they stumbled that they should fall? Certainly not! But through their fall, to provoke them to jealousy, salvation has come to the Gentiles. Now if their fall is riches for the world, and their failure riches for the Gentiles, how much more their fullness!
For I speak to you Gentiles; inasmuch as I am an apostle to the Gentiles, I magnify my ministry, if by any means I may provoke to jealousy those who are my flesh and save some of them. For if their being cast away is the reconciling of the world, what will their acceptance be but life from the dead?
For if the firstfruit is holy, the lump is also holy; and if the root is holy, so are the branches. And if some of the branches were broken off, and you, being a wild olive tree, were grafted in among them, and with them became a partaker of the root and fatness of the olive tree, do not boast against the branches. But if you do boast, remember that you do not support the root, but the root supports you.
You will say then, “Branches were broken off that I might be grafted in.” Well said. Because of unbelief they were broken off, and you stand by faith. Do not be haughty, but fear. For if God did not spare the natural branches, He may not spare you either. Therefore consider the goodness and severity of God: on those who fell, severity; but toward you, goodness, if you continue in His goodness. Otherwise you also will be cut off. And they also, if they do not continue in unbelief, will be grafted in, for God is able to graft them in again. For if you were cut out of the olive tree which is wild by nature, and were grafted contrary to nature into a cultivated olive tree, how much more will these, who are natural branches, be grafted into their own olive tree?
For I do not desire, brethren, that you should be ignorant of this mystery, lest you should be wise in your own opinion, that blindness in part has happened to Israel until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in. And so all Israel will be saved, as it is written: “The Deliverer will come out of Zion, And He will turn away ungodliness from Jacob; For this is My covenant with them, When I take away their sins.”
Concerning the gospel they are enemies for your sake, but concerning the election they are beloved for the sake of the fathers. For the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable. For as you were once disobedient to God, yet have now obtained mercy through their disobedience, even so these also have now been disobedient, that through the mercy shown you they also may obtain mercy. For God has committed them all to disobedience, that He might have mercy on all.
Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and His ways past finding out!
“For who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has become His counselor?” “Or who has first given to Him And it shall be repaid to him?”
For of Him and through Him and to Him are all things, to whom be glory forever.Amen.
Children’s Message (aimed for adults as big kids) including scriptures… “Students – ready for our science lesson?” – Pass out palms to congregation – Show PLANT STUFF – PROPS with tablecloths– about photosynthesis, chloroplasts, thylakoids, CF1 CF0… Stomata… so many interesting workings… “So, science students, if this in the plant leaf – in the cell – in the chloroplast is more than we knew or even could fathom, then OH – we are here on Palm Sunday for someone greater and all-knowing WHO ARE WE WAVING THESE PALMS FOR? OH JESUS!!! “Students – so is Jesus more than we can imagine? YES – Jesus is the Messiah – and there were even prophesies for His coming – many – Here is but one of them: from Zechariah 9:9 in prophesy of this day Palm Sunday – the day beginning holy week: “Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion! Shout, Daughter Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you, righteous and victorious, lowly and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey.” “These people waiving Palms knew that Jesus had just risen Lazarus from the dead – and had performed many miracles – they believed the hand of God was on Him. “Here is the gospel of John 12:12-16 telling Jesus Coming to Jerusalem as King… “The next day the great crowd that had come for the festival heard that Jesus was on his way to Jerusalem. They took palm branches and went out to meet him, shouting : “Hosanna!” – “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” – “Blessed is the king of Israel!” Jesus found a young donkey and sat on it, as it is written: “Do not be afraid, Daughter Zion; see, your king is coming, seated on a donkey’s colt.” At first his disciples did not understand all this. Only after Jesus was glorified did they realize that these things had been written about him and that these things had been done to him.”
big HOSANNA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! KEEP WAVING………….
Psalm 118:1, 14-15, 22-29 Read in between songs Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever. … The Lord is my strength and my defense; he has become my salvation. Shouts of joy and victory resound in the tents of the righteous: “The Lord’s right hand has done mighty things! … The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone; the Lord has done this, and it is marvelous in our eyes. The Lord has done it this very day; let us rejoice today and be glad. Lord, save us! Lord, grant us success! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord. From the house of the Lord we bless you. The Lord is God, and he has made his light shine on us. With boughs in hand, join in the festal procession up to the horns of the altar. You are my God, and I will praise you; you are my God, and I will exalt you. Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.
2
PALM SUNDAY SERMON HOSANNA!!!!! Let’s say it again waving our palms! Don’t you just love that we are walking into Easter? – But it is going to be a long hard week for Jesus – and we humbly know that His Steps are what He took for His Love of us. His deep deep LOVE. May we hope to return that love to Him today and always. May our JOY be more than our sorrow – May our JOY be a realization that He died for us when we were yet still sinners – and that NOW we know that God’s VICTORY is everything to us. Therefore, we can sing even when we still have trouble in this world. Forever God is Faithful – we could sing that all day – Forever God is faithful – Forever God is strong – Forever God is with us – Forever …. His love endures forever – Sing praise, sing praise… I love this line: For the life that’s been reborn, His love endures FOREVER !!! Yes, “Sing praise, sing praise”, Forever is brought to us by Jesus – not just in Easter – not just Palm Sunday but FOREVER – even in the deepest of winters of our lives, we are to hold out for spring… hold out for FOREVER… HOLD ON TO JESUS… STRENGTH – remember the little card scripture here – He stands by us – I appreciate that we are in the Spring – today it stopped raining (finally) although I was thankful for the rain to knock down the pollen allergies – and yet with spring we can talk about renewal and life and love and the blessings of Easter’s Promise and Hope – We see this in spring renewing every year with the new blooms – the greening up of the grass – the April showers bringing May flowers and May flowers? – well – PILGRIMS – we are the pilgrims on this journey. A journey WITH Jesus this week. Recounting our kid’s message: I hope you enjoyed learning about the intricacies of plant leaves and the fascination of complex photosynthesis, thylakoid pancake grana stacks, knob-shaped ATP producing and using protein complexes CF0CF1, F0F1, and yes the antenna-like photosystems of chlorophyll and accessory pigments – the complexity that takes in CO2 – makes life-giving Oxygen gas, make Carbon complex sugar molecules, stores up, uses, and makes renewing energy – and allows flower to bloom and fruits to be set. We love to learn and we barely scratch the surface!!! It is WISDOM for us to know that as much as we learn, we realize we don’t even know a fraction of how it all works, let alone comes together all in an area smaller than a speck – it is more than we can even imagine – more than our microscopes can see – more than our imaginations too. Us not knowing makes me hunger for more knowledge and all of us realize that we cannot know all things – but we are to know they work together in concert … And Have Faith in the unseen…
3 SO… I want us to learn today more about God – know and believe in the things that we cannot even see – to know God is to know how He brings things together for the GOOD… and for us to barely scratch the surface of all that He does for us…. All He has and that He is still doing. To know God is to know Love – His Love is AMAZING, VAST, more than we can ever imagine.
When we learn about God’s Love – knowing God’s LOVE – we learn about Jesus – and in our Knowing God series of sermons – I present today that we continually want to know God more – and more – and WOW, Jesus, Messiah, is more than we could ever imagine….
Previously, we brought up our prophet Jonah was told to cry to Ninevah, scooped up inside that whale because he did not want to go – Jonah experienced 3 days of repentance, remorse, and surely fear – I don’t know how you would feel inside of a whale – but fear is a human emotion that we experience… And Jonah came OUT of the whale to preach as God directed him, to preach to all the sinful people – even if he could never imagine they would repent. For us to know God – we know and imagine Jesus coming out of the tomb, 3 days later to SAVE all the sinful people – already KNOWING to be their Shephard – to be the Word – to be our All in All.
Jesus walking into Jerusalem (actually riding on the donkey) – Jesus KNEW His Mission – no whale was needed – Jesus DID choose to walk this path… Jesus chose to save us before we even knew Him. As our scriptures recounted: Jesus came into Jerusalem at the what we now call Palm Sunday – John’s gospel tells us that Jesus had been there multiple times – of course we know of him as a boy going there to the temple, losing mom and dad, this journey was common in that time – and known to Him, taking the trek as a human and as the Savior. And so, it is no surprise that the timing of this entry was expected, known, prophesized, and palatable and real to Jesus. Others were in awe, Jesus was in fulfilment of “doing His job” which He knew from before time, it was a path He was to take. Jesus did come into Jerusalem knowing the week ahead – the hard steps –– We know the crowd was there in cheers on Sunday – and yet the crowd later would take to jeers by Friday on crucifixion day – disillusioned and disappointed… The Sunday crowd thought Jesus was an earthly king. Oh, Jesus was much more than that – as many would discover in one week’s time with the resurrection of this the Christ. There would be many who would turn away but come back again – we too who have turned from Him are always welcomed back – to know Jesus is to know He is Always there for us.
On that Palm Sunday, Jesus came in “on His Word” fulfilling prophecy – and even if the crowd was in cheers, Jesus came in – on that donkey – IN TEARS… Luke’s gospel states the whole crowd of disciples began joyfully to praise God in loud voices for all the miracles they had seen: “Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord!” – “Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!”… As he approached Jerusalem and saw the city, he wept over it and said, “If you, even you, had only known on this day what would bring you peace — but now it is hidden from your eyes.”
4 Should the people have known? Should they have been looking for more than an earthly king appointed by God? They surely thought Jesus or any potential earthly king would swoop in and save them from Roman rule and oppression. So many times we hear that the peoples’ eyes had been closed and ears had been closed – how many times did Jesus petition for those to hear – to see… We know from the reading of Psalm 118 and from the prophet Zachariah, that God’s messenger and God’s fulfillment would come… Zechariah’s prophesy came in the rebuilding time – after Babylon’s rule – His visions were surely complicated to the future but this portion is about a Messianic King – to understand that the people would cheer this Heavenly messenger – would come humbly and then be rejected – and there was a complicated time frame to understand that people were likely not aware of – and then there is that “crowd mentality” that took over – especially end of the week…
EXCEPT for the ones whose eyes and ears were starting to be opened – to those who were filled with Spirit like 30 years prior for Simeon and Anna in the temple when Jesus was brought in as a baby… but unfortunately most did not imagine this Jesus would be amazing and King to come. It clearly states in John’s gospel of wisdom years later that: “Only after Jesus was GLORIFIED did they realize that these things had been written about him and that these things had been done to him” …. And Psalm 118 probably attributable to King David – mentions the Messianic King – who we now know in spirit-site to be Jesus – to be prophesied to reign on and restore the Kingdom – this too speaks of the coming and the rejection of Jesus: stating The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone – so Jesus knew this plan – helped author the plan – and ached for those who did not understand and don’t understand.
Jesus’s tears – if one could have seen them – they would have spoke volumes if not these words: “Forgive them Lord they know not what they do”, spoken on the cross and surely felt deep inside by Jesus riding in: Forgive them Lord, they really don’t know WHO I am…. I pray we understand Jesus as the LOVE that God sent – remembering John 3:16-17 “ For God so loved the world that He gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him.” — Knowing Jesus aching in His hear there for the crowd there that day – and for us to Know Him now – to request us to REPENT of sins – we learn our God is a God of sacrifice. Jesus sacrificed out of LOVE for giving His Way to repentance – for giving God’s Grace and Mercy. Knowing God is knowing that Jesus came to save. Psalm 118 again: “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever. The Lord is my strength and my defense; he has become my salvation.”
5 One of my favorite favorite scriptures of Jesus – stating how IMPORTANT it is for Him to come in saving Grace is from Luke’s Gospel: Jesus’s disciples were hoop and hollering this Hosanna – and “Some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to Jesus, “Teacher, rebuke your disciples!” – “I tell you,” he replied, “if they keep quiet, the stones will cry out.” – WOW – [hold up rock with smiling face] – We are encouraged and told to both believe and shout it out – that the rocks will cry out if we don’t acknowledge this greatness of the Glory of God bringing Victory over Sin and Death.
I want to acknowledge and celebrate that this has been the week of Passover – the most celebrated of the Jewish faith – and we too should have the reflection of God’s amazing act in the Book of Exodus – of Moses’s charge to bring the slaves out from Egypt – and the preparation of their meal before the escape – to put the blood of the lamb on their doors and have the angel of death pass over and skip their houses from a terrible plaque. The Lord told the people who did escape to pass these stories down in generations to generations – it is in Leviticus to remember this time of Moses and the enslaved people.
And so for us to Know God – we must on faith be in the knowledge of God’s Plan – and to Know Jesus is to know Him as our Passover Lamb – His blood shed…
We can raise our branches of palms in Hosanna for both His entrance to Holy Week – and wave them for the sake of having our lives now – and for our entrance to Heaven by Way of His Way…
I am going to wrap up my sermon in a practice of understanding Jesus – so many things He is to us – I want us to take a deep absorbing of these truths about Jesus – as I read them – let us think of Who Jesus is to us personally – to that crowd that day – and to know Jesus Forever as we KNOW His entry into Holy Week turns into His Resurrection – and our FOREVER…. (so here we go – please mediate on all these – and imagine each step of Jesus this week like the movement to the Cross):
6
[slowly read] TO KNOW JESUS IS TO KNOW:
To Know Jesus is to KNOW: Jesus, is MORE than just the earthly king. Jesus is the Passover Blood Jesus is David’s descendant Jesus is David’s Lord Jesus is our purifying fire. Jesus is establisher of His Kingdom Jesus is the greatness of His governing Jesus our Victory Jesus our Righteousness Jesus our Hope Jesus our Lord Jesus our Savior Jesus All in All… Wonderful counselor. Mighty God Everlasting Father Prince of Peace Jesus is the Author of never-ending Peace between God and man… Jesus is the sword of truth, as the divider Jesus is the conqueror over evil Jesus is the crusher of the snake Jesus the lamb suffering Jesus the burden holder Jesus the healer of our ailments Jesus the healer of our sin Jesus the conqueror over death Jesus, Immanuel, God with us Jesus our brother Jesus our Shepherd Jesus the Teacher, “Rabboni”, Rabbi Jesus as God’s Chosen Son in which He was and IS well pleased Jesus our Groom for the church as a Bride Jesus is our daily bread Jesus is our breath Jesus is our Strength Jesus is our Spirit Jesus is our Judge Jesus is our forgiveness Jesus our JOY Jesus the Christ Jesus Holy Redeemer Jesus the Blood Jesus the Body Jesus the Sacrificed Jesus the Master Jesus the Servant Jesus the Word made Flesh Jesus is Love Jesus is the LIGHT… JESUS is THE NAME ABOVE ALL NAMES Jesus, is Alpha and Omega, beginning and end. Jesus, Messiah, more than we could EVER imagine. Jesus walks to the Cross this week – FOR GOD – and FOR US Amen and AMEN
This writing is #206 of over 2000 now – a great reminder to keep blooming because you never know who God has to put in your path and you theirs…
I appreciate now that I was 10 years ago realizing that God put these thoughts into my head – it was up to me to move my fingers faster and capture them..
Thank You God for making me and making us BLESSED IN THE BLOOM…
…
God Wants YOU in HIS Bouquet in Heaven, 08July2015 #206
I’d like to take the wonderful opportunity to say thank you to God for placing such certain people in my path. I have and had so many wonderful people to learn from, pull the best characteristics from each one into my bouquet of life…. Blessedly more amazing people, than terrible people… But I learn from those folks as well… Learn to delineate the good from the bad traits within each person (because we all have both), the roses from the thorns, the grain from the weeds.
Matthew 13:29-30 “‘No,’ he answered, ‘because while you are pulling the weeds, you may uproot the wheat with them. Let both grow together until the harvest. At that time I will tell the harvesters: First collect the weeds and tie them in bundles to be burned; then gather the wheat and bring it into my barn.’”
When God choose me, and when God choose you, He let all the seeds grow, grain and weeds alike… good grain people and weed people/temptations (planted by the evil one). When it is time to harvest, the weeds are set aside and burnt… And the best in you will be taken into the barn of God… into HIS eternal kingdom!!! Yes, you see God let those bad habits grow like weeds alongside your best grain characteristics. He dare not pull the weeds that intercalated into your being, entangled all around you, because the grain of who you are is/was not yet mature, it is/was not yet firmly rooted in good soil.
When you are mature enough, which does not depend on your age, God will call you louder by name… God will lead you to Jesus… maybe others will cajole Him to come into your house and raise your life spirit like Jarius’ daughter (Luke 8:41-56)… Maybe you will cry out in painful screams of angst… When God says it’s time to wake up, you sometimes snooze thru the alarm, then angrily realize you weren’t ready to get up but God called you anyway. When you wake up earlier than the alarms, it’s refreshing and peaceful to see God coming for you, and you can be ready and waiting for HIM. You can work on your root growth deeper and obey his Word.
Before harvest God says: it’s time to get right with the Lord…. It’s time to start pulling those weeds within you, so hold on tight to your roots planted in ME… God’s harvest of the good in your crop will become easier and less painful if you cooperate with God and not work against him, if you identify and start eliminating the weeds in your life… If you dig deep and get to the roots of these vice-causing traits and clean out your soul.
It’s ok if you can’t get out all the weeds or invasive roots out before God takes you, it’s ok because God knows any harvest, no matter how small is still pleasing (Matthew 13:23). God will take you as you are. Be grateful and let God bless you with HIS joy.
God sees the Jesus within you, and takes you for HIS bouquet of heaven. God loves you and will keep you forever…
We got home and then I went back out to the car, looking looking looking because my son lost his wallet (probably) in there, knew he used it in the car, good for that. So yeah it was a situation with an unknown mystery and he started to retrace his steps (again). My first time looking, I bumped my hand against it – found it “easily” while getting trash (straw wrappers) out of the way. I hadn’t seen it blending in either until it was SO OBVIOUSLY there. But really it took a second. Then, I left it there and called to him to come see. It was a ‘teachable moment”… true… it was OK, nothing lost, but still a moment for teaching the value of reevaluating and relooking without panicking.
So you’ve been there surely – imagine in a panic (hopefully never) of this type of situation – a wallet or phone or whatever… Remember too the hope – those memories of “it is OK” it might resurface, should resurface, will resurface and then it WAS OK. That trust is teachable. We fortunately or unfortunately have LOTS of teachable moments.
Isn’t that true for us in faith too? We should be teachable and reassured that mistakes happen, accidents too. And we need to get into a learning frame of mind!
Another teachable moment for kids this time was tonight – I was happy to help just for a little bit at a STEAM event – Science Technology Engineering Arts and Math hosted at the high school for a madhouse of kids – wow. I sat and helped and I love watching the kids WANT to learn – want to TRY – want to PARTICIPATE. And I appreciate having enough strength to tell the parents who might try to “do it” for their kids to LET THEIR KIDS LEARN. Of course each parent was super close and monitoring.
Interesting that THIS is EXACTLY how God is handing us – allowing us to learn – wanting us to learn – and OF COURSE being RIGHT THERE – monitoring – guiding – WANTING to be relied upon. God would rather we NOT take it into our hands only – He would rather we LEARN to be dependent upon Him – and when we praise Him – we please Him.
A teachable moment from God is a real adventure in faith…
Keep Faith!
Keep keepin on!
Amen
—
Keeping the Word – Luke 11:27-28 And it happened, as He spoke these things, that a certain woman from the crowd raised her voice and said to Him, “Blessed is the womb that bore You, and the breasts which nursed You!” But He said, “More than that, blessed are those who hear the word of God and keep it!”
Oh wow, it’s starting… TREE POLLEN!!! I never used to be allergic, well…. rats… and it rained 3 days and wow relief… Who knew the smallest POLLEN could be so powerful in overwhelming our systems. Maybe we should remember this for spreading faith, yes spread seeds but first be the busy bees that pollinate the blooms of people’s faith. Spread the Word, bring it directly to each person. DON’T OVERWHELM THEM – that is for the Lord to work on opening eye and ears – we are to just be present COVERED IN POLLEN.
In seed spreading, we could toss or drop seeds into any soil. In pollination, the POLLEN has to get to the right flowers, so imagine the right Word getting to the right ears. And by the Word, I mean also our actions consistent with the Word, the encouragement, the kindness, the gentle chastising too.
POLLEN can fly in the wind, but it’s a good thing for bees and moths to both feed on the flowers and POLLEN, and for extra POLLEN to cover their fuzz. Then a vehicle for transport is established to get POLLEN to the same alike flowers, fast… Fly fly fly, jump jump jump, buzz buzz buzz!
The Fruiting of Faith starts with the POLLEN of patience, of perseverance, of prayer. The seeds of harvest start with the hearing of hope.
Let us be busy bees today!
Pollinate and ACHHOOOO…
God Bless You!!
AMEN
—
Matthew 4:17-25
From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. And Jesus, walking by the sea of Galilee, saw two brethren, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers. And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men. And they straightway left their nets, and followed him. And going on from thence, he saw other two brethren, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in a ship with Zebedee their father, mending their nets; and he called them. And they immediately left the ship and their father, and followed him.
And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people. And his fame went throughout all Syria: and they brought unto him all sick people that were taken with divers diseases and torments, and those which were possessed with devils, and those which were lunatick, and those that had the palsy; and he healed them. And there followed him great multitudes of people from Galilee, and from Decapolis, and from Jerusalem, and from Judæa, and from beyond Jordan.
If last week’s word of the week was Strengthening, then this week my word is ENRICHMENT. Yes, enriching the soil, like in the garden, and enriching our lives with nourishing feedings of the Word with enrichment to GROW.
One growth is to appreciate what God thinks of us over what anyone else does. Our enrichment is physical often in hearing, but our mindset is SPIRITUAL in focus and refocus to pick up on the cues and clues to our strengthening. In other words, we need to realize that GOD IS FOR US!
A song aptly placed in a youtube feed for me was “The Blessing”, a 2020 song by Cody Carnes, Elevation Worship, also sung by Kari Jobe. Ah 2020, do you remember that we thought in 2020 about 20:20 vision – and trust the scriptures that the Lord has envisioned us in each of our days – sometimes strengthened and sometimes needing strengthening. The lyric in this song “The Blessing” rings out loud and clear: “He is for you. He is for you.”
The other song that hit me perfectly right is Mudcrutch’s “I don’t scare easy” – sung by Tom Petty. We should not scare easy if we are in our best intentions and have some experiences that DID scare us, but shouldn’t now. We need to know that we got through certain experiences before and we will get through them again…
If we could step through our days NOT with more hubris but with humble confidence in HIS LOVE, in the Lord’s strength and purpose, we could approach life with more energy and stick-to-it-tive-ness. We could stand more strong in the wind. We could remember that we are always a child of God, no matter what. And this gives us also the freedom to not retaliate nor swing back, but turn that other cheek on our way OUT of the way of barbs that won’t stick.
Romans 8 reminds us of God’s everlasting love: What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?
And the book of Numbers 6:24-26 gives us the familiar blessing: “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.”
SO, to be enriched with Spirit is to know that God sometimes puts us in locations that might get heated, but we are the cool of the Spirit to muster through. Then the coolness of hot and cold people also will remind us that there is no victory in the world or winning over people, our victory stand is with the Lord in His stance – we are more than conquerors in HIS LOVE.
“Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 8
The Lord bless you and keep you Make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you The Lord turn His face toward you And give you peace
x2 Amen, amen, amen Amen, amen, amen
. The Lord bless you and keep you Make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you The Lord turn His face toward you And give you peace Amen, amen, amen x4
. May His favor be upon you And a thousand generations And your family and your children And their children, and their children
.x4 May His presence go before you
And behind you, and beside you All around you, and within you
. He is with you, he is with you In the morning, in the evening In your coming, and your going In your weeping, and rejoicing He is for you, he is for you He is, He is
. Amen, amen, amen x4
—
Romans: 8:28-39 NKJV
And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren. 30 Moreover whom He predestined, these He also called; whom He called, these He also justified; and whom He justified, these He also glorified.
God’s Everlasting Love What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things? Who shall bring a charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies. Who is he who condemns? It is Christ who died, and furthermore is also risen, who is even at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written: “For Your sake we are killed all day long;We are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.”
Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
BEHOLD Baubles and Bargains and Brownies and Bathrooms and Bed, Blessings to Lay One’s Head.
My Saturday was SO BUSY, I BLESSEDLY was most thankful to go to bed after a BUSY day. Basically weekend warriors work at wacky combinations of wows on weekends. Days off are days ON. And we get WORN OUT.
Basic living is what we need, right? But we surely live anything but basically these days – especially in blessed american dream dedication. Days are both blessed and burdened with baubles and busy. I could babble on about baubles – but I need to be back to the basics.
So what is the busy we should be basically doing? Be less burdened? Be more basic? How about BEHOLDING BLESSINGS and BEING THANKFUL. There is where we find BLISS!
Jesus said to a deciding disciple: “Foxes have holes and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay His head.”
Basically we have to live life more lightly. LIGHT as in less burdened and LIGHT as in lit up for Christ – LIGHTING the WAY of HIS WAY – BEING LIGHT AND SALT!
I know it’s hard to be a full-time disciples for Jesus, but for a basic purpose, we best live “making due” and be thankful for what we do have! We are supposed to be BOLSTERING the BRIGHTNESS of the DAY – and yes, taking a battery recharge for ourselves. You can’t be ON all the time from artificial light, you need to tap into a resourceful recharge. (Thus me/us resting now and pondering the restart for today.)
Yes, our days are filled with busy. Yesterday I was selling Christmas stuff at a local non-profit rummage sale at a historic site, gifting smiles and daffodils in my Santa suit, for “Christmas in April” – people were shocked and laughed – I sold about half my room contents in bargains that the people appreciated – they also appreciated looking inside the renovations of the place – chatting – and just reminiscing… My favorite was little kids with their treasures (like little bird figures) which we either gave away or inexpensively sold. My ultimate JOY in seeing JOY was a 20-something who saw the wooden painted plaques for a video game and I gave them away at 2 for $1 – and he gave me a hug in astonishment and glee – yeah – JOY in the TREASURE find…. FUN… Then we had to take the time for packing packing packing the leftovers for another sale day. My Christmas stuff was easy – 3 bins consolidated – but oh those vintage tea cups of fine china, from the other room, which were priced at pennies practically to simply unburden the big collection of attic finds, they took some time to repack. It is interesting to realize that these items, so beautiful and useful, came across the seas from places far away 75 years ago plus. They might have been used well or just viewed. I remarked that we are trying to practically give away something that an ancestor may have fought for as an inheritance…
Busy continuing, I then zipped home to grab a shower and be on the road again to a friend’s invitation to bingo fundraiser for the betterment of a cat shelter charity, lots of “B2’s” and “G52’s” but no winning except for the blessings of friendship and food, and thus the blessings of clean bathrooms, public and home, and the ultimate daily blessing of BED, whew!!!
Put a basic need in the busy lives we lead, how do we find the blessings? But just BEING and just BELIEVING in a purpose greater than basic living. Being with people who are thankful. Being thankful. Believing in thankfulness. It is a lesson for us, in learning from life now, to approach each day with less lust of life’s loads of loots, and be more transient, less trashful and more true. We need to truthfully TRUST in being TEMPORARY in this world, and just enjoy one day at a time.
Jesus Himself said there is a cost to discipleship, that He Himself has no place to lay His head, must keep moving, must go out to work His Word-spreading work. We have work – in the worthy living of life. We have rest – in the restfulness of realization of temporary work in the here and now for eternal rest.
Isn’t life funny? We surely are human and we accumulate stuff and dust, we are human and fight for stuff like teacups that once were inheritance but now that outlive us, and maybe are burdens to pack in future generations for them to move or sell. We pour money into extravagant but fun events for foodies, but now eat off paper plates and fill trash cans with waste. (Trust me we wasted none of the yummy food from the bingo event last night – I just ate the leftovers of chicken salad sandwiches and half a brownie for breakfast, yum). Life is funny as we pay money for a chance to win something like at bingo, that we could have just bought ourselves, but for the sake of a good cause, sure, it’s about community… Our jolly allows the recipients of the money to live better (in this case cats to have shelter and food while they await the home that will spoil them!). I enjoyed the event, feeling the normalcy in joy, and the blessing of friends of friends, knowing my gut said my blessing is to be thankfully present at all things in the present. I appreciated the normalcy for the woman next to me too – who had her arm covered and had been going thru cancer treatments. I also marveled looking across the room that 5 years ago we would never be here – we flew out of that covid era – it is like a distant memory now… Do we count our blessings for that?!? I also marveled at the historical site rummage sale that we are just a few stewards now of back-breaking work to build the infrastructure of the day – including indoor plumbing – are we thankful for that? I hope so!
So – what is the message in my wandering of pondering, plunked down in my restful den of a house? That we need to take our rechargeable spirits, and recharge them and look where to shine the LIGHT today – and if we have human limitations of needing daily down time, we have to simply be thankful to have what we have when we have it. And when we feel low, we should look for Jesus’s LIGHT. And we have to remember that we have to BEHOLD BLESSINGS – no matter what they are – even in trials – whether they are brownies at bingo – or baubles at bargain prices – or blessings of modern bathrooms and beds.
We take the blessing to lay our head – into the rest of the ONE, Jesus, Who did not rest from His mission even if He did rest from his long days. Let us be MOST thankful – that He has shown and shone us the Way. Be the Light and the Salt of the day!
Amen
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The Cost of Discipleship Matthew 8:19-22 NKJV
And when Jesus saw great multitudes about Him, He gave a command to depart to the other side. Then a certain scribe came and said to Him, “Teacher, I will follow You wherever You go.” And Jesus said to him, “Foxes have holes and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay His head.” Then another of His disciples said to Him, “Lord, let me first go and bury my father.” But Jesus said to him, “Follow Me, and let the dead bury their own dead.”
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Matthew 6:19-34 NKJV
Lay Up Treasures in Heaven “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; 20 but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
The Lamp of the Body “The lamp of the body is the eye. If therefore your eye is good, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eye is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in you is darkness, how great is that darkness!
You Cannot Serve God and Riches “No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon.
Do Not Worry “Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? Which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature?
“So why do you worry about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; and yet I say to you that even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. 30 Now if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will He not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?
“Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.
The label on the bathroom towel dispenser “MARATHON” reminded me of the Jackson Brown song, “Get up and do it again.” That we are in a marathon of life. That life changes and yet doesn’t. There are common situations all around, even if the scenery or seasons change. Then there’s core situations that instruct us that “what is old is new again”. No matter what season or place we are in, we best to keep moving, learn from the past, and apply newness to the new times. Times change, but yet how many repeated scenarios will we encounter? Many… Many…
Marathon life. Keep running… Don’t forget to shine… If the Lord doesn’t change, He doesnt, and if our gifted salvation is secured by our belief in the Lord, asking forgiveness, it is, then who are we not to be working out in the world with a renewal of faith every day. Jesus said to remember this and SHINE.
Today I’m helping with a rummage sale for a local non-profit. Selling for proceeds, yes, because they need money to paint the place to preserve it, but also since clearly things at the sale are priced to move – they don’t want to keep it all!!! Reducing the volume of what surely was donations and attic accumulations and what not. Dishes are a quarter, the stuff is OLD and yet not. The stuff is simply A LOT! And if we don’t sell it we have to pack it up! So we want to sell it!!!
My marathon marvel moments were MANY last night, the first time I stepped into the sale set up… First this is a reminder for the many church rummage sales of the 70s, that my mom used to volunteer with. Stacks and stacks, and people chomping at the bit to come in. Other marathon memories include taking my kids to this mansion to absorb history and remember that we are to remember. But what got me last night walking in to help price, was that the SAME CHRISTMAS donations that I personally brought were there for me to SELL, AGAIN, haha, Lord that is funny. After selling for my friend who is moving, these are now the SAME in the room that I am staffing for selling today… weird and not… It’s like I’m in a loop of my life for a reason. And yet I think the lesson here is just keep living life… This is an opportunity to share and to shine – and have fun for a good cause – and really – I hope we DO sell it and not have to pack it up and sell it again…
I heard the birds chirping last night as I was putting price tags on – it is definitely spring and we could even leave doors open in the warmth of the weather… it was a short long winter and spring has sprung. Yet I am going to wear my Christmas outfit because it is funny – humor is timeless. SO we have no excuse to not get out of our ruts of winter and move forward.
Our scripture for motivation today is Jesus reminding us to live life and keep living it – no matter how many times around the sun – we need to shine the LIGHT of HIM. We don’t shine to shine our accomplishments – we shine to show that He is still lighting us up from within… We as believers are called to be salt and light. – let us shine and not put our lights under baskets – let us keep salty preserving the goodness trusting inside of us. Let us KEEP LIGHTING UP FAITH IN EACH OTHER!
Ok – time to keep going and get rolling…
It is time to shine….
Amen and please read: Matthew 5 – Believers Are Salt and Light
“You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men.
“You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.”
It is Easter coming – and we condense an already condensed 3 years of ministry into a month of study – and watch and feel Jesus in His Journeying… Some days easy, some days hard… I would say that it was a novel new day each day – yet Jesus KNEW EXACTLY what He was walking into…
Jesus Begins to Preach (Matthew 4:12-17)
When Jesus heard that John the Baptist had been put in prison, he withdrew to Galilee. Leaving Nazareth, he went and lived in Capernaum, which was by the lake in the area of Zebulun and Naphtali – to fulfill what was said through the prophet Isaiah: “Land of Zebulun and land of Naphtali, the Way of the Sea, beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles –THE PEOPLE LIVING IN DARKNESS HAVE SEEN A GREAT LIGHT; on those living in the land of the shadow of death A LIGHT HAS DAWNED.” From that time on Jesus began to preach, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.”
A Jesus Journey never stops…
My journey this past year and 10 years has no scale nor complexity that Jesus had – but yet I realize that this Jesus Journey for each of us is mapped out in a TRIP-TIK if we choose to open that up with the Lord’s account – and study the roadmap of life. Our lives can be the open road or the intricate mountain passes or the tiny street nooks of fun things to look at. Really our Jesus-journey is for each of us and so varied even day to day…
I enjoyed my trip yesterday – gave a talk and saw the operations of a very impressive small group. When someone said “You are getting so much mileage out of that 4 weeks sabbatical” I reply YES I AM! – I did not imagine that I could use it to drive encouragement to as many people as possible AT WORK, as the opportunities to speak to big small groups of people and especially individuals fell right into my life-mission “TRIP-TIK”. WELL… YES… Yes, I actually DID know and was excited for the possibilities. I knew that both for my learning and for the eventual teaching, that it is SO IMPORTANT to take folks on this journey of science and life… and oh the people you will meet – and all that fun stuff in between. It is not all about me – but about the gears turning inside the mindsets of the folks you get to talk to – the folks who are going places even when sitting simply at a lunch and learn before dashing back to the lab. It was a joy of seeing minds turning for the places that the students of life will go…
So yes, I hopped in my Subaru and with my PowerPoint slide decks fully decked out – these are encouragement slides and science journey slides that I started making at the same time I started my sabbatical – I even wondered at my hyper-drive to spend 3 hours one Sunday afternoon at the beach plugged into the electricity of the boardwalk pavilion to work on 5 slides which are beautiful to me – and meaningful to my experiments – and a treasure of trivial stuff that is not trivial. So, with these slides in hand, I jumped at the opportunity to visit one of our sister-sites. SO COOL TO SEE IN PERSON! I also brought my own posterboards of my science fair of me – and just like the day before this, when I was a science fair judge – you need good shoes to keep journeying on this life journey… and good tires too as yesterday was rain rain rain – but no problem for my new-ish tires…
Crossing the BIG bridge, in to and from the event, and seeing the majesty of the steel towering, I was impressed with visual beauty of engineering usefulness combined with the strength of it – that bridge was sturdy – and I am sure and hopeful that the engineering designs allow it to withstand extreme weather conditions and whatnot… Can you imagine the folks sitting up at the top and overseeing their work – knowing that generations to come would benefit from their day to day back-breaking work. Now imagine that small scale – at the work bench – at the engineering discussions – at the data crunching – at the anything that you do locale… Imagine that again in bigger life-scale – and then in God-scale – and then come back to that Jesus Journey that Jesus went on during his short time on earth… It is not just engineering and timing – it is a whole Majestic view of God’s Sovereignty to take us on our journeys just like Jesus took Himself on His… God is walking us back to Him – and giving us Mountains to both look at and climb, valleys to admire and slide into, and flat even life fields too – just walk the narrow way rather than the wide wander.
I have the best advice that I can give – live today in a Jesus-Way… Just be open to the opportunities – and get out there and meet the people – and be the “encourager” or use whatever spiritual gift you have for this life journey… KEEP WALKING… Good shoes… Maybe bring a good PowerPoint set of slides or posterboards too… Take your smile and your listening ears…
Bring your Jesus Journey to where He needs you to go.
Jesus, He Went His OWN Way, and the devil went away (for a while). Jesus stood strong against temptation by the devil in the wilderness, which is where the Spirit led Him, to pray and fast, which was to fulfill prophecy. Jesus prevailed by speaking His OWN Way of Scripture into His direction. Jesus quoted truth: ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God.’, and ‘You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him only you shall serve.’, and ‘You shall not tempt the Lord your God.’… Quoted from the truth. Jesus also rebuked the wrong use of Scripture when the Devil tempted Him. We too must remember that the evil one twists truth, but Jesus lays our way and His Way STRAIGHT…
Follow Jesus really closely and don’t let the devil distract. Let Jesus Keep Us On Track.
Like Jesus, in hunger, reach for the daily bread of His Word over the worldly wilderness of wanting.
And keep walking…
Amen
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Luke 4:1-13 NKJV
Then Jesus, being filled with the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness, being tempted for forty days by the devil. And in those days He ate nothing, and afterward, when they had ended, He was hungry.
And the devil said to Him, “If You are the Son of God, command this stone to become bread.”
But Jesus answered him, saying, “It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God.’ ”
Then the devil, taking Him up on a high mountain, showed Him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time. And the devil said to Him, “All this authority I will give You, and their glory; for this has been delivered to me, and I give it to whomever I wish. Therefore, if You will worship before me, all will be Yours.”
And Jesus answered and said to him, “Get behind Me, Satan! For it is written, ‘You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him only you shall serve.’ ”
Then he brought Him to Jerusalem, set Him on the pinnacle of the temple, and said to Him, “If You are the Son of God, throw Yourself down from here. For it is written: ‘He shall give His angels charge over you,
To keep you,’ and, ‘In their hands they shall bear you up, Lest you dash your foot against a stone.’ ”
And Jesus answered and said to him, “It has been said, ‘You shall not tempt the Lord your God.’ ”
Now when the devil had ended every temptation, he departed from Him until an opportune time.
Then Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit to Galilee, and news of Him went out through all the surrounding region. And He taught in their synagogues, being glorified by all.
Debbie Upper 