“Jesus sets out the evidence of what he saw and heard in heaven.” ~John the Baptizer

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Baptism, Jesus, John 3, John 4, John the Baptist

I am not immune to competing for my spiritual faction (aka denomination). I think it is best. I think Jesus cares. I am wrong.

John the Baptizer is still baptizing. Jesus, as a part of His ministry, is starting to baptize as well.

John’s disciples got into an argument with the establishment Jews over the nature of baptism. They came to John and said, “Rabbi, you know the one who was with you on the other side of the Jordan? The one you authorized with your witness? Well, he’s now competing with us. He’s baptizing, too, and everyone’s going to him instead of us.”

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“A gentle response defuses anger, but a sharp tongue kindles a temper-fire.” ~King Solomon

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Anger, Compassion, Gentleness, King Solomon, Proverbs 15, Wise Sayings

I have seen it way too often. Something that starts simple escalates. It turns into all out war. My drive to defend myself and “be right” creates a verbal death spiral.

Gentleness is a fruit of the Holy Spirit. Jesus challenges me to a goal of being gentle with others. That is a demonstration of God’s love.

There is good news! God has given me the Holy Spirit who teaches me the way of Jesus. That is stunning in that I don’t have to depend on my own evil ways. I am a new creation in Jesus.

A gentle response defuses anger,
    but a sharp tongue kindles a temper-fire. | Proverbs 15:1 (The Message Bible)

“What you believed could happen has happened.” ~Jesus

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Authority, Faith, Healing, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Matthew 8, Miracle, Obedience, Romans 1

Jesus challenges me. Jesus wants me to believe. When I do, Jesus is loving, kind and faithful. Jesus wants to heal me. Jesus wants to heal all of us. God is in an amazing mood.

As Jesus entered the village of Capernaum, a Roman captain came up in a panic and said, “Master, my servant is sick. He can’t walk. He’s in terrible pain.” Jesus said, “I’ll come and heal him.”

“Oh, no,” said the captain. “I don’t want to put you to all that trouble. Just give the order and my servant will be fine. I’m a man who takes orders and gives orders. I tell one soldier, ‘Go,’ and he goes; to another, ‘Come,’ and he comes; to my slave, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.”

“Happy are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.” ~Jesus

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Jesus, Jesus Manifesto, Jesus Sayings, Matthew 5, Mercy

I want mercy in my life. Compassion is a wonderful gift from God. I am challenged by Jesus to replicate it in all of my relationships. I am to be a person of mercy. It will bring me happiness and mercy in my own life. Now that is some very good news.

“Happy (aka Blessed) are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.” | Matthew 5:7

“Take it from me: Unless a person is born from above, it’s not possible to see what I’m pointing to—to God’s kingdom.” ~Jesus

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Born Again, Children of God, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, John 3

This is stunning. As disciples of Jesus, we are the chief objects of God’s fatherly love. We become God’s children through faith and are then encouraged by Scripture to imitate our heavenly Father in our daily living.

I also become a child of God by being “born again”. I was born as a child of my earthly father. He did what he could for me in raising me well but it had its limits.

Jesus didn’t call me to be Christian. He called me to be a disciple.

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Disciple, Happy, Hurt, Jesus, Joy, Promise, Smile, Submission, Suffer

Jesus didn’t call me to be a Christian. He called me to be a disciple. Jesus is my Master teacher.

I will smile even when I am hurting. I will be happy even when I am unhappy. It’s called strength! It is called the power of the Holy Spirit. Jesus counted it a great joy even when He went to the cross for me.

“Is that any of our business, Mother—yours or mine? This isn’t my time. Don’t push me.” ~Jesus

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Jesus, Jesus Sayings, John 2, Miracles, Mother's Day, Wine

Mothers, you have to love them. They want us to do something. We might as well do it. Jesus understood that.

It was a wedding. It is a special time for family and friends. They didn’t plan well. They are running out of wine and that is going to be a problem. The mother of Jesus intercedes.

The mother of Jesus steps in. She knows her son Jesus can take care of it. While He hasn’t done any public miracles yet, she has probably seen the power of God on Him. She knows this is no big deal.

“May integrity and uprightness protect me, because my hope, Lord, is in you.” ~King David

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Integrity, Jesus, King David, Psalm 25, Salvation, Wise Sayings

I have enemies. You have enemies. When we follow Jesus, that is reality. When we speak out for Him, we are attacked. Some days I get focused on the enemy and the pain. I need to focus on Jesus.

May integrity and uprightness protect me, because my hope, Lord, is in you. | Psalm 25:20-21 (NIV)

In Jesus, I have been made a new creation. I’ve shared His death and resurrection to a new life. I’ve been born again. I share the integrity and uprightness of Jesus. Jesus has defeated death and the evil one. As the Apostle Paul reminds me, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” (2 Corinthians 5:17)

“We saw the glory with our own eyes, the one-of-a-kind glory, like Father, like Son, generous inside and out, true from start to finish.” ~Apostle John

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Apostle John Sayings, Glory, Jesus, John 1, Theophany, Word of God

John saw it with his own eyes. Imagine that. John was there for the transfiguration. John saw the glory of Jesus! John has some good news for me.

The Word became flesh and blood, and moved into the neighborhood. We saw the glory with our own eyes, the one-of-a-kind glory, like Father, like Son, generous inside and out, true from start to finish. | John 1:14 (The Message Bible)

The good news (aka gospel) of John is so different from the other 3. John has a clearly different take. John is known as “the one Jesus loved”. We had the 500, the 120, the 72, the 12, the 3, and the 1. John didn’t place himself there. Jesus did. John deserves to be heard in a unique way.

“Breakfast is ready.” ~Jesus

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Compassion, God is Good, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, John 21, Love

This is the third time Jesus appears to the disciples. They’ve been out fishing all night. They’ve been working. They have so much on their minds, better to do something productive.

What does Jesus do? What is he concerned about? Jesus doesn’t want their efforts to be in vain so He directs them on where to fish so they don’t come back empty handed. Jesus cares that they are hungry and fixes them some breakfast.

“It’s done . . . complete.” ~Jesus

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Complete, Death of Jesus, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, John 19, Resurrection of Jesus

Jesus came to complete every task God, His Father, had laid out for Him. Jesus, earlier (John 5:38) had said “These very tasks, as I go about completing them, confirm that the Father, in fact, sent me.” 

And so … It is done. It is complete. There is nothing else to do except be raised from the dead, by the power of God and ascend to Heaven. Jesus has now ushered in a new agreement (aka covenant or testament). His blood poured out for us complete that transaction. The blood of Jesus has cleaned me up from all sin. It is done. It is complete.

A jug of sour wine was standing by. Someone put a sponge soaked with the wine on a javelin and lifted it to his mouth. After he took the wine, Jesus said, “It’s done . . . complete.” Bowing his head, he offered up his spirit. | Source: John 19:29-30 (The Message)

“Your beauty and love chase after me every day of my life.” ~King David

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Beauty, King David, Love, Wise Sayings

This translation is from The Message. We all recognize Psalm 23. The traditional translation of verse 6 is “Surely goodness and loving kindness will follow me all the days of my life.”

I want to live in the world where God’s beauty and love chase me every day of my life. I do, I do, I do! Imagine seeing every minute of every day that way? Imagine living life that way? Imagine?

“God, my shepherd! I don’t need a thing. You have bedded me down in lush meadows, you find me quiet pools to drink from. True to your word, you let me catch my breath and send me in the right direction.  Even when the way goes through Death Valley, ’m not afraid when you walk at my side. Your trusty shepherd’s crook makes me feel secure.  You serve me a six-course dinner right in front of my enemies. You revive my drooping head; my cup brims with blessing. Your beauty and love chase after me every day of my life. I’m back home in the house of God for the rest of my life. “ ~King David | Psalm 23 (The Message Bible)

Sometimes my worst fears …

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Fear, Fred Flintstone, Jesus, Love, Power

Sometimes my worst fears come true. It really was cancer. I did go broke. I was homeless and living in my car. My wife did divorce me. I was fired from several jobs. I feared all of these things. They did happen. There is a longer list but I won’t go into it.

“Who touched my robe?” ~Jesus

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Faith, Healing, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Mark 5, Miracle, Power

Am I thinking, if I can just touch Jesus, He will heal me?

It is a good question. Sometimes I believe yes, sometimes I don’t even think about it. I am forgetful of who Jesus is and the good news He has for me. I have faith but I need more faith.

Jesus was creating quite the stir. Multitudes were coming to him. They were hearing the message of good news. Jesus was healing them all. Every single one of them. They believed He could do it and he did.

“And the disciples were continually filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit.” ~Luke (Acts 13:52)

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Acts 13, Happy, Holy Spirit, Jesus, Joy, Luke, Romans 15

Am I happy? Do you see my joy? Or am I just a grumpy old man most days?

In Acts we learn that “And the disciples were continually filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit.” Acts 13:52 (NASB) Note that it was not a sometime kind of thing. It was continual. They were always joyful and happy. It is just who they were, like Jesus. This is where I get to say one of my favorite things. God is in a good mood!

It is easy to forget about joy. It is essential in the Kingdom of God. The Beatitudes (aka The Jesus Manifesto) traditionally use the word “blessed”. Most translators agree the better translation is “Happy” or “More than Happy”. For the joy that was set before Jesus, he endured the crucifixion. The joy of the Lord is my strength. We have Good News (aka the Gospel). We are a people of hope!

“Come off by yourselves; let’s take a break and get a little rest.” ~Jesus

There have been way too many times I have ignored getting some rest. I worked too many days in a row and eventually paid the price for it. Jesus wanted to take some time with his friends and get some rest. What happened?

The apostles then rendezvoused with Jesus and reported on all that they had done and taught. Jesus said, “Come off by yourselves; let’s take a break and get a little rest.” For there was constant coming and going. They didn’t even have time to eat. | Mark 6:30-31

By the seventh day God had finished the work he had been doing; so on the seventh day he rested from all his work. Then God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it he rested from all the work of creating that he had done. | Genesis 2:1-2

Peace — It is established in a believer’s relationship with the Father and Jesus

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Faith, Good News, Jesus, Love, Peace, Romans 5, Teachings

There are times I am clearly not at peace. I am not at peace with myself and I am not at peace with God or Jesus. Something is wrong. I may or may not know it but it becomes evident in my anxiety and worry. I am not convinced, at that point in time, that God is good and has my best interest at heart. 

It starts with faith. I need to get clear with my faith in Jesus. When peace leaves me, I need to get back to the real issue. I don’t have faith, I don’t believe who Jesus is and what He accomplished. Lack of peace comes from ignoring the core issue of unbelief. God is good. God sent His son to make me right with God. God did it out of love for me. Now that is some good news!

“Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus the Messiah.” | Romans 5:1 (NASB)

“Happy are the gentle, for they shall inherit the earth.” ~Jesus

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Gentleness, Humble, Inheritance, Jesus Manifesto, Jesus Sayings, Matthew 5, Meek

Jesus is a kind, loving King. Jesus is not angry with me. Jesus wants me to be kind and gentle. His goal for me is for me to love.

“Happy (aka Blessed) are the gentle, for they shall inherit the earth.” ~Jesus | Source: Matthew 5:5

What sort of gentleness is it, on account of those who have it, are pronounced happy? It seems important to note that in the manifesto ‘the meek’ come between those who mourn over sin and those who hunger and thirst after righteousness. The particular form of meekness which the Messiah requires in his disciples will surely have something to do with this sequence. This meekness denotes a humble and gentle attitude to others which is determined by a true estimate of ourselves. It is comparatively easy to be honest with ourselves before God and acknowledge ourselves to be sinners in his sight. Remember the “Jesus Prayer” — “Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me a sinner.”

“Peace be with you!” ~Jesus

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God is Good, Holy Week, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, John 20, Resurrection

Here we are. It is “Resurrection Sunday”. I’m celebrating the resurrection of Jesus not bunnies and chocolate candy. That’s just me though.

Jesus died for me and on the third day after He was buried Jesus was raised from the dead to an incorruptible body. Do I believe that? Is it the core of my faith?

Now there is some good news! It is really, really good news! It is stunning. It is amazing news!

What is it?

He is risen!

On the evening of that first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jewish leaders, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” After he said this, he showed them his hands and side. The disciples were overjoyed when they saw the Lord.

Again Jesus said, “Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” And with that he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive anyone’s sins, their sins are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven.” | John 20:19-23

“Father, into your hands I commit my spirit!” ~Jesus

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Hell, Holy Saturday, Holy Week, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Luke 23

There is a break from the horror of Good Friday! Jesus is carrying out the plan of His Father. His disciples are huddled up trying to figure it all out. No matter how many times Jesus had told them, they didn’t get it. I don’t either many days. Jesus is talking to me. Jesus has things He wants me to do. I am scared and I am hiding. Yikes!

Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner!

Holy Saturday is the name given to the day between Good Friday and Resurrection Sunday. Some theories exist about what is going on from the time of the death of Jesus to His resurrection on Sunday morning. Some have a good case for Jesus visiting Hell or Sheol (the place of the dead). Here is one.

From the scriptures, it is clear Jesus did visit Sheol. After His crucifixion, Jesus was laid in a nearby tomb, and His body remained there the entirety of Holy Saturday (Matthew 27:59-60; Mark 15:46; Luke 23:53-54; John 19:39-42). Saturday turned into Sunday!“‘Father, into your hands I commit my spirit!’ And having said this he breathed his last” (Luke 23:46)

Joseph bought a linen shroud, and taking him down, wrapped him in the linen shroud and laid him in a tomb that had been cut out of the rock. And he rolled a stone against the entrance of the tomb. (Mark 15:46)

Brethren, I may confidently say to you regarding the patriarch David that he both died and was buried, and his tomb is with us to this day. And so, because he was a prophet and knew that God had sworn to him with an oath to seat one of his descendants on his throne, he looked ahead and spoke of the resurrection of the Messiah, that He was neither abandoned to Hades, nor did His flesh suffer decay. (Acts 2:29-31)

Κύριε Ἰησοῦ Χριστέ, Υἱέ τοῦ Θεοῦ, ἐλέησόν με τὸν ἁμαρτωλόν

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Authority, Jesus, Mercy, Messiah

Translated: “Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner”

 

On this most holy day, the day when our Messiah humbled himself and died for all of us, I pray the Jesus Prayer. On this “Good Friday”.

I thankful that Jesus died for me. I am thankful that God loved me so much He sent His only Son to die for me. I am thankful that God did not want to condemn us but wanted to save us. And save us He did.

“At just the right time, when we were still powerless, the Messiah died for the ungodly. God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, the Messiah died for us” ~Apostle Paul

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Atonement, Good Friday, Holy Friday, Holy Week, Jesus, Messiah, Reconciliation, Romans 5:6-11

Good Friday, also known as “Holy Friday,” is the Friday immediately preceding Resurrection Sunday. It is celebrated traditionally as the day on which Jesus was crucified.  The Bible instructs us to remember Christ’s death by observing the Lord’s Supper. First Corinthians 11:24-26 declares, “…do this in remembrance of me…for whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.”

You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, the Messiah died for the ungodly. Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous person, though for a good person someone might possibly dare to die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners [missing God’s goal], the Messiah died for us.

Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God’s wrath through him! For if, while we were God’s enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through his life! Not only is this so, but we also boast in God through our Lord Jesus the Messiah, through whom we have now received reconciliation. | Romans 5:6-11

“Truly I tell you, this very night, before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times.” ~Jesus to Peter

Judas betrays Jesus. Peter and the others deny they know Jesus. Nobody is with Jesus at the end. I am not either. I would have been no different. I have to ask would it have been by betrayal or denial. Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner.

Then Jesus told them, “This very night you will all fall away on account of me, for it is written: ‘‘I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock will be scattered.’ But after I have risen, I will go ahead of you into Galilee.”

Peter replied, “Even if all fall away on account of you, I never will.”

“Truly I tell you,” Jesus answered, “this very night, before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times.”

But Peter declared, “Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you.” And all the other disciples said the same. | Source: Matthew 26:31-35

“Precious Lord, Take My Hand” ~Rev. James Cleveland

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Gospel, James Cleveland

This seemed like a good day for some music from the Reverend James Cleveland. Let’s all sing now, precious Lord, take my hand!

Rev. Cleveland, in my opinion, is the greatest gospel singer ever! On February 9, 1991 Rev. Cleveland passed on to be with Jesus.

“Sir, we wish to see Jesus.” ~Greeks coming to Jerusalem for Passover

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Cross, Crucifixion, Holy Monday, Holy Week, Jerusalem, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, John 12:20-26, Resurrection

In the timeline of Passion week, it is a little unclear where to place the story of the Greeks seeking Jesus. Some place it on Monday, so here it is. It is my desire to see Jesus. That is the huge point of this week. It seems to me, I have missed the importance of this story about the Greeks request.

Now there were some Greeks among those who were going up to worship at the feast; these then came to Philip, who was from Bethsaida of Galilee, and began to ask him, saying, “Sir, we wish to see Jesus.” Philip came and told Andrew; Andrew and Philip came and told Jesus. And Jesus answered them, saying, “The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified. Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit. He who loves his life loses it, and he who hates his life in this world will keep it to life eternal. If anyone serves Me, he must follow Me; and where I am, there My servant will be also; if anyone serves Me, the Father will honor him. | John 12:20-26

“These two commands are pegs; everything in God’s Law and the Prophets hangs from them.” ~Jesus

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Commandments, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Love, Matthew 22

“When the Pharisees heard how he had bested the Sadducees, they gathered their forces for an assault. One of their religion scholars spoke for them, posing a question they hoped would show Jesus up: “Teacher, which command in God’s Law is the most important?”

“Jesus said, “‘Love the Lord your God with all your passion and prayer and intelligence.’ This is the most important, the first on any list. But there is a second to set alongside it: ‘Love others as well as you love yourself.’ These two commands are pegs; everything in God’s Law and the Prophets hangs from them.” | Source: Matthew 22:34-40

The religious leaders, in their contempt, arrogance and hypocrisy, thought they could get the best of Jesus. Of course, they couldn’t. It hasn’t stopped though. Religious leaders, and their followers, still think they can. Of course, they can’t.

“What good would it do to get everything you want and lose you, the real you?” ~Jesus

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Cross, Health, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Mark 8, Pain, Suffering, Wealth

Calling the crowd to join his disciples, he said, “Anyone who intends to come with me has to let me lead. You’re not in the driver’s seat; I am. Don’t run from suffering; embrace it. Follow me and I’ll show you how. Self-help is no help at all. Self-sacrifice is the way, my way, to saving yourself, your true self. What good would it do to get everything you want and lose you, the real you [or soul]? What could you ever trade your soul for?” Source: Mark 8:34-37 (The Message)

Jesus ties everything together for me. I’m not left guessing what is required of me in the Kingdom of God where Jesus is in charge.

“Ask in my name, according to my will, and he’ll most certainly give it to you. ” ~Jesus

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Ask, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, John 16, Joy, Will of God

“This is what I want you to do: Ask the Father for whatever is in keeping with the things I’ve revealed to you. Ask in my name, according to my will, and he’ll most certainly give it to you. Your joy will be a river overflowing its banks” 

Source: John 16:23-24 (The Message)

Jesus is wrapping things up. They’ve had the last supper and Jesus has laid out the new contract (aka covenant, testament or agreement). He is giving them a series of last insights before the crucifixion, burial, resurrection and ascension occur. Every thing is going to move very fast from here but this is very important.

“That clinches it—help’s coming, an answer’s on the way, everything’s going to work out.” ~King David

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Faith, Hope, King David, Psalm 20, Wise Sayings

“That clinches it—help’s coming, an answer’s on the way, everything’s going to work out.” ~King David

Source: Psalm 20:6 The Message (MSG)

Hope is a big deal. Faith is essential. These are important foundations in the Kingdom of God. With King David, we get a sense of how this can all come together in the new contract (aka covenant) with Jesus. David has hope an answer is on the way. David has faith everything is going to work out.

King David had seen some tough times. He might see some more. My challenges probably aren’t close to what he went through as the King of Israel sought to kill him and his men. But David had a heart after God. King David shows us the way to Jesus.

Johnny Cash sings “Man In Black” for the first time (with intro)

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Jesus, Johnny Cash, Luke 4, Man in Black

This song brings me to tears. Reminds me of Jesus when “He came to Nazareth, where He had been brought up; and as was His custom, He entered the synagogue on the Sabbath, and stood up to read. And the book of the prophet Isaiah was handed to Him. And He opened the ^[f]book and found the place where it was written,

“The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me,
Because He anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor.
He has sent Me to proclaim release to the captives,
And recovery of sight to the blind,
To set free those who are oppressed,
To proclaim the favorable year of the Lord.”

And He closed the book, gave it back to the attendant and sat down; and the eyes of all in the synagogue were fixed on Him. And He began to say to them, “Today this Scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing.”

As Johnny sings, Jesus came for the poor and beaten down. Please listen.  It is short.

Man In Black by Johnny Cash

“Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.” ~Jesus

Tags

Ask, Jesus, Jesus Manifesto, Jesus Sayings, Knock, Matthew 7, Seek

Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened. Or which one of you, if his son asks him for bread, will give him a stone?  Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a serpent? If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask him!

Source: Matthew 7:7-11 (ESV)

God, my heavenly Father, is more than ready. God is not a grumpy old man who doesn’t care. God is our example of what love is all about. If it is in my best interests, God will do it.

God is in a good mood. God is like my parents. God wants the best for me. I’ve always given my kids what I could. You are the same way. This rings true and we know what it means.

“The ways of right-living people glow with light; the longer they live, the brighter they shine.” ~King Solomon

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Jesus, King Solomon, Light, Proverbs 4, Righteous, Wise Sayings

The ways of right-living people glow with light;
    the longer they live, the brighter they shine.
But the road of wrongdoing gets darker and darker—
travelers can’t see a thing; they fall flat on their faces.

Source: Proverbs 4:18-19 (The Message)

Jesus is clear with me. He says “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.” (Matthew 5:14) Jesus makes me a light for all to see. My job is to shine the light of Jesus on everything. Jesus said it so He knows what he is doing. If I was Jesus (and be thankful I am not), I would give me that job. I think some of my wiring is loose.

“Make yourselves at home in my love.” ~Jesus

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Jesus, Jesus Sayings, John 15, Love

I’ve loved you the way my Father has loved me. Make yourselves at home in my love. If you keep my commands, you’ll remain intimately at home in my love. That’s what I’ve done—kept my Father’s commands and made myself at home in his love.

Source: John 15:9-10

Jesus, the Messiah, is all about love. We all want to be at home. It was in love that God, the Father, sent his Son to the world to save us from missing God’s goal for our life (aka sin). It all starts with the love the Father shown to Jesus. Jesus has taken that love and given it to me. I know how to love because of Jesus. Ah, it is great to be home!

“For you have not received a spirit of slavery leading to fear again, but you have received a spirit of adoption as sons by which we cry out, “Abba! Father!” ~Apostle Paul

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Adoption, Apostle Paul Sayings, Child of God, Father, Heir, Jesus, Romans 8

The Apostle Paul lays out a basic premise of The Way (της οδου). We are children of God and more importantly, heirs to the new testament (aka covenant, agreement or plan).

For all who are being led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. For you have not received a spirit of slavery leading to fear again, but you have received a spirit of adoption as sons by which we cry out, “Abba! Father!” The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, heirs also, heirs of God and fellow heirs with the Messiah, if indeed we suffer with Him so that we may also be glorified with Him.” ~Apostle Paul | Romans 8:12-17 NASB

“There’s no telling who will hate you because of me.” ~Jesus

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Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Luke 21, Open Doors, Persecution

You’ll even be turned in by parents, brothers, relatives, and friends. Some of you will be killed. There’s no telling who will hate you because of me. Even so, every detail of your body and soul—even the hairs of your head!—is in my care; nothing of you will be lost. Staying with it—that’s what is required. Stay with it to the end. You won’t be sorry; you’ll be saved.” ~Jesus

Source: Luke 21:16-19 (The Message)

Jesus tells us of a principle of how his Kingdom works. Persecution will be real because of our following Jesus. It might even be deadly. That is true even to today. Today someone died for Jesus and His mission.

Who will hate me? Jesus warns me that it could be anyone. It could be the closest member of my family. It could be everyone. If I don’t have any enemies, I am probably not living out the mission of Jesus. The clarity of the good news of Jesus brings out the anger in the Evil One.

Will I live to tell the story? In fact, I may be killed. It is happening today all over the world. Persecution of the followers of Jesus is very real. If I am living out the mission of Jesus, it could happen to me. I must be prepared for this.

Who will look out for me? Jesus will look out for me. Everything is in the care of Jesus. That, my friends, is good news.

What is required of me? I must persevere. I must stick with Jesus. Jesus will save me no matter what. That is the real deal. I can’t get discouraged. No matter what, I will get eternal live. Trillions and trillions of years is a might long time.

Consider this about what is happening today. “215 million Christians experience high levels of persecution” around the world, according to Open Doors, a human rights organization. On its recently released World Watch List 2018, which ranks the world’s 50 worst nations wherein to be Christian, 3,066 Christians were killed, 1,252 abducted, and 1,020 raped or sexually harassed on account of their faith; and 793 churches were attacked or destroyed.” Search the news here on any given day to see the latest.

 

“Happy are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.” ~Jesus

Tags

Happy, Jesus, Jesus Manifesto, Jesus Sayings, Matthew 5, Mourn

Happy are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.  | Matthew 5:4 (ESV)

Jesus is ushering in the Kingdom of God. I like to think of Matthew 5 to 7 as his manifesto of what the Kingdom life is all about. This is the second of what is known as the Beatitudes. The Greek word for blessed is μακάριος (transliteration – makarios) It literally means happy or more than happy.

“You’re way off base, and here’s why: One, you don’t know your Bibles; two, you don’t know how God works.” ~Jesus

Tags

Bible, God is God, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Mark 12, Scripture

Am I clever? I like to think I am some days. So did the Sadducess (Religious Leaders). They thought they had Jesus in a conundrum. Of course they didn’t. I don’t either although some days I try. I like to infer some great logic or theology from the Bible that just isn’t true. Jesus didn’t come to earth to establish a theology. Jesus came to usher in the new covenant and the Kingdom (aka country) of God. His death, resurrection and ascension accomplished what God’s goal was for Jesus.

Do I know the Bible (Scripture)? Not as well as I should or want to that is clear. Also, the more I immerse myself in what Jesus said, the more spiritual relativism I see. Is it okay to like what the Bible says until it says something I don’t like? Can I then manipulate what it says to my own satisfaction? Or worse, perhaps I should just disagree and move on with what I want it to do regardless. Yikes! This is dangerous.

What is more important, Theology or what Jesus says? In this case, the Sadducees were focused on the theology of the resurrection, which they didn’t believe in. Jesus knows the truth because he is the truth and he knows what it is like in heaven. Jesus also knew the Old Testament. So when you are the Son of God and you know the scripture, that is known as the trump card.

Do I know how God works? Not well enough. Several things have become clearer about how God works. I am focusing more and more on:

• God is God – God is in control. I am not.
• God is Good – God is in a good mood. God sent Jesus because he loves me.
• God is Great – Nothing is impossible with God.
• God has a goal for me – I need to focus, exclusively, on what God wants me to do.

Some Sadducees, the party that denies any possibility of resurrection, came up and asked, “Teacher, Moses wrote that if a man dies and leaves a wife but no child, his brother is obligated to marry the widow and have children. Well, there once were seven brothers. The first took a wife. He died childless. The second married her. He died, and still no child. The same with the third. All seven took their turn, but no child. Finally the wife died. When they are raised at the resurrection, whose wife is she? All seven were her husband.”

Jesus said, “You’re way off base, and here’s why: One, you don’t know your Bibles; two, you don’t know how God works. After the dead are raised up, we’re past the marriage business. As it is with angels now, all our ecstasies and intimacies then will be with God. And regarding the dead, whether or not they are raised, don’t you ever read the Bible? How God at the bush said to Moses, ‘I am—not was—the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob’? The living God is God of the living, not the dead. You’re way, way off base.”

Source: Mark 12:18-27 (The Message)

Bible – The Holy Scripture

“Dear friend, when you extend hospitality to Christian brothers and sisters, even when they are strangers, you make the faith visible.” ~Apostle John

Tags

3 John, Hospitality, Jesus, Kindness

John nails it, as always. John knows it is all about love. How many times does he remind me? Constantly.

How do I make faith visible? By loving the followers of Jesus, even if I don’t know them. How am I doing on the kindness-meter? Perhaps I should do a daily assessment and track progress.

I need to find some followers of Jesus who need a meal and a place to stay. I need to be on the look out for how I can grow in hospitality. I need to hold myself accountable. Here is a quick list of ideas:

• How can I support missionaries?
• Can I provide a place for missionaries to stay when are on R & R back home?
• What about the student learning to preach the message of Jesus?
• Can I pay for room and board for a student or put them up in my house?
• Can I pay for the travel of a minister to special conference?
• Can I provide a place for a minister to stay when they travel to my home town for a conference?

Dear friend, when you extend hospitality to Christian brothers and sisters, even when they are strangers, you make the faith visible. They’ve made a full report back to the church here, a message about your love. It’s good work you’re doing, helping these travelers on their way, hospitality worthy of God himself! They set out under the banner of the Name, and get no help from unbelievers. So they deserve any support we can give them. In providing meals and a bed, we become their companions in spreading the Truth.

Source: 3 John 1:5-8

“I’m not trying to get my way in the world’s way. I’m trying to get your way, your Word’s way.” ~King David

Tags

God is God, God is Great, Jesus, King David, Persistence, Psalm 17, Wise Sayings

Who’s way should I seek? King David knows it is God’s way and not his way. Jesus challenges me to put Jesus in charge. God has made Jesus the ruler of God’s country (aka Kingdom). My goal is to do what Jesus wants me to. Some days I just don’t want to. Some days that isn’t my priority. God is gracious and kind to me. Jesus has sent the Power of the Holy Spirit to help me. Now that is some good news.

What is wrong with my way? God is God. God is the only one who knows the plan from start to finish. God is Great. Nothing is impossible with God. Out of nothing God created the universe. I am in no position to questions God’s plan.

What about failure? I must stay on God’s trail. I must not give up. God is in a good mood and His plan will all come together. There is a plan. God is the planner. My job is to stay on the trail and not wander off.

I’m not trying to get my way
    in the world’s way.
I’m trying to get your way,
    your Word’s way.
I’m staying on your trail;
    I’m putting one foot
In front of the other.
    I’m not giving up.

Source: Psalm 17:4-5 (The Message)

“Long enough, God — you’ve ignored me long enough.” ~King David

Tags

Jesus, King David, Messiah, Psalm 12, Wise Sayings

King David knows he can speak honestly with God. King David is clear about his despair. He feels like God has turned his back on the King and all David can see is the back of God’s head. I can speak honestly with God. There are times I’m in despair. God knows it. Why should I try to hid it? Best to “fess up”.

King David embodies Thanks-Living. Even in his despair, the King throws himself into God’s arms. The King celebrates being rescued by God, even though he hasn’t been rescued yet. I am challenged to live a life of “Thanks-Living”. Am I seeing what God is doing today or focused on what he isn’t doing?

Jesus challenges me to thank God and see what God is doing, not what He is not. God has answered my prayers. God has healed me. God has delivered me from the evil one. God is in a good mood and I know it.

Long enough, God—
    you’ve ignored me long enough.
I’ve looked at the back of your head
    long enough. Long enough
I’ve carried this ton of trouble,
    lived with a stomach full of pain.
Long enough my arrogant enemies
    have looked down their noses at me.

Take a good look at me, God, my God;
    I want to look life in the eye,
So no enemy can get the best of me
    or laugh when I fall on my face.

I’ve thrown myself headlong into your arms—
    I’m celebrating your rescue.
I’m singing at the top of my lungs,
    I’m so full of answered prayers.

Source: Psalm 13

“There is no need to dismiss them.” ~Jesus

Tags

God is Good, God is Great, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Matthew 14, Miracle

Jesus knows that nothing is impossible with God. It is in his heart, he believes it, he thinks about it all the time and he acts on it. God is great.

Jesus challenges me to know God’s greatness. I need to get it in my core. I don’t get to take a pass on this part of God’s country (aka Kingdom). God is great. When Jesus challenges me to produce a miracle, how do I react? Am I up to the challenges of Jesus?

In God’s country, there is always more than enough and food is left over. God is in a good mood and provides more than I need. I can count on Jesus.

When Jesus got the news, he slipped away by boat to an out-of-the-way place by himself. But unsuccessfully—someone saw him and the word got around. Soon a lot of people from the nearby villages walked around the lake to where he was. When he saw them coming, he was overcome with pity and healed their sick.

Toward evening the disciples approached him. “We’re out in the country and it’s getting late. Dismiss the people so they can go to the villages and get some supper.”

But Jesus said, “There is no need to dismiss them. You give them supper.”

“All we have are five loaves of bread and two fish,” they said.

Jesus said, “Bring them here.” Then he had the people sit on the grass. He took the five loaves and two fish, lifted his face to heaven in prayer, blessed, broke, and gave the bread to the disciples. The disciples then gave the food to the congregation. They all ate their fill. They gathered twelve baskets of leftovers. About five thousand were fed.

Source: Matthew 14:13-21

“Today is my day to be a guest in your home.” ~Jesus

Tags

Crook, Freedom, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Luke 19, Tax Collector, Zacchaeus

Jesus and God the Father are in a good mood. They want to be a guest in my house. They want to be with me. They want to show me the way to love. They have given me power, by the Holy Spirit, to be delivered from my prison.

Zacchaeus became free that day. Jesus freed him. Zacchaeus became free from the opinion of others who are indignant and grumpy about what Jesus chooses to do. Zacchaeus became free from the shame of his past. Zacchaeus became free to tell the story of what Jesus had done in his life.

Zacchaeus was a well known crook. On the scale of things in Israel, he was the lowest. Zacchaeus was a tax collector. But … he desperately wanted to see Jesus. Jesus could see in his heart and knew of his desperation.

Jesus sees my heart. That is some good news. I am the lowest of the low but I desperately want to see and know Jesus. I am stunned at what Jesus does for me. I stumble but Jesus picks me up. Jesus does not care about any of that. Jesus came to restore me and he has done that.

Stunningly good news. Jesus is happy to be a guest in my house. Jesus really wants to be here. My job is to let Jesus in.

Then Jesus entered and walked through Jericho. There was a man there, his name Zacchaeus, the head tax man and quite rich. He wanted desperately to see Jesus, but the crowd was in his way—he was a short man and couldn’t see over the crowd. So he ran on ahead and climbed up in a sycamore tree so he could see Jesus when he came by.

When Jesus got to the tree, he looked up and said, “Zacchaeus, hurry down. Today is my day to be a guest in your home.” Zacchaeus scrambled out of the tree, hardly believing his good luck, delighted to take Jesus home with him. Everyone who saw the incident was indignant and grumped, “What business does he have getting cozy with this crook?”

Zacchaeus just stood there, a little stunned. He stammered apologetically, “Master, I give away half my income to the poor—and if I’m caught cheating, I pay four times the damages.”

Jesus said, “Today is salvation day in this home! Here he is: Zacchaeus, son of Abraham! For the Son of Man came to find and restore the lost.”

Source: Luke 19:1-10 (The Message)

“Tune your ears to the world of Wisdom; set your heart on a life of Understanding.” ~King Solomon

Tags

Jesus, King Solomon, Listen, Proverbs 2, Wisdom, Wise Sayings

There is an amazing world out there filled with Wisdom. It is the wonderful world of Jesus. Jesus provides me with great Wisdom. Jesus provides me a life of understanding. God is in a stunning mood. Will I see what God is doing today?

God’s goal for me is to steep myself in God’s word and in particular, a deep understanding of what Jesus had to say. There is so much there. There is a lifetime (or more) of Wisdom.

Jesus challenges me to listen. My choice is whether to do it or not. I choose to listen. I choose to set my heart on understanding.

Good friend, take to heart what I’m telling you;
    collect my counsels and guard them with your life.
Tune your ears to the world of Wisdom;
    set your heart on a life of Understanding.

Source: Proverbs 2:1 (The Message)

Wisdom – Proverbs 2:1

“Happy are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” ~Jesus

Tags

Jesus, Jesus Manifesto, Jesus Sayings, Kingdom, Matthew 5, Poor

Happy (aka Blessed) are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” ~Jesus

Source: Matthew 5:3 (English Standard Version)

What does it mean to be “poor in spirit”? Poor in spirit means that you feel you have no moral riches and are in need.  You feel you need a ‘spiritual’ life. ‘Poor’ (πτωχός) used in this verse means ‘reduced to being a beggar’. Am I begging for a rich spiritual life? First I need to recognize I need what I don’t have. To be ‘poor in spirit’ is to acknowledge my spiritual poverty, indeed my spiritual bankruptcy, before God. For I have missed God’s goal (aka sin), under the holy wrath of God, and deserving nothing but the judgment of God. I have nothing to offer, nothing to plead, nothing with which to buy the favour of heaven.

But the tax collector, standing some distance away, was even unwilling to lift up his eyes to heaven, but was beating his breast, saying, ‘God, be merciful to me, the sinner! (aka missing God’s goal)

This makes sense and we can confirm its meaning by comparing other statements of Jesus, for he often said the same things in many ways. One good match that seems to bring light to the phrase is:

When the teachers of the law who were Pharisees saw him eating with the sinners and tax collectors, they asked his disciples: “Why does he eat with tax collectors and sinners?” On hearing this, Jesus said to them, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.” (NIV Mark 2:16-17)

When I feel I am missing God’s goal (aka sin) or ‘morally sick’ and I cry out to Jesus to be saved, I am ‘poor in spirit’ then I can inherit God’s kingdom. If I am self righteous, morally confidant and rich, these Jesus can not save me.

This makes sense that Jesus would make this the first be-attitude of a disciple because it is by being poor in spirit or ‘reduced to being a beggar’. That I actually ‘begin’ the my discipleship with this explains why it is the first be-attitude. It also fits and explains the second attitude of mourning which is the other side of the same coin. It naturally follows for me, as a disciple, once recognizing my poverty due to missing God’s goal, l mourn on account of it.

God will make me happy, or ‘bless’ me with inexpressible spiritual riches and joy. This is the core message of the good news that Jesus brings to us all.

 

Happy in Jesus

“Do you see anything?” ~Jesus

Tags

Blind, Jesus, Jesus Questions, Jesus Sayings, Mark 8, Miracle

It is a great question. Jesus knows how to ask them. I am not always prepared to answer.

Jesus has healed me. Jesus has given me sight. Do I see?

At first it is all fuzzy. Jesus touches me again. Now I see perfectly.

Sometimes it takes a couple of shots at it. Surely not a problem on Jesus side of things. Nothing is impossible with God. Jesus is the perfect healer.

They arrived at Bethsaida. Some people brought a sightless man and begged Jesus to give him a healing touch. Taking him by the hand, he led him out of the village. He put spit in the man’s eyes, laid hands on him, and asked, “Do you see anything?”

He looked up. “I see men. They look like walking trees.” So Jesus laid hands on his eyes again. The man looked hard and realized that he had recovered perfect sight, saw everything in bright, twenty-twenty focus. Jesus sent him straight home, telling him, “Don’t enter the village.”

Source: Mark 8:22-26

“You make me want to vomit.” ~Jesus

Tags

Discipline, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Love, Revelation 3

Jesus is always clear and direct. I can count on that. Jesus isn’t going to sugar coat the message he has for me.

In the book of Revelation, Jesus confronts the 7 churches. Jesus also confronts me. Is what he finds to his liking? Jesus will be direct. There isn’t time for messing around.

Jesus challenges me to be hot or cold for him. I’m guessing the right approach is to be hot. Am I stagnant or am I on fire for Jesus?

This is telling. Jesus demonstrates his love by prodding and correcting. Jesus knows what is at stake. Jesus corrects me so that I will become a conqueror and be able to sit with him at the head table.

“If you’re not welcomed, not listened to, quietly withdraw. Don’t make a scene. Shrug your shoulders and be on your way.” ~Jesus

Tags

Good News, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Mark 6, Miracle

Jesus warns me that I may not always be welcomed. The message of good news might not be listened to.

Jesus challenges me to not make a big scene, not to argue, not to make a fuss. Jesus says I should move on. It’s OK.

Jesus urges me to remember that the harvest is plentiful. I need to keep moving. There are others who are ready to receive the good news. There are others who are ready to receive God’s power and be healed.

Jesus called the Twelve to him, and sent them out in pairs. He gave them authority and power to deal with the evil opposition. He sent them off with these instructions:

“Don’t think you need a lot of extra equipment for this. You are the equipment. No special appeals for funds. Keep it simple.

“And no luxury inns. Get a modest place and be content there until you leave.

“If you’re not welcomed, not listened to, quietly withdraw. Don’t make a scene. Shrug your shoulders and be on your way.”

Then they were on the road. They preached with joyful urgency that life can be radically different; right and left they sent the demons packing; they brought wellness to the sick, anointing their bodies, healing their spirits.

Source: Mark 6:7-13

“You’ve been given insight into God’s kingdom. You know how it works. Not everybody has this gift, this insight; it hasn’t been given to them.” ~Jesus

Tags

God is Good, Good News, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Matthew 13

Jesus wants me to hear his message of good news (aka the gospel). Jesus does everything he can to create readiness in my heart. I must have a ready heart. I must want to hear. I must be receptive.

Jesus gives me insight in God’s country (aka God’s kingdom). Jesus is in charge and there are no elections. I am a citizen. I know how things work in God’s country. God is God.

God’s goal for me is to spread the good news. God is in a good mood. God is ready to welcome into His country. Not everyone has the insight I have been given. I need to spread the word.

The disciples came up to Jesus and asked, “Why do you tell stories?”

Jesus replied, “You’ve been given insight into God’s kingdom. You know how it works. Not everybody has this gift, this insight; it hasn’t been given to them. Whenever someone has a ready heart for this, the insights and understandings flow freely. But if there is no readiness, any trace of receptivity soon disappears. That’s why I tell stories: to create readiness, to nudge the people toward receptive insight. In their present state they can stare till doomsday and not see it, listen till they’re blue in the face and not get it.

Source: Matthew 13:10-15

Jesus – Good News

“Count on it—that’s the kind of party God’s angels throw every time one lost soul turns to God.” ~Jesus

Tags

Celebrate, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Lost, Luke 15

Jesus is clear about why he came and what his mission is. God sent him for those of us who are lost.

I was clearly lost. Jesus came for me. There is a celebration for that. It was none of my doing. Jesus is the one who came and found me.

God is in a good mood. Jesus is looking for those of us who are lost. Our mission is to do the same. The angels want to celebrate. They want to throw a big party.

Where are the lost? Lets go find them. Now is the time. Today is the day. Get out the lamp and look everywhere. We can’t be satisfied until our mission is complete.

“Or imagine a woman who has ten coins and loses one. Won’t she light a lamp and scour the house, looking in every nook and cranny until she finds it? And when she finds it you can be sure she’ll call her friends and neighbors: ‘Celebrate with me! I found my lost coin!’ Count on it—that’s the kind of party God’s angels throw every time one lost soul turns to God.”

Source: Luke 15:8-10

“When we were with you, we made it quite clear that there was trouble ahead.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

1 Thessalonians 3, Apostle Paul Sayings, Faith, God is Good, Jesus, Messiah, Trouble

Being a part of the world of Thanks-Living means we know about trouble ahead but are thankful none the less. Trouble is coming my way. I know it. I have been warned.

More than warned however, Jesus is preparing me to be joyful and persevere. That carries with it a risk but Jesus is faithful. God’s goal for me is believe and endure. It is all about faith. I must believe that God is in a good mood and it is all going to work out according to God’s plan, not mine.

And so … I get up each morning expecting a stunning day in paradise. And, it is.  God is in a good mood.

Not that the troubles should come as any surprise to you. You’ve always known that we’re in for this kind of thing. It’s part of our calling. When we were with you, we made it quite clear that there was trouble ahead. And now that it’s happened, you know what it’s like. That’s why I couldn’t quit worrying; I had to know for myself how you were doing in the faith. I didn’t want the Tempter getting to you and tearing down everything we had built up together.

Source: 1 Thessalonians 3:3-5

“Do you believe in the Son of Man?” ~Jesus

Tags

Blind, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, John 9, Religious Leaders, Son of Man

I am blind. Jesus opens my eyes and I see. Jesus has a question for me. “Do I believe in the Son of Man?”, Jesus asks. Hey, I was blind and now I see. Of course I believe.

The religious leaders think they can see. They don’t recognize they are blind. Jesus clarifies it for them. Since they think they can see, they are blind. Jesus is the only way to the truth. Jesus is the only way my lack of sight is healed and my eyes are opened. My religious thinking won’t get me there. Only Jesus can.

Jesus holds me accountable on this point. Do I think I am blind or do I think I see (and know) everything about God? Am I willing to let Jesus open my eyes? God is in a good mood. God wants me to see.

May it be so. May I submit to Jesus and start to see.

Jesus heard that they had thrown him out, and went and found him. He asked him, “Do you believe in the Son of Man?”

The man said, “Point him out to me, sir, so that I can believe in him.”

Jesus said, “You’re looking right at him. Don’t you recognize my voice?”

“Master, I believe,” the man said, and worshiped him.

Jesus then said, “I came into the world to bring everything into the clear light of day, making all the distinctions clear, so that those who have never seen will see, and those who have made a great pretense of seeing will be exposed as blind.”

Some Pharisees overheard him and said, “Does that mean you’re calling us blind?”

Jesus said, “If you were really blind, you would be blameless, but since you claim to see everything so well, you’re accountable for every fault and failure.”

Source: John 9:35-41

“Am I so decrepit that I can’t deliver?” ~God

Tags

God is God, God is Great, Isaiah 50, Jesus, Power

God is not decrepit. That may not be obvious but it is the BIG reality. He has not forgotten how to help. He is always powerful. Nothing is impossible with Him at all. God is great.

God is actively looking for us. He is at the door and He is knocking. He is calling us and we don’t even hear the phone.

God is in a good mood. Sometimes it feels like He has forgotten me. That is my reality but it is not His reality.

God is not decrepit. He can do anything.

There it is and that is all there is to that.

So why didn’t anyone come when I knocked? Why didn’t anyone answer when I called? Do you think I’ve forgotten how to help? Am I so decrepit that I can’t deliver? I’m as powerful as ever, and can reverse what I once did: I can dry up the sea with a word, turn river water into desert sand, And leave the fish stinking in the sun, stranded on dry land . . . Turn all the lights out in the sky and pull down the curtain. 

Source: Isaiah 50

Here are the key ideas:

• God is seeking us
• God is all powerful
• God wants us to answer and come to Him

“I’ve had enough; I’m on my way to heal the ache in the heart of the wretched.” ~God

Tags

God is God, Homeless, Kind David, Poor, Psalm 12, Wise Sayings

God loves the poor and homeless. Of course, I am one of those. I am poor. I am homeless. The good news is that God is God. God is above it all. God is in a good mood … always.

God knows what I need and sends comfort into my soul. God himself speaks. God didn’t delegate this to anyone. God has had enough. God is tired of it.

Jesus heals my heart. Jesus restores me to right standing with God. Jesus makes me a child of God and a full heir into God’s inheritance. Jesus has given me his riches. Jesus brings me in from being homeless. Jesus has arrived.

Into the hovels of the poor,
Into the dark streets where the homeless groan, God speaks:
“I’ve had enough; I’m on my way
To heal the ache in the heart of the wretched.”

Source: Psalm 12:5

Jesus and the poor

“Woman, where are they? Does no one condemn you?” ~Jesus

Tags

Adultery, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, John 8, Religious Leaders, Sin

The religious scholars are at again. They are non stop in their efforts to trap Jesus. Imagine the futility of that mission. It doesn’t stop them though. This time they think they will get Jesus.

Now this was a tough issue to deal with. A woman caught in the act of adultery. The legalistic wing of the scholars have a strong case. The law says to stone her. There is no denying that.

Jesus doesn’t fall for it. Jesus stops the nonsense by writing in the dirt. We all wish we knew what he wrote. One day I will get to ask Jesus. I’ve read lots of good ideas. Whatever Jesus wrote, it had its effect.

Jesus then challenges them directly by asking for anyone who has not missed God’s goal (aka sin) to throw the first stone. Now that stopped all it for sure. Of course, we have all sinned. This is not helpful to the religious scholars and it headed into a direction they didn’t want it to go.

Jesus challenges me to remember I need his love and mercy. I am not innocent. I fall short of God’s goal consistently. Jesus has redeemed me. All he asks of me is to stop falling short, to hit the mark of God’s goal for me. Jesus gives me the power to do it.

Jesus does not condemn me. Jesus doesn’t condemn you. Jesus came to renew us and set us free. I am the one who needs to change my mind (aka repent) about who Jesus is and who I am. Jesus redeemed me from the curse of sin and restored me as a child of God. I am a full heir to all the riches of God’s country.

Jesus went across to Mount Olives, but he was soon back in the Temple again. Swarms of people came to him. He sat down and taught them.

The religion scholars and Pharisees led in a woman who had been caught in an act of adultery. They stood her in plain sight of everyone and said, “Teacher, this woman was caught red-handed in the act of adultery. Moses, in the Law, gives orders to stone such persons. What do you say?” They were trying to trap him into saying something incriminating so they could bring charges against him.

Jesus bent down and wrote with his finger in the dirt. They kept at him, badgering him. He straightened up and said, “The sinless one among you, go first: Throw the stone.” Bending down again, he wrote some more in the dirt.

Hearing that, they walked away, one after another, beginning with the oldest. The woman was left alone. Jesus stood up and spoke to her. “Woman, where are they? Does no one condemn you?”

“No one, Master.”

“Neither do I,” said Jesus. “Go on your way. From now on, don’t sin.”

Source: John 8:1-11 (The Message Bible)

“For people who hate discipline and only get more stubborn, there’ll come a day when life tumbles in and they break, but by then it’ll be too late to help them.” ~King Solomon

Tags

Discipline, Jesus, King Solomon, Proverbs 29, Wise Sayings

Discipline is very tough and at the time it is tough to appreciate. My heavenly Father disciplines me because he loves me. God is God. He knows what is in my best interest. I don’t have that luxury.

I can accept the discipline or I resist it and be stubborn. Defiance is not a great road to travel down. It leads me to a place that eventually breaks me. It is not pleasant to see. It is not the road I want to travel on at all.

“What do you want?” ~Jesus

Tags

Jesus Questions, Jesus Sayings, John 1, Journey, Motivation, Why

“What do you want?” This is an essential question from Jesus. Jesus asks. Jesus expects an answer.

Jesus wants to know, “What do I want?”. This is a great question from Jesus. It gets to what is in my heart. I must evaluate the “Why?” question.

The new disciples had an answer. It was a question. They wanted to hear more from Jesus. They wanted to hang out with him.

Jesus is willing to start there. If I hang out with him and listen to him, I will see. That is the promise of Jesus, the Messiah.

Jesus invites me on the journey. Jesus says “Come”. Now that is some good stuff.

Turning around, Jesus saw them following and asked, “What do you want?”

They said, “Rabbi” (which means “Teacher”), “where are you staying?”

“Come,” he replied, “and you will see.”

Source: John 1:38

“By opening up to others, you’ll prompt people to open up with God, this generous Father in heaven.” ~~Jesus

Tags

Generous, God is Good, Love, Matthew 5, Open

Jesus intends for us to have great relationships with people in our world. That is His goal for us. Jesus challenges me to love one another. Other than the love of God, this is the second most important thing for us to focus on. All of God’s plans come down to this. 

Having great relationships requires being open. When I reflect His love and am open, I am prompting others to have a relationship with our Father.

Our generosity and love always points to our Father’s generosity and love. God is good and in a good mood. All the time.

May I learn to be open like my Master Jesus.

“By opening up to others, you’ll prompt people to open up with God, this generous Father in heaven.” ~~Jesus

~~Matthew 5:14-16 (The Message Bible)

 

“You took a risk of faith, and now you’re healed and whole. Live well, live blessed! Be healed of your plague.” ~~Jesus

Tags

Faith, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Mark 5, Miracle, Risk

You have  suffered a condition of hemorrhaging for twelve years—a long succession of physicians have treated you. Your treatment hasn’t gone well.  The doctors have taken all your money.

You are now worse off than you were before you started getting medical help. You’ve heard about Jesus. You slipped in from behind and touched his robe. You’re thinking to yourself, “If I can put a finger on his robe, I can get well.” The moment you do it, the flow of blood dried up.

You can feel the change and know your plague is over and done with. It is a miracle and the power of God through Jesus did it.

When that happened, Jesus felt energy discharging from his body. He turned around to the crowd and asked, “Who touched my robe?”  His disciples say, “What are you talking about? With this crowd pushing and jostling you, you’re asking,

‘Who touched me?’ Dozens have touched you!” But Jesus is persistent and  went on asking, looking around to see who had done it.

The woman, knowing what had happened, knowing she was the one, stepped up in fear and trembling, knelt before him, and gave him the whole story. She took a huge risk.

Jesus knows when we take a risk of faith. He actually demands that we have courage and take risks of faith. For ourselves and for others. When we take risks of faith, we will be healed. That is just the way He is.

God’s goal for us is to live a life of faith. We must believe in Him and His amazing power. He is God, He is Great and He is in a good mood.

So Jesus says to her.

“Daughter, you took a risk of faith, and now you’re healed and whole. Live well, live blessed! Be healed of your plague.” ~~Jesus

Source: Mark 5:34 (The Message Bible)

 

Thanks-Living in a world of an annual Thanksgiving

Tags

1 Thessalonians 5, Apostle Paul Sayings. Thanks-Living, Jesus, Thanksgiving

I love Thanksgiving. I think it may be my favorite holiday. It is nice that everybody stops to at least be a little bit thankful. It happens once a year, no matter what.

You don’t have to be “religious” to participate. Everybody can come together. Families can unite. It really is a good thing.

I’ve been thinking though about the challenge Jesus brings to me to participate in His world of Thanks-Living. Jesus lived the life of being thankful to his Father.

Consider this from the Apostle Paul:

Be cheerful no matter what; pray all the time; thank God no matter what happens. This is the way God wants you who belong to the Messiah Jesus to live.

Source: 1 Thessalonians 5:18

Jesus challenges me to shift from thanksgiving to Thanks-Living. It is about changing my mind, every day. God is always in a good mood. God’s love never ceases. There is a wonderful world of being cheerful, no matter what.

Why can’t I live a life of Thanks? Why can’t I live be thankful no matter what happens?

Good news here. I can, through the power of the Holy Spirit Jesus provided me.

I want to live a life that oozes gratitude.

“Why do you ask me about what is good?” ~Jesus

Tags

God is Good, Jesus, Jesus Questions, Jesus Sayings, Matthew 19:17, Trust

Here we go. Fasten the seat belts. Jesus nails it here. He always asks the right questions. I’ve got nowhere to hide. He is looking right at me.

How often do I question (even subtly) the goodness of God? Way too often. Usually daily. And many times it is very subtle in that I just don’t believe Jesus.

Trust is so very important. Later the disciples would ask “Then who has any chance at all?” Jesus looked hard at them and said, “No chance at all if you think you can pull it off yourself. Every chance in the world if you trust God to do it.”

God is good and God is in a good mood. Everything Jesus says and does reflects that truth. Jesus is the truth. Who am I to question Jesus about what’s good.

Jesus said, “Why do you question me about what’s good? God is the One who is good. If you want to enter the life of God, just do what he tells you.”

Source: Matthew 19:17 (The Message)

“You can’t hide behind a religious mask forever; sooner or later the mask will slip and your true face will be known.” ~Jesus

Tags

Good News, Jesus Sayings, Luke 12, Mask, Religion

Jesus knows I like to hide. Jesus knows me. Jesus knows I slip into “being religious” way to often. Jesus challenges me to watch myself carefully because hanging out with religious people can be dangerous to my soul.

It is difficult to let people see the real me. It is easier to wear a mask and pretend everything is A-OK. It is not all well. I am crippled, lame, blind and diseased. I need help.

Jesus gives me the good news. God is in a very good mood. God is in control. God is saving my soul. That is all that matters. I just need to do my part and “fear God”.

By this time the crowd, unwieldy and stepping on each other’s toes, numbered into the thousands. But Jesus’ primary concern was his disciples. He said to them, “Watch yourselves carefully so you don’t get contaminated with Pharisee yeast, Pharisee phoniness. You can’t keep your true self hidden forever; before long you’ll be exposed. You can’t hide behind a religious mask forever; sooner or later the mask will slip and your true face will be known. You can’t whisper one thing in private and preach the opposite in public; the day’s coming when those whispers will be repeated all over town.

“I’m speaking to you as dear friends. Don’t be bluffed into silence or insincerity by the threats of religious bullies. True, they can kill you, but then what can they do? There’s nothing they can do to your soul, your core being. Save your fear for God, who holds your entire life—body and soul—in his hands.

Source: Luke 12:1-5 (The Message Bible)

“God’s grace and order wins; godlessness loses.” ~King David

Tags

Godlessness, Grace, King David, Order, Psalm 10, Wise Sayings

King David knows a lot. King David has seen a lot.

What does David know?

• God will show grace on all who obey and follow him. God is in a good mood. God is love.
• God has an order to things. God’s order will prevail. Justice will rule the day.
• In the end, godlessness loses out. It may not look like it today but God is God. Jesus has won the battle. Jesus will judge at the last day.

“God’s grace and order wins; godlessness loses.” ~King David

Source: Psalm 10:16

The Grace of God

“If a living relationship with God could come by rule-keeping, then the Messiah died unnecessarily.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

Apostle Paul Sayings, Galatians 2, Gift, Grace, Messiah

I grew up in a “rule keeping” church. It was pretty clear that if I didn’t do certain things I could find favor with GOD. So I tried. And tried. But …

I can’t do anything to “win” God’s love. It is free. It is a gift. I didn’t earn it.

Jesus, our Master, paid the price to win it for me. It is that straightforward. That is what “grace” means. It is a gift. I can’t do anything to get access to it.

“God is serious business. He won’t be trifled with.” ~~Nahum

Tags

Judge, Justice, Nahum 1, Prophet

Is God serious business? You bet He is. Nahum the prophet of God knew this. I need to get it as well.

God is love but he is also our Judge. This is what we call “tough love” but in God’s case, it is tougher love. I am accountable to Jesus.

Jesus is serious too. Jesus definitely won’t be trifled with. If I think so, I do so at my peril.

God is God. I need to know that.

God is serious business. He won’t be trifled with. ~~Nahum 1:2

 

“Keep praying, but be thankful that God’s answers are wiser than your prayers!” ~~William Culbertson

Tags

Prayer, Quotes, Thankful, William Culbertson

I talk with God. I ask for things. I want stuff to happen.

• I am like a typical child. Gimme, gimme, gimme. Some times all day long.
• God is in a good mood. Like a great Father, he ignores a great deal. He smiles. He ignores me some more. Good thing God is patient.
• Jesus knows what is good for me. Now that is some good news. Jesus has a plan. He knows what the goal is. I need to sync up with Jesus. What would Jesus ask for?

“Keep praying, but be thankful that God’s answers are wiser than your prayers!” ~~William Culbertson

“Do you love me more than these?” ~Jesus

Tags

Jesus, John 21, Lambs, Love

Once again, Jesus is very direct. No beating around the bush.

Jesus knew that Peter loved him. Even when he denied knowing Jesus, Jesus knew, in his core, that Peter loved him.

Jesus now gave Peter 3 opportunities to affirm his love. Jesus wanted him fully redeemed for the 3 denials. This was for Peter, and the others. It wasn’t for Jesus. Jesus knew. God is in a good mood.

Jesus wants to know if I love him. That is the only question of import. While not perfectly, I do indeed. I will stand for him.

After breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?”

“Yes, Master, you know I love you.”

Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.”

John 21:15

Love of Jesus

“The place where your treasure is, is the place you will most want to be, and end up being.” ~Jesus

Tags

Invest, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Kingdom of God, Luke 12, Treasure

Jesus paints an amazing contrast on priorities. Most of us are worried about our 401k. Our treasure is in our retirement fund. Our perspective is how the stock market is fairing. When is the next “down turn” going to happen?

What if it was all gone tomorrow? Puff! Nothing.

Jesus demands we invest in God’s Kingdom not our 401k. Our retirement is in heaven with Jesus. God is rich. God has all the money he needs. God doesn’t need a bailout.

God’s goal for us is that we invest everything we are, but most importantly our heart and soul, in His world not this world.

God is going to take care of me. My focus is doing his work. That is it. What does Jesus want me to do today. Tomorrow with take care of itself.

“Get yourselves a bank that can’t go bankrupt, a bank in heaven far from bank robbers, safe from embezzlers, a bank you can bank on. It’s obvious, isn’t it? The place where your treasure is, is the place you will most want to be, and end up being.” ~Jesus (Luke 12)

“Why do you weep? Who are you looking for?” ~Jesus

Tags

Good News, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, John 20, Resurrection

Jesus died for us. Jesus was buried for 3 days.

• What now? Jesus triumphantly rises from the dead in a resurrected body. Eventually he will ascend into heaven to sit at the right hand of God. Jesus is now in charge of God’s country.
• Jesus is always full of compassion with us. When Mary was upset, Jesus wants to know, from her, why she is weeping. When Jesus says her name, Mary knows who he is.
• That is good news for me. Jesus cares.
• Jesus knows my name. Jesus will call me. I recognize his voice.

But Mary stood outside the tomb weeping. As she wept, she knelt to look into the tomb and saw two angels sitting there, dressed in white, one at the head, the other at the foot of where Jesus’ body had been laid. They said to her, “Woman, why do you weep?”

“They took my Master,” she said, “and I don’t know where they put him.” After she said this, she turned away and saw Jesus standing there. But she didn’t recognize him.

Jesus spoke to her, “Woman, why do you weep? Who are you looking for?”

She, thinking that he was the gardener, said, “Mister, if you took him, tell me where you put him so I can care for him.”

Jesus said, “Mary.”

Turning to face him, she said in Hebrew, “Rabboni!” meaning “Teacher!”

Jesus said, “Don’t cling to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father. Go to my brothers and tell them, ‘I ascend to my Father and your Father, my God and your God.’”

Mary Magdalene went, telling the news to the disciples: “I saw the Master!” And she told them everything he said to her.

Source: John 20:11-18

“What’s this you’re discussing so intently as you walk along?” ~Jesus

Tags

Emmaus, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Light, Luke 24, Truth

Jesus has risen from the dead. I guess I could stop with that but there is more. Luke gives us a few snippets of what it was like in the days right after that.

• The disciples were all confused by what was going on. I get confused as well. I get all distracted discussing what I think is going on. I’ve not heard from God. I just trudge on.
• Jesus walks up. How often has Jesus come to me to take care of things. Jesus comes to bring light to the dark situation. That is the way Jesus works. He doesn’t leave me to just wander around.
• Even after Jesus comes, I don’t recognize him. I’m clueless. It happens. Its not pretty, I know.
• And then … Jesus speaks to me. Eventually my eyes are opened and I know it is Jesus. Now that is good news. I’m left to my own ignorance.

That same day two of them were walking to the village Emmaus, about seven miles out of Jerusalem. They were deep in conversation, going over all these things that had happened. In the middle of their talk and questions, Jesus came up and walked along with them. But they were not able to recognize who he was.

He asked, “What’s this you’re discussing so intently as you walk along?”

Source: Luke 24:13-18

“What a huge harvest! How few workers! On your knees and pray for harvest hands!” ~Jesus

Tags

Authority, Good News, Harvest, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Matthew 9, Miracle

Jesus was on a mission. He wanted everyone to hear the good news (aka the Gospel). He wouldn’t stop until they had the chance. Am I on the same mission? Jesus is moved by the fact they aren’t enough “good news workers”.

As Son of God, Jesus demonstrated his authority by miraculously healing everyone. Jesus is in charge. His good news is not just about words. I need to understand and experience his healing power.

Jesus is moved by the challenge of getting his message out. It breaks his heart. Jesus challenges me to pray for more workers. The world is hungry for good news and the healing of Jesus. I must do my part.

Then Jesus made a circuit of all the towns and villages. He taught in their meeting places, reported kingdom news, and healed their diseased bodies, healed their bruised and hurt lives. When he looked out over the crowds, his heart broke. So confused and aimless they were, like sheep with no shepherd. “What a huge harvest!” he said to his disciples. “How few workers! On your knees and pray for harvest hands!”

Source: Matthew 9:35-38

“Father, forgive them; they don’t know what they’re doing.” ~Jesus

Tags

Crucifixion, Forgiveness, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Luke 23, Messiah

Jesus knows what is important. In his death, and then resurrection, he showed us.

• Jesus wasn’t the only one crucified that day. Two others went to the cross that day. Who knows how many would be crucified the day after that and the day after that. It only had meaning in that the Son of God would die for us all.
• Jesus was at the center of it all. Jesus was destined by God to die for us all. Jesus is at the center of it. Being crucified was that unusual. Being the Son of God and being crucified to make up for everyone else missing God’s goal (aka sinning) was the main thing.
• Jesus shows what it is all about — Forgiveness! The whole point was forgiveness. I am forgiven by what Jesus did. You are forgiven by what Jesus did. Now that is some very good news indeed.

Two others, both criminals, were taken along with him for execution.

When they got to the place called Skull Hill, they crucified him, along with the criminals, one on his right, the other on his left.

Jesus prayed, “Father, forgive them; they don’t know what they’re doing.”

Source: Luke 23:32-35

“Staying with it—that’s what God requires. Stay with it to the end.” ~Jesus

Tags

Confusion, Good News, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Kingdom of God, Matthew 24, Salvation

Jesus is clear. Jesus is always clear.

• What am I to do? Jesus says “Staying with it—that’s what God requires. Stay with it to the end.” Perseverance is the key. Never give up. Jesus is in charge.
• What should I regret? Nothing. When I persevere, Jesus promises I won’t be sorry and that I will be saved.
• What is God going to do? God is going to make sure that the good news is going to be proclaimed all over the world.
• When will it end? When the message is proclaimed everywhere. Everyone needs to hear the good news. That should be our focus every day. Jesus is in charge of God’s country (aka God’s Kingdom).

Jesus then left the Temple. As he walked away, his disciples pointed out how very impressive the Temple architecture was. Jesus said, “You’re not impressed by all this sheer size, are you? The truth of the matter is that there’s not a stone in that building that is not going to end up in a pile of rubble.”

Later as he was sitting on Mount Olives, his disciples approached and asked him, “Tell us, when are these things going to happen? What will be the sign of your coming, that the time’s up?”

Jesus said, “Watch out for doomsday deceivers. Many leaders are going to show up with forged identities, claiming, ‘I am Christ, the Messiah.’ They will deceive a lot of people. When reports come in of wars and rumored wars, keep your head and don’t panic. This is routine history; this is no sign of the end. Nation will fight nation and ruler fight ruler, over and over. Famines and earthquakes will occur in various places. This is nothing compared to what is coming.

“They are going to throw you to the wolves and kill you, everyone hating you because you carry my name. And then, going from bad to worse, it will be dog-eat-dog, everyone at each other’s throat, everyone hating each other.

 “In the confusion, lying preachers will come forward and deceive a lot of people. For many others, the overwhelming spread of evil will do them in—nothing left of their love but a mound of ashes.

“Staying with it—that’s what God requires. Stay with it to the end. You won’t be sorry, and you’ll be saved. All during this time, the good news—the Message of the kingdom—will be preached all over the world, a witness staked out in every country. And then the end will come.

Source: Matthew 24:1-14

Kingdom of God

“The goal is to bring out the best in others in a conversation, not put them down, not cut them out.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

Apostle Paul Sayings, Colossians 4, God's Goal, Jesus, Repent, Wisdom

The Apostle Paul, full of the wisdom of Jesus the Messiah, has given us insight into God’s goal for us.

• Do I need to change my mind?  I am to use my head. I should think things through. I should change my mind (aka repent).
• Whose country am I a citizen of? I should recognize that i am a citizen of God’s country (aka the Kingdom of God). I live and work among outsiders.
• What about wisdom? I shouldn’t miss a trick. God will give me wisdom. I should us it for God’s advantage.
• What is God’s goal? God is going to give me opportunities. God is in a good mood. I should focus on bringing out the best in others. I should never put them down. God’s goal is for me to love. Love is kind and thoughtful.

“Use your heads as you live and work among outsiders. Don’t miss a trick. Make the most of every opportunity. Be gracious in your speech. The goal is to bring out the best in others in a conversation, not put them down, not cut them out.” ~Apostle Paul

Source: Colossians 4:5-6

“We saw it, we heard it, and now we’re telling you so you can experience it along with us.” ~Apostle John

Tags

1 John 1, Apostle John Sayings, Communion, Jesus, Messiah, Sync

John was one motivated man of God. He saw first hand the unique relationship Jesus had with God.

• Jesus and God were perfectly in sync. Never ever out of touch at all. Jesus always hit the mark, doing what He saw His Father doing, saying what He heard His Father saying. Union and communion of the highest order.
• The promise is that I can enjoy the same relationship with God as well. Jesus has made it all possible. I can enjoy that same communion too.
• This is God’s goal for us. Unity with Him and those who love Him. The fruit of communion with Jesus is joy. Wow!

“We saw it, we heard it, and now we’re telling you so you can experience it along with us, this experience of communion with the Father and his Son, Jesus the Messiah. Our motive for writing is simply this: We want you to enjoy this, too. Your joy will double our joy!” ~Apostle John

Source: 1 John 1:3-4

“So let’s keep at it and eventually arrive at the place of rest, not drop out through some sort of disobedience.” ~Author of Hebrews

Tags

God's Goal, Hebrews 4, Jesus, Promise, Rest

Are we ready for some rest?

• I know I am to rest. So here is a promise that is considered current and available to all of us. It is something I can have today.
• God is at rest. We can be to. We have to keep at it every day. Jesus said pray “Give us this day”. All Jesus did was do what He saw His Father doing. He was obedient. And His Father is at rest. We can be too.
• It is a question of obedience. When we humble ourselves, deny what we want and obey God, we find rest.
• It is God’s goal for us to be at rest. Let us be persistent, keep at it and take advantage of this promise. It is a promise for today. Letting go and letting God is about ceasing to strive to do what we want so God can take the burden and do what He wants.

And so this is still a live promise. It wasn’t canceled at the time of Joshua; otherwise, God wouldn’t keep renewing the appointment for “today.” The promise of “arrival” and “rest” is still there for God’s people. God himself is at rest. And at the end of the journey we’ll surely rest with God. So let’s keep at it and eventually arrive at the place of rest, not drop out through some sort of disobedience. Hebrews 4:8-11

 

“I’m working for the Lord, and even though the Lord’s pay isn’t very high, his retirement program is.” ~~George Foreman

Tags

Faith, George Foreman, Heaven, Jesus, Retirement, Trust

You have to love George Foreman. I’ve met him a couple of times and he is the real deal.

• Who am I working for? George knows who he is working for. He is clear it is Jesus. Just ask him.
• What do I get out of it now? While George is very successful, he is clear where his treasure should be.
• What is my future reward? George knows God has a tremendous “retirement program”. Do I know that our God is in a good mood?

 

I’m working for the Lord, and even though the Lord’s pay isn’t very high, his retirement program is. ~~George Foreman

“Hope unswervingly.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

1 Corinthians 13, Hope, Love, Trust

Hope Unsweringly

Can I hope unswervingly? It is an essential question. Can I? Will I?

• With the power of the Holy Spirit, I can. On my own, I get lost. It is up to me to trust in Jesus.
• This is an essential item. Without hope, I am lost every day. In fact, every minute of every day. God’s goal for us is to be hopeful.
• Without hope, I will fail to fully participate in God’s world (Kingdom). Hope doesn’t not stand on its own though. Coupled with trust and love we are complete.
• And so, when I am filled with Jesus and the power of His HOLY Spirit, I hope unswervingly. I don’t deviate from hope at all. This leads me to maturity. This leads me to completeness.

“But for right now, until that completeness, we have three things to do to lead us toward that consummation: Trust steadily in God, hope unswervingly, love extravagantly. And the best of the three is love.” ~Apostle Paul

Source: 1 Corinthians 13:13

“Anyone who separates from me is deadwood, gathered up and thrown on the bonfire.” ~Jesus

Tags

Jesus, John 15, Vine

Jesus is clear and direct. He always is. Here are some things I need to understand.

• It is all about Jesus. When I am connected to him (as a branch to the vine), I have an abundant life.
• Apart from Jesus, I am deadwood. Without my connection to Jesus, I cannot produce anything. I will dry up and be cast away as firewood. God is God. I am nothing without his son Jesus.
• Connected to Jesus, I am at home with what Jesus says and I mature. Jesus listens to me and acts on my requests. Jesus knows what I need. Jesus and his Father are in a good mood.

“I am the Vine, you are the branches. When you’re joined with me and I with you, the relation intimate and organic, the harvest is sure to be abundant. Separated, you can’t produce a thing. Anyone who separates from me is deadwood, gathered up and thrown on the bonfire. But if you make yourselves at home with me and my words are at home in you, you can be sure that whatever you ask will be listened to and acted upon. This is how my Father shows who he is—when you produce grapes, when you mature as my disciples.” ~Jesus

Source: John 15:5-8

“Go everywhere and announce the Message of God’s good news to one and all.” ~Jesus

Tags

Baptize, Good News, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Mark 16, Resurrection

Jesus had a few things to say after his resurrection and before he ascended to heaven. Jesus was angry that they hadn’t believed the others who had seen him alive. His message after he took them to task was:

• Where should they go? Go into the world. Jesus always emphasized that he was the savior of the whole world, not just the Jews.
• What should they say? Announce the good news to everyone. My focus should be on good news and what God is doing.
• What should they do? Baptize those who believe.

Still later, as the Eleven were eating supper, Jesus appeared and took them to task most severely for their stubborn unbelief, refusing to believe those who had seen him raised up. Then Jesus said, “Go into the world. Go everywhere and announce the Message of God’s good news to one and all. Whoever believes and is baptized is saved; whoever refuses to believe is damned.”

Source: Mark 16:14-16

“What do you want from me?” ~Jesus

Tags

God is Good, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Matthew 20, Miracle

This is important for me to know. It is, in fact, critical.

• Jesus is very interested in what I want from him. It is too easy to believe that God doesn’t care. Jesus only does what he sees his Father do. God is in a good mood and so is Jesus.
• I need to be bold, making my needs known to him. Sitting around thinking I don’t need to say anything will get me nowhere. When Jesus is passing by, I must shout out for mercy.
• Persistence is critical. When others want me to shut up, I need to get bolder and louder. I need persistent faith not more faith.
• My needs move Jesus deeply. Jesus listens to me and is moved. Deeply. That is good news.

“We know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

God is Good, God Thoughts, God's Goal, Jesus, Purpose, Romans 8

The Apostle Paul challenges to know a few things.

God is at work in my life

Jesus, the Messiah, is in control. He is in charge. And everything He does for us, as a result of our love for Him, is for our good.

What is the main thing about the main thing?

Tags

God is Good, Jesus, Love

Here it is. It is the main thing about the main thing.

Our Father is in a good mood. He always has been. He always will be. His love for me is pure. He isn’t keeping a list of all of my sins. He isn’t frustrated with me at all. He is just tickled pink with who I am in Him.

The life He has given me as a gift is amazing. I didn’t do a thing to earn it. Never could. His love isn’t cautious at all. The most famous bible verse (John 3:16) starts with “For God so loved the world …”

Now how amazing is all of this. He so ROCKS!!!

May I know that God is good and in a good mood all the time. May I know He loves me all the time.

 

“Don’t let this throw you. You trust God, don’t you? Trust me.” ~Jesus

Tags

Heaven, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, John 14, Trust

Trust Jesus

Jesus is getting down to the wire here. This is the final night before his death the next day. Jesus knows what is coming. He has a few things to say.

• What is important to know? The main thing is to trust Jesus. It is easy to get rattled and lose courage. I must trust Jesus. God is in a good mood.
• Where is Jesus going? To prepare a place for us. Jesus is getting things ready for me and for you.
• Will Jesus come back? Yes, Jesus promises he will come get us so that we can be with him. Many have already gone on before me. My time will come and I will join them.

“Don’t let this throw you. You trust God, don’t you? Trust me. There is plenty of room for you in my Father’s home. If that weren’t so, would I have told you that I’m on my way to get a room ready for you? And if I’m on my way to get your room ready, I’ll come back and get you so you can live where I live. And you already know the road I’m taking.” ~Jesus

Source: John 14:1-4

“I couldn’t be more pleased—I’m so confident and proud of you.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

2 Corinthians 7, Apostle Paul Sayings, Confidence, Jesus, Pleased, Proud

Confidence in others

As we start out on the journey with Jesus, it helps to have leaders who inspire us. Sure, I need discipline, but I also need to know when I am on the right track. The Apostle Paul shows me how to lead:

• Leaders let us know they are pleased with what we are doing.
• Leaders are confident that we are going to make it.
• Leaders are proud of what we do.

Of course, this all starts with God. God is in a good mood and is proud of us.

“And then, when we saw how Titus felt—his exuberance over your response—our joy doubled. It was wonderful to see how revived and refreshed he was by everything you did. If I went out on a limb in telling Titus how great I thought you were, you didn’t cut off that limb. As it turned out, I hadn’t exaggerated one bit. Titus saw for himself that everything I had said about you was true. He can’t quit talking about it, going over again and again the story of your prompt obedience, and the dignity and sensitivity of your hospitality. He was quite overwhelmed by it all! And I couldn’t be more pleased—I’m so confident and proud of you.”

~Apostle Paul

Source: 2 Corinthians 7:13-17

“So what makes you think God won’t step in and work justice for his chosen people, who continue to cry out for help?” ~Jesus

Tags

Faith, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Luke 18, Persistence, Prayer

Jesus challenges me. I don’t need more faith. I need persistent faith.

• I must be persistent in my prayer and never quit. My faith must be persistent. If I believed yesterday, I must believe today.
• I must be confident God will step in. I may not know when but it will happen.
• God will stick up for me. God is in a good mood.

Here is the story Jesus told.

Jesus told them a story showing that it was necessary for them to pray consistently and never quit.

He said, “There was once a judge in some city who never gave God a thought and cared nothing for people. A widow in that city kept after him: ‘My rights are being violated. Protect me!’

“He never gave her the time of day. But after this went on and on he said to himself, ‘I care nothing what God thinks, even less what people think. But because this widow won’t quit badgering me, I’d better do something and see that she gets justice—otherwise I’m going to end up beaten black-and-blue by her pounding.’”

Then the Master said, “Do you hear what that judge, corrupt as he is, is saying? So what makes you think God won’t step in and work justice for his chosen people, who continue to cry out for help? Won’t he stick up for them? I assure you, he will. He will not drag his feet. But how much of that kind of persistent faith will the Son of Man find on the earth when he returns?”

Source: Luke 18:1-6

“If a fellow believer hurts you, go and tell him—work it out between the two of you.” ~Jesus

Tags

Courage, Forgiveness, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Love, Matthew 18

Jesus has a way he wants us to follow to work out our grievances against one another. If I am not willing to follow it, I should keep my mouth shut.

• Jesus wants me to have the courage to go to the person, one on one, try to work it out.
• I have to decide, is this worth an intervention? If it isn’t, I can just forgive and move on.
• Now this is tough, do I want to take it to the whole church?

I don’t think most of us would ever get past step one. Step one is huge though. It forces me to think through do I just forgive and does the person need to know they hurt me.

Having done all that, what should I do? Jesus says start it all over again and focus on God’s forgiving love.

“If a fellow believer hurts you, go and tell him—work it out between the two of you. If he listens, you’ve made a friend. If he won’t listen, take one or two others along so that the presence of witnesses will keep things honest, and try again. If he still won’t listen, tell the church. If he won’t listen to the church, you’ll have to start over from scratch, confront him with the need for repentance, and offer again God’s forgiving love.”

Source Matthew 18:15-17

“Thanking God over and over for you is not only a pleasure; it’s a must.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

2 Thessalonians 1, Apostle Paul Sayings, Faith, Love, Thanks

What do I have on my to do list for the day?

What must I do?

Thanking God should be at the top of my list every day. When I thank God, particularly for others, I will love them. I can’t thank God for all the good in someone else and then hate them can I?

Nope, can’t be done.

Thanking God over and over for you is the key!

You need to know, friends, that thanking God over and over for you is not only a pleasure; it’s a must. We have to do it. Your faith is growing phenomenally; your love for each other is developing wonderfully. Why, it’s only right that we give thanks. We’re so proud of you; you’re so steady and determined in your faith despite all the hard times that have come down on you. We tell everyone we meet in the churches all about you. 2 Thessalonians 1:3-4

“Take, this is my body.” ~Jesus

Tags

Bread, Communion, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Mark 14

Jesus sacrificed his body for me. Jesus has set up a sacred ritual for me to remember that precious act. What better symbol than the breaking of bread?

He told us before it happened that it would. Jesus created a beautiful sacrament so can continue to participate and remember.

What a wonderful God we serve. May I never forget what Jesus has done for me.

In the course of their meal, having taken and blessed the bread, he broke it and gave it to them. Then he said,

“Take, this is my body.”

Source: Mark 14:22

“People ruin their lives by their own stupidity, so why does God always get blamed?” ~King Solomon

Tags

Jesus, King Solomon, Proverbs 19, Stupidity, Wise Sayings

I find it way to easy to blame God. After all, he is in control, right?

On any given day, at any given moment, that is the easy way out.

Not my fault!

Jesus challenges me to look at my own heart. Jesus knows where evil comes from. Evil doesn’t come from God.

At a fundamental level, I need to look in the mirror. 

“There’s more joy in heaven over one sinner’s rescued life than over ninety-nine good people in no need of rescue.” ~Jesus

Tags

Celebrate, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Joy, Lost, Luke 15, Sheep

Jesus is happy. Jesus is rejoicing.

Jesus came to rescue me. I wandered away. I got lost.

Jesus noticed and came after me. He didn’t ignore my plight. Maybe you don’t need to be rescued. I did and I do.

There is joy in heaven. God is in a good mood. I see it every day.

“Suppose one of you had a hundred sheep and lost one. Wouldn’t you leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness and go after the lost one until you found it? When found, you can be sure you would put it across your shoulders, rejoicing, and when you got home call in your friends and neighbors, saying, ‘Celebrate with me! I’ve found my lost sheep!’ Count on it—there’s more joy in heaven over one sinner’s rescued life than over ninety-nine good people in no need of rescue.” 

Source: Luke 15:4-7

“Go home to your own people. Tell them your story—what the Master did, how he had mercy on you.” ~Jesus

Tags

Evil, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Master, Mercy, Messiah, Sin

God’s mercy

Jesus is clear. I need to tell everyone I know how Jesus, my Master and the Messiah, has had mercy on me. Jesus is in a good mood. He doesn’t hold me to account for missing God’s goal in my life (sin). Jesus, in his mercy, casts out the evil dwelling in me.

I was in a bad state. Some days I still am. Jesus cleans me up and sets me on the right way.

I must tell my story.

That is the challenge I have received from Jesus.

As Jesus was getting into the boat, the demon-delivered man begged to go along, but he wouldn’t let him. Jesus said, “Go home to your own people. Tell them your story—what the Master did, how he had mercy on you.” The man went back and began to preach in the Ten Towns area about what Jesus had done for him. He was the talk of the town.

Source: Mark 5:16-20

What is the suffering to joy ratio in Jesus?

Tags

1 Thessalonians 1, Jesus, Joy, Ratio, Suffering, Trouble

The most important thing to know and believe is that God is in a good mood. He loves me and has my best interest in mind. Jesus wants the best for me.

I do suffer a little. I know some people who suffer a lot. Jesus promised us that in this world we would have problems.

So … I suffer a little.

I have unlimited joy in the goodness of God.

The ratio isn’t even fair to compare. If joy equals 100 then, compared to that, suffering might be .0000001.

No comparison.

You paid careful attention to the way we lived among you, and determined to live that way yourselves. In imitating us, you imitated the Master. Although great trouble accompanied the Word, you were able to take great joy from the Holy Spirit!—taking the trouble with the joy, the joy with the trouble. 1 Thessalonians 1:5-6 ~Apostle Paul

“This kingdom of faith is now your home country. You’re no longer strangers or outsiders.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

Ephesians 2, Faith, Foundation, Jesus, Messiah, Temple

We have a home that God is building and we are the bricks He is using us to make His building magnificent.

Jesus is making it in His country of supernatural courage (faith). What is amazing is that He is using us to create a place for Him to dwell.

We all have a place there and He wants to live in it. He has given us great gifts to benefit His people.

So … In God’s country:

• We don’t have to wander around not know if we belong. 
• His country of supernatural courage is where we fit in. 
• We all have a place of honor in His world.

That’s plain enough, isn’t it? You’re no longer wandering exiles. This kingdom of faith is now your home country. You’re no longer strangers or outsiders. You belong here, with as much right to the name Christian as anyone. God is building a home. He’s using us all—irrespective of how we got here—in what he is building. He used the apostles and prophets for the foundation. Now he’s using you, fitting you in brick by brick, stone by stone, with the Messiah Jesus as the cornerstone that holds all the parts together. We see it taking shape day after day—a holy temple built by God, all of us built into it, a temple in which God is quite at home. Ephesians 2:19 -22

 

May I find my place in His building and fit in the right place.

“Don’t bargain with God. Be direct. Ask for what you need.” ~Jesus

Tags

God is Good, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Matthew 7

Is this a game to be played like cat-and-mouse or hide-and-seek? When I need something, should I try to bargain with God?

No. Jesus is clear. He demands that I be direct with God.

God is love. If I ask Him something, He will give it to me.

If we seek an answer, He will give it. If I knock, He will open the door. Our parents, while not perfect, have our best interests at heart.

God is God and God is good. His love is perfect. Compared to our parents, how good is God’s love for us minute by minute?

Don’t bargain with God. Be direct. Ask for what you need. This isn’t a cat-and-mouse, hide-and-seek game we’re in. If your child asks for bread, do you trick him with sawdust? If he asks for fish, do you scare him with a live snake on his plate? As bad as you are, you wouldn’t think of such a thing. You’re at least decent to your own children. So don’t you think the God who conceived you in love will be even better? Matthew 7:7-8 MSG

“In the world you have tribulation, but take courage ; I have overcome the world.” ~Jesus

Tags

Courage, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, John 16, Peace, Trust, Victory, Worry

Difficulties are a natural part of the world. Jesus brings me peace and offers courage.

In fact, Jesus promised us me I would have tribulation. That is life in this world.

In Jesus I have peace.

How can Jesus do this? He has overcome the world and I am a new creation that shares in His resurrection.

I can take heart. Jesus is risen and I am seated with Him. The victory belongs to the LORD!!!

May peace be mine. May I have courage today. Why worry?

These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage ; I have overcome the world.” John 16:33

A tribute to my brother Jerry Wright. First said “Why Worry” to me in 1973. He has been right all these years.

“And in Thy sweet breathing full of grace and glory how tenderly Thou fillest me with Thy love.” ~~St. John of the Cross

Tags

Ephesians, Love, Passion, Paul, Sin

These words, penned by St. John of the Cross in his book Living Flame of Love, capture the heart-cry of every soul for intimacy with God.

For this we were created and for this we were rescued from missing God’s goal (sin) and death. In Ephesians, Paul lets us in on a little secret: We’ve been more than noticed. God has pursued us from farther than space and longer ago than time.

God has had us in mind since before the Foundations of the World. He loved us before the beginning of time, has come for us, and now calls us to journey toward him, with him, for the consummation of our love.

O Living Flame of Love . . . How gently and how lovingly Thou wakest in my bosom, where alone thou secretly dwellest; And in Thy sweet breathing full of grace and glory how tenderly Thou fillest me with Thy love.  ~~St. John of the Cross

"I’ve found you’ve got to look back at the old things and see them in a new light." ~~John Coltrane

Tags

Jesus, John Coltrane, Light, New

There is the old and there is the new.

Jesus challenges me to leave the old. Jesus challenges me to be “born again.”

Jesus is the light and challenges me to be light.

In Jesus, the old is the new. Now that is some good news.

I’ve found you’ve got to look back at the old things and see them in a new light. ~John Coltrane

“You’re more than happy when you’ve worked up a good appetite for God.” ~Jesus

Tags

Appetite, Happy, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Matthew 5

I love to eat. Almost anything, anytime. There is nothing like a great meal with family or friends. I have never been accused of not having a good appetite.

So, how is my appetite for God?

Do I hunger for Jesus the same way the same way I do for a great meal?

Do I long for Him like no other?

I will be more than happy when I work up a good appetite for Jesus!!

You’re more than happy when you’ve worked up a good appetite for God. He’s food and drink in the best meal you’ll ever eat.” Matthew 5:1-12

“So this is my prayer: that your love will flourish and that you will not only love much but well.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

Jesus, Love, Paul, Philippians 1, Quality

Love

I know I tend to think that either I love or I don’t. Paul points out that there is another way to see it.

I can love and I can have a lot of love. But beyond that I should love well.

There should be a quality to my love. Love is not about quantity but it is all about quality. How well do I love? Something to think, pray and act on.

So I pray, may I love well!!

So this is my prayer: that your love will flourish and that you will not only love much but well.”   Apostle Paul (Philippians 1:9-11 The Message)

“Master, the one you love so very much is sick.” ~Mary, sister of Martha

Tags

Jesus, John 11, Lazarus, Love, Martha, Mary, Sick

Love of Jesus

With Jesus, it always starts with love. Jesus loved Lazarus. Everyone knew that.

Lazarus was sick. It got worse however. Lazarus died. Jesus knew that and allowed it to happen. He wasn’t in a rush to go see him.

Jesus knew how it would end. Jesus knew the power of God. Jesus knew he would raise him from the dead. Jesus believed in the power of God. He was okay with everything.

Jesus loved Lazarus. Jesus would take care of it.

Jesus knew what was happening. Jesus was the only one who knew. Everyone else freaked out.

May I live in the power God and confidence of God’s love. God is in a good mood. I am the one Jesus loves so very much.

A man was sick, Lazarus of Bethany, the town of Mary and her sister Martha. This was the same Mary who massaged the Lord’s feet with aromatic oils and then wiped them with her hair. It was her brother Lazarus who was sick. So the sisters sent word to Jesus, “Master, the one you love so very much is sick.”

John 11:1-3