Focusing On Jesus

Many people were seeking Jesus.

Why?

BECAUSE they saw His signs which He performed on those who were diseased.

Where was Jesus?

He was up on a mountain sitting with His disciples.

Jesus saw the crowd coming towards Him. He said to His disciples…

“Make the people sit down.”

There was 5,000 people not including women and children.

Jesus took five loaves and two fishes and gave thanks to God.

Suddenly, there was enough bread and fish to feed everyone and still had twelve large baskets of loaves left over.

The people remarked, “This is truly the Prophet who is to come into the world.”

Jesus perceived that they were about to take Him by force to make Him king, so what He do?

He departed to a mountain by Himself alone. [1]

The crowd of people caught up with Jesus the next day, and asked Him…

“Rabbi, when did You come here?”

Jesus said to them, “Most assuredly, I say to you, you seek Me, not because you saw the signs, but because you ate of the loaves and were filled.” Then, Jesus pointed them to the food that is most vital. He said…

“Do not labor for the food which perishes, but for the food which endures to everlasting life, which the Son of Man will give you, because God the Father has set His seal on Him.” [2]

They seized upon the word “labor” more than on the word “give.” Jesus was telling them that He would GIVE them everlasting life.

They asked Jesus, “What shall we do, that we may work the works of God?”

Jesus answered them…

“This is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom He sent.” [3]

“Everyone who sees the Son and believes in Him may have everlasting life; and I will raise him up at the last day. Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me has everlasting life.” [4]

Jesus promised them eternal life if they partook of Him. They needed to believe that He was the Passover Lamb, God’s Messiah, which would save them from the angel of death. They were not ready to make this kind of commitment. Many left Him. Even many disciples left Him.

Jesus said to those disciples who were leaving Him…

“What then if you should see the Son of Man ascend where He was before? It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profits nothing. The words that I speak to you are spirit, and they are life. But there are some of you who do not believe.”

Then, He said to the twelve disciples…

“Do you also want to go away?”

Simon Peter answered Him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We have come to believe and know that You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” [5]

“Dear Lord Jesus, You are the Son of the Living God. Please pray for us that we will stay focused on believing in You. Worries about this temporary life seek to drown out concerns about eternal life. We want to stay focused on You.”

[1] John 6:2-15
[2] John 6:25-27
[3] John 6:28-29
[4] John 6:40, 47
[5] John 6:60, 62-64, 67-69

Our Faithful Father

“We know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” (Romans 8:28)

One day, Esther, the niece that Mordecai had helped to raise was taken from him by his government.

On another day, while sitting outside the government building where Esther was kept, Mordecai overheard two men discussing an assassination plot against the nation’s ruler. He sent a message to Esther, and the assassination attempt was averted.

On another day, a proud man named Haman walked by. He was a newly elected official who expected everyone to literally bow to him. Mordecai refused to do so. So, Haman bribed the king to pass irreversible legislation to eliminate Mordecai and his people.

Mordecai, Esther, and their faithful friends prayed and fasted before God.

God answered their prayers inasmuch that Haman and his sons were arrested and executed, while Mordecai, Esther and their people were rescued and honored by their government.

The Bible verses below correspond to the attached pictures.

“Thank You Heavenly Father for causing all things to work together for the good of those who love You and are called according to Your purposes.”

“In those days, while Mordecai sat within the king’s gate, two of the king’s eunuchs, Bigthan and Teresh, doorkeepers, became furious and sought to lay hands on King Ahasuerus. So, the matter became known to Mordecai, who told Queen Esther, and Esther informed the king in Mordecai’s name. And when an inquiry was made into the matter, it was confirmed, and both were hanged on a gallows; and it was written in the book of the chronicles in the presence of the king.” [1]

“And all the king’s servants who were within the king’s gate bowed and paid homage to Haman, for so the king had commanded concerning him. But Mordecai would not bow or pay homage. When Haman saw that Mordecai did not bow or pay him homage, Haman was filled with wrath. But he disdained to lay hands on Mordecai alone, for they had told him of the people of Mordecai. Instead, Haman sought to destroy all the Jews who were throughout the whole kingdom of Ahasuerus—the people of Mordecai.” [2]

“Then the king said to Haman, ‘Hurry, take the robe and the horse, as you have suggested, and do so for Mordecai the Jew who sits within the king’s gate! Leave nothing undone of all that you have spoken.’” [3]

“Harbonah, one of the eunuchs, said to the king, ‘Look! The gallows, 75 feet high, which Haman made for Mordecai, who spoke good on the king’s behalf, is standing at the house of Haman.’” [4]

“Then Esther said, ‘If it pleases the king, let it be granted to the Jews who are in Shushan to do again tomorrow according to today’s decree, and let Haman’s ten sons be hanged on the gallows.’” [5]

“Mordecai the Jew was second to King Ahasuerus and was great among the Jews and well received by the multitude of his brethren, seeking the good of his people and speaking peace to all his countrymen.” [6]

[1] Esther 2:21-23
[2] Esther 3:2, 5-6
[3] Esther 6:10
[4] Esther 7:9
[5] Esther 9:13
[6] Esther 10:3

Mustard Seed Faith

“Truly, I say to you, if you have faith like a grain of mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move, and nothing will be impossible for you.” [1]

We’re prone to think if we just had more faith, then God could do amazing things through us. But Jesus tells us something quite astonishing. The issue isn’t whether we are full of faith but whether we have any faith. If we have the smallest amount of faith, God works on our behalf.

A small amount of faith is enough because the focus is not on our faith but its object.

Our faith makes a difference not because it is so great but because God is so great.

Jesus is teaching us that stunning things happen if we have faith. Mountains are metaphors for things and circumstances that are too big for us to conquer. God moves them as we believe in Him and do not doubt.

What is there to doubt about God anyway? He created the universe. He sent His Son into the world to save us from our sin. He loves us. He helps those who ask for His help.

Jesus said, “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 he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened.” [2]

Peter wrote, “Casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.” [3]

Jesus is saying to cast our cares on Him for He cares for us. He says, “Ask and you shall receive, knock and the door shall be opened, seek and you shall find.”

Mountain-moving faith is based on God’s promises—on what is revealed in his Word.

Mustard seed faith is enormously powerful—not because of our faith, but because it unites us to the God who raised Jesus Christ from the dead.

Faith is receptivity. It receives Christ and all that He has done for us, and all that He is willing to do in and through us when we trust in Him.

Now, let's start praying and believing... start praising and thanking God in advance for what He is going to do as we ask for His help... as we cast our cares upon Him knowing that He cares for us.

[1] Matthew 17:20
[2] Matthew 7:7-8
[3] 1 Peter 5:7

Aglow with God’s Spirit

“The kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. For he who serves Christ in these things is acceptable to God and approved by men.” [1]

If we truly want God’s approval…
If we truly want to please God…
If we truly aim to promote the kingdom of God…
Then, let us be filled with righteousness, peace and joy from the Holy Spirit.

A righteous and holy person is a great witness for God. The devil wants undermine Christianity’s credibility. Therefore, our righteousness must be from God. If we try to be Christian (Christ-like) in our own strength, we will fail.

We need the Holy Spirit to be aglow for Jesus. We are the candles. The Holy Spirit is the fire.

“Don’t hesitate to be enthusiastic—be on fire in the Spirit as you serve the Lord!” [2]

I will use the Chinese word for glory (榮)to illustrate my point. It contains two people, Adam and Eve, aglow next to a tree (see picture). Perhaps, before Adam and Eve sinned, they shined with the glory of God.

The Bible says that God “covers Himself with light as with a garment.” [3]

When Jesus was transfigured in the Gospels, “His face shone like the sun.” [4]

When our first parents, Adam and Eve sinned, they lost God’s glory. Their likeness to God - their glow was lost. They knew they were naked.

“Also, for Adam and his wife the Lord God made tunics of skin and clothed them.” [5]

God sacrificed animals to cover (atone) their nakedness. He forgave their sin and removed their guilt.

We have peace and joy in the Holy Spirit because He reminds us of what God did for us. He sent His Son Jesus Christ into the world to take away our sins so that we could receive the Holy Spirit and shine once again with His glory.

If we depend on our works to get to heaven, we will never have peace. We will lack joy. Peace and joy stem from knowing that God has sent a Savior to save us from our sins.

Christmas lights need electricity to shine. They must be plugged-in to shine. In like manner, we must be filled the Holy Spirit, God’s radiance, to shine for Him.

“Thank You Heavenly Father for giving up Your Son for us. Thank You Lord Jesus for giving up Your life for us. Thank You Holy Spirit for filling us and causing us to glow for God.”

[1] Romans 14:17-18
[2] Romans 12:11
[3] Psalm 104:2
[4] Matthew 17:2
[5] Genesis 3:21

Happy Thanksgiving

The very first Thanksgiving holiday was celebrated on December 13, 1621. As devout Christians, the Pilgrims wished to thank God for His favor and to celebrate with and thank their Indian friends. The celebration featured a feast that included numerous types of waterfowl, wild turkeys and fish procured by the colonists, and five deer brought by the Native Americans.

While individual colonies and states celebrated Thanksgiving for two subsequent centuries, it wasn’t until 1863, amidst the Civil War, that President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed a national Thanksgiving Day to be held each November. [1]

In his proclamation, President Lincoln noted reasons to be grateful to God…

“In the midst of a civil war of unequalled magnitude and severity…

Peace has been preserved with all nations…
Order has been maintained…
Laws have been respected and obeyed…
Harmony has prevailed everywhere except in the theatre of military conflict.” 

Crops continue to grow…
Commerce continues over land and sea…
New settlements are established…
Precious metals continue to be mined…
The population is growing.

“No human counsel hath devised nor hath any mortal hand worked out these great things. They are the gracious gifts of the Most-High God, who, while dealing with us in anger for our sins, hath nevertheless remembered mercy.”

“It has seemed to me fit and proper that they [these blessings] should be solemnly, reverently and gratefully acknowledged as with one heart and one voice by the whole American People.” [2]

“Oh, that men would give thanks to the Lord for His goodness,
And for His wonderful works to the children of men!
For He satisfies the longing soul,
And fills the hungry soul with goodness.

Oh, that men would give thanks to the Lord for His goodness,
And for His wonderful works to the children of men!
Let them sacrifice the sacrifices of thanksgiving,
And declare His works with rejoicing.” [3]

[1] gospelherald.com/articles/68177/20161122/thanksgiving-2016
[2] abrahamlincolnonline.org/Lincoln/speeches/thanks
[3] Psalm 107:8-9, 21-22

The Power of the Bible And Prayer

A missionary was once asked by border guards of a communist country, “Do you have any guns, drugs, or Bibles?” The border guards apparently believed the Bible was as dangerous as guns and drugs. Guns injure and kill the body. Drugs alter and distort the mind. The Bible exposes and destroys falsehood. [1]

“The Word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” [2]

“There is no devil in the first two chapters of the Bible and no devil in the last two chapters. Thank God for a book that disposes of the devil!” [3]

“The Word not only lets you see what your thoughts are, but it criticizes your thoughts. The Word of God says of this thought, “it is vain,” and of that thought, “it is acceptable”; of this thought, “it is selfish,” and of that thought, “it is Christlike.” The Word of God gets at the very marrow of our manhood; it lays bare the secret thoughts of the soul. The Christ that is in the Word sees everything.” [4]

“The foundation of every reformation of the Holy Spirit is the Word of God made plain to the people.” [5]

“The first thing the Bible does is to make man take a serious view of life.” [6]

The Power of Prayer

"Prayer is not getting man's will done in heaven, but getting God's will done on earth. It is not overcoming God's reluctance but laying hold of God's willingness.” [7]

“What the Church needs today is not more machinery or better, not new organizations or more and novel methods, but men whom the Holy Ghost can use — men of prayer, men mighty in prayer. The Holy Ghost does not flow through methods, but through men. He does not come on machinery, but on men. He does not anoint plans, but men, men of prayer.” [8]

“When man works man works, but when man prays, God works.” [9]

“Every great movement of God can be traced to a kneeling figure.” [10]

[1] Story told by D. J. De Haan
[2] Hebrews 4:12
[3] Vance Havner
[4] Quote from Charles Spurgeon
[5] Frank Cooke
[6] D. Martin Lloyd-Jones
[7] Richard C. Trench
[8] E.M. Bounds
[9] Hans Von Staden
[10] Dwight L. Moody

Victory Verses From Our Lord

“The things which are impossible with men are possible with God.” [1]

“Your righteousness, O God, is very high,
You who have done great things;
O God, who is like You?
You, who have shown me great and severe troubles,
Shall revive me again,
And bring me up again from the depths of the earth.
You shall increase my greatness,

And comfort me on every side.” [2]

“…Men always ought to pray and not lose heart.” [3]

“Be wise, O kings;
Be instructed, you judges of the earth.
Serve the Lord with fear,
And rejoice with trembling.
Kiss the Son, lest He be angry,
And you perish in the way.” [4]

“God shall avenge His own elect who cry out day and night to Him, though He bears long with them. I tell you that He will avenge them speedily.” [5]

“On the day that the enemies of the Jews had hoped to overpower them, the opposite occurred, in that the Jews themselves overpowered those who hated them.” [6]

“There is no wisdom or understanding
Or counsel against the Lord.
The horse is prepared for the day of battle,
But deliverance is of the Lord.” [7]

[1] Luke 18:27
[2] Psalm 71:19-21
[3] Luke 18:1
[4] Psalm 2:10-11
[5] Luke 18:7-8
[6] Esther 9:1
[7] Proverbs 21:30-31

The Great Creator is Our Savior

“Thus, says the Lord: ‘Heaven is My throne, and earth is My footstool. Where is the house that you will build Me? And where is the place of My rest? For all those things My hand has made, and all those things exist,’ says the Lord.” [1]

“Yes, God, You are God and we are not. We need Your continued intervention, guidance, provision, protection and blessing today.”

“On this one I will look: on Him who is poor and of a contrite spirit, and who trembles at My word.” [2]

Contrite literally means to be “lamed.” A person who is aware of the damage done by sin… Personally unable to stand upright before God. (Motyer)

“Yes, Lord, grant us the wisdom to lean on You and receive strength from You.”

“Hear the word of the Lord, you who tremble at His word: ‘Your brethren who hated you, who cast you out for My name’s sake, said, ‘Let the Lord be glorified, that we may see your joy.’ But they shall be ashamed.” [3]

“Dear Father, help us to forgive those who hate and reject us in Your Name. The day shall come when they shall know that we faithfully served You and sought what was best for them.”

“Before she was in labor, she gave birth; before her pain came, she delivered a male child.” [4]

“The day of victory will come easily for us because You Lord will bring it. As Romans 8:37 says… we more than conquerors because You love us. Thank You for new beginnings.”

“As one whom his mother comforts, so I will comfort you; and you shall be comforted in Jerusalem.” [5]
“Thank You Heavenly Father for Your comfort as of caring mother for us.”

“I will gather all nations and tongues; and they shall come and see My glory.” “And I will take some of them for priests and Levites.” [6]

“Thank You Heavenly Father that You care for all people. You want ALL to see Your glory. Forgive us for the times that we have heard of terrible disasters and wars happening to people in the distant lands and did not take their sufferings to heart. Thank You for extending the priesthood of all believers to people from every nation and language. In our lives, Lord, be glorified. Be glorified today! In Jesus’ Name we pray. Amen.”

[1] Isaiah 66:1
[2] Isaiah 66:2
[3] Isaiah 66:5
[4] Isaiah 66:7
[5] Isaiah 66:13
[6] Isaiah 66:18, 21

To Pastor Prophetically is to:

Believe the Bible is inerrant
Be guided by the Holy Spirit
Speak God’s truth with conviction
Fill breeches
Sound alarms
Repair walls
Expose evil
Help people’s God-consciousness 
Advocate for justice
Speak to the deaf
Provide laws for the lawless
Abandon self to serve others
Confront wrong choices
Clarify consequences
Love deeply

Identify hope for the hopeless
Write poetically
Tell helpful stories
Give testimonies
Dramatize scenarios to make a point

Exude enthusiasm
Rise up in faith amidst doubt
Rejoice in repentance
Delight in forgiveness
Magnify God’s grace
Proclaim Messiah
Celebrate a risen Savior
Preach the Lordship of Jesus Christ 
Reconcile people to God
Assure of divine rewards

Build and inhabit vacated cities
See humanity’s future in the Bible
Remind people of their Redeemer
Rejoice evil ends and good endures
Shout victory for God’s people
Praise the Lord! [1]

“In this you greatly rejoice,
Though now for a little while, if need be,
You have been grieved by various trials,
That the genuineness of your faith,
Being much more precious than gold that perishes,
Though it is tested by fire,
May be found to praise, honor, and glory…
At the revelation of Jesus Christ,
Whom having not seen you love.
Though now you do not see Him,
Yet believing, you rejoice with…
Joy inexpressible and full of glory,
Receiving the end of your faith—
The salvation of your souls.

Of this salvation the prophets have…
Inquired and searched carefully,
Who prophesied of the grace that would come to you,
Searching what, or what manner of time,
The Spirit of Christ… 

Who was in them was indicating when—
He testified beforehand…
The sufferings of Christ
And the glories that would follow.” [2]

[1] Abbreviated list based on the Bible
[2] 1 Peter 1:6-11

On Time & On Track

Countless people crowding, trampling on one another, it is time to teach…

Jesus said to His disciples, “Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy.” [1]

Religious hypocrisy is using others to please oneself while pretending to serve God and people.

Jesus promised, “There is nothing covered that will not be revealed.” [2] The Holy Spirit exhorts us, “Have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them.” [3]

The religious hypocrites behaved like ruthless beasts towards Jesus. They are the ones who brought false charges against Him and instigated His crucifixion. In lieu of their murderous intentions, Jesus advised His disciples, “My friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do. But I will show you whom you should fear. Fear Him who, after He has killed, has power to cast into hell; yes, I say to you, fear Him!” [4]

Worried about provisions for the ministry and for your survival? Jesus assured us, “The very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.” [5]

Do you want your name to be mentioned by Jesus before the angels of God? Then, confess Jesus before people. Jesus said, “Whoever confesses Me before men, him the Son of Man also will confess before the angels of God.” [6]

What if your listener has you hauled to court for speaking the Name of Jesus? Jesus promised, “The Holy Spirit will teach you in that very hour what you ought to say.” [7]

Remember, the mission is not about you. It’s about God and others. Do what’s best for them. “Do all that you do for the glory of God!” [8]

What about material wealth? Jesus advised, “One’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses.” [9] Do you really need a mansion or luxury vehicle to be happy? No, just a life that is making a positive difference for Jesus and others.

When tempted to worry about provisions, remember what Jesus said, “Consider the ravens, for they neither sow nor reap, which have neither storehouse nor barn; and God feeds them. Of how much more value are you than the birds? And which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature? If you then are not able to do the least, why are you anxious for the rest? Your Father knows that you need these things. Seek the kingdom of God, and all these things shall be added to you. It is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” [10]

The main concern to be concerned about is the Lord’s return. “Be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.” [11]

“Dear Heavenly Father, please keep us on time and on track. In Jesus’ Name we pray. Amen.”

[1] Luke 12:1
[2] Luke 12:2
[3] Ephesians 5:11
[4] Luke 12:4-5
[5] Luke 12:7
[6] Luke 12:8
[7] Luke 12:12
[8] 1 Corinthians 10:31
[9] Luke 12:15
[10] Luke 12:24-32
[11] Luke 12:40

70

That’s how many messengers Jesus appointed to prepare cities in advance of His arrival. He sent them out in pairs. This way, they could reach 35 cities simultaneously. Jesus wants people saved. [1]

He said to His messengers… “The harvest truly is great, but the laborers are few; therefore, pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest.” [2]

This was their mission. To bring in harvest and increase harvesters.

“Go your way. Behold, I send you out as lambs among wolves.” [3] Wait! What was that! Don’t wolves eat lambs? Why are You sending us into harm’s way? Don’t You love us?

Yes, Jesus loves us, but He loves all people. He wants all people saved.

“Whatever city you enter, and they receive you, eat such things as are set before you. And heal the sick there, and say to them, ‘The kingdom of God has come near to you.’” [4]

When we bring the message of Jesus to people, we bring to them the kingdom of God. We give them the opportunity to receive eternal life. We bring divine healing to the sick. We pray for them in the Name of Jesus.

“Then the 70 returned with joy, saying, ‘Lord, even the demons are subject to us in Your Name!’ And He said to them, ‘I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you. Nevertheless, do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rather rejoice because your names are written in heaven.’” [5]

70! That’s how many returned from a dangerous mission. Not one was lost! All were joyful! All amazed! The powerful Name of Jesus, unlocked hearts… healed sick bodies… and opened heaven’s door to sinners who needed a Savior.

The power of Satan is no match for Jesus. Jesus delegates His authority and power to us His messengers so that we have authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt us.

Our Lord’s kingdom spreads by HIS authority and HIS power. These are the tools we need to do the work.

“Dear 70,

Yes, you've got God's backing to defeat Satan, but rejoice in this…Your names are written in Heaven.”

Hallelujah!

[1] Luke 10:1
[2] Matthew 9:37
[3] Luke 10:3
[4] Luke 10:8-9
[5] Luke 10:17-20

Our Hope & Prayer for the USA

They are on a mountain. Jesus is praying. Suddenly, Peter, John and James see the face of Jesus change. His clothing glistens. Two men are talking with Jesus. It is Moses and Elijah. They look glorious. They are talking with Jesus about the death He will die in Jerusalem. Moses and Elijah depart. Peter says to Jesus…

“Master, it is good for us to be here; and let us make three tabernacles: one for You, one for Moses, and one for Elijah”—not knowing what he said.”

While Peter is talking, a cloud comes. They are afraid. Then, they hear a voice saying…
“This is My beloved Son. Hear Him!” [1]

Moses was an imperfect embodiment of the God’s Law. Elijah was an imperfect embodiment of God’s Spirit. They have departed. Jesus remains. The Heavenly Father bears witness to Jesus. One greater than Moses and Elijah! He is the fulfillment of their incomplete embodiment. Their lives point to Him. He is the Perfect One. He is the express image of God’s person. [2] God, our Creator and Sustainer, says, “This is My beloved Son. Hear Him!”

They are on their way to Jerusalem. They want to pass through a village of Samaria. James and John note that this group of Samaritans are unreceptive of Jesus. They ask Jesus…

“Lord, do You want us to command fire to come down from heaven and consume them, just as Elijah did?”

Jesus turns and rebukes them, saying…

“You do not know what manner of spirit you are of. For the Son of Man did not come to destroy men’s lives but to save them.” And they went to another village.” [3]

“Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for sending Your Son Jesus to save us from our sins. Our nation needs saving, our unborn babies need saving, Your faithful people who love, serve and proclaim Your Son, Jesus… we need saving. We need You to intervene. We ask You to intervene. If You don’t intervene, evil will crush us and destroy our nation.

Thank You Heavenly Father that You have sent to us a greater One than Moses and Elijah! You have sent Your beloved Son, Jesus. He is with us. He intercedes for us. He atoned for our offenses so that You can now freely bless, prosper, save and love us. Our nation needs You to love us. Our unborn babies need You to love us. We need You to love us. Please, for the sake of Your Son’s bitter sufferings and death on the cross, bring forth floods of blessings to Your people in the United States today. For I pray this in Jesus’ Name. Amen.”

[1] Luke 9:28-35
[2] Hebrews 1:3
[3] Luke 9:51-56

Love Remains

It was an early day in the month of April. Temperatures in Jerusalem ranged from 65°F to 73°F. The religious leaders were gathered at the palace of the high priest. Note the word, “palace.” They were not planning a charitable event, praying or planning improvements to the pastoral services in their nation. The Bible says…

“[They] plotted to take Jesus by trickery and kill Him.” [1] 

Not far away, in the home of a man with leprosy, Jesus is with His disciples. A woman feels compelled to pour her very expensive anointing oil on Jesus. His disciples become angry, but Jesus defends the woman. He says to them…

“Why do you trouble the woman? For she has done a good work for Me. For you have the poor with you always, but Me you do not have always. For in pouring this fragrant oil on My body, she did it for My burial. Assuredly, I say to you, wherever this Gospel is preached in the whole world, what this woman has done will also be told as a memorial to her.” [2]

She did a good work for Jesus.

She believed that Jesus would die for the sins of the world.

She believed He was the Anointed One: “Messiah” (Hebrew) and “Christ” (Greek).

Wow! Jesus was being betrayed by religious leaders and by Judas (whose name means “Praise the Lord”). His disciples were about to forsake Him. The Romans were about to crucify Him… yet, this one woman… lavishes expensive anointing oil on Him. Jesus said…

“Assuredly, I say to you, wherever this Gospel is preached in the whole world, what this woman has done will also be told as a memorial to her.”

I had the privilege of telling university students in Guangzhou, China, the story of this woman. They warmly embraced Jesus and the love that this woman showed Him. Praise the Lord!

Soon after this woman lovingly lavished her expensive oil on Jesus, Judas Iscariot held out his empty hand to receive thirty pieces of silver from the high priest and his supporters. [3]

Now in a garden, Jesus is speaking with His disciples. Suddenly, Judas arrives with a large group of men armed with swords and clubs. They are on the payroll of the chief priests. Judas kisses Jesus on the cheek to indicate to the swordsmen and to the club bearers that this one is Jesus.

But wait, suddenly, Peter strikes a servant of the high priest with his sword. Peter severs the man’s ear clean off. Jesus tells Peter to put away his sword…

“For all who take the sword will perish by the sword.”

Jesus asks Peter…

“Do you think that I cannot now pray to My Father, and He will provide Me with more than twelve legions of angels (36,000-72,000 or perhaps “countless”)? How then could the Scriptures be fulfilled, that it must happen thus?” Then, Jesus healed the injured man’s ear. [4]

“Thank You Lord Jesus for demonstrating love in the darkest hour of Your life. Please grant us the grace to demonstrate love to those around us during the darkest days on earth.”

“Now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love.” [5]

[1] Matthew 26:3
[2] Matthew 26:10-13
[3] Matthew 26:14-15
[4] Matthew 26:47-54

[5] 1 Corinthians 13:13

Healthy Do’s & Don’ts

Do not…

Fret
Envy
Be angry
Be full of wrath

Do…

Trust in the Lord
Good (Do good)
Delight in the Lord
Commit your way to the Lord
Rest in the Lord
Wait on the Lord

Fruits from the don’t do list:

Wasted time
Personal harm
Sudden disappearance

Fruits from the to do list:

Land and faithfulness from the Lord
My delight in the Lord being full
The Lord making a way
The Lord bringing forth righteousness and justice
Earthly inheritances
Abundant peace
No need to beg
God’s mercy
Ability to lend to others
Blessed
Strength in time of trouble.
Divine help
Divine deliverance
Salvation

The Biblical basis for the above claims:

“Do not fret because of evildoers,
Nor be envious of the workers of iniquity.
For they shall soon be cut down like the grass,
And wither as the green herb.

Trust in the Lord, and do good;
Dwell in the land, and feed on His faithfulness.
Delight yourself also in the Lord,
And He shall give you the desires of your heart.

Commit your way to the Lord,
Trust also in Him,
And He shall bring it to pass.
He shall bring forth your righteousness as the light,
And your justice as the noonday.

Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for Him;
Do not fret because of him who prospers in his way,
Because of the man who brings wicked schemes to pass.
Cease from anger, and forsake wrath;
Do not fret—it only causes harm.
For evildoers shall be cut off;
But those who wait on the Lord,
They shall inherit the earth.

For yet a little while and the wicked shall be no more;
Indeed, you will look carefully for his place,
But it shall be no more.
But the meek shall inherit the earth,
And shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace.

I have been young, and now am old;
Yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken,
Nor his descendants begging bread.
He is ever merciful, and lends;
And his descendants are blessed.

I have seen the wicked in great power,
And spreading himself like a native green tree.
Yet he passed away, and behold, he was no more;
Indeed, I sought him, but he could not be found.

But the salvation of the righteous is from the Lord;
He is their strength in the time of trouble.
And the Lord shall help them and deliver them;
He shall deliver them from the wicked, and save them,
Because they trust in Him.” [1]

[1] Psalm 37:1-11, 25-26, 35-36, 39-40

Praying for and Speaking to Leaders

“All the saints greet you, but especially those who are of Caesar’s household.” [1]

People in the Emperor’s household had become saints.

Wait! Wasn’t Caesar the one who persecuted Christians?

Adam Clarke wrote about this verse in his commentary:

“Nero was at this time emperor of Rome: a more worthless, cruel, and diabolic wretch never disgraced the name or form of man; yet in his family there were Christians: but whether this relates to the members of the imperial family, or to guards, or courtiers, or to servants, we cannot tell.”

Paul wrote that his witness for Christ was impacting people in the palace: “it has become evident to the whole PALACE guard, and to all the rest, that my chains are in Christ.” [2]

There are instances recorded throughout the Bible of such happenings. For example, the servant girl who directed the great General Naaman of the Syrian Army! [3] God’s prophets Moses, Elijah, Jeremiah, Daniel and Nehemiah gave direction from God to powerful kings.

During the time of my Gospel ministry in China, the Lord blessed me with opportunities to speak to government leaders in Guangzhou, Dong Guan and Beijing. I say this not to boast, but to confirm God’s Word, namely, He makes ways for His servants to influence authorities.

A Psalmist wrote, “He makes my feet like the feet of deer and sets me on my high places.” [4]

A king wrote, “The king’s heart is in the hand of the Lord, like the rivers of water; He turns it wherever He wishes.” [5]

Paul encouraged his protégé Timothy, “I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence.” [6]

“Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for embedding Your servants in high places so that the leaders of nations might hear Your voice. Please direct our leaders to flow with Your will. In Jesus’ Name we pray, Amen.”

[1] Philippians 4:22
[2] Philippians 1:13
[3] 2 Kings 5:1-4
[4] Psalm 18:33
[5] Proverbs 21:1
[6] 1 Timothy 2:1-2

By God’s Grace

“For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God.” [1]

The Bible directs us to grace and to the gift of God for salvation. Who embodies this great grace and gift of God more than any other?

“Now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ.” [2]

Our Lord Jesus embodies the great grace and gift of God. He loved us so much that He became a sinless sacrifice on our behalf. Why? To bring us to God!

“For He Himself is our peace, who has made both one, and has broken down the middle wall of separation, having abolished in His flesh the enmity, that is, the law of commandments contained in ordinances, so as to create in Himself one new man from the two, thus making peace, and that He might reconcile them both to God in one body through the cross, thereby putting to death the enmity.” [3]

Our Lord Jesus Christ is Peacemaker, Wall-Remover, Separation-Stopper, Enmity-Ender, Harmonizer and Reconciler.

“Now, therefore, you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God.” [4]

Thanks to the grace and gift of Christ, we are fellow citizens in God’s city of saints and are members of His household.

“Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for granting us citizenship in Your kingdom and membership in Your family. You’re a peacemaker and bridgebuilder. You removed the enmity… the volatile tension… the war between us. Thank You for giving Your precious Son for us… to die unjustly for our sin. Please grant, that we, by Your grace, would be peacemakers, bridgebuilders, reconcilers and lovers in our communities. For it is in Jesus’ Name, we pray. Amen.”

[1] Ephesians 2:8
[2] Ephesians 2:13
[3] Ephesians 2:14-16
[4] Ephesians 2:19

 

Paying Taxes

Jesus urged His listeners to pay taxes. The government to which Jesus paid taxes was Rome. A government that condemned and executed Him! Paul echoed the words of Jesus about paying taxes to civil authorities in his letter to the Romans. Some historical records state that Paul was put to death by the Roman Emperor Nero. As Christians we should pay taxes to our worldly government despite their treatment of Christ and us His followers.

Jesus said, “Give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s and to God what is God’s.” His listeners were amazed at His teaching.” [1]

Jesus was noted as one who ate with tax collectors, “Now it happened, as Jesus sat at the table in the house, that behold, many tax collectors and sinners came and sat down with Him and His disciples.” [2]

Jesus told Peter, “Go to the sea, cast in a hook, and take the fish that comes up first. And when you have opened its mouth, you will find a piece of money; take that and give it to them [the tax collectors] for Me and you.” [3]

Paul wrote, “Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God’s servants, who give their full time to governing. Give to everyone what you owe them: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor.” [4]

Paying our taxes does not mean we agree with what our civil authorities do. They may be horrible people like those who condemned Jesus and Paul. Governments run by people will always commit sins because people sin. Despite their failures, we are to pay what is legally due to them. Jesus demonstrated to Peter that He was willing to do divine miracles so that Peter would always have enough funds to make his tax payments.

[1] Mark 12:17
[2] Matthew 9:10
[3] Matthew 17:27
[4] Romans 13:1, 6-7

Navigating

“She did not consider her destiny; therefore, her collapse was awesome; she had no comforter.” [1]

“She” in the above verse refers to the people of Jerusalem. The Lord raised up prophets. He called them early in the morning to awake, to hear His voice, to pray and afterwards to speak to His people. They were sentinels… God’s watchmen. They gave free navigational advice from God’s mouth. God wanted to spare Ship Jerusalem from calamity. Jeremiah is lamenting in the Bible passage above that the people of Jerusalem were too busy having “fun” in the moment to listen to God. Ship Jerusalem sunk.

“Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore, get wisdom. And in all your getting, get understanding. Exalt her, and she will promote you; she will bring you honor, when you embrace her. She will place on your head an ornament of grace; a crown of glory she will deliver to you.” [2]

Wisdom is the principal or most important thing according to God. He urges us to get wisdom. Don’t bypass it. Don’t procrastinate! Get it now! Get understanding with all your getting. God’s wisdom and understanding helps us to process information correctly and to make the correct navigational decision. Divine understanding promotes those who treat her well. She honors those who embrace her. She clothes lovers with jewels of grace and crowns of glory.

“Dear Heavenly Father, thank that You who spoke the sun, moon and stars into place speak to us. You give us words of wisdom and understanding that guide us well. Please grant us ears that hear and minds that wisely apply what You are saying to us. We need Your navigational advice. In Jesus’ Name, we ask and pray. Amen.”

[1] Lamentations1:9
[2] Proverbs 4:7-9

The Death Sentence that Resulted in Life for Many

“The chief priests accused Him of many things, but He answered nothing. Then Pilate asked Him again, saying, ‘Do You answer nothing? See how many things they testify against You!’ But Jesus still answered nothing, so that Pilate marveled.” [1]

Pilate marveled at Jesus. Jesus was in a Roman court. He could have defended Himself. The prosecution was assassinating His character. He was about to be condemned.

Hundreds of years earlier, the Prophet Isaiah described the Messiah in the following manner:

“He was oppressed, and He was afflicted,
Yet He opened not His mouth;
He was led as a lamb to the slaughter,
And as a sheep before its shearers is silent,
So, He opened not His mouth.” [2]

His prosecutors were playing into His hand… Helping Him to accomplish His mission…

“By this we know love, because He laid down His life for us.” [3]

Everything was going according to God’s plan.

Years later, Jesus revealed Himself to John the Apostle. He said…

“Do not be afraid; I am the First and the Last. I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore. Amen. And I have the keys of Hades and of Death.” [4]

Jesus holds the keys to eternity. He is the One that the Prophet Daniel spoke of…

“I was watching in the night visions,
And behold, One like the Son of Man,
Coming with the clouds of heaven!
He came to the Ancient of Days,
And they brought Him near before Him.

Then to Him was given dominion and glory and a kingdom,
That all peoples, nations, and languages should serve Him.
His dominion is an everlasting dominion,
Which shall not pass away,
And His kingdom the one
Which shall not be destroyed.” [5]

Is it any wonder that Jesus felt no obligation to explain Himself to Pilate or the Chief Priests?

“Dear Lord Jesus, please help us to stay focused on You. You are Lord! You hold the keys to eternal life. No one can take them away from You. Thank You for showing us what love is by laying down Your life for our redemption. Thank You for opening the door for us to enter Your eternal kingdom.”

[1] Mark 15:3-5
[2] Isaiah 53:7
[3] 1 John 3:16
[4] Revelation 1:17-18
[5] Daniel 7:13-14

Knowing Jesus

Yesterday, the Lord blessed Sherry and I with the opportunity to ask three different people if they knew Jesus. Thankfully, they said that they did. How refreshing it is to talk about Jesus with strangers and find an immediate common bond of friendship in Him.

The Bible speaks of an election won by grace. Whose grace? The Lord’s grace. His grace comes to us in the Gospel. It is the power of God unto salvation. [1]

No matter who wins the American presidential election on Tuesday, our mission remains the same… the proclamation of Jesus.

In the attached picture, three of my children stopped to tell a man sitting under bridge about Jesus (Mercy was in a stroller - Sherry took the picture). I monitored and prayed. They gave the witness. The point of the illustration is that the message of the Gospel is not complicated. It’s not a campaign that costs hundreds of millions of dollars, but it yields an eternal kingdom. An unshakable kingdom. A kingdom of joy unspeakable and full of glory.

“We believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved.” [2]

“…Some said, ‘What does this babbler want to say?’ Others said, ‘He seems to be a proclaimer of foreign gods,’ because he preached to them Jesus and the resurrection.” [3]

“…Showing from the Scriptures that Jesus is the Christ.” [4]

“Then Paul dwelt two whole years in his own rented house, and received all who came to him, preaching the kingdom of God and teaching the things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ with all confidence, no one forbidding him.” [5]

[1] Romans 1:16; 11:5
[2] Acts 15:11
[3] Acts 17:18
[4] Acts 18:28
[5] Acts 28:30-31

Faith Hope Love

“And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love.” [1]

To-do lists help us remember things... before we shop... before traveling... at the beginning of a day. Faith, hope, and love are three important to-do’s to follow Jesus.

Faith

Don’t be afraid. Don’t worry! God is still on the throne. He made the sun, moon, and stars. He who sustains the universe is aware of you. He never slumbers nor sleeps. He has given His angels charge over you. He is able to sustain you by miracles if necessary.

Hope

Don’t turn down the road that says, “No hope.” Don’t go there. Maintain an attitude of gratitude. Stay on the road of praise and thanksgiving. What has God already done for you? Allow blessings to be HUGE in your mind. Don’t set unrealistic expectations for yourself! Be absolutely ecstatic about the eternal blessings that are to coming to you thanks to Jesus!

Love

Instead of me-ism... instead of materialism... instead of achieve-ism... L-O-V-E. Love those around you. Talk to people. Make a phone call. Do a zoom. Write an email. Text. Be kind. Add a L-O-V-E to-do on your list. Love unconditionally. No return necessary. Love for the sake of love.

Faith, hope, and love but the greatest of these love. “God is love.” [2]

[1] 1 Corinthians 13:13
[2] 1 John 4:8

God Exists - God Rewards

“...He who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.” [1]

“God, You exist. God, You reward.”

“Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. For by it the elders obtained a good testimony.” [2]

“Thank You Father God that the faith that You give us has substance. The faith You give us is evidence… a knowing in advance that You hear us. A gift of grace! Thank You for Your book, the Bible, for by believing it victories spring forth.”

“Thank You God for examples in Hebrews 11 of people who trusted You and changed the course of the world… Noah, Abraham, Moses, Rahab, Gideon, Samson, David, and Samuel.”

“By faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the Word of God, so that the things which are seen were not made of things which are visible.” [3]

“Thank You God for the creative power in Your Word!”

“Therefore, I say to you whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them.” [4]

“Dear Heavenly Father, thank You in advance for miracles that come from believing in You. The impossible made possible! I sing praises to You Name for Your Name is great and greatly praised. In the Name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.”

[1] Hebrews 11:6
[2] Hebrews 11:1-2
[3] Hebrews 11:3
[4] Mark 11:24

Faith In Christ Has Made You Well

The Pharisees could not stump Jesus with trick questions. [1]

The disciples rebuked people for bring children to Jesus. Jesus told His disciples, “Forbid them not.” He blessed the children. [2]

A rich young ruler parted with Jesus rather than with his riches. [3]

Jesus assured His disciples that whoever parts with meaningful relationships and earthly treasures for His sake and for the Gospel’s sake will receive a hundredfold in this life and eternal life in the age to come. [4]

Jesus prophesied to His twelve disciples that the religious leaders would betray Him, that the Gentiles would mock, scourge, spit on, and kill Him, but on the third day He would resurrect. [5]

Jesus told His disciples when they were competing with one another, “Whoever of you desires to be first shall be slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.” [6]

A blind beggar named Bartimaeus doesn’t want to stump Jesus with hard questions. He doesn’t want to thwart ministry to children. He’s not looking to Jesus for money or position. Amidst all the people with eyes that see, this blindman sees Jesus clearly. He believes in Jesus.

Bartimaeus cried out from his roadside position, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” Many warned him to be quiet; but he cried out all the more. “Son of David, have mercy on me!” So, Jesus stood still and commanded him to be called. People said to Bartimaeus, “Be of good cheer. Rise, He is calling you.” Throwing aside his beggar garment, he rose and came to Jesus. Jesus asked him, “What do you want Me to do for you?” Bartimaeus responded by saying, “Rabboni, that I may receive my sight.” Jesus said to him, “Go your way; your faith has made you well.” Immediately, he received his sight and followed Jesus on the road. [7]

“Thank You Lord Jesus for giving to blind Bartimaeus the gift of faith to recognize You as the Messiah. The faith You granted Him made Him well. Please grant us this gift of faith today as well. In our lives, Lord, be glorified. In Your Name, we pray. Amen.”

[1] Mark 10:1-12
[2] Mark 10:13-16
[3] Mark 10:17-22
[4] Mark 10:23-31
[5] Mark 10:32-34
[6] Mark 10:44-45
[7] Mark 10:47-52

Take Up Your Cross Follow Jesus

Jesus said to Peter and His disciples, “Whoever desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” [1]

The cross isn’t about self-promotion or self-affirmation. Denying self means to live for God. To delight to do God’s will! Jesus did this perfectly. We are to follow His example. Cross-bearing is the mark of someone who is living by God's grace and is filled with God's love for sinners.

“Dear Lord Jesus, please grant us the grace to take up our cross and follow You. For glory of our Heavenly Father and for the sake of those who need You to be saved from sin. In Your Name I pray. Amen.”

[1] Mark 8:34

Our Best Friend

“O Lord, You have searched me and known me.
You know my sitting down and my rising up;
You understand my thoughts from afar off.
You comprehend my path and my lying down,
And are acquainted with all my ways.” [1]

Understanding – it is wonderful to have a friend who understands us – in some cases – better than we understand ourselves. The Lord is like that. He is watching over us. He pays attention to the places we go. He is acquainted with all our ways. He is the Potter. We are the clay. We do well to invite our Heavenly Father, our best Friend, to speak into and guide our lives.

“Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for the time and attention that You give us every day of our lives. Thank You that You understand us better than anyone else, even ourselves. Thank You that You are willing to help us when we give our listening ears to You.”

“Your eyes saw my substance, being yet unformed.
And in Your book, they all were written,
The days fashioned for me,
When as yet there were none of them.
How precious also are Your thoughts to me, O God!
How great is the sum of them!
If I should count them, they would be more in number than the sand;
When I awake, I am still with You.” [2]

“Thank You Heavenly Father that You wrote our books while we were yet unformed. Thank You for sharing Your thoughts about us with us. Otherwise, we might think we were a mistake, or that we should try to be someone other than who You made us to be. Thank You for all the good thoughts that You give us about ourselves.”

“Search me, O God, and know my heart;
Try me, and know my anxieties;
And see if there is any wicked way in me,
And lead me in the way everlasting.” [3]

“Dear Heavenly Father, You know that we are prone to stress out over things that in the light of eternity do not really matter. You are what really matters to us. Our relationship with You. Please keep our minds stayed on You. For then, our minds will be at peace. For You are leading us in the way of everlasting life.”

“In Jesus’ Name, we give thanks and pray. Amen.”

[1] Psalm 139:1-3
[2] Psalm 139:16-18
[3] Psalm 139:23-24

Miracles & Martyrdom

They [the disciples of Jesus) went out and preached that people should repent. They drove out many demons, anointed many sick people with oil, and healed them. King Herod heard about this.

Now, some were saying of Jesus, “John the Baptist has been raised from the dead.” Others said, “He is Elijah.” Still others claimed, “He is a prophet, like one of the prophets of long ago.” However, when Herod heard this, he said, “John, whom I beheaded, has been raised from the dead!” [1]

Did Herod behead John the Baptist? Yes! Herod cuffed and imprisoned him. John had spoken against Herod’s adulterous affair with Herodias. Herodias was his brother’s wife. Herodias hated John and wanted him dead, but Herod refused to execute him. He feared John because John was righteous and holy. Therefore, Herodias engineered her own plan to exterminate John. [2]

Finally the opportune time came. Just want a hunter hopes for! On his birthday, Herodias had her daughter dance for Herod and his guests. Her dance influenced him to offer his “stepdaughter” up to half of his kingdom. Her mother told her to ask for the head of John the Baptist on a plate. She complied. John’s head was presented to Herodias. [3]

Herodias ruined Herod’s birthday party. John was right. He should not have married her.

At the time of John’s execution, the disciples of Jesus were enjoying a day of miracles that included preaching, teaching, and healing.

Jesus Christ is the Son of God. He will replace the kingdoms of this world with His glorious kingdom. He will reign in righteousness. No more dirty politics. No more exploitation of minors. Only holiness and righteousness!

John the Baptist whom Herod beheaded is with Jesus. He has an eternal body. He is with Jesus!

This is why, despite of the evil in the world, we continue to teach, preach, and pray for the sick in the Name of Jesus!

“Lord Jesus, may Your Name be forever proclaimed, praised, and embraced! Amen!”

[1] Mark 6:12-16
[2] Mark 6:17-20
[3] Mark 6:21-28

Divine Forgiveness

“When Jesus saw their faith, He said to the paralytic, ‘Son, your sins are forgiven you.’ Some of the scribes were sitting there and reasoning in their hearts, ‘Why does this Man speak blasphemies like this? Who can forgive sins but God alone?’” [1]

He who has seen the Son [Jesus], has seen the Father. [2] Jesus is God, He can forgive sin.

“Immediately, when Jesus perceived in His spirit that they reasoned thus within themselves, He said to them, ‘Why do you reason about these things in your hearts? Which is easier, to say to the paralytic, Your sins are forgiven you, or to say, Arise, take up your bed and walk? But that you may know that the Son of Man has power on earth to forgive sins’—He said to the paralytic, ‘I say to you, arise, take up your bed, and go to your house.’ Immediately he arose, took up the bed, and went out in the presence of them all, so that all were amazed and glorified God, saying, ‘We never saw anything like this!’” [3]

The miracle of healing was a tangible sign that Jesus is able to forgive sin. “Thank You Jesus for You forgiveness. Thank You for the miracles that follow Your forgiveness.”

“When the scribes and Pharisees saw Him eating with the tax collectors and sinners, they said to His disciples, ‘How is it that He eats and drinks with tax collectors and sinners?’ When Jesus heard it, He said to them, ‘Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance.’ [4]

“Thank You Jesus for calling us sinners to repent. Thank You for purging our criminal records. You have imparted to us a righteous standing before God that we have neither earned nor deserved. Thank You for Your grace, which yields for us an abundant love, joy, and peace. Glory and honor to Your Name. You deserve our praise!”

[1] Mark 2:5-7
[2] John 14:9
[3] Mark 2:8-12
[4] Mark 2:16-17

He Chose to Love Anyway

Our Lord spelt love for us with the letters p-a-i-n. Consider the following Bible passages:

Jesus said to His disciples, “You know that after two days… the Son of Man will be delivered up to be crucified.” [1]

He knew that something bad was going to happen to Him but chose to love anyway.

“The chief priests, scribes, and elders… plotted to take Jesus by trickery and kill Him.” [2]

They were the ones who were supposed to be providing spiritual care for His people. He chose to love anyway.

“When His disciples saw it, they were indignant, saying, ‘Why this waste? For this fragrant oil might have been sold for much and given to the poor.’” [3]

His disciples questioned the generous offering of someone who deemed Him precious. He chose to love anyway.

“’What are you willing to give me if I deliver Him to you?’ They counted out to him thirty pieces of silver. So from that time he sought opportunity to betray Him.” [4]

Judas exchanged the life of Jesus for a small amount of money. He chose to love anyway.

“Now as they were eating, He said, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, one of you will betray Me.’” [5]

Jesus knew that one of His dinner guests and “friends” was going to betray Him. He chose to love anyway.

“Take, eat; this is My body.” “Drink from it, all of you. For this is My blood of the new covenant, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.”

The very meal He ate with them symbolized His death. He chose to love anyway.

“I will strike the Shepherd, and the sheep of the flock will be scattered.” [7]

He knew that His loved ones would betray Him. He chose to love anyway.

“He began to be sorrowful and deeply distressed. Then He said to them, ‘My soul is exceedingly sorrowful, even to death. Stay here and watch with Me.’” “Then He came to the disciples and found them sleeping…” [8]

He experienced deep sorrow and distress. No one comforted Him. He chose to love anyway.

“A great multitude with swords and clubs came from the chief priests and elders...” [9]

They mischaracterized Him as a dangerous man whereas He had done nothing wrong. He chose to love anyway.

“Immediately he went up to Jesus and said, ‘Greetings, Rabbi!’ and kissed Him.” [10]

One of the few kisses that Jesus ever received while on earth was from a traitor. He chose to love anyway.

“Then all the disciples forsook Him and fled.” [11]

Abandoned! He chose to love anyway.

“The chief priests, elders, and all the council sought false testimony against Jesus to put Him to death.” [12]

They could not accuse Him justly, so they accused Him falsely. He chose to love anyway.

“He has spoken blasphemy!” [13]

The One who loved and honored God His Father perfectly - accused of blaspheming Him. He chose to love anyway.

“Then they spat in His face and beat Him; and others struck Him with the palms of their hands.” [14]

The abuse escalated from verbal to physical. He chose to love anyway.

“Then he began to curse and swear, saying, ‘I do not know the Man!’” [15]

Peter vehemently denied that He knew Jesus. He chose to love anyway.

The Good News is that Jesus forgave all who mistreated Him while hanging on the cross. The good news is that pain, sadness, betrayal, abandonment, and death did not keep Jesus down. He came back to life on the third day. He is now in heaven at the right hand of God. Amazingly, He still loves the human race. US! He intercedes for US! He chose to love anyway.

“Thank You Lord Jesus for Your great love for us!”

[1] Matthew 26:1-2
[2] Matthew 26:3-4
[3] Matthew 26:8-9
[4] Matthew 26:15-16
[5] Matthew 26:25
[6] Matthew 26:27-28
[7] Matthew 26:31

Christ In Us The Hope of Glory

“…And lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” [1]

“Thank You Lord Jesus for being with us.”

"…Christ in you, the hope of glory.” [2]

“Thank You Lord Jesus for living in us by Your Spirit. You are our hope of glory!”

“Him we preach, warning every man and teaching every man in all wisdom, that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus. To this end I also labor, striving according to His working which works in me mightily.” [3]

“Thank You Lord Jesus for granting us the wisdom to teach and preach You and not ourselves. Please help us to focus our time, talent and energy on bringing people to You. In Your Name, we pray, Amen.”

[1] Matthew 28:20
[2] Colossians 1:27
[3] Colossians 1:28-29

The Lord is Good!

“Oh, that men would give thanks to the Lord for His goodness,
And for His wonderful works to the children of men!
For He satisfies the longing soul,
And fills the hungry soul with goodness.” [1]

“Thank You Lord for Your goodness and wonderful works. You abundantly satisfy us. ”

“O God, my heart is steadfast;
I will sing and give praise, even with my glory.
Awake, lute and harp!
I will awaken the dawn.
I will praise You, O Lord, among the peoples,
And I will sing praises to You among the nations.
For Your mercy is great above the heavens,
And Your truth reaches to the clouds.
Be exalted, O God, above the heavens,
And Your glory above all the earth.” [2]

“Thank You God for hearts to sing, praise and glorify You. Our musical instruments and voices awaken and burst into song because of Your abundant mercy and truth. You are exalted! You are glorious! You are good.”

[1] Psalm 107:8-9
[2] Psalm 108:1-5

Humble Love

“Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom,
Let not the mighty man glory in his might,
Nor let the rich man glory in his riches;
But let him who glories glory in this,
That he understands and knows Me,
That I am the Lord, exercising lovingkindness,
judgment, and righteousness in the earth.
For in these I delight,” says the Lord.” [1]

Problems increase when we glory in ourselves. God did not create us to glory in ourselves. He created us to glory in Him. I have found by experience that I am at my worse when I turn inward, but at my best when my eyes are on Jesus.

“By pride comes nothing but strife, but with the well-advised is wisdom.” [2]

When measuring others by standards that I take pride in, I do a disservice. It is better to begin from a base of love.

For Jeremiah, humility was not thinking less about himself. It was about thinking of himself less, and about other people more.

“Oh, that my head were waters,
And my eyes a fountain of tears,
That I might weep day and night
For the slain of the daughter of my people!” [3]

Jesus urged us to practice servanthood and humility. “He who is greatest among you shall be your servant. And whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.” [4]

“Dear Lord, thank You for showing us what humble love looks like.”

[1] Jeremiah 9:23-24
[2] Proverbs 13:10
[3] Jeremiah 9:1
[4] Matthew 23:11-12

Renewing Our Relationship With God

“They say, ‘If a man divorces his wife, and she goes from him and becomes another man’s, may he return to her again?’ Would that land not be greatly polluted? But you have played the harlot with many lovers; yet return to Me, says the Lord.” [1]

What happened to devotion?

God’s people were all over the map in regards to their beliefs. He compared them to a “harlot with many lovers.” He points out that He would suffer pollution to take them back. “Yet return to Me.” He loves them so much that He is willing to embrace them once again.

“Therefore, the showers have been withheld, and there has been no latter rain. You have had a harlot’s forehead; you refuse to be ashamed. Will you not from this time cry to Me, ‘My Father, You are the guide of my youth? [2]

Their behavior towards the Creator negatively affected creation. As goes their relationship with God so goes their circumstances – dry. Despite their unfaithfulness, He urged them to cry out to Him. Cry, “My Father.” Appreciate His guidance! He is the faithful lover of their souls.

“’Return, O backsliding children,’ says the Lord; ‘for I am married to you. I will take you, one from a city and two from a family, and I will bring you to Zion. And I will give you shepherds according to My heart, who will feed you with knowledge and understanding.” [3]

Despite their unfaithfulness, the Lord proclaims that He is still married to them. He offers them incentives. If they return to Him, He will give them shepherds who have His heart. These shepherds will feed them with knowledge and understanding of Him.

God urges them, “Return, you backsliding children, and I will heal your backslidings.”

They reply, “Indeed we do come to You, for You are the Lord our God.” [4]

“Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for pursuing us. Thank You for remaining faithful to us despite our failures towards You. Please do feed us with knowledge and understanding of You. We do not want You to suffer in this relationship. Thank You for giving us shepherds who have Your heart. Thank You for teaching us to love You even as You love us. In the Name of Jesus Your Son we pray. Amen.”

[1] Jeremiah 3:1
[2] Jeremiah 3:3-4
[3] Jeremiah 3:14-15
[4] Jeremiah 3:22

You Are Deeply Loved By God!

“They say, ‘If a man divorces his wife, and she goes from him and becomes another man’s, may he return to her again?’ Would that land not be greatly polluted? But you have played the harlot with many lovers; yet return to Me, says the Lord.” [1]

What happened to devotion?

God’s people were all over the map in regards to their beliefs. He compared them to a “harlot with many lovers.” He points out that He would suffer pollution to take them back. “Yet return to Me.” He loves them so much that He is willing to embrace them once again.

“Therefore, the showers have been withheld, and there has been no latter rain. You have had a harlot’s forehead; you refuse to be ashamed. Will you not from this time cry to Me, ‘My Father, You are the guide of my youth? [2]

Their behavior towards the Creator negatively affected creation. As goes their relationship with God so goes their circumstances – dry. Despite their unfaithfulness, He urged them to cry out to Him. Cry, “My Father.” Appreciate His guidance! He is the faithful lover of their souls.

“’Return, O backsliding children,’ says the Lord; ‘for I am married to you. I will take you, one from a city and two from a family, and I will bring you to Zion. And I will give you shepherds according to My heart, who will feed you with knowledge and understanding.” [3]

Despite their unfaithfulness, the Lord proclaims that He is still married to them. He offers them incentives. If they return to Him, He will give them shepherds who have His heart. These shepherds will feed them with knowledge and understanding of Him.

God urges them, “Return, you backsliding children, and I will heal your backslidings.”

They reply, “Indeed we do come to You, for You are the Lord our God.” [4]

“Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for pursuing us. Thank You for remaining faithful to us despite our failures towards You. Please do feed us with knowledge and understanding of You. We do not want You to suffer in this relationship. Thank You for giving us shepherds who have Your heart. Thank You for teaching us to love You even as You love us. In the Name of Jesus Your Son we pray. Amen.”

[1] Jeremiah 3:1
[2] Jeremiah 3:3-4
[3] Jeremiah 3:14-15
[4] Jeremiah 3:22

Time To Forgive

Peter asked Jesus, “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Up to seven times?” Jesus responded, “I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven.’” [1]

Have you ever had to forgive someone seventy times seven times? How many times has God forgiven you?

Jesus emphasized the importance of forgiving those who sin against us by telling a story of a man, his wife, and his children. They were about to be sold into slavery because the husband had not repaid his debt to the king.

The man said to his king, “Master, have patience with me, and I will pay you all.” [2] The man owed the king ten thousand talents. Ten thousand talents is two hundred thousand years of labor! It is sixty million working days. In modern money, it is $3.48 billion. It is 375 tons of gold. [3]

This man could never repay his debt. Surprisingly, the king had compassion on him, released him and forgave him. [4]

Here, the king represents God. Our Heavenly Father sent His Beloved and innocent Son into the world to be a sacrifice for our sins. Jesus Christ paid off a debt we could never repay in a lifetime. He cancelled it completely. What’s more, God adopted us into His family. Such immeasurable grace!

However, the forgiven servant took God’s grace lightly. He had a fellow servant imprisoned for owing him a debt of one hundred denarii. One hundred denarii is about four month’s wages. In US dollars it is worth about $5,800. $5,800 is a significant sum of money. It should have been repaid, but compared to the great debt the creditor was forgiven by his king, it was small. The forgiven servant did not forgive his fellow servant. Though he begged for patience, he had him thrown in prison. [5]

Have we ever locked anyone up for a debt they owe us? Stopped communicating with them? Given them distance rather than closeness? If so, how has our action hurt them? How has our action hurt us?

The man’s action grieved his fellow servants. They reported his misbehavior back to the king. The king confronted him saying, “You wicked servant! I forgave you all that debt because you begged me. Should you not also have had compassion on your fellow servant, just as I had pity on you?” [6] The king handed the man over to torturers.

Our forgiveness of others is important to God. He said, “So My heavenly Father also will do to you if each of you, from his heart, does not forgive his brother his trespasses.” [7]

“Dear Heavenly Father, thank You so much for forgiving our sins. Please forgive us for locking up fellow servants for debts they owe us. Please move our hearts with compassion to forgive them as freely as You forgave us. This we pray in the Name of Jesus Your Son. Amen.”

[1] Matthew 18:21-22
[2] Matthew 18:26
[3] rheaheraldnews
[4] Matthew 18:27
[5] Matthew 18:28-30
[6] Matthew 18:32-33
[7] Matthew 18:35

Building

“They shall rebuild the old ruins, they shall raise up the former desolations, and they shall repair the ruined cities, the desolations of many generations.” [1]

Who are the “they” in the above Bible verse? They are the people who have been touched and changed by the ministry of the Messiah. The Spirit of the Lord anointed our Lord Jesus to preach good news to poverty-stricken souls. As a result, they now have beauty for ashes, oil of joy for mourning, and garments of praise instead of spirits of despair. [2]

“I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock, I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it. And I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.” [3]

Peter had just declared of Jesus, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” [4]

We confess Jesus as Lord to rebuild what sin has ruined. Our Lord Jesus is the One who repairs what is broken. The gates of Hades cannot prevail against the Church that confesses Christ in the power and anointing of the Holy Spirit. Our Lord Jesus holds the keys to lock evil up and to loose goodness. He holds the keys to enslave poverty and set prosperity free. He shares these keys to those who proclaim Him.

But wait, the victory involves self-denial. Jesus said, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” [5] The intent of rebuilders, repairers and kingdom advancers is to save others. We cannot serve the Selfless One with selfish motives. Messiah took up His cross and so must we. Advancements spring forth as we, like Jesus, lay down our lives for the eternal salvation of others. We must trust that self-denial works because God blesses it.

“For as the earth brings forth its bud, as the garden causes the things that are sown in it to spring forth, so the Lord God will cause righteousness and praise to spring forth before all the nations.” [6]

The Lord God causes righteousness and praise to spring forth before ALL NATIONS. He makes the seed that appears to have died to produce an abundant harvest. That seed is Christ and all who follow Him.

“Dear God, Heavenly Father, so much is broken today, please anoint us to preach Your Son in the power of the Holy Spirit. Please graciously, continue to release the revelation of Your Son upon this dark world so that the restoration of joy and praise springs forth. For it is in the Name of Your Son Jesus that we pray. Amen.”

[1] Isaiah 61:4
[2] Refer to Isaiah 61:1-2
[3] Matthew 16:18-19
[4] Matthew 16:16
[5] Matthew 16:24
[6] Isaiah 61:11

Honoring The Lord’s Name

“You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain, for the Lord will not hold him guiltless who takes His name in vain.” [1]

The Israelites had recently come out of Egypt where the ruler there said to Moses, “Who is the Lord, that I should obey His voice to let Israel go?” [2]

Pharaoh did not revere the name of God. Although mighty in the eyes of many, he was a pawn of the devil to incite people to despise God their Creator.

Let us honor the Name of God because He alone is God. He alone provides for us and protects us. He alone gives us eternal life. To believe anything else is to believe a lie and become a part in the rebellion of Pharaoh... the ruler who took the honor that belongs to God unto himself. He was, in fact, competing with God just as the devil does.

“Therefore I poured out My fury on them for the blood they had shed on the land, and for their idols with which they had defiled it.” [3]

Yesterday, as Mr. Jim Johnson taught Sunday school from the above passage, the Lord revealed to me the connection between idolatry and bloodshed. God equates idol worship with demon worship. [4] Demons create a culture of death. Demons want to see human blood shed whether it is imaginary on a TV show, video game or in real life. Demons want to kill, steal, and destroy human life.

Demons want to destroy life. God, on the other hand, creates a culture of life. Human life is sacred. We are made in the image of God.

You are made in God’s image, and He loves you, and wants to preserve you.

“For I will take you from among the nations, gather you out of all countries, and bring you into your own land. Then I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you shall be clean; I will cleanse you from all your filthiness and from all your idols. I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will take the heart of stone out of your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. I will put My Spirit within you and cause you to walk in My statutes, and you will keep My judgments and do them.” [5]

The answer for our sin problem... that part of us that wants to be independent and rebellious against God... is God. Only God cleanse our heart from sin. Only God can change a heart of stone into a heart of flesh. Only God the Father, in Christ Jesus, gives us His Holy Spirit.

Holy Spirit conversion is the answer to overcome the power of demons who want to harden our hearts against God.

Let us honor the Name of our Lord Jesus because God assures us: “That at the name of Jesus every knee shall bow... and every tongue shall confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” [6] 

[1] Exodus 20:7
[2] Exodus 5:2
[3] Ezekiel 36:18
[4] 1 Corinthians 10:19-20
[5] Ezekiel 36:24-27
[6] Philippians 2:10-11

Eternity

“Jesus sent the multitude away and went into the house. His disciples came to Him, saying, ‘Explain to us the parable of the tares of the field.’ He answered and said to them, ‘He who sows the good seed is the Son of Man. The field is the world. The good seeds are the sons of the kingdom. The tares are the sons of the wicked one. The enemy who sowed them is the devil. The harvest is the end of the age. The reapers are the angels.

As the tares are gathered and burned in the fire, it will be at the end of this age. The Son of Man will send out His angels. They will gather out of His kingdom all things that offend, they will remove those who practice lawlessness. They will cast them into the furnace of fire. There will be wailing and gnashing of teeth. Then the righteous will shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. He who has ears to hear, let him hear!’” [1]

“‘The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and hid; and for joy over it he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.

The kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking beautiful pearls, who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went, and sold all that he had and bought it.

The kingdom of heaven is like a dragnet that was cast into the sea and gathered some of every kind, which, when it was full, they drew to shore; and they sat down and gathered the good into vessels but threw the bad away. So it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come forth, separate the wicked from among the just, and cast them into the furnace of fire. There will be wailing and gnashing of teeth.’

Jesus said to them, ‘Have you understood all these things?’” [2]

Have you understood how much you need Jesus Christ? Only Jesus Christ can sow good seed into your life. Only He can remove your offensive and lawless ways.

If you embrace Jesus…
If you allow Him to transform you…
The holy angels will regard you as treasure.
If you disregard Jesus… If you refuse Him…
The angels will regard you as trash.
Your eternal future depends on what you do with Jesus!

Jesus is the treasure.
Jesus is the pearl of great price.
Jesus is the One that makes bad fish into good fish.

Eternity is a long time. Do not wait! Give your life to Jesus today!

[1] Matthew 13:36-43
[2] Matthew 13:44-51

Jesus Messiah Lamb of God

“He has no form or comeliness; and when we see Him, there is no beauty that we should desire Him.” [1]

Jesus Messiah – You did not come to impress, but to love.

“He is despised and rejected by men, a Man of sorrows and acquainted with grief. And we hid, as it were, our faces from Him; He was despised, and we did not esteem Him.” [2]

Jesus Messiah – You did not come to impress, but to relate. Please forgive us for the treatment You received.

“Surely, He has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows; yet we esteemed Him stricken, smitten by God, and afflicted.” [3]

Jesus Messiah – Thank You for listening. Thank You for caring. Thank You for walking with us when others fled. Please forgive us for the times we have been silent when Your Name was dishonored. Strengthen us by Your Spirit to glorify You.

“He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; The chastisement for our peace was upon Him, and by His stripes we are healed.” [4]

Jesus Messiah – Thank You for taking wounds and a bruising for our sakes. Thank You for taking the punishment that we deserved. Thank You for giving us peace and healing when what we did caused You pain.

“All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned, every one, to his own way; and the Lord has laid on Him the iniquity of us all.” [5]

Jesus Messiah – Thank You for Your faithfulness. Please forgive us for wandering from You. Thank You for removing our sin and shame.

“He was oppressed, and He was afflicted, yet He opened not His mouth; He was led as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before its shearers is silent, so He opened not His mouth.” [6]

Jesus Messiah – Thank You Lord Jesus for becoming a Lamb for straying sheep. Thank You for delighting to do the Father’s will, even when His will was to give Your life as a ransom for our souls. Please help us dear Lord to follow You. Please fill us with Your love for people so that they can see Your life in us. Praise, glory, blessing, and honor be unto You alone!

[1] Isaiah 53:2
[2] Isaiah 53:3
[3] Isaiah 53:4
[4] Isaiah 53:5
[5] Isaiah 53:6
[6] Isaiah 53:7

Our God Reigns

This morning, I opened my Bible to…

“The redeemed of the Lord shall return, and come to Zion with singing, with everlasting joy on their heads. They shall obtain joy and gladness; sorrow and sighing shall flee away.” [1]

The Lord’s joy dispels sorrow as light dispels darkness.

“I, even I, am He who comforts you. Who are you that you should be afraid of a man who will die, and of the son of a man who will be made like grass? And you forget the Lord your Maker, who stretched out the heavens and laid the foundations of the earth; You have feared continually every day because of the fury of the oppressor, when he has prepared to destroy. And where is the fury of the oppressor? [2]

Fear not what oppressors do. God is greater! He removes the lids they have placed on us.

“I have put My words in your mouth; I have covered you with the shadow of My hand…” [3]

God has given us His Word and divine presence. We are in His hands.

“Thus says your Lord, the Lord, and your God, who pleads the cause of His people: ‘See, I have taken out of your hand the cup of trembling I will put it into the hand of those who afflict you, who have said to you, ‘lie down, that we may walk over you.’” [4]

The Lord turns the tables on oppression.

“How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news, who proclaims peace, who brings glad tidings of good things, who proclaims salvation, who says to Zion, ‘Your God reigns!’” [5]

OUR GOD REIGNS. GOOD NEWS REIGNS!

“The Lord has made bare His holy arm in the eyes of all the nations; and all the ends of the earth shall see the salvation of our God.” [6]

No one can keep God in a box. His salvation is happening everywhere!

“For the Lord will go before you, and the God of Israel will be your rear guard.” [7]

He is our victory!

“Behold, My Servant [Jesus Christ] shall deal prudently; He shall be exalted and extolled and be very high. Just as many were astonished at you, so His visage was marred more than any man, and His form more than the sons of men; so shall He sprinkle many nations. Kings shall shut their mouths at Him; for what had not been told them they shall see, and what they had not heard they shall consider.” [8]

Our Great God conquered the powers of darkness and sin through the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. Through a Lamb who was slain! Through a Son who has risen from the grave! He is exalted! He is extolled! He is higher than any other! Our God reigns! Hallelujah!

[1] Isaiah 51:11
[2] Isaiah 51:12-13
[3] Isaiah 51:16
[4] Isaiah 51:22-23
[5] Isaiah 52:7
[6] Isaiah 52:10
[7] Isaiah 52:12
[8] Isaiah 52:13-15