Mark 10:32-34

How wonderful it is to finally get to the place where we allow Jesus to lead the way.  Our hearts mature to the point where we don't try to get ahead of Jesus or even think we can walk alongside Him.  The only way to successfully travel this world is to follow Him, permit Him lead the way.

This verse below says the disciples were astonished.  Well, you know what, that will happen when you don't try to fix it yourself, when you don't second guess God's will, but take it to Him in Prayer.  That is called letting Jesus lead the way.  God will always amaze and astonish us with His love, faithfulness and integrity.  

The verse also indicates the other followers were afraid.  Perhaps their fear stems from the fact that they have not spent as much time with Jesus.  They don't know Him as well as the disciples do.  For for those who aren't familiar with His ways, following Him might not be so easy.

"They were on their way up to Jerusalem, with Jesus leading the way, and the disciples were astonished, while those who followed were afraid." (Mark 10:32)

As Believers, we are to be studying God's Word so that we can know Him better.  When we understand Him and put our faith and trust in Him as a result of knowing Him more fully, we learn to let Him lead the way.  Why not, He knows where we are going!

Read Mark 10:32-34 here
Listen to Mark 10:32-34 here

Mark 8:31-33

What a difficult time this must have been for the Disciples of Christ.  Here they have devoted about three years of their life to following this man.  They have learned from Him and have loved him deeply as a brother.  Christ has been teaching them how to go on without Him at their side, but they weren't listening because the reality was too much to bear, too difficult to hear.

"He spoke plainly about this, and Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him." (Mark 8:32)

The followers of Jesus did not want to hear this, they preferred to live in denial; and Peter was obvious about his feelings; maybe arguing with Jesus about this topic. Have you ever found yourself in a situation where the truth was devastating, even though you needed to be informed?  Has there been bad news from the doctor, or a phone call from law enforcement advising you of a child's trouble, and you just wanted to look the other way?  There are any number of things we, as humans deny, and attempt to go on as though everything were Okay.

Jesus needed these men to listen up, to take note, to understand and prepare to pick up where Jesus was leaving off.  We know, that is just what they did.  More than likely, we too, eventually listened to the bad news.  Once we go through a valley and come out on the other side it becomes clearer.  These valleys in life are part of living.  The key is to get back up and continue on with living, loving and laughing through the pain.  Jesus needs us to pick up where He left off.  There are many who still need to hear the Easter Story.

Read Mark 8:31-33 here
Listen to Mark 8:31-33 here

Zechariah 12:10-14

Having a spirit of grace and prayer is a good thing.  Possessing a spirit of grace, one is filled with the Holy Spirit.  The Holy Spirit convicts us, assuming the role of our conscience and nudging us to walk upright.  When a new Believer realizes just what it means to believe and live for Christ, it is because the Holy Spirit is working.

Once I understood what grace was, that I did not earn it and I never could, but it is a gift, I found myself wanting to live right.  While every day is not always a successful day in that respect, the intent is there.  What I understand from the Zechariah text today is that because of the Holy Spirit I am able to know Jesus better.  I learn just what is meant by His sacrifice for us.

This knowledge is also bittersweet as I recognized that Jesus was slain for me, for my sins, my poor judgment and my arrogant ways, my rebellion and my greed.  It is my/our sin that pierced Him, held His body fast to the cross at Calvary.  That is a very sobering admission.  But, I must realize that this is Good News.

Good News is what we are to be about.  We are commanded to spread this news to everyone, telling all about Jesus and the victory over death He has won for us.  Easter Sunday is such an amazing celebration.  I can see and hear it now; the cross draped in white, the lilies gracing the altar, the trumpets sounding a joyful noise.

"And I will pour out on the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem a spirit of grace and supplication. They will look on me, the one they have pierced, and they will mourn for him as one mourns for an only child, and grieve bitterly for him as one grieves for a firstborn son.  (Zechariah 12:10)

Read Zechariah 12:10-14 here
Listen to Zechariah 12:10-14 here

Zechariah 11:10-17

Zechariah is a short book packed with parallels, perception and prophesies.

"And the LORD said to me, "Throw it to the potter"--the handsome price at which they priced me! So I took the thirty pieces of silver and threw them into the house of the LORD to the potter." (Zechariah 11:13 (NIV)

As we prepare to journey through Holy Week next week, this is the perfect place to enter in. Zechariah the prophet was born in exile and returned from Babylon to Judah in 538 B.C. The theme is rebuilding the people and the temple of Judah; the Lord's return. Knowing this, as we read the words set aside for today it begins to come alive.

Leaders, shepherds have been given the charge to care for their flock. Zechariah's words are words of warning; words meant to prepare for the wrath of God. The Notes in Life Application Study Bible tell us the 30 pieces of silver paid to the shepherd was like a slap in the face. Can you see the parallel here? Thirty pieces of silver was the sum Judas received for betraying his Shepherd.

This is raising a question for me today. What price do I put on my Shepherd's head? What amount would I settle for when practicing my betrayal? What earthly possession or practice do I place above my Shepherd?

Read Zechariah 11:10-17 here

Listen to Zechariah 11:10-17 here

Zechariah 9:9-13

I find foreshadowing so interesting.  The Bible is filled with instances where happenings in the New Testament are foretold in the Old Testament.  Verse 9 in the Zechariah text foretells of Jesus's triumphal entry into Jerusalem, riding on a donkey, Palm Sunday to us.  The verse that jumped off the page for me was verse 12

^"Return to your fortress, O prisoners of hope; even now I announce that I will restore twice as much to you."  (Zechariah 9:12 (NIV) 

Do you ever feel like a prisoner of hope?  Like one who clings to that hope daily and lavishes in the promises that hope provides for us, as Believers? Heaven is much more real to me now, having walked with my husband on the path to his eternal life.  After having shared with him, just how wonderful it will be when we find ourselves in the presence of God and experience life as we were meant to live it - in Paradise, I have peace.

That season of my life has reiterated and firmly ensconced the belief in my Hope, who is Jesus.  On the days when existing here on earth seems fruitless if not pointless, I call myself a prisoner of hope.  "Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have." (1 Peter 3:15)

Read Zechariah 9:9-13 here
Listen to Zechariah 9:9-13 here

Psalm 118:19-29

I always felt as if I were a failure in school.  In grade school the boys made fun of me because of my weight, the nuns didn't like me because of my parents, and I didn't like me either.  This isn't a pity party; it is just the way it was back then.

Then I entered high school and most of my issues were self-inflicted from years of living with low self-esteem.  I shied away from social activities and only hung with two other girls who were much the same as I. Then I grew up, came out of my shell (somewhat) and learned how to be more sociable after entering the workforce.  Living in the world and working to support myself I learned that I could do a lot of things I never thought I could.

But, I still did not feel like I belonged.  It took years of learning about life and allowing me to be open to a personal relationship with Jesus before I was happy with life.  I think this is true of all of us to some extent.  Our background story is different, but many of the same fears and misgivings are the same. It takes a lot of growing up to get to the point in life where we can be content.  It takes a faith in Jesus to feel secure and filled with hope.

Jesus, the man who was rejected, scorned and beaten and then killed became our Savior; the Cornerstone for all Believers.  It is His love that gives me peace and joy.  It is His acceptance and grace that makes life worth living.

 ^"The stone the builders rejected has become the capstone; 
 the LORD has done this, and it is marvelous in our eyes.
 This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it."  (Psalm 118:22-24 (NIV) 

Read Psalm 118:19-29 here.

Listen to Psalm 118:19-29 here.

Matthew 7:15-23

A wolf in sheep’s clothing.
Looks can be deceiving.
Don’t judge a book by its cover.
Don’t believe everything you hear.
This is all good advice, but difficult to heed, as reality is often unclear. What is real and true is not necessarily obvious. We must seek it, because this world does not lend itself to God’s love and truth. It is easy to follow the phony, because that is what everyone else is doing. It makes us feel comfortable if we fit in, but think about this; our eternity is contingent upon the short life we have here on earth. The choices we make here determine our true forever! Be cautious.

“Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothes, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thorn bushes, or figs from thistles? Likewise every good tree bears good fruit, and every bad tree bears bad fruit….” “Not everyone who says to me Lord, Lord will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.”

I urge you to view this video of Francis Chan.
View Video

Read complete passage here
Listen to complete passage here

Galatians 5:16-26

  ^"Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit."  (Galatians 5:25 (NIV) 

 How does one keep in step with the Spirit?  We live in a world which is contrary to the Kingdom of God.  Our world is inhabited by the Prince of Darkness who will stop at nothing to influence us to join him.  The puzzled question, "What is this world coming to?" is raised by young and old alike.

I am a fan of American Idol and I enjoy watching the young people sing their hearts out each week.  Every season there seems to be one or two contestants who openly claim their Christianity and this season is no different.  Colton Dixon gave the glory to God following his performance this past week.  That could hurt him in the competition but he says being true to himself is more important than winning.

That is called, is keeping in step with the Spirit.  There are many other celebrities, like NFL Quarterback, Tim Tebow, who also publicly practices keeping in step with the Spirit.  We are called to do the same.  As everyday folks who lack celebrity status we can impact in a more subtle way, those with whom we live, work and play.

^" Jesus said, "You're not listening. Let me say it again. Unless a person submits to this original creation—the 'wind hovering over the water' creation, the invisible moving the visible, a baptism into a new life—it's not possible to enter God's kingdom." John 3:5-6 (MSG)

The Holy Spirit, the 'wind hovering over the water' creation, is here to help us live like this.  The Holy Spirit is that niggling voice that speaks in our hearts words of warning or encouragement.  The Holy Spirit offers us wisdom to do the right thing and is ours for the asking, "Come Holy Spirit."

Read Galatians 5:16-26 here

Listen to Galatians 5:16-26 here

John 15:1-8

I wonder how many folks go through life knowing they are good people, but assuming they will be invited into the Kingdom of Heaven.  I wonder how many truly understand who God is and how much He loves each of us.

I had a conversation a number of years ago with a co-worker who never went to church, didn't pray or read Scripture (his admission), but told me he thought he was a good person and was convinced he would get to Heaven.  His reasoning was, "I never killed anybody, I am a nice person and I am honest."

“I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener.2 He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful." (John 5:1-2)

I would never judge this persons faith or predict his future, but I do know that his everyday life could have been much more hope filled had he only gone the extra mile to build a relationship with Jesus.  His heart could be filled with Joy if only he embraced Jesus.

Sometimes I think it is scary to some to contemplate embracing Jesus with open hearts.  Verses like the one today frighten some into thinking the Christian life is painful.  Studying vineyards and the practice the gardener has of pruning can seem scary when we understand that not only dead branches are discarded, but some healthy ones as well.

But, none of our lives is easy and if we take the time to think about it, we all grow as a result of our challenges.  Looking back to seasons of grief and sadness, pain and desperation, I know that I am a better person because of those times.  It was then I turned to God and learned how much He loves. This gives new meaning to an old saying, "No pain, no gain."  For me this is very true.  You too?

Read John 15:1-8 here.

Listen to John 15:1-8 here.

John 6:35-40

"Then Jesus declared, "I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never go hungry, and he who believes in me will never be thirsty."  John 6:35 (NIV)

Sandwiched between these two verses, is our life. Everything we could want or need we find here.  Our hunger is satisfied and our thirst quenched; and all we need to do is LOOK and BELIEVE.  But, how easy is it look to Jesus, especially as a new Believer, for our needs to be met.  I know I was skeptical, thinking that certainly there must be something more substantial I must do.

I am watching a finch, eating from a feeder not 3 feet from where I am sitting.  This creature is cared for by God who has made provisions for the animal's every meal. This bird trusts his natural instinct for food.  We, who have been created in the image of God, should take a lesson from this finch and trust.

Look and Believe - salvation is ours for the taking. We haven't earned it, or worked for it, it is freely given. When God sent His son to be our Bread of Life, everything changed.  No longer could man ask the question "Is this all there is?"  This is only the beginning for those of us who partake of the Bread of Life.  It sounds so easy, simple, and almost too good to be true.  Grace makes it all possible.

"For my Father's will is that everyone who looks to the Son and believes in him shall have eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day." (John 6:40)

Read John 6:35-40

Listen to John 6:35-40

Matthew 3:4-12 - Fruit of Repentance

When I hear someone saying life isn't worth living, I can't help but wonder where their heart is.  Sure, there are days when things go wrong, sometimes terribly wrong, and I might even think life stinks, but even those days are doable.  They are survivable when I turn to God for strength and understanding.  We all have seasons when we are in pain, self-inflicted or otherwise, but seasons pass.

The question, "where is your heart?" speaks to our relationships; with one another and with Jesus.  Those days when I feel 'life stinks', it is crucial I have an accountability partner to turn to.  Someone who can help by praying me through my troubles.  We all need an individual to reassure us how much our life matters.

Accountability partners do more than that, they also quiz us about our weaknesses, those areas of our lives where we struggle.  This partner knows us because we have given them permission to ask the difficult questions and expect truthful answers.

This verse from Matthew echoes questions I might hear my accountability partner ask.  They keep me accountable to growth and to bearing good fruit.  They help prune me and then provide much needed nourishment for my soul, called love.  With a friend like this - your enemies are crippled.

"What counts is your life. Is it green and blossoming? Because if it's deadwood, it goes on the fire." (Matthew 3:10 (MSG)

John the Baptist went ahead of Jesus, heralding his arrival, preparing hearts to be changed, lives to be transformed. He preached the necessity of our lives counting because of the healthy fruit we produce. He warned if it's deadwood, it goes on the fire.

Read Matthew 3:4-12 here.

Listen to Matthew 3:4-12 here.

1 Kings 22:1-8

As Christians we have learned the importance of including God is our daily life as we turn to Him for counsel when faced with important decisions.  God wants to be a part of the ordinary and daily routine of our lives and because of that we should never consider a major decision without having first gone to the Lord for His opinion.

There is a Vacation Bible School song which tells us, "First you pray, first you pray, the second you see a problem come your way."  I am sure God smiles when He sees the children singing this song, for it is one of the best things young folk can learn.

By practicing going to God for guidance we can know that He is always near us.  When we approach the Throne of God for His input we are placing our trust in Him.  Children will learn to trust and turn to Him when there is trouble.  And we know there will be trouble.

But Jehoshaphat also said to the king of Israel, "First seek the counsel of the LORD."  (1 Kings 22:5)

When I need to make a difficult choice, instigate a life-changing move, or just face tomorrow with confidence, first I pray and seek God's Word for me.  He will communicate, just listen.

Read 1 Kings 22:1-8 here.

Listen to an audio of 1 Kings 22:1-8 here.

Deuteronomy 13:1-5

"It is the LORD your God you must follow, and him you must revere. Keep his commands and obey him; serve him and hold fast to him." (Deuteronomy 13:4)

The words, "Keep His commands and obey Him," are significant and a recipe to get through this life and live.  There is talk about the end times being close at hand; but I think there has been that talk in every generation.  When we look around us though, we do have reason to suspect something is going on.  The morality in our county is slipping.  President George Washington was quoted as saying, "Religion and morality are indispensable to our country."

If we look to God and read Scripture on a regular basis, we will understand how to do better.  I know lots of things didn't make sense to me before I began to study God's Word.  It was difficult to behave with integrity all the time.  It did not seem to be any fun to be Christian.  I know there are young people who believe, but don't want to take things too seriously yet because they will miss out on the party.

I hate to be a party pooper, but we are not guaranteed tomorrow.  That frightens me because there are folks I care about who still need to embrace Jesus as their savior.  The false prophets of this world, the idols we place in our lives, all take away from us our time, our morals and our heart.  It isn't a hardship to follow Jesus - it makes life joy-filled and fun.  The real party will be in Heaven.

Read Deuteronomy 13:1-5 here

Listen to a audio of Deuteronomy 13:1-5

Matthew 7:7-14

Matthew is such an awesome book! It is entirely dedicated to illustrating what the kingdom of God is, and how to get there. It is impossible for us to imagine what it is like in His world. Our minds cannot possibly wrap around its wonder and majesty. We must simply trust……….. as it says in Proverbs 3:5-6, one of my favorite bible passages, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, lean not on your own understanding. In all ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your path.”

When I was a young teen, I remember attending the 11:00 service in the basement of our church. It was a guitar mass, with uplifting music played by young people, which was quite unusual for a conservative church at that time. I recall walking there by myself many Sundays, and feeling like I truly had a friend in Jesus. I know He was guiding me there for a purpose. At the time I did not think about where the words of the songs came from, but as I have gotten older and comfortable holding my own bible and learning directly from it, I realize the power within His word. I can still hear the refrain from one of those songs in my head;

“Knock, knock the door will open, seek and you will find.
Ask you will receive, from the maker of mankind.”

These words come from Matthew 7:7-8. The song continues with more of Matthew, and the overall message is from Matthew 7:12, regarding how we are to treat others the way we wish to be treated. As I stated in last Sunday’s Bible Blast, music is powerful! It is a traveling bible, perfect for reminding ourselves of his relentless pursuit of us, and for revealing His great love to others. So play, listen to and sing His word!

Read entire passage here
Listen here

Revelation 3:14-22 - Jesus stands at the door

There was a scary movie many years ago called, "I saw what you did, and I know who you are."  It was about two teens who were telephone pranking and they just happened to call the wrong person.  All sorts of trouble ensued.

It is scary to think someone might know some of the things we've done.  We will go to great pains to avoid being found out.  Even years after an indiscretion or a single episode using bad judgment, we can be fearful of the behavior being discovered.

Jesus' words, "I know your deeds" (Revelation 3:15), can be sobering.  The truth is Jesus not only knows our deeds, He knows our very thoughts and motives because He sees our heart.  The Revelation text today speaks of this and more.  Because Jesus knows our deeds and everything else we attempt to hide, He knows how we truly feel about Him.

The lesson I am getting from this passage is that I need to go all out for Jesus.  I need to be bold and confident and honest.  My feelings of love can't be strong one day and non-existent the next.  Either I stand with Him and everything He represents, or not.  I cannot have it both ways.  "So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth." (Revelation 3:16)

I understand these verses, because one time I was lukewarm - but no longer. Now I understand what it means to have a personal relationship with the LORD.

Read Revelation 3:14-22 here.

Listen to Revelation 3:14-22 here.

Matthew 9:9-13

Do you avoid doctors as much as I?  Perhaps it is because I don't want to face the truth that we are not super-woman (or man as the case may be).  If I need a doctor that means something is very wrong, right?  As I age I am discovering there is always something that needs to be taken care of.  I either need to recognize the fact that I need more exercise to stay healthy, or I need a prescription to avoid a future issue, like cholesterol troubles.

Jesus' words indicate he came for all of us because all of us need the presence of  a Healer in our lives.  Sometimes I am in denial and won't admit I am ill.  There are seasons in my life I attempt to heal myself, and this is never a good thing. 

Sin is sickness in our lives, and Jesus is telling us He came for sinners.  He is the Great Physician and the One who can cure what ails us.  I know this sounds trite and commonplace, but that is what Christianity is.  It is simple, just not easy.  Before we will call the doctor and make an appointment to see him, we have to admit we are sick.  We have to let our pride off the hook for a time and confess our frailties.  Jesus is the prescription for eternal life.

“It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick." (Matthew 9:12)

Read Matthew 9:9-13 here.


Listen to Matthew 9:9-13  here.

Luke 24:25-35 Stay with us, LORD

The story of the encounter on the Road to Emmaus is a favorite.  There are so many scenarios floating around in my mind and I would love to create a short story on this theme, but who could do it justice?  This encounter is so sweet and heartbreaking at the same time.  And the final words in this episode grip my heart, "They asked each other, “Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?” (Luke 24:32)

Whose heart wouldn't be burning? These men, disciples of Jesus, were in the midst of mourning a beloved friend.  They were hurting and afraid for so many reasons; fearful they might be next, ashamed that they couldn't save Jesus, but ran away instead.  As Jesus approached them, verse 16 says they were kept from recognizing him.  Don't you wonder why?  Certainly Jesus wasn't testing them to see what they were saying; after all, He was God so he already knew their heart.

It wasn't until they shared a meal with Jesus did they recognize Him and He disappeared from their sight.  Still puzzled?  I am.  I am thinking that perhaps Jesus wanted his fellow travelers to bear witness to the fact Jesus was alive.  The men returned to Jerusalem and went to the Eleven Disciples and shared their experience.  Even though Jesus had been preparing his followers and told them he was going to die but that He would rise again on the 3rd day, they were pretty much clueless.  He wanted to break the news to them gradually.

The Good News for us is that He is Alive and because of that we will live also.

Read Luke 24:25-35 here.

Listen to Luke 24:25-35 here.

Luke 19:1-10 - Jesus Dines with Zacchaeus

The story of Zacchaeus is one of many stories which highlight the reason Jesus became man; to save us from ourselves, to bring us the joy of His salvation.  To be perfectly honest, I had never heard this story as a child and that means I had never heard the popular children's song either. (Now you are going to have that tune in your head all day--sorry.)

Tax collectors in Rome were hated by the citizens, as they were Jews by birth and they chose to work for the enemy.  The people considered them traitors, cheats and thieves.  Their job/duty was to collect the heavy taxes the Romans levied on the people in order to finance this huge empire.

When Jesus came to town He often caused a stir and this time was no exception.  Zacchaeus had heard about Jesus and he wanted to see the man for himself.  Jesus' reputation had gone before him and people were curious.  The despised tax collector must have wanted more in his life to be open to Jesus' words.

"For the Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost." (Luke19:10)

Jesus came to save us, the lost, from being lost for eternity.  Each generation or even civilization has those people everyone would rather avoid, the outcasts of society.  Jesus avoided no one. There is great comfort in that truth.  There must be a fascinating story behind the man, Zacchaeus.  The story of what brought him to climb up the tree just to get a glimpse of the celebrity in town.  He was obviously ready to have his life changed.  Why?

What is your story?  What brought you to climb out on a limb with the likes of Zacchaeus?  Your story needs to be told too, so that others might hear and sense the same call upon their life.  So that all might hear Jesus' words: “Today salvation has come to this house, because this man, too, is a son of Abraham." (Luke 19:9)

Read Luke 19:1-10 here.

Listen to Luke 19:1-10 here.

Luke 5:1-11

Do you like to fish?  When I was a young girl we lived near a lake and in the spring and summer my sister and I would sometimes accompany our father fishing in the evening.  I was always excited when we were able to go with him, not because I loved to fish, but because just maybe I would catch something and my father would be proud.

Today we find Peter, James and John having a fishing lesson from the Master.  When Jesus suggested they put out their nets Peter explained to Jesus the reality of fishing during the heat of the day.  Peter also recognized Jesus as different from most and he respected Jesus' word and took Him fishing.

Until studying this passage, I always thought the disciples responded to Jesus immediately when He called them to follow Him.  But it seems until this day, witnessing this miracle, they were part-time followers. Today all that changed and they left their boats and nets and never looked back.

^"For he and all his companions were astonished at the catch of fish they had taken, and so were James and John, the sons of Zebedee, Simon's partners. Then Jesus said to Simon, "Don't be afraid; from now on you will catch men." So they pulled their boats up on shore, left everything and followed him"  (Luke 5:9-11)


I used to want to go fishing to get my father's attention because I wanted to do something he would approve of.  Jesus taught His good friends that fishing was going to take on a whole new meaning for them.  The analogy of fishing for men was one they didn't understand but would soon embrace with all their hearts.


Read Luke 5:1-11 here.

Listen to Luke 5:1-11 here.

John 10:1-10 Jesus the gate for the sheep

Do you ever wonder, "Who really cares about me?"  We all experience moments when we feel insignificant or unimportant, but nothing could be farther from the truth.  We belong to God and that alone makes us a valuable treasure.  And our God does treasure us and He stands guard over us as well.

If you know anything about shepherds and the sheep they guard and protect, you would see the reason God uses them to illustrate how he cares for us.  Sheep are not the brightest animals in the world and they really do need a keeper.  Shepherds are trained to guard and protect their charges.  They care about them and seek them out when they wander off.

Can you see the parallel here?  Can you tell where I am going with this train of thought? There have been so many times in my life when I was just plain stupid.  My actions would indicate that I had no common sense and lacked personal pride.  But, God still sought me out; He chased me down until I gave Him my life.  Similar to the sheep that get themselves caught in the most dangerous situations and the shepherd who rescues them from themselves, God does that for me and for you too.

Unlike sheep that need to be guided all their life, I will learn from my mistakes, and eventually submit to my Shepherd's embrace.  I know there is only one way to be safe and have a future and that is through Jesus.  Jesus, the Good Shepherd, is the only way into the heavenly fold.

"Therefore Jesus said again, “Very truly I tell you, I am the gate for the sheep. All who have come before me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep have not listened to them. I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved. They will come in and go out, and find pasture." (John 10:7-9)

Read John 10:1-10 here.

Listen to an audio recording of John 10:1-10 here.

Matthew 7:1-6

Be Disciples: Do Not Judge

"Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?"

We do this all of the time, and typically without even realizing it. Our human nature is to observe and dissect the behavior of others. As young children we use these observations to learn, but it doesn't take long and these observations turn into judgments, caddy thoughts and cruel comments when we are teenagers. One would think that as we reach adulthood these tendencies would diminish, but not necessarily. It is something we must work on daily.

Scripture frequently reminds us to leave the judging to the Lord. It is not our place to internally or externally determine that what others do, is or is not favorable, right, or acceptable. "Live and let live" is not a biblical phrase, but is also a calling to live well. With my middle school students I use "MYOB." They do not like it, but it makes them think, and challenges them to focus on themselves. Perhaps we all need that reminder. We have enough to work on with ourselves and WE should be our focus, not others. God has challenged each of us to follow his word and be the best person we can be. How can we do that if we are focusing on the behavior of others? We can't clearly see much of anything with that plank in our eye!

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Psalm 22:12-21

"But you, LORD, do not be far from me. 

You are my strength; come quickly to help me. 

Deliver me from the sword, 

my precious life from the power of the dogs. 

Rescue me from the mouth of the lions; 

save me from the horns of the wild oxen." (Psalm 22:19-21)

Our lives are filled with many seasons (Ecclesiastes 3).  There are times when we face sickness and even death; times when a new life brings joy and happiness, then too there are the periods when we search for meaning and rejoice in peace and serenity.  Seasons can change from day to day, just as life does.

Whatever the stage we find ourselves, God is there with us.  My journal is filled with pleas to Him to keep me close.  I know I don't need to beg Him to stay close to me - that is where He always is.  But, sometimes I will stray or merely move away, out of earshot.  It is those times I must ask God to keep me close to Him.

The line above which is in bold (emphasis by this writer) is a prayer I keep tucked in my heart and use daily.  

You are my strength; come quickly to help me. A day doesn't go by when I don't need His help.  What season do you find yourself residing in today?

Read Psalm 22 text here.

Listen to Psalm 22 here.

Matthew 9:9-13

"As Jesus went on from there, he saw a man named Matthew sitting at the tax collector’s booth.“Follow me,” he told him, and Matthew got up and followed him." (Matthew 9:9)

This verse is a testimony to me of how I want to see other people; how I want to accept others no matter what their life may be cluttered with.  There is a note I wrote in the margin of my Bible from a previous study.  I have the word "man" in verse nine circled.  There is a comment "not a tax collector" right next to it.  The teacher from that study was emphasizing the fact Jesus saw and called a man.  He did not see someone who was hated and whose integrity was questionable.  Jesus saw a man with potential; a man who could be taught and who could be loved.  What vision.

The truly amazing thing is Jesus still calls people in this fashion.  When Jesus called me into ministry I felt unworthy and inadequate for the work set before me.  I questioned, "Who am I?  I am unschooled and a believer new to the concept of building a personal relationship with Jesus."  That ministry ended up being the exact place Jesus wanted me to be.  As I mentioned a week ago, He doesn't call the equipped, He equips the called.

It is equally amazing that Matthew followed Jesus without hesitation or hedging. Jesus said, "Follow me," and Matthew got up and followed. I want to be like Matthew, and respond willingly to a call to serve. Jesus saw something in Matthew, and knew he would be an asset. When Jesus calls us for a given area of service it is because He sees something in us too.  

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Matthew 18:23-35

What an interesting parallel appears in the scriptures today.  This is the familiar story of the man who owed his master lots of money and his note was being called in.  There was the threat of imprisonment for him and selling his family into slavery to satisfy the debt.  The story continues with the servant begging his master for time.  The master ended up forgiving the debt - behavior unheard of in that time.

But, as the story goes, the servant did not have the same heart as his master for he turned right around and demanded payment for a debt owed him which was much smaller than the one he was just released from.  Showing no mercy, he had the debtor thrown in prison.

Financial difficulties can make one feel like they are in prison.  Having an unforgiving heart can do the same thing. “This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother or sister from your heart.” (Matthew 18:35)  It is a very difficult thing to ask for forgiveness; it is most humbling and forces us to admit we were wrong.  It is equally difficult to grant that forgiveness to someone who has wronged us.

The parable Jesus is telling today is confirming how forgiveness goes two ways. It takes courage to beg for someone to give us another chance, to say we are sorry. It requires humility to put ourselves in a position where we might be rejected. On the other side of the coin, to grant forgiveness for an act that compromised our faith in another isn't easy either. But, not to ask forgiveness and not to grant this same forgiveness leaves all parties in a prison of their own making.

This is where God's Grace takes over. Praise God for Grace.

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Romans 14:1-12

I would title the scripture assignment for today, Freedom in Christ.  A number of years ago I began attending Al-Anon, a 12-step recovery group.  Soon I moved to a Christian 12-step program and it is there I learned much about myself and about the freedom one gains when walking with Christ.

Some of the best advice I was given in both programs was to mind my own business.  As an ACOA (adult child of alcoholics), I would mind everyone's business but my own.  I learned as a child to control my environment, to be aware of situations and what my reactions needed to be at all times.  I was very good at scene setting in my mind; always prepared to respond accordingly to any of a number of scenarios that might be waiting.

The recovery program changed my life.  The fact that it was a Christ centered recovery program changed my heart too.  Once I learned that I was the only person I could change and started to embrace the fact that God is in control, and I'm not God, peace surrounded me and life got so much better.  I was reminded of this when I read the Words for today.

"Your critical and condescending ways aren't going to improve your position there one bit. Read it for yourself in Scripture:

"As I live and breathe," God says,
"every knee will bow before me;
Every tongue will tell the honest truth
that I and only I am God."
So tend to your knitting. You've got your hands full just taking care of your own life before God." (Romans 14:11-12 MSG)

We are each on our own journey, with our individual flaws and faults.  You don't need me to try and change you, only God has that job.  We are to love one another as we love Christ.  It's just that simple.

Read the text here.
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Romans 2:17-24

Many of us who claim to be Christian live more by the rule of, "Do as I say not as I do."  I can remember my father telling me this when I questioned why I had to go to church on Sunday and he didn't; why I had to watch my mouth and he didn't.

Romans 2:17-24 speaks to this situation and reminds all of us that we need to practice what we preach, no exceptions.  Paul says that if we do not live up to what we know, we are no different than non-believers.  We all need to learn that the law is more than a set of rules; it is a guideline for living.  Like the Eight Beatitudes listed in the Sermon on the Mount - they are words to live you entire life by.

"I have a special word of caution for you who are sure that you have it all together yourselves and, because you know God's revealed Word inside and out, feel qualified to guide others through their blind alleys and dark nights and confused emotions to God. While you are guiding others, who is going to guide you? I'm quite serious. While preaching "Don't steal!" are you going to rob people blind? Who would suspect you? The same with adultery. The same with idolatry." (Romans 2:19-22 MSG)

I am constantly reminded of the Bible Study teacher who implored all of his students to stop and think.  If we are going to wear a cross around our necks, have bumper stickers touting Scripture verses or display an Ichthus on a license plate we had better be prepared to back it up with impeccable behavior.


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Leviticus 19:9-18

The story of Ruth finds her gleaning in the fields for food.  Boaz, the owner of the field instructed his workers to leave the very edges of the fields for the poor to glean.  Harvest all but the very edges, he instructed them.

This is such a beautiful concept and a wonderful way to take care of the poor, the widows and orphans.  This was a practice in those days and one way God instructed his people to help those in need without demeaning them.  Leave the edges of your fields unharvested so travelers and those in need could help themselves.

"When you reap the harvest of your land, do not reap to the very edges of your field or gather the gleanings of your harvest."   Leviticus 19:9 (NIV) 

How can we practice this today?  This has me wondering, how indeed?  I know of more than one person who has been in a difficult financial position for a season and an anonymous note would arrive in the mail with a substantial check inside.  This generous gift was able to meet their needs for a time.  Other situations have been told of electric bills being paid by a secret donor; bags of groceries appear on front door stoops.

"Do not go over your vineyard a second time or pick up the grapes that have fallen. Leave them for the poor and the foreigner. I am the LORD your God." (Leviticus 19:10)

All of these anonymous gifts are forms of allowing others to glean from our fruitful fields.

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Matthew 6: 25-34

DO NOT WORRY

The Lord tells us not to worry numerous times in the bible. Why then are we so inclined to do just the opposite? Is it about trust, comfort, control? Truly, worry is self destructive any way you look at it. What good can come of worry?

In this passage Jesus says, "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes?" He also refers to how our heavenly Father feeds the birds of the air and watches over the lilies of the field. "Are you not much more valuable than they? Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?"........."But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all things will be given to you as well."

Every passage I have the privilege of writing on, taps into my musical memory and brings me a song. I have seen music work miracles in people's lives. There are so many songs that remind us of God's intentions for us here on earth, and our future with Him. Many are Christian songs written and performed by Christian artists, yet there are also wonderful lyrics written by others who communicate God's messages--some may be intentional and others not, but the messages remain and impact people.

As I read today's passage, two songs came to mind: the first was "Worry" by Ray LaMongagne. It begins "Trouble, trouble, trouble, trouble, trouble....worry, worry, worry, worry, worry...... It's a real downer of a song, but in the end a woman apparently came into his life and saved him. Loved him. Perhaps God brought this woman into his life. Another old song by Bobby McFerrin may be familiar to you, "Don't Worry Be Happy." These lyrics are light and entertaining. The message is about not focusing on life's material things. A spiritual meaning perhaps?

Intentionally written Christian songs of course, carry God's word. Music can support us, and bring us closer to God and all He has for us. If you do not have a Christian music station programmed into your vehicle's radio, I urge you to find one and do so. Listening to positive musical messages can impact our day, and our eternity. It will remind us who is in control and that we should not worry but.... Let go and let God.

Read today's message here
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Click here: "Don't Worry Be Happy"

Psalm 84

When winter is approaching often various species of birds will migrate to a warmer climate.  The amazing thing is they return again in spring.  Their pilgrimage will take them to lush, humid, tropic-like settings where they will live for a season.  How do they know the way home?  We answer by calling it 'instinct' and we all have instincts of some form or another. An instinct is an inclination toward a particular behavior that is not something learned.

The past dozen years or so, since I embraced the concept of developing a personal relationship with Jesus, the church building has taken on a new place in my heart.  Logic tells me it is just a structure made of wood and stones and metal, but my emotions tell me there is safety and peace in that structure. There are people who matter to me and love me and there is the cross; yes, the cross.  This may sound strange, but, because funerals and memorial services are held here it seems like the last place we are before going to God's real home.  I relate my church home to my heavenly home.

"How lovely is your dwelling place, O LORD Almighty!  My soul yearns, even faints, for the courts of the LORD; my heart and my flesh cry out for the living God.   Even the sparrow has found a home, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may have her young-- a place near your altar, O LORD Almighty, my King and my God."  (Psalm 84:1-3)

Just like birds automatically know the way home following a lengthy trip south, God's people know the way home too.  While in this world my church is the place where God reveals himself to me most often.   It is the place I can feel my emotions and where I can reach out to help others.  I feel His love and the love of His people and instinctively know He is there.  My church is my home and the place where I can sing the song, "Better is one day in your courts than thousands elsewhere." (Psalm 84:10)

Listen to the song here.

Read the text here.  Listen to a recording of the text here.

Acts 9:10-18

Many of us shudder to think of our previous reputations.  What did people think of us way back when; before we came to know Jesus and enjoy a personal relationship with Him?  As we can tell from the words of Ananias below, following Jesus' instructions to go to a man from Tarsus named Saul, was a scary thought.  It would seem Saul's reputation preceded him.


“Lord,” Ananias answered, “I have heard many reports about this man and all the harm he has done to your holy people in Jerusalem." (Acts 9:13)




The lesson here for me is that regardless of Ananias' fears and worries about going to see the persecutor of Christians, Ananias believed in Jesus and obeyed.  I must not allow my troubles to over power my ability to trust and obey Jesus' will for me and my life.

Ananias was told he would find Saul (Paul) praying.  We too find Paul praying in much of the reading we do of Paul and his life.  Prayer was the constant and the source of his strength.  Read Acts 16:25, 20:36, 22:17.  Prayer changes people; prayer changes circumstances; prayer changes lives and hearts.

"Then Ananias went to the house and entered it. Placing his hands on Saul, he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord—Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you were coming here—has sent me so that you may see again and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” (Acts 10:17)

Paul's reputation soon changed as he began to live for Christ, as he shared the love of Jesus with everyone he met.  Our reputations can change too, once we repent of our ways and make some changes. Prayer is a way to begin the change.

Read the text here.  Listen to an audio recording here.

Luke 10:38-42

Are we so busy doing things for Jesus that we aren't spending any time with Jesus?  Do we struggle with the Yes monster, unable to discern and set boundaries?  When asked to take on a new ministry or lead small group do we jump right in with a resounding YES when we really need to say no?  There is nothing wrong to saying no when your own life is getting too complicated by busyness.

“Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10:41-42)
The scripture words today talk to me of priorities.  The saying, "life is short," plays in this as well.  I am thinking of missed opportunities and times when I looked back wishing I had acted on a prompting.  Martha is concerned with being the proper hostess and Mary wants to sit at the Master's feet.  Both are good things but Martha is feeling pressure to perform and Mary is content to soak in the moment.

Life is full of missed opportunities and my goal is now is to recognize those moments and snatch them up before they are only a regret.  "Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”

Read the text here.  Listen to an audio recording of the text here.