Would I? Could I?

The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, the God of our fathers, has glorified his servant Jesus. You handed him over to be killed, and you disowned him before Pilate, though he had decided to let him go. (Acts 3:13)

As with many Bible passages, there is so much going on here. Peter is pointing out truth to the people. Harsh and raw truth that may be difficult for them to swallow. Peter is stressing to the crowd their guilt before God in rejecting the Messiah, joining the mob, and demanding His death. 

The stark reality is they killed Jesus - The Holy One, The Righteous One, The Author of Life. (Acts 3:14-15) Isn't it easy for us to smugly acknowledge 'their' sinfulness? But, how often did/do we reject Jesus, dismiss His love as too demanding and walk away from Him? 

How often did I miss my appointed duty? How many times did I stand by and denounce Jesus as Lord? Have I lost opportunity to tell someone of Jesus and His Love? Is Heaven lined with people that I encountered, but did not Disciple? Did someone else do what I was supposed to do? Tough questions, right?

I wonder sometimes, just what I would have done had I been in the crowd that day...when Pilot washed his hands of the entire matter and let the mob rule. Could I have been strong enough, faithful enough to be a voice of reason - unto death? What about now, today? When the world is struggling against good, turning their backs on Light and Truth, only to embrace what is safe, comfortable and non-threatening, could I make the difference?  

As we approach the Lenten season, how does this passage touch you? Discuss the questions above and share here if you are inclined to do so.

Catch of the Day

"So they pulled their boats up on shore, left everything and followed him." (Luke 5:11)
They, who are they? We know that Simon (Peter) was one of the fishermen with Jesus that day. Matthew 4:18 reveals that Simon's brother Andrew was with him also. Verse 21 informs us that, "Going out from there, he saw two other brothers, James son of Zebedee and his brother John...Jesus called them..." The remainder of His disciples are noted in Mark 3:14-19. Now there are twelve.

Consider the words, they left everything. When we read this text, it sounds simple enough. But scripture doesn't tell of the emotional struggle involved with leaving everything. We can't picture the family ties that maybe added to the emotional pull.

Why these men? What was so special about them? What did Jesus see in them? What qualities did they possess that made Jesus want to mold and shape them into the ‘fishers of men’ he mentioned. We may ask the same question of ourselves when we feel God’s call on our life. Why me?

Jesus performed an incredible miracle with the abundant catch of fish that day. He had their attention. But what is even more amazing is that the miracle wasn't the draw. That huge catch doesn't seem to be what got their eye. If you remember, they left everything, including all those fish...their lively hood, and followed a stranger.

Consider this:
What if tomorrow during your quiet time you sensed Jesus extending a personal call for you to follow Him, just like what He did that day long ago. How would you respond?

Jesus extends this invitation every day, He asks us to get out of our boat, to leave our comfortable life and start fishing the shoreline.

Luke 5:4-11

Open Ears Hear Better

Every year about this time, folks begin to think about 'paying Caesar'. Although not one of our favorite tasks, it must be done. In Jesus time, there was a temple tax levied on all Jews over the age of 20. This tax dates to the time of Exodus and was earmarked for the upkeep of the temple.

Now, because Jesus was Lord and owner of the temple, it was not for Him to pay the taxes.  But so we don't upset them needlessly, he paid them. (Verse 27) Jesus was not conforming to their world, but Jesus was teaching His disciples that they must give up personal rights so as not to offend. Ears that are closed, will not hear the message of salvation.

When possible, we should live peaceably with all. (Romans 12:18) A tall order for certain. As humans we often feel entitled to certain things, and maybe rightfully so, but to what end? Jesus was teaching his followers to go the extra mile. Remember, ears that are closed, will not hear the message of salvation. 

Speaking of this group of men who were following Jesus, did you notice where it said the tax was levied on all Jews over the age of 20? Jesus and Peter were the only ones of their group who were approached by the taxmen. Are you as amazed as I that the rest of His chosen crew were under 20 years old?

The take-away from this familiar passage is rich.

·      Just because it is allowed, doesn’t it make best

·      Live by your convictions

·      Jesus doesn’t limit our ministry by our age

·      Don’t upset them needlessly

·      Ears that are closed, will not hear the message of salvation

Matthew 17:24-27

We would love to hear your comments.

Jesus Knew

"Jesus knew about their plan..." Luke 6:8

All four Gospels tell of the miraculous healings Jesus performed. They also tell of the Pharisees and religious leaders peering around the corner, preparing to confront Jesus because he was working on the Sabbath. These men were looking for a reason to accuse Jesus so they could destroy Him.

Similar stories are found in John 5:5-16, Mark 3:1-6, Matthew 12:9-14. With all these similar events, one can come to the conclusion these were important happenings. Jesus must be preparing to teach His followers about himself, preparing to show the world that there is nothing more important than the truth. And Jesus is Truth.

One of the truths I find through these readings is that Jesus knew what they were up to. Reading these verses a few times, the point that stuck out for me was, "Jesus knew about their plan..." or as it reads in the Message version, "He knew what they were up to."

As a Believer, this fact alone causes me to consider my next steps or the words that tumble from my mouth. While this is a humbling truth, it is also a great comfort. God knows me so well. He has my open heart in the palm of His hand. He gets me! Because I live in this fact, I want to do what He wants me to do. I want His plans for me to unfold naturally - or supernaturally. How much better my life will be if I give control over to God.

Dear Jesus,
Help me to step aside and allow You to take over my life. You know what I am up to and it gives me peace. Amen


I would love to hear your comments, either below or email here.

Luke 6:6-11

Just Say the Word

 

When Jesus had entered Capernaum, a centurion came to him, asking for help. “Lord,” he said, “my servant lies at home paralyzed, suffering terribly.”

 

Jesus said to him, “Shall I come and heal him?”

The centurion replied, “Lord, I do not deserve to have you come under my roof. But just say the word, and my servant will be healed. (v. 5-8)

Whenever Jesus interacts with someone, I find a lesson is being taught, or a behavior improved. Today's text is no exception. The topic is The Faith of the Centurion. When I read these words the first couple times I was impressed with the unquestioning faith of this Centurion.

As I studied and read a few commentaries I learned a few things to consider and think through and practice.

1. God has His remnants among all sorts of people.
2. Even though Roman soldiers were the enemy, and this centurion was a Roman soldier - Christ favored him. Teaching us to do good to our enemies.
3. Now Simeon's words were being fulfilled, that He should be a light to the Gentiles.
4. The Centurion approached Jesus as a humble suitor and not a might Roman soldier.
5. The Centurion cared for his servant and in turn the servant responded to his master with loyalty and obedience. Jesus (the Master) was treating the Centurion (His servant), in a like manner.
6. The great faith of this soldier knew that the power of Christ knows no limits -- nearness and distance were all the same to Jesus.
7. He knew Jesus could cure with one Word.

Does this passage have you asking yourself about the strength of your faith? Are you moved to learn from this teaching of Jesus? Dear Jesus, show me how to love my enemies and be a light that guides them to you. Make me humble and obedient to your will.  Amen.

Comment below, or here.

Matthew 8:5-13

Find Joy, Talk to God, Give Thanks

Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NIV)

• Rejoice always - The Christian who remains in sadness and depression really breaks a commandment: in some direction or other he mistrusts God--His power, providence, forgiveness. That is not to say there isn't a time for sadness and or grief. But it does mean that a Christian understands joy, knows that it isn't a feeling because of a current situation, but a state of being because we are children of God. We rejoice always because Jesus is with us and forgives us unconditionally. 

• Pray continually - We are not expected to spend 24/7 assuming a prayer posture, but to experience prayer as a state of mind, a constant consideration as we go through our day. Prayer is a path to a relationship with Jesus that grows and is nurtured each day. When I dedicate my day to God and what He wants for me and from me each day - it is as if I am praying continually.

• Give thanks in all circumstances - Now this is a tall order. How do we give thanks in all circumstances? How do we praise and offer thanksgiving when all around us is in shambles? I know that God grows me and my faith when I face challenges and even catastrophes. I also know that when I am feeling low and am in the midst of a pity party, I only need to acknowledge my many blessings and my eyes and heart are open to new possibilities.

I would love to hear how you practice/apply these verses in your life. How do you rejoice always; Pray continually; Give thanks in all circumstances? Feel free to comment below, and for those of you who are not inclined to do this, please send me an email and I can read your thoughts and communicate further if you like.

Doing What's Right

How refreshing to read: Asa did what was right in the eyes of the Lord, as his father David had done. (1 Kings 15:11) The story of many of those kings we just read about began different, "_____ did evil in the eyes of the LORD."

Asa wasn't perfect, but he tried to follow the Lord. He successfully made some difficult decisions about his faith. He got rid of the idols his ancestors made, he deposed his own grandmother because she continued to worship Asherah. (More information on the life and rule of King Asa can be found in 2 Chronicles 14-16).

The fact Asa followed in King David's footsteps instead of in his own father's, is noteworthy. It reinforces that not only the sins of the fathers' can follow us or influence our lifestyle; so to, the righteousness and pleasing goodness of our fathers' impact us in a strong way. These stories are not only interesting, they are great teaching moments. 

I realize from this story; it isn't good enough to abolish most of the evil in our lives. We must banish all. King Asa removes most of the idols, but not all. I wonder why? Can this behavior be compared to us, when we follow Jesus, but keep one foot in our old life?

Once I began to grow my relationship with Jesus, I would recognize things I needed to turn away from. My old friends didn't always like that idea and encouraged me to go back to the times we used to enjoy. They didn't understand my new heart rejected that old fun. I wanted different things, my goals and desires changed.

But sometimes I still struggle with the 'old me', I still fight against those things which once controlled my heart. I suppose it is natural, but not necessary if I truly cast aside the sin that so easily entangles, (from Hebrews 12:1). Therein lies the value of reading scripture on a regular basis. When I spend time in the Old and the New Testament, I am informed and challenged to live a better life. I want to trust God for all things, always. One day I want to hear It said, "she did what was right in the eyes of the Lord."

1 Kings 15:9-24

David's Celebration

David is mentioned more times in the Old Testament than any other person. More than 1,100 times. Much more than Moses, than Elijah, than Saul - than any other human. Why is that? David was far from perfect. He sinned against God and man when he had Bathsheba's husband killed so he could claim her for himself. And that's just one example.

He was a fallen, sinful person, guilty of murder, treachery, and corruption. But - and this is a big but - he was a man after God's own heart. (See both 1 Samuel 17 and Acts 13). In today's passages, we see that David returns the Ark of God to a central place in the life of Israel, and he and his followers - 30,000 of Israel's finest young men - have a parade of thanks, of joyfulness, and celebration to honor the ark. David's joy is boundless: "They were celebrating with all their might before the Lord, with songs and with harps, lyres, tambourines, sistrums and cymblals" (2 Samuel 6:5; see also Psalm 150).

And what is in the ark? Is there a graven image of God? Are there priceless relics? No. The Word of God is in the ark. God's word MUST be central to our faith. God speaks truth to us through his word. He guides us, protects us, convicts us, comforts us, through his Word. Have you celebrated God's word lately? Would your celebration look like David's and his men? Or would it be more circumspect?

I confess that a celebration like the one described in 2 Samuel 6 and in Psalm 150 seems more like how we celebrate when the Buckeyes win the National Championship. Oh, Lord, that I would celebrate your word and your power with such joy and abandon! Help us, Lord, to see the centrality of your Word in our lives, and to act with joy and gladness and thanks for your many blessings. Amen.

The Stuff of Dreams

16 When Jacob awoke from his sleep, he thought, “Surely the Lord is in this place, and I was not aware of it.” 17 He was afraid and said, “How awesome is this place! This is none other than the house of God; this is the gate of heaven.”

This story begins with Jacob settling down for the night. After dozing off, he experiences an amazing dreams. A dream like we want to remember forever. You know what that is like. You dream a supernatural power takes over your limbs and you are a superhero. Or maybe you have been living a nightmare existence with bill collectors hounding you, and the Prize Patrol knocks on your door and presents you with $1000 a week for life. 

Your descendants will be like the dust of the earth, and you will spread out to the west and to the east, to the north and to the south. All peoples on earth will be blessed through you and your offspring.

In Jacob's dream, God promised him everything he might want; those things of importance to the culture of that day - numerous descendants, and land for them to inhabit. Jacob was thrilled upon waking and wanted to do something for God.

Dreams are a mystery to us. Most of us have them, some of us never remember them, but just as often they are impactful in one way or another. Very often our dreams reflect something that is happening in our day to day lives. They can be scary, fanciful, and even other-worldly. But some time they are merely a reflection of the day we just had. 

Like Jacob, we will awaken. Maybe, like Jacob, we will feel a strong sense of God and His presence with us as we slept; watching over us and loving us into tomorrow.

Genesis 28:10-22 

God Is Calling

Genesis 12:1-9

He did as he was told.  I admire Abram for that.  He could have said, “No, I’m good,” but he didn’t.  He packed up and left.

Listen, Obey, Move and Pray was Abram’s motto.  God called; Abram listened and obeyed.  Why?  Because he knew God would fulfill His promise.  Was it easy?  No.  Could Abram have imagined the trials awaiting him?  No.  Did everything he do please God?  No.  Were there missteps along the way?  Yes, but through it all God’s plan was in place and he kept drawing Abram to Himself.

As I’m feeling pulled in a thousand directions and want to question just about everything that’s happening in my life, God is pulling me to Himself.  I look to Abram as an example.  God’s will for my life will be accomplished.

My personal devotion this past Wednesday was Hebrews 6:15, After waiting patiently, Abraham received what was promised.  This fits nicely into what I’m writing for today because God knows what He’s doing every day of the week. 😊

Making hasty decisions and complaining is not the way to go.  God is calling me to be patient and surrender.  Previously I would have responded with, “Ugh! But it’s SO hard.”  Today, I’m realizing that waiting is a gift for which I want to be thankful.

Is it easy to wait?  No.  Are there trials ahead that I can’t see?  Yes.  Am I going to make super choices all the time?  Nope.  Am I going to take missteps?  Surely.  But I’ll keep reminding myself, like Abram, to Listen, Obey, Move and Pray and that will make all the difference.