A prayer for you…me…

 A prayer for you…me…

The other day I graduated from a walker to a cane…I still get a bit tired and regress to the walker once in a while…

I stood there and was so overcome with the progress over the last 6 weeks…and I know it was the prayers and help and cards of so many people…I can’t thank them all enough…I just cried in thankfulness….remembering one another in prayer through the good and hard times is beyond measure in goodness and faithfulness….thank you…

As I read this seventeenth chapter of John, I thought of this…the longest recorded prayer of Jesus…before going to the cross…he prayed first for his disciples followed by a prayer for those who followed…those who would believe in him throughout time…you and me…how personal is that…..

He knew what he was facing within  hours, yet he took time to remember us…and all those down through the ages who  believed…through the thick and thin of life…..those he formed in the wombs, those who would face martyrdom, persecution, wars, famine, to those who would face apathy, false teaching, complacency…anything that the world would throw at them…he took time the pray…

What an incredible gift…a prayer from the Savior…

Thank YOU…

 “My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. 

May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. 

I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one— I in them and you in me—so that they may be brought to complete unity. 

Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me. 

“Father, I want those you have given me to be with me where I am, and to see my glory, the glory you have given me because you loved me before the creation of the world. 

“Righteous Father, though the world does not know you, I know you, and they know that you have sent me. 

I have made you known to them, and will continue to make you known in order that the love you have for me may be in them and that I myself may be in them.”

John.17.20-26

Jesus, name above all names…

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZxMmj7pdIjM

Vines and friends…

 Vines and friends…

Yesterday was John 14, today-John 15,

Remain, remain..11 times repeated in the NIV version…or abide in ESV…

I like that word “abide”…it sounds much more personal…synonyms of abide-wait, hang around, tarry, linger, remain, dawdle, outstay, stay, dwell, stick around, await, hang on, loiter, overstay, dally….

Just picturing being around your very bestest friend…all those words fit…and Jesus wants to be that bestest friend…He wants to share what his father has made known to him…to the point of giving us the Holy Spirit…what a gift of friendship….that connection of the vine and the branches, even the pruning when we need it…a bestest friend…

 “I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. 

Remain in me, as I also remain in you. 

No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. 

“I am the vine; you are the branches. 

If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. 

“As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. 

Now remain in my love. 

If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love. 

I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. 

Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you. 

This is my command: Love each other. 

Whoever hates me hates my Father as well. 

“When the Advocate comes, whom I will send to you from the Father—the Spirit of truth who goes out from the Father—he will testify about me. 

And you also must testify, for you have been with me from the beginning.

John.15.1,John.15.4-5,John.15.9-10,John.15.15,John.15.17,John.15.23,John.15.26-27

 As for you, see that what you have heard from the beginning remains in you. 

If it does, you also will remain in the Son and in the Father. 

And this is what he promised us—eternal life. 

As for you, the anointing you received from him remains in you, and you do not need anyone to teach you. 

But as his anointing teaches you about all things and as that anointing is real, not counterfeit—just as it has taught you, remain in him.

1John.2.24,1John.2.25,27

 I am a friend to all who fear you,to all who follow your precepts. The earth is filled with your love, Lord;teach me your decrees.

Ps.119.63-6

Thank YOU for the connections that only you can make….

Friends…

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5MmvYxgUZqc

Drumbeat…

 Drumbeat….

 I was watching  a tribute to Harry Belafonte last night…a musician, actor, activist…he was the same age as my parents…so I grew up with his music…

One of his quotes, “March to the drumbeat you believe in”…Harry Belafonte…

I have come to the last chapters of John, some of my favorite ones…the other three gospels don’t relate these words from the last supper..chapters 14-17…

Jesus tells his disciples so much in these chapters…

1. Don’t let your hearts be troubled…

2. Jesus preparations for believers in his Father’s house…

3. His promise of coming back…

4. I am the way and the truth and the Life…

5. I am in the Father and the Father is in me…

6. The promise of the Holy Spirit..

7. The separation of those who believe and those who don’t…

8. Jesus’ peace…

9. Satan has no hold on Jesus…

And that is just in chapter 14…

In light of our “drumbeats”, whose do we follow? In whom do we believe?

I thought of Joshua, of old,asking the people…

 “But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. 

But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.” 

Then the people answered, “Far be it from us to forsake the Lord to serve other gods! 

Then Joshua said, “You are witnesses against yourselves that you have chosen to serve the Lord.”

“Yes, we are witnesses,” they replied. 

“Now then,” said Joshua, “throw away the foreign gods that are among you and yield your hearts to the Lord, the God of Israel.” And the people said to Joshua, “We will serve the Lord our God and obey him.””

Josh.24.15-16Josh.24.22-24

Joshua’s words are just as applicable in Jesus’ time, our time …any time…who will we serve? Whose drumbeat will we follow?

Thank YOU…

Story of the song, “I have decided to follow Jesus…”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=01Qfez6HOag

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/I_Have_Decided_to_Follow_Jesus

Denial…

 

Denial….

“Oh, I would never do that ….”

 I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do. And if I do what I do not want to do, I agree that the law is good. As it is, it is no longer I myself who do it, but it is sin living in me. For I know that good itself does not dwell in me, that is, in my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. For I do not do the good I want to do, but the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing. Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it.

Rom.7.15-20

The four gospels each record Peter’s denial of denial…

 “When they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives. 

Then Jesus told them, “This very night you will all fall away on account of me, for it is written:“‘I will strike the shepherd,and the sheep of the flock will be scattered.’ 

But after I have risen, I will go ahead of you into Galilee.” 

Peter replied, “Even if all fall away on account of you, I never will.” “Truly I tell you,” Jesus answered, “this very night, before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times.” 

But Peter declared, “Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you.” 

And all the other disciples said the same.”

Matt.26.30-35

Mark 14:26-31

Luke 22:31-38

John 13:36-38

This is not an old concept…I get the magazine published about modern day martyrdom frequently…people who, in different countries, are asked the same question…”who do you stand for?”…with dire consequences with their answers…

We are facing it here in the US as well…and we will face it more and more …”where do we stand with Jesus?”

The ultimate question is more personal…”How do we know where we stand with Jesus?”…that is what each person must ask of themselves…and the Word…

The Philippians Jailer asked …

 “The jailer called for lights, rushed in and fell trembling before Paul and Silas. 

He then brought them out and asked, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” 

They replied, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household.” 

Then they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all the others in his house. 

At that hour of the night the jailer took them and washed their wounds; then immediately he and all his household were baptized. 

The jailer brought them into his house and set a meal before them; he was filled with joy because he had come to believe in God—he and his whole household.”

Acts.16.29-34

Paul encouraged Timothy…as father tells his son…

“Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction.

For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. 

Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. 

They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths. 

But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry.”2Tim.4.2-5

Thank YOU….

Holy Forever 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IkHgxKemCRk

To God be the glory…a good confession…

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bfg5Gf4TcLM

The Walker…

 The Walker…

I have a Walker beside my bed, chair or wherever I light…I need to use it basically all the time when I walk.

I have never used a Walker until this last winter…my legs took me everywhere I wanted to go…and I find myself getting ready to walk on my own, only to remember I need the Walker for strength and help right now…hopefully soon, within weeks I can go again on my own without it…progressing…but for now I do depend upon it…I can only take the important things with me, light weight, easy to carry…

When my husband was ill, he went from walking on his own, to a Walker, to a wheelchair and finally bedridden…regressing…

As I was reading our women’s Study for now, “the Practice of Godliness”, by Jerry Bridges… I thought of this progression, this walk…our “Walker, helper” is the Holy Spirit helping us to progressively walk a more godly life…teaching us ,  counseling us, walking with us in this  journey as believers…humility,  contentment, thankfulness, joy, holiness, self-control, faithfulness, peace, patience, gentleness, kindness and goodness, love…until we reach the goal…

I know my walking will never be quite the same again, because of added new body parts, but there is the goal of walking on my own… 

Learning to walk in the Spirit always requires help  until we walk right into heaven someday…

 And now, Israel, what does the Lord your God ask of you but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in obedience to him, to love him, to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul,

Deut.10.12

 Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers,

Ps.1.1

 For you have delivered me from death and my feet from stumbling,that I may walk before God in the light of life.

Ps.56.13

 My son, keep your father’s commandand do not forsake your mother’s teaching. 

Bind them always on your heart;fasten them around your neck. When you walk, they will guide you;when you sleep, they will watch over you;when you awake, they will speak to you. 

For this command is a lamp,this teaching is a light,and correction and instruction are the way to life,

Prov.6.20-23

 True instruction was in his mouth and nothing false was found on his lips. He walked with me in peace and uprightness, and turned many from sin.

Mal.2.6

 What agreement is there between the temple of God and idols? For we are the temple of the living God. 

As God has said:“I will live with them and walk among them,and I will be their God,and they will be my people.”

2Cor.6.16

Ephesians 5 

1 Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children 2 and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.

Colossians 3:12-17

 12 Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13 Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 14 And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.

15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. 16 Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. 17 And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Thank YOU…

Closer walk with thee…

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sIfqa_741s0

Do you understand….?

 Do you understand….?

As I read the portion of Jesus washing his disciples’ feet, I couldn’t but think of the woman washing Jesus’ feet with her tears…

Jesus showed that he truly came to seek, serve and save…in these two scenes…he has the power to forgive and he did…but his example of service to the point of washing feet…God bending down to wash feet, cleansing, touching, taking care of another …such an example of servant hood…before He went to the cross, where he still served others…where He carried the sins of all, victorious over death…rising that all may live who believe in him…

Do we truly believe…do we truly understand what He Did? A servant of all…

Thank YOU….

Servant song…

https://music.youtube.com/watch?v=kdmgpMfnjdU

 It was just before the Passover Festival. 

Jesus knew that the hour had come for him to leave this world and go to the Father. 

Having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end. 

The evening meal was in progress, and the devil had already prompted Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot, to betray Jesus. 

Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God; so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. 

After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him. 

He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, “Lord, are you going to wash my feet?” 

Jesus replied, “You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand.” 

“No,” said Peter, “you shall never wash my feet.”

Jesus answered, “Unless I wash you, you have no part with me.” “Then, Lord,” Simon Peter replied, “not just my feet but my hands and my head as well!” 

Jesus answered, “Those who have had a bath need only to wash their feet; their whole body is clean. And you are clean, though not every one of you.” 

For he knew who was going to betray him, and that was why he said not every one was clean. When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. 

“Do you understand what I have done for you?” he asked them. “You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I am. Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.

John.13.1-17

https://unashamedofjesus.org/2021/01/14/john-13-washing-feet/

 When one of the Pharisees invited Jesus to have dinner with him, he went to the Pharisee’s house and reclined at the table. A woman in that town who lived a sinful life learned that Jesus was eating at the Pharisee’s house, so she came there with an alabaster jar of perfume. As she stood behind him at his feet weeping, she began to wet his feet with her tears. Then she wiped them with her hair, kissed them and poured perfume on them. When the Pharisee who had invited him saw this, he said to himself, “If this man were a prophet, he would know who is touching him and what kind of woman she is—that she is a sinner.” 

Jesus answered him, “Simon, I have something to tell you.”

“Tell me, teacher,” he said. 

“Two people owed money to a certain moneylender. One owed him five hundred denarii, and the other fifty. Neither of them had the money to pay him back, so he forgave the debts of both. Now which of them will love him more?” 

Simon replied, “I suppose the one who had the bigger debt forgiven.”

“You have judged correctly,” Jesus said. 

Then he turned toward the woman and said to Simon, “Do you see this woman? I came into your house. You did not give me any water for my feet, but she wet my feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair. You did not give me a kiss, but this woman, from the time I entered, has not stopped kissing my feet. You did not put oil on my head, but she has poured perfume on my feet. 

Therefore, I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven—as her great love has shown. But whoever has been forgiven little loves little.” 

Then Jesus said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.” 

The other guests began to say among themselves, “Who is this who even forgives sins?” 

Jesus said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.”

Luke.7.36-50

Trees…

 

Trees….

My dreams had been about my father and father-in-law for whatever reason….

They both were men of the land, they called themselves…my father grew up in foothills in central California, on a ranch amongst the oak trees, “Big oak Flat”, “Little Oak Flat “ were place names on the maps. Places where few old settlers had taken up residence long ago…

My father-in-law had grown up in the foothills of western Oregon, raised among the cedar, white fir and fir. His father selling firewood to communities near where they lived…

Both men were stewards of the land…using it, replenishing it, living with it…

Later, my family moved to the redwoods of Northern California. Where the same stewardship was practiced…living among the giant trees, my father harvested, replanted, took care of these gifts of the land…

All their growing up years, my children were taught by both grandfathers the care, planting, logging ….stewardship of the land.

Both grandparents even competed locally, regionally and nationally for Tree Farmer of the Year…an honor bestowed on families who had worked the forests in their area, taking care, educating others on forest practices…

Wherever my parents traveled or even we travelled, getting seeds, acorns of various trees was a great present for my father…the Ming tombs, ground zero in New York City…my dad would propagate them and later plant them…he worked on Super Redwoods which grew faster than the ancient trees of the area…

Thinking about this heritage, I had to find the story of the legend of the trees…

The creator of all the trees, gifts to us, played a part in Jesus’ earthly life…from the wooden manger to the cross… his earthly father- a craftsman carpenter, the tree Zacchaeus sat in, the fig tree which withered…all tell a story…

  Then God said, “Let the land produce vegetation: seed-bearing plants and trees on the land that bear fruit with seed in it, according to their various kinds.” And it was so. The land produced vegetation: plants bearing seed according to their kinds and trees bearing fruit with seed in it according to their kinds. And God saw that it was good. And there was evening, and there was morning—the third day.

Gen.1.11-13

Thank YOU….

Story of the Three Trees

Once upon a mountain top, three little trees stood and dreamed of what they wanted to become when they grew up.

The first little tree looked up at the stars and said: “I want to hold treasure. I want to be covered with gold and filled with precious stones. I’ll be the most beautiful treasure chest in the world!”

The second little tree looked out at the small stream trickling by on its way to the ocean. “I want to be traveling mighty waters and carrying powerful kings. I’ll be the strongest ship in the world!”

The third little tree looked down into the valley below where busy men and women worked in a busy town. “I don’t want to leave the mountain top at all. I want to grow so tall that when people stop to look at me, they’ll raise their eyes to heaven and think of God. I will be the tallest tree in the world.”

Years passed. The rain came, the sun shone, and the little trees grew tall. One day three woodcutters climbed the mountain.

The first woodcutter looked at the first tree and said, “This tree is beautiful. It is perfect for me.” With a swoop of his shining axe, the first tree fell.

“Now I shall be made into a beautiful chest. I shall hold wonderful treasure!” the first tree said.

The second woodcutter looked at the second tree and said, “This tree is strong. It is perfect for me.” With a swoop of his shining axe, the second tree fell.

“Now I shall sail mighty waters!” thought the second tree. “I shall be a strong ship for mighty kings!”

The third tree felt her heart sink when the last woodcutter looked her way. She stood straight and tall and pointed bravely to heaven.

But the woodcutter never even looked up. “Any kind of tree will do for me,” he muttered. With a swoop of his shining axe, the third tree fell.

The first tree rejoiced when the woodcutter brought her to a carpenter’s shop. But the carpenter fashioned the tree into a feedbox for animals.

The once beautiful tree was not covered with gold, nor with treasure. She was coated with sawdust and filled with hay for hungry farm animals.

The second tree smiled when the woodcutter took her to a shipyard, but no mighty sailing ship was made that day. Instead, the once strong tree was hammered and sawed into a simple fishing boat. She was too small and too weak to sail on an ocean, or even a river; instead, she was taken to a little lake.

The third tree was confused when the woodcutter cut her into strong beams and left her in a lumberyard.

“What happened?” the once tall tree wondered. “All I ever wanted was to stay on the mountain top and point to God...”

Many, many days and night passed. The three trees nearly forgot their dreams.

But one night, golden starlight poured over the first tree as a young woman placed her newborn baby in the feedbox.

“I wish I could make a cradle for him,” her husband whispered.

The mother squeezed his hand and smiled as the starlight shone on the smooth and the sturdy wood. “This manger is beautiful,” she said.

And suddenly the first tree knew he was holding the greatest treasure in the world.

One evening a tired traveler and his friends crowded into the old fishing boat. The traveler fell asleep as the second tree quietly sailed out into the lake.

Soon a thundering and thrashing storm arose. The little tree shuddered. She knew she did not have the strength to carry so many passengers safely through with the wind and the rain.

The tired man awakened. He stood up, stretched out his hand, and said, “Peace.” The storm stopped as quickly as it had begun.

And suddenly the second tree knew he was carrying the king of heaven and earth.

One Friday morning, the third tree was startled when her beams were yanked from the forgotten woodpile. She flinched as she was carried through an angry jeering crowd. She shuddered when soldiers nailed a man’s hands to her.

She felt ugly and harsh and cruel.

But on Sunday morning, when the sun rose and the earth tremble with joy beneath her, the third tree knew that God’s love had changed everything.

It had made the third tree strong.

And every time people thought of the third tree, they would think of God.

That was better than being the tallest tree in the world.

The next time you feel down because you didn’t get what you want, sit tight and be happy because God is thinking of something better to give you.

Source unknown

walk by the Spirit...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tsXrOXEZV50 

such a good sermon, needed to share...

So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.

17 For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want.

18 But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law.

19 The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery;

20 idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions

21 and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.

22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,

23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.

24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.

25 Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.

26 Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other. 

 

Galatians 5:16-25

blessings,

Suzi

Keep watch…

 Keep watch…

 “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come. 

Matt.24.42

In this passage, Jesus is speaking of being watchful for the Lord’s return…but there are several other places in the Word where we are warned to keep watch or places that God himself keeps watching…security in Him…

 It was also called Mizpah, because he said, “May the Lord keep watch between you and me when we are away from each other.

Gen.31.49

Laban is speaking to Jacob. Mizpah meant lookout or watchtower…they built a pile of stones as a pledge to one another…

 David’s admonition to Solomon…keep, watch…

 “I am about to go the way of all the earth,” he said. “So be strong, act like a man, and observe what the Lord your God requires: Walk in obedience to him, and keep his decrees and commands, his laws and regulations, as written in the Law of Moses. Do this so that you may prosper in all you do and wherever you go and that the Lord may keep his promise to me: ‘If your descendants watch how they live, and if they walk faithfully before me with all their heart and soul, you will never fail to have a successor on the throne of Israel.’

1Kgs.2.2-4

Psalms and Proverbs portions…

 I said, “I will watch my ways and keep my tongue from sin;I will put a muzzle on my mouth while in the presence of the wicked.”

Ps.39.1

 Set a guard over my mouth, Lord;keep watch over the door of my lips.

Ps.141.3

 The eyes of the Lord are everywhere,keeping watch on the wicked and the good.

Prov.15.3 

 The eyes of the Lord keep watch over knowledge,but he frustrates the words of the unfaithful.

Prov.22.12

Future promises…

 But I will encamp at my temple to guard it against marauding forces.Never again will an oppressor overrun my people,for now I am keeping watch. 

On that day I will strike every horse with panic and its rider with madness,” declares the Lord. “I will keep a watchful eye over Judah, but I will blind all the horses of the nations.

Zech.9.8,Zech.12.4

Jesus praying…

 “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death,” he said to them. “Stay here and keep watch.” Then he returned to his disciples and found them sleeping. “Simon,” he said to Peter, “are you asleep? Couldn’t you keep watch for one hour?

Mark.14.34, 37

Admonishment….

 “Be dressed ready for service and keep your lamps burning,

Luke.12.35

  Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which he bought with his own blood.

Acts.20.28

 I urge you, brothers and sisters, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them.

Rom.16.17

 Have confidence in your leaders and submit to their authority, because they keep watch over you as those who must give an account. Do this so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no benefit to you.

Heb.13.17

an interesting follow through on two words…keep watch…

Thank YOU…..

Watch over me…

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u52_5VuwKVI

My Words…

 My Words…

Reading through Matthew 24:1-35, Mark 13:1-31 and Luke 21:5-33…

They all describe the “destruction of the Temple and signs of the end times”…

They each end with…

“Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.

Luke.21.33

God’s Word is eternal…heaven and earth are temporary…

Was thinking that in Genesis, God spoke and things happened…

Psalm 119 describes the Word is so many ways…a few from the longest chapter in the Bible…

 Blessed are those whose ways are blameless,who walk according to the law of the Lord. 

Blessed are those who keep his statutes and seek him with all their heart— I seek you with all my heart;do not let me stray from your commands. 

I meditate on your precepts and consider your ways. 

I delight in your decrees;

I will not neglect your word. 

Be good to your servant while I live,that I may obey your word. Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law. 

My soul is consumed with longingfor your laws at all times. 

Your statutes are my delight;they are my counselors. 

I am laid low in the dust;preserve my life according to your word. 

I gave an account of my ways and you answered me;teach me your decrees. 

My soul is weary with sorrow;strengthen me according to your word. 

I have chosen the way of faithfulness;I have set my heart on your laws. 

Teach me, Lord, the way of your decrees,that I may follow it to the end. 

Give me understanding, so that I may keep your law and obey it with all my heart. 

Direct me in the path of your commands,for there I find delight. Turn my heart toward your statutes and not toward selfish gain. Turn my eyes away from worthless things;preserve my life according to your word. 

How I long for your precepts!In your righteousness preserve my life. 

Never take your word of truth from my mouth,for I have put my hope in your laws. 

I reach out for your commands, which I love,that I may meditate on your decrees. 

Remember your word to your servant,for you have given me hope. My comfort in my suffering is this:Your promise preserves my life. 

I remember, Lord, your ancient laws,and I find comfort in them. Your decrees are the theme of my song wherever I lodge. 

I have considered my ways and have turned my steps to your statutes. 

The earth is filled with your love, Lord;teach me your decrees. Teach me knowledge and good judgment,for I trust your commands. 

The law from your mouth is more precious to me-than thousands of pieces of silver and gold. 

I know, Lord, that your laws are righteous,and that in faithfulness you have afflicted me. 

May I wholeheartedly follow your decrees,that I may not be put to shame. 

Your word, Lord, is eternal;it stands firm in the heavens. 

Your faithfulness continues through all generations;you established the earth, and it endures. 

Your laws endure to this day,for all things serve you. 

To all perfection I see a limit,but your commands are boundless. Oh, how I love your law!I meditate on it all day long. 

Your word is a lamp for my feet,a light on my path. 

My flesh trembles in fear of you;I stand in awe of your laws. 

Your statutes are wonderful;therefore I obey them. 

The unfolding of your words gives light;it gives understanding to the simple. 

You are righteous, Lord,and your laws are right. 

Your statutes are always righteous;give me understanding that I may live. 

Yet you are near, Lord,and all your commands are true. 

All your words are true;all your righteous laws are eternal. 

Great peace have those who love your law,and nothing can make them stumble.

Ps.119.1,Ps.119.2,Ps.119.10,Ps.119.15,Ps.119.16,Ps.119.17,Ps.119.18,Ps.119.20,Ps.119.24,Ps.119.25,Ps.119.26,Ps.119.28,Ps.119.30,Ps.119.33,Ps.119.34,Ps.119.35,Ps.119.36,Ps.119.37,Ps.119.40,Ps.119.43,Ps.119.48,Ps.119.49,Ps.119.50,Ps.119.52,Ps.119.54,Ps.119.59,Ps.119.64,Ps.119.66,Ps.119.72,Ps.119.75,Ps.119.80,Ps.119.89,Ps.119.90,Ps.119.91,Ps.119.96,Ps.119.97,Ps.119.105,Ps.119.120,Ps.119.129,Ps.119.130,Ps.119.137,Ps.119.144,Ps.119.151,Ps.119.160,Ps.119.165

The Psalmist speaks of the eternal word…as did Jesus in the gospels… 

 Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.

John.6.68

 I know that his command leads to eternal life. So whatever I say is just what the Father has told me to say.”

John.12.50

There is eternity in His Word, because the Word is eternal…

 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 

He was with God in the beginning. 

Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. 

In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. 

The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. 

The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world. 

The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. 

We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.

John.1:1-5,9,14

Jesus is the Word…when we study the written Word, we are studying Jesus, the living Word…He with the Holy Spirit brings the written Word to life…truth, conviction…

Thank YOU….

Word of God speak…Mercy Me

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4JK_6osCH74

Ombré….

 Ombré….. 

“ombré

variants or ombre

: having colors or tones that shade into each other”

Merriam Webster  

If you watch any tv baking shows, it seems that ombré shows up somewhere as a technique which contestants have to try.

The subtle change from one shade to another, as in this picture from Joanns, lighter to darker purple….

Going through empty boxes yesterday, a friend found a gift of a beautiful shell hidden in the packing materials…ombré tans…I added it to my shell collection. But, marveling at the subtle color changes, it was hard to put down…the perfection made by a sea creature…a God inspired point of time…only He could help that creature make such beauty in the depths of the sea…and not by any accident…

A small thing, I know, but intricately fashioned…

If God cares and designs a “simple” shell, how much more He designs and creates us, with whom he desires to fellowship…

Thank YOU….

 O Lord, you have searched me and known me! 

You know when I sit down and when I rise up;you discern my thoughts from afar. You search out my path and my lying downand are acquainted with all my ways. 

Even before a word is on my tongue,behold, O Lord, you know it altogether. 

You hem me in, behind and before,and lay your hand upon me. 

Such knowledge is too wonderful for me;it is high; I cannot attain it. 

For you formed my inward parts;you knitted me together in my mother's womb. 

I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.

Wonderful are your works;my soul knows it very well. 

My frame was not hidden from you,when I was being made in secret,intricately woven in the depths of the earth. 

Your eyes saw my unformed substance;in your book were written, every one of them,the days that were formed for me,when as yet there was none of them. 

How precious to me are your thoughts, O God!

How vast is the sum of them! If I would count them, they are more than the sand.I awake, and I am still with you.

Ps.139.1-6, Ps.139.13-18

 Why, even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not; you are of more value than many sparrows.

 Luke.12.7

His eye is on the sparrow…

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Df3P4cO4Co0

New growth….

 New growth….

Last fall after harvest, I had some tree trimmers come in and prune my trees…some had grown 6 feet. I needed them pruned so that I didn’t need a ladder  and could just pick fruit as I walked around the trees…all of the sudden my huge forest shrunk as they pruned away…but it was much better…

Now,  just this week with a few warm days after so much cold, the bare limbs are bursting with growth…the buds are ready pop into blooms. What grand sight to see…

I don’t know if it will be a big fruit year or not…each year brings different sized crops…and I am thankful for each…two summers ago, my persimmons were bountiful, last year only a few, but so much growth in the tree itself, extending it branches and roots…

It seems like there are seasons in our lives like that…maybe not external fruit that we acknowledge, but deeper roots into abiding…more trust, more meditation/ contemplation/pondering…which is internal fruit…

Thank YOU….

 Abide in me, and I in you. 

As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. 

I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. 

If anyone does not abide in me he is thrown away like a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned. 

If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. 

By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples. 

As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father's commandments and abide in his love. 

These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.

John.15.4-11

Abide with me

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CYlf-tjcleA

Take time…

 Take time….

Take time…

 This is a trustworthy saying. And I want you to stress these things, so that those who have trusted in God may be careful to devote themselves to doing what is good. These things are excellent and profitable for everyone.

Titus.3.8

Let the meditation…

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3j9BcIzI0k

“Once upon a time, a very strong woodcutter asked for a job in a timber merchant and he got it. The pay was really good and so was the work condition. For those reasons, the woodcutter was determined to do his best.

His boss gave him an axe and showed him the area where he supposed to work.

The first day, the woodcutter brought 18 trees.

“Congratulations,” the boss said. “Go on that way!”

Very motivated by the boss words, the woodcutter tried harder the next day, but he could only bring 15 trees. The third day he tried even harder, but he could only bring 10 trees. Day after day he was bringing less and less trees.

“I must be losing my strength”, the woodcutter thought. He went to the boss and apologized, saying that he could not understand what was going on.

“When was the last time you sharpened your axe?” the boss asked.

“Sharpen? I had no time to sharpen my axe. I have been very busy trying to cut trees…”

Reflect on this:👇

Our lives are like that. We sometimes get so busy that we don’t take time to sharpen the “axe”. In today’s world, it seems that everyone is busier than ever, but less happy than ever.

Why is that? Could it be that we have forgotten how to stay “sharp”? There’s nothing wrong with activity and hard work.

But we should not get so busy that we neglect the truly important things in life, like our personal life, taking time to fulfill our hobbies, giving more time for our family, taking time to read, enhancing our skills, upgrading our knowledge, being aware of our strengths and weaknesses, spending time for our self-development and health etc.

We all need time to relax, to think and meditate, to learn and grow. If we don’t take the time to sharpen the “axe”, we will become dull and lose our effectiveness. “

Author Unknown

Thank YOU…

He is Risen…

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ol4VG2ABZss

What next?…

 What next….

He is risen…He is risen indeed…we hear and say these words over and over again during the Easter season…and they are true!!!

But, what next? That is not the end…as He returned, Luke says he was here on earth for 40 days, still speaking about the kingdom, teaching as he went about…but He gave directives to his disciples before he left to be with the Father… 

1. Wait for the Holy Spirit..

2. Then, “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always”…

 So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith.

Acts.6.7

The book of Acts following the gospels reveals the spreading of the Word, by persecution, by dispersion…by the disciples, one on one, any means God chooses…and He is not done yet….the message of Christ’ love, death and resurrection will continue through the ages…it is not a dead message, but a living Word…

The most published Book through time…

I hear over and over, “ oh, I wish Jesus would come back now”…

And I agree until I think of the empty books at the museum of the Bible…that represent those people who have not heard of Jesus in their language…

He has passed time, but it is not for us to know…our message is to proclaim…to all nations…and the the person next door…

Thank YOU…

 Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. 

Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

Matt.28.16-20

 Now that same day two of them were going to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem. They were talking with each other about everything that had happened. 

As they talked and discussed these things with each other, Jesus himself came up and walked along with them; but they were kept from recognizing him. 

He asked them, “What are you discussing together as you walk along?”

They stood still, their faces downcast. One of them, named Cleopas, asked him, “Are you the only one visiting Jerusalem who does not know the things that have happened there in these days?” 

“What things?” he asked.“About Jesus of Nazareth,” they replied. “He was a prophet, powerful in word and deed before God and all the people. The chief priests and our rulers handed him over to be sentenced to death, and they crucified him; but we had hoped that he was the one who was going to redeem Israel. 

And what is more, it is the third day since all this took place. In addition, some of our women amazed us. 

They went to the tomb early this morning but didn’t find his body. They came and told us that they had seen a vision of angels, who said he was alive. 

Then some of our companions went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said, but they did not see Jesus.” He said to them, “How foolish you are, and how slow to believe all that the prophets have spoken! Did not the Messiah have to suffer these things and then enter his glory?” 

And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself. As they approached the village to which they were going, Jesus continued on as if he were going farther. But they urged him strongly, “Stay with us, for it is nearly evening; the day is almost over.” So he went in to stay with them. When he was at the table with them, he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them. 

Then their eyes were opened and they recognized him, and he disappeared from their sight. 

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?” 

They got up and returned at once to Jerusalem. There they found the Eleven and those with them, assembled together and saying, “It is true! The Lord has risen and has appeared to Simon.” Then the two told what had happened on the way, and how Jesus was recognized by them when he broke the bread. 

While they were still talking about this, Jesus himself stood among them and said to them, “Peace be with you.” They were startled and frightened, thinking they saw a ghost. He said to them, “Why are you troubled, and why do doubts rise in your minds? Look at my hands and my feet. It is I myself! Touch me and see; a ghost does not have flesh and bones, as you see I have.” 

When he had said this, he showed them his hands and feet. And while they still did not believe it because of joy and amazement, he asked them, “Do you have anything here to eat?” They gave him a piece of broiled fish, and he took it and ate it in their presence. He said to them, “This is what I told you while I was still with you: Everything must be fulfilled that is written about me in the Law of Moses, the Prophets and the Psalms.” 

Then he opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures. 

He told them, “This is what is written: The Messiah will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, and repentance for the forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things. I am going to send you what my Father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high.” 

When he had led them out to the vicinity of Bethany, he lifted up his hands and blessed them. 

While he was blessing them, he left them and was taken up into heaven. 

Then they worshiped him and returned to Jerusalem with great joy. And they stayed continually at the temple, praising God.

Luke.24.13-53

John 20:11

John 21

 In my former book, Theophilus, I wrote about all that Jesus began to do and to teach until the day he was taken up to heaven, after giving instructions through the Holy Spirit to the apostles he had chosen. 

After his suffering, he presented himself to them and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God. 

On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command: “Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. 

For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.” 

Then they gathered around him and asked him, “Lord, are you at this time going to restore the kingdom to Israel?” 

He said to them: “It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority. 

But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” 

After he said this, he was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight. They were looking intently up into the sky as he was going, when suddenly two men dressed in white stood beside them. “Men of Galilee,” they said, “why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven.”

Acts.1.1-11

People need the Lord

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nbxvc6eeXso

‘‘Twas the night before Easter….

 ‘Twas the night before Easter….

A grieving mother, pondering in her heart all that had been revealed to her at the birth of her son…

 This is how the birth of Jesus the Messiah came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit. 

But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. 

She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” (which means “God with us”). “‘

But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah,are by no means least among the rulers of Judah;for out of you will come a rulerwho will shepherd my people Israel.’” 

After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen when it rose went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.

Matt.1.18,Matt.1.20-23,Matt.2.6,Matt.2.9,11

 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” 

Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven,and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.” 

But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.

Luke.2.10-15,19

Mary, who had stood at the foot of the cross watching her first born, die a slow death, giving her care over to another, cry, “it is finished”….what had happened to all those promises, the thousands he fed, the miracles he performed….

Or the disciples who watched, who fled, who followed this man who called them, befriended them, who taught them, who loved them, who sent them, who served them, who even rebuked them…what were they to do…they didn’t understand it all…they had dreams of a much different ending than a dirty cross on a hill…as they sat, humbled in a room hidden away….had they been so wrong to follow this man?

Or even  Pilate, was his wife still bothered by this man he tried, was he waiting as well or on to other conquests? Even as he had had the sign placed on the cross?

 Pilate had a notice prepared and fastened to the cross. It read: jesus of nazareth, the king of the jews. Many of the Jews read this sign, for the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city, and the sign was written in Aramaic, Latin and Greek. The chief priests of the Jews protested to Pilate, “Do not write ‘The King of the Jews,’ but that this man claimed to be king of the Jews.” Pilate answered, “What I have written, I have written.” 

Near the cross of Jesus stood his mother, his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. When Jesus saw his mother there, and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to her, “Woman, here is your son,” and to the disciple, “Here is your mother.” From that time on, this disciple took her into his home. Later, knowing that everything had now been finished, and so that Scripture would be fulfilled, Jesus said, “I am thirsty.” A jar of wine vinegar was there, so they soaked a sponge in it, put the sponge on a stalk of the hyssop plant, and lifted it to Jesus’ lips. When he had received the drink, Jesus said, “It is finished.” With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit. Now it was the day of Preparation, and the next day was to be a special Sabbath. Because the Jewish leaders did not want the bodies left on the crosses during the Sabbath, they asked Pilate to have the legs broken and the bodies taken down. The soldiers therefore came and broke the legs of the first man who had been crucified with Jesus, and then those of the other. But when they came to Jesus and found that he was already dead, they did not break his legs. Instead, one of the soldiers pierced Jesus’ side with a spear, bringing a sudden flow of blood and water. 

The man who saw it has given testimony, and his testimony is true. He knows that he tells the truth, and he testifies so that you also may believe. 

These things happened so that the scripture would be fulfilled: “Not one of his bones will be broken,” and, as another scripture says, “They will look on the one they have pierced.”

John.19.19-22,John.19.25-37

There’s a waiting…by people far and near…a waiting for the Sabbath to end…to take care of the dead properly…

But much more has happened…He arose…He defeated death…He is not in the grave awaiting a proper burial…He is alive…waiting for them…

 Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene went to the tomb and saw that the stone had been removed from the entrance. So she came running to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one Jesus loved, and said, “They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we don’t know where they have put him!”

 So Peter and the other disciple started for the tomb. Both were running, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first. He bent over and looked in at the strips of linen lying there but did not go in. Then Simon Peter came along behind him and went straight into the tomb. He saw the strips of linen lying there, as well as the cloth that had been wrapped around Jesus’ head. The cloth was still lying in its place, separate from the linen. Finally the other disciple, who had reached the tomb first, also went inside. 

He saw and believed. (They still did not understand from Scripture that Jesus had to rise from the dead.) 

Then the disciples went back to where they were staying. Mary Magdalene went to the disciples with the news: “I have seen the Lord!” And she told them that he had said these things to her. On the evening of that first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jewish leaders, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” 

After he said this, he showed them his hands and side. The disciples were overjoyed when they saw the Lord. Again Jesus said, “Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” And with that he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive anyone’s sins, their sins are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven.”

John.20.1-10, 20.18-23

The night before Easter has come and gone…day has dawned with new hope in a Risen, a real Savior…the promised one…there is still more to come…the story is not finished……

 And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us. 

You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. 

Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous person, though for a good person someone might possibly dare to die. 

But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

Rom.5.5-8 

Thank YOU….

Christ the Lord is risen today…

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ff5N8wLwqIQ

Sunday is coming…

 “He himself bore our sins” in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; “by his wounds you have been healed.”1Pet.2.24

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SUvpBphq5og

He received 39 stripes because 40 was known to kill a man. They wanted him alive. They held handfuls of his beard, and hair and pulled it out by the roots. They wanted him alive. They kicked, punched, and spit on him for hours. Until there wasn't a single spot on his body not covered in blood. They wanted him alive. They shoved a crown of thorns down on his head so harshly it stuck in his skin. They wanted him alive. 

After hours of being beaten, mocked, whipped, flogged, and tortured they made him walk with a cross. They made him carry it. A rough piece of wood with splinters digging into fresh wounds. They wanted him alive. They wanted him to feel every ounce of pain they could bring. He had to feel it in order to heal us. 

Crucifixion was historically one of the cruelest most tortured deaths a human could face. Hours upon hours of torture. Torture most of us can not mentally think of because the cruelty isn't normal. It isn't something our minds can comprehend. 

We celebrate Easter with pastel colors, happy children hunting eggs, and chocolate. Truth is there was absolutely nothing happy about the day Jesus died. It was cruel, bloody, and nasty.

He could have stopped all of it. He could have called every angel in heaven to demolish every person standing and shouting "Crucify Him!" He didn't. He knew in order to have a Sunday you have to have a Friday. He knew in order to have joy you have to carry your cross. 

He felt everything that day. He felt how your heart broke wide open when you had to watch your baby die. He felt how heavy your life was when you were staring down the barrel of a gun wondering if the man you called husband was going to shoot you. He carried the weight of the burden you have felt since your spouse died and life just doesn't seem right since. 

On that cross he held the rapist and murderers, the sinner and the saint. He leveled every playing field and said ALL of you are worth it. He knew he had to carry the cross. He never promised the cross you carry in this life would not be heavy. His promise is that Sunday is coming.

No matter how heavy Friday is. Financially, emotionally, mentally, or physically. Friday is heavy. That cross is weighing you down and you are about to crumble under its weight. His promise was simply this. He won't make you carry it alone. 

What kind of king would step down from his throne for this? Jesus of Nazareth, the Son of God did. For you. He did every bit of it for you and me. Oh yes it is heavy. So heavy sometimes you do not think you can take one more step. 

But look up, because Sunday is coming. ✝️

By Alicia Kovach

Good Friday service

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sq7gV1jxD-8

Good Friday…

 Good Friday….

This needs no explanation….

 After they had mocked him, they took off the robe and put his own clothes on him. 

Then they led him away to crucify him. As they were going out, they met a man from Cyrene, named Simon, and they forced him to carry the cross. 

They came to a place called Golgotha (which means “the place of the skull”). 

There they offered Jesus wine to drink, mixed with gall; but after tasting it, he refused to drink it. 

When they had crucified him, they divided up his clothes by casting lots. 

And sitting down, they kept watch over him there. Above his head they placed the written charge against him: this is jesus, the king of the jews. 

Two rebels were crucified with him, one on his right and one on his left. Those who passed by hurled insults at him, shaking their heads and saying, “You who are going to destroy the temple and build it in three days, save yourself! Come down from the cross, if you are the Son of God!” In the same way the chief priests, the teachers of the law and the elders mocked him. “He saved others,” they said, “but he can’t save himself! He’s the king of Israel! Let him come down now from the cross, and we will believe in him. He trusts in God. Let God rescue him now if he wants him, for he said, ‘I am the Son of God.’” 

In the same way the rebels who were crucified with him also heaped insults on him. From noon until three in the afternoon darkness came over all the land. About three in the afternoon Jesus cried out in a loud voice,    (which means “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”). 

When some of those standing there heard this, they said, “He’s calling Elijah.” Immediately one of them ran and got a sponge. He filled it with wine vinegar, put it on a staff, and offered it to Jesus to drink. 

The rest said, “Now leave him alone. Let’s see if Elijah comes to save him.” And when Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, he gave up his spirit. 

At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth shook, the rocks split and the tombs broke open. The bodies of many holy people who had died were raised to life. 

They came out of the tombs after Jesus’ resurrection and went into the holy city and appeared to many people. 

When the centurion and those with him who were guarding Jesus saw the earthquake and all that had happened, they were terrified, and exclaimed, “Surely he was the Son of God!” 

Many women were there, watching from a distance. 

They had followed Jesus from Galilee to care for his needs. Among them were Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James and Joseph, and the mother of Zebedee’s sons. 

As evening approached, there came a rich man from Arimathea, named Joseph, who had himself become a disciple of Jesus. Going to Pilate, he asked for Jesus’ body, and Pilate ordered that it be given to him. Joseph took the body, wrapped it in a clean linen cloth, and placed it in his own new tomb that he had cut out of the rock. 

He rolled a big stone in front of the entrance to the tomb and went away.Mary Magdalene and the other Mary were sitting there opposite the tomb.

Matt.27.32-61

Mark 15:16-16:19

Luke 23:26-56

 Finally Pilate handed him over to them to be crucified.

The Crucifixion of Jesus

So the soldiers took charge of Jesus. Carrying his own cross, he went out to the place of the Skull (which in Aramaic is called Golgotha). There they crucified him, and with him two others—one on each side and Jesus in the middle. 

Pilate had a notice prepared and fastened to the cross. It read: jesus of nazareth, the king of the jews. 

Many of the Jews read this sign, for the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city, and the sign was written in Aramaic, Latin and Greek. The chief priests of the Jews protested to Pilate, “Do not write ‘The King of the Jews,’ but that this man claimed to be king of the Jews.” 

Pilate answered, “What I have written, I have written.” 

When the soldiers crucified Jesus, they took his clothes, dividing them into four shares, one for each of them, with the undergarment remaining. 

This garment was seamless, woven in one piece from top to bottom. “Let’s not tear it,” they said to one another. “Let’s decide by lot who will get it.”This happened that the scripture might be fulfilled that said,“They divided my clothes among themand cast lots for my garment.”So this is what the soldiers did. 

Near the cross of Jesus stood his mother, his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. 

When Jesus saw his mother there, and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to her, “Woman, here is your son,” and to the disciple, “Here is your mother.” 

From that time on, this disciple took her into his home. Later, knowing that everything had now been finished, and so that Scripture would be fulfilled, Jesus said, “I am thirsty.” 

A jar of wine vinegar was there, so they soaked a sponge in it, put the sponge on a stalk of the hyssop plant, and lifted it to Jesus’ lips. 

When he had received the drink, Jesus said, “It is finished.” With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit. 

Now it was the day of Preparation, and the next day was to be a special Sabbath. 

Because the Jewish leaders did not want the bodies left on the crosses during the Sabbath, they asked Pilate to have the legs broken and the bodies taken down. 

The soldiers therefore came and broke the legs of the first man who had been crucified with Jesus, and then those of the other. But when they came to Jesus and found that he was already dead, they did not break his legs. 

Instead, one of the soldiers pierced Jesus’ side with a spear, bringing a sudden flow of blood and water. 

The man who saw it has given testimony, and his testimony is true. He knows that he tells the truth, and he testifies so that you also may believe. 

These things happened so that the scripture would be fulfilled: “Not one of his bones will be broken,” and, as another scripture says, “They will look on the one they have pierced.” 

Later, Joseph of Arimathea asked Pilate for the body of Jesus. Now Joseph was a disciple of Jesus, but secretly because he feared the Jewish leaders. With Pilate’s permission, he came and took the body away. He was accompanied by Nicodemus, the man who earlier had visited Jesus at night. Nicodemus brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about seventy-five pounds. 

Taking Jesus’ body, the two of them wrapped it, with the spices, in strips of linen. This was in accordance with Jewish burial customs. 

At the place where Jesus was crucified, there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb, in which no one had ever been laid. Because it was the Jewish day of Preparation and since the tomb was nearby, they laid Jesus there.

John 19:16-42

Thank YOU….

Sunday’s coming., Phil Wickham

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PJeiyCbVn6k

God of all my days…

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZYkZE8AogDE

He arose…

 He arose….

There are hard things about living in a health and rehab center…

You know many of these people will die here…Loneliness…depression… anger… lost or forgotten lives…no matter how upbeat and attentive the staff is…aging is hard…

Hard ones for me to watch are the couples, one admitted, the other at home…some look like they both should be here, but not…those faithful spouses who daily journey to care for their loved ones, some knowing while others not…commitment…

There are those whose countenance is a perpetual smile though…whether in total silence they smile or those who fumble,mumble their incoherent words, they still bring sunshine to those around them…”I am going down to eat because they like my smiling face…” one says as they wheel their way to the meal room…saying hello to each person they meet…a joy…

I have often said, I haven’t seen an “aging  101” book…and I am not sure I would like to read it either…

as an adult,I have seen both sets of my grandparents age and pass away, aunts and uncles, my parents, friends, my parents-in-law as well as my husband …some wanted total quiet, others a song and or a book…but none were an easy process…

The memories of their full, active lives can be seen in picture albums that will eventually be stored in boxes in attics somewhere…opened by some future generation to view and comment on…maybe even some diaries, prayer journals, and a book or two to read and ponder…even some digital recordings of voices long lost…probably no movies made of their life’s adventures, but lives well lived…and very much loved…

 “Show me, Lord, my life’s end and the number of my days;let me know how fleeting my life is. 

You have made my days a mere handbreadth;the span of my years is as nothing before you.

Everyone is but a breath,even those who seem secure.

Ps.39.45

 Lord, what are human beings that you care for them,mere mortals that you think of them? 

They are like a breath;their days are like a fleeting shadow.

Ps.144.3-4

I think through this Easter season, the true meaning of death and resurrection reigns down the ages….

We have Christ who came to seek and save the lost…who took upon himself the sins of the world, died and rose again…that those who believed in him, might have eternal life…in a place much more beautiful than we can imagine…prepared by him over time…

Those promises made to everyone make life here a bit more bearable…some I have met here will be there…friends and family will be there as well…

Thank YOU….

He arose..

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y3sdByw9uUc

Games

 Games…

Last night got a “big” Yahtzee game going. One of the workers, two permanent residents and myself.

Both permanent residents so sweet, one repeats everything you say, needs help with putting down her score, talks constantly about her love of puppies, ever ready smile and loves to throw the dice…her room mascot is a talking dog…

The other lost her husband after moving to the area, some family who rarely visit, cheerful…

The attendant was a young woman who helps the some of the residents and their activities…

Different people, all, different backgrounds, lifestyles, upbringing, but here we are where the playing field is pretty leveled…we need help for a period of time, either short or long…

It made me think of the crowds who followed Jesus….there were the sick,wounded, the curious, the wealthy, the poor…all seeking something from this man they had heard of and from…some wanting miracles,  wellness, an answer to life, a new government, and much more…

Sitting on those hillsides or wherever they went, listening, absorbing, staying or walking away…there was a leveling of some of the people….at times the “leaders” must have stood apart with their questions and accusations, not associating with the “commoners”…

But, Jesus fed them all, ministered to them all…no partiality.

He wants all to “come” and follow him, not just the fishermen, but the tax collector, the leaders, the followers, the sinners, the Samaritans, the Jews, the Gentiles, the loud, the quiet, the high born, or low…the gift of Salvation is for all who believe…

Thank YOU…

 Sing to the Lord, all the earth;proclaim his salvation day after day. Declare his glory among the nations,his marvelous deeds among all peoples.

1Chr.16.23-24

 For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people.

Titus.2.11

 so Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him.

Heb.9.28

All the earth will sing your praises…

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pg8D0qqpUVg

Balm…

 Balm….

Throughout this ordeal of hip pain and finally hip replacement, I have tried various salves or balms to cut down the pain…since I have been in this rehad facility, one of the PTs I have worked with has finished each session with one, rubbing it in, working the knotted, spastic muscles out…trying to get the “angry, complaining”muscles to calm down and heal…

At night I have rubbed the same salve in, followed by warming pads…as well as taking muscle relaxants.   Quite the process to go through for calming the body and accepting new body parts…but, so helpful….

It made me think of the old song, “There is a Balm in Gilead”.

So that lead me to look up verses with contained balm or Balm of Gilead..where did it come from, etc…there are only 7 references to balm…

The first is …

 As they sat down to eat their meal, they looked up and saw a caravan of Ishmaelites coming from Gilead. Their camels were loaded with spices, balm and myrrh, and they were on their way to take them down to Egypt.

Gen.37.25

This reference had a wonderful explanation….

“Thrown into a pit, his envious brothers were eager to be rid of him. A traveling group of Ishmaelites who traded goods—including the balm of Gilead, arrive on the scene. Ishmaelites were distant, often unfriendly, relatives of Israel. But the meaning of Ishmael is key—it means, “God that hears.” Despite the boy’s desperate situation, God had not forgotten him. Instead, the Lord provided a way out of the pit and a road leading to the purpose.

The writer also tells us the “camels were loaded with spices, balm , and myrrh.” I believe these details are important for a few reasons. First, Joseph would have recognized these items. Because God had given him unusual prophetic insight, I believe Joseph would have been encouraged by their presence as he realized God was with him and able to heal any wound, emotional or spiritual.”

The other verses speak of the balm as well…Gilead was known for it spices, herbs.

But, in the bigger picture, the balm, the healing comes from none other that Jesus…he is our healer, our balm…

There is a balm in Gilead 
To make the wounded whole
There is a balm in Gilead 
To heal the sin-sick soul

Sometimes I feel discouraged
And think my work's in vain
But then the Holy Spirit
Revives my soul again

Don't ever feel discouraged
For Jesus is your friend
And if you lack of knowledge
He'll ne'er refuse to lend

If you cannot preach like Peter
If you cannot pray like Paul
You can tell the love of Jesus
And say, "He died for all".

Written in the 1850’s

 Heal me, Lord, and I will be healed;save me and I will be saved,for you are the one I praise.

Jer.17:14

Thank YOU for your Balm….

There is a balm in Gilead

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BN9JALQRMb0

https://www.crosswalk.com/faith/bible-study/what-is-the-balm-of-gilead-according-to-the-bible.html

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/There_Is_a_Balm_in_Gilead

Lead you…

 

Lead you….

Verses 18 and 19 of John 21 have been on my mind a bit since living in this facility….about 1/3 of the facility is for rehab, those who come to heal and go home….leaving 2/3 for those who are permanent residents. Some permanent ones are mixed in with the rehad patients, but most are in their own area…but we all eat together…and no fixed sitting assignments.

My first week I was in a wheelchair so the attendant put me wherever there was a spot…along with the majority of people in wheelchairs. Now, I take my pillow and find a vacant chair(not many-less than 5).

Verses 18 and 19 follow the section where Jesus grills Peter about his love.

Jesus gives Peter his assignment, Peter renews his commitment to Jesus…

Jesus says to Peter….

“Feed my lambs”

“Take care of my sheep”

“Feed my sheep”

 When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?”“Yes, Lord,” he said, “you know that I love you.”Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.” Again Jesus said, “Simon son of John, do you love me?”He answered, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.”Jesus said, “Take care of my sheep.” 

The third time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?”

Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love me?” He said, “Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.”Jesus said, “Feed my sheep. 

(Then Jesus tells Peter of his end days…)

Very truly I tell you, when you were younger you dressed yourself and went where you wanted; but when you are old you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go.” Jesus said this to indicate the kind of death by which Peter would glorify God. Then he said to him, “Follow me!”

John.21.15-19

And while I realize this passage may allude to Peter’s martyrdom…the picture is so here and now…for me…the people I am living with…

They were all younger, I was younger once, going where they/I wanted, living the Life…pursuing careers, marrying, traveling, having children, driving, etc, etc, etc….

And now here we are, being dressed by another, lead places we may not want to go…watching through the windows at life going by..the world has shrunk to a bed, a bathroom, hallways leading to the kitchen or rehab room…

It is a time where I go to the first verses, renewing my Love for Christ…feeding,caring  for those whom Christ brings across my path…

There is no break for age…serve as best we can wherever we are…

Thank YOU…

Psalm 23

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mo3HgtT_OiE

Whatever….

 Whatever….

 So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.

1Cor.10.31

I took a few pictures of encouraging signs as I made my way around the hallways of this establishment…

I could have  been at a school, a business, a library, etc,etc, etc….the need to get along with one another, work well together is there…we need kindness, encouragement, compassion, care to have a society, group, family that grows well, works well together…

 A kindhearted woman gains honor,but ruthless men gain only wealth. Those who are kind benefit themselves,but the cruel bring ruin on themselves.

Prov.11.16-17

 Anxiety weighs down the heart,but a kind word cheers it up. Where there is strife, there is pride,but wisdom is found in those who take advice. 

The teaching of the wise is a fountain of life,turning a person from the snares of death. 

Good judgment wins favor,but the way of the unfaithful leads to their destruction 

..Prov.12.25,Prov.13.10,Prov.13.14,Prov.13.15

Thank YOU for your daily instructions..