Daily Manna (Coffee with Jesus)

The health care community is so excited, aren’t they?  Millions of aging “Boomers” have now arrived in their late sixties to claim their hard-earned social security with maybe a small pension from work to survive on as they age.  But what is of most concern, we are now a “gold mine” for those in the medical community!

There are now billions to be made from boomers with constantly evaluating every part of our physical bodies looking for ways to build their medical practices, grow lucrative insurance agencies, along with other side companies for the “aging”.  Millions are spent on commercials to entice to take more drugs that will keep us healthy.  Drug companies advertise to be the “sure fix” for any problem that might ail us.  I say “us” because I am a boomer.  My husband is a boomer.  We are literally harassed daily by insurance companies, medical laboratories, business people in the health care industry trying to get our “business” because they “care.” Sigh.

Mm, I wonder what would happen in this world if believers paid this much serious attention to what the most important health issue is of all –our spiritual health!  Jesus addresses this issue with a diagnosis:  Work all that I have said to you into your daily thinking and behaviors. Don’t be dumb and act like you’re doing it, seriously do it.  God looks at the heart—we aren’t fooling Him, friends!

Reread all of Luke 6 for the prescription for robust spiritual health!  Here is the “capstone” as Jesus closes his words that give life!

Luke 6, The Message

Work the Words into Your Life

^43-45 “You don’t get wormy apples off a healthy tree, nor good apples off a diseased tree. The health of the apple tells the health of the tree. You must begin with your own life-giving lives. It’s who you are, not what you say and do, that counts. Your true being brims over into true words and deeds.

^46-47 “Why are you so polite with me, always saying ‘Yes, sir,’ and ‘That’s right, sir,’ but never doing a thing I tell you? These words I speak to you are not mere additions to your life, homeowner improvements to your standard of living. They are foundation words, words to build a life on.

^48-49 “If you work the words into your life, you are like a smart carpenter who dug deep and laid the foundation of his house on bedrock. When the river burst its banks and crashed against the house, nothing could shake it; it was built to last. But if you just use my words in Bible studies and don’t work them into your life, you are like a dumb carpenter who built a house but skipped the foundation. When the swollen river came crashing in, it collapsed like a house of cards. It was a total loss.”

WHAT DO WE LEARN—HOW DO WE RESPOND?

THE FOUNDATION

Begin with believing Jesus died to save us from our sins and rose from the grave to defeat death which gives life eternal to all who repent of their sins.  This is the foundation to build on for healthy living.  “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16) NO ONE on earth can provide abundant, robust living that leads to eternal life –no matter how hard this world tries to tell us they can. 

THE ”DO’S”

So many times, the world thinks the emphasis is made only on the don’ts: “don’t do this, it’s for your own good”. Jesus goes beyond what the world considers “good” to what pleases God who is good.  It’s all about God.

We change how we behave, something we cannot do ourselves, but because of who Jesus is in us as His Holy Spirit works on us.  The enticement to do what the world does fades in comparison to living out the words of Jesus.  All of this begins with heart check.  Whatever is in our hearts controls our thinking which results in how we behave. 

Don’t be dumb, says Jesus, be smart!  Work Jesus’ words of Truth into our lives.  It all begins with a new heart and then flows to our minds and fills our souls.  When Jesus guides all we think, do, and say, our spiritual life brims with health!  Our new way of thinking becomes a new way of living.  It becomes a habit to:

• Love our enemies.
• Do good to those who hurt or offend us.
• To gift wrap our best and give that to those who take from us.
• Pray for those who give us a hard time.
• Practice serving more than expecting to be served.
• Do for others without thought of receiving anything in return.
• Live generously. 
• Love extravagantly. 
• Forgive completely as Jesus forgives us.

Lord,

Thank you for reminding us that to know, but not do, is not knowing at all!  Cleanse our hearts, renew and transform our minds, refresh our souls with your new mercies for today and restore the joy that gives peace of your salvation at work within us. Change me, Lord.

In Jesus Name, Amen

I love road trips! The journey is fun. The radio is playing our favorite songs.  We look forward to our destination that has been planned for months.  We can’t wait to get there to see and do all those things we dreamed of enjoying.  Then we see the signs.  They are large and in charge with their bold, black lettering with a florescent orange background.  We abhor them.  They unnerve us.  Our joy is robbed the minute we see them for we know what might happen because of past experiences with these signs that say, “Construction ahead.” 

We know there will be a either a slowdown, detour, or a possible closing of the road we planned to take.  We groan and even get angry when our control is lost and we must do what more signs say that line the road we chose to go.  “Slow down” “Stay in the right lane” “Do not pass” “Detour ahead” “Follow the detour.”  All are warnings to get us safely to our destination.  But, this is not the way we planned!

If we go our own way in unfamiliar territory there will be more trouble ahead if…

Luke 6, The Message

Give Away Your Life

²⁴ But it’s trouble ahead if you think you have it made.
What you have is all you’ll ever get.

²⁵ And it’s trouble ahead if you’re satisfied with yourself.
Your self will not satisfy you for long.

And it’s trouble ahead if you think life’s all fun and games.
There’s suffering to be met, and you’re going to meet it.

²⁶ “There’s trouble ahead when you live only for the approval of others, saying what flatters them, doing what indulges them. Popularity contests are not truth contests—look how many scoundrel preachers were approved by your ancestors! Your task is to be true, not popular.

^27-30 “To you who are ready for the truth, I say this: Love your enemies. Let them bring out the best in you, not the worst. When someone gives you a hard time, respond with the supple moves of prayer for that person. If someone slaps you in the face, stand there and take it. If someone grabs your shirt, giftwrap your best coat and make a present of it. If someone takes unfair advantage of you, use the occasion to practice the servant life. No more payback. Live generously.

^31-34 “Here is a simple rule of thumb for behavior: Ask yourself what you want people to do for you; then grab the initiative and do it for them! If you only love the lovable, do you expect a pat on the back? Run-of-the-mill sinners do that. If you only help those who help you, do you expect a medal? Garden-variety sinners do that. If you only give for what you hope to get out of it, do you think that’s charity? The stingiest of pawnbrokers does that.

^35-36 “I tell you, love your enemies. Help and give without expecting a return. You’ll never—I promise—regret it. Live out this God-created identity the way our Father lives toward us, generously and graciously, even when we’re at our worst. Our Father is kind; you be kind.

^37-38 “Don’t pick on people, jump on their failures, criticize their faults—unless, of course, you want the same treatment. Don’t condemn those who are down; that hardness can boomerang. Be easy on people; you’ll find life a lot easier. Give away your life; you’ll find life given back, but not merely given back—given back with bonus and blessing. Giving, not getting, is the way. Generosity begets generosity.”

^39-40 He quoted a proverb: “‘Can a blind man guide a blind man?’ Wouldn’t they both end up in the ditch? An apprentice doesn’t lecture the master. The point is to be careful who you follow as your teacher.

^41-42 “It’s easy to see a smudge on your neighbor’s face and be oblivious to the ugly sneer on your own. Do you have the nerve to say, ‘Let me wash your face for you,’ when your own face is distorted by contempt? It’s this I-know-better-than-you mentality again, playing a holier-than-thou part instead of just living your own part. Wipe that ugly sneer off your own face and you might be fit to offer a washcloth to your neighbor.

WHAT DO WE LEARN—HOW DO WE RESPOND?

Jesus posts all the warning signs on our journey of life.  Imagine the same bold, black lettering on a bright orange background that says, “TROUBLE AHEAD.” When we go our own way in life, expect detours that will lead to know where as we cling to our “know-it-all” attitudes.

Jesus knows our human tendencies, emotions, and feelings, that drive our fallen behaviors.  So, Jesus schools us with higher thinking along with examples of Kingdom responses to life that are opposite to how we would naturally respond without thinking of the consequences.  Construction instruction:  Read this passage as many times as needed until our behaviors begin to match who we say we believe!

Jesus teaches us to love like God loves us—unconditionally and relentlessly—no matter what people do or say!  We learn from Jesus that there is nothing God won’t forgive in us; so to be like Him, we must forgive like He does.

Jesus defines the generosity of God.  “Give away your life; you’ll find life given back, but not merely given back—given back with bonus and blessing. Giving, not getting, is the way. Generosity begets generosity.”  Jesus is our standard for generosity and was our perfect example of giving His life for ours.

CONSTRUCTION AHEAD!

We are a work in progress!  In fact, just like our highways, we are continually in construction.  When we think we have it one part under God’s control, then God’s Holy Spirit shows us another area that needs work.  Paul shares his (and ours) state of continual work in him as encouragement to us:

“Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 3:12-14

“being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 1:6

There is a completion date—when Jesus comes back!  God only knows that date and time.  So, journey with Jesus!  He is the Way, Truth, and Life that leads us home.

Lord,

You have reminded me that I am a work under continual construction.  You have encouraged me to know that failures are lessons to be learned.  I’m leaving what I know that generally leads to trouble to lean on your wisdom, insight and understanding.  I trust in You, the Master of masterpieces, as you continue your daily work on me. You are God.  I am not.  Do what you must so I will be all you created me to be.

In Jesus Name, Amen

Wait, what?  Which one of these is not like the other?  Blessings do not seem to fit or register with losses, hurts, tears, sicknesses, and grieving but to God it makes perfect sense.  Until we go through challenging times, hurt from others, devastating things of this imperfect world we cannot seem to focus on the blessings of knowing a perfect Savior who wants to be Lord of our lives.  Think about it.  Take all the time you need. Then read our next passage.

Luke 6, The Message

You’re Blessed

^17-21 Coming down off the mountain with them, he stood on a plain surrounded by disciples, and was soon joined by a huge congregation from all over Judea and Jerusalem, even from the seaside towns of Tyre and Sidon. They had come both to hear him and to be cured of their diseases. Those disturbed by evil spirits were healed. Everyone was trying to touch him—so much energy surging from him, so many people healed! Then he spoke:

You’re blessed when you’ve lost it all.
God’s kingdom is there for the finding.

You’re blessed when you’re ravenously hungry.
Then you’re ready for the Messianic meal.

You’re blessed when the tears flow freely.
Joy comes with the morning.

^22-23 “Count yourself blessed every time someone cuts you down or throws you out, every time someone smears or blackens your name to discredit me. What it means is that the truth is too close for comfort and that that person is uncomfortable. You can be glad when that happens—skip like a lamb, if you like!—for even though they don’t like it, I do . . . and all heaven applauds. And know that you are in good company; my preachers and witnesses have always been treated like this.

WHAT DO WE LEARN—HOW DO WE RESPOND?

We will not escape times of hurt, pain, and sometimes agony of living on earth.  But blessed are we when all that happens to us works for the good of what God wants to do in us!

Jesus has become very popular on earth for two reasons: 

• He has the power to heal all sicknesses, restore broken bones, and cast out demons. 
• They also are ready and want to hear what He has to say because of these miracles.    

Yes, hungry, hurt, sick, possessed people are now ready to see, hear, and be blessed by God’s message of salvation—the forgiveness of sins.  And we are, too!

We are blessed—

• With an unconditional, relentless love that we have never experienced before knowing Him.
• With His message of mercy delivered by God’s gift of grace when we repent of our sins.
• With being made whole and set free from the bondage of past behaviors.
• When giving all back to the One who created all and owns all—the One who loves us most and wants the best for us. 
• With power and encouragement to keep moving forward, forgiving those who hurt us with sarcastic comments, critical judgements of our behavior, while rejecting Jesus who lives in us.  When people hurt us, Jesus says they hurt Him, too.
• When we ask for wisdom in doing life here.  God delights in the details!
• When we give up our control for His agenda. 
• Knowing Jesus as Savior and Lord of our everything!

When all is lost and we come to the end our ourselves we discover that all we really, ever needed was, is and forever will be Jesus.  Jesus is the Way, Truth, and Life!  Jesus is the Promised Messiah sent to save us!  What a blessing! 

God pours out His blessings in a variety of ways according to what He knows we need.  His Word proclaims and explains His blessings from the prophets to the apostles. Here are a few—

Malachi 3:10 “Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. And thereby put me to the test, says the Lord of hosts, if I will not open the windows of heaven for you and pour down for you a blessing until there is no more need.”

Philippians 4:19 “And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.”

Matthew 6:33 “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”

3 John 1:2 “Beloved, I pray that all may go well with you and that you may be in good health, as it goes well with your soul.”

Acts 20:35 “In all things I have shown you that by working hard in this way we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”

Leviticus 27:30 “Every tithe of the land, whether of the seed of the land or of the fruit of the trees, is the Lord’s; it is holy to the Lord.”

Revelation 12:9 “And the great dragon was thrown down, that ancient serpent, who is called the devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world—he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him.”  God wins in the end!  Greatest blessing of all!

Matthew 28:19-20 “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

I love this quote from Tim Keller—

“Have you heard God’s blessing in your inmost being? Are the words, ‘You are my beloved child, in whom I delight’ an endless source of joy and strength? Have you sensed, through the Holy Spirit, God speaking to you?

That blessing- the blessing through the Spirit that is ours through Christ- is what Jacob received and it is the only remedy against idolatry. Only that blessing makes idols unnecessary. As with Jacob, we usually discover this only after a life of ‘looking for blessings in all the wrong places.’ It often takes an experience of crippling weakness for us to finally discover it. That is why so many of the most God-blessed people limp as they dance for joy.”

“Count your many blessings, name them one by one…” is not about the material things of this life as much as it is about the spiritual things of God who enriches our lives with His love through believing in His Son.  The blessings we count are the ways God’s character is growing within us.  I am a life that was changed by Jesus.  I am a life that is consistently transforming by the grace of God.  He still has work to do in me!  I have not arrived, but I am blessed by His work that will be completed when I see Him face to face.

Lord,

We are blessed beyond measure by You who saved us from all our sins.  We are blessed to be able to come boldly to your throne and ask for wisdom and help.  We are blessed by the Comforter and Helper you sent to live within us to guide us.  We are blessed by your love, mercy, and grace—so undeserving—yet you pour these blessings out daily.  Thank you, thank you, thank you.  I am humbled by your rich blessings to me.

In Jesus Name, Amen

Everyone who followed Jesus closely would observe Him leaving the group often.  He would get away by Himself, walking a good distance away, to pray to God, His Father.  It probably didn’t faze the followers when He did this and t’s not surprising to us either who are called to do the work of God.  We get it, right?  Even the most extroverted, whose energy comes from being around people, need to chill.  Those inclined to be introverted can’t imagine life without a place to go where they can be alone with their thoughts as people exhaust them.

But do we really “get it”?  Do we understand what Jesus is really doing in his getaways from the followers?  Mm, I don’t think we do completely.

Luke 6, The Message

The Twelve Apostles

^12-16 At about that same time he climbed a mountain to pray. He was there all night in prayer before God. The next day he summoned his disciples; from them he selected twelve he designated as apostles:

Simon, whom he named Peter,

Andrew, his brother,

James,

John,

Bartholomew,

Matthew,

Philip,

Thomas,

James, son of Alphaeus,

Simon, called the Zealot,

Judas, son of James,

Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him.

WHAT DO WE LEARN—HOW DO WE RESPOND?

We learn in this short but meaningful passage what Jesus does BEFORE doing anything of significance that will affect God’s Kingdom work.

Jesus, Son of God/Son of Man goes BEFORE God to pray God’s Kingdom come, God’s will be done. 

Jesus spends all night in prayer BEFORE God, as necessary, until Jesus knows exactly what to say, who to call as disciples, along with orders of what and where to go next.  (Did Jesus have conversation about Judas on this night of prayer?  Just wondering.) 

The mission was clearly given and consistently defined from God to Jesus who often declares: “For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.”  (Luke 19:10) But it seems Jesus’ mission was clarified and assured with how He will accomplish the work of salvation as He goes BEFORE God on his knees.  Jesus, though tempted to sin, was without sin.  Jesus stayed in close communication with the One who sent Him. 

Jesus did not say or do anything BEFORE going to God.  “For I did not speak on my own, but the Father who sent me commanded me to say all that I have spoken. I know that his command leads to eternal life. So whatever I say is just what the Father has told me to say.” –Jesus, (John 12:49-50)

“Very truly I tell you, the Son can do nothing by himself; he can do only what he sees his Father doing, because whatever the Father does the Son also does. For the Father loves the Son and shows him all he does. Yes, and he will show him even greater works than these, so that you will be amazed.”–Jesus, (John 5:19-20)

Ah, what we thought was merely a getaway from the crowds is really a “go-to” God for what to say and do next.  Do we?  Do we go BEFORE God for everything in our lives?  Or do we think this is not necessary?  The latter thinking seems very arrogant to me now. 

If Jesus went BEFORE God for everything in the Son’s life on earth, from choosing disciples, to healing the broken-hearted, while on his way to ultimately save the world—then who am I to think it is not necessary to go BEFORE God and ask for His will to be done in my life? 

God delights in the details of our lives!  Here’s proof:

• “The LORD directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the LORD holds them by the hand.” Psalms 37:23-25

• Since God does not change, He delights in your prayers just as much as yesterday as He does today—as He will forever (Hebrews 13:8). Go to your Father knowing that He is never bored of you or your prayers. He loves them, delights in them, and wants to hear them.

• “The Lord detests the sacrifice of the wicked, but he delights in the prayers of the upright.” Proverbs 15:8

• Psalm 147:11- “God delights in those who reverence him and trust him and put their hope in his unfailing love.” God does not delight in strength (v. 10) but he delights in us when we acknowledge our weakness and our need of him.

One of my favorite assurances of His Presence in those who love God and come before God is found in Zephania 3:17: “The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.”  God is with us, saves us, delights in us, and rejoices over us!  This is the character of God!  This is the everlasting, relentless, amazing, unchanging, unconditional love of God!

Why not go BEFORE God?  BEFORE submitting to a life of details, commitments, and self-made agendas that lead to overwhelming, overthinking, overscheduled, burdensome lives—Go BEFORE God ask Him what He wants.  (“My yoke is light…”) We might even choose what is good, but He knows what is best for each one of us for “such a time as this” in our lives. 

Leaders in God’s work must go before Him.  If you do not then what you do is all about you—MEinstry (all for self on your own limited strength and wisdom) not ministry  that helps others find and follow Jesus with direction from God.

“Lead me, Lord” is heartfelt prayer I learned to pray BEFORE doing anything else: 

• As a young mom of three going to buy groceries on a limited budget.  And God led.
• As a young teacher of a classroom full of first graders.  And God led.
• As a wife who loves her husband.  And God led.
• When buying a car, home, or a loaf of bread.  And God led.
• When choosing friends.  And God led.
• When discerning who among our friends and coworkers was telling the truth.  And God led.
• When deciding to change careers.  And God led.
• When knowing when to speak and when to be silent and wait on God.  And God led.
• Before reading His Word each morning.  And God leads.
• And before writing “Daily Manna” each day.  And God leads!

I’m a detail person.  It thrills my heart to know God wants to hear my details.  Yes, every detail, God wants and delights in hearing from us.  I am a life with praises of proof!

Believe and be saved from sins.  Live life to the full by going to God before doing or saying anything—Be like Jesus and follow in His ways. God can be trusted, believe me!  Better still, believe Him!

Lord,

Thank you for taking us deeper into your word and realizing fully why you “got away” to pray.  Thank you for bending down to hear us, teach us, and delight in us.  Being your child, your beloved, makes all the difference in my life.

In Jesus Name, Amen

Leaning on the everlasting arms.
Leaning, leaning,
Safe and secure from all alarms;
Leaning, leaning,
Leaning on the everlasting arms…

Physical hunger nags at the stomachs of the traveling band of disciples.  Without really thinking about what day it is; they grab a handful of grain as they walk through a field.  They use their hands to harvest the sweet grain from the hulls.  The Lord of the Sabbath sanctions this way of feeding his followers for there is more work ahead to be done and they need to be fed.

Later, as the Lord of the Sabbath is teaching at a local synagogue, he sees a man with a withered hand.  Jesus asks the man stand before all who are gathered and says, “hold out your hand.”  The man obeys and right before the eyes of everyone, his hand is made new.

Whether hands are used to satisfy extreme hunger or a hand used to display his authority and healing power from God in Him, Jesus will not hesitate to prove to unbelievers Who He is.  And He still does!

Am I ready and willing to hold out my hands to receive all that He wants to give to show the world Who He is?

What have I to dread, what have I to fear,
Leaning on the everlasting arms;
I have blessed peace with my Lord so near,
Leaning on the everlasting arms.

Leaning, leaning,
Safe and secure from all alarms;
Leaning, leaning,
Leaning on the everlasting arms.

Luke 6, The Message

In Charge of the Sabbath

6 ^1-2 On a certain Sabbath Jesus was walking through a field of ripe grain. His disciples were pulling off heads of grain, rubbing them in their hands to get rid of the chaff, and eating them. Some Pharisees said, “Why are you doing that, breaking a Sabbath rule?”

^3-4 But Jesus stood up for them. “Have you never read what David and those with him did when they were hungry? How he entered the sanctuary and ate fresh bread off the altar, bread that no one but priests were allowed to eat? He also handed it out to his companions.”

⁵ Then he said, “The Son of Man is no slave to the Sabbath; he’s in charge.”

^6-8 On another Sabbath he went to the meeting place and taught. There was a man there with a crippled right hand. The religion scholars and Pharisees had their eyes on Jesus to see if he would heal the man, hoping to catch him in a Sabbath violation. He knew what they were up to and spoke to the man with the crippled hand: “Get up and stand here before us.” He did.

⁹ Then Jesus addressed them, “Let me ask you something: What kind of action suits the Sabbath best? Doing good or doing evil? Helping people or leaving them helpless?”

^10-11 He looked around, looked each one in the eye. He said to the man, “Hold out your hand.” He held it out—it was as good as new! They were beside themselves with anger, and started plotting how they might get even with him.

WHAT DO WE LEARN—HOW DO WE RESPOND?

Who’s in charge?  Who is Lord?  Good or evil? 

These are the questions with solid answers that Jesus gives his accusers who are being used by the evil one to bring Jesus down for the purpose of destroying His mission from God.  These religious leaders are so taken in by the lies of the enemy that their pride rules their hearts.  They are so fearful of losing their current power over people, that they attempt to control Who God has sent to save them from themselves and their sins. 

The religious without relationship to God do not offer a hand to help or give a hand to welcome.  They do not lift their hands in praise to God for the healing power that takes place.  They only point fingers of hate as they judge every move Jesus makes. 

The Lord of the Sabbath knows that and proves His authority from God who sent Him.

What’s really going on here?  The religious leaders, over generations have added to God’s Law for the purpose of power.  These tedious rules are a burden, hurting with no thought for helping people.  These rules, not in the original law, but merely their interpretations of The Law are used to “lord it over” the people.  In other words, they think they’re in charge.  Jesus comes to fulfill God’s original Law that was intended to help, protect, and nurture His people.  Jesus comes with power to heal.  So, fear sets in to those who think they may lose their manmade power.

The religious leaders are blind. They cannot see God in Jesus standing right in front of them.  

They are deaf.  They cannot hear what Jesus is saying because their ears are no longer tuned to God’s voice.  These leaders are hardhearted and reflect Isaiah’s words to other blind servants of God;

“Hear, you deaf; look, you blind, and see!  Who is blind but my servant, and deaf like the messenger I send?  Who is blind like the one committed to me, blind like the servant of the Lord?  You have seen many things, but have paid no attention; your ears are open, but you hear nothing.”  (Isaiah 42:18-20) 

According to Isaiah, the result of this condition of remaining spiritually deaf and blind are lives lost, becoming plunder for the enemy.  (Read the whole chapter.)

What is our response today? 

We must hold out our hands to Jesus for His healing, ready to receive His salvation.  We must use our hands to get a grip His hands of love, mercy, and grace, holding on for dear life!  We lift our hands to God and cry out for His wisdom, insight and understanding. The Lord of the Sabbath sent from God promises to give what you ask when hearts are sincere, ready to let go of self to gain all that God wants to give. His promises are true.  God cannot and does not lie.

So, be healed of spiritual blindness and deafness.  Guard your heart!  Even we, as God’s people can become spiritually blind and deaf during challenging times in our lives that weaken us. How does that happen? We stop listening to God and his Word and start doing things our own way. We stop paying attention to what God’s doing around us and instead focus solely on our own agendas and our hurt.

God has called us to be light to a dying world. But how can we be light when we are just as deaf and blind as the world is? Avoid being that way.  Let us keep our eyes and ears open to our heavenly Father, as Jesus did. Let us always look at what God is doing in us and around us, and put our hands in His, joining Him in His work.  May we refuse to join the blind and the deaf, but let us go out to them, bringing them out of darkness into God’s light.  That’s what the Lord of the Sabbath tells us to do!  And He’s in charge!

Lord,

You are in charge because of who you are!  You are God.  No one else is God.  There is no one else like You.  You are Truth.  You do not lie.  You love us; the enemy hates us.  You want the best for us; the enemy wants to destroy us. 

So, I lift my hands to you this morning in praise to You.  I also hold out my hands to receive all you want to give to help me on my journey here in preparation for my eternal home with you there.  You are God.  I am not.  I’m yours—heart, mind, and soul.  Show your ways, your agenda for today, and I will follow.

In Jesus Name, For Your Glory, Amen

Oh, how sweet to walk in this pilgrim way,
Leaning on the everlasting arms;
Oh, how bright the path grows from day to day,
Leaning on the everlasting arms.

Change happens.  Seasons and phases of life come and go no matter where you live in the world. We can’t stop change from happening. Change just is.  It seems the older we get the faster change happens.  Changes roar past us like speeding freight trains, at times.  When we were young, change seemed slow as molasses but when we are older, we not only see rapid changes taking place; we see, hear, taste, feel and touch change that is undeniably occurring daily all around us.  We cannot control change, but what we can control is choosing a life that changes us in the best way, from the inside out, by the One who created us and loves us so much He laid down His life for us.

Jesus changes us by removing what is not of God.  He works from the inside out and outside in with the compassionate love of God!  God created us with uniqueness.  There is no one exactly like us. Who we are, designed by God, is not thrown out but shaped and molded by The Potter.  For this to happen, we as the “clay” must go through radical changes as it becomes a work of art for His glory.  As the changes are made by God’s Holy Spirit, we become a masterpiece of God’s heart!

Luke 5, The Message

Invitation to a Changed Life

¹² One day in one of the villages there was a man covered with leprosy. When he saw Jesus he fell down before him in prayer and said, “If you want to, you can cleanse me.”

¹³ Jesus put out his hand, touched him, and said, “I want to. Be clean.” Then and there his skin was smooth, the leprosy gone.

^14-16 Jesus instructed him, “Don’t talk about this all over town. Just quietly present your healed self to the priest, along with the offering ordered by Moses. Your cleansed and obedient life, not your words, will bear witness to what I have done.” But the man couldn’t keep it to himself, and the word got out. Soon a large crowd of people had gathered to listen and be healed of their sicknesses. As often as possible Jesus withdrew to out-of-the-way places for prayer.

¹⁷ One day as he was teaching, Pharisees and religion teachers were sitting around. They had come from nearly every village in Galilee and Judea, even as far away as Jerusalem, to be there. The healing power of God was on him.

^18-20 Some men arrived carrying a paraplegic on a stretcher. They were looking for a way to get into the house and set him before Jesus. When they couldn’t find a way in because of the crowd, they went up on the roof, removed some tiles, and let him down in the middle of everyone, right in front of Jesus. Impressed by their bold belief, he said, “Friend, I forgive your sins.”

²¹ That set the religion scholars and Pharisees buzzing. “Who does he think he is? That’s blasphemous talk! God and only God can forgive sins.”

^22-26 Jesus knew exactly what they were thinking and said, “Why all this gossipy whispering? Which is simpler: to say ‘I forgive your sins,’ or to say ‘Get up and start walking’? Well, just so it’s clear that I’m the Son of Man and authorized to do either, or both. . . .” He now spoke directly to the paraplegic: “Get up. Take your bedroll and go home.” Without a moment’s hesitation, he did it—got up, took his blanket, and left for home, giving glory to God all the way. The people rubbed their eyes, stunned—and then also gave glory to God. Awestruck, they said, “We’ve never seen anything like that!”

^27-28 After this he went out and saw a man named Levi at his work collecting taxes. Jesus said, “Come along with me.” And he did—walked away from everything and went with him.

^29-30 Levi gave a large dinner at his home for Jesus. Everybody was there, tax men and other disreputable characters as guests at the dinner. The Pharisees and their religion scholars came to his disciples greatly offended. “What is he doing eating and drinking with misfits and ‘sinners’?”

^31-32 Jesus heard about it and spoke up, “Who needs a doctor: the healthy or the sick? I’m here inviting outsiders, not insiders—an invitation to a changed life, changed inside and out.”

³³ They asked him, “John’s disciples are well-known for keeping fasts and saying prayers. Also the Pharisees. But you seem to spend most of your time at parties. Why?”

^34-35 Jesus said, “When you’re celebrating a wedding, you don’t skimp on the cake and wine. You feast. Later you may need to exercise moderation, but this isn’t the time. As long as the bride and groom are with you, you have a good time. When the groom is gone, the fasting can begin. No one throws cold water on a friendly bonfire. This is Kingdom Come!

^36-39 “No one cuts up a fine silk scarf to patch old work clothes; you want fabrics that match. And you don’t put wine in old, cracked bottles; you get strong, clean bottles for your fresh vintage wine. And no one who has ever tasted fine aged wine prefers unaged wine.”

WHAT DO WE LEARN—HOW DO WE RESPOND?

“If you want to…”  There was never a more humbled request, expressed by a man with an illness that forced him to be an outcast of society.  Jesus simply responded in kind, “I want to.”  Because the man humbly came to Jesus with a sincere heart, the man was healed. God looks at the heart and know the intent of the soul.  The man was changed from the outside in and inside out! 

When Jesus does the changing, we are compelled to talk about our new life in Him!  Jesus instructed the now clean from leprosy man to first quietly do what the law required him to do so he could come back to live in his community a changed man.  Jesus gave him an extra piece of wisdom and encouragement along with the instruction: “Your cleansed and obedient life, not your words, will bear witness to what I have done.”  This statement leaps off the page for me this morning.  Our changed lives will bear witness to what Jesus has done in us! 

God’s Holy Spirit enters in when we say a heartfelt, humbled yes to Jesus.  God’s Holy Spirit who lives in us is the secret to our changed behaviors that will occur as our Helper renews our devoted hearts, minds, and souls given to Jesus.  This is a decision made daily to trade our very limited, imperfect will, based on what we see in front of us, for knowing God’s perfect and pleasing will that He all-knowingly sees ahead of us.  See Romans 12:1-2

“If you want to …Believe it, God wants to!

Not everyone wants to change, however.  Jesus’ healing power has brought many people with all kinds of ailments seeking His touch. While sitting around in a clustered discussion group, you know the type, the religious leaders come to watch.  The have also come to judge the situation and decide whether to “sanction” Jesus’ actions—or not. They lie in wait, like lions getting ready to pounce, watching and listening to see what He will say and do next with hardened hearts looking for ways to bring Him down.

Everything about Jesus is called into question by those unwilling to believe Him.  The finale comes when Jesus parties in celebration of the newly called, changed life of a tax collector.  Oh my, this is the last straw for the religious leaders who devoted their whole lives to teaching every snippet of the Law without knowing the intent of God who wrote the Law!  Jesus is Kingdom come!  But they refuse to acknowledge that Jesus is the Messiah they have read about, talked about and taught to others for generations! Centuries have passed but the Promise of Messiah come has been fulfilled! 

But they missed it.  Their heads were far too deep in the scrolls to see Messiah move about the neighborhood providing what the people needed most—A Savior with authority to heal and forgive.  They missed Jesus who came to show the Way back to God.  They refused the offer for a new life with a forever relationship with God who has loved them from the beginning of creation.  “God with us” was indeed with them, in person, relating to all people in incredibly, unforgettable ways.  But they missed Him.  They missed celebrating the Lord of the Sabbath.  They missed the very One who the empty chair was for that was traditionally placed at The Passover Table each year.  Most of all, they missed a beautiful, loving, compassionate, relentless relationship with our Savior and Lord who sacrificed Himself to pay the debt of our sins.  No, they did not want to anyone to change their hearts and minds.  They did not want Jesus to change their ways of doing life.  Instead, they wanted to kill Him and remain unchanged.

Jesus is still calling out to the lost today.  Don’t be the one who misses His calling out to you.  He loves you more than humans can even imagine.  Because of His love, there is nothing you have said or done that He will not forgive.  Don’t miss Him.  It’s a matter of life and death! 

If you want to … Believe, accept the gift of eternal life, repent, love God back, while following the One who loves you most and gave His life for yours!  Your life will never be the same—you will be changed for eternity! 

How do I know?  I am a life that was changed and is changing still in the Name of Jesus.

Lord,

Thank you for teaching us from so many angles about how you love people and long to save us.  Cleanse our hearts, renew our minds, refresh our souls with your new mercies, and restore the joy of your salvation at work with us all because of your love for us.

In Jesus Name, Amen

When was the last time you were so awed by what Jesus was doing in your life that it overwhelmed you enough to fall to your knees in deep awe of Him?  What a glory those “shock and awe” moments are to us, right?  It seems to happen when we are at our lowest, feeling nothing but extreme tiredness and discouragement, knowing we have exhausted all our own efforts at making life better.  Then Jesus comes, intervenes with a miracle unimaginable, and changes everything about us! 

Luke 5, The Message

Push Out into Deep Water

^1-3 Once when he was standing on the shore of Lake Gennesaret, the crowd was pushing in on him to better hear the Word of God. He noticed two boats tied up. The fishermen had just left them and were out scrubbing their nets. He climbed into the boat that was Simon’s and asked him to put out a little from the shore. Sitting there, using the boat for a pulpit, he taught the crowd.

⁴ When he finished teaching, he said to Simon, “Push out into deep water and let your nets out for a catch.”

^5-7 Simon said, “Master, we’ve been fishing hard all night and haven’t caught even a minnow. But if you say so, I’ll let out the nets.” It was no sooner said than done—a huge haul of fish, straining the nets past capacity. They waved to their partners in the other boat to come help them. They filled both boats, nearly swamping them with the catch.

^8-10 Simon Peter, when he saw it, fell to his knees before Jesus. “Master, leave. I’m a sinner and can’t handle this holiness. Leave me to myself.” When they pulled in that catch of fish, awe overwhelmed Simon and everyone with him. It was the same with James and John, Zebedee’s sons, coworkers with Simon.

^10-11 Jesus said to Simon, “There is nothing to fear. From now on you’ll be fishing for men and women.” They pulled their boats up on the beach, left them, nets and all, and followed him.

WHAT DO WE LEARN—HOW DO WE RESPOND?

The Chosen series depicts this passage well as it tells of the fisherman, Simon, who will do anything and everything, legal or not, to merely keep food on the table for his family. This series captures the emotions of Simon who will be called Peter, the Rock, by Jesus later.  But for now, nothing in Simon’s life turns out well.  Simon is what we would call a “player”, a manipulator who is as untrustworthy as the tax collectors in his community!  Simon has been put down by the oppressive government who demands more taxes than he and his brother can possible pay. No one can afford what the Romans expect in payment.  This is oppression that keeps people in their powerless state of mind in all ways so the Romans can stay in control over them. 

Along with Roman oppression is the oppression of the religious leaders who also want/demand power and control over God’s people.  Growing up in the Hebrew system of teaching as a young boy at the local Synagogue, Simon observed the power grabbing, arrogant Teachers of the Law whose goal was to gain great wealth and prestige on the backs of those just trying to survive each day.  Simon is smart and witty, impetuous, and quick tempered.  He hears and memorizes the Word but does not see the value in following priests who seem to only perform for applause and guilt people into paying more temple taxes while being void of the compassion of caring for the conditions of the people God called them to serve.  Simon has a warped view of God.

Where God guides—He provides!  With the funds gained from this haul of fish, that filled not one boat but two, prepared the fishermen with an immediate way to follow the One who called them to be fishermen of men and women! 

Then Jesus enters Simon’s way of life, disrupting his thinking and view of life and of God!  Jesus’ miracle “catch of the day” catches Simon of guard!  This “shock and awe” moment drives him to his knees—knee deep in fish!  What a perfect miracle for a fisherman!  This miracle also causes a sinful Simon to fall to his knees in humility before Jesus.  Simon has a new attitude!

Jesus tells them the Truth because Jesus is Truth.  They are drawn to Truth.  Jesus has come into their world to show all people the Way back to God, the Truth about God, while offering Life forever with God!  These fishermen don’t understand it all—yet—but they know enough to realize their need for Jesus and all He has to offer—so they follow. Yes, Jesus changes everything about us when we say yes to Him.  Simon was changed.  Simon’s view of God was no longer blocked.  Simon was not the only one who followed that morning of miracles!  Andrew, James and John also followed.

Our world is hungry to know Truth, too.  Have we been so knee deep in awe of Jesus that His glory can be seen on our faces and observed in our behaviors?  Are we telling the Truth and living the Truth of Jesus each day so others will know?  Who are we “catching” as we throw out the nets of His love, mercy, and grace of the Truth of Jesus’ salvation for all?  We are called to be “fishers of men and women.” Are we?

If you are not sure of knowing the Truth of Jesus as Savior and Lord of your life, there is a way to be very sure and assured: 

• Believe, really believe that Jesus is who God said He is. 
• Repent of sins in Jesus Name and sins are removed and gone forever!
• Bury the past and avoid going back to the “scene of your crimes” to replay the hurt.
• Follow Jesus with all your focus on Him.  Be attentive to His Holy Spirit who now lives in you to help you follow Truth.
• Ask for His wisdom and God will give it.  Confused? God will give you clarity.
• Where God guides, God will provide more than you can imagine to help you grow in His loving ways as you relate to others.
• Allow and invite the Holy Spirt to lead you into all Truth. 
• Truth is, God doesn’t want anyone to perish in darkness but to thrive forever in the Light of His glory and grace. 
• Know that God is for us, not against us. 
• Trust God.  Surround yourself with others who trust God no matter what the circumstances.

Be knee deep in awe of Jesus who saved us and reconciled us to God!  Hallelujah!  For as Jesus said, “There is nothing to fear. From now on you’ll be fishing for men and women.”

Oh Lord,

Thank you for all the ways you show us that you are with us always! Thank you for your Word that assures us. Thank you for all the miraculous ways you intervene in our lives that draw our attention away from the dark ways of the world to the light of your love, mercy, and grace.  You are Truth.  Cleanse our repentant hearts, renew our thinking, refresh our souls with your new mercies for today, and restore the joy, peace and awe of your salvation at work within us.  To you be the glory!  Hallelujah, what a Savior!  Be in every detail of our lives today as we declare your salvation to the world in need.

In Jesus Name, Amen

“If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”2 Chronicles 7:14

God heard the cries of the humble.  He provided a way back to Him with healing, wholeness, and forgiveness in one package.  God sent His One and Only Son, the One with power to heal, set free those bound by demons, while showing a refreshing and sincere compassion to the brokenhearted and oppressed with love for those the community deem unacceptable. He is Messiah come to save us from all our sins.  He is the Way, Truth, and Life for everyone who believes and follows Him.  He is Jesus Christ, Son of Man who bore our sins and Son of God who is the Victor over death.

Luke 4, The Message

He Healed Them All

^38-39 He left the meeting place and went to Simon’s house. Simon’s mother-in-law was running a high fever and they asked him to do something for her. He stood over her, told the fever to leave—and it left. Before they knew it, she was up getting dinner for them.

^40-41 When the sun went down, everyone who had anyone sick with some ailment or other brought them to him. One by one he placed his hands on them and healed them. Demons left in droves, screaming, “Son of God! You’re the Son of God!” But he shut them up, refusing to let them speak because they knew too much, knew him to be the Messiah.

^42-44 He left the next day for open country. But the crowds went looking and, when they found him, clung to him so he couldn’t go on. He told them, “Don’t you realize that there are yet other villages where I have to tell the Message of God’s kingdom, that this is the work God sent me to do?” Meanwhile he continued preaching in the meeting places of Galilee.

WHAT DO WE LEARN—HOW DO WE RESPOND?

The demons recognized Jesus because they knew Him well.  They knew where He came from and where He was going.  They knew His mission as Messiah!  The devil, AKA as “the father of lies”, lived among the angels in heaven until this demon of pride was expelled, throw out, and banished from heaven for trying to be God and take His place.  Yes, to say the demons know Jesus is an understatement.  They know Jesus and know what He is capable of doing. 

This fallen angel, as scripture describes, has an army of demons who were banished with him.  Who is this fallen angel?  What does he look like and how does he behave?  God’s word is full of descriptions and warnings so that we can be made aware of the dangers of succumbing to his antics, temptations and stirred thoughts that seek to destroy us.  The devil’s character traits are opposite of God’s character.  Galatians 5 and other passages in God’s Word describe these traits clearly.  AND like a chameleon, he can look like all that is good!  But he is not…it’s all an act to draw us in for the kill!

“For such people are false apostles, deceitful workers, masquerading as apostles of Christ. ¹⁴ And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. ¹⁵ It is not surprising, then, if his servants also masquerade as servants of righteousness. Their end will be what their actions deserve.” 2 Corinthians 11:13-15

“Keep a cool head. Stay alert. The Devil is poised to pounce, and would like nothing better than to catch you napping. Keep your guard up. You’re not the only ones plunged into these hard times. It’s the same with Christians all over the world. So keep a firm grip on the faith. The suffering won’t last forever. It won’t be long before this generous God who has great plans for us in Christ—eternal and glorious plans they are!—will have you put together and on your feet for good. He gets the last word; yes, he does.”   1 Peter 5:8, MSG

The devil’s demons know Jesus has power over them.  That’s why we read often that the demons scream for mercy!  The demons of the devil, the real enemy of mankind, know they don’t stand a chance of holding their grip on the souls of those possessed by them when Jesus enters the room. They knew and still know that Jesus was/is/always will be the Son of God, sent by God, who will heal, rescue, and ultimately be the sacrifice for all the sins of the world.  But the demons of the devil still put up a fight while knowing they won’t win.  Their persistent goal is to continue to make life miserable for their victims until Jesus is asked to intervene and set them free from bondage!

When the crowds of people found Jesus, they clung to Him and would not let Him go.

To combat the demons in our lives that continually harass us with thoughts of discontent, worry, and selfishness that breeds pride and arrogance, cling to Jesus.  It’s a daily decision to stay in His Presence guided by His Holy Spirit.  When you feel the pull to do otherwise, look up and say, “I trust you, Jesus!”  “Lead me, dear Jesus.”  You will be amazed how this declaration diminishes the devil’s promptings when prayed in the Name of Jesus!

Believe and be saved.  Repent and be restored. 

Cling to Jesus and don’t let Him go from your heart, mind, and soul. 

Love as if your life depended on it…because it does!

Lord,

We cling to your love today with a firm grip of faith.  Come and cleanse our hearts, renew our minds, refresh our souls with your new mercies and restore the joy and peace of your salvation at work within us.  Thank you for loving us the way you do. Thank you for warning us of the dangers of the evil one who seeks to distract us from you and all that is good.

In Jesus Name, Amen

We must admit, it is hard to go back where we grew up and expect people to realize we did indeed grow up!  You’re not that kid anymore that people “freeze-framed” in their minds.  Maybe we left our hometown to go to college in another state or country.  Maybe our work took us to another city.  Whatever the situation, we find ourselves meeting new friends with different backgrounds.  We have new experiences that open the doors to new learning about all people, not just our hometown people.

Maybe we even developed a new language or accent different than the way we talked before we left our hometown. Living among people with different cultural traditions expanded the world for us.  We are thought of with current information our friends know about us with today’s perspectives of us.  We are not judged by our past but by our present persona and behaviors by those with whom we’ve have met and formed relationships.

To go home takes us quickly back to the “way we were,” like an old, sad song, to a place where people “knew you when” and love to remind you all of all the mistakes you made.  Jesus understands because He lived it even as He became the “talk of the town whose words made things happen” like no one else before Him—except in His own hometown of Nazareth. And He was perfect, without sin! 

Luke 4, The Message

To Set the Burdened Free

^14-15 Jesus returned to Galilee powerful in the Spirit. News that he was back spread through the countryside. He taught in their meeting places to everyone’s acclaim and pleasure.

^16-21 He came to Nazareth where he had been raised. As he always did on the Sabbath, he went to the meeting place. When he stood up to read, he was handed the scroll of the prophet Isaiah. Unrolling the scroll, he found the place where it was written,

God’s Spirit is on me;
    he’s chosen me to preach the Message of good news to the poor,
Sent me to announce pardon to prisoners and
    recovery of sight to the blind,
To set the burdened and battered free,
    to announce, “This is God’s time to shine!”

He rolled up the scroll, handed it back to the assistant, and sat down. Every eye in the place was on him, intent. Then he started in, “You’ve just heard Scripture make history. It came true just now in this place.”

²² All who were there, watching and listening, were surprised at how well he spoke. But they also said, “Isn’t this Joseph’s son, the one we’ve known since he was just a kid?”

^23-27 He answered, “I suppose you’re going to quote the proverb, ‘Doctor, go heal yourself. Do here in your hometown what we heard you did in Capernaum.’ Well, let me tell you something: No prophet is ever welcomed in his hometown. Isn’t it a fact that there were many widows in Israel at the time of Elijah during that three and a half years of drought when famine devastated the land, but the only widow to whom Elijah was sent was in Sarepta in Sidon? And there were many lepers in Israel at the time of the prophet Elisha but the only one cleansed was Naaman the Syrian.”

^28-30 That set everyone in the meeting place seething with anger. They threw him out, banishing him from the village, then took him to a mountain cliff at the edge of the village to throw him to his doom, but he gave them the slip and was on his way.

^31-32 He went down to Capernaum, a village in Galilee. He was teaching the people on the Sabbath. They were surprised and impressed—his teaching was so forthright, so confident, so authoritative, not the quibbling and quoting they were used to.

^33-34 In the meeting place that day there was a man demonically disturbed. He screamed, “Stop! What business do you have here with us, Jesus? Nazarene! I know what you’re up to. You’re the Holy One of God and you’ve come to destroy us!”

³⁵ Jesus shut him up: “Quiet! Get out of him!” The demonic spirit threw the man down in front of them all and left. The demon didn’t hurt him.

^36-37 That knocked the wind out of everyone and got them whispering and wondering, “What’s going on here? Someone whose words make things happen? Someone who orders demonic spirits to get out and they go?” Jesus was the talk of the town.

WHAT DO WE LEARN—HOW DO WE RESPOND?

“Isn’t this Joseph’s son, the one we’ve known since he was just a kid?”

BACKGROUND INFORMATION:  It was Jesus’ custom to attend public worship, a custom His followers should imitate today (Hebrews 10:24, 25). Jesus might have argued that the “religious system” was corrupt, or that He didn’t need the instruction, but instead, He made His way on the Sabbath to the place of prayer. He followed tradition.

• A typical synagogue service opened with an invocation for God’s blessing and then the recitation of the traditional Hebrew confession of faith (Deut. 6:4–9; 11:13–21). This was followed by prayer and the prescribed readings from the law and from the prophets, with the reader paraphrasing the Hebrew Scriptures in Aramaic.
• This was followed by a brief sermon given by one of the men of the congregation or perhaps by a visiting rabbi (see Acts 13:14–16).
• If a priest was present, the service closed with a benediction. Otherwise, one of the laymen prayed and the meeting was dismissed.

Jesus was asked to read the Scripture text and to give the sermon. His earthly family was probably in attendance.  The passage Jesus read included Isaiah 61:1, 2, which He chose for His text. The Jewish rabbis interpreted this passage to refer to the Messiah, and the people in the synagogue knew it well. You can imagine how shocked they were when Jesus boldly said that it was written about Him and that “today this Scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.”  But the hometown leaders and onlookers could only judge Jesus as that kid of questionable birth rocking their world with saying He is who they have been waiting for—the Messiah come to save them!

God’s Chosen hear a renewed perspective from the same loving God through His Son, Jesus:  God is for all people!  At first, the people in the synagogue admired the way He taught, but it didn’t take long for their admiration to turn into antagonism. Why? Because Jesus began to remind them of God’s goodness to the Gentiles! The prophet Elijah bypassed all the Jewish widows and helped a Gentile widow in Sidon (1 Kings 17:8–16), and his successor Elisha healed a Gentile leper from Syria (2 Kings 5:1–15).

Jesus’ message of grace was a blow to the proud Jewish exclusivism of the congregation, and they would not repent. Imagine this hometown boy saying that Jews had to be saved by grace just like the pagan Gentiles! And yet we who are Gentiles can take great comfort in these words from Jesus!

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16

“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” Romans 12:1-2

What others say about us based on what little knowledge they might have becomes so irrelevant and insignificant in the Light of who God says we are to Him—His sons and daughters—joint heirs with Jesus, the One who came to earth to save us!

Scripture proves God’s Truth:  Salvation is for everyone!

“If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by openly declaring your faith that you are saved. As the Scriptures tell us, “Anyone who trusts in him will never be disgraced.”Jew and Gentile are the same in this respect. They have the same Lord, who gives generously to all who call on him. For “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”  Romans 10:9-13

“But not everyone welcomes the Good News, for Isaiah the prophet said, “Lord, who has believed our message?”So faith comes from hearing, that is, hearing the Good News about Christ.”  Romans 10:16-17

“Oh, how great are God’s riches and wisdom and knowledge! How impossible it is for us to understand his decisions and his ways!

For who can know the Lord’s thoughts?
    Who knows enough to give him advice?^]
And who has given him so much
    that he needs to pay it back?

For everything comes from him and exists by his power and is intended for his glory. All glory to him forever! Amen.”  Romans 10:33-36

There is no one like our God!  Immanuel, “God with us”, Messiah who has come to save us!  All of us! 

Lord,

You welcome home all who believe.  We might not be able to go back to where we grew up and be treated with respect for who we belong to now but You treat us with equal compassion when we come home to You.  This world is not our home.  You are!  Your faithfulness to us has been evident through all the generations behind us, currently, including all ahead of us.  Your compassion and mercies never fail and your deep love for us never changes!  You see our hearts and encourage our growth.  You are for everyone who believes and loves you back.  Thank you for giving all of us as many chances as necessary to fall on our knees and declare you as our Savior and Lord of our lives.  I am grateful.  You are good, so good. Thank you, thank you, thank you!  I’m “at home” when I am with you always.

In Jesus Name, Amen

Wouldn’t it be great if a liar’s pants really would burst into flames with the first hint of a lie?

If you deny there is an evil spirit who lurks around seeking people whose minds are easily used by him for evil, then you are a prime candidate for Satan.  If you say Jesus is impressive and worth celebrating at Christmas but He is not your Savior and Lord; then you are putty in the hands of the evil one who is ready to do great harm in you and around you.

Oh, but that’s not all!  Even if, or especially if, we believe in God and love God with all our heart, mind, and soul and have given our life to Jesus and are living a redeemed life in Christ—The devil comes at us with full force!  But he cannot overcome us or separate us from what God has done for us and put into us—His love and His salvation of our souls.    

The devil does not “make us” do anything, we have the ability and power to choose to allow his lies, his empty promises, his thoughts of evil to strike back at anyone who offends us to enter our being and determine our eternity.  (Read that again—as many times as necessary.)

How does the Devil do this?  The following passage shows how powerful this fallen angel from God’s Presence thinks he is.  This being’s power is very limited and behaves in every way that is not of God.  That is our first clue to his lying ways.  The devil wants us to think he can do anything.  But he cannot.  He is a liar.  In fact, Jesus calls him “the father of lies.”  Every lie created by man and said out loud originated from The Liar.  He teaches us to lie.

The devil is also crafty and manipulating as he plays on our weaknesses to get what he wants most—our souls.

The devil knows Jesus well.  The devil is so proud of himself that he thinks he can bring God’s Son to his way of thinking …

Luke 4, The Message

Tested by the Devil

4 ^1-2 Now Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, left the Jordan and was led by the Spirit into the wild. For forty wilderness days and nights he was tested by the Devil. He ate nothing during those days, and when the time was up he was hungry.

³ The Devil, playing on his hunger, gave the first test: “Since you’re God’s Son, command this stone to turn into a loaf of bread.”

⁴ Jesus answered by quoting Deuteronomy: “It takes more than bread to really live.”

^5-7 For the second test he led him up and spread out all the kingdoms of the earth on display at once. Then the Devil said, “They’re yours in all their splendor to serve your pleasure. I’m in charge of them all and can turn them over to whomever I wish. Worship me and they’re yours, the whole works.”

⁸ Jesus refused, again backing his refusal with Deuteronomy: “Worship the Lord your God and only the Lord your God. Serve him with absolute single-heartedness.”

^9-11 For the third test the Devil took him to Jerusalem and put him on top of the Temple. He said, “If you are God’s Son, jump. It’s written, isn’t it, that ‘he has placed you in the care of angels to protect you; they will catch you; you won’t so much as stub your toe on a stone’?”

¹² “Yes,” said Jesus, “and it’s also written, ‘Don’t you dare tempt the Lord your God.’”

¹³ That completed the testing. The Devil retreated temporarily, lying in wait for another opportunity.

WHAT DO WE LEARN—HOW DO WE RESPOND?

We learn that the Devil wants our souls for the sheer pleasure of seeing our faith in God ultimately destroyed and our bodies burned in a fiery forever death by torture.

We learn that Jesus, Son of God, was tempted by the Devil as we are tempted today.  The Devil lied to Jesus about his limited power to get him to jump off a building to his death.  The Devil also lied about what he could offer to Jesus.  How ridiculous!  The Devil is crafty but so full of pride he is ignorant—thinking that he owns what belongs to God and is able to give it to His Son!  Wow.

Jesus teaches us how to combat the enemy—with knowing and quoting God’s Word that is Truth.  God’s Word is always the opposite of the devil’s lies and propositions to us.  God’s Word sifts through all the lies and the “almost truth but not quite” thoughts that the devil plants in our minds to reveal what is right and good for us—Truth.  Truth always rises to the top when the lies of people whom the devil uses in his scheme to destroy us is put into motion.  That’s way we “wait” at times on God to reveal what is True.  God always reveals Truth and does not withhold it from us!

The devil confuses us.  Jesus bring clarity to any given situation.

Does the devil enter our thoughts?  YES!  Our minds, even in sleeping, is the entry point for his manipulation of our thoughts!  Just last night Randy and I both had separate dreams that troubled us so much we woke with wonderings.  We dreamed that our love for each other was attacked by each other!  What?!  We woke troubled for a nanosecond until we realized the lie told to us in our sleep!  Yes, the devil works on our minds first then he will suggest behaviors to follow those thoughts. Watch out for that crooked finger of beckoning that is consistently tempting us to forget God and all that is good from God!

Be like Jesus. Know God’s Word. 

Jesus immediately responds to the father of lies with God’s Word.  Jesus teaches us that responding with Truth combats and defuses the Lie.    

“I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.” Psalm 119:11 God’s bank of knowledge and wisdom is our best line of defense as we skirmish with the one who has already been defeated in the ultimate battle.  Jesus has already won but the devil still seeks to draw us from Him in tiresome skirmishes until Jesus comes back again. 

Jesus worships God the Father and no one else.  Ask daily: Who is the object of our worship?  We are easy prey if there is something or someone we worship that blocks us from our view of God and our relationship with God.  What we think about most is what we worship.

Jesus responds to, “you can do whatever you want” by the devil, with a resolute and final word— “Do not test the Lord, Your God.”  This put an end to the testing—for now.

When we look at the life of Jesus’ ministry closely, we learn that He often spent “time away by Himself” in prayerful communication with His Father.  In fact, before anything significant was done by Jesus, Jesus first spent time alone with God.  Before choosing his disciples, before miracles, before healing, before the sacrifice for our sins–before anything—Jesus went to His Father first.  What a great example for us!

And guess what?!  What the devil hates most and limits his power is seeing we who believe on our knees in communion with God in the Name of Jesus, His Son!  God’s word says, he will flee when we are in this state of mind.  “Resist the devil and he will flee from you.” (James 4:7) The devil knows he cannot win against God but what keeps him going in his game of manipulating our hearts, minds, and souls, because to him this is an open door in his attempt to crush our spirits, test our faith, with the goal to ultimately destroy our souls.

“So let God work his will in you. Yell a loud no to the Devil and watch him make himself scarce. Say a quiet yes to God and he’ll be there in no time. Quit dabbling in sin. Purify your inner life. Quit playing the field. Hit bottom, and cry your eyes out. The fun and games are over. Get serious, really serious. Get down on your knees before the Master; it’s the only way you’ll get on your feet.” James 4:7, MSG

So, we have a choice.  Who do we worship?  Who do we believe?  Who will we follow? 

Who do you trust?  Who do you love with ALL your heart, mind, and soul?  Who do you say yes to every day of your life?

I pray wisdom for all of us.  We have the resurrection power of Christ who lives in all who believe to resist the temptations of the evil one.  Rely on His power!

Lord,

Lead us not into temptations but deliver us from all evil and evil’s schemes to draw us from all who is good—You.  May your will be done in every detail of our lives today and always.

In Jesus Name, Amen