A LEPER...Does God's healing draw me back to His Face?
Luke 17:11 -13It happened that as he made his way toward Jerusalem, he crossed over the border between Samaria and Galilee. As he entered a village, ten men, all lepers, met him. They kept their distance but raised their voices, calling out, "Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!" Taking a good look at them, he said, "Go, show yourselves to the priests." ... One of them, when he realized that he was healed, turned around and came back, shouting his gratitude, glorifying God. He kneeled at Jesus' feet, so grateful. He couldn't thank him enough—and he was a Samaritan. "Were not ten healed? Where are the nine? So the question is: Who do I turn to for the miraculous things He does for me?
A WIDOW...Does God Silence draw me back to His Face?
Luke 18:1 -5 Jesus told them a story showing that it was necessary for them to pray consistently and never quit. He said, "There was once a judge in some city who never gave God a thought and cared nothing for people. A widow in that city kept after him: 'My rights are being violated. Protect me!' He never gave her the time of day. But after this went on and on he said to himself, 'I care nothing what God thinks, even less what people think. But because this widow won't quit badgering me, I'd better do something and see that she gets justice—otherwise I'm going to end up beaten black-and-blue by her pounding.'" Do I have that kind of persistent faith?
A BLIND MAN...Does God's Presence draw me back to His Face?
Luke 18:35 -37 He came to the outskirts of Jericho. A blind man was sitting beside the road asking for handouts. When he heard the rustle of the crowd, he asked what was going on. They told him, "Jesus the Nazarene is going by." He yelled, "Jesus! Son of David! Mercy, have mercy on me!" Those ahead of Jesus told the man to shut up, but he only yelled all the louder, "Son of David! Mercy, have mercy on me!" Jesus stopped: "What do you want from me?" ... Your faith has saved and healed you.
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Saturday, October 30, 2010
October 30 ... Luke 14 - 16 "Be Smart for What is Right"
"Be Yourself"
Luke 14:11 If you walk around with your nose in the air, you're going to end up flat on your face. But if you're content to be simply yourself, you will become more than yourself."
"We Have to Celebrate"
Luke 15:20 "When he was still a long way off, his father saw him. His heart pounding, he ran out, embraced him, and kissed him. The son started his speech: 'Father, I've sinned against God, I've sinned before you; I don't deserve to be called your son ever again.' But the father wasn't listening. ... We're going to feast! We're going to have a wonderful time! My son is here—given up for dead and now alive! But when the day's work was done and the older son heard the music and dancing, he knew something was up. This tells me that music and dancing wasn't a part of their everyday lives. Wonder why the older brother couldn't rejoice over what was happening in the life of his younger brother.
Verse 31: "His father said, 'Son, you don't understand." We had to celebrate. He was dead and he's alive. Wonder how much I don't understand of what happens to me and others? What a welcoming Father! No lecture. No reminders. No pretense. Just wide open arms.
"Use Adversity to Stimulate You to Creative Survival"
Luke 16:8-11 - A shrewd manager knew how to take care of himself by reducing the bills others owed to him to entice them to pay a significant amount. "Streetwise people are smarter in this regard than law-abiding citizens. They are on constant alert, looking for angles, surviving by their wits. I want you to be smart in the same way—but for what is right—using every adversity to stimulate you to creative survival, to concentrate your attention on the bare essentials, so you'll live, really live, and not complacently just get by on good behavior."
Dr. Luke has verified stories of how to live, I mean really live!
Luke 14:11 If you walk around with your nose in the air, you're going to end up flat on your face. But if you're content to be simply yourself, you will become more than yourself."
"We Have to Celebrate"
Luke 15:20 "When he was still a long way off, his father saw him. His heart pounding, he ran out, embraced him, and kissed him. The son started his speech: 'Father, I've sinned against God, I've sinned before you; I don't deserve to be called your son ever again.' But the father wasn't listening. ... We're going to feast! We're going to have a wonderful time! My son is here—given up for dead and now alive! But when the day's work was done and the older son heard the music and dancing, he knew something was up. This tells me that music and dancing wasn't a part of their everyday lives. Wonder why the older brother couldn't rejoice over what was happening in the life of his younger brother.
Verse 31: "His father said, 'Son, you don't understand." We had to celebrate. He was dead and he's alive. Wonder how much I don't understand of what happens to me and others? What a welcoming Father! No lecture. No reminders. No pretense. Just wide open arms.
"Use Adversity to Stimulate You to Creative Survival"
Luke 16:8-11 - A shrewd manager knew how to take care of himself by reducing the bills others owed to him to entice them to pay a significant amount. "Streetwise people are smarter in this regard than law-abiding citizens. They are on constant alert, looking for angles, surviving by their wits. I want you to be smart in the same way—but for what is right—using every adversity to stimulate you to creative survival, to concentrate your attention on the bare essentials, so you'll live, really live, and not complacently just get by on good behavior."
Dr. Luke has verified stories of how to live, I mean really live!
Friday, October 29, 2010
October 29 ... Luke 12 - 13 "The Great Reversal...Strangers to Grace"
Luke 12:2 "You can't keep your true self hidden forever; before long you'll be EXPOSED. You can't hide behind a religious mask forever; sooner or later the mask will slip and your true face will be known. You can't whisper one thing in private and preach the opposite in public..."
Luke 12:5 Save your FEAR for God, who holds your entire life—body and soul—in his hands.
Luke 12:15. Life is not DEFINED by what you have, even when you have a lot."
Luke 12:22 "Don't fuss about what's on the table at mealtimes or if the clothes in your closet are in fashion. There is far more to your inner life than the food you put in your stomach, more to your outer APPEARANCE than the clothes you hang on your body.
Luke 12:29 "What I'm trying to do here is get you to relax, not be so PREOCCUPIED with getting so you can respond to God's giving. ...Steep yourself in God-reality, God-initiative, God-provisions. You'll find all your everyday human concerns will be met. ...
Luke 12:53 Do you think I came to smooth things over and make everything nice? Not so. I've come to DISRUPT and CONFRONT!
Luke 13:28 - 30 - You don't want to end up STRANGERS TO GRACE or you'll watch Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and all the prophets march into God's kingdom. You'll watch outsiders stream in from east, west, north, and south and sit down at the table of God's kingdom. And all the time you'll be outside looking in—and wondering what happened. This is the Great Reversal: the last in line put at the head of the line, and the so-called first ending up last."
Luke 12:5 Save your FEAR for God, who holds your entire life—body and soul—in his hands.
Luke 12:15. Life is not DEFINED by what you have, even when you have a lot."
Luke 12:22 "Don't fuss about what's on the table at mealtimes or if the clothes in your closet are in fashion. There is far more to your inner life than the food you put in your stomach, more to your outer APPEARANCE than the clothes you hang on your body.
Luke 12:29 "What I'm trying to do here is get you to relax, not be so PREOCCUPIED with getting so you can respond to God's giving. ...Steep yourself in God-reality, God-initiative, God-provisions. You'll find all your everyday human concerns will be met. ...
Luke 12:53 Do you think I came to smooth things over and make everything nice? Not so. I've come to DISRUPT and CONFRONT!
Luke 13:28 - 30 - You don't want to end up STRANGERS TO GRACE or you'll watch Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and all the prophets march into God's kingdom. You'll watch outsiders stream in from east, west, north, and south and sit down at the table of God's kingdom. And all the time you'll be outside looking in—and wondering what happened. This is the Great Reversal: the last in line put at the head of the line, and the so-called first ending up last."
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
October 28 ... Luke 10 - 11 "Not What You Do But What God Does For You"
ON YOUR KNEES.
Luke 10:2 "On your knees, ask the God of the Harvest to send harvest hands." God acts in behalf of those who wait for Him - Isaiah 64:4. Things are set in motion because we pray. Unbelievable...why am I not praying about everything? The one who listens to you, listens to Me (10:16).
IT'S WHAT GOES DOES FOR YOU
...And the disciples rejoiced because people listened to them. And Jesus said: "It's not what you do for God but what God does for you—that's the agenda for rejoicing (10:20)." ... Only one thing is essential, and Mary has chosen it (10:42).
STAND YOUR GROUND, WAKE UP YOUR NEIGHBORS
"Ask and you'll get, Seek and you'll find (11:9)." Stand your ground, knock and wake up all the neighbors and even those who aren't your friends will finally get up and get you whatever you need (11:8). Don't bargain with God. Be direct. Ask for what you need. This is not a cat-and-mouse, hide-and-seek game we're in. As bad as you are, you wouldn't think of such a thing—you're at least decent to your own children. And don't you think the Father who conceived you in love will give the Holy Spirit when you ask Him (11:13)" Guard God's Word with your life (11:28).
Luke 10:2 "On your knees, ask the God of the Harvest to send harvest hands." God acts in behalf of those who wait for Him - Isaiah 64:4. Things are set in motion because we pray. Unbelievable...why am I not praying about everything? The one who listens to you, listens to Me (10:16).
IT'S WHAT GOES DOES FOR YOU
...And the disciples rejoiced because people listened to them. And Jesus said: "It's not what you do for God but what God does for you—that's the agenda for rejoicing (10:20)." ... Only one thing is essential, and Mary has chosen it (10:42).
STAND YOUR GROUND, WAKE UP YOUR NEIGHBORS
"Ask and you'll get, Seek and you'll find (11:9)." Stand your ground, knock and wake up all the neighbors and even those who aren't your friends will finally get up and get you whatever you need (11:8). Don't bargain with God. Be direct. Ask for what you need. This is not a cat-and-mouse, hide-and-seek game we're in. As bad as you are, you wouldn't think of such a thing—you're at least decent to your own children. And don't you think the Father who conceived you in love will give the Holy Spirit when you ask Him (11:13)" Guard God's Word with your life (11:28).
October 27 ... Luke 8 - 9 "Carpe Deim"
Luke 8:2 I'm so surprised to hear that Herod's manager's wife, Joanna, was in the company of women who followed Jesus. That was a bold move for her.
The context of these verses is the verse we read yesterday---are you ready for the Truth? God, would you somehow make these truths invade our hearts. Everyone says they want to follow you but what comes from their heart is doing all the right things. May your truth sink deep into our hearts (Psalm 51:6). Ready for some truth?
Be a good-heart who seizes the Word and holds on no matter what, sticking with it until there's a harvest (8:15).
Don't forget Who is in the boat with you. "Why can't you trust Me (8:25)? It's not just about knowing that God is with you. It is all about trusting the God Who walks with you every day.
Take a risk like the woman bleeding for 12 years who interrupted Jesus speaking to the centurion whose daughter just died. Jesus said to her in 8:48---- "Daughter, you took a risk trusting me, and now you're healed and whole. Live well, live blessed!"
No need to bother the Teacher (8:49). No need to bother your neighbor. Your daughter is dead.
Jesus overhears and says: Just trust Me. Keep on believing. They had no idea what Jesus would do but they walked with the One Who walked with them. And they walked in faith. "And whoever accepts me, accepts the One who sent me. You become great by accepting, not asserting. Your spirit, not your size, makes the difference."
Follow Me. You can't put God's Kingdom off til tomorrow (9:49). Seize the day. Carpe Deim.
The context of these verses is the verse we read yesterday---are you ready for the Truth? God, would you somehow make these truths invade our hearts. Everyone says they want to follow you but what comes from their heart is doing all the right things. May your truth sink deep into our hearts (Psalm 51:6). Ready for some truth?
Be a good-heart who seizes the Word and holds on no matter what, sticking with it until there's a harvest (8:15).
Don't forget Who is in the boat with you. "Why can't you trust Me (8:25)? It's not just about knowing that God is with you. It is all about trusting the God Who walks with you every day.
Take a risk like the woman bleeding for 12 years who interrupted Jesus speaking to the centurion whose daughter just died. Jesus said to her in 8:48---- "Daughter, you took a risk trusting me, and now you're healed and whole. Live well, live blessed!"
No need to bother the Teacher (8:49). No need to bother your neighbor. Your daughter is dead.
Jesus overhears and says: Just trust Me. Keep on believing. They had no idea what Jesus would do but they walked with the One Who walked with them. And they walked in faith. "And whoever accepts me, accepts the One who sent me. You become great by accepting, not asserting. Your spirit, not your size, makes the difference."
Follow Me. You can't put God's Kingdom off til tomorrow (9:49). Seize the day. Carpe Deim.
Monday, October 25, 2010
October 26 ... Luke 6 - 7 "A House of Cards"
SLAVES TO WHAT (Luke 6:5-9)?
"The Son of Man is no slave to the Sabbath; He's in charge." Am I slave to discipline? Am I a slave to ritual? Am I a slave to ministry? I must ask myself the same questions that Jesus asked the Pharisees. What suits you? Doing good or doing something that is not good? Helping people or leaving them helpless? What stirs in me?
AN INVITE TO WHAT?
What a huge decision to choose 12 men to follow Him, even knowing one would betray---wouldn't do it well at all. Even Jesus chose followers who would fail. Jesus did not bring out the best in Judas. Wonder why? He allows each of us our own decisions---won't force Himself on anyone. What a God! What a Saviour! And the fact that He spent the whole night in prayer makes me want to go pray. But if I am ever A.D.D., it's during prayer. How do you spend the night in prayer? This is a beautiful invitation written to me to come to Him in the midst of my needs and just talk to Him. I think at times I've wrongly believed that it's going to happen whether I pray about it or not---fatalistic.
HOLDING ON TIGHT TO WHAT (6:21-23)?
You're blessed when you've lost it all. God's kingdom is there for the finding...You're blessed when the tears flow freely, joy comes with the morning. Be glad when you respond with truth for even though others may not like it, God does. All heaven applauds.
TROUBLE AHEAD WHEN (6:24-26)?
Trouble ahead if you think you have it made.
Trouble ahead if you're satisfied with yourself.
Trouble ahead if you think life's all fun and games. There's suffering to be met, and you're going to meet it.
Trouble ahead when you live only for the approval of others. Your task is to be true, not popular.
ARE YOU READY FOR THE TRUTH (6:27-34)?
Let your enemies bring out the best in you, not the worst.
Respond with the energies of prayer.
Stand and take it.
Practice the servant life.
Live generously.
Ask yourself what you want people to do for you.
Help and give without expecting a return.
Don't pick on people, jump on their failures, criticize their faults.
Don't condemn those who are down.
Be easy on people; you'll find life a lot easier.
Give away your life; you'll find life given back with bonus and blessing.
WHAT AM I DOING WITH THE WORD OF GOD?
Luke 6:45 "It's who you are, not what you say and do, that counts. Your true being brims over into true words and deeds." You're polite with your words but don't do as I tell you. God's Words are foundation words, words to build a life on (6:47). "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, 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."
DO I KNOW A PLACE OF HOLY MYSTERY?
When Jesus saw the Widow of Nain, his heart broke. She had recently buried her husband---now her only son. He touched the coffin and the dead son began talking. The widow was at the right place, a divine divide---from death to life. "They all realized they were in a place of holy mystery, that God was at work among them (7:17)."
DO I KNOW I'M FORGIVEN?
Jesus ate at the home of a Pharisee. And it was a harlot who anointed his feet with expensive perfume and dried them with her hair. His response to her and to you and to me in the midst of our sin:
She was forgiven many, many sins, and so she is very, very grateful (Luke 7:47).
"The Son of Man is no slave to the Sabbath; He's in charge." Am I slave to discipline? Am I a slave to ritual? Am I a slave to ministry? I must ask myself the same questions that Jesus asked the Pharisees. What suits you? Doing good or doing something that is not good? Helping people or leaving them helpless? What stirs in me?
AN INVITE TO WHAT?
What a huge decision to choose 12 men to follow Him, even knowing one would betray---wouldn't do it well at all. Even Jesus chose followers who would fail. Jesus did not bring out the best in Judas. Wonder why? He allows each of us our own decisions---won't force Himself on anyone. What a God! What a Saviour! And the fact that He spent the whole night in prayer makes me want to go pray. But if I am ever A.D.D., it's during prayer. How do you spend the night in prayer? This is a beautiful invitation written to me to come to Him in the midst of my needs and just talk to Him. I think at times I've wrongly believed that it's going to happen whether I pray about it or not---fatalistic.
HOLDING ON TIGHT TO WHAT (6:21-23)?
You're blessed when you've lost it all. God's kingdom is there for the finding...You're blessed when the tears flow freely, joy comes with the morning. Be glad when you respond with truth for even though others may not like it, God does. All heaven applauds.
TROUBLE AHEAD WHEN (6:24-26)?
Trouble ahead if you think you have it made.
Trouble ahead if you're satisfied with yourself.
Trouble ahead if you think life's all fun and games. There's suffering to be met, and you're going to meet it.
Trouble ahead when you live only for the approval of others. Your task is to be true, not popular.
ARE YOU READY FOR THE TRUTH (6:27-34)?
Let your enemies bring out the best in you, not the worst.
Respond with the energies of prayer.
Stand and take it.
Practice the servant life.
Live generously.
Ask yourself what you want people to do for you.
Help and give without expecting a return.
Don't pick on people, jump on their failures, criticize their faults.
Don't condemn those who are down.
Be easy on people; you'll find life a lot easier.
Give away your life; you'll find life given back with bonus and blessing.
WHAT AM I DOING WITH THE WORD OF GOD?
Luke 6:45 "It's who you are, not what you say and do, that counts. Your true being brims over into true words and deeds." You're polite with your words but don't do as I tell you. God's Words are foundation words, words to build a life on (6:47). "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, 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."
DO I KNOW A PLACE OF HOLY MYSTERY?
When Jesus saw the Widow of Nain, his heart broke. She had recently buried her husband---now her only son. He touched the coffin and the dead son began talking. The widow was at the right place, a divine divide---from death to life. "They all realized they were in a place of holy mystery, that God was at work among them (7:17)."
DO I KNOW I'M FORGIVEN?
Jesus ate at the home of a Pharisee. And it was a harlot who anointed his feet with expensive perfume and dried them with her hair. His response to her and to you and to me in the midst of our sin:
She was forgiven many, many sins, and so she is very, very grateful (Luke 7:47).
Sunday, October 24, 2010
October 25 ...Luke 4 - 5 "God's Spirit Is On Me to Set Burden & Battered Free"
Luke 4:1 Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wild. God knew He would be tempted there. God doesn't tempt us but allows us to be so that we can see what is really in our hearts...."Serve God with absolute singleheartedness (Luke 4:8)." Jesus never gave the devil a foothold so the devil retreated lying in wait hoping for another time.
God's Spirit is on me to set the burden and battered free (4:21). To announce pardon for the prisoners---those in self-made prisons finding life from second things---changed to become prisoners of hope to first things only.
Dr. Luke describes Jesus healing: a deranged mind, uncontrollably high fever, an outcast leper, a bedridden paraplegic. A trained doctor has depth and wealth of insight into what really happens in the healing of those kinds of diseases. Dr. Luke presents us with a compelling portrait of a Great Physician Who forgives our sins and heals our diseases. Doctors like Luke show up to fix our problems, if they can. Jesus shows up in frontyards and backyards and corners and closets to change us from the inside out. Wonder where He will show up for us today? Am I more constrained by His Love or by His Hand to help me?
"Who needs a doctor: the healthy or the sick (Luke 5:31)? I'm here inviting outsiders, not insiders—an invitation to a changed life, changed inside and out."
God's Spirit is on me to set the burden and battered free (4:21). To announce pardon for the prisoners---those in self-made prisons finding life from second things---changed to become prisoners of hope to first things only.
Dr. Luke describes Jesus healing: a deranged mind, uncontrollably high fever, an outcast leper, a bedridden paraplegic. A trained doctor has depth and wealth of insight into what really happens in the healing of those kinds of diseases. Dr. Luke presents us with a compelling portrait of a Great Physician Who forgives our sins and heals our diseases. Doctors like Luke show up to fix our problems, if they can. Jesus shows up in frontyards and backyards and corners and closets to change us from the inside out. Wonder where He will show up for us today? Am I more constrained by His Love or by His Hand to help me?
"Who needs a doctor: the healthy or the sick (Luke 5:31)? I'm here inviting outsiders, not insiders—an invitation to a changed life, changed inside and out."
October 24 ... Luke 2 - 3 "Living in Prayerful Expectancy of Help" ... "Living in Prayerful Expectancy of A Parade"
Luke 2 - So touched by the life of Joseph to go with his fiance who was pregnant and believe her. Says so much about Joseph and his humility and devotion to his friend---says so much about Mary's humility and life. You know how there are young people who you just can't say enough good about them even though we are all depraved. Mary dealt with hers. And we see firsthand how Joseph dealt with his unbelief.
And who do we find in the Temple but Simeon (Luke 2:25), a man who "lived in the prayerful expectancy of help for Israel." May we learn better how to live in prayerful expectancy for others. "And the Holy Spirit was on him." And Anna...the prophetess, was there still worshiping night and day with fastings and prayers. Married only 7 years, she was a widow for 84 years. And she gets to behold the One she adores. She met Him. Divine Appointment (2:38).
And the grace of God was all over Jesus (2:40). Grace upon Grace. May this very Sunday, God's Grace be over us in all our mess-up's. Fill in those ditches. Smooth out the bumps. Straighten the detours. Pave over the ruts. May we not demand but prayerfully expect You to show up for the parade today. Your Parade of Grace all over us (3:21). I'm such a mess this day. Oh, but a glorious mess! I'm in such need of your Grace! Oh, Glorious Grace!
~ A Daughter of God (Luke 3:38)
And who do we find in the Temple but Simeon (Luke 2:25), a man who "lived in the prayerful expectancy of help for Israel." May we learn better how to live in prayerful expectancy for others. "And the Holy Spirit was on him." And Anna...the prophetess, was there still worshiping night and day with fastings and prayers. Married only 7 years, she was a widow for 84 years. And she gets to behold the One she adores. She met Him. Divine Appointment (2:38).
And the grace of God was all over Jesus (2:40). Grace upon Grace. May this very Sunday, God's Grace be over us in all our mess-up's. Fill in those ditches. Smooth out the bumps. Straighten the detours. Pave over the ruts. May we not demand but prayerfully expect You to show up for the parade today. Your Parade of Grace all over us (3:21). I'm such a mess this day. Oh, but a glorious mess! I'm in such need of your Grace! Oh, Glorious Grace!
~ A Daughter of God (Luke 3:38)
Saturday, October 23, 2010
October 23 ... Luke 1 "God's Hand Is In This"
Luke 1: 1-4 The other three Gospels are reports from eyewitnesses. Not so with Luke. Dr. Luke, with his analytical medical mind, "investigated all the reports in close detail, starting from the story's beginning." The birth, death, resurrection, ascension. Luke did this so that we can know beyond the shadow of a doubt the reliability of what was taught at that time.
Dr. Luke got the 411 on Mary and Elizabeth whose prayers were being listened to by God. Does God hear mine today? Luke found what God was doing to get the people ready for God...softening hearts of parents to their children, kindling devout understanding among skeptics. We are all "the Lord's maid, ready to serve." Let it be with me (1:38)...if you believe what God said, believe every word will come true, you will be blessed (1:45)! Would you soften our hearts this day to our own children? Tend to us, God!
Luke 1:66 - Clearly, God has His Hand in this." Open the eyes of our hearts that we may see You in what we are going through. It's not about how strong we are. Your Strength is made perfect in our weakness (2Cor 12:9). Help us see You and Your Hand more clearly.
Dr. Luke got the 411 on Mary and Elizabeth whose prayers were being listened to by God. Does God hear mine today? Luke found what God was doing to get the people ready for God...softening hearts of parents to their children, kindling devout understanding among skeptics. We are all "the Lord's maid, ready to serve." Let it be with me (1:38)...if you believe what God said, believe every word will come true, you will be blessed (1:45)! Would you soften our hearts this day to our own children? Tend to us, God!
Luke 1:66 - Clearly, God has His Hand in this." Open the eyes of our hearts that we may see You in what we are going through. It's not about how strong we are. Your Strength is made perfect in our weakness (2Cor 12:9). Help us see You and Your Hand more clearly.
Thursday, October 21, 2010
October 22 ... Mark 15 - 16 "Live Expectantly"
LIVE EXPECTANTLY LIKE JOSEPH
Mark 15-43 talks about Joseph of Arimathea as one who "lived expectantly on the lookout for the Kingdom." May everyone who reads this word "live expectantly" this day. Watching and waiting in Hope for You, God, to show up.
LIVE HUMBLY LIKE MARY
Jesus appeared first to Mary Magdalene and Mary. "Be not afraid." Mark 15:9 says: Jesus appeared to Mary Magdalene whom he had delivered from seven demons. She boldly went to the disciples. May every one of us not live in fear when our God shows up in our day but humble ourselves.
LIVE CALLED LIKE THE DISCIPLES
Jesus appeared to the 11 disciples and took them to task for their stubborn unbelief in refusing to believe those who had seen Him raised up (Mark 15:14). Instead of Jesus giving up on them in their sin, He called them to advance His Kingdom. There is hope for our sin. "Go into the world. Go everywhere and announce the Message of God's good news to one and all...and the diciples went everywhere...and God was right there with them validating His Word.
Mark 15-43 talks about Joseph of Arimathea as one who "lived expectantly on the lookout for the Kingdom." May everyone who reads this word "live expectantly" this day. Watching and waiting in Hope for You, God, to show up.
LIVE HUMBLY LIKE MARY
Jesus appeared first to Mary Magdalene and Mary. "Be not afraid." Mark 15:9 says: Jesus appeared to Mary Magdalene whom he had delivered from seven demons. She boldly went to the disciples. May every one of us not live in fear when our God shows up in our day but humble ourselves.
LIVE CALLED LIKE THE DISCIPLES
Jesus appeared to the 11 disciples and took them to task for their stubborn unbelief in refusing to believe those who had seen Him raised up (Mark 15:14). Instead of Jesus giving up on them in their sin, He called them to advance His Kingdom. There is hope for our sin. "Go into the world. Go everywhere and announce the Message of God's good news to one and all...and the diciples went everywhere...and God was right there with them validating His Word.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
October 21 ... Mark 14 "End of Entitlement"
Mark 14:27 -28 Jesus told them, "You're all going to feel that your world is falling apart and that it's my fault. There's a Scripture that says, I will strike the shepherd; The sheep will go helter-skelter. "But after I am raised up, I will go ahead of you, leading the way to Galilee."
Mark 14: 71 - 72 Now Peter got really nervous and swore, "I never laid eyes on this man you're talking about." Just then the rooster crowed a second time. Peter remembered how Jesus had said, "Before a rooster crows twice, you'll deny me three times." He collapsed in tears.
"God wants to get Heaven into me and everyone who is afraid like Peter. Then the Kingdom will spread." 66 LL.
"The real battle is within. My worst enemy is my self-centeredness. These followers of Christ were riddled with ambition, comfort, self-centeredness. The author of the Book of Mark chose to sail back to a comfortable and more pleasant life at home rather than the ministry cut out for him. Acts 13:13 Mark refused to press on when the going got tough. So, Paul rejected Mark from continuing with him in ministry." 66 LL.
"No failure (like Peter or Mark or me) can block God's Plan for you. We may think someone has treated us harshly or given us a bad deal---but God could stop them if He so chose. It's just He probably hasn't in order that we will be changed. 66 LL
"He is Worthy of our losing everything we value. Kingdom living is radical servanthood and self-denying suffering." 66 LL
Do you love Me, Peter? Same question He is asking us this day.
Mark 14: 71 - 72 Now Peter got really nervous and swore, "I never laid eyes on this man you're talking about." Just then the rooster crowed a second time. Peter remembered how Jesus had said, "Before a rooster crows twice, you'll deny me three times." He collapsed in tears.
"God wants to get Heaven into me and everyone who is afraid like Peter. Then the Kingdom will spread." 66 LL.
"The real battle is within. My worst enemy is my self-centeredness. These followers of Christ were riddled with ambition, comfort, self-centeredness. The author of the Book of Mark chose to sail back to a comfortable and more pleasant life at home rather than the ministry cut out for him. Acts 13:13 Mark refused to press on when the going got tough. So, Paul rejected Mark from continuing with him in ministry." 66 LL.
"No failure (like Peter or Mark or me) can block God's Plan for you. We may think someone has treated us harshly or given us a bad deal---but God could stop them if He so chose. It's just He probably hasn't in order that we will be changed. 66 LL
"He is Worthy of our losing everything we value. Kingdom living is radical servanthood and self-denying suffering." 66 LL
Do you love Me, Peter? Same question He is asking us this day.
October 20 ... Mark 12 - 13 "The Implanted Word Saves You"
THE IMPLANTED WORD SAVES ME
Jesus kept on telling stories. Why? Scripture interprets Scripture. Phil 1:21 - it's the implanted Word that saves you. God, would you keep planting these stories in our hearts?
RUBBING HANDS TOGETHER IN GREED.
Mark 12:7 -8 "Those farmhands saw their chance. They rubbed their hands together in greed and said, 'This is the heir! Let's kill him and have it all for ourselves.' They grabbed the son, killed him, and threw him over the fence." Unbelievable. I feel that people are doing that to me. But this is about me not them---am I throwing people under the bus, over the fence in my thoughts? The crowd wanted to lynch Jesus then and there but held back. They knew the story was about them (12:12) and they got out of there as fast as they could.
YOU DON'T KNOW YOUR BIBLE.
Mark 12:18 Some Sadducees, the party that denies any possibility of resurrection, came up and asked, "Teacher, Moses wrote that if a man dies and leaves a wife but no child, his brother is obligated to marry the widow and have children." Jesus response: One, you don't know your Bibles; two, you don't know how God works.
GIVE WHAT YOU CAN'T AFFORD
Mark 12:41 "Sitting across from the offering box, Jesus observed how the crowd tossed money in for the collection. Many of the rich were making large contributions. One poor widow came up and put in two small coins—a measly two cents. Jesus called his disciples over and said, "The truth is that this poor widow gave more to the collection than all the others put together. All the others gave what they'll never miss; she gave extravagantly what she couldn't afford—she gave her all." Mark 13:17 - "Stay with it—that's what is required. Stay with it to the end. You won't be sorry; you'll be saved...but be ready to run for it when you see the monster of desecration set up where it should never be."
KEEP WATCH
Sun fades out...
Moon clouds over,
Stars fall out of the sky,
Cosmic powers tremble.
The Son of Man enters in grand style
His Arrival filling the sky—no one will miss it!
He'll dispatch the angels;
They will pull in the chosen from the four winds, from pole to pole.
You are one of the chosen from those four winds so
Stay at your post. Keep watch (13:37)
Jesus kept on telling stories. Why? Scripture interprets Scripture. Phil 1:21 - it's the implanted Word that saves you. God, would you keep planting these stories in our hearts?
RUBBING HANDS TOGETHER IN GREED.
Mark 12:7 -8 "Those farmhands saw their chance. They rubbed their hands together in greed and said, 'This is the heir! Let's kill him and have it all for ourselves.' They grabbed the son, killed him, and threw him over the fence." Unbelievable. I feel that people are doing that to me. But this is about me not them---am I throwing people under the bus, over the fence in my thoughts? The crowd wanted to lynch Jesus then and there but held back. They knew the story was about them (12:12) and they got out of there as fast as they could.
YOU DON'T KNOW YOUR BIBLE.
Mark 12:18 Some Sadducees, the party that denies any possibility of resurrection, came up and asked, "Teacher, Moses wrote that if a man dies and leaves a wife but no child, his brother is obligated to marry the widow and have children." Jesus response: One, you don't know your Bibles; two, you don't know how God works.
GIVE WHAT YOU CAN'T AFFORD
Mark 12:41 "Sitting across from the offering box, Jesus observed how the crowd tossed money in for the collection. Many of the rich were making large contributions. One poor widow came up and put in two small coins—a measly two cents. Jesus called his disciples over and said, "The truth is that this poor widow gave more to the collection than all the others put together. All the others gave what they'll never miss; she gave extravagantly what she couldn't afford—she gave her all." Mark 13:17 - "Stay with it—that's what is required. Stay with it to the end. You won't be sorry; you'll be saved...but be ready to run for it when you see the monster of desecration set up where it should never be."
KEEP WATCH
Sun fades out...
Moon clouds over,
Stars fall out of the sky,
Cosmic powers tremble.
The Son of Man enters in grand style
His Arrival filling the sky—no one will miss it!
He'll dispatch the angels;
They will pull in the chosen from the four winds, from pole to pole.
You are one of the chosen from those four winds so
Stay at your post. Keep watch (13:37)
Monday, October 18, 2010
October 19 ... Mark 10 - 11 "Holding on Tight to A Lot of Things"
MARK THIS!
Mark 10: 13 Mark this: Unless you accept God's kingdom in the simplicity of a child, you'll never get in." The disciples shooed the children away. Jesus gathered them up in His arms, laying His hands of blessing on them.
BE ALL IN!
Mark 10:21 21-22 Jesus looked The Rich Ruler hard in the eye—and loved him! Jesus said to him that although he thought he had always kept the commandments, "there's one thing left: Go sell whatever you own and give it to the poor. And come follow me." No. "He was holding on tight to a lot of things, and not about to let go."
OPEN THE EYES OF MY HEART~
Mark 10:51 Jesus asked the blind man: "What can I do for you? I want to see, Rabbi." The blind man's faith saved and healed him. He received more than physical sight. He really saw for the first time! And that also meant that he lost his job as a beggar. He lost his reputation, even his family didn't back him up when others asked about his healing. But what he found was the Son of Man Who opened the eyes of his heart to what really matters in life.
PRAY FOR EVERYTHING
Mark 11:23 "I urge you to pray for absolutely everything, ranging from small to large. Include everything as you embrace this God-life, and you'll get God's everything. And when you assume the posture of prayer, remember that it's not all asking...forgive."
Mark 10: 13 Mark this: Unless you accept God's kingdom in the simplicity of a child, you'll never get in." The disciples shooed the children away. Jesus gathered them up in His arms, laying His hands of blessing on them.
BE ALL IN!
Mark 10:21 21-22 Jesus looked The Rich Ruler hard in the eye—and loved him! Jesus said to him that although he thought he had always kept the commandments, "there's one thing left: Go sell whatever you own and give it to the poor. And come follow me." No. "He was holding on tight to a lot of things, and not about to let go."
OPEN THE EYES OF MY HEART~
Mark 10:51 Jesus asked the blind man: "What can I do for you? I want to see, Rabbi." The blind man's faith saved and healed him. He received more than physical sight. He really saw for the first time! And that also meant that he lost his job as a beggar. He lost his reputation, even his family didn't back him up when others asked about his healing. But what he found was the Son of Man Who opened the eyes of his heart to what really matters in life.
PRAY FOR EVERYTHING
Mark 11:23 "I urge you to pray for absolutely everything, ranging from small to large. Include everything as you embrace this God-life, and you'll get God's everything. And when you assume the posture of prayer, remember that it's not all asking...forgive."
Sunday, October 17, 2010
October 18 ... Mark 8 - 9 "I See Men Walking that Look Like Walking Trees"
Are we looking for miracles? 8:12 says that there may not even be a hint of a guarantee that God is present for you. Are we blaming others for what's not happening inside of my own life? 8:16 says: "Finding fault because they forgot"...do I think that if that certain person in my life were not a part of my life that all would be okay?
Do I see clearly my issues, my problems, my roadblocks? 8:23 says: HE put spit in the blind man's eyes. Am I waiting for something miraculous to come along or do I realize God can use everyday stuff like spit to open my eyes. Do I see men walking along that look like walking trees? Wonder why Jesus didn't heal the blind man fully the first time? Things don't work like I think they do.
What are you saying about Jesus? Peter gave the right answer: "You are the Christ, the Messiah." But when Jesus explained to the disciples in 8:31 about his upcoming death, Peter's response: Peter grabbed Jesus in protest---he had a better idea than God. Jesus response: "You have no idea how God works. Get out of my way! Satan, get lost! Let Me lead...don't run from suffering. Embrace it (8:34).
This isn't pie-in-the-sky by and by. You are going to see the Kingdom of God arrive in full force in a Light-Radiant Cloud (9:1). There are no 'ifs' among believers (9:23). Anything can happen." Then, help me with my doubts (9:24).
Am I following the path of last place that Christ has me on? The disciples were riddled with ambition. Discussing and arguing in 9:34 about who was the greatest among them. You want first place? Take the last place. For how long, God? Our flesh does not want to suffer. Our flesh does not want to fail. Our flesh needs to be crucified with Christ that I may no longer live but Christ in me...Gal 2:20 coming up soon.
Do I see clearly my issues, my problems, my roadblocks? 8:23 says: HE put spit in the blind man's eyes. Am I waiting for something miraculous to come along or do I realize God can use everyday stuff like spit to open my eyes. Do I see men walking along that look like walking trees? Wonder why Jesus didn't heal the blind man fully the first time? Things don't work like I think they do.
What are you saying about Jesus? Peter gave the right answer: "You are the Christ, the Messiah." But when Jesus explained to the disciples in 8:31 about his upcoming death, Peter's response: Peter grabbed Jesus in protest---he had a better idea than God. Jesus response: "You have no idea how God works. Get out of my way! Satan, get lost! Let Me lead...don't run from suffering. Embrace it (8:34).
This isn't pie-in-the-sky by and by. You are going to see the Kingdom of God arrive in full force in a Light-Radiant Cloud (9:1). There are no 'ifs' among believers (9:23). Anything can happen." Then, help me with my doubts (9:24).
Am I following the path of last place that Christ has me on? The disciples were riddled with ambition. Discussing and arguing in 9:34 about who was the greatest among them. You want first place? Take the last place. For how long, God? Our flesh does not want to suffer. Our flesh does not want to fail. Our flesh needs to be crucified with Christ that I may no longer live but Christ in me...Gal 2:20 coming up soon.
Saturday, October 16, 2010
October 17 ... Mark 6 - 7 "His Heart Breaks for You"
WHAT DO I REALLY NEED TO MINISTER? Mark 6: 8 -9"Don't think you need a lot of extra equipment for ministry. You are the equipment. No special appeals for funds. Keep it simple.
WHAT IS MY RESPONSE WHEN I AM OVERLOOKED? Mark 6:11 "If you're not welcomed, not listened to, quietly withdraw. Don't make a scene. Shrug your shoulders and be on your way." C. S. Lewis' 8th chapter of Mere Christianity was the teacher's lesson plan yesterday...the real test of pride in my life is my response when friends and family don't listen to us and push us away---when we are rejected. God so showed up for me in that chapter yesterday in the midst of being overlooked this week.
WHAT HOPE DO I HAVE TO MINISTER IN MY OWN MESS? Mark 6: 12 -13 With joyful urgency, the fledgling disciples sent the demons packing and brought wellness. I love it! Gives me hope in my own mess that I can send a few demons on their way!
DO PEOPLE WANT MORE OF HIM BECAUSE OF ME? Mark 6:20 Something in John kept pulling Herod back to Jesus.
DO YOU KNOW THAT HIS HEART BREAKS FOR YOU? Mark 6:34 - At the sight of them, his heart broke—like sheep with no shepherd they were. He went right to work teaching them. 6:38---five loaves and two fish. 6:50---take Courage...it's Me...don't be afraid in midst of your storms. HE knows our frame and His Heart breaks for us as we wrestle through storms and needs.
IS YOUR HEART IN THE RIGHT PLACE? Then rejoice today no matter how hard you may fall or how much you don't know what your next step is---it's not fatal. Mark 7:7 "These people make a big show of saying the right thing, but their heart isn't in it...it's what comes out of a person that pollutes: obscenities, lusts, thefts, murders, adulteries, greed, depravity, deceptive dealings, carousing, mean looks, slander, arrogance, foolishness." Make your heart right with your God this moment---that's all you have anyway---this moment.
WHAT IS MY RESPONSE WHEN I AM OVERLOOKED? Mark 6:11 "If you're not welcomed, not listened to, quietly withdraw. Don't make a scene. Shrug your shoulders and be on your way." C. S. Lewis' 8th chapter of Mere Christianity was the teacher's lesson plan yesterday...the real test of pride in my life is my response when friends and family don't listen to us and push us away---when we are rejected. God so showed up for me in that chapter yesterday in the midst of being overlooked this week.
WHAT HOPE DO I HAVE TO MINISTER IN MY OWN MESS? Mark 6: 12 -13 With joyful urgency, the fledgling disciples sent the demons packing and brought wellness. I love it! Gives me hope in my own mess that I can send a few demons on their way!
DO PEOPLE WANT MORE OF HIM BECAUSE OF ME? Mark 6:20 Something in John kept pulling Herod back to Jesus.
DO YOU KNOW THAT HIS HEART BREAKS FOR YOU? Mark 6:34 - At the sight of them, his heart broke—like sheep with no shepherd they were. He went right to work teaching them. 6:38---five loaves and two fish. 6:50---take Courage...it's Me...don't be afraid in midst of your storms. HE knows our frame and His Heart breaks for us as we wrestle through storms and needs.
IS YOUR HEART IN THE RIGHT PLACE? Then rejoice today no matter how hard you may fall or how much you don't know what your next step is---it's not fatal. Mark 7:7 "These people make a big show of saying the right thing, but their heart isn't in it...it's what comes out of a person that pollutes: obscenities, lusts, thefts, murders, adulteries, greed, depravity, deceptive dealings, carousing, mean looks, slander, arrogance, foolishness." Make your heart right with your God this moment---that's all you have anyway---this moment.
Friday, October 15, 2010
October 16 ... Mark 4 - 5 "Little Girl, Get Up!"
Mark 4
The crowds were so huge pushing to get to Jesus that the sheer size forced him to hop into a boat for his pulpit (4:1). Wonder what the crowd was thinking---would You please help me, heal me, touch me. Hopeless. Helpless. Humbled by the wear and tear of the day. His stories called out to something deep within them---the stories opened ears and eyes and hearts to hear and see. Are we any different this day? We all want to reap harvests exceeding our wildest dreams, don't we (4:20). Hear me, help me--- but wait? Anything wrong with just asking? Absolutely not. It is DEMANDING that is highly unlikely in the Face of our Mighty God.
Listen! --- 4:3, 4:9, 4:23...He said it three times.
Another story theme (4:25): "Giving, not getting, is the way. Generosity begets generosity. Stinginess impoverishes."
Another story theme (4:29): Sometimes we have no idea how we grow or what really happened. We surrender to the One and Only God Who causes the growth. God is tending to the soil of our hearts this very moment...and that speaks volumes to me. This month ranks as one of the hardest ones I've had to face in a good while. We may not know it; may not feel it; may not see it. It's the God of all Hope Who is at work in you and me this day, this month (Romans 15:13).
Love the thought about what Jesus did privately for His Followers---He sorted out the tangles of their thoughts and untied the knots of their hearts (4:34). Here were His disciples questioning Him in The Perfect Storm of their life---"Teacher, is it nothing to You that we're going down?" (4:38). Am I asking the same question today? I know that I did yesterday---where was my faith (4:40) --- focusing on my circumstance.
Jairus was "beside himself" over his daughter's death (9:21) when He saw Jesus---AND, Jairus and the sick bleeding woman just happened to be able to get to Him face-to-Hem. And HE speaks to her touch: "Daughter, you took a risk of faith (5:34)" Oh to hear Him call me "daughter." "Don't listen to THEM, just trust Me (5:36)." The verb in the Greek for "trust" is present participle, meaning: Don't ever stop, no matter what the circumstances, even in the face of death. Keep on believing!
Talitha koum - "Little girl, get up!" (5:41) And HE speaks to each of us this day: Get up! Now they were beside themselves with JOY. You have no idea what your Good God is about to do for you this day, this month!
The crowds were so huge pushing to get to Jesus that the sheer size forced him to hop into a boat for his pulpit (4:1). Wonder what the crowd was thinking---would You please help me, heal me, touch me. Hopeless. Helpless. Humbled by the wear and tear of the day. His stories called out to something deep within them---the stories opened ears and eyes and hearts to hear and see. Are we any different this day? We all want to reap harvests exceeding our wildest dreams, don't we (4:20). Hear me, help me--- but wait? Anything wrong with just asking? Absolutely not. It is DEMANDING that is highly unlikely in the Face of our Mighty God.
Listen! --- 4:3, 4:9, 4:23...He said it three times.
Another story theme (4:25): "Giving, not getting, is the way. Generosity begets generosity. Stinginess impoverishes."
Another story theme (4:29): Sometimes we have no idea how we grow or what really happened. We surrender to the One and Only God Who causes the growth. God is tending to the soil of our hearts this very moment...and that speaks volumes to me. This month ranks as one of the hardest ones I've had to face in a good while. We may not know it; may not feel it; may not see it. It's the God of all Hope Who is at work in you and me this day, this month (Romans 15:13).
Love the thought about what Jesus did privately for His Followers---He sorted out the tangles of their thoughts and untied the knots of their hearts (4:34). Here were His disciples questioning Him in The Perfect Storm of their life---"Teacher, is it nothing to You that we're going down?" (4:38). Am I asking the same question today? I know that I did yesterday---where was my faith (4:40) --- focusing on my circumstance.
Jairus was "beside himself" over his daughter's death (9:21) when He saw Jesus---AND, Jairus and the sick bleeding woman just happened to be able to get to Him face-to-Hem. And HE speaks to her touch: "Daughter, you took a risk of faith (5:34)" Oh to hear Him call me "daughter." "Don't listen to THEM, just trust Me (5:36)." The verb in the Greek for "trust" is present participle, meaning: Don't ever stop, no matter what the circumstances, even in the face of death. Keep on believing!
Talitha koum - "Little girl, get up!" (5:41) And HE speaks to each of us this day: Get up! Now they were beside themselves with JOY. You have no idea what your Good God is about to do for you this day, this month!
Thursday, October 14, 2010
October 15 ... Mark 1 - 3 "My Worst Enemy =My Self-Centeredness"
Mark 1:1 -Good News! Then why am I crying hopeless crocodile tears? There's something that hasn't sunk into my soul. I had a seizure last night. To think that I might lose my ability to think is so scary to me. But it happened and I have to ask myself---what do I want more than the Love of my Christ? Good health? Fewer problems? The real battle is not my health. It's what is going on inside of me as I face loss. "The more I do live like Jesus, the more God's Kingdom is taking over my life and positioning itself to spread into others. As God brings His kingdom into me, the devil and the world system oppose every move God makes, but my worst enemy is my own self-centeredness---the spirit within me that thinks it's my right for life to go the way I want it to."
I am in the battle for your soul. Would you walk with me in the battle for my soul? "Change me God from the inside out (Mark 1:8)."
Thunder in the desert! Prepare for His arrival! God spoke to me on Sunday from a verse the preacher shared that said that HE wanted to meet me this week. I need an appointment with the Great Physician. "Who needs a doctor? Lepers, paraplegics, the crippled, those with seizures, demandingness, anger, fear---self-centered. HE will make you new again from the inside out. I'm here inviting the sin-sick souls (1:17)."
I am in the battle for your soul. Would you walk with me in the battle for my soul? "Change me God from the inside out (Mark 1:8)."
Thunder in the desert! Prepare for His arrival! God spoke to me on Sunday from a verse the preacher shared that said that HE wanted to meet me this week. I need an appointment with the Great Physician. "Who needs a doctor? Lepers, paraplegics, the crippled, those with seizures, demandingness, anger, fear---self-centered. HE will make you new again from the inside out. I'm here inviting the sin-sick souls (1:17)."
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
October 14 ... Matthew 27 - 28 "Take The Risk for I'll Be With You"
Matthew 27:3 - Judas repented but then he killed himself. I just don't think of Judas as being repentant but the burden of betraying the Christ is so large. What about my own betrayals? As we close the gospel of Matthew, the last chapters pierce our hearts. Oh my...what Jesus had to endure for us. Rioting, flogging, mockery, betrayal, rejection and then...crucifixion. Overwhelming. 27:46 - My God, My God, why have you forsaken Me? The Temple curtain ripped in two. An Earthquake. What was it like for the three Mary's to watch from a distance, holding their own stories in their heart. Then, the dawn of the new week...another rumble...and an angel appears to the two Mary's. How sweet that God would choose these two worthy women to speak through an angel these words: He is not here. He is risen from the dead. He's gone ahead of you. Go on to Galilee to meet Him there. That's the message. Could they contain those words. Then, they are stopped dead in their tracks by the One and Only, their Beloved. The two worthy women couldn't stop worshipping Him...but the disciples upon seeing their Risen Savior for the first time---they held back not wanting to risk what??? May we risk it all for Him this hour, this day, this life (28:18 - 20): "Go out and train everyone you meet, far and near, in this way of life, marking them...oh, and as you do this, day after day, I'll be with you right up to the end of the age."
Monday, October 11, 2010
October 12 ... Matthew 24 - 25 "Whenever you Gave to Someone Overlooked or Ignored, that was Me"
Matthew 24:1 Small talk. Look at the temple architecture. Are you impressed with the sheer size? Pillars of stone will crumble one day. Pillars of heart will crumble one day, too. A man may look really good on the outside, but even pillars crumble.
Nothing compares to what is coming (24:7). Stay with it...that's what God requires (24:13). Then, The Arrival of the Son of Man will come. It will fill the skies---no one will miss it! Be vigilant (24:30)!
Three servants were given large amounts of money. Two servants invested their money. The other servant played it safe and sound---he hid the money. No investment there. "I was afraid that I might disappoint you." Fear. "That's a terrible way to live! It's criminal to live cautiously like that! If you knew I was after the best, why did you do less than the least (24:26)?
What a beautiful sentence---"When HE finally arrives, blazing in beauty and all his angels with Him (24:31)" to take His Place on His Glorious Throne, what will HE find in our hearts. Will faith be found in me, in you? Whose Kingdom will we have advanced? His or our own? The King will say to those on his right, " 'Enter, you who are blessed by my Father! Take what's coming to you in this kingdom. It's been ready for you since the world's foundation. And here's why:
I was hungry and you fed Me,
I was thirsty and you gave Me a drink,
I was homeless and you gave Me a room,
I was shivering and you gave Me clothes,
I was sick and you stopped to visit,
I was in prison and you came to Me.'
Whenever you did one of these things to someone overlooked or ignored, that was Me—you did it to Me.' " As HE knocks on the door of our hearts this very day, will we recognize Him and stop to examine our hearts and advance His Kingdom? Will He find faith? Will He fan the fledgling flames of faith He finds?
This is not about being human "do-er's" but human "beings" whose strong pillars have crumbled. His Strength is made perfect in our weakness. Brokenness. Humility. Faith. Blazing in Beauty, HE is on His Way.
Nothing compares to what is coming (24:7). Stay with it...that's what God requires (24:13). Then, The Arrival of the Son of Man will come. It will fill the skies---no one will miss it! Be vigilant (24:30)!
Three servants were given large amounts of money. Two servants invested their money. The other servant played it safe and sound---he hid the money. No investment there. "I was afraid that I might disappoint you." Fear. "That's a terrible way to live! It's criminal to live cautiously like that! If you knew I was after the best, why did you do less than the least (24:26)?
What a beautiful sentence---"When HE finally arrives, blazing in beauty and all his angels with Him (24:31)" to take His Place on His Glorious Throne, what will HE find in our hearts. Will faith be found in me, in you? Whose Kingdom will we have advanced? His or our own? The King will say to those on his right, " 'Enter, you who are blessed by my Father! Take what's coming to you in this kingdom. It's been ready for you since the world's foundation. And here's why:
I was hungry and you fed Me,
I was thirsty and you gave Me a drink,
I was homeless and you gave Me a room,
I was shivering and you gave Me clothes,
I was sick and you stopped to visit,
I was in prison and you came to Me.'
Whenever you did one of these things to someone overlooked or ignored, that was Me—you did it to Me.' " As HE knocks on the door of our hearts this very day, will we recognize Him and stop to examine our hearts and advance His Kingdom? Will He find faith? Will He fan the fledgling flames of faith He finds?
This is not about being human "do-er's" but human "beings" whose strong pillars have crumbled. His Strength is made perfect in our weakness. Brokenness. Humility. Faith. Blazing in Beauty, HE is on His Way.
Sunday, October 10, 2010
October 11 ... Matthew 22 - 23 "I AM your God, not I WAS"
Jesus told stories about what the Kingdom was like. The Great I AM told stories to reveal what was really in man's hearts. Shouldn't we?
WHO is willing to come to the wedding feast dressed in righteousness? Don't miss it!
Matthew 22:14 "Many get invited; only a few make it." Strange Story Line. One of the biggest days of your life and they don't want to share it with you? Yet, those who did come didn't really care either---just came for a handout.
WHO is willing to take a look at what he is doing with his money?
"Then give Caesar what is his, and give God what is his."
WHO is willing to believe that God is able to move into our lives this day just like He did for Abraham and Isaac and Jacob?
Matt. 22:33 - HE is the God of the Living, I AM the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, the God of Jacob, and my God this very day. It's not I WAS but I AM!
WHO is willing to serious look at the stirrings of your idolatrous heart?
Matt. 22: 37 -40 Jesus said, "'Love the Lord your God with all your passion and prayer and intelligence.'...'Love others as well as you love yourself.' These two commands are pegs; everything in God's Law and the Prophets hangs from them."
WHO is willing to stop putting people on pedestals?
Matt. 23: 1-4 The Pharisees are competent teachers but it's all spit-and-polish veneer, packaging bundles of rules---loving to sit at the head table, basking in prominent positions. "Don' let people put you on a pedestal (23:8). Wow, that is so prevelant in our Christian celeb society. "Don't set people up as experts over your life, letting them tell you what to do. Like authors and speakers and mega church preachers. Save that authority for God; let Him tell you what to do."
WHO is willing to simply be yourself. Let others tell you what's on your face.
"Do you want to stand out? Then step down (23:11). Be a servant. If you puff yourself up, you'll get the wind knocked out of you. But if you're content to simply be yourself, your life will count for plenty (23:12).
WHO is willing to throw away the "record books?"
Matt 22:13 "I've had it with you! You're hopeless, you religion scholars, you Pharisees! Frauds! Your lives are roadblocks to God's kingdom. You refuse to enter, and won't let anyone else in either.
You keep meticulous account books, tithing on every nickel and dime you get, but on the meat of God's Law, things like fairness and compassion and commitment—the absolute basics!—you carelessly take it or leave it. Careful bookkeeping is commendable, but the basics are required. Do you have any idea how silly you look, writing a life story that's wrong from start to finish, nitpicking over commas and semicolons?
What life story are we writing? Has God set us up? How can we do these things? Do I even want to be myself? What are all these stories stirring up in your soul?
WHO is willing to come to the wedding feast dressed in righteousness? Don't miss it!
Matthew 22:14 "Many get invited; only a few make it." Strange Story Line. One of the biggest days of your life and they don't want to share it with you? Yet, those who did come didn't really care either---just came for a handout.
WHO is willing to take a look at what he is doing with his money?
"Then give Caesar what is his, and give God what is his."
WHO is willing to believe that God is able to move into our lives this day just like He did for Abraham and Isaac and Jacob?
Matt. 22:33 - HE is the God of the Living, I AM the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, the God of Jacob, and my God this very day. It's not I WAS but I AM!
WHO is willing to serious look at the stirrings of your idolatrous heart?
Matt. 22: 37 -40 Jesus said, "'Love the Lord your God with all your passion and prayer and intelligence.'...'Love others as well as you love yourself.' These two commands are pegs; everything in God's Law and the Prophets hangs from them."
WHO is willing to stop putting people on pedestals?
Matt. 23: 1-4 The Pharisees are competent teachers but it's all spit-and-polish veneer, packaging bundles of rules---loving to sit at the head table, basking in prominent positions. "Don' let people put you on a pedestal (23:8). Wow, that is so prevelant in our Christian celeb society. "Don't set people up as experts over your life, letting them tell you what to do. Like authors and speakers and mega church preachers. Save that authority for God; let Him tell you what to do."
WHO is willing to simply be yourself. Let others tell you what's on your face.
"Do you want to stand out? Then step down (23:11). Be a servant. If you puff yourself up, you'll get the wind knocked out of you. But if you're content to simply be yourself, your life will count for plenty (23:12).
WHO is willing to throw away the "record books?"
Matt 22:13 "I've had it with you! You're hopeless, you religion scholars, you Pharisees! Frauds! Your lives are roadblocks to God's kingdom. You refuse to enter, and won't let anyone else in either.
You keep meticulous account books, tithing on every nickel and dime you get, but on the meat of God's Law, things like fairness and compassion and commitment—the absolute basics!—you carelessly take it or leave it. Careful bookkeeping is commendable, but the basics are required. Do you have any idea how silly you look, writing a life story that's wrong from start to finish, nitpicking over commas and semicolons?
What life story are we writing? Has God set us up? How can we do these things? Do I even want to be myself? What are all these stories stirring up in your soul?
Saturday, October 9, 2010
October 10 ... Matthew 20 - 21 "What Do You Want from Me?"
"God's kingdom is like this ... When the grueling day's work in the clammy vineyard was over, the estate manager paid the same wage to every worker whether they worked one hour or eight hours (20:8). "Here it is again, the Great Reversal (20:16) many of the first ending up last, and the last first."
It's eerily ludicrous that the mother of the Zebedee brothers thought her two sons should be awarded the highest places of honor in heaven (20:21). Made me ponder on what parents today pursue for their children---what do we demand from God to provide for our children? The disciples were disgusted with the request. Jesus answered: Whoever wants to be great must become a servant. Jesus came to serve, not be served (20:28). Have we placed our family priority on being servants? "Seek not great things for yourselves" (Jeremiah 45:5). [Scripture interprets Scripture.]
It's eerily ludicrous that the mother of the Zebedee brothers thought her two sons should be awarded the highest places of honor in heaven (20:21). Made me ponder on what parents today pursue for their children---what do we demand from God to provide for our children? The disciples were disgusted with the request. Jesus answered: Whoever wants to be great must become a servant. Jesus came to serve, not be served (20:28). Have we placed our family priority on being servants? "Seek not great things for yourselves" (Jeremiah 45:5). [Scripture interprets Scripture.]
In Jericho, blind men cried out: "Master, have mercy on us! Jesus' question to the blind men is the same to each of us this day: "What do you want from Me?" (20:32). God, may You be deeply moved by what we want, just as you were for these men.
Friday, October 8, 2010
October 9 ... Matthew 18 - 19 "The Holy Spirit is Preaching to Me"
Matthew 18
"Who gets the highest rank in God's kingdom?" Isn't that what I'm asking when I live for success? Become simple and elemental again, like a child (18:5)...and don't treat believers arrogantly---their personal angels are constantly in touch with My Father (18:10). Yet, I think my words slip by. Repent! Combine my joy in living with profound repentance. "If a fellow believer hurts you, go and tell him—work it out between the two of you.18:16). What you say to one another is eternal. When two of you get together on anything at all on earth and make a prayer of it, my Father in heaven goes into action. And when two or three of you are together because of me, you can be sure that I'll be there" (18:20). Forgive your child 490 times. Forgive your husband 490 times (18:22). That's 980 times in one day for one husband and one child. Most of us have to go over 1,000 times every day! Forgive unconditionally anyone who asks for mercy (18:35).
Matthew 19
"If you're capable of growing into the largeness of marriage, do it (19:12)." It's not for everyone. We will give account to Him on Judgment Day for what we did with the largeness of our marriages. I must deal with my own stuff. Tim Keller writes that we always need a new perspective on our needs and problems. We should always intertwine repentance over our unbelief and indifference to God's grace with our surrender to Truth sinking into our hearts.
Rich or poor, we all have zero chance of getting into the Kingdom if we think we can pull it off ourselves. "We have every chance in the world if we trust God to do it (19:26)." And here comes Peter still asking: "What do we get out of following You? (19:27). Eternal Life. But what about here on this earth? Jonathan Edwards comes to mind when he said that the essential difference between a Christian and a moralist is that a Christian obeys God out of the sheer delight in Who He is not to get anything. Just to live like His Beloved John in a dimlight dingy prison cell for His Pleasure---to behold His Beauty whatever circumstance you are in.
So, what is my rank this day? I think the Holy Spirit is preaching to me, as Luther would say...
"Who gets the highest rank in God's kingdom?" Isn't that what I'm asking when I live for success? Become simple and elemental again, like a child (18:5)...and don't treat believers arrogantly---their personal angels are constantly in touch with My Father (18:10). Yet, I think my words slip by. Repent! Combine my joy in living with profound repentance. "If a fellow believer hurts you, go and tell him—work it out between the two of you.18:16). What you say to one another is eternal. When two of you get together on anything at all on earth and make a prayer of it, my Father in heaven goes into action. And when two or three of you are together because of me, you can be sure that I'll be there" (18:20). Forgive your child 490 times. Forgive your husband 490 times (18:22). That's 980 times in one day for one husband and one child. Most of us have to go over 1,000 times every day! Forgive unconditionally anyone who asks for mercy (18:35).
Matthew 19
"If you're capable of growing into the largeness of marriage, do it (19:12)." It's not for everyone. We will give account to Him on Judgment Day for what we did with the largeness of our marriages. I must deal with my own stuff. Tim Keller writes that we always need a new perspective on our needs and problems. We should always intertwine repentance over our unbelief and indifference to God's grace with our surrender to Truth sinking into our hearts.
Rich or poor, we all have zero chance of getting into the Kingdom if we think we can pull it off ourselves. "We have every chance in the world if we trust God to do it (19:26)." And here comes Peter still asking: "What do we get out of following You? (19:27). Eternal Life. But what about here on this earth? Jonathan Edwards comes to mind when he said that the essential difference between a Christian and a moralist is that a Christian obeys God out of the sheer delight in Who He is not to get anything. Just to live like His Beloved John in a dimlight dingy prison cell for His Pleasure---to behold His Beauty whatever circumstance you are in.
So, what is my rank this day? I think the Holy Spirit is preaching to me, as Luther would say...
Thursday, October 7, 2010
October 8 ... Matthew 15 - 17 "Don't Run From Suffering; Embrace It"
Matthew 15
These people made a big show of saying the right thing, but their heart wasn't in it (Matt 15:9). They acted like they were worshiping me, but they didn't mean it. They just used me...Take this to heart. It's from the heart that we vomit up evil arguments, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, lies, and cussing. What is stirring in my heart this moment, this circumstance of life?
Jesus ignored the Canaanite woman who pleaded for healing for her possessed daughter and kept right on begging for mercy (15:23). What did she think when Jesus ignored her and the disciples felt bothered by her? Saying He already had His hands full, Jesus replied (15:25): "It's not right to take bread out of children's mouths and throw it to dogs." Is He calling her a dog begging for bread? Her reply: "Beggar dogs do get scraps from the master's table." HIS reply: Your faith is something else! What you want is what you get (15:28). What is my faith in this circumstance of life? I have just learned some news in the past few hours that has jarred me. What I am being asked to do is disturbing for me. So, I'll go to this Jesus Who loves us so and beg for scraps from the Master's Table. Scripture interprets Scripture...HE will not leave us begging----Psalm 37:25 "I have never seen the righteous forsaken or their children begging bread."
It's confusing to me...Jesus climbs a mountain along Lake Galilee (15:29) ready to receive the mute, the maimed, the blind and heal them all! Astonished! Then knew that God was blazingly alive among them. No one else can do this. 5 Loaves and 2 Fish. I keep thinking how Jesus left his beloved John in a dungeon to die. HIS Mercy is on us all---it's just not my definition of "good."
Matthew 16
Jesus was concerned about the teaching they believed, not whether they had bread or not. His Followers had no idea of how God works (16:23). It was necessary for Jesus to go to Jerusalem, suffer, be killed, and raised on the 3rd day. But the disciples didn't want it that way, did they? "Anyone who intends to come with me has to let me lead (16:24). You're not in the driver's seat; I am. Don't run from suffering; embrace it. Follow me and I'll show you how. Self-help is no help at all. Self-sacrifice is the way, my way, to finding yourself, your true self. What kind of deal is it to get everything you want but lose yourself? What could you ever trade your soul for? That's it!
Matthew 17
The disciples just didn't get "it," did they? (17:20) - 'You're not yet taking God seriously," said Jesus. "The simple truth is that if you had a mere kernel of faith, you would tell this mountain, 'Move!' and it would move. There is nothing you wouldn't be able to tackle."
What circumstances riddle my soul this day? Will faith be found among us? The Kingdom is near! I can wrestle with a Good God just like these disciples wrestled to find faith. "I can live to give and not to grasp. I can bring a taste of heaven to earth." 66 LL.
These people made a big show of saying the right thing, but their heart wasn't in it (Matt 15:9). They acted like they were worshiping me, but they didn't mean it. They just used me...Take this to heart. It's from the heart that we vomit up evil arguments, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, lies, and cussing. What is stirring in my heart this moment, this circumstance of life?
Jesus ignored the Canaanite woman who pleaded for healing for her possessed daughter and kept right on begging for mercy (15:23). What did she think when Jesus ignored her and the disciples felt bothered by her? Saying He already had His hands full, Jesus replied (15:25): "It's not right to take bread out of children's mouths and throw it to dogs." Is He calling her a dog begging for bread? Her reply: "Beggar dogs do get scraps from the master's table." HIS reply: Your faith is something else! What you want is what you get (15:28). What is my faith in this circumstance of life? I have just learned some news in the past few hours that has jarred me. What I am being asked to do is disturbing for me. So, I'll go to this Jesus Who loves us so and beg for scraps from the Master's Table. Scripture interprets Scripture...HE will not leave us begging----Psalm 37:25 "I have never seen the righteous forsaken or their children begging bread."
It's confusing to me...Jesus climbs a mountain along Lake Galilee (15:29) ready to receive the mute, the maimed, the blind and heal them all! Astonished! Then knew that God was blazingly alive among them. No one else can do this. 5 Loaves and 2 Fish. I keep thinking how Jesus left his beloved John in a dungeon to die. HIS Mercy is on us all---it's just not my definition of "good."
Matthew 16
Jesus was concerned about the teaching they believed, not whether they had bread or not. His Followers had no idea of how God works (16:23). It was necessary for Jesus to go to Jerusalem, suffer, be killed, and raised on the 3rd day. But the disciples didn't want it that way, did they? "Anyone who intends to come with me has to let me lead (16:24). You're not in the driver's seat; I am. Don't run from suffering; embrace it. Follow me and I'll show you how. Self-help is no help at all. Self-sacrifice is the way, my way, to finding yourself, your true self. What kind of deal is it to get everything you want but lose yourself? What could you ever trade your soul for? That's it!
Matthew 17
The disciples just didn't get "it," did they? (17:20) - 'You're not yet taking God seriously," said Jesus. "The simple truth is that if you had a mere kernel of faith, you would tell this mountain, 'Move!' and it would move. There is nothing you wouldn't be able to tackle."
What circumstances riddle my soul this day? Will faith be found among us? The Kingdom is near! I can wrestle with a Good God just like these disciples wrestled to find faith. "I can live to give and not to grasp. I can bring a taste of heaven to earth." 66 LL.
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
October 7 ... Matthew 13 - 14 "5 Loaves of Bread & 2 Fish"
Matthew 13
Are you listening, really listening? Jesus told stories to their God-blessed ears and God-blessed eyes. He repeated the question again and again---are you really listening. Tell stories. "Whenever someone has a ready heart, the insights and understandings flow freely" when Jesus told stories (13:12). Shouldn't we?
Matthew 14
We see the rest of the story in this chapter. John had called Herod's relationship with his sister-in-law what it truly was---adultery. And it cost him his head. I'm so "taken" with John in a dungeon and Jesus answering his question that the blind would see, the deaf hear, the lame walk. But not you, John. Life is so upside down than what I think at times. When Jesus learned of his death, He slipped away but was so "taken" with the crowd that gathered that He not only spoke to them but also fed 5,000 from 5 loaves and 2 fish. How in the world will I ever find rest for my soul knowing I might be left in a dungeon waiting to be beheaded. 5 Loaves and 2 Fish. Only God can change my weary worn soul. Next, a storm comes up at sea....the disciples are panicked. At 4:00am Jesus walks on water to His Followers. Take Courage - 14:27. Makes me think how God never sleeps, never slumbers to watch over us each night. Only He can walk on water to make us stay alive, come alive. 5 Loaves and 2 Fish. Would you make each of us a little more alive today than yesterday?
Are you listening, really listening? Jesus told stories to their God-blessed ears and God-blessed eyes. He repeated the question again and again---are you really listening. Tell stories. "Whenever someone has a ready heart, the insights and understandings flow freely" when Jesus told stories (13:12). Shouldn't we?
Matthew 14
We see the rest of the story in this chapter. John had called Herod's relationship with his sister-in-law what it truly was---adultery. And it cost him his head. I'm so "taken" with John in a dungeon and Jesus answering his question that the blind would see, the deaf hear, the lame walk. But not you, John. Life is so upside down than what I think at times. When Jesus learned of his death, He slipped away but was so "taken" with the crowd that gathered that He not only spoke to them but also fed 5,000 from 5 loaves and 2 fish. How in the world will I ever find rest for my soul knowing I might be left in a dungeon waiting to be beheaded. 5 Loaves and 2 Fish. Only God can change my weary worn soul. Next, a storm comes up at sea....the disciples are panicked. At 4:00am Jesus walks on water to His Followers. Take Courage - 14:27. Makes me think how God never sleeps, never slumbers to watch over us each night. Only He can walk on water to make us stay alive, come alive. 5 Loaves and 2 Fish. Would you make each of us a little more alive today than yesterday?
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
October 6 ... Matthew 11 - 12 "The Unforced Rhythms of Grace"
Matt 11:3 - "Are you the One we've been expecting or are we still waiting?" John asks the question from a dark damp dungeon---a prison cell for preaching truth. But it's Jesus' reply knowing the rest of the story that grips me this day. "Go to the prison and tell John: The blind see, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, the wretched of the earth learn that God is on their side." We know the rest of the story in Matt 14: 11-12...John's head would be carried on a platter at Herod's birthday party at the request of Herodian and her daughter. John wasn't healed or saved from a horrendous death. John knew something I don't know as he wrestled through Jesus leaving him from prison cell to prison cell. Yet John was free.
Are you burned out with what God is asking of you? Are you worn out with your life, your family, your friends, your ministry? Matt 11:28-30 - "Come to Me. Get away with Me and you'll recover your life. How do you get away with Jesus? He will show you how to take a real rest. "Walk with Me and work with Me---watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of Grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with Me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly."
Am I disrupted by the story of John the Baptist and how he learned the unforced rhythms of Grace? "I should be! God prefers a flexible heart to an inflexible ritual (Matt 12:7)." "This is war, and there is no neutral ground (Matt 12:30). If you're not on my side, you're the enemy...Consider this---"There's nothing done or said that can't be forgiven (Matt 12:32)." Take heart! "It's your heart that gives meaning to your words (Matt 12:34)."
So what did John the Baptist know that I don't know in the midst of trials?
Are you burned out with what God is asking of you? Are you worn out with your life, your family, your friends, your ministry? Matt 11:28-30 - "Come to Me. Get away with Me and you'll recover your life. How do you get away with Jesus? He will show you how to take a real rest. "Walk with Me and work with Me---watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of Grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with Me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly."
Am I disrupted by the story of John the Baptist and how he learned the unforced rhythms of Grace? "I should be! God prefers a flexible heart to an inflexible ritual (Matt 12:7)." "This is war, and there is no neutral ground (Matt 12:30). If you're not on my side, you're the enemy...Consider this---"There's nothing done or said that can't be forgiven (Matt 12:32)." Take heart! "It's your heart that gives meaning to your words (Matt 12:34)."
So what did John the Baptist know that I don't know in the midst of trials?
Monday, October 4, 2010
October 5 ... Matthew 9 - 10 "ALL IN"
Matthew 9
They set a paraplegic on a stretcher in front of Jesus and He replied: "I forgive your sins (9:3)." If Jesus walked into your room today, what would He say to you? We all need the One Who heals our souls. I have cancer---would He say to me: I forgive you. It would be the healing I need for I have cancer of my soul. He walked right up to disreputable characters...Who needs a doctor: the healthy or the sick? Go figure out what this Scripture means: "I'm after mercy, not religion." Meanwhile, a local official politely bowed and requested (9:18) that Jesus come to touch his dead daughter so that she would come alive again. Unbelievable. He began a day's journey to walk to the official's home to heal his lifeless girl, but Jesus was interrupted by a woman who touched the hem of His garment. I'm weeping cause I'm that woman this day reaching out to lightly, even remotely, touch his robe (9:20). If I can just get to Him, I'll get well. So much has been removed from my life in the past month or so---a detachment from dependence on anything but Him. I need to be well in my soul. Have faith. Take courage. O my soul! He's near. Jesus turned to blind men and said in 9:29 "Become what you believe." He turned to those with no voice (9:33) and gave them words to speak. Jesus healed their diseased bodies, healed their bruised and hurt lives. His heart broke. Pray for harvest hands! (9:38).
Matthew 10
Go to the lost, confused people right here in the neighborhood. Tell them that the kingdom is here. Bring health to the sick. Raise the dead. Touch the untouchables. Kick out the demons. You have been treated generously, so live generously (10:8). Don't think I came to make life cozy...You have to go all the way with Jesus. All in! If your first concern is to look after yourself, you'll never find yourself. But if you forget about yourself and look to me, you'll find both yourself and me (10:39). C.S. Lewis wrote: "You can’t get second things by putting them first; you can get second things only by putting first things first.” Am I "all in" with my husband? "All in" with my children? "All in" with my friends? "All in" with my God?
They set a paraplegic on a stretcher in front of Jesus and He replied: "I forgive your sins (9:3)." If Jesus walked into your room today, what would He say to you? We all need the One Who heals our souls. I have cancer---would He say to me: I forgive you. It would be the healing I need for I have cancer of my soul. He walked right up to disreputable characters...Who needs a doctor: the healthy or the sick? Go figure out what this Scripture means: "I'm after mercy, not religion." Meanwhile, a local official politely bowed and requested (9:18) that Jesus come to touch his dead daughter so that she would come alive again. Unbelievable. He began a day's journey to walk to the official's home to heal his lifeless girl, but Jesus was interrupted by a woman who touched the hem of His garment. I'm weeping cause I'm that woman this day reaching out to lightly, even remotely, touch his robe (9:20). If I can just get to Him, I'll get well. So much has been removed from my life in the past month or so---a detachment from dependence on anything but Him. I need to be well in my soul. Have faith. Take courage. O my soul! He's near. Jesus turned to blind men and said in 9:29 "Become what you believe." He turned to those with no voice (9:33) and gave them words to speak. Jesus healed their diseased bodies, healed their bruised and hurt lives. His heart broke. Pray for harvest hands! (9:38).
Matthew 10
Go to the lost, confused people right here in the neighborhood. Tell them that the kingdom is here. Bring health to the sick. Raise the dead. Touch the untouchables. Kick out the demons. You have been treated generously, so live generously (10:8). Don't think I came to make life cozy...You have to go all the way with Jesus. All in! If your first concern is to look after yourself, you'll never find yourself. But if you forget about yourself and look to me, you'll find both yourself and me (10:39). C.S. Lewis wrote: "You can’t get second things by putting them first; you can get second things only by putting first things first.” Am I "all in" with my husband? "All in" with my children? "All in" with my friends? "All in" with my God?
Sunday, October 3, 2010
October 4 ... Matthew 7 - 8 "Not a Game of Cat-and-Mouse"
"Satan continues to deceive people into believing that protecting our empty hearts and grasping after whatever fullness seems available is warranted (Heb 2:14)." 66 LL And here is Jesus Christ Who has come to destroy the work of the Evil One in our lives. May we know Matthew 7:5 in our hearts: "no holier-than-thou part of just living our part...no bargaining with God." Ask for what we need. "This isn't a cat-and-mouse, hide-and-see game we're in (Matt. 7:11)." Matthew 8 -"These words I speak to you are not incidental additions to your life, homeowner improvements to your standard of living. They are foundational words, words to build a life on. If you work these words into your life, you are like a smart carpenter who built his house on solid rock. And the crowd burst into applause. Go and build our lives on Solid Rock.
October 3 ... Matthew 5 - 6 "Might Be Good Theatre But Is God Applauding"
Matthew 5:3-5 is Jesus' first sermon: "You're blessed when you're at the end of your rope. With less of you there is more of God and his rule. You're blessed when you feel you've lost what is most dear to you. Only then can you be embraced by the One most dear to you. You're blessed when you're content with just who you are—no more, no less. That's the moment you find yourselves proud owners of everything that can't be bought."
Matthew 5:33 -37 "And don't say anything you don't mean. This counsel is embedded deep in our traditions. ...Just say 'yes' and 'no.' When you manipulate words to get your own way, you go wrong. I love what C.S. Lewis says about words: Don't let your words be bigger than the occasion. If you use too big of a word or too many, you won't have those words to describe the next thing that comes along. "Don't use words too big for the subject. Don't say "infinitely" when you mean "very"; otherwise you'll have no word left when you want to talk about something really infinite." Am I honest with my words? Or am I trying to get my way with my words?
Jesus last words of his first sermon: "Live generously and graciously toward others, the way God lives toward you."
Matthew 6:1 "Be especially careful when you are trying to be good so that you don't make a performance out of it. It might be good theater, but the God who made you won't be applauding. Why am I so dramatic? Is it to get my point across? Who am I trying to convince? Here's what God wants me to do: "Find a quiet, secluded place so you won't be tempted to role-play before God. Just be there as simply and honestly as you can manage. The focus will shift from you to God, and you will begin to sense his grace." Psalm 131 sit quietly and wait in hope this day.
Matthew 6:7 "The world is full of so-called prayer warriors who are prayer-ignorant. They're full of formulas and programs and advice, peddling techniques for getting what you want from God. Give your entire attention to what God is doing right now, and don't get worked up about what may or may not happen tomorrow. God will help you deal with whatever hard things come up when the time comes." Be still, O my soul. Before a Holy God..
Matthew 5:33 -37 "And don't say anything you don't mean. This counsel is embedded deep in our traditions. ...Just say 'yes' and 'no.' When you manipulate words to get your own way, you go wrong. I love what C.S. Lewis says about words: Don't let your words be bigger than the occasion. If you use too big of a word or too many, you won't have those words to describe the next thing that comes along. "Don't use words too big for the subject. Don't say "infinitely" when you mean "very"; otherwise you'll have no word left when you want to talk about something really infinite." Am I honest with my words? Or am I trying to get my way with my words?
Jesus last words of his first sermon: "Live generously and graciously toward others, the way God lives toward you."
Matthew 6:1 "Be especially careful when you are trying to be good so that you don't make a performance out of it. It might be good theater, but the God who made you won't be applauding. Why am I so dramatic? Is it to get my point across? Who am I trying to convince? Here's what God wants me to do: "Find a quiet, secluded place so you won't be tempted to role-play before God. Just be there as simply and honestly as you can manage. The focus will shift from you to God, and you will begin to sense his grace." Psalm 131 sit quietly and wait in hope this day.
Matthew 6:7 "The world is full of so-called prayer warriors who are prayer-ignorant. They're full of formulas and programs and advice, peddling techniques for getting what you want from God. Give your entire attention to what God is doing right now, and don't get worked up about what may or may not happen tomorrow. God will help you deal with whatever hard things come up when the time comes." Be still, O my soul. Before a Holy God..
Saturday, October 2, 2010
October 2 ... Matthew 1 - 4 "I'm At The End of My Rope"
Matthew 1
Mary and Joseph were not "blinded by their self-centered understanding of what should come next in the story." Mary's pregnancy was Spirit-conceived. Is this the good news that the people of that day expected?
Matthew 3
John's Message: "Change your life. God's kingdom is here." Life is not about being a descendant of someone with status. "What counts is your life. Is it green and blossoming? ... God will ignite the Kingdom Life within you, a fire within you, the Holy Spirit within you, changing you from the indside out.
What keeps the fire burning within me? What snuffs it out? What rules my heart as I open the pages of the New Testament? What am I giving to my world? Am I broken over the sin in my life? In his book, 66 LL, Larry Crabb writes about a friend "who has not come to the end of his rope. When he does, there will be less stubborn self-protection in his motives and more room for the Spirit of My Son to take over. My Son made that exact point in His first sermon. 'You're blessed when you're at the end of your rope. With less of you there is more of God and His Rule' (Matt. 5:3)." What's happening in my heart as I share with others this day, as I move about my world?
Mary and Joseph were not "blinded by their self-centered understanding of what should come next in the story." Mary's pregnancy was Spirit-conceived. Is this the good news that the people of that day expected?
Matthew 3
John's Message: "Change your life. God's kingdom is here." Life is not about being a descendant of someone with status. "What counts is your life. Is it green and blossoming? ... God will ignite the Kingdom Life within you, a fire within you, the Holy Spirit within you, changing you from the indside out.
What keeps the fire burning within me? What snuffs it out? What rules my heart as I open the pages of the New Testament? What am I giving to my world? Am I broken over the sin in my life? In his book, 66 LL, Larry Crabb writes about a friend "who has not come to the end of his rope. When he does, there will be less stubborn self-protection in his motives and more room for the Spirit of My Son to take over. My Son made that exact point in His first sermon. 'You're blessed when you're at the end of your rope. With less of you there is more of God and His Rule' (Matt. 5:3)." What's happening in my heart as I share with others this day, as I move about my world?
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