Does He Want You?
Mark 3:13-16 Jesus went up on a mountainside and called to him those he wanted, and they came to him. 14 He appointed twelve — designating them apostles — that they might be with him and that he might send them out to preach 15 and to have authority to drive out demons.
DOES JESUS want you? Your first response may be, “I don’t know. Should he?” or you might think, “I doubt it. I’m not good enough.” Possibly you will think, “I sure hope so.” What he desires you to think is, “Yes, he sure does!”
I hope and pray you know how much Jesus loves you, and that he does want you as his own. This scripture shows he called 12 men “he wanted” to be apostles. Do you see his vision for them? They would “be with him and that he might send them out to preach”. He wanted them because he wants you. Here’s how I know.
Why would they be with him? Of course, it was to learn the truth of Jesus, the Savior the world. Once they learned that, they would go to preach. And what did they preach? Of course, it was the Gospel of salvation, the truth of Jesus, the Savior of the world.
And in the preaching they had authority to drive out demons. Why? Of course, it was to demonstrate the power of Jesus, the Savior of the world.
Now, why did he want these 12 men? It is because he wants you. Yes, here you see God’s plan taking a dramatic step forward to teach, preach and show the truth of Jesus to the world. And now you are in the world. Yes, Jesus wanted these men because he wants you.
Pause and consider what else? Do you want Jesus?
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
Monday, January 30, 2012
January 31, 2012 Who Killed the Gospel?
Who Killed the Gospel?
Mark 3:1-6 Another time he went into the synagogue, and a man with a shriveled hand was there. 2 Some of them were looking for a reason to accuse Jesus, so they watched him closely to see if he would heal him on the Sabbath. 3 Jesus said to the man with the shriveled hand, “Stand up in front of everyone.” 4 Then Jesus asked them, “Which is lawful on the Sabbath: to do good or to do evil, to save life or to kill?” But they remained silent. 5 He looked around at them in anger and, deeply distressed at their stubborn hearts, said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” He stretched it out, and his hand was completely restored. 6 Then the Pharisees went out and began to plot with the Herodians how they might kill Jesus.
DO YOU think this episode makes any sense? Jesus healed a man with a withered hand. Then the Pharisees looked for ways to kill him. Seriously? “Wake up, Pharisees! The Lord of Life is healing people. Celebrate him.”
Before you get too critical, though, what about this? I’ve heard of people being offended because a church group worked on a Sunday to help some people in need. “It’s the Sabbath. You don’t do those things on a Sunday!”
Why not? Do you see the God, who came from the throne of heaven to minister into impoverished, disease-ridden communities? Do you see the God, who healed on the Sabbath and was angry and deeply distressed over the stubborn, traditional hearts around him? Would Jesus want you to heal people’s needs on the Sabbath?
What do you think? When did holding back God become a mission of the church? The Pharisees killed Jesus. When did the church kill the gospel?
Pause and consider how Jesus loved this man. Go and do likewise.
Mark 3:1-6 Another time he went into the synagogue, and a man with a shriveled hand was there. 2 Some of them were looking for a reason to accuse Jesus, so they watched him closely to see if he would heal him on the Sabbath. 3 Jesus said to the man with the shriveled hand, “Stand up in front of everyone.” 4 Then Jesus asked them, “Which is lawful on the Sabbath: to do good or to do evil, to save life or to kill?” But they remained silent. 5 He looked around at them in anger and, deeply distressed at their stubborn hearts, said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” He stretched it out, and his hand was completely restored. 6 Then the Pharisees went out and began to plot with the Herodians how they might kill Jesus.
DO YOU think this episode makes any sense? Jesus healed a man with a withered hand. Then the Pharisees looked for ways to kill him. Seriously? “Wake up, Pharisees! The Lord of Life is healing people. Celebrate him.”
Before you get too critical, though, what about this? I’ve heard of people being offended because a church group worked on a Sunday to help some people in need. “It’s the Sabbath. You don’t do those things on a Sunday!”
Why not? Do you see the God, who came from the throne of heaven to minister into impoverished, disease-ridden communities? Do you see the God, who healed on the Sabbath and was angry and deeply distressed over the stubborn, traditional hearts around him? Would Jesus want you to heal people’s needs on the Sabbath?
What do you think? When did holding back God become a mission of the church? The Pharisees killed Jesus. When did the church kill the gospel?
Pause and consider how Jesus loved this man. Go and do likewise.
Thursday, January 26, 2012
January 27, 2012 Are You Uncomfortable?
Are You Uncomfortable?
Mark 2:15-16 While Jesus was having dinner at Levi's house, many tax collectors and “sinners” were eating with him and his disciples, for there were many who followed him. 16 When the teachers of the law who were Pharisees saw him eating with the “sinners” and tax collectors, they asked his disciples: “Why does he eat with tax collectors and 'sinners'?”
DO YOU like to be comfortable? Then ministry probably isn’t for you.
Consider Jesus’ life. (You can read about it in the rest of “Mark”.) Did he ever do anything in his ministry that made him comfortable? He went to the people who were sick, put himself in positions to be often criticized, attacked verbally and threatened physically. He went to the homes of such people as Levi, whom all the people hated because he was a tax collector. He even went to a stinking tomb to raise a dead man.
No, Jesus didn’t seek comfort and neither should you if you desire to “minister” the Gospel. Ministery may require you to teach children who don’t know the rules. Or you might need to spend time with teens who have no respect for you or anything, Are You Uncomfortable?
Mark 2:15-16 While Jesus was having dinner at Levi's house, many tax collectors and “sinners” were eating with him and his disciples, for there were many who followed him. 16 When the teachers of the law who were Pharisees saw him eating with the “sinners” and tax collectors, they asked his disciples: “Why does he eat with tax collectors and 'sinners'?”
No, Jesus didn’t seek comfort and neither should you if you desire to “minister” the Gospel. Ministery may require you to teach children who don’t know the rules. Or you might need to spend time with teens who have no respect for you or anything, anyone else. Maybe it’s uncomfortable to talk to people at work about Jesus. Possibly you need to go to a Third World country to minister to the hungry and desperate.
Do you feel God urging you to do something that makes you uncomfortable? To say to Jesus, “I’m not comfortable. Get someone else.” negates the life of your Lord here on earth. Before you say, “No." pray for the Holy Spirit to give you strength and passion for your Lord. Then go. He has modeled for you what he expects of you. How will you respond?
Pause and consider Jesus’ deadly discomfort of the cross is for you.
Mark 2:15-16 While Jesus was having dinner at Levi's house, many tax collectors and “sinners” were eating with him and his disciples, for there were many who followed him. 16 When the teachers of the law who were Pharisees saw him eating with the “sinners” and tax collectors, they asked his disciples: “Why does he eat with tax collectors and 'sinners'?”
DO YOU like to be comfortable? Then ministry probably isn’t for you.
Consider Jesus’ life. (You can read about it in the rest of “Mark”.) Did he ever do anything in his ministry that made him comfortable? He went to the people who were sick, put himself in positions to be often criticized, attacked verbally and threatened physically. He went to the homes of such people as Levi, whom all the people hated because he was a tax collector. He even went to a stinking tomb to raise a dead man.
No, Jesus didn’t seek comfort and neither should you if you desire to “minister” the Gospel. Ministery may require you to teach children who don’t know the rules. Or you might need to spend time with teens who have no respect for you or anything, Are You Uncomfortable?
Mark 2:15-16 While Jesus was having dinner at Levi's house, many tax collectors and “sinners” were eating with him and his disciples, for there were many who followed him. 16 When the teachers of the law who were Pharisees saw him eating with the “sinners” and tax collectors, they asked his disciples: “Why does he eat with tax collectors and 'sinners'?”
No, Jesus didn’t seek comfort and neither should you if you desire to “minister” the Gospel. Ministery may require you to teach children who don’t know the rules. Or you might need to spend time with teens who have no respect for you or anything, anyone else. Maybe it’s uncomfortable to talk to people at work about Jesus. Possibly you need to go to a Third World country to minister to the hungry and desperate.
Do you feel God urging you to do something that makes you uncomfortable? To say to Jesus, “I’m not comfortable. Get someone else.” negates the life of your Lord here on earth. Before you say, “No." pray for the Holy Spirit to give you strength and passion for your Lord. Then go. He has modeled for you what he expects of you. How will you respond?
Pause and consider Jesus’ deadly discomfort of the cross is for you.
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
January 24, 2012 Now
Now!
Mark 2:3-5 Some men came, bringing to him a paralytic, carried by four of them. 4 Since they could not get him to Jesus because of the crowd, they made an opening in the roof above Jesus and, after digging through it, lowered the mat the paralyzed man was lying on.
ARE YOU a passionate person? If you’re looking for a definition of passion, the men in this story certainly fit “passion”. I always marvel at the paralyzed man’s passion to see Jesus and his friends’ passion to help him. How easy would it have been for them to walk away and say, “Later”. I wonder if the man would have been healed if he said, “Later.”
What about you? Do you passionately pursue Jesus, or do you say, “Later—not today. I don’t feel like it. I’ll get to it when it is more convenient for me.”
Do you know what? You won’t get to it later because you always have an excuse. You have things to do. You listen to distractions. You prefer mindless TV or meaningless conversations because your passion is “later” and not “now”. You know what to do, but you make excuses because you like complaining about what you don’t have instead of passionately pursuing what will change your life. Your soul is paralyzed with, “Later”. The truth of “Later” is that it never comes until you say, “Now”.
How about other areas of your life? Want a better job? Better marriage? Better friendships? Then stop living a paralyzed life. Get up and go where you need to be.
Pause and consider you need to start now.
Mark 2:3-5 Some men came, bringing to him a paralytic, carried by four of them. 4 Since they could not get him to Jesus because of the crowd, they made an opening in the roof above Jesus and, after digging through it, lowered the mat the paralyzed man was lying on.
ARE YOU a passionate person? If you’re looking for a definition of passion, the men in this story certainly fit “passion”. I always marvel at the paralyzed man’s passion to see Jesus and his friends’ passion to help him. How easy would it have been for them to walk away and say, “Later”. I wonder if the man would have been healed if he said, “Later.”
What about you? Do you passionately pursue Jesus, or do you say, “Later—not today. I don’t feel like it. I’ll get to it when it is more convenient for me.”
Do you know what? You won’t get to it later because you always have an excuse. You have things to do. You listen to distractions. You prefer mindless TV or meaningless conversations because your passion is “later” and not “now”. You know what to do, but you make excuses because you like complaining about what you don’t have instead of passionately pursuing what will change your life. Your soul is paralyzed with, “Later”. The truth of “Later” is that it never comes until you say, “Now”.
How about other areas of your life? Want a better job? Better marriage? Better friendships? Then stop living a paralyzed life. Get up and go where you need to be.
Pause and consider you need to start now.
Saturday, January 21, 2012
January 22 Remember Who Did It
Remember Who Does It
Mark 1:43-50 Jesus sent him away at once with a strong warning: 44 "See that you don't tell this to anyone. But go, show yourself to the priest and offer the sacrifices that Moses commanded for your cleansing, as a testimony to them." 45 Instead he went out and began to talk freely, spreading the news. As a result, Jesus could no longer enter a town openly but stayed outside in lonely places. Yet the people still came to him from everywhere.
WHEN YOU consider all the glorious healings the Gospels record, isn’t it easy to say, “Jesus did it!” Would it not have been easy for him to say, “I did it!”
Instead, Jesus points the healed to the Father. Here he tells the now-clean man to go to the priests. God, the Father, had established laws by which a person would be declared clean to re-enter society. Jesus commanded the man to go and do what God had written in the law of Moses.
When the healed man disobeyed and excitedly told his great news, he pointed the people too much to Jesus and too little to the Father. It caused a disruption in Jesus’ ministry. He had to stay in lonely places, and he could no longer preach the Gospel.
When you minister the Gospel and see God work—always give the praise to God. When you are healed in some way—physically, emotionally, spiritually, economically—never praise a person who has helped you. Instead, thank the godly person who has helped you and praise the Father. Your healing has come, as all things do, in the will of God through the power of the Spirit of God.
Pause and consider how God shows up in your life. Praise him!
Mark 1:43-50 Jesus sent him away at once with a strong warning: 44 "See that you don't tell this to anyone. But go, show yourself to the priest and offer the sacrifices that Moses commanded for your cleansing, as a testimony to them." 45 Instead he went out and began to talk freely, spreading the news. As a result, Jesus could no longer enter a town openly but stayed outside in lonely places. Yet the people still came to him from everywhere.
WHEN YOU consider all the glorious healings the Gospels record, isn’t it easy to say, “Jesus did it!” Would it not have been easy for him to say, “I did it!”
Instead, Jesus points the healed to the Father. Here he tells the now-clean man to go to the priests. God, the Father, had established laws by which a person would be declared clean to re-enter society. Jesus commanded the man to go and do what God had written in the law of Moses.
When the healed man disobeyed and excitedly told his great news, he pointed the people too much to Jesus and too little to the Father. It caused a disruption in Jesus’ ministry. He had to stay in lonely places, and he could no longer preach the Gospel.
When you minister the Gospel and see God work—always give the praise to God. When you are healed in some way—physically, emotionally, spiritually, economically—never praise a person who has helped you. Instead, thank the godly person who has helped you and praise the Father. Your healing has come, as all things do, in the will of God through the power of the Spirit of God.
Pause and consider how God shows up in your life. Praise him!
Thursday, January 19, 2012
January 20, 2012 Purposeful Prayer
Purposeful Prayer
Mark 1:35 Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed. 36 Simon and his companions went to look for him, 37 and when they found him, they exclaimed: “Everyone is looking for you!” 38 Jesus replied, “Let us go somewhere else — to the nearby villages — so I can preach there also. That is why I have come.”
WHAT DO you think about prayer? What’s your response when someone tells you, “I’m praying for you.” or “You need to pray about it.”
One of the fascinating pictures of Jesus is how gets up early in the morning and goes to be alone in prayer. Isn’t it of interest to you that the Son of God purposefully goes to pray alone to the Father? Let that sink in.
Jesus needs the “alone time” with the Father before he begins his day. He needs to prepare for the ministry he’s about to do. That ministry focus is his preaching as he says, “This is why I have come.”
It is clear then, that one purpose of Jesus’ prayers was to prepare for the preaching—the purpose for which he had come.
Now consider your own life. What is your purpose in life right now? Being a mom? A dad? Being a good worker? Being a student? Being a business leader? Being a child of God? Becoming someone with special purpose? Modeling the Son of God, what’s a good thing to do in the purpose of your life?
Of course, it is to pray for God’s strength, guidance, wisdom and peace in your purpose. That is what Jesus models for you. That is the Father’s desire for you.
Pause and consider that as you pray into your life’s purpose, your life will become more purposeful in Christ Jesus.
Mark 1:35 Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed. 36 Simon and his companions went to look for him, 37 and when they found him, they exclaimed: “Everyone is looking for you!” 38 Jesus replied, “Let us go somewhere else — to the nearby villages — so I can preach there also. That is why I have come.”
WHAT DO you think about prayer? What’s your response when someone tells you, “I’m praying for you.” or “You need to pray about it.”
One of the fascinating pictures of Jesus is how gets up early in the morning and goes to be alone in prayer. Isn’t it of interest to you that the Son of God purposefully goes to pray alone to the Father? Let that sink in.
Jesus needs the “alone time” with the Father before he begins his day. He needs to prepare for the ministry he’s about to do. That ministry focus is his preaching as he says, “This is why I have come.”
It is clear then, that one purpose of Jesus’ prayers was to prepare for the preaching—the purpose for which he had come.
Now consider your own life. What is your purpose in life right now? Being a mom? A dad? Being a good worker? Being a student? Being a business leader? Being a child of God? Becoming someone with special purpose? Modeling the Son of God, what’s a good thing to do in the purpose of your life?
Of course, it is to pray for God’s strength, guidance, wisdom and peace in your purpose. That is what Jesus models for you. That is the Father’s desire for you.
Pause and consider that as you pray into your life’s purpose, your life will become more purposeful in Christ Jesus.
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
January 19, 2012 Why Wouldn't They Be?
Why Wouldn’t They Be?
Mark 1:27-32 The people were all so amazed that they asked each other, "What is this? A new teaching — and with authority! He even gives orders to evil spirits and they obey him." 28 News about him spread quickly over the whole region of Galilee. 29 As soon as they left the synagogue, they went with James and John to the home of Simon and Andrew. 30 Simon's mother-in-law was in bed with a fever, and they told Jesus about her. 31 So he went to her, took her hand and helped her up. The fever left her and she began to wait on them. 32 That evening after sunset the people brought to Jesus all the sick and demon-possessed.
ARE YOU excited when you hear about Jesus? The people of Bethsaida, Capernaum, and Korazin were stirred up. And why wouldn’t they be?
News about Jesus was spreading: “We saw the Holy Spirit come on him.” “We hear God’s voice say, ‘He’s my son!’” “He’s the Lamb of God!” “Did you see? He drives out demons.” “Look at Peter’s mom—she’s well!”
The Good News of God’s Kingdom come is coursing through the countryside, invading the hearts and minds of people eagerly searching for the Christ. They see evidence, “They Christ has come!” They’re excited, and why wouldn’t they be?
How about you? Where have you seen Jesus? Are you telling others how he has come to you? Are you eager to get up in the morning and read God’s Word? Are you excited to sit down and pray, to be in conversation with the King? Are you excited to know he is your Savior!
Why wouldn’t you be?
Pause and consider your passion level for Jesus – 1? (low) 10? (high) In between? Where do you want it? Where does Jesus want it?
Mark 1:27-32 The people were all so amazed that they asked each other, "What is this? A new teaching — and with authority! He even gives orders to evil spirits and they obey him." 28 News about him spread quickly over the whole region of Galilee. 29 As soon as they left the synagogue, they went with James and John to the home of Simon and Andrew. 30 Simon's mother-in-law was in bed with a fever, and they told Jesus about her. 31 So he went to her, took her hand and helped her up. The fever left her and she began to wait on them. 32 That evening after sunset the people brought to Jesus all the sick and demon-possessed.
ARE YOU excited when you hear about Jesus? The people of Bethsaida, Capernaum, and Korazin were stirred up. And why wouldn’t they be?
News about Jesus was spreading: “We saw the Holy Spirit come on him.” “We hear God’s voice say, ‘He’s my son!’” “He’s the Lamb of God!” “Did you see? He drives out demons.” “Look at Peter’s mom—she’s well!”
The Good News of God’s Kingdom come is coursing through the countryside, invading the hearts and minds of people eagerly searching for the Christ. They see evidence, “They Christ has come!” They’re excited, and why wouldn’t they be?
How about you? Where have you seen Jesus? Are you telling others how he has come to you? Are you eager to get up in the morning and read God’s Word? Are you excited to sit down and pray, to be in conversation with the King? Are you excited to know he is your Savior!
Why wouldn’t you be?
Pause and consider your passion level for Jesus – 1? (low) 10? (high) In between? Where do you want it? Where does Jesus want it?
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
January 18, 2012 Be Quiet and Go!
Be Quiet and Go!
Mark 1:23-25 Just then a man in their synagogue who was possessed by an evil spirit cried out, 24 "What do you want with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are — the Holy One of God!" 25 "Be quiet!" said Jesus sternly. "Come out of him!" 26 The evil spirit shook the man violently and came out of him with a shriek.
THE THING YOU must know is that evil spirits are active in the world. And they do “possess” – live in and control the actions of – some people. And they attempt to influence the actions of all. I have heard testimonies from people who have experienced demonic possession. They share how these demons spoke to them and turned them to evil actions. They were released from the evil when they accepted Jesus as their Lord and Savior.
Jesus, the Holy One, wars against the evil that possesses and tempts his people. When he tells the demon, “Be quiet.” he rejects the voice of evil. In this exchange, you see it is the power of God that removes the power of sin literally from this man. As the demon leaves, it causes the man to convulse.
Demonic possession and influences cause convulsion in the soul, heart and mind to keep you from Jesus. The battle rages each day. Each day you must call upon the power of Jesus Christ, to protect you and free you for victory in the battle.
Jesus is the victor. He stands triumphant on the throne of heaven. Listen to his voice only.
Pause and consider how constantly the Holy Spirit is available to give you power to resist evil.
Mark 1:23-25 Just then a man in their synagogue who was possessed by an evil spirit cried out, 24 "What do you want with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are — the Holy One of God!" 25 "Be quiet!" said Jesus sternly. "Come out of him!" 26 The evil spirit shook the man violently and came out of him with a shriek.
THE THING YOU must know is that evil spirits are active in the world. And they do “possess” – live in and control the actions of – some people. And they attempt to influence the actions of all. I have heard testimonies from people who have experienced demonic possession. They share how these demons spoke to them and turned them to evil actions. They were released from the evil when they accepted Jesus as their Lord and Savior.
Jesus, the Holy One, wars against the evil that possesses and tempts his people. When he tells the demon, “Be quiet.” he rejects the voice of evil. In this exchange, you see it is the power of God that removes the power of sin literally from this man. As the demon leaves, it causes the man to convulse.
Demonic possession and influences cause convulsion in the soul, heart and mind to keep you from Jesus. The battle rages each day. Each day you must call upon the power of Jesus Christ, to protect you and free you for victory in the battle.
Jesus is the victor. He stands triumphant on the throne of heaven. Listen to his voice only.
Pause and consider how constantly the Holy Spirit is available to give you power to resist evil.
Monday, January 16, 2012
January 17, 2012 Something's Different
Something’s Different
Mark 1:21-22 They went to Capernaum, and when the Sabbath came, Jesus went into the synagogue and began to teach. 22 The people were amazed at his teaching, because he taught them as one who had authority, not as the teachers of the law.
HAVE YOU ever been in the presence of someone who really knows what she’s talking about? She exudes authority in her knowledge. And her way of speaking assures you she has a mastery of her facts.
When Scriptures says Jesus taught as one “who had authority”, it is apparent people were confident of his knowledge. They knew he had a mastery of his topic. And, in fact, one of the terms used to address him was “Master”. The Gospel writer Luke uses this several times to record the disciples addressing Jesus.
But there’s something more, much more to Jesus’ authority than his words. Jesus made it clear he had authority, he had mastery, over disease, over the winds, over the demons and over sin. Jesus demonstrated his authority also in the way he taught the Law of Moses, turning it from a the legalistic code the Jews had made it to be into a pattern for life, the way God meant it to be.
Jesus’ authority of the Scriptures brought the reality of God’s love to his people. His authority came from the throne of heaven in the power of the Spirit, and the Spirit moved to touch the hearts of men and women who heard the Master’s words.
Pause and consider how life-giving the words of Scripture are when you turn your life to the authority of God’s Word.
Mark 1:21-22 They went to Capernaum, and when the Sabbath came, Jesus went into the synagogue and began to teach. 22 The people were amazed at his teaching, because he taught them as one who had authority, not as the teachers of the law.
HAVE YOU ever been in the presence of someone who really knows what she’s talking about? She exudes authority in her knowledge. And her way of speaking assures you she has a mastery of her facts.
When Scriptures says Jesus taught as one “who had authority”, it is apparent people were confident of his knowledge. They knew he had a mastery of his topic. And, in fact, one of the terms used to address him was “Master”. The Gospel writer Luke uses this several times to record the disciples addressing Jesus.
But there’s something more, much more to Jesus’ authority than his words. Jesus made it clear he had authority, he had mastery, over disease, over the winds, over the demons and over sin. Jesus demonstrated his authority also in the way he taught the Law of Moses, turning it from a the legalistic code the Jews had made it to be into a pattern for life, the way God meant it to be.
Jesus’ authority of the Scriptures brought the reality of God’s love to his people. His authority came from the throne of heaven in the power of the Spirit, and the Spirit moved to touch the hearts of men and women who heard the Master’s words.
Pause and consider how life-giving the words of Scripture are when you turn your life to the authority of God’s Word.
Sunday, January 15, 2012
January 16, 2012 An Amazing Invitation
Jesus Calls
Mark 1:17-20 "Come, follow me," Jesus said, "and I will make you fishers of men." 18 At once they left their nets and followed him. 19 When he had gone a little farther, he saw James son of Zebedee and his brother John in a boat, preparing their nets. 20 Without delay he called them, and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired men and followed him.
HAVE YOU ever wondered what made these fishermen and other men leave what they were doing to follow Jesus? After all, they left their jobs, their way of life, their parents, their friends and responded to Jesus’ invitation to “Come, follow me.” To me, this is an amazing response, devoted response to Jesus.
Actually, what is really amazing is Jesus’ call on their lives. The culture of the day was that young men who were interested in learning more of God and God’s Word would have to go to a rabbi and say, “Could I please be your disciple.” And usually they were rejected because they weren’t smart enough, or the rabbit had some prejudice against them.
Not Jesus. He’s God in the flesh. God has a plan to save the world from sin. In his love, it is his choice to come to earth. In his love it is his choice to choose people to be his disciples. In his love, he will take all who drop “their nets” and follow him.
This is a most amazing thing, isn’t it?
Pause and consider your response to Jesus’ invitation. What must you drop to follow him?
Mark 1:17-20 "Come, follow me," Jesus said, "and I will make you fishers of men." 18 At once they left their nets and followed him. 19 When he had gone a little farther, he saw James son of Zebedee and his brother John in a boat, preparing their nets. 20 Without delay he called them, and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired men and followed him.
HAVE YOU ever wondered what made these fishermen and other men leave what they were doing to follow Jesus? After all, they left their jobs, their way of life, their parents, their friends and responded to Jesus’ invitation to “Come, follow me.” To me, this is an amazing response, devoted response to Jesus.
Actually, what is really amazing is Jesus’ call on their lives. The culture of the day was that young men who were interested in learning more of God and God’s Word would have to go to a rabbi and say, “Could I please be your disciple.” And usually they were rejected because they weren’t smart enough, or the rabbit had some prejudice against them.
Not Jesus. He’s God in the flesh. God has a plan to save the world from sin. In his love, it is his choice to come to earth. In his love it is his choice to choose people to be his disciples. In his love, he will take all who drop “their nets” and follow him.
This is a most amazing thing, isn’t it?
Pause and consider your response to Jesus’ invitation. What must you drop to follow him?
Saturday, January 14, 2012
January 15, 2012 Good News?
Good News?
Mark 1:14-16 After John was put in prison, Jesus went into Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God. 15 “The time has come,” he said. “The kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe the good news!”
DO YOU see anything odd here? How does it strike you that “John was put in prison…and Jesus went proclaiming the good news of God.”
God created John to point God’s people to Jesus. He baptizes Jesus as Jesus began his mission. John has clearly fulfilled the purpose of his life.
So this is how you reward people, Jesus? You put John, your faithful servant, in prison where Herod will have him beheaded? Why would you do that, Jesus?
What do you think? Seems unfair, even disdainful, doesn’t it? Pause and consider other things Jesus knew. He knew John’s future was a heavenly future. Eternal reward this faithful servant. Jesus knew that his faithful preaching the good news of God lead him to a brutal death.
The lesson here is that when God calls you to be a good news giver, you could (likely will) face many challenges. You could be socially cast “in jail”, shut off from your friends and family. And in certain parts of the world, you could be killed.
The thing is, as a good news giver, you are never alone. As a good news giver, you never die because the good news is: (John 11:25) “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies”
Seeing your life as limited to your earthly existence, you may often say, “it’s not fair, Lord?”
Seeing your life as eternal in the hands of Jesus you will say, (Luke 22:42) “yet not my will, but yours be done.”
Pause and consider that Jesus suffered and died so you may rejoice and live.
Mark 1:14-16 After John was put in prison, Jesus went into Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God. 15 “The time has come,” he said. “The kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe the good news!”
DO YOU see anything odd here? How does it strike you that “John was put in prison…and Jesus went proclaiming the good news of God.”
God created John to point God’s people to Jesus. He baptizes Jesus as Jesus began his mission. John has clearly fulfilled the purpose of his life.
So this is how you reward people, Jesus? You put John, your faithful servant, in prison where Herod will have him beheaded? Why would you do that, Jesus?
What do you think? Seems unfair, even disdainful, doesn’t it? Pause and consider other things Jesus knew. He knew John’s future was a heavenly future. Eternal reward this faithful servant. Jesus knew that his faithful preaching the good news of God lead him to a brutal death.
The lesson here is that when God calls you to be a good news giver, you could (likely will) face many challenges. You could be socially cast “in jail”, shut off from your friends and family. And in certain parts of the world, you could be killed.
The thing is, as a good news giver, you are never alone. As a good news giver, you never die because the good news is: (John 11:25) “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies”
Seeing your life as limited to your earthly existence, you may often say, “it’s not fair, Lord?”
Seeing your life as eternal in the hands of Jesus you will say, (Luke 22:42) “yet not my will, but yours be done.”
Pause and consider that Jesus suffered and died so you may rejoice and live.
Friday, January 13, 2012
January 14, 2012 Tough Start
Tough Start
Mark 1:12-13 At once the Spirit sent him out into the desert, 13 and he was in the desert forty days, being tempted by Satan. He was with the wild animals, and angels attended him.
PERHAPS you’ve begun a new job or graduated from long years of study. You were excited and feeling well-prepared for the work. Maybe you prepared for years to begin a business. Now the time had arrived. You were sure you could handle any challenge that might come your way.
But something happened. You faced difficulties far beyond what you had foreseen. You didn’t realize things would be that difficult! What to do?
One of the many things that mazes me about this scripture is this: The Holy Spirit of God has just anointed the Son of God to do the work of God in the world. And it seems his first task is to confront the devil. Right out of the chute, so to speak, Jesus goes from his anointing to ministry to a very severe test of his anointing. He faces horrible, unbelievable physical deprivation. Other Gospels record he was in the desert 40 days with no food or water. No mere mortal could survive that kind of physical punishment.
No mere mortal could survive the devil’s persistent temptations. Jesus faced a most severe test on who he was and what he was to do. The devil was desperate to dissuade him.
In the power of God, Jesus withstood the test. He resisted evil. He stood on the truth of the Word of God (after all, he is the “Word become flesh”), and he left the test strengthened to do his work.
This same power is available for you. Where are your struggles and temptations? Where are you feeling weak and unable to deal with life as it is today? Go to the Word of God and find your strength. Call on the Spirit, and he will refresh you.
Pause and consider how the devil keeps pursuing you and you must keep pursuing the Word of God.
Mark 1:12-13 At once the Spirit sent him out into the desert, 13 and he was in the desert forty days, being tempted by Satan. He was with the wild animals, and angels attended him.
PERHAPS you’ve begun a new job or graduated from long years of study. You were excited and feeling well-prepared for the work. Maybe you prepared for years to begin a business. Now the time had arrived. You were sure you could handle any challenge that might come your way.
But something happened. You faced difficulties far beyond what you had foreseen. You didn’t realize things would be that difficult! What to do?
One of the many things that mazes me about this scripture is this: The Holy Spirit of God has just anointed the Son of God to do the work of God in the world. And it seems his first task is to confront the devil. Right out of the chute, so to speak, Jesus goes from his anointing to ministry to a very severe test of his anointing. He faces horrible, unbelievable physical deprivation. Other Gospels record he was in the desert 40 days with no food or water. No mere mortal could survive that kind of physical punishment.
No mere mortal could survive the devil’s persistent temptations. Jesus faced a most severe test on who he was and what he was to do. The devil was desperate to dissuade him.
In the power of God, Jesus withstood the test. He resisted evil. He stood on the truth of the Word of God (after all, he is the “Word become flesh”), and he left the test strengthened to do his work.
This same power is available for you. Where are your struggles and temptations? Where are you feeling weak and unable to deal with life as it is today? Go to the Word of God and find your strength. Call on the Spirit, and he will refresh you.
Pause and consider how the devil keeps pursuing you and you must keep pursuing the Word of God.
Thursday, January 12, 2012
January 13, 2012 The Father's Son
The Father’s Blessing
Mark 1:11 And a voice came from heaven: "You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased."
TWO very important things happen with these words from God the Father to Jesus, the Son of God. God affirms his Son’s identity. And God affirms his Son’s value.
Throughout the Gospels, wherever Jesus goes, people want to know, “Where did he get such knowledge?” “Who is this man?” “Who is he that even the winds obey him?” “Who is he that drives out demons?”
“Who is he?”, indeed. God made it plain that day. God made it plain later in Jesus ministry in the transfiguration before James, John and Peter (Mark 9). God made it clear when the earth quaked, the temple veil was torn, the darkness came, and the dead were raised on that awful day of Jesus’ death.
Who is Jesus? God made it clear on the day of his resurrection: John 20:18 Mary Magdalene went to the disciples with the news: "I have seen the Lord!"
From the prophets, to the Jordan River, to the cross, to the empty tomb, and one day on the clouds of glory, God has and will make plain that Jesus is the living Son of God. Jesus is the Savior of the world. Jesus died on a cross for the cleansing of your sins. Jesus will come again to reign in glory forever.
Pause and consider: do you see him before you?
Mark 1:11 And a voice came from heaven: "You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased."
TWO very important things happen with these words from God the Father to Jesus, the Son of God. God affirms his Son’s identity. And God affirms his Son’s value.
Throughout the Gospels, wherever Jesus goes, people want to know, “Where did he get such knowledge?” “Who is this man?” “Who is he that even the winds obey him?” “Who is he that drives out demons?”
“Who is he?”, indeed. God made it plain that day. God made it plain later in Jesus ministry in the transfiguration before James, John and Peter (Mark 9). God made it clear when the earth quaked, the temple veil was torn, the darkness came, and the dead were raised on that awful day of Jesus’ death.
Who is Jesus? God made it clear on the day of his resurrection: John 20:18 Mary Magdalene went to the disciples with the news: "I have seen the Lord!"
From the prophets, to the Jordan River, to the cross, to the empty tomb, and one day on the clouds of glory, God has and will make plain that Jesus is the living Son of God. Jesus is the Savior of the world. Jesus died on a cross for the cleansing of your sins. Jesus will come again to reign in glory forever.
Pause and consider: do you see him before you?
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
January 12, 2012 Heaven Tears Open
Heaven Tears Open
Mark 1:10-11 As Jesus was coming up out of the water, he saw heaven being torn open and the Spirit descending on him like a dove.
AS JESUS, the Son of God, comes out of the water, he sees “heaven torn open” What does that mean? It is this: God has drawn back the curtain to reveal God to the world.
Here is Genesis 1:3 And God said, "Let there be light," and there was light. Here is Isaiah 64:1 Oh, that you would burst from the heavens and come down! How the mountains would quake in your presence!
Here is Revelation 1:7 Look, he is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see him, even those who pierced him; and all the peoples of the earth will mourn because of him. So shall it be! Amen.
Here comes the light into the darkness. Here comes the majesty of God into his creation. Here comes the holiness of God to remove the sin of the world. Here comes the power of God to overcome even the great enemy “Death”.
The heavens torn open is God saying, “My Kingdom has come! My will is now to be done on earth as it is in heaven.”
The Spirit of God anoints the Son of God to do the will of God in the power of God.
And so he does. Jesus heals the sick, preaches the Good News, dies on the Cross, rises from the dead, and ascends to Heaven. Heaven has been torn open. Jesus has come to seek, to serve and to save you.
Pause and consider that Jesus’ testimony of life eternal is for your life.
Mark 1:10-11 As Jesus was coming up out of the water, he saw heaven being torn open and the Spirit descending on him like a dove.
AS JESUS, the Son of God, comes out of the water, he sees “heaven torn open” What does that mean? It is this: God has drawn back the curtain to reveal God to the world.
Here is Genesis 1:3 And God said, "Let there be light," and there was light. Here is Isaiah 64:1 Oh, that you would burst from the heavens and come down! How the mountains would quake in your presence!
Here is Revelation 1:7 Look, he is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see him, even those who pierced him; and all the peoples of the earth will mourn because of him. So shall it be! Amen.
Here comes the light into the darkness. Here comes the majesty of God into his creation. Here comes the holiness of God to remove the sin of the world. Here comes the power of God to overcome even the great enemy “Death”.
The heavens torn open is God saying, “My Kingdom has come! My will is now to be done on earth as it is in heaven.”
The Spirit of God anoints the Son of God to do the will of God in the power of God.
And so he does. Jesus heals the sick, preaches the Good News, dies on the Cross, rises from the dead, and ascends to Heaven. Heaven has been torn open. Jesus has come to seek, to serve and to save you.
Pause and consider that Jesus’ testimony of life eternal is for your life.
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
January 11, 2012 Holy Spirit, the Baptizer
Holy Spirit, the Baptiser
Mark 1:8-9 “I baptize you with water, but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.”
JOHN the Baptist or
“Baptizer” is called so because he focused his ministry on calling people to declare their repentance to God through the form of water being poured over them or being briefly submerged in a body of water such as the Jordan River. Baptism has its roots in the Old Testament as God moved his people “through the waters” of the Red Sea to escape Egypt’s army. Later in the desert, God’s law required the priests to do a ceremonial washing prior to their entering the Tabernacle. Water washing was a sign of moving from the old to the new. John’s baptism of water pointed the way to the New Testament, the new promise of grace in the Holy Spirit’s baptism.
Yes, John knows the water baptism is a sign of God’s next step in purifying his people. God is about to send his Messiah, and he will baptize in the power of the Holy Spirit.
The Spirit’s baptism will be not symbolic—it will be eternal. When the Spirit of God comes upon people, he will awaken them to the truth that they are sinners. He will awaken them to a desire to repent of their sins. He will awaken them to the truth of Jesus Christ.
Spirit baptism is not a liquid washing of water, but it is a spiritual washing of the blood of Christ over you. Yes, it is Jesus, “who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood” (Rev 1:5).
As you call Jesus “Lord and Savior” know the Holy Spirit has baptized you to that truth. If you are yet to make that faith statement, pray and ask the Holy Spirit to baptize you with the truth of Jesus Christ, that you too, may be saved.
Pause and consider the work of God to save your life to have life with him.
Mark 1:8-9 “I baptize you with water, but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.”
JOHN the Baptist or
“Baptizer” is called so because he focused his ministry on calling people to declare their repentance to God through the form of water being poured over them or being briefly submerged in a body of water such as the Jordan River. Baptism has its roots in the Old Testament as God moved his people “through the waters” of the Red Sea to escape Egypt’s army. Later in the desert, God’s law required the priests to do a ceremonial washing prior to their entering the Tabernacle. Water washing was a sign of moving from the old to the new. John’s baptism of water pointed the way to the New Testament, the new promise of grace in the Holy Spirit’s baptism.
Yes, John knows the water baptism is a sign of God’s next step in purifying his people. God is about to send his Messiah, and he will baptize in the power of the Holy Spirit.
The Spirit’s baptism will be not symbolic—it will be eternal. When the Spirit of God comes upon people, he will awaken them to the truth that they are sinners. He will awaken them to a desire to repent of their sins. He will awaken them to the truth of Jesus Christ.
Spirit baptism is not a liquid washing of water, but it is a spiritual washing of the blood of Christ over you. Yes, it is Jesus, “who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood” (Rev 1:5).
As you call Jesus “Lord and Savior” know the Holy Spirit has baptized you to that truth. If you are yet to make that faith statement, pray and ask the Holy Spirit to baptize you with the truth of Jesus Christ, that you too, may be saved.
Pause and consider the work of God to save your life to have life with him.
Monday, January 9, 2012
January 10, 2012 Fashion Deprived
Fashion Deprived?
Mark 1:5-7 The whole Judean countryside and all the people of Jerusalem went out to him. Confessing their sins, they were baptized by him in the Jordan River. 6 John wore clothing made of camel's hair, with a leather belt around his waist, and he ate locusts and wild honey.
DO YOU like to look good? I do. I’m not trying to say I’m good looking. I’m simply saying that wearing clothes that fit, keeping my hair combed, shaving every day are important things for me. I think most people are that way.
But it appears John the Baptist wasn’t. John seems out of sync with even his culture. Why would he dress that way?
Think for a moment of what Jesus says about being a disciple: Mark 8:34 “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.” In John's way of living, he was demonstrating what is required of a new spiritual life in Jesus Christ. Jesus and the new Testament writers talk often of denying the things of the world in order to more fully wear the “clothes” of Jesus’ desires for you. Mark certainly denied himself. He gave up a comfortable life at home for the discomfort of living in new cultures and in danger of persecution. In order to live in Jesus, the Apostle Paul writes: Ephesians 4:22-24 You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; 23 to be made new in the attitude of your minds; 24 and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.
God had anointed John to live apart from the world because he would point to Jesus. Dress up in Jesus. Clothe yourself in his salvation and his majesty. And you’ll really, really look good.
Pause and consider it is essential you make the Gospel your fashion statement.
Mark 1:5-7 The whole Judean countryside and all the people of Jerusalem went out to him. Confessing their sins, they were baptized by him in the Jordan River. 6 John wore clothing made of camel's hair, with a leather belt around his waist, and he ate locusts and wild honey.
DO YOU like to look good? I do. I’m not trying to say I’m good looking. I’m simply saying that wearing clothes that fit, keeping my hair combed, shaving every day are important things for me. I think most people are that way.
But it appears John the Baptist wasn’t. John seems out of sync with even his culture. Why would he dress that way?
Think for a moment of what Jesus says about being a disciple: Mark 8:34 “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.” In John's way of living, he was demonstrating what is required of a new spiritual life in Jesus Christ. Jesus and the new Testament writers talk often of denying the things of the world in order to more fully wear the “clothes” of Jesus’ desires for you. Mark certainly denied himself. He gave up a comfortable life at home for the discomfort of living in new cultures and in danger of persecution. In order to live in Jesus, the Apostle Paul writes: Ephesians 4:22-24 You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; 23 to be made new in the attitude of your minds; 24 and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.
God had anointed John to live apart from the world because he would point to Jesus. Dress up in Jesus. Clothe yourself in his salvation and his majesty. And you’ll really, really look good.
Pause and consider it is essential you make the Gospel your fashion statement.
Sunday, January 8, 2012
January 9, 2012 Deliberate God
Deliberate God
Mark 1:2-4 It is written in Isaiah the prophet: "I will send my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way"— 3 "a voice of one calling in the desert, 'Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.'" 4 And so John came, baptizing in the desert region and preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins.
DO YOU like deliberate? I like to be deliberate about my seeps each day. Whether they be steps to get lunch, walk off the lunch, take the trash out, or come here to write about God’s Word, I want to be deliberate. I don’t like to waste motion, time or effort.
You’re the same way aren’t you? Your days go better when you are purposeful, deliberate in your actions and words.
Do you notice as you read through the Bible how deliberate God is in his plans to bring Jesus to earth? For an estimated 10,000 years from the time of sin’ s entrance into the world, God, the Father, has planned to bring God, the Son, into the world to offer salvation to the world.
Now the final steps are at hand. God’s deliberate creation and formation of the final prophet John, the Baptist is his last step to make the path straight for Jesus. The deliberate God gives John deliberate steps to take as Jesus’ life moves very, very deliberately to bring the ministry of repentance for the forgiveness of sins to the world, to you.
Consider now how God is deliberately offering you these words today. Think of how he deliberately sets you apart to make his path straight to come to you.
Pause and consider what you will do when he arrives at your door.
Mark 1:2-4 It is written in Isaiah the prophet: "I will send my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way"— 3 "a voice of one calling in the desert, 'Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.'" 4 And so John came, baptizing in the desert region and preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins.
DO YOU like deliberate? I like to be deliberate about my seeps each day. Whether they be steps to get lunch, walk off the lunch, take the trash out, or come here to write about God’s Word, I want to be deliberate. I don’t like to waste motion, time or effort.
You’re the same way aren’t you? Your days go better when you are purposeful, deliberate in your actions and words.
Do you notice as you read through the Bible how deliberate God is in his plans to bring Jesus to earth? For an estimated 10,000 years from the time of sin’ s entrance into the world, God, the Father, has planned to bring God, the Son, into the world to offer salvation to the world.
Now the final steps are at hand. God’s deliberate creation and formation of the final prophet John, the Baptist is his last step to make the path straight for Jesus. The deliberate God gives John deliberate steps to take as Jesus’ life moves very, very deliberately to bring the ministry of repentance for the forgiveness of sins to the world, to you.
Consider now how God is deliberately offering you these words today. Think of how he deliberately sets you apart to make his path straight to come to you.
Pause and consider what you will do when he arrives at your door.
Saturday, January 7, 2012
January 8, 2012 Hear
Hear
Mark 1:1-2 The beginning of the gospel about Jesus Christ, the Son of God. 2 It is written in Isaiah the prophet: "I will send my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way"
WHAT HAPPENS when you want to deliver a clear message to someone? For example, “Dinner’s ready!” “It’s cold out. Wear your hat.” “Our guests are arriving in 5 minutes; set the table.”
You get direct with people don’t you. Sometimes, maybe you get too direct and express impatience. The thing is, you want to deliver a critical message to someone for their benefit (I hope), and you speak as clearly, directly as possible.
Mark, the gospel writer, has something very important to tell you. He has been around with the Apostles Peter and Paul telling the Good New of Jesus Christ. He’s been involved in starting new churches. He knows the key truth to life is this: the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.
Now he’s about to deliver the key truth. Mark’s Gospel is short, direct and passionate. He tells you the evidence of Jesus, the Son of God. He show in words and stories how this is true based on the evidence of Jesus’ life.
The first point he makes for the evidence is the prophecy of the prophet Isaiah. To his Jewish audience he speaks directly to say in effect, “Jesus is the Son of God, the one Isaiah, the great prophet, told us would come. Pay attention. Get ready. Respond to the truth.”
When you speak directly to someone about the truth, you want them to respond, don’t you? Guess what? God has used Mark to speak directly to you. Will you respond?
Pause and consider that the truth will save your life to eternal life.
Mark 1:1-2 The beginning of the gospel about Jesus Christ, the Son of God. 2 It is written in Isaiah the prophet: "I will send my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way"
WHAT HAPPENS when you want to deliver a clear message to someone? For example, “Dinner’s ready!” “It’s cold out. Wear your hat.” “Our guests are arriving in 5 minutes; set the table.”
You get direct with people don’t you. Sometimes, maybe you get too direct and express impatience. The thing is, you want to deliver a critical message to someone for their benefit (I hope), and you speak as clearly, directly as possible.
Mark, the gospel writer, has something very important to tell you. He has been around with the Apostles Peter and Paul telling the Good New of Jesus Christ. He’s been involved in starting new churches. He knows the key truth to life is this: the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.
Now he’s about to deliver the key truth. Mark’s Gospel is short, direct and passionate. He tells you the evidence of Jesus, the Son of God. He show in words and stories how this is true based on the evidence of Jesus’ life.
The first point he makes for the evidence is the prophecy of the prophet Isaiah. To his Jewish audience he speaks directly to say in effect, “Jesus is the Son of God, the one Isaiah, the great prophet, told us would come. Pay attention. Get ready. Respond to the truth.”
When you speak directly to someone about the truth, you want them to respond, don’t you? Guess what? God has used Mark to speak directly to you. Will you respond?
Pause and consider that the truth will save your life to eternal life.
Thursday, January 5, 2012
January 6, 2012 What's In A Gift?
What’s In A Gift?
Matthew 2:11 On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold and of incense and of myrrh.
WHAT’S in a gift? It depends on how and why you give it, doesn’t it? You can give an expensive diamond. But if you give it with an empty heart, it means nothing to you and little to the recipient. You can give a can of soup with a love in your heart, and it will mean life to the recipient.
The Magi’s gifts to child Jesus were gifts from men who gave their riches from the depth of their heart. They had traveled so long and struggled to find Jesus. They knew from the heavenly sign that Jesus would reign one day. They desired to honor the King. With their bodies bowing down and their hearts full of passion, they gave their best to Jesus.
The thing is, he had given them nothing. They likely expected they would not live to see his reign. They had nothing to gain in their giving. Still, they gave in response to the heavenly signs.
Now, what about you? Jesus has done everything for you. Must I say it? Yes, he’s the King of Kings, who reigns over your life because he has died on a stinky cross for you. Will you give him an empty heart with occasional, meager attempts at worship? Or will you respond to the heavenly signs and give to him your heart?
Pause and Consider...what will you give him?
Matthew 2:11 On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold and of incense and of myrrh.
WHAT’S in a gift? It depends on how and why you give it, doesn’t it? You can give an expensive diamond. But if you give it with an empty heart, it means nothing to you and little to the recipient. You can give a can of soup with a love in your heart, and it will mean life to the recipient.
The Magi’s gifts to child Jesus were gifts from men who gave their riches from the depth of their heart. They had traveled so long and struggled to find Jesus. They knew from the heavenly sign that Jesus would reign one day. They desired to honor the King. With their bodies bowing down and their hearts full of passion, they gave their best to Jesus.
The thing is, he had given them nothing. They likely expected they would not live to see his reign. They had nothing to gain in their giving. Still, they gave in response to the heavenly signs.
Now, what about you? Jesus has done everything for you. Must I say it? Yes, he’s the King of Kings, who reigns over your life because he has died on a stinky cross for you. Will you give him an empty heart with occasional, meager attempts at worship? Or will you respond to the heavenly signs and give to him your heart?
Pause and Consider...what will you give him?
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
January 5, 2012 The Glory of the Lord
The Glory of the Lord
Matthew 2:9-10 After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen in the east went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. 10 When they saw the star, they were overjoyed.
MUCH has been written about the star. Was it a supernova? Was it a comet? Was it visible in the daytime? When did it appear?
How about this idea: The Star of Bethlehem was the Glory of the Lord. God is really good at making his presence known. And he’s really good at leading you to where he wants you to go.
Witness the Glory of the Lord in the Hebrews’ journey from Egypt to the Promised Land in Numbers 14:14 And they will tell the inhabitants of this land about it. They have already heard that you, O Lord, are with these people and that you, O Lord, have been seen face to face, that your cloud stays over them, and that you go before them in a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night.
And then on the night of Jesus’ birth, see this: Luke 2:9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.
God is light. He begins the creation of the world with light. His light breaks into the darkness of the empty void. His light breaks into the darkness of our empty souls. His light points the way for you to find him. Follow his light and you, too, as the Magi will find Jesus. You’ll find joy.
Pause and consider how the Bible is the Glory of the Lord pointing you to God.
Matthew 2:9-10 After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen in the east went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. 10 When they saw the star, they were overjoyed.
MUCH has been written about the star. Was it a supernova? Was it a comet? Was it visible in the daytime? When did it appear?
How about this idea: The Star of Bethlehem was the Glory of the Lord. God is really good at making his presence known. And he’s really good at leading you to where he wants you to go.
Witness the Glory of the Lord in the Hebrews’ journey from Egypt to the Promised Land in Numbers 14:14 And they will tell the inhabitants of this land about it. They have already heard that you, O Lord, are with these people and that you, O Lord, have been seen face to face, that your cloud stays over them, and that you go before them in a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night.
And then on the night of Jesus’ birth, see this: Luke 2:9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.
God is light. He begins the creation of the world with light. His light breaks into the darkness of the empty void. His light breaks into the darkness of our empty souls. His light points the way for you to find him. Follow his light and you, too, as the Magi will find Jesus. You’ll find joy.
Pause and consider how the Bible is the Glory of the Lord pointing you to God.
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
January 4, 2012 Where's the King?
Where’s the King?
Matthew 2:4-7 When King Herod had called together all the people's chief priests and teachers of the law, he asked them where the Christ was to be born. 5 "In Bethlehem in Judea," they replied, "for this is what the prophet has written: 6 "'But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for out of you will come a ruler who will be the shepherd of my people Israel.'" 7 Then Herod called the Magi secretly and found out from them the exact time the star had appeared.
HEAD knowledge was pretty high in Jerusalem. Heart knowledge was very low in Jerusalem.
The Magi told King Herod they had followed a star to find the King of the Jews born in the last year or so. Herod needed to know what the chief priests and teachers of God’s Word knew about this king’s birthplace. They knew a good deal.
The priests and teachers have God’s Word in the scrolls. They knew exactly where the King of the Jews would be born – in Bethlehem. Their head knowledge is big.
But where’s their heart? They can see the star. They know more than the Magi. But they’re still at home. They’re still in their church. They have no heart desire to seek and follow the King.
How about you? You read the Bible. You read these words. You hear God’s Word taught. You go to church. But where’s your heart? What do you do with what you hear? Does what you know in your mind make any difference in your life?
The teachers and priests missed the King. You don’t have to. Go find him and give him your heart. It will change your life.
Pause and consider how Jesus’ heart is for you. Is yours for him?
Matthew 2:4-7 When King Herod had called together all the people's chief priests and teachers of the law, he asked them where the Christ was to be born. 5 "In Bethlehem in Judea," they replied, "for this is what the prophet has written: 6 "'But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for out of you will come a ruler who will be the shepherd of my people Israel.'" 7 Then Herod called the Magi secretly and found out from them the exact time the star had appeared.
HEAD knowledge was pretty high in Jerusalem. Heart knowledge was very low in Jerusalem.
The Magi told King Herod they had followed a star to find the King of the Jews born in the last year or so. Herod needed to know what the chief priests and teachers of God’s Word knew about this king’s birthplace. They knew a good deal.
The priests and teachers have God’s Word in the scrolls. They knew exactly where the King of the Jews would be born – in Bethlehem. Their head knowledge is big.
But where’s their heart? They can see the star. They know more than the Magi. But they’re still at home. They’re still in their church. They have no heart desire to seek and follow the King.
How about you? You read the Bible. You read these words. You hear God’s Word taught. You go to church. But where’s your heart? What do you do with what you hear? Does what you know in your mind make any difference in your life?
The teachers and priests missed the King. You don’t have to. Go find him and give him your heart. It will change your life.
Pause and consider how Jesus’ heart is for you. Is yours for him?
Monday, January 2, 2012
January 3, 2012 Disturbing News
Does Jesus Disturb You?
Matthew 2:3 When King Herod heard this he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him.
DISTURBED? Why would Herod and all of Jerusalem be disturbed? After all, the Magi were seeking an infant boy who would one day be a king. The Magi wanted to worship him a little boy. Why weren’t Herod and Jerusalem excited a future King had been born? Why weren’t they joyful the Heavens proclaimed the sign? Why weren’t they fired up to find out more?
I don’t know. Are you? For years, or perhaps for the first time today,, you may have heard the good news: John 3:16-17 "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. 17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.
Now I ask, “Does that news get you excited and joyful, or does it disturb you?” How could such Good News disturb you?
Perhaps it threatens your way of life. After all, you like living to your own purposes, doing what you want to do, focusing on yourself, instead of the Good News Giver. Or, it could be that the Good News might cause you to really live in Jesus’ teachings—how would that change your life? Perhaps this is disturbing because beneath the gift of love and salvation lies the promise of condemnation if you do not believe.
The truth is, God desires to disturb you to where you cry out to him, “Save me, Lord! I have sinned, and I need a Savior.”
Herod and Jerusalem were disturbed because the King threatened their way of life. God wants you to be disturbed because the King promises you a new life.
Pause and Consider that the Good News will calm what disturbs your soul.
Matthew 2:3 When King Herod heard this he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him.
DISTURBED? Why would Herod and all of Jerusalem be disturbed? After all, the Magi were seeking an infant boy who would one day be a king. The Magi wanted to worship him a little boy. Why weren’t Herod and Jerusalem excited a future King had been born? Why weren’t they joyful the Heavens proclaimed the sign? Why weren’t they fired up to find out more?
I don’t know. Are you? For years, or perhaps for the first time today,, you may have heard the good news: John 3:16-17 "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. 17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.
Now I ask, “Does that news get you excited and joyful, or does it disturb you?” How could such Good News disturb you?
Perhaps it threatens your way of life. After all, you like living to your own purposes, doing what you want to do, focusing on yourself, instead of the Good News Giver. Or, it could be that the Good News might cause you to really live in Jesus’ teachings—how would that change your life? Perhaps this is disturbing because beneath the gift of love and salvation lies the promise of condemnation if you do not believe.
The truth is, God desires to disturb you to where you cry out to him, “Save me, Lord! I have sinned, and I need a Savior.”
Herod and Jerusalem were disturbed because the King threatened their way of life. God wants you to be disturbed because the King promises you a new life.
Pause and Consider that the Good News will calm what disturbs your soul.
Sunday, January 1, 2012
January 2, 2012 Are You Seeking Jesus?
January 2
Are You Seeking Jesus?
Matthew 2:1-2 After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem 2 and asked, "Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star in the east and have come to worship him."
THERE’S a good deal of misconception about the Magi going to see Jesus. For example, there were more than three of them—probably at least a dozen men and their attendants traveled to worship Jesus. Also, they didn’t show up at the stable of Jesus’ birth. They show up about 2 years after Jesus is born.
My point here is not so much to clarify some Magi misconceptions, but to ask you, “Do you know the truth
about Jesus?” Or do you rely on someone else to tell you about him? The key to the Bible and knowing God is knowing the truth to this question: Who is Jesus?
As the Magi persistently traveled on a difficult journey in response to the Heavenly star to worship Jesus, so must you be persistent to follow the Bible’s truth to know the truth of Jesus. Don’t rely solely on someone to tell you about him—get to know him for yourself.
Yes, persistently follow God’s Word, the True Sign come from the throne of Heaven to you. You say that the Bible is hard to understand? Then read it again. Pray to the Holy Spirit to give you understanding. Then read it again. The information for you is eternal. Read it again.
Consider how Jesus was persistent to come to you, to die for you, to rise for you. Why wouldn’t you be persistent to know the truth of Jesus, your Savior?
Pause and Consider: What’s your first step to truly know Jesus?
Are You Seeking Jesus?
Matthew 2:1-2 After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem 2 and asked, "Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star in the east and have come to worship him."
THERE’S a good deal of misconception about the Magi going to see Jesus. For example, there were more than three of them—probably at least a dozen men and their attendants traveled to worship Jesus. Also, they didn’t show up at the stable of Jesus’ birth. They show up about 2 years after Jesus is born.
My point here is not so much to clarify some Magi misconceptions, but to ask you, “Do you know the truth
about Jesus?” Or do you rely on someone else to tell you about him? The key to the Bible and knowing God is knowing the truth to this question: Who is Jesus?
As the Magi persistently traveled on a difficult journey in response to the Heavenly star to worship Jesus, so must you be persistent to follow the Bible’s truth to know the truth of Jesus. Don’t rely solely on someone to tell you about him—get to know him for yourself.
Yes, persistently follow God’s Word, the True Sign come from the throne of Heaven to you. You say that the Bible is hard to understand? Then read it again. Pray to the Holy Spirit to give you understanding. Then read it again. The information for you is eternal. Read it again.
Consider how Jesus was persistent to come to you, to die for you, to rise for you. Why wouldn’t you be persistent to know the truth of Jesus, your Savior?
Pause and Consider: What’s your first step to truly know Jesus?
January1, 2012 A Good Start
A Good Start
Jude 2 Mercy, peace and love be yours in abundance &
Jude 25 to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority
JUDE begins this short letter with a blessing. I think the blessing is appropriate for each day, but I think it especially right for today, January 1. What better thing could happen to you this year than to experience and enjoy an abundance of mercy, peace and love to give and to receive? A life filled with these blessings is a life God honors and a life that honors others (love God and love your neighbor?)
But there is a problem to live this way, and that problem is essentially the topic of Jude’s letter. He speaks of people who are disobedient to God’s Word, and those who take grace as a license to do evil. Disobeying God is the reason for strife, hatred and condemnation between people. Seeking our own way instead of God’s is the reason we do not have mercy, love and peace in our lives.
The answer to this problem, of course, is Jesus Christ. That is Jude’s encouragement and conclusion to his letter. When we experience God’s glory and his power in our lives, we know his majesty reigns over those who denounce and disobey him. When we look to the One Who Reigns, we know what mercy, love and peace are. From God we receive these great blessings when we recognize his authority.
Pray this year for yourself and for others to enjoy these wondrous gifts from God. Give grace, mercy and peace to all around you. You will see what a great difference that makes in your life and theirs.
Pause and Consider: Who is the first person you need to make peace with?
Jude 2 Mercy, peace and love be yours in abundance &
Jude 25 to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority
JUDE begins this short letter with a blessing. I think the blessing is appropriate for each day, but I think it especially right for today, January 1. What better thing could happen to you this year than to experience and enjoy an abundance of mercy, peace and love to give and to receive? A life filled with these blessings is a life God honors and a life that honors others (love God and love your neighbor?)
But there is a problem to live this way, and that problem is essentially the topic of Jude’s letter. He speaks of people who are disobedient to God’s Word, and those who take grace as a license to do evil. Disobeying God is the reason for strife, hatred and condemnation between people. Seeking our own way instead of God’s is the reason we do not have mercy, love and peace in our lives.
The answer to this problem, of course, is Jesus Christ. That is Jude’s encouragement and conclusion to his letter. When we experience God’s glory and his power in our lives, we know his majesty reigns over those who denounce and disobey him. When we look to the One Who Reigns, we know what mercy, love and peace are. From God we receive these great blessings when we recognize his authority.
Pray this year for yourself and for others to enjoy these wondrous gifts from God. Give grace, mercy and peace to all around you. You will see what a great difference that makes in your life and theirs.
Pause and Consider: Who is the first person you need to make peace with?
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