Do you ever watch a little boy swagger and say something grown up like his dad? They can’t help it, it’s all they see! Since, I watch six little boys do that frequently, I get a big kick out of their attempts to follow their dads’ characteristics. Intermixed in their own personalities, is a splash of an adult. Although, we too have taken on some characteristics of our parents, when we willingly choose to follow Christ, we are called to leave our parent’s example and follow his.

And boy, did he leave an example to follow!

When he was a boy of twelve and drawn to his Father’s house, he sat among the teachers, listening and asking questions. All those who heard him were astounded at his understanding. When his parents came looking for him, he went with them and was obedient to them (Luke 2:41-51). Something many of us, myself included, have to learn the hard way.

In addition to respecting his parents, Jesus took on the traits of His Father in heaven by showing compassion for people. Traveling to Capernaum, all those who had anyone sick with various diseases brought them to him. As He laid his hands on each one of them, he would heal them.

Also, demons were coming out of many, his example brought crowds to press in on him as he proclaimed the good news about the kingdom of God (Luke 4:20-44). Although, we may not be able to command demons or heal the sick, we sure can pray in Jesus’ name for the person tormented by them. More importantly, as we show compassion, we can also share the news of eternal salvation through Jesus, just as he did.

Leaving a Willing Example to Follow

Jesus’ example of compassion continued throughout his ministry. The poor man with a serious skin disease falls facedown before him and begs him: “Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean.” Reaching out his hand, Jesus touched him, saying, “I am willing; be made clean.” and immediately the disease left him. Large crowds then followed him to be healed of their sicknesses. The text then says, “he often withdrew to deserted places and prayed” (Luke 5:12-15).

While reading these examples, we can picture the large crowds of people desperate for healing, poor and oppressed, and looking for a savior. The good news of Christ’s message here is: He is willing for all who come to him, to be healed of pain and brokenness.

In essence, redeemed of despair. When we read that he often withdrew to deserted places and prayed, we are reminded of Isaiah’s words, “He bore our sickness and carried our pain”. Can you just picture for a moment, this great crowd of people coming to him every day to restore them? How draining that would be! We can’t handle one person doing it, let alone a whole crowd…every day. Yet, he willingly takes it all upon himself. Drawing on the power of our Father in heaven to renew his own strength. Leaving quite an example to follow!

Healing the sick, while comforting the oppressed and afflicted is such a large part of Jesus’ ministry. We continue to see it throughout the gospels. The people travel from far places, to hear him, be healed of their diseases, and made well of unclean spirits (Luke 6: 17-23). But we must pay close attention to what Jesus suddenly says as the people sense his authority over illness and crowd around him to touch the power coming from him….(yes emanating power, read it, that’s what the scripture says!)

Then, looking up at His disciples, He said:

You who are poor are blessed because the kingdom of God is yours.

You who are hungry are blessed because you will be filled.

You who now weep are blessed because you will laugh.

You are blessed when people hate you, when they exclude you, insult you, and slander your name as evil because of the Son of Man.

Luke 6;20-22

Luke 6 HCSB - Lord of the Sabbath - On a Sabbath, He - Bible Gateway

The more he healed and helped people the more the religious leaders despised and rejected him. Jealous of his power and authority over sickness, death, and disease, they hated him. Not only did they hate him, they rejected his message of salvation, reviled his ministry, accused him of evil, and plotted to kill him. Lingering among the crowds who longed for him, were the haters.

Seeing this in their hearts and reading their thoughts, Jesus suddenly looks straight at his disciples and quotes Isaiah. Reminding the disciples that following his example will lead to slander, insults, and hatred. Blessed friends, it will look the same for us too.

However, Jesus says “rejoice in that day and leap for joy! Love your enemies, do what is good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you” (Luke 6:23-27). Jesus then leaves the examples to follow for his disciples, us and our even our own little ones. In verses 27-36 we are called to love our enemies, do good to those who hate us, and pray for those who mistreat us.

Even more, his example shows us he did not condemn or judge them in their hatred. No wonder he went off to pray by himself. Loving people is hard. The pain of their insults and hatred is hard to bear for his huge, loving heart. We can be comforted that he too, called upon the Father for continuing to love despite all the hate.

Lastly, my prayer for us today is to display a bold faith like Christ. Emulating his behavior will show our little ones the shadow of our dad in heaven. Leaving them a higher example to follow.

Our final look at the way of peace in this Christmas series is departing in peace. A picture of this departure is found in Luke chapter 2. Simeon, the priest, arrives to the temple as the baby Jesus is presented to the Lord. I picture in my mind, an old man who has served the Lord faithfully his entire life. A man who encourages and counsels young couples as they present their firstborn to the Lord.

More importantly, he’s a man living under and ministering to people who fear ruthless Roman rule. Unfortunately the tactic Satan uses to steal their peace, and ours, is not a new one. However, it may be the most effective. Simeon knew their history of oppression and fear under Egypt’s control in the days of the Patriarchs. Then through various enemies of the land of Canaan in the period of the Judges. Not to mention, the control over them through Babylonian and Assyrian nations in later centuries.

Fear steals our peace more than any other tactic the enemy has. Whether it’s a virus and our restrictions of liberty, insecurity in our looks, doubt of love from our family, or fear of never living or knowing our purpose, it has a tight grip on our peace. Or lack thereof in our day to day thinking! The peace that comes through Jesus, says we don’t have to stay there. We too, can have peace in the hope of Jesus, just like this old man in the first century of our Lord’s birth.

In spite of Simeon’s dreadful circumstances of fear and Roman rule around him, God gives him hope in this innocent holy child. Accordingly, he is awestruck as the Holy Spirit reveals to him who this baby is. For Simeon, departing in peace meant not seeing death before seeing the Lord’s Christ. The fifth definition of peace comes into play as “the blessed state of devout and upright men after death”.

As the priests takes the baby Jesus in his arms, he blesses God, saying

“Lord, now you are letting your servant depart in peace, according to your Word; for my eyes have seen your salvation that you have prepared in the presence of all peoples, a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to your people Israel.” Luke 2:29-32

The Holy Bible, English Standard Version 2016

We see the ultimate purpose of Jesus birth and life portrayed throughout scripture. Especially here as a culmination of eternal peace. Only Christ can offer a spirit of contentment in the place where God decides our short period of time and existence. Choosing to live in harmony with others in spite of differences in values and morals displays our desire to live in Christ. However, we cannot do it in our own strength. We must rely on Christ, through prayer, as each fearful, insecure thought sneaks in to create doubt and steal our peace.

Abraham in Genesis 15:15 is told by God he shall go to his his fathers in peace; and be buried at a good old age. He understood, as Simeon did, walking blameless before God. He further quotes Isaiah.

Departing in Peace is For Us Too!

Simeon also sees God’s promise to bless all nations through Abraham revealed in this Christ child! Yes, us, Gentiles, are given the light of the world. Whoever walks in him will not walk in darkness (John 8:12). The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it (John 1:5) No matter how many times the enemy brings his dark intentions to our weary souls, our Spirit whispers within our hearts, “Hang on, I’m hear.” He sees us, he hears us, he wants us to depart in peace too.

But there is more! We don’t have to be afraid,

The Lord is my light and my salvation: whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?

The Holy Bible, English Standard Version

Yes, indeed, Jesus grew to be the fulfillment of all God’s promises. His word assures us the people dwelling in darkness have seen a great light, and for those dwelling in the region and shadow of death, on them a light has dawned (Mathew 4:16). Simeon, having lived a full life, is overcome with the glory of God’s plan for his people and a peace that surpasses understanding offered to the entire world. The history of oppression, fear, as well as the darkness of the culture living outside God’s way is put aside. Perhaps her hears the words of an adult Jesus saying,

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.
John 14:27

The Holy Bible, English Standard Version

Not only can he depart in peace with the full knowledge and comfort of a Savior in his time, we are privileged to see it too.

Father in heaven, I pray the peace of your Son fill us this day and every day. May we awake with hope and fullness of you in our thoughts instead of our fear and anxiety. More importantly, help us see your goodness in those around us. May we also live for you and be a light in our own dark places. Give us the boldness to smile instead of cry, return criticism with soft words, and open our eyes to our own faults. In you only, Lord will we depart in peace now and forever. In, Jesus name I pray, Amen.

For more bold faith read The Way of Peace Through Christ –

The way of peace through the arrival, and life of our Lord Jesus Christ continues through the announcement of his birth to the lowly shepherds in Luke 2. The shepherds are keeping watch over their flock by night as the glory of the Lord shines around them (vs8). Do you ever wonder why the presence of the Lord’s glory fills them with great fear?

It seems like a repeated occurrence throughout the bible and in opposition to the way of peace. After all, fear is not peaceful. Yet, in the presence of just the shadow of God’s glory, it demands a posture of submission. An indication to us of where we stand, in our own sinful flesh, in opposition to God.

However, the beauty of the message speaks into the fear of the Shepherds and announces…

 “Fear not, behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David, a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” (Luke 2:10-11).

A Savior Who is Christ The Lord

Yes! A Savior to deliver, make alive, and preserve them, and us, from all evil and danger. Our Christ, the anointed Messiah. He rules in the hearts of his followers and directs them in the way of peace. He is announced as the great high priest who atones for our sins. Mary, herself rejoices in her need for this Savior, in Luke 1:47.

We also see in this title, he is “the Lord”. The supreme eternal being who rules heaven and earth. All spiritual authority is placed upon him to be a prophet that reveals the will of God. A the way of peace for the soul only Christ can fill. In addition, he is the priest who offers up atonement for sin. For he alone has the power to remove the guilt and pollution of sin. While he enlarges the influence of his Spirit to preserve and seal those who follow his way. (Adam Clarke Commentary, studlylight.org).

This bold revelation and proclamation of this all-powerful Savior is wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger (vs. 12) The shepherds will witness all this power in the humble state of our Savior’s birth and appearance. He came in this lowly state to destroy the root of all evil in the souls of men, pride. A sure sign for us to also live in humility, as the bold way to declare our fellowship with the Prince of Peace.

More importantly, this declaration is followed by a multitude of heavenly host praising God, and saying,

“Glory to God in the highest; and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!”

This humble babe is given all worship, praise and honor among the heavenly beings. Perhaps a prelude to the promise of scripture later written by Paul in Romans. A promise that before him every knee will bow and every tongue confess to God (Rom 14:11).

Also, the way of peace through Christ is revealed in those who reconcile their state of sinfulness to the authority of the Savior. They experience peace in their soul and towards their neighbors. As well as boldly displaying this peace through their humble words and actions.

In closing, I pray you have the peace of Christ in you this season and throughout the coming year! Although it is not a state of being for those outside the will of God, it is for us who trust in Christ. Nor is it for the scoffers and professors in this fallen culture chasing after the alluring things the prince of this world dangles before them. It is for the light of peace in us that shines in the presence of a hostile world. Its purpose is to reveal the true longing of every heart is something only Christ can fill.

The Way of Peace Series Begins Here

The Way of Peace through Jesus’ Birth and Life
The way of peace begins by exploring the foretelling and recording of Jesus’ birth this week. We are told from the lips of Zachariah,” The Lord will redeem his people through a horn of salvation” (Luke 1:69) To give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet in the way of peace” (Luke 1:79). 

But what does the way of peace mean for us today?

Peace is so fleeting!

We have it one moment and it’s gone the next. So, maybe it’s time to explore the various definitions of biblical ways of peace to determine where to start… and STAY in our peace:
Peace Definitions
1. A state of national tranquility, exemption from the rage and havoc of war. 
2. Peace between individuals, harmony.
3. Security, Safety, Prosperity
4. Of the Messiah’s peace–the way that leads to peace (salvation)
5. Of Christianity, the tranquil state of a soul assured of its salvation through Christ, and so fearing nothing from and content with its earthly lot.
6. The blessed state of the devout and upright men after death.

Since tranquility between nations is something we have not seen throughout the centuries, we can place world peace before the Father in prayer. Simply because it is out of our control. 

However, the remaining five definitions of peace are promises from our loving Father. We can hold tightly to them because they are available to us through His Son and His Word. 

The Angel, Zechariah, as well as his son John, speak of salvation in our chapters of Luke this week. We’ll explore the Angel’s announcement and Simeon’s joy in coming posts.

Today though, we’ll think about our definitions above to get a clearer picture of the Lord’s tranquility. We will also take a look at parts of Zechariah’s Prophecy below. Filled with the Holy Spirit, he exhorts the coming of our Lord, and the plans for his own son, with awe.

⁶⁷And his father Zechariah was filled with the Holy Spirit and prophesied, saying,

⁶⁸ “Blessed be the Lord God of Israel,
    for he has visited and redeemed his people
⁶⁹ and has raised up a horn of salvation for us
    in the house of his servant David,
⁷⁰ as he spoke by the mouth of his holy prophets from of old,
⁷¹ that we should be saved from our enemies
    and from the hand of all who hate us;
⁷² to show the mercy promised to our fathers
    and to remember his holy covenant,
⁷³ the oath that he swore to our father Abraham, to grant us
⁷⁴     that we, being delivered from the hand of our enemies,
might serve him without fear,
⁷⁵     in holiness and righteousness before him all our days.
⁷⁶ And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Most High;
    for you will go before the Lord to prepare his ways,
⁷⁷ to give knowledge of salvation to his people
    in the forgiveness of their sins,
⁷⁸ because of the tender mercy of our God,
    whereby the sunrise shall visit us from on high
⁷⁹ to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death,
    to guide our feet into the way of peace.
Luke 1:67-79

The glorious prophecy of Zechariah foretells of redemption!

 In addition, we know the way of peace comes through the “horn of salvation”. The phrase illustrates the strength of God to save his people. In fact, salvation is announced from the previously mentioned individuals, indicating a repeated theme throughout the book of Luke.

Our definition of peace reminds us of the Messiah’s peace of salvation. This means we have an assurance for our souls from the hand of our fiercest enemy (vs71). Even though he is doing everything he can to remove our peace. He will not win.

More importantly, because of his continual attacks, we need the mercy of God to proclaim the gospel boldly. Like many of our brothers and sisters throughout the world today, we too can serve him without fear (vs. 74). A fearless faith looking like the disciples and the early church martyrs. In addition, we see the recounting of Jesus’ birth throughout history. This too, is given as evidence of the oath sworn to Abraham in Zechariah’s prophesy. God has covered his descendants through the ages as they served Jesus with courage.

Descendants and disciples who unquestionably brought the light of the Messiah to the dying, pulling them out of the darkness. In effect, blessing them with the knowledge of salvation and forgiveness of sin. A joyous hope the people then and now cannot live without during troubling times. His way of guiding our feet into the way peace is so much better than we ever hoped!

In addition, the way of Jesus is bold in its gentleness. A way leading us to defy the constant barrage of criticism and attacks from the enemy. Placing our trust in him, allows a supernatural harmony to flow among us and our fiercest critics. We know we can’t do that on our own. Gently, he reminds us to take every thought captive to Jesus (2 Cor. 10:5) and use soft words turn away wrath (Proverbs 15:1).

Lastly, attempts to displace our peace fall on his precious covering in the shadows of death. A place we’ve all been too familiar with this year. May we cast aside the shadow for Jesus’ promising light and set our hearts on God. For in him, we find our eternal peace.

And he said, “Oman greatly loved, fear not, peace be with you; be strong and of good courage.” And as he spoke to me, I was strengthened and said, “Let my lord speak, for you have strengthened me.”

Daniel 10:19

How blessed are we that our Father and Creator opens our eyes to the same encouragement He gives Daniel? For we, like he who loves God, also cry out to our Lord in our distress. We see Daniel as an example of faith under fire in this passage. He sees the destruction and devastation coming upon the people he loves, yet he is strengthened.

Although our circumstances may be different, we too see havoc upon us. Powerless, we begin seeking ways to build up our courage. As we undergo illness, distress, loss, and heartache in our own lives and in the lives of those we love, we cry out to the Lord.

Therefore, we have hope as we read this passage because God always sends comfort and reassurance when we cry out to Him. Daniel’s vision of what will happen to his people in the latter days is devastating. The truth of the conflict in the vision causes him to lose his appetite and mourn for three weeks.

The Comforter envelopes us with new courage.

When we receive devastating news or undergo a health crisis, we too can be in the same distress. Weak and wondering, Daniel see’s the messenger of God coming to reassure him in his time of need. Terrified, he falls to his knees. He displays an example of where our posture before the Lord will be when we face Him in our darkest hour.

Moreover, emotional pain and heartache from physical loss can take our breath away and remove our words. However, when we come trembling before God with the devastation of it, He sees our misery. The doubt, fear, and debility are laid before Him. Unseen, our spirit cries out. Exhausted and exposed to our own vulnerability, we fully submit our warring emotions to Him.

God hears our cries

As a result, we slowly feel a warmth in the pit of our soul spread like a soothing balm to calm our tumultuous emotions. God hears our cries and sees our surrender to Him. Jesus picks up the pieces laid before Him and methodically puts them in order as the Comforter envelopes us with new courage.

For further encouragement check out the devotion page on this site!

Sometimes I just need a picture…

Do you ever see scripture paint a picture of a concept you can’t fully understand?

Or perhaps, you’re like me, and not ready to accept the message pointing to an area of continual struggle.

If you do, we can explore together how the bible prepares a word canvas we can all accept and navigate. Although it takes time and thought, we’ll find the investment is well worth the effort. As a matter of fact, a picture of others bowing before God is helpful in opening my eyes to areas of pride in my own life.

In our Tuesday study group we are delving into this a little deeper. The Proverbs 31 team has provided “The Answers to Your Deepest Longings” A bible study giving us an overview of the principles leading to salvation through Jesus Christ.

How Our Eyes Are Opened

In week seven of our study we see a man on murderous path. No one following The Way is safe from his wrath. The sad part is, he thinks he’s serving God to the best of his ability. A man, educated and driven to violence for a cause (stopping Christianity) that is futile. This man we learn about is Saul of Tarsus. My cultural study bible describes Tarsus as a highly developed, philosophical place valuing education and higher thinking.

Paul describes himself as ” a Jew, born in Tarsus in Cilicia, but brought up in this city (Jerusalem), educated at the feet of Gamaliel  according to the strict manner of the law of our fathers, being zealous for God as all of you are this day” Acts 22:3  (Full Passage)

Paul is a student of the scriptures, just like us! Yet, at that time he lacks a full understanding of God’s plan. In Acts chapter 9, Paul is on his way to Damascus to persecute believers. We read of the bright light that temporarily blinds him and brings him to his knees. The voice from heaven is Jesus, asking:

“Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?” And he said, “Who are you, Lord?” And he said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. But rise and enter the city, and you will be told what you are to do.” (Acts 9:4,5)

Walk Humbly

Furthermore, Saul, like us many times, has no recourse but to fall humbly before Jesus. It’s not surprising the proud require force to find that place of humility. However, it only takes one deep humbling to convince him, and sadly some of us too, to willingly come to a place of submission.

Possibly, like many of the Pharisees, Paul lost sight of God’s mercy woven through the law. His situation reminds me of  Isaiah falling before the holiness of God in Isaiah chapter 1 as the prophet sees his vision. He cries out “Woe to me, I am ruined, for I am a man of unclean lips and my eyes have seen the King, the Lord Almighty.” (Isaiah 6:1-7)

Psalm 25:9

He leads the humble in what is right, and teaches the humble his way.

Psalm 69:32

When the humble see it they will be glad; you who seek God, let your hearts revive.

Moreover, in the presence of holiness, we can only bow and repent. For it is then, that we see ourselves as we truly are: Full of sin and selfishness with the light of scripture shinning on our faulty ways. But we don’t have to stay there.

We have hope! Awareness of our status is good news because we cannot correct what we do not see!

When the Holy Spirit leads us to this place of humility, we are open to change.

Just as the seraphim fly to Isaiah and purge him of unclean lips, Jesus covers us in His righteousness when we come to faith. The picture of scripture could not be more clear. When we read God’s inspired Word and come to the place of repentance, our hearts melt before him in humble adoration. Eagerly, we confess all to Him. He sees and forgives as our hearts are renewed! (Romans 10:8-10).

 It’s a beautiful picture of God’s restorative power over sin in our hearts. I pray we understand this concept with gladness and joy as we continue our studies!

The Results of This New Canvas

We arise, like Paul to a place of wonder and reflection. A new insight and purpose take hold of our being. In Christ’s marvelous light we overcome spiritual death and live to please Him. Furthermore, we yearn for more of Jesus in His Word.

Love grows and spills over to those around us. We have a new desire to be kinder, more understanding and softer in our approach to others. The strokes of God’s pen are ingrained on our hearts forever and our area of struggle just got smaller in light of His mercy.

That picture of scripture, my friends, is a masterpiece.

“See to it that no one fails to obtain the grace of God; that no root of bitterness springs up to cause trouble, and by it many become defiled.” Hebrews 12:15

I once had poison ivy so bad I missed two days of school. The raised rash covered my body as if I’d rolled around in it. To this day, when I see its red tinted leaves vining through a flower bed, my skin prickles with dread. It must go. So, I apply gloves and carefully pull it away from my blooming flowers.

To my surprise, the pesky poison is back two weeks later! I realize the roots are firmly entrenched among the bed of tall phlox. The plants tenacity reminds me of another kind of root bearing “poisonous and bitter fruit” (Deuteronomy 29:18 ESV). The root I’d like to dig out and burn thoroughly. It’s called bitterness and it creeps into my budding bed of faith just like poison.

Although ’d like to blame hurtful words, restrictions of a virus, work stress, or demands of child rearing, those are not the root. The root is my heart focusing on what is said over what is read. Do you ever fall into that trap? When you and I read the Word of truth, we cherish its grace-filled message.

However, walking into our workplace or chaotic home environment, we struggle to keep the good news active over stubborn hurt feelings in our hearts. (Deuteronomy 29:19).

What is the lure of holding onto angry words or hard feelings despite the freeing power of grace? Perhaps, the reaction feeds a false sense of power. Latching onto the adrenaline rush, we sometimes shed the grace-filled message in favor of the feeling. If we’re not careful, we may miss what God is weeding out. Tangled in a shaded perspective, we can give the lingering root of bitterness room to grow.

Before we know it, careless words and stress are working their way like fresh springs of water to feed disgruntlement. Questions arise as thoughts spiral out of control in the onslaught of indignation. “Did he really have to say that again?” “Why can’t I do anything right?”

It’s the age-old tactic of the devil, plant the seed of doubt in the mind of someone who takes their eyes off Jesus for one moment. Subtly entwine an overwhelmed heart with slight criticism so they are easy prey. The writer of Hebrews says, No! “See to it that no one fails to obtain the grace of God”

The grace of God goes immediately to the source of bitterness and soothes the emotions it evokes, every time. All we must do is pray.

Praying fiercely to cover ourselves and our opposition with grace removes resentment. The tiny tentacles clinging to our hearts release their hold. The gift of grace showered upon us from the day of our redemption teaches us to confess the bitterness God already sees gripping our hearts! We can then place the peaceful power of Jesus over ploys to pull us away from His will.

Soon after, spirit-filled grace will overflow from our grateful hearts onto the pesky poison around us. Roots of bitterness will die when their nourishment is cut off …and no gloves are necessary. Grace wins over bitterness, every time.

For more encouragement check out this post on Sticky

Hebrews Chapter 11

“But as it is, they desire a better country, that is, a heavenly one. Therefore, God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared for them a city.”
Hebrews 11:14

The hall of faith in Hebrews chapter eleven mentions the most notable people of the bible. People our study group, and perhaps yours, has spent weeks and months studying.  I admit, I missed an important detail in studying these individuals the writer of Hebrews brings to light. They thought of themselves as strangers and exiles on earth (vs. 13).

As new testament believers and end of the age Christians, we understand the concept of being exiles and strangers on earth. Yes, you and I know and believe faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen (vs.1).  But do we long for and hope for that time with the Lord when all things are made right?  

Life with Jesus in my permanent homeland, is something I’ve always looked toward as later in life. Peacefully accepting the difficulties of the here and now, I understand He will make all things new…sometime later.

But truthfully, for me, not until 2020 did I long for that new home, every day!

The escalating hate, selfishness, and greed of people and governing bodies bring the words of Paul to the forefront of our current place in time:  

“But understand this, that in the last days there will be times of difficulty. For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good, treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God.
2 Timothy 3:1-4

English Standard Version

A sad condition of the human race without God at the center. Perhaps just as evil as what Abel, Noah, Abraham, and the rest of them faced. But to understand now, they looked forward to a city that has foundations designed and built by God (vs. 10) amid their desolate circumstances sheds more light on their hope.

The intensity of their hope in God and this place gave them the faith to conquer kingdoms, enforce justice, quench the power of fire, escape the edge of the sword, make strength out of weakness, become mighty in war, and put armies to flight. (vs. 33,34) All the while they also suffered mocking, torture, imprisonment, stoning. Although praised for their faith, they did not receive the promise of the city designed and built by God until Jesus came.

When Jesus came, He conquered death on the cross and established the eternal covenant. Bringing the city built by God to the spirits of the righteous made perfect (12:23) Since apart from new covenant believers, the old testament saints could not be made perfect (vs.40). Praise be to God, the God of timing!

We can hold onto our hope with wonder and awe of God’s saving grace. Despite our evil world, He is working out His plan. He helps me understand the innocent suffer because of raging sin, but they will be comforted in his loving arms. Their bodies are abused and discarded, but they are so much more than temporary bodies, they are souls birthed in the mind of our loving Father, who long to return to Him. Their pain and suffering here will be forgotten as he wipes every tear from their eyes!

There, my friends, is the most glorious hope, safe in His presence forever!

Hebrews Chapter 10

“This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, declares the Lord: I will put my laws on their hearts, and write them on their minds.” Then he adds, “ I will remember their sins and their lawless deeds no more.”   (Hebrews 10:16-17)

Do you know what I love most about scripture?

Scripture displays the heart of God wooing, reminding, chastising, and giving every opportunity for selfish hearts to turn to Him for healing. A spiritual healing from the love of money, sexual immorality, lack of love for others, the need for approval, our selfish pride, love of material things, and even putting the love of our children above Him.

Yes, we need the kind of healing only Christ has the power to offer!  Then God will then remember our lawless deeds no more. What? All those things mentioned previously, are lawless deeds?

Yes! Anything, we love above our Lord and placed higher in our priorities above Him is a lawless deed. I am guilty, maybe we both are. But at the same time, we can be thankful!  The love of things or people above God does not have to take over our lives.

The writer of Hebrews urges us to “draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful.” Hebrews 10:22-23.

English Standard Version

This may be just as hard for us today as it was the first century Christians. After all, after they were enlightened, they endured a hard struggle with sufferings, public reproach, and affliction (vs. 32).  

They joyfully accepted the plundering of their property, as many Christian throughout the world do today in India, Europe, the Middle East, China, and Korea…..because they knew they had “a better possession and an abiding one (vs. 34). 

The better possession of course is eternity with God. The writer of Hebrews assures us to not shrink back but have faith and preserve our souls (vs. 39)  It’s deep, I know, and a little scary. But so real to our fellow Christians around the world today.

Their reality may hit a weak spot in our souls. Do we see a glimpse of what they endure coming here? I think we do. Are We ready to defend our faith to the death? Will we refuse a very suspicious vaccine that will be mandated in order to continue in a job we’ve enjoyed for years? Will our children and grandchildren be spared the coming judgment for our nation?

Truthfully, we don’t know, but we do have hope! We have powerful weapons to prepare! We have hearts that love and serve our Lord! We offer up a sacrifice of praise, the fruit of lips that acknowledge His name (Hebrews 13:16). We share what we have with a clear conscience and we desire to act honorably in all things (13:19). Most of all, we pray fervently, that hearts and minds of our loved ones and all we know with turn to Him for healing and salvation!

The faithful, promising hope of Jesus and His truth, dear friends, is what you and I can love about scripture!

Hebrews Chapter 9

We are Purified One Way…Jesus

“Indeed, under the law almost everything is purified with blood, and without the shedding of blood, there is no forgiveness of sins.”

Hebrews: 9:22

Sometimes I think of how thirsty I’d have to be to drink a cup of water from the Ohio river. The thought of drinking sewage, pharmaceutical, and industrially contaminated water is down right repulsive. Just like my sin is to God. I’m like water needing purification before I enter the presence of God. A process similar to what river water needs before entering the pot to brew my favorite tea.

Purify means to make pure; clear of any material defilement or imperfection. Different processes of purification are used in cleaning our river water, fine jewelry, and even cloth for clothes and sheets. Let’s face it, in their natural state, things come along to contaminate what was meant to be pure.

 Our need for purification is an ongoing process that we face daily with repeated contaminates. We learned a couple of weeks ago our inner conversation with God is never hidden from His sight. When we read in His words to us in the bible, He is giving us His divine instruction on how to live. The living, active, sword that pierces to the division of our soul and spirit also discerns the thoughts and intentions of our hearts. We are all naked and exposed to the eyes of Him to whom we must give account. (Hebrews 4:12-13)

Although we are seeking Him, we still struggle to fully submit ourselves to Him. As we read, we may think “Well, that’s not for me” or “He can do that, I can’t.” “Ok, Lord, I’ll try to do better.”  “I’m not sure about this…” Taking a step towards sacrifice in today’s culture is to obey the uncomfortable things He’s asking us to do in His word.

God highlights in His word, His holiness, and our great need for Him.

The first century Christian coverts from Judaism, understood a different arrangement of gifts and sacrifices. The need for various washings, and the sprinkling of blood for the forgiveness of sins was ingrained upon them since childhood. Although, those rituals were offered, they could not perfect the conscience of the worshiper. (Hebrews 9:6-10)

Knowing we are helpless babes in need of a powerful advocate to cover our pathetic attempts to clear our own conscience, God sent His son. He made a greater and more perfect sacrifice to cover our sin for eternity. Jen Wilkin, in our Hebrews study (2019) points out the inspiring words of Paul to Titus as he emphasizes this point.

“For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age,  waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works.”

Titus 2:11-14 ESV, Bible Gateway)

The apostle Peter closes this lesson out well with his words of encouragement:  

“Knowing that you were ransomed from the futile ways inherited from your forefathers, not with perishable things such as silver and gold, but with the precious blood of Christ.” (1 Peter 1:18, ESV)

Lord, how wonderful and awesome are your ways! The savored and treasured blood of Christ covers us in ways we may never fully grasp but recognize as a powerful gift. Thank you for your cleansing power! Thank you for refining us like silver and gold to be a people zealous for pleasing You!

Have a blessed day, secure in the saving grace of our Lord Jesus!